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

Thomas Truog, Sr., came to America in 1856 and for several years worked at the carpenter trade in Iowa, Tennessee, Missouri and other southern states. During the Civil War he was employed by the government to help in the construction of bridges in Tennessee and Kentucky. In 1866 he located on a tract of land in Buffalo County, this state, in that locality which is now called Glencoe. This tract of land, which consisted of 120 acres, he grubbed and broke and brought under cultivation, erecting such buildings as were necessary. In 1881 he moved to the villagi^ of Arcadia. Leaving his family there he traveled westward through the states of Iowa, Colorado, the Dakotas and Montana, but not being favorably impressed with the west he returned and bought a tract of land partly in section 2, Arcadia Township, and partly in section 25, Lincoln Township. To this he has since added until he now has 226 acres. This tract of land was but partially improved and the buildings thereon consisted of a board shanty and straw shed. He developed it fully, erecting a good home and barns. The place is located two miles south of Independence, and commands a beautiful veiw of the surrounding hills and valleys. Here Mr. Truog continued to reside until his death Sept. 25, 1906. He was born in Switzerland in 1834, where he spent the first 22 years of his life. It was there that he learned the carpenter trade. His wife, Magdalena Keller, was born in Switzerland July 1, 1845, came to America in 1854 and was married Sept. 1, 1866. They had ten children, four sons and six daughters. Two sons and two daughters preceded their father in death. Thomas, Jr., farms the home place, while the youngest son, Emil, is an instructor in the agriculture department of the University of Wisconsin.

John A. Latsch, philanthropist, public benefactor and leading wholesale grocer, is a native of Trempealeau County, having been born in Latsch Valley, Aug. 15, 1860, son of John and Anna (Buol) Latsch, the pioneers. He left Trempealeau County with the family in 1867, and has since spent his life in Winona. In 1874 he started working for his father in the retail grocery business in Winona, and since 1887 he has been connected with the large wholesale grocery firm of Latsch & Son, of which he is now the head. A lover of the out-of-doors, Mr. Latsch has long dreamed of presenting to the general public tracts of land for public recreation. Already he had presented for public use a strip of land extending from Winona nearly to Minneiska, along the Mississippi river, which will be used as a game preserve and general recreation tract. He is now planning to present Trempealeau Mountain to the state of Wisconsin. The John A. Latsch public baths, across the Mississippi River from Winona, are another boon to the people from Mr. Latsch's generosity. And his friends declare that this is but the beginning of an elaborate pi-oject which he has under way for the establishing of reserves, which will be open to the public for all time for recreation, health and sport. Trempealeau County has benefited directly by his benefactions, and is proud of having given birth to this distinguished and generous citizen, whose name will be honored in gratitude for countless generations. As modest as he is big hearted, Mr. Latsch shrinks from public expressions of gratitude, and lives an active life of quiet modesty, taking his greatest delight in his business through which he realizes the money for his gifts, and in spending his time out in the open, enjoying those delights which he has now made possible for the general public.

John Latsch, founder of the firm of Latsch & Son, Winona, Minn., and the first settler in Latsch Valley, Trempealeau County, Wisconsin, was born in Wald Canton Zurich, Switzerland, March 18, 1832, and was educated in the public schools of his native country. After completing his schooling he was employed for about six months in the drug business at Frankfort-on-the-Main. Later he was engaged in Paris at the Chocolet Menier factory. He remained in Paris three years and then decided to emigrate to America. He had heard of the wonderful opportunities in the new country, and had planned to cross the mighty Atlantic and cast his lot with the great republic whose form of government appealed to the hberty-loving native of the free land of lofty mountains. Therefore, in 1854, he sailed for this country, coming by way of the Great Lakes to Green Bay. From there he went south, determined to look the country over before making a permanent settlement. The new country thrilled him with its prospective enterprise, and the horizon loomed large with undeveloped resources, while the atmosphere was vibrant with the spirit of adventure. The wanderlust seized the Swiss youth and he went from place to place, drinking in the strange sights of the land and seeking an opportunity for his brain and muscle in the rich regions of the Gulf states. During his first year in America he traveled some ten thousand miles, and at last found desirable employment in the cj^prus swamps of Louisiana cutting timber for barrel staves. He had been at work but a few months when he was taken down with malarial fever and was removed to a hospital in New Orleans, where he was confined for some time. When he was convalescent he returned north in 1855 and located in Dakota, Winona County, Minn. After remaining there about a year he decided to look over Trempealeau County, Wisconsin, with a view to locating land, as the new country was being rapidly settled by homeseekers from the East, and by people from southern Wisconsin. In 1856 he pre-empted government land in Trempealeau County, in a valley three miles northeast of Dodge. He settled near a creek at the mouth of this valley, and purchased some state land adjoining his claim, in the same county, as well as some state land in Buffalo County. After his marriage in 1859 he continued to improve his farm land in Trempealeau County. He also taught a few terms of school and served for a while as justice of the peace. Feb. 27, 1864, he enlisted in Company C, Twenty-fifth Wisconsin Infantry, was mustered in at La Crosse, and was transferred the following spring to Company E, Twelfth Wisconsin Infantry, in which command he participated in Sherman's famous march to the sea. At the close of the war he was mustered out at Louisville, Ky., and resumed farming in Trempealeau County. But in 1866 he met with an accident, which compelled him to abandon agricultural pursuits. His foot was badly cut with a breaking plow, and the injury left him a cripple for several years. In 1867 he moved his family to Winona and there engaged in the retail grocery business, which he conducted until 1887, when he, T. J. Preece and John A. Latsch established the wholesale grocery business of Preece & Latsch Company. This was the beginning of the business which is now one of the largest of its kind in the Northwest. In 1892 he purchased Mr. Preece's interest and the firm became Latsch & Son. Mr. Latsch's activities were not confined to this business, which he was instrumental in building up, but extended to other lines. For many years and up to the time of his death he was director of the First National Bank. He also served a term as alderman of Winona. He revisited his native country three times - in 1873, 1882 and in 1900. Mr. Latsch was highly esteemed by all in his wide circle of acquaintances and his death was sincerely mourned by many. The subject of this sketch was married in Buffalo County, Wisconsin, in 1859, to Anna Buol. Four children were born: John A. Latsch; Nettie, who died in 1887; Emma, who died in 1873, and Edward G. Latsch, who died in 1909. Mrs. Anna Latsch died in 1898. In October, 1899, Mr. Latsch married Mrs. Ursula Ruedy of Bangor, Wis., the wedding taking place in Minneapolis. Mr. Latsch passed away May 21. 1909. An extract from a former history of Trempealeau County, regarding Latsch Valley, is well worthy of preservation in this sketch. The history says : From 1865 to 1870 a number of Polish and Hungarian settlers located in the main portion of Latsch Valley, and in honor of these Hungarian pioneers the valley was called Hungary Valley, from their native land. But this long narrow valley that sets back from the Trempealeau River will live in history of Latsch Valley, and the Trempealeau County Historical

