Trempealeau County, Wisconsin - Biographical sketches, 1917 (part 12 of 20)

Simon Skroch, a business man of Independence, of which village he is now postmaster, was born in Burnside Township, Trempealeau County, Wis., Oct. 28, 1885. His parents were Frank and Agnes (Sobota) Skroch. The father, who was born in German Poland, came to America in 1880, settling in Burnside Township, this county, where he died in 1892 at the age of 58 years. His wife survived him a number of years, dying in 1903 at the age of 52. They had 10 children, of whom Simon was the ninth in order of birth. He received his education in the parochial school and the Independence High School, graduating from the latter in 1903. Simon Skroch in his youth acquired a knowledge of farming, and from. 1904 to 1908 worked at that occupation for his brother Michael. From 1910 to 1914 he earned a good living as painter and paper-hanger, following that occupation at Independence. Dec. 22, 1913, he was appointed postmaster at Independence by President Wilson, and has since retained that office. In politics he is a strong Democrat. Aside from his immediate occupation, he is a stockholder in the Farmers' and Merchants' Bank, of Independence. He belongs to the Knights of Columbus in Arcadia and is a member of the Catholic church. Oct. 13, 1914, Mr. Skroch was united in marriage with Lucy Zilla, of Independence, who was born Dec. 11, 1892, daughter of John F. and Agnes (Motszko) Zilla. Her father, who was a plumber by trade, died in 1907 at the age of 39 years. Her mother is still living and resides in Independence, being now 44 years old. Mr. and Mrs. Skroch have one child, Florence, who was born May 8, 1916.

Edwin C. Hanson, of the firm of Hanson & Johnson, hardware and implement dealers of Blair, is a native of the village where he now lives, having been born April 9, 1881, son of Christ C. and Bertha (Peterson) Blair, the former of whom, a retired merchant now living in Blair, came to America in 1869, and found his way directly to Trempealeau County. Edwin C. Hanson remained at home until 20 years of age, and then became timekeeper in an iron mine at Ely, Minn. Returning to Blair, he clerked for a number of years in the store of G. L. Solberg. Sept. 12, 1912, he purchased the hardware stock of F. L. Immel, and on Jan. 1, 1913, the implement stock of A' B. Peterson, carrying on the joint business under his own name until Jan. 20, 1915, when he took Oscar B. Johnson as a partner under the firm name of Hanson & Johnson. May 1, 1916, they purchased the building on the corner of Broadway and Gilbert Street, and have since carried on business there. The structure is a brick-veneered building, 28 by 64 feet, two-story with a basement, steam heated and modern throughout, and the firm carries a complete line of goods, being known far and wide for its reasonable prices and honest dealings. Mr. Hanson has done good service on the village council for six years. His fraternal relations are with the Modern Woodmen, the Sons of Norway and the Beavers. The family faith is that of the Norwegian Lutheran church. Mr. Hanson was married Oct. 30, 1907, to Helga Olson, born in Hale Township, Aug. 8, 1880, daughter of Ole C. and Martha (Paulson) Hanson, the former of whom came from Norway in 1869. Mr. and Mrs. Hanson had three children: Bessie, who died in infancy; Corinne, born Nov. 20, 1910, and Helen E., born Oct. 20, 1914.

Michael J. Romui\dstad, proprietor of Valley View Farm, Unity Township, a highly improved piece of agricultural property, was born on this farm, Jan. 27, 1874, son of Ole J. and Gertrude 0. Romundstad. The father was one of the early settlers in this locality. Born in Rindalen, near Trondjem, Norway, Sept. 3, 1840, he came to the United States in the spring of 1869 and homesteaded the farm on which his son Michael J. now lives. This farm now consists of 280 acres, of which 200 lie in section 4 and the other 80 in section 33. Here Ole J. Romundstad spent some 37 years, adding to the size of his farm and improving it by cultivation and the erection of buildings as needed until it became a valuable piece of property. His laborious career was brought to a close by death, Sept. 10, 1906. His wife Gertrude, who was born in the same part of Norway as himself, Oct. 23, 1847, came to this country in the spring of 1870, their marriage taking place Nov. 7, that year. She is still living and resides with her son, Michael J. Their family numbered nine children: John, a farmer at Fergus, Mont.; Odin, who is engaged in ranching at that place; Michael J., subject of this sketch ; Ellen, wife of John Karo, a farmer of Fergus, Mont. ; Mollie, wife of Dan Moltzau, a farmer of Fergus, Mont.; Marit, wife of Harry Haanstad, a sawyer of Medford, Wis. ; Louisa, now Mrs. Anton Clementson, her husband being a merchant at Mondovi, Wis. ; Annie, wife of H. P. Frodal, of Shevlin, Minn., her husband being a farmer; and Olga, wife of Harry Oquist, a farmer of Roy, Mont. Michael J. Romundstad has resided on his present farm - the old parental homestead - all his life, becoming its manager in 1905 and its owner in 1906, after his father's death, he purchasing the property. The improvements are very extensive, and include a bam, 20 by 52 by 18 feet, for horses ; another barn, 30 by 50 by 16 feet, with an ell, 24 by 52 by 18 feet, having cement flooi's and equipped with steel stanchions ; also a residence of frame construction, two stories and basement, and containing ten rooms. Among his other buildings are a skimming house, 10 by 12 feet ; a granary, 20 by 32 by 14, and a machine shed, 32 by 22 by 8 feet, these three being frame buildings, together with a concrete silo, 14 by 33 feet. Mr. Romundstad keeps a herd of 32 Shorthorn cattle, graded, and also raises Plymouth Rock chickens. He is a stockholder in the Farmers' Exchange Bank, of Osseo, and the Unity Co-Operative Creamery, of Strum. As one of the responsible citizens of Unity Township, he has been called upon several times to aid in local government affairs, having been a member of the township board four years, school clerk four years and assessor one year. June 2, 1909, Mr. Romundstad was united in marriage with Marie Fossum, of Eau Claire, Wis., who was born in that city Dec. 26, 1886, daughter of Anton and Mathia (Johnsgaard) Fossum, her father being a carpenter by occupation. Mr. and Mrs. Romundstad are the parents of four children born as follows: Ohve, July 6, 1910; Muriel, Dec. 9, 1911 ; Astrid, Sept. 23, 1914, and Gjermund, Feb. 25, 1916. The family are members of .the United Norwegian Lutheran Church of America.

Claud Harrison Hare, proprietor of a dairy and stock farm of 160 acres in section 12, Gale Township, was born in Trempealeau Township, this county, Oct. 6, 1888, son of William and Aurilla (Hovell) Hare. His parents were natives of Wisconsin, the father born in La Crosse County, Sept. 4, 1860, and the mother in Trempealeau County, Oct. 31, 1870. William Hare became a land owner in this county in 1887 and has always been a farmer. He still resides on his old homestead of 180 acres and is one of the active agriculturalists of his township. He and his wife have been the parents of four children. Claud H. was the first born. Claud H. Hare in his boyhood attended District School No. 13, which was located on his father's farm. He learned agriculture under his father's tuition and lived at home until he was 20 years of age. He then worked on a dairy farm for two years, afterward moving to Galesville, where he resided for five months, during this period being engaged in operating a threshing outfit. At the end of that time - in December - he rented the Harris farm in Big Tamarac and operated it until December, 1913, when he purchased his present farm of 160 acres of improved land. This he is operating as a general dairy farm and stock farm, giving particular attention to the breeding of Durham cattle. He is not active in politics, preferring to give his entire attention to his business, which is growing larger each year. June 30, 1909, Mr. Hare was united in marriage with Mabel Harnslein, who was born at French- ville, Trempealeau County, Wis., daughter of Andrew and Julia (Sagen) Harnslein. Her father, who also was born at Frenchville, this county, and raised there, was a ti-aveling salesman up to the time of his death, Nov. 4, 1911. His wife, Mrs. Hare's mother, who is a sister of Ole Sagen, of Galesville, was born in Norway, Sept. 6, 1862. Mrs. Hare was educated in Trempealeau County, attending the Galesville High School and also Gale College. She and her husband are the parents of two children : Lyle Fern and Ruth Mae. Mr. Hare's fraternal society affiliations are with the Yeomen and the Modern Woodmen of America. He and his family stand high in the community and have a wide circle of friends.

Walter Hunter, a well-known farmer in section 35, Gale Township, was born on his parents' farm at Decorah Prairie, this township, Aug. 12, 1863. His parents were Thomas and Agnes (Grant) Hunter. He was educated in the district school and remained at home until he was 20 years old. He then went to Cheyenne, Wyo., under contract and for one summer was employed in cutting wood for the soldiers at old Fort Laramie. He then went to southwestern Nebraska, where he homesteaded Government land, residing there until the spring of 1902, and during this time being engaged in farming and stock raising on a tract of 320 acres, which he sold in 1906, four years after his return home. In 1902 he purchased his present farm of 120 acres of valley land, which adjoins his father's farm in section 35, and here he has since carried on general farming, devoting his entire time to the business. He is also a stockholder in the La Crosse Packing Company and in the Independent Harvester Company at Piano, 111. Mr. Hunter was married April 28, 1892, to Jeanette Oliver, daughter of Robert and Mary (Scott) Oliver. Her parents, who were natives of Lanarkshire, Scotland, were early settlers in Trempealeau County, Mr. Oliver becoming an extensive land owner here. Mr. and Mrs. Hunter have a family of eight children: John, Lucian, William, Agnes, Mamie, Ollie, Norman and Donald, all of whom reside at home.

