Trempealeau County, Wisconsin - Biographical sketches, 1917 (part 14 of 20)

Seth S. Speestra, proprietor of one of the best farms in Hale Township, known as Hillside Stock Farm, was born in Holland, Europe, Jan. 16, 1884, son of Samuel F. and Ruth (Bronz) Speerstra. The parents came to America with their family in 1890, locating first in La Crosse County, Wis., where they made their home until 1898. Removing to Trempealeau County, they purchased the farm in Hale which is now known as Hillside Stock Farm, where they resided until the spring of 1911, when they moved to their present place of residence near Whitehall, Seth S. Speerstra then taking possession of the farm. It was in the spring of that year, also, on June 7, that the latter was united in marriage with Sophy Johnson, who was born in Hale Township, Trempealeau County, Wis., Nov. 1, 1886, her parents, Peter L. and Eldri (Nelson) Johnson, being well-known and prosperous farming people. Mr. Speerstra's farm contains 380 acres and is a fine piece of agricultural property, being well improved and adapted to all the requirements of the most scientific farming. The residence is a commodious frame dwelling of nine rooms conveniently arranged ; the barn, also a frame structure, measures 58 by 60 by 16 feet, and is provided with a good cement floor; while among the other buildings, all substantially built, are a hog house, 28 by 80 feet, with cement floor, and a frame silo, 16 V2 by 37 feet in size. The entire farm is well fenced around with woven wire fencing. Besides raising the usual crops, Mr. Speerstra is quite extensively engaged in stock breeding and dairying, in which branches of the farming industry he has achieved a pronounced success. He has now 100 head of Shorthorn cattle, milking 30 cows, and having in connection with his dairy a Hinman machine of four units, with gasoline engine. Each year he feeds one car of cattle for the market. He also has a large herd of Poland-China hogs, numbering at the present time about 200 head, of which he sells about 100 head a year, and also sells 20 head of hogs for breeders. Of pure-bred Shropshire sheep he keeps about 55 head, his sheep being registered animals; and in addition to the above-mentioned stock he keeps a flock of Mammoth Bronze turkeys. The management of so large a farm naturally requires an expert knowledge of every branch of agriculture, together with a more than ordinary amount of good business judgment, but Mr. Speerstra has shown himself thoroughly capable of handhng his large interests and making his farm pay a handsome profit. He has taken rank among the leading farmers of his township, and he and his wife are wellto-do and popular members of the community in which they reside.

John Raichle, a well-known resident of Ettrick, Wis., where he is engaged in business as a general contractor and bridge builder, and is also a land owner, was born in Winona, Minn., Oct. 18, 1868, son of William and Emma (Medsker) Raichle. His early education was acquired in the public school of Frenchville, Wis., and he resided at home until he was 18 years of age. He then went to South Dakota, where he worked out for others, and in the winters was engaged in cutting timber in the woods. When about 22 years old, having returned to Trempealeau County, he rented land in Ettrick Township and engaged in farming, continuing to rent for four years. At the end of that time he purchased the John Cance farm, which he operated until the winter of 1908-09. He then rented it out and moved into the village of Ettrick, in the meanwhile having begun the construction of his present residence, which was completed in 1913, after which he took up his residence in it. He has sold 160 acres of the land he formerly owned, but still has 101 acres left, which he rents out. For some time past Mr. Raichle has been engaged in contracting in masonry and construction work, including bridge building, and at present has contracts for the Ettrick & Northern Railroad, now building. He is a stockholder in the Bank of Ettrick and in the Ettrick Creamery Company, the Ettrick Hall Company, and in a lumber company, organized Jan. 18, 1917. Mr. Raichle was married May 28, 1895, to Nettie Benrud, who was born at Frenchville, this county, daughter of Marcus and Carrie (Hegge) Benrud, who were born in Biri, Norway, the father Jan. 17, 1846, and the mother Dec. 13, 1845. The parents of Mrs. Raichle were married at La Crosse, Wis. Marcus Benrud came to the United States when a lad of 18 years, locating at French Creek, this county, where he made his home with Mr. Gilbertson, working out for two years. He then went back to Norway, and when he returned to this country he brought with him his young wife. Then settling in La Crosse, he engaged there in the liquor business, but continued in it but a short time, coming to Frenchville not long after and starting a hotel here, which he conducted for about six or seven years. In the meanwhile he acquired some land and when he gave up the hotel business he engaged in farming, and in this latter occupation he continued until his death, which took place Aug. 23, 1910. His wife survived him less than a year, dying May 6, 1911. For a number of years Mr. Benrud held the office of assessor in Gale Township. He and his wife had six children, of whom their daughter Nettie (Mrs. John Raichle) was the second-born. Mr. and Mrs. Raichle are the parents of four children: Elmer Oscar, Albert William, Robert Theodore and Antoinette, all residing at home. Mr. Raichle belongs to the orders of Royal Neighbors and Beavers at Ettrick. For a number of years he has served on the township board and as president of the Ettrick Creamery Company.

Albert H. Fremstad, an enterprising and prosperous agriculturist, proprietor of the Fremstad Farm of 160 acres in sections 3 and 4, Pigeon Township, is a native of Wisconsin, having been born in Vernon County, Nov. 27, 1871. His father, Hans A. Fremstad, was born in Nordland, Norway, in 1838, and came to the United States in 1857, residing for some years in Vernon County, this State. In December, 1871, he came to Pigeon Township, this County, taking the farm on which his son Albert H. now lives, and which he cultivated for many years, or until his retirement from active labor. He still, however, makes it his place of residence. His wife, whose maiden name was Andrena Nilson, was born in Norway in 1834, and died Oct. 1, 1916. Albert H. Fremstad was an infant scarcely a month old when his parents came to Trempealeau County and took the land since known as the Fremstad Farm. Here he was reared, attending the local schools in boyhood and also beginning at an early age to acquire a knowledge of agriculture. This knowledge was of a most practical kind and at times involved considerable labor, but in performing it he was laying the foundation of his present prospei'ity. In this work he was associated with his father until 1898, when, with his brother Anton, he purchased the farm and it was carried on by them under the name of Fremstad Bros, until the spring o1 1915, since which time Albert H. has been the sole proprietor. The improvements are extensive and up-to-date, and include a barn, 32 by 60 feet, with basement, and shed on the north side; a solid concrete silo, 14 by 36, built in 1913; a tobacco shed, 40 by 144, and a good two-story house of 12 rooms. Mr. Fremstad has four acres planted in tobacco. His herd of cattle numbers 40 head, of which he milks 20. Mr. Fremstad was married March 27, 1901, to Clara Hougen, who was born in Osseo, Trempealeau County, Wis., April 4, 1875, daughter of Mat and Gurina (Prestegaarder) Hougen. He and his wife have six children, born as follows : Hazel, Jan. 4, 1903 ; Clifford, Nov. 9, 1904 ; Palmer, March 15, 1908 ; Glen, March 6, 1910 ; Maynard, Oct. 31, 1913, and Ernest Milton, June 30, 1917. The family are members of the Norwegian Lutheran Church of America.

Omer F. Immell, hustling agent for the New York Life Insurance Company, was born on a farm three miles east of Blair, April 22, 1872, son of Francis M. and Anna (Storley) Immell. Francis M. Immell was born in Ohio, came to Wisconsin in 1851, lived at Black River Falls four years, came to Trempealeau County in 1856, located three miles east of Blair, and there hved until he moved to the village, where he died in 1913, his good wife having passed away the previous year. Omer F. Immell started out for himself while a boy in his early teens. As a youth he did farm work. For several years he was a clerk in the Farmers' Trading Association store at Blair. For one year he traveled for the Ramer Candy Company, of Winona, and for six years for the Winona Candy Company, of that city. Later he traveled seven years for the Kratchwil Candy Company, of La Crosse. In 1913, he established at Blair, the Immell Bait Company for the manufacture of the "Chippewa Bait." Jan. 25, 1915, he accepted his present agency. In this capacity he has several times led the State organization in number of apphcations obtained, and in February and March, 1915, he led the district comprising Wisconsin, Minnesota, North Dakota and a part of Canada. The enclosed extract, taken from a journalistic source, is a well-merited tribute to his ability in the line of industry he follows : "O. F. Immell, agent for the New York Life Insurance Company, has the honor of being one of seven to win a vice-presidency in what is termed by the company the $100,000 class. To be in this class an agent must sell over $100,000 worth of insurance. Mr. Immell came close to doubling this figure, selling a total of $183,000 worth of insurance for the year (1917). By so doing he automatically elected himself a delegate from this district to the convention of that company at Atlantic City, which is held Thursday and Fi'iday of this week. Mr. Immell has worked hard for this honor and only a close attention to this business, couplied with the fact that he is well posted on insurance matters and represents one of the best companies, enabled him to win. The company has this to say of him : 'He has the honor of having a larger volume, $183,000, than any other official in the club. He is so close to the $200,000 club that we shall expect to see him there without fail one year from now.' " Mr. Immell was married Jan. 1, 1895, to Margaret McKivergin, a native of Trempealeau County, daughter of James McKivergin. This union has resulted in two children: Orrie and Florence.

Algernon P. Tallman, proprietor of a blacksmith and wagon shop in Whitehall, was born in the southeastern part of Hale Township, Trempealeau County, Wis., May 31, 1879. His parents were Humphrey G. and Esther (Boyd) Tallman. The father, a native of the State of New York, fought for the Union in the Civil War, as a member of Company A, Sixteenth New York Cavalry, serving 18 months. After the war he came to Trempealeau County, homesteading land in Hale Township, and engaged in farming. In 1904 he retired to Whitehall. Algernon P. Tallman began learning the blacksmith's trade at York, Jackson County, Wis., where he remained two years. March 5, 1901, he purchased his present business from Louis Brenom and has since remained here, enjoying a good patronage. He is a stockholder in the Pigeon Grain & Stock Company, and as a business man and good citizen is interested in everything connected with the welfare of the village. His fraternal society affiliations are with the Order of Beavers. Mr. Tallman was married, June 25, 1900, to Pearl Bursell, daughter of William and Melissa (Creighton) Bursell. He and his wife have one child, Nina, who was born Nov. 18, 1901.

