Mazomanie Village

Mazomanie Village

The first mill was erected in 1857, by Nathaniel Aiken. Several changes have since been made in its owaership, the present proprietor being A.. T. Stevens. The mill has two run of stone, and is an exclusive custom-mill.

The religious privileges of the town are confiaed, so far as church structures are concerned, to two denominations - Roman Catholic and Methodist Episcopal. The latter is generally known 88 the " Bristol Church," and is located on the Bristol road, about two and a half miles from Sun Prairie on Section 27. It is a good substantial edifice, 30x50 feet, and was erected in 1865. The church organization was effected as early as 1846, church meetings being held in private houses and schoolhouses previous to the erection of the church. The Pastor of the Sun Prairie Methodist Episcopal Church has charge of this one.

The first marriage in the town was that of Jason Briggs and Amelia Adams, who were married in the fall of 1842, by Charles H. Bird, J. P. After the marriage fee had been paid, the bride's mother claimed it, on the ground that it was the universal custom for the fee received for the marriage of the first couple in the town to be paid her. Mr. Bird paid it over very cheerfully, remarking he would always respect an unwritten law.

There are no villages in the town, but two post offices, one being known as North Bristol and the other as East Bristol. John Arian is Postmaster of the former and L. J. Conrad of the latter. Both of these gentlemen are engaged in the mercantile trade, and carry large and wellselected stocks of goods.

This town lies on the northern boundary of the county, which separates it from the town of Hampden, in the county of Columbia. It is watered on the eastern side by Waterloo Creek, which rises in the northern part, runs southeasterly through the town of Medina, into Jefferson County. In the northern portion of this town, near the stream, are considerable quantities of marsh land and openings, except in the northwest corner, where there is SDme good prairie. The larger portion of the south half is prairie, with a few groves of oak openings. Brazee Lake covers nearly the west half of Section 34, in the south part of the town. This is an excellent agricultural town, rich and productive.

Town Of Dane

When the territory now constituting the town of Dane was brought under a town government by an act of the Territorial Legislature, approved February 2, 1846, it was a part of the town of Madison. Afterward, by an act approved February 11, 1847, its territory, along with that now constituting the town of Roxbury, was formed into a town called Clarkson. By an Mtof the State Legislature, approved March 11, 1848, the name was changed to Dane. On alarch 21, 1849, Township 9 north, of Range 8 east, was erected into a separate town by the ^me name ; so called from the post office of that name then existing within its limits. The y'i^fiction for town officers was held on the first Tuesday in April of that year, at the house ol ^nliam Dunlap. At this election the following among other officers were elected : Daniel jijj Miller, Chairman ; James R. Waterbury, Alfred Newman, Supervisors ; Alfred Newman, Werk; Sperry Tinker, Treasurer; John Miller, Freedom Simons, John Otto, Assessors, f .1 .^'"''^ Malone and Freedom Simons were the first settlers of the town of Dane, the date «t their settlement being 1845. Mr. Malone died of cholera in 1850. Among other early settlers of the town were John M. Babcock, Miller Blachly, Elan Blachly, Bell Blachly, A. ^. iittce, William Dunlap, Mr. Bell, Daniel Miller, Edward Tillotson, Jacob Myers, J. R. ion w-u- ^®'"'^® ^- babcock, James Steele, Robert Steele, Samuel Riddle, Amos Petti- «' William Rapp, Peter Rapp, Joshua E. Abbott, Marvin Simons, Gr. Rungue, James

The first birth in the town was that of a daughter of Patrick Malone, in 1846. The first male child was Elijah, son of Marvin and Abigail Simons.

Rev. Mr. Blachly was Pastor of the first Congregational Church, organized in 1848. In 1875, a German Catholic Church was erected. The town has five school districts and eight joint districts.

The town of Dane is situated in the northwestern part of the county, on its northern boundary, from which it is separated from the town of Lodi, in Columbia County. The town is watered in the northern part by Spring Creek, which has its rise in the central part, flowing northerly through Lodi, and thence to its outlet in the Wisconsin River. The northern portion of the town is much broken, and has numerous bold, and somewhat precipitous, bluffs, and also considerable marsh land, on and near Spring Creek. The east' half of the town is generally undulating prairie, with a few groves of oak openings and a large marsh on Sections 34 and 35, in the southern part, which extends into the adjoining town of Springfield, on the south. The land is generally prairie loam and produces good crops.

The town of Dane has but one post office : Dane Station Post Office, situated on Sections 13 and 24, on the line of the Chicago & North- Western Railway. The Chicago & North -Western Railway, Madison Division, enters the town on Section 36, runs northwest, leaving the town on Section 2, northwest corner.

The Town Op Dunn

The territory included within the present limits of the town of Dunn is Township 6 north, of Range 10 east, of the United States survey. This township was one of the three which originally constituted the town of Rome. By an act of the Territorial Legislature, approved March 11, 1848, Rome became extinct, and its territory was erected into a separate town, called Dunn. It was the intention to have called the town Dover, but the name was so poorly written that it was mistaken for Dunn. The first town meeting for the town of Dunn was held at the residence of A. W. Wetherby, April 4, 1848, when the following, among other officers, were chosen: R. T. Rawson, Chairman ; Williatn Freeman and Eli Root, Supervisors ; W. M. Colladay, Clerk ; A. W. Wetherby, Treasurer ; Calvin Farnsworth, Assessor^ There were twenty-three votes cast.

