Vernon County, Wisconsin - Biographical sketches (1 of 6 so headed), 1884
From History of Vernon County, Wisconsin, Together with Sketches of Its Towns, Villages and Townships, Educational, Civil, Military and Political History; Portraits of Prominent Persons, and Biographies of Representative Citizens; History of Wisconsin.., published 1884. 11,092 words, reproduced complete and unedited. Source changes inside the text are labelled in place.
Contents
6 sectionsThe section headings the book prints inside this chapter. Each one jumps to where it begins.
The text
11,092 wordsMachine-read from scans of History of Vernon County, Wisconsin, Together with Sketches of Its Towns, Villages and Townships, Educational, Civil, Military and Political History; Portraits of Prominent Persons, and Biographies of Representative Citizens; History of Wisconsin.., published 1884. Nothing has been corrected: fixing what looks like a misspelled name is how an invented one gets published. Source changes are marked where they occur.
Biographical sketches
he removed to Prairie du Chien, Wis., and lived there for two years. In 1850 he settled near Springville, in the town of Jefferson, and since then has resided in several different townships, lie has followed boating most of his life. Mr. Cox was a member of the 1st Wisconsin Battery during the late war, and was honorably discharged in 1865. He was married, in 1855, to Matilda Powell. Of their four children, two are living - Sherman and Eddie. Roscoe and Rosa are deceased. Mr. Cox lost his wife in 1871, and in 1874 married Caroline Oliver. He owns two lots in the city of La Crosse, Wis , and his wife owns sixty acres of land in the town of Genoa, and three lots in the village of Genoa.
John Ott, one of the pioneers of the town of Genoa, was born in Germany, in 1820. When ten years of age he came to America with his parents and they first settled in Butler Co., Penn. Mr. Ott remained there for twentythree years, growing to manhood and obtaining a good common school education. In 1853 he came to Vernon Co., Wis., and finally entered forty acres of land on section 34, in town 13 north, and range 7 west, which subseijuently became the town of Genoa. The country was new and sparsely inhabited, and the trials and privations of a pioneer life were many. ]Mr. Ott was willing to accept his shaie of hard work and labored manfully, early and late, to clear the farm and make a home for his family. His landed possessions increased slowly and he now owns 200 acres. In 1840 he was married in Pennsylvania to Barbara Smith. This union was blessed with four children, three of whom are living - Henry, Mary, wife of Lemuel Gorman, and Charles, who mariied Clementina Monti. Samuel is deceased. Mrs. Ott died in 1877, and in 1881, Mr. Ott was ;igain married to Catharine Lupi.
Elias Shisler has been a resident of Genoa town for twenty-nine years. He was born in Perry Co., Ohio, Feb. 12, 1827, and was married to Nancy Barnes March 27, 1844. After this union he removed with his family to Allamakee Co., Inwa, resided there two years and assisted in the smvey of the county. He then came to Bad Ax (now Vernon) county, and located in the village of Victory, town of Wheatland, and while a resident there served as chairman of the board of town trustees, and two years as constable. He has resided in the town of Genoa since it was organized as a town, and after traveling over fourteen States and three territories has arrived at the conclusion that Vernon county meets his approval better than any county he has ever visited. Mr. Shisler has been thrice married. His second wife was Eliza Conroad. They were married Nov. 5, 1855. He had one child by his first marriage, four by the second union and three children by his present wife, all dead but one son of the second wife, Amos by name.
['"erdinand Guscetti, who lives on section 28, came to this town in 1855. He was living in Jo Daviess Co., 111., and there carried on the manufacture of wagons. At the earnest solicitation of Joseph Monti, of this town, he was induced to come to Genoa and became a settler in 1855. He located in Genoa village when the country around was quite a wilderness and was a wagon maker there for many years. He finally sold his shop and bought eighty-two acres of land on section 28, where he now lives. In 1864 Mr. Guscetti enlisted in the 1st Wisconsin Heavy Artillery and served through the war. He was married in 1840 to Mary Buffi. Of seven children born to them only three are living - Matthew, Juliett, wife of Daniel Biih, and Catharine.
Charles Brown, who was one of the early settler of the town of Genoa, was born in Ireland, in 1829, and in 1849 emigrated to the United Slates, and first settled in the city of NewTork. lie followed boating from that port to New Or- Kans for two years and then moved to White Co., Ind., but not being satisfied, went still further west, and located in Lake Co., 111., wliere he remained two years, and then removed to Genoa, and entered forty acres of land on section 20, where he still resides. Mr. Brown has increased his farm to 120 acres. He was united in marriage in 1855 to Mary Campbell. They have seven children - John, Isabella, .Margaret, Franklin, William, Irena and Roniauso. Mr. Brown was a member of the 18th regiment of Wisconsin Volunteers, having enlisted in 1864, ad discharged in 1805. His father, John Brown, was born in 1800 and is now living in Scotland.
Charles Ott, who came to the town of (-lenoa when but nine j'ears of age, was born in Butler Co., Peiin., in 1847. His parents, John and Bai hara (Smith) Ott, are natives respectively of Germany and Pennsylvania. When si.\ years of age he came to Vernon county with his parents, and in 1856 located here. Mr. Ott has always been engaged in farming, and owns 180 acres of land on section 23, under a high state of cultivation. He has been snpei'vi^or of roads since 1880. Mr. Ott was united in marriage, in 1872, to Clementina Monti, of this town. 'I'hey are the ]iarents of four children - Ida V., Mary R , Jessie E. and Charles M.
William Pulham was born in Suffolkshire, England, in 1880, and when but six years of age emigrated to the Dominion of Canada, and there remained until about the year 1840, when he removed to Piscataqua Co., N. H., and was a resilient there about sixteen years. He then came to Vernon county and entered land in the town of Wheatland, which he sold in 1800, and afterward, in the same year, purchased 120 acres of land in the town of Genoa, on sections 28 and 24, of town 12 north, of range 7 west. Mr. Pulham was married to Nisa E. Sandon, of Vernon county, in 1862. They have reared eight children - Agnes, Ellen, Laura, George, David, Frank, Mary and Margaret. Agnes is the wife of Samuel Owen, of the town of Jefferson. Mr. Pulham enlisted in January, 1864, in the 25th regiment, Wisconsin Volunteers, and was discharged in July, 1865, at the close of the war. His mother, Elizabeth
Pulham, is now living in Genoa town, at the ripe age of seventy-nine years. His father, William Pulham, was also a native of England, and died in New Hampshire, about 1840.
William Stevenson, a native of the "land of Shamrock," located here in 1856. He was born in Ireland in 1820, and resided there till iwenty-four years of age. In 1844 he emigrated to the United States, and first settled in New York city. In 185.5 he removed to Rock Co., Wis., but lived there only one year. In 1856 he came to the town of Genoa, and purchased of James McCormick eight acres of land on section 17, where he has since resided. Mr. Stevenson has been industrious and energetic, and at present owns 120 acres of land. In 1863 he came forward and enlisted in the 18ih regiment, Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, and served faithfully until he was honorably discharged at the close of the war. He returned home and has since devoted his time tc agricultural pursuits. In 1854 he was united in marriage to Mary E. Davidson, and two children were born to them - John W., who mai- . ried Josie Graham, and Sarah M. Mr. Stever son suffered the loss of his most estimable wifi' and was again married, in 1859, to Elizabeth -Vliller. Five children have been given to thif union - Lizzie M., Henry A., Ellen R., Anna M. and James E.
