Vernon County, Wisconsin - Biographical sketches (4 of 6 so headed), 1884 (part 1 of 2)

Biographical sketches

There is no class of citizens so richly deserving of praise, respect and esteem as the pioneer settlers ; and too often even this is denied them. It is the aim of the historian of this chapter to give a few lines to the honored pioneers and their descendants, due them on account of being instrumental in "clearing up" and developing this new and beautiful soil.

Chauiicey W. Lawton came to Venion county in 1864, and entered land on section 1, town 11, range 3 west, Kickajioo town. He built a log cabin and cleared about twelve acres of land. In 1858 he traded that for a place in town 13, range 3. He then came to Stark town and rented a farm on section 29, for one year. He then traded his farm in Kickapoo town for one on section 20, Staik town, and built ali^use on the north bank of tlie river, which he moved, in 181)0, to the south bank. In IStiS he built the large frame house in wliich he now lives. In 1867 he platted the village of Star Mr. Lawton was born June 27, 1825, in Great Valley, Cattaraugus Co., N. Y., where he grew to manhood, receiving a liberal education in the district and high school. When nineteen years of age, he entered the office of Angel & Fox with whom he studied law two years. In 1846 he came to Wisconsin, locating in Waukesha, where he remained one year, then returned to New York State, remaining until 1 854, at which time he came to Vernon county, as before stated. He continued his study of law in this county, and, in 1859, was admitted to the bar at Viroqua. Mr. Lawton has been twice married. His first wife, to whom he was married Sept. 2, 185', was Mirian F.Dyer. Three children blessed iliis union - Clarence, Alice and Ulysses. Mis. Lawton died March 21, 1871. He again married, Aug. 3, 1872, Jemima Dowell, a native of Scotland. They have three children - Caioline, William and Alexander. Mr. Lawton was appointed postmaster of the Star office, in 1861, and holds the office at the present time. lie has been prominent in county and town affairs. He lias served as county commissioner, and for several years has held tlie office of justice of the peace. Mr. Lawton was a soldier in the Union array during the late war, and was with Sherman during that memorable march to the sea.

Eli McVey, an early explorer of the Kickapoo valley, was born in Morgan Co., Ohio, Dec. 7, 1832, and there he spent his younger days, in school, and on the farm. In 1854 he came to

Wisconsin, and visited Vernon county. In the winter he engaged in lumbering in the Kickapoo pineries, and in the summer in rafting lumber down the river, being thus occupied for three successive summers, after which he engaged in breaking prairie. In October, 1861, he enlisted in company I, 12th Wisconsin Volunteers, and went south. He took part in the siege of Vicksburg, and was with Sherman on his march to the sea ; also, participated in the many battles and skirmishes in that memorable campaign. He was discharged in August, 1805, and returning to Vernon county, purchased wild land on section 3, Stark town, and engaged in farming. He has since built the frame liouse in which he lives, and a frame barn 30x40 feet. In 1878 he purcliased eighty acres of land on section 33, Wliitestown town, and has since improved a part of that. Mr. McVey was married, in 1867, to Caroline Bryan, by whom he has had four children - Sherman, Agnes, Ella and William.

lliram, son of Jesse and Mary (Gheen) Orri- 8011, pioneer of Vernon county, was born in Muskingum Co.. Ohio, April 18,1834. Whenhewas quite young,]us parents removed to Perry county, where he grew to manhood. He was but twenty years of age when his parents came to Bad Ax county. He made his home with them in Stark, and went to Franklin in 1858, and there bought a tract of land. He made some improvements on the land and lived there two years ; then sold. He was married in 1863, to Mary Parr, and bought a farm in the town of Webster, and lived there until 1866, when he came to Stark and bought the farm he now occupies on section 7. They have four children - Sarah AImeda, John A., Minnie C. and Francis W.

John H. Anderson, an early explorer of the Kickapoo valley, and a pioneer settler of Stark town, is a native of Scotland, born in Glasgow, Nov. 14, 1826. When fourteen years of age he left home and went to sea; sailed two years before the mast and then came to the LTnited States, stopping first in Maine and spending some time in Portland; thence to Biddet'ni-d and other places. In Saco he was employed for one year in a brick yard. He then visited New Haveu, New York and Philadelphia, and spent a winter in Lancaster, Penn., where he was employed teaming. From there he went to Washington county, where he remained till the fall of 1849, then went to Adams Co., 111., spending the winter near Quincy, being employed in chopping wood. In the spring of 1850 he came to Wisconsin, spending the summer at Spring Green Prairie, Sauk county. In the fall he visited Richland county, and was employed in getting out lumber to build the Hazelton saw mill, the first one in that county. Late that fall he went to work in the pineiies, and from that time until 1855 was em|)loyed in getting out lumber and rafting it down theKickapoo river. While so doing he became acquainted with the localities and also with the few settlers along the river. He settled in 1855 on section 20, town 13, range 2 west, now known as Stark town, Vernon county. He built a cabin on the west bank of the east fork of the Kickapoo river, and there lived a single man for five years. Mr. Anderson was married Feb. 7, 1860, to Lucy McHenry. One child blessed this union - Nancy Elizabeth. At the time of his marriage he owned a farm house on the brow of the hill, which he now makes his home. For the past few years his health has not been good, and not being able to farm has turned his attention to bees and has started an apiary. His wife was the daughter of William and Elizabeth (Wallace) McHenry, born in Ohio. Her parents settled in Webster in 1857. Her father died in 1865; her mother in 188-2.

Philip Aumock was born in Perry Co., Ohio, June 17, 1827, and was reared on a farm till fifteen years of age. He then learned the carpenter trade, and was married on the 29th day of January, 1846, to Eleanor Dusenberry, also a native of Perry Co., Ohio. Soon after marriage Mr. Aumock engiged in the cabinet business, which he followed until the fall of 1855: tlieii with a team of two horses and wagon, loaded up his family and started for the west, and after thirty-two day's travel landed in Bad Ax (now Vernon) Co., Wis., and pre-empted the north one-half of the northwest quarter of section 17, town 13 north, of range 2 west. He built a log cabin in which he lived until 1867, then erected a frame house, in which he now lives. He also built a good frame barn in 1870, and has cleared up quite a large farm. He has worked a good deal of his time at his trade, and is now the owner of IbO acres of land, don't owe one cent in the world, and is well and comfortably situated. At the time of Rebellion he enlisted in the 43d Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, and served his country until the war closed. He then returned home. His first wife died shortly after his arrival home, of nervous prostration brought on by his absence. About the 1st of February, 1866. he went back to Ohio, and on the 4th day of March was married to Mrs. Mary Ann Essington, and brought her home with him, and they are now living happily together. He had a family of nine childred, all of which are dead except four. Two of them are married and two are single. Mary E. married Perry A. Brown; John Wesley married Mary A. Thomas; George Washington and Hannah R. are still single. The boys own a good farm each and are out of debt.

Adam Bryan, one of the early settlers of Stark town, was born in Forks, Lycoming Co., Penn., June 11, 1817. Ilis father was a clothier by trade, and was also engaged in the lumber business and in farming. Adam's early days were spent in school, in assisting his father on the farm and in the saw mill. The first school which he attended, was nine mile.s distant from his home. When twenty-one years of age, he entered a woolen mill and there learned to manufacture woolen goods. He was married March 2, 1843, to Mary Barge, born in Lycoming county, Aug. 3, 1825. He continued to work in the woolen factory until 1848, when he engaged in the lumber business, which he followed until 1851, when he started west to seek a home. He located in Illinois, purchasing a farm in Jo Daviess county. In May, 1854, he came to Wisconsin. Taking the cars to Warren, he there procured a team, took the overland route to Vernon county. He stopped but a short time then returned to Illinois, remaining until May, 1855. He then came to Vernon county, entering land on section 3, town 13, range 2, now known as Stark town, then returned to Illinois for his family. In June, the family started for their new home, George Walsh and family accompanying them. After taking the cars to Warren, III., they started with ox teams. In many places they had to cut a road. Arriving on his land, he moved into a lumberman's log cabin and lived there three years, then built a hewed log house, to which he has since made a frame addition and in which he now lives. Mr. and Mrs. Bryan have had six children - Caroline, born March 16, 1848, was married to Eli McVey, and died Jan. 1, 1876; Alexander J., now in Sioux Falls, Dak., engaged in farming; George H., a grain dealer at Viroqua; Albert T., a physician in Eagan, Dak.; Aaron R., an atiorney at law, in Sioux City; and Henrietta. Mr. Bryan united with the Methodist Episcopal Church, when a young man, but failing in his efforts to organize a class in Stark, he united with the German Evangelical and later with the United Brethren. Thomas De Jean, one of the pioneers of Stark town, was born in Cliautauqua Co., N. Y., in 1806, and there grew to manhood. He was a natural mechanic, and when a young man, he went to Pennsylvania and there worked in a saw mill for nine years. He then moved to Ohio, locating in Maumee City, where he was an early settler. While there he took contracts for building warehouses and docks on the canal, and later, engaged in farming. In 1841 he came to Wisconsin, locating at New Berlin, Waukesha county. After remaining there one year he went to Genesee, same county, bought land and built a saw mill, also running a blacksmith shop and plow factory. In 1855 he sold out there and came to Vernon county, settling on section 29, town 13, range 2, now known as Staik town. Two years later, he built a saw mill, in 1ST3 a grist mill, and also engaged in farming. He erected a large frame house and made this his home until his death, wliich occurred February, 1877. He was very enterprising and took a prominent part in town affairs. He was elected town assessor in 1856, and later, held other offices. Mr. De Jean married Polly Butterfield, also a native of Chautauqua Co., N. Y. She is still living on the old homestead. There were three children, two of whom are now living - Anson W., the eldest, is now living near, and owns an interest in the flouring mill; Alfred H., is also living near, on a farm; Ann C, who became the wife of William Sanbers, in the year 1861, and resided in this and an adjoining county, until 1879, removed with her husband and four children, to Roseburg, Oregon, where she died the year following.