Frederick A. Smith, senior member of the firm of Smith Brothers, hardware and implement dealers of Osseo, was born at Bedford, near Cleveland, Ohio. Sept. 25, 1853, son of Matthias M. and Ehzabeth (Thomas) Smith. The family moved to Richland County, Wis., when Frederick A. was an infant, and there he was reared. In the spring of 1877 he came to Trempealeau County, and entered the employ of C. H. Shores & Co., general merchants. In 1888, with his brother, James W., he established his present business, and has since been successfully engaged therein. His standing as a citizen is shown by the fact that he has served as president of the village for 13 years. He has also been treasurer of the village, a member of the school board, and an assessor in the township of Sumner. His fraternal affiliation is with the Masonic order. Mr. Smith was married Nov. 4, 1874, to Mary E. Jaquish, daughter of Joseph and Antoinette Jaquish, of Richland County, Wis. Mr. and Mrs. Smith have three children: Charles G., who works in his father's store ; Frank M., who farms near Osseo ; and Julia, the wife of Leslie H. Field, also a farmer near Osseo. Mrs. Smith died Feb. 17, 1917. The firm of Smith Brothers, which does a large business, and which by fair dealing and sound business integrity has built up a large trade, had its origin in 1888, when Frederick A. and James W. Smith bought the business of A. G. Cox, estabHshed in 1876, and continued it on an enlarged scale. The original structure was burned in 1891, and the firm erected a new building, 24 by 60 feet, brick veneered, fully equipped for its purpose in every way. The firm handles hardware, implements, paints, leather goods and the like.

James W. Smith, junior member of the firm of Smith Brothers, hardware and implement dealers, of Osseo, was born in Richland County, Wis., March 30, 1857, son of Matthias M. and Elizabeth (Thomas) Smith. He received his education in the public schools, and as a young man taught school in various Wisconsin districts. For a time he was merchant and postmaster at Neptune, Wis. In 1888 he came to Osseo, and established his present business. With the exception of the year 1900, he has been clerk of the village of Osseo since its organization in 1893, and in this capacity has done most excellent service. The Congregational church has found in him an active worker, and he has served that organization as treasurer since 1889 and as superintendent of the Sunday school since 1894. Mr. Smith was married Dec. 25, 1882, to Delia M. Warner, who was bom in Richland County, Wis., and died at Osseo, June 17, 1891.

Sivert Rekstad. Among the leading farmers and business men of Unity Township is the subject of this sketch, who was born near Trondjem, Norway, July 8, 1852, son of John E. and Kari Rekstad. Both parents died in Norway, the father, who was a farmer, in 1863, and the mother in 1893. Sivert Rekstad came to America in June, 1873, locating first in Ishpeming, Mich., where he worked as a carpenter for one year. Then going to Eau Claire, he found employment in the sawmiU and pineries, spending one year in these closely related occupations. Subsequently until 1883 he worked as a carpenter and on farms in Unity Township, and at the end of that time purchased the farm he now owns in section 19, Unity Township, and which contains 172 acres and is known as Pine Grove Farm. This property is highly improved, the buildings, which are fine in appearance and substantially constructed, consisting of the following: A barn, 32 by 60 by 18 feet ; horse barn, 20 by 42 by 16, with an addition of 16 by 16 feet ; sheep barn, 24 by 32, with an ell 12 by 22 feet ; granary, 20 by 32 feet, and a good frame residence of one and a half stories. Besides carrying on this farm Mr. Rekstad has been actively interested for a number of years in other important business enterprises. For 14 years he was manager of the N. C. Foster Lumber Company, of Strum, and then for two years he held the same position for their successors, the Wilson-Weber Lumber Company, and during the two following years was manager for the North Star Lumber Company, successors to the Wilson-Weber Lumber Company. In 1908 he assisted in organizing the First State Bank of Strum, of which he has since been a director. He was its vice-president for two years and since Jan. 1, 1916, has held the office of president. Jan. 1, 1911, he became treasurer of the Unity Co-Operative Creamery and still holds that position. He was treasurer of the town of Unity for five years, town clerk two years and treasurer of the school district 33 years, has been identified with the Mutual Insurance Company of Ettrick for 35 years. Mr. Rekstad was married.

June 23, 1882, to Annie Knutson, who was born in Brown County, Kan., Aug. 17, 1859. He and his wife have been the parents of six children : Christophine, who is residing at home ; Mary, residing at home, and a teacher in the parochial school ; Martha, a nurse in the Lutheran Hospital at Eau Claire ; Joseph, who died when 31/2 years of age; Clara, a music teacher living at home; and Katrine, who is a student at St. Olaf's College at Northfield, Minn. Mr. Rekstad and his family are members of the United Norwegian Lutheran church, of which he has been secretary since 1880. Both as a farmer and business man he has made an excellent record and is highly respected throughout Unity and neighboring townships.

Peter J. Callahan, a prosperous farmer in section 5 South, Ettrick Township, was born in Boston, Mass., Feb. 9", 1859, son of James and Katherine (O'Keefe) Callahan. His parents were born in County Kerry, Ireland, the father in March, 1825, and the mother in 1839, their marriage taking place in Boston. James Callahan was 30 years old when he came to the United States. He was a carpenter and wheelwright by trade and was thus employed in Boston for a number of years. In 1864 he came from that city to Wisconsin and homesteaded land in section 32, this township, which place he has since developed into a good farm with substantial buildings, and is still active in agricultural work. During his early years in this vicinity he followed at times his trade of carpenter, and many of the old residences here were built by him. His wife is also living. Peter J. Callahan was the second born in a family of four children. He was educated in the district school and remained at home until 20 years of age. He then began working in the northern woods, and continued working for others until he was 25, when he bought his present farm. He had some previous experience in farming, starting when a lad of eight or nine years, when he used to lead the oxen his father used in plowing and subsequently assisted his father in other branches of farm work. After buying his farm Mr. Callahan resided on it for two and a half years and then went to La Crosse, where he entered the employ of a firm for whom he traveled for eight or nine years. He then returned to his farm, which consists of 80 acres of valuable land. He is carrying on general farming with some stock raising, breeding Duroc-Jersey hogs, and is also a stockholder in the Ettrick & Northern Railroad Company. Mr. Callahan was married June 25, 1892, to Catherine Corcoran, who was born at Ettrick, this county, daughter of John and Catherine (McKay) Corcoran. Her father, who was born in County Kerry, Ireland, in 1825, was a farmer all his active hfe, coming to Trempealeau County in 1864, and residing here until his death in 1875. Mrs. Callahan's mother was born at Horseheads, Pa., Jan. 15, 1833, and in her younger days was a cook on the Erie canal, having 40 cooks under her supervision, her husband being employed on the canal at the same time. They were thrifty and industrious people and a valuable addition to the farming community of their township. Mr. and Mrs. Callahan are the parents of two children: Catherine Mae and Arnold James. Catherine Mae, who was born Aug. 27, 1893, is the wife of William Bishop, of Canadian birth, and they reside on the Callahan farm. They have two children: William Stanley and Catherine Fay. Ai'nold James Callahan was born

Aug. 2, 1896. Alter graduating from the local schools he attended the La Crosse normal school and has taught school for four terms, making a creditable record. Mr. Callahan is a member of the Catholic Order of Foresters, he and his family being members of the Cathohc church, in which he is serving as a trustee. In politics he is independent, though usually voting the Democratic ticket.

Melvin P. Skogstad, the energetic cashier of the Farmers Exchange Bank, of Osseo, of which he is one of the organizers, was born in Chimney Rock Township, Aug. 18, 1886, son of Peter J. and Mary (Hanson) Skogstad. Peter J. Skogstad was born in Norway, came to America in 1865 with his parents, lived in Dane County, this state, a number of years, came to Trempealeau County in 1868, and for several years has been associated with his son-in-law, Harvey Havenor, at Eleva, Wis., in the hardware and implement business. In the family there were six children: Clara died at the age of ten months ; Cora is the wife of Harvey Havenor, a hardware man in Eleva; Melvin P. is the subject of this sketch; Luella is the wife of Ben Bergerson, a farmer of Albion Township ; Henry is at home ; Palmer served as clerk for a time in the First State Bank of Strum, and now making his home at Eleva. Melvin P. Skogstad remained on the farm until twenty years of age. Then he entered the State Bank of Strum, where he was bookkeeper until the spring of 1911, when he became cashier. May 1, 1916, he organized the Farmers Exchange Bank of Osseo, and has since been its cashier. Fraternally Mr. Skogstad is a member of the Masonic order and of the Modern Woodmen. He was married May 10, 1913, to Goldie Cardinal, of Sumner Township, born Sept. 9, 1894, daughter of Samuel and Emma (Olson) Cardinal, both of that township. Mr. and Mrs. Skogstad have two children: Marjorie Eleanor, born Feb. 22, 1914, and Stanford Pierre, born March 19, 1916. The family faith is that of the United Norwegian Lutheran Church of America at Osseo.