John Fopper, one of the largest land owners in the town of Genoa, located here in 'i?5l. He is a native of Switzerland, where he was born in 1818. He received a thorough education in his native land and is able to converse fluently iu five different languages, including that of Switzerland. In 1857, he resolved to see the far famed America, and accordingly came over the same year. After landing at New York, he came westward to Wisconsin, and sought a new home. He finally concluded to locate in the new settlement, in what is now the town of Genoa, and purchased eighty acres of land on section 28, where he resided nine years. Mr. Fopper then sold the eighty acres of laud aforesaid and bought 400 acres of the Hecks estate on sections 11 and 14, town 12, range 7. Mr. Fopper is unmarried, but has lived with and supported his widowed mother during his residence here. Mrs. Fopper is now at the advanced age of eighty-four years, and Mr. Fo]iper shows his filial affection by trying to make her declining days pleasant and comfortable. INlr. Fopper has also two widowed sisters residing in this town - Mrs. Barbara Gess and Mrs. Anna Barbara Gess.
William S. Riley, one of the well known citizens of the town of Genoa, was born at Marietta, Ohio, in 1845, and remained there until 1858. In the latter year he came to Vernon Co., Wis., and located at Viroqua. In 1861 he enlisted in company I, 6th regiment, Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, and was discharged in 1864. He was captain of the Vernon County Light Guards for two years and under-sheriff' for one term. For the past three years Mr. Riley has been chairman of the town board of supervisors. He is a CO itractor and builder by occupation and bus erected some of the finest buildings and residences in Vernon Co. In 1882 Mi. Riley was married to Anna Lupi. They have one ciiild - Augusta C.
Albert F. Kuehn, one of the earliest settlers of tlie town of Genoa, was born in Prussia in 1830 and at the age of nineteen left his home for a new one in a land that had only been a a Nation for seventy-three years. He spent two years w.iiiilering from place to place over the new re|]ublic and finally became satisfied that VenioM Co., Wis., wou Id be the location for a pi.'rmanent home, lie bought eighty acres on section 4, town 12, range 7 west, town of Genoa in 1800, and has since increased his first purchase to 360 acres. In 1864 he entered the army of his adopted country, enlisting in the 6th legiment, Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry. While in the service he was wounded in the head and one shoulder and received an honorable discharge at the close of the Kebellion. Mr. Kuehn has been a member of the town board for four years and town assessor for ten years. In \^6Z he was married to Julia Misjahl and nine children have been sent to bless their union - Lina, Elizabeth, Bertha, Albert, Ernest, Huldah, Sophia, Edward and an infant son.
Mathew Monti, a son of Joseph Monti, the founder of the village of Genoa, and its present postmaster, was born in New York city in 1840. His father was a native of Switzerland, born in 1811, and emigrated to the United States in 183-.i, locating in New York city. Mr. Monti's mother was boi-n in Philadelphia, Penn., in 1811, and died in Vernon Co., Wis., in 1880. When Mr. Monti was but a year old his parents moved to Cincinnati, Ohio, and in 1842 to St. Louis, Mo.; thence to Galena, III., where they resided until 1863. In 1853 Mr. Joseph Monti came to Vernon county and entered '-P6 acres of land in the town of Genoa. Being of an enterprising disposition he laid out and platted the village of Bad Ax (now Genoa), which he named after the county of Bad Ax (now Vernon). Mr. Mathew Monti now owns twenty acres of land on section 28 and village property. In 1882 he engaged in mercantile pursuits and now owns a stock of goods valued at $2,000. Mr. Monti has served his neighbors and citizens as clerk of the school district six years, justice of the peace ten years; was also town treasurer and has been town clerk and postmaster, of Genoa for seven years. He was united in marriage in 1864 to Almira Greenman and three children have been born to them - Leona, Augustus and Blanche.
.John Carpenter came to this county in 1856 and resided in the vicinity of Victory for five years. He then settled in the town of Harmony and there resided until 1868, then moved to the town of Genoa, where he owns 278 acres of land. He was born in New York in 1833, and in 1861 married Marcia Ann Rogers, a native of New Hampshire, who accompanied her parents to this coUTity and located in the town of Harmony, in 1853. In 1864 Mr. Carpenter enlisted in the 18th regiment, Wisconsin
Volunteer Infantry, and was honorably discharged at the close of the war. His parents came to this county in 1866 and settled at Victory, in Wheatland town. Mr. and Mrs. Carpenter are the parents of six children - Frank, Lou'sa, wife of George Van VIeet, Robert, Roxania, Agnes and Ross.
K. L. Oakes, who became a resident of the town of Genoa in 1861, was born in "the good old State of Maine," (Kennebec county), in 1821. In 18-i7, when he was but six years of age, his parents removed to Penobscot county, in the same State, and in 1848 they located in Worcester Co., Mass. In 1855 Mr. Oakes came out to see this western country, and appearing satisfied that the State of Wisconsin would develop ra])idly and take her place among the foremost States of the Union, (like his native State), he settled at Springville, Adams county, where he remained twelve years. A desire to see more of this wonderful cnmitry, and perhaps to better his fortunes, led him to seek Vernon county. He there purchased of Amos Moore 166 acres of land on sections 4 and 34, in towns 12 and 13 north, range 1 west. Mr. Oakes resides on liis farm on section 4, a1)0ut three miles southeast of the village of Genoa. While a resident of Springville, Adams county, Qfe enlisted in the 3d Wisconsin Cavalry, and was honorably discharged at the close of the war. Mr. Oakes was married in 1848 to Polly D. Newton. They were the parents of one child - Clara, now the wife of Anson Elliott. Mrs. Oakes departed this life in 18.=il, and two years later Mr. Oakes married Armanda S. Newton. They have been given seven children, three living - Florence J., wife of Charles F. Smitli; Jessie S. and Horace E. Ella died in 1859, Bertha in 1861, Frank E. in 1865 and Alice in 1869.
John H. Seal was born in Pennsylvania iii 1840, and in 1842 accompanied his parents lo Ohio. In 1845 they removed to Du Page Co., 111., and in 1850 to Vernon Co , Wis. They first settled at Springville, and in 1870 Mr. Seal caiuc to the town of Genoa and pui-cbased forty acres of land on section 3, of town 13 north, range 7 west, which he has increased to 200 acres and all free from incumbrance. Mr. Seal was married in 18'i0 to Emily P. Tainter, and their union was blessed with one child, now living - Edmund. Mrs. Seal died in lSt)3, on the 19th day of January. He was again married in 1869 to Julia E. Shrouf, who died in 187-2. Mr. Seal the third time united in marriage to Sarah J. Irvin, by whom he had five children, all now dead. His wife died in 1S70. His fourth and present wife was Paulina Mundsack, whom he married in 1882. Mr. Seal is a very prosperous farmer. He is the father of two living children - Edmund and John E.
