Jefferson Town

Jefferson Town

Jefferson is located in range 5, and embraces congressional town 13, and twelve sections of town 12, and therefore has an area of about 30,720 acres. Coon town is on its north border, Viroqua and Franklin towns on its east, Franklin and Sterling towns on its south, and Harmony and Sterling towns on its western border. One branch of the Bad Ax river takes its rise in the northern part of this town. There is perhaps more than the average amount of farm land in this town. The soil is of the very best in the county, and great care has been taken by the settlers to cultivate their lands in a proper manner and as a direct result, the town has more well tilled, highly improved farms than almost any other town within the county. There are many very large beautifully designed farm houses throughout this town, a large number of which are surrounded by large thrifty pine trees, the dark green foliage of which is a perpetual beauty, which is even increased in mid-winter, when the common forest trees are leafless.

Eaely Sbttleks

The first settlement of this town was made by John Graham, in July, 1846, who, in company with his three sons, Thomas, Baker and Lamech settled on section 23, town 13, range 5. They moved from Mercer Co., 111., with four yoke of oxen. They left Illinois in the month of April and came as tar as Grant county, this State, where the family halted, while Mr. Graham and Jefferson De Freese came on to Vernon county in search of lands suitable to make homes. At that date the only settlers in Vernon county were Messrs. Rice and McCollough. They found lands adapted to their wants and soon returned to Grant county for the family, and were soon settled, after a fashion, in their new frontier home. Mr. Graham and his sons erected a rude log cabin and resided there " monarchs of all they surveyed," until that fall, when they were joined by William McMichael and family. Mis. McMichael was a daughter of John Gratiam. Mr. Graham was born in Virginia, and with his parents moved to Ohio, where he learned the trade of millwright. He married a Miss Lyons, who died leaving four children, two sons and two daughters. He subsequently married Miss Reasoner and moved to Grant Co., Ind., where he built a mill and operated it till 184C, when he removed to Illinois. His wife died, leaving him nine children to care for. Six of these children were living in 1884 - '-aker, Lamech, Mary, Jefferson, Casandrew and Vallie. After coming to Vernon county, Mr. Graham married Mrs. Mary Crawford, whose maiden name was McMichael. By this union there were two children. Mr. Graham erected the first mill in Vernon county ; he also laid out the village of Springville. He died in 1862.

The following are the names of those who settled in the town previous to 1850 : John Graham and his sons Lamech, Thomas ;\nil Baker, who came in July, 1846 ; William Mc- Michael, Isaac Spencer, Edmond Strong, Charles Waters, Isaac Waters, Henry Waters, William Spencer, Edward Cox, Daniel Cox,

The Waters family, who came in 1858 or 1859, were the children of Isaac and Abigal (Clark) Waters, natives of Connecticut, who reared eight children, four sons and one daughter of whom were pioneers of Vernon county. 1"he first to come was Charles, who came on at the same tim e William Spencer did and finally married his daughter - Mary J. Charles followed farming and the nursury business in the town (if Jefferson for many years, but finally inovcil to Grant county and later to Iowa.

Henry Waters came previous to 1850. He farmed and run a store at Springville for a time; but in 1884 was living at Fort Kearney, Neb. Isaac Waters, who was an unmarried man at the time of his coming to the county, soon after married Martha Price. He remained about ten years and moved to Minnesota.

In 1855 William Smith became a resident of the town of Jefferson and in the fall of the same year became associated with Seth Hamilton in the blacksmithing business. In the spring of 1856 Mr. Smith went on the Mississippi river to work, spending two years there. He then moved to La Crosse, where he lived till 1860 and then returned to Springville and resumed work at his trade, continuing until 1875, since whicli time lie has given hisattention to farming. He came west in 1855 by railroad as far as Madison, this State, and soon after wended his way overland to Vernon county, where his brother, I. \V. Sinith, had previously located. In 1859 he married Louise Kowe, who bore bim eight children, seven of whom arc

Among other settlers of an early date was Nathan J. Slack, who settled on section 30, town 12, range 5, in 1858. He first located at Liberty Pole in 1856. In 1884 he was ccunted among the wealthiest farmers of the town, owning 440 acres of well improved farm lands in this town and 240 acres on the Bad Ax. His wife was Adeline Rogers, daughter of Hiram Rogers She was born in New York, in 1836. They have two children - Carrie and Charles. John Flick and family, who were quite early settlers, lived near where Lamech Graham afterward lived. They remained where they first settled till the time of his death, Christmas day, 1865. His rcmainslie buried on the hill just north of the Eureka Mills. Mr. Flick followed farming and stone quarrying; also burned lime. In 1884 the family were scattered, some in one State, some in another. The widow was then living in Minnesota.

First Things

The first occurrences in the settlement of a country are ever of interest to the reader of local history; and below is a record of many of the first events which transpired in the town of Jefferson:

The first death in the town, also in the county, was William Lewis McMichael, son of William and Eleanor McMichael. This occurred in 1846. His remains were first buried east of Viroqua, but later were removed to Springville cemetery.

The next death was Thomas, son of John Graham, who died in the winter of 1847-8, and was the first body interred in the Springville cemetery.

William Smith burned tlie first stone coal used in the town, in I860. It was purchased in Milwaukee and used in his blacksmith shop. Before this date charcoal had been exclusively used for iron work.

Organic

This town was organized in 1855, and was named in honor of Thomas Jefferson. The early records are very incomplete, and the only facts relating to its early history is that the first supervisors were: Isaac Spencer, Charles Waters and James Marker; and X. W. Saxton, town clerk.

In 1884 the town of Jefferson had two postoffices within its borders. The first postoffice established in the town was at Springville, in 1849. The mail was received from Prairie du Chien twice a week. Edmond Strang was the first postmaster. Among the postmasters have been: James Savage and P. Buflfler. The latter was serving in 1883.

The first postmaster of Esofea postoffice was Edwin Larson. This office continued only a few years. In 1870 it was again established and M. Rentz made postmaster. He in time was succeeded by A. K. Strand, and he by Nels Johnson, who was followed by Christian Schriven.

The first goods sold at or neir this postoffice were by Edwin Larson, who, after two years, was followed by A. K. Strand, who engaged in trade about 1873, and continued till 1880, when he was succeeded by Christian Schriven. In 1884

Educational

Educational matters in the town of Jefferson have ever been watched and cared for, even from the early pioneer days, with the greatest prudence and wisdom. None but the best teachers have been engaged to teach the schools. In 1884 the town contained six districts proper and four joint districts, each of which were provided with a fair school building.

Religious Organizations

The first heralds of the Cross in this vicinity were from the Methodist Episcopal denomination. The first services were held in 1 850, by Rev. Perdun, at the house of Isaac Spencer.

The United Brethren organized a society in 1859, at which date Rev. Mr. Smith officiated as preacher. Among the first member were : L. J. Wood and wife, J, livown and wife, Sapj-

The Advent Christian Church was organized in the summer of 1869. Services were lield at the Springville school house, where Rev. Higgins preached at intervals, until 1879, when Rev. George Turner came to Springville and organized a Church consisting of the following members: Catharine Hamilton, Daniel Favors, Aurilla Morse, William Morse, A. Van Dyke, Rebecca Van Celestia Chandler, Cassie Wills, James Brooks and Jennie Savage. Rev. Turner was succeeded by Peter W. Hough during whose stay in 1871, the society erected their church edifice, which cost $1200. Following Rev. Peter W. Hough, came Rev. Job Brown, who was followed by Charles A. Slocum, who served the Church till 1883, at which time they had a membership of about forty. They have always supported a live Sunday school, which has been regularly and largely attended.