Charles F. Peterson, M. D., of Independence, a man of excellent standing in his profession, was born in Pomerania, Prussia, June 5, 1871. His father, August Peterson, born in Germany in 1838, came to the United States in 1884 and for some years operated a stone quarry at Arcadia, Trempealeau County, Wis. He died Jan. 25, 1917. August married Minnie Anklam, who was born in 1842 and came with her husband and the rest of their family to this country, including the subject of this sketch. She is no longer living, having passed away in 1904. Charles F. Peterson was 13 years of age when he left Germany with his parents. He had attended school in his native land and after coming to Trempealeau County entered the Arcadia high school, where he was graduated in 1892. He taught eight years and in 1900 he was graduated from the River Falls (Wis.) normal school, and for the next two years followed the occupation of a teacher. As such he proved his ability and was principal of schools at Independence, Osceola and Galesville. In the meanwhile he entered medical college in 1902 and began the study of medicine and was graduated from the Northwestern Medical College at Chicago in 1907, while there becoming a member of the Phi Beta Pi college fraternity. On June 1 of the year of his graduation he opened an office in Independence, Wis., where he has built up a successful practice both in medicine and surgery. He has never allowed himself to get into a rut, but keeps in close touch with the advance of his profession, continuing his studies and subscribing for the best medical journals. He is a member of the county, state and national medical associations, being now secretary of the county association, of which he served as president one year. Aside from this he keeps up his interest in educational matters. He has been clerk of Independence school district since 1907, and it was he who started and kept up the agitation for the new and splendid school building, costing $32,000, which is at once an ornament to the town and an important factor in the training of the younger generation. This enterprise was not brought to fruition without considerable labor on his part, for there were many who objected to the cost of the building, preferring to put off the work to some future time and to get along for the present with inferior accommodations, but Dr. Peterson and a few others looked farther ahead and finally brought a majority of the citizens to see the expediency of present and thorough action and the work was accomplished, which probably few of the original objectors are now sorry for. Dr. Peterson has also taken an active interest in the local library, having served as president of the board since 1908, in which position he has used his influence to augment the quantity and raise the qualitative standard of the books in the circulating department. He has also served as health oflScer of the village since 1908 and has been physician of Trempealeau County asylum since July 1, 1915. The State Bank of Independence numbers him among its stockholders. Dr. Peterson was first married Jan. 18, 1896, to Julia Runkel, of Independence, a daughter of J. W. and Margaret (Steiner) Runkel. She died Feb. 13, 1904, at the early age of 28 years, having been the mother of two children: Maxwell, who died when a year old, and Donald, now (1917) aged 16 years. June 5, 1906, Dr. Peterson married for his second wife Helen Runkel, who is a sister of his first wife. They have a wide circle of friends in the best society of Independence.

Ever A. Olson, M. D., has practiced medicine in Osseo for nearly forty years. Arriving here June 20, 1877, he at once opened an office, and with the exception of one year, 1889-90 spent in Sioux Falls, S. D., has since continued to live here. Aside from ministring to a constantly increasing number of patients he has been actively engaged in public life for many years. When the village of Osseo was organized he served as president of the first council, and continued in that position for four years. For thirty years he has been health officer of Osseo and Sumner Township. A conservative Republican in politics, he has been delegate to district, county and congressional conventions, and has served as a member of the Republican County committee. His financial holdings include an interest in the Farmers Exchange Bank of Osseo. In the Masonic order he has passed through the chairs of the Blue Lodge, and is a member of the Chapter and Commandery. He is also a member of the Knights of Pythias. Member of the State Medical Society and the Eau Claire County Medical Society. He was married Feb. 28, 1875, to Helen E. Valleau, of Mauston, Wis., born in Lindina Township, Juneau County, Wis., Aug. 29, 1863, daughter of Theodore and Eliza (Linderman) Valleau, pioneers, who were married in

Illinois, and settled in Juneau County in 1855, the former dying in 1913 at the age of 89 years. Mrs. Valleau died in Juneau County, July 8, 1917, aged 89. Dr. and Mrs. Olson have a daughter, Blanche Louise, who was born Oct. 18, 1882, was married Nov. 27, 1909, to Dr. Roy C. Ferguson, a dentist of Osseo, and has two children, Marlen Neville and Virginia. Dr. Olson was bom near Christiania, Norway, Oct. 18, 1850, was brought to Wisconsin as an infant, passed through the schools of Mauston, in that state, and graduated from the College of Physicians and Surgeons in Keokuk, Iowa. His parents, Ole T. and Sarah (Everson) Olson, were born in Norway, came to America in 1853, and after living in Milwaukee, Wis., for a time went to Mauston, where the father engaged in the show business and where he still lives at the age of 92, the mother having died in 1894 at the age of 75 years. Dr. Olson in 1900 spent four months in Europe, traveling extensively through Belgium, France, Germany, Norway, Sweden, Denmark, England, Ireland and Scotland. He attended the Paris Exposition and visited land of the midnight sun. He had the pleasure of viewing the midnight sun.

John A. Rumpel, formerly a member of the firm of Rumpel & Coy, but now sole owner, having purchased the interest of Mr. Coy Jan. 15, 1917, engaged in the meat market and grocery business in Independence, was bom Jan. 11, 1892, in this village, son of Nicholas and Josephine (Filla) Rumpel. The father, a native of Poland, was formerly proprietor of the old Welcome House, which for many years was a well known landmark in this locality. He died in 1903 at the age of 42 years. His wife, now 50 years old, is living in Independence. John A. Rumpel after leaving school learned the butcher's trade in Independence and worked for others until the firm of Rumpel & Coy was organized, April 1, 1916. Then with George A. Coy he bought the business and fixtures of the Peter Filla Market, renting the building, which is a two-story brick structure with basement. He does his own killing and handles a full line of fresh and cured meats, groceries, canned goods and bakery goods. Though so recently started he has made good progress and his estabUshment is favorably known throughout this part of the county, enjoying a good and increasing patronage. Mr. Rumpel was married Nov. 3, 1914, to Anna Smick, of Independence, daughter of Juhus and Hattie (Blacha) Smick, her father being a retired fanner now residing at Elk Creek. Mr. and Mrs. Rumpel have one child, Marion Lucile, born Jan. 7, 1916. The family are members of the Catholic church.

John B. Corcoran, a well known and popular citizen of Ettrick Village, engaged in the mail service as carrier, has lived in Trempealeau County all his life, having been born a quarter of a mile from the site of Ettrick, May 15, 1858. His parents were James and Hannah (Callahan) Corcoran. James Corcoran was bom in County Kerry, Ireland, in 1830, and his wife in Ireland in 1831. The former was a young man when he came to the United States, settling in New York State. For two years he was employed as clerk in the old Van Dusen Hotel at Elmira, N. Y., and then, about 1855, came west to Wisconsin, locating in Galesville, Trempealeau County. Here he entered the employ of Judge Gale, his wife - for he had married in New York State - boarding the men who were engaged in building the judge's residence, which now stands on the Gale farm. After being thus occupied for awhile James Corcoran, anxious to become independent, availed himself of the opportunity to homestead a farm on the East Branch, near Ettrick, and having secured this property, settled down to develop and improve it. There he resided until his death, which occurred about 1890. His wife survived him many years, dying in 1913. They had a family of seven children, of whom John B. was the first born. John B. Corcoran first attended school in the Ettrick district and distinctly remembers the small log shanty in which he mastered his A, B, C. Afterwards he went to school at Frenchville, where he gained some further knowledge. He had to make himself useful at an early age, however, especially as being the eldest child and son he was the best able to assist his father. At that time he frequently drove cows over the site of the present village of Ettrick. Wild game was abundant and he has counted as many as 15 or 20 deer at one time, while there were also many beaver. When 12 years old he often used to haul wheat from Ettrick to Trempealeau with an ox team. Later he became a regular farm hand and also tried other industrial Lines, working some four or five years as a machinist in Ettrick, following the same trade for awhile in Galesville and later at Eau Claire, in which place he continued at it three years. Then returning to Ettrick he built a hotel and feed barn, and has continued in that business since, being now engaged in erecting a new hotel of 16 sleeping rooms, office, dining room, parlor and kitchen. The building is of brick veneer two full stories, with ground dimensions of 65 by 34 feet, and will be operated as a commercial hotel. Mr. Corcoran is now serving in his thirteenth year as railroad mail carrier from the Ettrick office and will continue in that occupation, his son, Edwin J., operating the hotel. He is also the owner of a farm of 160 acres, situated a mile and a quarter east of Ettrick on the south branch of Beaver Creek, and is a stockholder in the Ettrick & Northern Railroad. At times he has held office as a member of the township and school boards, his political principles being those of the Democratic party. He is a member of the Catholic church at Ettrick. June, 1884, Mr. Corcoran was married to Margaret Lane, who was born in La Crescent, Minn., daughter of Timothy and Mary (Buckley) Lane, her parents, like his own father, being natives of County Kerry, Ireland, though coming to America seven years later. They settled six miles east of Ettrick, on the Willie Mack farm, where they resided practically for the rest of their lives, though they finally retired and removed to Ettrick Village, where they died. Mr. and Mrs. Corcoran are the parents of three children : Edwin J., who resides in Ettrick and has charge of his father's hotel and barn; Florence, wife of Ray Trunbar, proprietor of a European hotel in Sioux City, Iowa, and Perry, who lives with his parents. Mr. Corcoran's fraternal affiliations are with the Order of Beavers. He is noted throughout this region as a skillful hunter, never missing a season of deer hunting in the north woods. Among his trophies of the chase are a jacket, gloves and mittens of buckskin, made from the hides of deer which he killed.

Maurice Casey, Sr., in former years a well known farmer and stock dealer in Ettrick Township, but now deceased, was born at Fort Covington, N. Y., near the Canadian line, and was in early business life a stock dealer exclusively. He resided in the state of New York until 21 years of age, coming to Trempealeau County, Wisconsin, in 1858, to take advantage of the opportunity for buying cheap land in this section, then but partially developed. Homesteading land in Ettrick Township, he farmed there for many years, also at times deaUng in stock. Finally he retired to Ettrick Village, where, after for some time in quiet and easy circumstances, he died July 29, 1909. While not particularly active in public affairs, in early days he served as constable and was a member of the school board for a number of years. Mr. Casey married Helena Daley, a native of New York City, their marriage taking place in La Crosse, Wis. They were the parents of six children. Mrs. Helena Casey died in Ettrick some 18 months previous to her husband, on Dec. 4, 1907. They were highly respected people and had a multitude of friends.

