Kickapoo Town

Kickapoo Town

Kickapoo is among the southern tier of towns of Vernon county, and comprises a portion o four congressional townships - townships 11 and 12, range 3 west, and towrships 11 and 12, range 4 west of the fourth principal meridian. The surface is very much broken having within its boundary a number of large hills. At an early day there was a large amount of heavy timber of which there is still standing a large quantity, consisting of white oak, rock maple, basswood and other varieties. Thousands of railroad ties have been annually obtained from the timber in this town. The large game, such as deer, elk and hear, existed in great numbers during the first decade of the settlement of the country, but they are now unknown. Small game yet abounds.

Tiie Kickapoo river runs through the town. Its two branches - the east and west forks - make confluence on section 4. The river is fed by many small streams which enter into and help swells the volume of water. The smaller streams are made up from the many clear and sparkling springs tliat exist in various parts of the county.

The soil is generally rich and productive where tillable, and is well suited to indigenous as well a-! native grass, which makes the town an excellent one for stock. Those that have, Iti the past, engaged in stock raising, have been uniformly successful. Some maple sugar, of an excellent quality, is annually niade by the enterprising citizens. Bees thrive here, and many of the farmers have been quite successful in the past few years, in bee culture.

Early Settlement

a native of Tioga Co., N. Y., but had lived several years in St. Joseph Co., Mich. He came to Vernon county in 1846 or 1847, settled near Liberty Pole, in the town of Franklin, and opened up a farm. On his arrival in Kickapoo he built a saw mill on Read's creek, as it is now called. He was a bachelor, and well advanced in years at the time of his settlement here. Ho was an enterprising man, as will be seen by reference to the village history. He was a jovial man, good hearted, aid much esteemed by all. He died here in 1862. At the time of his death he made his home with Gilbert Herrick.

The first farm in this town was opened by Philip Schneider, who located here in 1849. He was a native of Bavaria and had lived near Viroqua the previous two years. He settled in the Kickapoo valley on section 5, town 1 i, range 3 west, and still resides on the old homestead.

Archibald and Daniel Day, natives of Kentucky, came in 1851. The former settled on the southeast quarter of the northeast quarter of section 9, town 11, range 3 west. He died there in 1876. His daughter, now the wife of Thomas Gosling, occupies the homestead. Daniel entered land on sections 17 and 18, of the same town and range. He sold in 185.5. to Seth Edson, who now occupies the placi-. Daniel died about 1857.

Abel C Cusliman, from Vermont, came here in 18.'i3, and erected a sawmill on the east fork of the Kickapoo. Me was a pioneer in Jefferson Co., Wis., iiaving lived there for several years prior to his removal to this county. The mill is now operated by his son James.

David Barril, a native of Scotland, came during the winter of 1S53-4, and entered land on section 35, town 12. range 3 west, where he still lives.

R. F. Carey was from the Nutmeg State. He came to Vernon county, in 1854, and entered a portion of section 10, town 11, range 3 west. He settled on this land the following year, and there made his home until 1883, when he sold out and left the town.

Samuel Baldwin was a settler of 1854. He was from New York. On his arrival in Vernon county, he made choice of land on section -2, town 11, range 3 west, where he located and lived some years and then removed to Richland county. In 18S3 he went to Kansas.

Daniel Hill, a native of Illinois, by profession n physician, came in 1853, and located on the northeast quarter of section 26. He was afterwards convicted of horse stealing, served a lorm in the penitentiary, and then returned to llie town, but finally removed to Kansas.

The Keystone State furnished a settler in 1853 in the person of Peter Neeley, He settled on section 1, town 11, range 3, lived there eight or nine years, then returned to Pennsylvania, where he died a few years later. His widow now lives in Washington territory.

Francis Lawton, a native of New York, also came in 1853, from Jefferson Co., Wis., and, in comj any with A. C.Chishman, built a saw-mill. In I 1858 he sold out and went to Rockton, where | he built a grist mill, lie now lives in W^asli- i ington territory.

Abraham Benn, from England, came in 1856 and located on section 1. He enlisted in the Union army during the war and died in the service. Some of the family yet reside in llie town.

John Harrison and Henry (4lasburn, originally from Illinois, came from Viroqua in 1849. The year following they built a saw-mill on the west fork of the Kickapoo. About the time of the war they sold out and left the town.

W^illiam Austin settled in Readstown in 1853- He was something of a pettifogger and quite a musician. Two of his daughters were good musicians and occasionally gave public concerts. Mr. Austin left the county durng war times and now resides in California.

Gilbert Herriek, a native of New York State, came from Viroqua in 1853. He was a carpenter by trade and worked at the business together with farming. He made his home in Readstown until his death, which occurred in 1879. His widow survived him but a few months. Three daughters are yet liA'ing, two of whom reside in Iowa, the other still living at Readstown.

James McSharry, a native of Ireland, came from Galena, 111., in 1853. He entered land on section 36, town 12, range 4, where he located and remained three years, then went to section 7, town I 1, range 3, where he lived until 1882 when he removed to Rising Sun, where he died on Easter Sunday, 1883. His widow and two daughters now reside in Rising Sun.

History Of Vernon Coutstty

Lorenzo Hill was from New York. He came in 1853 and located on section 25, town 12, range 3. He was a single man at the time, but soon afterwards married a daughter of Robert Wilson. His wife dred in 1857 and he subsequently sold out and left the county. He is now a resident of Washington territory.

Albert Bliss, a native of Vermont, came to Readstown in 1854 from Grant Co., Wis., where he had lived several years. He opened a store that fall, and the next year embarked' in the hotel business. He was a resident of the town until 1883, when he removed to Viroqua. William Powell located on section 12, town 11, lange 3, in 1854. He was a minister of the Christian or Disciple Church, but engaged in teaching the greater part of his residence in the county. He remained here ten or twelve years, but now resides in Viroqua.

Charles Allen, a native of Virginia, came from Oliii) in 1854 and settled on section 3, where he remained until his death in 1874. His widow subsequently married H, B. Hopkins.

James Medlicut, a native of England, came in 1854 and settled on section 1, town 11, range 4 west. He lived there about twelve years, when he moved to Iowa, where he has since died. Two of his sons now live in Iowa.

