Trempealeau County, Wisconsin - Biographical sketches, 1917 (part 10 of 20)

George Amoth, proprietor of a well-improved farm of 135 acres in Ettrick Township, near the village of Ettrick, was born in a log house in this locahty, May 29, 1873, son of Gilbert and Helen (Haldvorsdatter) Amoth. The parents were natives of Norway, in which counti-y they were married, and a few years later, about 1867, came with their two eldest children to the United States. After a long voyage across the Atlantic in a sailing vessel they landed at an eastern port, and came directly to Ettrick Township, Trempealeau County, Wis., which locality they had been infoi-med was favorable for settlement. Having little knowledge, however, of what he would have to do, Gilbert Amoth was practically unprovided with necessaries for making a start in the wilderness, and at first had scarcely anything but his bare hands with which to begin work. In spite of this handicap, he managed to erect a log house and as soon as possible procured an ox team, with which he began the work of pioneer farming. A number of years later, after he had made good progress in developing his farm, he increased its size by the purchase of 40 additional acres, and here he resided until he retired and moved to Ettrick about six years before his death, which occurred March 17, 1916. He was a member of the Lutheran church and a respected member of the community in which he had cast his lot. His wife died on the farm about 1908. They had a family numbering 11 children. George Amoth worked on the home farm until he had reached the age of 18 years, at which time he began working out on other farms, and also for a while hauled cream to the creamery at Ettrick. At the age of 26 years he was married to Julia Johnson, daughter of Hans and Martha Johnson, of Ettrick. He then rented a farm in section 20, working it for three years, at the end of which time he bought his present farm near the village, where he raises various crops, and also more or less stock, including Shorthorn cattle, Poland-China hogs, a good grade of horses and full-blooded Black Monarch chickens. Since taking this place he has erected on it a good silo, machine shed and chicken coop. His barn is 100 by 28 feet in size. Mr. Amoth takes an interest in all local enterprises, giving active support to the creamery in particular. He has been successful as a farmer and he and his wife are prominent and esteemed residents of the community in which they live. They have two children: Hazel Marie and Guy Hubert.

Ole Tomter, proprietor of the Tomter Dairy Farm of 158 acres in sections 27 and 28, town 23, range 7, Pigeon Township, was born on the farm where he still lives, Nov. 11, 1877, son of John L. and Martha (Olsdatter Rolieie) Tomter. John L. Tomter died Dec. 24, 1915, and Mrs. Tomter resides with her son Ole. He was reared on the home place, attended the district schools, and learned farming from his father. In July, 1903, he and his brother Anton rented the farm, and three years later they purchased it. In 1909 he acquired his brother Anton's interest, and has since continued as the sole owner. On this place he conducts general farming operations, making a specialty of grade Holstein cattle. His home is a pleasant frame structure of 12 rooms. Like the other buildings on the farm, it is lighted with acetylene gas. The barn, 50 by 62 by 31 feet, was erected in 1915. It has cement floors, steel stanchions and other modern features. The silo, constructed in 1916, is of glazed blocks. The other buildings are also in keeping with these sightly structures. Mr. Tomter is a prominent man in the community and has been on the town board since 1914 and on the school board since 1915. He is a stockholder in the Pigeon Grain & Stock Company and in the Whitehall Hospital. His fraternal relations are with the S. A. F. His religious faith is that of the Norwegian Lutheran church, of which he is efficiently serving as treasurer. Mr. Tomter was married Oct. 27, 1906, to Hilda Maria Skoyen, who was born in Hale Township, Jan. 15, 1886, daughter of Hans and Martha Skoyen, early settlers. Mr. and Mrs. Tomter have four children : Hensel Joseph, born Aug. 8, 1907 ; Lester, born March 28, 1910 ; Lawrence Raymond, born July 19, 1912 ; and Sylvia Amanda, born April 8, 1916.

James C. Beirne, a well-known agriculturist in section 31, east, Ettrick Township, where he has a farm of 120 acres, is a native of Wisconsin, having been born at St. Mary's Ridge, La Crosse County, March 25, 1855. His parents were Thomas and Catherine Beirne, both natives of Ireland. Thomas Beirne came to the United States when a mere lad, residing for some years in Albany, N. Y., where he began industrial life. In later years, after attaining maturity, he came to Wisconsin, locating at Watertown, in the vicinity of which place he bought land and became a farmer. From there he removed to La Crosse, and subsequently, about 1857, to Galesville, here continuing his farming operations. After residing in Galesville for two years he bought land in what is now the northern part of Ettrick Township, on which he built a smaU house and started to develop a homestead. He improved about 160 acres of land and resided there until 1898, when he moved to Ettrick, where he subsequently died. His wife is also deceased. They had a family of nine children. James C. Beirne was the fourth-born child of his parents. He acquired the elements of knowledge in a primitive log schoolhouse in Ettrick Township and remained at home assisting his parents until he was 30 years old, having the practical management of the farm at an early age. About 1886 he purchased his present farm, which he has since lived on and improved. Mr. Beirne was married May 10, 1897, to Ellen Cleary, daughter of John and Ellen Cleary. Mrs. Beirne, who was one of seven children, being the sixth-born, was educated in the schools of Crawford County. Mr. and Mrs. Beirne have two children: Vincent, born Oct. 21, 1898, and Mildred, born Aug. 28, 1902. The family are members of the Catholic church. Mr. Beirne is independent in politics. He is an industrious and substantial citizen.

Charles L. Brenengan, who is profitably operating a farm of 120 acres in sections 8 and 6, Gale Township, was born on this farm, Jan. 29, 1869, son of Christian and Mary (Jorde) Brenengan. Both parents were natives of Norway, the mother born in Berie. Christian Brenengan came to this country in 1862, locating near Stoddard, in Vernon County. He was emplbyed by others at threshing and other labor until he came to the farm now owned by his son Charles, which he developed and improved. This was not his only property, as he owned altogether 370 acres. Besides carrying on general farming, he dealt in stock for a number of years. About 1905 he retired from the farm and went to Galesville, where he is now living. For a number of years during his active period he was a member of the school board. Their family consisted of three children, of whom Charles L. was the first-born. The others were: Alfred J., who resides on the old home farm, and Elma Stella, wife of Alex Toppen, residing on an adjoining farm. In September, 1896, Mr. Brenengan was married to Julia Skundberg, who was born on French Creek, Trempealeau County, daughter of Andrew and Bertha Skundberg. He and his wife have one child, Katheryn Margaret, who is now attending school. Mr. Brenengan is a member of the Order of Scandinavian Workmen, a beneficial insurance society of Oshkosh, Wis. He has always resided on the parental homestead, which he purchased in 1900 from his father, and is engaged in general farming, including dairying and stock raising, being also a stockholder in the Galesville Creamery. His education, besides the usual district school course, included two years in the La Crosse High School, and he has since increased his general knowledge by reading and acquaintance with the practical things of life. In politics he is independent, as a rule voting for the man rather than for the party, and though interested in good government, he has not been politically active, either in town or county affairs. As a reliable citizen and good neighbor he commands general respect.

Stark Butman, one of the oldest living citizens of Trempealeau County, having resided continuously for 60 years in Gale Township, was born in Huron County (now Erie County), Ohio, March 28, 1832. He was educated and grew to manhood in his native State. In 1852 he came West to La Crosse County, Wis., where he located 160 acres of land, returning to Ohio that same year. In 1853 he and his brother Hiram came to La Crosse County and settled on this land, which was situated near Stevenstown. In 1857 he exchanged 80 acres of his land for 40 acres of land on this side of Black River, in Gale Township, Trempealeau County, and there he laid the foundations for his future prosperity, building a house, with the proper accompaniment of outbuildings, and breaking and developing his land. Later he acquired other land by purchase and by homesteading until he owned at one time several hundred acres, becoming one of the leading and representative men of Trempealeau County. He has followed diversified farming all his life, and has given away and sold land to his children, at the present time having only 160 acres in his own name. For about 28 years Mr. Butman served as postmaster at Decorah Prairie, the office being in his own home, and for his services he received the large recompense of 1 per cent of the cancellations. He has also rendered efficient service in various town offices. In 1855 Mr. Butman was married at La Crosse, Wis., to Mary Jane Lynn, who was born in New York State, July 22, 1836. After 56 years of wedded life, she passed away, March 19, 1911, sincerely mourned. Mr. and Mrs. Butman were the parents of 10 children, whose record in brief is as follows: Eugene S., born Oct. 4, 1856, was mari'ied Jan. 22, 1882, to Lizzie Stellpflug, and they reside at Pipestone, Minn. Emma J., born Nov.

3, 1858, was married, July, 1885, to David Lonie, and they now reside at Pullman, Wash. Eva I., born Aug. 11, 1861, was married Feb. 17, 1884, to Ally Bartlett, and they reside at Alexandria, Minn. Erie H., born May 28, 1863, married. May 15, 1904, Charles E. Potter. Nancy M., born May 8, 1865, was married Oct. 20, 1883, to Clinton V. Lovell. Nettie L., born March 17, 1867, on May 4, 1888, became the wife of W. E. McKown. She died May 25, 1897. Ernest H., born Aug. 31, 1873, was married March 15, 1899, to Lizzie M. Burt, and they reside in Gale Township. An infant daughter, born May 9, 1876, died May 14, 1876. Frank M., born Feb. 25, 1880, was married Nov. 12, 1906, to Janet M. Smith. They reside in Gale Township. Since her mother's death Mary Edna McKown has always lived with her grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Butman, and since her grandmother's death in 1911 has been the sole housekeeper for her grandfather. Mr. Butman, althought over 85 years old, is still hale and hearty and in full possession of all his faculties, enjoying an opportunity to relate the many hardships and trials incident to pioneer life, and above all, proud to boast that he has 27 grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren.