Andrew F. and Oluf Lovlien, joint proprietors of the Lovlien Farms in Pigeon Township, were born in this township, Andrew on May 23, 1878, and Oluf July 2, 1891. Their parents were Fred 0. and Guri Lovlien, natives of Norway, who were married in Wisconsin, both having come to this country in the '60s. Fred O. was the first to arrive, settling in Vernon County, this State, where he and his wife were married. Coming to Trempealeau County, he first worked out in Trempealeau to earn enough money with which to buy land, which he finally purchased in Pigeon Towmship, where his sons are now located. Beginning with 160 acres, he also bought another homestead of 80 acres. He had very little capital to start with and there were no buildings on his place, so pioneer work had to be done, and continued for a number of years. Like nearly aU the pioneer settlers, he made use of an ox team, and during the early days sometimes walked to La Crosse for supplies. He erected a frame house which was the family residence for many years, being replaced in 1914 by the present substantial brick dweUing. The barns now standing were built by members of the family. Religiously Fred. 0. Lovlien was affiliated with the Norwegian Lutheran church. After a long and active Ufe, during which he accomplished a large amount of useful work, he died in 1913 at the age of 72 years. His wife is still living, being now 69 years old. They were the parents of 10 children, of whom three died when young. Those living are :

Die, Anna, Andrew, Hans, Christine, Nina and Oluf. Nina's husband died in 1911 and she and her son have since made their home with her brothers. On their father's death, or in 1913, the two sons, Andrew and Oluf, took charge of the home farm, which they are now operating, raising the usual crops and keeping good stock. They are shareholders in the Whitehall Creamery, as was also their father, and also hold shares in the Pigeon Grain & Stock Company. Their enterprising efforts have met with welldeserved success and as general farmers they are doing a profitable business. Both are members of the Norwegian Lutheran church.

Lars J. Dahl, who for over 40 years has been engaged in operating an 80-acre farm in section 21, Unity Township, was born in Tolgen, Norway, April 8, 1850, the son of John and Birit Hulbakdahl, both of whom died in Norway. Lars J., while in Norway, used his father's surname of Hulbakdahl, shortening it to Dahl after coming to America, which he did in 1870, making the voyage on the same ship with Ole Thomasgaard, and landing at Quebec, Canada, May 1. From there he made his way to Lansing, Iowa, where he found employment and worked at various jobs for some two years. He then removed to Menominie, Wis., where for three years he was employed in the woods and on the river by the Napp-Stout Lumber Company. In the meanwhile he had been saving his money and was now in a position to start life for himself. Accordingly, coming to Trempealeau County, he purchased his present farm from the railway company and has since remained here, having been the only owner of the farm, and the only man on his road who had stayed on his original purchase. In so doing he has probably prospered as well as he might have done elsewhere, as his property is now very finely improved and is one of the most valuable farms of its size in the county. He operates it on the four-year rotation plan, whereby the land produces twice as much as it would without rotation, in 1915 his yield of corn being 66 bushels to the acre. In 1900 Mr. Dahl erected a barn 36 by 52 by 12 feet with a stone basement, the latter having cement floors. His residence was built in 1907 and is a brick veneer structure of two stories and basement, measuring 28 by 30 feet, the basement having cement floor and the house containing eight rooms, heated by furnace. Mr. Dahl's sound judgment and business ability have been recognized by his fellow citizens and he has served longer in public office of one kind or another than any man in his township, his activities in this direction having extended over a period of 26 years. For four years he was supervisor in Sumner Township, and he- has served in Unity Township eight years as township treasurer, 11 years as assessor, and three years as chairman of the township board and consequently as a member of the county board. He is a member of the Norwegian Lutheran Church of America.

Mr. Dahl was married April 3, 1878, to Nikoline Rognlien, who was born in Hurdalen, Norway, Sept. 21, 1854, daughter of Martin E. and Annie (Enerson) Rognhen, of whom a memoir may be found on another page of this volume. Ten children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Dahl : John, Anna, Bertha, Mary, Julia, Louisa, Martin, Alfred and Inga. John, who was graduated from the University of Wisconsin in 1913, was for some time a school teacher, being principal of the high school at Thorp for two years and of that at Shell Lake one year, Cashton one year and Algoma four years. He was also superintendent of city schools at Bloomington Prairie, Minn., three years. His training for the profession of teacher was obtained at the River Falls normal school, where he was graduated in 1904. While engaged in this work he studied law by the correspondence method and applied himself to it so thoroughly that he qualified for the bar, during the same period earning $5,500 in his regular vocation. He is now a practicing attorney at Rice Lake, Wis. Anna graduated from the Dixon Business College at Dixon, 111., and resides in St. Paul, where she is cashier in a store. Bertha, who graduated from the River Falls normal school and was a teacher for ten years, is now the wife of Grover Pace, a druggist of Adams, Wis. Mary, who graduated in domestic science from the University of Chicago, is engaged in teaching domestic science at Hammond, Ind. Julia, who graduated from River Falls normal school, is now a teacher at Mason City, Iowa. Louisa, a graduate of the same normal school, is teaching at Carthage, S. D. Martin is residing on the home farm and assisting his father in its cultivation. He has the distinction of being the youngest town treasurer to serve in the county, being elected at the age of 22, and serving three years. At the age of 26 he was elected to his present office as chairman. Alfred graduated from a business college at Minneapolis in June, 1916, and is now bookkeeper in a bank at Seattle, Wash. Inga, who graduated from the La Crosse normal school, is now a teacher at Brandon, Wis. It will thus be seen that Mr. Dahl has educated his children for responsible positions in life, and that all, both sons and daughters, are making their own way in the world, and, it may be added, reflecting credit on the family name.

Frank A. George, secretary of the Auto Sales Company of Whitehall, and president of the Trempealeau County School Committee, is one of the best known men in the county. Of a genial temperament and quiet disposition, he has been actively interested in public affairs for many years, has mingled considerably in politics, has served in numerous local offices, has represented the Republican party at numerous conventions, and for a time occupied an official position in the House of Representatives at Washington. Of ancient New England ancestry, he was born in Haverhill, Mass., July 26, 1861, son of Lucien and Harriett (Morrison) George. He received his early education in the pubhc schools of his native place, graduated from the high school there, and passed the examinations admitting him to Harvard University. Determining, however, to embark upon a business rather than a scholastic career, he became cashier and accountant for the Gale Brothers' Manufacturing Company at Havei'hill. In 1883 he decided to become an agriculturist in the middle west, and with this object in view came to Hale Township in Trempealeau County and secured 400 acres in sections 19 and 20, Township 23, range 7, 240 acres being bought from the railroad, and 160 acres from a previous owner. Of this, four years later, he sold 160 acres, leaving a good farm of 240 acres, which he still owns. Mr. George was the pioneer dairyman of the county. Others had raised cows for dairy purposes, but it was he who first understood it as the principal business of his farm. For a time he had the biggest dairy business in the county. Of this herd of 100 cows 23 were full blooded Jerseys, and there were seasons when he milked as high as 60 cows. In 1911 he turned the farm over to his son-in-law, S. B. Scott, and in 1913 he moved to Whitehall and purchased an interest in the Auto Sales Company, of which he became the secretary. His popularity and personality have been important factors in the success with which the concern has met. Mr. George's public life would in itself make a most interesting chapter. In his township he was an excellent justice of the peace for about twenty years, and for a similar period did most efficient service on the school board, part of the time as clerk and part of the time as treasurer. His experience in this line was an important factor in securing him the appointment at the head of the county school board in 1915. A staunch Republican in politics, he has been chairman of the County Republican Committee for the past eight years, and in the old convention days he was the center of many a hot political fight at county and state gatherings. In recognition of his activities and worth he was given an appointment on the staff of employees of the House of Representatives at Washington, serving in 1897, 1898, 1899, 1900 and 1901. For ten years he was chairman of the town of Hale and in this capacity gave most excellent service as a member of the county board. All in all he is a most useful citizen. Unostentatious in his ways, his voice and influence are always raised in behalf of the things that are for the betterment and progress of the community, and any good cause finds in him an active supporter. Mr. George was married at Shawano, Wis., October, 1877, to Mary J. Gibson, and this union was blessed with one daughter, Edith, wife of S. B. Scott, who conducts her father's farm. Mrs. George died Dec. 6, 1911.

Peter O. Skulhus, proprietor of a general merchandise and confectionery business at Eleva, was born in Biri, Norway, June 23, 1878, son of Ole P. and Louise (Bratberg) Skulhus. The father died in Norway and his wife subsequently came to America in 1908 and married S. H. Anderson, a retired farmer now living in Eleva. Peter O. Skulhus came to this country in June, 1900, locating in Eleva, Wis., where he worked one year and nine months for the Larson-Melby Company. He then bought the confectionery business of Sever Severson, and subsequently purchased of Andrew Tweit the building in which he is now located. He is carrying on a successful business and his prospects are good for further advancement. In 1911 he made a visit to Norway, and in 1914 he again visited his native land, attending the world's fair at Christiania, and making the voyage on the first vessel which sailed after war was declared. Mr. Skulhus was married May 2, 1903, to Molly Semmingson of Eau Claire County, Wisconsin, who was born in that county May 8, 1883, her parents, Matt and Gina (Hagen) Semmingson, being farming people there. Mr. and Mrs. Skulhus have had two children: Oliver Millard, born Nov. 18, 1904, who died October 3, the same year, and Gordie Louise, born Dec. 6, 1905. The family belong to the United Lutheran Church and Mr. Skulhus has served five years as a member of the village board, being ever ready to do his part as a responsible citizen.