William Geddes settled in the Kickapoo valley in 1855, buying land on section 33, town 12, range 3 west, where he still lives. He is a native of Ohio.

James Fox, a native of Pennsylvania, came in 1854, first locating on section 4, town 11, range 4, where he lived two years, then moved to section 8, town 11, range 3 west. He died there in August, 1883. He was a wagon maker by trade, and worked at his trade the greater part of the time, while a resident of the town. He was an active and influential member of the Christian Church.

came here from Green Lake Co., Wis., locating on section 14. In 18.58 he removed to Marion Co., Mo., and died there in 1879. His widow still lives there. His daughter, the widow of A. P. Bliss, lives at Readstown.

.James Foreman, a native of Pennsylvania, came in 1855. He bought village lots in Kickapoo and built a log house. He died there in 1857. His widow now lives with her daughter, who is the wife of Ransom Kellogg. His son, James, a successful farmer, lives on section 2, town 1 ] , range 3 west.

O. C. Fortney is a native of Norway. He came here from Madison Co., Wis., in 1855, and first located on section 13, town 11, range 4 west. He lived there about one year, then moved to section 11, of the same town. In 1882 he moved to section 2, where he died in 1883. His widow yet resides on the latter homestead.

James Maiben, by birt'-, was a Scotchman. He came here from Grant Co., Wis., in 1854, bought land on section 8, town II, range 3. He died Jan. 8, 1857. His family still reside here.

Francis Dupee came from Grant Co., Wis., in 1856. He enlisted in the army and died in the service. His son Henry also died in the service. The familj- now occupy the old homestead.

11, range 3 west, in 1855. ]le wasa native of Maryland, but came here from Ohio. He built a two story hewed log house on his arrival, which he still makes his home.

George Spurrier was from Jefferson Co., Ohio. He came here in 1855, and entered eighty acres of land on section 14, town 11, range 3, where he still resides.

Among the settlers of 1855 was Zachariah Smith, a native of Ohio, but who came from Indiana, and located on section 13, town 11, range 5, where he still lives.

John (Tiibble, a native of Pennsylvania, came from Indiana in 1854, and located on section 30, town 11, range 3. In 1871 he moved to Viola, where he died in 1875. His widow now lives in Richland county.

One of tlie pioneers of 1856, worthy of special mention in this connection, is William Pugh (deceased), who was born in North Carolina, in 1781, and died at Readstown, in 186P \Vlien young, he moved to Virginia, where h( married in 1810, and a few years later, remove( to Kentucky, where he remained until 1S45, a which time he came to Wisconsin and spent ; year in Grant county. He then returned t( Kentucky, and remained until 1856, when he moved back to Wisconsin, and settled near Readstown, Vernon county, where he spent the remainder of his days. Mrs. Pugh was born in the State of Virginia, June 26, 1794. She married Mr. Pngh the January before she was sixteen years of age, and by him had twentyone children, thirteen of whom lived to manhood and womanhood. The mother, when ninety years of age, ( 1883 ) was well preserved and enjoyed good health. The year she was ninety, slie was out walking, when a rattle snake came across lier pathway, which had seven rattles. Mrs. Pugh found a stick, hunteil the venomous reptihe out from his hiding place and killed it; this took more cour.ige than most of her children or grand-children

Organic

Kickapoo town was organized in 1-53. The first election was he!d at Orin Wisel's house. May 29 of that year. The territory embraced forty six sections, and has never been changed. Several attempts have been made to sub-divide it, but such attempts have always failed No record of the first town officer." can be given, except that Robert Wilson was the first justice of the peace.

Officers of 1883: P. L. Rush, Lewis Anderson and John Claney, supervisors; William Hutchinson, assessor; J. J. McCarty, clerk; George Spurrier, A. M. McClarin and H*nry Sutherland, justices of the peace; A. S. Cary> constable.

Tlie lilile collection of bouses known as Kickapoo was laid out by Joseph Wood, on land owned by Robert Wilson, in ]S,57. It is situated on tlie west bank of pie Kickapoo river, on section 35, town 12, range ^ west.

Knox & St. Jobn opened the first store in 1S57; they kept a general stock, including groceries. They continued about a year and closed out. Then came Samuel Green, who moved a stock into the same building - a log house long since torn down. Several persons have traded herefrom time to time. The trade in 1SS4 was left in the hands of Ambrose Osborne.

Robert Wilson kept the first hotel. lie began to keep travelers when he first came to the county. In 1857 he built a frame hotel, called the "Jackson House," named in honor of "Old Hickory." They kept this as a public house till 187.3.

A postoffice was established at this jioint in 1853. Robert Wilson was the first postmaster; he served over eighteen years and was succeeded by Lorenzo Hill, and he, by Samuel Green. Ne.vt came Thomas Dunning, who was followed by Mr. Wilson, who was in charge a year and followed by L. S. Kellogg.

In 188.3 A. C Ciishman and Frank Lawton erected a saw mill on the east bank of the Kick.ipoo river, its 'power, however, being derived from Elk creek. This mill was still in use in 188 4. when it was being run by his son, James M.

The first religious services in this vicinity were held at the school house in 1857. Preachers of various denominations conducted seivices in the |>lace. A Methodist Episcopal class was organized, but prior to 1880 had been discontinued.

abont thirty members. Robert V\ ilson and E. H. Bragg were chosen deacons. In the spring of 1880, a small church was built which co.st about $000. In 1883, owing to most of the membership having moved away, the society was disbanded.

Educational

The first school at Readstown was taught by Mrs. Bound in a small building erected for other purposes in 1854, but during that year a frame building was erected for school purposes, and the first school taught therein was by Jemima Wilson. This building was in use until 1867, when it was replaced by a larger and better one, which was still in use in the fall of 1883. Gardner Bliss was the first teacher in the new building. Each district in the town is supplied with a school house.

Joint district No. 1 secured its first school house in i860. It was of logs and erected by the volunteer contributions (in labor) of the men in the district. The building was covered with slabs and had slab seats provided for the scholars. This building was replaced by the present one in 1871. Helen Hutchinson has the honor of being the first teacher in the new scl ool house.

