Hillsboro City

Hillsboro City

Hillsborough is in the extreme northeastern corner of Vernon county, and is bounded on the north by Monroe county, on the east by Juneau county, on the south by the town of Greenwood, and on the west by the town of Forest. It comprises township 14, range 1 east, which contains thirty-six full sections besides six parts of sections, the northern line of which varies a quarter of a mile from being a straight east and west line, which was occasioned by the correction made in the origin!^ survey. The exact number of acres in the town is 23,583,76. The town was named in honor of several brothers by the name of Hill, one of whom, Viientia B. Hill, made the first claim, and also the first improvement within the town. The surface of this town is composed of narrow ridges and valley:^, both of which form good farming lands. It is well adapted to grass and stock raising, and is especially suited to sheep raising. Pure springs of clear cold water are found tlir .ughout the town. These produce streams of siifticient magnitude to afford fine mill privilf-ges. Three branches of the Baraboo river, flow through the town. The south and most important branch is formed of two streams, one of which has its source in the springs and brooks of the western portion of the town. The other stream flows north from the town of Greenwood. These unite near the center of section 35, flow northeasterly and leave the town from section 25, uniting with the north branch near Union Center, Juneau county. This branch of the Baraboo affords a fine water power. The middle branch has its source in the springs in the northwest part of the town. This stream affords a fine water power on section 8. This stream flows in a southeasterly course, leaving the town from section 24, and soon after unites with the south fork. The north stream flows through what is known as the Mutch settlement. It leaves the town from section 12.

The timber of this town is such as is found throughout the county. Excellent white oak is found in great quantities ; black oak, sugar maple and bass-wood being also common throughout these vast forests.

Settlement

The first efforts toward the settlement of this town were made by Viientia B. Hill, who located on the southeast quarter of section 14, in 1850. He also claimed forty acres on the southwest quarter of section 13, forty acres on the northeast quarter of section 23. His making claims on different sections is accounted for by the fact of the land not having l)een surveyed. In May, 1851, he began making improvements, and in August of the same year, moved his family to the place. Several otiier families came in about that time, but it is generally conceded that Mr. Hill made the first claim and broke the first land in the town. .Mr. Hill was born in the town of Coldciiester, Chittenden Co., Vt., in 1810. He married Mary J. Johnson ; removed to Indiana, and from that State to Baraboo, Wis. He followed the business of milling for many years. He operated the first saw mill at Baraboo. After coming to Vernon county, he turned his atten- tion to farming ; made some improvements on his farm, but his health failed him and he made but little progress. He died Feb. 26, 1857, leaving his wife and six children, two sons and four daughters. Mrs. Hill was born in New Hampshire, in 1814, but was reared in New York State.

Charles Fritchie, a German, settled on section 1, during the summer of that year. Some three years later he sold to "William Mutch and left the county. The same year Ambrose B. Cole settled on sections 1 and 12. He died in the Union army, during the Rel)ellion. The farm he claimed was still owned by members of his family, in 1884.

William and Alonzo Hill, brothers of V. B. Hill, the first to settle in the town, made claims in 1851. They settled with their families on section 24.

Ichabod B., another brother of the Hills, and a single man, came at the same time, but made no claim. He served in the 25th Missouri Volunteers during the Rebellion. At the close of the war he went to Kansas, where he died.

Willinin Hill left Vermont, when a vumgman, was absent for a number ot years ; returned to liis native State, where he married Mary Ann Meade and moved to the State of New York ; from there he moved to Indiana, where he remained a short time and came to Wisconsin. In 1884 he was a resident of Juneau county.

Joseph Manhart is one of the early settlers of the town of Hillsborough. He was born in Vienna, Austria, in 1817. He learned the trade of a baker, and followed that occupation for many years, visiting several of the principal cities of Europe, i)ursuing his trade. He came to the United States in 1848, under the auspices of the German colony, which settled at Koskonong, in Jefferson county. He remained in that county about seven years; came to Hillsborough in the summer of 1855 and settled on the southeast quarter of section 26, where has since lived.

Stewart Forbes resides on section 2, in the town of Hillsborough. He has been a resident of this town since the fall of 1855. He left Scotland April 15, 1854; landed at Quebec, lived in Montreal sixteen months before coming to Wisconsin. He was born in county Aberdeen, in 1881. His father, Arthur Forbes, was a forester by occupation for fifty years. Mr. Forbes was married in Scotland to Margaret Mutch, a sister of the Mutch brothers of this town. Like many others of the pioneers of Vernon county, Mr. Forbes possessed but little of this world's goods when he came here. His first land was forty acres on section 3, where he built a log house and improved about eight acres. He located there about 1860, where he lived till 1864, when he sold out and bought his present farm of sixty acres. Mr. and Mrs. Forbes have five children, three sons and two daughters - Stewart A., Ellen J., now Mrs. Iium-;den; Maggie, Robert and Jesse. They lost one daughter, Isabel, who died at the age of two years. Mr. F'orbes is a man higiily esteemed in the community in which he lives, as an excellent neighbor and Christian gentleman. He and wife are members of the Church of United Brethren of this town.

Froland Willey came to the town of Hillsborough in the fall of 1855. He was born in Vermont in 1833. He removed to Ohio with his parents when a boy, and thence to Jefferson couiiiy, tills State, in 1852. He came here from Jefferson county, and settled on section 24. In 1878 he sold his farm and removed to Kansas, Init lias returned and is again a resident of this town. He married Caroline M. Hill, March 9, 1850. This", as elsewhere stated, was the first marriage in the town of Hillsborough. Mr. and Mrs. Willey have four children - Fidelia, who married Charles Newman; Ida, wife of George S.iits; Emma and Alonzo.

Charle.s Landrum, deceased, who built the first store in the plat of the village of Hillsborough, was born in Knox Co., Tenn., Dec.l2, 1821. When seven years of age his parents removed to Crawford Co., Ind., and thence to Howard county, in that State. He came to Vernon county in the spring of 1851. As already stated he kept the first store and was the second posi master at Hillsborough. He enlisted in 186t in the 47th, and served till the close of the w:ir. He was regimental postmaster in the service. He lost his health in the army, which continued poor until his death. He married in Indiana, Lydia Hansbury, who is now a resident of Hillsborough.

