Vernon County, Wisconsin - Chapter 42: The Town of Kickapoo, 1884

Chapter 42: The Town of Kickapoo

Kiokapoo is among the southern tier of towns of Vernon county, and comprises a portion o four congressional townships - townships 11 and 12, range 3 west, and towr ships 11 and 12, range 4 west of the fourth principal meridian. The surface is very much broken having within its boundary a number of large hills. At an early day there was a large amount of heavy timber of which there is still standing a large quantity, consisting of white oak, rock maple, basswood and other varieties. Thousands of railroad ties have been annually obtained from the timber in this town. The large game, such as deer, elk and bear, existed in great numbers during the first decade of the settlement of the country, but they are now unknown. Small game yet abounds.

The Kiokapoo river runs through the town. Its two branches - the east and west forks - make confluence on section 4. The river is fed by many small streams which enter into and help swells the volume of water. The smaller streams are made up from the many clear and sparkling springs that exist in various parts of the county.

The soil is generally rich and productive where tillable, and is well suited to indigenous as well a-* native grass, which makes the town an excellent one for stock. Those that have, in the past, engaged in stock r;iising, have been nnifornily successful. Some maple sugar, of an excellent quality, is annually made by theeiiter- |)vi.>ing citizens. Bees thrive here, and many of the farmers have been quite successful in the past few years, in bee culture.

Early Settlement

a native of 'J'ioga Co., N. Y., but had lived several years in St. Joseph Co., Mich. He came to Vernon county in 1846 or 1847, settled near Liberty Pole, in the town of Franklin, and opened up a farm. On his arrival in Kickapoo he built a saw mill on Read's creek, as it is now called. He was a bachelor, and well advanced in years at the time of his settlement here. He was an enterprising man, as will' be seeti by reference to the village history. He was a jovial man, good hearted, ar d much esteemed by all. He died here in 1862. At the time of his death he made his home with Gilbert Herrick.

The first farm in this town was opened by Philip Schneider, who located here in 184^. He was a native of Bavaria and had lived near Viroqua the previous two years. He settled in the Kickapoo valley on section 5, town ]l, range 3 west, and still resides on the old homestead.

Archibald and Daniel Day, natives of Kentucky, came in 1851. The former settled on the southeast quarter of the northeast quarler of section 9, town 11, range 3 west. lie died there in 1S76. His daughter, now the wife of Thomas Gosling, occupies the homestead. Daniel entered land on sections 17 and 18, of the same town and range. He sold in 1855, to Seth Edson, who now occupies the place. Daniel died about 1857.

Abel C. Cusliman, from Vermont, came here in 18.53, and erected a sawmill on the east fork of the Kickapoo. He was a pioneer in Jefferson Co., Wis., having lived there for several years prior to his removal to this county. The mill is now operated by his son James.

David Barril, a native of Scotland, came during the winter of 1S53-4, and entered land on section 35, town 12. range 3 west, where he still live.s.

. R. F. Carey was from the Nutmeg State. He came to Vernon county, in 18.54, and entered a portion of section 10, town 11, range 3 west. He settled on this land the following year, and there made his home until 1883, when he sold out and left the town.

Samuel Baldwin was a settler of 1854. He was from New York. On his arrival in Vernon county, he made choice of land on section 2, town 11, range 3 west, where he located and lived some years and then removed to Richland county. In 1883 he went to Kansas.

Daniel Hill, a native of Illinois, by profession a physician, came in 1853, and located on the northeast quarter of section 26. He was afterwards convicted of horse stealing, served a term in the penitentiary, and then returned to ilie town, but finally removed to Kansas.

The Keystone State furnished a settler in 1853 in the person of Peter Neeley, He settled on section 1, town 11, range 3, lived there eight or nine years, then returned to Pennsylvania, where he died a few years later. His widow now lives in Washington territory.

Francis Lawton, a native of New York, also came in 1853, from Jefferson Co., Wis., and, in com; any with A. C.Cusbmau, built a saw-mill. In 1858 he sold out and went to Rockton, where he built a grist mill. He now lives in Washington territory.

Abraham Benn, from England, came in 1856 and located on section 1. He enlisted in the Union army during .the war and died in the service. Some of the family yet reside in the town.

John Harrison and Henry Glasburn, originally from Illinois, came from Viroqua in 1849. The year following they built a saw-mill on the west fork of the Kickapoo. About the time of the war they sold out and left the town.

William Austin settled in Readstown in 1853- He was something of a pettifogger and quite a musician. Two of his daughters were good musicians and occasionally gave public concerts. Mr. Austin left the county durng war times and now resides in California.

Gilbert Herrick, a native of New York State, came from Viroqua in 1853. He was a carpenter by trade and worked at the business together with fanning. He made his home ii> Readstown until his death, which occurred in 1879. His widow survived him but a few montlis. Three daughters are yet living, two of whom reside in Iowa, the otlier still living at Readstown.

James McSharry, a native of Ireland, came from Galena, 111., in 1853. He entered land on section 36, town 12, range 4., where he located and remained three years, then went to section 7, town II, range 3, where he lived until 1882 when he removed to Rising Sun, where he died on Easter Sunday, 1883. His widow and two daughters now reside in Rising Sun.

Lorenzo Hill was from New York. He came in 1853 and located on section 25, town 12, range 3. He was a single man at the time, but soon afterwards married a daughter of Robert Wilson. His wife died in 1857 and he subsequently sold out and left the county. He is now r. resident of Washington territory.

Albert Bliss, a native of Vermont, came to Readstown in 1854 fr.im Grant Co., Wis., where he had lived several years. He opened a store that fall, and the next year embarked in the hotel business. He was a resident of the town until 1883, wlien lie removed to Viroqna. William Powell located on section 12, town 11, range 3, in 1854. He was a minister of the Christian or Disciple Church, but engaged in teaching the greater part of his residence in the county. He remained here ten or twelve years, but now resides in Viroqua.

Charles Allen, a native of Virginia, came from Oliio in 1854 and settled on section 3, where he remained until his death in 1874. His widow subsequently married II, B. Hopkins.

James Medlicut, a native of England, came in 1854 and settled on section 1, town 11, range 4 west. He lived there about twelve years, when he moved to Iowa, where he has since died. Two of his sons now live in Iowa.

William Geddes settled in the Kickapoo valley in 1855, buying land on section 33, town I'i, range 3 west, where he still lives. He is a native of Ohio.

James Fox, a native of Pennsylvania, came in 1854, first locating on section 4, town 11, range 4, where he lived two years, then moved to section 8, town 11, range 3 west. He died there in August, 1883. He was a wagon maker by trade, and worked at his trade the greater part of (he time, while a resident of the town. He was. an active and influential member of the Christian Church.

came here from Green Lake Co., Wis., locaiing on section 14. In 1858 he removed to Marion Co., Mo., and died there in 1879. His widow still lives there. His daughter, the widow of A. P. Bliss, lives at Readstown.

