Greenwood Town

Greenwood Town

This town comprises township 13, range 1 east, which is in the southeastern corner of the county, bounded on its north by Hillsborough, on its east by Sauk county, on its south by Richland county and on its west by the town of Union. Like most of the land in Vernon county, this is rough and broken. The land that is tillable is of a fertile quality. The town is well supplied with small streams, among which are Pine and Baraboo rivers, and their numerous tributaries. The northern portion of the town is traversed by the Baraboo and its branches, while the southern part is coursed by the Pine and its branches. There are a great number of fine springs throughout the town. At one time the hop crop was an important business in this section of the county; but of late years they are not 80 much raised. At one time just after the war, when hops brought fifty cents a pound, nearly every land owner went into this speculation; planted out large hop yards and erected the necessary buildings. This, together with a big crop, put the price down to a shilling a pound; and by this reverse cpused a loss of many thousands of dollars to this section of Vernon county. In 1884 but few hops were produced within the county. But at this date, and for two or three years previous, tobacco culture has been entered into extensively in various parts of the county.

Early Settlement

This is one of the earliest towns settled in the eastern part of the county. The first settler was William Van Alstine, who came in as early as 1851, and settled on the southwest quarter of section 23. In 1852 he sold to Isaac Meek, who came from Indiana. Meek only remained about a year, then sold out and returned to Indiana, where he was ordained a Wesleyan Methodist minister. Van Alsiine went to Oregon.

In 1884 the oldest settler living in the town was William Jordan, a native of Pennsylvania, but who came here from Indiana with Isaac Meek, and settled on section 23; a few years later he moved to Missouri, but soon returned to his location on section 23.

The first land entry in the town was made by James B. Avery, a resident of Baraboo, who entered the south half of section 22. The patent bears date January, 1852, but is said to have been entered some time previous to this.

Caleb and John S. Shreve came in 1853. Caleb settled on section 22, where he was still living in 1884. John at first located on section 23, but later moved to section 15.

1855, by James R. Strait and Richard Smith, called Debello. It was situated on the southeast quarter of the southeast quarter of section 22. Mr. Smith came here from Indiana in the fall of 1855, and brought a stock of goods with him and opened a store, which he operated a year or so, when he closed up and removed to Missouri. He sold his store to Morgan and Joseph Hansbury.

A postoffice was established in 1855. James R. Strait was appointed postmaster. In 18.56 he was succeeded by Moses Jordan. In 1884 Elias Kejjley was postmaster, keeping the office at his house on section 27. It is on the route from Hiilsborougli to Rockbridge.. This vicinity is still known as Debello, although the village, once so flourishing, with lots selling for $50 each, is now converted into farms, and corn, wheat and oats grow in what was the principal thoroughfare of tiiis place.

Below is ttiven the names of many of the pioneers of this town, together with the dale and location of their settlement, brief sketches, etc. No special attention is paid as to the exact order in which they came, simply a record of the facts connected with their settlement:

Joseph Martin, a native of New York State, came in 1854, and located on the southwest quarter of section 26. He was an unmarried man and lived alone, working his place until 1864, when he sold to Einar Nelson and moved to Iowa.

William Shreve, a native of Pennsylvania, in company with his three sons, Eden, Hezckiab and James H., came to the town from Ohio, in the fall <>f 1855. The father settled on the northwest quarter of section 22, where he remained till the time of his death, in ISO. Hezekiah and Edeti lived at home several years, after which the former moved to section 22, and the latter to Storm Lake, Iowa. James H. settled on section 15.

Freeman Webster, of New York, came in the spring of 1855, and located on section 8, where he remained until 1874, then moved to Hillsborough, where he was living in 1884.

Charles Landruni, of Indiana, settled in 1855, on section 23, built a log house and remained two years, after which he sold to Clement Clierriiigton, and moved to Hillsborough, where he died in 1882.

Among the pioneers of 1856 who are entitled to sketches in this connection is Moses Jordan, who is a native of New Jersey; he was born in 1801. When fouryearsold his parents moved to Pennsylvania, wliere he grew to manhood. When but thirteen years of age he engaged in a flour mill to learn the milling business. In 18;i2 he removed to the State of New York, where he remained until 1838, when he moved to Illinois, lived there five years and moved to Indiana, where he remained till 1853 and then came to Bad Ax county, and bought the north half of the northwest quarter of section 26, town 13, range 1 east, in what is now Greenwood town of Vernon county. In 1854 he moved to Readsburg, where he lived two years, then returned to Greenwood. In 1869 he had the misfortune to lose his eyesight, since which time he has been blind. He was married in 1822 to Mary Shaner, who was born in Pennsylvania in 1805. They have had nine children, six of whom were living in 1884 - William, Susan, Elizabeth, Harriet, Mary and Louisa. Mr. Jordan has been a prominant man in town affairs, having been elected as the first justice of the peace, also first town treasurer.

Thomas Brown, who lived in the town of Viroqua, bought the southeast quarter of section 22, in 1857. His father James Brown and family lived here at the time. Mr. Brown was an educated man and followed school teaching and surveying. He died in 18'70.