Among the earliest Congregationalist ministers of Vernon county was Rev. L. L. Ratcliff. who preached at various places throughout the county in 1864.

The first mill built in the town was erected in 1848, by John Graham. This mill was located on section 23, and was operated by water power from Bad Ax river. It was 24x30 feet square and three stories high ; it was provided with two run of buhrs. It was run by Mr. Graham and his sons, for six or seven years, when they took it down and built a new one about a hundred yards down the stream. This mill was built by John Graham and his son Lameh, and was a very good mill. It was 40x40 feet square, tliree stories in height, and contained three run of stone.

and was operated by them till 1878, when John S. Dixson was made a member of the company. This mill was 40x40 feet, built of stone and cost ^9,000. In 1881 this mill was destroyed by fire, when it was rebuilt, this time being run by steam power.

Ira Wissell erected a grist mill in 1855, on the southwest quarter of section 9, town 12, range 5. He soon sold out ; but the mill was run by other parties for about ten years, when the machinery was removed elsewhere.

Another saw mill was put in operation at a very early day, probably about 1852, by Daniel Cox. It was situated on section 4, town 13, range 5, and was run for two years until Mr. Cox died of the small pox. His widow sold the mill in 1854, to N. W. Saxton, who operated it for several years, sold to Alexander McConnell, after which it passed through several men's hands, and at last was wa.shed down stream.

A steam saw mill was erected in 1865 by W. H. Officer, at Springville, and operated at that |Miint for two yeais, when he sold to panics up in the pineries.

Village Of Springville

This village is situated on section 23, town 13, range 5, on a branch of the Bad Ax river. Some time before 1850, Di'. J. II. Sudduth, a practicing physician, and Nicholas Murj)hy Ikis son-in-law, who was a carpenter hy trade, located where this place now stands. The first goods sold at this point were handled by a Mr. Wright. N. D. Legard, of Sparta, and A. C. Delap, also were among the early dealers.

Bartolf & Conant engaged in trade in 1858. Shortly after Mr. Conant withdrew and Mr. Bartolf continued alone until October, 1864, when he sold to Philip Bouffleur, who was still in trade in 1884, at which date his sales were about §30,000 annually. In September, 1883, he sold a half interest in his busiuebs to U.

The Springville hotel was built by Philip Boufileur, in 1860. He sold to Thomas Buchannan and he to L. G. P. Adams, in 186>5. In 1877 he sold to E. N. Shaw, who was its proprietor in 1884.

Lewis Shaw, groceries, also the proprietor of the Springville House ; H. Amunson & Co., general dealers; Isaac Hamilton, harness maker ; Trumin Kendall and H. W. Jackson, blacksmiths.

Various Mandtactoeies

In 1883 the town of Jefferson supported the following branches of manufacturing industry: tannery ; broom factory ; harness and shoe shops ; furniture factory and an extensive sorghum mill. The tannery was erected in 187.', by Michael Rentz, at Esofea, and has always done a large business in the production of upper leather, lining, mitten leather, etc.

A broom factory was put in operation by J. M. Goldrick, who had the great misfortune of losing his eyesight in 1862, and as he did not recover, he was sent to the Blind Institute at Janesville, where in the course of five weeks he learned to make brooms, and since that time has done a good business in that line.

In 1854 E. C. Oificer commenced the manufacture of furniture at Springville, which he followed about three years. This was the only attempt ever made in this line of business.

The first one to engage in the harness business was William Boufileur, who opened a .shop in 1875, at first using the rear of his father's store for a shop. In the spring of 1880, he erected a shop and continued in business till 1883, when he sold to Isaac Hamilton, who learned his trade of Mr. Boufileur. This

In 1857 I. F. Thorp and Archibald Morrison engaged in tbe manufacture of fanning mills, in which they continued but a part of the year. John M. Goldrick had been in the same business in the town as early as 1855.

This town supports a very important branch of farm industry in the way of a Sugar Cane manufactory, which was commenced in 1863. In 1S05 William Frazier began to grow cane on an extensive plan and continued the same till 1873, making from 800 to 1,000 gallons annually, by the use of a two horse power mill. In 1880 he again resumed the business, and in 1883, commenced to make sugar. He was the third man in Wisconsin to engage in sugar making from sorghum. The first was at the State University at Madison, and the next, Mr. Decker, at Fond du Lac, who made about 4,000 pounds in the fall of 1882. In June, 1882, the agricultural department at Washington, D. C, issued a circular stating that Congress had appropriated a certain amount of money to be used in experimenting in the manufactory of sugar from cane grown in the northern States. Of this amount the department proposed to divide $1 '4,000 into ten equal shares, to be given to the ten men who returned the best report on the subject of growing sugar cane and making sugar therefrom. In December, 1882, William Frazier sent his report in to ttie commissioner of agriculture at Washington, and was soon informed that he had been awarded one share, $1,200, and the same was received by him in May, 1 883. The following is an extract from his prize report :

Dear Sir : - I send you the following report. I planted twenty acres to Amber Cane ; yes, I planted it all three times ! after telling everybody and their boys how to plant cane, failed to get a stand myself. Planted five acres on the 27th of April ; fifteen on the 12th and 13th of May, used corn planters ; planted very shallow, not to exceed one-half an inch in depth ; my ground was in splendid condition ( finely pulverized and made smooth with a " hunter"), planted in check rows three feet three and onehalf inches each way ; deposited seed in southeast corner of square, then roUed the ground. But the expected spring rains failed to come. We did not liave enough rain in this locality from the time we commenced to ])low in the spring until the 24th day of June, to wet the plowed ground one inch deep ; but we had some little showers, just enough to start some of the plants, only to wither and dry for want of moisture. Planted again the last of May and forepart of June, which came better, but a little wire-worm about one-half an inch long, and the white grub played sad havoc with the young plants. Planted again about the middle of June. After all my pains failed to get half a stand on nineteen acres of the twenty acres planted.

Process of manufacturing : I have ten feet (all from mill to boiling house ; four feet from level of evaporator to floor of syrup house. Run my juice through a two-inch pipe, sixiy-six feet from mill to custom tanks ; have two of ihem. Capacity 180 and 200 gallons respectively.

These tanks are made of galvanized iron and wood, and hold just ton gallons to one inch in depth. Here the juice is allowed to settle while the tank is being filled ; here the juice is measured, tested and drawn through a swing pipe and run into one of the two lime tanks ; put enough of the milk of good fresh lime so the juice will turn blue litmus paper purple. When the lime is put in mix thoroughly. It will be seen that I lime my juice cold.