Maurice Casey, a prominent resident of Ettrick Village, where he is profitably engaged in the implement and automobile business, was born in Ettrick, this county, April 14, 1880, son of Maurice, Sr., and Helena (Daley) Casey. He attended school in Ettrick and at an early age was obliged to make himself useful on the home farm, speedily acquiring a knowledge of agricultural methods, stock raising, dairying and all branches of farming science. Up to the age of 19 years he assisted his father and then rented the latter's farm, which he operated for two years with his brother William as partner. At the end of that time he entered the employ of J. E. Cance, of Ettrick, in whose store he learned the tinsmith and plumbing business, continuing with Mr. Cance until 1912, at which time he engaged in his present business. He has a thoroughly up-to-date establishment, enjoys a good patronage, and his trade is steadily increasing. Mr. Casey is th3 owTier of a good residence in Ettrick, besides three village lots, and is a stockholder in the Bank of Ettrick, the Ettrick & Northern Railroad Company, and in Ettrick Hall. His fraternal affiliations are with the Beavers and the Modern Woodmen of America, he having been secretary of his camp in the latter order for the last 12 years. On March 16, 1911, Mr. Casey was united in marriage with Bertha Runnestrand, who was born in Ettrick, Wis., daughter of Knudt E. and Anna (Larson) Runnestrand, natives of Norway, her father coming to Ettrick in 1877. Further mention of the family may be found in this volume. Mr. and Mrs. Casey have one child, Helen Anna. In politics Mr. Casey is practically independent, though usually voting the Democratic ticket. He reserves the right, however, to judge of the fitness of candidates for public office, not being bound by strict party ties. As a citizen of Ettrick he has the interests of the general community at heart, and is quick to support any practical measure with that end in view. He and his family are well known and popular residents of the village.

Andrew J. Beirne, who has a good farm of 160 acres in section 13, Gale Township, was born in the neighboring town of Ettrick, this county, Feb. 2, 1869, son of Thomas and Catherine (Smith) Beirne. Both parents were natives of Ireland, the father born in County Roscommon, Dec. 22, 1821, and the mother in County Cavan, April 1, 1831. Coming to America in 1847, Thomas Beirne spent several years in the eastern states, and then, in the fifties, came to Trempealeau County, Wisconsin, homesteading a farm in Ettrick Township, on which he lived for half a century. Finally retiring, he took up his residence in the village of Ettrick, where he died Nov. 22, 1905. His wife did not long survive him, passing from this life in 1907. Their family numbered nine children, of whom Andrew J. was the eighth born. Andrew J. Beirne was educated in the district school of his neighborhood and while still young picked up a good knowledge of agriculture on his father's farm, of which he had the practical charge after reaching the age of 16 years. He was married to Alice Crogan, who was born in Ettrick Township, daughter of Hugh and Mary (Monahan) Crogan. Mrs. Beirne's father, Hugh Crogan, was born in County Roscommon, Ireland, June 27, 1829, and had a somewhat adventurous career. When a young man he went to California, then the Mecca of gold seekers from all parts of the world, where men of every station in life mingled together in a wild scramble for sudden wealth, most of them, however, meeting only with disappointment, and not a few with speedy death, accidental or otherwise. Mr. Crogan was a man well able to take care of himself, and he remained in the state for a number of years, engaged in mining with moderate success. In 1866 he came to Trempealeau County, Wisconsin, and purchased land, becoming a farmer in Ettrick Township, in which occupation he continued until he was killed in a runaway accident on his farm in 1876. His wife, Mary; who was born in County Roscommon, Ireland, May 18, 1839, died Feb. 15, 1913, having survived him 36 years or more. Their daughter Alice was the fourth born in a family of five children. Mr. Beirne after his marriage continued on his father's farm for four years longer, and then settled on his present property, on which he has made all the improvements. He is engaged in general farming and is a stockholder in the Farmers Exchange of Galesville, the creamery at Galesville and the La Crosse Packing Company. He and his wife have seven children, born as follows : Lester Stephen, Dec. 7, 1895 ; Gerald Francis, April 19, 1900 ; Edward Joseph, Aug. 15, 1902; Myrtle Elizabeth, Aug. 7, 1904; Donald Andrew, April 12, 1906 ; Mary Katherine, May 31, 1907 ; and Smith Raymond, Jan. 17, 1914. The family are members of the Catholic church, and in politics Mr. Beirne is a Democrat, voting generally his party's ticket, but taking no active part in local government.

George A. Markham, who from 1887 to 1909 was proprietor of the Independence News, was born in Independence, Trempealeau County, Wis., May 7, 1865, a son of George H. and Fannie (Bishop) Markham. His parents are still living in Independence, the father, a retired farmer, being now 80 years old and the mother 76. George A. Markham acquired a good education, attending Gale College at Galesville, and afterwards the Winona normal school. He learned the newspaper business in Galesville while attending school, but subsequently remained on his parents' farm, raising fancy poultry, until the spring of 1887, when he branched out into newspaper work for himself, buying the Independence News, which he edited and published until his death, July 16, 1909. His premature demise, for he was only 44 years old, caused widespread regret, for he was a man of many friends, and in his journalistic work he never neglected any opportunity of advancing the interests of the community of which he was a prominent citizen, and where he had been born and passed so many years of his life. Mr. Markham was married Oct. 11, 1891, to Ada E. Rogers, who was born Dec. 26, 1867, in Burnside Township, this county, daughter of Alfred H. and Abby A. (Buzzell) Rogers. After Mr. Markham's death Mrs. Markham took charge of the office and has since continued the publication of the News. She is secretary of the library board and is active in a number of ways in promoting the general interests of the village. Religiously she is affihated with the Methodist Episcopal Church.

Ernest H. Remington, who is carrying on agricultural operations in section 11, Sumner Township, his farm of 120 acres being known as Cloverhill Farm, was born in this township. May 16, 1874, son of D. L. and Ella (Zhe) Remington. After residing at home until reaching the age of 26 years, he bought a farm in Otter Creek Township, Eau Claire County, which he operated from the year 1900 until the spring of 1907. He then purchased his present farm from Frank Svobada and has since remained here. The property has good buildings on it, the house being a frame structure of two stories and basement, with eight rooms. There is also a frame barn 30 by 56 by 20 feet above stone basement, with cement floors, and a stave silo, 14 by 36 feet. The farm is well fenced with woven wire. Mr. Remington, besides raising the usual crops, keeps graded Holstein cattle and Poland-China hogs. He was first married Thanksgiving Day, 1903, to Ethel Ferguson, of Eau Claire County, daughter of Charles and Jane Ferguson, her father being a farmer and logger, who is now deceased. Mrs. Eethel Remington died Feb. 15, 1907, at the age of 33 years, leaving one child, Vyan Keith, who was born April 24, 1905. On June 29, 1909, Mr. Remington contracted a second marriage, to Cornelia Campbell, who was born Feb. 9, 1877, daughter of Charles R. and Martha Jane (Rosebrook) Campbell. Graduated from Stevens Point normal school in 1898, she followed the vocation of a teacher for 18 years, and was elected county superintendent in the fall of 1905, being re-elected in the fall of 1907, and thus serving four years in that position. Her father, Charles R. Campbell, who was born in Illinois, came to Wisconsin in boyhood. He died in Augu^, 1912, at the age of 72 years. His wife, Martha Jane, died in February, 1913, at the age of 65 years. Of Mr. Remington's second marriage three children were born : Owen, who died at the age of three days ; Lucile, born June 27, 1911, and Winnifred Janet, born Sept. 25, 1914. Mr. and Mrs. Remington are members of the Congregational church at Osseo, and he belongs also to the Masonic order and the Modern Woodmen of America. He has served as township supervisor three years, has been chairman of the township board and a member of the county board since 1916, and while a resident of Eau Claire County served as clerk of the school board one year. In addition to his farming interests he is a stockholder in the Osseo Telephone Company and the Osseo Farmers Elevator.

John Ring, postmaster at Osseo, is one of the leading men in this part of the county. As chairman of Sumner Township he did most efficient service on the county board for fourteen years, and as a member of the school board of his district for a considerable period he also did good work. In 1916 he was candidate for county treasurer. For many years he has been a leading Democrat, and as such has been a member of numerous committees, and a delegate to several conventions. His financial holdings include stock in the Farmers Exchange Bank of Osseo. His fraternal affiliations are with the A. F. & A. M. and the M. W. A. Mr. Ring was born in Milwaukee, March 1, 1857, son of Robert and Sarah (Murphy) Ring, natives of Ireland, who went down with the ill-fated Lady Elgin, on Lake Michigan, Sept. 8, 1860, leaving, besides John, two sons, one of whom, James, worked his way up until he was a successful railroad conductor, and was killed at Hawthorne, Wis., and the other of whom, Michael, became a prominent citizen of Kansas City, Kan., and died a short time ago. Young John, left an orphan by the Lady Elgin catastrophe, was taken into the home of his uncle, Michael Ring, of Cleveland, Ohio, by whom he was reared. As a young man he became interested in farm pursuits. It was in 1879 that he came to Trempealeau County, and secured a farm in section 2, Sumner Township. There he successfully farmed until November, 1915, when he moved to Osseo, to fulfill the duties of the'postmastership to which he had been appointed July 2 of that year. Mr. Ring was married April 11, 1877, to Bertha Dighton, daughter of Francis and Dolly Ann (Gillett) Dighton, the former of whom was a Methodist clergyman. Mr. and Mrs. Ring have had eight children : Robert, of Plentywood, Mont. ; Jessie, wife of Alva Isom, a farmer of Sumner Township ; Julia, wife of Mr. Sever Semmingson, a farmer of Crosby, N. D. ; Laura C, wife of Bert Zee, a farmer of Sumner Township ; Glen, a farmer of Whitetail, Mont. ; Francis, who died at the age of seven years ; and Pearl and James, who are at home.