Elias Kegley settled in the town in 1856. He is a native of Virginia, born in Wythe county, Sept. 3, 1824. When fourteen years old his ])arents moved to Johnson county, where he grew to manhood. In 1856 he came to Wisconsin, spent two years in the town of Greenwood and then went to Missouri, where he remained until 1862. From there he removed to Iowa where he spent a year, then returned to this town. In 1864, he went to Pine River, Richland county, where he remained till 1867, and again returning to this town bought his farm on which he lived in 1884. He was married in 1856 to Rebecca Bundy by whom he

First Events

One of the first marriages, in the town of Greenwood, was Joseph Trean and Miss Brook. This ceremony was performed in 1855. They settled on section 22, remained a few years and moved to Indiana.

The first blacksmith in the town was John Staley, who opened a shop in 1855, which was located on section 15. He died while serving in the Union army, in 1863.

Organic

The town of Greenwood was organized in April. 1856, and the following officers elected : U. Gregory, chairman; Caleb Shreve and Ransom Daley, supervisors, Joseph D. Hansberry, clerk ; but as he removed from the town before his term of office expired, Thornton Perry was appointed to fill the vacancy. R. G. Story was elected superintendent of schools, but on account of his removal, C. A. Fuller was appointed in his place. Moses Jordan and Mr. Knox, justices of the peace ; John S. Shreve, assessor.

At the annual town meeting, in 1883, the following officers were elected for the ensuing year: John Shaughnessy, chairman, John Anderson and Joseph Pliner, supervisors ; William Brandon, clerk ; .lohn S. Shreve, treasurer ; J. W. Shreve, assessor ; Horace Rhinehart, justice of the peace; A. Hanson and Hiram Sanders, constables.

1856, and stood on the southeast quarter of section 22. Grace Brooks was the first teacher. This house was used but two or three years, when it was replaced by auotlier log house, which was still standing in 1884.

The first school in district No. 5 was taught in a log house belonging to Calsina Townsetid, situated on the northwest quarter of section 14. The first term of school in this district was taught by Jane Townsend in 185T.

A school house was built on the northwest quarter of section 14, in which Marie Smith was the first teacher. This house was in- use till 1877, when a frame house was erected on the southeast quarter of section 14. Marie Smith also taught the first school in this building.

In district No. 4 the first school was taught by Margaret Fuller, in 1858, at Morgan Lloyd's house. In 1859 a school house was provided on the northwest quarter of section 20, in which Sarah Brown taught the first term of school. This house was in use for school purposes till 186S, when a new one was erected on the site of the old one. Martin Shields taught the first school in this house.

In district No. 3 the first school iiouse was built in 1857 or 1858, and was situated on the southwest quarter of section 8. Mary Givens wasoneof the early teachers here. This building was afterward enlarged and served the district until 1880, when a frame building took its place. Charles Colier was the first teacher who taught in the new building.

In district No. 7 a school house was built in 1859 ; this was located on the southwest quarter of section 36. This was a small log house which served the purpose until 1866, when another log building was erected, which stood on the northwest quarter of section 36. Mary Rennick was the first teacher employed in this building.

first school in this house, which was moved in 1871 to section 31, and used till 1880, when another building took its ])lace, on the southwest quarter of section 29. Kate C'ostello was the first teacher in the last named building.

Religious Sociktiks

The first religious services in the town were held at the log school house on section 23, in 1857, by Rev. M. Clingman, a Methodist preacher, who organized a class of which Josephus Cherrington was leader. This class continued to hold services for about five years. Revs. Moore, Day and Holcomb preached for tliis society as long as it had an existence

In 1856 the United Brethren organized a class at the same school house. Rev. Adam Shambeau, from the Kickapoo, was the preacher, and Horace A. Rhinehart was class leader.

Another United Brethren class was formed in 1877 at the house of Samuel Watson, by D. K. Young. This class numbered forty members, Joseph Frank was the first leader. Meetincs were held at the house of Mr. Watson till the church was built in 1878 on section 16. The following preachers have served this people: Revs. Charles Hibbard, William Smith, D. K. Young and E. Casper. Tillman Sanders was class leader in 1384, at which time services were held once in two weeks.

The Christian Church was organized in 1860, at the log school house on section 22, by Rev. Abraham Williams. James II. Shreve was the first deacon. Rev. Williams was succeeded by Isaac Lepley and he by James II. Shreve. In 1879 they completed a church, which was built of logs located on the southwest quarter of section 15. John S. Shreve was deacon of the Church in 1884.

Tiie Norwegian Evangelical Lutheran Church held its first meetings in private houses. Rev. Preus, a missionary, was their first preacher. In ISTI they built a hewed log church on the southwest quarlnr of sect'on 25.

section 26. Elders O. A Johnson and P. L. Horn were the preachers. Tliey organized a society, the following winter, at a private house owned by Jonathan Hunter, on section 2.5. There were about thirty members. B. F. Thomas was chosen first deacon. In 1880 a church was built on the northwest quarter of section 2-5. Elder Johnson preached for some time and was finally succeeded by Elder C. W. Olds.