James Foreman, a native of Pennsylvania, came in 1855. He bougV.t village lots in Kickapoo and built a log house. He died there in 1867. His widow now lives with her daughter, who is the wife of Ransom Kellogg. His son, James, a successful farmer, lives on section 2, town 11, range 3 west.

O. C. Fortney is a native of Norway. He came here from Madison Co., Wis., in 1855, and first located on section 13, town 11, range 4 west. He lived there about one year, then moved to section 11, of the same town. In 1882 he moved to section 2, where he died in 1883. His widow yet resides on the latter homestead.

James Maiben, by birt'-, was a Scotchman. He came here from Grant Co., Wis., in 1854, bought land on section 8, town II, range 3. He died Jan. 8, 1857. His family still reside here.

Francis Dupee came from Grant Co., Wis., in 1856. He enlisted in the army and died in the service. His son Henry also died in the service. The family now occupy the old homestead.

11, range 3 west, in 1855. He was a native of Maryland, but came here from Ohio. He built a two story hewed log house on his arrival, which he still makes his home.

George Spurrier was from Jefferson Co., Ohio. He came here in 1855, and entered eighty acres of land on section 14, town 11, range 3, where he still resides.

Among the settlers of 1855 was Zachariah Smith, a native of Ohio, but who came from Indiana, and located on section 18, town 11, range 5, where he still lives.

John (^ribble, a native of Pennsylvania, came from Indiana in 1854, and located on section 86, town 11, range 3. In 1871 he moved to Viola, where he died in 1875. His widow now lives in Richland county.

One of the pioneers of 1856, worthy of special mention in this connection, is William Pugh ( deceased ), who was born in North Carolina, in 1781, and died at Readstown, in 1869 When young, he moved to Virginia, where hi married in 1810, and a few years later, removei to Kentucky, where he remained until 1845, a which time he came to Wisconsin and spent '. year in Grant county. He then returned ti Kentucky, and remained until 1856, when he moved back to Wisconsin, and settled near Readstown, Vernon county, where he spent the remainder of his days. Mrs. Pugh was born in the State of Virginia, June 26, 1794. She married Mr. Pugh the January before she was sixteen years of age, and by him had twentyone children, thirteen of whom lived to manhood and womanhood. The mother, when ninety years of age, (1883 ) was well preserved and enjoyed good health. The year she was ninety, she was out walking, when a rattle snake came across her pathway, which had seven rattles. Mrs. Pugh found a stick, hunted the venomous reptile out from his hiding place and killed it; this took more courage than most of ht-r children or y-rand-children

Organic

Kickapoo town was organized in 1>53. The tirst election was he!d at Orin Wisel's house, May 29 of that year. The territory embraced forty six sections, and has never been changed. Several attempts have been made to sub-divide it, but such attempts liave always failed No record of the first town officers can be given, except that Robert Wilson was the first justice of the peace.

Officers of 1888: P. L. Rush, Lewis Anderson and John Cianey, supervisors; William Hutchinson, assessor; J. J. McCarty, clerk; George Spurrier, A. M. McClarin and Hftury Sutherland, justices of the peace; A. S. Caryi constable.

Village Of Eeadstown

In 1855 Daniel Read had platted a village to which he gave the name of Readstown. It is situated on a portion of sections 7 and 8, town 11, range 3, and lies upon both sides of the Kickapoo river. Mr. Read built the first house upon the site of the prospective village, in 1848. It was of round logs and located upon the east side of the river.

Before the village was platted quite a settlement had been made, and the first store opened by William II. Austin, early in the year I8.')4 Mr Austin continued in the business about one year, when he closed out. Albert Bliss opened the next store, in the fall of 1854. He continued in the business for several years, finally disposing of his interest to his son, Parker, who continued it until his death. His widow still carries on the business.

The citizens of Readstown, and those who did business at this point, were without mail I'acilities until 1857, when an office was established with Hiram Atislin as the fir.-<t postmaster, with the office at his residence. Mr. Austin was succeeded by Hugh McClarrien. who gave way, in 1861, to A. P. Bliss, who continued todiscbarge the duties of the office until his death, when his widow was appointed. In February, 18S1, Albert l>lis8 was commissioned and held the office until March, 1883, when he resigned and Mrs. A. P. Bliss was again appointed. Mail is now received three times a week.

The "village smith" is celebrated in poetry and illustrated by th.e artist, and no well regulated village is considered complete without a representative of this branch of industry. In 1850, five years before the village was platted, Orin Wisel opened a blacksmith shop in the place. He continued to work at his trade until 1860, when he closed the shop. It was reopened shortly after, by William Dailey, who continued until sometime during the war.

Albert Bliss, who was the second merchant in the place, opened the first hotel in 1855. It was a commodious frame building and considered an honor to the village. The hotel is now run by tlie widow of his son, Albert P. Bliss.

In the fall of 1854, a distillery was erected on the west bank of the river, by William II. Austin. Tlie building was washed away in the spring of 1857, and never replaced, though Mr. Austin erected and run a brewery for about four years, upon its site. Tlie brewery building was destroyed l)y fire.

In a new country, and cut off from general markets, and where the inhabitants are generally of the poorer class, a mill for sawing the native lumber, is greatly appreciated. In 1849 Daniel Read built a saw mill on what has since been known as Read's creek. It was supplied with a perpendicular saw. The mill stood about ten years, when it was replaced by another and better one, erected near the site of the old one. The new mill stood until 1881, when it was torn down.

A greater blessing, even than the old saw mill, was the grist mill, erected in a new settlement. As often narrated, the pioneers of this western country often suffered great inconvenience from the lack of milling facilities, and the man who erected a mill for the purpose of grinding the corn and wheat of the few settlers, was considered a public benefactor. In 185 t Daniel Read built a small mill, securing power from Read's creek, through a race one-third of a mile in length, and which afforded a seventeen font tall. For two years the mill was supplied with but one run of buhrs, which was sufficient to meet the requirements of its patrons. A second run of buhrs was added in 1856. B. D. Hale was the first practical miller employed by Mr. Read. In 1859 the mill was rented to Thomas Hardin, who run it two years and was succeeded by Henry Lockwood, who also rented and run it two years. In the meantime Mr. Read died and his sister, Anna Hale, inherited one-third interest in the mill, which went to her son, B. D. Hale. Thomas Cade purchased the two-thirds interest. As soon as Lockwood's lease expired, Mr. Hale took charge of the mill, purchasing from Mr. Cade an amount sufficient to give him a half interest. With the exception of about two and a half ye irs, Vhen it was rented, the mill has been run by Mr. Hale, to the present time. It has now three run of buhrs - one for flour, one for middlings and the other for coarse grinding. It has all the machinery for making first-class flour. The building is 24x-30 feet, one and a half stories high, with an addition 12x30 feet. In 1883 Francis H. Rogers bought Mr. Cade's interest, and is now associated with Mr. Hale in the management of the mill.