The first election on record for the town of Rome, when it comprised what is now Oregon, Fitchburg and Dunn, was held at the house of William Quivey, April 7, 1846, and. the following officers, among others, were elected : Reuben Boyce, Chairman ; William Quivey and William Freeman, Supervisors ; J. W. Scovill, Clerk ; W. H. Fox, Treasurer; H.Johnson, Adolphus Simonds and Eli Root, Assessors.

In 1847, the successful ticket was as follows : J. H. Rogers, Chairman ; William Freeman and John Patterson, Supervisors ; W. M. Colladay, Clerk ; Alvah W. Wetherby, Treasurer; JiH Root and William Freeman, Assessors. '

The surface of the town is undulating in character, and is made up chiefly of prairie and meadow land, diversified by oak openings. The soil of Dunn is a rich, black clay loam, intermingled with limestone marl, with sandy subsoil in some localities. There are many pre-historic mounds and relics of Indian inhabitancy found, especially around the lakes.

The town is very well supplied with water, there being two small lakes entirely within the town and two partly within it, besides several small streams, which run through it. The waters of Lake Kegonsa occupy about four square miles in the southeast part, and Lake Waubesa about three square miles in the north part. The two small lakes are located, one, called Mud Lake, in the northeast part, and one in the southwest part, called Hook Lake. The latter is a somewhat stagnant body of surface water, covering several hundred square acres.

The Yahara is the principal stream. It flows through the northeast part of the town, connecting Lake Kegonsa and Lake Waubesa. The stream widens on Section 10, forming Mud Lake. Door Creek rises in the town of Cottage Grove and flows through the northeast part of Dunn, emptj'ing into Lake Kegonsa. There are four more small streams, two of which rise in the town of Fitchburg and flow easterly, emptying into Lake Waubesa. The other two rise in the northwest part, one flowing northwest and emptying into the Yahara, and the other flowing in the same direction and emptying into Lake Kegonsa.

The population of the town is made up of various nationalities. In 1870, it was 1,172 ; at present it is 1,139. Churches and schools are well maintained here, and the town's people are generally in a thriving condition. The Prairie du Chien Division of the Chicago, Milwaukee k St. Paul Railroad passes through the northeast corner of the town.

The first white settler, in what is now the town of Dunn, was a Frenchman, named Oliver Emell. He resided here at least as early as July, 1836. He had a Winnebago woman for a wife, and had several children. When the Winnebago Indians left the country he moved away with them.

The first white American settlers were Alvah Wetherby and family. They came in 1843, and located on Section 21. Mr. Wetherby remained in the town until 1858, when he emigrated to California.

The next settlers in the town came in 1844. They were Dr. Levi Pritchard, A. Witcomb, the Dexter brothers, the Root brothers, 0. B. Moore, William M. Oolladay and Richard Palmer. They located in various parts of the town. Within five years after the first settlement, there were twenty-five families in the town.

The first public school was taught by Miss Amanda Soule, at the residence of Asa Dexter. Nearly the whole township then belonged to the district. There are now six schoolhouses in the town.

The village of McFarland was laid out in 1856, and named after W. H. McFarland. The Milwaukee & Prairie Du Chien Railroad Company had previously built a depot, about one and a quarter miles south of the present site, but, not having land enough, and being asked exorbitant prices for adjacent lands, they moved the depot to where it now stands.

In the fall, two shanties were built, one by Ole Anton, who moved here from Stoughtoa and commenced selling "wet groceries." mostly whisky, the other by George Fleming, who started the first store.

The congregation was organized in 1857. There is also a Methodist Episcopal Society, which holds services at Hoffman's Hall, and in the schoolhouse of District No. 4.

Town Of Black Earth

On the 2d day of August, 1848, the State Legislature erected into a new town, Townships 8 of Ranges 6 and 7, to which they gave the name of Farmersville. By an act passed February 1, 1851, the name of the town was changed to Black Earth. The year previous to this. Township 8 of Range 7 was taken off from Farmersville and erected into a new town, by the name of Berry. By an act approved May 17, 1858, " the south half of Township No. 8 north, of Range No. 14 east, being from No. 19, to Section No. 36, both inclusive, shall be organized unto and constitute the township [town]. of Ray." But the name was afterward changed to Black Earth.

This town lies on the western county line, which separates it from the town of Arena, in Iowa County. It is only one-half of a township. The town is watered by the river which gives it its name, which enters the town on the southern boundary, on Section 35, and, passing through the central part, leaves it on Section 22. The valley of the Black Earth is one of the richest in the county as well as in the State. It is a deep, black, loamy soil, producing large crops of all the staple productions that grow in the State. A considerable portion of the town is uneven, with some high ridges, in which limestone is procuredof good quality for ordinary purposes. Section 24 is mostly marsh land, the remainder of the town being oak openings, with little if any prairie.

The Prairie Du Chien Division of the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Railroad passes through the town, entering at Section 36 and passing through the village of Black Earth, leaves the town at Section 22, entering into Mazomanie.

The first permanent settlement made in the town was by Solomon Hayden and Charles Turk, in the spring of 1843, Mr. Hayden erecting the first house within the present town limits. It was a rude affair, such as is common to all new countries, but it was a home, and " Be it ever so humble, there's no place like home." The next settler was Henry Wilson, who came in October, 1848, of whom the story is often told, that he spent his first winter in a haystack. Arriving here as winter was coming on, he set about building a temporary abiding- place. When completed, it was more a wigwam than anything else, being built of such loose materials as could readily be found, and covered with the dry grass of the marshes, close at hand. Here he wintered his family, cooking in the open air, and getting along with inconveniences as only pioneers can. Among other early settlers, were Alfred Skinner, John Mann, William Cooler, Samuel Charlesworth, John Wells, George Wilson, William Russell, Henry Charlesworth, Mr. Plummer, John Mills, Orin B. Haseltine and Charles Coffenberry.