The first Catholic servicfs in the' town of Greenwood were held at M)rgin Lloyd's house on section 20, in 1860. Father Peter Montague was the first priest, whose home was over in Juneau county, but he supplied this settlement of Catholics, occasionally. In 1871 a church was built, which was located on the northwest quarter of section 9. Father Bernard was the first regular priest in charge after the liouse of worship was erected.

This mill was built by Nicholas Didivt, in 1874, and is situated on the northeast quarter of section 3. The power is derived from the Baraboo river aud from a fifteen horse-power engine. The river at this point gives an eight foot fall. In 1S75 Didivt sold to Mithius Hansberry, who still operated it in IS84.

The first place set apart for a burying ground was on section 2.3, near Debello, on llie Van Alstine farm. In 1884 there was a Norwegian cemetery near their church on section 23 and one on the northwest quarter of section 22, near the Christian church; also a Catholic cemetery on section 9 by their church.

Biographical

The following sketches represent a large number of the leading citizens of Greenwood town in the order in which they made a settlement here:

Otto F. is a son of Otto Hammer, one of the pioneers of Hillsborough. He was born in Nhw York Oct. 23,1847. He was but eight years of age when his parent? came to Wisconsin and became pioneers of Bad Ax county. He received his education in the public schools of Hillsborough town. At seventeen years of age he commenced to learn the shoemaker's trade and worked at that three and one-half years. He then engaged with Carl Ludwig, and was in his employ, working in the brewery and on the farm four years. He was married Dec. 25, 1870, to Mathilda Duft. They have five children - Josephine, Emma, Mathilda, Mabel and Robert. The May previous to his marriage he had bought timber land on section 1, town of Greenwood. He has since cleared a farm, built a house and now makes this his home.

Caleb Shreve, a pioneer of Vernon county, and son o!^ William and Eleanor (Caleb) Shreve, was born in Miami Co., Ind., May 29, 18.'3. When but an infant his parents removed to Perry Co , Ohio, where he grew to manhood. He was there married, Sept. 15, 1842, to Naomi .Jennings. Mr. Shreve remained in Perry county until 1853, when he started west to seek a home. Arriving in Wisconsin, he bought the southwest quarter of section 22, town 13, range 1 east, in territory now known as Greenwood town, Vernon county. Here he was one of the first settlers, as there were less than a dozen families in the eastern part of the county at this time. In 1861 he enlisted in the 6th Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, went south and served two years. In 1863 he received an injury and was discharged on account of disability. He also lost his voice; but a few years later he fell from a barn which was the means of restoring it to him. He, however, again lost it and now converses only in a whisper. He had no school advantages and consequently is not an educated man, but is endowed with a good share of ommon sense. Mr. Shreve is kind.hearted and hospitable, cheerful in his disposition and enjoys the respect and confidence of all who know him. He is a good judge of a horse; also treats them for diseases. His practice in this profession is very large, extending into Sauk and Richland counties. On April 7, 1879, Mrs. Shreve died, leaving eight children - Ezra W.,

Sarah E., Smith, John J., Isaac L., Arminda, Lovica and Caleb Perry. Mr. Shreve was a member of the first board of supervisors of Greenwood town and also has been postmaster at Debello.

William Smith Shreve was but six years of age when his parents located in this town. lie was born in Perry Co., Ohio, Dec. 12, 1847. His parents were Caleb and Naomi (Jennings) Shreve. They came to Vernon Co., Wis., in 1853, and were pioneers of Greenwood town. William S. grew to manhood on the homestead farm, assisting in the farm labor during the summer, and attending.school in the winter season. He bought some land in Sauk county, and after his marriage traded this land for a, farm on section 22 of this town, where he located, built a log cabin and resided till 1882. In the latter year he settled on his present farm, which is on the same section, and now includes the plat of the village known as Debello. Mr. Shreve was married, in 1868,to Susan Fries, and five children have been given them - Mary Amanda, Charles F., Louisa M., Susan Edith and Myrtle C. John J., another son of Caleb and Naomi (Jennings) Shreve, was born in Boone Co., 111., Oct. 4, 1853. He went to Dakota in 1873, and took up a homestead in Turner county. Here he lived until 1881, when he returned to the town of Greenwood. He settled on his present farm in 1882. He was married, in 1876, to Ellen Rogers. They have two children - Ada J. and Edward O.

John S., son of William and E'eanor (Smith) Shreve, was born in Perry Co., Ohio, Feb. 16, 1828, and there grew to manhood. In 1850 he was united in marriage with Caroline Beck, a native of Pennsylvania. In 1853 he came to Wisconsin to seek a home, settling on section 23, of township 13, range 1 east. In 1854 he went to Sauk county and found employment clearing land, for which he was paid six shillings per day. In this way he raised money to pay for his land. In 1855 he traded his land on section 23 for 120 acres on section 15, moved there, built a good log house, and commenced clearing the land. Mr. Shreve has been very successful in his endeavours to make a home, and now owns 160 acres of land, seventy acrts of which is under cultivation. Mrs. Shreve died Jan. 25, 1858, leaving nine children - Mary Ellen, Hezekiah, William A., Joseph, Xapoleon, Sarah, John E., Armilda and Isaac. William A. was born March 25, 1856, and died April 23, 1880; Sarah was born Jan. 25, 1860, and died in September, 1875. In 1871 Mr. Shreve was married to Emma C, daughter of William and Yanca (Jenkins) Uiiies, and widow of James Bundy. They have two children - Charles and Amy. Mr. Shreve has been prominent in town affairs. He was the first assessor in Hillsborough town, and filled that office in Greenwood eleven consecutive terms. He is the present treasurer. Mrs. Shreve died June 25, 1858.