Anson W. De Jean was born in Maumee City, Ohio, Feb. 25, 1838. His younger days were spent in school and assisting his father in the mill and on the farm. He was employed for a while as teacher in the public schools of Vernon county. He was married in 1862 to Juliet Potter, born in Collin's Center, Erie Co., N. Y. He then settled on section 29, on land which his father had entered for him in 1855, In 1863 he erected a building on section 29, and engaged in mercantile business, wliicli he has followed ever since. In 1864 he bought an interest in his father's saw-mill, and in 1873 was associated with him in the building of a flour mill, which Anson W. now operates. He has been engaged for some years in farming, and at one time owned 1,100 acres of land in this county. He now owns but 320 acres in Vernon county, and a quarter section in Murray Co., Minn. Mr. and Mrs. De Jean had but one chilli - Charles, who clerks in his father's store. Mr, De Jean has taken a prominent part in town and county affairs, and has filled offices of trust the greater part of his time since he attained tlie age of twenty-one years. His first, and all iiis voting has been done in the town in which he now lives.

John Barge settled in Vernon county, in 1856. He is a native of Germany, born in Wuvtemburg, Oct. 15, 1819. He was but eighteen months old when his parents left their native land for America. They first settled in Mifflinsberg, Penn., where they lived eight years, then moved to Cherrytown, Lycoming county, wliere John grew to manliood. He was there married, in 1840, to Elizabeth Melhine, born in Hrier Creek, Penn. Tliey resided in that part of Lycoming, now known as Sullivan county, until 1856, at which time they came to Vernon county, making a settlement on Jug creek. Mr. Baige entered the northwest quarter of section 12, and immediately commenced the cultivation of a farm. He built a log house in which he lived several years, then erected a frame residence, which was burned, Feb. 8, 1881, with about half its contents. He then erected another frame house. Mr. and Mrs. Barge were blessed with seven children - Mary C, Franci.s E., George W., Adlett, Caroline E. and John F. The youngest child, Hardwell Lincoln, died when nine years and four months old. Mrs. Barge died Sept. 27, 1871. Mr and Mrs. Barge are both members of the Church, and took active steps to secure a Church organization, which was effected soon after their settlement liere.

Joseph O. Parker, one of the pioneers of Stark tou n, is a native of Kentucky. He was born in that part of Franklin, now embraced in Anderson county, Marcli 11,1811. When he was nineteen years of age, he removed with his parents to Illinois, and settled in Edgar county. He made his home with his parents there until 1832. lie was married the 3d of November, of that year, to Permelia Clark, who was born in Pulaski Co., Ky., in December, JSJ4. He bought a farm in Edgar county and remained there until 1856, when he sold o\it and started for Wisconsin with two oxen and one horse' team. They were twenty-four days on the road ; bringing their cooking utensils tliey camped out on the way. Arriving at Bad Ax ( now Vernon ) county, he entered land on section .35, of town 13 north, of range 2 west, now known as Stark, and lived in a log cabin until after the war, when he built the frame house in which he now lives. Mr. and Mrs. Parker were the parents of ten cliildren, nine of which are now living - Archibald, Harriet, James F., Jemima, Rebecca, Mary, David, Sarah and Stephen. Their oldest daughter, Mahala, died in Illinois, at the age of sixteen.

E. Potter, one of the early settlei-s of Stark town, is a native of the Empire State, born in Washington county. Sept 10, 1811, where he grew to manhood. When twenty-one years of age lie started west, locating in Erie Co., N. Y., where he was married, in 1840, to Mary A. Stone. He bought a tract of timber land in Erie county, built a frame house and cleared a farm, remaining there until 1855. In the fall of that year he started for Wisconsin, locating in Grant county and remaining one year, when not being satisfied with the location, he came with a team to Vernon county, -bringing a year's provisions with him. He bought land on section 24, town 13, range 2 west, and erected a log cabin. Mrs. Potter painted the door red, and it was known as the house with the red door, and was the stopping place, for many years, of travelers No one iiungry and tired was ever turned away from their door. The family lived in this cabin until 1871, when Mr. Potter built the frame house in which they now live. Mrs. Potter was born in Chenango Co., N. Y.,in December, 1819. When she was very young her parents moved to the western part of that State, in Erie county. It was here that Mrs. Potter began her pioneer life. Mr. and Mr.s. Potter have four children - James, Jubette, Allison and Mary.

Samuel Gray, an early settler of Stark town, is a native of New York State, born in Erie county, Feb. 1, 1830. When twelve years of age he engaged on the New York and Erie canal, which occupation he followed until twenty-one years of age. He was married in the fall of 1850 to Elizabeth Stone, born in Chenango Co., N. Y. He engaged in farming, for one season, in Cattaraugus county, and, in 1852, started west to seek a home, settling in Grant Co., Wis. He there entered land, built a log house, and made other improvements. In 1857 he sold out and came to Vernon county, buying land on section 26, town 13, range 2 west. Here he built a hewed log house, and has since made it his home. Mr. and Mrs. Gray have had six children - Emertt, Leroy, Lucy, James, F'rank and Elva.

TimothY McGratb was one of the early settlers of Stark town. He came here from Madison, in 1857, making the journey with an ox team, and being eight days on the road, locating the west half of section 16, which he had bought two years previous, built a log house and immediately commenced to make improvements, and made this his home until liis death which occurred in 1868. He was a native of Ireland. His wife, whose maiden name was Ellen Quinn, was also a native of Ireland. They emigrated to America in 1847, settling in Milwaukee, and living there until 1855, when they moved to Madison, remaining until 1857, when, as before stated, they came to Stark. Mrs. McGrath died on the old homestead, Feb. 25, 1883. They left two cliildren - John and Timothy W.

John McGrath was born in Milwaukee, Feb. 27, 1849. He was married in January, 1874, to Annie Gallagher, daughter of John and Bridget Gallagher, who settled in Clinton in 1855. Two clnldren have blessed this union - John E. and Ellen. Mr. McGrath now occupies the homestead. He has built a neat frame house, and is engaged in stock and grain raising.

school supplemented by two years at the normal school at Whitewater. He taught several terms of school in this county, and is now studying law in an office in Minneapolis.

John Small, Sr., a settler of 1858, was born in the District of Columbia, July 31, 1786, and grew to manhood in the Nation's capital. In 1812 he enlisted in the 14th regiment. United States Volunteers, and served under Gen. Scott through that war, after which he located in Tui'key Foot township, Somerset Co., Penn Jle was there married March 16, 1817, to Olivet Skinner, who was born in that township, April 3, 1794. Remaining there until 1820 they removed to Perry Co., Ohio, and a short time after he purchased timber land and partly cleared a farm. In 1828 he sold out there and moved to Athens Co., Ohio, and bought a farm, which he sold three years later, returning to Perry county and buying land in Salt Lick township where he remained until 1858. He then came to Vernon county, settling on land that he had entered in 1856, situated on section 18, town 13, range 2 west. He cleared a farm and lived here until his death, in 1873. His wife died April 19, 1867.

John Small, Jr., son of John and Olivet (Skinner) Small, was born in Monroe township, July 22,1824. He was married in 1853 to Mary Pa.xton, al.«o born in Salt Lick township. After receiving a fnir education, he engaged in teaching in Perry county. In 1855 he started west to seek a home, settling in Rossville, Allamakee Co., Iowa. He bought town property and engaged in teaching and later clerked iti a store and also ran an engine in a saw and grist mill. He remained there until 1859, when he sold <jnl and came to Stark town, settling on land that he had previously entered on sections 10 and 15. He built a log house on section 10, living there until 1872, when he built the frame house in which he now lives. He has also built a large log stable, granary, etc. Since living here Mr. Small has not devoted all his time to his farm, having taught school and also worked at the carpenter trade. Mr. and Mrs. Small have three children - William, Isadora and Isabella. Isadora is the wife of John Teel and lives in Stark town. Isabella is the wife of Stephen F. Adams and lives in Webster.

James Moore came to Stark in 18C0, and is numbered among the early settlers of that town. He is a native of Ohio, born in Muskingum county, Oct. 28, 1889, and was there raised to agricultural pursuits and received his education in the ])ul)lic schools. He was joined in marriage in March, 1860, to Annie Lytle, who was also a native of Muskingum county. The same year he brought his bride to Vernon county an<i settled in Stark town as before stated. He liought a tract of wild land on section 17, and erected a cabin of poles. They lived in this humble abode two years and then he built a hewed I04 house. He enlisted in October, 1864, in the lull regiment, Wisconsin Volunteers, and went south to join Sherman's army at Marietta. He served until the close of the war and was discharged in June, 1865, anT returned home and resumed farming. H( weather-boarded and painted his log house anc" lived in that until 1881, when he built a commodious frame house, in which he now lives. In 187.T he built a frame barn 30x44 feet in sizi and is engaged in raising grain and stock. Mr. and Mrs. VIoore have been blessed with four children - John, Leslie, Anson and Elmer. Anson was born in September, 1867, and died April 22, 188-3.