The west side of the river had the nioii' ])ol)' of the trade until 18'76, when W. H. Aikins opened a store on the east side. The second store was opened in 1882 by J J. McCarty.

A blacksmith shop was erected and the trade followed, by George Read, before the war. In 1868 Mr. Read disposed of the shop to George Kemmel, who yet continues in the business.

The Village Op Kickapuo

The little collection of houses known as Kickapoo was laid out by Joseph Wood, on land owned by Robert Wilson, in 1857. It is situated on the west bank of the Kickapoo river, on section 35, town 12, range 3 west.

Knox & St. John opened the first store in 11^57; tliey kept a general stock, including gioceries. They continued about a year and clospil out. Then came Samuel Green, who moved a stock into the same building - a log house long since torn down. Several persons have traded herefrom time to time. The trade in 188 4 was left in the hands of Ambrose Osborne.

Robert Wilson kept the first hotel. He began to keep travelers when he first came to the county. In 1857 he built a frame hotel, called the "Jackson House," named in honor of "Old Hickory." They 4iept this as a public house till 1873.

A postoffice was established at this point in 1853. Robert Wilson was the first postmaster; he served over eighteen years and was succeeded by Lorenzo Hill, and he, by Samuel Green. Next came Thomas Dunning, who wa.s followed by Mr. Wilson, who was in charge a year and followed by L. S. Kellogg.

In 1883 A. C. Cushman and Frank Lawton erected a saw mill on the east bank of the Kickapoo river, its power, however, being derived from Elk creek. This mill .was still in use in 188 4, when it was being run by his son, James M.

The first religious services in this vicinity were held at the school house in 1857. Preaeher.s of various denominations conducted services in the place. A Methodist Episcopal class was organized, but |irii)r to 1880 had been discontinued.

about thirty members. Robert Wilson and E. H. Bragg were chosen deacons. In the spring of 1880, a small church was built which cost about $600. In 1883, owing to most of the membership having moved away, the society was disbanded.

The first school at Readstown was taught by Mrs. Bound in a small building erected for other purposes in 1854, but during that year a frame building was erected for school purposes, and the first school taught therein was by Jemima Wilson. This building was in use until 1867, when it was replaced by a larger and better one, which was still in use in the fall of 1883. Gardner Bliss was the first teacher in the new building. Each district in the town is supplied with a school house.

Joint district No. 1 secured its first school house in i860. It was of logs and erected by the volunteer contributions (in labor) of the men in the district. The building was covered with slabs and had slab seats provided for the scholars. This building was replaced by the present one in 1871. Helen Hutchinson has the honor of being the first teacher in the new sctool house.

The first school in district No. 2 was held in Samuel Green's house in the winter of 1854-5. It was taught by Caroline McKasha. In 1857 a log house was erected, in which Isaac Osenbaugh taught the first school. It stood upon section 35, on the line of section 36. This house was used but a short time when a frame house was built on the same section line. Nettie Cliif was the first teacher in this house. In 1869 the present school building was erected and school was first taught therein by Annie ! Turner.

caied on section 17, town 11, range 3 west. In two or three years it was replaced by a hewed log house, erected on the same lot. William Powell taught the first school in tliis house. In 18S2 a neat frame school house was erected on section 11, in which Laura E. Smith taught the first scliool.

The first school in district No. 4 was in a building belonging to William Geddes, located on section 33. This was in 18.50. Sarah Clark has the honor of being the first teacher. A school house was erected the same year on the northwest quarter of section 33, town 12, range 3 west.

In district No. 5 the first school house was built in 1857. It was of logs and located on the northwest quarter of section 9. It was built on the subscription plan. Mrs. R. F. Cory was the first teacher. The old log school house was used until 1876, when the present frame building was erected. William S Andrews was the first teacher in the new house, which is located on section 10.

The first school in district No. 7 was taught by Margaret McSharry in 1860. The school was held in a log house owned by Mr. Banta, located on section 11. A log house was bought of Mr. Brown and is still used as a school house. It is located on section 11. Alniira Fox taught the first school in this house.

The first marriage in the town is not positively known. In 1855 Abner Hancock was united in marriage with Irena, daughter of John Harrison. Orin Wisel, justice of the peace, officiated on the occasion, the ceremony being performed at the house of Thomas Gillingham, at Readstown.

George Baker was united with Ulialah Shoults about the same time, at the residence of the bride's parents. Henry B. Hopkins, justice of the peace, ofliciated.

An early birth was that of Elsie, daughter of H. B. and Emeline (Dean) Hopkins, born July 28, 1855. She is now married and living in Grant Co., Wis.

The first meetings of the Sugar Grove Christian Church were held at the residence of Zac'iariah Smith, in 1857. Rev. Daniel Parkerson was the first minister. This society was organized at the school house on section 13 in 1857 by George H. Babb. Abram Williams and Zachariah Smith were chosen elders and William Shore and Henry Davis, deacons. 'J'he original membership was composed of about fourteen persons, among whom were Zachariah Smith and wife, George Spurrier and wife, Reuben Drake and wife, Henry Davis and wife, William Shore and wife and Elmira Newman. Rev George H. Babb was the first regular preacher after the organization of the society. He was succeeded by Rev. Hurd, who, in turn, was followed by Rev. Henry Howe. The society has never had a regular settled pastor, but has been supplied by preachers from other points. Worship was continued in the school house some four or five years, when seivices were held in Richland county until 1875, when a neat frame building was erected on section 13, town 11, range 3, town of Kiekapoo. A Sabbath school was organized at the school house soon after the organization of the society. William Powell was the first superintendent. The present superintendent is Rutson Drake.