Prentiss Abbott is a son of Aaron A. and Abesta (^[oulton) Abbott, was born in Tunbridge town, Windsor Co., Vt., in 1822. When four years of age, his parents moved to Boston, Mass., where his father engaged in the boot and shoe business. After remaining there one year, they moved to Canada, settling in the province of Quebec. At the end of six years they removed to Port Hope, province of Ontario. Here it was that Prentiss began his career as a hunter. Game was plenty, and he s])ent a greater part of his time in hunting and trapping, and made con.siderable money thereby. In 1838 bis parents moved to Milwaukee, Wis., where they lived one year, when his father bought some timber land from the goveriinient, situated five miles from Milwaukee, and Prentiss helped him to clear it. Game being abundant, Prentiss spent much lime Iiunling deer, bear, elk and panthers, finding a ready sale for them in Milwaukee. When he was twenty-one vears of .age he, in coinjiany with his brother, erected a large frame house on tlie farm and opened a hotel, called the Kinnekinick House. One year later he sold out and went to Waukesha county, where he purchased a farm, ereQted a large house, part log and part frame, and engaged in farming and keeping hotel. Two years later he removed to Washington county, and in 1854 he again changed his residence, coming to Vernon county, and entering 640 acres of land in town 13, range I east, now known as Greenwood. He built a log house on the southeast quarter of section 10, and commenced clearing a farm. In 1861 he went to Hillsborough, bought town property, and opened a hotel. He remained in this business until 1875, when he again returne<l to G-reenwood and settled on the northeast quarter of section 10, where he had previously built aframe hou^e. He has been twice married. His first wife was Jane Fenton, by whom he had three children - Charles, Prentiss C. and Laura. He was mar- May 16, 188:5, to Elizabeth Brill, a native of Wurtemburg, Germany.

John Collins is a native of Irebind, born in county Clare in 1829. When thirteen years of age he left his native land for America. He landed in New York city, from whence he went to Buffalo, where he spent two years in school, thus acquiring an education that has since been useful to him. He then came to Wisconsin, settling in Milwaukee, where he remained until 1849, at which time he went to Richland county in the employ of Ira Harelton, with whom he remained one year. He then returned to Buffalo, N. Y. After spending about a y^ar in the east, in various places, he returned to Wisconsin, locating in Waukesha. He was there married, Jan. 2, 1852, to Mary Ann McMahcn, born in county Meath, Ireland, in May, 1832. She came to America with her parents when thirteen years of age. In 1854 Mr. Collins came to Vernon county and entered land in the northeast quarter of section 21. He afterwards returned to Waukesha county, remaining there until 1856, at which time he came with his family and settled on his land in Vernon county, where he commenced to improve his farm. He now has 120 acres on section 21, and eighty acres on section 4. Mr. and Mrs. Collins have nine children. Mr. Collins has taken a prominent part in town affairs, and has held oflBces of trust. He is also clerk of the district, having served in that capacity for several years.

Hugh Brandon is one of the early and honored pioneers of Greenwood town, locating herein 1855, when the face of the country was a dense forest and unbroken prairie. Mr. Brandon is a native of the "Emerald Isle," and was born in county Donegal, Ireland, in 1818. He was there reared to manhood, and in 1 846 determined to seek a new home in the "land of the free." He accortMngly engaged passage in a sailing vessel and came to America. Mr. Brandon first located in Connecticut, where he was engaged in farming, until his removal to Bad Ax (npw Vernon) 'county, in 1855. He entered 240 acres of land on section 13, of town 13 north, of range 1 east. He built thereon a little log cabin, in which he lived and reared a family, until 1881, when he erected his present frame residence. Mr. Brandon was married, in 1854, to Mary Sullivan, and six children have been sent to bless this union - William, Mary, Annie, Eliza, Frank and Agnes. The elder of this family, William, is a native of this town, born Nov. 25, 1855. He has grown to manhood in this county, and received a good education in the district schools. He is now serving Ids fourth term as clerk of Greenwood town. Mr, Brandon is unmarried, and still resides with his parents.

David Mahr, ouf of the pioneers of Greenwood, is a native of Germany, born March 16, 1830. He received a good education in the public schools of Germany, attending them until fourteen years of ag'e. He afterwards engaged in farming. In 1852 he left his native land and came to America. He came directly, with his family, to Wisconsin, settling in Washington county, where his father bought a farm. He remained with his father one year, then went to live with the Americans, thereby learning the English language. In 1855 Mr.