George Christiansen, M. D., a popular physician of Galesville, was born in La Crosse, Wis., May 14, 1886, son of Peter and Anna (Iverson) Christiansen. The father was born in Norway, Aug. 7, 1844, and came to the United States when about 18. or 20 years of age, locating in La Crosse, Wis., where he worked for some time in a store. Subsequently he engaged in rafting on the river between St. Louis and New Orleans and continued in this occupation until the Southern Minnesota Railroad was built, when he found work on it at building telegraph lines. Later he became inspector of a telegraph line, holding this position for a number of years. His next employment was in the Kline dry goods store in La Crosse, and he remained there until he was appointed substitute mail carrier in that city, later becoming a member of the regular force. In 1911 he ceased industrial activity and is now living retired in La Crosse. His father died October 22, 1916. His wife Anna, who was born in Milwaukee, Wis., in 1860, died Feb. 6, 1900. Their family numbered four children, of whom George is the third in order of birth.

George Christiansen acquired the main part of his literary education in the grammar school at La Crosse. Then, after two years of preparatory medical work in Milwaukee, he entered Northwestern University Medical School, at Chicago, where he was graduated M. D. in 1911, after a four years' course. Returning to La Crosse, he became resident physician to the Lutheran Hospital there, which position he held for three years. He then went to Holman, Wis., where he practiced for about 18 months, at the end of which time he came to Galesville as successor to Dr. G. H. Laurence in general medical practice. Though here but a short time. Dr. Christiansen has already made a favorable impression on the community, and, being thoroughly well qualified in his profession, has the best prospects of a successful career as long as he chooses to remain here. He is a member of the County, State and American Medical Associations. His other society affiliations are with the Masonic Lodge, No. 177, of Galesville, the Elks' Lodge, No. 300, and the Phi Chi Medical Fraternity. In politics he is a

N. E. Dale, buttermaker for the Preston Creamery Company, of Blair, was born in Pigeon Township, Trempealeau County, July 12, 1878, son of Benedict Olson and Guina Halvorslein. The father and mother came to America as young people, and after the father's death, the mother married Louis A. Larson, of Pigeon Falls, now residing at Onalaska, Wis. The subject of this sketch was reared by his grandparents, Nels and Christina (Gunderson) Halvorslein, in Curran Township, Jackson County. As a youth he was employed at farm work, and for some three years, while attending school in Minneapolis, he was engaged as a coachman. In 1901 he began his career as a buttermaker by working in the York Creamery, in Jackson County. But desiring to further perfect himself in the art, he entered the Dairy School of the University of Wisconsin, in 1902, and was duly graduated. Then, after two years' experience at Flint, Mich., he returned to Jackson County, and worked at the creamery in Irving Township for seven years. He has occupied his present position since July 1, 1911. He is thoroughly competent and efficient, and his work is highly valued by the stockholders of the company. Mr. Dale was married at Hixton, Wis., June 20, 1904, to Edith May Dimond, of Flint, Mich., who was born in Otisville, Mich., May 10, 1886, daughter of Eugene and Eva Dimond. Mr. and Mrs. Dale have seven childi'en : Gladys, Evelyn, Glenn, Maurice, Merlin, Marjorie and Byron.

Theodore M. Hanson, who is aiding in developing the agricultural resources of Preston Township, as proprietor of Clear Mound Farm, consisting of 100 acres in section 20, was born on this farm, April 5, 1881. His parents were Martin Hanson Skyrud and Olea Stutterud, a memoir of whom appears elsewhere in this work. Theodore M. Hanson resided at home with his parents and worked on the home farm until 1908. Then at the age of 27 years he became a general merchant, opening a store at Waldorf, Minn., which he conducted until 1912. He then sold out and returned to the Hanson homestead. Here he is successfully engaged in agi-icultural pursuits, dairying and stock raising, his farm being well improved, having fertile soil, capable of producing all the crops indigenous to this region, and his buildings substantial, convenient and supplied with all necessary equipment. Besides operating this farm, Mr. Hanson is secretary of the Blair Elevator Company and a stockholder in the Home Bank of Blair. Though not politically active, he is alive to the general interests of the community in which he lives and ever ready to support any good, practical measure for its advancement. Mr. Hanson was married Sept. 7, 1904, to Helen Grinde, of Beaver Creek Valley, Trempealeau County, where she was born Jan. 15, 1883, daughter of Lars L. and Helga (Hilleboe) Grinde. Her father was born in Norway in 1847 and came to the United States with his parents in 1856, they settling in Presfon Township. Mr. Grinde became a very prominent citizen in the county, serving as county treasurer four years and as a member of the State legislature two years. He was also at different times a member of the township and county boards. His wife H.elga was born in 1850 and died in 1885.

Sanford J. Johnson, who holds the responsible position of buttermaker with the Ettrick Creamery, was born three miles northeast of Ettrick Village, Aug. 27, 1881, son of John T. and Juha (Johnson) Johnson. His parents were natives of Norway, the father born in Ulwig and the mother in HoUingdahl, but their marriage took place in Trempealeau County. John T. Johnson came to the United States when 20 years old, at that time being unable to speak English. Settling in Trempealeau County, he bought land and engaged in farming, in which occupation he continued until his death in 1906, his farm being located in section 20, range 7. He served as township assessor for a number of terms and was agent for the Ettrick Scandinavian Mutual Fire Insurance Company from the time of its organization until his death, and also served on the school board, in these various positions proving himself a man of keen intelligence and sound business judgment. His wife survived him only about nine months. They had a large family numbering 12 children, of whom Sanford J. was the sixth in order of birth.

Sanford J. Johnson was educated in the district school in Ettrick Township and afterwards took a course in the dairy department of the State Agricultural College at Madison. He resided at home until he was 20 years of age and then worked eight months in a creamery at Hegge, this township. At the end of that time he entered the employ of the Ettrick Creamery as buttermaker, and has since remained with the company in that capacity, having established a good and satisfactory record. In addition to this employment, he also operates an 80-acre farm near Ettrick and is a dealer in wagons, buggies," carriages and other vehicles. He is a stockholder in the Ettrick & Northern Railroad Company and in the Ettrick Lumber Company, organized in January, 1917. Dec. 19, 1906, Mr. Johnson was united in marriage with Clara M. Brorold, who was born in Ettrick Village, daughter of Erick and Anna (Olson) Brorold. Her parents were natives of Ulwick, Norway, Erick Brorold coming to the United States with his parents when a young man. They located about two miles northeast of Ettrick on a farm, where he resided until his marriage. He then entered the employ of the Iver Pederson Mercantile Company as clerk and continued with them for 22 years. Appointed postmaster, he served in that position 17 years until his death, which took place May 7, 1914. His reliable character and good citizenship was recognized by his election to several positions of responsibility and trust, and his record includes service as township treasurer, clerk and chairman of the township board, also a fifteen years' membership on the school board. He also held office in the United Norwegian Lutheran church as treasurer, trustee or otherwise for a number of years. His wife is still living and resides in Ettrick. They were the parents of three children, Clara M. being the second-born. Mr. and Mrs. Johnson have one child, Lillian Genevieve, who is attending school. Mr. Johnson belongs to the Modern Woodmen of America and to the Beavers, of which latter order his wife is also a member. She is now postmistress of Ettrick, having been appointed under civil service rules. The family faith is that of the United Luthei-an church, and in politics Mr. Johnson is a Repubhcan.

20, Preston Township, was born in this section of Preston Township June 26, 1871. Madts M. resided at home until reaching the age of 21 years. He then worked out for two years and at the end of that time bought his present farm - in January, 1901 - from his father. After operating it until 1908, he rented it out to a tenant and went to Colorado, near Limon, where he farmed until the fall of 1913, subsequently returning to his farm in Preston Township. Here he has since remained, cultivating the land and improving the property generally. Among other improvements, in 1903 he built a good, three-story frame house of nine rooms and basement, equipped with furnace heat and other conveniences, and in the following year, 1904, he erected a frame barn 34 by 68 by 16 feet, with basement and concrete floors. He keeps a herd of graded Shorthorn cattle, of which he milks 18. As one of the responsible citizens of his township, he has been called upon to serve in public office, having been township treasurer and a member of the township board. Jan. 1, 1903, Mr. Skyrud was married to Louisa Johnson, of Blair, who was born in Jackson County, Wis., April 13, 1877. Her parents were Johannes (Johnson Tytegraff ) and Caroline Johnson, the former being a native of Norway, who came to America when a boy and resided most of his life in Jackson County, dying in 1883 at the age of 50 years. His wife Caroline died in 1892 at the age of 46. Five children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Skyrud : Alden Clement, Oct. 24, 1903 ; Milton LeRoy, Feb.

21, 1904; Kenneth Johannes, June 12, 1907; Elsie Irene, Oct. 24, 1909, and Orene Margaret, March 28, 1914. The family are members of the United Norwegian Lutheran church, Mr. Skyrud also belonging to the Independent Order of Foresters.

