Trempealeau County, Wisconsin - Biographical sketches, 1917 (part 7 of 20)

Robert Bright, a retired farmer now living in Trempealeau Village, was born in Geulph, Ontario, April 8, 1837, son of William and Mary Ann (King) Bright. The parents were both natives of Hampshire, England, the father born May 31, 1798, and the mother October 8, the same year. Married in their native land, they emigrated to Canada in 1836, settling at Geulph, where William Bright worked at his trade of carpenter until 1843. In that year he brought his family to Wisconsin, settling on a farm near Beloit. The subject of this sketch was at that time six years old and a year later he began his struggle with the "three R's" in the typical log school house of the district. Most of his schooling was acquired in the winters, and his zest for learning was doubtless stimulated by the twomile walk he had to take in covering the distance from his home to the rural temple of knowledge. This primitive building being unprovided with steam pipes or furnace, the elder boys, in accordance with a timehonored, pioneer custom, were obliged to cut and haul the wood used for fuel, and in this work, after he was ten years old, he had to take a part. After he was old enough to be of use on the farm, however, he attended school only during the winters, and at 16 he had to lay aside his class books to take up the heavier burdens of life. At 17 he was the mainstay of the family, and was the one upon whom his parents chiefly depended during the rest of their lives. In June, 1855, the family came to Trempealau County, William Bright locating on a tract of 160 acres of school land in section 16, Caledonia Township, near McGilvray's Ferry. This land was without any building that could be used as a residence, so that summer Mr. Bright built a frame house of five rooms, with upright and wings. The subsequent work of the family was similar to that of all pioneer farmers, and was sufficiently arduous to make them all enjoy their nightly rest. In 1859 Robert Bright purchased the farm from his father and began operating it on his own account, his parents residing with him. In November, 1864, occurred another important event of his life, when he took to wife Christiana, daughter of Alexander and Helen (Matthews) Campbell of Guelph, Ontario. Bringing his bride to his parents' home, they resided there for about two years, but in 1866, desiring to establish a separate household, and finding a house for sale in the vicinity, he bought it and moved it onto the farm, he and his wife taking up their residence in it. From time to time he also bought other land until he finally owned 560 acres. Mr. Bright continued his farming operations until the fall of 1873, when, having acquired a competence, he sold half his land and moved to Trempealeau Village with his family, which also included his father and mother. The rest of his land he sold later. In 1891, however, he purchased an improved farm of 160 acres near Black River Falls, which he still owns. In the following year he made a trip to California, but was away but two and a half months. Mr. Bright's present residence is a comfortable brick house on East Third street, where he and his wife are frequently visited by those of their children who live not too far away. His family consists of six in all: William A., Jennie E., Ella May, Ernest A., Frank C. and Eleanor E. William A. was born Nov. 23, 1865, and married Letta Shepheard of Blair, Wis. He has two children. Vera and Jennie. Jennie E., born Jan. 22, 1868, is the only one of the family who lives out of the state. She married Almon Holden of South Dakota and now resides in Los Angeles, Calif. Ella May, born March 29. 1872, is the wife of Bert Wakefield of West Salem, Wis., and has two children: Majorie and Robert. Ernest A., born Sept. 25, 1874, married Ella Hoberton of Trempealeau, Wis., and has two children: Laura and Ernest, Jr. Frank C, born Aug. 31, 1876, married Metta Miles of Hixon, Wis. He lives on his father's farm near Black River Falls, and has four children: Donald, Marion, Douglas and Majorie. Elmer E., born Aug. 18, 1878, is unmarried and lives with his brother Frank. Mr. Bright's parents have been dead many years. The mother was the first to go, passing away in October, 1875, when 77 years old. The father was 83 when he died, Aug. 21, 1881. There were ten children in their family, including the subject of this sketch - five sons and five daughters, and all except Robert and one of the daughters were born in England. The sons are all living, and there are three of the daughters surviving - two in Wisconsin and one in Sioux City, Iowa. In his youth Robert Bright attended the Methodist Episcopal Church, but after his marriage he and his wife united with the Trempealeau Congregational Church and still maintain their membership. In politics Mr. Bright is a Republican, but has held no public office, except that of postmaster, in which he served in Jackson County, 1896 to 1901, during the time he lived on his farm at Black River Falls. He is now in his 81st year, one of the few survivors of pioneer days in this county, and his memory brings back to his many interesting scenes that the younger generation, accustomed to all the modern conveniences, would find it hard to realize. He can recall the hard physical labor that was necessary to break the new land, the lack of almost every convenience, the frequent scarcity of provisions, the long journey to the mill, and how he once crossed Black River on foot on the ice, hauling a wagon across, and then, laying down planks, went back and led his oxen across (this was Oct. 1, 1855), together with many dther incidents of his boyhood and youthful days, when his blood coursed swiftly through his veins and hardships were little minded. Of those of his own age whom he then knew, most have passed away and a new generation has taken up the work which the old hands have laid down. In the success and advancement of his children, and his increasing family of grandchildren and great-grandchildren he takes a keen interest, the more so that one and all give fair promise of doing honor to the family name.

Die C. Hanson dates his residence in Trempealeau County from 1870, when he was brought to Irvin's Coulie, Lincoln County, by his parents, Hans and Bertha (Nelson) Arneson, who the year previous had brought him from Norway, where he was born Sept. 23, 1853. As a young man he did farm work, and for a while was employed in a sawmill at Eau Claire, Wisconsin. In 1884 he purchased his present place of 80 acres in section 29, Pigeon Township, where he successfully carries on general farming. His financial holdings include stock in the Peoples State Bank of Whitehall, the Pigeon Grain & Stock Company of Whitehall, and the Preston Creamery at Blair. His public work has included service as clerk of the school board since 1904. Since 1890 he has been secretary of the Norwegian Luthern Chuch at Whitehall. Mr. Hanson was married, Dec. 30, 1882, to Olena Hanevold, who was born in Toten, Norway, Feb. 22, 1862, daughter of Ole and Andrena Hanevold, who in 1873 came to Fly Creek, in Pigeon Township, and here spent the remainder of their lives, the former dying in 1914 and the latter in 1894. Mr. and Mrs. Hanson have had eleven children, of whom two died in infancy. Heldor is a farmer in Dunn County, Wisconsin. Adolph is a clerk at Whitehall. Matilda is the wife of Hans Svaie of Church's Ferry, North Dakota. Carl, Lewis, Melvin, Louise and Otto are at home. Emma died March 19, 1917, at the age of eleven years. Hans Arneson, father of Ole C. Hanson, was born in Norway, Oct. 22, 1807, came to America in 1869, lived in Dane County, this state, a year, and then came to this county, where he settled in Irvin's Coulie, in Lincoln Township. In 1884 he sold his place, and took up his home with his son, Hans Arneson, where he died Jan. 6, 1896, his wife, Bertha Nelson, who was born in Norway, Sept. 22, 1813, dying on Dec. 14, 1900.

Henry A. Jacobson, successful merchant of Pigeon Falls, was born at North Branch, Hale Township, this county, Jan. 5, 1878, son of Hans and Olena (Saastad) Jacobson. Hans Jacobson was born in Norway in 1851, came to America in 1867 with his parents, lived two years in Minnesota, later settled at North Branch, in this county, and farmed there until 1898, when he moved to Whitehall, where he died in 1907, his good wife, who was born in 1852, still making her home in that village. Henry A. Jacobson, remained with his parents until 19 years of age, and then went to work as a farm hand. May 1, 1901, he secured employment at Pigeon Falls in the store of Torgerson & Steig. In 1905 this firm became Steig & Steig, and in 1906 Mr. Jacobson purchased a half interest and changed the firm name to Steig & Jacobson. The store and stock were destroyed by fire in 1912, and the present edifice was erected. It is a frame structure, 28 by 42 feet, two stories high and a basement, and is well equipped and stocked for the carrying on of a large mercantile business. Mr. Jacobson has been the sole owner since 1913, and has built up a constantly increasing business. He has the confidence and esteem of the village and country people, and his trade extends for miles around. Mr. Jacobson was married July 10, 1904, to Anna Wold, born June 22, 1885, daughter of Ever and Mary Wold, and this union has been blessed with four children. Hansel, Myrtle, Archie and Irene. The family faith is that of the Norwegia Lutheran Church of America.

Edward M. Hagen, proprietor of a farm of 300 acres in section 5, Pigeon Township, known as Hagen's Farm, was born in Biri, Norway, Jan. 12, 1864, son of Mathias Olson and his wife, Annette Thompson. The father died in Norway in June, 1865, and his wife in Norway in 1884. In 1881 Edward M. emigrated to the United States, coming to Trempealeau County, Wisconsin, and locating at Pigeon Falls, where he resided until the spring of 1892, working out and saving his money. Having by that time accumulated a fair sum, he purchased his present farm and has since resided on it, engaged in its development and cultivation, in which he has made great progress. The previous period of 11 years was spent in the employ of P. Ekern, for whom he worked seven years as buttermaker at Pigeon Falls. As a progressive farmer Mr. Hagen has sought to increase the value of his property by making substantial improvements. In 1910 he rebuilt his residence, which is a two-story building of 18 rooms and basement. In 1916 he rebuilt the barn, which measures 44 by 60 by 16 feet with basement, and has an ell, 26 by 50 by 16, with basement, both furnished with concrete floors and installed with 40 steel stanchions and litter carrier. The silo, built in the center of the barn, measures 14 by 31 feet. All the buildings are electrically lighted and furnished with running water from a spring, the house having hot and cold water and bathroom. Mr. Hagen plants six acres of his land with tobacco and has a tobacco shed, 26 by 130 feet in size. His herd of Shorthorn cattle numbers 65 head, all high grade animals, of which he milks 25. He also has a flock of 30 sheep and 50 acres of his land is planted in clover. He is a stockholder in the Pigeon Grain & Stock Company, and for six years has served as a director of the school board of his district. May 16, 1891, Mr. Hagen was united in marriage with Jennie Moe of Pigeon Falls, in which place she was born May 4, 1873. Her parents were John and Antoinette (Peterson) Moe, the former of whom, born in Norway, Sept. 17, 1841, came to America in 1869, settling in Pigeon Township, this county. In 1872 he bought the farm on which his son-in-law, Mr. Hagen, now lives, and still resides here. His wife, whom he married at Pigeon Falls Aug. 28, 1872, was born in Norway, March 27, 1846, and is also now living and residing on the Hagen farm. Mr. and Mrs. Hagen have ten children: Aletta, wife of Alfred Nelson, a contractor of Pigeon Falls; Adolph, living at home; Elvina, who graduated from the La Crosse Normal school in 1914 and is now a teacher; Amanda, a student at the Whitehall high school, and Harold, Hilmer, Ansel, Delia, Milfred and Raymond, who are residing at home on the farm.