The first school in di.strict No. 2 was held in Samuel Green's house in the winter of 1854-5. It was taught by Caroline McKasha. In 1857 a log house was erected, in wiiich Isaac Osenbaugh taught the first school. It stood upon section 35, on the line of section 36. This house was used but a short time when a frame house was built on the same section line. Nettie Cliff was the first teacher in this house. In 1869 the present sdiool building was erected and school was first taught therein by Annie 1 Turner.

cated on section 17, town 11, range 3 west. In two or three years it was replaced by a hewed log house, erected on the same lot. William Powell taught the first school in this house. In 1882 a neat frame school liouse was ei'ected on section 11, in which Laura E. Smith taught the first school.

The first school in district No. 4 was in a building belonging to William Geddes, located on section 33. This was in 1856. Sarah Clark has the honor of being the first teacher. A scliool house was erected the same year on the northwest quarter of section 33, town 12, range 3 west.

Ill district No. 5 the first school house was built in 1857. It w,as of logs and located on the northwest quarter of section 9. It was built on the subscription plan. Mrs. R. F. Cory was the first teacher. The old log school house was used until 1876, when the present frame building was erected. William S Andrews was the first teacher in the new house, which is located on section 10.

The first school in district No. 7 was taught by Margaret McSharry in 1860. The school was held in a log house owned by Mr. Banta, located on section 11. A log house was bought of Mr. Brown and is still used as a school house. It is located on section 11. Almira Fox taught the first school in this house.

The first marriage in the town is not positively known. In 1855 Abner Hancock was united in marriage with Irena, daughter of John Harrison. Orin Wisel, justice of the peace, officiated on the occasion, the ceremony being peiformed at the house of Thomas Gillingham, at Readstown.

George Baker was united with Ulialah Shoults about the same time, at the residence of the bride's parents. Henry B. Hopkins, justice of the peace, officiated.

An early birth was that of Elsie, daughter of H. B. and Emeline (Dean) Hopkins, born July 28, 1855. She is now married and living in Grant Co., Wis.

The first meetings of the Sugar Grove Christian Church were held at the residence of Zac'iariah Smith, in 1857. Rev. Daniel Parkerson was the first minister. This society was organized at the school house on section 13 in 1857 by George H. Babb. Abram Williams and Zachariah Smith were chosen elders and William Shore and Henry Davis, deacons. 'J'he original membership was composed of about fourteen persons, among whom were Zachariah Smith and wife, George Spurrier and wife, Reuben Drake and wife, Henry Davis and wife, William Shore and wife and Elmira Newman. Rev George H. Babb was the first regular preacher after the organization of the society. He was succeeded by Rev. Hurd, who, in turn, was followed by Rev. Henry Howe. 'I'he society has never had a regular settled pastor, but has been supplied by preachers from other points. Worship was continued in the school house some four or five years, when services were held in Richland county until 1875, when a neat frame building was erected on section 13, town 11, range 3, town of Kickapoo. A Sabbath school was organized at the school house soon after the organization of the society. William Powell was the first superintendent. The present superintendent is Rutson Drake. The Methodist Episcopal Conference has sent ministers to Readstown since the time the village was laid out. The first meetings were held in the school house, Rev. Schooley being among the first preachers. No class was organized here until 1876, when Rev. McMillan organized one with about eight members, among whom were James Treseder and wife, Martha McKittrick and Mrs. Sylvia Bliss. James Treseder was appointed class-leader. In the winter of 1881-82 a revival was held, when several persons were added to the membership. In the spring of 1882 a house of worship w as

Personal

Josiali Adams, one of the settlers of Vernon county, was born in the town of Somerset, Somerset Co., Penn., Jan. 25, 1822. When he was quite young his parents moved to Ohio and bceame early settlers of Stark county, where be grew to manhood. In 1845 he went to the Maumee valley and bought timber land in Ileniy county. In 1849 he came to Wisconsin and spent the summei' in Lafayette county. In tl.e fall of that year he came to Bad Ax county and halted at Liberty Pole, which was at that time called Bad Ax. He made a claim on section 32, of town 12 north, of range 5 west. In the fall of 1850 he returned to Ohio and spent the winter and sold his land there, returning to this county in 1852. On the 3d of April, 1853, he started for California, going across the plains with ok teams. He arrived at Spanish Ranch the 8lh day of September, liaving been over five months on the way. He engaged in mining and remained in California until 1855, when he returned to Liberty Pole, coming by way of the Isthmus of Panama and Xew York. He then settled down and engaged farming, remaining in Franklin town until 18W1, when he sold out and came to Kickapoo and bought land on section 33, of town 12 north, of range 3 west, where he now lives. He was married in 1860 to Mary Wright, of Ohio. They have one child, named Cyrus. Ilis second and present wife was Rosetta Hooks, who was born in Mercer Co., Ohio, Feb. 5, 1833. Her father, Thomas Hooks, settled in Lafayette Co., Wis., in 1847.

Philip Schneider, one of the pioneers of Vernon county and the oldest living settler in the town of Kickapoo, was born in Bavaria, Sept. 15, 1815. His younger days were spent in school and on the farm. In 1837 he left his native land and emigrated to America. He landed at New York and went to New Jersey, where he was employed at farming for ten years. In 1847 he came to Wisconsiii, and located in what was then called Crawford county. He stopped near Viroqua and helped Mr. Decker put up the first house ever erected in Viroqua. He remained there two years; then in 1849 came to town 1 1 north, of range 3 west, and entered land on section 5. He first built a small log cabin in which he lived until 1802, when he built the frame house in which he now lives. Mr. Schneider's farm is in the Kickapoo valley and contains 200 acres. It was the first farm opened up in the town. He was married in 1852 to Elizabeth Guist, born in Ohio. Four children have blessed this union - Jacob, Mary, George and Philip. Mrs. Schneider died in 1856. His second wife, to whom he was married in 1857, was a sister of his first wife and named Mary. She was the widow of Paul Sisler.