Gilbert Mikkelson has lived in this county for over 45 years, and on his present farm in Hale Township for over forty years. He was born in Biri, Norway, Jan. 2, 1834, the son of Mikkel and Annie Mikkelson. In that country he was reared and there he was married March 26, 1859, to Annie Huskelhus. They came to America and located in Mindora, in La Crosse County, where they lived about a year. About 1870 they came to this county, and three or four years later secured 260 acres in sections 15 and 21, township 23, range 7 (Hale), where they developed a good farm. There the wife died in 1908. Of the children in the family there is now living but one, Ben, born at Mindora, Oct. 2, 1869, and is married. He was reared on the home place, educated in the common schools, and has become a substantial man in the community. He has been supervisor for three years and school clerk for nine years. His financial holdings include stock in the Pigeon Grain and Stock Company and in the Whitehall Hospital. The family faith is that of the United Norwegian Lutheran church. The father

David C. Tucker, whose fertile farm of 160 acres lies in sections 23 and 26, Gale Township, was born at New Anan, Nova Scotia, April 14, 1853. His parents, Alexander and Eunice (Wartman) Tucker, were both natives of Nova Scotia, the place of their nativity being in the vicinity of Truro. The father was a farmer and carpenter by occupation. He located at North Bend, Jackson County, with his family, in 1874, and resided there for a number of years. For awhile he worked for others, but later took a farm and engaged in agriculture. He finally went to Grafton, N. D., where he died about 1910. His wife died in 1908. David C. Tucker is the oldest of five living children of his parents. He was educated at New Anan, N. S., and began industrial life when 17 years of age, working for others a part of his time, but also helping his parents at intervals for five or six years. When 26 years old he began farming at Grafton, N. D., taking a homestead there. After operating that farm for about seven years he returned to Wisconsin and for eleven winters worked in the woods cutting timber. He then came to his present farm, which he has since cultivated and improved, having recently built a fine barn, 100 by 36 feet, with 16-foot studding. He is a stockholder in the North Bend Milling Company and in the La Crosse Packing Company. Mr. Tucker was first married, April 7, 1879, to Margaret Bibby, who was born in Maryland, daughter of Richard and Mary (Faulds) Bibby. Of this union there were the following children born : William, deceased ; Richard A., residing at home with his father ; Alexander R., who died in California in April, 1916 ; Mrs. May Waller, who lives on an adjoining farm; Eunice, wife of Ray Cram, and Florence, David W. and George R., who reside at home. The mother of these children died July 20, 1904, and on June 5, 1915, Mr. Tucker married for his second wife Mrs. Rebecca Chase, a native of Nova Scotia, and widow of Frank Chase, who was a farmer in Jackson County, Wis. Of this second marriage there are no children. Mr. Tucker is practically independent in politics, with leanings toward the Prohibition party. He has served as a member of the board of education for a number of years and is now a director on the board. His religious aflSliations are with the Presbyterian church at North Bend, of which he is an elder.

Thomas Hunter, a prosperous citizen of Galesville, where he is engaged in the hardware business, was born at Decorah Prairie, on his parents' farm, Nov. 15, 1868, son of Thomas Russell and Agnes (Grant) Hunter; a memoir of whom may be found on another page of this volume. Of their 11 children he was the fourth in order of birth. In his boyhood he attended district school at Decorah Prairie and when 15 years old began working in the woods for Michals & Co., of Onalaska, Wis. After being thus employed for the winter, in the following spring he worked on the river as a log driver. He remained at this occupation for seven years and for the next five years was employed on steamboats on the Mississippi River. Then going to Chase County, Neb., where he was engaged in farming until June, 1894, when he returned to Galesville, Wis. After residing at home for one season, or more, he was married, Jan. 19, 1897, to Blanche Cram, who was born in Galesville, Wis., daughter of Almon E. and Isabelle (Gunderson) Cram, of Gale Township. In 1903 he returned to Nebraska and for one year was engaged in cattle ranching. Then selling his ranch, he drove a span of mules to Minneapolis and worked there for a sugar factory a short time. Returning again to Galesville, he bought a farm near the village and operated it two years, at the end of which time he sold it to John Dick and opened his present hardware store in Galesville. He carries a full line of shelf and heavy hardware and his trade is constantly increasing. He also operates a threshing machine and clover puller each season and owns property in the village of Galesville. His fraternal affiliations are with the Beavers and Red Men, and he is also a member of the Galesville Fire Department. Mr. Hunter's wife died Dec. 18, 1914, leaving five children: Rose Almon, Russell, Bruce Raymond, Thomas Russell and Marion, all of whom are residing at home. In politics Mr. Hunter is a Socialist, but has taken no active part in local government. He is an enterprising and industrious citizen, successful in business, and has a wide circle of friends in this part of the county.

Mile Albert Jones, who is engaged in agricultural operations on a farm of 126 acres in sections 25 and 36, Gale Township, was born on this farm March 22, 1870, son of John H. Jones, who was a well known and respected farmer of this community, the father born Feb. 29, 1824, and the mother June 12, 1833. Milo Jones in his boyhood attended the Glasgow school in Gale Towmship. He has always resided on the homestead his parents settled on, and when 19 years of age became its manager, operating it as such until 1900, at which time he purchased the property. He carries on general farming and stock raising, keeping cattle, hogs and other stock. He is also financially interested in the Farmers' Exchange at Galesville. Mr. Jones is independent in politics, with Republican proclivities, and attends the Presbyterian church. He is unmarried. As a farmer he has been successful, and though not an office holder, he is recognized as a good, reliable citizen, interested in the welfare of the community in which he resides.

Charles F. York, a prosperous farmer residing on a farm of 160 acres in section 26, town 23 north, range 8 west. Hale township, was born on this farm, which he now owns, Nov. 14, 1874, son of Abel and Susan (Pierce) York. The father, born in New York State, April 10, 1827, migrated to Wisconsin, residing for some 20 years in the vicinity of Whitewater. In 1868 he purchased the farm now owned by his son Charles and resided on it subsequently until his death, Nov. 11, 1912. He had been a widower for eight years, as his wife Susan, who was born in New York State in 1836, died on the homestead Sept. 11, 1904. They were the parents of two children : James, who is a carpenter at Black River Falls, Wis., and Charles F. Charles F. York, who in his youth had received a thorough training in agriculture, operated his father's farm on shares from 1895 to 1912, the year of his father's death, at which time he purchased the property, and has since continued farming on it, with remunei'ative results. He was married, Nov. 10, 1897, to Alice G. Heath, of Hale Township, who was born at Arcadia, Wis., in 1875, and who died Oct. 22, 1899. She was the daughter of Barney and Adella (Briggs) Heath, farming people of Hale Township, and at her death left one child, Iva Ahce, who was born Aug. 4, 1898. April 26, 1903, Mr. York married for his second wife Jennie Dean, a school teacher by occupation, who was born in Chimney Rock Township, this county. May 17, 1880. Her parents, Barney and Delia (Hess) Dean, are well known farmers of Hale Township. Mr. and Mrs. York are well known and popular members of the community, having a wide circle of friends in this part of the county.

Mr. And Mrs. Abel York Charles F. York And Family

Herbert Duxbury, proprietor of Valley Belle Farm of 173 acres in sections 8 and 17, Preston Township, was born near Hixton, Jackson County, Wis., Aug. 5, 1861. He is a son of Joseph and Sarah Ann (Ashworth) Duxbury, the former of whom was born at Hyde, Cheshire, England, in 1835, son of James and Jane Duxbury. James, who was a weaver by occupation, died in England, and about 1854 his widow, with the other members of the family, came to the United States, locating at Lonsdale, R. I., where she died, and where her son Joseph, father of the subject of this sketch, worked at the weaver's trade, which he had learned in England. In 1855 Joseph joined the tide of westward emigration, coming to Fond du Lac County, Wis., where he remained for about a year. He then went from there to Hixton, Jackson County, this State, but soon returned to Lonsdale, R. L, where he was married in 1858 to Sarah Ann Ashworth. In 1865 he located on a farm near Hixton, Jackson County, Wis., and was engaged in farming there for 35 years, or until 1900. Then removing to Blair, Trempealeau County, he engaged in the livery business there, being thus occupied for three years. In 1904 he retired to Alva Center, where he now lives with his wife. Herbert Duxbury resided at home until the age of 26 years, and gave all his earnings to his father. He learned agriculture on his father's farm and was manager of the Hugh Price farms in Price County, Wis., from 1887 to 1891. He then bought a farm in Garden Valley Township, Jackson County, operating it until 1902, at which time he purchased his present farm in Preston Township, Trempealeau County. Here he is engaged in general agricultural work, breeding graded Brown Swiss cattle, Berkshire hogs and White Orpington chickens, doing a successful business. June 1, 1888, Mr. Duxbury was united in marriage with Julia Grunlien of Northfield Township, Jackson County. She died March 30, 1901, at the age of 36 years, leaving four children: Mrs. Mary Dilworth of Campbell, Minn.; Lyle, now a barber at Blair ; Glen and Robert, who reside with their father, and one that died in infancy. Mr. Duxbury married for his second wife, June 28, 1903, Mrs. Dorthea Frederickson, widow of Mathias Frederickson, a farmer of Jackson County. She was born in Norway, June 14, 1864, her family name being Shanke. By her first husband Mrs. Duxbury had eight children : Alice, who died at the age of nine years ; Milton, who died at the age of one year; Christian, who resides on the farm with his mother; Reidar, now a student in the State Agricultural College; Milton (second), employed in the C. J. Gibson furniture store at Blair, Wis. ; Oscar, who is learning the business of railroad agent at Blair; Gudfreid, who married Lester Sly, a farmer of Jackson County, and Helen, who lives with her mother. By her marriage with Mr. Duxbury three children have been born : Arthur and Harold, who are hving on the farm with their parents, and one that died at birth. Mr. Duxbury was elected assessor of the town of Preston in 1916 and re-elected in 1917.

Frank A. Uhl, proprietor of Spring Glenn farm, located in section 36, Gale Township, is one of the leading stockmen in this part of Trempealeau County, his farm being one of the largest and best equipped. He was born here July 26, 1871. son of George and Christina (Harth) Uhl. The father was a native of Germany, born near Frankfort on the Rhine, Oct. 6, 1833.