Joseph Haddam and Miss Lawrence were united in marriage in the year 1850, being the first in the town. Being the first, they were greeted with an old-fashioned chariva,ri, of which men who are now in the prime of Ufe, but who were then boys, have a vivid recollection.

It did not take many years for the sturdy pioneers of this town to erect a schoolhouse, the first of which was of logs, and built in the year 1848. The first teacher therein was Eliza Ann Dunlap, who agreed to teach " readin', ritin' and 'rithmetic " to all who should attend, for the small sum of $1.75 per week, boarding herself.

Religious services were first held in the houses of John Mann and Solomon Hayden, and the first regularly ordained minister to " break the bread of life " to these " famishing multitudes in the wilderness," was Rev. Mr. Bennett, of the Methodist Episcopal Church, who was placed upon a newly formed circuit, embracing Black Earth, in 1844.

Town Hall. - For several years the question of building a town hall was agitated, but it was not until the year 1869 that a vote was reached authorizing the construction of a hall. At the annual town meeting of that year it was voted to raise the sum of $1,500, one-third annually, for that purpose. A committee was appointed, who at once advertised for plans and proposals for building. The contract was awarded to Charles Saunders, and at the annual meeting in 1870, the committee reported their work finished, and turned over to the town a large two-story frame building, erected at a cost of $2,073.68, wliich, together with the lots, made a total of $2,673.68. The lower story is used for town purposes, while the upper is rented for concerts, theaters, and other purposes.

Village Of Black Earth

Under the direction of Orin B. Haseltine and James T. Peck, the original village plat was made in August, 1850. It was composed of six blocks, comprising the southeast quarter of the southeast quarter of Section 26, Township 8 north, of Range 6 east. David B. Jarvis was the surveyor. The village took its name from a creek which passed through it. In 1857, it was incorporated, with George High as President. An addition was made to the original plat by Hall & McEwen, May, 1854, and also by Mears & Remington and Webb & Warner, December, 1855 ; Charles F. Goodman, March, 1856.

The first house built in this village was by Jared G. Peck, and was used by him as a hotel for some years. .The grist-mill was built shortly after, of which mention is made elsewhere- Curtis W. Carlton was the next to improve the place in the erection of a store building and opening a stock of goods of the -miscellaneous order. Elias Pound was Mr. Carlton's successor, while High & Barber established themselves in opposition in the same line of trade. The first to blister, bleed, and dose with calomel was Dr. Thornhill, while Esquire Thompson attended to all legal matters to the entire satisfaction of one side and the utterdisgust of the other in every suit at law. Ole Oleson and Sever Severson, Norwegians, built the first wagons, and Jared G. Peck attended to all the jobs of house building.

Previous to laying out the village, Mr. Haseltine built a small saw-mill on the creek, ashort distance west of where the original plat was surveyed. This mill has continued to doservice to the present time, passing into the hands of E. H. Sackett, in the spring of 1858. Mr. Sackett removed the mill and dam about twelve rods below its original location, which wasall the change that was made.

Gmt-Mill. - The next move was for the erection of a grist-mill. This mill was erected in 1850 by John B. Sweat, and sold by him to John Wall, who in April, 1868, deeded it to J. E. Stanford, D. D. Logan, and Samuel Goodlad. The firm name of Stanford, Logan & Co. was adopted by the partners, and as such still continues. The mill has three run of stone, two of which are used for wheat and one for feed. The firm have invested from time to time a considerable sum of money in improvements, and have kept abreast of the times. Two grades of flour are manufactured - the "Sunbeam," a first grade family flour, and the "Minnesota Patent," a brand which has attained a good reputation. During the first year of the present firm's business, they shipped 4,000 barrels of flour, which was about two-thirds of their manufacture that year, the remainder being custom work. At present the custom work is about twothirds of the business ; the remainder being for the general trade. The towns of Springfield, tross Plains, Springdale, Berry, Roxbury and others, are tributary to it. The junior member 01 the firm, Mr. Goodlad, has charge of the business interests of the mill. He is a practical nuUer of thirty years' experience in this immediate vicinity.

Poit Office. - Shortly after platting the village, a petition was presented to the Post OflBce Department, at Washington, for the establishment of an office at this point, which petition was lavorably received and acted upon, and Orin B. Haseltine was made Postmaster. Mr. Haseltine held the ofiBce some years, and was succeeded by C. W. Carlton, and he in turn by Eliaa D n 'r'''° remained in possession until 1856, when Thomas Barber was appointed. In 1860, - u. Carpenter received the appointment, but only held the ofiBce about one year, when Lewis Jjord was appointed and acted until 1865, then Myron C. Burnett was commissioned, and is the present Postmaster. In 1868 the oflice was authorized to issue money orders and pay all orders rawn upon it. The first order drawn was under date of Julv 1, of that year, by Jesse Walker, »vor of Charles Mansur, Weston, Vt., for the sum of $35.' The first week there were orders- drawn to the amount of f 365.96. For the six months ending December 31, 1878, the total amount of orders drawn was $3,884.34, on which $29.65 commission was paid. For the year ending December 31, 1879, it amounted to $14,923.33, showing a healthy increase. The commission received on the latter amount was $124. The first order drawn on this office was by Mary Roudolt, Madison, Wis., in favor of Vincent Loidolt, for the sum of $20. The order was drawn July 2, 1878, and paid July 10, 1878.

The first schoolhouse was built in 1845. In 1853 a larger frame building was erected, and in 1859 a two-story brick building was built in the place of the latter. Dr. S. L. Hooker and wife were first teachers in the new building.