Samuel Estes is one of the oldest settlers now living in the county. He first came here in 18=.0, to hunt and trap. He camped on section 26, of town 12 north, of range 3 west, built him a bark hut and here lived in solitude two years. He killed elk, deer and bear, and other small game, selling the pelts at Prairie du Chien. After stopping here a few years, settlers began to come in, and he concluded this would be a good place to settle, lie accordingly entered land on sections 25 and 2ti, and built a log house and engaged in farming. As he was the first settler here, he made a good selection in the Kickapoo valley. He has been twice married. His first wife was Ruth Hall, who was born in Ohio. Four children blessed this union, two of whom are now living - Elizabeth and Rachel. Mrs. Estes died in March, isoo, aged twenty-eight years. His second wife, to whom he was married in the fall of 1866, was Mary A. Shaw, also a native of Ohio. They have four children - Mellisa, Samuel, Annie and Henry. iMr. Estes was born in

Atlams, Berkshire Co., Mass., May 28, 1820. Wlieu he was quite young, his parents removed to New York, and lived two years ; then removed to Canada, and settled at London, now in the province of Ontario. At the breaking cut of the patriot war, they returned to York State, and settled near Watertown, Jefferson county. They lived there but a shorttime, when they again moved to Cayuga county, and later to Cortland county. In 1846 lie started west. He first halted near Elk Horn, where he was employed in farming and teaming until 1850, when he came to this county, as before stated. He lived in his log house until 1877, when he built the neat frame house in which he now resides.

James M., son of Abel C. and Elizabeth ( Lawton ) Cushman, was born in Jefferson Co., Wis., Sept. 6, 1850. His father was a native of Vermont, and his mother of New York. They were early settlers in Jefferson Co., Wis., and also in Vernon county, coming here in 185.3. James M. attended the district school and the public school at Viroqua for two years. When young, he commenced to work in his father's saw-mill, and learned to be a sawyer. In 1873 he bought land on section 26, of town 12 north, of range 3 west, and has since that time engaged in farming summers and has run the saw-mill the remainder of the year. He was married, in 1868, to Maria J. Snow, who was born in Ohio. They have three children - Lillian, Alta and Florence.

Henry B Hopkins, one of the early settlers of Kickapoo town, was born in Newiugton, Hartford Co., Conn., May 18, 1817. He was the son of Horace and Fannie (Root) Hopkins, natives of Connecticut. When Henry was eight years of age, his parents moved to Ohio, settling in Portage county, where he grew to manhood, learning the carpenter trade. He was married May 30, 1839, to Emeline Dean, born in 'Irunibull Co., Ohio. They settled in Portage county, where Mr. Hopkins worked at his trade until 1848, when he came to Wisconsin, locating in Grant county. In 1853 he came to Vernon county, and entered the land where he now lives. He built a log house in which he lived until 1873, when he built the frame house in which he now lives. Mrs. Hopkin's motlier died in December, 1837. Of tlie seven children born to Mr. and Mrs. Hopkins, four are living - Albert, Delia, George and Elsie. Harriet, born May 27, 1840, married Henry Henthorn, died Nov. 6, 1873 ; Eluell D., born May 27, 1858, died Nov. 2, 1880 ; Alfred H., born Oct. 6, 1852, died at Esof ea. Wis., June 18, 1883. Mr. Hopkins second wife, to whom he was married May 6, 1875, was Nancy Holcomb, widow of Charles Allen. He was the first justice of the peace in the town, and was repeatedly elected to that office as long as his health was such that he could attend to the duties of it. He was also first postmaster of Sugar Grove postoffice, holding the position many years and resigning on account of his ill health.

Albert H , eldest son of Henry B. Hopkins, was born in Ellenboro, Grant Co., Wis., Nov. 14, 1847. In 1853 he came with his parents to Vernon county, making his home with them until 1868, when he was married to Mary J., daughter of William and Ann (Williams) Shore, and widow of Zebulon Metcalf. She was born in Perry Co., Ohio. Tbey have six children, four of whom are living - Bertha A., Frances E., Myrta C. and Guy F. Emmet V. and Willie H. died in infancy. Soon after marriage Mr. Hopkins settled on his present farm, on the northwest quarter of section 11.

David Barrie is one of the oldest settlers now living in Kickapoo town. He is a native of Scotland, born in Perthshire, Feb. 14,1814. When fourteen years of age he commenced to learn to weave, working at that for some time, after which he was engaged for thirteen years, on the river Tay, in the salmon fishing business. He was then employed for three years as gardener. In 1853 he came to America, landing at Montreal, and going to London, where he visited witli a brotlicr-in-law, two months, tlien went to Butler Co., Penn., where he visited a brother. In November, 1853, he started west to seek a home, first slopping at Viroqua, and on the 1st of January, 1854, entering land on section 35, town \2, range 3, Kickapoo town. He first built a log cabin, in which lie lived ten years, then erected a neat frame house, which was burned in Occober, 1877. Mr. Barrie then erected the frame liouse in which he now lives. He also has a log and a frame stable on his place. He made a good selection for a home, and now has one of the best farms in the county. When Mr. Barrie began pioneer life, in 1853, he worked three weeks in the dense wilderness without seeing a human being. Still he was not without company, for there were any amount of deer in the forest at that time. He went to LaCrosse, a distance of fifty miles, with an ox team, for his first provisions. It took him eight days to make the trip. His nearest postoffice was Viroqua, twelve miles distant. The nearest grist-mill was at Springville, a distance of sixteen miles.

Adelbert S. is a son of Roswell and Eliza Corey, pioneers of Vernon county. He was born in Bradford Co., Penn., March -29, 1851, and was but three years of age when his parents came to Vernon county. They located land on section 10, of town 11 north, of range 3 west, and our subject was there reared to iiianhood, dividing his time between the school and farm He was married in October, 1871, to Hester Salmon, and soon after bought land on sections 10 and 15, of town 11 north, of range 3 west, but two years later sold this piece and purchased 120 acres on section 12, of town 11 north, of range 4 west, where he resided until 1882, and then remoTed to an adjoining farm, on the same section. Mr. Corey and wife have been blessed with five children - William, Minerva, Ernest, James and Lillie May.

his parents emigrated to America, locating in Dane Co., Wis. His mother died when he was seven years of age and his father was again married within a year after her death. In 1854 they started from Dane county with two yoke of oxen to each wagon, and settled in Vernon Co., Wis., on section 11, town 11 north, range 4 west. Here Daniel grew to inaiiliood, receiving a good education in the district schools. He was married June 9, 1 838, to A'na Peterson, and settled on the homestead. This union was blessed with seven children, of which three went to the Eternal home while infants. The four living are Torger, Nils Elias, Anna Maria and Gerhard Olaus. Ilis father died in IWSO, in his seventy -second year. Mr. Forlney has been prominent in town aifairs, having held offices of trust in the town. In 1882 he engaged in mercantile business at Liberty Pole, in company with his brother-in-law Knudt Peterson. They are doing an extensive business - buying and selling live stock and grain.

