Walworth County, Wisconsin - Biographical sketches, 1912 (part 2 of 5)

.Albert S. Robinson grew to manhood on his father's farm, and there assisted as much as he could with the general work when a bo) and he received his education in the local public schools and the high school al Lake Geneva. He continued farming on the home place for some time after leaving school. From 1890 to 1910 he was secretary and manager of Lakeview creamer}-, which he had helped organize and the large success of which was due mostly to his capable management, lie has made farming his chief life work and has been very successful at this hue of endeavor. He is now the ner of two hundred and seventy acres of fertile and well improved land, which yields abundant harvests under his skillful superintendence, lie has always kept a good grade of live stock, and he has a large pleasant home. I [e has been connected with the Farmers National Bank of Laki 1 it- organization and in [911 he was elected presidenl of the same, which position he still hold-, managing its affairs in a manner thai much credit upon his ability and to eminenl satisfaction of all concerned, - in fact it- ever-growing prestige is due in no small measure to his able mana ment and rare business acumen. He ha- been ver) successful in a busim way and has accumulated a competency. He deserves a great deal of credit for his success, being a fine example of a virile, persistent, cautious, broadminded, self-made American. He came up from the pioneer log cabin in which he first saw the light of day. He built his present fine residence in 1895. It i> (Hie of the commodious, modern and attractive homes of the county, and here he has many of the comforts and conveniences of life that are seldom found on the farm. His large barns and other substantial outbuildings show that in farming as well as in other affairs he is thoroughgoing and progressive.

Mr. Robinson was married March 2j. [888, to Mrs. Sarah Towslee, widow of George Towslee. She was the daughter of Benjamin and Louisa Sutton, and was born in St. Lawrence count}-, Xew York, and there spent her childhood, coming to Lake Geneva about 1872, where she joined her sister, who had resided here for some time. She was married in Lyons, this county, to George Towslee, who died in Iowa, after which event she returned to Walworth county, his death having occurred in 1882.

Personally, Mr. Robinson is a "plain, blunt man," like Shakespeare's Brutus, but withal a man whom it is a pleasure to know, for he can be trusted. confided in and depended upon, - in short, he is a man's man - strong, cool, courageous, calculating and honorable.

In the death of Horace S. Richards, Walworth county lost one of its most valued citizens. Much of his long and useful life was spent within its borders, although he first saw the light of day in faraway bleak Xew England. In America, it has been truthfully said that labor is king, and the sovereignty that the liberty-loving people of this country acknowledge is that of business. The men of influence in this enlightened age are the enterprising, progressive, representative men of industry and commerce and to such ones advancement and progress are due. Mr. Richards was one who had the mental poise and calm judgment to successfully guide and control large business affairs, and at the same time he had a keen appreciation of the ethics of commercial life, so that lie not only commanded the respect of his fellow men for his uprightness, but also excited their admiration by his splendid abilities. So, after a most commendable career, he has gone to "join the choir invisible of those immortal dead who live again, in minds made better by their presence."

Air. Richards was born at Burlington, Vermont, April 21, [831. He was the son of William and Susan (Stafford) Richards. The family moved to St. Lawrence county. New York, while he was a child and there he grew to manhood. When he was about fourteen years old he began working in the woolen factories there, and for many years he followed this work in one branch or another.

Air. Richards was married in March, 1856, to Harriet Martha Hodge, daughter of Alilo and Lilias (Robertson) Hodge. She was born in Potsdam township, St. Lawrence county. New York. The parents of the mother of Lilias Robertson were named Webster (closely related to Daniel Webster I and they reared Lilias from early childhood, her mother having died when she was very young. Alilo Hodge was the son of Benjamin and llanna (Smith) Hodge. They came to Wisconsin about 1855 and located in Waushara county, where thev lived a number of years, and they died in this county. Lilias Hodge, Airs. Richards' mother, died in New York. Alii" Hodge came to Wisconsin and located at Mukwonago, where he was married again and spent the rest of his life.

After Air. Richards' marriage he remained in New York until the commencement of the Civil war, when he enlisted in the Ninety-second New York Volunteer Infantry, and after a year in the service he was seized with a serious illness and was discharged for physical disability. After his discharge he and his wife and children came to Wisconsin. His health was very poor and he came here believing that the change would benefit him. He located at Mukwonago, where he worked in a carding mill. Later he moved to Lake Geneva, where there was a larger mill, and here he was employed a number of years. After the mills ceased operation he followed tin- carpenter's trade for a few years, but his health continuing to fail, he retired from active work. Air. Richards took an active interest in public affairs and took a keen interest in politics, lie was a Republican

Six children were born t" Mr. and Airs. Richards, namely: Herbert, who lives in Lake Geneva, and who married Jennie I. allelic, i- a painter by trade; George Frederick, who lives in Beloit, married Josie (Holland) Downs, and they have one son, George Frederick, Jr.; Charles married Nora Withie and lived in .Michigan until his death, in February, [895; Minnie is the wife of Joseph Ellis and lives in Zeinla, this county, where he has a hardware business, and they have two sons, Allen and John ; John, the fifth child of the subject and wife, is a professor in the State University at Madison; be married Mabel Wilson; Lillian is the wife of J. Melvin Johnson and lives at Madison, where Mr. Johnson has an official position with the American Tobacco Company.

The death of Horace S. Richards occurred on July 2~, 1909, after a well spent and honorable life, in which he won the esteem of all with whom he came into contact. He was well known throughout this county, having come to Wisconsin in 1863, and to Lake Geneva in 1866.

Miss Helen Martin

The life history of the estimable and popular superintendent of schools of Walworth county. Miss Helen Martin, most happily illustrates what may be attained by faithful and continued effort in carrying out noble purposes. It is a story of a life whose success is measured by its usefulness - a life that has made the world better and brighter. Her career has been dignified and womanly, her manner unaffected and her actions, springing from a heart charged with love and altrustic sentiment for humanity, have been a blessing to all who have come within range of her influence. She is a representative of one of the sterling pioneer families of this county, and is the second woman to bold the office of county superintendent in Walworth county, the first having been .Miss Lillian Webster, now the wife of Charles Greene, who served one term. The office of count)- superintendent is not a political office in Wisconsin ami the election is held in April. There were three candidates in 1909 and Miss .Martin prosed an easy winner.

Miss Martin was born in Spring Prairie township, this county, and tbere die attended the district sjchools; later the family moved to Elkhorn and she was a student in the public schools there, and was graduated from the high school. She then spent three years in the University of Wisconsin, after which she taught in the schools of Elkhorn with a great degree of success until elected county superintendent. She lias in her charge one hundred and four country schools and fourteen graded schools, of which seven are high and Lake Geneva, are under her jurisdiction. She lias given eminent satisfaction in tbe discharge of her duties in this important office and her course has been highly a immendable.

Miss Martin's father. Charles Martin, was born in Delaware county, New York, November i_\ 1818. He learned the carpenter's trade when a young man, which he continued after coming to Walworth county, \\ isconsin, in 1844. building several houses in Spring Prairie township. In 1845 he married Elizabeth Martin, a cousin, who was horn in Hartford county. Connecticut. After their marriage they turned their attention to farming. Mrs. Martin passed away in 1850. leaving one daughter, Delia. In 1854 Mr. Martin was united in marriage with Caroline Fowle, who was born in Wyoming county. Xew York, and Iter death occurred on January 30. [891. She was the daughter of Samuel and Harriet (Ingraham) Fowle, who moved with their family to Walworth county, Wisconsin, about 1840 and settled among the pioneers in Darien township, where Lawson school house now stands, and some ten years later the parents moved to Iowa.

The death of Charles Martin occurred in 1906. He was an active member of the Spring Prairie Baptist church, and for a period of twenty years he was superintendent of the Sunday school there. He was also a member of the Walworth County Agricultural Society. He was a wide reader and kept well informed on current topics of public interest.

Delia Martin, mentioned above, became the wife of Emery D. Williams, a native of Jefferson county. Xew York, horn January 6, 1841. lie enlisted in 1861 in Company I, Twenty-eighth Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, in which he served gallantly as a private for four years. After his marriage he moved to Carroll county, Missouri, where his death occurred in December, 1879, leaving three children: Alice, now deceased: Ira M. and Charles A., both living in California. Mrs. Williams returned to Elkhorn in 1880.

Four children were born to Charles Martin and his second wife, two of whom died in infancy, and a son died when sixteen years old, leaving Helen, the subject, who makes her home with her half-sister. I lelia.

Miss Martin's great force of character and ripe scholarship, together with her ability as an organizer, enabled her to bring to her work the results of her professional experience with marked effect, and it was not long until the schools under her supervision advanced to the high standing of efficiency for which they are now noted. Many things tending to lessen the teai I" 1 labors and at the same time make them effective have been introduced; the course of study modified and improved, the latest and most approved appliances purchased and everything in keeping with modern educational prog re- tested, and. when- practical, retained. She takes a eresl in her teachers, all of whom are selected with special reference to their ability to till acceptablv the positions to which assigned. That the advantages of a liberal education may be generally disseminated, she has encouraged young people of the county to attend high school by giving them every possible consideration. She possesses the personal charm and tact which make her popular with the young and it is nothing unusual to see her on the street or in the school-yard surrounded by a group of urchins. By entering into their spirit and pastimes, sympathizing with them in their troubles, in short, making their interests her own, she has become the idol, almost, of the juveniles of the city, her being one with them rendering the teachers' work easy and adding greatly to her own popularity, not only with the children but also with the adult portion of the populace.