Among those who have taught here were E. M. Walker, Mrs. Chafiiee, L. De F. Park, Alice M. Post, Fanny Chapman, Mrs. C. M. Waid, Nellie Scheldt, Henry Brainard, Nettie Scheldt, Laura A. Luse, Lucy J. Stewart, N. A. De La Matyr, Gunda M. Erickson, Marietta Warner, Addie Ward, George Brousseau, Ellen L. Burnett, Hattie A. Campbell, Miss A. M. Downs, Sarah Partridge, H. C. Foulks, L. W. Gammons, Rosa M. Knutesen, L. A. Bowman, Miss E. Swain, Miss T. Knutesen, Miss M. Hart, Miss M. E. Barber, Fred B. Robinson, Miss Severson, A. E. Martin.

Valley House. - This, was the second hotel erected in the village, and was built in 1858, by George W. Ranney, and transferred by him to Ephraim Pound, who sold it to Thomas Barber. He kept it until 1860, when it became the property of A. S. Johnson. Mr. Johnson ran it during the war, and then sold it to E. S. Parker, who in turn sold to A. B. Lange; it passed into the hands of George Zeller, its present proprietor, in 1873. The house is a large twostory frame, and is conveniently situated near the depot.

Fire Department. - Pursuant to call, a meeting was held in the town hall, on the evening of February 19, 1877, for the purpose of organizing a hook and ladder company. J. E. Ward was chosen temporary Chairman, and Clarence Burnett temporary Secretary. Officers were then elected, as follows : J. E. Ward, Foreman ; Peter Johnson, First Assistant ; D. A. Barber, Second Assistant ; Clarence Burnett, Secretary ; D. D. Logan, Treasurer. At a subsequent meeting, constitution and by-laws were adopted, which were signed by the following named, constituting a full company of thirty men : D. D. Logan, John Muskat, Albert J. Fullerton, E. S. Kirst, J. H. Tiflft, D. A. Barber, H. B. Parker, C. Burnett, C. Lange, Ferd Voss, R.Edmund Weisenborn, R. J. Collie, J. Guldemann, J. E. Bardsley, H. Kohl, W. W. Sackett, G. Madson, John A. Lee, A. H. Anderson, Peter Johnson, Albert Ferge, Ole 0. Jordet, Halstin Peterson, G. D. Thatcher, G. L. Chafi-ee, W. Martin, R. Lutzow, Oloff C. Olson, F. J. Schanel, F. Hickstein. The company was also incorporated according to the laws of the State, and D. D, Logan, John Muskat and C. Burnett were elected Trustees. A uniform was adopted, consisting of red flannel shirt with blue collar and cuffs, belt, and blue cloth fatigue cap. There was purchased 1 sixteen-foot truck, 1 Babcock fire extinguisher ; 2 eighteen-foot, 2 sixteen-foot, 2 fourteen-foot, and 2 twelve-foot scaling ladders ; 2 four-foot roof ladders, 24 tin pails, 4 pike-poles, 1 hook, pole and ten feet of chain, 2 axes, 2 lanterns, 2 crowbars, 120 feet three-quarter inch rope, 1 brass speaking-trumpet, for which were paid $213. The men purchased their own uniforms, at a total cost of $110.

At the first annual parade and inspection, held the first Monday in June, 1877, Protection Fire Company, No. 1, of Mazomanie, came up to the village and were duly welcomed. After parade and housing the machines, the companies marched to the town hall, where the ladies had prepared a sumptuous repast for the boys, who did full justice to the viands. In the evening, a social dance was participated in by over forty couples. At the annual meeting, hdd March 4, 1878, J. E. Bardsley was elected Foreman; John Muskat, First Assistant; A. M. Partridge Second Assistant; C. Burnett, Secretary; Ed Kirst, Treasurer. Abuilding was erected during this year for the trucks, near the railroad, at a cost of $125. The second annual parade occurred the first Monday in June, and was 'a successful affair. The town voted an appropriation of $200 toward purchasing a fire engine, the same to be taken out of the license fund, at the annual meeting in the spring of 1878, but, the amount not being sufficient for the purpose, George Zellor offered to advance $200, taking a mortgage on the same, which offer was accepted by the company and engine purchased.

At the annual meeting, held March 3, 1879, there were elected J. E. Bardsley, Foreman ; Peter Johnson, First Assistant ; Fred. Voss, Second Assistant; D. A. Barber, Third Assistant ; C. Burnett, Secretary ; E. S. Kirsh, Treasurer. For 1880, were elected, March 1, J. E. Bardsley Foreman ; J. H. Tifft, First Assistant ; J. W. Lester, Second Assistant ; D. A. Barber, Third Assistant ; C. Burnett, Secretary ; Chris. Lange, Treasurer.

fireg. - The first fire in the village was in the spring of 1858 ; the store building of Thomas 0. Logan, together with its entire contents, was destroyed, causing a loss of $4,000 on stock, and $600 on building.

On Tuesday evening, January 23, 1877, at about 8:80, a fire was discovered in the attic of the store building of Isaacson & Nordrum, the largest mercantile establishment in the village. The alarm was given, and in a very few minutes the street was filled with people ready to render assistance. It was at once decided, that, not having a regular organized company, and no means with which to cope with the fire, the building could not be saved, therefore steps were taken toward saving the stock. Every one worked with a will, and soon the three safes containing the firm's books and valuables, together with a portion of the goods, were deposited in the streets. In a short space of time the building was throwing out such an intense heat that it was impossible to remain longer in it, and the flames, leaping toward the sky, had created a strong draught of air, which was bearing cinders and burning fragments to the adjoining buildings, and attention must needs be given to the property endangered. The bright light of the flames was seen for miles around. Alarm reached Mazomanie, and Protection Company, No. 1, at once started to render assistance, but arrived too late to be of service. The loss of Isaacson & Nordrum was $16,000, on which there was an insurance of $11,800.