Marvin T. Babbitt, who operates a 75-acre farm close to Trempealeau Village, and is also the owner of other agricultural property, was born in Colerain, Mass., Nov. 27, 1848. His parents, Adonii'am and Sarah (Riddle) Babbitt, were American born and of Scotch, Irish and German ancestry. In 1855 the family came west, Adoniram Babbitt settling on 160 acres of school land near Eyota, Minn., from which place they came to Trempealeau County, Wisconsin, in 1873. Here Mr. Babbitt bought the George Perkins farm of 90 acres in Caledonia Township, now known as the George Hess farm, it being situated about five miles from Trempealeau Village on the Galesville road. On the farm at the time the Babbits moved onto it there were a clapboarded log house and a log barn, the said house being still standing. Here the family lived for two or three years, at the end of which time Mr. Babbitt moved to West Prairie, Trempealeau Township, taking up 120 acres of wild land on which there was but little timber. On this farm he built a one-story frame house. In 1878 Adoniram Babbitt sold his place and moved to Lincoln County, Minn., where he homesteaded 160 acres of wild prairie land and took up his residence on it. In the meanwhile Marvin T. has grown to man's estate. His education was somewhat limited, but he acquired the elements of knowledge in the district school and learned agriculture and stock raising from his father, whom he assisted on the farm. When the family removed to Lincoln County, he went with them, accompanied by his wife, whom he had recently married, and after arriving in the county he homesteaded 160 acres of land there, also taking a tree claim of 160 acres adjoining. There he resided until 1880, in which year he went to Grant County, S. D., and pre-empted 120 acres of land on what had lately been the Sioux Indian reservation. This land he improved, building a frame house, 24 by 28 feet, a barn 16 by 34 feet, and a granary of the same size as the barn. In 1884 his health broke down and he rented his Minnesota farm to a tenant and returning to Trempealeau County took up his residence in Trempealeau Village. For five years after settling in the village Mr. Babbitt did little or nothing, but in 1889, tired of inactivity, and his health being improved, he bought the Rudolph place of 44 acres, situated on the edge of the village, and moved to it with his family. Since then he has purchased some adjoining land so that now his farm contains 75 acres. The farm was improved at the time he bought it, there being a three-story house on it, 20 by 34 feet, with stone basement. Mr. Babbitt in 1901 added to the house a frame wing, 14 by 30 feet, and has since erected a tool shed, 16 by 28, and a woodshed, 14 by 20 feet, with shop attached, having also other substantial outbuildings.

January 23, 1878, Mr. Babbitt was married to Helen, daughter of Edward A. and Margaret C. Barnard of Caledonia Township, Trempealeau County, the wedding taking place at the home of the bride's parents. He and his wife have had a family of 12 children: Edward A., Elbert J., Frank T., William H., Grace M., Ella R., Louis M., Ruth C, George R., Harry R., John C. and Virgil A. All of these children are living, except Harry R., who was born May 16, 1898, and died May 22, 1911, at the age of 13 years. William H., born October 7, 1884, is married and resides near Trempealeau Village. Grace M., born December 8, 1889, is unmarried and is a telegraph operator, residing at home. Ella R., born March 20, 1892, follows the same occupation as her sister Grace and also resides at home. Louis M., born Oct. 15, 1893, is a plumber, unmarried, and resides at Seymour, Wis. Ruth C, born Jan. 25, 1896, is unmarried, a high school graduate residing at home. Geoi-ge R., born Jan. 30, 1897, spent two years in the high school and is now engaged as a section hand. John C, born April 9, 1899, also studied two years in the high school. Virgil A., born June 9, 1903, resides at home and is attending school in Trempealeau. Mr. Babbitt is independent in politics, but has not been active politically and has held no public offices. He belongs to Lodge No. 117, A. F. & A. M. of Trempealeau. Though reared a Baptist he belongs to no church, but supports the cause of religion without regard to denominational affiliations. In addition to his property already mentioned, he owns 100 acres one mile north of the village, and 80 acres of "bottom land" four miles southeast in La Crosse County, Wisconsin.

Thomas M. Hagen, who owns and operates Woodland Farm of 240 acres in section 5, Pigeon Township, is one of the thriving agriculturists of this township and one of its best known and respected citizens. He was born in Noi'way, Dec. 12, 1867, his father being Matt Olson and his mother in maidenhood Annette Thompson. It was on May 17, 1883, that he left his native land for the New World, his journey coming to an end at Whitehall, this county. He soon entered the employ of P. Ekern of Pigeon Falls, for whom he worked for seven years. These were years, not only of industry, but of economy and thrift, as he had no intention of spending his life in working for others. At the end of the period mentioned, having enough money for his purpose, he purchased his present farm, a good piece of agricultural property, well improved, where he carries on general farming and dairying. The house is a good frame building of two stories and basement. The barn measures 48 by 70 by 14 feet, having stone basement and concrete floors, also 22 steel stanchions. On the farm is also a stave silo, 14 by 32 feet. Mr. Hagen has a herd of 30 cattle, of the Durham and Holstein breeds, of which he milks 25. He was married Dec. 25, 1891, to Paulina Moe of Pigeon Township, who was born at Pigeon Falls, this county^ May 8, 1874, daughter of John J. and Antoinette (Peterson) Moe. Mr. and Mrs. Hagen have had ten children, three of whom died in infancy. The others are: Joel, born Jan. 11, 1893; Albert, Feb. 10, 1895, was married June 30, 1917, to Elsie Margaret Evenson; Palmer, Aug. 26, 1896; Edwin, March 15, 1899 ; Peter, Nov. 18, 1900 ; Rudolph, Sept. 12, 1904, and Karl, Nov. 30, 1907. In March, 1916, they adopted a girl, Alice, who was born July 21, 1909. The family are members of the Norwegian Lutheran Church of America.

Paul Ackley. Among the leading agriculturists of Pigeon Township is the subject of this sketch, who is proprietor of two good farms, aggregating 360 acres. Mr. Ackley was born in Gulsbrandsdalen, Norway, Feb. 4, 1860. His father, Franz Anderson Ackley, who was a farmer, died in Norway in 1890 at the age of 75 years. Mr. Ackley's mother, whose maiden name was Karen Harralsdatter, died in the same year as her husband, at the age of 75. Paul Ackley on attaining his majority in 1881 said farewell to his native land and took passage for the United States. Following the example of many of his countrymen who had preceded him, he decided to make his home in the great Northwest, and first located in Swift County, Minn., where for two years he worked out for others. Then going to Eau Claire County, he spent eight years there working in a sawmill and in the woods. The next two years of his life were spent in Tacoma, Wash., after which he returned to Wisconsin and resided in Eau Claire five years, being engaged in the saw mill business. In the fall of 1894 Mr. Ackley began agricultural operations in Pigeon township, buying the property now known as Ackley's farm, and which contains 160 acres, 120 of which are located in the northwest quarter of section 12, and 40 acres in the southeast quarter of section 11. Here Mr. Ackley took up his residence and cultivated the farm until 1910. He then purchased the Tuff farm of 200 acres, 160 acres lying in the southeast quarter of section 12 and the other 40 in the northeast quarter of section 11. On this latter farm he now makes his residence. The houses on both farms are substantial two-story buildings, neat-looking and commodious, and the farms are well improved, all the buildings being kept in good condition. Both are operated profitably by Mr. Ackley, who is an experienced agriculturist and whose energy and perseverance, combined with thrift and good business foresight, have placed him among the substantial and well-to-do citizens of Pigeon Township. He has been treasurer of the school board for 13 years and has always taken a keen interest in all projects for the good of the community in which he lives. Aside from his interest in the two farms mentioned, he is a stockholder in the Pigeon Grain & Stock Company and the Whitehall Hospital. Mr. Ackley was married April 17, 1891, to Maria Tufi", who was born at Haalen, Norway,

July 1, 1861, her father being Ole Tuff and her mother, in maidenhood, Anna Stena Johnson. The father, who was born in Norway, came to America in October, 1861, setthng in LaFayette County, Wisconsin, where, however, he lived but a short time, removing to Blair County, where also his residence was brief. Coming from Blair to Trempealeau County, he bought the farm known as the Tuff farm, now ovmed by Mr. Ackley, and resided on it until it was purchased by Mr. Ackley. Since then he has retired and resides in Blair. His wife Anna died in 1904 at the age of 70 years. Mr. and Mrs. Ackley are the parents of five children: Olaf F., who is a member of the Engineering Corps, now located at Fort Snelling, while Clara, Palmer, Melvin and Selmer reside at home. The family are members of the Norwegian Lutheran Church. ,

Anton Davidson, general farmer and tobacco I'aiser, owning a farm of 160 acres in section 8, Preston Township, was born in Hedemaarken, Norway, June 24, 1868, son of David and Mary Fagerness. He lost his parents when a mere child, and in 1876, as a boy of eight years, set out alone for far-distant America, to join his brother Louis, who had sent for him. Arriving at Westby, Wis., he was met by his brothers, Louis and Hans, and by his uncle, Christopher Stephanson, and was under their care until sixteen years of age. For a time he was engaged as a member of a construction crew, then worked two years for P. S. Davidson of La Crosse as coachman. Then he entered the employ of Capt. L H. Moulton of La Crosse, as coachman, a position in which he remained for over twenty years. Desiring, however, to take up agricultural pursuits, he purchased his present farm from Capt. Moulton in 1897 and moved onto it in 1899. There he has since resided. He has a pleasant home and good barns, including a large well-equipped tobacco shed. He successfully farms, raises the usual crops, breeds good stock and makes a specialty of Spanish Comstock tobacco, of which he sets out from five to ten acres each year. Mr. Davidson was married July 10, 1900, to Sophia Hunter, daughter of John and Christina Hunter, who were born and married in Berlin, Germany, and now farm near Hokah, Minn. Mrs. Davidson died Jan. 21, 1909. In the family there are three children : Daisy, Lottie and Clara, one, Milton, having died at the age of three months. Daisy is a student at the La Crosse normal school. The others are at home.