Unlike so many of her calling who spend their lives in the school room, who become narrow and pedantic, Miss Martin is broad and liberal in her views and has the courage of her convictions on all the leading public questions and issues, keeping in touch with the trend of modern thought, and having an acquaintance with the best general literature of the past and present.

Charles I. Peck

This well known citizen is an excellent example of the alert twentiethcentury business man of the United States, coming from an ancestry that distinguished itself in pioneer days. When the country was covered with almost an interminable forest of native trees, filled with wild animals, his people came to Walworth county, Wisconsin, and began to carve homes from the primeval forests, build schools and churches and introduce the customs of civilization in the wilderness. They were willing to endure the hardships that they might acquire the soil and the home that was sure to rise and the) did a noble work in the several relations with their fellow men. By a life consistent in motive and action and because of his many tine personal qualities) Charles I. Peck, for man) years one of the leading agriculturists and stock men of Lafayette township, has earned the sincere regard of all who know him. ami is deserving of conspicuous mention in his countv's historj along with other representative citizens who have the interests of this nature-favored locality at heart.

Mr. Peck was born in Lafayette township, this county, at Spring Prairie, on August i |. [847. lie is the son of J. W. and Adaline E. (Randall) Peck, both natives of the state of Ww York, the father's birth having occurred in [818 and the mother's in 1823. The) Spent their earlier years in their native state, and in 1836 came to Ohio, thence coming to Lafayette township. Walworth county. Wisconsin, in 1836, buying one hundred and thirty-six acres at Spring Prairie where he built a hotel, known as Peck's Corners. He then went north about two miles and established his home. In i860 he moved to the farm now owned by his son, Charles I., of this sketch, becoming the owner of eight hundred and sixty-six acres of valuable land in Lafayette township, and other parts of Wisconsin and an aggregate of eighteen hundred acres here and in Iowa and Nebraska, being one of the largest land owners and one of the most substantial and influential citizens in this section of the state. He was very active in the affairs of the early times and was a leader in his community, winning the admiration and esteem of all who knew him as a result of his industry, public spirit and exemplary character. Politically, he was a Democrat and took an active part in political affairs. He was an extensive sheep dealer. He was chairman of the board of supervisors, though he was never a seeker after public office. His wife was a consistent member of the Baptist church.

Five sons and one daughter were born to Mr. and Mrs. J. W. Peck, all living but one. The death of the father occurred in 1876, his widow surviving over thirty years, dying in 1907.

Charles I. Peck, the immediate subject of this sketch, was reared on the home farm, where he assisted with the general work during crop seasons, attending the public schools in the winter time, later the Elkhorn high school. Early in life he took up general fanning and stock raising for a vocation and this he has continued with almost uninterrupted success, now owning one of the finely improved and fertile farms of the county, consisting of four hundred and eighty acres in Lafayette township, lie is also interested in land in California, he being one of live men who are interested as a company in the development of thirty-six hundred acres, and he is also one of a company of twelve men who are operating twenty-seven hundred acres of land, being extensive lemon raisers, in which thej an- vei uccessful. He is a director in the Santa Paula Land i >mpany, 0 ck in a building and loan company, is a director and vice-president of the Sulphur Mountain Springs < Company, owns a hotel at Ventura, California, and §tock in one at Santa I 'aula.

agricultural and horticultural operations, lie has been a clo e obsi rver and a deep student of these sciences and is thoroughly up to date in these lim He and his wife are members of the Lafayette Congregational church.

Mr. Peck was married in 1873 to Fannie E. Sewell, a lady of many estimable characteristics and the representative of an excellent old Walworth county family, her birth having occurred in Lafayette township, the daughter of Jirah Sewell and wife, early settlers in this county, who became well established here through their industry and thrift.

The union of Charles I. Peck and wife has been blessed by the birth of four children, three sons and one daughter, the latter dying in infancy : the sons are Jeddiah, now deceased; Hiel Manley, who lives on the homestead here; and Clyde Edward, who makes his home in California.

Mr. Peck owns a beautiful home at Santa Paula. California, where he now resides, leaving the management of his property in Lafayette township to his son. He is interested in five banks (director in three and inspector) in California, also in lands in South Dakota and California.

Mr. Peck"s extensive business interests are the legitimate fruitage of consecutive effort, directed and controlled by good judgment and correct principles. He has forged his way to the front over obstacles that would have discouraged men of less courageous mettle, gradually extending the limits of his mental horizon until he is today fully abreast of the times, a progressive, broad-minded, capable man of affairs. Taken as a whole, his career presents a series of continued successes rarely equaled by men from Walworth county. Strong mental powers, invincible courage and a determined purpose that hesitates at no opposition have so entered into his composition as to render him a dominant factor in the business world and a leader of men in important enterprises. He is essentially a man of affairs, sound of judgment, of rare business acumen, far-seeing in what he undertakes, and every enterprise to which he addresses himself has resulted in liberal financial returns.

Alfred John Smith

Mr. Smith was born in London. England. March 28, [866, and there he spent his boyhood and attended the common schools. He is the son of James J. and Emily (O'Neil) Smith. He continued to reside in his native city until he was about seventeen years old. In September. [883, he emigrated to the United States, and spent some time in various places in the Southern states, finally coming to Chicago in [891, where he secured a position as assistant in a greenhouse, which he retained for a period of six years, giving entire satisfaction. In his native land he had mastered the ins and outs of gardening, having spent the time from the age of ten years t<> the time of his emigration to America engaged in that line of work, taking up the various branches of horticulture, and in Chicago he gained still further experience, until he is now a master of his line. He is a deep student as well as a keen observer and has kept well informed on the progress of horticulture and general gardening, especially as affecting this country and latitude.

In June. 1903, Mr. Smith came to Ceylon Court. Lake ( reneva, as head gardener, and he has since had full charge of the grounds, greenhouses and gardens, one of the "show places'' of the county, a complete description of which is to be found on another page of this work. But those who have seen Ceylon Court know the inadequacy of mere words to describe its beauty and need not be reminded of Mr. Smith's taste and knowledge in such work and of his faithfulness to the same.

Mr. Smith is a member of the Gardeners and Foremen's Association of Lake Geneva, which is composed of the men who look after this line of work for the fine homes about the lakes here. Mr. Smith i^ now servi his fourth term as president of the association, which has recently erected a large and attractive building on Broad street, Lake Geneva. The pronounced success of this important organization has been due very largely to his efforts. He is also a life member of the Wisconsin State Horticultural Society, of which he was vice-president for two years, discharging the dul of this office in a manner that won the hearty commendation .0' all cor cerned.

Ireland, and to this union one daughter, Hannah, wa born, her birth occurring in January, [900, at which time the mother died, ami in August, 1005. Mr. Smith was again married, his last wife having been known in her maidenhood as Martha Sobbe, daughter of Joseph and Mar} Sobbe. She was born, reared and educated at Lake Geneva. Mr. and Mrs. Smith are both members of the Catholic church and he is also a member of tin lie Order of Foresters and Knights of Columbus.

Mr. Smith is a busy man. with a business way of doing things, yet finds time to give attention to the sociable side of his nature, and he is known as a frank, just and obliging gentleman, and an authority on all horticultural subjects.

Gustave Meister

Another of the progressive Germans who, coming to Walworth county in the days of its ascendency, cast his lot with us and thereby has benefited himself, his neighbors and acquaintances, is Gustave Meister, of Lyons township, a man who, owing to his commendable traits of character and his persistent habits, would succeed in any community.

Mr. Meister was born in Pommern, Germany, August n, 1857, and is the son of Christlieb and Charlotte (Kuger) Meister. He grew up on a farm in his native land, and there he married, in 1882, Lena Schmidt, daughter of William and Frederica (Freitag) Schmidt, and three children were born to them in the old country, Herman, Anna and William. In 1887 the family emigrated to the United States and located at Lyons, Walworth count}-, Wisconsin. Mr. Meister worked on the railroad for about two years, then worked four years as a farm hand for James Brett, then for fourteen years he rented Judge Buckbee's farm, then began fanning for himself. In 1902 he purchased a farm in section 19, Lyons township. He is now the owner of an excellent farm of one hundred and forty acres, which he has kept well improved and where he carries on general farming and stock raising successively. He has a pleasant home and keeps an excellent grade of stock. There were no improvements on the place except the house, and he built barns, outhouses, fences, and in many ways improved and beautified the place, and there is no more attractive place than his between Geneva and Springfield.

Three children have been born to the subject and wife since coming to America, namely: Frank, [da and Carl. The subject's children are all married except Carl. Herman married Bessie Morgan and they live a short distance north of the village of Lyons, where he rents a farm and operates it for himself; they have three children, Clarence, Dorothy and Gladys. Anna married Andrew liartelsou and lives on a rented farm near the subject, and they have live children. Herbert, Frances and Frank (twins). Ailleen and Walter. William married Amelia Dorn and lives on the Buckbee farm near his father's home, which he rents, lie lias "lie son, Gustave. Frank married

Freda Pagel, has one daughter, Florence, and lives on a rented farm a short distance west of the village of Lyons. Ida married Walter A. Papenfus and they rented the home farm and are living with her parents. Carl works for them on the farm. The Meister family belongs to the German Lutheran church at Lyons.