J. W. Clayson was born in New York, in 1822, and in 1855 removed to Richland Co., Wis., where he entered land, which he afterward sold. In 1860 he went to Crawford Co., \\ is., where he remained seventeen years, and then came to the town of Genoa, where he purchased eighty acres of land from George P. Griffin, on section 24, of town 12 north, of range 7 west. He has since increased his farm to 101 acres. He was married to Margaret J. Davis, and two of their children are now living - Charles and George. Mrs. Clayson died in 1857, in Richland county, and in 1860 Mr. Clayson was married to Jane Mullen. In 1864 Mr. Clayson enlisted in the 52d regiment, Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, and was honorably discharged in 1865.
Albert Zabolie was born in Italy in 1858, and emigrated with his parents to the United States in 1877, and settled in the village of Genoa, where his father and himself opened a dry goods and general store. They now carry the largest stock of goods in the village, valued at about $5,000. Mr. Zabolie was married in 1882 to Rosa Starlochi, of Vernon county. Mr. Zabolie';; father, August Zabolie, is still living in the village of Genoa. Albert is doing a prosperous business in his line of trade.
The Town Of Greenwood
This town comprises township 13, range 1 ea.st, which is in the southeastern corner of the county, bounded on its north by Hillsborough, on its east by Sauk county, on its south by Richland county and on its west by the town of Union. Like most of the land in Vernon county, this is rough and broken The land that is tillable is of a fertile quality. The town is well supplied with small streams, among which are Pine and Baraboo rivers, and their numerous tributaries. 'J'he northern portion of the town is traversed by the Baraboo and its branches, wliile the southern part is coursed by the Pine and its branches. There are a great number of fine springs throughout the town. At one time the hop crop was an important business in this section of the county; but of late years they are not so much raised. At one time just after the war, when hops brought fifty cents a pound, nearly every land owner went into this speculation; planted out large hop yards and erected the necessary buildings. This, together with a big cro]!, put the price down to a shilling a pound; and by this reverse caused a loss of many thousands of dollars to this section of Vernon county. In 1884 but few hops were produced within the county. But at this date, and for two or three years previous, tobacco culture has been entered into extensively in various parts of the county.
Eaklt Settlement
'I'his is one of the earliest towns settled in the eastern part of the county. The first settler was William Van Alstine, who came in as early as 1851, and settled on the southwest quarter of section 23. In 185^ he sold to Isaac Meek, who came from Indiana. Meek only remained about a year, then sold out and returned to Indiana, where he was ordained a Wesleyan Methodist minister. Van Alstine went to Oregon.
In 1884 the oldest settler living in the town was William Jordan, a native of Pennsylvania, but who came here from Indiana with Isaac Meek, and settled on section 23; a few years later he moved to Missouri, but soon returned to his location on section 23.
The first land entry in tlie town was made by James B. Avery, a resident of Baraboo, who entered the south half of section 2-i. The patent bears date January, 1852, but is said to have been entered some time previous to this.
Caleb and John S. Shreve came in 1853. Caleb settled on section 22, where he was still living in 1884. John at first located on section 23, but later moved to section 15.
1855, by James R. Strait and Richard Smith, called Debello. It was situated on the southeast quarter of the southeast quarter of section 22. Mr. Smith came here from Indiana in the fall of 1855, and brought a stock of goods with him and opened a store, which he operated a year or so, when he closed up and removed to Missouri. He sold his store to Morgan and Joseph Hansbury.
A postoffice was establisbed in 1855. James R. Strait was appointed postmaster. In 18.56 he was succeeded by Moses Jordan. In 1884 Elias Kegley was postmaster, keejjing the office at his liouse on section 27. It is on the route from Hillsborough to Rockbridge. This vicinity is still known as Debello, although the village, once so flourishing, with lots selling for $50 each, is now converted into farms, and corn, wheat and oats grow in what was the principal thoroughfare of this place.
Below is tciven the names of many of the pioneers of this town, together with the date and location of their settlement, brief sketches, etc. No special attention is paid as to the exact order in which they came, simply a record of the facts connected with their settlement:
Joseph Martin, a native of New York State, came in 1854^ and located on the southwest quarter of section 26. He was an unmarried man and lived alone, working his place until 1864, when he sold to Einar Nelson and moved to Iowa.
William Shreve, a native of Pennsylvania, in company with his three sons, Eden, Hezekiali and James H., came to the town from Ohio, in the fall of 1855. The father settled on the northwest cpiarter of section 22, where he remained till the time of his death, in 18 0. Hezekiah and Eden lived at home several years, after which the former moved to section 22, and the latter to Storm Lake, Iowa. James H. settled on section 15.
Freeman Webster, of New York, came in the spring of 1855, and located on section 8, where he remained until 1874, then moved to Hillsborough, where he was living in 1884.
Charles Landrum, of Indiana, settled in 1855, on section 23, built a log house and remained two years, after which he sold to Clement Cherrington, and moved to Hillsborough, where he died in 1882.
Among the pioneers of 1856 who are entitled to sketches in this connection is Moses Jordan, who is a native of New Jersey; he was born in 1801. When four years old his parents moved to Pennsylvania, where he grew to manhood. When but thirteen years of age he engaged in a flour mill to learn the milling business. In 181(2 he removed to the State of New York, where he remained until 1838, when he moved to Illinois, lived there five years and moved to Indiana, where he remained till 1853 and then came to Bad Ax count}', and bought the north half of the northwest quarter of section 26, town 13, range 1 east, in what is now Greenwood town of Vernon county. In 1854 he moved to Readsburg, where he lived two years, then returned to Greenwood. In 1869 he had the misfortune to lose his eyesight, since which time he has been blind. He was married in 1822 to Mary Shaner, who was born in Pennsylvania in 1805. They have had nine children, six of whom were living in 1884 - William, Susan, Elizabeth, Harriet, Mary and Louisa. Mr. Jordan has been a prominant man in town affairs, having been elected as the first justice of the peace, also first town treasurer.
Thomas Brown, who lived in the town of Viroqua, bought the southeast quarter of section 22, in 1857. His father James Brown and family lived here at the time. ' Mr. Brown was an educated man and followed school teaching and surveying. He died in 1870.
Elias Kegley settled in the town in 1856. He is a native of Virginia, born in Wythe countj^ Sept. 3, 1824. When fourteen years old his parents moved to Johnson county, where he grew to manhood. In 1856 he came to Wis- - con sin, spent two years in the town of Greenwood and then went to Missouri, where he remained until 1862. From there he removed to Iowa where he spent a year, then returned to this town. In 1864, he went to Pine River, Richland county, where he remained till 1867, and again returning to this town bought his farm on which he lived in 1884. He was married in 1856 to Rebecca Bundy by whom he
Fiest Events
One of the first marriages, in the town of Greenwood, was Joseph Trean and Miss Brook. This ceremony was performed in 1855. They settled on section 22, remained a few years and moved to Indiana.