Paul Bates was born in Hanover town, Plymouth Co., Mass., March 22, 1834. His younger days were spent in school. When seventeen years of age, he engaged to learn the boot and shoe trade, at which he continued to work until nineteen years of age, when he came to Wisconsin with his parents. He lived at home until 1863, when he was married to Mary Koberts, a native of New York State. He then settled on his present farm on section 1, Stark town. He has not devoted his entire time to farming, being engaged part of the time in lumlH-ring

Dempster Seely, proprietor of the saw-mill at Seelysburg, was born in Westmoreland town, Oneida Co., N. Y., March 2.=), 1820. He received his early education in the district schools, which was supplemented by a short term at the high school, in Hampton village. He stayed with his parents until 1840, when he came west to seek a home. He located in Waukesha Co., Wis., buying land and remaining there until 1843. He then returned to New York State, where he was married Aug. 16, 1843, to Maryett Blodgett. Returning to Waukesha county with his bride, he remained until February, 1844, when he sold out and removed to Jefferson county, being an early settler there. He purchased land in Jefferson town and built a saw mill on Bark river. In 1849 Mr. Seely built another saw mill on Duck creek. He was engaged in the lumber business and running these two mills until 1863, when he sold and came to Vernon county, purchasing a water power on the east fork of the Kickapoo, on section 20, town 13, range 2, known as Stark. In five months' time he had erected a frame house, built a large barn and had a saw mill running. He has since that time been extensively engaged in lumber business and farming. Mr. Seely has had contracts for the erection of quite a number of buildings and has built most of the bridges across the Kickapoo river in this section. Mrs. Seely was born in Madison town, Madison Co., N. Y., April 18, 1812. When she was about one year old her parents moved to that part of the Holland purchase now known as Chautauqua county, where they were earh' settlers. She was educated for a teacher and taught sonie years in the public schools. Mr. and Mrs. Seely have two children - Charles M. and Alice L Charles is married to Emma J. Harorden, born in Boston, Mass. They are blessed with two children - Harry L. and Charles Ernest. Alice is the wife of Ederar

Irvin C. Nixon settled in Stark town in 1864. His land is on sections 28 and 29. When he bought the land it was quite heavily timbered, but he has cleared a good part of it and has it under a good state of cultivation. He first built a log house on section 29, but has since built a neat frame house on the same section which he now occupies as a residence. He was born Aug. 2, 1825, in Belmont Co., Ohio. When fourteen years of age his parents moved to Morgan county, in the same State, living there two years, then removing to Washington county. He was married Jan. 1, 1850, to Sarah A., daughter of Samuel and Leahvina (Van Clief) Smith. They remained in Washington countv, where he owned a farm,' until 1864, when he sold his farm and came to Stark. They have had four children, three of whom are living - Edgar T., Irvin D. and Ross K. Irvin is town assessor. Mr. Nixon has been a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church since 1854 and was the first class leader of the Stark Chapel class.

William Bacon came to Stark town in 1865 and purchased a farm of William Evans on section 17, which he has since made his home. He is a native of Ohio, born in Washington county. May 31, 1819, where he was raised to agricultural pursuits. He was married, in 1844, to Mary A., daughter of Samuel and Leahvina (Van Clief) Smith. He purchased land in Washington county and made that his home until coming to Stark town in 1865. Mr. and Mrs. Bacon have one child - Laurana - who makes her home with her parents. The family are members of the Star Chapel Methodist Episcopal Church.

Samuel Smith, superinterulent of Star Chapel Sabbath school, was born in Luzerne Co., Penn., Oct. 6, 1800. In 1814 his parents moved to Ohio, locating in Delaware county, where they were early settlers. His father bought timber land and Samuel assisted him in clearing a farm. They lived there seven years, when his father sold out and moved to Washington county. Samuel made his home there with his parents until 1823. He was married in that year to Leahvina Van Clief, born in Washington county in 1 S04. Mr. Smith bought the Van Clief farm in Waterford, Washington Co., Ohio., which was one of the first farms opened in Washington county. lie remained there until

1865, when he sold out and came to Veriuin county, settJing in Stark town, where some of his children were living. He bought a farm on section 17, Stark town, living thereuntil 1872, when he sold and moved to Stark, where be bought a house and lot. He has since conijjleted the house and now makes that his home. In 1874 he purchased a farm on section 32. He rented this farm until 1881, when he sold it. Mrs. Smith died in 1865, leaving him five children - Mary A., now the wife of William C Bacon ; Sarah, the wife of. I. V. Nixon ; Jesse, Angeline, wife of Henry Hank ; Leahvina, wife of Charles Miller. He married in November,

1866, Sophia Heaston, who was born in Richmond, Va. When quite young her parents moved to Ohio, settling in Columbus, where she lived until 1865, then came to Vernon county. Mr. Smith united with the Methodist Episcopal Church in 1850. Soon after he was elected superintendent of the Sabbath school. He is said to be tiie oldest Sabbath school superintendent in the world. His health is remarkably good ; he is not in the least hard of hearing, and has never worn glasses.

Rev. Robert S. Mockett was born in Kent county, England, June II, 1810. WhcTi eighteen years of age he joined the Methodist Episcopal Church, and while yet a young man was engaged in the ministry. He did not devote his whole time to preaching, however, being also engaged in the boot and shoe trade. In 1850 he came to America, spending one year in New York city, after which he went to Milwaukee, Wis. He there engaged in the boot I and shoe trade, preaching occasionally until

1867, when he came to Vernon county and purchased a farm in Webster, engaging in farming and preaching. He occupied his farm until 1882, when he bought a house and lot in Star, to which he moved. Mr. Mockett now has charge of the Liberty Pole circuit, having five appointments. He has been twice married. His first wife was Mary Hobbs, to whom he was married in 1832, and by whom he had four children, two of whom are living - Richard H. and John H. Their first child, Eliza, died when four years of age. Their other daughter, also named Eliza, wife of Edwin Ellis, of Joiiesville, died in ISTS, leaving two children. Mrs. .Mockett died .March 9, 1881. Mr. Mockett married, March 25, 1882, Almira A. Whiteman, of Warren, N. H., widow of Jonathan Harnden, (if Wilmington, Mass.

Amos Carpenter, M. D., settled in Stark town in 1868. He is the only practicing physician ir the town. He belongs to the eclectic school of medicine, and has been successful in h'u |jractice. In 1882 he put up a building an(" opened a drug store. He has a labratory con nected and extracts medicines from nativ. herbs. He is a native of New York, born ii Herkimer county, near where Ilion now stands in 1822. At twenty-two years of age he entered the office of John W. Hersett, M. D., at German Flats, Herkimer county, and studied medicine with him one year. He then went to Lockport, N. Y., and studied with Drs. Samuel T. Teel and Herman D. Hall. In 1849 he commenced practice at Lockport and remained there until I-^.dI, when he started west, and stopped at Richland, 111., one year; then went to Monticello and practiced there until 1854, when he came to Richland Center, Wis. He spent two years in Richland Center, then came to Bad Ax county and spent the winter in Clinton. In 1857 he went to Bloomingdale, and there assisted in laying out the town. He remained there two years, then went to Avalanche and practiced there two years. In the spring of 186) he went to Richland Centre; bought a house and lot with the intention of settling there, but changed his mind, and three months later he removed to Ironton, in Sauk county, where he remained three years, then went to Iowa, and stopped in Horton, Bremer county, through t\\e winter, then went to Bradford, Chickasaw county, and remained there until 1868, when he came here, as before stated. He has been three times married. His first wife, to whom he was married in 1845, was Louisa Freeman, who bore him two children. The oldest one, Cyrus, went to the war and died in the service. The younger, John Wesley, now lives in New York. Mrs. Carpenter died in 1849, and he was again married in 1852, to Susan Slater. She died in 1854, leaving one child that died soon after. His third wife was Elizabeth Leatherberry. Six children blessed this union - Lavina, Jasper, Cadwell, Loretta, Matt and Etta. He has filled offices of trust in the town, and was chairman of the board for several years.

Col. George W. Shattuck was born in Switzerland Co., Ind., Aug. 28, 1835. When two years of age his parents moved to Lawrence Co., Ohio, where he grew to manhood. His early education was received at the district school, supplemented by two years at Ewington Academy. He then engaged in teaching. Col. Shattuck was a gallant soldier during the War of the Rebellion. He first enlisted on the 4th of July, 1861, in a company of ninety day men, called the 1st Ohio Independent Cavalry. He was discharged at the expiration of his term of service and returned home. He again enlisted Nov. 6, 1861, in company H, 6lh Ohio Cavalry, being mustered in as second lieutenant. He was for a time on Gen. Sigel's staff, also served with Gen. Sheridan, participating in the many battles of that army, and being honorably discharged at the close of the war. He w-as twice wounded; the first time at Lodd's farm, where he received a gun-shot wound in the foot; the second time at the battle of Dinwiddle court iiouse, where he was severely wounded. He now draws a pension of ten dollars a month. For gallant service and meritorious conduct he was promoted to captain, then to major, and afterwards to colonel. After his discharge he returned to Ohio and engaged in farming until IS^O, when he was appointed railroad agent at Centre Station, Lawrence Co., Ohio. He remained there until

1872, when became to Stark town, purchased land on section 24, and engaged in stock and grain raising. He was married Nov. 3, 1861, to Eliza Little, who bore him five children-George, Sarah, Judith, Mary and Richard. On July 4,

1873, while the family were drivingto Rockton, they were overtaken by a storm, and Mrs. Shattuck was injured by a falling tree, from the effects of which she died seventeen days later.