He came to the United States when 17 years old and for three years resided in the vicinity of Milwaukee. Later he came to Trempealeau County and in 1853 settled on the farm now owned by his son, Frank A., which had been homesteaded by his father, Michael Uhl. Both the grandfather and father of the subject of this sketch died on the farm, as did also the grandmother, Mrs. Michael Uhl. The mother of Frank A., who was born near Milwaukee, Wis., July 2, 1844, is still living, being now a resident' of Galesville. When the family first settled here there were no improvements whatever on the place. Michael Uhl homesteaded 160 acres and started the improvements, which were continued by his son and successor George Uhl, who added to the size of the farm until it contained 400 acres. The latter gave his whole attention to this work, taking no part in public affairs. He and his wife had five children, Frank A. being the third born. Frank A. Uhl acquired his education in district school No. 4, Gale Township, and leai'ned agriculture on his home farm under his father's tuition. When he was 21 years old he became manager of the farm, it coming into his possession four years later on the death of his father. Since then he has cleared more of the land and added to the improvements, enlarging the buildings, or erecting new ones, as circumstances required. The farm still contains 400 acres and is a fine piece of agricultural property. Mr. Uhl makes a specialty of breeding Hereford cattle and Percheron horses, of the former keeping about 60 head and of the latter 12. He is also a stockholder in the Arctic Springs Creamery Company and in the Independent Harvester Company of Piano, 111. His fraternal affiliations include membership in the Beavers, Yeomen and Red Men. May 25, 1898, Mr. Uhl was united in marriage with Sophia O'Neill, who was born in Gale Township, about one mile from the Uhl farm, daughter of James and Mary (Coleman) O'Neill. Her father was born in Ireland in 1812 and her mother in Belfast, Maine, in 1835, they being married near Milwaukee, Wis. Mr. O'Neill came to Trempealeau County about a year before the Uhls, taking a homestead of 160 acres, where he farmed and raised stock until his death. Their daughter, Sophia, who was the eighth born in a family of ten children, was in girlhood a schoolmate of her future husband. Mr. and Mrs. Uhl have one child, Helen Grace, who is now attending the high school at Galesville. Mr. Uhl is a Republican in politics and has served six years as a member of the school board. He and his family attend the Catholic church.

Ole F. Lovlien. One of the best-improved farms of Pigeon Township is that known as Pine Grove Stock Farm, of which Ole F. Lovlien is the proprietor. Mr. Lovlien is a native of this township, having been born on his parents' farm in the southwest quarter of section 33, April 23, 1873. His father, Fred LovHen, was born in Norway in 1840, and married Guri Nilson. They came to this country and for a number of years made their home on the farm above mentioned, in section 33, where Fred Lovlien died in 1913. His wife is still living on the homestead. Ole F. Lovlien was reared on his parents' farm, on which he resided until reaching the age of 23 years. Then deciding to start in for himself, he purchased his present farm and has since been actively engaged in its cultivation and improvement. It contains 120 acres, two "forties" lying in section 28 and one "forty" in section

27, town 23 north, range 7 west. In the work of improving this farm Mr. Lovlien has been highly successful, and his barn and houses are, in particular, excellent buildings. The former, erected in 1905, measures 34 by 64 by 16 feet, with basement, and an addition 22 by 20 feet. The house was built in 1913, and is a brick veneer structure, two stories and basement, containing eight rooms, with oak finish and maple floors downstairs and finished in fir upstairs. It is installed with hot water heat, with hot and cold running water, bath and toilet, and is located in Fuller Cooley in a nice grove of pines, whence it derives its name of "Pine Grove" stock farm. On a hill near the house is a cistern, 10 by 11 feet in diameter, which is filled by a windmill. Mr. Lovlien is a stockholder in the Pigeon Grain and Stock Company and the Whitehall Hospital. For nine years he has been a director of the school board of his district. He was married to Lena Lindberg, who was born in Norway Aug. 11, 1879, daughter of Martin and Johanna (Tosaktil) Lindberg. Her father, born in Norway, April 1, 1847, came to this country in 1883, locating at the head of Fly Creek, on the north side of Preston Township, where he resided until he was killed at Ingram, Wis., Feb. 20, 1906. He had homesteaded his farm and for 18 winters worked in the woods. His wife Johanna, who was born in Norway in 1854, is still Uving at Fly Creek. Mr. and Mrs. Lovlien have had four children: Oswald, who died when only 6 days old; Mabel, born Sept. 27, 1901, who died July 13, 1915; Oscar, born April 9, 1908, and Gerhard, born Nov. 29, 1911. The family are members of the United Norwegian Lutheran church.

William A. Wyman, manager of the Farmers' Elevator Company at Galesville, was born in Groton Township, Tompkins County, N. Y., Sept. 3, 1852. His parents were Allan R. and Esther (Stron) Wyman, the latter born in the State of New York, Sept. 3, 1831. Allan R. Wyman, who was 5 years older than his wife, was a native of the State of Maine. In 1856 he came to Galesville, Wis., with his family and subsequently became one of the prominent men of the village and the vicinity. He was connected with a machinery business here for a number of years and also carried on farming. A man of unusual energy and determination, he made a strong impress on the community, being a leader or strong supporter of all worthy public enterprises, besides helping to promote the industrial resources of the village. For a long period he was chairman of the village board and township clerk and treasurer; he was for 13 years and up to the time of his death in 1880 county clerk of Trempealeau County, and for a number of years he was treasurer of Gale University.

WilUam A. Wyman was the younger of his parents' two children, and is the only survivor. In his youth he attended school in Galesville, then was a student at Gale College, and later spent a year at La Crosse Business College. When only 16 years old he was given charge of his father's farm and when 24 took a homestead near Madison, S. D., where he resided three years. He soon after went to Baldwin, Wis., in which place also he remained three years, having charge of a sawTnill and lumber yard. For the next seven years he was a resident of Amherst, S. D., holding the position of wheat buyer for a large elevator company. The scene of his next industrial efforts was Austin, Minn., where he spent three years. Five years were subsequently spent in Winnebago, Minn., three as grain buyer for the Peary Elevator Company and two for the Winnebago Milling Company, and while living there he bought grain in Canada for some four years. He then had charge of a Farmers' Elevator in Grenada for 18 months, after which he came to Galesville as manager of the Farmers' Elevator Company. Mr. Wj^man has spent the greater part of his hfe as a grain buyer and thoroughly understands the business. He has never held local office, but in politics is an independent Republican. Mr. Wyman was married Dec. 29, 1880, to Julia Pace, who was born at Beaver Dam, Wis., daughter of William and Lavina (Castle) Pace. Her father, who was born in England, thei-e learned the trade of miller. Coming to the United States, he followed his trade in New York and later at Beaver Dam, Wis., where he lived for a number of years. Thence he went to Oakland, Minn., where he engaged in the miUing business. About 1858 he opened the first mill at Austin, Minn., and continued in business there until he was too old to work. Both he and his wife died in Minnesota. They had a family of five children, of whom their daughter Julia was the youngest and is one of the two survivors, the other being Mrs. J. R. Ogden, of Black River Falls. Mr. and Mrs. Wyman have two children : Myrtle G. and Allan W. Myrtle G. is the wife of Thomas Loft and resides in Winnebago, Minn. She has two children : Allan Thomas and Irwin. Allan W. Wyman, who is single, is a resident or Blue Earth, Minn., where he has charge of the grocery department in a general mercantile store. William A. Wyman has been a member of the Masonic order since he was 24 years old and is now a member of Decorah Lodge No. 77. In this he follows the footsteps of his father, who was Master of the Masonic Lodge for a number of years, besides being a member of the Orders of Odd Fellows, Good Templars and the Grange, of Patrons of Husbandry. The latter's wife is hving, and resides with her son, the subject of this sketch.

Mattinus J. Skogstad, who is engaged in agriculture on a farm of 185 acres in section 12, Preston Township, was born in Norway, Jan. 20, 1861, son of John B. and Gurie (Peterson) Skogstad. The father was born in Norway May 28, 1827, and emigrated to the United States in 1864, settling in Dane County, Wis., where he remained until 1869. He then homesteaded a farm at Lake's Cooley, in Preston Township, Trempealeau County, where he resided until his death in January, 1913. His wife died in 1904 at the age of 72. Mattinus J. Skogstad was reared on his parents' farm, which he operated for a number of years, afterward farming nine years in Albion Township. Then, in 1906, he bought his present farm, which is a wellimproved piece of property, and has since been successfully engaged in its cultivation. Mr. Skogstad was married Feb. 1, 1891, to Josephine Scow, of Arcadia Township, daughter of Matt and Ingeborg Scow, her father being one of the pioneer farmers of that township. Mr. and Mrs. Skogstad are the parents of six children : Margaret, who graduated from the Blair High School in 1912 and later from the La Crosse Business College, and has been a teacher for two years ; Maurice and Bennie, residing at home ; Laura, who graduated from Arcadia High School in 1916 and is now a teacher, and Irwin and John Lloyd, residing with their parents.

Lemuel H. Waller, a resident of Gale Township, who is operating a farm of 235 acres in section 24, was born at Glasgow, this township, June 24, 1870. His father was Hans Waller, and his mother's name before marriage was Martha Maria Braatsvein. Both parents were born in Norway, the father on March 16, 1841, and the mother on June 8, 1831. They were married in Norway, Hans Waller coming first to the United States in 1868, and his wife coming in the following year. They settled in Hardie's Creek Valley, but resided there only a short time, moving to the farm on which their son Lemuel now lives, where Hans Waller died in 1899. His wife died Dec. 21, 1914. They were among the pioneer settlers of their neighborhood. Lemuel H. Walker was the seventh born in a family of eight children. He acquired his elementary education in the school at Glasgow, Gale Township, and afterward attended two winter terms at Gale College. Remaining on the homestead, he followed agriculture, assisting his father until the latter's death, when he became the owner of the property. Here he is engaged in general farming, including dairying and stock raising, and is doing a profitable business. He is a stockholder in the Arctic Springs Creamery, the North Bend Creamery, the Independent Harvester Company, of Piano, 111., and the Farmers' Elevator Company at GalesviUe. Mr. Waller has always been a member of the Lutheran church of Hardie's Creek and is much interested in church work. He has served as trustee for the congregation for six years and has been appointed to serve on different committees. In politics he is a Republican. Mr. Waller was married Feb. 24, 1904, to Mary Alice Tucker, daughter of David C. and Margaret (Bibby) Tucker, of Gale Township. He and his wife have six children: Goodwin Edward, Roy Orvald, Sanford Milton, Alice Emeline, Martha Helen and Victoria Maria, all residing at home.