Gustave M. Instenes, who is engaged in operating the old Instenes farm in section 26, Chimney Rock Township, was born on this farm April 24, 1888, son of Sven and Ragnil (Rosgaard) Instenes, who had settled in this township in 1874. Reared on the homestead, he became familiar with every branch of agricultural work, and was associated with his father until his death, since which time he has operated the farm alone, acquiring it by purchase in February, 1914. On Dec. 30, 1914, he was married to Elise Haakenson, who was born in Chimney Rock Township, April 21, 1882, daughter of John and Eli (Erickson) Haakenson. Her father, born in Soler, Norway, Aug. 26, 1846, died Dec. 4, 1891. Her mother, also a native of that place, born March 11, 1852, is still living on the old homestead. Mrs. Gustave M. Instenes, who received a good education, taught school for fourteen years and a half. The Instenes farm is a well improved and productive piece of property and is kept up to a high standard of value. Mr. Instenes has served as school clerk for three years. He and his wife are members of the Norwegian Lutheran Church of America.

Sven Instenes, who for many years was a well known farmer and popular citizen of Chimney Rock Township, was born in Hardanger, Norway, Feb. 4, 1845, son of Lars and Anna Instenes. In 1861 he accompanied his parents to the United States, the family settUng in Adams County, Wisconsin, where they remained until 1874. They then came to Trempealeau County, Lars Instenes homesteading the northwest corner of section 23, Chimney Rock Township, where he made his home until his death June 2, 1899. Sven Instenes was well trained in agricultural methods in his youth and was 29 years old when he started in for himself, homesteading the northwest quarter of section 26, Chimney Rock Township, in 1874. From that time until his death, Feb. 21, 1913, a period of 39 years, he resided on that farm, cultivating the soil, raising stock and performing other farm duties connected with the development of his place. He was industrious and successful and was well liked and respected by his neighbors as a man of good qualities and a reliable citizen. April 9, 1871, Sven Instenes was united in marriage with Ragnil Rosgaard, who was born in Numedahl, Norway, March 18, 1852. They had eight children, of whom one is now deceased, the family record being briefly as follows : Anna, who married Sam P. Solfast, a farmer of Chimney Rock Township; Lars, who died Aug. 9, 1911; Otis, who is farming in Velva, N. D. ; Albert, Robert and Helmer, who are all three farming in McCabe, Mont. ; Gustave, residing on the old homestead in Chimney Rock Township, and Henry, who is also a farmer in this township. Mr. Instenes served as treasurer and director of the school board for nine years and was also nine years township supervisor. Mrs. Instenes resides on the old farm with her son Gustave.

Die Fredrickson, who as proprietor of Brookhill farm of 167 acres, in section 25, Pigeon Township, is taking an active part in the development of the agricultural resources of this township, was born in Stor Hammar, Hedemarken, Norway, March 25, 1857. His father was Fredrick Olson, a railroad man, who died in Norway in 1881, and whose wife, Helen Olson, is now hving in Christiania, Norway, at the age of 87 years. It was in May, 1881, the year of his father's death, that the subject of this sketch came to the United States. Following the trail of most of the Norwegian pioneers to the great Northwest, he located at Whitehall, this county, but for about a year was employed near Osseo at farm work. For 15 years Mr. Fredrickson worked for various employers, in the meanwhile saving his money and looking forward to the day when he should be able to begin an independent career. When the time came, having decided upon agriculture as the readiest means of attaining prosperity, he bought a farm in Curran Township, Jackson County, this state, and taking up his residence upon it operated it for six years. Then, for substantial reasons, he decided to make a change of location, and accordingly purchased his present farm in the southeast corner of town 23 north, range 7 west. Pigeon Township, where he has since remained. Acting on progressive ideas, he has made various improvements on the place, one of the most imporatnt of which is the barn erected in 1905, and measuring 34 by 80 by 16 feet, with an eight-foot basement, and provided with running water. In 1914 he built his present residence, a frame two-story building, with basement, containing nine rooms, with hot water heat and provided with hot and cold running water and Delco plumbing throughout. In 1917 he installed an individual electric light plant in his house and barn. On the farm is also a concrete silo, 14 by 30 feet. Mr. Fredrickson has a herd of 31 Holstein cattle, seven being pure-bred and registered. Of this herd he milks 15. The farm is conducted on a profitable basis and he has taken his place among the successful and prosperous citizens of his township - a result achieved by hard work and perseverance, aided by a competent knowledge of all the various branches of the farming industry. The farm is an historic one, the original home of Nils Jensen Tomten, built in 1870, being still standing thereon. Mr. Fredrickson has been treasurer of the local school board for nine years, serving two years as clerk. He is also a stockholder in the Pigeon Grain & Stock Company and in the Whitehall Hospital. Mr. Fredrickson entered in to the married state about 14 years ago or more, Mrs. Mattie Tomten becoming his wife Oct. 29, 1902. Mrs. Fredrickson was born in Norway Dec. 8, 1866, a daughter of Torger and Regina Thorson. The Thorson family came to America in 1876, settling in Pigeon Township, this county, where the father died in 1913; his wife died Sept. 28, 1916. Their daughter Mattie was first married to Gilbert Tomten, a son of Niels Jensen Tomten by his wife Berte Olsdatter, both natives of Norway, where the father was born April 8, 1815, and the mother Jan. 13, 1815. Coming to America in the spring of 1866, with their family, Mr. and Mrs. Tomten bought the farm on which the subject of this sketch, Mr. Fredrickson, now Uves, and this place was their home until their respective deaths, Niels J. Tomten passing away March 30, 1882, and his wife Nov. 12, 1891, the latter surviving her husband over nine years. Their two sons, Gilbert and John N., after their death divided the farm between them, Gilbert taking the part now owned by Mr. Fredrickson, the farm as a whole having a larger acreage, and this he operated until his death, Nov. 14, 1900. He was born in Biri, Norway, Dec. 2, 1863, his marriage to Mattie Thorson taking place May 13, 1900. They had one child, Robert

Tomten, born April 1, 1891, who is now residing at home. Mr. and Mrs. Fredrickson are the parents of two children: Frederick G., born July 20, 1903, and Mildred Helen Olive, born Jan. 20, 1912. The family are members of the Norwegian Lutheran Church of America.

Lars M. Lyngdal, proprietor of the Independence Hotel at Independence, Wis., was born in Vernon County, Wisconsin, July 22, 1856, son of Michael and Metta (Larson) Lyngal. The father, Michael, was born in Norway and came to America in 1837, when 23 years old. He went first to Chicago, but afterwards worked on farms in Illinois for several years. About 1852 he homesteaded land at Coon Prairie, Vernon County, Wis., and farmed there until 1873. He then sold and bought a farm at Pigeon Falls, Trempealeau County, on which place he spent the rest of his life, dying Sept. 5, 1892, at the age of 69 years. His wife Metta died Jan. 28, 1910, at the age of. 84. They had six children, of whom Lars M. was the second born. Lars M. Lyngdal remained at home until 1885 assisting his father. He then bought the home farm and conducted it on his own account till 1899, when he sold it and went to Spokane, Wash., where he remained nine months. Then coming to Whitehall, he bought the City Hotel and was its proprietor until the spring of 1916, at which time he located in Independence and took over the Independence Hotel, which he is now conducting. He has a good class of trade and is popular with the traveling pubhc. The hotel is a modern, three-story, brick building of 21 rooms, all newly furnished and installed with all desirable accommodations. Mr. Lyngdal was married May 22, 1886, to Isabel Stendal, who was born at Midway, La Crosse County, Wis., Oct. 7, 1868, daughter of Tostem and Hannah (Solberg) Stendal. Her father, who was a farmer of Pigeon Township, died Dec. 5, 1897, at the age of 75 years ; her mother died Feb. 27, 1911, at the age of 82. Mr. and Mrs. Lyngdal are the parents of seven children: Sydney, born March 9, 1887, who is cashier in Simmons hardware store at Minneapolis and who married, April 12, 1911, Florence Anderson of Minneapolis and has one child, Lorin, born March 29, 1915; Bernie, born Aug. 7, 1890, who is a druggist in Chicago; Myrtle A., born Sept. 24, 1892, a stenographer, residing at home; Lancelot, born Sept. 24, 1896; Reuben, born April 4, 1898; Ernest, born June 3, 1903, and Viola, born June 2, 1907, all residing at home.

Emil Huslegard, a well known farmer of Chimney Rock Township, proprietor of the Huslegard farm of 160 acres in section 33, and also the owner of 35 acres in section 4, Burnside Township, the whole forming one farm, was born in Soler, Norway, June 4, 1858, a son of Ole and Ellen, his wife, whose maiden name was Ellen Ansett. The father was born in Norway in 1829 and was married in his native land, where his wife died in 1869. In 1871 he came with the surviving members of his family to the Uinted States, settling in Adams County, Wis., where he remained five years. He then bought 80 acres of land in section 33, Chimney Rock Township, which he cultivated for four years, subsequently retiring and taking up his residence with his son Emil, at whose home he died in June, 1897. By his wife Ellen he had seven children : Lottie, who married Carl Hendrickson, a farmer of Chimney Rock Township; Halvor, who resides with his brother Emil, who was the third born child; Helen, who married Adolph Melsness, who is secretary of the I. S. W. A. at Eau Claire, Wis. ; Bertha, wife of Charles Johnson, a moulder of Eau Claire, Wis. ; Mary, wife of Adolph Hendrickson, a farmer of Chimney Rock Township; Alice, who died at the age of 20 years. Emil Huslegard was a boy of 13 years when he accompanied his father to America. At that early age he made himself useful in various ways and when a little older and stronger began working in the saw mills at Necedah, Wis., being thus occupied subsequently, and also working in the woods, until 1889. He then bought the farm on which he has since resided and which he is operating on a profitable basis. This is a well developed piece of agricultural property, with good buildings, and is pleasantly situated in the southern part of the township in the neighborhood known as Russell.