A few minutes after 3 o'clock, Sunday morning, April 11, 1880, the shrill cry of fire awoke those living in the heart of the village. Stanford & Logan's store, situated on the west side of Mill street, two blocks south of the depot, was found to be in flames, extending almost over the whole structure, a two-story building, 22x50 feet. The engine and hose cart were soon on the ground, and turned their attention to saving the buildings on either side of the one being burned. As soon as the surrounding buildings were made secure, a good stream of water was turned on the ruins of the store and an effort made to save the contents of the cellar. In this the firemen were successful. Nothing whatever was saved from the store above the cellar. The question of the origin of the fire was not solved until the building had fallen in, when there loomed up amid the burning timbers the Hall safe, with its door shattered to pieces. The work of the safe-tapper was plainly evident. A small hole was drilled between the combination lock and the knob by which the door was opened. This hole admitted the powder into the small space occupied by the lock bolts, a space large enough to hold a, half-pound of powder. The explosion blew the outer plates of the door loose from the inner portion, and all the burglar had to do was to pry that part out, and it fell to the floor. The building belonged to Mrs. Sherman, and was a total loss. Stanford & Logan's loss was $7,500, with insurance on the same of $4,500 The upper floor was occupied by the Mendotas and Patrons of Qusbandry, the former owning the furniture and having control of the hall. Loss of the Mendotas, $300; Patrons, $50.

ears realized. The murderer had done his work. Mrs. Saunders was found lying in the mide of the floor, the blood spurting from a bullet wound in her neck and another in her face.

that he had entered the dwelling-house next door, and into that the men rushed. As he was known to have a revolver with him, some care was taken in the search, so that it was some five minutes before he was found. He had gone to the darkest corner of the cellar, and there placed the muzzle of the revolver in his mouth and fired, killing himself almost instantly, one distorted roll of the eyes being thg only move detected after he was found. The cries of the excited citizens were immediately hushed. That he had received his just deserts was plainly depicted on every countenance. Not one word of sympathy for him was uttered. Charles Saunders was about forty years of age, and his wife, Mrs. Louisa Saunders, thirty-seven. They were born in England and married there, coming to this country soon after. They had lived together twenty years, four years of that time in New York and fifteen years in this village. Six children were born unto the couple. Mr. Saunders was a carpenter and joiner by trade, and, when sober, was an excellent mechanic ; when intoxicated - which was quite frequent - he was quarrelsome, and abusive to his family. His wife, being unable longer to submit to him, had applied for a divorce, since which time he had been forbidden to enter her store. It appears, on the morning referred to, Saunders went into the store, quite intoxicated, and, seating himself on the counter, asked Mrs. Saunders to go with him to Madison that day, adding that he wished to make over to her the deed to some property. She partially promised to go, but wished to take her son William, which he objected to. She then left the room, and he followed to the door, then returned to his seat on the counter. Mrs. Saunders soon returned, when he commenced abusing her and her mother in a most shameful manner. After bearing this for a few minutes, Mrs. Saunders ordered him to leave the store. He refused to go, got off the counter and faced her, when she took a chair and gave him a push. He immediately drew a revolver and fired, the ball hitting her in the neck ; she fell, when he fired again, hitting her in the face. He then leveled the revolver at his mother-in-law and fired, then ran out of the back door, but turned and fired again, neither ball taking efiect. He then ran to the cellar and shot himself, as previously stated. Mrs. Saunders lingered in an unconscious state for seven hours, when she died. Her funeral was largely attended. Saunders was buried by the town the afternoon of his death.

Congregational Church. - A society was first organized here under the ministrations of Rev. A. S. Allen, November 1, 1855, and church organization perfected October 11, 1856. Assisting in the organization of the church were Rev. Daniel T. Noyce, Martin S. Moore, and Rev. A. S. Allen. Signing the articles of covenant at that time were Rev. A. S. Allen, Martha J. Allen, Miss Elizabeth H. Allen, Miss Harriet D. Coon, D. Bdardman, Lucy Boardman, Benjamin F. Smith, Mary Smith, Oscar A. Kenyon, Dexter Hall and Gilbert G. Wheeler. The name of Congregational Union Church of Black Earth, was adopted, together with the Articles of Covenant of the Presbyterian and Congregational Convention. Rev. A. S. Allen was chosen the first Pastor, and was succeeded by Rev. A. W. Curtis, and he, in turn, by Rev. M. M. Martin, and the latter by Rev. E. C. Stickel. Success has hardly been commensurate with the efforts put forth in behalf of the cause, but still some good has been accomplished. In 1861, the society erected a small but neat church edifice, at a cost of $1,200, which will seat about two hundred and fifty persons. The present membership of the church is twenty-three ; its officers are James TurkJ^ J. H. Young, Thomas Taylor, Deacons ; J. Holden, Clerk and Treasurer ; Thomas Taylor, George Manwaring, John Elliott, J. H. Young, J. Q. Stewart, John Ward, Trustees; Thomas Barber, President of [the board; James Turk, Treasurer; J. Holden, Secretary.

Episcopal. - Rev. S. P. Eldridge was first to proclaim the Episcopal faith in this village. He succeeded, in 1873, in gathering together and organizing a small band of disciples, holding services in the town hall. Mr. Eldridge was succeeded by Mr. Huntington, and he, in turn, by Rev. H. M. Green. During the ministrations of the latter a church edifice, 30x40 feet, was erected and set apart to the worship of Almighty God. The church has made but slow progress, numbering, in June, 1880, but fifteen members. Samuel Barker, Warden ; John Wall, Treasurer and Clerk.