Society is glad to honor the memory of a man whose life history reads like a romance - a man who came here and used his energetic brain and capital in wresting a part of our fertile territory from the wilderness. The wild rough country did not discourage this Swiss youth; he was used to the mighty Alps, and could see the great possibilities in agriculture in this land of cozy valleys and wooded hills. With the energy characteristic of his race he set to work and accomplished things. Others followed, and today we can look out upon farms rich with the promise of harvest, and if there used to be anything in the saying that a person would get hungry wandering through Hungary Valley (on account of its length and meager settlement), it is not true today, because there is abundance written on every farm in this sequestered glen.

Perry Heath, proprietor of a good farm of 320 acres in section 16, Arcadia Township, was born at Marengo, McHenry County, 111., Oct. 26, 1843, son of Joel and Margaret (Miller) Heath. His parents, who were natives of New York state, migrated to Illinois about 1842, buying 80 acres of land at Marengo. After residing there until 1853 they moved to La Crosse County, Wisconsin, locating not far from where the village of Holmen now stands. Here the Heaths began farming on 160 acres of land, for which Mr. Heath had traded his Illinois property. In 1856 they returned to Illinois and remained three years, coming back to Wisconsin in 1859. The father came first, however, in order to get a settlement for the La Crosse county farm, for which it seems he had not been fully paid, and while here was taken sick and died, his body being returned to Illinois for burial. The widowed mother and her family then took up their residence on the La Crosse County farm, the subject of this sketch being then 16 years old, and here she lived until her death in 1868. There were eight children in the family : Lusetta, Oscar, Lydia Ann and Permelia, all of whom are now deceased ; Perry, Barnabas, who is now residing at Strum, Trempealeau County ; Emmett, deceased ; Matilda, now Mrs. Charles Hilliard of Fargo, N. D. Perry Heath acquired his education in the district schools. After his father's death he remained at home with his widowed mother until he was 22 years old, at which time he purchased 40 acres adjoining the home farm in La Crosse County. Aug. 13, 1865, he married Jennie Briggs, daughter of Thomas and Phoebe Briggs of La Crosse County, and, building a house on his 40-acre farm, took his bride there and began housekeeping. After operating his farm for about four years, in 1869 he bought 160 acres of wild land in Lewis Valley, section 16, Arcadia Township, and built a small house on it, to which he moved his family, then consisting of his wife and two children, in addition to himself. The journey was made overland by horse team. Here Mr. Heath has since remained. He has greatly improved his property, the size of which he increased by purchasing 160 acres more, making a farm of 320 acres, 200 of which are under the plow, the balance consisting of timber land and pasture. In 1879 he built a comfortable frame house and in 1902 a good frame barn. In September, 1888, his first wife died. She had borne him eight children: Lusetta, born in 1866, who is now Mrs. John Busby of Fridley, Mont. ; Elsie, born in 1869, now Mrs. Henry Smith of Whitehall,

Wis.; Alonzo, born in 1871, who is now living in Osseo, Trempealeau County ; Lela, born in 1874, wife of Fi-ank Horsey of Utica, Minn. ; Alvah, born in 1876, who is deceased ; Lester, born in 1878, now living on the old farm ; Chauncey, born in 1881, now residing in Arcadia Village, and Pearl, born in 1885, who is the wife of Grant Smith of Roundup, Mont. March 27, 1891, Mr. Heath married for his second wife, Elizabeth, daughter of Malcolm and Margaret Malles of Fountain City, Wis., and of this marriage there has been one child, Ervin, born in 1892, who is living at home. Mr. Perry is a Republican in politics and for many years has served as school director in his district. Aside from his own farming interests he holds stock in the Glencoe Co-operative Creamery of Arcadia Village. Though reared a Methodist, he is not at present a member of any church.

Francis Asbury Goodhue in former years was one of the leading merchants of Trempealeau Village, where he was highly esteemed as a man and citizen. His father was one of those itinerant preachers of the Methodist denomination known as "circuit riders," who had so much to do with civilizing the frontier settlements at various stages of this country's history. Francis early learned the trades of millwright and cabinetmaker. On Oct. 29, 1852, he married Alsina Manning, who was born in Russeltown (now Frankfort), Canada, June 23, 1835, daughter of Abram and Anna Manning. Abram Manning had died in 1841, when she was six years old, and she had then come to the states, going to live with a cousin at Moores, Clinton County, New York, which place was her home up to the time of her marriage and for two years after that event. Her mother, on coming to the states, located in Springfield, 111., later moving to Chicago. Francis A. Goodhue and wife resided at Moores until 1854 and then went to Jericho, Vt., which was his old home town. In 1856 they joined the tide of westward emigration, locating in Trempealeau Village, Trempealeau County, Wis., where Mr. Goodhue followed the trades of millwright and cabinetmaker until 1862. During that time he built several mills on Black River, near La Crosse. After 1862 he confined himself to carpenter and cabinet work, and later entered into partnership with A. P. Ford and opened a furniture business on Front street, Trempealeau Village. This partnership was continued for about four years, at the end of which time Mr. Goodhue sold his interest in the business to Mr. Ford. He then opened a book and stationery store, and though burned out in the "big fire" he reopened the store and continued in the business until 1888, when his health failed. On June 29, 1900, he passed away and was buried in the family lot in Trempealeau Cemetery. Mr. Goodhue was an active and useful member of the Congregational church, which he had joined in his youth, serving it as deacon for a number of years and taking a leading part in all its affairs. He was also warmly interested in the growth and development of the village, which he could remember in its early stages, as he had often killed bear and deer immediately in front of where the family residence now stands. His aid and influence as a business man and well-to-do citizen were always to be depended upon on behalf of any feasible project for the public good. His life was unselfish and there were few men in.Trempealeau, if any, who were more highly esteemed or whose loss was more deeply regretted. Mrs. Goodhue was a member of the Congregational church, to which her husband belonged, almost since its organization. She and her husband were the parents of six children : Sarah Eunice, who died in infancy; Edwin Francis, Elbert Newton, Beard, Alletta D. and a babe, unnamed, that died in infancy. Edwin F., who was in the railway mail service for a number of years, is now living in Helena, Mont., being retired from active work. Elbert N., who was for a tiinc editor of the Trempealeau Herald and for 18 years district court stenographer in Winona, Wabash and Rochester, Minn., died in Winona, Jan. 10, 1916, and is buried in Trempealeau Cemetery. Beard, also deceased, is buried there. Alletta, who is editor and proprietor of the Trempealeau Herald, resides at home with her mother.