Robert Parker, merchant at Star, engaged in business in November, 1882, keeping a small but neat stock of goods such as is generally found in a country store. He is also deputy postmaster. Mr. Parker is a native of New York State, born in Buffalo in 1845. When ten years of age his parents emigrated to Wisconsin, settling in Racine, where they remained three years, then went to Buffalo, Marquette county, where Robert grew to manhood. Li August, 1862, he enlisted in company G, 32d Wisconsin Volunteers, serving until the close of the war, being discharged in June, 1865. He was with Sherman in his march to the sea and participated in the many battles of that memorable campaign. He was severely wounded Feb. 9, 1865, at the battle of Binnaker's Bridge, S. C, and is now a pensioner. After his discharge he returned to Buffalo. In 1866 he was married to Elizabeth Fish, born in Hornellsville, N. Y. Four children have blessed this union - Estella, Minnie, Delia May and Eudora. Mr. Parker engaged in farming in Marquette county until 1874, when became to Stark town, Vernon county, purchased land on section 20, and engaged in farming. In 1882, as before stated, he engaged in business in the village of Star, I

Ezra O. Pelton settled on his present farm in 1875. It is located on section 32, in the Kickapoo valley. He was born July 16, 1832, in Cattaraugus Co., N Y. When nine years of age his parents emigrated to Wisconsin, locating in Waukesha county, making his home here until the bieaking out of the war. He enlisted May 10, of that year, in company F, 5th Wisconsin Volunteers, and went south. He participated in many skirmishes and a few battles, the most important of which were Balls Bhiff and Williamsburg. He was discharged in I860, on account of disability, and returned to Waukesha county. In 1874 he was engaged to carry the mail from North Prairie to Fort Atkinson, being thus employed for two years. He then came to Vernon county, and for three years engaged in farming. He went to Michigan, living there one year, then returned to Wisconsin and lived in Waukesha county until 1873. He then moved to Richland county, and after living there two years came to Stark town. Mr. Pelton has been twice married. His first wife was Emily Thomas, born in Michigan. One child blessed this union - Francis David. His second wife was Mary Burr, born in Winstead, Conn.

Jonathan Starner, blacksmith, came to Stark town in 1875. He was born in May, 1832, in Wayne Co., Ohio, where he grew to manhood. When young he learned the blacksmith trade. At eighteen years of age he moved to Elkhart Co., Ind., engaging at the carpenter trade After remaining there one year and a half lie moved to Huntingdon county, where he also remained a year and a half. In 1855 he came to Wisconsin, settling first in Marshall (now Bloom) town, Richland county, where he had the year previous purchased land He remained here until 1670, working at the carpenter trade and also running a gristmill. He then went to Forest, running a grist mill and blacksmith shop there until 1875, at which time he came to Stark, as before stated, and opened a blacksmith shop in the village of Star, ''hie year later he purchased land on the north bank of the river, where he erected a dwelling house atid shop, and has continued in business here since that time. ]Mr. Starner was married in 1853 to Myrem Slaley, born in Stark Co., Ohio. Five children have blessed this union, two of which are living - Samuel J. and Sarah M.

Henry Millard, merchant, was born in Ruishville, Ontario Co., N. Y.; July 22, 1855. He was less than two years of age, when his patents came to Vernon county and settled in Ontario. His early education was received in the district school supplemented by two years at the High School, at Sparta. In 1872 he entered Wayland Institute, graduating fn.m there in ls'74. He then went to Milwaukee and entered a printing office to learn the trade, remained there about a year and a half, then returned to Ontario. In 1870 he went to Viroqua and took charge of the mechanical department of the Vidette, a political paper. He continued there until tlie close of the campaign, after which he returned to Ontario, whore he clerked in his father's store until 1879, when he engaged in trade at Star. In 18S1 he put up a building on section 29, about one mile soutii of Star, and is now doing business at that place. He has a general store, keeping dry goods, groceries, boots and shoes, hardware, crockery and iiotions. Mr. Miilard was married in January, 188!, to Lourctta H. Carpenter. Two children bless this union - Mary E. and Oscar A.

J. Alanson Hurd, one of the pioneers of Richland county, was born in Utioa, Oneida Co., N. Y., April 21, 1815. Wherf he was but two and a half years of age, his parents removed to the western part of the State, and settled in that i)art of the Holland purchase, now known as Erie countv. He remained there until twenty years of age, when he again pushed to the frontier, this time settling in Boone Co., Ind. He was there married in 1841 to Jerusha A. Springer. They remained in Boone county until 1848, and then started with ox teams on the 28th day of May, of that year, for Wisconsin, bringing their household goods with them, and camping out on the journey. On the 24th day ot June they arrived in Richland county, where the husband purchased land in town 9, range 1 east, now known as the town of Orion, built a log house and immediately ccmmenced to make improvements. He was elected first clerk of the first school district organized in Richland county. He cleared a farm and remained there until 1870, when he came to Vernon county and bought a farm on section 3, of the town of Union. In 1874 his house was consumed by tire, and he built another. In 1880 he traded that farm for his present home on section 2, town of Stark. Mrs. Hurd was born in Cayuga Co., N. Y., in 1820. When five years of age her parents started west with teams, and settled in Erie county, remaining there until 1838, when they again started with teams, this time settling in Boone Co., Ind. She has made her way west from Cayuga county over-land with teams, and has reached her present home without crossing a railroad track. Levi Millison, a general merchant in Star, commenced business here in March, 1883. He is the son of George and Ann Millison, and was born in Mercer Co., Penn., in March, 1852. In 1855 his parents came to Wisconsin and settled in the town of Sylvan, Richland coimty, where his father died two years later. He lived with liis mother for a short time after that, then went to live with Chauncy Lawton, with whom he remained until 1861, when he started out for himself. He was employed by the farmers in this and Richland counties, and later he ran an engine in a saw mill. During this time he had attended scliool and acquired a fair business education. In 1 880 he engaged in mercantile trade at Bowen's mill, Richland county, and continued in trade there until 1883, when he came to Star, as before stated. He was joined in marriage, in 1872, to Mary, daughter of Jacob and Ann Dush, early settler.«i of Richland county. Four children have blessed this union - Ida, Nora, Eddie and Harry.

Chapier Xlv The Town Of Sterling

The territory bearing the above name lies in the southern part of Vernon county, and is bounded on the north by the towns of Harmony and Jefferson, on the east by tlie town of Franklin, on the south by Crawford county, and on the west by the towns of Wheatland and Genoa. The town of Sterling embraces parts of four different congressional townships - town 11, ranges 5 and 6 ; and town 12, ranges 5 and 6 ; in all, forty-six whole sections and four half sections.

The surface of the town is quite rolling and in some places very hilly and rough. The Bad Ax river flows from east to west through the northern part of the town, and several of its tributaries flow into it from the south. This river has a very winding channel and flows over a stony b^d between higli and abrupt bluffs.

The soil varies from a rich dark loam to a mixture of sand and clay, the former being highly valuable for the raising of all kinds of cereals.

The inhabitants are of different nationalities, including American, Norwegian, German, English and Irish, the last named being but few in number. The people are, as a class, industrious and hospitable, and possess some of the best farms in the county.

Eaelt Settlement

and family. The family consisted of his wife and two sons, Lewis and Lee Grant, a nephew, James Clark, and America Sterling, a neice. Mr. Sterling was a native of Maryland. He came to Prairie du Chien by way of the Ohio and Mississippi rivers. From Prairie du Chien he went to Mount Sterling in Crawford county, where a part of the family remained while the two sons, Lee Grant and Lewis, came to the east half of section 10-, of town 1 1, range 6, and erected double log cabins, after wliich the family moved to their new home. Mr. Sterling died in September, 1855, and his wife in 1869. In 1884 Lee Grant was the only member of the family living in the town, his brother Lewis having moved to Cedar Co.) Mo., and James Clark to California. It was from this family of Sterlings that the town finally took its name. The lands entered by Mr. Sterling were the second entered in what is now known as Vernon county.-

Mrs. William Clark, a widowed daughter of Mr. Sterling, came in 1847, and entered the northeast half of the southeast quarter of section 10 and the west half of the southwest quarter of section 11. ' She built a log house in which she lived for several years. It was in this cabin that the first school in Vernon county was taught and the marriage ceremony in the town also took place here.

Another settler of 1847 was George Nichols, who came from Grant county and settled on section 31, town 12, range 5. In 1^54 he fold to C. N.Johnson and removed to Viroqua and later moved to Chain Lake, Minn.

IleniA' ("liaiidler, a iialive of Veniiont, settled in the town in 1847, locating on section 18, town 12, range 5. He sold, in 1856, to James Bailey and settled again at Retreat. He served in the arTny dining a part of the Rebellion and finally died at Retreat in January, 1868.

The third settler of the town was Alexandria Latshaw, a native of Indiana, who came ^^ay 1ft, 1847, and entered land on sections 3 and 4, town 11, range 6. He was quite prominent and lield several places ot trust. He taught the tirst school in the town. He tinally sold out and removed to Victory.

Among the settlers of 1849 were William S. Purdy and Alexandi-ia Vance. The former was a native of Indiana and settled on section 3, town II, raiige 6, where he remaiiied till 1800, at which time he sold out and moved into the village of Viroqua.

Alexander Vance was a native of Virginia, but came to this county from Indiana and settled on section 5, town II, range 5, where he was still living in 1884.

In 1850 Nathaniel Cox, a native of Kentucky, located in the town and lived in various ])arts of the town, but in 1884 was a resident on section 4, town 1 1 , range 5.

The first Norwegian settler in Sterling town was Albert Nash, who settled on section 17, town 11, range 5, in 1851. He died in the r'nion army during the Rebellion. The Lutheran Church and parsonage were afterward erected on the lands which he settled on. Following him came Andrew and Scott Thompson, two Norwegians, who came from Dane Co., Wis., in 1853, and entered land on sections 17 and 18, town 11, range 5.

life in the Bad Ax valley. He came to that part of Sterling town through which the Bad Ax river flows, in 1852 or 1853, and located on section 16, town 12, range 6, where he built a log cabin and lived until 1855, when he sold out and removed.