James M Hansbury, first postmaster at Hillsh'irougli, is a br ither of Mrs Landrum. He removed from that village to Iowa, and thence to Ohio, where he still lives.

O. A. Sliout, a stage driver, came to the vil- 1 ige about 1856. He drove stage from Hillsborougli to Mauston. He died many years ago. His wife still lived in the village in 1884.

Patrick Healy resides on section 28, where he settled May 10, 1856. He came here from Walworth county, and purchased his land from the government. He is a native of county Galway, Ireland, born in 182ri. He came to the United States when twenty-six years of age.

He lived in Columbia Co., N. Y., before coming west and removed thence to Ohio, where he lived one year. His farm contains 180 acres of land well improved. His wife was Mary Ann Lloyd. They have nine children, five sons and four daughters.

Moses Kimball Jeffries lives on section 17, where he settled in 1856. He purchased his land of the government. He was born in Jefferson Co., Ohio, in 1820. In his younger days he was engaged in boating on the Ohio and Mississippi rivers, where he was a flit boat pilot for many years. He was married in Ohio to Maria L. Jones, who died in Madison while Mr. Jeffries with his family was en route to Vernon county. His second wife was Rachel Cann, who died March 15, 1883. Mr. Jeffnes is one of the larger farmers of this town, and h as a well improved farm.

Christian Engler resides on section 20, where he settled in October, 1857, on a government farm of eighty acres. He was born in Switzerland, in 1828; came to the United States in 1850 and located in Pennsylvania. He was married in Erie county, in that State, to Anna Barber, also born in Switzerland and came to the United States in 1852. After their marriage they came to Rock Co., Wis., where they lived several years before coming to Vernon county. They have three children, two sons and one daughter. Mr. Engler served in the War of the Rebellion in the 47th Wisconsin regiment from February, 1865, till the close of the war.

Among other early settlers were the following: Henry Hayfleioh, who came in 1855 and located on section 32, where he still resides; Henry Link on section 36; J. H. Thompson on section 25; William F. Miland; P. W. Frost, who settled on section 34; A. R. Glidden on section 35; James Madden, who settled on the northwest quarter of section 34.

First Events

The first birtli in the town was Andrew Mack, son of James and Cornelia jNIack, who was born Sept. 13, 1S52. Tlie next l)irth was that of Eveline M. Hill, daughter of V. B. Hill, who in her young womanhood married James Hamilton.

The fir-;t religious services were held at the house of Elisha D. Douglass on section 14, by llev. Joseph Hanlin, of the Free Will Baptist denomination.

Organic

The town of Hillsborough was organized in 1856. The first election was held at the house of Albert Field, April .3, of that year. H. H Knox, Joseph M. Martin and Alltert Field wen chosen inspectors of election. It was voted ti elect two assessors and two constables; also tha a fund be raised for contingent expenses, of %10i for the ensuing year, and the same amount foi the improvement of highways. Joseph M. Martin was elected chairman of the board and Albert Field and H. H. Knox, members of the side board; Daniel Kimball, town clerk; Edward Klopfleisch, treasurer; John S. Shreve and A. W. Rogers, assessors; Henry F. Daley, A. W. Rogers, Edward Klopfleisch and Daniel Kimball, justices of the peace; John S. Shreve and James S Carley, constables.

The following were the town officers of 1883: Thomas J. Shear, chairman, Q, F Waterman and L. L. Tongue, supervisors; C. F. Fine, clerk; Benjamin Salts, assessor; August F. Mohs, treasurer; Williaw McGfalh, D. N. Tripp and Jusiah I

Hillsborough has always been fully up to other towns of the county in educational matters. School house after school house has been added for the convenience of the scholars of the town, until, in 1884, there were seven within the town.

District No. 1. A comfortable and commodious frame, in a very pleasant bication. Long been knowii and recignized as the "Blood school house." So named after one of the early settlers. A good attendance always, and large, especially in winter. The district lies near the county line of Juneau. Mr. Forbes, living near the school house, is an earnest friend to education. This school has done, and is yet doing good work. The people liberally support it.

DistrictNo. 2. A large frame, well furnished and in a cheerful locality, pleasantly situated among fertile farms. There is always a large attendance in the winter, and the school has been favored with some able teachers. It has been liberally patronized and supported. The people liave been abundantly able to do so.

District No. 3. Comprises Hillsborough high and graded schools. The high school has not of late years, been as fortunate as its friends desired. While the people have been liberal and the board public spirited, tlie school has not been a success. This was, in part, owing to the unwise selection of teachers of good education in each case, but of poor executive ability. Mr. Conway taught some years ago and was very successful. Others as well educated, but otl)erwise not as able, followed him. It is to be hoped that the gentlemen selected in the future, will do much toward regaining for it, its former reputation. The building is commodious and well furnished, quite a credit to the village. The higher mathematics, German and Latin have been taught and cousiilerablc advuncenicnt made.

The people deserve to have a good school. There are beside two graded schools, one an intermediate and the other a primary. Good work has been done in these schools by a succession of very faithful teachers. Mr. George Mobs, a true friend of education, is at present, the district clerk.

District No. 5 - A very neat a nd comfortable frame building near or at Trippvllle, situated on or near the road leading to Elroy, as also to Hillsborough and about seven miles from the latter place. Mr. Wyman, of Trippville, as also Mr Tripp have taken much interest in the school. The building is furnished with good maps and fairly seated. Good work has been done in this school by a succession of very ex" cellent teachers.

District No. 6 - School house about three and a half miles from Hillsborough, a fair and neat frame, quite in keeping witli the rest of the school buildings in this town and a credit to public patronage and sentiment. This building; is pleasantly situated on the highroad from Ontario to Hillsborough and has usually a good attendance.

District No. 8 - Near the former residence and hard by the farm of Mr. Roger Williams, a large frame house and on the road leading from Viroqua to Hillsborough. It is some four miles from tlie latter place, lias ample accommodations for a large attendance, and yet this district is in need of a graded school with two departments. Sixty to seventy pupils are in daily attendance through the winter, among whom are many Bohemians.