Some successful manufacturers do their first boiling in batches; this I believe to be unnecessary and inconvenient. I use a pan ( for defecating) seventeen feet long, forly-four inches wide, with three apartments ; the one next to smoke stack is five feet long, the ne.vt one four feet, the balance of pan is finished like the cook evaporator, channels sixteen ii.clies wide. I run the limed juice into the apartment next to chimney. This is made separate from balance of pan and placed higher; here the juice heats gradually, but never boils. We skim this about once in five or six hours ; it passes from this to the second apartment, where it is raised nearly to the boiling point, but not allowed to boil ; here it is skimmed every two or three hours ; the juice is passed through a gate from this to the third division, almost as clear as water, where it is boiled as rapidly as possible until the green scum is all off, when it is drawn by a continuous flow into tanks. I use two of them, with a ca])acily of 100 gallons each, where it is allowed to settle an hour or more from the time it begins to fill until it is empty. Here we obtain a feccula, fine and very tart. These settlings will ferment in a very short time. From these tanks the defecated juice is drawn through swing pijies into the Madison pan (cook evaporator fifteen feet long), where it is kept boiling rapidly until finished. We run the finished syrup by a continuous flow through a wooden trough, covered with fine wire screen, thirty-two feet to cooler, from one cooler to another, when it is usually cooled to about 1+0 deg., Fahrenheit. This second cooler is set on truck, and when filled is drawn by a windlass to top of syrup tank, which li;is a capacity of 2, .360 gallons. A little porus alum water should be used in the semi syrup ; when one of the tanks is about three-quarters full put in one pint of the alum water. Mix well. To prepare the alum water, dissolve 2-h lbs. of porus alura in ten gallons of water.

The settling tanks should be rinsed two or three times a day. Eacli tank should have- a 3-inch hole in the bottom to expedite the cleansing.

On stopping for the day (we did not inn much at night), I always had the mill and all tanks that were emptied washed with milk of lime, or rinsed with water and then whitewashed.

The sooner and mo^-e rapidly the juice and semi-syrup, after being settled, can be boiled the better. Too much skimming is bad. Any attempt to remove the scum before it has become somewhat firm - has some body to it - will result in mixing it with the juice, and thus materially injuring the quality of the syrup. I believe in thoroughly skimming but not a continuous dipping by any means. I use wood for fuel; have it split fine for the evaporator and then have a trusty boy whose business is to keep a steady hot fire and skim front end of pan. I pay a man extra wages to superintend evaporator and keep running from the time it is started in the morning until we wish to stop at night; he did not scorch or bum a

The money which Mr. Frazier received from this essay on "Sugar cane in the North," added to his enthusiasm so that the following year he planted twenty-five acres, and went to the expense of putting in new machinery with which to make sugar.

June 23, IS'ZS, a small cyclone struck the residence of William Frazier on section 5, of town 1.3, range 5, and completely demolished it. At the time, there were eleven persons in the house - Mr. and Mrs. Frazier, and their six children, his sister-in-law and child, and a hired girl. None were killed, but several were seriously injured. The floor of the house was carried about a mile, and trees were hurled a distance of three miles and forced bodilj into the earth. No further damage was done till the storm struck Hazens Corners now known as Cashton.

Fish Ponds

purpose of raising trout. Water is supplied from a large stream which gushes out of the earth at that point. Mr. Rentz was, in 1883, producing some very fine fish.

In 18^-t there were two regular cemeteries within the borders of this town. The oldest of these is the one situated near the village of Springville. The other, which is used by the Norwegians, is located on the northwest quarter of section 14, town 13, range 5.

Biographical

Nearly forty years have elapsed since John Graham and his three sons first made a settlement on the virgin soil of what is now Jefferson town. The following personal histories represent about forty of the pioneer settlers and prominent citizens of to-day; those who have been witnesses and participators of the steady toil and innumerable privations attendant on the clearing and settlement of this portion of Vernon county.

Limeh Graham, the oldest settler in Vernon county residing there in 1884, was born in Ohio April IV, 1828, came to this county in 1''46, in company with Nelson De Frees, and has since been a resident of Springville, Vernon county. His principal business has been milling, and is at present one of the partners of the Eureka Mill. Mr. Graham has made a large amount of money, but has met with heavy losses by fire and otherwise. He was marritd in 1851 to Mary Kelsey. She died, leaving two children, one of which is now living - Columbus. In 1862 he married Enphanie Gambols, and by this union has had ten children, eight of wliom are now living - Lameh, \\ illiam, Irwin M., John, Alfred B., Amada, Anna M. and Mary M.

Alfred Glassborn is a native of Virginia, born in the year 1815. When one year old he removed with his parents to Ohio. Here he resided until 1839, being raised to farm life. He then went to Lee Co., Iowa, and in 1844 cpme to Wisconsin, working for two years in the lead mines. In the fall of 1846 he removed fartlier north, and lias since resided within the limits of what is now known as Vernon county, with the exception of three years spent in California. TTntil 1868 he gave his attention to farming. In 1869 lie became associated, as partner, with Lameh Graham, in the milling business, erected the Eureka Mill, at Springville, and has since owned an interest in the same. Mr. Glassborn never married.

Samuel Brice is numbered among the pioneers of Vernon county, having settled here prior to 1850. He pre-empted land on section 27, town 13, range 5, on which he resided until 1883, when he removed to Brown Co., Dak. Mr. Brice was born in 1820, in Kentucky, removing with his parents to Missouri, where he married Mrs. Mary Spradling, nee Ingram. She had two children by her former marriage, one of whom If now living - Anna, wife of J. Zuingliens May. Mr. and Mr.s. Brice have but one child - John.

.lohn Brice, son of Samuel and Mary Brice, was born in Jeffnrson, Vernon county, Aug. 5, 1855, now residing on the homestead. He was married in 1 876 to Oliva Parsons, daughter of Israel Parsons. They have four children- - Amy, Maud, Jessie and Effie. Ann M. (Spradling) May, the daughter born to Mrs. Samuel Brice, was born in Lincoln Co., Mo., in 1)>50. In 1853 slie was taken by her parents to Vernon Co., Wis., and Dec. 29, 1868, married Zuingliens S. May. They have six children, five of whom are natives of Vernon county - Belle, Samuel, Georgia, Idumea and Edna. In 1882 Mr. May removed to Brown Co., Dak., where a little daughter, named Bertha, was born to them.

S. Hoverson is numbered among the settlers of 1852, as on the 2Vth of August, that year, his parents came to Vernon county, soon purchasing land on section 12, town 13, range 5, and as soon as suitable buildings could be erected made this their home. Here his father died in September, 1881; his mother makes her home with him. Mr. Hoverson was born in

Norway, May 10, 1835. He emigrated with his parents to America in 1852, and has since, as before stated, been a resident of Jefferson town .He is a republican in politics, and for nine years has been a member of the town board. In religion he is a Lutheran.

Among the early settlers of Vernon county is found Norris W. Saxton, who, with his wife and three children settled near Liberty Pole in 1852. In 1853 he removed to Springville, engaging in farming, and also for some time in running a saw mill. When the civil war broke out he responded to the call of his country by enlisting in com])any C, 18th Wisconsin Volimteers, and was killed at the battle of Shiloh in April, 1862. Mr. Saxton was born in New York State in 1813, and while a resident there married Maria L. Belknap. He then emigrated to Illinois, going from there to Wisconsin. Mrs. Saxton died in 1878. She had five children - A. B., Jennie E., deceased, N. W., who enlisted in company F., 37th Wisconsin Volunteers, dying while in service; Anna L. and Sylvester S.