Main- carae to Vernon county and entered land on section 3, of town 13, range 1 east, now known as Greenwood. In March, 1858, he returned to Washington county, where he was married to Friederike Groulie, and tlie next month they started lor their new home. He built a log house on his land, on section 3, and commenced to clear the heavy timber from the place. Mr. Mahr has been a successful farmer, and now owns 165 acres of land, seventy-seven of wliich is in a good state of cultivation. In 1882 he built the large frame house in which he now lives. Mr. and Mrs. Mahr are the parents of eiglit children - John, llenriette, Frank, Peter, Sophie, Annie, and Oscar N.and Charles N., twins.

William Shreve, one of the jiioneers of Greenwood town, was born in Bedford Co., Penn., Sept. 26, 1802. When he was four years of age his parents moved to Ohio and were among the first settlers in Miami county. Here William grew to manhood. He was married June 15, I8i:0, to Eleanor Smith, born Sept. 15, 1800. They moved to Indiana, settling in Miami county After remaining here a few years they returned to Ohio, and settling in Perry county, bought timber land and im])roved a farm. Mr. Siireve remained there until 1865, when he started with a team for Wisconsin. After traveling about three weeks he arrived in Vernon county and entered land on section 22, making this his home till the time of his death, whicli occurred .Jan. 9, 1880. Mi's. Slireve died May 7, 1805.

llezekiah Shreve, son of William and Eleanor (Smith) Shreve, was born in Perry Co., Ohio, .Jan. 15, 1840. Whe!i fifteen years "f age his parents came to W iscon.'-in, and he assisted his father in clearing a farm. He was married Jan. -28, 1864, to Rachel Daniels, born in Allen Co., Ohio. In Se])tember, 1864, he enlisted in company A, 25th Wisconsin Volunteeis; went south; joined Gen. Sherman at Atlanta; was with him in his marcli to the sea and through the Carolinas. He was discharged with the regiment June 9, 1865, and returning to Greenwood, renewed farming. In 187o he built a tw o story hewed log ' ouse on the northeast quarter of the northwest quarter of section 22. He still makes this his home. He has planted an orchard on his place and cultivates hops and sorghum. He is also engaged in grain and stock raising. He has a mill and makes his own syrup. He has seven children living - Walter H., Ulysses S., Harriet E., Langley, Otto, Carrie B. and Willinm II. A daughter, Minnie F., died when four years of age.

James H., son of William and Eleanor (Smith) Shreve, was born in Perry Co., Ohio, Dec. 14, 1832. He lived with his parents until fourteeen years of age then started in life for himself. Leaving home he went to FrankUn Co., Ohio, and for three years was there engaged in farming, going from thence to Hocking county, where he lived two years, farming in the summer and mining coal in the winter. In 1852 he returned to Perry county, remaining one year. In 1853 he went to Lancaster, Ohio, going from there to Philadelphia with a drove of cattle, starting March 31 and arriving in Philadelphia on the 1 8th of May, having traveled the entire distanceon foot. He stopped in Philadelphia but two days, returning home by way of New York city, Buffalo and Niagara Falls. He then engaged as superintendent of construction on the Wilmington & Cincinnati Railroad for one year. He then took a contract to construct a piece of road. Mr. Shreve was married May 4, 1854, to Mary E. Chenoweth, born in Perry county. They went to Franklin Co., Ohio, and remained there until 1855, then, in company with his father and two brothers, started for Wisconsin, settling in town 13, range 1 east. He bought land on section 15 and immediately commenced to improve it. He has since made this his home. Mr. and Mrs. Shreve have had ten children, seven of whom are living - John W., James T., Hczekiah A., Samuel S., p]mma, Mary A. and Nora. The second child died in infancy;

Floretta J., born Aug. 26, 1866, also died in infancy; Harvey, born June 4, ISVS, died Jan. 16, 1880. .Mr. Shreve has been prominent in town affairs, having held the offices of town clerk, con.stable and treasurer. He was ali-o one of the commissioners to lay out the State road from Woodstock to Wonowac. Mr. Shreve was for some years a preacher in the Christian Church.

John Staley, a pioneer of Greenwood town, was born in Lafayette Co., Ind., Dec. 25, 1830. Wlien he was quite young his parents moved to Howard county, where he grew to manhood. Wlien a boy he learned the trade of a blacksmith, and worked at that in Howard county until 1852, when he went to Cass Co., Ind., where he was married March 21, 1854, to Rachel, daughter of Charles and Calsina (Fngfison) Townsend, a native of St. Lawrence Co. N. Y. In 1855 they started west to seek a honif, and came to Bad Ax, (now Vernon) county, and bought land on section 15, of town 13 north, range 1 east, now known as flreenwo<id. He here erected a blacksmith shop and workid at his trade in connection with farming. In 1864 he joined the 25th regiment, Wisconsin Volunteers, company F, and went south; was with Sliernian in Georgia, and participated in liis marcli to tiie sea. He. died while in the service at Savannah, Ga., Feb. 9, 1865. He left three children - Ellen Charles and Martin. The two eldest cliildren are married. The younger son, Alartiii, is at home with his mother, and carries on the farm.