Matonic. - A dispensation was granted for the institution of a Masonic lodge in this place, and on the Ist day of September, 1869, Black Earth Valley Lodge, No. 179, A., F. & A. M., was organized. A charter was granted June 16, 1870. Its first officers and charter members were: George High, W. M.; Robert Robothara, S. W.; Edwin Burnett, J. W.; M. C. Burnett, Treasurer; G. C. Howard, Secretary; Samuel Goodlad, S. D.; J. E. Stanford, J. D.j A. S. Johnson, Tyler ; James Barnes, L. T. Park, David D. Logan, William L. Barker, H. E. Peabody, Matthias Marty, J. B. Duncan, M. Anderson. George High held the office of W. M. until the first regular annual election, which occurred December, 1870, when Samuel Goodlad was chosen, and was re-elected annually until December, 1879, a period of nine years. He was succeeded by T. H. Taylor, the present incumbent. Since its organization, forty-two persons have been initiated. In December, 1879, twenty-eight members in good standing were reported to the Grand Lodge. , Death has claimed but one member - Edwin Burnett, the first Junior Warden. Its present officers are T. H. Taylor, W. M.; Samuel Goodlad, S. W. Clarence Burnett, J. W. ; Andrew P. Winden, Treasurer ; David D. Logan, Secretary ; John E. Stanford, S. i). : William L. Barker, J. D. ; Matthias Marty and Olif 0. Olsen, Stewards ; Philip D. Paul, Tiler.

Mendotas. - On the 24th day of April, 1874, Minnehaha Council, No. 2, Ancient Order of Mendotas, was instituted in the town hall, by R. E. Davis and others of the Middleton Council. There being no Supreme Council at the time. No. 2 was given no charter, and up to this time has worked without one. The first officers were L. D. Harvey, Sachem ; Mrs. Kate Burnett, Queen ; Clarence Burnett, Prophet ; Mrs. M. A. G-oodlad, Priestess ; Lem. Reeve^ Writer ; A. S. Johnson, Treasurer ; H. D. jencks. Assistant Sachem ; Miss Mary Barber, Guide ; Miss Virginia Bagnall, Temptress ; David Barber, White Eagle ; Edward Warner, Trusty Brave ; Guard of Tent, Miss Eva Randall. The Council started with a membership of twenty-two, and rapidly grew in numbers and popularity as its principles became known. Soon after its organization, A. S. Johnson fitted up a hall in the second story of his store building, into which the Council moved. With the utmost liberality, the members donated the funds to fit up the hall in a tasty manner. Soon after an organ was added, and Indian relics from the camp of Chief Joseph adorned the walls, together with the labors of fairer hands. The hall was the pride of every member. Here the Council met, with pleasure and profit, every Tuesday evening, doing a work of love and striking telling blows for temperance. The Sons of Temperance and Patrons of Husbandry secured the use of the hall for their sessions from the Mendotas, who held entire control. The Grand Division of the Sons of Temperance held its annual session in this hall September 2 and 3, 1874 ; and after their labors were performed almost the entire body of delegates sought admission at the council fire. They were admitted, and in after years the few seeds thus sown germinated into councils in various parts of the State. Since its organization the folluwing-named persons have held the office of Sachem : L. D. Harvey, Samuel Goodlad, J. E. Stanford, J. F. Morrow, George Bates, Clarence Burnett, W. H. Robbins, D. A. Barber, H. McCargar and J. B. Bachman.

In 1874, Middleton and Minnehaha Councils met in the hall of the latter and organized a supreme Council, which has since held its annual sessions regularly. Through the efforts of WIS organization forty-nine councils have been instituted in various places in Wisconsin and Minnesota, many of which are still in a flourishing condition.

Early on the morning of April 11, 1880, the devouring element of fire swept away in a few minutes the beautiful hall and its entire contents, including the library and records. The loss to Minnehaha Council was over $300. Although the blow was enough to have caused the death ot an organization composed of anything but the most resolute material, the little flock gathered together, and, in their old original camp, relit the council fire.

Matrons of ffusbandrr/. - B\a.ck Earth Grange, No. 118, was organized April 1, 1873, by W d M "'^' °^ ^^''s'^^^l' I^ane Co., Wis. Its first officers and charter members were Enoch tnr w^**^ ' ^' ^' S'*'°fo'"d> Secretary ; Clarence Burnett, Overseer ; Warren Walker, Lec- "fer; Wilham Beaty, Steward; John Drake, Assistant Steward; Mrs. Fannie Wood, Lady

Assistant Steward ; W. S. Crowther, Treasurer ; Walter Stanbridge, Chaplain ; Mrs. William Beaty, Ceres; Mrs. 0. M. Stanford, Pomona; Mrs. Katie Burnett, Flora. The membership of the order has been quite uniform since its organization, never being less than fifty, and seldom over sixty members. Its present membership is fifty-six, with the following officers : Enoch Wood, Master ; John Elliott, Overseer ; Charles Watzskc, Steward ; John Kading, Jr., Assistant Steward ; Addie Turner, Lady Assistant Steward ; Jesse Walker, Treasurer ; Mrs. William Barker, Secretary ; John T. Wilson, Lecturer ; Mrs. Thomas Ward, Ceres ; Mrs. Enoch Wood, Pomona ; Mrs. Anna Bester, Flora. Since its organization, death has called away from the Grange, James Craney, John Kading, and Mrs Partridge. The Patrons suffered a serious loss April 11, 1880, by the burning of their hall and all their records. Nothing saved ; no insurance.