Jan. 17, 1892, Mr. Huslegard was married to Laura Haakenson, who was born in Chimney Rock Township, this county, Jan. 17, 1871. Her father, John Haakenson, who was born in Norway in 1846, came to America in 1868, and died Dec. 4, 1891. Her mother, whose maiden name was Ellen Erickson, was born in Norway, March 11, 1832, and is still residing on the old homestead in Chimney Rock Township. Mr. and Mrs. Huslegard are the parents of three children : John, born April 26, 1893 ; Alice, born Jan. 29, 1895, and Henry, born Jan. 12, 1898. The family attend the Norwegian Lutheran Church.

Even Holte, one of the enterprising and successful farmers and dairymen of Unity Township, was born in Westertoten, Norway, Nov. 16, 1859. His father, Andreas Holte, who was a farmer, and his mother, Olena Paulseth, died in Norway. Even Holte was a young man in his nineteenth year when he emigrated to the United States in 1879. Settling in Unity Township, Trempealeau County, Wis., he found employment working on farms for about a year, and then, having made up his mind to be his own boss, rented the farm of Christ Olson, which he operated for five years. During the five years following he rented the farm of C. Quale, and then, being in a position to purchase a farm of his own, bought the first 120 acres of his present farm, which he has since enlarged by purchase up to its present size of 320 acres. His improvements since he took hold of the place have greatly increased its value, one of the most notable being a frame barn, built in 1901, which measures 34 by 70 by 20 feet above stone basement, having cement floors and stanchions, and in connection with which there is an L, 30 by 30 by 20 feet, for horses. Having thus provided for his stock, Mr. Holte, in 1903, built himself a new residence, a two-story and basement structure, 30 by 34 feet, containing eight rooms and heated with hot air furnace. The other buildings on the farm are also substantial and equipped with modern conveniences. Mr. Holte raises pure-bred Holstein cattle, having a herd of 53, and using a three-unit milking machine. His silo is of frame construction, plastered with cement plaster inside and out. He was one of the organizers of the Unity Co-operative Creamery at Strum and was its secretary for ten years, and is a stockholder in the First State Bank of Strum. Although a busy man, Mr. Holte has devoted some part of his time to aiding in local government affairs. Thus he was township treasurer eight years, school treasurer three years and a director of the school board three years and is now treasurer of the school district, making a good record as a public official. His business holdings include stock in the State Bank of Strum, of which he is a director. For 15 years he has been secretary of the Synod Norwegian Lutheran Church, to which he belongs as a member. For nearly 30 years Mr. Holte has led a domestic life, having been united in marriage July 2, 1887, to Marie Rice of Unity Township, who was born in Vernon County, Wisconsin, April 28, 1867. Her father, Simon Rice, and her mother, whose maiden name was Mathea Bergum, were Norwegians, the former being born at Little Hammer, Norway, June 21, 1845, and the latter at Land, Norway, Oct. 24, 1845. Simon came to America in 1854, setthng in Vernon County, this state, whence in 1869 he came to Unity Township, Trempealeau County, where he was subsequently engaged in farming until his death. May 21, 1901. He was one of those hardy settlers, almost pioneers, who broke the land and helped to lay the foundations of that agricultural prosperity of which the present generation enjoys the advantage. His wife, who survived him, is now living on the old home farm in section 30, Unity Township. The family circle of Mr. and Mrs. Even Holte has been rounded out to good dimensions by the birth of ten children, whose record in brief is as follows : Minnie, born Nov. 21, 1888, and now residing in Chicago ; Olga, born Dec. 16, 1890, who is living at home ; Julia, born Dec. 28, 1892, who graduated at River Falls normal school and is a teacher in the fourth grade at Marmarth, N. D. ; Laura, born Feb. 23, 1895, who is the wife of Edwin Rognlien, a bank cashier of Foster, Wis., and Seymour, born April 20, 1897; Josephine, born July 18, 1899 ; Nordahl, born Dec. 20, 1902 ; Lillian, born Feb. 3, 1904 ; Evelyn, born Dec. 18, 1906, and Alton, born Dec. 12, 1908, who are all living at home. Jorgen Olson. One of the oldest and best known residents of Chimney Rock Township is the subject of this sketch, who has been a resident here for nearly 48 years, having been one of the early Norwegian settlers in the county. He was born in Valdres, Norway, Nov. 3, 1844, a son of Ole Jorgenson, a mason, and his wife, Annie Uldrikson. Both parents died in Norway. It was in 1867, at the age of 23 years, that Jorgen Olson left his native land for the United States, attracted hither by reports that had reached Norway from those gone before of the opportunity to obtain free land in the great northwestern states. On his arrival in the country he located first in Dane County, Wisconsin, where he remained three years, earning and saving money and keeping his main purpose steadily in view. Then, having saved enough to purchase equipment and make a fair start, he came to Trempealeau County in 1869 and homesteaded a farm in section 2, on which he spent 18 years of his life, carrying on agriculture and stock raising and improving his property, so that when he finally sold he obtained a good price for it. Since then he has been engaged in cultivating his present farm in section 24, which he purchased on leaving the farm in section 2. This property also he has improved considerably, building the residence, a two-story house of 10 rooms, in 1889. In 1914 he erected a new barn, 30 by 74 by 14 feet, with stone basement and cement floors. His son Olaus now rents and manages the farm, and together they raise graded

Shorthorn cattle, having a herd of 40 head, of which they milk 15. Mr. Olson served as township treasurer for 14 years. He also helped organize school district No. 1, Chimney Rock Township, of which he was treasurer six years. His son Glaus has served as school clerk three years. Mr. Olson was married May 17, 1870, to Berget Halvorson, who was born in Norway in 1851, and died on the home farm in November, 1904. There were seven children born to them: Olaus, mentioned above, who was born Aug. 18, 1873 ; Annie, who married Halvor Veum, a farmer of Chimney Rock Township ; Anton, who is farming at Hettinger, N. D. ; Henry, a resident of Superior, Wis. ; Christine, who is keeping house for her father and brother Olaus ; William, who is operating a farm in this vicinity, and Joachim, who is residing at home. The family are members of the United Norwegian Lutheran Church, of which Mr. Olson has been a trustee for four years. The Jorgen Olson farm contains "180 acres and is pleasantly situated, the land being fertile and everything about the place being up to date and in good condition.

Ole Haug, proprietor of Haug Farm of 260 acres, in section 25, Lincoln Township, and section 30, Pigeon Township, was born at Holmen, La Crosse County, Wis., Dec. 12, 1877, son of Peter 0. and Augusta Haug. The father, who was born in Norway, came to America with his parents in 1855, they locating in La Crosse County, Wis. There he was reared, and there he lived until March, 1896, when he bought the farm on which his son Ole now resides, which he cultivated until his death in 1902 at the age of 49 years. His wife, who was born near Holmen, Wis., is still living on the farm, being now 61 years old. They had three children : Ole, Amalia, who lives on the homestead, and Smith, who died in 1907, at the age of 21 years. Ole Haug assisted his father on the farm until the latter's death in 1902, after which he operated it for his mother until 1908. He then purchased it and has since been the sole owner. He has 55 head of cattle, mixed grades, milking 20 cows, and keeps 100 hogs per year. The farm has good buildings, including a two-story, eight-room, frame house with basement, equipped with furnace heat, and modern in every respect, except lights. His barn, 36 by 94 by 18 feet in dimensions, has a good basement with cement floors, steel stanchions and litter-carrier, cement mangers, watering buckets, hog house, 24 by 30 feet, frame with cement floors. Mr. Haug was married, November, 1902, to Mina Tharaldson, of Pigeon Township, who was born in La Crosse, Wis., daughter of John and Theoline (Suggerud) Tharaldson. Her father was a native of Norway. Mr. and Mrs. Haug have three children: Palmer, Agnes and Tilman, the two latter being twins.

Nels S. Fagerland, who is successfully engaged in business as proprietor of a good general store in the village of Eleva, Wis., was born in Deerfield, Dane County, Wis., June 25, 1883. His father, Gunder 0. Fagerland, was born in Norway in 1857 and came to America in 1881, settling in Dane County, Wis., where he resided until 1893. He then removed to Curran Township, Jackson County, which is his present place of residence. Our subject's mother, in maidenhood Brunhilde Sundnas, was born in Norway in 1860. Nels S. Fagerland remained with his parents until 1909. Then, with Clarence Thompson, his brother-in-law, he bought the general store of A. E. Amundson in Eleva, and they carried on business together until May 1, 1915, when he came to his present location, buying the store in company with Oscar Wold, who, however, lived but one year after. After Mr. Wold's death his wife continued the business with Mr. Fagerland until March 1, 1917, when his brother Olaf purchased her interests, the firm now being Fagerland Brothers. Mr. Fagerland was married March 30, 1907, to Isabelle Thompson, who was born in Jackson County, Wis., April 27, 1881. Her parents, Thomas and Martha (Anderson) Thompson, were farming people of Jackson County, where the mother died in 1911. Mr. and Mrs. Fagerland have two children : Violet and Harley. Mr. Fagerland has served as village clerk for three years, as a member of the council four years and as school director three years. He and his family belong to the United Lutheran church. Since coming to Eleva they have made many friends and are increasing in prosperity from year to year as the result of honest dealing, enterprise and frugality.