The first blacksmith in the town was John Staley, who opened a shop in 1855, which was located on section 15. He died while serving in the Union army, in 18'53.
Organic
The town of Greenwood was organized in April. 1856, and the following officers elected : U. Gregory, chairman; Caleb Shreve and Ransom Daley, supervisors, Joseph D. Hansberry, clerk ; but as he removed from the town before his term of office expired, Thornton Perry was appointed to fill the vacancy. R. G. Story was elected superintendent of schools, but on account of his removal, C. A. Fuller was appointed in his place. Moses Jordan and'Mr. Knox, justices of the peace ; John S. Shreve, assessor.
At the annual town meeting, in 1883, the following officers were elected for the ensuing year: John Siiaughnessy, chairman, John Anderson and Joseph Pliner, supervisors ; William Brandon, clerk ; John S. Shreve, treasurer ; J. W. Shreve, assessor ; Horace Rhinehart, justice of the peace; A. Hanson and Hiram Sanders, constables.
1856, and stood on the southeast quarter of section 22. Grace Brooks was the first teacher. This house was used but two or three years, when it was replaced by another log house, which was still standing in 18S4.
The first school in district No. 5 was taught in a log house belonging to Calsina Townsend, situated on the northwest quarter of section 14. The first term of school in this district was taught by Jane Townsend in 1857.
A school house was built on the northwest quarter of section 14, in which Marie Smith was the first teacher. This house was in use till 18T7, wl'.en a frame house was erected on the southeast quarter of section 14. Marie Smith also taught the first school in this building.
In district No. 4 the first school was taught by Margaret Fuller, in 1858, at Morgan Lloyd's house. In 1859 a school house was provided on the northwest quarter of section 20, in which Sarah Brown taught the first term of school. This house was in use for school purposes till 1868, when a new one was erected on the site of the old one. Martin Shields taught the first school in this house.
In district No. 3 the first school house was built in 1857 or 1858, and was situated on the southwest quarter of section 8. Mary Givens was one of the early teachers here. This building was afterward enlarged and served the district until 1880, when a frame building took its place. Charles Colier was the first teacher who taught in the new building.
In district No. 7 a school house was built in 1859 ; this was located on the southwest quarter of section :36. This was a small log house which served the purpose until 1866, when another log building was erected, which stood on the northwest quarter of section 36. Mary Rennick was the first teacher employed in this building.
first school in this house, which was moved in 1871 to section 31, and used, till 1880, when another building took its ]>lace, on the southwest quarter of section 29. Kate Costello was the first teacher in the last named building.
Ebligious Societies
The first religious services in the town were held at the log school house on section 22, in 1857, by Rev. M. Clingman, a Methodist preacher, who organized a class of which Josephus Cherrington was leader. This class continued to hold services for about five years. Revs. Moore, Day and Holcomb preached for this society as long as it had an existence
In 1856 the Uniied Brethren organized a class at the same school house. Rev. Adam ShamlJeau, from the Kickapoo, was the preacher, and Horace A. Rhinebart was class leader.
Another United Brethren class was formed in 1877 at the house of Samuel Watson, by D. K. Young. This class numbered forty members, Joseph Frank was the first leader. Meetings were held at the house of Mr. Watson till the church was built in 1878 on section 16. The following preachers have served this people: Revs. Charles Hibbard, William Smith, D. K. Young and E. Casper. Tillman Sanders was class leader in 1884, at which time services were held once in two weeks.
The Christian Church was organized in 1860, at the log school house on section 22, by Rev. Abraham William.s. James H. Shreve was the first deacon. Rev. Williams was succeeded by Isaac Lepley and he by James II. Shreve. In 1S79 they completed a church, which was built of logs located on the southwest quarter of section 15. John S. Shreve was deacon of the Church in 1884.
The Norwegian Evangelical Lutheran Church held its first meetings in jirivate houses. Rev. Preus, a missionary, was their first preacher. In .1871 they built a hewed log church on the southwest quarter of sect'on 25.
section 26. Elders O. A Johnson and P. L. Horn were the preachers. They organized a society, the following winter, at a private house owned by Jonathan Hunter, on section 25. Thei'e were about thirty members. B. F. Thomas was chosen first deacon. In 1880 a church was built on the northwest quarter of section 25. Elder Johnson preached for some time and was finally succeeded by Elder C W. 0!ds.
The first Catholic services in the town of Greenwood were lield at Margin Lloyd's house on section 20, in 1800. Fatlier Peter Montague was the first priest, whose home was over in Juneau county, but lie supplied this settlement of Catholics, occasionally. In 1871 a ohureli was built, which was located on the northwest quarter of section 9. Father Bernard was the first regular priest in charge after the house of worship was erected.
Tills mill was built by Nicholas Didivt, in 1874, and is situated on the northeast quarter of section 3. The power is derived from the Baraboo river and from a fifteen horse-power engine. The river at this point give-; an eight foot fall. In 1875 Didivt sold to Mithins Hansberry, wlio still operated it in M84.
The first place set apart for a burying ground was on section 23, near Debello, on the Van Alstine farm. In 1884 there was a Norwegian cemetery near their churcli on section 23 and one on the northwest quarter of section 22, near the Christian church; also a Catliolic cemetery on section 9 by their church.
The following slfetches represent a large number of the leading citizens of Greenwood town in tlie order in which they made a settlement here:
Otto F. is a son of Otto Hammer, one of the pioneers of Hillsborough. He was bora in New York Oct. 23,1847. He was but eight yeais of age when liis parents came to Wisconsin and became pioneers of Bad Ax county. He received his education in the public schools of Hillsborough town. At seventeen years of age he commenced to learn the shoemaker's trade and worked at that three and one-half years. He then engaged with Carl Ludwig, and was in his employ, working in the brewery and on the farm four years. He was married Dec. 25, 1870, to Matliilda Duft. They have five children - Josephine, Emma, Mathilda, Mabel and Robert. The May previous to his marriage he had bought timber land on section 1, town of Greenwood. He has since cleared a farm, built a house and now makes this liis home.
Caleb Shreve, a pioneer of Vernon county, a'ld son of^ William and Eleanor (Caleb) Shreve, was born in Miami Co., In<)., May 29, 18. '3. When but an infant his parents removed to Perry Co , Ohio, where he grew to manhood. He was there married, Sept. 15, 1842, to Naomi .lennings. Mr. Shreve remained in Perry county until 1853, when he started west to seek a home. Arriving in Wisconsin, he bought the southwest quarter of section 22, town 13, range 1 east, in territory now known as Greenwood town, Vernon county. Here he was one of the first settlers, as there were less than a dozen families in the eastern part of the county at this time. In 1861 he enlisted in the 6th Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, went south and served two years. In 1863 he received an injury and was discharged on account of disability. He also lost his voice; but a few years later he fell from a barn which was the means of restoring it to him. He, however, again lost it and now converses only in a whisper. He had no school advantages and consequently is not an educate<l man, Imt is endowed with a good share of e >minon sense. Mr. Shreve is kind. hearted and hospitable, cheerful in his disposition and enjoys the respect and confidence of all who know him. He is a good judge of a horse; also treats them for diseases. His practice in this profession is very large, extending into Sank and Richland counties. On April 7, 1879, Mrs. Shreve died,, leaving eight children - Ezra W.,
Sarah E., Smith, John J., Isaac L., Armiiida, Lovica and Caleb Perry. Mr. Slireve was a member of the first board of supervisors of Greenwood town and also has been postmaster at Debello.