Ludwig C. Olson, who was actively connected with the farming industry of Pigeon Township, as proprietor of Maple Dale Stock Farm, in section 34, town 23 north, range 7 west, was born in Ulensager, Norway, Oct. 24, 1858. His father was Christopher Olson, who was born in Norway in 1829 and who came to the United States in 1870, settling in Dane County, Wis. In 1873 Christopher located in Trempealeau County, homesteading the farm owned and operated by his son Ludwig until the latter's death. He obtained it by buying the relinquishment of the widow of Hans Harralsrud. Here he spent many years in improving the property, tilling the land and erecting buildings, and here he died at an advanced age in January, 1916. His first wife, mother of Ludwig, whose maiden name was Inga Marie Larson, was born in Norway in 1824. She died many years before her husband, passing away in May, 1874. In January of the following year Christopher Olson married for his second wife Mrs. Karen Harralsrud, widow of Hans Harralsrud, from whom he had obtained his farm. She is now living near Whitehall. Ludwig C. Olson at an early age became acquainted with all the various duties of farm life. At the age of 18 he began working out for others and was thus occupied until 1888. He then bought a farm - then containing 160 acres - from his father, he and his brother, Ole C. Harralsrud dividing it between them. In its present condition it is a well-improved piece of property, having a good house and barns. Mr. Olson bred Holstein cattle, having a herd of about 50 graded animals. He purchased a home in Pigeon Falls, to which he moved in the fall of 1916. He died Jan. 2, 1917. He was married in 1895 to Anna Skumhen, of Fuller Cooley, Pigeon Township, who was born in Vaardahl, Norway, Aug. 5, 1870, daughter of Andrew and Anna (Olson) Skumlien. Her father, a native of Norway, came to America in 1876 with his wife and children, settling in Fuller Cooley, where he bought a farm on which he resided until his death, June 9, 1882. His wife, who was born in Norway in 1848, is still residing on the homestead. Five children wei-e born to Mr. and Mi's. Olson : Agnes Mabel, born Oct. 15, 1895, who married Thoroald Fremstad Oct. 21, 1916; Christine Alette, born Sept. 13, 1897 ; Lila Anna, born Nov. 9, 1901, who married Benone Foss, July

Roy E. James, secretary and manager of the Galesville Lumber Company, was born in Alexandria, S. D., March 4, 1883, son of C. P. and Ella (Stebbins) James. C. P. James, the father, was born in the State of New York and was a farmer the greater part of his life. In 1881 he went West to South Dakota, where he resided operating a farm until 1898. He then removed to Michigan, was there two years, and next moved to Monroe, Wis., where he stayed a year. From Monroe he went to Wausau, Wis., in which city he is now residing, operating a large plant for the manufacture of potash. His wife, a native of Pennsylvania, is also living. Roy E. James was the eldest son of his parents' four children. He acquired his education in the public schools in South Dakota, Michigan and Monroe, Wis., and in a business college at Wausau, Wis. At the age of 18 years he was employed as a stenogi'apher in the ofRce of a sawmill at Schofield, Wis., remaining there about five years, after which he was employed two and a half years in a lumber office at Dunbar, Wis. He then went to Wausau, Wis., and for a while was connected with a firm in the same line of business there, but subsequently became sales manager for a large sawmilling concern, with which he remained about 18 months. He next became connected with the W. E. Cooper Lumber Company, of Milwaukee, and has since remained with this concern, of which the Galesville Lumber Company is a branch. He was appointed to his present position as secretary and manager in October, 1912. He is a stockholder in the company and also owns property in Galesville. Aug. 21, 1907, Mr. James was united in marriage with Ida Berger, who was born near Sturgeon Bay, Door County, Wis., daughter of William and Emma (Howard) Berger. The father at different times followed the trades of house painter and cooper and was also engaged in farming. He is now practically retired and resides in Wausau, Wis., where he owns a large ginseng garden and truck farm. Mr. and Mi's. James have two children: Mary Elizabeth and Frank Berger. Mr. James is Master in the local Blue Lodge of Masons, a trustee of the Modern Woodmen of America. He attends the Presbyterian church, but is not a member. In politics he is independent.

Frank J. Hartman, now residing in La Crosse, Wis., is a native son of Trempealeau County, having been born in Arcadia Township, March 7, 1865.

son of Henry and Augusta (Sheldon) Hartman. The father was born in Ohio, March 16, 1839, and came West with his parents in 1856, making the journey by train to Dubuque, Iowa, and from there by boat to Fountain City, Wis., and from Fountain City to "Bishop Settlement," now Arcadia, by ox team. His father, John P. Hartman, homesteaded 160 acres near Arcadia Village. It was wild land with no buildings on it, and the family had a hard time to procure the necessities of life, being often obliged to haul supplies from Fountain City on a hand sled. Mr. Hartman, grandfather of the subject of this sketch, worked with his sons, Philip and Henry, for the father of John Gavney, to earn foodstuifs. Henry Hartman was 17 years of age when he came to Trempealeau County, and he had to make himself useful on the farm and help his parents in various ways. In 1864, when 25 years old, he was married in Iowa to Augusta Sheldon, who was born in Ogdensburg, St. Lawrence County, N. Y., March 8, 1840, a daughter of Benjamin Sheldon. It was not until 1869, however, that Henry Hartman began farming for himself ; in the meanwhile he lived on the parents' farm, except for his trip to Iowa, where he obtained his bride. When he started in for himself he bought 160 acres of land in Wickham Valley, between Arcadia and Independence, and here he remained for 14 years, engaged in developing his farm, transforming it in time into a good piece of agricultural property. In 1883 he rented the farm to Wilber Wickham and moved to East Arcadia, where he and his family hved for 10 years. Selling the above-mentioned farm in 1892, he bought one near Alma Center in the following year, which he lived on and worked for ten years. He then sold this farm and retired to a home that he built in Alma Center, where he and his wife resided till 1914, in which year they sold the residence and moved to Spokane, Wash., where they are now living with their son Howard. Their children were: Myrtle, born May 31, 1866, who was married in 1889 to Claud Higbee and is now residing with her husband at Whitepine, Mont. ; Cora, born Feb. 13, 1868, who died unmarried at Alma Center, June 13, 1913 ; Howard, born May 2, 1873, now living in Spokane, Wash., where he is engaged in i-ailroading ; Bert, born March 7, 1881, who is a druggist at Eleva, Wis., and Frank J., of La Crosse. All the children were born in Trempealeau County. Frank J. Hartman in his youth attended the common schools and the Arcadia High School, from which he was graduated in 1887, subsequently teaching one winter in Sieger district, Trempealeau County. In the year of his graduation he entered the employ of the Holway Lumber Company, of North La Crosse, and remained with them as time keeper and clerk for three and a half years, being in the mill during the summers and in the woods during the winters. From October, 1890, to April, 1898, he held the position of hardware clerk with the W. P. Massuere Company. On July 4, 1892, the day on which the wagon bridge across the Mississippi River at Winona was dedicated, Mr. Hartman was married in that city to Cora A., daughter of John and Nancy (Frey) Danuser, of Fountain City, the Rev. Mr. Higbee, pastor of the Baptist church, officiating. They began housekeeping in Arcadia Village, where they lived until 1898, in which year Mr. Hartman went to Eleva and engaged in the hardware business, being thus occupied until 1913. He and his family then moved to Onalaska, where his son Cecil was attending the high school. In the following year, 1914, he moved to La Crosse and entered the employ of the Tausch Hardware Company, with which concern he is still connected. He and his wife have had three children, of whom two daughters died in infancy. The son, Cecil, was born in Arcadia, Aug. 5, 1895, and after passing through the graded school of Eleva, attended the Onalaska High School. Mr. Hartman is not active in politics, but votes the Republican ticket. He is a prosperous business man and has not lost his interest in his old home in Trempealeau County.

Iver A. Berg, garage owner at Blair, Trempealeau County, Wis., was born in Preston Township, this county, Aug. 24, 1886, son of Arne I. and Eli (Arneson) Berg. He attended the district schools, was reared to farm pursuits by his father, and remained at home until February, 1916, when he engaged in his present business. His garage occupies a suitable twostory building, 44 by 72 feet, on the corner of Broadway and Dover streets. He has a well-equipped plant, including a machine shop, with a steam vulcanizer and tools suitable for all kinds of repairing. A full Line of supphes are always on hand. He has the agency for the Studebaker cars and does livery work at reasonable prices. He was married, July 29, 1916, to Emma Briggs, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Briggs.

Joachim Schmidt, a pioneer of Gale Township, Trempealeau County, now deceased, was born in Mecklenberg-Schwerin, Germany, in 1827, and was there educated and reared to manhood. There also he was married to Sophia Engel, who was born in the same province in 1825. Seeking a wider field of opportunity, with better prospects of success, in November, 1866, they said good-bye to their native land and came to the United States, locating in Gale Township, this county. In March, 1868, Mr. Schmidt took a homestead in section 19, and he and his wife set to work at once to improve the land and better their condition ; a task involving persevering industry continued through a long period of years, but which was finally accomplished. Mr. Schmidt's honesty and activity were supplemented by the energy and womanly qualities of his wife, and they won the esteem of the neighbors, which they retained to the end of their lives. Mr. Schmidt died on the homestead in 1896, his wife surviving him until 1907, when she, too, passed away. They were the parents of three children : Joachim J., who after hving on the home farm for nearly 50 years is now retired and residing in Galesville ; Sophia, now the wife of Christ Kroger, a prominent farmer of Tipton, Iowa, and Henry who is a representative agriculturist of Geneva, Nebraska.