Even A. Hegge, prominent member of the county board from Pigeon Falls, is one of the influential men of the county, and has been unusually active in public affairs. His work on the town and county board has been of the highest order, and as an advocate of good roads he had done much to promote the best interests of the community at large. A native of this county, he was born on his present farm at the mouth of Hegge Valley, in Pigeon Township, Nov. 27, 1875. He attended school in the district of which his father was an official, and supplemented this with a course in the Wisconsin Business University at La Crosse. Thus equipped, he returned home and resumed agricultural operations. For a while he worked with his father, then he managed the farm, subsequently rented it, and still later acquired the ownership. The place consists of 290 acres in section 3, township 22, range 7, and has been made into a model farm in every particular. Since taking possession, Mr. Hegge has greatly improved the farm in general, has rebuilt the barn and house, and has put in an individual electric light plant, a complete water system, and modern plumbing conveniences. Carrying on general farming along scientific lines, he makes a specialty of raising thoroughbred and high-grade Holstein cattle for dairy purposes, and Duroc-Jersey swine for shipping. Before being elected town chairman in 1912, Mr. Hegge did good service for fifteen years as town clerk. He has been secretary and treasurer of the Pigeon Grain and Stock Company since its organization, and is a director in the People's State Bank of Whitehall, which he also assisted in starting. For several years he has been secretary of the Norwegian Lutheran Congregation of Pigeon Falls.

Nels F. Hegge was for many years one of the substantial men of the county. He gave his name to an important valley in Pigeon Falls Township, was an earnest worker in town and school ofl!ice, and being a well-read man of kindly disposition, exerted a wide influence upon his fellowmen. He came of old Norwegian stock, and was born in Biri, Norway, Oct. 31, 1839. He was there reared amid rugged surroundings, and in 1866 determined to seek his fortunes amid the wider opportunities of America. Reaching La Crosse, he secured various employment, farming in the summer months, and working in Clark County in the lumbering season, both as a chopper in the forests and as engineer at the King's Mills. It was in the spring of 1871 that he came to Trempealeau County and located at the foot of the vallej^ which has since borne his name. For thirty years he toiled early and late and built up his farm. In 1901, after a useful life filled with worthy endeavor, he retired and moved to Whitehall. His death, Aug. 25, 1912, was sincerely mourned. Starting with no other resources than a sturdy body and strong integrity, he had established his place as a man of worth and ability, he had achieved success, and given to the world a good family. His death will long be sincerely moui-ned. Mr. Hegge was married Sept. 20, 1869, to Nekoline E. Nelson, and this union was blessed with 10 children: Edward, of North Dakota ; Oluf N. ; Isaac, of North Dakota ; Oscar, of Durant, Miss. ; Sigvold, a banker of Whitehall ; George, of Preston, Wash. ; Even A., who resides on the home farm, and Frederick, Josephine and Anna, who are dead. Mrs. Hegge resides in Whitehall. Mr. Hegge was married March 26, 1902, to Clara Mortenson, who was born in Pipeon, Sept. 2-3, 1878, daughter of H. H. and Romang Mathea (Mathiason) Mortenson. This union has been blessed with a fine family of nine children : Norman Herbert, born Jan. 8, 1903 ; Myrtle Nettehe, March 17, 1904 ; Edgar Alfred, Nov. 15, 1906 ; Harold Erland, July 10, 1907 ; Ernest Victor, June 3, 1909 ; Orris William, April 9, 1911; Nels Frederick, Dec. 27, 1912; Anna Dorathy, Nov. 8, 1915; and Esther Andrea, born July 19, 1917.

Edward S. Englesby, assistant postmaster at Eleva, is a native of this State, born in Modena, Buffalo County, March 7, 1862, son of Harrison and Roxanna (Hammond) Englesby. Harrison W. Englesby was born in Vermont, and settled in Buffalo County, this State, in 1860. In 1868 he opened a hotel at Coral City, not far from what is now Whitehall, in Trempealeau County. Subsequently he farmed in Preston Township, this county, for a while. Then he lived successively in Black River Falls, Eau Claire and Mondovi. In 1876 he settled in Albion Township, and there remained until his death. Edward S. Englesby followed the fortunes of his family and spent his young manhood on the Albion Township farm. For a time he was employed as a lumberman, on the rivers and in the pine forests. In 1892 he engaged in lumbering at Hayward, Wis., and three years later he came to Eleva and entered the postoffice. From 1903 to 1915 he was a rural mail carrier, and since that date has occupied his present position, his wife being the postmistress. In addition to his services for the Government, Mr. Englesby has for some years operated a farm of 80 acres in Albion Township. For three years he did good work on the village board. His fraternal affiliations are with the Masons, the Woodmen and the Beavers. Mr. Englesby was married Oct. 9, 1892, to Ida Gibson, daughter of Milo B. and Mary (Harvey) Gibson, of Eleva, and they have one child. Marguerite, born May 3, 1910.

James Maloney, a well-known farmer of Hale Township, and one of the large land owners of Trempealeau County, was born in Adams County, Wis., Aug. 30, 1857, son of David and Margaret (Warner) Maloney. The father, David Maloney, was born in Cork, Ireland, Jan. 18, 1830, and came to America with his parents in 1852, they settling in Hadley, Mass. His marriage to Margaret Warner took place in the same, on Nov. 1. She also

-was a native of Cork, Ireland, the date of her birth being Aug. 29, 1832. It was in 1867 that David Maloney and his family settled in Hale Township, Trempealeau County, Wis., Mr. Maloney buying land which, with subsequent additions, constitutes the present farm of the subject of this sketch. The estate now contains 1,000 acres, lying in section 28 and other sections, town 23 north, ranges 7 and 8 west. Hale Township. David Maloney spent many years of his life in enlarging and improving his property, the present large estate being in a great measure the result of his industry, thrift and far-sighted judgment. He died in 1898 and his wife on June 2, 1912. They were the parents of seven children, as follows : Katherine, Mary, James, Esther, Margaret, David and Nellie. James Maloney was a boy of 10 years when he arrived with his father's family in Trempealeau County. He was reared on the home farm and was associated with his father in its operation until 1896. He then purchased the farm and has since conducted it on his own account, raising varied crops, and keeping a flock of 600 Shropshire sheep, besides 40 head of cattle, of which he milks 20. In 1915 Mr. Maloney erected a fine barn, 36 by 126 by 14 feet above stone basement, and equipped with steel stanchions. In the same year he built a glazed block silo, reinforced with steel, 14 by 35 feet in dimensions. His buildings are all substantial and his equipment adequate to all the purposes of modern farming and stock raising, and he has taken place among the successful and well-to-do farmers of his township. Dec. 25, 1893, Mr. Maloney was united in marriage with Lavinia Dissmore, daughter of George and Mary E. (Rogers) Dissmore, the date of her nativity being Feb. 17, 1862. He and his wife are the parents of four children : George, born Nov. 20, 1894, and now a student at Bethel Academy, Arpin, Wis. ; David, born Jan. 6, 1897, now i-esiding on the home farm, who married Sarah Getts and has one child, Esther, born Oct. 5, 1916 ; James, born June 14, 1898, and Archie, born Nov. 29, 1900, both living at home. Mr. Maloney has taken part to some extent in local government affairs, having served three years as treasurer of the school board. He and his family have a wide circle of friends in Hale Township and the vicinity and are among the representative members of the agricultural community.

Halvor J. Halvorson, expert buttermaker at the Eleva Co-Operative Creamery, has been connected with the creamery industry in this village for 18 years, and is thoroughly familiar with all departments of his business. He was born in Chippewa Falls, Wis., Oct. 6, 1874, son of John and Mary (Haganess) Halvorson, who operate a farm in Eau Claire County. Halvor J. Halvorson spent his boyhood on a farm, and came to this county in 1899 as a helper in the old Eleva creamery. Desiring to further perfect himself, he studied in the Dairy School of the Agricultural College of the University of Wisconsin. Completing his course there March 1, 1903, he took his present position, and here he has since remained. In addition to this, he operates a farm of 75 acres in section 10, Albion Township, where he carries on general agricultural operations. He holds the agency for the Wonder Milking Machines for Eau Claire, Trempealeau and Buffalo counties, and has installed several on Trempealeau County farms. Busy as he is, he has found time for public service, and has been a member of the village council three years. Mr. Halvorson was married July 1, 1902, to Louisa Serum, who was born in Buffalo County, Wis., Feb. 23, 1877, and died Oct. 1, 1907, daughter of Ole and Mary Serum. Mr. and Mrs. Halvorson had two children : Josephine, born April 1, 1903, and Obert, born June 14, 1906.

Byron L. Hutchins, who is engaged in the real estate business at Independence, Wis., was born in Burnside Township, Trempealeau County, Wis., Sept. 22, 1865, son of James L. and Elizabeth (Tubbs) Hutchins. The father, James, took a homestead in this county about 1860, and died in 1876 at the age of 37 years. His widow resides in Independence at the age of 72 years. Byron L. Hutchins was reared in Independence and for a number of years after his father's death was occupied in the management of his mother's business affairs. In 1900 he engaged in the real estate business in Independence and has since continued in it, handling city and farm property and rentals. He has been a member of the village council eight years and is a stockholder in the State Bank of Independence. In the order of the Knights of Pythias he has passed all the chairs. Mr. Hfttchins was married in February, 1899, to Bertha Arnold, of Arcadia Township, this county. Her father, William D. Arnold, who was a pioneer farmer here, is now living retired at the age of 85 years in Winona, Minn.; his wife, Mrs. Hutchins' mother, is deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Hutchins have two children : Lee J., aged 16 years, and Earl B., aged 10 years.