Isaac Cone, a native of Maine, came from Rock Co., Wis., in 1853, and settled on section 9, town 1 1, range 5. He moved with ox teams and was eighteen days on the load. He improved his land and remained thereon till his death. His adopted son, Isaac Peaslee, came with him and in 1884 was the possessor of the homestead.

Another settler of 1853 was George King, a native of Vermont, who came to V^ernon county from Ozaukee Co., Wis., and located on section 7, town 11, range 5, where he remained till 1870, and removed to Howard Co., Iowa, where he still lived in 1884.

In 1854, among the Norwegians who came in for settlement were C. N. Johnson and Levi K. Ramset. The former came from Norway to California, and from that State to this vicinity, and finally bought land on section 31, town 12, range 5, from George Nichols, and remained on the same until the time of his death. His family were still on the old homestead in 1884.

The first German to locate in Sterling town was Nicholas Weber, who came in 1854 and finally settled on section 21, town 12, range 5, where he still lived in 1884. His brother Henry came in 1856 and settled on the same section.

was a native of Ireland, born in the county of Down, in 1804. In 1826 lie came to America, first stopping in Canada and from there to Oneida Co., N. Y., where he lived for eighteen years, to 1^55, when he removed to Bad Ax county, settling on section 16, town 12, range 5, where he remained for eleven years and moved to section 21. He was married in 1826 to Mary Brown, also a native of Ireland, born in 1811. By this union there has been reared a family of ten children.

Perry Curtis, a native of New York, came to the town in 1855 and settled on section 5, town 11, range 5, where he lived several years and then removed to Iowa.

Among the number who came in 1856 were: Sorn Jerman, Leonard Wakefield and David A. Bean. Sorn Jerman was a native of Norway, who came to Dane Co., Wis., and located on section 17, town 1 1, range 5, where he died in 1875. Leonard Wakefield and his son Elijah came from Illinois in tlie spring of the year and settled on section 35, town 12, range 6. The father died some time prior to 1883, at which date the son was living on the homestead. John Whitney came with tliem, entering land on the same section, but afterward moved to De Soto. David Bean, who was a native of Windsor Co., Vt., came in during the summer of 1856 and located on section 33, town 12, range 6. He was a practicing physician but devoted most of his time to his extensive farm.

Brightman Collins, a native of Bristol Co., Mass., settled in this town in 1857, purchasing a farm on section 15, town 12, range 6, where he remained till his death in 1883. He was a Bible student of considerable note and it is said by tliose most acquainted with him tiiat he could reptat a large portion of the scriptures. In religious belief he was an Advent and occasionally preached that doctrine and was for years of the opinion that the world was to come to an end in 1884, and in this faith he died.

Robert McMynn, a native of Indiana, also located in 1857 on the southwest quarter of section 11, where he remained a few years and then located in Missouri.

P. D. Minor, another settler of 1857, came from Grant Co., Wis., and settled on section 14, on land which his father had previously entered.

Early Events

Henry Chandler was married to Martha A. Clark in the winter of 1848-9. At the same time James Bailey married Elizabeth Clark, a sister of Martha Clark.

Organic

The records of the first town meeting were lost or destroyed by some accident, and all that is known concerning it, is that Allen Donaldson was elected the first chairman, and also served as the first justice of the peace ; and that Lee Grant Sterling was elected town treasurer, but failing to qualify, the place was filled by William S. Purdy. Lewis Sterling was one of the two men who constituted the first side board.

The town officers for 1883 were as follows: John M. Vance, chairman, E. Anderson and John Miner, supervisors ; P. T. Mullin, clerk ; John C Johnson, treasurer ; Arnt Westrum, assessor. P. M. Peck, and Samuel Davis, justices of the peace ; J. C. Grow, L. C. Schoenbergerand Joseph Brzazumsky, constables.

The first school in this town was taught in 1858, by Axlie Morgan, in a cooper shop belonging to Hiram Delap. The first school house was erected in 1864, on the southeast quarter of the northeast quarter of section 15. Amelia

Retreat school district first had a school taught in a log house belonging to the widow Clark. This school was taught by Alexander Latshaw. The first school building proper erected was on tlie southwest quarter of section 10. It was a grout house. Aframe house was erected in 1S73, located on section Id. Thomas Tenney was the first teacher.

District No. 3 held its first school in a log house owned by B. S. Abrams, located on the northwest quarter of section 21, town 1-2, range 5. This school was taught by Mary Bulwer in 1S58. A school house was built in 1868, which is still in use.

The first school laught in district No. 4 was in Richard Myers' house, in 18.57, by Henry Morgan.- There were only three scholars - Clarence Bean, Jane Shaw and Laura Sanderson. This school was operated on the subscription plan. A school house was built in 1858 on the southwest quarter of section 33, town 12, range 6. Mrs. Elizabeth Morgan taught in this building first.

In district No. 5 the first school was taught in a log house belonging to Leonard Wakefield, on the noitheast quarter of section 2, town 1 1, range 6. This school was taught by Josephine Hurd, in 1858. In 1860 a school house was provided on section 2. A little later this bui'ding was moved to the northeast quarter of tlie same section. ,

The first school house in district No. 6 was built in 1857, located on section 25. This log structure was used by the district until 1850, when a fi-ame house was provided, which was located on section 24, on land owned by Lewis Thompson. Frank Johnson was the first teacher here.

The first school in district No. 7 was held in David Davis' house on section 10. This school commenced in December, 1h54. Laura King, afterward wife of Issac Peaslee, taught this term of school. A log house was built in 1855, on section 8, town 11, range 5, which served until 1865, when a frame house was provided, which in 1880 was destroyed by fire and a new one furnished.

The first school in district No. 9 was taught by Elizabeth Curtis, in her father's bain, in 1859. The first school house was erected in 1861, which was situated on section 5. S. S. White was the first teacher.

Joint district No. 12 held its first term of school in a house belonging to A. Crittendon, on section 24, town 11, range 6, in what is now Crawford county. This was in 1858, and the teacher was Sarah Jordan. A school house was provided in 1859, on section 14, town 11, range 6, of Sterling town. A. Morgan taught the first term of school in this building.

The Norwegian Lutherans have a school about eight months of the year. This school was founded in 1857. Knute Fortliun was tiie first teacher. In 1884 they were still holding their school at private houses.

The Disciple Church of this town is one of the very earliest religious organizations in Vernon county. It was organized in 1849, by Rev. William Purdy, at the house of Harvey Sterling, where meetings were held for several years, after which they were kept up at tlie grout school house and still later at the Rush creek school house in Crawford county. The first members were : Harvey Sterling and wife, Lee Grant Stei'ling and Lewis Sterling. In 1883 a church edifice was erected at a cost of §1,200. At this date John Rutter, Martin Hoste and Charles Fourt were elders, and Lee Grant Sterling and Erasius Ames, deacons. The Church then numbered sixty-five. A Sabbath school was formed in connection with ihis Church in 1862, with William S. Purdy as its fiist superintendent.

In 1855 Ambrose Delap, a Wesleyan Methodist, preached in Isaac Cone's house on section 8. Meetings were kept up here for several years but no class was ever formed.

The Lutheran people lield services peculiar to their sect, in Albert Nash's house on stetion 17, about 1856, and in 1858, built a church on that section. Rev. Mr. Stub acted as their minister, at the same tune serving the Lutheran Church at Coon Prairie. lie was finally succeeded by Rev. Preus, and he l)y Rev. Juve, who preached for fourteen years, and in 188:5 was followed by Rev. J. G. Nelson, at which date the Chiircli comprised seventy-three members.

In 1867 the Methodists organiz-ed another class at the Retreat school liouse. The following were the first members : E. B. Ilyde and wife, William Barr aiul wife. Amnion Davis and wife, Mrs. V. L. Davis, Mattie Davis and Mrs J. M. Hill. William Barr was class leader. This class belonged to the De Soto circuit. In 1872 a church was built at Retreat; it was a frame house built at an expense of $l,.300. In 18s;4 this Church numbered sixtyfive. The following ministeis have served this charge: Rev. Bushby, Rev. II. J. Walker, Rev. Thomas Manuel, Rev. D. L. IIubbai»l, Rev. D. Clingman, Rev H. D. .I.'nks, W. W. Hurd and J. F. Nuzum.

In 1873 a Methodist class was formed at the school house on section 5, town 1 1, range 5, by Delos Hubbard, a minister of the DeSoto circuit. This class numbered twenty-three, and was under the leadership of E. B. Allen. In 1874 a church building was provided; this, was located on section 4, town 11, range 5. In 18S4 the class numbered about twenty. The following ministers have preached for this Cliurch : A. D. Chase, John Davis, John W. McKay, William McMillan, Robert Smith, .John Medd, .Tames Phelps and R. S. Mocket.

A Congregational society was organized at the house of Robert McMynn, on section 14, town 11, range 6, in 18.?8, by Rev. Mr. Judson, of Viroqua. Among the first members were the following: E. Bishop and wife, Richard Morgan and wife, James Jordan and wife, Robert McMynn and wife, Reuben Jordan and wife, Sylvester Hayden and wife. Reuben Jordan and Richard Morgan were the first deacons. For several years this society worshiped at the school house on section 14; but in 1880 they used the Methodist church at Retreat, and in 1883 built a church of their own at that point. It was a neat, well planned building, which cost about $1 ,4'On. Among those who have served as pastors of this society are: Rev. RadcliflF, Rev. Valentine, Rev. Bridgman, Rev. Thompson and Rev. Haughton.

The first regular services of the Norwegian Lutheran Church in this vicinity were held at Christian Chrislianson's house just over the town line, in Harmony town; Rev. A. C. Preus being the minister. In 1874 a church was built on the northwest quarter of section 13, town 12, range 6. In 1884 there were sixty-three families who regularly attended here. Rev. Mr. Nelson was pastor at this date.