A. B. Saxton, son of Norris W. Saxton, was born in Pike Co., III., April 16, 1^43. He came with his parents to this county, and has since been engaged in farming. He was married to Augusta C. Favor, daughter of Jonathan and Mary Favor, and now resides on section 6, town 13, range 5, owning 120 acres. Mr. and Mrs. Saxton have had six cliildren, three of whom are living - Clement S., Emma L. and Norton F. Mr. Saxton is a National grecnbacker. In religion he is a Methodist Episcopal.

Martin F. Allen was born in St. Lawrence Co., N. Y., Jan. 24, 1820. His early life was spent working in saw mills and grist mills, three years of which time was spent in Canada. He came to Vernon county in October, 1853, purchasing the southwest quarter of section 28, town 13, range 5. He then returned to St. Lawrence Co., N. Y., and the following si)ring brought his family to their new home, the journey being made byway of the great lakes, from

Ogdensburg, N. Y., to Chicago, 111., and thence by team to Wisconsin. In 1858 Mr. Allen traded his property for a saw mill at Newton, removed thither in ISOO, erected a new saw mill, and four years later built a grist mill on the place. He resided in Newton about seventeen years, when he sold his mills, returned to Jefferson, and now resides on section .32. His farm consists of 240 acres. He was married in 1841 to Anna Landon, of Canton, St. Lawrence Co., N. Y. She died in July, 1842, leaving one son, who has since died. In 1849 he married Betsy C. Ellis, and by this union had eight children - Charles, the eldest, entered the United States service in 1864, and now fills a soldier's grav.e; Emery E., Julia, wife of Joseph Baker; Elisha, James M., George W., Hattie and Henry. He is a strict republican, and adheres closely to temperance.

William A. Herron came to Vernon county in April, 185.3, settling on the northeast quarter of section 14, town 13, range 5, where he now owns 240 acres. He has given his principal attention to farming, although for a few years he was engaged in general merchandise business, at Springville, in partnership with George E. Morse. In 1881 he went to Dakota, taking a homestead and tree claim, and has spent much of his time since in improving the same. Mr. Herron was born June 22, 1823, in Muskingum Co., Ohio. In 1848 he married Mary McLees, and in 1853, as before stated, came to Wisconsin, the journey from Ohio being made on steamboat, by way of St. Louis. Mr. and Mrs. Herron have nine children - Hannah J., now Mrs. Matthew Gray, Sarah E., now Mrs. Ge.orge E. Morse, Joseph M., Mary M., now Mrs. H. L. Rayner, Martha W., now Mrs. Frank Warner, Rachel, now Mrs. Arthur Amsden; Charles T., George W., and Kate. He is a republican, and a member of the Congregational Church.

for two years he engaged in carpenter workin 1859 he went to Pikes Peak, but returned in 1862 to Springville, and has since been engaged in farming. He was born in Ohio, Jan. 14, 1833, and resided in his native State until reaching maturity. He was married in 1855, to Catherine Ann Van Dyke, daughter of Abraham Van Dyke. She removing with her father from the State of Ohio in 1854. Their children numbered six, in all, two boys and four girls. Three of them are dead and three living - Comentna Alice, the oldest, was born July 7, 1856, died July 4, 1862; Loami Wilber was born April 23, 1863, died Jan. 24, 1865; Seth Lorin was born Jan. 23, 1875, died Nov. 18, 1878. The living ones are - MelzanaLoretta,MattieLeona, Mary Lucy. Mr. Hamilton's politics, if any, are democratic, in faith he is an Advent believer.

George Williamson has been a resident of Vernon county since 1865. He worked at the cooper trade for three years, at Chaseburg, the remainder of the time being engaged in farming. He was born Jan. 29, 1843, in Muskingum Co., Ohio. He learned his trade in his native State, and followed it there until 1861. He then enlisted in company A, 122d Ohio Infantry, serving three years, and participating in several hard fought battles and numerous skirmishes. He was wounded at the battle of Cold Harbor, which disabled him for three months. July 4, 1868, he married Hettie, daughter of James Maxwell. They have three children - Blanche, Lloyd and Irwin. He is a republican, and a member of the G. A. R.

James Maxwell came to Vernon county in 1854, in the fall of the same year, purchasing fifty acres of land on section 15, town 13, range 5, where he was engaged in farming until his death, which occurred Feb. 1, 1875. He was born Nov. 10, 1808, in Westmoreland Co., Penn., and removed with his parents to Ohio, where he was married, Dec. 22, 1831, to Sarah Joseph, born in Virginia, Sept. 25, 1808. They had nine children, eight daughters and one son - the latter deceased. The children living are - Dy- antlia Irene, wife of Johu Goldrick; Margaret, wife of Tliomas Harper; Mary, wife of Salem James; Rachel, wife of Isaac Groves; Nancy, wife of James Dixon; Neoma, wife of Charles Markle; Celestia, wife of David Stevenson; and Hetty, wife of George Williamson. Mrs. Maxwell still resides on the homestead, which contains 140 acres of land.

E. C. Officer settled at Springville, Vernon counly, in 1854, working at his trade, cabinet maker, for about three years. In IBS'? he mariied Mary Ann Spencer, daughter of Isaac and Mary Ann(McConnell) Spencer,since which tinu- he has given his attention to farming. He now owns -310 acres of land, twenty-one lots, and the largest springs in the county, from which the vilUge of Springville derived its name, are located on his land, only a few rods from his residence. Mr. OfHcer was born Feb. 8, 1827, in Muskingum Co., Ohio, being a son ()( .Tames and Sarah (Crumbaker) Officer. He learned his trade and worked at it in his native Stale until coming to Vernon county. Mr. and Mrs. Officer have had eight children, six of whom are living - James, Irvine, Flora M., Elmer H., Wyman L. and Lloyd Spencer.

Samuel Davis was born in Pennsylvania in ISOl, learned the- cooper trade, and removed to Ohio, residing there until 1855, when he came to Jefferson town Vernon Co., Wis. He died in September, 1872. He was twice married. His first wife was IVIiss Yours, by whom he had ten children, nine of whom are living. Ilis second wife was Elizabeth G. (Tladden. They had seven children, four of whom are living - Nancy, William I., Hulda E. and Miles G. Mrs. Davis is now the wife of Thomas White.