Reuben Drake is one of the early settlers of Vernon county. He was born in New Jersey,] n 1824. When quite young, his parents removed to Ohio, and settled on a farm. He was there married, in 1846, to Matilda A. Sanders, bt)rn in Columbiana Co., Ohio. He bought a piece 111' land in Perry county, and engaged in fanning until 1851, when he sold and went to Indiana, and spent one and a half 3-ears. lie then returned to Perry county, and remained there until 1S55. In the spring of that year, he came to Vernon county, and entered land on section 12, of town 1 1 north, of range 3 west, where he still resides. He first built a small log cabin in which the family lived five years, aiul then built a hewed log house. In 1870 he erected the frame house in whicli he now lives. His son Benjamin was born in Peny Co., Ohio, in October, 1849. He came to Wisconsin with his ])arents. His younger days were spent in school, and on his father's farm. He was joined in marriage in April, 1871, to Sarah Beighle, a native of Pennsylvania. In the tall of that year, they went to Iowa, and he took a homestead in Lyons county, and there remained one and a half years ; then returned to Kickapoo town, and bought Land on section 13, of town 11 north, of range 8 west. In 1881 lie bought another tract on the same section, on which is the neat frame house in which he now lives. Mr. and Mrs. Drake are the parents of live children - Blanche, Elmer G., Epsie E., Jesse O. and Gertie J.

Setb Edson, one of the early settler of Kickapoo, was born in Broome Co., N. Y., July 8, 1827, and was there reared to agricultural pur- .suits. He lived there until 1855, when he came to Bad Ax county, as it was then called, and purchased land of Daniel Day, on sections 17 and 18, of town 11 north, of range .3 west. There was a log house on this land at the time. He lived in that a few years, then built the frame house in which he now lives. He was married, in 1859, to Caroline Weybright, a native of Ohio. Five children blessed this union - Almira, RhoJa, Ella, William and Margaiel Mrs. Edson died in May, 1874, and he was again married in 1877, to Susan Anderson. They have three children - Samuel L., Dora J. and Nora May. His father's name was Guy Edson; born in Pelliam, Hampshire Co., Mass., March 17, 1794. He was there married to Rhoda Packard, who was also a native of that county. They moved to New York, and settled in Broome county, where he bought a farm and lived until 1871, when he came to Wisconsin to ioin ills children. He now makes liis home with his daughter, in Crawford county.

James Foreman, an early settler in Kickapoo Center, was born in Butler Co., Penn., in 1808. His wife, whose maiden name was Elizabeth Bortemus, was also a native of Butler county Seven children blessed this union, ihree living - Rudolph, now a resident of Fayette Co , Iowa; Romania E., wife of Ransom Kellogg, who resides on section 14, and James. In 1855, in company with liis family, he came to Bad Ax county and located at Kickapoo Center, where he bought town lots. He died here in 1857. His son James was born in Butler Co., Penn., Feb. 14,1837. He came to Wisconsin and made his home with his parents until the time of his father's death. In 1856 he bought land on section 2, of town 11 north, of range 3 west. He was married in 1857 to Margaret, daughter of Robert Dobson, a native of Pennsylvania, who settled in Kickapoo in 1857. At the tiihe of his marriage he settled on his land. He had already commenced improvements, and had built a log house in which he lived until 1864, when he built the frame house in which he now lives. He has been a successful farmer and now owns 216 acres of land, a part of which is in the Kickapoo valley. Mr. and Mrs. Foreman are the parents of four children - Sarah A., Ciiarles, Martha E. and Jane M.

Ole Fortney was one of the first Norwegians to settle in the town of Kickapoo. He was born June 4, 1823. He received a liberal education when young, and after finishing school, he engaged with a carpenter to learn the trade, and worked at that until 1850, when he came to America. He located at Madison, Wis., and worked at his trade. He was there married, in 1852, to Cornelia Johnson. They remained in Madison until 1855, when he took an ox team and with his family started for Bad Ax (now Vernon) county. He bought land on section 13, of town 11 north, of range 4 west; built a log house and lived there one year, then traded for land on section 11, of the same town, and moved there with his family. He built a log house and lived in that until 1882, when he gave that farm up to one of his sons. He then built a neat frame house on section 2, of the same town, and moved there with his family. He had for some time been in feeble health and did not live long to enjoy his nice new home. He passed to his rest April 1, 1883, leaving a widow and eight children to mourn his loss. The children are - Catharine, Hans, Christina, John, Ole, Martha, Sophia and Mary.

William Geddes was born in Harrison Co., Ohio, April 12, 18.30. His father, Henry Geddes, was born in Bucks Co., Penn., twentyeiglit miles from Philadelphia, in the same house in which his father was born. He was there married to Tamzon Forst, born in New Jersey. They settled in Ohio at an early day. Wiien William was quite young, his parents removed to Morgan Co., Ohio., where they remained until the time of their death. In early manhood William went to McConnellsville, the county seat of Morgan county, engaging with a carpenter to learn the trade. He worked at his trade until the fall of 1854, when he started west to seek a home. He spent the winter twelve miles from Columbus, Franklin Co., Ohio. In the spring of 185.5 he again started on his journey, and coming to Vernon county, located on section 38, town 12, range 3, in the Kickapoo valley, and built a frame house, 16x24 feet. Mr. Geddes has since cleared a farm, made a large addition to his house, and now makes this his home. He was married in 1851 to Laura Ann Hagerman, born in Washington Co., Ohio. Eleven children blessed this union - Henry, Rhoda A., James E., Julia A., Isabel], Fiannah, Edward D., Ella and Nellie, twin.s, Rosa and John Irving. Henry was born July 28, 1852, died Feb. 8, 1881. John Irving died in infancy.