Alletta Dixon Goodhue, editor and proprietor of the Trempealeau Herald, is a native of this village. She received a high school education, which was supplemented by instruction in painting and music. Afterwards she became identified with the business interests of the town in the book and stationery line, in which she has since continued. Later she entered the field of journalism by purchasing the Herald from her brother. While others sought new and, as they thought, more promising fields elsewhere, she has remained in her home town, and now has the satisfaction of knowing that she has been fully as successful as most of those who have tried other locations. In its infancy the Herald was published under a leased roof, as are most of the papers in the county today, but is now issued every week from its own building and is operated on a paying basis. This happy result has been achieved by devotion to clean journalism and close attention to business on the part of its proprietor, who not only edits the paper and attends to its business management, but also superintends its mechanical production, and, if necessary, can set type and get out the paper alone. By reason of her artistic ability she can also illustrate local or general events, doing all the work herself. The Herald is Republican in politics and is on the high road to prosperity.

William Nicholls, Sr., a pioneer, was born in Kingsbridge, Devonshire, England, June 11, 1824, and was there reared and educated. He came to America in 1848, and lived two years in Montreal and Quebec, before locating in Whitewater, Wis. From there, in 1851, he came to Trempealeau, and homesteaded ,145 acres in section 36, Caledonia township, about one mile and a half east of Trempealeau village. There he built a shanty and started to develop a farm. As time passed he achieved prosperity, and became one of the leading men in the community. For many years he did most admirable service as a member of the town board, and he also occupied other positions of public honor and private trust. He continued in active work until he reached the age of 70 years, when he had the misfortune to fall and break his hip. J'rom that time he was able to do but little work. After a long life filled with worthy endeavor, he died November 11, 1910. Mr. Nicholls was married July 9, 1863, to Charlotte Dunham, then of Trempealeau Village, who was born in New Haven, Vermont, Feb. 17, 1833, and came to Wisconsin with her parents. Mr. and Mrs.

Nicholls were the parents of three children: One who died in infancy; William, who was born July 18, 1870, and is now a prominent man of Trempealeau, and Nellie, who was born Sept. 24, 1874, and is now the wife of C. H. Growt of Trempealeau.

William Nicholls, one of the leading agriculturists of Trempealeau County, carries on farming operations in Caledonia Township, not far from Trempealeau Village, and has as good a farm as is to be found in this region. Bom on the homestead of his parents, William and Charlotte (Dunham) Nicholls, July 7. 1870, he has spent his life on the home place, and has established for himself an excellent reputation among his fellow men. Until 12 years of age he attended the school of district 3, near his home, then he entered the Trempealeau schools, and was graduated from the high school there at the age of 17 years. During the winter of 1887-88 he was a student in the agricultural department of the University of Wisconsin, at the time when that department was still in its infancy. With this preparation he took over the active management of the home place, and here he has since remained. This he has improved in every way, adding to its value year by year through careful cultivation, building operations, fence construction, and the purchase of tools, implements and machinery. The original home has been remodelled until it is a large commodious structure, modern in many ways, and well furnished throughout. Three new barns, 28 by 64 feet, 40 by 72 feet, 20 by 46 feet, a swine house, 20 by 46 feet, and many other buildings have been constructed. To the original tract he has added 255 acres, and now has a place of 400 acres, 150 acres of which are under the plow, and 250 acres in pasture, hay and woodland. The cattle on the place are Guernseys, his herd containing about 60 head. From this herd he secures some 15,000 quarts of cream annually, which is shipped to Winona and sold at retail. His cattle are widely known and are shipped from coast to coast. In addition to stock raising and dairying he specializes in pure blood Chester White swine. He likewise successfully carries on general farming. Mr. Nicholls is a publicspirited citizen, and while not actively interested in political affairs, has consented to serve for several terms as a member of the town and school board. He helped to organize the Citizens State Bank of Trempealeau, and has been its president since 1912. He is a stockholder as well in the Western Wisconsin Telephone Company, the Trempealeau Lime Products Company, the Galesville Creamery and other organizations. In the Congregational chuixh, of which he and his family are all members and active workers, he is a trustee. His fraternal relations are with the Masonic order, the Eastern Star, the Modern Woodmen and the Independent Foresters, in all of which local lodges he has held office. Mr. Nicholls was married June 22, 1893, to Elizabeth Carr, daughter of Thomas and Regina Carr, of De Soto, Wis., and born in Winona, March 1, 1872. Mr. and Mrs. Nicholls have had three children: Auline, WiUiam Carroll and Charlotte Elizabeth. Auline was born March 25, 1895, graduated from the Trempealeau high school and the La Crosse normal school and is now a teacher. William Carroll was born May 13, 1897, gi'aduated from the Trempealeau high school, and is at home with his parents, assisting with the work of

Peter Johnson, who is successfully farming 160 acres of land in section 15, Gale Township, his place being known as Rolling Prairie Farm, was born in Toten, Norway, April 3, 1880. His parents, Johanas and Josephena (Christensen) Johnson, natives of Norway, are both living, the father being a stone mason by occupation. Peter Johnson was the fourth born in a family of eight children. He began to work when he was 12 years old and remained in his native land until 1908, when he came to the United States, locating in Trempealeau County, Wisconsin. He was at this time ignorant of the English language, but applied himself to learn it as speedily as possible, and with good success. After arriving in the county he found employment with Mr. Hardie, with whom he remained about 18 months. Then, ambitious to be his own master, and have chances for advancement which he could never have working for others, he rented his present farm and began agriculture on his own account. Not long afterwards he purchased the farm, consisting of 160 acres, and is now engaged in operating it, doing general farming, including stock raising and dairying. He is gradually improving the place and is doing a profitable business. Mr. Johnson was married in Norway in 1899 to Hannah Evenson, who was born in Vordval, Norway, daughter of Even and Eliza Evenson. Her parents came to the United States many years ago, settling near Deer Park, St. Croix County, Wis., where they followed farming. Both are now deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Johnson have five children : John, Alfred, Ingvald, Paul and Hannah, all residing at home. With the thrift and energy characteristic of most Scandinavian people, Mr. Johnson has made good progress since coming to this country, and with good health and prolonged life he can hardly fail of further self-advancement.