Samuel Watson was born in Darke Co., Ohio, .Ian. 16, 1835. When fourteen years of age his parents moved to Indiana, settling in Wayne ciiuniy. He was married in 1845 to Rhoda Taylor, a native of Wayne county. For two years he renl'd land in that county, moving in 1847 to Grant county, same State, where he purchased land. He improved this place and lived here until 1855, when he started west to seek a home. He came to Vernon Co., Wis., and entered land on section 9, town 13, range 1 east, and immediately began to improve it. He has since made this his home. Soon after arriving here he took steps to secure a school for his children, and, in 1858, at a meeting held at his house, a school district was organized. Mr. and Mrs. Watson have eight children living - George, born May 22, 1849; Elihu, born Nov. 14, 1857; Sarah A., born May 14, 1853; Daniel, born Nov. 18, 1856; John, born Aug. 20, 1858; EUen^born March 17, 1800; Lucinda, born Nov. 10, 1873, and Mary Etta, born March 14, 1875. Their first son, Joseph, was born in Grant Co., Ind., May 7, 1846. He came to Wisconsin with his parents and made his home with them until 1864, when he enlisted in company I, 8th Wisconsin Volunteers, and went south. He died in Memphis, Tenn., in the spring of 1865, while still in the service. Mr. and Mrs. Watson are both members of the United Brethren Church.

Robert Bailey, one of the pioneers of Greenwood, was born in Ireland in 1822, and when quite young his parents removed to Canada, where he was raised on a farm, and was part of the time employed on public works. He was married in 1844 to Jane Scott, who was born in Ireland in 1822, but of Scotch descent. They remained in Canada until 1849, when they came to the States, locating in Boone Co., III., where they lived until 1856, then came to Wisconsin to seek a home. Coming directly to Vernon county, he entered land on section 26, town 13, range 1 east, built a log house and commenced clearing a farm. In 1861 he enlisted in company H, 10th Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, and immediately went to the front. He was killed at the battle of Chattanooga, in 1H63, while gallantly fighting for his adopted country. He left a widow and seven children to mourn his death. Six of these children are now living - Agnes, Samuel, William, James, Isabelle and Jennie. Mrs. Bailey struggled with a brave heart aTid raised her family. She now occupies I the homestead.

Abraham Kauffman was born in Lancaster Co., Penn., Jan. 9, 1809, of poor, but honest parents. He received his education in the common scliools, and was raised to agricultural pursuits. He was married, Nov. 25, 1828, to Eliza Martin. Thoy remained in Lancaster county seven year.t, then started west to seek a home. They located in Posey county, where Mr. Kauffman learned the shoemakers trade. He remained tliere until 1844, then came to Wisconsin, settling in Washington county. He purchased government land, improved forty acres, and built a log cabin. In 1856 he sold out, and, again pushing to the frontier, came to Vernon Co., Wis., and purchased land on sections 10, 11 and 15, built a log house and immediately commenced to make improvements. He occnpiod this house until 1870, then erected the frame house in which he now lives. Mrs. Kauffni.in was born in Lancaster Co., Penn., Sept. 10, 1810. She died in Greenwood, in 1857, leaving four children - Starrett, Benjamin, Betsey and Annie. Mr. Kauffman was niairieil April 1.3,1859, to Colsina Ingerson, born in Cayuga Co., N. Y., Dec. 3, 1807. Her first husband was Charles Townsend, of New York Sate, where Mrs. Townsend lived with her huslianil a few years, when they moved to Ohio, and from thence to Indiana. Mr. Townsend died in 185(3, just as he was read\ to move from Indiana to Wisconsin. He left three children - Emma A., Rachel ami May. Mr. Kauffman's son, Benjamin T., was born in Laiicaster Co., Penn., Dec. 30, 18:',5. He came to Wisconsin with his parents, and w s married in 18')8 10 J.tne Townsend. He now occupies a portion of t'.e old homestead, and is engaged in farming.

Retdx^n .Miller was born in ('bio. May 6, 18-_'0. When cpiile young his parents moved to Missouri. After living there a short time, they in ived to Indiana, settling in Howard county, where lieiiben grew to manhood. He was married in Cass county, in 1854, to Catharirte Hickill, born in Licking Co., Ohio. After remaining in Cass county two years, he came to Vernon Co., Wis., and bought land on section 14, town 13, range 1 east, now known as Greenwood. He built a good log house on hi-i place, set out an orchard and commenced to improve his farm. He made this his home until his death, which occurred Nov. 5, 1873. He left seven children - Benjamin F , Sarah, Ida, John, Edson, Melissa and James. The family now occupy the homestead.