William Trim, a well to do farmer of Trempealeau Township, was born at Dorchester, England (in the village of Kington), July 1, 1840, son of Thomas and Mary (Hanan) Trim. Both his parents were natives of England. Oct. 2, 1858, William left England for America, in company with a sister, Mrs. Edward Ware and her six children, Mrs. Ware's husband having preceded her to this country a year and a half before, settling in Trempealeau, Wis. Landing at New York they went from there to Toronto, Canada, to await transportation to Trempealeau, for which place they left after a short time. The journey was made by train to Dunleith, 111., and from there to Trempealeau by boat, arriving at 7 o'clock in the morning, Oct. 15, 1858. They found Mr. Ware located at Cal McGilvray's Ferry in Caledonia Township. He had not yet built a house, so they all had to take up their residence in the house of Thomas Ware - a one-roomed log structure, which furnished poor accommodations for 11 people. Finding the space so crowded, on account of which he was unable to sleep, William Triin went over to Mr. Bright's and slept with Robert Bright. His next task was to look for work, and he found it on the farms at threshing, and otherwise helping the farmers, for which he received 50 cents a day. That fall he husked corn at $8 a month and board. During the winter of 1858-59 he split rails with Edward Ware in payment for a cow, and also did whatever work he could get in addition. At times he felt discouraged and homesick and would have returned to England, but had not the means. When he could find no other place to sleep he went to the little shanty which Edward Ware had built for his family, where he could always stay over night, though being somewhat crowded in bed, as he had to sleep with two others. In the spring of 1859 Mr. Trim was engaged by Hollister Wright for one year at $9 a month. He remained with him three years, receiving the second year $10 and the third year $13 a month. Mr. Wright vi'as engaged in general farming and dairying, keeping 12 or 13 cows, and young Trim had to make himself generally useful.

In the spring of 1862 a change occurred in his life, which led him into fields of adventure. The Civil War was then raging and Mr. Trim, tired of the drudgery of farming for no more pay than he would receive as a soldier, enhsted at Galesville, Wis., in Company C, Thirtieth Wisconsin Infantry, being mustered in at Madison. The regiment was ordered to Milwaukee at the time of the draft in November, and remained there until the spring of 1863. They were next sent to New Lisbon, Wis., to prevent an anticipated Indian outbreak, a woman having been killed by the savages in that neighborhood. When the danger was over they were ordered back to Madison and from there sent to Camp Washburn. Jan. 1, 1864, the Thirtieth Regiment took up winter quarters on the shore of Lake Michigan, near Milwaukee, where they remained until the following April. Their next move was to St. Louis, Mo., and in that city they stayed ten days, when they broke camp and proceeded up the Missouri River with orders to build Fort Rice, near Bismark (North) Dakota, 15 miles above the mouth of Cannon Ball River. This duty detained them in that neighborhood until October. While there an emigrant train under command of Captain Fisk, and bound for Virginia City, Idaho, was stopped by Indians at the edge of the "Bad Lands," North Dakota, and an expedition was sent out from Fort Rice for its relief, which Mr. Trim accompanied. This expedition took 20 days, the soldiers marching on foot, escorting an ox train. On the way Tjack, 900 strong, they stopped at the Missouri River, where they built flat boats for transportation and floated down the river to St. Joseph, Mo., having, it may be presumed, received government orders, they proceeded by rail to Louisville, Ky., continuing their movement, Dec. 10, 1864, to Bowling Green, that state, where they were placed to guard the railroad bridge from attacks by the Confederates. Jan. 10, 1865, they returned to Louisville, at which place they were stationed until the close of the war, when they returned to Madison, Wis., to be mustered out.

at which place their wedding occurred Oct. 25, 1863. Mrs. Trim remained with her parents in Trempealeau during the rest of her husband's absence while in military service. In the fall of 1865 Mr. Trim renled a farm consisting of improved land, which now forms a part of his present homestead. On it stood a small frame shanty and a frame barn for a yoke of oxen, and to this place he brought his wife and they began farming operations and housekeeping. By the spring of 1866 he had put in 40 acres of wheat and 20 of corn, by the aid of his ox team, and was congratulating himself on his future prospects, when the June flood of that year wiped out everything, destroying the crops. However, he had $1,000 saved up, the result of his labor and the war bounty he had received, so was not destitute. In the fall he moved to a farm in Pine Creek Township, where he remained two years, having better luck, as here he made up his losses. He then made another removal, this time to an 80-acre farm on Trempealeau prairie, three miles fi'om Centerville, southeast. It was improved land and had a log house on it, and here he and his family remained until 1871. He then traded this farm for 120 acres in Little Tamarac, which land was also improved, the residence being a frame building. Here Mr. Trim built a large barn, and increased the size of the farm by purchasing 182 additional acres, so that he now had a 302-acre farm, this he had bought being adjacent to the original purchase. In 1872 he had a big crop of wheat, and while engaged in threshing it a fii'e broke out and destroyed all his grain - causing him a loss of $800. He was already in debt $4,000 for the land he had bought and was paying 10 per cent interest on the money. This loss temporarily discouraged him and he wanted the man from whom he had bought his farm to take back the land and release him from the debt, but he refused to do so. The only thing Mr. Trim could do, therefore, was to continue and hope for better fortune. He had learned dairying in the old country, so now turned his attention to that, buying all the cows he could pay for, and he and his wife set to work again, beginning at the bottom of the ladder. By this time fate seemed tired of pursuing him. The dairy venture was a success, and he had no more misfortune with his crops. Each year saw his debt reduced, until at the end of six years it was all paid off and he owned his farm of 302 acres, besides having a good cow barn which he had been able to erect. This was the position in which he found himself in 1877, from which year he dates the beginning of his prosperity. Now he began to go ahead in the right dii'ection. By the end of the next year he had saved $1,000, and was able to build a large barn, 96 by 40 by 22 feet, with a cattle barn attached. In the meanwhile he continued in the dairying business and his profits increased from year to year, so that in 1896, when his present farm of 302 acres was put on the market by its then owner he was enabled to purchase it, still retaining the farm he had at Little Tamarac. About this time his son George married and went to live on the Little Tamarac place. Mr. Trim moved onto his present farm in February, 1896, and has since made many improvements on it. He first improved the original residence, but later erected a new frame house, one and a half stories high, with seven rooms, in which he lives, his daughter, Mrs. Nichols, occupying the original building. In addition to this new house he has a nQmber of good buildings, including a frame barn, a large sheep shed, a corn crib, machine shed, poultry houses and hog houses, all in excellent shape. On the farm are also three wells and two windmills, furnishing a complete water system. Mr. Trim is engaged in both general farming and dairying, keeping grade Durham cows; also several horses and a sty of Poland-China hogs. The soil on his farm consists of black loam, with a clay sub-soil, and is very fertile. It has a beautiful location in the valley. In association with his daughter, Mrs. Nichols, Mr. Trim also owns a farm of 316 acres in Big Tamarac, the property being improved and with good buildings. His wife died Jan. 16, 1916, and is buried in Evergreen Cemetery. Their children were George Alvin, Mary Alice, Jane Agnes and Nettie Eldora. George Alvin, born Aug. 2, 1866, at Big Tamarac, is living on the Little Tamarac farm in Trempealeau Township. He married and has seven children : Mary Alice, born Feb. 22, 1869, at Trempealeau Prairie, married James Nichols, and is living on her father's homestead. She has two children: Wilham and Howard. Jane Agnes, born March 13, 1873, died March 19, 1874. Nettie Eldora, born May 26, 1875, is the wife of Milton Pittinger and is living at Big Tamarac. She has a daughter Martha, who is the wife of Guy Kopp, and has a son, Wayne R. - the great-grandson of the subject of this sketch. Mr. Trim was reared strictly in the faith of the Church of England. He is not active in politics, but has always been interested in good local government. His career has been a strenuous one and his success has been well earned.