Andrew J. Klundby, who is engaged in farming in section 26, Gale Township, was born in Biri, Norway, April 24, 1861, son of Jens and Martha (Nelson) Klundby, both parents being natives of the same place. They came to the United States at some time between 1886 and 1888, locating on a farm in Jackson County, Wisconsin, where Jens Klundby died about 1904 and his wife in 1914. They had a family of nine childi-en, Andrew J. being the fourth born. Andrew J. Klundby acquired his education in his native land, where he resided until he was about 19 years of age. Then, in 1880, he came to this country, and from that time until his marriage in 1895, he made his home with John Johnson in Gale Township. Oct. 31, 1895, he married Bertha Johnson, who was born in Gale Township, daughter of Hans and Gulena Johnson, her parents being natives of Norway, who came to America in the early seventies. They located first on Half Way Creek, in this township, but afterwards moved to Hardie's Creek Valley, where Hans Johnson followed farming, and where he still resides, though now retired from active work. His wife died in the fall of 1916. They had a family of five children. At the time of his marriage Mr. Klundby moved onto a farm in Skunk Coolie, near the Grant school house, where he was engaged in agriculture for eight years. He then came to his present farm, which contains 80 acres of land in one piece, while he has 20 acres more across Black River in La Crosse County. His buildings are modern and substantial and his farm is equipped with all necessary machinery and implements. Mr. Klundby carries on general farming and dairying and devotes all his time to his business, having taken no part in local politics. He and his wife have had two children : Ella, who resides at home, and Nels, who died at the age of 12 years.

Alexander B. Flemington, who for many years was a leading farmer of Trempealeau Township, was born in Renfrewshire, Scotland, May 31, 1826, son of James and Mary (Dove) Flemington. He was descended from an honorable and worthy ancestry. His parents had but two children, he being the younger, and the elder being a sister. In 1842 he came to America to establish a home for his family and first located in Rhode Island. The following summer he traveled west as far as Michigan and finally made a settlement in East Greenwich, R. I. In 1844 the father was followed to the new country by his wife and son, with whom he went in the following year to Taunton, Mass., where, being an engine driver by occupation, he found employment running an engine for a manufacturing company. The parents came to Trempealeau County to join their son, but after remaining one year they returned to Rhode Island, where they subsequently remained until their death. Alexander B. Flemington was about 18 years of age when he came to America with his parents. He worked in the muslin de laine print works at Taunton, Mass., and then returned to East Greenwich, R. I., going thence to Southbridge, Mass., where also he was employed in the print works. In 1848 he came west to Milwaukee, where he remained five years and during that time learned the trade of carriage making. He was married in that city Aug. 20, 1851, to Mary Taylor and subsequently removed to Walworth County and engaged in wagon making. In 1855 he came to Trempealeau County and engaged in agricultural pursuits. Here his death occurred in July, 1911. For the last eight years of his life he had been a widower, his wife having passed away in May, 1903. Their children were : Alexander D., Elizabeth F., Jessie, Allen J., Andrew F., Mary and Ada. Alexander D. took a course of instruction at the high school of Trempealeau, and also a literary course at the Wisconsin State University. He was also for some time teacher in the intermediate department of the Ti'empealeau school and went thence to Whitehall, where he was principal for one year. He studied law with Judge Newman and was graduated from the law department of the State University of Wisconsin. In July, 1874, he located in Ellendale, Dakota, and was there honored by being chosen a delegate for circuit judge. Elizabeth F. is the widow of Louis Tatro and resides at Thompson Falls, Mont. Jessie is now Mrs. George Cummings. Allen J. resides at Finlayson, Minn. Andrew J. is deceased. Mary is now Mrs. William Suttie of Trempealeau County, Wis. Ada, who is now deceased, was the wife of WiUiam Walker.

Willis W. Suttie, a well known member of the agricultural community in Caledonia Township, whose farm - the old Suttie homestead - is located .in section 8, was born on this homestead Nov. 24, 1866, son of William J. and Eliza (Weston) Suttie. The birth of William J. Suttie took place near Edinburgh, Scotland, Nov. 11, 1834, and eighteen months later, in the spring of 1838, he accompanied his parents to the United States. Settling first in New York state, they remained there until 1841 and then removed to a location near Ypsilanti, Mich., which was the home of the family until 1856. Then, following the stream of western emigration, they continued onward until in that year they arrived in Caledonia Township, Trempealeau County, Wisconsin, taking land in section 9. Wilham J. was by this time 22 years old and was of material assistance to his father in the hard pioneer work which fell to their lot in this then wild country. About three years later, in 1859, he felt prosperous enough to marry and chose for his wife Eliza J. Weston, daughter of Jesse and Hester Weston, who resided near Ypsilanti, Mich. Of this union were born Charles A., EUiva and Willard and Wilhs (twins). Chai'les now lives at Lake Forest, 111.; Willard at Glasgow, Wis., near North Bend, and Elliva is the wife of Philip Kribs, residing in West Prairie, Ti-empealeau Township, near Centerville. The first of the two parents to pass away was the mother, her death occurring May 22, 1873. Her husband survived her 13 years, dying in 1886. Willis W. Suttie was educated in the district school, which he attended during the winters only after he was 14 years old. At 18 he became a pupil in the grade school at Galesville, Wis., but attended only one term. On Dec. 16, 1890, he was married at La Crosse by the Rev. J. W. Winder, pastor of the Presbyterian church, to Mary, daughter of Alexander and Mary (Taylor) Flemington of Trempealeau Township, and began housekeeping on the homestead in Caledonia Township, of which he is now the owner. It consists of 100 acres, of which he has 80 acres under the plow and 20 in pastui-e. His buildings include a two-story house, upright and wing ; two good barns, a corn house, a machine shed, a milk house and a silo of 100 tons capacity, the buildings being all painted and in good condition. Mr. Suttie is engaged in general farming and keeps only grade stock. He has attended every fair held at Galesville during his life, taking a particular interest in everything relating to his business. He and his wife have been the parents of six children, whose record in brief is as follows : Donald A., born Jan. 5, 1893, is unmarried and is renting a farm near Trempealeau Village. Ada F., born April 11, 1894, is a graduate of the Galesville high school, class of 1913, and of the La Crosse Normal School, class of 1916, and is now engaged in teaching grades three and four in the schools of Norwalk, Wis. John A., born Aug. 11, 1898, died in infancy. Floyd W., born May 10, 1900, resides on the farm and is assisting his father. Lawrence, born Oct. 8, 1901, is helping on the farm. Cedric A., born Oct. 1, 1903, is a student living at home. In politics Mr. Suttie is independent. He has served one term on the district school board, but has not otherwise been politically active.