A LTnited Brethren class was organized at the school house on section 28, town 12, range 5, by Rev. E. K. Young. He was followed by Rev. John Day. On account of the removal of its membership, this class only existed a few years. In 1880 a Methodist class was formed at this point.

The first burying ground of the town of Sterling was on section 10, where fifty-six interments were made. In 1866 anew cemetery was platted on section 10, on a beautiful mound covered with walnut trees, which suggested the name of this new cemetery "Walnut Mound Cemetery." This is said to be the next to the finest cemetery in Wisconsin - the one at Madison, only, being finer. Besides this burying place there are several Norwegian cemeteries within the town near their churches.

In 1SS4 this town contained three postoffices" - Retreat, Purdy and West Prairie. A brief history of each of these offices, together with the business interests which cluster about them is here given:

Retreat iiostoflice was eslablisluMl in 1S54. W. P. Clark was appointed postmaster; at that time he keiit the office in his residence. This was on the mail route from Readsburg lo De Soto. In 1884 Jesse- L. Davis was postmaster, and at that date kept the office at his store. ; Mail was received four times a week from Viro- (jiia and De Soto.

A blacksmith shop was opened at Retreat by O. C.Jones, in 1804 or 1865; it was sold to F. B. White in a year or two, who soon sold a half interest to J. M. Hill, who afterward purchased the entire shop.

West Prairie postoffice was established in 1S62. Allen Donaldson was the first postmaster, having the office at his house on section 6, town 11, range 5.

Purdy postoffice was established in what was known by the early settlers as the "Purdy neighborhood," at . a very early day. In 1884 Ole Gauper was postmaster. This office lieing at this time on the mail route from Viroqua to De Soto.

At this point there is a blacksmith shop, whicli was started in 1876 by Joseph Brzazowsky. In 1881 George Little put a saw mill in operation and a little later a feed mill was added. Bad Ax creek furnished the power for this mill and in the spring of 1883 the dam was washed out by a flood and the foundation of the mill undermined, causing it to fall into the stream, where it was left to decay.

On section 19, town 12, range 5, where the two branches of the Bad Ax river unite, there is what is usually termed the Grand Forks neighborhood. At this point there is a flouring mill, a store and blacksmith shop. In 1880 D. E. Mullikin, P. M. Peck and J. O. Morse erected a flouring mill. It was a three-story structure, 26x38 feet on the base. This mill has three run of buhrs with the most improved machinery. It does both custom and merchant work. The Bad Ax river gives a head of nine feet at this point, which furnishes an abundant water power.

Another mill was built in 1875 by John Mellor, on section 16, town 11, range 5. This mill had two run of buhrs. Its fifteen-horse power engine furnished the power. In July, 1880, the builder traded the property for a farm in the Bad Ax valley.

A brewery was built in 1870 on section 20, town 12, range 5, by Justice Grow and Reinhard Walker. This was in operation for about two years, but in 1884 was not in use and was fast going to decay.

Personal

Harvey Sterling deserves honoral)le mention among the pioneers of Vernon county. He was born in Hager.stown, Md., in 1763, and his early life was passed amid the stirring scenes of tlie French and Indian and Revolutionary wars. He was twelve years of age when the American patriots were first slaughtered at Concord and Lexington, and shouted for joy when the liberty bell rang out the glad tidings of independence on July 4, 177G. In 1709 he removed to what was then almost beyond the pale of civilization, - State of Kentucky, - and settled in Woodford county. He was about forty-nine years of age when the second war with England commenced, and 1812 enlisted in the service of the United States, and was mustered out at the close of the war. He then returned to Kentucky, and located in Spencer county, where he lived until 1846. In the latter year he came north to Wisconsin, and made a settlement in Vernon county, where he died in 1855, aged ninety-two years. Mr. Sterling married Elizabeth Harper, a native of Pendleton Co., Va., born March 8, 1780. This union was blessed with twelve children. Mrs. Sterling departed this life Dec. 23, 1869, at the age of eighty-nine.

Le Grant Sterling was the tenth child of this large family, and was the first settler of Sterling town, and is the oldest living settler of Vernon county. He was born Aug. 6, 1 819, in Spencer Co , Ky., and there grew to manhood. In 1840 he removed to Wisconsin, and located near Mineral Point, in Iowa county. In 18-44 he laid claim to land on sections 10 and 2, in town 11 north, of range 6 west, then in Crawford county, but now embraced in the town of Sterling, Vernon county. He then returned to Mineral Point, and again engaged in mining, until 1840, when he returned to Crawford county and entered his land. He lived on the farm until 18d7, when he sold it and removed to Missouri residing there for two years. Again returning to Vernon county, he bought a farm on section 14, town 11 north, of range 6 west, (town of Sterling), where he has since made his home. He has made some improvements on his land and has repaired his residence until it is considered one of the finest in the town. Mr. Sterling was married in 1856 to Margaret Rutter, who was born in Morgan Co., Ohio, Five children were given them - Charles, John H., Thomas, Lee Andrew and Henry. In 1871 Mr. Sterling suffered the loss of his wife and four children, John H. being the only pne surviving. On Nov. 3, IS'fS, he married Lorena Johnson,< a native of Pennsylvania. Of the four children born to this union, three are living - Olive, Jessie and William.

Soloman W. Tewalt was born in Knox Co., Ind., in November, 18.38. When eight years of age his parents moved to VS'isconsin, settling in Vernon county. He was raised to agricultural pursuits, receiving his education in the district school. He was married in 1860 to Josephine Hurd, after which he settled on section 8, town

11, range 5. He remained there until 1871, when he sold out and went to Oi-egon, at the end of three years returning to Sterling town. In 1880 Mr. Tewalt purchased the Adlington farm, loca»ted on sections 21, 22 and 28, town

Alexander Vance is a native of the "Old Dominion," and came into this county in 1849. He therefore ranks among the first on the pioneer list. Mr. Vance was born in Virginia, March 14, 1814. He grew to mature years in his native State, and in 1837 became a resident of Sullivan Co., Ind. Twelve years later, (1849) not being satisfied with his new home, he sought a home in Wisconsin, and found one to his liking in Bad Ax county. lie settled in what is now called the town of Sterling, where he erected a log cabin for a new residence. He lived in this humble abode until 1870, when he built his present frame residence. Mr. Vance was married, in 1839, to Susan Sloane, a native of Indiana. They are the parents of three children living - John M., Mary tf. and Margaret. The eldest of these, and only son living, John M., was born in Sullivan Co, Ind., Aug. 15, 1842. He was but seven years old when his parents came to this county, and here reached the years of manhood. He received a very fair educalioii in the district schools, and had the pleasure of attending the first school taught in Vernon county. In 1863 he was joined in marriage to Mary Curtis, and Aug. 27, 1864, enlisted in company I, 42d regiment, Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry. The regiment was ordered to Cairo, 111., where it performed garrison duty. Mr. Vance was mustered out of the service in June, 1865, and returned home. At the time of his marriage, he had settled on his present farm on section 4, town 11 north, of range 5 west, his farm embracing the land his father had located in 1849. Mr. Vance has always evinced a lively interest in town affairs; has served four terms as town clerk, three terms as treasurer, and is the present chairman of the board of town supervisors, this being his fourth term. Mr. and Mrs. Vance are the parents of six children - Perry, Charles, Clinton, Frederick, John and Etta.

Saniae'l Davis came in with the settlers of 1852. He entered land on section 4, town 11 north, of range 5 west, ii) territory now known as the town of Sterling, and where he still resides. Mr. Davis was born in Knox Co., Ind., April 2^, !8:iS, and was there reared on a farm. In 18+9, ho married Sarah J. Devorse, also a native of Iixliana. In 18.52 the two came to Wisconsin and located in this county. Mr. and .Mrs. Davis liave been blessed with seven children - Hannah, Elizabeth, Margaret, Andrew, Daniel, Lavina and Peter.

Isaac Cone, one of the early settlers of Sterling, is a native of Maine, born Jnly 16, 1794. Me entered the service of the United States at the time of tiie trouble on the boundary question between this country and Canada. In 1849 he emigrated to Wisconsin and lived one year in Walworth county Then removed to Rock county and lived there three years. In 1853 he came to Vernon county and entered land on section 9, of town 1 1 north, of range 5 west, territory now included in tlie town of Sterling. He erected a house, improved the land and remained here until the time of his death, which occurred in 1872. He was first married to Susan Davis, also a native of Maine. She died in 1865. In 1870 he married Florence Hayden. She is now living at Midway, and is ninety-two years of age.

Isa.ac Peaslee was an adopted son of Mr. and Mrs. Cone. He was born in Penobscot Co., Mfline, Sept. 14, 18.35. His mother died when lie was but fourteen days old. He made his home with his adopted parents until the time of their death. He was married, in 1855, to I.aura King. Nine children have blessed this union - Louisa, Geoi'ge, Susan, Eugene, Hariy, Herman, Mary, Thomas and iSIary M. Eugene died when two years of age, and the two children named Mary died in infancy. Mr. Peaslee has lived in Sterling continually since 18.53, with the e.xception of one year, 1872, when he went to Ciawford county and purchased a farm and lived there one year; then returned to the old homestead where he has since resided. Mrs. Peaslee was the first school teacher on West Pi'airie.