Joachim J. Schmidt, now living retired in the city of Galesville, was born in Mecklenberg-Schwerin, Germany, Dec. 1, 1865, son of Joachim and Sophia (Engel) Schmidt. In 1866 he was brought to America by his parents, who located at once in Trempealeau County. He was educated in the district schools and was reared to agricultural pursuits, remaining on the home farm and working for and with his father until his marriage in 1889, at which time he became proprietor and manager of the homestead. To him are due some of the most modern improvements on it, including a good and substantial set of buildings, with all subsidiary equipment. His operations included general farming and stock raising, which he carried on with satisfactory results, becoming one of the leading and substantial agriculturists of Trempealeau County. His business interests also identify him as a stockholder in the Arctic Springs Creamery at GalesviUe. In the spring of 1917, after living for nearly 50 successive years on the old homestead, he sold out and retired to GalesviUe, where he and his wife are now living, surrounded by the comforts gained by years of hard labor on the farm. Their farm was beautifully located in section 19, Gale Township, and consisted of 230 acres. Mr. Schmidt was married, April 17, 1889, to Sophia Wangelin, who was born near Princeton, 111., Jan. 11, 1870, daughter of John and Wilhelmina (Schmidt) Wangelin, her parents being natives of Mecklenberg, Germany. John Wangelin came to the United States in 1863, locating in Illinois. In 1868 Wilhelmina Schmidt came, and they were married in Illinois in 1869. Three years later, in 1872, Mr. Wangehn moved to Nebraska, taking a homestead in Fillmore County, where he engaged in general farming, becoming a representative and influential citizen. He died there in 1910, and his wife now resides in Geneva, Neb. Mr. and Mrs. Schmidt became the parents of two children: Emma, born in 1890, who died in infancy, and Bertha W., born in 1892, who is living at home with her parents. The family are attendants of the Presbyterian church. In politics Mr. Schmidt is an independent Repubhcan.

Fred Hagen, who is aiding in developing the agricultural resources of Gale Township on his farm of 104 acres in section 5, was born at Lillehammer, Norway, July 11, 1870, son of Simon and Ingeborg Hagen. The father was a mechanic and neither he nor his wife ever left their native land. Both are now deceased. Fred Hagen was the fifth born in a family of six children. He attended school in Norway and began regular industrial life at the age of 17 years. In 1893 he joined the tide of westward emigration and, landing in the United States, proceeded to Iowa, where he worked as a farmer in Ward County for about three years. He then spent a winter in Trempealeau County, Wis., but at the time did not settle here permanently, going instead to Dodge County, Minn., where he worked as a farm hand for about seven years. Then returning to Trempealeau County, he rented a farm in Gale Township, having previously rented one for three years in Minnesota, and went to farming for himself here. Eight years later, having saved money, he bought his present farm of 104 acres, on which he has since been engaged in general farming and stock raising. His property is well improved and he is enjoying a well-earned prosperity, being also a stockholder in the Farmers' Telephone Company. Mr. Hagen was married, Oct. 10, 1902, to Clara Dahl, who was born in Gale Township, daughter of Gustave and Len Dahl. Her parents, both now living in this township, are natives of Norway, the father being a retired farmer. Mrs. Hagen died Oct. 26, 1911, leaving three children: Stanley, born Sept. 14, 1903; Lester, born July 20, 1905, and Norman, born Nov. 8, 1908. The family are members of the Lutheran church at French Creek, and in politics Mr. Hagen is a Republican. When he first came to this country he was entirely ignorant of the English language, but acquired it quickly, considering his opportunities, and has since carved his way to a position of comparative prosperity, with good prospects for the future.

Johanas N. Brenengen, who is engaged in farming a tract of 40 acres in section 33 west, Ettrick Tois-nship, was born near Christiania, Norway, July 12. 1864, son of Nels C. and Nettie (Johnson) Brenengen. The family came to Trempealeau County in June, 1880, locating in Gale Township and in Ettrick Township. Nels C. Brenengen worked for awhile at the carpenter's trade, which he had learned in his native land. Afterwards he engaged in farming and was thus occupied for the most part until his death in October, 1904. His wife sur^dved him only ten days. They had a family of seven children. Johanas N. Brenengen attended school in Norway and also the Smith school in Gale Township, being 13 years of age when he came to this country. He began industrial life as a farm hand in Abraham's Cooley, Trempealeau County, and worked for others until 20 years of age. For ten years longer he resided \\ith his father on the homestead, and then, when 30 j-ears old, bought the farm, which then contained 160 acres, of which he has since sold 120 acres. He carries on general farming and is a stockholder in the Ettrick Telephone Company. June 14, 1902, Mr. Brenengen was married to Anna Nelson, who was bom in Preston Township, Trempealeau County, Wis., at Plumb Creek Cooley, daughter of Knut Field and I\Iattie (Learing) Field. Her parents, born in Biri, Norway, came to America about 1884, locating in Preston Township, this county, where her father at first worked out for others, but afterwards bought a farm in that township, on which he still resides. He and his wife had nine children, of whom their daughter Anna was the fifth'in order of birth. Mr. and ]Mrs. Brenengen have a family of two children : Clarence Norman, born Feb. 1, 1906. and Alfred Meier, born June 25. 1910. The family are members of the Lutheran church. Mr. Brenengen is an independent voter and is not politically active, preferring to devote his attention to his private business. He is in good circumstances and is counted among the reliable citizens of his neighborhood.

Olaf M. Myhre, of the firm of Berg & Myhre, garage o^^Tiers of Blair, was born in Preston Township, this county, June 7, 1882, son of Ole H. and Caroline (Berg) Myhre, natives of Norway, the former of whom died in 1908, and the latter of whom now lives in Northfield, Wis. He attended the district schools, was reared to farm pursuits, and remained at home until 1912. Then he farmed for himself in Ettrick Township. In February, 1916. he engaged in his present business. He is an energetic and public spirited man, and is building up a successful business. Mr. Myhre was married Nov. 18. 1912. to Mabel Mow of Preston Township, and they have three children: Vema, Erwin and Edna.

Rev. Christian Brandt Bestul, pastor of several Lutheran congregations in Trempealeau County, and a member of the official board of Gale College, was bom near Morris\-ille. Wis., Nov. 13. 1870. His parents were John E. and Ingeborg (Brandt) Bestul, both natives of Norway, the father bora in Telemarken in 1828. and the mother in Valders in 1826. They were married in Wisconsin in 1855, John E. Bestul coming to the United States in 1844. in which year came also his father. EUef J. Bestul. Later John located in the Rock River settlement near Milwaukee, the father also locating in that \ncinity, and was there for several years engaged in farming.

Rev. And Mrs. Christian B. Bestul

In 1853 John T. Bestul, father of EUef J. and great-grandfather of the subject of this memoir, came to America. He was then an aged man of 90 years and died in the same year. In 1860 John E. Bestul removed to Columbia County, Wisconsin, and there continued his agricultural operations until his death, which occurred in 1878, when the subject of this sketch was eight years old. His widow, after living there a year longer, removed with her family to Shawano County, Wisconsin, which place was her home for six years. The last thirty-seven years of her life she lived with her children in this and adjoining states. She died May 20, 1917, at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Rev. E. Berrum, Holmen, Wis.

Christian Brandt Bestul was the youngest and the only boy of his parents' eight children. He attended school at Wittenberg, Wis., and subsequently became a student at Luther College, Decorah, Iowa, being graduated from that institution with the class in 1893. His theological education was obtained at Luther Seminary, St. Paul, Minn., where he spent three years, finishing there in 1896. After graduating in theology he became pastor of a Lutheran church at Marshfield, Wis., where he remained one year. His next charge was at Viroqua, as assistant to the president of the Eastern District of the Norwegian Sjmod, and covered a period of four years. In 1901 he became pastor of the Lutheran congregation at French Creek, Trempealeau County, and has since held that position, also serving the congregations at Hardie's Creek, South Branch of Beaver Creek, Tamarac and Eagerness. There are 130 families in the French Creek congregation, and in that of Hardie's Creek, which is the smallest, 44 families. Since the transfer of Gale College to the Lutherans, Mr. Bestul has served as secretary of the board and assisted in establishing the college on a Lutheran basis. He was secretary of the Church Extension Board nine years and for a similar period of time was a member of the Board of Home Missions. His whole time is devoted to church and educational work, in which he has shown an ability that has made him a power for good in his denomination. On June 27, 1900, Mr. Bestul was united in marriage with Harriet Halvorsen, who was born at Westby, Vernon County, Wis., daughter of Halvor and Marie (Olson) Halvorsen. Her parents were both born in Norway, the father in Stavanger in 1845, and the mother in Christiania in 1846. Married in their native land in 1871, they came to the United States in the following year, locating at Westby, Wis., where Mr. Halvorsen became pastor of the Lutheran Synod Church, a position which he still retains. The entire period of his residence in this country has been spent in church work. The family of Mr. and Mrs. Halvorsen consisted of eight children, of whom Harriet was the fourth in order of birth. She was educated at the Ladies' Lutheran Seminary at Red Wing, Minn., and the high school at Viroqua, Wis., and is a lady of culture and refinement and an able assistant to her husband in parish work. Mr. and Mrs. Bestul are the parents of eight children: Marie Ingeborg, Harold Brandt, Valborg Elizabeth, Erling Johan, Harriet Ragna, Christian Wilhelm, Signe Emelie and Anna Matilda. The family residence is in section 27, Ettrick Township.