George W. Knutson. One of the best and most highly improved farms in Lincoln Township is that of George W. Knutson, in section 36, and which contains 232 acres of good fertile land. Mr. Knutson was born in West Salem, La Crosse County, Wis., May 20, 1873, son of Even Knutson and his wife, Mary Anderson Knutson. The father was a native of Norway, who came to America in 1870, locating at West Salem, where he farmed until 1903, subsequently removing to Holmen, La Crosse County, where he died in 1913 at the age of 68 years. His wife, now 73 years old, is now residing in Holmen. George W. Knutson remained on the home farm until reaching the age of 16 years. He then went to work on the farm of James McEldowney at West Salem and was employed there for 14 years, only taking one week off in all that time, which was when he visited the World's Fair at Chicago in 1893. At the end of that period he rented Mr. McEldowney's farm and operated it on his own account for 15 years with profitable results. Being now ready to purchase a farm of his own, he selected that which he now owns and operates, and has since resided here. The residence is a good frame structure of 10 rooms, with furnace heat, bath, electric light and other modern conveniences. Mr. Knutson owns his own electric light plant by which his other buildings are similarly illuminated. In 1915 he rebuilt his barn, which is now a substantial frame structure, with cement block basement and cement floor, in size 32 by 108 by 20 feet. It is provided with Louden stanchions and litter carrier. In the same year he built a cement block silo, 16 by 35 feet. Among his other buildings are a good machine shed - a frame building 24 by 80 feet and an ice house and milk house combined, 15 by 24 by 12 feet. The farm includes an orchard of two acres. Mr. Knutson at this time keeps about 60 head of Holstein cattle, 20 being registered, and milks 30 cows. Of Duroc-Jersey hogs he feeds 200 a year. In his farming operations he follows the three years' rotation plan, planting corn and clover. As a farmer he has been highly successful, a result due to his thorough training in early life and his habits of industry and intelligent application to his self-appointed tasks. Mr. Knutson was married Nov. 1, 1900, to Mary Anderson of West Salem, who was born in Sweden. He and his wife have six children : Raymond, LaVerne, Margaret, Clarence, May and Glen.

Haines Brothers. - Five miles south of Arcadia Village, in section 15, Arcadia Township, lies one of the best farms in Trempealeau County. Its proprietors, John and Adam Haines, are sons of Christian C. and Margaret Haines, who came to Bill's Valley, Arcadia Township, about the close of the Civil War, their former home having been in New York state. Both John and Adam Haines were born in Bill's Valley, the former Oct. 26, 1867, the latter March 2, 1872. They were early trained in everything pertaining to agricultural work and dairying, and the farm of 372 acres which they bought from their father is a well productive farm. It was partially improved since that time; on it stood a small house and a small barn. In

1895 they entered into a partnership to carry on the farm and since then have made numerous valuable improvements, among them a large twostory brick house, well supplied with running water and electricity throughout the barn and house. They erected in 1901 a full basement barn, 34 by 64 by 16 feet, above the basement. They have also built a machine shed, 20 by 50 feet, and other necessary buildings. Carrying on general fai'ming and dairying, they keep a number of cows and horses. Adam Haines was united in matrimony Nov. 5, 1895, to Elizabeth Pampuch, daughter of a prosperous farmer near Arcadia. . They have nine children, whose names with dates of birth are: Clarence, born Oct. 15,

1901; Clara A., Dec. 13, 1902; Ervine, Oct. 2, 1904; Gilbert C, Dec. 16, 1906; Amanda E., Nov. 8, 1908; Benzell, Feb. 7, 1912, and Eugene, Nov. 30, 1917. All except Clarence are living and are yet in district, parochial and high school, but will latter attend higher institutions. John and Adam Haines are patriotic American citizens, who are very active in the district, the father for some years was a member of the school board. They are also stockholders in the Arcadia Co-operative Creamery, John also holding stock in the Arcadia Bank and Adam Haines owns property in town. They were reared as German Catholics and are members of the Church of Our Lady of Perpetual Help at Arcadia.