Miles G. Davis was born in Morgan Cit., Ohio, April 8, 1854. He received a common school education. In March, 18"T, ho marrio<l Mary E. Thompson, daughter of David H. Thompson. In November, 1878, he moved to Monroe cr)iinty, where he resided until the fall of 1S82. He then returned to Vernon county, now residing on the homestead. His children are - Winfred C, Lloyd E. and Harvey E. He is a republican and a member of the A. O. U. W. Mr. Davis is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

William Frazier was born in Belmont Co., Ohio, Oct. 6, 1833. He assisted his father on the farm and received a good common school education. In 1855 he married Plume Powell, also a native of the Buckeye State. They came to Wisconsin soon after marriage, and have since resided in Jefferson town, Vernon county. Mr. Frazier has had many sad experiences. In February, 1875, his residence, one of the best in the town, was destroyed by fire. He at once rebuilt, but no sooner was his new residence built than it was destroyed by a cyclone, which occurred June 23, 1875, and of which mention is made elsewhere in this work. Mr. Frazier is the largest grower of sugar cane in Vernon county, and has the honor of being the third man in the State of Wisconsin to manufacture sugar therefrom. Mr. Frazier was formerly a republican, but is now somewhat independent, giving little attention to politics. Ho has frequently been chosen to fill offices of public trust and honor, having served as townsuperintendent of schools, town assessor and collector, as chairman of the county board of supervisors one term, and of the townboard several terms. He also, in 1874, represented his district in the General Assembly. In 1883 Mr. Frazier received from the agricultural department at Washington, $1,200 to be used by him in experimenting in the manufacture of sugar. Mr. and Mrs. Frazier have had eleven children, ten of whom are now living - Anna L., now Mrs. C. L. Wood ; Samuel L., cashierof the Wadena County Bank, Verndale, Minn. ; William S., book-keeper in La Crosse, Wis. ; Luella J., Dora 11., Charles R., Mary B., Raymond R., Minta M. and Frank E.

of Simon Crawford. He still resides on this place, now owning 220 acres. For the past ten years he has been a dealer in live stock. Mr. Hayes was born in Ohio, Oct. 4, 1826. He worked on a farm in his younger days, and received a common school education. In 1845 he married Mariam Williams. In 1854 he sold his property in Ohio, and in the following spring started westward, and became a resident of Vernon county. Mrs. Hayes died Jan. 27, 1882. Mr. and Mrs. Hayes had five children- Sarah A., (deceased), Mary J., Mrs. John Mc- Kitrick; Rachel M., Mrs. W. J. May; Hester, Mrs. Joseph Forsyth, and John Jr. Mr. Hayes has been successful in life, and now has a neat frame residence. He votes the republican ticket, although he takes but little interest in politics.

Thomas James, one of the pioneers of 1855, settled on section 10, town IS north, range 5 west, where he still resides, now owning 195 acres. He was born in Muskingum Co., Ohio, July 5, 1812 . He was raised on a farm; but at the age of eighteen years commenced to learn the carpenter trade, working at the same for several years. In 1835 he built a saw-mill and operated it until 1848, when he resumed farming. He was married in 1835, to Frances Graham, a native of Virginia, born Jan. 22, 1817, and removed with her parents while quite young to Mu>ikingum Co., Ohio, where she was married. They lived together until 1872, when May 23 she died, having borne thirteen children - .Salem, Troylus, Reuben, Eben, Maria, Charles, Edwin, Lucy, George, Theodore, John, Alta and Thomas. Ten are still living. Reuben died Aug. 10, 1840; Theodore, Feb. 1, 1868, and John, Dec. 14, 1878. Mr. James united with the Baptist Church in April, 1830; his wife in 1833. In politics he was an "old line whig," then a staunch republican. In June, 1875, he was married the second time, to Mrs. Mary Miller, widow of James Miller. She was born July 20, 1828, in Muskingum Co., Ohio; was married May 20, 1847, and removed with her husband, in 1854, to Vernon Co., Wis.; settled near Viroqua, and in 1860, settled on a homestead in the town of Stark, on sections 4 and 5, town 13 north, of range 2 west. In August, 1862, her husband enlisted for the war in company A, 25th regiment, Wisconsin Volunteers, and died at Memphis, Tenn., Sept. 11, 1863, at the age of thirty-seven years. She had four children - Harvey, Mansfield L., Sarah E. and Asbury F., two of whom ai-e dead. Sarah E. died May 17, 1874, and Mansfield L. died June 18, 1882. Both wife and husband were members of the Methodist Church. He was republican in politics.

William A. Morse was born in Herkimer Co., N. Y., Feb. 23, 1817. His early life « as spent on a farm, while he received a good commercial education, and for many years was engaged in book-keeping. NV'hile serving in that capacity in Lockport, he made the acquaintance of Orrilla N. Hunter, to whom he was married in 1840. In 1855 he came to Wisconsin, engaging in mercantile business at Springville, Vernon county, which he continued the greater portion of the time until his death, which oc curred in 1874. Mr. Morse was the first depot agent at Lockport, on the New York Central Railroad, and faithfully served the comp.my a number of years in that capacity. Mrs. Morse still resides with her only child - George E. Mr. Morse possessed excellent business qualifications, and was well known in the county. He was a member of the Masonic fraternity and ranked very high. He was a Royal Arch Mason, was connected with the Commaudery, and was a Knight Templar. He assisted in organizing the Masonic lodge at Viroqua. He voted the republican ticket, but never aspired to office. Religiously, he was an Adventist - one of the first in the county. George E., only son of William A. Morse, was born in Lockport, N. Y., June 11, 1841, coming with his parents to Wisconsin. He received a good common school education, and was raised to a mercantile life, assisting his father in the store. He re- mained at home uutil 1871, at which time he was married to Sarah E. Herron, daugliter of William A. Herron. They liave had five children, two of whom are living - Mary E. and Margaret E. Mr. Morse has been principally engaged in farming, being for a time, however, engaged in mercantile business. In politics he is a republican, and is also a member of the I. O. O. F.

Clark Waters was born Feb. 8, 1805, in the State of New York. He removed with his parents to Illinois, from whence he came to Wisconsin, becoming one of the pioneers of Vernon county. He now resides on section 25, Jefferson town. Mr. Waters has been married three times. His first wife was Orrilla Clark, by whom he had eleven children, seven living at the time of her death. His second wife was Julia Mack, from whom he was divorced soon after marriage. His present wife was Mrs. Louisa Derr, widow:ed wife of Charles Derr, who was killed while serving his country in the civil war. Five children were born to them, three daughters and two sons - the former married, and the latter still single. Mr. and Mrs. Waters were married in 1867.

W. S. Waters, son of Clark and Orrilla Waters, removed with his parents to Vernon county. In 1862 he enlisted in company A, 25th Wisconsin Volunteers, serving three years. Mr. Waters married Joam Older. They have seven children - William, Arbelle, Earnest, Hattie, James, Burton and Lester.

Adam Doerr arrived at Springville, April 11, 1856, and at once entered the employ of tlie Grahams, who were then repairing their mill, and when it was completed, Mr. Doerr was placed in charge and held the position for three years. On account of being troubled with rheumatism, he was compelled to give up steady work in the mill, but he still assists about the mill occasionally. When Mr. Doerr first entered the mill he was unable to speak the English language, but as he was well educated in German, he kept the books at the mill, and was soon familiar with our native tongue. He purchased his present farm in 1859, and now has a comfortable home. When he bought his land there was but little timber in the vicinity, as fires swept across the country annually. IJut now, where the soil has not been put under cultivation, it is covered with a thick forest. Mr. Doerr was born in the Grand Duchy of Hesse Darmstadt, Germany, Jan. 1,18^:0. He learned the milling business, and subsequently the tailor's trade. In 1851 he emigrated to the United States, and first stopped in Butler Co., Penn., where, in 1853, he married Susanna Keonig. They have three children - Susan, Anna and John.