The schools of Hillsborough, with the exception of No. 8, are attended chiefly by Americans, but this district has several Bohemian families. Good work has almost always been done in this school and the people, chief among whom has been Mr. R. Williams, take an active part in school matters.

Comparative Statement

The year 1882 was in advance of former years and the increase of 1883 speaks well for the public spirit which makes the schools so successful.

United Brethren Church

In 1884 the town of Hillsborough had but two Church organizations - the Free Will Baptist, which is in the village of Hillsborough and the United Brethren, located on section 12, The former ha . been mentioned in connection with the village history. The latter de nomination was organized in February, 1859, by Rev. Mr. Carter. The members of the first class were as follows: Stewart Forbes and wife, Henry Seaman, Charles Enimonds, T. W. Allan, Mr. Sweet ami wife and Michael Keller.

The church building of this denomination was dedicated Feb. 10, 1S70, by the Rev. James Johnson, of Freeport. This edifice is situated on the land between the towns of Hillsborough and Wonowoc in Juneau county; a part of the building being in each county. The building, which is of an imposing appearance, is 36x50 feet, surmounted by a spire seventy -four feet high. The cost of this church was about S2,500. The trustees at the time of the erection of the church were: James Mutch, Benjamin B. Thompson, C. G. Thompson, Frederick Babcock, Lewis O. Galley and William Mutch. The pastor at that date was Rev. Elisha Borce.

lage of Hillsboroiigb. This, in 1884, was a pretty and well ke)it cemetery. Another is situated on the southwest quarter of section 12, in connection with the United Brethren church; this also has always received much care and attention. Tlie third cemetery is on section 14.

Trippville Postoffice

Trippville is the name of a postoffice on section 8, which was established in 1867. It was named after Dier Tripp, who has been postmaster ever since its establishment. At this point there is a store and saw-mill, both of which were built by Mr. Tripp. This place is located on what is known as the head waters of the mi<ldl(' Hillsborough branch of the Baraboo river. 'Sir ! rip]> begaii the erection of a saw mill here in 18(30, which he completed in 1862. It was at first operated by an overshot wheel, but in the s])riiig of 188-3, he made a change in I lie mill, substituting a turbine wheel, and making other changes. The capacity of the mill i> 10,000 feet per twenty-four hours. Mr. Tripp e.^ lablished his stort' in August, lS7l. He came to the town with Elisha Douglass and A. I! Cole in May, 18.t1. He made a claim on sectioi I, but while absent to earn money to pay fo the same, his claim was jumped. He the) bought land on sections 3 and 1 1, finally settled on the latter. In the fall of 18-55 he built a log house on section 8, which was still standing in 1884. Mr. Tripp was a young man at the time and kept bichelor's hall for two years and then moved to section -3 and from there to section 1 1 and a little later still moved back to the mill site.

This village, which is located on the north side of the south branch of the Baraboo river, on section :i.5, takes its name from that of the town of Hillsborough, in which it situated.

A man named Warren, made the original entry of land at this point, in October, 1854, for Albert Field. Edward Klopfleisch, of New York city, when looking for a location in the west, visited this site, and was favorably impressed, especially with the mill power afforded by the Baraboo river. He accordingly made arrangements with Albert Field for the purchase of the land, and witli Otto Hammer, became proprietor of the village plat, including the mill power. This was in the autumn of

1854. Mr. Klopfleisch, with his brother-inlaw, Sclilolmilch, at once began the erection of a saw mill. Otto Hammer, who was partner in the town site, came from Jefferson county in

In 185T, while Mr. Klopfleisch was in New York city, the attention of John Mollinger and Ambrose Armbruster was called to the importance of this point, and as the result, Mr. Armbruster returned with Mr. Klojifleisch and puichased the interest held by Mr. Schlolmilch. Mr. Mollinger also, at the same time securing an interest in the location. A small grist mill was erected, and snon became a mill of niucli importance. Mr. Armbruster brought his family here from New York city in 1861. The following vear Jacob Sallenbach took an interest in the business. In 1S65 a mill was erected which was still doingservice in 1884. In 1868 Mr. Klopfleisch retired and the company has since lieen known as the Hillsborough Mill Company, the firm beiiig composed of Ambrose Armbruster, Oito Hammer and John Mollinger. This flouring mill h.is always been an im])ortant factor in the growth and advancement of thisjiart of tiie county, and has always been noted for making an excellent grade of fliuir and also for uj riyht, honest dealing on the part of its owners. For many years it was the only mill throughout a large sco])e of country The mill building is 42x50 feet. At first there were but two run of stone, but later another run was added, and still later, another, making four in all. This mill is situated on the south bianch of the Baraboo river; its \yond contains fully a hundreil acres, and gives force to the machinery of the mill throu'cli a head of sixteen (eel.

Short sketches are here subjoined, of the three gentlemen who have so long comprised this mill company. Mr. MoUinger was the only one surviving in the autumn of 1883.

Ambrose Armbruster was born in Baden, Germany, in 1818, and came to America in 184*7 from Paris. He left Paris on account of the revolution which had broken out in France, in consequence of which' all Germans had been requested to leave that country. He was married in Paris to his present widow Caroline Steurer, born in Strasburg in 1826. Mr. Armbruster died June 8, 1883. He left three children - Emma, wife of Robert Hammer, Anna, wife of Frank Kanffmann, and Robert, the two later natives of this town.

Otto Hammer, Sr., died Aug. 6, 1883. He was born at Altonburg, Saxony, April 10, 1816. He came to America early in the year 1846; lived two years in New York city and came to Wisconsin in 1848 and to Hillsborough, as stated, in 1855. He was married in New York city to Eliza Belton. They have had six children, three sons and three daughters; five of them-Otto, Josephine, Robert, Eddie and Minnie-are now living at or near Hillsborough, and one, Mrs. O. B. Wyman, at Viroqua. Mr. Hammer, was a cabinet maker by trade and a skillful workman. He pursued his occupation in several of the capital cities of Europe, including Berlin and Paris. He came to New York from the latter city.