The subject is deserving of a great deal of credit for what he has accomplished, having started in life with nothing and having a large family to support. He has been frugal, industrious and economical and is now wellto-do.

William Furniss Best

William Furniss Best, of Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, was born at Bridport, county of Dorset, England, October 30, 1867. J lis parents were Richard Henry Best and Ellen (Furniss) Best. His father was in the produce and commission business and Mr. Best grew up in the business with his father and was with him till the father died in 1888. William F. Best remained in England till 1889, when he was encouraged to come to America, having heard much of the country here from his brother-in-law, whose home was in Walworth county along the shore of the Lake Geneva, and who was then back in England on a visit.

Mr. Best came to Lake Geneva and soon had quite a circle of friends and acquaintances with whom he became popular in a social way. Having such means of support that he could be idle if he wished to, the young man did what nearly all young men would like to do at the age of twenty t" twenty-three - he looked more to the pleasures of society and enjoying life in good style while he could, and did not engage in any gainful occupation 1 some time. Older heads looked on with misgiving ai hi"- idleness. .Mr. Best, however, rose above the handicap of having "nothing in do and sum cient money to do it with." after he had three years at ii. In [893 he began to show his true mettle when he took a place in the greenhouse on Mr. Leiter's lake shore estate. He continued at such work till [902, learned a great deal about the work and showed that he was t<i he depended upon. In 1902 he took charge of the greenhouses owned b) the Lake Geneva Flo Company, who then had about twenty thousand feet under glass, lie re mained in charge of the work there till the floral company sold nut aboul three vears later, when through a chain of peculiar circumstances he was induced to go into the piano business at Lake Geneva. In this he made a success right from the start. He sold thirteen pianos in the first thirteen days, and since then has sold hundreds of them in Walworth county, and in a modest way has prospered. In addition to his piano business he occasionally buys and sells a piece of real estate, as an investment.

December i, 1889, Mr. Best married Loretta Bolsley, daughter of Theodore and Augusta (Harkness) Bolsley. She was born and reared in Lake Geneva. Her parents, it is believed, came from the state of New York. Mr. and Airs. Best have three daughters, Ethel Ellen, Mabel Charlotte and Maudie Marie, also one son, Lloyd Furniss Best. Mr. Best is a member of the Masons, the Odd Fellows and the Mystic Workers. He has made his home among us for about twenty-three years, and we have seen him grow in those desirable characteristics of solid worth, his conduct in all the relations of life entitling him to the respect and esteem of his fellow men. He was elected in 1910 to the office of justice of the peace. In England this office is held by the nobility, without compensation, the idea being not that of profit to themselves but that they shall honor the office by the courage and fairness of their rulings. Mr. Best has performed his official duties here in the same spirit, and shown those qualities that are so essential in any court, if respect for the law is to be upheld. He was again elected in -1912 and is now serving his second term.

August Luedtke

Few farmers of Walworth county carry on their work with any greater degree of science than August Luedtke, of Lyons township, for he is a close student of everything that pertains to his work, and he is deserving of a great deal of credit for what he has accomplished, having come here from a foreign shore with no capital, but with what amounted to more - a willingness to work, an ambition to succeed, and a strong constitution, lie was born in Pommern, Wultendorf, Prussia, Germany, on October q. 1855. He is the son of Fred and Louisa (Blaedan) Luedtke, the father having been broughl up mi a large farm in the fatherland, but afterwards became a shepherd.

When the subject was eight years of age the father and mother ami their children emigrated t>> America and settled near Burlington, Wisconsin, where they followed farming, later buying a farm in sections 12 and 13 in Lyons township, Walworth county, and here the parents spent the rest of their lives, and on this farm the subject grew to manhood.

Wat. Worth County, Wisconsin

August Luedtke was married on July iS. iS-s. to \nna Louise B. Schmidt, daughter of William and Caroline (Bushen) Schmidt. She was born and reared in Wheatland township, Kenosha county, this stale. Her parents were from the same locality in Germany in which the subject was n. Her parents came to Burlington township, Kenosha county, Wisconsin, and here spent the rest of their lives. Four children have been born to the subject and wife, namely, Cora, Louis, Emma and Florence.

The subject has spent bis Hfe engaged in farming on the home place. having operated the same ever since his marriage. He has an excellent farm of one hundred and twenty acres which he has placed under a high grade of improvements and cultivation and where he has made a good living and has a pleasant home.

Mr. Luedtke has been a member of the township board of supervisors of Lyons township for two years. He and his family are members of the Methodist Episcopal church at Burlington.

John C. Brennan

Another of the sterling sons of the old Empire state who has come to Walworth county and here found a pleasant home and a welcome from our citizens, and thereby has benefited himself and them, is John C. Brennan. a successful farmer of Linn township. lie was burn in Chenango county, Xew York, March _\ [865, and he is the son of John and Bridget (Quinn) Brennan. His boyhood was spent on his father's farm in Xew York. Upon reaching manhood he came west and located in Linn township, this county, and has lived here ever since. In his boyhood he worked oul foi several years. About 1894 he began farming for himself and in [903 lie purchased the farm which he still owns in Linn township, sections 23 and 24. Mis place consists of two hundred and eighteen acres of excellent land which he has placed under splendid improvements and a high state of cultivation, and here he carries on general farming and stock raising "ii an extensive scale

Mr. Brennan was married in [893 to Anna Barlow, daughter of Ed ward and Margaret (Creighton) Barlow, the father born in Linn township, this county, November it. 1^42. being the son of John and Catherine (Smith) Barlow. |bhn Harlow and wife were both born in Ireland, and they emigrated to Walworth county, Wisconsin, in an early day, being among the first settlers of Linn township. I d ard Bat to maul 1 and farmed most of his life. He married Margaret Creighton, daughter of Peter and Ann Creighton. She was born near Providence. Massachusetts. Her parents were also from Ireland, coming here probably in 1843, spending the rest of their lives in this county. Mr. Creighton bought a farm in section 5, what is now the Dillenbeck farm, and there he lived until late in life, then "sold out and moved to Lyons, where he and his wife spent their last

Four children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Barlow: Anna, who married folm Brennan, subject of this sketch; Katie, wdio died when about twentyfour years of age: Lillian is the wife of John Murphy, of Linn township; John, who is farming in the east side of Linn township; Edward died on December 28, 1908. Mr. and Mrs. Brennan have one son, George.

Mr. Brennan has been a member of the board of supervisors for about thirteen years, filling this office to the satisfaction of all concerned, and he has been a member of the county board for about eight years. He and his family belong to the Catholic church.

Oliver H. Walker

The life record of Oliver H. Walker, well known citizen of Lake Geneva, Walworth county, has been replete with success, because he has been very careful of his successive steps in the daily affairs of life, being careful not to do anything that would later require undoing. "Be sure you are right, then go ahead." has been, in substance, his motto, at least it would seem so to one at all familiar with his career, which is worthy of careful study by the youth at the beginning of their careers or by the man who is discouraged farther on the highway of life,

Mr. Walker was born at Plainfield, Otsego county. New York, December 8, [843, being the scion of a family prominent in business circles in Lake Geneva from the early days. He is a son of Vustin and Dorcas (Burdick) Walker, the mother having been born probably in Connecticut and she lived in Otsego countv. New York, until her marriage. Her mother died in the East and her father came to Walworth county, Wisconsin, and settled in Linn township. Austin Walker and wife were married in Xew York and they lived in that state until 1851 when they moved to Walworth county. Wisconsin, reaching here in the spring of that year, bavin- cine by way of the Great Lakes to Kenosha. There were no railroads in this country at thai time. They came by wagon from Kenosha to this county, locating in I. inn township, where the father purchased eight) acres of land q! James Benerdick, near the center of the township, south of what was called the Big Foot road. The family lived there about three years, then moved into Lake Geneva and in 1854 Austin Walker entered the grocery business, also handled boots and shoes, later. After a time the hoot and shoe business outgrew the grocery department and he closed it out, continuing only as hoot and -hoc merchant. Here he remained in business until his death and was quite successful, becoming the possessor of considerable town property, built a greal many houses and various business properties and thus for year-, was one of the influential men in the upbuilding of Lake Geneva. 1 1 is death occurred in 1895; his wife, surviving him a number of years, died on September 10. 1906. having reached the advanced age of ninety-four years. Their family consisted of seven children, six sons and one daughter, namely: Billings A. lived most of his life in Lake Geneva; Charles E., who owns and operates a fine garden in the northern part of Lake Geneva, also owns considerable rentahle property. In [859 he and three others drove overland to California with ox teams, when there was not a house from Council Bluffs, Iowa, to Salt Lake City, Utah: they were from April [9th to ( )ctober uth making the trip to Carson City, Nevada, experiencing many hardships and privations, having many thrilling adventures. At one place they were compelled to pay seventy-five cents a pound for hoth flour and bacon. He returned in [862 and engaged in the dry goods, boot and shoe business in Lake Geneva, selling out in 1S69, and then he engaged in the commission business in Chicago until [87] when he returned to Lake Geneva. While in business here he had the first stock of clothing in the city. He was a member of the hoard of supervisors for ten years. The third child bom to Austin Walker and wife was George W., who enlisted in the Union army in the spring of [86] and died the following autumn of typhoid fever: Oliver II.. of tin- sketch; Uexander S. lived and died in Lake Geneva; Napoleon Decatur is unmarried and livein Lake Geneva; Mary L. is the wife of Joseph Scheneck; they lived in San Francisco several years, but now make their home across the bay from th<

( (liver H. Walker grew to manhood in Lake Geneva, ami he was clerking in the store of his father on the day of his fifteenth birthday, and from that day until the spring of [896 he remained in the .tore, covering a period of thirtv-seven years, during which time he became one of the best known merchants in the county, enjoyed a large trade and was regarded as on,- ..1 the citv's most enterprising men of affairs. I le is still well known, but a very large number of his friend- and acquaintances of the earlier years have pas from view over life- -oat divide.