Planing Mill. - U. D. Wood, in 1875, commenced business in the village as a carpenter and builder, and, during the dull seasons of trade, began the manufacture of bee-hives, milk safes, and other articles in demand among farmers and townsmen, from which has grown his present business. From time to time he has added such tools as seemed to be required for his own work, many of which he constructed himself, until he had everything necessary for planing, scroll-sawing and turning, which is now the main part of his business. Hismill is located near the cheese factory, in the south part of the village.

Mauling Can. - Barber & Nuubson have invented and secured patent on a can for hauling milk to the factories, which they first began manufacturing in 1879. The inventors claim, and have backed up their claim by the strong testimonials of living men, that with this can, milk can be hauled twice the distance possible with the old can, and with perfect safety. The samfi gentlemen have been manufacturing a milk cooler, of which Mr. Nuubson is the inventor, and which has found extensive sale wherever introduced. In addition to manufacturing themselves, the inventors sell State and county rights to others for that purpose.

Creamery. - In the fall of 1879, Enoch Wood commenced the manufacture of butter from pure cream, manufacturing for such farmers as choose to avail themselves of his facilities for doing the work. He has continually added to his dairy until in the spring of 1880 he was using the cream of 150 cows, collecting three times each week, and making over 300 pounds of butter in that time. He has endeavored not to come in competition with the cheese factory in this place, and has therefore gone long distances for cream, traversing a large portion of the town of CrosB Plains. In order to carry out his plans, Mr. Wood issued a circular, in which he says :

" The new method of raising cream, called the deep setting system, in cans, which in hot weather can be submerged in ice or cold water at a temperature of 45 or 55 degrees, is meeting with marked success wherever tried. By this method, all the cream can be raised in from twelve to twenty-four hours in its greatest perfection ; requiring less room and labor than the common milk-pan. It is secure from all odors, dust and flies, being water sealed. The most advanced dairymen would no more go back to setting milk in open pans than they would to reaping gram with the old crooked sickle.

" In order to command the highest prices and compete with the vast amount of creamery butter now in the market, we must put forth every effort in our power to manufacture an A No. 1 article, which only can be made from the best cream, and to accomplish this our patrons must put in practice the following rules :

" Rule 4. In winter keep cans in a place where the milk will not freeze, as frozen cream will not make good butter, and requires too much time to churn it. ,

" Rule 5. After the milk has cooled or thrown off the animal heat, put on the cover ana seal with water by filling the rim which runs around the outside of the can.

" Rule 8. Each patron shall receive monthly in cash the full market value of all butter sold from his cream, less the price of manufacturing and other expenses."

Cheese Factory. - The manufacture of cheese for the general trade was first commenced in this place in 1875, when Manwaring, Wilson & Beaty erected in the south part of the village a twostory frame building, 20x40, together with an ell to be used as an engine-room, and in which they placed one of three and one-half horse-power. I. J. Sanderson, a practical cheesemaker, from Herkimer Co., N. Y., was engaged, and superintended the factory during the seasons of 1875 and 1876. The following season Mr. Chafi'ee was employed, Mr. Sanderson returning to the work in 1878, and remaining through the season of 1879. During this season Mr. Beaty sold his interest to Mr. Wallace, the firm being known as Manwaring, Wilson & Wallace. During the seasons of 1875, 1876, 1877, 1878, there were made each year from 60,000 to 70,000 pounds of cheese. In 1879, on account of the low price, but 23,000 pounds was made. A good quality has always been made, the greater part of which has been consumed at home. Of the shipments a large part has been sent to England. F. H. Sanderson is the present Superintendent of the factory.

Machine Shops. - Peter Johnson commenced business here, on a small scale, in 1871, having a cash capital, with which to purchase tools and material, of only $40. He made a small lathe that year, which in time gave way to a larger and better, superseded still later by one better suited to the increasing business being done by him. The little one-horse shop has grown, in the past nine years, to one of respectable dimensions. For seven years he confined his attention principally to repairing farm machinery and other job work ; but in 1878, he began the manufacture of three and five shovel cultivators, which have met with a ready sale, and given satisfaction. A six-horse-power engine has been introduced, together with all the necessary machinery for sawing and dressing lumber, which has become an important part of his business. Shops are located near the depot.

Business of Black Earth in 1880. - In the spring of 1880, there were representing the ousmessof the place, Johnson & Olsen, Stanford & Logan, Julius Weissenborn, dry goods and groceries ; T. Barber & Son, hardware ; J. Holden, drugs ; A. P. Winden, merchant tailor ; A. n- Anderson, confectioner and barber ; J. Schanel, furniture ; Mrs. E. S. Parker, Mrs. H. Piper, millinery ; George Zellor, hotel ; Burnett & Son, publishers Advertiser and general steam pnntmg; C. Lange, Edward Kirst, harness makers; K. J. Mjelde, Ole Oleson, shoemakers; ^le Kustebakke, jeweler; Peter Johnson, general machine shop; F. Voss, 0. J. Wick, M. p*"^""- Wacksmiths ; U. D. Wood, P. Johnson, planing-mills ; M. H. Myers, wagon-maker ; . U. Wood, J. Q. Stewart, carpenters: John Muskat, A. A. Steensrud, F. Hickstine, W. W ri' T^t'"""^ ' ^^^nfo'ii & I^ogan, John Ward, R. Martin & Son, grain buyers ; John Adams, wa S; Thatcher, R. Martin & Son, stock-buyers ; George Bate, Heman McKenzie, lumber ;

Stanford, Logan & Co., flour-mill; E. H. Sackett, saw and carding mill; U. P. Stair, W. H. Robbins, physicians; S. Charlesworth, lawyer and insurance agent; Manwaring & Wilson, proprietors Black Earth cheese factory; F. Hickstine, butcher; W. Brown, drayman; William. Showers, cooper ; R. J. Collie, hardware and groceries ; S. Barker, groceries, boots and shoes - Misses Churchill & Burnett, dress-making ; Taylor, station and express agent.