Jonathan Favor was born in Grafton Co.,N. H., May 6, 1799. In 1821 he was united in marriage with Mary Pingry, born in the same county, Aug. 28, 1802. In 1833 they moved to Erie Co., N. Y., seven years later to McHenry Co., 111., and in 1854 came to Wisconsin, settling on section 10, town 13, range 5. Here Mr. Favor was engaged in farming until his death, Feb. 21, 1875. Mrs. Favor still resides on the homestead, and is in good health for one of her age. Mr. and Mrs. Favor had twelve children, ten of whom are living - Isaac S., Elizabeth, now Mrs. Ira Olds ; Feletus, J.ine, now Mrs. Theodore Wilson; Minerva, widiwof Wallace W. DeFrees ; Daniel W., Ambrosia, nowMrs. John Spencer ; Augusta, now Mrs. A. B. Soxten ; Electa, now Mrs. Joel Herron, and Jerome. Mr. Favor was a loving husband, kind father, and good neighbor. He always lived a Christian life, and during his latter years was connected with the Advent Christian Church.

Jerome Favor was born in McHenry Co., 111., June 26, 1846. He came with his parents to Wisconsin, now owning and residing on the homestead, which contains 160 acres of land. In 1880 he erected a large frame house at a cost of $2,400, but it was no sooner completed than it was destroyed by fire, and Mr. Favor was compelled to rebuild. Feb. 1, 1869, he married Lucy James, daughter of Thomas James, They have two children - Fannie and Arie. Mr. Favor is a republican. In religion he is an Advent Christian.

I. M. Groves became a resident of Vernon county in the fail of 1856, residing in Liberty town until T869, since which time he has lived in Jefferson town. He was born in Perry Co., Ohio, Sept. yO, 1839, where he resided until coming to Wisconsin. He enlisted Sept. 6, 1801, in company F, 8th Wisconsin Volunteer.^, servinguntil Sept. 16, 1864. He participated in the battles of Frederickstown, Mo.; siege of New Madrid, Island No. 10 and siege of Corinth, when he was taken sick, remaining in the hospital eleven months. He was also f.n the Red river expedition. In 1865 he married Rachel Maxwell, daughter of James Maxwell. They had six children, five of whom are living - James F., Ottosia A., Le Roy M., Mary E. and Hattie I. He is a greenbacker in politics, but was fonnerly a re]niblican. His religious connections are with the Methodist Episco])al Church. Mr. Groves is a member of the G. A. R.

R. S. Nixon settled on section 34, town 13, range 5, Vernon Co., Wis., and here he still resides. He has given his attention to Farming and now owns 190 acres of land. Mr. Nixon was born Nov. 10, 1820, in Morgan Co., Ohio. His father, Hugh Nixon, was a native of Ireland, and his mother, Rachel (Wood) Nixon, was born in New Jersey. R. S. Nixon received a common school education. In 1843 he was married to Jane Rees, born in Muskingum Co., Ohio. In 1856 they came to Wisconsin. Mrs. Nixon died in March, 1881, leaving six children - Mary J., Amos M., Charles IL, Emma, Eva and Samuel. He is a republican and a member of the I. (). O. F. He is a member of the Methoddist Episcopal Church.

A. M. Nixon, son of R. S. and Jane (Rees) Nixon, was born in Morgan Co., Ohio, Nov. 3, IS.tO. He came with his parents to Wisconsin and has since been a resident of Vernon county.

He learned the blacksmith trade and for some time had a shop at Viroqua. He settled on his present farm in 1875 and in March of the same year married Sarah Emma McKitrick. They have four children - Charles A., Roy, Claude and Howard W. In politics Mr. Nixon is republican.

L. G. P. Adams was born in Quincy, Mass., Oct. -'4, 1815. He ^^earned the shoemaker's trade and while pursuing the same made boots for Gen. B. F. Butler and Dr. Ayers. He was married Dec. 31, 1839, at Lowell, Mass., to Eliza S. Mallon. Ten years later, he removed to New Hampshire from whence, in 1857, he he came to Wisconsin and has since been a resident of Vernon county. He was engaged in farming at Viroqua until 1866, when he removed to Springville, engaging in hotel business. He was proprietor of the Springville House until 1877, when he sold to L. X. Shaw. Mr. Adams now leads a retired life. Mr. and Mrs. Adams have had two children, one now living - Anna E., wife of Samuel Older, Springville, Wis.

Philip Bouffleur is a native of Prussia, born Sept. 7, 1829. His father, Peter BoufHeur, emigrated to the United States in 1853 and died at Cincinnati, Ohio, in 1854. His mother, Catharine Bouffleur, emigrated to the United States in I860 and has since been a resident of Vernon county. Philip learned the shoemaker's trade in his native country. From 1849 to 1851 he served in the 30th Infantry Division of the Prussian Army. In 1854 he came to America, first stopping at Butler, Butler Co., Penn. On Nov. 27, 1855, he was united in marriage with Mary Reinlinder. In 1857 he came to Wisconsin, settling in Springville and following his trade until 1864, when he succeeded Mr. Bartolf in the general mercantile business and by his pleasing manners and honest dealings so gained the confidence of the people that his trade was on a continual increase until in 1882 his sales amounted to $30,000. Mr. I'ouffleur is a republican in politics. He served as postmaster at Springville from 1864 to

1883. He is a man of excellent business qualifications and highly esteemed by his fellow men. Mr. Bouffleur is a member of the I. O. O. F. and the A. O. U. W. His religious connections are with the Methodist Episcopal society. Mr. and Mrs. Bouffleur have had eight children, live of whom are now living - William, Dora, wife of C. N. Harris, Harmon, Albert and Minnie.

William Lowrie was one of the best known and most respected citizens of Vernon county. He was born in Edinburgh, Scotland, in 1 799. At the age of fourteen years he was apprenticed to learn the carpenters trade, at which he was occupied as an apprentice and journeyman until he reached the age of twenty-one. Being of a studious turn of mind, he found time each day to spend a few hours in study or in reading instructive books, thus, with a mind richly stored with the beautiful thoughts and precepts of the grand old authors, with a perfect knowledge and mastery of his chosen trade ; being possessed of honest principles, industrious and persevering habits, he was well fitted to go out into the world among strangers, and win friends and fortune for himself. At the age of twentyfive years he sailed for America, which became the home of his adoption. He first settled in St. Lawrence Co., N. Y., where he invested a considerable sum of money in lands, and worked at his trade as contractor and builder. Soon after his arrival in New York, he was married to Christiana Korr, an amiable and beautiful young lady of Scotch parentage, whose father was one of the early settlers of that country. Tiiey lived in that State for a number of years, when enterprise and love for adventure prompted him to remove with his family to Vernon Co., Wis., where he became a resident of Jefferson town, in 1856. He settled on section 30, town 13 north, of range 5 west, where he was engaged in farming, and lived prosperous and happy until his death, which took place Jan. 20, 1879, at the ripe old age of eighty years. He was a noble man, a loving and kind I husband and father, and a true friend. Mrs. Lowrie still survives her husband. As a true, faithful, loving, patient wife and mother, none can exeell her. She bore the inconvenience and hardships of pioneer life, with a courage which nothing but deep love for her husband and family, and a perfect trust in her Heavenly Father could have sustained. She is now living in her seventy-third year ; for a lady of her age, she has retained remai'kable eye-sight, still being able to read fine print, thread a needle and sew without spectacles. Her mind is unusually active and retentive, and she converses fluently with friends upon the early scenes and incidents of their early life in Wisconsin.