Richard Brophy, who is conducting a farm of 108 acres in section 31, Gale Township, Trempealeau County, was born in this township in October, 1865, son of John and Honora (CoUiday) Brophy. His parents were both natives of Ireland, but were married in this country, the father coming here when a lad under 20 years of age. After working for others for a number of years John Brophy became a land owner and engaged in farming for himself, continuing in this occupation until his death in March, 1913. His farm consisted of 100 acres of good land in Gale Township, a part of which is still owned by the subject of this sketch, the latter's mother living with him. Richard Brophy was the eldest in a family of six children. He attended school at Galesville and resided on the homestead with his parents until he was married, except during the winters for eight years, when he worked in the timber woods. Jan. 23, 1893, he married Margaret Cantlin, who was born in Ettrick, this county, daughter of Owen and Margaret (Shay) Cantlin, her parents being natives of Ireland, who came to this country and were married in La Crosse. Owen Cantlin was a farmer, settling at an early date in Ettrick Township, where he resided until his death in 1886. His wife died in June, 1896. Richard Brophy at the time of his marriage rented the farm and operated it on his own account for several years until he finally became its owner, and, as already mentioned, he still owns a part of it. He carries on general farming, raising grain, keeping hogs and cattle, some of the latter being pure-bred Durham, to which breed he is devoting special attention, with the view of raising them almost exclusively. Aside from these immediate interests he is a stockholder in the

Farmers Shipping Association and in the Farmers Co-Operative Packing Company, of La Crosse, while fraternally he belongs to the Modern Woodmen of America. He and his wife are the parents of seven children : Hazel Ann, LaVerne Eugene, Dorothy, Margaret Esther, Blanche Mary, May Ellen and Katherine Evelyn, all residing at home. Mr. Brophy and family are members of the Catholic church.

Fred W. Lowe. Among the farms of moderate size in Lincoln Township there are few better improved or equipped than that of Fred W. Lowe, of section 22. The property is known as Fair Oaks Farm and contains 160 acres - a size ample for profitable handling without requiring too much outside assistance, which most farmers have found expensive. Mr. Lowe was born in Preston Township, this county, July 14, 1874. His parents were William and Mary Jane (Colwell) Lowe, the former, born in Ulster County, New York, in 1841, being a son of Wessel and Hannah (De Pew) Lowe. When a boy William accompanied his parents to Belvidere, 111. There were two other children in the family, both of whom died there, and Wessel Lowe, with his wife and surviving son, in 1856 homesteaded a farm in section 7, Preston Township, Trempealeau County. Here they hved for a number of years or until their death. On the breaking out of the Civil War William enlisted in Company C, Thirtieth Wisconsin Infantry, and during his absence of four years his father homesteaded a farm for him in section 7. At Hixton, Wis., in 1869, he married Mary Jane Colwell, who was born in Ulster County, New York, and who died in the hospital at Winona, Minn., Dec. 5, 1910. Fred W. Lowe was educated in the district schools and in the school at Blair, after which he taught for five years. At the age of 21 he bought his grandfathrr's old farm in section 7, which he operated until March, 1905, considerably improving the property. He then sold it and removed to his present farm in section 22, which he acquired by purchase, and on which he has since resided. Here also he has made some important improvements, in 1912 rebuilding the barn, which is a good frame structure, 34 by 64 by 20 feet, with concrete floors and steel stanchions, and provided with running water. His residence he built in 1916, a two-story framt building, 28 by 32 feet, containing nine rooms, and with kitchen added to the back. It is lighted with electricity, as are also the other buildings on the farm, Mr. Lowe owning his own electric plant, and is also provided with other modern conveniences, hot water heat and running water. Mr. Lowe's dairy building is also of frame construction, is 16 by 20 feet in dimensions, and was equipped with boiler, sterilizer and bottle washer, cooler and bottle filler and refrigerator. Mr. Lowe operated a retail dairy in Whitehall until he sold it Sept. 1, 1917, together with bottling equipment. He has a herd of 40 cattle and milks 30, using the "B. L. K." milking machine of two units. Aside from his farming interests he is a director in the Farmers Telephone Company and the Peoples State Bank. For eight years he has assisted in local government as a member of the township board. He served as township treasurer one year and is now treasurer of the Whitehall school. In the Independent Order of Odd Fellows he has passed all the chairs and is a member of the Grand Lodge of that order, also of the Modern Woodmen of America and of the Beavers Reserve Fund Fraternity. June 19, 1895, Mr.

Lowe was united in marriage with Berenice Lamberson, who was born on the Lamberson farm in Lincoln Township Feb. 29, 1872, daughter of John C. and Lucene (Becker) Lamberson. Mrs. Lowe is a lady of more than average education. She was graduated from the Whitehall schools and from Soper's School of Oratory at Chicago, and was teacher of oratory for six years, one year of which time was spent at the Glendale Female College, Glendale, Ohio. She has been an efficient helpmate to her husband and by her wise management of the household has contributed in no small measure to his success. Their family now includes six children, all residing at home, who were born as follows: John W., April 19, 1897; Mirpah M., is attending La Crosse normal school, Jan. 15, 1899; Helen P., April 1, 1903; Portia E., Dec. 5, 1906; Marion B., Jan. 4, 1913, and Esther M., April 30, 1915. The son, John W., is now at the University of Wisconsin, taking a course in chemistry, while the older daughters are able to assist their mother in the work of the household.

D. L. Remington, secretary and manager of the Osseo Telephone Company, is one of the active men of Osseo Village. In 1902, two years after the company was organized, he became secretary, served a year, was then made president, and held that office until 1912, when he assumed the duties of his present position. In public life he has served several years as township chairman and town clerk, and in 1911 he was supervisor of assessments for Trempealeau County. He was vice-president of the Citizens State Bank from 1906 until it was absorbed by the Osseo State Bank late in 1907. In the Congregational church, of which he is an active member, he has been trustee since 1894. Mr. Remington was born in Otsego County New York, March 28, 1851, son of Charles and Elizabeth (Crumley) Remington. Charles Remington was born in New York in 1815, came to Reedsburg, Wis., in 1852, farmed there until 1860, and then moved to Mower County, Minnesota, where he died in 1886. His wife died in Wisconsin in 1853, and in 1858 he married Elizabeth Olp, who died Nov. 10,' 1915. The subject of this sketch, having lost his mother, was reared by his uncle, D. L. Remington, who came from Washington County, New York, to Walworth County, Wisconsin, in 1858, and farmed there until 1869, when he came to Trempealeau County and homesteaded a tract of land two miles east of Osseo, where he lived until his death in 1870. The nephew, D. L. Remington, operated the place until 1911, when he moved to Osseo. Mr. Remington was married in 1873 to Ella Zhe, who died in 1884, leaving two children, Ernest, chairman of the town board of Sumner, who farms near the village ; and Jessie, who married James W. Rorabeck, a grain man of Frankhn, Ment. In 1891 Mr. Remington married Mrs. Emily (Shores) Chamberlain, who was the mother of two children : Harvey, drowned in 1896, and Perry, who operates the home farm.

Nicholas M. Rognlien, a well known and respected citizen of Unity Township, proprietor of a farm of 320 acres, forming the east half of section 30, was born in Hurdalen, Norway, Jan. 31, 1862. His parents were Martin E. and Annie (Enerson) Rognhen, the father born in Norway, Jan. 13, 1826, and the mother in 1823. The family came to America in 1870, taking a homestead in the northwest quarter of section 30, Unity Town- ship, this county, where Martin E. Rognlien died March 21, 1911, his wife having passed away in 1900. Their family numbered eight children : Even, now deceased, whose widow and childi'en now reside on the farm of the subject of this sketch; Bertha, who married John M. Rice, a farmer of Johnson Valley, and died in 1882 ; Georgia, who died at the age of 22 years ; Nicholina, wife of Louis Dahl, a farmer of Unity Township; Anton, who is farming in Albion Township, this county; Martin, a farmer of Unity Township; Nicholas M., also of Unity Township, and Otto, who is a farmer in Griggs County, North Dakota. Nicholas M. Rognlien, like most farmers' sons, was early trained to agricultural work, and when quite young was able to be of some assistance to his father. When he got large and strong he began working out in the pineries, but after being thus occupied for a while he bought 120 acres of land in section 17, Unity Township, which he sold later to Even Holte for $1,500, Mr. Holte paying $5.00 down and the balance at the rate of $100 a year for 15 years. After selling this farm Mr. Rognlien rented the home farm from his father and operated it on that basis for 14 years. Subsequently he bought a 200-acre farm in Albion Township, but sold it five years later. Feb. 5, 1896, he purchased his present farm, moving onto it the same year, and here he has since remained, with the exception of three years which he spent in Europe. As a farmer Mr. Rognlien has had a prosperous career, due to his industry and sound practical knowledge of the business. His farm is well handled and presents a thriving appearance, showing the guiding hand of a good manager. Mr. Rognlien is a stockholder in the Osseo Creamery and in the First State Bank of Strum. He is affiliated religiously with the Beef River Synod church, and in 1916 gave $1,000 to help build the church edifice of that denomination in Strum. Few men in this vicinity have been more successful and perhaps it may be said that none have been more hberal in supporting enterprises for the religious, moral or material advancement of the community.