John MoUinger was born in the city of Kaiserslautern, on the Rhine, in the province of Bavaria, in 1813. Like the other members of the firm, he came to New York from Paris in 1845. He worked eighteen years at his trade in New York city before coming here in 1865.

In July, 1883, Barney & Bailey, who had the use of Albert Field's money, put in operation a fine steam saw mill, together with various kinds of wood working machinery. This mill is located at the upper end of the mill pond of the flouring mills of the Hillsborough Milling Company. It js propelled by a forty horse power engine. This mill does a large business in sawing to order, railroad timl)er, wagon and plow material and steamed, bent sleigh runners and wagon hounds.

Business Interests

The first store was opened in 1855, by Charles Landrum, in a log building used for this purpose and also for a residence. Mr. Landrum soon after look in as liis partner Daniel Busbee, who continued a member of the firm but a short time, after wliich he removed to the town Greenwood, and later to the village of Ave-, lanche, where lie engaged in the milling business.

Charles Landrum built the store now occupied by Charles Lind, in 1857. A number of years later he erected the store afterward used by Roger Williams, also the dwelling house adjoining, both of which are now owned by his widow.

The first school in the village was taught by >Sobrina Burwell, in the summer of 1855. This school was held in the log dwelling house of Otto Hammer ; the family of 3Ir. Hammer living in the house at the time. This was the first house erected in the village.

Tlie hotels of 1884 were the Kuersten House and the American House. Tlie former was built by Albert Kuersten, who died before its completion, and it was finally finished by his widow, who became the wife of John Phair. This is a log and frame structure, well built and cost about 83,000.

The Hdlsborough postoflice was established in 1855. The first postmaster was Morgan Hansbury, who was succeeded -by Charles Landrum, and he by Thomas J. Shear, who was still holding the office in 1884. This became a money order office in 1869. The first order was drawn by J. W. Leverett ; amount $5. The first order was paid to N. D. Beebe, of Warren, 111. There were 14,6-30 orders drawn from this office from the time it became a money office in 1869, to Sept. 4, 18S.3, a period of a little more than fourteen years.

The first physician of Hillsborough and vicinity, was Dr. Winslow. Other physicians have been here: Dr. Meritt, Dr. Smith, Dr. J. R. Riindlelt, who was a graduate of Rush Medical College, Chicago, practiced here about ten years and left in the fall of 1880. He is now at Augusta, in Eau Clairo county ; Dr. B. B. Numan graduated at Keokuk ; practiced here a short time and is now located in the town of Forest. Tlie present physicians are Dr. Francis Pinch and Dr. C. II. Morris.

This village is tributary to a large tract of country ; it has had a gradual, healthful growth and is an excellent trading point. The merchants and other business men are doing a thriving business. A number of fire business houses were erected in 1881 or 1882. The business of tiie place in 1884 was in the hands of the following : A. Winslow & Son and Richard N. Pinch, druggists; Shear & Mitcher, Charles L. Lind and Charles Ludwig, general dealers ; Charles F. Hyde and F. Fine, grocers;

M. E. Crary, boots and shoes ; A. Mitcher, furniture; Roger Williams, grocery and restaurant ; R. Hammer, hardware ; George C hapman, harness maker ; John P. Phair, proprietor of the Kuresten Hotel ; Benjamin Salts, proprietor of the American House ; Fred Schnell, brewery ; Kaufman & Fincher, wagon makers and blacksmiths.

The Free Will Baptist Church was organized Feb. 28, 1869, by Rev. O. W. Smith, of Mendota, 111. Those who joined the first class were : Joel W. Parker and wife, Albert Field and wife, E. D. Douglass and wife, James W. Leverett and wife, Mary E. Parker, James W. Parker, Mrs. Vienna Winslow, Mrs. Emily Carr and Mrs. Sarah Mitchell.

Rev. O. W. Smith preached for the society a few weeks and was succeeded by Rev. Isaac Jackson and his wife, the Rev. Mary Jackson, both of whom officiated till July, 1871, when Rev. Jeremiah Phillips became )]astor, and remained for two years. After this Rev. J. H. Daniels, a minister of the Church of the Disciples, preached for the congregation for some time. Among other ministers who have supplied this Church were : Rev. F. M. Washburn, who was principal of the schools at Elroy ; Rev. Robert CoUey was pastor for a few months, and perhaps others whose names have not appeared.

Rebekah Lodge, No. 113, of Hillsborough, was organized Nov 2e, 1882, by Van S. Bennett, grand master. '; he following constituted the charter membership : Mr. and Mrs. L. L. Tongue, Mr. and Mrs. T. J. Shear, Mr. and Mrs. Roger VVilliams, Mr. and Mrs C. J. Lind, Mr. and Mrs. H. F. Myers.

The first officers of this lodge were : Mrs. L. L. Tongue, N. G. ; Miss Helen Shear, V. G. ; Mrs. J. B. Fox, secretary ; R. Williams, treasurer. In 188 4 this lodge was in a very flourishing condition and numbered thirty-one members.

Biographical

Among those who have been instrumental in clearing up the timbered land of this town and improving the many farms within its limits, together with those who have combined to increase the manufacturing and business indus- ' tries are the following named citizens:

Mrs. Sarah A. Couper, of Hillsborough, is the widow of James C. Couper, one of the earlier settlers of Vernon county. Mr. Couper was boin in Yorkshire, England, March 1, 1821. He came to New York when a young man, where lie was married to his present widow, Sarah Ann Scuts. They came west to Dodge Co., Wis., soon after they were married; thence to Marquette county. They came to Vernon county and located in the town of Union in 1850, being one of the first families in that town. Mr. Couper took up a farm of government land which he improved. He was a man of some education and in early life was very fond of huntingand this part of Vernon county afforded ample opportunity lor sport of that kind. He accumulated considerable property and died Feb. IV, 1883. Mrs. Couper was born March 4, 1828. She has one daughter, Mary Ann, wife of George II. Blackburn, of the town of Union.