Zaehariah Smith was born in Belmont Co., Ohio, Nov. 25, 1821. When fourteen years of age his parents moved to Morgan county, where they lived four years, then moved to Perry county. His father died soon after and Zaehariah then started in life for himself. He married, in 1843, Amy Battin, born in Columbiana Co., Ohio, March 27, 1822. They went to Indiana in 1846, locating in the western part of Howard county. Mr. and Mrs. Smith were among the first in starting the Disciple Church in Burlington, Carl Co., Indiana. Mr. Sniitli was deacon of that Church for a number of years. In 1855 he and his wife and five small children started for the northwest with their covered wagons. They traveled uiulcr many hardships, especially the mother who had the care of the children, they being sick most of the time. They forded the Tippecanoe river, and narrowly escaped being drowned. They landed ill Bid A^ (now Vernon), C >., Wis., Nov. 9, 1855. Mr. Smith bought timber land and immediately commenced to cle ir a farm. There was a small cabin on the place where they lived four years. The country being new and no churches near, the early settlers met in his house to worship God. Elder Parkerson was the first preacher in this place. In 1800 Mr Smith erected a hewed log house in which he lived until 1881, when he built the neat frame house where he now resides. His farm is in Sugar Grove, one of the most plea.sant localities in Vernon county. Mr. Smith was one of the first in establishing the district school and also the Disciple Church, in this place, of which he was an elder for many years. Mr. and Mrs. Smith are parents often children. The oldest son enlisted in the War of the Rebelionand died at Nashville, Tenn., in 18G5.

Sever Thompson was one of the early Norwegian settlers in Vernon county. He was born in Norway, Jan. 14, 1828, and in l.s53 came to America, joining his countrymen in Dane Co., Wis. He remained there two years and in 1855 made a settlement in Bad A.\ (now this) county. He located on the southwest quarter of section 13, town II north, of range 4 west, on which lie erected a log cabin. One year later he sold this land and purchased tiie northwest quarter of the same section, ami removed his primitive dwelling house to his new farm. He subsequently weather-boarded and painted his cabin, giving it the appearance of a frame house. He cleared up the farm and lived there till his death, whic'> occurred April 24 1883. He left a widow and five ciiildren to mourn his death. The children are - Betsey, Ole Nels, Emma, Thomas and Soren. The eldest son, Ole, is a teacher in the public schools. He was born in this town, Nov. 1,

Henry Benn was an early settler of Kickapoo town. He was born in t'umberlandshire, England, Oct. 16, 18-29. In .January,' 1853, he left his native land for Amei'ioa, and located in Jefferson Co., Wis., where lie "as married, in 1854, to Susan Holinger, a native of Ohio. In 1850 Mr. Benn came to Vernon county and bought forty acres of land on section 35. of town 12 north, of range 3 we-^t, erected a log house, and resided there for ihree years. He then sold his property and purchased another "forty" of unimproved land, and again erected a substantial log cabin. In 1864 lie enlisted in company C, 43d regiment, Wisconsin Volunteers, and served till the war closed and received an honorable discharge. In 1864 he purchased land on section 35, adjoining the town plat of Kickapoo, on which he lias since resided. In April, 1882, he had the misfortune to lose his house by fire. Mr. and Mrs. Benn have been blessed with two childien - Ida, wife of John Lowry, of Richland Co., Wis., and a son that died in infancy.

James Cianey, one of the pioneers of Vernon county, was born in county Cork, Ireland, in 1815. When fifteen years of age he left home and his native land to seek a home in .\raerica. After living in Maryland for some years lie went to Memphis, Tenn., where he was married to Maria Osborne, born in Kentucky. Tliey went to Galena, 111., where they lived until 1S56, when they came to Vernon Co., Wis., settling on section 36, town 12, range 4. Mr. Cianey improved the land, making this his home until his death in 1875. His widow, jvith her son James, now occupies the homestead. Mr. Cianey left four children - William, John, Mary and James.

John Cianey, son of James and Maria (Osborne) Cianey, was born March 20, 1847, in Galena, III., being but nine years of age when his parents settled in this county. His younger days were spent in school and at work on the farm. In 1867 he engaged with George Read to learn blacksmithing and has worked at that trade the greater part of the time since. Mr. Cianey also owns a farm located on section 1, town 11, range 4. In 1881 he formed a partnership with Mr. Baker, at Readstown, to do general blacksmithing and wagon making. In 1882 Mr. Baker died and Mr. Cianey now has a shop at his home. In 1870 Mr. Cianey was married to Catharine Joyce, born in Madison, Wis. They have had four children - Thomas Francis, Isabelle and Grace, twins, and Charles. On Sept. 1, 1864, Mr. Cianey enlisted in the Union army, serving ten months and receiving an honorable discharge when the war closed.

Thomas Flanagan was born in county Longford, Ireland, in 1821, where his younger days were spent in school. In 1841 he came to America, landing at New York city, where he was engaged in the manufacture of brick on the Hudson river. He remained there until 1845, when he went to Galena, 111., and engaged as clerk in the smelting furnace of Corinth & Co. In 1851 he went by way of the Isthmus to California. He engaged in mining at Downieville until winter, when he bought a lot of mules and with provisions started for the mountains. In 1853 he returned by way of Nicaragua to Galena. He remained there until 1854, when ho bought eight Jiorses and sixteen head of cattle and, in company with seven others, started across the plains for California. He was there engaged i n the mines and in a saw mill. In 1856 he returned to Galena and after making a short stop came to Wisconsin, buying land on sections 1 and 12, town 1 1, range 4, and on sections 6 and 7, town 1 1, range 3, wlfere he removed in the winter of 1856-57 with his family. He first built a small frame house in which lie lived until 1871, when he built the commodious one in which he now lives. He has nearly 600 acres in Kickapoo town and 140 in Franklin town. Mr. Flanagan was married in 1S47 to Bridget Finley, who was born in Lafayette Co., Wis. They have liad si.x cliiidren - Edmund P., Maria, William, John, Joseph and Nellie. Mr. Flanagan has been prominent in town affairs and has tilled offices of li-ust. He was town clerk for eight successive years.

Helge Lar.son,one of the pioneers of Kickapoo town, was born in Norway, Feb. 16, 1820. His younger days were spent in school and on the farm. lie was married in 1850 to Carrie Svalheii). In 1855 they left their native land and came to the United States. They first settled in Dane Co., Wis., and in 1856 came to Vernon county, purchasing land on section 1 -J, town II, range 4. He built a log house and improv<d a part of the land. He sold this farm in isov and purchased land on sections 28 and 33, town 1 2, range 3. He moved there with his family and made this his home until his death, which occurred in 1875. He left five children - Soin, Lewis, Susan, Emma and Ole. Soin was born June 17, 1850; died June 3, 1880. Lewis was born Nov. 9, 1855; died May 29, 1880. Ole, the youngest son, was born Feb. 16, ISGi. He received a liberal education in the public schools. He with his sisters, resides on the homestead with his mother.