Clarence P. Larson, president and cashier of the Bank of Eleva, is one of the leading citizens of the village, and has business and financial interests and connections which extend far beyond the boundaries of the State. He was born in Independence, this county, June 6, 1885, son of Ole P. and Lina (Waller) Larson. He was reared in Whitehall and received his early education in the Whitehall schools. For a time he was a student in the Toland Business College, at Winona. With this preparation he entered the John 0. Melby & Co. Bank, at Whitehall, as accountant. For one year, 1908, he engaged in the general mercantile business at Aneta, N. D. In 1909 he came to Eleva as cashier of the Bank of Eleva, and the foUowing^ year was made president as well. In these capacities he is still serving. His engaging personality and sound business abiUty have been the most important factors in the success with which the institution has met. Since 1911, Mr. Larson has been president of the Eleva Mercantile Company. He is president of the Larson-Stevning Company, of Stephen, Minn., secretary of the Central Trading Association of Whitehall, and a stockholder in the United States National Bank of Superior, Wis., and the John O. Melby Co. Bank, of Whitehall. Mr. Larson is a member of the county board, serving^ his third year. He is a thirty-second degree Mason, and also a member of the Commandery, the Shrine and the Eastern Star. His Elk affiliation is with the lodge at Eau Claire. Mr. Larson was married Aug. 21, 1909, to Louise Steig, born in Pigeon Township, this county, Sept. 8, 1883, daughter of Gilbert F. and Gelena (Lewis) Steig, now living in Whitehall. Mr. and Mrs. Larson have had four children: Charles Phihp, born Aug. 15, 1900; Oliver Philip, born March 2, 1912, and died Feb. 5, 1913, and Mary Jane, born March 2, 1914, and Betty Louise, born Aug. 20, 1917. The family faith is that of the Synod Norwegian Lutheran church, at Whitehall.

Clarence P. Larson

Ralph W. Wood, whose farm of 240 acres in section 15, Lincoln Township, is a well-cultivated and productive piece of agricultural property, was born in this township, Jan. 19, 1879, son of David and Mary (Parsons) Wood, the others in the family being Archie, now a contractor and builder of Whitehall ; James, also residing there and engaged in the same business ; Kippy, who died at the age of 7 years ; Alta, who died at the age of 2 years, and Ralph W. Ralph W. Wood has resided on his present farm since his father purchased it about the year 1900, and has been operating the plow since 1913. The farm is nicely improved, the 12-room frame house being equipped with water and lights. The barn measures 50 by 80 feet, and the cement block silo, built in 1912, 16 by 33 feet. Mr. Wood milks 15 cows, feeding one carload of cattle a year for the market and half a carload of hogs. He also raises Plymouth Rock chickens. Sept. 27, 1906, he was married to Martha Johnson, of Osseo, Wis., who was born near that village, Feb. 20, 1886, daughter of Charles and Anna (Granhn) Johnson, her father being a farmer of Hale Township. Her parents' children were as follows : Helen, wife of Charles Christianson, a farmer of Hale Township; Karen, wife of Swen Swenson, also of Hale Township ; Charlotte, now Mrs. Martin Engen, her husband Tjeing a farmer of Rusk County, Wis. ; John, who is engaged in farming near the home place; Louise, wife of Fred Steig, a farmer of Bowman, N. D.; Augusta, wife of Olaf Peterson, a farmer of Sumner Township ; Hilmer, who resides on the home farm ; Martha, wife of Ralph W. Wood, and Louise (first), who was born after John and died at the age of 2 years. The children of Mr. and Mrs. R. W. Wood are : Helen B., born Dec. 17, 1908, and Harold C, born Feb. 24, 1910. The family are among the prosperous members of the agricultural community of Lincoln Township and are widely known and respected.

Hans H. Mortenson, a pioneer of Pigeon Township, now living in retirement at Whitehall, has seen the Pigeon Valley develop from a wild, uncultivated area, with only a few scattering houses, into one of the richest regions in Western Wisconsin, and by building up a fine farm, he himself took an important part in the wonderful progress and improvement. Born in Tromso, Norway, Sept. 15, 1836, the son of Morten Peterson and Helena Christopherson, he received such meager education as the church schools of the vicinity afforded, and then, like all the other boys of his neighborhood, he embarked in a seafaring hfe, devoting the years of his young manhood to fishing with various fleets along the Norwegian coast. But the wages were small and life was hard, so he determined to transfer the scene of his work to America. Accordingly, in July, 1862, he arrived in the United States and found his way to La Crosse County, where for six years he was engaged at various work, laboring for farmers during the agricultural seasons, and" securing employment in the pineries and on the river in the winter. It was in 1868 that he came to Trempealeau County and took a homestead of 160 acres of wild land in section 32, township 23, range 7. Starting on a small scale and amid primitive conditions, he broke the land, erected the necessary buildings, and for many years successfully carried on general farming. Prosperity came with the years, and in 1909 he was enabled to sell his property at a good figure and retire to the village of Whitehall, where he has a pleasant home, and where after a hfe of hard work, he is enjoying the fruits of his success. Mr. Mortenson has seen considerable public life. For nine years he was town assessor, for two years town treasurer, and for ' two years town supervisor. For sixteen years he was clerk of his school district. His work as census enumerator for the town of Pigeon in 1880 and 1890 won high commendation from his superiors. While on the farm he was a stockholder in the Whitehall Creamery. Mr. Mortenson was married Oct. 26, 1867, to Romang Mathea Mathiason, who was born in Norway in 1845. This union has been blessed withsixchildren: Augusta, Clara (second), Anna, Ida, Ruth and Esther, living, and Martin, Emelia, Isaac, Clara (first) and Maria, deceased. Augusta is now Mrs. Richard Mattison, of Whitehall. Clara (second) is now Mrs. Even A. Hegge, of Pigeon Township. Anna is now Mrs. Claude Everson, of Lincoln Township. Ida is now Mrs. Ludwig Berg, of Hale Township. Ruth is now Mrs. L. 0. Goplin, of Hale Township. Esther, a teacher, lives at home.

Ray H. Larson, who is successfully conducting an up-to-date garage in the village of Independence, was born near this village, Nov. 25, 1888, son of Ed and Belle (Amundson) Larson. His parents are both living in Whitehall, the father being a retired farmer now 65 years old, and the mother aged 63. They had three children, of whom the subject of this sketch is the second in order of birth. Ray H. Larson was reared on his parents' farm. When a young man he woi'ked one year in Milwaukee and was also employed for some time in a hardware store in Independence. With his brother, Louis C, he opened a hay and straw business in Independence in 1911 and has since conducted it, the brother withdrawing in the fall of 1915. In the spring of the year last mentioned Mr. Larson bought the auto sales agency of Steiner & Larson and started his present garage, located in a frame building, two stories in height and 30 by 90 feet in dimensions. He handles Studebaker and Ford cars, together with the usual supplies and accessories and his business is gradually increasing. Mr. Larson is a member of the United Norwegian Lutheran church.

William E. Harlow, one of the proprietors of the Harlow & Herrell garage, at Whitehall, Wis., was born in Pigeon Township, Trempealeau County, Wis., Dec. 6, 1872, son of 0. F. and Lucy (Kidder, nee Scott) Harlow. He made his home with his father until he was 24 years old and then learned the painter's trade, at which he worked in Whitehall until 1916. He then became a member of the firm of Harlow & Herrell, and in June they opened their present garage, a one-story frame building, 28 by 86 feet, on Scranton Street. Here they do all kinds of repairing and handle all supplies and accessories. With the increasing popularity of the automobile, their busi- - ness is bound to grow, and they have already made an auspicious start. Mr. Harlow also has a knowledge of electrical work, which is likely to be of use to him in the future. He is fraternally aflShated with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the Modern Woodmen of America. June 10, 1896, he was married to Florence M. Breed, of Whitehall, who was born Oct. 25, 1876, daughter of Calvin E. and Anna (Crane) Breed. Her father, now a retired farmer, is a military veteran. Mr. and Mrs. Harlow have one child, Eugene Scott, who was born Oct. 14, 1907.

William White, one of the prosperous farmers of Albion Township, whose fertile farm of 160 acres, known as "Natural Spring Dairy Farm," lies in section 6, was born in Ohio, Jan. 10, 1854. He is a son of David and Mary (Ettel) White, the former of whom was born in Pennsylvania in 1827. In 1860 David White with his family came to Wisconsin, settling in Pepin County. After a residence there of five years he removed to what is now Buffalo County, where he made his home for the rest of his life. His wife Mary, who was born in Germany in 1834, came to the United States in 1841, their marriage taking place in Pennsylvania. She was the first to pass away, dying in 1904, while his death took place July 18, 1911. William White resided with his parents until March 20, 1877, that being the date on which he bought his present farm. The land was first entered by Sylvanus Moore, Oct. 8, 1858, and was sold by him to James McDermott, the latter selling to Mr. White. The property is now well improved and Mr. White is profitably engaged in farming and stock raising, keeping Holstein cattle, Poland-China hogs and Belgian horses - all grades. Mr. White was married. May 6, 1875, to Emma Walker, who was born in La Crosse County, Jan. 14, 1855, daughter of Silas and Mary J. (McEldowney) Walker. Her father was a farmer, who was born in Pennsylvania in 1818 and died in 1880. Her mother, who was born in 1829, now resides in Mondovi, Wis. Mrs. White was given a good education, being graduated from Gale College, of Galesville, in 1872. She and her husband have been the parents of seven children: Nora, Maynie, Earl, Winnifred, Gladys, Vilas and Velma, of whom Earl, the third-born, died at the age of 2 years. Nora is the wife of Isaac Perry, of Albion Township, and has three children - Floy, Evelyn and Constance. Maynie, who married Earl Davis, a farmer of Eau Claire County, Wis., has eight children - Pierre, Claire, Glen, Helen, Howard, Margaret, Dean and Max. Winnifred, who is the wife of Eugene Rosman, has two children - Lloyd and Delbert. Mr. White is affiliated religiously with the Methodist Episcopal church. In politics he is a Democrat. He has devoted some part of his time to the public service, having been township supervisor three years and school clerk six years. He and his family are well known and respected in this part of the county.