Mr. Walker has retired from active business and looks after his rental properties in Lake Geneva. His home is on the lake front, and for recreation he enjoys fishing in the lake.

Mr. Walker was married on June I, 1865, to Caroline P. Johnson, of Linn township. She was born in Taunton, Massachusetts. June 20, 1841, and was the daughter of James and Sallie (Staples) Johnson. Her people moved to this county in 1S43 and located in Linn township about four miles from the city of Lake Geneva. The subject and wife attended the same school in the country and grew up together. James Johnson was born August 10, 1805, in Darby, Pennsylvania, and her mother was born January 17, 1806, in Freetown, Massachusetts.

Three daughters and one son were born to Mr. and Mrs. Walker, named as follows: Frederick Oliver died in the spring of 1879, as did also Caroline Louise; Jennie died early the following autumn, their ages having been about four, seven and ten respectively ; Rose M. is at home with her father in Lake Geneva.

The wife and mother was called to her rest on Friday, August 11, 191 1. She was a worthy member of the Congregational church in Lake Geneva and \\ as a favorite with a wide circle of friends. She was the last of her father's family residing in this county. Mr. Walker is also a member of the Congregational church.

Father James Nicholas

The well known and popular gentleman whose name introduces this biographical review has accomplished much toward ameliorating the condition of his fellow men in Walworth county, often laboring with disregard foi his own welfare if thereby he might attain the objeel sought - to make .some one better or happier. Such a life as his is rare in this mercenary, workaday age, and is eminently worthy of emulation, being singularly free from all that is deteriorating or paltry, for his influence is at all times uplifting, and thousands of people have been made better for having known him. and yet he is a plain, unassuming gentleman, caring nothing for the plaudits of men, contenl to know that he is following the footsteps of the Man of Gallilee and doing his will as best be can.

! ather James Nicholas, priest of the parish of Elkhorn, \\ isconsin, was born in Limerick City. Ireland, \uur 9, 1863. lie is the son of William and Sarah (Fitzgerald) Nicholas, lie -pent his boyhood as a student in public schools and academies. About 1879 ne decided to take an ecclesiastical course and prepare for the priesthood. He accordingly entered the National College of Maynorth and in 1887 was ordained to the priesthood. He was at once appointed to the diocese of Milwaukee. Upon coming here he was assigned to the parish of Elkhorn, which has been his only assignment, for he lias remained here continuously to the present time.

One not of his church who -peaks from personal knowledge and voices a general impression, says of him: "Father Nicholas, though an uncom .promising servant of the church and thoroughly a priest, has many non- Catholic friends who appreciate his qualities as a citizen and neighbor, rlis services as a speaker are given freely on Memorial Sundays, the annual meeting of the County Soldiers' Association, and other special occasions. He is familiar with the history of hi- adopted country and is loyal to our institutions His public addresses are carefully prepared, showing depth of thought, versatility, a true conception of life and its immensity, and he is regarded as an earnest, logical, entertaining and not infrequently eloquent speaker."

Father Nicholas is a man of splendid physique, and would attract attention in any gathering, and he is a good mixer, genial, obliging, Friendly, and hence well liked by all classes.

The local Catholic church ha- grown steadily under hi- charge, and in 1905 a splendid new church edifice was erected, and it rank- well with other churches of this denomination throughout the state.

A name familiar to the people of Walworth county is that of John Gil more Skeels, of Lake Geneva, known as a man of high attainments and pra< tical abilitv as an educator, which has been his principal life work, although he is now engaged in business. He achieved an extraordinary measure of success in his profession because he worked for il pei atly and in channels of honest endeavor. His prestige in the educational circles of southern \\ is consin stands in evidence of his ability and likewise serves as a voucher for intrinsic worth of character. He has used his intellect to the besl purpo 1 has directed his em along legitimate courses and his career has been

Mr. Skeels was born in Benson, Vermont, on January 3, 1852. He is the son of William Norman Skeels and Betsey ( McCotter) Skeels, the father born in Whitehall, New York, in 1812. and died on April 24, 1893: the mother was born at Orwell, Vermont, on May 7, 1814, and her death occurred on March 21, 1856. William Skeels, the paternal grandfather, was born in 1778 in Woodbury, Connecticut, and he died at Whitehall, New York, August 22, i860. His father, Samuel Skeels, was born at Woodbury, Connecticut, May 29, 1755, and he died in Benson, Vermont, about 1814. He and his two brothers were soldiers in the Revolutionary war. He spent most of his life at Woodbury. His father, Samuel Skeels, Sr., was born February 25, 1723. He served under Lord Howe in the French and Indian war and died while in that service, in 1759. Samuel. Sr., was the son of John, the second, who was baptized in 1678 and whose death occurred on May 25, 1727, having been born and died in the town of Woodbury, Connecticut. John, the first, was born in Reading, England, in 1643, and was a signer of the Covenant, and, because of religious persecution, he left England in 1670,- finally settling at Woodbury, Connecticut, and his death occurred in 1721.

The name Skeels was found away back in Danish legendary history, both before and after the Danish invasion of England, and as the Skeels family all come from around London, where the Danes settled, it is practically certain that the family is of Danish origin. Nearly all of this branch of the Skeels family have been farmers and soldiers. The name is sometimes spelled Skeele, and still others spell it Skeel.

When William Norman. Skeels, father of the subject, was a young man, he and a brother came to Wisconsin and located farms, when the country was still a wilderness, lull Indians and chills and fever proved to be too much for him and he returned to Vermont, and in the town of Benson was united in marriage with Betsey McCotter, who was a native of Orwell, but then making her home in Benson. Her death occurred in 1856, and in 1858 he married Mrs. Rebecca (Symons) Buckingham, who was born at Tavistock. England, Oil Jul) 17. 1820, and died at the home of the subject in Lake Geneva. Wisconsin, on March 24, [909, when nearly eighty-nine years old. The subject's father died in Benson, Vermont, April jj. 1803.

John Gilmore Skeels, of this sketch, grew to manhood in Vermont, lie attended the Wuvi & Burton Seminary at Manchester, that slate, later went to Barre Academy, at Barre, Vermont, from which institution he was graduated in the year 1873, This early training lias been supplemented by much home Study, and among other accomplishments he has learned surveying. When ,1 young man he fanned during the summer months and taught school in the wintertime, when the farming season was over. On Vpril 17. 1S77. he came to Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, where he remained about three years. Upon coming here he gave more attention to teaching, farming only during the summer months when there was no school. From Lake Geneva he went to Allen Grove, where he taught two years; from there he went to Sharon and remained about eighteen years and was principal of the Sharon schools thirteen years, with an intermission t>\ two years during which he was county superintendent, having been elected in the fall of [884 and taking office in January. 1885. He resigned in September. [886, returning to Sharon as principal of the schools there, finding the work there more to his liking and also the salary was larger. While at Sharon he served one year as village supervisor. He gave up school work in 1893 "n account of his father's death, and went East to look after his father's estate, remaining there part of the year, then returned to Sharon and continued his school work until 1897. when ill health compelled him to give up teaching. lie was engaged in business until 1899. after which he taught one year at Darien. then spent a year in business at Whitewater and two years at Lake Geneva, after which lie returned to Darien and organized the high school there. While at that place he was induced to apply for a position to establish and conduct a high school at Spooner, Wisconsin; he received the position and remained there two years. From there he went in 1906 to care for his step-mother, who was then in failing health, and also because his own health was failing. lie returned to Walworth county and has lived here ever since, having a pleasant home in Lake Geneva, having been engaged in the insurance business, and also has done a great deal of surveying. He has filled the position of city engineer for the past year, lie is assisted in bis work by his niece, Be M. Palmer.

Mr. Skeels has been successful in whatever he has attempted, and as an educator in his line he has had few equals in this part of the Badger state. He is both an entertainer and instructor and as superintendent inaugurated modern methods and placed everything under a superb system. His servici have been in great demand and he ha- been popular with both pupils and patrons wherever he has labored in this connection.

John and Minerva Fuller. Mr. and Mrs. Alexander came to Wisconsin about 1845, locating first at Xew Berlin, near Milwaukee. About 1850 they moved to the country and located about five miles south of the city of Lake Geneva, Linn township, Walworth county, and here they established a good home and spent the rest of their lives there.

Personally, Mr. Skeels is a plain, unassuming, broad-minded, genial gentleman who wins and retains the confidence and respect of all with whom he comes into contact. He believes in meeting the world, man to man, looking neither down nor up. but valuing a man for his true worth, knowing that a person is, after all, what he does, not what he says or dreams.