1848, son of Johanes and Anna (Brovald) Instenes. Johanes and his family came from Norway in 1861, and first located in Dane County, Wisconsin, where he remained one year. As he was born March 20, 1824, he was then a man of about 37 years, and in the prime of life. Coming from Dane to Trempealeau County, he settled on a farm in Ettrick Township, where nearly 20 years later his wife Anna died, on Jan. 7, 1882. There he continued to reside for 28 years longer, or until his death, which occurred March 21, 1910. He was a sturdy pioneer farmer, who accepted conditions as he found them and did his share in developing the agricultural resources of his township. Sever Instenes was a youth of 14 years when he came to this country. He was reared on the home farm, acquiring a good knowledge of agriculture from practical experience, and following it when young under pioneer conditions. In time he succeeded to the possession of the farm which his father had homesteaded, and which he stll further improved, operating it successfully until his death, Jan. 14, 1906. On Oct. 22, 1872, he was united in marriage at Roche a Cri, Adams County, Wis., to Anna Instenes, who was born in Hardanger, Norway, Nov. 26, 1854. She is still living on the old farm, making her home with her son John S., who is its present owner. Sever and Anna Instenes were the parents of three children: Anna, John S. and Lewis O. Anna, who was born Nov. 13, 1873, was married June 4, 1898, to Albert Saed, a resident of Ettrick Township, this county, and has two children : Althord Sulliven, born June 29, 1904, and Adella (Corinthia), born July 23, 1906. John S., born June 20, 1876, is now, as previously mentioned, operating the old homestead. Lewis 0., born Nov. 25, 1880, is a jeweler, residing in Blair.

John S. Instenes, who is successfully operating the old Instenes farm of 200 acres in Ettrick Township, was born on this farm June 20, 1876, son of Sever and Anna (Instenes) Instenes. In his boyhood he attended the Beach school in Ettrick Township. Brought up on the home farm, he assisted his father in its operation, but at intervals was away from home, working elsewhere. On his father's death in 1906 he came into possession of the farm, on which he has made a number of valuable improvements, and now has very good buildings, including a nice modern residence. Besides carrying on general farming on a profitable basis, he is interested financially as a stockholder in the Ettrick Creamery, the Ettrick Telephone Company and the Farmers Exchange of Blair. On May 28, 1908, Mr. Instenes was united in marriage with Anna Herreid, daughter of Tosten G. and Ragnhild (Bue) Herreid, prosperous farming people of section 17, Ettrick Township. He and his wife are the parents of two children: Evelyn Jeanette, born Aug. 29, 1912, and Spencer Thomas, born Jan. 2, 1916. They have also an adopted daughter, Clara Olive, born May 11, 1906, who is attending school. The family are members of the Norwegian Lutheran Church. Mr. Instenes is independent in politics. He is a member of the order of Beavers, and is an enterprising agriculturist, widely known and respected.

Lewis O. Instenes, who is prosperously engaged in the jewelry business in Blair, Trempealeau County, is a native of this county, having been born in Ettrick Township, Nov. 25, 1880, son of Sever and Anna (Instenes)

Instenes. He was educated in the district schools and spent his early life on his parents' farm. Graduating from the Minneapolis School of Watchmaking in 1905, he acquired experience by working in various shops until he came to Blair in 1907. Here he bought out the jewelry stock of Ed. Bersing and established his present business. He handles a general line of jewelry, does expert watch repairing, and also deals in clocks, silverware, Edison phonographs and similar goods. He has built up a good trade and won the confidence of his patrons by honest dealing and courteous attention to their wants. Thus estabhshed on a firm basis, his future prospects are as favorable as his present prosperity is gratifying. Mr. Instenes was married Oct. 5, 1910, to Nettie Dale, who was born in Ettrick Township, Jan. 12, 1885, daughter of Sam and Catherine (Herreid) Dale. Her father, a native of Norway, was a pioneer of Ettrick Township, and is now carrying on business, as a stock buyer in Galesville. Mr. and Mrs. Instenes have two children: Stanley LeRoy, born Sept. 2, 1911, and Ardyce Catherine, born March 22, 1916.

John W. Nash, proprietor of a good farm in section 1, Trempealeau Township, was born in Du Page County, Illinois, Jan. 13, 1851, son of Isaac and Anna Nash. The parents were natives of New York state, the father born at New Lisbon, Otsego County, Feb. 18, 1810, and the mother in Hartford, May 21, 1811. They were married in Hanover, Chautauqua County, N. Y., Nov. 25, 1832.' In 1837 they came west and from that time until 1854 resided at different times in various sections of Illinois. In May, 1854, Isaac Nash came to Wisconsin and in September of that year brought his family from Illinois with an ox team, locating in section 1, Trempealeau County, where he bought 100 acres of timbered government land, on which there were no buildings. For a residence he erected a single-room log house, which the family of eight occupied, the subject of this sketch being then between three and four years of age. Mr. Nash began the work of clearing his farm at once, but at first made slow progress, as he was poor and had to work out for means to support his family. The log house was occupied for 12 years, and then, in 1866, Mr. Nash sold the farm and bought another of 120 acres just north of West Prairie schoolhouse. This land was partially improved, there being a small clearing, together with a frame house and stable. Here Isaac Nash resided until 1871, in which year, in the spring, he sold out and went to Nebraska, where he and his wife spent the rest of their lives. Mrs. Nash was the first to pass away, her death taking place Feb. 14, 1882, and his, Nov. 30, 1883. Joel W. Nash, who accompanied his parents to Nebraska, remained in that state tiU March, 1884, and then came back to Wisconsin. After his return, he resided in La Crosse until July, 1885, and then rented a farm in Trempealeau Township, which he operated until 1887. He then removed to the "Bell Farm" in section 3, this township. In the winter of 1888 he purchased 40 acres of improved land in section 1 E, which place is his present home. There was a frame house on the farm, in which he lived until 1915, when he erected a comfortable cottage in the same yard, his son Gustave and family moving into the older building, and he taking up his residence in the cottage. In 1904 he built a good frame barn, 32 by 60 feet, and has also put up a granary, 14 by 20, a machine shed, 16 by 30, and a poultry house, 12 by 14 feet. Mr. Nash was married, June 23, 1884, at the home of his bride's parents, by the Rev. Mr. Ilert, Evangehcal pastor, to Lydia, daughter of Jacob and EUzabeth Staublein of Buffalo County, Wis. He and his wife have one child, the son Gustave above mentioned, who was born at Centerville. Wis., Jan. 30, 1886, and who is now operating the home farm. Gustave married Ida Myer of Winona, Minn., and they have one child, Myrtle. Mr. Nash and his son carry on general farming, having 60 acres under the plow and 60 in pasture land. They keep from 12 to 15 grade cows and as many graded hogs, and have an ample equipment of tools, machinery, teams and whatever is necessary to the successful operation of a modern farm. Mr. Nash is a Republican in politics, but has not served in public office. He and his wife are members of Centerville M. E. Church. Mrs. Nash belonging to the King's Daughters.

Walter D. Young, proprietor of Decorah Valley Stock Farm, located in section 33, town 19, range 8, just outside the city limits of Galesville, formerly known as the Sterns homestead, was born in the town of Melrose, Jackson County, Wis., Aug. 22, 1863. He lived at the old home until 1891, when he was married to Miss Belle Baird, and they moved to their present home. Mr. Young is of German parentage. His grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Morris Young, came to this country from Saxony Meiningen, Germany, in 1847. There were six children besides the parents when they came to America. They settled at Bloomfield, Walworth County, Wis., and took up farming, which was their occupation in Germany. They crossed the ocean in a sailing vessel, which took 41 days. They did not purchase any land until they emigrated to Burr Oak, La Crosse County, Wis. At this time the six children - three sons and three daughters - were grown to manhood and womanhood, and all emigrated with their parents overland with oxen, driving their cattle with them, and loading all other belongings on the wagons drawn by four oxen each. It took them 14 days to make the trip. Yust D. Young, father of Walter D. Young, was born in Germany in 1837 and died at Melrose, Jackson County, Wis., March 14, 1897. He was the eldest son of Morris Young and a pioneer in this part of the country. After helping his parents hew out a home in the new country, he was married to Miss Elizabeth Williams, and in 1862 they started to build a home in the town of Melrose, Jackson County, Wis. Taking 80 acres of land as nature gave it, they transformed it into a successful and prosperous farm home of 240 acres by additional purchases. Mr. Yust D. Young was a progressive farmer in his day. He was one of the first to adopt diversified farming and rotation of crops, and also owned one of the first twine binders, which was considered extravagant in those days, as it cost $265. Game being plentiful, it was his custom to kill a couple of deer each fall for his winter meat. He very seldom had to go more than a mile to get them. There were from four to twenty in a drove. Bear meat was also indulged in. He was a respected citizen and served his county in local affairs. His wife Elizabeth was born in Saxe Meiningen, Germany, Nov. 13, 1836. She came to America at the age of twenty, was married to Yust D. Young in 1862; she died Nov. 17, 1910. She was the mother of three children living:

Morris Hanson

Walter D. Young, Milton M. Young and Libbie S. Petterson. She was a kind and good mother, always willing and ready to sacrifice herself for the good of others and did her work nobly in building of a new country. Belle E. Baird, wife of Walter D. Young, was born Jan. 16, 1861, She is of Scottish parentage. Her father, John Baird, was born in Glasgow, Scotland, Sept. 27, 1830. He came to America in 1852, locating in Pennsylvania, where he worked in the mines. Later he moved to Big Sandy, Kentucky, where he was married to Miss Elizabeth Willson. In 1857 they moved to North Bend, Jackson County, Wis., and took up farming as their occupation, which Mr. Baird followed until several years before his death on May 1, 1910. He knew much of the trials of the early pioneer. Having followed mining until he was 27 years old, he had many difficulties to contend with in his new chosen field - farming. As a pioneer he was equal to the occasion. He acquired a nice farm, which he sold to his youngest son, John Baird, at his death. He was an honored citizen, one of the charter members of the Presbyterian church at North Bend. He was noted for his musical talent and led the singing in church for years before either organ or choir were installed. Mrs. Elizabeth Baird was born in Scotland April 6, 1833, and came to America with her parents in 1841. She was the mother of six children and is still living at this writing, Sept. 1, 1917. She and her brother Wilhe WiUson, six years her senior, have the distinction of being two of the old pioneers still living. She was a kind and loving mother and knows much of the early pioneer life. Walter D. Young and wife moved onto their present farm in the spring of 1891. The farm was badly run down. The soil had been depleted of its fertility by continuous cropping for over 30 years. The buildings were badly dilapidated, as it had been occupied by renters for most of that time. Mr. Young began at once to build up the soil by rotation of crops, including clover, feeding the same to stock, and also fattening sheep for the spring market, which practice he still continues. This farm is now considered one of the best in the town of Gale and the buildings are all modern, having been erected in recent years. Mr. Young has always taken a prominent part in church, school and local town matters, having held offices in the various organizations, but devoting his entire time in working hours to the management of his farm. He and his wife have five children: Roy D., Alvin W., Ralph E., Vilas D. and Hazel E. All have graduated from the Galesville high school but Hazel, who expects to graduate in 1920.