Gilbert Baalrud, proprietor of a well equipped photographic studio in Whitehall, Wis., was born in Winona, Minn., May 6, 1893. He is son of Eric and Hannah (Hanson) Baalrud. The father, born in Norway, came to America in 1886, locating in Winona, Minn., where he resided four years, subsequently settling in Pigeon Township, Trempealeu County, Wis. In April, 1915, he moved to Chippewa County, where he is now living at the age of 55 years, and is engaged in farming. By his wife Hannah, who is ten years younger than himself, he has had 11 children, of whom all are living but three. Gilbert Baalrud, who was the eldest child of his parents, remained at home until November, 1914, when he began to learn the trade of photographer. In January, 1916, he bought his present studio from C. J. Van Tassel. It is located in a two-story frame building on Main street and is well equipped with everything necessary for artistic work. Although he has been here but a short time, he has begun to make a reputation for himself and his future prospects are promising. Mr. Baalrud was married May 9, 1917, to Agnes Hansen of Preston Township, this county. He is a member of the United Norwegian Lutheran Church and of the Modern Woodmen of America.

The Augustine Brothers have made Whitehall known throughout the United States with their ferret breeding establishments. They raise thousands of the little animals yearly, and sell them extensively for use in eliminating rats, and for hunting rabbits, mink, muskrats, gophers, squirrels, prairie dogs and skunk. In addition to shipping the ferrets far and wide, they issue a pamphlet which contains a valuable treatise on the care and use of the animal. The ferrets from the Augustine Brothers' place are unusually strong and hardy, with sound eyes and feet, and with thick fur. They are of three sizes, large, medium and small, and they are of two colors, the white, which are called English, and the brown, which are called Fitch. All the yearlings have been handled until they are tame and gentle, while the younger ones good for hunting rabbits have not been trained so much. The young men have been in business for a number of years; they are thorough masters of their hne of industry, and they have testimonials from all over the country testfying as to the excellence of their animals, and the honesty and courtesy of their dealings. The firm consists of Frank and Clarence Augustine. They first started raising ferrets in 1902 and have gradually increased their business until they now carry at one time an average of 1,000 to 1,500 animals. They ship about 1,500 each year. They are also constantly importing animals from other reputable dealers in order to avoid inbreeding.

Joseph Augustine, a veteran of the Civil War, and for many years an honored resident of Lincoln Township, was born in West Virginia, Aug. 7, 1841, son of Jacob F. R. and Justina (Null) Augustine. He was reared in Pennsylvania, and in 1862 tendered his services to the Union government as a carpenter. He served through the great conflict as a bridge builder in the armies of General Sherman and General Thomas. At the close of the hostilities he came to Wisconsin in 1865, and for several years divided his time between Eau Claire, where he was employed as a carpenter, and the pine forests of the state, where he was employed as cook. In 1874 he came to Whitehall, where he followed his trade as a carpenter until 1885, when he purchased a farm in Lincoln Township, town 22, range 28, and moved thereon. When he purchased the tract it was covered with timber. He cleared the land, erected buildings, added to his original purchase, and gradually developed his place until he had a splendid estate of 200 acres located in sections 14, 23 and 24, to which he gave the name of Sunny Hill farm. The home, a frame structure of two stories and a basement, with ten good-sized rooms, was erected in 1898. The barn, a frame structure, 40 by 70 feet, was erected in 1906. A silo, 16 by 40 feet, of cement blocks, was constructed in 1908. One of the features of the place is a valuable orchard of two and a half acres. General farming is conducted on a generous scale, and a specialty is made of a fine herd of grade Holstein cattle. Another interesting feature is the production of honey, some thirty colonies of the finest Italian bees being maintained. The sons, Frank and Clarence, under the name of the Augustine Brothers, have made the place widely known through the breeding of ferrets. Mr. Augustine was married in 1868 to Maria Borea, who was born in 1843. She died in 1870, leaving one child, Fannie, who married D. 0. Sweet, a farmer of Whitehall, and died in 1902. March 14, 1874, Mr. Augustine married Francis E. (Mason) Staples. She was born in Litchfield, Conn., March 9, 1846, daughter of Charles S. and Rosetta T. Bissell, natives of Connecticut, and this union was blessed with seven children : Jessie, who died at the age of two years ; Ray, who died at the age of one year; Ernest, who died at the age of two years ; Bessie, a stenographer at St. Paul ; Frank and Clarence, who are at home ; and Charles, who died at the age of nine years. By her marriage to

Emile Francar

W. S. Staples of Kilbourn City, a veteran of Company K, 42nd Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, Mrs. Augustine has three children: Fred M., a hardware merchant of Little Rock, Kan.; Clifford D., a commercial man of St. Paul, and Marcia, who is a clerk in the pension office at Washington, D. C.

Emile Francar, proprietor of a well equipped drug store in Galesville, was born in Red River, Wis., June 25, 1877, son of Anton and Jennie (Lewis) Francar. The father was a native of Belgium, who on coming to this country settled near Green Bay, Wis., where for thirty years or more he was employed by the coopei'age company's plant. He and his wife, who was born in Wallon, Wis., now reside at Green Bay. They had 14 children, of whom Emile was the fifth in order of birth.

Emile Francar was educated in the schools at Green Bay and subsequently took a course in pharmacy, receiving his degree in May, 1898. He resided at home until 1901, when he came to Galesville and associated himself in the drug business with Dr. Edson Rhodes in the Rhodes building. In 1903 he purchased from F. H. Fiedler the Galesville pharmacy, which store he now conducts. This store is one of the Rexall stores. Mr. Francar is one of the successful business men of Galesville. Since coming to this village Mr. Francar has identified himself with the interests of the village and county, taking an active part in different local organizations. He served as trustee on the village board of Galesville, and is at present secretary of the Business Men's Association, and president of the Trempealeau County Fair Association. Mr. Francar was married Nov. 7, 1902, to Clara Langenohl, who was born in Winona, Minn., daughter of Fred and Mary (Webber) Langenohl. Her father, who was a shoe manufacturer, is now deceased. His wife, surviving him, resides in Galesville. Mr. and Mrs. Francar have one child, Genevieve Delphine.

Ole B. Borsheim, president and cashier of "The Home Bank" of Blair, Wis., was born in Mitchell County, Iowa, May 5, 1869, son of Thorkel N, and Brita (Hylden) Borsheim. The father, born in Norway, came to America in 1865, locating in Mitchell County, Iowa, where he engaged in farming and where he died Feb. 6, 1915. He was nearly 81 years old, having been born in April, 1834. His wife Brita still resides on the old farm, having passed her 77th birthday. Ole B. Borsheim was the sixth born of his parents' seven children. After acquiring the elements of knowledge in the local schools, he became clerk in a store at Cresco, Iowa, where he worked four years - from March 3, 1891 to 1895. He then went to Dubuque, where he was employed in the office of John T. Hancock & Sons until September, 1899. At that time he came to Blair and, with H. C. Hjerleid of Decorah, Iowa, started the Home Bank of Blair. Of this institution he was the cashier till July 27, 1912; then president till the fall of 1915, since which time he has been both cashier and president. He is also president of the Trempealeau Valley State Bank of Taylor, Wis., a director of the State Bank of Bowman, N. D., and a director in the Home Lumber Company of Bowman. All these are flourishing concerns conducted by enterprising business men, with whom Mr. Borsheim is pleasantly and profitably associated. Mr. Borsheim has been active in local affairs, having served as vil- lage treasurer eight years and school clerk three years. He is a member of several fraternal orders, belonging to the Blue Lodge and Chapter in the Masons, having passed all the chairs in the Blue Lodge ; the Independent Order of Foresters ; the Modern Woodmen of America, and the B. R. F. F. He was married, Feb. 22, 1905, to Delilah Johnson of Anamosa, Iowa, who was born in Kansas, a daughter of R. W. and Sarah (Burwell) Johnson. Her father followed the mercantile business in Anamosa for many years. Her mother died in 1910 at the age of 56. Mr. and Mrs. Borsheim have no children. They are social people and have many friends in Blair and the vicinity.

Ole J. Anderson, proprietor of the Nordingen farm of 240 acres in section 15, town 23, range 7, Hale Township, was born in Biri, Norway, Oct. 9, 1862, son of John and Pernella (Kalverud) Anderson, who came to America in 1885, the former now making his home with his children, and the latter of whom died in 1911. Ole J. Anderson came to America in 1882 and started work on his. present farm for Ole Faring, who then owned the place, and who had assisted in paying his passage. In 1896 Mr. Anderson bought 80 acres of his present farm. In 1903 he bought the portion of which his home is located. Here he carries on general farming, and raises a good grade of Holstein cattle and Poland-China swine. Taking, as he does, an interest in public affairs, he has served as treasurer of the school board for the past twelve years. The family faith is that of the Norwegian Lutheran Church of America. Mr. Anderson was married Dec. 27, 1890, to Anna Hanvold, born in Coon Valley, Vernon County, Wis., Oct. 17, 1872, daughter of Andrew and Aganetta Hanvold. Mr. and Mrs. Anderson have two children : Adolph, who is at home ; and Palma, who was graduated from the Red Wing Seminary, Red Wing, Minn., Class of 1917.