Byron S. Palmer

One of the highly honored citizens of a past generation in Walworth count)' who led a life of industry and uprightness which resulted in material success and in winning the esteem of his associates was the late Byron S. Palmer, formerly of Linn township. He was born at New Baltimore, Columbia count)', New York, February 15, 1852, and he was the son of Robert and Alary (Schemmerhorn) Palmer. Robert Palmer was born in Albany county, New York, September 27, 1823, and was one of nine children of Joseph S. and Poll) ( I 'aimer) Palmer. During his boyhood he went with his parents to Columbia county and while living there was married to Mary Schemmerhorn, of that count)-. She belonged to one of the old families of New York, and her grandfather. Judge Schemmerhorn, was one of the prominent and highly esteemed citizens of that stale in its early development, Joseph G. Palmer, grandfather of Byron S. Palmer, was born in Dutchess county. Xew York, \]>H1 28, 171)4. lie was a soldier in the war of [812. He came to Walworth count). Wisconsin, in 1S53 and here spent the resl of his life, dying in January, 1X07. at the age of seventy-four years. Joseph (i.'s father was born in eastern Connecticut, November it. [768, but he spent the greater part of his life in Dutchess count). Xew York, where he settled in an earl\- day and there his death occurred in 1799. He married Man Gillette, who was of a Connecticut family. The I'almer family is of English origin and they emigrated to America soon after the settlement began in Xew England.

Robert Palmer, father of the subject, farmed in the East until in May, [853, when he came to Geneva township, Walworth county. Wisconsin, and bought a farm on which he spent the rest of his life, dying May 5. [894, at the age of seventy years, his wife having preceded him to the grave in 1S80. Their family consisted of six children. Byron S., of this sketch, Frank, Joseph. Arthur, Eugene and Charles, but the only one now living is Arthur, of < ieneva township.

Byron S. Palmer came to this county with his parents and here he grew to manhood and attended the public schools of Geneva township. When twenty years old he started out for himself as a farm hand. In [873 he was united in marriage with Climena Alexander, daughter of Balthaser and Juliet (Fuller) Alexander. The father came from Germany to New York and lived near Rochester. There he married Juliet Fuller, daughter of John and Minerva Fuller. These parents came to Wisconsin about 1S45 and located first at New Berlin, near Milwaukee, and about [850 came to Walworth county, locating in Linn township, about five miles from Geneva, where they spent nearly all of their subsequent lives. The father's last days were spent with Mrs. Palmer on their farm west of Zenda where his death occurred on January 19, 1891. The death of Mrs. Alexander occurred in 1804.

In 1876 Mr. Palmer bought a farm in Geneva township and lived there five years, then sold out and bought a one-hundred-and-eighty-acre farm in section 28, Linn township, and made his home there until late in life, engaging successfully in farming, dairying and stock raising. He was a man who took considerable interest in the affairs of his community and he served nine years as clerk of the school board and was also a member of the board of supervisors.

Four children were born to Mr. and .Mrs. Byron S. I 'aimer, namely: Walter A., part owner of the home farm, married I bleu Sheldon, of Lake Geneva, and they have two sons, Frank and Robert; Clarence 'bed April jj. 1909. when thirty years old; Bertram also owns part of the homestead and is operating the same with his brother. Walter A.; Bessie, who lives with betmother in Lake Geneva, was graduated from the State Normal School a1 Whitewater, and has for some time been successfully engaged in teaching; recently she has been assisting her uncle. John G. Skeels, in his work as surveyor and civil engineer in ami about Lake Geneva, and she is often seen in the field carrying on the work like an old time surveyor.

Through hard work and indomitable industry, Byron S. Palmer acquired a competency and in the summer of [909 moved to a beautiful hoi in the city of Lake I I where his death occurred on April 8, 1910. I

Dr. Salter Robert Host

If true to his profession and earnest in his efforts to enlarge his sphere of usefulness, the man who spends his life in an effort to alleviate human suffering in any way is indeed a benefactor of his kind, for to such men as Dr. Walter Robert Host, well known dentist of Lake Geneva, are entrusted the comfort and safety and in some cases the lives of those who place themselves under his care and profit by his services. It is gratifying to note in the series of personal sketches appearing in this work that there remain identified with the professional, public and civic affairs of Walworth county many who are native sons of the county and who are ably maintaining the prestige of honored names. Of this number Doctor Host is one of the worthy scions of an old and influential family here, and is regarded as standing in the front rank of professional men, having gained wide notoriety in his chosen calling while yet young in years, and at the same time established a reputation for exemplary character in all the relations of life.

Doctor Host was born in the town of Lyons, Walworth county, Wisconsin, on July 31, 1884. He is the son of Julius S. Host and wife, a complete sketch of whom will be found in the life record of Ernest Host on another page of this volume.

Walter R. Host lived in his native village until he was nine years old, then moved with the family to Lake Geneva where he lived until he was eighteen years of age, having attended the graded schools in the meantime, after which he took a position in his brother's meat market for a time. He went to Wheaton, Illinois, when he was eighteen and took a preparatory course there, completing the course in the academy and later took some collegiate work. He entered Northwestern University in Chicago in 1907, entering the dental department, where he made an excellent record and from which he was graduated in the year 1910. He had shown such exceptional aptitude for this line of worl< that he was retained a year at the university as instructor, then began practicing his profession, although urged by the university authorities to remain with them, lie came to Lake Geneva in lul\, [911, and is building up a large and constant!) growing patronage. lie has an exceptionally well equipped office, perhaps the best and most thoroughly up-to-date of its kind in Wisconsin outside of Milwaukee. Among his appliances seldom seen is the Pelton porcelain Furnace, heated by electricity to twenty-seven hundred degrees Fahrenheit, for making porcelain inlays, bridges and crowns, also a Clark improved machine for administering nitron- ii 1 and oxygen, a combination for prolonging the anesthesia. The operating chair is also a model of comfort ami inviting appearance, equipped with a special seat for little folks and all very admirabh, adapted to the work. It is equipped with an adjustable light of great power that can be focused directly on the work and various other modern improvements which enable the operator to do the highest class work known in dentistry.

Doctor Host has a natural mechanical skill and talent for artistic carving. His recent experiments, investigations, studies and experience with the best advanced methods render him able to properly handle the highest class work and of the most difficult character. Hi- patients come from the surrounding cities in all directions from as far as Janesville and Edgerton. Ikhas succeeded in building up a large practice in Lake Geneva in a short time, his work in the university having given him an excellent reputation to starl with.

Dr. Host was married on February 15, [91 1. to Mane Teresa DeGrasse, a native of Detroit, Michigan, and the daughter of a prominent family. Joseph A. and Alice J. ( Carr) DeGrasse. She is a lady of talent, culture and refinement and has long been a favorite with a wide circle of admiring friends. Trior to her marriage she was widely known as a reader for public entertainments, having toured all over the United States and Canada with the Schubert Symphony Club, winning fame as a raconteuse second to none of her compeers. Her repertoire included. "If 1 Were King." '"Sermons from ( )ur Secular Literature" (a lecture recital 1. "MacReth" (a lecture recital). "An Evening with American Authors," "One Hundred and Fifty Stones for the Children's Story Hour," "An Evening of Scotch, Irish. Negro and Children's Dialects." selections from Shakespeare, Browning. Tennyson, Burns, Long fellow. Whittier, Homer, Lowell. Riley. Field, Dunbar, Maurice Thompson and many others.

Of her work E. II. Purcell, manager of the Schubert Concert Company, had the following to say, which is certainly criterion enough for her eminenl satisfaction with that popular and widely known company: faction. In the many years of my managerial experience ii lias seldom been my privilege to recommend 50 highly a young aspirant for Lyceum honors. She is equally successful in classic tragedy or minor comedy, and 'looks the part' in all she interpi

Having had occasion to attend an evening's entertainment given by Miss DeGrasse, Preston W. Search, well known educator, author and lecturer, of Des .Moines, Iowa, wrote to her as follows:

"I was very much pleased, indeed, by the fine rendition of beautiful selections you gave us at Carbondale. 1 particularly admired the high character of your program, for it is not everyone who will attempt, or can bring out, before a popular audience, the rich fullness of a Browning. Your interpretation was admirable, your reading very effective. I shall think of your interpretation when I stand once more, this fall, in the Florentine Casa de Guido. Permit me, as a stranger in the audience, to express to you my personal appreciation of a very delightful evening."

Many press notices and testimonials of a like character were received by Miss DeGrasse from all over the country, proving beyond doubt her strong elocutionary ability and charming personality - a complete master of the difficult art of expression In fact, she was for some time a teacher of expression with the Chicago Kenwood Musical College and the Wheaton Musical Institute, the latter at Wheaton, Illinois, and was exceptionally successful in training her pupils in voice building, enunciation, expressive analysis, repertoire, deep breathing, muscle building, story telling, literary analysis, English, gymnastic dancing and rhythm, relaxing and statue posing.

To the Doctor and wife a winsome and attractive daughter has been born, Helene Marie Host, whose childish prattle add- sunshine to their pleasant home.

Doctor 1 lost and wife are worthy members of the Catholic church and faithful in their support of the same. He also belongs to the Knights of Columbus, and is at this writing engaged in organizing a local lodge of this order, lie is a young man of pleasing personality, affable, obliging, energetic and enthusiastic for his work, and he and his estimable wife have won a host of friends since taking up their residence in Lake Geneva.