Morris Hanson, register of deeds of Trempealeau County, was born at Blair, this county, April 1, 1864, son of Martin and Oha (Stuterud) Hanson, natives of Norway. The father, born at Soler, Norway, came to America in 1862, settling in Blair, where he became a highly respected citizen, being a member and trustee of the United Norwegian Lutheran Church. He died Sept. 5, 1912, at the age of 77 years. His wife, to whom he was married in Norway, died in 1896 at the age of 53. They had a large family of 13 children, of whom nine are now living. Morris Hanson, who was the third born child in the family, remained at home until 1887, and then began to work out. He attended business college at La Crosse one year, and in 1890 found employment in a general store in Blair, remain- ing with the firm seven years. He then became a partner in the firm of Halvorson, Hanson & Co., general merchants of Blair, and was thus occupied until 1910. In the fall of 1912, having by this time become widely known and respected, he was elected to the office of registrar of deeds, and was re-elected in the fall of 1914. He has devoted a considerable part of his time to the public service, as he was a member of the village council of Blair for 10 years, being president one year, and was clerk of the Blair school board four years. Aside from his present occupation he is a stockholder in the Home Bank of Blair. Mr. Hanson was married Sept. 9, 1891, to Lena Halvorson, who was born in Blair, Wis., May 9, 1866, daughter of Nels and Turi (Newland) Halvorson. The father, who was a farmer, was a native of Norway, came to America in 1855 and took a homestead about two miles east of Blair. He died in 1912 at the age of 78 years. His wife died in 1913 at the age of 72. Mr. and Mrs. Hanson have five children: Verna. a graduate of Stevens Point normal school, who is now a teacher in the sixth grade at Waterloo, Iowa; Edna, also a graduate of Stevens Point normal school, and a teacher in domestic science at Mukwanogo, Wis. ; Mendez, assistant cashier in Trempealeau Valley State Bank at Taylor, Jackson County, Wis. ; Dagna and Donald, residing at home. Mr. Hanson belongs to the Independent Order of Foresters, and he and his family are members of the United Lutheran Church.

Gilbert S. Rice, manager of the Auto Sales Co. of Whitehall, has developed that institution into one of the most important industries in the village. Eflficient in his chosen line, affable of manner, and keenly interested in public affairs, he has taken his place as one of the public spirited citizens of the county, and his influence has ever been used in behalf of progress and betterment. He is a native of this county, born on Trempealeau Prairie, Jan. 11, 1872. His father, Tracy E. Rice, was born in New York state, came to Trempealeau County in the early days, and here married Ellen G. Hanson; he died many years ago, and his widow, who married Christian Everson, now fives in Lincobi Township. The subject of this sketch was educated in the schools of Whitehall, and devoted his early life to farm pursuits. Since boyhood, however, he has been interested in machinery, and in 1895 the opportunity came to enter his chosen fine by embarking in the implement business at WhitehaU. With the development of the automobile industry he saw a still wider opportunity, and late in 1910 organized the Auto Sales Co. For a time he was president and manager, but as the business grew he retired from the presidency to devote all his time to the active management. Busy as he has been with his life work, he has found time for pubfic service, and has given general satisfaction at different times as village president, village clerk and vifiage treasurer. His business holdings include stock in the Farmers and Merchants Bank of Independence. Mr. Rice was married May 30, 1895, to Ida 0. Wold, born in this county, a daughter of Ole 0. and Kari (Bang) Wold, both now deceased. Their happy home has been blessed with six children: Tracy 0., born May 18, 1896; Kathryn I., born April 14, 1898; Elsie V., born July 10, 1900; Evelyn M., born Jan. 13, 1904 ; Donald 0., born April 14, 1906, and Marion, born March 12, 1914.

A. W. Anderson

The Auto Sales Co. is one of the most important business concerns in Whitehall. The company occupies its own sightly building, located in a commanding position, and has an extensive trade not only in Whitehall and Blair, but also throughout a wide territory in the rural districts. The building is two stories in height, with a full basement, equipped with an elevator, and all the latest appliances for auto repairing. In the basement are stored the oils, gasohne, tires and heavy equipment. The first floor is devoted to the salesrooms and offices. The top floor is used for repairing and for carrying the stock. The concern employs an expert staff of mechanics, headed by the manager, Gilbert S. Rice. A full line of accessories is carried. The company does a large business in Ford automobiles, and is constantly demonstrating and selling these machines. The Auto Sales Co. was organized Dec. 15, 1910, by Gilbert S. Rice, with a capital of $6,000, Mr. Rice being the president and manager and Charles B. Melby the secretary and treasurer. The present officers are: President, F. D. Hopkins; secretary, F. A. George; treasurer, E. L. Immell; manager, Gilbert S. Rice.

Andrew W. Anderson resides on section 26, town of Lincoln, where he settled in 1870, when but little improvement had been made there. Mr. Anderson was born in 1836. In 1848 his father, Gilbert Anderson, emigrated to the United States with his family, except the subject of this sketch, who came six years later. The family settled in the town of Blue Mound in Dane County, Wis. The family made their home there until the year 1870, when they came to Trempealeau County. Here the parents lived till death. In 1854 Mr. Andrew W. Anderson, who was the only one of the family who had remained in Norway, came to this country. He went to Dane County, where the family was living. There he remained until 1859. At this time the gold excitement at Pike's Peak was at its height, and Mr. Anderson with many others decided to go to that place. He numbered one of a party of five young men who started from Dane County, and all reached Denver in safety. He continued in Denver engaged in work till the spring of 1863, when in company of five, though not the company who had gone with him to Denver, started with team and wagon for Virginia City, Nevada, but on reaching that place decided to continue to San Francisco, which they reached in safety after a long and eventful journey. He stayed there until spring of 1864, and then he went to Boise City, Idaho, where he stayed a short time, when the excitement occurred regarding the Alder Creek Mines in Montana, when he left there and went to what is now Helena, Mont. There he remained until 1870, when he returned. Going from Helena to Fort Benton, he descended the Missouri River on a steamer to Sioux City, when he crossed the state of Iowa, and thus returned home. Soon after his retui-n to Dane County he came here and brought his father's family with him. The subject of this sketch is the oldest son, and the oldest but one of his father's family. Mr. Anderson bought his farm of Elder Aldrich. He has 160 acres. He was married in 1870 to Julia Evenson, native of Norway. They have an adopted daughter, Clara Solberg. She is now Mrs. Gustav Thompson of Donaldson, Minn. She has two children: George T. and Marie A. One daughter,

Lena Maria, born in 1871, died at age of ten months. Mr. Anderson is one of the representative men of his town. He has a pleasant home, etc. He has had much experience with the world. His trip to the Pacific coast in the early days, before the railroad had crossed the continent, was fraught with events and incidents of much interest. In his political affiliations Mr. Anderson, as is the entire family, is a Republican, and is a warm advocate of the principles of that party. Mr. Anderson is numbered among the progressive and public-spirited citizens of Trempealeau County.

Ever B. Anderson, who is operating a good farm of 160 acres in Lincoln Township, was born in Dane County, Wisconsin, Oct. 30, 1863, son of Bennett and Ellen (Everson) Anderson, and grandson of Gilbert and Ingeborg (Fladegaard) Anderson. Like all boys of the early days he grew up on the parental farm and acquired his education at the district schoolhouse. Remaining at home until 24 years of age, he then engaged in farming for himself in Lincoln Township, near Independence, and there followed agricultural operations until 1904. Selling his farm that year he moved to his present one, which he still operates. This farm was owned and operated for many years by A. W. Anderson (an uncle of Ever B.), or until his death, Sept. 10, 1902. Mr. Anderson's farm is well improved and bespeaks thrift and good judgment of its owner. His stock is of the Durham grade breed, numbering about 35 head. Mr. Anderson is a man of good judgment and ability and the family are highly respected in the county. Mr. Anderson was married Dec. 15, 1890, to Carrie Evenson, then of Arcadia Township. She was born in Dane County, Wisconsin, July 5, 1866, daughter of Peter and Maria Evenson, early settlers of Trempealeau County. Mr. and Mrs. Anderson have seven children: Ellen M., born Oct. 22, 1891, is now Mrs. George A. Anderson. She and her husband reside on a farm in Long Lake Township, Washburn County, Wis. They have one child, Hans A. Palma B., born Dec. 2, 1893 ; Gerald A., born Oct. 2, 1896 ; Ina E., born Oct. 28, 1898; Clark E., born May 6, 1901; Robert W., born March 13, 1903, and Ruth L., born May 2, 1908, are all residing at home. The family are members of the Norwegian Lutheran Church of America.