Martin M. Rognlien, who is engaged in farming 170 acres of land in section 20, Unity Township, was born in Hurdalen, Norway, Feb. 17, 1859, son of Martin E. and Annie (Enerson) Rognlien. The father came to America in 1868, homesteading a farm in section 30, Unity Township, this county, his wife and the children, including the subject of this sketch, following him in 1870. Martin M., on arriving in Wisconsin, spent three weeks in Sparta, after which he proceeded to his father's homestead, on which he resided until reaching the age of 21 years. He then rented a farm on Big Creek, Albion Township, operating it for four years. Then building a house on his father's farm, he lived there for the next six years while working out by the day with a team. In the spring of 1889 he bought his present farm of Sam Hoag, and has been occupied in its cultivation and improvement, owning besides his farm of 160 acres on Big Creek, Albion Township. On the farm where he makes his home he has a barn 36 by 56 by 16 feet above basement, equipped with steel stanchions and with cement floors, and all his buildings are good and suitable for up-to-date farming. Mr. Rognlien was married Nov. 22, 1879, to Matilda Dahl, who was born in Norway, April 26, 1860, daughter of Johannes and Mary (Hanson) Dahl. Both her parents died in Unity Township, they having settled in section

27 in 1876, six years after coming to this country, the intervening period having been spent in Vernon County. Mr. and Mrs. Rognlien have had a family of 12 children : Mary, who died at the age of 15 years ; Josephine, vifho died at the age of 12 years; Annie (born after Mary and before Josephine) , who is residing at home ; Martin, now living in Calgary, Canada ; John, a farmer in Unity Township, who married Johanna Flaten and has one child, Abraham ; Louis, who is engaged in operating his father's farm In Albion Township ; two who died in infancy, and William, who died June 26, 1917; Anton, Emma and Margaret, who are residing at home.

Eric Hagen, manager and partner in the firm of Hagen & Waller, general mei'chants, Osseo, was born in Sondreland, Norway, April 23, 1863, son of Hans E. and Anne (Lunde) Hagen, the former of whom came to America in 1869, farmed in Arcadia Township for many years, and now lives a retired life in Whitehall, the latter having died in 1875. Eric Hagen was reared to farm pursuits, and attended the country schools. His attention, however, was early turned to mercantile lines, and while still a youth he secured employment as a clerk in a store at Elk Creek. Further experience in the same line was secured in St. Paul and in Independence. In 1895 he came to Osseo and organized with Oliver Waller the firm of Hagen & Waller. This firm succeeded Larson, Getts & Co. in the general mercantile business. It has a large trade, and well deserves the esteem and confidence in which it is held by its numerous patrons. From 1897 to 1907 the firm owned a creamery at Osseo, and from 1904 until it was destroyed by fire in the winter of 1915, owned and operated the elevator there. Mr. Hagen is also interested in the State Bank of Osseo, in which he is the assistant cashier and one of the directors. Busy though he is with his financial interests, Mr. Hagen has found time for some excellent public service. Since the spring of 1914 he has been a member of the county board, and he has also been a member of the school and village boards. His fraternal relations are with the A. F. & A. M., while his rehgious affihations are with the Congregational church, in which he is one of the trustees. Mr. Hagen was married March 17, 1891, to Mary Reid, of Burnside Township, daughter of James and Margaret (Lange) Reid. Mr. and Mrs. Hagen have five children : Mabel A., who graduated from the La Crosse normal school and was teacher in the Osseo schools. She was married to E. A. Nelson, a banker of Maddox, N. D., July, 1917. Henry, a farmer in Steele, N. D. ; and Ralph E., Margaret and Alice, who are at home.

Henry N. Robbe, cashier of the First National Bank of Strum, has been an important factor in the business and financial life of the community for several years. He was born at Elk Mound, Wis., March 3, 1868, son of Gunder and Marie (Nelson) Robbe. Gunder Robbe was born in Roldal, Christiansand, Norway, in 1838, came to America in 1856, lived in Waupon, Wis., for a while, and then located at Elk Mound, Wis., where he has since resided, his wife, who was born in Norway in 1838, having died in April, 1918. Henry N. Robbe passed through the public schools and took special courses in the Curtiss Commercial College at Minneapolis. Thus prepared he taught in the schools of Dunn County, Wisconsin, for seven years. In 1899 he came to Strum as a teacher. Deciding to locate here he purchased a half interest in the store of O. M. Solberg. Later he resold his interest to Mr. Solberg, erected a building and opened a store of his own. After conducting this alone he formed a partnership with his brother, Nils H., under the firm name of Robbe Brothers. Later admitting 0. J. Dahl to partnership, and changing the firm name to Robbe Bros. & Dahl, they bought the store of H. Williamson and added his business to their own. In the meantime, in 1905, the subject of this sketch had assisted in organizing the State Bank of Strum, of which he became director and examiner. Jan. 4, 1912, he was elected president, a position he held until May 1, 1916, when he became cashier and assumed the active management, as at present. About the same time he disposed of his mercantile interests. He is also president and manager of the Strum Telephone Company and for a time was treasurer and manager of the Unity Co-operative Creamery Company. In public life he has done good service as clerk of the school board since 1912. Mr. Robbe was married Jan. 28, 1900, to Malena Albertson, born in Strum, May 7, 1884, daughter of Reinhard and Marie (Teveand) Albertson, the former of whom died in 1909, and the latter of whom lives in La Crosse. Mr. and Mrs. Robbe have three children : Gordon, born Sept. 13, 1905 ; Harvey, born Aug. 8, 1907, and Ethel, born June 1, 1909.

Nils H. Robbe, of the firm of Robbe & Myhers, general merchants at Strum, is a native of Wisconsin, born at Elk Mound, Dunn County, May 10, 1865, son of Gunder and Marie (Nelson) Robbe. He remained with his parents until 1900, when he came to Strum, and with his brother, Henry N. Robbe, engaged in the line of business with which he is now connected. In public life, Mr. Robbe has been a supervisor of the township a year. His financial holdings include stock in the First State Bank of Strum. In the Synod Norwegian Lutheran church he has been especially active, having been secretary of the building committee when the new church was erected in 1915 and 1916. Mr. Robbe was married Jan. 11, 1903, to Clara Peterson, of Strum, daughter of Ole and Clara Peterson, and they have six children: Marshall, Gladys, Nobel, Alice, Helen and Francis.

H. George Peterson, organizer, president and manager of the Strum Automobile Company, was born in Eau Claire, Wis., Jan. 4, 1890, son of Hans Peterson Stai and Hannah Halvorson. Hans Peterson Stai was born in Norway in 1853, and now farms in Unity Township, having come to this country in the '90s. H. George Peterson was reared to farm pursuits by his father. His mechanical experience was received in automobile shops in Minneapolis and St. Paul. For a time he was foreman of engines for the Hackney Land & Credit Company, McLeod, N. D. In Hill County, Mont., he pi'oved up on a homestead. But in 1915 he determined to cast his lot in Strum. Accordingly he erected a building 26 by 50 feet, and opened a garage. His friends became interested in the project and in September, 1915, his firm was incorporated as the Strum Automobile Company with a capital of $2,500, by Melvin P. Skogstad, Joseph Mathison, Olof J. Dahl and H. George Peterson. The officers are: President and manager, H. George Peterson; vice president and treasurer, Olof J. Dahl; secretary, Joseph Mathison. The firm handles the Dodge, Ford and Reo cars, carries a full line of supplies and accessories, and does all kinds of repairing. Under the personal supervision of Mr. Peterson the business is constantly growing and is one of the important assets in the general prosperity of the community. In April, 1917, Mr. Peterson purchased the interest of the other stockholders and now conducts the business alone under the name of H. George Peterson, the corporation having been dissolved. On Aug. 7, 1917, Mr. Peterson was united in marriage with Hannah Amundson, daughter of Christ Amundson, a prosperous farmer of Bruce Valley, in Gale Township. C. K. Edison was born on his father's farm near Vassevangen, Norway, Nov. 5, 1854, a son of Knud Aadson and Cecelia Sjursdatta Gjelle, who were natives of Vass, Noi*way, where they were numbered among the most distinguished and representative farmers of their community. Both died in their native land, he in 1859, and his wife in 1883. C. K. Edison attended the pubhc and high school of Norway and at the age of 16 set out for the new country across the seas. In April, 1870, we find him and his sister embarking m a sail ship bound for America. They had to furnish their own board while on the ship. It took them seven weeks from the time of leaving the port of Bergen, Norway, until they arrived at Quebec, Canada, and then they spent about three weeks traveling on steamboats and railroads before they reached their destination near Decorah, Iowa, in which place they arrived in July. They stopped there during summer and in the fall the same year they, in company with their cousin, started for Dodge County, Minnesota, going in a so-called prairie schooner pulled by a yoke of oxen. Mr. Edison spent about three years at that place working in the harvest fields in summer and working for his board and attending school in winter. In 1874 he returned on a trip to his native land to pay a visit to his mother and brother, returning to his adopted country the next year. In 1880 he came to Trempealeau County, Wis. July 30, 1881, he was united in holy bonds of matrimony to Mary Herbjornson, who was born in Iowa County, Wis., Aug. 8, 1862, a daughter of Hans and Guri Herbjornson, both now deceased, the father dying in 1898 and the mother in 1903. In 1884 he purchased part of his present farm in section 7, Chimney Rock Township. He has resided on this place continuously since, with the exception of three years spent in Eleva and two years in Superior, Wis. Mr. Edison on his arrival in Trempealeau County did valuable service as pioneer school teacher for about ten years. He now owns a good dairy farm of 333 acres, on which he keeps on an average about 30 milch cows, with young stock and a lot of horses. The farm is under a good state of cultivation. He has erected modern and substantial buildings. The neatness in appearance of the entire place bespeaks thrift, coupled with good judgment, in behalf of its owner. Mr. Edison has always acted as a leader in his community. As such he was a member of a committee who built the new church and the brick school house, also in laying out a good road in Bennett Valley, etc. He has served as town supervisor, justice of the peace, clerk of his school district for 12 years, and for 23 years he has done efficient service as town clerk. The home of Mr. and Mrs. Edison has been blessed with the birth of nine children : Ed, Cecelia, Gertie, Hilma, Charles, George, Gertie Bertina, Horace, Kemel and Marvin. Ed married Lizzie Holten and is associated with his father on the home farm. CeceUa became the wife of John Killnes, a farmer of Dover Township, Buffalo County, Wis. George married Josephina Austen, and is farming. Horace is clerking in a store at Mondovi, Wis. Marvin is attending high school at the same place. Charles and Kemel are farming at home. Gertie Helma died at the age of 4 years. Gertie Bertina keeps house for her father, the mother having died Aug. 23, 1917. In the death of Mrs. Edison the family are deprived of a most accomplished woman, who through all her years was a loyal wife and loving mother. The family are members of the Bennett Valley Norwegian Lutheran church, Mr. Edison being one of the organizers, and of which he has ever been a beneficent supporter.