Among the citizens of Walworth county to whom i- vouchsafed an honored place in local history is the late Ebenezer Davidson, of Lake Geneva, who, through an extended period, was prominentl) connected with the agricultural interests of this locality, and who is deserving of special mention in a work of the nature of the one iu hand, for those who have fought and suffered for the state and nation in which their lot is cast are certainl) worth) of having their names perpetuated, and their posterity will turn with just pride to these records of the founders and preservers of a prosperous, united nation.

Ebenezer Davidson was hum at New Hartford, New York, on September 13. 1846. He was a son of Rev. Hugh and Jane l Hamilton) Davidson, the father burn on May 8, 1803, and he was the son of Joseph and Isabel (Crawford) Davidson. Joseph Davidson was the sun of Hugh and Mar) (Connell) Davidson. Isabel Crawford was the daughter of William Crawford. The parents of the subject of this sketch were both burn and rear in Glasgow, Scotland, where their ancestors for generations had lived. They came to America in 1S40 and lived at Xew Hartford, New York, later moving to Utica, thence to Brainard Bridge, about twelve miles from Ubany. The father was the superintendent of a cotton and woolen factoiy at (Jtica and also at Brainard. In 1849 Hugh Davidson and Janus M. Davidson, his son, by his first wife, Elizabeth McNaughton, came west and the father purchased a farm in Geneva township, Walworth county, Wisconsin, north ol Como, which farm has been in possession of the family ever .since, now owned b) Ebenezer Davidson. The family came here in [850 - thus the subject saw the development of the county through a period of sixty-two years, in which he took much interest. Hugh Davidson lived on his farm here until his death. He was a local minister in the Methodist church and did a greal deal of good among the pioneers. 1 le was a man of many fine traits, scrupulously honest, charitable, always ready to help someone in nerd, and he had a lively and' cheerful disposition. His death occurred, on July 26, [895.

Ebenezer Davidson lived on his father's farm until he went into the Union army on January t_>. [864, enlisting in Company F, Fourth Wisconsin Volunteer Cavalry. He proved to be a most faithful and effii enl soldier and he was in the service until he was honorably discharged on March 27, [866. He was at the capture of Mobile and Spanish Fort, th mpanied the army through Alabama and Georgia, to Macon, then back to Shreveport in July, 1865. thence into Texas ;md put in the winter along the Rio Grande, watching Mexico and Maximilian.

After his career as a soldier, Mr. Davidson returned home and farmed the homestead. When the family first located here there was ten acres of unimproved land. This was increased to two hundred acres, nearly all under cultivation and an excellent state of improvement. The land is producti 1 and he was very successful as a general farmer and stock raiser There were no railroads here when the Davidsons located in the county, and, in fact, there were few good dirt roads ; they could drive uninterruptedly across the country to Elkhorn. The father of the subject frequently hauled his products to Milwaukee or Racine with oxen, the trips each requiring four or five days, often selling his pork for two dollars per one hundred pounds.

In 1874 Ebenezer Davidson went to Eureka, Nevada, and engaged with the mine operators as receiver and time-keeper for the Eureka Consolidated Alining Company. While there he served in the Nevada state militia and was paymaster of the Second Brigade under General Sabin, and later under General Conklin.

Mr. Davidson returned to Walworth county in 18S5 and resumed farming, which he continued with his usual success until 1895. His father having died in July of that year, the son left the farm in August following and located in Lake Geneva where he had a pleasant home and where he resided, until his death, March 18, 1912. He had been a member of the firm of Burton. Denison & Davidson since the tall of 1903. They have built up a large and growing business as wholesale dealers in flour, feed and grain.

Air. Davidson was married on September 23, 1869, to Ellen A. Stevens, of Toledo, Ohio. She is the daughter of James and Betsy (Scott) Stevens, and she was born in Geneva township, this county, in 1849. When she was three years old her parents moved to Toledo, Ohio, where they had previously resided. They were natives of Herkimer- county, New York, the father of German and the mother of Scotch ancestry. Air. and Airs. Stevens spent the rest of their lives in Toledo.

Two daughters have been born to Air. and Airs. Davidson, Florence, who married D. II. Cramer, who lives at Globe, Arizona, where he is connected with a mining company. They have one son, Harold Davidson Cramer. Mabel died in infancy.

Ebenezer Davidson was always an ardent Republican. While in the army in [864 he was only eighteen years old, yet he voted for Lincoln, as tlid most of the soldiers, whether of age or not. I le belonged to the Grand Army of the Republic, and fraternally was a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, also the Masonic order, having attained the thirtyecond degree, and he belonged t.> the Knights Templar, lie was many time- commander of the local post of the Grand Army of the Republic and the po>t in Nevada, and he lias been a frequent delegate to the national encampments. At the time of his death he was commander of the post at Lake ( lelleva.

was president of the Walworth Count) Agricultural Societj in [893 and again in 1911. filling this important post in a manner that broughl Forth the praises of all concerned. He was also alderman here for several terms, and Ik- has held a number of the township offices, lie was well known ami highly esteemed, frank and straightforward in his relations with the world, a man in whom the people had every confidence- a worthy son of a worthy sire, from whom he seemed t" have inherited man) praiseworth) qualities.

Joseph Davidson, grandfather of the subject, came to America in 1S47. joining other members of the family at Xew Hartford, New York, and he came west with his son. the Rev. Hugh Davidson, and lived on the farm here until his death, in 1861, at the advanced age of eighty-nine years. When Hugh Davidson came here he started a Sunday school in North Geneva which he kept going during the rest of his life. He had been reared a Presbyterian, but there were none of this denomination here so he joined the Methodist church and became a local minister in the same. He was born in 1S03 and his death occurred at the age of ninety-three years; his wife. who was born in 1S07. lived to be ninety years old. They were a grand "Id couple, and were highly esteemed by all who knew them.

Eugene Rittman

The Rittman family has long been one of the highly respected and successful representatives of the farming element in this section of Wisconsin, one of the worthy representatives of the present generation being Eugene Rittman, of the vicinit) of Springfield, Walworth county.

Mr. Rittman was born at Munster, Kenosha county, this state, November 25, 1861, and is the son of Frank Rittman and wife. I le grew up < >n the home farm and was educated in the public schools, lie remained under his parental roof-tree until his marriage on January jo. [891, t" Regen Homan, daughter of Bartholomew Homan, a sketch of whom appears elsewhere in this work. Since his marriage he ha- lived on the home farm near the village of Springfield, where he owns one hundred and seventeen acres of excellent land, which he has kept well improved and .ill cultivated, lie and his family are members of the Catholic church. He and hi- h chil

Frank Rittman, mentioned above, was born in Westphalia, Germany. March 17, 1830. He was the son of William Rittman and wife. His mother died when he was a child, in the old country, leaving four children, Frank. Henry, Gertrude and Elizabeth. The father remarried. When Frank was sixteen years old the family emigrated to America, locating first in Burlington, Racine count}". Wisconsin, buying a farm there, but later moved into the city of Burlington.

In 1855 Frank Rittman married Josephine Wehmhoff, daughter of Henry and Gertrude Wehmhoff. She was born in the city of Dorsten, in Westphalia, and in 1845 came to America with her parents. They located in Wheatland township, Kenosha count}', where they lived until her marriage. Before his marriage Frank Rittman owned a farm in Kenosha count}' and there he and his wife lived until [880 when they sold the farm there and bought one hundred and sixty acres in section 5, in the northwestern part of Lyons township. He afterwards bought forty acres more, making two hundred acres in all. About 1889 he also bought another farm at the eastern edge of Springfield, one hundred and seventeen acres.

Nine children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Fred Rittman. namely: Eugenia married Ferdinand Blanke and lived between Lyons and Springfield until her death, on February 24, 1910. leaving seven children: William died when two months old; George died in infancy; Eugene married Regina Homann and they live on the farm adjoining Springfield, and they have five children: Josephine is at home with her mother; Frank died in infancy; Emil lives on the home farm with her mother and Josephine and his brother Frank; the latter is unmarried and was next in order of birth; Ida died in infancy.

Frank Rittman. father of the above named children, died in November, iQog. lie was a member of the Catholic church and all the family adhere to this faith.

The lite of the late Robert (.'lark Cobb was so replete with honor and duty well performed that it mighl well be held up as a model to the youth standing at the parting of the ways, whose destinies are matters for future years to determine. lie was of a sterling \cw England ancestry and many "i their noble traits seemed to outcrop in him, rendering him a man of courage, stability of character and public spirit, whom to know was to honor and esteem.