The Methodist Episcopal Conference has sent ministers to Readstown since the time the village was laid out. The first meetings 'were held in the school house, Rev. Schooley being among the first preachers. No class was organized here until 1876, when Rev. McMillan organized one with about eight members, among whom were James Treseder and wife, Martha McKittrick and Mrs. Sylvia Bliss. James Treseder was appointed class-leader. In the winter of 1881-82 a revival was held, when several persons were added to the membership. In the spring of 1882 a house of worship was

Personal

Josiah Adams, one of the settlers of Vernon county, was born in the town of Somerset, Somerset Co., Penn., Jan. 25, 1822. Vlicn he was quite young his parents moved to Ohio and became early settlers of Stark county, where he grew to manhood. In 1845 he went to llie Maumee valley and bought timber land in Henry county. In 1849 he came to Wisconsin and spent the summer in Lafayette county. In tlie fall of that year he came to Bad Ax county and halted at Liberty Pole, which was at that time called Bad Ax. He made a claim on section 32, of town 12 north, of range 5 west. In the fall of 1850 he returned to Ohio and spent the winter and sold his land there, returning to this county in 1852. On the 3d of April, 1853, he started for California, going across the plains with ox teams. He arrived at Spanish Ranch the 8th day of September, having been over five months on the way. He engaged in mining and remained in California until 1855, when he returned to Liberty Pole, coming by way of the Isthmus of Panama and New York. He then settled down and engaged farming, remaining in Franklin town until 1881, when he sold out and came to Kickapoo and bought land on section 33, of town 12 north, of range -5 west, where he now lives. He was married in 1860 to Mary Wright, of Ohio. They have one child, named Cyrus. His second and present wife was Rosetta Hooks, who was born in Mercer Co., Ohio, Feb. 5, 1833. Her father, Thomas Hooks, settled in Lafayette Co., Wis., in 1847.

Philip Schneider, one of the pioneers of Vernon county and the oldest living settler in the town of Kickapoo, was born in Bavaria, Sept. 15, 1815. His younger days were spent in school and on the farm. In \831 he left his native laud and emigrated to America. He landed at New York and went to New Jersey, where he was employed at farming for ten years. In 1847 he came to Wisconsin, and located in what was then called Crawford county. He stopped near Viroqua and helped Mr. Decker put up the first house ever erected in Viroqua. He remained there two years; then in 1849 came to town 1 1 north, of range 3 west, and entered land on section 5. He first built a small log cabin in which he lived until 1862, when he built the frame house in which he now lives. iMr. Schneider's farm is in the Kickapoo valley and contains 200 acres. It was the first farm opened up in the town. He was married in. 1852 to Elizabeth Guist, born in Ohio. Four children have blessed this union - Jacob, Aiary, George and Philip. Mrs. Schneider died in 1856. His second wife, to whom he was married in 1857, was a sister of his first wife and named Mai-y. She was the widow of Paul Sisler.

Samuel Estes is one of the oldest settlers now living in the county. He first came here in 18i0, to hunt and trap. He camped on section 26, of town 12 north, of range 3 west, built him a bark hut and here lived in solitude two years. He killed elk, deer and bear, and other small game, selling the pelts at Prairie du Cliien. After stopping here a few years, settlers began to come in, and he concluded this would be a good place to settle. He accordingly entered land on sections 25 and 26, and built a log house and engaged in farming. As he was the first settler here, he made a good selection in the Kickapoo valley. He has been twice married. His first wife was Ruth Hall, who was born in Ohio. Four children blessed this union, two of whom are now living - Elizabeth and Rachel. Mrs. Estes died in March, 1866, aged twenty-eight years. His second wife, to whom he was married in the fall of 1866, was Mary A. Shaw, also a native of Ohio. They have four children - Mellisa, Samuel, Annie and Henry. Mr. Estes was born in

Adams, Beiksliire Co., Mass., May 28, 1820. When he was quite young, his parents removed to New York, and lived two years ; then removed to Canada, and settled at London, now in the province of Ontario. At the breaking cut of the patriot war, they returned to York State, and settled near Watertown, Jefferson county. Tliey lived there but a short time, when they again moved to Cayuga county, and later to Cortland county. In 1846 he started west. He first halted near Elk Horn, where he was employed in farming and teaming until 1850, when he came to this county, as before stated. He lived in his log house until 1877, when he built the neat frame house in which he now resides.

James M., son of Abel C. and. Elizabeth ( Lawton ) Cushman, was born in Jefferson Co., Wis., Sept. 6, 1850. His father was a native of Vermont, and his mother of New York. They were early settlers in Jefferson Co., Wis., and also in Vernon county, coming here in 1853. James M. attended the district school and the public school at Viroqua for two years. When young, he commenced to work in his father's saw-mill, and learned to be a sawyer. lu 1873 he bought land on section 26, of town 12 north, of range 3 west, and has since that time engaged in farming summers and has run the saw-mill the remainder of the year. He was married, in 1868, to Maria J. Snow, who was born in Ohio. They have three children - Lillian, Alta and Florence.

Henry B Hopkins, one of the early se' tiers of Kickapoo town, was born in Newington, Hartford Co., Conn., May 18, 1817. He was the son of Horace and Fannie (Root) Hopkins, natives of Connecticut. When Henry was eight years of age, his parents moved to Ohio, settling in Portage county, where he grew to manhood, learning the carpenter trade. He was married May 30, 1839, to Emeline Dean, born in 'i'rinnbull Co., Ohio. They settled in Portage county, where Mr. Hopkins worked at his trade until 1848, when he came to Wisconsin, locating in Grant county. In 1853 he came to Vernon county, and entered the land where he now lives. He built a log house in which he lived until 1873, when he built the frame house in which he now lives. Mrs. Ilopkin's mother died in December, 1837. Of the seven children born to Mr. and Mrs. Hopkins, four are living - ^Albert, Delia, George and Elsie. Harriet, born May 27, 1840, married Henry Henthorn, died Nov. 6, 1873 ; Eluell D., born May 27, 1858, died Nov. 2, 1880; Alfred H., born Oct. 6, 1852, died at Esofea, Wis., June 18, 1883. Mr. Hopkins second wife, to whom he was married May 6, 1875, was Nancy Holcomb, widow of Charles Allen. He was the first justice of the peace in the town, and was repeatedly elected to that office as long as his health was such that he could attend to the duties of it. He was also first postmaster of Sugar Grove postoffice, holding the position many years and resigning on account of his ill health.

Albert H , eldest son of Henry B. Hopkins, was born in Ellenboro, Grant Co., Wis., Nov. 14, 1847. In 1853 he came with his parents to Vernon county, making his home with them until 1868, when he was married to Mary J., daughter of William and Ann (Williams) Shore, and widow of Zebulon Metcalf. She was born in Perry Co., Ohio. They have six children, four of whom are living - Bertha A., Frances E., Myrta C. and Guy F. Emmet V. and Willie H. died in infancy. Soon after marriage Mr. Hopkins settled on his present farm, on the northwest quarter of section 1 1.