Co., N. Y., in 1822, and lived there till thirteen years of age. He then accompanied his parents to Pennsylvania and was there married to Mary J. Kerr. In 1847 he removed to Baraboo, Wis., and four years later to his present farm. In 1861 he enlisted in the 16th regiment, Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, and was severely injured at the battle of Shiloh, necessitating his discharge shortly after. Mr. Douglass lost his first wife Feb. 14, 1872. His present wife was Mrs. Anna M. Edwards, widow of Elias Edwards. Ten children were born to the first union, five sons and five daughters. Mrs. Douglass had three children by her former husband.

Dier N. Tripp is proprietor of what is known as Trippville in the town where he has been merchant, postmaster and mill owner for many years. He was born in the town of Nassau, Renssalaer Co., N. Y., April 27, 1836. He is a son of Gideon Tripp, who removed with his family to Michigan in 1837. Mr. Tripp came to Vernon county about the 10th of May, 1851. At that time he only had ten cents which he gave away and commenced work at nine dollars per month to earn himself a home and has been a resident of Hillsborough town since that date. On the 8th of December, 1856, he married Sally L. Hammond, a native of Allegany Co., N. Y., and daughter of Charles C. Hammond, also a native of New York, who removed his family lo Juneau Co., Wis. Mr. Tripp built the mill in the years 1861 and 1862 and commenced in the mercantile business in August, 1871. On the 14th day of November, 1871, his mill burned - a loss of at least $3,000 - with no insurance, and in fifty-five working days lie rebuilt and started the mill in better sliape than it was before it burnt. At the date of Nov. 15, 1883, he is quite certain he is the oldest resi- dent in what is known as the "L" of Vernon county. Mr. and Airs. Tripp have four children - Gideon, who married Ann Crary; Nancy L., wife of Erastus Mitchell, Jr.; Alice and Grace.

History Of Vernon Countv

Albeit FieM is one ol' the pioueers of Vernon county, and one of the very earliest settlers of the town of Hillsborough. He was born ill the town of Falmouth, Cumberland Co., Maine, Aug. 15, 1821. He is a son of Bracket Field, who was born in the same town and lived there all his life. Mr. Field was reared on a farm, married Angelina Hall Ajjril 10, la-to, and ill the fall of 1851 went with their only child, Marietta, aged eigliteen mouths, to Sauk Co., Wis The following February, 185:?, he came to Vernon county and entered the northwest quarter of section 35, in town 14 north, range 1 east, where he still resides. He now owns about 2,000 acres of land in this and adjoining towns, and is extensively engaged in farming and dealing in hard wood timber and stock raising. Mr. and Mrs. Field have hail five children, three of whom are living. Their only son, Walter, is an attorney-at-law at Viroqua. Their two daughters are: Marietta, wife of ].. B. T. Winslow, and Ella L. Mr. and Mrs. Field are members of the Free Will Baptist Church.

James Mutch is the elder of five brothers who were early settlers in the town of Hillsborough - John, Robert, William and Alexander are the other four. The first three are still residents of the town. James Mulch was liorn in Scotland, in 1S20, and in 1850, with Ids brother William, emigrated to Ohio. In 1853, William came to Wisconsin to look for land for the two. While he was in this State, James returned to Scotland, and was there married to Jane Tough. William had bought a farm of a man named Fritchie, in the town of Hillsborough, Vernon county, and in 1854, James and wife came direct to the new purchase. William lived with his brother and family for several years, and then purchased 320 acres of land on sections 1 and 12, which, with some subsequent additions, comprises the farms of the tw o brothers. James Mulch is a man highly esteemed in the coinmunily in which he lives. He is liberal in his support of Churches and schools, and, although not a member of that body, assisted most liberally in erecting tlie United Brethern church of the village, and in supporting it. Mr. Mutch and wife have two children - William and Clarence. William, the other brother, married Harriet Bennett, and nine children have been sent to bless their union. He is also a prominent and well known citizen of Hillsborough town, and at present is on a visit to his native land - "Bonnie Scotland."

Henry Haflich was one of the pioneers of 1855. He was born in Perry township. Union Co., Penn., Nov. 7, 1818. His parents were Jacob and Elizabeth (Yeller) Haflich, both natives of Pennsylvania. They removed to Ohio about 1824, and settled in Stark county, where they remained a few years, then removed to Richland county, in the same State, where they have died since Henry has been a resident of Vernon county. Mr. Haliich was married in Richland Co., Ohio, to Mary B. Miller, a native of England. In 1855, he came to Vernon county, and entered land on section 32, of this town, where he has since resided. This land was covered with a heavy growth of timber, and the home of wild animals. Mr. Haflich in his early life remembers of killing ten bear and over one hundred deer. His priiKiipal meat for years was wild game. He worked earnestly and sturdily for several years to clear his land, and now rejoices in the possession of one of the iiiiest farms in the town, well supplied with good farm buildings. Mr. and Mrs. Haflich are ihe parents of four children - Elizabeth ^I. born in Sauk county, Sept. 9, 1851; Sarah J. born in Sauk county, Aug. 2, 1853; Jacob Z. born in Vernon county, Oct. 14, 185"; Alice A. born in Vernon county, July 1 9, 1859.

George Lacy is a well known farmer, residing on section 3. His father E. Urial Lacy, was born in Ohio, Jan. 1, 1794. He was reared in his native State, and was there married. About 1844, he emigrated to Dane Co., Wis., and there bought and improved a farm. In 1846, he lost his wife, and ten years later came to Vernon county. He purchased a farm of Abner Dayton, who had entered the land from 'the government. This farm is now owned by his son George, who came into possession in 1865. Mr. Lacy died on this farm March 19, 1867, aged seventy-three years. Ten of his children reached maturity - Esther, Henry, Cynthia, Emily, ('larissa, Laura, Martha, Harrison, George and Orlin. George, the ninth child and third son of this large family, was born in Loraine Co., Ohio, in 1 842. He was but a 8m.all child when his parents removed to Dane Co., Wis., and in 1862, he enlisted from there in company A, 23d regiment, Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry. He served till the close of the fratricidal struggle, and was present at the following engagements: Chickasaw Bayou, Miss., Arkansas Post, Ark., Cypress Bend, Greenville, Port Gibson, Champion Hills, Black River Bridge, siege and capture of Vicksburg, siege of Spanish Fort and Fort Blakely. Since the war, he has been engaged in farming. Mr. Lacy married Frances Conley, and they have two children - Mary L. M. and Enno H.