He was the son of Joshua and Betsey 1 Clark 1 Cobb. The immediate subject of this biographical memoir lived in Vermont until he was twent) years old. and there received his educational training, and he was employed by his father in his woolen factory and later clerked in a store; his mother died in Pawlet. About 1845 Robert C. Cobb came west and located in the village of Lake Geneva and was for a time clerk in the hotel here. On April [3, 1847, he was united in marriage with Sallie llulett. of Pawlet, Vermont. She was the daughter of Daniel and Betse] (Woodworth) llulett. He returned to New England for his bride, then came back to Walworth county and engaged in farming in Bloomfield township, on what is now known as the Hinspeter farm in the west side of Bloomfield township. He entered part of this land from the government, and bought part from his brother-in-law, Abraham Edgerton. He made his home there until about [868, when he sold out and unwed to the city of Lake Geneva, buying a block of ground west of Madison and north of Dodge street. Here he built a commodious and attractive residence for those days and sold the rest of the ground in city lots. He purchased the rest of the farm at the northwest part of the village of Lake Geneva, about 1870, and lived there, engaged in farming. He had seventy acres or more wesl of the Northwestern depot, and also another farm about half a mile farther northwest, the two farms adjoining, two hundred and twenty-five acres southeast of the Elkhorn road, extending from North street to Duck creek. He sold this laud about [886 to John Burton, and a few years later most of it was laid out into city lots and i- now nearly all covered by the residences of the city, being known as Columbia addition. Mr. Cobb then bought land on the south side of Geneva strei running one-half block west from Madison street and built a home there in which he spent the resl of his life. Mis famil) consisted of two children, Ellen Maria and Harry Elbert. The former married John Melvin Wilson, May 7. [872, he being in the lumber business at East Saginaw, Michigan, at that time. Mr. Wilson was born in Alden, New York. One daughter was born to lnm-di' and wife. Florence < obb Wilson, who is now living in Lake Geneva with her mother, Mr. Wilson having died on August 21, [907, at Cincinnati, ( \fter his death Mrs. Wilson returned to Lake Geneva and now lives at the home left by her father.

Harry Elbert Cobb, mentioned above 1 engaged in the hardware business in Lake Geneva, bavin led T. C. Smith, his former employei He married Sylvia l Bowen) Smith, daughter of Timothy t '. Smith and wif< To Harry E. (obb and wife two children ha born, Robert (lark and

Elbert Smith. Mr. Cobb has been in the hardware business since 1892 and his store is well patronized. He is active in the Republican party, and. fraternally, is a member of the Masonic order, blue lodge and chapter.

The death of Robert C. Cobb, subject of this sketch, occurred on August 14, 1900, and his wife followed him to the grave on June 28, 1906. They were excellent people and enjoyed a wide circle of friends here.

Charles H. North

Those who belong to the respectable middle classes of society, being early taught the necessity of reiving upon their own exertions, will be more apt to acquire that information and those business habits which alone can ht them for the discharge of life's duties, and, indeed, it has long been a noticeable fact that our great men in nearly all walks of life, statesmanship, business, art, literature, military and many other phases of our complex civilization in America, spring from the virile middle classes. This is not to be wondered at when we study the subject in its true light, for they have the best, purest blood, their ancestors having led more wholesome lives and been higher minded and more self-reliant, more willing to undergo such hardships as are always necessary to reach the coveted goal. One of this worthy class is the subject of this sketch.

Mr. North was born on December 12, 1864, at Genoa Junction. Wisconsin, lie is the son of Frederick and Julia (Killicut) North, the father a native of England and the mother of New York state. The father was about ten years old when he emigrated to the United States, and he grew to manhood in New York and received his education in the common schools there, and there he was married. I le moved to Black Earth, Wisconsin, in an early day, and about 1S5S came to Genoa Junction, buying a farm there which he operated successfully for about fifteen years, then moved to Geneva township, this county, and continued farming. A few years later, he retired from active work and moved i" Elk City, having accumulated a competency by a life of general farming, and lie spent the rest of his days in Elk City.

Nine children were born to .Mr. and Mrs. Frederick North, two of whom died in infancy, namel) : Melvin; Sarah i> deceased; John: Ida: Carrie is dei eased ; Charles, Bertha.

tion in the common schools of his home community. He has devoted his lite principally to agricultural pursuits, and is now the owner of a choice farm of one hundred and seventeen acres in Darien township, two and one-half miles west of the town of Darien. lie engaged in farming there about six years, finally selling out and buying a home in Delavan at No. 114 North Seventh street. He now lives in Janesville, Wisconsin, lie has a pleasant home and has laid by a competency tor his old age through his early industry and good management.

Mr. North was married to Laura N. Foster, on December -'5. iNNn. She is the daughter of Alro M. and Minerva 1 Mainard) Foster, both natives of the state of New York where they spent the earlier years of their lives. They became the parents of seven children, two of whom are now deceased, namely: Mrs. Lidia Davis, Edward, Madison, Mrs. Lilly lluey. I. aura \\, wife of the subject. Mr. Foster's life work has been that of a carpenter and millwright. To Mr. and Mrs. North three children have been horn, namely: Mrs. Ida Rutledge, born January 11. 1888; LeRoy, born January [6, [890; Freddie, born September 17. 1900, died in infancy.

Mr. North was reared in the Baptist faith, from which he has not departed. Politically, he is a Republican, and he is a member of the Loyal Americans.

William C. Kinyon

After many years of consistent and unremitting endeavor William C. Kinvon is now living in the town of Sharon, taking life easier than formerly, for there was a time when he worked as hard in the fields in both crop season and out as any man in Walworth county, for he believed that "in the sweat of a man's face he should eat bread" and he was trained to do his full share of the world's work by his worthy father, one of the sterling pio neers who came out of the Easl to assisl in bringing about the 1 ran -format ion of the West in the early days, and it is to such strong chai 1- he that

1855. He is the son of Joseph Tracey Kinvon and Luanda 1 Kinnej ) Kinvon, both born in the - New York, in which they spent their childhood years. It was in [844 that the father of the subject came to Illinois, locating on the Wisconsin state line. He engaged in farming all his life until one year of his death. He was successful in establishing a good home in the new country. He finally came 1 unty.

William C. Kinyon, of this sketch, was reared and educated in Boone county. Illinois, and early in life he took up farming for a livelihood and continued the same successfully. He owns a most excellent farm in section 31, Sharon township, which he placed under good improvements and kept well tilled. In 1900 he moved to the village of Sharon. His farm of two hundred acres lies in the southwest corner of Sharon township. He merely looks after it in a general way, keeping it rented.

Fraternally, Mr. Kinyon is a Mason. He was married to Katherine Piper, daughter of George Piper, of Sharon township, a retired farmer. The subject's wife died in 1902, without issue.

John H. Hoffman

A representative of one of the sterling old families of Bloomfield township. Walworth county, is John H. Hoffman, a man who has not permitted the wanderlust spirit to lure him away from his nature-favored home country, like so many of his contemporaries have done, and he has therefore won success in his chosen life work and has been of much benefit to the people of this vicinity by his judicious course and his public spirit.

Mr. Hoffman was born in this township, November 14, 1S54, and is the son of Michael and Minnie (Kimball) Hoffman. The father was born in Germany, near the city of Berlin, in 1817, and when fourteen years old he ran away from home and came to New York city, arriving there with only twenty-five cents in his pocket. He walked out into the country on Long Island and at eleven o'clock at night climbed into a farmer's wagon to ride. The farmer employed him, and he stayed in the state of New York eight years, then came to Burlington, Wisconsin, and began working on the farm of Captain Booker, with whom he remained eighl years, then came to Bloomfield township, Walworth county, and married, continuing to reside here until his death, in 1899. His wife, known in her maidenhood as Minnie Elizabeth Kimball, was the daughter of August Daniel and Margaret Elizabeth (Jung) Kimball. The father was born on July 4, 1801, in Saxony, Germany, and the mother was the daughter of John Adam Jung. August D. Kimball was a blacksmith in Germany. He emigrated to \mericn in 1X47 with his wife and nine children, the trip requiring seven weeks. They settled in Bloomfield

Ten children were horn to Michael Hoffman and wife, all of whom grew to maturity, but only six of them are now living. The) were named: Carrie, wife of Herman Bunth, lives at Waverly, Iowa; Emily, who married Lathrop A. Udell, lived at Wilmot, Wisconsin, until her death: Frank lived in Bloomfield township all his life and remained unmarried, dying when about thirty years old : Ida, who married Peter Balass, lived in Bloomfield township until her death; John 11., of this -ketch; Jennie is the wife of Edwin Bailey and they live in Minnesota: Richard lives in the eastern part of Bloomfield township, where he owns two hundred and forty acres: he has been township treasurer for five years and he is a member of the board of supervisors; he makes a specialty of raising draft horses, fine Hereford cattle and Shropshire sheep; he married Ella Gifford and they have lour children. Doris, Kenneth. Lucile and Gladys; Lewi- Hoffman lives in Michigan; Martha married Patrick McCabe and they live in Ohio; Stella is the wife of Harry Ma theson and they live at Glen Ellen, near Chicago.

John 11. 1 1 off man grew up 011 the home farm in Bloomfield township, and he spent about a year near Rock fori 1. but with the exception of that he has lived here all his life, lie worked out by the month until he was twentyeight years old, then married and bought a farm. It was in iNS_» that he was joined in wedlock with Adell Maynard, daughter of Xorman ami Mary (New) Maynard. She was horn in Bloomfield township, this county. Her mother was from Cornwall, Addison county, Vermont, and her father was from Xew York state, having been horn at I lampion. Washington county. These parents were married in the East, and the) came to Bloomfield township, this county, in the fall of [850, locating in the wesl pari of the township. Five years later they bought a farm in Linn township, and about three years after that her father died, after which event the mother and children moved to Lake Geneva, in [859.