Thomas Truog, Jr., is a native of this vicinity, having been born in Glencoe, Buffalo County, two miles west of Arcadia Village, Jan. 3, 1872, son of Thomas Truog, Sr. He attended school in the neighborhood of his home and in Arcadia Village, and as a youth went to Minnesota and worked on farms in Lewiston and Kasson. At the age of 21 he went to Devils Lake, North Dakota, and there lived a year. Upon returning to Wisconsin he and his brother John rented the farm which his parents had acquired in section 1, Arcadia Township, and section 25, Lincoln Township. A year later he took charge of the farm alone. From 1896 to 1904 he lived in Independence, at the end of which period he again returned to the home farm, which he rented for several years. In 1915, with his brother Emil, a professor in the agricultural department of the University of Wisconsin, he purchased the place from the other heirs, and has since continued to reside thereon. Here he carries on general farming and dairying along the latest approved methods, and makes a specialty of breeding registered Guernsey cattle. The buildings are a feature of the place. The home is roomy and comfortable, the barn is a large frame structure, 36 by 122 feet, with full basement, cement floors. West Bend stanchions, box stalls, and all other modern equipment. The tile silo has a capacity of 155 tons, and the tile ice house is a valuable adjunct to the dairying activities on the place. The farm is unusually well provided with tools, implements, machinery and other supplies. The plow land consists of some 180 acres, while about fifty acres are in pasture and timber. An experienced, wellread farmer himself, Mr. Truog has the advantage of his brother's advice, and the farm is one of the model places of the county. A thorough friend of the cause of education, Mr. Truog has done good service on the school board for the past twelve years. His fraternal afliliation is with the Modern Woodmen of America. April 28, 1897, Mr. Truog was married to Maggie, the daughter of Paul and Martha Bautch of Wickham Valley, Arcadia township, and this union has been blessed with seven children: Mabel, born Dec. 26, 1898; Edith, born Oct. 1, 1901; Lloyd, born May 7, 1904 ; Murel, born Jan. 26, 1907 ; Blanche, born June 29, 1909 ; Laura, born Jan. 10, 1911; and Wesley, born Dec. 26, 1913.

Christ and Edward Halverson, two brothers who own and operate a fine farm in Norway Coulie, Arcadia Township, were born in this valley, Christ June 13, 1875, and Edward March 22, 1881. They are the sons of German and Jennie Halverson, both of whom were born in Norway, the father in December, 1842, and the mother in October, 1844. German and

Jennie Halverson came to America in 1864, locating first in Dane County, Wisconsin, where they resided one year. Arriving in Trempealeau County in 1865, Mr. Halverson homesteaded 160 acres of w-ild land in Norway Coulie, Arcadia Township, it being situated in sections 13 and 24. The first residence of the family here was a dugout in the side of a hill, and it was in this humble dwelling that their first child, Ella, was born. Later on Mr. Halverson built a frame house, one and a half stories high, with upright and wing, which building is now standing, being occupied as a dwelling by the subjects of this sketch. He also built a frame barn, which, though delapidated, is still standing. In 1900 the property came into possession of Christ and Edward Halvei'son, and nine years later the father died. His wife is still living with her two sons, the joint proprietors of the farm, but since 1915 has been an invalid. She is now 71 years of age. The two brothers have built a frame barn with hip roof, 24 by 67 by 16 feet, together with machine sheds, granary, hog house and poultry house, corn cribs and all necessary buildings, which are kept in first class condition. They carry on general farming and dairying, having at this time 50 head of cattle, with hogs, horses and poultry. They are stockholders in the Arcadia Shipping Association, the Arcadia Co-operative Creamery and the Farmers Telephone Company. Their religious afliliations are with Norway Coulie Lutheran church, of which their parents were among the founders. Edward Halverson was married June 21, 1913, to Carrie, daughter of Ole and Helena Olson of Norway, she coming to Amei'ica alone in 1911. They have one child, Josie, now three years of age. The brothers and sisters of Christ and Edward Halverson are as follows: Ella, born in 1867, who is now Mrs. Carl Haagen of Fosston, Minn.; Ole G., born in 1869, who is a farmer at Big Tamarack. Arcadia Township; Halvor, born in 1871, and now living at Valley City, N. D. ; Maline, born in 1872, now Mrs. Jens Lee of Valley City, N. D. ; Mary, born in 1876, now the wife of Carl Lee of Valley City, N. D. ; Minnie, born in 1878, who is the wife of Louis Nelson of Koba, N. D. ; Julius, born in 1883, whose present whereabouts is unknown, and Julia, born in 1885, who is now Mrs. Oscar Olson, now of Valley City, N. D. The Halverson farm lies in one of the most beautiful coulies of Trempealeau County. The land is very rolling but fertile, and the labors of the two brothers, Christ and Edward, have greatly increased its value.

G. C. Nelson, who is successfully engaged in general farming and dairying in section 3, Arcadia Township, was born in Norway March 27, 1865, a son of Christ B. and Maria Nelson. When he was three years old his father came to America, homesteading 160 acres of land in Newcomb Valley, Arcadia, this county. A year later the father sent for his family to join him, which they did, and for many years thereafter were industrious members of the farming community in Arcadia Township. Christ B. Nelson is still living, though now much advanced in years. His wife died in 1915 at the venerable age of 96. G. C. Nelson resided with his parents until he was about 30 years of age. In 1894 he married Anna M. Olsen, daughter of Andrew and Caroline Olsen of Arcadia Township. He now conducts the Olsen farm, doing general farming and dairying, which Indus- tries he carries on successfully. In 1907 he bought 64 acres of land in North Dakota, near Sentinel Butte, and removed to that place with his family. He returned with them, however, in 1911, though he still owns the Dakota property, and is also a stockholder in the Farmers Co-operative Elevator Company of Sentinel Butte. Mr. and Mrs. Nelson have had four children of their own, and have an adopted daughter. Hazel, born Dec. 5, 1906. Their own children were : Aymaar, born July 9, 1895, who is a graduate of the Arcadia high school, and is financially interested with his father in the North Dakota farm; Ernest D., born March 13, 1897, also a graduate of Arcadia high school, who is now a student at Wisconsin University at Madison, and Henry and Spencer, born in 1901, who died, one when ten months and the other when 11 months old. In politics Mr. Nelson is a Democrat. He served as township assessor one term and as township treasurer two terms. Since 1904 he has belonged to the Order of Beavers at Arcadia. Religiously he was reared a Lutheran.

William C. Thompson, who owns and operates a farm of 187 acres in section 6, Pi'eston Township, was born in this township, Nov. 29, 1869, son of William and Laura (Hine) Thompson. He was reared to agricultural pursuits and worked on the home farm until his marriage Dec. 26, 1912. to Emma Kremers, daughter of Wilham and Bertha (Joerris) Kremers. Her father was a native of Germany, who came to Trempealeau County in 1881 and was engaged in farming in Preston Township until his death, which occurred March 26, 1901. Mrs. Bertha Kremers, who was born in Germany May 22, 1839, is now Hving in Whitehall, this county. There were three children in the family: Lydia, who graduated from the Winona Normal School and is now a teacher; Carl C, now a retired farmer, and Emma, wife of William C. Thompson. Mrs. Thompson was born in Manitowoc, Wis., Oct. 25, 1873. She acquired a good education, graduating from Stevens Point Normal School in 1904. She, however, taught school previous to that, as she followed that occupation 15 years in all, including five years in the Whitehall schools as teacher in the fifth and sixth grades. At the time of his marriage Mr. Thompson rented the Kremers farm and operated it until the following year, 1913, when he purchased his present farm from his father. He keeps Shorthorn cattle, having now 35 head, of which he milks 12 ; he also raises Chester White hogs and Rhode Island Red chickens. In 1915 he erected his substantial frame barn 40 by 80 by 12 feet in dimensions, with basement and concrete floor, well provided with modern equipment. As an enterprising and successful farmer he is well known in Preston Township and his family hold a respected place in the community. They are affiliated religiously with the Presbyterian church.