Knut K. Hagestad. One of the most important industries of Trempealeau County is that of stock raising, of which the subject of this sketch was for many years a leading representative. He was born at Ulvic Hardanger, Bergenstift, Norway, June 26, 1846, his pai-ents, Knut and Cathrina (Richolsen) Hagestad, being natives of the same place. The father, who in Norway was a boat builder, emigrated to America with his family in 1854, settling in Columbia County, Wis. There he remained until 1860, in which year he came to Trempealeau County, taking land which now constitutes the farm lately owned by his son, Knut K., and which he cultivated and developed, residing on it until his death, Aug. 22, 1872. He became a man of influence in the community, serving as treasurer of the school board and in other offices. His wife survived him a few years, dying in May, 1875. Their family consisted of four children, Knut being the first in order of birth. Knut K. Hagestad had but limited educational opportunities, attending school in Columbia County, Wis., for a part of three or four terms only. He accompanied his parents to Trempealeau County, being then 14 years old, and resided at home until he was 18. He then returned to the old home in Columbia County and worked for farmers in that vicinity for about 18 months. Returning to this county in the month of January, he spent the next three months lumbering in the woods, after which he worked at grubbing for his father. By this time he had saved some money and with this he bought two pairs of oxen, and hiring another pair from his father and one from his brother, he engaged in bi'eaking land, among other jobs of this kind turning the first furrow in Lakes Coolie for Lars Jahr, on the farm now owned by H. K. Solberg and John Hogden. After one season at breaking he sold his oxen and engaged in threshing one summer, working in the woods the next fall and winter. From that time until 1872 he followed the carpenter's trade in the summer. In this year his marriage occurred and he then rented his father's farm and operated it on that basis for about a year after his father's death, the estate being as yet unsettled. It subsequently came into his possession and he took up his residence in the original house built of logs, but which was so skillfully constructed by himself that today it appeats like a modern dwelling, the logs not being visible. Mr. Hagestad also erected the main part of the present barn, another excellent piece of work, the building measuring 124 by 32 feet, with a nine-foot basement and 16-foot stockboards, the rock used for the foundations being quarried by him. Starting with 160 acres of land, Mr. Hagestad increased the size of the farm to 228 acres of highly improved land, and his buildings and equipment were and are adequate to the fullest demands of modern farming and stock raising. It was to the latter branch of his business that he devoted his chief attention. When he began agricultural work for himself it was with the desire to raise pure-bred cattle, and in the early eighties he commenced with Shorthorns, purchasing two full-blooded sires. About 1886 he decided that breed of cattle was more suited to beef purposes and consequently would not produce the maximum amount of milk, also that he could not breed them as profitably as he desired. He then bought two fullblooded Holstein heifers and a bull and continued with this breed until his herd had become one of pure-blooded Holstein-Friesian cattle exclusively, which experiment he found highly satisfactory. His original stock was obtained at Libertyvflle, 111., and while there attending a sale he met Mons Anderson, a merchant of La Crosse, who purchased 12 head, and these, with Mr. Hagestad's three head, were shipped together to La Crosse, Mr. Hagestad taking charge of the car. Upon arriving in La Crosse they paraded their stock through the streets, attracting considerable attention, as these were the first Holstein cattle seen in the county or anywhere in the vicinity. Mr. Hagestad became the owner of about 50 head of these cattle, aU fine specimens of the breed. He frequently shipped stock to Texas, Old Mexico and various states of the Union, and in 1903 shipped six head to Japan for breeding purposes. He and his son, Andrew C, for the last 25 years were engaged in breeding pure-blooded Berkshire hogs and S. C. White Leghorn chickens, which he continued to do until his death, April 18, 1917.

Mr. Hagestad was a member and vice-president of the Western Wisconsin's Holstein-Friesian Breeders' Association, and had been a director in the Western Wisconsin Telephone Company from its organization. In addition to the interests mentioned, he was a stockholder in the Ettrick Creamery Company and a stockholder and director in the Home Bank at Blair. Other interests that he had in the Bank of Ettrick he turned over to his son before his death, and was then living practically retired, the son having taken over the management of the farm. Mr. Hagestad was a Republican in politics and during his long and active career took a more or less prominent part in public affairs, serving on the township board, as chairman of the county board, and as representative to the State Assembly during the session of 1889. On June 3, 1872, Mr. Hagestad was united in marriage with Astri Knutson, who was born in Hallingdahl, Norway, daughter of Andres and Astri (Johnson) Knutson. Her parents, who were natives of the same province, came to America in 1860, locating in Trempealeau County, Wis., on land adjoining the Hagestad farm, where Mr. Knutson followed farming and stock raising. He died June 7, 1891, and his wife May 12, 1895. Mrs. Hagestad was the second born of seven children. In her girlhood she attended school in this county, her attendance, however, being limited to about two months each summer, as her services were needed in the household. The children born to Mr. and Mrs. Hagestad are as follows : Knut Martimus, who is a professor in the city schools of Santa Cruz, Calif. ; Andrew C, residing on the home farm ; Albert J., deceased ; Kathrina, also deceased, who was the wife of C. L. Grinde, her husband now residing in Blair, Wis. ; Esther, deceased, who was the wife of Hans Twesme of Galesville; Cora, deceased; Almina, wife of Ove Vetterhaus, residing in South Dakota; Albert, deceased; Clara, wife of John Fillner of Ettrick; William, a graduate of Gale College and of the State Agricultural School at Madison, who is now a farmer near Camp Douglas, Wis. ; Anna, wife of Irving Swenson, a farmer of Ettrick Township ; Cora (second) , a nurse in the Lutheran Hospital at La Crosse ; Hilda, who resides at home, and a child who died in infancy. Mr. Hagestad was a member of the Lutheran church, to which his family also belong. One of the leading men in his line of business in Trempealeau County, he was widely known and highly esteemed. The example he set more than 30 years ago in the breeding of Holstein cattle has since been followed successfully by many other farmers in this region and is now an important branch of the stock raising industry of the county, adding to the sum total of wealth and the general prosperity ; and in this way he was a pubhc benefactor. His activities along this and other lines also conduced to his own benefit, and he was recognized as one of the well-to-do and substantial citizens of the community in which he lived. His wife, an estimable lady, who was to him a worthy helpmate, still resides on the old homestead. Mr. Hagestad for many years took a warm interest in Gale College, becoming president of its board of directors at the time it passed into Lutheran hands.

John Erickson, proprietor of a profitable 200-acre farm located partly in Gale and partly in Ettrick Township, his residence being in section 2, Gale Township, was born at Dramen, Norway, Jan. 9, 1873, son of John and Catherine (Amundson) Erickson, both natives of that locality. Mr. Erickson's parents never came to the United States. The father woi'ked in the woods at lumbering until his death, which occurred when the subject of this sketch was only four months old. The mother is still living in Norway. John Erickson was the only child of his parents and when young was adopted by a family named Berg, whom he accompanied to America when about seven years old. He began working for others at the age of ten, his residence being then in La Crosse, where the Bergs had settled. His usual occupations at this time were herding cows, carrying wood and other easy work, but at the age of 12 he began working for farmers in Lewis Valley, and as he got older and stronger the work became more strenuous, including timber cutting in the north woods and lumber rafting on the river. June 6, 1900, he was married to Rose Dick, who was born at Decorah Prairie, Trempealeau County, daughter of John and Elizabeth (Brant) Dick, her father now residing on a farm near Galesville. For one year after his marriage Mr. Erickson lived with his wife's father in Silver Creek Valley, and at the end of that time took a farm situated not far from his present residence. He was then on the Hewitt farm for five years, after which he purchased his present farm of 200 acres, where he is carrying on general farming and dairying, with profitable results. He is also a stockholder in the Ettrick Creamery Company, the Farmers' Exchange at Galesville and the La Crosse Packing Company, and is counted as one of the substantial and well-to-do citizens of his township. He and his wife are the parents of six children: Alice Elizabeth, Ellen Catherine, Winnie, John Glenn, Ralph William and Donald Victor. At the present time Mr. Erickson is serving in his sixth year as school clerk. In politics he is an independent Republican, while his fraternal affiliations are with the Beavers and Modern Woodmen of America. Mr. Erickson's career is a good example of the value of self-help. Practically self-supporting from an early age, he has worked his way up by courage and resolution, coupled with plenty of hard work, to an honorable position in the community, and is able to give his children much better advantages than he himself received. As he is now in the prime of life he may be expected to enjoy the fruits of his labors for many years to come.

Albert T, Twesme, who is engaged in the general practice of law in Galesville, of which village he is the president, was born in Ettrick Township, Trempealeau County, Wis., Aug. 7, 1879, son of Lars and Begga (Tvedt) Twesme. The parents were both born in Norway, the father Oct. 5, 1843, and the mother Nov. 21, 1841. They were married in their native land and soon afterwards came to the United States, settling in Trempealeau County. Lars Twesme homesteaded a farm in Ettrick Township, which he improved and developed, and on which he resided until 1908, when he retired and took up his residence in Galesville. His wife died here in 1914.

Albert T. Twesme was the sixth born in a family of eight children. He acquired his elementary education in the graded school in Ettrick Township and at the age of 15 years was assisting on his father's farm, which he operated for three years, subsequently continuing his education at Gale College. He then went to Madison, where he took one year preparatory work in the Wisconsin Academy and six years in the University of Wisconsin at Madison, taking the course in law. He was graduated Bachelor of Arts in 1906 and from the law department in 1908, and then began the practice of his profession in Galesville, where he has since remained. He has gained a good reputation as a reliable lawyer and is a stockholder in several business enterprises, besides being the owner of a number of farms, all of which are rented except one. In 1908 Mr. Twesme served as a member of the state assembly ; he was elected president of the village of Galesville in 1915-16-17. In politics he is a stalwart Republican.

Mr. Twesme was married, Nov. 4, 1909, to Miss Lulu Burns, who was born in Trempealeau County, daughter of Delbert C. and Lunetta (French) Burns. She is of Scotch-English descent. Her father, who was born in Trempealeau County, and was a farmer in the county for many years, died in 1908. He was a prominent citizen and at various times held local office. His widow is now living in Winona, Minn. Mr. and Mrs. Twesme have one child: Albert Luverne, who was born May 4, 1914. Mr. Twesme keeps up his membership in his college fraternity of Alpha Tau Omega, and is a Chapter Mason and a member of the fraternal orders of the Elks and Beavers.