Tobias M. Olson, who has e.xtensive mercantile and farming interests in the village of Strum and Unity Township, was born in Gulbrandsdalen, Norway, March 2, 1869. His father, Michael, who was born in Norway in 1834, married Kari Tandlokken, who was born in that county Nov. 14, 1836. In 1872 the family, which then included eight children, left their native land for the United States, and settled in Monroe county, Wis. Here they remained five years, and then, in 1877, came to Unity Township, Trempealeau County, where the father bought 80 acres of land in section 9, on which he spent the rest of his hfe, engaged in farming.. His death occurred Sept. 12, 1885. His wife, who survives him, resides with her son, the subject of this sketch. Tobias M. Olson, who was brought up to agricultural work, operated the home farm from the time of his father's death until 1910, and is still the owner of the property. On March 1, 1897, he purchased 160 acres constituting the northeast quarter of section 22, where he now lives. Here he has built at a cost of $10,000 a fine three-story and basement solid brick house, 34 by 36 feet in ground dimensions, and containing 12 rooms. The furnishings are strictly modern, including quarter-sawed oak finish and floors, with electric lights and other conveniences. He has also very large barns and out-buildings, electrically lighted, and in addition owns several other farms, both in Unity and Sumner Townships. In 1897 Mr. Olson bought an interest in a hardware and implement business at Strum, with John A. Call, and was engaged in business there for two years. In 1899 the firm was dissolved, since which time Mr. Olson has carried on the implement business alone. His brick store at Strum, 30 by 70 feet, two stories and basement, which he uses for implements and automobiles, was erected in 1913. In 1898 he built a large grain elevator at Strum, and in 1916, another at Eleva, and both of these he operates at the present time. His business interests have grown with good management until he is now recognized as the most prominent business man in the community, his transactions being the most extensive. Dec. 25, 1900, Mr. Olson was married to Mary Romundstad, of Unity Township, who was born in this township Jan. 15, 1877, and whose father, Ole 0. Romundstad, is a farmer in Eau Claire County. Seven children have been born of this marriage: Milton (who died at the age of 7 months) , Myrtle, Edwin, Ruth, Helen, Olga and Harriet Thelma. Mr. Olson is a member of the Synod Norwegian Lutheran church. His example should be an inspiring one to all young men just starting in life, proving, as it does, that industry and perseverance, guided by intelligence, still meets with due reward.

Dell Nicols, who is engaged in operating a farm of 160 acres in section 11, Burnside Township, was born on his present farm Feb. 29, 1880, a son of William and Emma J. (Cripps) Nicols. The father, William, was born in Scotland in 1836 and came to America with his parents in 1850. In 1866 he bought the farm on which his son Dell now lives and was engaged in its operation and improvement until 1904, a period of 38 years. He then took up his residence in Independence, this county, in which place he died May 17, 1916. His wife is still living in Independence, being now 60 years old. Dell Nicols, who received a good agricultural training on the parental homestead, assisted his father until the year 1900, and then rented the farm until 1916, in which year he bought it. It is well improved and furnished with good buildings and adequate equipment for profitable farming. Mr. Nicols was married July 3, 1900, to Annie Olson, of Independence, this county, who was born at Traverse Valley, this county, April 17, 1881, daughter of Mat and Martha Olson. Her mother now resides at Independence ; her father died April 22, 1917. Mr. and Mrs. Nicols have three children : Edith May, born Oct. 11, 1900 ; Lester A., born Jan. 30, 1904, and Giles W., born Oct. 30, 1908.

Richard Mattson, president of the Whitehall Mill & Power Company, was born in Soler, Norway, Nov. 11, 1869, son of Martinus and Dorothy (Lund) Mattson. The father, a farmer by occupation, was also a native of Norway and came to the United States in 1872, and after reaching Blair, Wis., bought a farm in Pigeon Township, which was his home until 1908. He then retired and moved to Whitehall, where he died Nov. 22, 1916, at the age of 82 years. His wife, who is also living, is 77 years old. Richard Mattson, who accompanied his parents to America when a young child, at the age of 18 years began working in the woods at the lumber industry, and was thus occupied for six years during the winters, being employed on his father's farm in the summers. He subsequently learned the carpenter's trade and followed the business of carpenter and contractor in Whitehall until 1910. He then bought an interest in the Whitehall Mill & Power Company, with which concern he has since been connected. While a contracting carpenter he built the schoolhouse in Blair and another in Taylor, also a bank in Hixton, additions to the schoolhouse and jail in Whitehall, and the residences of E. A. Sorenson and C. B. Melby, besides doing other important work. The Whitehall Mill & Power Company, with which, as above stated, he became connected in 1910, was incorporated in the spring of that year with a capital stock of $10,000, Mr. Mattson becoMiing president and John Wagstad secretary and treasurer. The concern occupies a substantial frame building, and besides furnishing electric light and power for the village, has a capacity of 25 barrels of flour per day. It was originally started and the building erected in 1880 by Earl, Gates & Scott, and was purchased in 1893 by John Larson, who sold out Nov. 1, 1908, to T. E. Thompson. With Mr. Thompson as president, John Wagstad as vice-president, and M. S. Olson as secretary and treasurer, it was operated until its incorporation in 1910, as above recorded. Mr. Mattson is an up-todate business man, and aside from his personal interests has served eight years as a member of the village council. He is a member of the church.

belonging to the Norwegian Lutheran Synod. He was married in Pigeon Township, Sept. 5, 1896, to Augusta Mortenson, who was born in that township Aug. 3, 1876, daughter of Hans H. and Mathia (Evenson) Mortenson. Her father, now 81 years old, is a retired farmer living in Whitehall with his wife, who is now 70. Mr. and Mrs. Mattson have nine children : Hihnan, who enlisted in Company I, Eleventh United States Infantry, April 24, 1917; Adelia, Agnes, Rudolph, Anna, Edwin, Alfred, Elsie and Helen, all of whom reside at home with their parents.

Christian O. Dahl, president of the Farmers' Exchange Bank, of Osseo, Wis., and proprietor of Hillsdale Farm of 160 acres, the northeast quarter of section 2, Unity Township, was born at Coon Prairie, Vernon County, Wis., July 8, 1868. He is a son of Ole Dahl, who was born in Ringsaker, Norway, Feb. 4, 1837, and who came to America in 186.5, residing for two years in New York City, where he was married in 1867 to Ane Bue. She was born in Foaberg, Norway, Sept. 24, 1846. Soon after their marriage Ole Dahl and wife came West to Wisconsin, locating first in Vernon County, in the village of Westby, where for two years Mr. Dahl followed the blacksmith's trade. In 1870 they came with their family to Unity Township, Trempealeau County, and homesteaded the farm now known as Hillsdale Farm, as above described. Here Ole Dahl spent the rest of his life, his death occurring June 14, 1916. He was a highly-respected citizen, serving on the township board for several years, also on the school board, and for a long period being one of the officials of the Synod Norwegian Lutheran church. He was also an esteemed member of the Trempealeau County Historical Society, taking a keen interest in the growth and development of the county and in the preservation of its historical records. His wife is still living and resides on the farm with her son Christian. Eight of their children are now living: Christian O., subject of this sketch; Marie, wife of Charles P. Holman, a farmer of Humbird, Wis. ; Andrew, who is engaged in the ranching business at Saratoga, Wyo. ; Hannah, who is housekeeper for her brothers, Olans and Thorvald, at Price, Wis. ; Caroline, who married Nils Indstefjord, a farmer of Price, Wis.; Olans and Thorvald, farmers at Price, Wis., and Tilda, who resides with her brother Christian. Christian O. Dahl has resided on his present farm since his parents moved onto it in 1870, and since 1896 has been its manager. Besides planting the usual crops, he raises cattle, sheep and horses, usually milking 25 cows, for which purpose he uses a three-unit milking machine. The farm is well improved and yields good returns for the labor spent upon it. Mr. Dahl gives his chief attention to this property, but is also interested financially in other business enterprises. On July 10, 1916, he aided in organizing the Farmers' Exchange Bank, of Osseo, of which he has since been president. He is a director in the Inter-County Co-Operative Packing Company, of New Richmond, Wis., and helped to organize the Osseo Farmers' Produce Company, of which he is treasurer. For a number of years Mr. Dahl has taken an active part in official life, having served as township treasurer for a period of three years, township supervisor one year, township clerk four years, school clerk 20 years, and as chairman of the township board and a member of the county board since 1908. He is a member and treasurer of the Synod Congregation of the United Norwegian Lutheran Church of America at Strum, having served in the latter office since 1904.