William Crook is a native of England, born in Devonshire, August, 184^, living there and in Cornwall until 1857, when be left his native land, with his parents, for America. After landing at New York city, they came to Vernon county, settling on section 26, town 12, lange 4. William was married, in 1869, to Catharine Hall, born in Ohio. They have had three children - Frank, Minnie and Rosa A. In 1879 he moved to Franklin town, buying a farm on section 21. After remaining there two years, he returned to his former home on section 26. Kickapoo tovvn, on which he has erected a good set of buildings, now having one of the best farms in the town, conlaining 200 acresof land. Mr. Crook's parents, John and Charlotte (Searls) Crook, were both natives of Deyon.shjre, England, His mother

John R. Lake, one of the pioneers of Vernon county, was born in Devonshire, England, .March 29, 1829. His father was a farmer, but when quite young John R. engaged with a plasterer to learn the trade, at which he worked, until 1855, in his native land, when he came to America. He landed at Quebec, coming directly to Wisconsin, and locating at Janesville, where he worked at his trade for three years, then going to Iowa, spent one year in Mitchell, Mitchell county. He then came to Vernon county, bought forty acres of land on section 26, town 12, range 4, and commenced farming. He built a small frame house in which he lived twelve years, then moved to section 23, town 12, range 4, in Viroqua. He has since improved this land, built a neat frame house, and now makes it his home. He has been a successful farmer, now having 320 acres of land. Mr. Lake was married, in 1859, to Charlotte, daughter of John and Charlotte (Searls) Crook. They have had ten children - William Henry, Levi John, Augustus Stockholm, Araelina Ann, Samuel Welobee, Albert, Clementine, Frederick, Ella and Ethel. Mr. Lake was instrumental in the organization of the school district in which he lives, and was the first clerk, which office he has held continuously, with the exception of a short time in which he was not in the district. During the war, Mr. Lake enlisted in company B., 50th regiment, Wisconsin Volunteers, and served faithfully until honorably discharged.

Fredrick Olson first visited this county in 1859. He was born in Norway, Nov. 5, 1834. His younger days were spent in acquiring an education. At sixteen years of age, he was ap])renticed to a tailor at Lillieharamer, to learn the trade. He served three years; then worked as a iourneymen until 1859, when he left his native land for America. He came directly to this county, and spent the summer at Coon Prairie, where Le was employed in farm- ing. In the fall, he went to Freeport, 111., and worked at his trade. In 1861, he again visited Vernon county, and was married here July 20 to Marion O, daughter of Hans Hanson, who settled near Bloomingdale in 18.55. He returned to Freeport with his bride and resumed work at his trade, remaining there until 186-3, when he returned to Vernon county, and purchased a farm of Nels Hanson two and onehalf miles from Bloomingdale. He lived there eight years, then traded his farm for a gristmill at Bloomingdale. He carried on this mill until 1878, when he traded it for a farm on sections 25 and 26 of town 1 2 north, of range 4 west, embraced in the town of Kickapoo. There was a large frame barn on this farm and he has since completed the farm houses, and is now well provided with buildings. His farm now contains 202 acres of land, a portion of which is in the Kickapoo valley. Mr. and Mrs. Olson are the parents of nine children - Annie M., Minnie A., Olouf M., Marcus H., John A., Hans N., Hannah L., Ida A. and Charles Edwin. They are taking good care to educate their children. Their oldest daughter, Annie, is a teacher in the public schools.

Jedediah Demings is a jiroraiiient member of the Seventh Day Adventist denomination. He was born in Franklin Co., Vt., Nov. 6, 1826, and at the age of fifteen, suffered the loss of his mother. His father soon after removed to Illinois, avid our subject was left to care for himself. He was employed on a farm in Vermont for two years, and then went to Essex Co., N. Y., where he found similar employment at $9 per month. In 1845 he went to Illinois and joined his father in McHenry county, where he remained two years. In 1847 he went to Wisconsin, and spent two years in Winnebago county. He then returned to his father's home in Illinois, going on foot, and walking the long journey of 136 miles in two and one-half days. His time was passed in Illinois and Wisconsin, until 1856, when he went to Minnesota, and located in Nicolet county, then on the frontier, and inhabited mostly by Indians. He remained there four years, and in 1860 came to Vernon county, and located a homestead on section 2, of town 11 north, of range 3 west, where he now has a pleasant home. Mr. Demings was married Feb. 17, 1856, to Adeline Gibbs, a native of Vermont. Mr. Demings was converted to the faith of the Seventh Day Adventist in Illinois, in 1850, and is the founder of that denomination in Vernon county. Mrs. Demings is also a member.

Charles E. Smith settled on his present farm in 1860. He is a native of the old Bay Slate, born sixteen miles from Boston, in Lincoln township, Middlesex county, Aug. 15, 1835. His early education was begun in the district school and completed in the Lawrence Ac iflcmy, at Groton, Mass. When seventeen years of age, he went to Boston, engaging as clerk for an establishment there until 1856, when he started west to seek a home. He located at St. Peter, Nicolet Co., Minn., being one of the early settlers there. He lived there, on government land, until 1860, when he sold out, and as before stated, came to Vernon county. His farm is situated in the Kickapoo valley, on section 34, town 12, range 3. It is in a good state of cultivation, and he has erected a neat frame house thereon. Mr. Smith was married in 1860, to Ruth E. Gibbs, born in Vermont. They have had four children - Charles 0., Fred L., Lucy A. and Myrtle M. Mr. Smith has been prominent in town and county affairs, and was assessor for several years.

B. C. Hutchison, one of the pioneers of Vernon coimty, was born in Pennsylvania, in January, 1818. He lived there until four years of age, when he removed to Ohio, settling in Richland county. He was there married to Matilda Hooks, who was born in Ohio. Thirte(;n children blessed this union, nine of whom are now living. In 1844 they came to Wisconsin, locating in Grant county. In 1849 he again sought a new home, settling in Fi'anklin town,

Venion county, wliere he purchascl laml, Imilt a log house, living there six years. He then sold out, buying land on section 7, town 11, range 3, Kickapoo town. After residing there eight years, he again sold out and settled on section 9, his present home. Mrs. Hutchison died March 5, 18G4.