Christoi)her N. Johnson was one of the first Norwegians to settle in Sterling town. He emigrated to America in 1847, and settled in Dane Co., Wis., where he remained until 1849. He then went to California, to mine for gold, and in 1853 came to Had Ax (now Vernon) county, and entered land in town 12 north, of range 5 west, in territory now included in the town of Sterliuir. He imyiroved this land and made it his home until his death, which occurred in November, 1875. Mr. Johnson was twice married. His second wife, to whom he was married in 1857, was Gunelda Fortner. She is the mother of si.x: living children - John C, .Margaret, Christina, Ellen, Torger N. and Christopher N. Two of the daughters are teachers in the public schools and are meeting with great success. By his integrity and untiring benevolence, Mr. Johnson won the confidence and esteem of the new comers, by whom he was looked up to as "a father of his country," and to whom they came for counsel and advice. They were always welcome at his house, which was to them as an oasis in the desert, and were received with the greatest hospitality. Long will he live in the memory of his countrymen, who came here in those dark and dreary days when want and the desolate prairie stared them in the face, and the Indian war whoop was heard on every side. Then it was that they found in Christopher Johnson a true and constant friend. John C. was born in Sterling town, Dec. 10, 1858. He received a good education in the district schools of this town, and in the graded school at Viroqua. He was elected to the office of town treasurer in April, 1883, and is now serving in that responsible position.

Christian C. Olson was born in Norway July 27, 1842. When three years of age his parents died, and Christian went to live with an uncle, Halvor Erlandson. In 1850 the family emigrated to the United States, settling in

Dane Co., Wis. His uncle died soon after. In 1853 they came to Vernon county, settling on section 30, town 12, range 5, in territory now included in Sterling town. Here CLristian grew to manhood, receiving his education in the district school. In 1864 he went by way of the Isthmus to California, remaining there six years. He then returned to Sterling, purchasing a quarter section of land on section 23, town 12, range 6, and there engaged in farming. In IS^S Mr. Olson was elected county register and removed to Viroqua, where he remained until 1883, when he engaged in trade at Grand Forks, Sterling town. In 1869 he was married to Julia Swinson. Mr. and Mrs. Olson have had four children - Oscar, Anton, Nellie and Clara.

French B. White was born in Beaver Co., Penn., .Tail. 26, 1832, and when quite small was taken by his parents to Athens Co., Ohio, where he grew to manhood. He then learned the blacksmith's trade with a brothei-in-law, J. M. Hill, and worked with him one year. In 1S53 he came to Vernon Co., Wis , and lived about a year at DeSoto and Viroqua. He then returned to Ohio, and opened a shop in Athens county in 1857. He was married Dec. 10, 1857, to Sarah A Hill, b(ini in Pennsylvania, Jan. 18, 1836. In 1863 Mr. White enlisted in the 1st Ohio Heavy Artillery, and served mostly in Kentucky and Tennessee. He was honorably discharged in August, 1865, at Knoxville, Teiin., and returned to Pennsylvania. Soon after his return lie came to Retreat, Wis., and purchased a dwelling and black.smith shop of O. C. Jones. He continued to work at his trade about three years, then his wife died April 19, leaving three children - Martin A., Clifton S. and Thomas W. He worked at his trade one year more, then rented his father's farm for three years, and finally, in 1873, bought a farm on section 15, of town 11 north, of range 6 west. He married Ruth ]M. Bates, Jan. 5, 1873, born in New York, July 10, 1850. They have one child - Purley C.

Robert Johnson, one of the early settlers of Vernon county, was born in Lincolnshire, England, Aug. 5, 1818. He attended school until fourteen years of age, and then engaged in farming. He was married in 1845 to Elizabeth Moires, a native of Cambridgeshire, England. In 1850 they emigrated to America, locating at Fort Atkinson, where Mr. Johnson engaged in farming. In 1854 he came to Vernon Co., Wis., settling first on section 33, town 12, range 5. He improved this land and resided here until 1878, when he moved to his present farm, situated on section 4, town 11, range 6. Mrs. Johnson died in 1879, aged fifty-eight years.

Albert, son of Robert and Elizabeth (Moires) Johnson, was born Oct. 10, 1847, in Lincolnshire, England. When three years of age his parents emigrated to the United States. He made his home with them until 1865, when he enlisted in company B, 50th Wisconsin Volun teers, and went to the western frontier. He was honorably discharged in June, 1866, and returned to Sterling town, where he engaged in farming, also dealing in grain. He was married in 1873 to Rachel Weevil. Three children blessed this union - Louisa May, Lizzie E. and Florence R. Mrs. Johnson died May 19, 1878. He married in October, 1880, Rosie J. Abrams. They have had two children, one of whom is living - Robert R. In 1878 Mr. Johnson purchased the farm first settled by his father, and now makes that his home.

Andrew T. Thompson was born in Norway, in December, 1828, being there reared on a farm. In 1852 he emigrated to the United States. He resided in Dane Co., Wis., one year. In 1853 he started with an ox team for Vernon county, taking provisions and cooking utensils with him, and camping out on the way. He entered land on sections 17 and 18, town II, range 5, Sterling town. He erected a log cabin on the farm, in which he lived until 1881, » hen he built his present frame residence. He was married in 1858 to Susan Jerman. They have eight chihlren - Thomas, Anna Sophia, Lem,

Mary, Christina, Carolina, Scotland Adolph. Mr. 'rhonipsoii's mother and step-father came with him to Wisconsin, settling in Franklin town wliere they remained until tlieir decease. His brother, Scott, also came with him and shared in the hardsliips of pioneer life. He was born in Norway, in 1831. When quite young, he learned the carpenter's trade, at which he worked in his native land. In 1852 lie came to America, also going to Dane Co., Wis. In 1853, when he came to this town he also entered land on sections 17 and 18. Being a carpenter he built for himself, a nice hewed log house. He was married, in 1859, to Karn Chrisloplierson. Five children have blessed this union, two of which are living - Mary S., and Thomas S. Mr. Thompson died in March, 1868, and Mrs. Thompson, in the fall of the same year. Mary and Thomas made their home with their uncle, Andrew Thompson, for many years after their parents death. They now occupy the homestead.

Nicholas Weber, one of the well known pioneers of Vernon county, was born in Saxe-Coburg, Germany, April 6, 1814. He attended school until fourteen years of age, and was then employed at farm labor. When he reached his eighteenth year, he learned the stone and brick mason's trade, and in 1849, came to America, landing at New York. He obtained employment on the Erie railway, and in the spring of 1851, went to the Isthmus of Panama, where he worked on the first railroad across that strip of land. He then went to Havana, Cuba, and from thence to New York, and after again working on tlje railway, was employed in a cooper shop tor sometime. He removed to Illinois in 1852, and in 1854, came to Bad Ax (now Vernon) Co., Wis. lie entered land in what is now called Franklin town, but the men with whom he had entrusted his money, silently and mysteriously disappeared, and he was forced to surrender the land. He remained there one year, and then bought land on section 21, of town 12 north, of range 5 west, now included in Sterling town, where he has since resided, and made a comfortable home. He was married in I860, to Babara Swink, a Tiaiive of Germany. They have six children - Katie M , Henry N., Louis J., Daniel G., Annie C and William J. When six years of age, Mr. Weber accidentally fell from the roof of a barn, and was picked up in an almost lifeless condition. Since coming to America, he has suffered from tiiree attacks of palsy, each of which have rendered him senseless for hours. His last sickness has made him quite helpless, but in his old age, he is the recipient of true filial affection; and is passing the winter of life among all the comforts that love can bestow.

Peter J. Mellen, one of the pioneers of the Bad Ax valley, was born in the Mohawk Valley, New York, Oct. 10, 1838. When he was a young man, he learned the carpenter's trade. He was married Oct. 27, 1838, to Caroline Page, a native of Massachusetts. After marriage, they settled in Oswego county, where he worked at his trade one year, then removed to Oneida county, and engaged to work as a stone mason. They remained there four and a half years, then returned to Oswego county, and remained there until 1850; then came to Wisconsin and settled in Ozaukee county. He bought land there, built a house and commenced to make improvements. In 1855 he sold out and came to Bad Ax (now Vernon) county, and settled on section 15, of town 12 north, of range "i west. He improved the land, built a house and made this his home until the time of his death, which occurred Aug. 27, 1882. His only son, Theodore, was born Sept. 15, 1856. His younger days were spent in school and on his father's farm. He was married Nov. 13, 1876, to Elizabeth, daughter of William and Mary Adams, who settled in Harmony town in 1856. They have three children - Essie, Myrtle and Lloyd. He occupies the homestead in company with his mother.

father was a miller, and when thirteen years of age, Thomas began to work in the mill. In 1855 he came to America, settling in Vernon Co., Wis. He made Iiis home with an uncle, near Springville, for three years, when, in 1858, he was married to Sarah Pidcock, born in Ohio, June 28, 1835. He then, for four years, rented a farm in Viroqua town, after which he was engaged in farming in different parts of the county. In 1869 he went to Iowa, locating in Allamakee county. He remained there two years, after which he returned to Vernon county and rented a farm ou Siction 16, town 12, range 6, Sterling town. After renting this two years, Mr. Sidyie purchased it, and has since made it his home. Mr.s. Sidyie died, at Viroqua, Dec. 18, 1863, leaving three children - William, Eliza Ellen and Margaret J. The two oldest ones live in Genoa, the youngest in Iowa. Mr. Sidyie's father was born in Forfarshire, Scotland, in 1809. He died in 1866. His mother was born in Perthshire, in 1810. They were married in 1833. Mrs Sidyie came to America to join her son in 1857, and has since made her home with him. She has si.x children living - Thomas, James, Margaret, William, John and Robert.