Thomas J. Myhers, D. V. M., Osseo, was born in Eau Claire, July 23, 1885, passed through the public schools, came to this county when he was 15, graduated from the Grand Rapids (Mich.) Veterinary College in 1911, located at Strum, where he remained for five months, and has since practiced in Osseo. His fraternal affiliation is with the Masonic order. July 20, 1912, he married Julia Nysven, of Strum, daughter of Ole and Ida Nysven, the former of whom is postmaster at Strum, as he has been for the past 30 years. Dr. and Mrs. Myhers have two daughters : Irma, born April 2, 1915, and Marion, born Sept. 2, 1917. The parents of Dr. Myhers are Jacob and Inga (Johnson) Myhers. Jacob Myhers was born in Norway, was foreman of the Valley Lumber Company, of Eau Claire, Wis., for 20 years, and since 1900 has farmed in Unity Township, in this county.

Anton A. Myhre, the well-known proprietor of Fair Pines Farm of 159 acres, in sections 12 and 13, Sumner Township, was born at Biri, Norway, Feb. 2, 1851. His parents were both of Norwegian birth, the father. Even Anderson Myhre, born in 1807, and his mother, whose maiden name was Martha Olson, born in 1820. They came to the United States in 1861, accompanied by their four children, and settled in Coon Valley, Vernon County, Wis., where they resided until 1868, moving in that year to Tamarac Valley, Arcadia Township, where the parents spent the rest of their lives. Even A. Myhre dying in 1889 and his wife Martha in 1902. They had six children, of whom two died in infancy. Anton A. was the first-born. Then came Ole, who is a farmer in Arcadia Township; Pauline, who is keeping house for her brother Ole, and Mary. The last mentioned married Olaus Johnson, who died in Osseo in 1909, where she now resides. Anton A. Myhre when a young man worked out on farms in Vernon County, and in Arcadia Township, Trempealeau County, until 1872. He was now 21 years old, and, thinking it time to start in for himself, he homesteaded a farm in Chimney Rock Township, section 25, and until 1893 was engaged in its cultivation and development, in which he made good progress. He then sold it and bought his present farm, which his son Theodore now rents and operates. It is well provided with good buildings and everything necessary for modern farming. Mr. Myhre was township supervisor for one year in Chimney Rock Township, and assessor for four years in the same township. The latter office he has held also for two years in Sumner Township, in addition to which he has served for 15 years as school clerk. He is a stockholder in the Farmers' Telephone Company and the Osseo Produce Company. March 9, 1878, Anton A. Myhre was married to Helena Anderson, who was born at Faaberg, Norway, Feb. 2, 1851, daughter of Andreas and Margaret (Leir) Faaberg, both of whom died in Norway. Mrs. Myhre died Jan. 25, 1895, having been the mother of six children: Emil, now a farmer at Spiritwood, N. D. ; Andreas, a carpenter residing in Seattle ; Anna, born Oct. 10, who died Aug. 24, 1898 ; Mina, who married Lauritz Oftedahl, of Osseo ; Theodore, manager of his father's farm, and Benjamin, a farmer at Allen, Mont. Theodore Myhre, who was born on his parents' farm in Chimney

Rock Township, July 23, 1888, was married, June 14, 1913, to Minnie Severson, of Jackson County, Garfield Township, her birth taking place in that township, Jan. 2, 1889. Her parents. Sever and Marit (Hattren) Severson, were farming people. Mr. and Mrs. Theodore Myhre have two children: Marion Helen, born April 10, 1914, and Samuel Arnold, born Sept. 11, 1915. Theodore has rented his father's farm since 1909 and is cultivating it successfully. The family are affiliated religiously with the Norwegian Lutheran church, of which Anton A. Myhre has been a trustee for 16 years.

Jakob T. Myhers, who is engaged in farming on a tract of 240 acres in section 23, Unity Township, was born in Gulbrandsdalen, Norway, Dec. 18, 1857. His father, Thor G. Myrum, who was also a farmer, was born in Norway in 1826 and died in that country in 1910. The mother of our subject, Mary Grothe, died in Norway in 1868. In the spring of 1877 Jakob T. Myhers sailed from Christiania for Quebec, and from the latter port proceeded to Chicago. Finding himself without money, he shipped as a railroad hand to Marquette County, Mich., where he worked in the iron mines for two years and a half. At this time his future wife, Inga Johnson, was working in Eau Claire, Wis., and Mr. Myhers went there and found employment with the Valley Lumber Company at $1.25 a day, boarding himself. He remained with this firm for 18 years, the first three years of this period as yard and barn man. During the last 15 he was salesman and foreman of the lumber yard and wood yard. While here he was married, May 5, 1880, to Inga Johnson, whose parents, Joseph and Mary (Lee) Johnson, had remained in Norway, where the mother is now living at the advanced age of 90 years. He and his wife began housekeeping at Shawtown, in Eau Claire, their residence being an old cow barn, which they cleaned up, and here they lived for two years. In 1882 occurred the great flood which swept away nearly the entire city of Eau Claire, and Mr. and Mrs. Myhers lost all that they had. They continued working in Eau Claire, however, until 1900, by which time, having been industrious and frugal, they had succeeded in saving some money. This they made a good use of in the purchase of their present farm from Gilbert Brown, on which they have since resided, and which Mr. Myhers has brought into a good state of cultivation. When it came into his possession it had hardly any improvements on it, but there is now a good two-story house, a large modern horse barn, a good cattle barn, with numerous sheds and a large silo, all evidences of a well-deserved prosperity. Mr. Myhers has served as school director for nine years. Since childhood he has been a member of the United Norwegian Lutheran church. He and his wife are the parents of nine children: Thomas J., who is a veterinary surgeon at Osseo; John, a member of the mercantile firm of Robbe & Myhers, at Strum ; Mary, wife of Thomas Rice, a carpenter residing at Strum ; Martin, who hves at home with his parents ; Jacob T., a veterinary surgeon of Eleva, and Ole, Ingwald, Caroline and Rena, all of whom reside with their parents. Mr. Myhers left home when 11 years old and started life for himself, first herding cattle and sheep for his uncle, remaining in this position until 14 years old; then engaged on a stock farm, remaining there until 21 years old, giving to his parents, who were poor and old, all his savings, and after coming to America sent his

John H. Call has been a resident of Sumner Township since 1877, and assisted by his good wife has reared a large family of children, developed a good farm and established himself as one of the substantial men of the community. He is doing the township good service as supervisor, to which position he was first ele(;ted in 1915. Born near Bergen, in Norway, June 9, 1851, he is the oldest of the eight children born to Henry and Sophia (Eirum) Call. The father, born April 21, 1824, and the mother, born Dec. 23, 1835, brought their children to America in 1853, reached Dane County, Wis., June 9, of that year, after a trip of six months, fourteen weeks of which were spent aboard a sailing vessel, and the next year located at West Prairie, Vernon County, Wis., where the father died in 1890 and the mother in 1910. John H. Call was reared to farm pursuits and for a number of years was employed on various farms. After his marriage in 1877 he purchased his present farm of 121 acres in section 27, Sumner township. From a wilderness he brought the farm to its present high degree of cultivation. On this place he now successfully carries on general farming, and makes a specialty of breeding Holstein cattle, of which he has a good-sized herd. In this connection he has purchased a two-unit milking machine, which is proving a great saving of labor. The farm throughout is equipped with the best of machinery and tools, and is fenced with woven wire. The buildings are especially sightly. The first house, a frame building, 12 by 18 feet, was erected in 1877. The present home, a two-story frame structure of eight pleasant rooms, was erected in 1899. The barn was constructed in 1912. It is 40 by 64 by 14 feet, with a stone basement and cement floors. Steel stanchions and other improvements add to the comfort of the stock. The silo, 12 by 39 feet, is built of substantial cement blocks. Mr. Call was married July 1, 1877, to Caroline Prestegaarden, born in Gulbrandsdalen, Norway, Feb. 4, 1855, daughter of Andrew and Martha (Eirum) Prestegaarden, who came to America in 1869, located in Dane County, Wis., and in 1871 took up their residence in Sumner Township, Trempealeau County, where they spent the remainder of their days. Mr. and Mrs. Call are the parents of ten children : Sophia, born Feb. 22, 1878 ; Albert, born Aug. 12, 1880; Helmer, born March 1, 1882; Charles, born April 24, 1884; Martha, who died in infancy; Julia, born Oct. 12, 1888; Martha, born July 29, 1890 ; Clara, born Dec. 2, 1892 ; James, born June 2, 1895, and Bernhard, born Feb. 6, 1897. Albert and Helmer farm in Jackson County, Wis. Julia graduated from the La Crosse State Normal School and taught three years. She married, Nov. 27, 1916, Edwin Anderson, a farmer living in Unity Township. The other members of the family are at home. The family faith is that of the Hauge Norwegian Lutheran church, of which Mr. Call is the treasurer.