Nels J. Twesme, who is living practically retired on a small farm in section 15 E, Ettrick Township, was born in Hardanger, Norway, Nov. 7, 1847, son of Jone Larson and Anna (Matson) Larson. His parents, who were natives of the same province in Norway, emigrated to the United States in 1869, but the father died on the voyage and was buried at sea. His wife, with her daughter, continued on to Trempealeau County, Wis., settling on Beaver Creek, Ettrick Township, where she lived many years, passing away in 1905. She and her husband had five children, of whom Nels J. was the fourth born.

Nels J. Twesme was educated in his native land and was only ten years old when he began to earn money by tending goats, subsequently working on farms for six or seven years. He then took to the sea, making coastwise voyages as a sailor for some five years. In 1869 he came to this countrj% locating on Beaver Creek and for two years thereafter worked as a farm hand. At the end of that time he bought a farm, which was located near his present farm in Ettrick Township and began its cultivation, with the aid of an ox team, using oxen on his farm for many years subsequently. He was unable at first to speak English, but gradually acquired a knowledge of the language by associating with English-speaking people. After spending some 36 or 37 years on that farm, Mr. Twesme sold it to his children and bought his present small farm of 20 acres, where he is keeping a few cows, pigs and chickens, which he can take care of without too much work. This rural life he prefers to living in town, where he would have nothing to do. He is also a stockholder in the Ettrick Creamery and in the Telephone Company.

April 12, 1869, Mr. Twesme was united in marriage with Ranveig Larson, who was born in Hardanger, Norway, daughter of Lars and Ranveig Longesetter Larson, natives of that place, where the father was engaged in farming. Her parents remained in their native land and are now deceased. Mrs. Twesme, who was one of two children born to her parents, was educated in Norway, where also she and her husband were married while he was on a visit to his native land. Mr. and Mrs. Twesme are the parents of five children: John, unmarried and a carpenter by trade, who resides with his parents ; Randena, wife of Thomas Halven, residing on a farm in Jackson County, their home being only two miles from the Twesme residence; Louis, engaged in the x'eal estate business in Chicago, who married Miss Charlotte Kravick of Dane County, Wis. ; Edward, who lives on a part of the old farm in Ettrick Township, and Thea, wife of Cornelius Davis. Mr. Twesme and family are members of the Lutheran Synod Church. In pohtics he is an independent Republican, but has not been active in public affairs.

Christian Amundsen was born in Norway May 25, 1862, and has lived in Hale Township since 1869, when he was brought here from Norway by his parents, Amund and Thea (Halvorson) Amundson. He was reared on the Lars Eide farm, and in 1889 purchased a farm of 160 acres located in sections 4, 8 and 9. Later he purchased 40 more, making 200 acres, to which he has since devoted his attention. His present home, a frame structure of ten rooms, with two stories and a basement, was erected in 1900, while in 1915 the barn was rebuilt, 50 by 60 feet, with cement floors, and a frame silo 26 by 14 feet. The herd on the farm consists of grade Holstein cattle. Mr. Amundson was married May 30, 1885, to Caroline Eide, who was born in Norway, April 28, 1866, daughter of John and Ellen (Gurilokken) Eide, and this union has been blessed with twelve children. Aimer married Clara Fransen, a farmer of Hale Township. They have two children: Frederick and LueUa. Thea married Ellert Eleven, a farmer of Unity Township ; one child Evelyn was born. Louise married Ole Gullicksrud, a clerk in the store of Robbe & Myhre, at Strum; one child Leonard was born. Joseph married Myrtle Bradison and farms in Saskatchewan, Canada; they have one son. Clara died at the age of 12 years; Hannah, who was a teacher, is now Mrs. H. George Peterson of Wyoming ; William, Tillie, Ludwig, Martin, Leona and Viola are at home.

Lars Eide, who is engaged in agricultural operation of a farm of 275 acres in section 4-8, Hale Township, was born in Rumsdale, Norway, April 8, 1869. His parents were John and Ellen (Larson) Eide, both natives of Norway. John Eide, who was born in 1843, came to America with his wife and family in 1882, locating on 160 acres of land, constituting the northeast quarter of section 5, Hale Township, this county, where he followed farming until his death in 1908. His wife, who was born in 1835, died in the spring of 1910. Lars Eide arrived in the United States in 1883 and from that time to 1886 lived on the farm with his father. He then went to Glasgow, Mont., where for three years he was engaged in the cattle business. Then, returning home, he worked out four years for others. Resolving to engage in agriculture on his own account, he rented his present farm from A. Amundson and began operations. In 1890 he bought that part of the farm lying in section 4, and in 1893 purchased the remainder, which is located in section 8, and has since resided here engaged in general farming. He has made a number of improvements on the place, thereby increasing its value and is doing a successful and profitable business. In 1909 Mr. Eide built a good house of 10 rooms, consisting of two stories and basement; and in 1915 he erected a barn and silo, the former measuring 36 by 94 by 16 feet, with a basement 60 feet long, provided with cement floors and 40 steel stanchions. His silo is 12 by 32 feet. His herd of cattle numbers 40 head, of which he milks 20. For two years he has served as township supervisor. Mr. Eide was married May 22, 1896, to Clara Amundson, who was born on Mr. Eide's present farm May 9, 1873, a daughter of Amund and Thea (Halvorson) Amundson. Her father, who was a pioneer of Bruce Valley, died on this farm in 1912 at the age of 881/2 years, his wife having passed away in the spring of 1897 at the age of 62. They were worthy people, who during their long career in this negihborhood had made many friends and were universally respected. Mr. and Mrs. Eide are the parents of five children: Theodore, Emma, Jennie, Arnold and Lillie, all of whom are living at home with their parents. The family are members of the Norwegian Lutheran Church of America, of which Mr. Eide was treasurer for three years.

Cullen A. Thomas, proprietor of Evergreen Park Farm, in section 8, Gale Township, was born at Mineral Point, Wis., July 11, 1876, son of Peter and Leah (Ayer) Thomas. The father, who was born in Germany, came to the United States with his parents when a small boy and was reared in southern Wisconsin. In early manhood he was engaged in mining, but later took up farming. In 1881 his family came to Trempealeau County, having previously resided for a year at Onalaska, La Crosse County, and Peter Thomas engaged in farming near Galesville, and continued in that occupation at the same location for a number of years, dying in Galesville in 1914. His wife Leah, who was a native of the state of Maine, died in Galesville in 1909. They had nine children, Cullen A. being the fourth born.

Cullen A. Thomas was educated in Gale Township, attending school first at Decorah Prairie and afterwards at Frenchville. He resided at home with his parents until he was 22 years old, working on the home farm, and then going to Whitehall engaged in the livery business. After being thus occupied for two years he returned to the farm and has since remained on it, it having come into his possession. It contain 80 acres on which he raises the usual crops cultivated in this region, carrying on general farming. He is also a stockholder in the La Crosse Packing Company and in the Independent Harvester Company of Piano, 111.

Mr. Thomas was married, Feb. 28, 1910, to Nelhe Garrett, who was born in Sussex, Wis., Sept. 10, 1885, daughter of Henry and Sarah (Taylor) Garrett. Her father was born at Scott, Sheboygan County, Wis., Nov. 24, 1857, and her mother in Brookfield, Wis., March 22, 1861. The maternal grandmother of Mrs. Thomas, Mrs. Richard Taylor, came to Trempealeau County about 1881 and resided in the county until about 1907. She died in Milwaukee, Wis., in 1915. Henry Garrett for a number of years was engaged in operating a creamery and cheese factory in Sussex, and at one time also conducted a meat market at Pewaukee. He moved to Milwaukee in 1891 and worked there at the carpenter's trade. He is now engaged in farming at South Milwaukee, Wis. He and his wife were the parents of four children, of whom Nellie was the third born. Mr. and Mrs. Thomas have a family of four children: Henry Fred, Sarah Ann, Elsie Marie nad Oscar Franklin. In politics Mr. Thomas is a Democrat, but so far has taken no part in local government affairs, having been too busy to give much attention to politics.

Ole Erickson, proprietor of the Rumpel farm of 223 acres, in section 36, township 23 north, range 8 west, Hale Township, was born in Soler, Norway, Oct. 20, 1859. His father, Eric Olson, died in Norway, as did also his mother, whose maiden name was Oleana Thorsonsdatter. In 1884, when in his 25th year, Ole Erickson left his native land for the United States, and on landing in this country proceeded west to Wisconsin, where so many of his countrymen had already settled and were aiding in the development of the great Northwest. Locating in Blair, Trempealeau County, he worked out for others for three years, in the meanwhile saving his money and looking forward to the day when he would be able to start in for himself. As soon as a good opportunity occurred of which he could take advantage he bought a farm in Lincoln Township and was engaged in agricultural operations there until March, 1896. He then sold that farm and purchased the one he now owns, which is a desirable piece of agricultural property and where he is carrying on general farming and stock raising on a profitable basis. In 1910 he built his present residence, a two-story and basement, brick veneer structure of ten rooms, with furnace heat, running water and gasohne lights. He had erected a barn in 1901, which, however, was blown down in 1914 during a violent storm. In the following year the present barn on its site, a structure 36 by 48 by 12 feet in dimensions above concrete basement with cement floors. He has also a good stave silo, 12 by 42 feet in size. Mr. Erickson keeps 25 head of graded Holstein cattle, of which he milks 20; also 50 head of hogs and a large flock of Plymouth Rock chickens. He served as township treasurer two years and has been a director of the school board 15 years. Aside from his immediate farming interests, he is a stockholder in the Pigeon Grain & Stock Company and in the Whitehall Hospital. Oct. 5, 1887, he was married to Annie M. Engen of Whitehall, Wis., who was born in Norway, Sept. 29, 1863, daughter of Martin and Marthia (Anderson) Engen. Her father now lives on the farm with his daughter and son-in-law, and is a widower, his wife having died in 1893 at the age of 53 years Mr. and Mrs. Erickson have had ten children born to them, of whom two are deceased. The record of the family, given in brief, is as follows : Emma, born Feb. 21, 1889, died Aug. 5, 1890 ; Hilman, born Jan. 25, 1890, who owns a farm in Pigeon Township; Emma, born March 18, 1891, also at home; Amanda, born Sept. 6, 1894, who is the wife of Ralph Cook, a farmer of Charles City, Iowa, and the mother of one child, Evelyn ; Olga, born March 30, 1897, and Ida, born June 18, 1898, both living at home ; Carl, also born June 18, 1898, a twin brother of Ida, who died Sept. 1, 1898 ; Ole M., born Feb. 19, 1902; Carl, born June 16, 1904, and Marvin Ole, born March 20, 1910, all three of whom, being children, live at home with their parents. Religiously the family are affiliated with the Norwegian Lutheran Church of America.