J. P. Lowrie, son of William Lowrie, was born in St. Lawrence Co., N. Y., June 2-2, 1840. He came with his ])arents to Wisconsin and has since resided in Vernon county. He was married in 1871 to Rebecca Kaden. They have three children - Lurana V., Alexander and Lovary. In politics, Mr. Lowrie is a republican.

N. A. Sackett was born Nov. 9, 1829, in Duchess Co., N. Y. He removed with his parents to Chautauqua county, at the age of seven years. Here he grew to manhood. At the age of twenty-one years he married Mary E. Dewey. Mr. Sackett came to Dane Co., Wis., in July, 1857, with his wife and two of her sisters with their families ; visiting there until spring. Then he came to Vernon county, ( then called Bad Ax ) where he has since resided on section 6, town 13, range 5, and has followed farming as an occupation. Mr. and Mrs. Sackett have had three children. The oldest, a son, died in infancy at their former home. Flora M. aged twenty-one, and Charles A. aged nine years, are still with their ])arents. Mr. Sackett, wife and daughter are members of the U. B. Church. In politics, he is a republican.

town, where he died, Feb. 9, 1883, of heart disease. Mr. Creviston was born in Pennsylvania March 5, 1811. He removed with his parents to Indiana, where, in 1850, he was married to Mary Jane Garver, born in Ohio Feb. 26, 18.3:!. They had six children - Emaline, wife of William V. Sheets, Francis, Henry, Leonora, Ada and Lillie. .Mr. Creviston was a kind father and good neighbor. His wife still resides on the homestead.

John Sheets was born in Kentucky; subsequently he removed to Ohio, where he was married toEvaline VanDoni. He then removed to Illinois, where he died, leaving four children, three of whom are living - William V., Eliza A. and Isaac. Mrs. Sheets afterward married Daniel Mossholder, and in 1858 came to AVisconsin, settling in Yernon county.

William V. Sheets was born in Iroquois Co., 111., Nov. '29, 1844. He came with his family to Wisconsin, in 1858, and has since resided in Vernon county. He enlisted Sept. 15, 1863, in the 13th Wisconsin Light Artillery, serving until the close of the war. In 1868 lie married Emaline Creviston, daughter of James Creviston. They have two children - Mary Etta and Erminnie E.

Jonathan Wood and his son, L. .1., came to Vernon county in 1854 and selected land on section 6, town 13, range 5, not locating thereon, however, until the spring of 1858. In the fall of 1857 Mr. Wood came from New York State to Dane Co., Wis., removing in the spring, as stated, to this county. That neighborhood has since been known as Woodville. While in New York Mr. Wood operated a sawmill, but after coming to Wisconsin was engaged in farming. He died in 1869.

L. J. Wood was born Feb. 17, 1827, in Oneida Co., N. Y. In his younger days he assisted his father in the mill, and al.so served for two years as clerk in a store. He was married in Cattaraugus Co., N. Y. in 1848, to Sarah Dewey, also a native of New York State. They have had four children, two of whom

C. L. Wood was born in Chautauqua Co., N. Y., Jan. 17, 1850. He came with his parents to Vernon county, and has since resided on the same section with them. In 1874 he married Anna Frazier, daughter of William Frazier. They had two children - -Winnie, deceased, and Nellie. In religious views Mr. Wood is a United Brethren.

William Harris became a resident of Jefferson town October, 1859. He was occupied in farming a few years, then engaged in the milling business, at Newton, until 1879, when he removed to Nebraska. He was born in Ohio and reared on a farm. He was married to Prudence Williams, by whom he had eight children - Thomas, Elias, Clarissa, J. Enoch, Eunice, Lawson, Mary and Anna.

J. E. Harris, son of William and Prudence (Williams) Harris, was born Oct. 22, 1844, in Ohio. He came with his parents to Vernon county, and assisted his father on the farm. In December, 1866, he was united in marri.ige with Mary E. Thompson, daughter of E. P. Thompson In 1869 he went to Dickinson Co., Iowa, returning to Vernon county in 1873, since which time he has resided on section 31, town 13, range 5. His children are - Oliver E., Roy and Troy. In 1864 Mr. Harris entered the United States service, serving in company H, 12th Wisconsin Volunteers until the cldse of the war. He is a member of the G A. R.

Ellis Reed was born Nov. 2, 1835, in Muskingum Co., Ohio, where his father was a farmer. He was married Jan. 13, 1859, to Hannah McLees, and soon started for Wisconsin, having previously, in 1858, purchased 278 acres of his present farm on section 14, town 13, range 5. He now owns 480 acres of land. His children are - Francis A., Ilarley Lincoln, .Maggie, (deceased), Katie M., Nellie D. and an infant. In politics he is a republican, and has been chairman of the board of trustees of

Ellis P. Thompson was born in Muunt Pleasant, Jefferson Co., Ohio, April 27,1816, and shortly after his birth liis parents removed to Harrison Co., Ohio, where he was principally raised. He was left fatherless when about the age of ten years; his mother being poor his educational advantages were limited. He was one of eight children, and was put out to live with a neighbor, and shifted from place to place till old enough to maintain himself. He then liired with tjie farmers by the day and monthj at from thirtj^-seven and a half to sixtytwo and a half cents per day, or from ten to fourteen dollars per month, till about the age of tnciity-lwo years, then moved to .Morgan Co., Ohio, whore he contracted with John Bernhard to farm his place on shares for several years, getting one-tiiird of the grain only, during which time he was married to Edith Mendenhall. She died in 1847, leaving two children, one of which is now living - Eliza J., wife of Richard Pidcock, of Sullivan Co., Mo. In 1848 Mr. Thompson was married to Martha Rouanzoi'i, and subsequently rented a small farm for one year, then rented a larger farm for five years; then, having accumulate! a small amount of ca[)ital, bought a farm for $2,500, paying $1,000 cash. Crops failing for the next three years, he was not able to meet his payments, and was obliged to make some turn. Blinding an opporlunit}% he traded for land in Wisconsin, with about eighteen acres cleared and a small house erected thereon, but encumbered with a mortgage of $500. It was located on section 32, town 1.3 north, of range 5 west, in Vernon county. He started with his family, in 1S.=)9, for Wisconsin, the journey being made with team, requiring thirty-one dayp. He arrived in Vernon a poor man, his property consisting of one team, a small amount of household goods, and si.xty dollars in money. He has given liis principal attention to farming.

now owning 440 acres of land, his improvements being among the best, and is now in comfortable circumstances - the result of industry and economy. By his second marriage he had eight children, si.x ot whom are living - Mary E., Jacob A., William P., Emaline H., Martin B. and Carrie A. In politics he is a National greenbacker; is also a member of the Christian Church.

G. F. Jackson was born in Chittenden Co., Vt., Feb. 18, 1810. His father operated a sawmill, and G. F. divided his time between working in the mill and farming. In 1834 he married Debora Cook, and subsequently emigrated to New York. In 1852 he went to California, leaving his family in New York. After remaining there three years he returned to the Empire State. In 1855 he went to Appleton, Wis., and in the spring of 1862, came to Vernon county and settled at his present residence. His children are - Caroline, Harriet, Frank and Alice.