William Hutciiison, third son of B. (.'. and Matilda (Hooks) Hutchison, was born July 20, 1846, in Grant Co., Wis. His younger days were spent in school, and assisting his father on the farm. In January, 1864, he enlisted in company 1,1 Vth Wisconsin Volunteers, and went south. He was with Sherman in liis march to the sea, and participated in the many battles of that memorable campaign. He was discharged July 14, 1865, and returned home. In 1800 he was clerking for J3. D. Hale, at Readstown, and later for A. P. Bliss. He was married in I8G9 to Helen, daughter of Willard and Mai-y (Lot' ridge) Morlcy, who was born m New York State. Mr. and Mrs. Hutchison ha\e had five children - Mary, Albert, Sylvia, William and Walter. Soon after marriage he settled on a farm on section .36, town 12, range 4. In 188.3 he bought property in Viroqua and removed there. He has been |)rorainent in town affairs, and is the present assessor. He is also a mail contractor.

Lyman C. Drake, postmaster of Sugar Grove office, is a native of New York State. He was born in West Bloomtield town, Ontario county, April 29, 1813. When three years of age his parents moved to Leroy, Genesee county, where he grew to manhood. In 1838 became to Wisconsin, locating at Plattsville, where he engaged in mining one year, then going to Ellenboro he bought land and engaged in farming. He remained in the vicinity of Ellenboro until 1862, when he traded his farm there for land at Sugar Grove, on section 13, town 11, range 3, Kickapoo town. He has since made this his home. Mr. Drake was married, in T843, to Janette Russell, born in Connecticut. They have had five children, two of whom are living - Kutson H. and Frank H. Their first child, George L., born Sept. 3, 1844, enlisted in 1864 in company I, 17lh Wisconsin Volunteers, and died in the service at Rome, Ga., in August, 1864. Lester was born Nov. 13, 1847. He enlisted in 1804 in company I, 17th Wisconsin Volunteers. He was with Sherman on his march to the sea, and was killed by a guerilla, about twenty miles from Columbia, S. C., near the close of the war. Lewis was born June 20, 1860, and died in infancy. Mr. and Mrs. Drake are both members of the Disciple Church. Their son, Rutson, also a mem1)er, is supcrintCMdcnt of the Sunday school.

George Latta is a native of Ohio, born in Columbiana county. May 26, 1822. When ten years of age his parents moved to Perry county, where George grew to manhood, and where he was married, in 1844, to Thannel Snider. He bought a farm in Monroe town, remaining there until 1864, when he sold out, coming to Wisconsin, and settling on his present farm on section 26, town 12, range 4, Kickapoo town. It is in a good state of cultivation. Mr. and Mrs. Latta have had nine children - Leaniia, Edward, Nancy, Francis, Joseph, Matilda, David, Hannah and George. Mrs. Latta died in 1872, aged fifty-two years. His second wife, to whom he was married in 1 87.5, was Harriet Delap.

Josiali Latta settled in Ivickapoo town in 1866. He is a native of Ohio, born in Perry county May 22, 1830. His younger days were spent in school and at work on his father's farm. He was married in 1859 to Elizabeth Grier, born in Morgan Co., Ohio, after which he carried on a part of his father's farm in Perry county. He enlisted Jan. 1, 1862, in the 62d Ohio Volunteers, com))any C, and went south, serving until the e.\piration of his time and eight days over, being discharged Jan. 8, 186.0. Among the raanj- engagements in which he participated were the following: Winchester and the many battles of the Shenan<loah valley. After this campaign the regiment joined McClellan's command at Harrison's Landing. From there they went to Suffolk, Va., being on provost duty. After his discharge Mr. Latta returned to Perry county, remaining until 1866, when he came to Vernon county and purchased land on section 26 town 12, range 4. He has since improved his land, set out an orchard and built a large frame residence, now having one of the best farms and residences in the town. Mr. and Mrs. Latta have nine children - Thomas, Charles, Mary A., Lillie Maud, Nancy Estella, Albert P., Minnie B., Jessie Grace and William Orley. Mr. Latta's farm now contains 320 acres.

Benjamin Rogers settled in Vernon county in 1866. He was^born Feb. 19, 1837, in Perry Co., Ohio, being there raised on a farm. He was married in 1859 to Elizabeth Ayers, born in Perry county. He enlisted in September, 1861, in company (t, 18tii Ohio Volunteers, and went south. He participated in the battles of Stone River and Chickamauga. He was wounded in the latter battle and laid up for three months, when he again joined the regiment, taking part in many otherTengagements. He was honorably discharged in[the fall of 1864, and returned to Perry county. In 1866, as before stated, he came to Vernon county, purchasing eighty acres of land on section 36, town 12, range 4, Kickapoo town. He has since purchased more land, making a^farm of 220 acres, improved the same, and built the frame house in which he now lives. His six children are - -Rilla Belle, Benjamin, Rebecca, Parthenia, Hester Ann and Thomas Newton. The two latter are twins. A daughter, Mary Etta, died at seven years of age.

J. J. McCarty, town clerk, was born Jan. 7, 1856, in Missouri, coming to Kickapoo town, Vernon Co., Wis., in 1S67. He received a liberal education in his younger days, and has, for a few years, been engaged as teacher in the public schools, having taught his first term when nineteen years of age, in school district No. 4. . He was elected to his present office in 1877, being re-elected every year, until he is now serving his seventh term. In 1882 Mr. Mc- Carty erected a building in Readstown, on the east side of the river, where he is engaged in business. He keeps a general stock, and has a good trade.

Lewis Anderson settled on his present farm in 1874. It is located on the ridge on section 1, town 11, range 4, and contains 156 acres. He is a native of Norway, born June 17, 1853. He came to Ame'rica with his parents in 1864, settling in Clayton, Crawford county, where he received a liberal education in the public schools. He was married in 1874 to Melina Salmonson. Her parents were early settlers of Vernon county. Mr. and Mrs. Anderson have three children - Annie, Martha and Emma. He has taken great interest in public affairs, and is a member of the town board, elected in April, 1883.