William Smith Shreve was but six years of age when his parents located in this town. He was born in Perry Co., Ohio, Dec. 12, 1847. Ilis parents were Caleb and Naomi (Jennings) Shreve. They came to Vernon Co., Wis., in 185.3, and were pioneers of Greenwood town. William S. grew to manhood on the homestead farm, assisting in the farm labor during the summer, and attending school in the winter season. He bought some land in Sauk county, and after his marriage traded this land for a, farm on section 22 of this town, where he located, built a log'cabin and resided till 1882. In the latter year he settled on his present farm, which is on the same section, and now includes the plat of the village known as Debello. Mr. Shreve was married, in 1868, to Susan Fries, and five children have been given them - Mary Amanda, Charles F., Louisa M., Susan Edith and Myrtie C. John J., another son of Caleb and Naomi (Jennings) Shreve, was born in Boone Co., Ill , Oct. 4, 1853. He went to Dakota in 1873, and took up a homestead in Turner county. Here he lived until 1881, when he returned to the town of Greenwood. He settled on his present farm in 1882. He was married, in 1876, to Ellon Rogers. They have two children-^Ada J. and Edward O.
John S., son of William and E'eanor (Smith) Shreve, was born in Perry Co., Ohio, Feb. 16, 1828, and there grew to manhood. In 1850 he was united in marriage with Caroli?ie Beck, a native of Pennsylvania. In 1853 he came to Wisconsin to seek a home, settling on section 23, of township 13, range 1 east. In 1854 he went to Sauk county and found employment clearing land, for which he was paid six shillings per day. In this way he raised money to pay for his land. In 1855 he traded his land on section 23 for 120 acres on section 15, moved there, built a good log house, and commenced clearing the land. Mr. Shreve has been very successful in his endeavours to make a home, and now owns 160 acres of land, seventy acrts of which is under cultivation. Mrs. Shreve died Jan. 25, 1858, leaving nine children - Mary- Ellen, Ilezekiah, William A., Joseph, N'apoleon, Sarah, John E., Armilda and Isaac. William A. was born March 25, 1856, and died April 23, ,1880; Sarah was born Jan. 25, 1860, and died in September, 1875. In 1871 Mr. Shreve was married to Emma C, daughter of William and Yanca (.Jenkins) Ilines, and widow of James Bundy. They have two children - Charles and Amy. Mr. Shreve has been prominent in town affairs. He was the first assessor in Hillsborough town, and filled that office in Greenwood eleven consecutive terms. He is the present treasurer. Mrs. Shreve died June -25, 1858.
Prentiss Abbott is a son of Aaron A. and Abesta (]V[oulton) Abbott, was born in Tunbridge town, Windsor Co., Vt., in 1822. When four years of age, his parents moved to Boston, JIass., where his father engaged in the boot and shoe business. After remaining there one year, they moved to Canada, settling in the province of Quebec. At the end of six years they removed to Port Hope, province of Ontario. Here it was that Prentiss began his career as a hunter. Game was plenty, and he s]K'nt a greater part of his time in hunting and trapping, and made considerable money thereby. In 1838 his parents moved to Milwaukee, Wis., where they lived one year, when his father bought some timber land from the government, situated five miles from Milwaukee, and Prentiss helped him to clear it. Game being abundant, Prentiss spent much time hunting deer, bear, elk and jtanthers, finding a ready sale for llieni in Milwaukee. When he was twenty-one years of age he, in company with his brotlier, erected a large frame house on the farm and opened a hotel, called the Kinnekiniek House. One year later he sold out and went to Waukesha county, where he purchased a farm, erected a large house, jiait log and part frame, and engaged in farming and keeping hotel. Two years later he removed to Washington county, and in 1854 he again changed his residence, coming to Vernon county, and entering 640 acres of land in town 13, range 1 east, now known as Greenwood. He built a log house on the southeast quarter of section 10, and commenced clearing a farm. In 1861 he wentto Hillsborough, bought town property, and opened a hotel. He reruained in this business until 1875, when he again returned to Greenwood and settled on the northeast quarter of section 10, where he had previously built aframe house. He has been twice married. His first wife was Jane Fenton, by whom he had three children - Charles, Prentiss C. and Laura. He was mar- May 16, 188:3, to Elizabeth Brill, a naiive of VVurtemburg, Germany.
John Collins is a native of Ireland, born in county Clare in 1829. When thirteen years of age he left his native land for America. He landed in New York city, from whence he went to Buffalo, where he spent two years in school, thus acquiring an education that has since been useful to him. He then came to Wisconsin, settling in Milwaukee, where he remained until 1849, at which time he wentto Riclilaud county in the employ of Ira Harelton, with whom he remained one year. He then returned to Buffalo, N. Y. After spending about a year in the east, in various places, he returned to Wisconsin, locating in Waukesha. He was there married, Jan. 2, 1852, to Mary Ann McMahi.n, born in county Meath, Ireland, in May, 183:^. Slie came to America with her parents when thirteen years of age. In 1854 Mr. Collins came to Vernon county and entered land in the northeast quarter of section 21. He afterwards returned to Waukesha county, remaining there until 1856, at which time he came with his family and settled on his land in Vernon county, where he commenced to improve his farm. He now has 120 acres on section 21, and eighty acres on section 4. Mr. and Mrs. Collins have nine children. Mr. Collins has taken a prominent part in town affairs, and has held offices of trust. He is also clerk of the district, having served in that capacity for several years.
Hugh Brandon is one of the early and honored pioneers of Greenwood town, locating herein 1855, when the face of the country was a dense forest and unbroken prairie. Mr. Brandon is a native of the "Emerald Isle," and was born in county Donegal, Ireland, in 1818. He was there reared to manhood, and in 1840 determined to seek a new home in the "land of the free." He accordingly engaged passage in a sailing vessel and came to America. Mr. Brandon first located in Connecticut, where he was engaged in farming, until his removal to IJad Ax (now Vernon) county, in 1855. He entered 240 acres of land on section 13, of town 13 north, of range 1 east. He built thereon a little log cabin, in which he lived and reared a family, until 1881, when he erected his present frame residence. Mr. Brandon was married, in 1854, to Mary Sullivan, and six children have been sent to bless this union - William, Mary, Annie, Eliza, Frank and Agnes. The elder of this family, William, is a native of this town, born Nov. 25, 1855. He has grown to manhood in this county, and received a good education in the district schools. He is now serving his fourth term as clerk of Greenwood town. Mr. Brandon is unmarried, and still resides with his parents.