Andrew Hanson was born in Norway, Nov. 20, 1841. He resided in his native country until twenty-one years of age, when he emigrated to the United States. He stopped first in Vernon county, his bi'other having settled there three years previous. Mr. Hanson did not settle down at first, but worked for sometime in Minnesota and also in the pineries of Wisconsin. He was married Dec. 12, 1874, to Elisa Evenson, two years younger than himself. Tlicy have now four children - Hans Engebret, born Sept. 1, 1875; Charl Mathias, born June 12, 1877; Minnie Helena, born Nov. 15, 1879, and Ellen Louise, born Jan. 26, 1882. He started a nursery and continued in the business a number of years, but not finding it profitable, sold out and put his whole attention to farming, and by hard work and good management has now a farm of 160 acres of good land, good buildings, and all the implements to run the same successfully. He has seven brothers and two sisters residing in Wisconsin and Minnesota. In

Alonzo F. May, son of Col. Reuben May, was born in Clay Co., Ky., March 12, 1853. He came with his family to Vernon Co., Wis., and assisted his father on the farm. May 28, 1883, he was married to Eva Eckhardt, daughter of Jacob Eckhardt. He has since resided on section 36, Jefferson town, where he has a neat home.

William J. May, a sou of Col. Reuben May, was born in Kentucky, Jan. 15, 1842. He came with the family to Wisconsin in 1863, and has since been a resident of Vernon county, with the exception of one year, when he followed farming in Monroe county, this State. He has always tilled the soil, excepting two years, when he had charge of the grist mill at Newton. In the fall of 1882 he settled on section 36, Jefferson town, and now owns sixty acres of land. On Dec. 13, 1866, he married Rachel M. Hayes, daughter of John Hayes. They are the parents of one son - James F. Politically Mr. May is a greenbacker. The family are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

H. Amunson is a native of Norway, born June 20, 1846. He resided in his native country until 1864, at which time he emigrated to the United States, and has since been a resident of Vernon county. In 1866 he began clerking for Philip Bouffleur, with whom he continued until Sept. 1, 1883, when he purchased a half interest in the business, the firm name being H. Amunson & Co. In the fall of 1868 he was married to Leanna Latta. They have had five children, two of whom are living - Philip and Carrie. Mr. Amunson is a stirring business man and is very successful. He is republican in politics. In religious views a Methodist Episcopal.

Col. Reuben May is a native of Pike Co., Ky., born June 23, 1815. His parents were natives of Virginia. They had twelve children, ten of whom are still living. Reuben spent his early life on his father's farm. He was married March 5, 1835, to Miss E. V. Honaker, also a native of Kentucky. In 1849 he removed to Clay county, being engaged in making and shipping salt, also working a farm of 400 acres. In 1861, when State after State was seceding from the Union, Mr. May was found loyal to his country, and on the 27th of September, enlisted in the United States service, and was commissioned lieutenant-colonel of the 8th Kentucky Volunteer Infantry. In May, 1863, he was appointed colonel of the 7th Kentucky Volunteer Infantry, and served as such with credit to himself and country until Oct. 5, 1864, when the regiment was mustered out of service. Mr. May participated in many hard fought battles, and a number of skirmishes. He commanded the 8th Kentucky in the battles of Perryville, Laurel Hill, Stone River, Murfreesboro; and the 7th Kentucky in the siego of Vicksburg, battle of Jackson, Miss., Comut River, La., Semmes Port, Yellow Bayou, etc. He was wounded at Murfreesboro, and disabled for four months. At the close of the war Mr. May came to Wisconsin, locating in Jefferson town, Vernon county, where his family had previously located in 1863. He has given his principal attention to farming. In politics Col. May was first a democrat, but in 1360 voted for John Bell for the Presidency. And in 1864 he cast his ballot for Abraham Lincoln. In 1870 and 1872 he represented his district in the General Assembly. In 1875 he was a candidate for State senator, and it was only after a contested election that his opponent, J. Henry Tate, was declared elected by a majority of six votes. When the National greenback party sprang into existence, Col. May became one of its advocates, and in 1879 was their candidate for governor. His wife died Jan. 28, 1881, leaving ten children - Louisa J., Mary D., William J., Thomas H., Zuingliens S., Robert D., Alonzo F., Albert B., Richard A., (deceased), and Hugh L. Feb. 28, 1883, he married Mrs. Phebe A. Aiken, nee Dolliver. Col. May is a member of the A. F. & A. M., the I. 0. O. F., the G. A. R. and the

Michael Reiitz was born June 25, 1846, in Norway. He learned the tanning business, which he followed in liis native country, until 1868, at which time he emigrated to the United States. He first stopped in Decorah, Iowa, but soon removed to Chicago. Here he worked at his trade until 1870, when he came to Vernon county, settling at Esofea, where he erected a tannery, and soon after went in partnership with his brother. Christian, which tliey still continue. They also own 140 acres of land. In IS'ZO Michael Rentz married Agnethe Olson. They have five children - Mathilde, Agnes, Henry Norman, Olga and Amalie. Mr. Rentz is an independent greenbacker in politics He has heUl the position of postmaster, at Esofea, has also been a member of the town board, and for the present holds the ofiice of town treasurer.

W. H. Jackson, blacksmith at Springville, Vernon county, became a resident of the county in 18T2, being engaged for two years in farming, since which time, he has been proprietor of a general blacksmith and repair shop, also manufacturing a few wagons. Mr. Jackson was born Aug. 25, 1840, in Grant Co., Wis. His parents, James A., and Emily (Stiles) Jackson, are still residents of Grant county. Mr. Jack-on's early life was sj)ent at work in the mines, but when si.xtecn years of age, he commenced to work at his trade, which he continued to do until coming to Vernon county, Sept. 22, 1870. He was ni;nried to Sarah .Vackson, daughter of A. Jackson, of Viroqua. They have an adoj>ted son - Samuel Lee Wilson. Mr. Jackson is a well informed citizen and has many friends. He is a democrat in politics. His religious connections are with the Methodist Episcopal Church.

L. N. Shaw was born in Quincy, Mass., Aug 25, 1827. Being the son of Capt. John W. Shaw, he became imbued with the life of a sailor when a small boy, and thus at the age of fifteen years, took to the sea, and followed a sailor's life until nearly forty years of age, when he was oi)liged to give up a sea-faring life on account of ill health. During these years Mr. Shaw had visited nearly all of the navigable globe, sailing on the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian oceans, experiencing the various changes incident to i sailor's life, and was shipwrecked three times, and during these years had been instrumental in saving twelve lives from shipwreck. Mr. Shaw had passed through all the grades of a sailor, from the forecastle to the quarter deck, and at the age of twenty-one, became master of a vessel, sailing on the coast and inland waters of California, for eight years. In 186.3 Ca])t. Shaw with impaired health, left California for his native State, where, in the city of Boston, he embarked in the general jjrovision business. In 1877 he came to Wisconsin, succeeding L. G. P. Adams as ]iroprietor of the Springville House, of which he is still landlord, having also added to his hotel, a grocery business, which he is conducting in connection with the house. Capt. Shaw has been twice married. His first wife was Betsy C. Phillips, to whom he was married in 1853. She died in 1S70, leaving three children - Catherine W., Emma L., and Walter L. In 1872 he married Mrs. Emily A. Newcomb, wee Adams. She had two children by her former marriage, one now living - Albert C.