David Barrie is one of tiie oldest settlers now living in Kickapoo town. He is a native of Scotland, born in Perthshire, Feb. 14, 1814. When fourteen years of age he commenced to learn to weave, working at that for some time, after which he was engaged for. thirteen years, on the river Tay, in the salmon fishing business. He was then employed for three years as gardener. In 1853 he came to America, landing at Montreal, and going to London, where he visited willi a brothev-in-law, two months, then went to Butler Co., Penn., where he visited a brother. In November, 1853, he started west to seek a home, first stopping at Viroqua, and on the 1st of January, 1854, entering land on section 35, town 1 2, range 3, Kickapoo town. He first built a log cabin, in which he lived ten years, then erected a neat frame house, which was burned in Occober, 1877. Mr. Barrie then erected the frame house in which he now lives. He also has a log and a frame stable on his place. lie made a good selection for a home, and now has one of the best farms in the countj'. When Mr. Bariie began pioneer life, in 1853, he worked three weeks in the dense wilderness without seeing a human being. Still he was not without company, for there were any amount of deer in the forest at that time. He went to LaCrosse, a distance of fifty miles, with an ox team, for his first provisions. It took him eight days to make the trip. His nearest postoffice was Viroqua, twelve miles distant. The nearest grist-mill was at Springville, a distance of sixteen miles.

Adelbert S. is a son of Roswell and Eliza Corey, pioneers of Vernon county. He was born in Bradford Co., Penn., March 29,1851, and was but three years of age when his parents came to Vernon county. They located land on section 10, of town 11 north, of range 3 west, and our subject was there reared to nianhood, dividing his time between the school and farm He was married in October, 1871, to Hester Salmon, and soon after bought land on sections 10 and 15, of town 11 north, of range 3 west, but two years later sold this piece and purchased 120 acres on section 12, of town II north, of range 4 west, where he resided until 1882, and then removed to an adjoining farm, on the same section. Mr. Corey and wife have been blessed with five children - William, Minerva, Ernest, James and Lillie May.

his parents emigrated to America, locating in Dane Co., Wis. His mother died when he was seven years of age and his father was again married within a year after her death. In 1854 they started from Dane county with two yoke of oxen to each wagon, and settled in Vernon Co., Wis., on section 11, town 11 north, range 4 west. Here Daniel grew to manhood, receiving a good education in the district schools. He was married June 9, 1868, to Anna Peterson, and settled on the homestead. This union was blessed with seven children, of which three went to the Eternal home while infants. The four living are Torger, Nils Elias, Anna Maria and Gerhard Olaus. His father died in 1880, in his seventy-second year. Mr. Fortney has been prominent in town affairs, having held offices of trust in the town. In 1882 he engaged in mercantile business at Liberty Pole, in company with his brother-in-law Knudt Peterson. They are doing an extensive business - buying and selling live stock and grain.

Reuben Drake is one of the early settlers of Vernon county. He was liorn in New Jersey, in 1824. When quite young, his parents removed to Ohio, and settled on a farm. He was there married, in 1846, to Matilda A. Sanders, born in Columbiana Co., Ohio. He bought a jiiece of land in Perry county, and engaged in farming until 1851, when he sold and went to Indiana, and sj^ent one and a half years, lie then returned to Perry county, and remained there until 1855. In the spring of that year, he came to Vernon county, and entered land on section 12, of town 11 north, of range 3 west, where he still resides. He first built a small log cabin in wliich the family lived five years, and then built a hewed log house. In 1 870 he erected the frame house in which he now lives. His son Benjamin was born in Perry Co., Ohio, in October, 1849. He came to Wisconsin with his parents. His younger days were spent in school, and on his father's farm. He was joined in marriage in April, 1871, to Sarah Beighle, a native of Pennsylvania. In the tall of tliat j'ear, they went to Iowa, and he took a homestead in Lyons county, and there remained one and a half years ; then returned to Kickapoo town, and bought land on section 13, of town 11 north, of range 8 west. In 1881 he bought another tract on the same section, on which is the neat frame house in which he now lives. Mr. and Mrs. Drake are the parents of five children - Blanclie, Elmer G., Epsie E., Jesse O. and Gertie J.

Setb Edson, one of the early settler of Kvckapoo, was born in Broome Co., N. Y., July 8, 1827, and was there reared to agricultural pursuits. He lived there until 1855, when he came to Bad Ax county, as it was then called, and purchased land of Daniel Day, on sections 17 and 18, of town 11 north, of range 3 west. There was a log house on this land at the time. He lived in that a few years, then built the frame house in which he now lives. He was married, in 1859, to Caroline Weybright, a native of Ohio. Five children blessed this union - Almira, Rhoda, Ella, AVilliam and Margaret Mrs. Edsoii died in May, 1874, and he was again married in ls77, to Susan Anderson. They liave three children - Samuel L., Dora J. and Nora May. His fatlier's name was Guy Edson; borti in Pelham, Hampshiie Co., Mass., March 17, 1794. He was there married to Rhoda Packard, who was also a native of that county. They moved to New York, and settled in Bi'oome county, where he bought a farm and lived until 1871, when he came to Wisconsin to ioin his children. He now makes his home with his daughter, in Crawford county.

James Foreman, an early settler in Kickapoo Center, was born in Butler Co., Penn., in 1808. His wife, whose maiden name was Elizabeth Bortemns, was also a native of Butler county Seven children blessed this union, three livijjg - Rudolpli, now a resident of Fayette Co., Iowa; Romania E., wife of Ransom Kellogg, who resides on section 14, and James. In 1855, in company with his family, he came to Bad Ax county and located at Kickapoo Center, where he bought town lots. He died here in 1857. His son James was born in Butler Co., Penn., Feb. 14,1337. He came to 'Wisconsin and made his home with his parents until the time of his father's death. In 185ti he bought land on section 2, of town 1 1 north, of range 3 west. He was married in 1857 to Margaret, daughter of Robert Dobson, a native of Pennsylvania, who settled in Kickapoo in 1857. At the time of his marriage he settled on his land. He had already commenced improvements, and had built a log house in which he lived until 1864, when he built the frame house in which he now lives. He has been a successful farmer and now owns 216 acres of land, a part of which is in the Kickapoo valley. Mr. and Mrs. Foreman are the parents of four children - Sarah A., Cliarles, Martha E. and Jane M.

Ole Fortney was one of the first Norwegians to settle in the town of Kickapoo. He was born June 4, 1823. He received a liberal education when young, and after finishing school, he engaged with a carpenter to learn the trade, and worked at that until 1850, when he came to America. He located at Madison, M is., and worked at his trade. He was there married, in 1852, to Cornelia Johnson. They remained in Madison until 1855, when he took an ox team and with his family started for Bad Ax (now Vernon) county. He bought land on section 13, of town 11 north, of range 4 west; built a log house and lived there one year, then traded for land on section 11, of the same town, and moved there with his family. He built a log house and lived in that until (882, when he gave that farm up to one of his sons. He then built a neat frame house on section 2, of the same towTi, and moved there with his family. He hail for some time been in feeble health and did not live long to enjoy his nice new home, lie passed to his rest April 1, 1883, leaving a widow .Tnd eight children to mourn his loss. The children are - Catharine, Hans, Christina, John, Ole, Martha, Sophia and Mary.