William P. Mailer, D. D, S,, who has been engaged in the practice of dentistry in Galesville, Wis., for the last 18 years, was born in Edinburgh, Scotland, April 8, 1869, son of John and Joan (Peddle) Mailer. His parents were born in the same locality, the father Nov. 26, 1842, and the mother Oct. 29, 1843. John Mailer, who was a master mechanic, came to the United States with his family in 1871. locating in Buffalo County, Wisconsin, where until 1887 he followed the occupation of machinist, working on his own account, though without having a regular estabhshment. He then entered the employ of the Chicago, Burlington & Northern, now a part of the "Burlington" system, and continued with that road until 1893, when he went to Winona. There he was master mechanic for the Winona & Western Railway until that road was sold, when he went to Scanlon, Minn., and became master mechanic for the Minnesota & Northern. About 1898 he went to Ft. Smith, Ark., where he was master mechanic for the Ft. Smith & Western road. In 1907 he retired and took up his residence in La Crosse, where he was elected alderman and served in other local office. Two years later he moved to Onalaska, Wis., where he died July 17, 1913. His wife died in Onalaska, July 13, 1916. WiUiam P. Mailer was one of the eldest children in a family of 13. He attended school in Buffalo County and in La Crosse County, Wis., and when 14 years old was employed on the Chippewa River at logging. One year later he taught school in Buffalo County one term, then returned to logging, in which occupation he continued until 1887. He then took a course in the pharmacy department of the University of Wisconsin, with which preparation he obtained a position as drug clerk in La Crosse and was thus engaged until 1890. Subsequently entering the American Dental College at Chicago he was graduated from that institution in the class of 1892, and began the practice of his profession in St. Paul, where he remained about four years. From there he went to Durand, Wis., where he continued in practice for a while, but on account of an injury to his hand went back to the drug business at Pepin, Wis. In 1898 he returned to his profession, practicing in Winona, Minn., a short time, and coming to Galesville in March, 1899. Here he has since remained, having built up a good clientele and become known all over the county as a skillful and reliable dentist. He is also a stockholder in the Bank of Galesville and has other interests in the village, besides owning his own residence. Dr. Mailer was married Sept. 20, 1897, to Sarah A. Perry, who was born in St. Paul, Minn., daughter of William Perry, a coal and fuel merchant. Both parents are now deceased. Mrs. Sarah A. Mailer died July 9, 1906, leaving no children. Dr. Mailer married for his second wife, July 22, 1908, Saidel Lee, who was born at Stevens Point, Wis-. Of this marriage there are two children, Ann P. and Jean. In politics a Republican, Dr. Mailer has held various local offices, and is at present serving as alderman and as secretary of the board of education. He and his family attend the Presbyterian church. The Doctor's fraternal society affiliations are with the Blue lodge of Masons at Galesville, of which he is treasurer; the Eastern Star lodge, of which he is worthy patron ; the Chapter and Commandery at La Crosse, and the Knights of Pythias. He is a member of the county, state and national dental associations. He attends the Presbyterian church.

Adam Smith, a well known and respected resident of Galesville, was born in Scotland, Oct. 16, 1842. He came to America with his parents in 1855, locating with them in Maryland, where his father worked in the coal mines one year. In 1856 they came to Jackson County, Wisconsin, where Adam Smith was married, July 18, 1865, to Jane D. Love. She was born in Scotland July 29, 1846, and came to this country with her parents in 1849, they also locating in Maryland, where her father became a foreman in the coal mines. The Love family came to Jackson County in 1864. Following agriculture in Jackson County until 1893, Adam Smith then came with his family to Trempealeau County, purchasing a farm of 120 acres in section 17, Gale Township. Later he added to this a 20-acre tract of timber land, thus enlarging his property to 140 acres. This farm he operated until 1908, when he retired, renting it to his son, Edward D., and he and his wife taking up their residence in Galesville. They were the parents of eight children : John Thomas, a ranchman at Panhandle, Texas ; Arthur Love of Keokuk, Iowa; James W., deceased; William James, a farmer of Caledonia Township, this county; Margaret Clark, now Mrs. Hugh Baird of Red Deer, Alberta, Canada, her husband being a contractor ; Janet Minus, wife of Milton Butman, a farmer of Gale Township, Trempealeau County; Edward D., residing on the old farm in Gale Township, and Flora Elizabeth, now Mrs. John Twesme of Galesville.

Edward D. Smith, who is engaged in operating a stock farm of 120 acres in section 17, Gale Township, was born near Melrose, Jackson County, Nov. 1, 1884, son of Adam and Jane D. (Love) Smith. He acquired his education in the district schools of Gale Township and his industrial training on his father's farm, where he obtained a good knowledge of agriculture. At the age of 22 years, being still a single man, he rented the home farm of 120 acres and has since operated it continuously as a stock farm, breeding Jersey cattle, and also keeping a number of high class horses. He is also a stockholder in the La Crosse Packing Company and in the Industrial Harvester Company at Piano, 111. Mr. Smith was married June 3, 1913, to Bertha Nordstrum, who was born in Jackson County, near North Bend, Wis., daughter of Carl and Bertha (Olson) Nordstrum. Her parents were married in the United States, the father being a native of Sweden and the mother of Norway. Carl Nordstrum learned the carpenter's trade early in life and followed it for many years, also devoting some time to agriculture. He is still actively engaged in the vicinity of North Bend. His wife died 13 years ago. Their daughter Bertha, who was the youngest of five children, was educated in Jackson County. Mr. and Mrs. Smith are the parents of one child, Leolah Dorine. Mr. Smith is affihated in membership with the Modern Woodmen of America and the Beavers. He attends the Presbyterian church, though not a member, and in politics is independent. He is doing a profitable business in stock raising and is well to do.