Carl Ludwig came to Hillsborough as early as 1854 and located permanently the following year. At the same time came William Link and Julius Hohfeldt. Mr. Ludwig made a claim in Mr. Links name of 160 acres on section 36 and this land was divided between the two, Mr. Ludwig receiving one hundred acres and Mr. Link sixty acres. Mr. Ludwig was born in Muhlhausen Thueriengen, Germany, in 1831, and came to the United States in 1851. He first stopped in Ohio and went from there to Dane Co., Wis., where he remained two years previous to coming to Vernon county. He first engaged in farming but in 1858 commenced the manufacture of beer in a small log building. He afterward erected the present brewery and conliiiued the business until 1874, when he sold to the present proprietor. He engaged in the mercantile trade in 1876 and has since continued in that business. Mr. Ludwig was married in Dane Co., Wis., to Rosina Schuman, a native of Germany. Mr. and Mrs. Ludwig are the parents of twelve children, nine of whom are living - one son and eight daughters.

Erastus Mitchell resides on the old homestead on section 83, where his father, Royal Mitchell, located in 1855, purchasing his land of the government. Royal Mitchell was a pioneer settler of Hillsborough town and well known to all the early inhabitants. He was born in New York Oct. 14, 1805, and was there reared to manhood. He married Susan Shear and subsequently removed to Michigan, locating near Jackson. He returned to New York, and after stopping a while in Erie county, came to Dane Co., Wis, in 1852 and in 1855 to Vernon county. Mrs. Mitchell died Sept. 13, 1873, and her husband followed her over the dark river on March 20, 1874. They were the parents of two children - Erastus and Ruth Ann. Erastus was born in Erie Co., N. Y., March 16, 1836, and now resides on the home farm of 120 acres. He married Amanda Betts, a native of New Vork. They have four children - Harriet A., born in 1860, Erastus, Jr., born in 1865, Susan S., born in 1871, and Julia, born in 1876. Mr. and Mrs. Mitchell, are members of the Free Will Baptist Church. Mrs. Mitchell's father, Charles G. Betts, came from Dane county to Vernon county with his family in 1856. He located on a government claim on section 10, of this town, where he lived till his death in September, 1866. He was a native of New York. His wife still survives and resides on the old homestead.

William F. Salts resides on section 24, wliere he owns sixty acres and also owns eighty acres just south of the home farm on section 25. Mr. Salts is a son of William Salts, who was born in Duchess Co., N. Y., in 1 790, and when three years of age removed to Columbia county, in the same State, with his parents. He there married Reliance Ticknor, a native of Massachusetts. They removed to Erie Co., N. Y., in 1829, where Mrs. Salts died Aug, 15, 1844. In

1854 he removed to Jeffeisou Co., Wis. Mr. Salts then resided with his children until his death. He was the father of ten children, eight of whom are living - Mary J., widowed wife of Q. A. Shout, who died in Hillsborough in I 874; Angeline, twice married, first husband Levi Cooper, present husband Irving Thompson, of C'liijipewaCc, Wis.; William F., Benjamin, Milan P., Hannah, wife of Thomas Knowles, Julia, wife of Henry Brooks, and Elijah, a resident of of Chippewa Co., Wis. William F. Salts was born in Columbia Co., N. Y., March 14, 1823. He married Hannah Phillips, who died Feb. 4, 1862. His present wife was Hannah Bower, a native of Germany. Of the eight children born to the first union, only three are living. Mr. Salts came to Vernon county in the spring of

Isaac Shear resides on section 13, where he settled in 1855. Mr. Shear is one of the several brothers of that name, early settlers of this town. He was born in Erie Co., N. Y., in May, 1823; married Eunice Kibbie, also a native of that State. Mr. Shear's farm contains eighty acres, forty of which he bought of the government. Mr and Mrs. Shear have four children - Isaac, George, Lafayette and Mary Jane. Mr. Shear came from Jefferson county, this State, to Vernon county.

L. B. T. Winslow, of Ilillsboroiigli village, is a son of Aaron Winslow, the first regular physician in Vernon county. Dr. Winslow was born at Falmouth, Maine, Jan. 31, 1810. He was of English descent and a lineal descendant of Edward Winslow, the first governor of Plymoutli colony, whose inhabitants landed at Plymouth Rock from the good Mayfover, in 1621. Dr. Winslow graduated from the medical department of Bowdoin College in 1839, and was first located for i)ractice in New Orleans, and subsequently in Alabama. lie was a strong abolitionist, and never hesitated to express his sentiments when called upon to do 80. Such a course naturally led to many petty and trifling annoyances, and the doctor accordingly returned to Maine. He resided at Monmouth six years and at Brunswick (both in Maine), a longer period. In 1849 he went to California, two years later returned to Maine, and in 1853 went westward to Illinois. In 1855 be came to Vernon Co., Wis., and located in the town of Greenwood, and improved a farm. He was probably the only regular physician in Vernon county for a number of years. In 1872 he established himself in the drug trade at Hillsborough village, and was succeeded by his son,Loring B. T., in 1876. He died March 28, 1883. Politically, Dr. Winslow was a whig and subsequently a republican, casting his last two votes at the general election for prohibition. He was a careful observer, a good talker, and frank and open on all questions. He was not a member of any religious denomination, but a firm believer in the Bible, as the revealed will of God. Dr. Winslow was married in 1839 to Vienna True, also a native of Maine. At his death he left a widow and three children - Frances, wife of Adolpbus P. Mallow; Edwin M., in Winnebago, 111., and L. B. T. This latter son was born at Monmouth, Maine, as were the other children. On Jan. 1, 1864, he enlisted in company I, 6th regiment, Wisconsin Infantry, and participated in many serious engagements, witnessing the final surrender of Lee at Appomattox. After the war he returned home, and engaged in farming on the old homestead in the town of Greenwood. Mr. Winslow was married in 1870 to Marietta, diiughter of Albert Field, of Hillsborough. Of their four children three are living - Edwin, Vienna and Ella Z. The eldest son, Albert, is dead.