Leonard Wakefield, one of the early settlers of Sterling town, was born in New York State in 1800. He grew to manhood in his native Slate, and was there married to Polly Whitnej-, also a native New York. Soon after marriage he moved to Pennsylvania, where he bought a farm and lived until 1833. He then went to Ohio, settling in Seneca county, and living there twelve years. Going then to Illinois, Mr. Wakefield purchased government land in Lake county, and cleared a farm. In 1856 he again turned his face westward, locating in Sterling town, Vernon Co., Wis. He purchased land on section 2, town 1 1, range 6, and also on section 35, town 12, range 6, and here remained until his death, which occurred in 1871. His wife died in 1878. Their son, Elijah, is still a resident of the town. He was born March 15, 18^7, in Pennsylvania.

In 1853 he married Cleora Stickney, by whom he had four children, one of which is living. He lived in Ohio and Illinois with his parents, and came with them to Sterling, loca'ingon land on section 2, which his father had entered in 1855. He enlisted in 1864, in company B, 42d Wisconsin Volunteers, and went south. He served until the close of the war, being discharged in June, 1865.

Adelbert, son of Elijah Wakefield, wa.s born Sept. 21, 1854, in Lake Co., 111. He was reared on a farm, and received his education in the district school. He was married, March 30, 1876, to Jane Wilder, born in Crawford Co., Wis. Four children have blessed this union - Etfie C, John B., Charles and Hiram. He now occupies the old homestead of his grandfather. His children are the fourth generation that have lived on that place.

Henry Weber is a settler of 1856. He was horn in Saxe-Coburg Germany Aug. 25, 18 22. He attended school until fourteen years of age, when he was apprenticed to learn the blacksmith trade, at which he continued to work until 1847, when he left his native land and emigrated to America. He landed at New York, but not finding employment went out of the city and succeeded in getting work on the New York & Lake Erie Railway, and subsequently on the Erie Canal. In 1850 he started west, vi.sited Chicago, and from there went to St. Paul, .Minn., and also Stillwater, and afterward to St. Louis, Mo., where he worked at his trade until 1856. In 1856 he made a settlement in Vernon county. He has since been a resident of Sterling town. Mr. Weber has improved his farm, erected sub stantial buildings for stock, grain, etc., and is an exten.sive raiser of small fruits, making a speciality of grapes. His farm comprises 28u acres. He was mairied in 1854 to Mary Panly, also a native of Germany. Tliey have had ten children - Elizabeth, Henry, Bertlin,Mary, Christian, !.ouisa, Josephine, Sophia, John and Caroline J. Josephine died when four ye.irs of age.

Public Library

P. D. Miner was born Aug. 12, 1828, in Monterey towiisliip, Berkshire Co., Mass His younger days were spent in scliool and on the farm. In 1854 he came to Wisconsin, locating in Grant county. He bought a team and was engaged for three years in breaking prairie. In 1857 he came to Sterling town, settling on a farm that his father had entered a few years previous. For a few months he. boarded with E. T. Bishop. He, in company with another man, kept bachel r's hall in an old log house on the place. He was married in 1858 to Sarah D., daughter of Dr. Simeon F. and Antoinette (Brush) Huntington. Her father was a native of Connecticut, and an early settler of Crawford Co., Wis. Mrs. Miner was born in Ohio. 'I'hey have five children - Wilbur E., Henry T., Mary E., Hiram and Alice. After marriage Mr. Miner built a house on his farm. He has been a successful farmer, and now has 41 *i acres of land, a good set of buildings, and is now living with the surroumlings of a comforiahle home.

Simeon Gibbs was an early settler in Wasl ington Co., Wis. He emigrated to th;it count; in 1847, and bought government land aii' cleared a farm. He remained there until 1859 when he made his present settlement on sectio; 10, of town 11 north, of range 6 west. He wa; born in Otsego Co.,N. Y., May 13, 1806. Whei he was but seventeen years of age his parent? removed to .lefferson county, where they were early settlers, and where he assisted his father in clearing two farms. He was there married in June, 1827, to Lucy Page, born in Cheshire Co., N. H., Dec. 7, 1806. Her father, David Page, was born in Brattleboro, Vt. He served the United States in the War of 1812, and was severely wounded at the battle of Sacketl's Harbor. He was also an early settler in Jefferson Co., N. Y. At the time of his marriage Mr. Gibbs bought a farm in St. Lawrence Co.,N. Y., and lived there a few years, then soJd and returned to Jefferson county, where he remained until 1847, when he came to Wisconsin, as before stated. Mr. and Mrs. Gibbs have five children living - Jane, Lindley, Clara, John and Mary. His son John lives on the farm adioining his father. He was born in Jefferson Co., N. Y., Aug. 3, 1844, and came to Wisconsin with his parents. He enlisted in February, 1805, in the 50th regiment, Wisconsin Volunteers, and went west to the frontier. While in the service he nearly lost his eyesight, but has since partially recovered. He was married April 25, 1869, to Rosella Fish, of Vermont. They have five children - Harrison, Herbert, Alfred, Edith and Charlie.

Alvin M. Hayden was quite a prominent citizen of Sterling town for eighteen years. He was born in Somerset Co., Maine, Oct. 2, 1810, and died in the town of Sterling Nov. 6, 1878. At the time of his death he was postmaster of West Prairie; had always taken an active interest in town affairs; filled several oflices of trust and for years was a justice of the peace. He married Clarissa Mitchell, also a native of Somerset Co., Maine. Five children were born to them, three of whom are now living - Lucy, William W. and John F. In 1S55 Mr. Hayden emigrated with his family to Wisconsin and located in Monroe county. In 1858 they removed to Missouri, but returned within two years, and in 1860 settled in Sterling town. Mr. Hayden purchased land on section 6, town 11 north, of range 5 west. He improved this farm, erected a corafortible residence and here resided until his death. His widow still occupies the old homestead. The youngest son, John F., was born in Franklin Co., Maine, Jan. 13, 1851. He was united in marriage April 12, 1870, to Jane Cox, a native of Wisconsin. They have four children - Herbert F., Arthur M., Vesta May and an infant. In 1874 Mr. Hayden purchased a farm on section 6, of this town, where he has resided since his marriage.

D. T. Smith, wagon maker at Retreat, was born Sept. 21, 1826, in Sandistield, Berkshire Co., Mass. He was raised to agricultural pursuits. When twenty-two years of age be re- ceived employment in a wagon sbop, where he worked a year. He then engaged in farming and carpentering. In 1857 he procured work in a rake factory, where he stayed four years. In 1861 he came to Wisconsin, locating in Crawford county. lie remained there, however, but a few months, coming to Sterling town, Vernon county, and engaging in work at his trade and farming. He was drafted in 1863 in the 1st Wisconsin Cavalry, went south and was with Sherman as far as Atlanta. He continued in the service until the close of the war and was discharged in July, 18*75. He then returned to Sterling town. In 1871 Mr. Smith went to La Crosse, and engaged in carpenter and joiner work. In 187-3 he opened his wagon sliop in Retreat, near his residence. Mr. Smith was married to Lois C. Thompson, a native of Sandisiield, Mass. Mrs. Smith died in 1862. He subsequently married Sarah C. Davis, widow of John Frye and a native of Maine.

Jesse L. Davis has been engaged in the mercantile trade at Retreat since 1868, and is the present postmaster of the village. He was born in Cumberland Co., Penn., Nov. 7, 1809. When ten years of age, his parents removed to Shippenijurgh, where Jesse attended the village school, and in vacations assisted his father in tiie tannery. At eighteen years of age, he left liome and joined his brother, a physician at Carlisle, Ind. He was there employed as clerk in a store but two years later went to Edwardsport, in Knox county, and engaged in mercar)- tile jnirsuits. He there continued in business until 1846, when he received an appointment as clei'k in the sixth auditor's office, at Washington, D. C, and immediatel}^ entered upon the duties of his position. In 18;)5 he obtained a leave of absence and went to Wisconsin, where he bought land on sections 10 and 15, of town 11 north, <if range 6 west, now embraced within the limits of Sterling town. He returned to W.-jshington, and resumed his duties, but in 1862 resigned his position and settled on his land, where he engaged in farming. In

1868 he engaged in liis present business. Mr. Davis was married in 1832, to Vienn 'i ., daughter of William M. and Sarah Purdy, natives of Kentucky, but early residents of that part of Indiana, now known as Sullivan county, and where Mrs. Davis was born June 5, 1816. Mr. and Mrs. Davis have been blessed with four children - John W., Warren G., Martha A. and Laura V.

Christian Puis came to Wisconsin in 1851, locating in Washington county, where he bought timber land of the government. He cleared a farm, erected a log house and barn, and lived there until 1862, when he purchased a farm of John Whitney, on section 2, town 11 north, of range 6 west, known as Sterling town. Mr. Puis has given considerable attention to fruit growing and has a fine orchard. He was married, I'^eb. 1, 1852, to Christena Tuegel, born in Marienburg, Germany. They have six children - Caroline, born Nov. 9, 1853, John, born May 3, 1858, Annie, born July 25, 1862, Mary, born Oct. 11, 1866, Jimmy, born March 17, 1869, and George, born Feb. 25,1873.

Lewis Thompson settled in the Bad Ax valley, in 1862. He took up a homestead on section 20, of town 12 north, of range 6 west. He is a native of Norway, born March 21, 1S41. His younger days were spent in school and on the farm. In 1860 he emigrated to America, landed at Quebec, and came directly to this ciiunty, and first stopped with Scott Thomjjson, who lived on section 17, of town 1 I north, of range 5 west. He was employed iii farming in the neighborhood until 1S62, when he started to make a home for himself. Hi' first built a small log house in which he lived several years, and then built another log house to which he has a frame addition. He has been a successful farmer and now owns 315 acres of land. He was married, in 1^60, to Christina Ericksoii, who lived but two years after marriage. His second wtte was Dean Olson, who bore him eight children, three of them are now living - Thomas L., Ole L. and Margaret L. Mrs,