Horace A. Rhinehart was born in Madison Co., N. i ., Feb. 14, 18-27. When six years of age his parents moved to the western part of New York State, settling in Chautauqua county. Here his father bought timber land and improved a farm. Horace A. here grew to manhood, his younger days being spent in school and on the farm. He was married in Chautauqua county, in 1853, to Sarah, daughter of William and Tommy (Jenkins) Ilyne. She lived but two months and twelve days. He then came to Wisconsin, and after spending a year in Rock and Greene counties, returned to New York. While there he married Mary J., a sister of his first wife. Coming with his wife to Wisconsin, he stopped for a time in Greene county. In the fall of 1856 he moved to Vernon Co., Wis., purchasing land on section 34, town 13, range 1 east, now known as Greenwood. He spent the winter on his farm in Greene county, returning to his land in Vernon county the following spring. In February, 1857, he met with an accident, by which his left leg was broken, and he was laid up all summer, thereby losing much valuable time. After recovering, he resumed work, and began the cultivation of his farm. In 1865 he sold out and purchased land on section 27, which he has since made his home. In 188:<, he erected the large frame house in which he now lives. His second wife died in 1862, leaving him two children - Sarah M. and Lucinda S In 1863 he married Sarah Kegley. Seven children blessed I his union - E.stella, Edwin, Franklin, Rollin, Ettie, William and Alvin.

Henry, son of Jacob and Augusta Lind, honored pioneers of Vernon county, was born in Germany, in 1834. He attended school there until fourteen years of age, and then engaged in teaming in the city of West Baden. When he was seventeen years old, in company with his parents, he left his native land, and came to America. They landed at New York, and came directly to Wisconsin, and settled in Washington county. Henry was there married in February, 1857, to Mary Coe, born in Steuben Co., N. Y. The June following, they came to Bad Ax ( now Vernon ) county, and purchased timber land on section 12, of town I 3 nortii, of range 1 east, and commenced to clear a farm He has built a good log house, to which he has made a frame addition. In 18C2 he built a frame barn, .30x40 feet in size, witli a stone basement. They have five children - Larinda, Matilda, Charlie, Ida and Arlhiir.

Thomas J., son of Jacob and Mary ( Shear) Hickok, was born in Erie Co., N. Y., Dec. 10, 1851. He came to Wisconsin with his parents in 1-^62, and settled in Hillsborough town. He was viliicated in the district schools of Erie county and llillsltorough town, with the exception of one term at Hill's Prairie. In 1874 he bou ht land in the town of Greenwood, and here commcnci'd farming. He was married, in December, IsTi, to Mrs. Cornelia (Backus) Hickok, willow of his brother, Jacob M. Hickok. One child has blessed this union - Claule Irwin. Jacob Manly Hickok was born ill Erie Co., N. Y., July 20, 1849. He came to Hillsborough town with his parents, and remaiu'd with tliem until his marriage, Sept. 19, 18Cci, to Cornelia Backus. One year later he removed to Gleiidale, where he lived until the date of his lieath, April 19, 1875, leaving a wife and two children - James Almond and Thomas Earl.

they came to America, landing at New York city, and going from there to Madison, Wis., where they remained until 1853. Mr. Lee went from there to Perry town, Dane county, and purchased some school land. He cleared a farm, built a log house and remained there until 1863, when he sold out and came to Vernon county. Here he purchased land on section 25, Greenwood town, since which time he has cleared a farm and built a good house. In 1867 he sold this farm to his son, but has always made his home here, and is still engaged in farming. Mr. and Mrs. Lee both enjoy good health. They are the parents of four children - Annie, Lena, (deceased) James L. and Henry L. The oldest daughter is in Norway. James L. resides in Decorah, Iowa, where he is agent for the Lutheran publish ing house, and has charge of the Decorali scale works.

Henry L., youngest son of Lars Hanson and Martha (Jenson) Lee, was born in Norway, Nov. 29, 1838. He was but twelve years of age when his parents emigrated to America. At thirteen years of age he started out to make his own living in Madison, first engaging with a groceryman, where he made himself useful in the store. He remained with him for a year and a half and then engaged as cleik in a grocery house one year, also driving the delivery wagon, and then went to work in a meat market. In the fall of 1858 he went to work on a farm, continuing in that occujiation until the spring of 1860, when he went to St. Louis, and remained through the summer. He next went to Macon Co., Mo., and engaged in training fast horses, fitting them for the i-ace track and taking them to the different county fairs. In the fall Mr. Lee went to New Orleans, where he remained until the spring of 1861, then returned to Macon Co., Mo., and stayed there until the fall of 1861, when he returned to Madison, and remained until he enlisted Aug. 13, 1862, in company D, 23d Wisconsin Volunteers. He served as orderly for the commanding officer in the followingimportant battles : Chickasaw Bayou, Arkansas Post, Champion Hills, Black River Bridge, siege of Vicksbiirg, Carrion Crow Bayou, Mansfield, Pleasant Hill, Cane River, Jackson, I. a., Spanisli Fort and Fort I51akely. He was honorably discharged at Mobile, Ala., July 4, 1865, and was mustered out of service at Madison, Aug. 18, 186.5. November 2, the same year, he came to Vernon county and worked for his father one year, then bought the farm of him, and lias since made this his home. He was married April 19, 1868, to Mary Johnson. They have seven children - Martha Johanna, Martin Lowis, James T., Bertha Lena, Henriette C, J')lm E. and Anna Maria.