David Mahr, one of the pioneers of Greenwood, is a native of Germany, born March 16, 1830. He received a good education in the public schools of Germany, attending them until fourteen years of age. He afterwards engaged in farming. In 1852 he left his native land and came to America. He came directly, with his family, to Wisconsin, settling in Washington county, where his father bought a farm. He remained with his father one year, then went to live with the Americans, thereby learning the English language. In 1855 Mr.
Mahr came to Vernon county and entered land on section 3, of town 13, range 1 east, nowknown as Greenwood. In March, 1858, he returned to Washington county, where he was married to Friederike Grouhe, and the next month they started for their new liome. He built a log house on his land, on section 3, and commenced to clear the heavy timber from the place. Mr. Mahr has been a successful farmer, and now owns 165 acres of land, seventy-seven of which is in a good state of cultivation. In 1882 he built the large frame house in which he now lives. Mr. and Mrs. Mahr are the parents of eight children - John, Henriette, Frank, Peter, Sophie, Annie, and Oscar N.and Charles N., twins.
William Shreve, one of the pioneers of Greenwood town, was born in Bedford Co., Penn., Sept. 26, 1802. When he was four years of age his parents moved to Ohio and were among the first settlers in Miami county. Here William grew to manhood. He was married June 15, 1 8-20, to Eleanor Smith, born Sept. 15, 1800. They moved to Indiana, settling in Miami county After remaining here a few years they returned to Ohio, and settling in Perry county, bought timber land and improved a farm. ]Mr. Shreve remained there until, 1855, when lie started with a team for Wisconsin. After traveling about three weeks he arrived in Vernon county and entered land on section 22, making tliis his home till the time of his death, which occurred Jan. 9, 1880. Mrs. Shreve died May 7, 1865.
Hezekiah Shreve, son of William and Eleanor (Smith) Shreve, was born in Perry Co., Ohio, Jan. 15, 1840. When tifteen \ ears "f age his parents came to W isconsin, and he assisted his father in clearing a farm. He was married Jan. 28, 1864, io Rai-liel Daniels, born in Allen Co., Ohio. In September, 1864, he enlisted in company A, 25lh Wisconsin Volunteeis; went south; joined Gen. Sherman at Atlanta; was with him in his march to the sea and ihrongh the Carolinas. He was discharged with the regiment June 9, 1865, and returning to Greenwood, renewed farming. In 18T»j he built a t» o story hewed log i ouse on the northeast quarter of the northwest quarter of section 22. He still makes this his home. He has planted aTi orchard on his place and cultivates hops and siirghum. He is also engaged in grain and stock raising. He has a mill and makes his own syrup. He has seven children living - Walter H., Ulysses S., Harriet E., Langley, Otto, Carrie IJ. and William H. A daughter, Minnie F., died when four years of age.
James H., son of William and Eleanor (Smith) Shreve, was born in Perry Co., Ohio, Dec. 14, 1832. He lived with his parents until fourteeen years of age then started in life for himself. Leaving home he went to Frank'in Co., Ohio, and for three years was there engaged in farming, going from thence to Hocking county, where he lived two years, farming in the summer and mining coal in the winter. In 1852 he returned to Perry county, remaining one year. In 1853 he went to Lancaster, Ohio, going from there to Philadelphia with a drove of cattle, starting March 31 and arriving in Philadelphia on the 18th of May, having traveled the entire distance on foot. He stopped in Piiiladelphia but two days, returning home by way of New York city, Buffalo and Niagara Falls. He then engaged as superintendent of construction on the Wilmington & Cincinnati Railroad for one year. He then took a contract to construct a piece of road. Mr. Shreve was married May 4, 1854, to Mary E. Chenoweth, born in Perry county. 'J hey went to Franklin Co., Ohio, and remained there until 1865, then, in company with his father and two brothers, started for Wisconsin, settling in town 13, range 1 east. He bought land on section 15 and immediately commenced to improve it. He has since made this his home. Mr. and Mrs. Shreve have had ten children, seven of whom are living - John W., James T., Hezekiah A., Samuel S., Emma, Mary A. and Nora. The second child died in infancy;
Floretta J., born Aug. 26, 1866, also died in infancy; Harvey, born June 4, 1875, died Jan. 16, 1880. Mr. Shreve has been prominent in town affairs, having held the offices of town clerk, constable and treasurer. He was also one of the commissioners to lay out the State road fiom Woodstock to Wonowac. Mr. Shreve was for some years a preacher in the Christian Church.
John Staley, a pioneer of Greenwood town, was boi-n in Lafayette Co., Ind., Dec. 25, 1830. When he was quite young his parents moved to Howard county, where he grew to manhood. Wlien a boy he learned the trade of a blacksmith, and worked at that in Howard county until 1852, when he went to Cass Co., Ind., where he was married March 21, 1854, to Rachel, daughter of Charles and Calsina (IngiM-son) Townsend, a native of St. Lawrence Co. N. Y. Ill 1855 they started west 'to seek a lionH', and came to Bad Ax, (now Vernon) county, and bought land on section 15, of town l.S north, range I east, now known as Greenwood. He here erected a blacksmith shop and worktd at his trade in connection with farming. In 1864 he joined the 25th regiment, Wisconsin Volunteers, coni])any F, and went south; was with Sherman in Georgia, and participated in his march ti> the sea. He died while in the service at S.ivaiinah, Ga., Feb. 9, 1865. He left three children - Ellen Charles and Martin. The two e'dfst cliildren are married. The younger son, .Martin, is at home with his mother, and carries on the farm.
Samuel Watson was born in Darke Co., Ohio, .Ian. 16. 1825. When fourteen years of age his ]i:uents moved to Indiana, settling in Wayne c<iiiniy. lie was married in 1845 to Rhoda Taylor, a native of Wayne county. For two years he rentid land in that county, moving in 1847 to Grant county, same State, where he purchased land. He improved this place and lived here until 1855, when he started west to seek a home. He came to Vernon Co., Wis., and entered land on section 9, town 13, range 1 east, and immediately began to improve it. He has since made this his home. Soon after arriving here he took steps to secure a school for his children, and, in 1858, at a meeting held at his house, a school district was organized. Mr. and Mrs. Watson have eight children living - George, born May 22, 1849; Elihu, born Nov. 14, 1857; Sarah A., born .May 14, 1853; Daniel, born Nov. 18, 1856; John, born Aug. 20, 1858; Ellen, born March 17, 1860; Lucinda, born Nov. 10, 1873, and Mary Etta, born March 14, 1875. Their first son, Joseph, was born in Grant Co., Ind., May 7, 1846. He came to Wisconsin with his parents and made liis home with them until 1864, when he enlisted in company I, 8th Wisconsin Volunteers, and went south. He died in Memphis, Teiin., in the spring of 1865, while still in the service. Mr. and Mrs. Watson are both members of the United Brethren Church.