Christ Torgerson, who is engaged in the hardware business in Independence as a member of the firm of Liver & Torgerson, was born in Ringebo, Gulbrandsdahlen, Norway, Dec. 8, 1855. His father was Torger Tulibakken, a farmer, who died in 1877 at the age of 65 years. Torger married Ragnil Tulin, who survived him until 1912, when she passed away at the advanced age of 90. Christ Torgerson in 1876, having attained his majority, left his native land for the United States, knowing that here he should find wider opportunities for self-advancement. He first located at Black River Falls, where he found employment and remained until 1882. Then coming to Independence, he entered into business for himself, and so continued tiU 1894, when he bought the interest of L. E. Danuser in the hardware and implement firm of Danuser & Liver. The business has since been conducted under the style of Liver & Torgerson and is in a flourishing condition. Mr. Torgerson is also a stockholder in the Central Trading Association of Whitehall and the State Bank of Independence. For three years he was a member of the village council. He belongs to the United Norwegian Lutheran church and to the Modei'n Woodmen of America. Mr. Torgerson was married, May 20, 1883, to Martha Nelson Bidney, of Buffalo County, Wis., whose father, Ole Nelson Bidney, born in Norway, settled in Dane County, Wis., afterward becoming a pioneer of Buffalo County, where he followed farming, and died in June, 1916, at the age of 84 years. Mrs. Torgerson's mother, who now lives in Independence, is 75 years old. Mr. and Mrs. Torgerson are the parents of nine children : Theodore, Edward, Wren, Myron, Albert, Ella, Marion, Ida and Norman. Theodore is a prominent citizen of Alma Center. Edward has just completed a term as sheriff of Trempealeau County. Wren and Albert are employed in their father's store. Myron, a hero of the Great War, enhsted from Saskatchewan in the Canadian Colonial troops at the beginning of the war, was sent to France with one of the first contingents, was there wounded, and then returned to Saskatchewan, where he now lives. EUa is the wife of Ansel Everson, of Blair. Marion is the wife of Peter Haugh, of Taylor, Wis. Ida is the wife of Maurice Thompson, of Blair.

Albert G. Rognrud is a native of this county, having been born near Blair, Feb. 27, 1874, son of Gunarius G. Pederson Rognrud and Olea 0. Tappen, his wife. Albert G. was reared and educated on the home farm, attending the district schools of the neighborhood. For a time he worked as a fireman in the Northwest Sawmill at Eau Claire, Wis., and for a while he owned the T. H. Moen farm in Pigeon Township, but on March 21, 1904, he purchased the home farm, where he has since resided. Mr. Rognrud was married April 8, 1899, to Anna Moen, who wasJsorn in Dane County, Wis., Sept. 3, 1876, daughter of Thorsten H. and Eli (Gutormson) Moen, who were born July 19, 1847, and Dec. 2, 1853, respectively, and came to America in 1876, settling near Eleva, in Eau Claire County, where they still live. Mr. and Mrs. Rognrud have two children: Elvina, born Dec. 2, 1900, and Geodina, born Sept. 12, 1902. With the Rognrud family lives Caroline Rustad, who homesteaded the Rognrud Farm in the fall of 1873, and in 1880 deeded the farm to Gunarius Rognrud with the provision that she retain therein her habitation during life. She was born in Elverum, Norway, Jan. 12, 1831, and came to this region in the spring of 1873. In order to file on the property where she settled she made the trip to the land office at La Crosse, a distance of 50 miles, on foot.

Lars H. Weverstad was born in Hammer, Norway, Nov. 11, 1846, and came to America in 1870. For eight years he was employed as a lumberman. At the end of this period he purchased his father's farm in section 14, Pigeon Township, this county, where he farmed until 1906, when he purchased his present farm of 160 acres in the northwest quarter of section 23. He has a well-improved place, and successfully carries on general farming. Mr. Weverstad was married Dec. 5, 1879, to Agnethe Moe, who was born in Ringsager, Norway, Feb. 4, 1861, daughter of Peter and Karen (Herberg) Larson, who came to America in 1877 and settled in Moe Cooley, in Pigeon Township. Mr. and Mrs. Weverstad have had 11 children : Mary, Clara, Nettie, Peter, Laura, Mandley, Edwin and Margaret, hving; and Augusta, Anna and Minnie, deceased. Mary married Theo. Thorson, a farmer of Oneida County, Wis. Clara married John Lundstad, a farmer of Pigeon Township. Nettie married Emil Hanevold, a farmer of Fly Creek, this township. Peter operates the home farm ; he married Julia Dake, in June, 1911, and has two children, Almon and Wilmar. Laura married Walter Vitense, of Madison, Wis. Mandley, Edwin and Margaret are at home. Mr. Weverstad was the son of Michael and Nellie (Franseth) Weverstad, who came from Norway in 1872, and secured a farm in section 14, Pigeon Township, this county, where he died in 1878 at the age of 60, and she in 1887 at the age of 75.

Gunarius G. Pederson Rognrud, whose estate name in the old country was Gunarius G. Rongrud, was born in Voler Soler, Norway, Oct. 14, 1831, and was there reared. Upon coming to America in the '60s, he lived in La Crosse County a year, and then found his way to this county, where he spent the remainder of his days. When he reached here he bought 100 acres of land a half mile south of Blair. Later he purchased 40 acres adjoining the old village of Porterville, and platted Pederson's addition to that village. On this addition, an important part of Blair is now located, the village of Porterville having faded into oblivion. In 1890 he sold his farm and moved to Fly Creek Valley, in Preston Township, where he farmed until his death in 1902. When he platted Pederson's addition he gave a lot for the church, and on this lot he helped to build the edifice, hauling the lumber from Black River Falls. His wife, Olea 0. Tappen, who was also a faithful church member, was born April 25, 1848, and died on Thanksgiving Day, 1906, after a long and busy life. They were the parents of 15 children : Peder, Alavus (deceased), Lena, Geoadena (deceased), George, Emma, Gilbert, Albert G., Karn, Clara, Volborg, Alexander, Petra, Gena and Isaac.

Andrew A. Brekke, an early settler, was born in Norway, and there grew to manhood. In 1868 he came to America and found employment in Racine, Wis. His residence in Trempealeau County dates from 1870, when he located on the old Trumpf farm, in west side of Preston Township. Two years later he homesteaded 160 acres a little more than a mile west of the present village of Blair. He was a mason by trade, as well as a farmer, and he assisted in laying the foundation of many of the early houses in this vicinity. When the village of Blair was started, he not only laid the foundations for the first two houses, but also assisted in building the houses themselves. He remained on his farm until his death, Sept. 30, 1905. He did not seek pubHc office, but devoted himself to his work and his family. He was, however, an active laborer in the Norwegian Lutheran church, and contributed liberally to its support. He married Berget Groeness, who died in 1907, and they had nine children : Tove, Ingeborg, Burgue, Torger, Olav, Tollef, Lesa, Johan and Hage (deceased).

Olav A. Brekke, real estate dealer of Blair, and formerly an expert butter-maker, was born at Mosele, in Telemarken, Norway, April 11, 1868, son of Andrew A. and Berget (Groeness) Brekke. He was brought to Preston Township, this county, as a child, and devoted his early manhood to working as a farm hand, both at home and elsewhere. In 1891 he started creamery work in Blair, where he learned his trade. For some 18 years he was employed in creameries in Blair and Westby, in the meantime spend- ing three years on the road as an agent for creamery supplies. In 1893 he was awarded a medal and a diploma from the World's Columbian Exposition at Chicago for his excellent butter, and in 1905, in the same city, he won the diamond medal in the Diamond Medal Contest. He has also won other awards and prizes. Since 1913 Mr. Brekke has devoted his attention to the real estate business, with an office in the Home Bank Building. He has passed through the chairs of the Odd Fellows' lodge at Cashton, Wis., and was the second member to join the Beaver Lodge at Blair. Mr. Brekke was married March 20, 1890, to Lena G. Fognrud, born in Blair, Dec. 12, 1869, daughter of Gunarius G. Rognrud.

Richard Bibby, one of the sturdy farmers who is engaged in developing the argricultural resources of Gale Township, was born on his present farm in section 27, July 10, 1868. His parents, Richard and Mary (Faulds) Bibby, natives of Scotland, were married in the State of Maryland, in 1852, after they had been in this country some four or five years. In 1854 Richard Bibby, the elder, purchased from the Government the land which now constitutes the farm of his son and namesake, but it was not until October, 1856, that he and his family moved onto it. At that time it could hardly be called a farm, as it was destitute of improvements of any kind, so Mr. Bibby found plenty of hard work ahead of him. He went at his task with vigor, at first putting up only the most essential buildings, and those of a primitive kind, giving his main attention to raising crops for the support of himself and family. As time went on, however, he improved the place, and cultivated a larger area of land. Satisfied with his choice, he tried no experiments with other locations, but remained here until his death, which occurred in July, 1894. For 18 years, beginning with the organization of the district, he served as a member of the school board. His wife did not long survive him, passing away in March, 1895. They belonged to that sturdy pioneer class who conquered the wilderness, and to whom the present generation owes much for the better conditions now enjoyed. Moreover, they took part in the religious life of the community, Mr. Bibby being a charter member and for some years an elder of the Presbyterian church at Galesville, and later assisting to organize the church of that denomination at North Bend. Their family was a large one, numbering 15 children, of whom the subject of this sketch was the ninth in order of birth. Richard Bibby, the second of the name, acquired the elements of knowledge in the district school. As may be supposed, he was not allowed to grow up in idleness, but at an early age began to assist his father, there being always something to do on the farm. He resided at home, with the exception of two or three winters, until 1894, when, being now in his twenty-sixth year, he rented the farm from his father for one year. The latter dying soon after, however, he then became the owner of the property and has resided on it ever since. It contains 158 acres, and Mr. Bibby carries on general farming, including dairying and the raising of hogs, besides keeping more or less other stock. The chief improvements now standing were made by him, and include a circular barn, 64 feet in diameter, with a 9-foot basement and 20 feet overhead, the erection of which shows him to be enterprising and up-to-date. He is also a stockholder in the Farmers' Exchange at

Galesville, the La Crosse Packing Company and the Independent Harvester Company, of Piano, 111., and is a member of the American Society of Equity. In politics Mr. Bibby is an independent Republican. He has served on the board of supervisors three terms and as a member of the school board nine years. Sept. 23, 1896, he was married to Ina Jones, who was born in Gale Township, daughter of John and Lucy (Miller) Jones. Her parents were both natives of England, but were married in Columbia County, Wis., in which State Mr. Jones settled when he came to this country, being then about 22 years old, subsequently locating in Columbia County. In the early '50s of the last century he removed with his family to Trempealeau County, and was a pioneer of Gale Township, taking a farm on the Jackson County line. That place was his subsequent home until his death in 1887. His wife is still living on the old homestead, being now well advanced in years. They had five children, of whom Mrs. Bibby was the youngest. Mr. and Mrs. Bibby have been the parents of six children : Richard A., Arthur, who died at the age of 2 years, Allen L., William HoUis, Mary E. and Ahce M. The surviving children are all residing at home. Mr. and Mrs. Bibby are members of the North Bend Presbyterian church, and have many friends throughout this part of the county.