Einer Nelson, one of the early Norwegian settlers, was born in 1810. His wife's name was Gure Paulson. In 1855 they emigrated to America, landing at Quebec. From there they went to Dane Co., Wis., living near Stoughtoi; one year, going from thence to Perry town, where Mr. Nelson entered forty acres of land cleared a farm and remained until 1864. Hi then sold out and came to Vernon county, buy ing la-iid on section 26, and making his hom> here until 1866, when he sold to his son an( bought land on section 34, which he has sinc( made his home. Mr. and Mrs. Nelson had sev en children - Nels E., Paul, Rachel, Carrie. Mary, Christiana and Johanna. Nels E., the oldest son of Einer and Gure (Paulson) Nelson, was born in Norway, Jan. 18, 1842. When thirteen years of age ho accompanied his parents to America and soon after commenced life's battle for himself. He readily found emi)loyment as a farm laborer, and on Nov. 18, 1861, enlisted in company H, 15th regiment, Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry and participated in all the skirmishes and battles of that regiment. He was severely wounded on the third day of the battle at Stone River and lay in the hospital at Nashville, Tenn, for six months. He rejoined the regiment at Murfreesboro and at the battle of Chickamauga was taken prisoner.

He was confined in the enemy's prisons at Richmond and Danville, Va., for seventeen months, and while at the latter place succeeded, with a few companions, in digging with wooden shovels a hole under the prison wall and cscaj.- ing, but was soon recaptured. From Danville he was taken to the renowned Andersonville pen, where he spent six months, and was subsequently taken to Charleston and Florence, South Carolina, and then to Richmond asrain, from which latter p ace he was paroled. He was afterward taken sick with typhoid fever and sent to the hospital at Annapolis, Md., going home from thence on a furlougli, and finally mustered out at Madison, Wis., July 6, 1865. When he entered the army he weighed about 185 poXinds, and when honorably discharged at Madison four years later he tipped the beam at ninety-five pounds - the result of sickness, exposure and prison life. As soon as he had recovered a portion of his lost strength he engaged in farming and in 1806 purchased his father's farm on section 26, of this town, where he has since resided In 1869 he was married to Betsey Johnson, and nine children have been given to them, six now living - James A., Edward N., Clara P., OjerteR., Robert and George .M.

John Anderson, one of the early N(rrwei;ian settlers of Greenwood town, was born in 1829. His youth and early manhood were spent in school and on a farm in his native land. In 1857 he left home and came to America Going directly to Wisconsin, he settled in Dane county, where he w^s employed in farming. He remained there until 1865, when he came to Greenwooil and purchased land on section 32. He immediately began improving his land and now has a farm in a good state of cultivation. In 1855 he was married to Julia Christo|)herson. Fifteen children blessed this union, twelve of whom are now living. Mr. Anderson is as well educated in English as in Norwegian. He is a leading member of the Norwegian Lutheran Evangelical ('lunch. .Mr. Anderson is jiromi-

Adiilphus P. Mallow was born in Ross Co., Ohio, Sept. 29, 18-37. His parents were early settlers in Sauk Co., Wis. In the fall of 1861, he enlisted for one year in the 60th Ohio Volunteer.", company C, and while in that regiment, was at New Creek Station, Winchester, Mc- Dowells and Harpers Ferry, where he was taken prisoner and paroled with the rest of the Union soldiers. His time being nearly out, be was sent to Camp Douglas, at Chicago, till he was mustered out, when he returned to his Wisconsin home, where he remained one year, forming the acquaintance and marrying the only daughter of Dr. Aaron Winslow, one of Vernon county's oldest and most respected citizens. They were married the 3d of January, 1864, and the 4th he left home to enlist in the 19th Wisconsin, and was in battles of Fort Darling, Fair Oaks and other engagements ot that summer of 1864, when the Army of Potomac lay in the rifle pits in front of Petersburg. On that memorable day in April, 186-5, when the Union soldiers went into Richmond, he entered with his regiment and remained on duty at the Custom House until August 9, when his regiment was ordered to Wisconsin to be mustered out. He returned to Woodbind, engaged in farming, and ii> 1872 purchased E. M. Winslow's place and an interest in the Dr. Winslow farm in Greenwood, on section 11, where he now lives. Mr. and Mrs. Mallow have four cliildren living - Ralph W., Hattie Maud, Charlie E. and Edith Lillian, and one, Freddie, deceased.

D.ivid G. Mullin settled on his farm in Greenwood town, in 1875. At that time it was lieavily timbered, but he has cleared fifty acres, built a good frame house and granary, and is now engaged in grain and stock raising. He was born in Albany, N. Y., Oct. 9, 18.38. Wiien but three years of age, his parents moved to Lewis county, where his father bouglit 20U acres of timbered land in West Turin, and cleared it. David here grew to manhood, making his home with his parents until eighteen years of age, at which time he went 10 Illinois, and from there to Salem, Neb., where he remained about eighteen months. He then returned to New York remaining there until 1865, when lie went to West Blue Mound and purchased a farm. Two years later he sold this place and went to Dunn county, engaged in lumbering (me season, going from thence to Minnesota, where he purchased 280 acres of government land in Brown county. He improved 240 acres of this land and remained there until 1875, when, as before stated, he came to Greenwood. He was married, in 1865, to Mary Bohn. They have been blessed with six children - Hattie, Florence, Charles, Clara, Eda and Susie.