Robert Bailey, one of the pioneers of Greenwood, was born in Ireland in 1822, and when quite young his parents removed to Canada, where he was raised on a farm, and was part of the time employed on public works. He was married in 1844 to Jane Scott, who was born in Ireland in 1822, but of Scotch descent. They remained in Canada until 1849, when they came to the States, locating in Boone Co., 111., where they lived until 1856, then came to Wisconsin to seek a home. Coming directly to Vernon county, he entered land on section 26, town 13, range 1 east, built a log house and commenced clearing a farm. In 1861 he enlisted in company II, 10th Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, and immediately went to the front. He was killed at the battle of Chattanooga, in 1>^63, while gallantly fighting for his adopted country. He left a widow and seven children to mourn his death. Six of these children are now living - Agnes, Samuel, William, James, Isabelle and .jennie. Mrs. Bailey struggled with a brave heart and raised her family. She now occupies the homestead.
Abrabara KaufFman was born in Lancaster Co., Penn., Jan. 9, 1809, of poor, but lioiicst parents. He received his education in J,be common schools, and was raised to agricultural pursuits. He was married, Nov. 25, I82S, to Eliza Martin. They remained in Lancaster county seven years, then started west to seek a home. They located in Posey county, where Mr. Kauffman learned the shoemakers trade. He remained there until 1844, then came to Wisconsin, settling in Washington county. He purchased government land, improved forty acres, and built a log cabin. In 1856 he sold out, and, again pushing to the frontier, came to Vernon Co., Wis., and purchased land on sections 10, 1 I and 15, built a log house and immediately commenced to make improvements. He occupied this house until 1S79, then erected the frame house in which he now lives. Mrs. Kauffman was born in Lancaster Co., Penn., Sept. 10, 1810. She died in Greenwood, in 1857, leaving four children - Starrett, Benjamin, P>etsey and Annie. Mr. Kauffman was married April i3, 1859, to Colsina Ingerson, born in Cayuga Co., N. Y., Dec. 3, 1807. Her first husband was Charles Townsend, of New York Slate, where Mrs. Townsend lived with her husliand a few years, when they moved to Oiiio, and from thence to Indiana. Mr. Townsend died in 185(5, just as he was read\ to move from Indiana to Wisconsin. He left three ciiildren - Emma A., Rachel and May. Mr. Kauftman's son, Benjamin T., was born in Lancaster Co., Penn., Dec. 30, 1835. He came to Wisconsin with his ])arents, and w s married in 18' 8 to Jane Townsend. He now occupies a portion of t' e old homestead, aud is engaged in farming.
Reuben Miller was bom in (Jhio, May 6, 1829. .When quite young his parents moved to Missouri. After living there a short time, they moved to Indiana, settling in Howard county, where Reuben grew to manhood. He was married in Cass county, in 1854, to Catharine Bickill, born in Licking Co., Ohio. After remaining in Cass county two years, he came to Vernon Co., Wis., and liought land on section 14, town 13, range 1 east, now known as Greenwood. He built a good log house on hi'* place, set out an orchard and commenced to improve his farm. He made this his home until his death, which occurred Nov. 5, 1873. He left seven children - Benjamin F , Sarah, Ida, John, Edson, Melrssa and James. The family now occupy the homestead.
Horace A. Rhinehart was born in Madison Co., N. i ., Feb. 14, 18-27. When- six years of age his parents moved to the western part of New York State, settling in Chautauqua county. Here his father bought timber land and improved a farm. Horace A. here grew to manhood, his younger days being spent in school and on the farm. He was married in Chautauqua county, in 1853, to Sarah, daughter of William and Tommy (Jenkins) Hyne. She lived but two months and twelve days. He then came to Wisconsin, and after spending a year in Rock and Greene counties, returned to New York. While there he married Mary J., a sister of his first wife. Coming with bis wife to Wisconsin, he stopped for a time in Greene county. In the fall of 1856 he moved to Vernon Co., Wis., purchasing land on section 34, town 13, range 1 east, now known as Greenwood. He spent the winter on bis farm in Greene county, returning to his land in Vernon county the following spring. In February, 1857, he met with an accident, by which his left leg was broken, and he was laid up all summer, thereby losing much valuable time. After recovering, he resumed work, and began the cidtivation of his farm. In 1865 he sold out and purchased land on section 27, which he has since made his home. In 1883, he erected the larofe frame house in which he now lives. His second wife died in 1862, leaving him two children - Sarah M. and Lucinda S In 1863 he married Sarah Kegley. Seven children blessed ibis union - Estella, Edwin, Franklin, Rollin, EfBe, William and Alvin.
Henry, son of Jacob and Augusta Lind, honored pioneers of Vernon county, was born in Germany, in 183-t. He attended school there until fourteen years of age, and then engaged in teaming in the city of West Baden. When he was seventeen years old, in company with his parents, he left his native land, and came to America. They landed at New York, and came directly to Wisconsin, and settled in Washington county. Henry was there married in Fehruary, 1857, to Mary Coe, born in Steuben Co., N. Y. The June following, they came to B.ad Ax ( now Vernon ) county, and piircliased timber land on section 12, of town 1 3 north, of range 1 east, and commenced to clear a farm He has built a good log house, to wiiich he lias made a frame addition. In 18S2 he built a frame barn, .30x40 feet in size, witli II stone basement. They have five children - T.arinda, Matilda, Charlie, Ida and Arthur.
Thomas J., son of Jacob and Mary ( Shear ) Ilickok, was born in Erie Co., N. Y., Dec. 10, 1851. lie came to Wisconsin with his parents in l-'Oi, and settled in Hillsborough town. He was niiicated in the district schools of Erie counly and Hillsborough town, with the exception of onr term at Hill's Prairie. In 1874 he bou ht land in the town of Greenwood, and here commenced farming. He was married, in December, !87i, to Mrs. Cornelia (Backus) Hickok, widow of liis brother, Jacob M. Hickok. One cliild has blessed this union - Claule Iiivin. Jacob Manly Hickok was born in Erie Co., N. Y., July 20, 1849. He came to Hillsborough town with his parents, and remaini-d with them until his marriage, Sept. 19, 186rf, to Cornelia Backus. One year later he removed to Glendale, where he lived until the date of his ileath, April 19, 1875, leaving a wife aTid two children - James Almond and Thomas Earl.
they came to America, landing at New York city, and going from there to Madison, Wis., where they remained until 1853. Mr. Lee went from there to Perry town, Dane county, and purchased some school land. He cleared a farm, built a log house and remained there until 1863, when he sold out and came to Vernon county. Here he purchased land on section 25, Greenwood town, since which time he has cleared a farm and built a good house. In 1867 he sold this farm to his son, but has always made his home here, and is still engaged in farming. Mr. and Mrs. Lee both enjoy good health. They are the parents of four children - Annie, Lena, (deceased) James L. and Henry L. The oldest daughter is in Norway. James L. resides in Decorah, low.i, where he is agent for the Lutheran ])nblish ing house, and has charge of the Decorali scale works.