William Geddes was born in Harrison Co., Oiiio, April 12, 1830. His father, Henry Geddes, was born in Bucks Co., Penn., twentyeight miles from Philadelphia, in tlie same house in which his father was born. He was there married to Tamzon Forst, born in New Jersey. They settled in Ohio at an early Jay. When William was quite young, his parents removed to Morgan Co., Ohio., where they remained until the time of their death. In early manhood William went to McConnellsville, the county seat of Morgan county, engaging with a carpenter to learn the trade. He worked at his trade until the fall of 1854, when he .started west to seek a home. He spent the winter twelve miles from Columbus, Franklin Co., Ohio. In the spring of 1855 he again started on his journey, and coming to Vernon county, located on section 33, town 12, range 3, in the Kiekapoo valley, and builta frame house, 16x24 feet. Mr. Geddes has since cleared a farm, made a large addition to his house, and now makes this his home. He was married in 1851 to Laura Ann Hagerman, born in Washington Co., Ohio. Eleven children blessed this union - Henry, Rhoda A., James E., Julia A., Isabell, Fiannah, Edward D., Ella and Nellie, twins, Rosa and John Irving. Henry was born July 2S, 1852, died Feb. 8, 1881. John Irving died in infancy.

Zachariah Smith was born in Belmont Co., Ohio, Nov. 25, 1821. When fourteen years of age his parents moved to Morgan county, where they lived four years, then moved to Perry county. His father died soon after and Zachariah then started in life for himself. He married, in 1843, Amy Battin, born in Columbiana Co., Ohio, March 27, 1822. They went to Indiana in 1846, locating in the western part of Howard county. Mr. and Mrs. Smith were among the first in starting the Disciple Church in Burlington, Carl Co., Indiana. Mr. Smith was deacon of that Church for a number of years. In 1855 he and his wife and five small children started for the northwest with their covered wagons. They traveled under many hardships, especially the mother who had the care of the children, they being sick most of the time. They forded the Tippecanoe river, and narrowly escaped being drowned. 'J'hey landeil ill Bid Ak (now Vernon), Co., Wis., Nov. 9, 1855. Mr. Smith bought timber laud and immediately commenced to cleirafaim. There was a small cabin on the place where they lived four years. The country being new and no churches near, the early settlers met in his house to worship God. Elder Parkersoii was the first preacher in this place. In 1860 Mr. Smith erected a hewed log house in which he lived until 1881, when he built the neat frame house where he now resides. His farm is in Sugar Grove, one of the most pleasant localities in Vernon county. Mr. Smith was one of the first in establishing the district school and also the Disciple Church, in this place, of which he was an elder for many years. Mr. and Mrs. Smith are parents often children. The oldest son enlisted in the War of the Rebelionand died at Nashville, Tenn., in 1865.

Sever Thompson was one of the early Norwegian settlers in Vernon county. He was born in Norway, Jan. 14, 1828, and in 1853 came to America, joining his countrymen in Dane Co., Wis. He remained there two years and in 1855 made a settlement in Bad Ax (now this) county. He located on the southwest quarter of section 13, town 11 north, of range 4 west, on which he erected a log cabin. One year later he sold this land and purchased the northwest quarter of the same section, and removed his primitive dwelling house to his new farm. He subsequently weather-boarded and painted his cabin, giving it the appearance of a frame house. He cleared up the farm and lived there till his death, whic i occurred April 24, 1883. He left a widow and five children to mourn his death. The children are - Betsey, Ole Nels, Emma, Thomas and Soren. Tlie eldest son, Ole, is a teacher in the public schools. He was born in this town, Nov. 1,

Henry Benn was an early settler of Kickapoo town. He was born in C'umberlandshire, England, Oct. ) 6, 18-29. In .January, 1853, he left his native land for Amei-ica, and located in Jefferson Co., Wis., where he "as married, in 1854, to Susan Holinger, a native of Ohio. In 1856 Mr. Benn came to Vernon county and bought forty acres of laiul on section 85. of town 12 north, of range 3 we-:t, erected a log house, and resided, there for three years. He then sold his property and purchased another "forty" of unimproved land, and again erected a substantial log cabin. In 1864 lie enlisted in company C, 43d regiment, Wisconsin Volunteers, and served till the war closed and received an honorable discharge. In 1S64 he purchased land on section 35, adjoining the town plat of Kickapoo, on which he has since resided. In April, 1882, he had the misfortune to lose his house by fire. Mr. and Mrs. 13emi have been blessed witli two children - Ida, wife of John Lowry, of Richland Co., Wis., and a son that died in infancy.

James Claney, one of the pioneers of Vernon county, was born in county Cork, Ireland, in 1815. When fifteen years of age he left home and his native land to seek a home in .America. After living in Maryland for some years he went to Memphis, Tenn., where he was married to Maria Osborne, born in Kentucky. They went to Galena, III., where they lived until 1856, when they came to Vernon Co., Wis., settling on section 36, town 12, range 4. Mr. Claney improved the land, making this his home until his death in 1875. His widow, with her son James, now occupies the homcste'ad. Mr. Claney left four children - William, .Tohn, Mary and James.

John Claney, son of James and Maria (O-.- borne) Claney, was born March 20, 1847, in Galena, 111., being but nine years of age wlien his parents settled in this county. His younger days were spent in school and at work on the farm. In 1867 he engaged with George Read to learn blacksmithing and has worked at that trade the greater part of the time since. Mr. Claney also owns a farm located on section 1, town 11, range 4. In 1881 he formed a partnership with Mr. Baker, at Readstown, to do general blacksmithing and wagon making. In 1882 Mr. Baker died and Mr. Claney now has a shop at his home. In 1870 Mr. Claney was married to Catharine Joyce, born in Madison, Wis. They have had four children - Thomas Francis, Isabelle and Grace, twins, and Charles. On Sept. 1, 1864, Mr. Claney enlisted in the Union army, serving ten months and receiving an honorable discharge when the war closed.

Tiionias Flanagan was born in county Longford, Ireland, in 1S2I, where his younger days were spent in school. In 1841 he came to America, landing at New York city, where he was engaged in the manufacture of brick on the Hudson river. He remained there until 1845, when he went to Galena, III., and engaged as clerk in the smelting furnace of Corinth & Co. In 1851 he went by way of the Isthmus 1o California. He engaged in mining at Downieville until winter, when he bought a lot of mules and with provisions started for the mountains. In 1853 he returned by way of Nicaragua to Galena. He remained there until 1854, when ho bought eight horses and sixteen head of cattle and, in company with seven others, started across the plains for California. He was there engaged i n the mines and in a saw mill. In 1856 he returned to Galena and after making a short stop came to Wisconsin, buying land on sections 1 and 12, town 11, range 4, and on sections 6 and 7, town 1 1, range 3, where he removed in the winter of 1856-57 with his family. He first built a small frame house in which he lived until 1871, when he built tlie commodious one in which he now lives. He has nearly 600 acres in Kickapoo town and 140 in Franklin town. Mr. Flanagan was married in l!S47 to Bridget Finley, who was born in Lafayette Co., Wis. They liave had six children - Edmund P., Maria, William, John, Joseph and Nellie. Mr. Flanagan has been prominent in town aflfair.s and has filled offices of trust. He was town clerk for eight successive years.