Iver Eimon, one of the most prominent farmers and stock raisers in Hale Township, and an extensive land owner elsewhere, was born in Land, Norway, June 5, 1854, son of Ole and Sierce (Thomle) Eimon. His parents, who were natives of the same part of Norway, came to the United States in 1862, locating at Blue Mounds, Dane County, Wis., where the father engaged in farming, and also at times worked in the lead mines. In 1868 they came to Trempealeau County, taking a homestead of 160 acres in section 12, Hale Township, it consisting entirely of wild land. Here Ole Eimon built a shanty and with four yoke of cattle, assisted by his son Iver, broke the land. In time, by hard work and perseverence, he developed a good farm, on which he resided until his death, Feb. 6, 1908. His wife passed away long before him, in March, 1882. They had in all, seven children, two of whom, Bertha and Christian, are deceased. The others are: Iver, the direct subject of this sketch; Beaty, who now lives in North Dakota; Christian, Peter and Benjamin. Iver Eimon accompanied his parents from Norway to Wisconsin, arriving with them in Trempealeau County in 1868. In the summer he assisted his father on the home farm and in winter worked in the woods at lumbering. In 1893 he became manager of the farm, which he later purchased. Energetic and enterprising, he has made many valuable improve* ments on the property, having now a fine barn, 120 by 52 feet, provided with running water and electric lights, two silos, each with a capacity of 100 tons, and other first-class buildings. He is successfully engaged in breeding Holstein-Freisian cattle, shipping a carload of beef cattle to market each spring. His farm is a large one, of 320 acres, in section 12. He also owns a farm of 320 acres in Becker County, Minn., which he rents. For many years Mr. Eimon has served as school clerk, and is now a supervisor of Hale Township. He has been twice nominated for the State Assembly. He has traveled extensively, both in the United States and Europe, having visited in this country nearly every State in the Union, in particular the Gulf States.

For six years he owned a cotton farm at Fort Ben, Tex., and at one time owned 10 acres of land at Houston, that State. His travels also extended into old Mexico, while on a five-months' trip to Europe he visited Scotland, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Germany, France, Switzerland and Italy. During these travels he saw many interesting sights and acquired a knowledge of the manners and customs of various races of people, and found the time well spent. His present prosperity is the result of intelligent effort, kept up perseveringly through a series of years, and his reward has been large. On July 5, 1886, Mr. Eimon assumed the responsibilities of domestic life, being united in marriage with Margaret Heyerdahl, a native of Pierce County, Wis. The following children have been born to him: Sigvald, born Dec. 3, 1888, who married Anna Golbertson ; Max, born March 19, 1891 ; Sigrid, Feb. 7, 1894 ; Paul, March 3, 1900, and Margaret, Sept. 7, 1906. All except Sigvald are residing at home. The family are members of the Norwegian Lutheran church, and Mr. Eimon is a Prohibitionist in politics.

Christian E. Sveum, the well known proprietor of Sveum Stock Farm of 196 acres, located in sections 23 and 24, and Home Farm of 160 acres, in section 14, town 23 north, range 7 west, Hale Township, was born in Ringsager, Norway, April 6, 1863. His parents, Even and Johanna Sveum, both died in Norway. In 1886, Christian E. Sveum, then 23 years old, came to the United States, seeking to better his condition. Having heard of opportunities in the great Northwest, he located in Whitehall, Trempealeau County, Wis., renting the farm of Hans Borreson - now the Sveum Stock Farm - for six years. At the end of that time he purchased it, and in April, 1913, bought his other farm, known as the Home Farm. He is successfully engaged in agriculture and stock raising, his two properties being well improved, and is numbered among the substantial and prosperous farmers of Hale Township. Nov. 13, 1889, Mr. Sveum was married to Anna Borreson, who was born on the old farm in sections 23 and 24, Hale Township, which her parents, Hans and Helena (Anderson) Borreson homesteaded in 1870. They were born in Norway, in the town of Birid, the father July 5, 1830, and the mother Jan. 5, 1832. They were married in 1869 at Coon Valley, Vernon County, Wis., the same year in which they came to America. Both are now living on the farm. They had four children, of whom three died in infancy, the only survivor being Mrs. Sveum. Mr. and Mrs. Sveum have had a large family of 13 children, born as follows : Edwin, March 3, 1890 ; Harry, Feb. 5, 1892, now farming on a homestead at Joslyn, Mont.; Hjelmer, born Sept. 7, 1893; Clara, Oct. 17, 1895; Josephine, Aug. 29, 1897; Agnes, Aug. 22, 1899; Inga, Oct. 13, 1901; Gustav, March 13, 1904 ; Tina, Feb. 28, 1906 ; Lillian, Dec. 9, 1908 ; Blanchard, July 14, 1911; Evelyn, Dec. 8, 1913, and one unnamed, who was born July 20, 1900, and died the same day. All the living children except Hjelmar, Harry and Edwin reside at home. Mr. Sveum's residence stands on the Home farm, and is a good, neat and substantial house, the barns and outbuildings being also well constructed and in good condition. He keeps 90 head of cattle, milking 50, and is a stockholder in the creamery at York, the Pigeon Grain & Stock Company and the Whitehall Hospital. For three years he has served as school director. He and his family

Aik. And Mrs. Hans B0Rke80N C. E. Sveum And Family

Albert G. Cox, proprietor of the Linderman Mills, one mile west of Osseo, and of a 300-acre farm in sections 8 and 9, Sumner Township, was born in Milford, Wis., March 28, 1856, son of Samuel and Sarah (Dickenson) Cox. Samuel Cox was born in London, England, came to America in 1841, located in Philadelphia, where he hved until 1850, and then came to Wisconsin. He farmed two miles south of Osseo from 1866 to 1880 and then retired to Osseo Village, where he resided until his death, his wife dying in 1893. Albert G. Cox was reared to farm pursuits by his father, and as a young man learned the tinner's trade. In 1876 he opened a hardware and machinery establishment in Osseo, which he conducted until 1887. Then he became general agent for the Van Brunt & Wilkins Manufacturing Company, implement makers, traveling for them in Wisconsin, Minnesota and Iowa. Upon entering the employ of this concern he moved to Augusta, Wis. From 1894 to 1900 he conducted a hai'dware store in that place. In 1900 he returned to Osseo and took charge of the Linderman Mills, which on the death of Mr. Linderman were willed to the Cox family. These mills, Mr. Cox, who moved his family here six years later, in 1906, has since successfully conducted. Mr. Cox is a well-known man in the community, and is regarded as a leading citizen. He is a member of the Blue Lodge and of the Chapter and Commandery in the Masonic order, and at Augusta passed through the chairs of the Knights of Pythias Lodge. In addition to his milling and agricultural interests he is president of the Northern Wisconsin State Fair Association and president of the Osseo Telephone Company. Mr. Cox was married, Aug. 17, 1878, to Emma Linderman, daughter of James L. and Abigail (Williams) Linderman, and this union has been blessed with three children: Laura, Clarissa and Winnifred S. Laura married C. A. Williams, who owns creameries at Augusta, Osseo and Fairchild. They live at Augusta and have two children: Albert Cox and Mary Jane. Clarissa married A. E. Bradford, a banker of Augusta, and they have three children: Elizabeth, Clarissa and Barbara. Winnifred S. married George Livesey, an attorney of Bellingham, Wash., and has one child : Kathryn.

The Linderman Mills, located on Beef River one mile west of Osseo, were first erected by E. Scott Hotchkiss and James L. Lindei'man in 1872, and except for having been burned and rebuilt in 1880 has been in continual existence since that time. The original building is of white pine and is still standing in as good condition as it was when first erected. The original machinery, however, was all replaced with new and modern equipment by A. G. Cox in 1901. This original building is 36 by 50 feet, four stories high, with a basement. The elevator building is 32 by 32 feet, and 35 feet high to the eaves, and with still another story above, used for elevator heads. This building was erected by A. G. Cox in 1901. The mill is run by water power by a flume of the Beef River, and the engine is about 100 feet distant from the mill, power being furnished from the engine, when needed, by a transmission rope. The machinery consists of four double strand of rolls for wheat, the same with corrugated rolls for rye, and a separate mill with three double strand of rolls for buckwheat. A plansifter system is used for each mill, and dust collectors throughout. A 22-inch ball-bearing Foos attrition mill is used for feed grinding. A 45 horsepower Atlas engine auxiliary power is installed, to be used when needed, but this need is only in the very cold weather, and at the busiest time of the year should the water run low. Situated on the C, St. P., M. & O. Ry., it is the center of a rich farming community, and aside from turning out excellent grades of wheat and buckwheat flour does an extensive grist-mill business. A new dam with concrete piers has been installed to replace a wooden one after its 30 years or more of service. The pond extends a mile above the dam. With the exception of the big flood of 1876 there has never been a washout. The property was operated by its founder and owner, James L. Linderman, until 1900, when Albert G. Cox took over the mill, paying Mr. Linderman a rental. The new machinery was all installed by Mr. Cox, with the understanding that the mill was to be willed to his family, which was done by Mr. Linderman, the business being conducted by Mr. Cox, and the title of the property now resting in his and his wife's names.