Clarence J. Van Tassel, civil engineer, is having an important part in the road work which is giving to Trempealeau County its justly-famed system of public highways. The new roads over some of the most difficult ridges in the county owe their location and grades to his skill, and his efficiency is highly praised throughout the state, being in constant demand over a wide territory. His work in locating the route of the new Ettrick & Northern Railroad has permanently established his record among the successful engineers of the state. Mr. Van Tassel is a native of this county, having been born in Hale Township, July 5, 1879, son of James and Clara (Wegner) Van Tassel. James Van Tassel was born in Kenosha, Wis., came to Trempealeau County with his parents in 1863, married Clara Wegner, and devoted the remainder of his life to agricultural pursuits, dying in 1898, since which time his wife had made her home in a comfortable residence in Whitehall. Clarence J. Van Tassel was I'eared to farm pursuits and received a solid foundation for an education which he has since supplemented by wide reading and close observation. For several years he was a teacher, after which he was a successful photographer. But he was a man of resource and ambition, and determining to become a professional man he took up the study of civil engineering at home, and found it not only to be an occupation which he found congenial, but one for which he had great natural aptitude. He devoted a part of his time to this profession for several years, and in 1912 adopted it as his life work. For several terms he has been county surveyor. A popular genial man of many friends, Mr. Van Tassel has allied himself with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, in the local lodge of which he has passed through all the chaii's. Mr. Van Tassel was married Nov. 1, 1899, to Anna Stanley of Onalaska, Wis., daughter of Lyman and Diana Stanley, a former school teacher, and a gracious lady of manj^ accomplishments. Their pleasant and hospitable home is blessed with the presence of four children: Thurman, Howard, Gerald and Olive. The family has a wide circle of friends and is highly regarded and respected.

Rudolph and Henry Kube, who are prosperously engaged in farming in section 17, Arcadia Township, are sons of Gustave and Ernestine Kube, and were born, Rudolph in Arcadia Township May 1, 1887, and Henry in Arcadia Township Oct. 28, 1893. Their parents came to America from Germany in 1883. locating first in West Salem, 111., where they remained nine months, and then coming to Arcadia Township, this county, where they purchased 80 acres of land from John G. Greiner. There were some improvements on it, but none very important, a one-room house with a log barn and granary being the only buildings. Water had to be carried or hauled for about a mile, but after a few years a 340-foot well and steel windmill were put in. Whenever time and money would permit land was bought adjoining the 80 acres until the farm now contains 396 acres. A quarry of hmestone was also opened and is today one of the finest in the county, being operated by steam and drill. The father and mother had built a commodious two-story brick upright to the house, a basement barn, 36 by 96 feet, and a machine shed and granary. The sons have since added a poultry house, 16 by 36 feet, and a silo. Mrs. Kube was born May 30, 1850, in Rohrsdorf, Province of Pommern, Germany, and , died July 15, 1912, in this township. Mr. Kube was born Sept. 13, 1849, in Gebersdorf, Province of Pommern, Germany. They were married Nov. 28, 1878, in Rohrsdorf, at the Lutheran church, with which church the family is affiliated. Nine children were born of this union, namely: Julius, Frederick, Martha, Gustave, Rudolph, Ida, William, Henry and Edward, the last mentioned of whom died in infancy. All are engaged in farming in this township, with the exception of William, who is operating a farm at Alma Center, Wis., and Martha, who is now Mrs. Percy T. Veto of Sanish, N. D., also living on a claim. Their father sold the old home Dec.

15, 1913, to the two sons, Rudolph and Henry, who have since operated it together in partnership. The father, who became a naturalized American citizen Oct. 4, 1915, lives with them, and Ida attends to the housekeeping, since neither of the sons is married. Rudolph and Henry had but little opportunity for schooling, but attended the district school whenever they could and thus picked up the rudiments of knowledge. They remained at home with their parents and worked on the farm, acquiring in good time a knowledge of agriculture. The subjects of this sketch are among the energetic and prosperous young farmers of Trempealeau County and are respected both for what they are and for what they have done. Robert Van Tassel, an enterprising and successful farmer of Sumner Township, having a fertile farm of 185 acres in section 3, was born in Adams County, Wisconsin, near Kilbourn, June 18, 1861. He is a son of Jacob and Harriet (Bradford) Van Tassel. Jacob Van Tassel was born in New York state in September, 1821. Mrs. Harriet (Bradford) Van Tassel died in 1863, and three years later Jacob Van Tassel married Catherine Costello, who now resides at Madelia, Minn. They came to Trempealeau County in 1868, homesteading a farm in Hale Township, where Jacob Van Tassel spent the rest of his hfe. Robert Van Tassel was the youngest of the six children by his father's first wife. He acquired a knowledge of agriculture in his youth and early manhood and after his father's death rented the home farm in Hale Township for two years. He then went to Verdi, Minn., where he resided until 1888. Subsequently returning to Hale Township he rented farms until 1898, in which year he bought the old home farm in Hale Township. There he remained until 1913, after which he sold it and bought his present farm, which is a well improved piece of property. The residence is a good two-story frame structure, with basement, and containing nine rooms. The barn measures 34 by 64 by 20 feet, with cement floors and steel stanchions, and in addition there is a stave silo, 12 by 32 feet, and a machine shed, 22 by 40. The property was purchased from E. J. Matchett and is well fenced with woven wire. Mr. Van Tassel was married March 31, 1889, to Dora Bailey of Verdi, Minn., who was born near Melrose, Jackson County, Minn., Jan. 4, 1871, daughter of Zaccheus W. and Catherine (House) Bailey. Her father, born in New York state in 1842, died Sept. 9, 1902; his wife Catherine died Dec. 19, 1897. Mr. and Mrs. Van Tassel are the parents of seven children : Ethel, born March 17, 1891, who married Elmer Wood, railroad agent at Alma Center, and has one child, Muriel; Vern, born Aug. 30, 1893 ; Ruth, born March 26, 1897, and now a teacher ; Bessie, born Sept. 2, 1899 ; Cecil, born May 30, 1902 ; Alfred, born Dec. 19, 1909 ; and Dolores, born Sept. 4, 1914.