Helge Larson, one of the pioneers of Kiokapoo town, was born in Norway, Feb. 16, 182(;. His younger days were spent in school and on the faim. lie was married in 1850 to Carrie Svalhein. In 1855 they left their native land and came to the United States. Tiiey first settled in Dane Co., Wis., and in 185Gcame to Vernon county, p\irchasing land on section lo, to-wn II, range 4. He built a log house and improved a part of the land. He sold this farm in 1807 and purchased land on sections 28 and 33, town 1 2, range H. He moved there with his family and made this his home until his death, which occurred in 1875. He left five children - Soin, Lewis, Susan, Emma and Ole. Soin was born June 17, 1850; died June 3, 1880. Lewis was born Nov. 9, 1855; died May 29, 1880. Ole, the youngest son, was born Feb. 16, ISGi. He received a liberal education in the public schools. He with his sisters, resides on the homestead with his mother.

WiMiam Crook is a native of England, born in Devonshire, August, 184-?, living there and in Cornwall until 1857, when he left his native land, with his parents, for America. After landing at New York city, they came to Vernon county, settling on section 26, town 12, range 4. William was married, in 1869, to Catharine Hall, born in Ohio. They have had three chiklren - Frank, Minnie and Rosa A. In 1879 he moved to Franklin town, buying a farm on section 21. After remaining there two years, he returned to his former home on section 26, Kickapoo tosvn, on which he has erected a good set of buildings, now having one of the best farms in the town, conlaining 200 acres of land. Mr. Crook's parents, John and Charlotte (Searls) Crook, were both natives of Devonshire, England. His mother

John R. Lake, one of the pioneers of Vernon county, was born in Devonshire, England, March 20, 1829. His father was a farmer, but when quite young John R. engaged with a plasterer to learn the trade, at which he worked, until 1855, in his native land, when he came to America. He landed at Quebec, coming directly to Wisconsin, and locating at Janesville, where he worked at his trade for three years, then going to Iowa, spent one year in Mitchell, Mitchell county. He then came to Vernon county, bonght forty acres of land on section 26, town 12, range 4, and commenced farming. He built a small frame house in which he lived twelve years, then moved to section 2.3, town 12, range 4, in Viroqua. He has since improved this land, built a neat frame house, and now makes it his home. He has been a successful farmer, now having 320 acres of land. Mr. Lake was married, in 1859, to Charlotte, daughter of John and Charlotte (Seajj'ls) Crook. They have had ten children - William Henry, Levi John, Augustus Stockholm, Amelina Ann, Samuel Welobee, Albert, Clementine, Frederick, Ella and Ethel. Mr. Lake was instrumental in the organization of the school district in which he lives, and was the first clerk, which office he has held continuously, with the exception of a short time in which he was not in the district. During the war, Mr. Lake enlisted in company B., 50th regiment, Wisconsin Volunteers, and sei'ved faithfully until honorably discharged.

Fredrick Olson first visited this county in 1859. He was born in Norway, Nov. 5, 1834. His younger days were spent in acquiring an education. At sixteen years of age, he was apprenticed to a tailor at Lilliehammer, to learn the trade. He served three years; then worked as a iourneymen until 1859, when he left his native land for America. He came directly to this county, and spent the summer at Coon Prairie, where he was employed in farm- ing. In the fall, he went to Freeport, 111., and worked at his trade. In 1861, he again visited Vernon county, and was married here July 20 to Marion O, daughter of Hans Hanson, who settled near Bloomingdale in 1855. He returned to Freeport with his bride and resumed work at his trade, remaining there until 1863, when he returned to Vernon county, and purchased a farm of Nels Hanson two and onehalf miles from Bloomingdale. He lived there eight years, then traded his farm for a gristmill at Bloomingdale. He carried on this mill until 1878, when he traded it for a farm on sections 25 and 26 of town 1 2 north, of I'ange 4 west, embraced in the town of Kickapoo. There was a large frame barn on this farm and he has since completed the farm^ houses, and is now well provided with buildings. His farm now contains 202 acres of land, a portion of which is in the Kickapoo valley. Mr. and Mrs. Olson are the parents of nine children - Annie M., Minnie A., Olouf M., Marcus II., John A., Hans N., Hannah L., Ida A. and Charles Edwin. They are taking good care to educate their children. Their oldest daughter, Annie, is a teacher in the public schools.

Jedediah Demings is a jirominent member of the Seventh Day Adventist denomination. He was born in Franklin Co., Vt., Nov. 6, 1826, and at the age of fifteen, suffered the loss of his mother. Plis father soon after removed lo Illinois, and our subject was left lo care for himself. He was employed on a farm in Vermont for two years, and then went to Essex Co., N. Y., where he found similar employment at $9 per month. In 1845 he went to Illinois and joined his father in McHenry county, where he remained two years. In 1847 he went to Wisconsin, and spent two years in Winnebago county. He then returned to his father's home in Illinois, going on foot, and walking the long journey of 136 miles in two and one-half days. His time was passed in Illinois and Wisconsin, until 1856, when he went to Minnesota, and located in Nicolet county, then on the frontier, and inhabited mostly by Indians. He remained there four years, and in 1860 came to Vernon county, and located a homestead on section 2, of town 11 north, of range 3 west, where he now has a pleasant home. Mr. Demings was married Feb. 17, 1856, to Adeline Gibbs, a native of Vermont. Mr. Demings was converted to the faith of the Seventh Day Adventist in Illinois, in 1850, and is the foumlerof that denomination in Vernon county. Mrs. Demings is also a member.

Charles E. Smith settled on his present farm in I860. He is a native of the old Bay State, born sixteen miles from Boston, in Lincoln township, Middlesex county, Aug. 15, 1835. His early education was begun in the district school and completed in the Lawrence Ac ulcmy, at Groton, Mass. When seventeen years of age, he went to Boston, engaging as clerk for an establishment there until 1856, when he started west to seek a home. He located at St. Peter, Nicolet Co., Minn., being one of the early settlers there. He lived there, on government land, until 1860, when he sold out, and as before stated, came to Vernon county. His farm is situated in the Kickapoo valley, on section 34, town 12, range 3. It is in a godd stale of cultivation, and he has erected a neat frame house thereon. Mr. Smith was married in 1860, to Ruth E. Gibbs, born in Vermont. They have had four children - Charles O., Fred L., Lucy A. and Myrtie M. Mr. Smiiii has been prominent in town and county affairs, and was assessor for several years.