Charles G. Betts resides on section 16. He is the son of Charles G. Betts, Sr., who settled government land on section 10, in 1856. Charles G. Betts, Sr., was a native of New York, and came witii his family to the cistern jiait of Wisconsin several years previous to his settlement in Vernon county. He resided till his decease on the farm where he settled. His deatli occurred in September, 1866. The maiden name of his wife was Samantha Dorleska Roza. She still occupies the homestead farm. Charles G. Betts, Jr., was born in Cortland Co., N. Y., in 1839. His wife was Mary Cornell. They have four children.

Patrick Maddin is one of the early settlers of Hillsborough. He settled on section .34, April 18, 18,i6, where he still lives. He purchased his farm, 160 acres, of the government. Mr. Maddin was born in county Galway, Ireland, Nov. 19, 1820. He came to the United States when thirteen years of age. His father, John Maddin, died in Ireland. Mr. Maddin made several trips between this country and Europe before making his location here. Before coming to Wisconsin he lived several years in the eastern States; thence to Ohio, where he lived eight years and a half. He married .Mary Holly, a native of Ireland. They have seven children living, and two deceased. Mr. Maddin's farm was originally heavily timbered, iiid it required many years of constant work to clear up and improve the excellent farm that Mr. JMaddin now possesses. When he settled here m the wilderness, bear, deer and other wild game were abundant, and many are the storiis he can tell of his e.xperience with these wild beasts of the forest. Now all these have passed away and given place to cultivated farms and a dense population.

Augustus Mohs has been a resident of Vern on county since 1856. He was born in Aiiha't, Germany, in IS'28, and came to the United States in 1852. He lived two years in New York and then spent a like period in Milwaukee and Madison, Wis. In 1856 he came to Hillsborough and worked for the mill company for two years. In 1858 he bought a farm in the town of Forest, and after farming for several years returned to Hillsborough in 1865 and engaged in the saloon business. He sold out in 186*7 and was a farmer in the town of Greenwood until 1874. Of late years he has been engaged in mercantile pursuits. Mr. Mohs was married in 1874 to Mrs. Sophia (Busse) Lind, widowed wife of C. L. Lind. They have two children - Ida and Freddie. Mrs. Mohs had four children by her former marriage.

Milan Salts resides on section 25, on a farm which he entered in 1856. He was born in Columbia Co., N. Y., in April, 1827; came to Jefferson Co., Wis., in the spring of 1845, but returned the following year to New York. He married Janet Mitchell, a daughter of Knowlton Mitchell, who settled in Vernon county in the spring of 1856. Mr. and Mrs. Salts have ten children, six sons and four daughters. His farm contains 120 acres. Mr. Salts went overland to California from New York in 1852; was aljsent two and one half years.

Henry, son of Jacob and Augusta Lind, pioneers of Vernon county, was born in Germany in 1834. He attended school there until fourteen years of age, when he engaged in teaming in West Baden, Germany. At seventeen yeais of age he, in company with his parents, left his native land and came to America. They landed at New York city and came directly to Wisconsin, settling in Washington county. He was there married in February, 1857, to Mary Coe, born in Steuben Co., N. Y. In June following he came to Vernon county and purchased timber land, on section 12, town 13, range 1 east, and commenced to improve a farm. He has built a good log house, to which he has made a frame addition. In 1882 he built a frame barn, 30x40 feet, with a stone basement. Mr. and Mrs. Lind have five children - Lorinda, Matilda, Ida, Arlliur and Charles.

Hon. Thomas J. Shear is one of the prominent merchants of Hillsborough village. He was born in Erie Co., N. Y , in 1836. His education was obtained in the cominon schools and later at the Springville Academy. When about eighteen years of age he engaged in teaching school and came to Vernon counly in the spring of 1858 and located permanently in Hillsborough in the spring of 1859. He taught the village school for several winter terms and finally bought a farm on section 24. On Feb. 2.3, 1865, he enlisted in the 47th regiment, Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, but ill health prevented him from doing active service. In the summerof 1865 he was clerk of a military court in the State of Tennessee. In 1867 he -ivas elected to the position of superintendent of schools of Vernon coun ty, and served two years. On Oct. 1, 1870, Mr. Shear engaged in mercantile trade in the village of Hillsborough, and the present firm of Shear & Mitcher was formed in September, 1882. Mr. Shear has been postmaster of the village since 1871, and was town clerk for many years. He is the present chairman of the town board. Mr. Shear was elected to the Wisconsin House of Representatives in'the fall of 1881, and served one term. Mr. Shear married Emergene Woodbury, also a native of New York They have four children - Helen, Myrtie, Wesley and Byron, the three latter natives of Wisconsin. Mr. Shear's father died in New York and his mother made her home with her son until her death.

Charles Beal was born April 7, 1823, in Ichalshara parish, county Sussex, England. He came to America when eighteen years of age and settled at Oneida Co., N. Y. He there engaged in farming and tanning. Charlotte Buss came o.ver the same year from England and settled in Waterville, Oneida Co., N. Y. Charlotte Buss was married to Charles Beal in New York State, Oneida Co., in November, 1846. The family consists of four daughters, two eldest daughters deceased; the two living are: Charlotte, the wife of Charles Fowler, and Adelaide. John Beal, the father of Charles Beal, came to Utica, N. Y., in 1848. He married his last wife when he was eighty years of age, and died in Utica, N. Y., when he was ninety years old. Charles Beal came to Wisconsin in 1851, locating in Dodge Co., afterwards in Sauk county. In 1859 he came to the town of Hillsborough, Vernon Co., Wis., and located on section 3, where he now resides, and owns eighty acres of land. He purchased his farm of Thomas Linden in 1859. Charles Beal enlisted in the 49th regiment, Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, and served till the close of the war.

Peter Shear is one of several brothers who are among the earlier settlers of this town. He came here in 185S, and engaged witii his brothers in the manufactui'e of baskets at Hillsborough. His father, Isaac Shear, was a native of Pennsylvania. Mr. Shear has been twice married; his first wife, Ellen Warner, died in New York. He has six children, three sons and three daughters.