James McDonah came to Trempealeau County as a boy in 1857, and took his part in the pioneer life of two states, Wisconsin and Minnesota. He was born in Holland, Orleans County, Vermont, April 4, 1843, son of Thomas and EUza (McMahon) McDonah. Thomas McDonah was born in the North of Ireland, came to America as a young man, served in the War of 1812, and established his home in Vermont on the banks of Lake Champlain, where he died in 1850. William McDonah, a son of Thomas and a brother of James, came to Trempealeau County in 1854, and located at Centerville on the present site of Winter's store. There he was joined by James and the widowed mother, who made the trip from Vermont to Dubuque, Iowa, by rail, and from there to Monteville, now Trempealeau, by boat, arriving in Centerville Oct. 27, 1857. James had attended school in Vermont, and had worked during the summer season for $4 a month. In Trempealeau County he attended school in the log schoolhouse in district 9 for a while, and then started work for William Lee, a farmer on Trempealeau prairie, with whom he Worked the first three years for $8 a month. At the age of twenty-one he purchased a horse team and a wagon and engaged for a time in trucking. Then he went to Blue Earth County, Minnesota, and was there married June 4, 1877, to Jennie Adams, daughter of William and Jane Adams of Mankato. The young couple took up their residence in Trempealeau County, where he had previously acquired 80 acres in section 33, and 30 acres in section 3, Trempealeau Township. Blue Earth County, however, still appealed strongly to them, so they sold their Wisconsin holdings, and bought 160 acres in Pleasant Township, in that county. They set at work with a will, erected a home, and broke about 100 acres of land. But the grasshoppers devoured the crops, and then came the blight. Discouraged, Mr. McDonah again came to Trempealeau County and bought 320 acres, four miles from Centerville, on the west side of the Big Tamarac Valley, from Charles Cleveland. Eight years later Mr. McDonah purchased the James Sherman place of 200 acres in Caledonia Township, where he still resides. The place was partly improved, and a small house and a hay shed had been erected. Mr. McDonah set at work with a will, aided by his good wife, and their efforts won for them a well deserved success. The original 200 acres has been increased to 535 acres, the house has been enlarged and improved, a horse and cattle barn has been erected, as well as a hay barn, with other sheds and outbuildings. Here, assisted by his son Elba, who has charge of the place, and by his sons, Arthur and Hugh, he carries on general farming and dairying, keeping a good herd of Durham and Hereford cattle, and selling cream to the Galesville creamery, as well as breeding a good drove of Poland-China swine. For 27 years Mr. McDonah was an extensive buyer and shipper of cattle, and in that line he still continues to a certain extent. At the age of seventy-three he is hale and hearty, capable of doing a better day's work than many a much younger man. The home of Mr. and Mrs. McDonah has been blessed with five sons: Perry, Arthur, Elba, Walter and Hugh. Perry was born Aug. 15, 1881, married an attractive young lady, and was in the prime of his career when stricken with black diphtheria at St. Paul, June 27, 1910. He is buried in Evergreen cemetery at Centerville. Arthur was born Oct. 20, 1883, and lives at home. He owns 200 acres of his father's original farm, one-half a mile southwest of the parental home. Elba was born June 8, 1886, and manages his father's farm. Walter was born Nov. 8, 1888, is married, and operates his brother Arthur's farm. Hugh was born Aug. 12, 1894, and lives at home and helps operate the farm. The two oldest were born in Dodge Township and the three youngest in Caledonia Township. Mrs. McDonah, who for so many years shared the joys and sorrows of her husband's life, is the second child born in Trempealeau County. Her parents, William and Jane Adams, came to Trempealeau County from Baraboo, Wis., in 1853, with the McGilvi'ay family, and from here moved to Mankato. The good mother of James McDonah, who brought him to this state, died in Centerville, Trempealeau Township in 1875, at the home of her son-in-law, Henry Carter.

Arthur P. Tibbitts, an elderly resident of Galesville, where he is now living retired after a long and active life, which included military service during the Civil War, was born in the state of Maine, Jan. 8, 1840, son of Benjamin and Sarah (Clark) Tibbitts. Both parents were born in the state of Maine, the father being a farmer. They came to Wisconsin in 1846, settling at Hingham, Sheboygan County, where the father died in 1873 and the mother in 1880. They had nine children, of whom three are now living, Arthur P. being the seventh of the family.

Arthur P. Tibbitts attended school in Hingham, Wis., and lived at home until he was 18 years old. He then worked out as a farm hand until he enlisted in Sheboygan County, Oct. 1, 1861, in the First Wisconsin Infantry, Company I, as sergeant. When in the battle of Perrysville, Ky., he was wounded in the throat by a spent shell on Sept. 20, 1863. While engaged in the battle of Chickamauga he was wounded by a solid shot weighing a quarter of a pound, which cut off three ribs from the spine and lodged in the liver. He was taken prisoner that night and laid on the field ten days without medical attention, when he was parolled and taken to the hospital at Chattanooga. There he remained until December, when he was sent north to Murphysboro, Tenn, and two weeks later received a furlough to come home, although he was still a parolled prisoner. He remained home until May 7, 1864, when he was ordered to Camp Chase, Ohio, where he was exchanged, remaining at Camp Chase until about the time of the expiration of his term of enlistment. He took part in the following battles : Perrysville, Stone River, Bailey's Cross Roads, Hoover's Gap, McLaMoor's Cave, Chickamauga, and several minor battles and skirmishes. Then returning home, he engaged in farming, and also for a while worked in a mill at Black River. Going from there to eastern Wisconsin, he resided on a small farm there until 1874, when he came to Galesville, Wis. Here he engaged in business as builder and contractor, and among the various business blocks he erected was the building in which the Bank of Galesville is located. Mr. Tibbitts continued in business as contractor until 1915, when he retired and has since been unemployed, enjoying the fruits of his years of industry. He owns 15 acres of very valuable land adjacent to the main street of Galesville and is a stockholder in the Galesville Implement Company. He belongs fraternally to the Good Templars and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. Mr. Tibbitts is a Republican in politics. In the past he has taken part in local government, serving as assessor six years, as a member of the board of education 12 years and as mayor of Galesville one term.

Hardie, who was born in Scotland, daughter of James and Margaret (Bibby) Hardie, natives of Glasgow, Scotland, who came to America in 1852 and located in Maryland. Two years later the Hardies came to Trempealeau County, Wisconsin, where they were the first settlers in what is now known as Hardie's Creek, which took its name from them. Here James Hardie cleared and improved a piece of land which he had purchased two years before. He resided there until 1889, a year after his wife's death, when he took up his residence with his daughter Margaret (Mrs. Tibbitts), with whom he remained until his death in 1908. He was a prominent man in the town for manj- years, serving as a member of the board of education. Mrs. Margaret Tibbitts was educated in the schools of Glasgow, Scotland, and at Galesville University. She and her husband have one child, James Ernest, who is a proofreader in the War Department at Washington, D. C. He married Ella Chase of DeSota, Wis., and has one child, Gordon Chase, who at 17 years of age was graduated from the McKinley school at Washington, D. C, his adaptability along literary lines being such that he was chosen by the school as editor-in-chief of the school paper, of which he was editor at the time of his graduation.

Henry M. Hanson, who is profitably engaged in operating the Beswick farm of 100 acres in section 17, Preston Township, was born March 6, 1873, son of Martin and Olea (Stutrud) Hanson. The father, whose full name, in accordance with the Norwegian system of family nomenclature, was Martin Hanson Skyrud, was born in Norway, Jan. 10, 1836, and came to America April 27, 1862. He settled on land in section 17, Preston Township, Trempealeau County, Wis., and engaged in agriculture, undergoing all the hardships of pioneer hfe, but in time developing a good farm. Here he 'died Sept. 5, 1912. His wife Olea, who was born in Norway, Dec. 30, 1836, died April 4, 1892. They had a family of 13 children: Dorthea, born Nov. 11, 1860. who died July 21, 1862; Henry, born Dec. 5, 1862, who died Dec. 6. 1863; Morris, born April 1, 1864, who is now registrar of deeds of Trempealeau County; Karen Dorthea, born Aug. 30, 186-5, who married Albert J. Halvorson, a farmer near Blair, now deceased, and died Dec. 1, 1900 ; Hannah Berthine, born Feb. 14, 1868, wife of P. T. Herreid, a hardware merchant of Blair; Marie, born Oct. 31, 1869, who died Oct. 31, 1873; Madts, born June 26, 1871, a farmer hving near Blair; Marie Ohve, bom April 2, 1875, who is a trained nurse in Chicago; Clara Thine, born Nov. 1, 1876, who married Joseph Johnson, a railroad employee of Superior, Wis.; Alph Lawrence, born Nov. 21, now proprietor of a general store at Sonora, Minn.; Theodore, born April 5, 1881, now a farmer near Blair, and Tilda Rosiana, born June 23, 1883, who married Joseph Halvorson, a dentist of Galesville, Wis. Henry M. Hanson resided at home and worked for his father on the farm in section 17, Preston Township, until his marriage, Feb. 22, 1903, to Susan E. Beswick, daughter of Chester and Anjenette (Thurston) Beswick. He then took charge of the farm on which he is now living, for his wife's father, and has since operated it successfully. It is well improved and provided with a fine eight-room residence, large barns and other necessary buildings. A sketch of the Beswick family may be found elsewhere in this volume.