B. C. Hutchison, one of the pioneers of Vernon county, was born in Pennsylvania, in January, 1818. lie lived there until four years of age, when he removed to Ohio, settling in Richland county. He was there manicd to Matilda Hooks, who was born in Ohio. Tliirleen children blessed this union, nine of wLom are now living. In 1844 they came to Wisconsin, locating in Grant county. In 1849 he again sought a new home, settling in Franklin town,

Vernon county, where he purcliased h\Mil, built a log house, living there six years. He then sold out, buying land on section 7, town 11, range 3, Kickapoo town. After residing there eight years, he again sold out and settled on section 9, his present home. Mrs. Hutchison died March 5, 1864.

William Hutchison, third son of B. C. and Matilda (Hooks) Hutchison, was born July 20, 1846, 'in Grant Co., Wis. His younger days were spent in school, and assisting his fatl^er on the farm. In January, 1864, he enlisted in company I, 17th Wisconsin Volunteers, and went south. He was with Sherman in his march U> the sea, and participated in the many battles of that racniorablo cami)aign. He was discharged July 14, 1865, and returned home. In 18C6 he was clerking for B. D. Hale, at Readstown, and later for A. P. Bliss. He was married in ISGO to Helen, daughter of WiHard and Mary (Lot ridge) Morley, who was born in New York State. Mr. and Mrs. Hutchison have had five children - Mary, Albert, Sylvia, William and Walter. Soon after marriage he settled on a farm on section 36, town 12, range 4. In 1883 he bought property in Viroqua and removed there. He has been prominent in town affairs, and is the present assessor. He is also a mail contractor.

Lyman C. Drake, postmaster of Sugar Grove office, is a native of New York State. He was born in West Bloomfield town, Ontario county, April 29, 1813. When three years of age his parents moved to Leroy, Genesee county, where he grew to manhood. In 1838 he came to Wisconsin, locating at Plattsville, where he engaged in mining one year, then going to Ellenboro he bought land and engaged in farming. He remained in the vicinity of Ellenboro until 1862, when he traded his farm there for land at Sugar Grove, on section 13, town II, range 3, Kickapoo town. He has since made this his home. Mr. Drake was married, in 1 843, to Janette Russell, born in Connecticut. They have had five children, two of whom are living - Rutsoii 11. and Frank H. Their first child, George L., born Sept. 3, 1844, enlisted in 1864 in company I, 17th Wisconsin Volunteers, and died in the service at Rome, Ga., in August, 1864. Lester was born Nov. 13, 1847. He enlisted in 18'U in company I, 17th Wisconsin Volunteers. He was with Sherman on his march to the sea, and was killed by a guerilla, about twenty miles from Columbia, S. C, near the close of the war. Lewis was born June 20, 1860, and died in infancy. Mr. and Mrs. Drake are both members of the Disciple Church. Tiieir son, Rutson, also a member, is superintenilent of the Sunday school.

George Latta is a native of Ohio, born in Columbiana county. May 26, 1 822. When ten years of age his parents moved to Perry county, where George grew to manhood, and where he was married, in 1844, to Thannel Snider. He bought a farm in Monroe town, remaining there until 1864, when he sold out, coming to Wisconsin, and settling on his present farm on section 26, town 12, range 4, Kickapoo town. It is in a good state of cultiv.itioii. Mr. and Mrs. Latta have had nine children - Leanna, Edward, Nancy, Francis, Joseph, Matilda, David, Hannah and George. Mrs. Latta died in 1872, aged fifty-two years. His second wife, to whom he was married in ls7o, was llai'iiet Delap.

Josiah Latta settled in Kickapoo town in 1866. He is a native of Ohio, born in Perry county May 22, 1836. His younger days were spent in school and at work on his father's farm. He was married in 1859 to Elizabeth Grier, born in Morgan Co., Ohio, after which he carried on a part of his father's farm in Perry county. He enlisted Jan. 1, 1862, in the 62d Ohio Volunteers, coinjiany C, and went souths serving until the expiration of his time and eight days over, being discharged Jan. 8, 1865. Among the many engagements in which he participated were the following: Winchester and the many battles of the Shenandoah valley. After this campaign the regiment joined McClellan's command at Harrison's Landing. From there they went to Suffolk, Va., being on provost duty. After his discharge Mr. Latta returned to Perry county, remaining until 1866, when he came to Vernon county and purchased land on section 26 town 12, range 4. He has since improved his land, set out an orchard and built a large frame residence, now having one of the best farms and residences in the town. Mr. and Mrs. Latta have nine children - Thomas, Charles, Mary A., Lillie Maud, Nancy Estella, Albert P., Minnie B., Jessie Grace and William Orley. Mr. Latta's farm now contains 320 acres.

Benjamin Rogers settled in Vernon county in 1866. He was'^orn Feb. 19, 1837, in Perry Co., Ohio, being there raised on a farm. He was married in 1859 to Elizabeth Ayers, born in Perry county. He enlisted in September, 1861, in company G, ISth Ohio Volunteers, and went south. He participated in the battles of Stone River and Chickamauga. He was wounded in the latter battle'^and laid up for three months, when he again joined the regiment, taking part in many other?engagements. He was honorably discharged injthe fall of 1864, and returned to Perry county. In 1866, as before stated, he came to Vernon county, purchasing eiglity acres of land on section 36, town 12, range 4, Kickapoo town. He has since purchased more land, making a^farm of 220 acres, improved the same, and built the frame house in which he now lives. His six children are - Rilla Belle, Benjamin, Rebecca, Parthenia, Hester Ann and Thomas Newton. The two latter are twins. A daughter, Mary Etta, died at seven years of age.

J. J. McCarty, town clerk, was born Jan. 7, 1856, in Missouri, coming to Kickapoo town, Vernon Co., Wis., in 1867. He i-eceived a liberal education in his younger days, and has, for a few years, been engaged as teacher in the public schools, having taught his first term when' nineteen years of age, in school district No. 4. He was elected to his present office in 1877, being re-elected every year, until he is now serving his seventli term. In 1882 Mr. Mc- Carty erected a building in Readstown, on the east side of the river, where he is engaged in business. He keeps a general stock, and has a good trade.

Lewis Anderson settled on his present farm in 1874. It is located on the ridge on section 1, town 11, range 4, and contains 155 acres. He is a native of Norway, born June 17, 1853. He came to America with his parents in 1864, settling in Clayton, Crawford county, where he received a liberal education in the public schools. He was married in 1S74 to Melina Salmonson. Her parents were early settlers of Vernon county. Mr. and Mrs. Anderson have three children - Annie, Martha and Emma. He has taken great interest in public affairs, and is a member of the town board, elected in April, 1883.