A year or two before his marriage, Mr. Hoffman boughl a farm of om hundred acre- mar Bloomfield (enter and there he has since made his home, having developed an excellent farm, making numerous improvements. For -onie time he raised good horses and made mone) at it, hut later turned Inattention to dairying, hog raising and general farming, and he ha- been successful a- a stock man a- well as general agricttltur

Mr. Hoffman lias been a member of the township board for fourteen years, and was chairman of the same for three years. He lias been a member of the school board nearly ever since his marriage and was clerk of the board man) years. He is active in public affairs and stands high in his community.

Ezra Gifford

The life sketch of the late and well remembered Ezra Gifford is closely identified with the history of Walworth county, for here he spent the major part of his useful, industrious and honorable life, beginning his career in the pioneer epoch of the county, and throughout the years which later came and went until he was summoned to his reward he was closely allied with its interests and upbuilding. His life, being one of unfailing activity, was crowned by success, and at the same time he won and retained the confidence and good will of all who knew him by his clean life and fair dealings with his fellow men in all his relations with the world.

Mr. Gifford was born in Albany, Xew York, April 30. 1843. He was the son of Constant and Letitia (Moore) Gifford, the father a native of Albany, Xew York, and the mother was born in Canada, probably Montreal.

The subject came with bis parents in 1S47 to Wisconsin, the family settling in Bloomfield township, Walworth county, and here he grew to manhood and received such education as he could in the early schools of the community. When the Civil war came on he proved his loyalty to his country by enlisting in Company K. One Hundred and Fifty-third Illinois Volunteer [nfantry, and be served faithfully tor the Union. On January 1, [867, he was united in marriage with Mariette Chapin, daughter of John Chapin and wife, a sketch of whom appears elsewhere in this work. After their marriage the) moved to Jessup, Blackhawk county. Iowa, and lived there about two years, later returning to this county and established their home near Delavan, moving to Boone county, Iowa, six or seven years later, and they lived there several years, later spending about two years near Ackley. Iowa. The) then came to the center of Bloomfield township. Walworth comity, and went on a Farm that hail been owned by Mrs. Gifford's brother, W. I). Chapin, and here they resided for about twenty years, carrying on general farming successfully.

Seven children were born to Ezra Gifford and wite, namely: May married J. \\ . Conn and lives at Camas, Washington; Ella married R. K. Hoffman and lives in Bloomfield township, this county; Lillian married Lewis A.

Kimball, also of Bloomfield township; Charlie C, who lives on a farm in Bloomfield township, married Delia Rowe, daughter of \-a Rowe; Cora married F. M. Higgins, and the) live in Lake Geneva; George M., who lives on the home farm in Bloomfield township, married Mattie (.leas. m. daught of Fred Gleason; Jennie is the wife of 1 [ervey Rowe and they live in 1 [arvard, Illinois.

Ezra Gifford -pent most of the last twenty years of his life in Bloom field township on the Chapin farm near Bloomfield renter and led an active life, retiring from farming in the spring of [905 and boughl a home in Lake Geneva. During the following fall and winter he and Mrs. Gifford traveled extensively in the West, visiting Kansas, Idaho, Oregon and Washington, making a tour of the Yellowstone Park and visiting the Portland Exposition, returning home in April. [905. lie was making extensive plan- for improving his farm and city property when he was seized with his final illness, and his death occurred on May 21, [906. He was universally loved and respected. While positive in his opinions, he always had consideration for the feelings of others and never injured anyone. He was modest and retiring in disposition, but always active for the betterment of the community in which he lived. His integrity was beyond question, lie was a loving husband and kind father, well worthy the respect which he enjoyed from all who knew him. He was a member of the Masons, and until late in life belonged to the Independent Order of ' ><M Fellows. He had also been a member of the Grand Army of the Republic while living in Iowa, lie was much attached to his home and family, and was a good and useful man.

Bartholomew Homan

To a great extent the prosperity of the agricultural sections of our great country is due to the honesl industry, the sturdy perseverance and the wise economy which so prominently characterizes the foreign element that has entered largely into our population. By comparison with their old country surroundings, these people have readily recognized the fact that in Km lie the greatest opportunities for the man of ambition and energy. And because of this main have broken the ties of home and native land and have entered earnestly upon the task of gaining in the new world a name and competence. Among this class may be mentioned Bartholomew Homan, who. by reason of indefatigable labor and honesl effort, has not onl) acquired a well merited material prosperity, bul also richly earned the highesl esteem of all with whom he has been assoi iated

Mr. 1 Ionian was born in Leimich, Hinfeld, Hessen-Cassel, Germany, on August 24, [821, and he is the son of Joseph and Katherina (Flori) Homan. He was reared in his native country, living on the farms of his community, in the labor of which he was employed during his youth. His father died when Bartholomew was seven years old, and he began to do for himself at an early age. Having heard much of the wonderful possibilities in the republic across the sea, he emigrated to America in 1847, locating first in the state of Xew York. In [849 he removed to Wisconsin, landing at Milwaukee. Later he came to Lyons township, Walworth county, and here sought employment, finally securing work on the large farm of John Spoor, an early settler living east of the village of Lyons. Later he rented a farm, in the operation of which he prospered, so that in the early fifties he was enabled to buy a tract of forty acres, around what is now known as Indian Knoli. between Lyons and Lake Geneva. Not long afterwards he bought a farm of eighty acres in the center of the south edge of Lyons township. His industry and good management was rewarded and from time to time he added to his original eighty acres to the extent of one hundred and sixty-two acres, making a total of two hundred and forty-two acres in one tract, and this has been his family home ever since. The place is well improved in every respect, being one of the most fertile and productive farms in Lyons township, its present condition being due to the intelligent and wisely directed efforts of Mr. 1 Ionian, who, during his active years, gave practical direction to the operation of the farmstead in all its departments.

Coming here in [849, he has been a witness of the development of this locality from a wild and virgin tract to one of the best agricultural sections of Wisconsin, in the transformation of which he himself bore a definite part. lie has always had a deep interest in the upbuilding and development of the entire community and lias not withheld bis support from any worthy movement lor the public welfare. Thus he has gained a high position in the esteem oi his neighbors and fellow citizens who appreciate his worth as a man.

While living in Xew York state. Mr. I Ionian was united in marriage with Ottilia Vogel, who also was a native of Hessen-Cassel, Germany, near Mr. I Ionian's old home, and who came to America in the same company of emigrant- a- lie To this union were born seven children, as follows: Caroline died m her second year; Katie is the wife of Oscar Kress and lives at St. Joseph, Tennessee; Joseph, who was born on Februar) [4, [852, is engaged in farming with his brother John: Mary, who died in [902, was the wife of Joseph Merten and left -i\ children, (Ottilia, Julia. Edgar, Joseph.

Theresa and Frederick. Theresa is at home with her father: Margaret lives with her brothers, Joseph and John; Regene is the wife of Eugene Rittman, a farmer on the east side of Springfield, and they have five children. Frank, Margaret. Eugene, John and Mary. John, who was born September i_\ 1866, is farming with his brother Joseph, as told above.

Joseph and John Homan remained on the paternal farmstead until [897, when they formed a partnership and bought five hundred acres of choice land two miles east of Lake Geneva. The) at once established their home there and applied themselves to the cultivation of this tine tract of land, in the operation of which they have met with well deserved success. In the spring of 191 1 they purchased an additional forty acres, making their total holdings five hundred and forty-four and one-half acre>. comprising one of the most valuahle bodies of agricultural land in Walworth county. They are numbered among the practical and progressive farmers of their community and have earned the high regard in which they are held. As before stated, their sister Margaret lives with them and preside- over their home.

Bartholomew Hpman and all members of his family are stanch adherents of the Catholic church and in their lives they strive to carry out the beneficent teachings of the mother church.

John Matheson was bom in tin' town of LaFayette, Walworth county, Wisconsin, on the 17th day of September, 1K44. and died at Elkhorn, in Walworth county, on the 17th day of November, [890, his death being due to a complication 0 es. At intervals after the Civil war he had chronic diarrhoea. In the winter of [SH'jand 1 K90 he was exhausted physicallj and mentally, due to years if hard labor and the carrying of he; nd iriei responsibilities, lie contracted a cold as a result ot exposure, which 51 into pulmonary trouble of a permanent form. He grew constantl) worse, and all efforts to restore him to health were unavailing. He left a widow. Mary A., who died at Elkhorn, June 26, [907; .1 son, Alexander E., and a daughter, Lulu M. Both son and daughti mow living, I

Mr. Matheson was of Scotch ancestry and was most proud of the fact. He had many traits of character which suggested that ancestry. His father and mother were both born in the Highlands of Scotland. They came to this country in early days and settled in the town of LaFayette, where they reared their family and hewed out life's success, a portion of the time in the midst of the trying conditions of pioneer days. He responded to President Lincoln's call for volunteers and went to the front in 1862, enlisting August 21st. He was a member of Company I, Twenty-eighth Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry. He served during the war and was mustered out August 23. 1865. He engaged in business at Vernon and Eagle in Waukesha county, Wisconsin, and at Mayhew, East Troy and Elkhorn, in Walworth county. He was a man of large executive capacity, and was successful in business. At the time of his death he had his business well organized and was preparing to take more time for rest and travel. He appeared to realize that his mam- duties were exhausting his strength and that he must find a way to get relief from his numerous activities. Ever since the war he had worked so hard and had given his time so unstintingly to the interests of society that he early exhausted the strength which, if it had been conserved, would doubtless have carried him to a ripe old age.