Henry L., youngest son of Lars Hanson and Martha ( Jenson ) Lee, was born in Norway, Nov. 29, 1838. He was but twelve years of age when his parents emigrated to America. At thirteen years of age he started out to make his own living in Madison, first engaging with a groceryman, where he made himself useful in the store. He remained with him for a year and a half and then engaged as clerk in a grocery house one year, also driving the delivery wagon, and then went to work in a meat market. In the fall of 1858 he went to work on a farm, continuing in that occu]iation until the spring of 1860, when he went to St. Louis, and remained through the summer. He next went to Macon Co., Mo., and engaged in training fast horses, fitting them for the race track and taking them to the different county fairs. In the fall Mr. Lee went to New Orleans, where he remained until the spring of 1861, then returned to Macon Co., Mo., and stayed there until the fall of 1861, when he returned to Madison,~and remained until lie enlisted Aug. 13, 1862, in company D, 23d Wisconsin Volunteers. He served as orderly for the commanding officer in the following important battles : Chickasaw Bayou, Arkansas Post, Champion Hills, Black River Bridge, siege of Vicksburg, Carrion Crow Bayou, Mansfield, Pleasant Hill, Caue River, Jackson, i-a., Spanish Fort and Fort Blakely. He was honorably discharged at Mobile, Ala., July 4, 18G5, and was mustered out of service at Madison, Aug. IS, 1865. November 2, the same year, he came to "Vernon county and worked for his father one year, then bought the farm of him, and has since made this his home. He was married April 19, 1868, to Mary Johnson. They have seven children - Martha Johanna, >[artin Li-\vis, .lames T., Bertha Lena, Henriette C, J>hn E. and Anna Maria.
Einer Nelson, one of the early Norwegian settlers, was born in 1810. His wife's name was Gure Paulson. In 1855 they emigrated to America, landing at Quebec. From there they went to Dane Co., Wis., living near Stoughton one year, going from thence to Perry town. where Mr. Nelson entered forty acres of lanci cleared a farm and remained nntil 1864. He then sold out and came to Vernon county, buy ing land on section 26, and making his homi here until 1566, when he sold to his son anc bought land on section 34, which he has sinci made his home. Mr. and Mrs. Nelson had seven children - ^Nels E., Paul, Rachel, Carrie, Mary, Christiana and Johanna. Nels E., the oldest son of Einer and Gure (Paulson) Nelson, wa.s born in Norway, Jan. 18, 1842. When thirteen years of age he accompanied his parents to America and soon after commenced life's battle for himself. He readily found employment as a farm laborer, and on Nov. 18, 1861, enlisted in corapany II, 15th regiment, Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry and participated in all the skirmishes and battles of that regiment. He was severely wounded on the third day of the battle at Stone River and lay in the hospital at Nashville, Tenn, for six months. He lejoined the regiment at Murfreesboro and at the battle of Chickamauga was taken prisoner.
He was confined in the enemy's prisons atRiehmond and Danville, Va., for seventeen months, and while at the latter place succeeded, with a few companions, in digging with wooden shovels a hole under the prison wall and escaping, but was soon recaptured. From Danville he was taken to the renowned Andersonville pen, where he spent six months, and was subsequently taken to Charleston and Florence, South Carolina, and then to Richmond again, from Avhich latter p ace he was paroled. He was afterward taken sick with typhoid fever and sent to the hospital at Annapolis, Md., going home from thence on a furlough, and finally musiered out at Madison, Wis., .July 6, 1865. When he entered the army he weighed about 185 pounds, and when honorably dischaiged at Madison four years later he tipped the beam at ninety-five pounds - the result of sickne.-.s, exposure and prison life. As soon as he had recovered a portion of his lost strength he engaged in farming and in 18(56 purcliased his fathei's farm on section 26, of thi.s town, w here he has since resided In 1869 he was married to Betsey Johnson, and nine children have been given to them, six now living - James A., Edward N., Clara P., OjerteR., Robert and George
John Anderson, one of the early Norwegian settlers of Greenwood town, was born in 829. His youth and early manhood were spent in school and on a farm in his native land. In 1857 he left home and came to America Going directly to Wisconsin, he settled in Dane county, where he was employed in farming, lie remained there until 1865, when he came to Greenwood and purchased land on section -32. He immediately began improving his land and now has a farm in a good state of cultivation. In 1855 he was married to Julia Cliristo})herson. Fifteen children blessed this union, twelve of whom are now living. Mr. Anderson is as wvll educated in English as in Norwegian. He is a leading member of the Norwegian Lutheran Evangelical Church. Mr. Anderson is ])r()nii-
Adiilphus P. Mallow was born in Ross Co., Ohio, Sept. 29, 18.37. His parents were early settlers in Sauk Co., Wis. In the fall of 1861, he enlisted for one year in the 60th Ohio Volunteer>!, company C, and while in that regiment, was at New Creek Station, Winchester, Mc- Dowells and Harpers Ferry, where he was taken prisoner and paroled with the rest of the Union soldiers. Ilis time being nearly out, he was sent to Camp Douglas, at Chicago, till he was mustered out, when he returned to his Wisconsin home, where he remained one year, forming the acquaintance and marrying the only daughter of Dr. Aaron Winslow, one of Vernon county's oldest and most respected aitizens. They were married the 3d of January, 1864, and the 4th he left home to enlist in the I9th Wisconsin, and was in battles of Fort Darling, Fair Oaks and other engagements ot that summer of 1864, when the Army of Potomac lay in the rifle pits in front of Petersburg. On that memorable day in April, 1865, when the Union soldiers went into Richmond, he entered with his regiment and remained on duty at the Custom House until August 9, when his regiment was ordered to Wisconsin to be mustered out. He returned to Woodland, engaged in farming, and in 1872 purchased E. M. Winslow's pl.ace and an interest in the Dr. Winslow farm in Greenwood, on section 11, where he now lives. Mr. and Mrs. Mallow have four children living - Ralph W., Hattie Maud, Charlie E. and Edith Lillian, and one, Freddie, deceased.
David G. Mullin settled on his farm in Greenwood town, in 1875. At that time it was heavily timbered, but he has cleared fifty acres, built a good frame house and granary, and is now engaged in grain and stock raising. He was born in Albany, N. Y., Oct. 9, 1838. When but three years of age, his parents moved to Lewis county, where his father bought 200 acres of timbered land in West Turin, and cleared it. David here grew to manliood, making his home with his parents until eighteen years of age, at which time he went to Illinois, and from there to Salem, Neb., where he remained about eighteen months. He then returned to New York remaining there until 1 865, when he went to West Blue Mound and purchased a farm. Two years later he sold this place and went to Dunn county, engaged in lumbering one season, going from thence to Minnesota, where he purchased 280 acres of government land in Brown county. He improved 240 acres of this land and remained there until 1875, when, as before stated, he came trr Greenwood. He was married, in 1865, to Mary Bohn. They have been blessed with six children - Hattie, Florence, Charles, Clara, Eda and Susie.
Provenance
Text from History of Vernon County, Wisconsin, Together with Sketches of Its Towns, Villages and Townships, Educational, Civil, Military and Political History; Portraits of Prominent Persons, and Biographies of Representative Citizens; History of Wisconsin.., published 1884, in the public domain in the United States and digitised by the Internet Archive.