Carlos F. Waterman resides on section 2. His settlement dates from the year 1859 He was born in Windsor Co., Vt., in 1826, where he lived till twenty-five years of age, when he went to Dane Co., Wis., and located at Stoughton and engaged in farming. He came here as stated in 1859; bought forty acres of his farm of II. Seaman, and eighty acres of ^Marshall Southwick. He resides on the eighty acres. He was married in Vermont, to Maria Everett. His father, John Waterman, died when his son was but one year old. His mother, Melinda (Knapp) Waterman, died a year later. Mr. Waterman is the only member of his father's family who settled in \\'rnon county. His parents had nine children, seven of whom settled in Wisconsin. Mr. and Mrs. Waterman have two children - Ida, wife of Elliott Wyman, and Fred, at home. The children were born in Dane Co., Wis. Mr. Waterman's present farm contains 100 acres.

John Wesley Allen settled in the town of Hillsborough, on section 28, in ISGO. He located on section 14, in 1877, on a farm which he bought of John M. Bennett. Ho died Aug. 31, 1881. Mr. Allen was born \n Herkimer Co., N. Y., January, 1819. He was n anil in his native State ; married Lavina I5oyer, who was I born in the same county. They came to Jeffer- son Co., Wis., where they resided several years before settling in Vernon county. Mr. Allen was one of the well known citizens of Vernon county. He occupied the office of county treasurer two terras. His widow still resides at the homestead. Mr. and Mrs. Allen had thirteen children, three sons and ten daughters; nine of the children are still living. Their two sons, Thomas J. and Ethan A. reside on the old homestead. The former was born in Jefferson Co., N. Y., in 1850 ; married Alice Sheldon, daughter of George W. Sheldon, of this county. They have one son - Clyde. Ethan A. was born in the town of Hillsborough, in 1864. The homestead farm now owned by Thomas J. and Ethan A. contains 185 acres.

William Conway has lived in Hillsborough town for about nineteen years. He was born in county Tipperary, Ireland, in March, 1810, and emigrated to the United States in 1843. In 1861 he came to Vernon county and purchased his present farm of William P. Frost, who occupied the farm for several years, and made some improvements. This farm lies on section 34. Mr. Conway married Johanna Gorman, and they have had eight children. Of these, only four are living - Patrick, who resides on a farm adjoining his father, John G., who has admirably fitted himself for a professional career, Ellen and Mary. The deceased children died in infancy.

David Johnson resides on section 25 in the town of Hillsborough, where he settled in January, 1865. This land was entered by Joseph Kimball who left it to his son, Daniel, and he sold it to J. F. Teeter, from whom Mr. Johnson purchased. He now owns a well improved farm with good buildings. David Johnson was born in Erie Co., N. Y., in 1818, and lived there till he came to Vernon county. His father was Kendall Johnson, a native of Massachusetts, and a descendent of the Puritan Pilgrims, of 1620, but he never lived in Vernon county. David Johnson married Nancy Quinn, a native of Ireland, of the county of Antrim, and eight children have been given them, all having been born in Erie Co., N. Y. - Mary, (who died at the age of fourteen years) John Q., Luther, Sarah, Charles A., a teacher by profession, who received an academic education at Elroy, Wis., and is now teaching in Chippewa Co., Wis., William V., Alice A., and Andrew L., who have all grown up to manhood and womanhood.

Hon. Roger Williams is proprietor of the restaurant at Hillsborough village. He was born at Oswego, Oswego Co., N. Y., Jan. 21, 1836, and is a son of Watfson Williams. When fourteen years of age he shipped on board a merchantman, and took a two years cruise. He subsequently followed the lakes for some years, and for three years previous to the war, was engaged in the groceiy trade. When the civil war commenced, he enlisted"in the 110th regiment. New York Volunteer Infantry, and served about eighteen months. He was discharged from the Marine hospital, at New Orleans, on account of disability. In August, 1865, he came to Hillsborough town and purchased a partially improved farm on section 29, where he settled the following October. He still owns this farm of 120 acres, seventy-five acres of which are under cultivation. In the spring of 1883, Mr. Williams removed into the village, and engaged in his present business. Mr. Williams was married, before the war, to Ellen M., daughter of Philand Madison, who settled in this towii about 1863, but is now deceased. They have two children - Ella R. and George A. Mr. Williams has served as clerk of his school district; was chairman of the town board, for ten years, and in the fall of 1879, was elected to the State Legislature from this district.

Fred Sohnell is the owner of the Hillsborough brewery. He was born in Germany, in 1^49, and in 1866, came to the United States, and here learned the brewing trade. He came to Vernon county in 1866, and in 1873, bought of Carl Ludwig, his present brewery, and has since conducted the business. He has also en- gaged in the manufacture of brick since 1877. The main building of the brewery is a stone basement with frame superstructure, about 35x40 feet in size. An addition is of frame 20x40 feet in size. The dimensions of the ice house are 24x32 feet. The brewery has a capacity of 1500 barrels annually, and in 1882, Mr. Schnell manufactured 1300 barrels.

Francis I. Pincli, physician and surgeon, located in the town of Hillsborough, in November, 1880. He was born at Springvale, Fond du Lac Co., Wis., in 1855, and in early life attended the common schools. He subsequently entered Ripon College, where he obtained a good classical education. He commenced the study of medicine at Ripon, in 1877, with Dr. F. Conger as his preceptor, and was graduated from the Rush Medical College, of Chicago, in the spring of 1880. Dr. Pinch is a young man of promise, and during his three years residence here has gained the esteem and respect of the community, and a comfortable practice, both of which are essential to success.

C. II. Morris, physician and surgeon, located in the village of Hillsborough, in January, 1883. Dr. Morris is a native of Rush Co., Ind., and commenced the study of medicine in 1875. He graduated after a two years course at the Medical College of Indiana, in 1880. After two years of practice in Indiana, he came to this State. Dr. Morris is a man of fine education and well versed in the profession which he has made a life work. He has made many friends in his new home, and is rapidly building up a large and substantial practice.