George L. Solberg, one of the leading business men of the village of Blair, where he is proprietor of two stores, was born in Toten, Norway, March 6, 1866. His father was Andrew L. Solberg and his mother in maidenhood Brit J. Hestdahlen. They came to the United States in 1867, Andrew L. Solberg homesteading land in Preston Township in the following year, and there he resided until his death in 1914 at the age of 79 years. His wife died Dec. 26, 1915, at the age of 82. They were members of the Synod Norwegian Lutheran Church. George L. Solberg was an infant about one year old when he accompanied his parents to this country. He attended the local schools and resided with his parents until he was 22 years of age. In 1888 he began industrial life as clerk in the store of the Blair Trading Association and was thus occupied for seven years. Then in company with 0. F. Immel he opened a general store in Blair under the firm name of Immel & Solberg and they conducted the business together from 1895 to 1897, in the latter year Mr. Solberg buying out his partner, since which time it has been conducted under the name of G. L. Solberg. In 1911 Mr. Solberg opened another store in Blair, where he handles clothing and men's furnishings. Both his stores are doing a good business and his trade is gradually growing. He is also vice-president of the Home Bank of Blair, and is a member of the society of Sons of Norway.

Mr. Solberg was married Oct. 17, 1895, to Minnie Johnson, who was born in Arcadia Township, April 4, 1873, daughter of Edward and Marie Johnson. Her parents came to America from Norway about 1870, settling in Arcadia Township, this county, where Mr. Johnson engaged in farming. Mr. and Mrs. Solberg have no children. Some of his brothers and sisters, however, are living, the complete list of his parents' family being as follows: Augusta, wife of L. A. Larson, a farmer of Buffalo County; Inge Maria, now Mrs. Otto- A. Hogen of Fargo, N. D. ; Laura, who died unmarried at the age of 23 years ; George L. ; Olaf , a farmer in Jackson County ; Henry, a farmer on the old homestead in Preston Township; Albert, who was a jeweler in Blair, who died in 1908 at the age of 33 years ; Oscar and Adolph. twins, both of whom died at the age of 11 months; Aletta Ovedia, who died at the age of fo; r years and eight months, and Clara, who is the wife of Hellik Olson, a farmer of Preston TowTiship.

Reinhold SielafF, a retired farmer of section 6, Pigeon Township, was born in Pomerania, Germany, Jan. 3, 1850, son of Paul and Maria (Tietz) Sielaff. Both parents died in Germany, the father in 1873, at the age of 72 years, and the mother in 1853 at the age of 40. Reinhold Sielaff followed a seafaring life from the age of 14 to that of 22 years. In 1872 he came to America, locating in New York City, where he worked four years in a piano factory. While there he was married, Aug. 30, 1874, to Wilhelmina Schwolow, who was born in Germany June 6, 1849, daughter of Ernst Schwolow. After leaving New York Mr. Sielaff came to Wisconsin and homesteaded 160 acres in section 6, Pigeon Township, Trempealeau County, which place has been his home ever since. He and his wife have had ten children: Charles, who is now the owner of the homestead;

Johanna, wife of Fred Welke, a farmer of Eau Claire County ; Lena, who married C. F. W. Seiler ; Ida, who married Carl Knudtson, a farmer of Hale Township ; Bertha, wife of Edward Schroeder, also a farmer of Hale Township ; Paul, residing at home ; Fred, who is farming in Hale Township ; Clara, living at home; Alvina, wife of Paul Schroeder, a farmer of Hale Township, and Hermina, residing at home. Mr. Sielaff is a member of the German Lutheran Church, of which he has been president and trustee for many years. Mrs. Sielaff died September, 1909.

Paul Olson Strum, one of the older members of the farming community in Preston Township, having a farm of 70 acres in section 16, has been engaged in agriculture here for more than half a century. He was born in Osterdalen, Norway, Jan. 7, 1843, son of Ole Olson Strum by his wife Bertha Paulson. The father was born in Norway in 1808 and came to America in 1852, locating in Porter County, Pa., where he lived for six years. He then came west to Wisconsin, settling in La Crosse County, near Onalaska, which place he made his home for five years. After that he I'emoved with his family to Trempealeau County. His death took place at Blair Feb. 8, 1879. His wife Bertha survived him about 15 years, dying in 1894 at the age of 80. Paul Olson Strum came to this country from Norway in 1854, accompanying his brother and sister. He was in his nineteenth year when he enlisted, in September, 1861, in Company L, Eighth Wisconsin Infantry, with which organization he served three years in the Civil War. On May 22, 1863, he was wounded in the right arm while taking part with Grant's army in the Siege of Vicksburg, and in addition to this experience he took part in other actions near Vicksburg, in the battles of Corinth, Jackson, Miss., Memphis and other places. On his return home after the war, in 1865, he bought his present farm, his parents making their residence with him, and here he has since remained, having spent the intervening time, half a century or more, in improving his property. The results of his work are apparent in the well tilled acres and neat and substantial buildings, indicating thrift and prosperity, which attract the attention of the passer-by. Having for many years possessed the full confidence and esteem of his fellow townsmen, Mr. Strum has at different times been called upon to aid in the administration of the town government, and thus served six years as supervisor and ten years as township treasurer. He was also assessor of the village of Blair two years and a member of the village council one year, in these various offices showing good natural ability and sound judgment. During the present year - 1917 - Mr. Strum will celebrate his golden wedding anniversary, as he was married July 20, 1867, to Serena Olson Tappen, who was born in Soler, Norway, daughter of Ole Olson Tappen and Elizabeth Embretson. He and his wife have had a large family, numbering 13 children, two of whom are now deceased. Their record in brief is as follows: Olaus, born Aug. 18, 1868, who is a farmer in Preston Township, this county; Bert C, born Nov. 10, 1870, who died in 1871; Ehzabeth, born Sept. 26, 1872, who married Ole Munson of Winona, Minn.; Olaf, born Aug. 27, 1874, who is now living in Duluth, Minn.; Bertha, born April 15, 1876, who died April 30, 1876; Bart, born Feb. 26, 1878, now living in Comstock, Minn. ; Amanda, born Feb. 23, 1881, who married Ted Johnson of Coolidge, N. D. ; Selma, born March 15, 1883, wife of Ole Rennung of Blair, Wis. ; Edwin, born Oct. 27, 1887, who lives on the home farm ; Clara, born March 22, 1890, now assistant postmaster at Blair; Alice, born Feb. 18, 1893, who married Norman Henderson, resides in Henneford, N. D., and has one child, Lillian, born May 19, 1915; Albert, born Dec. 1, 1887, at home; Herman, born Nov. 17, 1895, also living on the home farm. The Strum family are members of the United Norwegian Lutheran Church, of which Mr. Strum has been a trustee for a number of years. Since casting in his lot with this community so many years ago, Mr. Strum has seen many great and beneficial changes in his surroundings. Much or most of the land was then wild and newcomers had to make all their own improvements, breaking the soil with oxen and erecting rude log houses, or rather cabins, in which to live, while their barns and other buildings were of the most primitive description. Such roads as then existed were bad, and at times hardly passable and it was hard to get their crops to market or procure supplies. Many of the early settlers at times went hungry, or subsisted on such game and fish as they might be able to shoot or catch, together with a little cornmeal. Now smiling farms are seen on every hand, with large, substantial barns and handsome residences provided with all modern conveniences, such as the city dweller enjoys. The roads are much improved and more numerous and markets easy of access, except in severe winter weather. Most of the farmers own automobiles and their children are able to attend high school or even college, if they so desire, so that all the conveniences and luxuries of advanced civilization have been brought, so to speak, to the farmer's door. To see all these changes is a privilege that not all of the pioneers enjoyed, Mr. Strum being among the few in this county who have lived to witness them and to participate in their benefits during his declining years.

Marenius M. Scarseth, who up to the time of his death, Aug. 25, 1911, was engaged in operating a farm of 160 acres in sections 21 and 28 E, Gale Township, was born in this township Feb. 5, 1867. His parents were Martinus M. and Kari (Knudson) Scarseth, both natives of Biri, Norway, who were married in Wisconsin. They were early settlers in Gale Township, Mr. Scarseth carrying on a farm on Decorah Prairie. He died July 4, 1910. His wife survived him little over a month, her death taking place Aug. 8, the same year. Marenius M. Scarseth was the second born in a family of four children. In his boyhood he attended the district school at Glasgow, Gale Township, but began industrial life at an early age, beginning to work out on farms when 14 years old. He continued to be thus occupied until his marriage, at which time he purchased the farm which was his home until his death. He was an active, industrious man, highly esteemed by his neighbors and his passing away in middle life was widely regretted. In addition to his farm he owned 27 acres of woodland on the river. Sept. 17, 1891, Mr. Scarseth was united in marriage with Clara Evenson, who was born in Biri, Norway, daughter of Bent and Lena (Ekern) Evenson. He and his wife are the parents of three children: Ella, wife of Elmer Evenson ; Alice Lenora and Milton Bernard. Mrs. Scarseth still resides on the homestead. In politics Mr. Scarseth was independent.

and though he gave his chief attention to his farm, he served as school treasurer for a number of years and took an active interest in the progress and development of the community in which he lived. The family are members of the Lutheran church.