Town Of Medina

The territory now constituting the town of Medina, was one of the four townships, which^ by the act of the Territorial Legislature, approved February 2, 1846, were erected into the town of Sun Prairie. It remained a part of the last-mentioned town, until, by an act approved March 11, 1848, it was erected into a separate town, and named Medina. The first election was held on the first Tuesday of April of that year, at Bird's Ruins, when the following, among other officers, were elected : Charles Lum, Chairman ; William C. Rood and Henry S. Clark, Supervisors ; Urbane Parsons, Clerk ; Aaron H. Pinney, Treasurer ; Sardine Muzzy, V. Moore and Aaron H. Pinney, Assessors.

The name of Medina was given this towa from the fact that its earlier settlers were principally from the town of Medina, Ohio. The town was first settled principally by Americans from. the States of Vermont, Ohio, New York and Pennsylvania. The Norwegians began to settle in the town in 1848 ; a number of English families located in the southwestern part. The Germans began to immigrate and settle in the east part of the town in 1864 ; they now constitute about one-fourth the population of the town . Scattered throughout the town are a number of families of Irish Protestants. The early settlers were Volney Moore, Eleazer Moore, Henry S. Clark, Martin Mead, Moses Page, Martin Bostwick, Daniel S. Cross, Reuben Smith, Sardine Muzzy, Willard Cole, Peter Sifert, Asa Cross, John Douglas, Louis Stone, John T. White, Charles Lum, A. J. Allen, John Tracy, M. D.~ Currier, Thomas Hart, Jr., Louis Morrill, Jesse M. Smith, Silas Mory, Thomas Hart, Sr., Joseph Hart, C. T. Weeks, Charles Wakeman, Jacob Miller^. George Lewellen, W. E. Persons, A. M. Hanchett, Urbane Parsons, M. J. Tompkins, Aaron Pinney, Samuel Chadwick, Mr. Bonner, Charles M. Smith, W. J. Day, Asa Cummings, Mr. English, Lewis Stone, Mr. Spaulding, William Larabee, William Monger, Nathaniel Smith, Herbert 'Smith, J. W. Donaldson, Mr. Helms, Lewis Stone, Hart Larabee, Martin King, G. D. Mead, John Babcock, E. P. Hutchins, Gideon Ormsby, Dr. Seeley, J. G. Day, Louis Morrill, Jesse Smith, Samuel Smith, C. Severcool, John Bacon, John Granger, 0. W. Thornton,. James Barber, Dr. Drake, Stephen W. Mory and William Mory.

In 1852, a plank road was projected and built during that and the following season, from Watertown to Hanchettville, a great improvement on the old corduroy road.

On the 28th day of December, 1842, the first marriage was consummated in Medina, at the house of Volney Moore, on which occasion he celebrated the wedding of both his daughters, the eldest to Charles Lawrence, and the youngest to Henry S. Clark.

The town has erected a large and commodious town hall in the village of Marshall. Here the annual town meetings are held, as well as county. State and national elections. The hall is rented to various benevolent and temperance orders, and is also used for concerts and other pur-

The first house erected in the town was on the present site of the village of Marshall, and was built by Zenas Bird, in 1837. In consideration of his building a house, A. A. Bird anOi Petrie, who came to this county with him, were to improve the water-power in Waterloo CreeK, and build a saw-mill on the same, which they were to have ready to run within one year. AC^ cording to contract, Zenas Bird erected the house, and the other parties had the lumber waay to construct the mill. Zenas Bird and his hired men went to Madison for supphes. vvmie gone, the prairie caught fire, and the house, lumber and all were burned. This was m UetoDer,.

839 The house was not entirely consumed ; the frame was left standing until 1845, when it f 11 {g tjjg ground. From this event the place derived the name of Bird's Ruins.

In the summer of 1845, Miss Susan Tracy taught a term of school in one room of the house of Reuben Smith, at Bird's Ruins, which waS the first school in the town.

Mr. Bonner, of whom mention has been made as being among the early settlers of the town came here in 1843, from the city of New York. After having erected his log cabin, he and his wife seemed ready to enjoy life. As they were quietly sitting and musing over the past and laying plans for the future, one evening, two men suddenly burst open their door, and made n demand on Mr. Bonner for his money. They, being possessed of a goodly sum of money, did not propose to give up their wealth without a struggle, so they concluded to try a hand-to-hand conflict with the ruflSans. The fight lasted about twenty minutes, when Mrs. Bonner managed to get out the door and cry for help loud enough so that their nearest neighbor, who lived over a mile away, heard her cries. The robbers, r fearing that help would be had at once, made a hurried departure, no richer than when the attack was made, and leaving behind a hat and pistol, which were afterward used as evidence against parties charged with the attempted burglary. Mr. Bonner was so severely beaten that he did not recover for several weeks. He at once left tilling of the soil to people better skilled in that art, and who had a better record as pugilists than he possessed. Disposing of his property, he moved to Whitewater, where he <ngagedin the grain trade, and where he afterward died.

The first meeting for religious services was held at the house of Reuben Smith, in the winter of 1844, Rev. Mr. Pete, a Congregational minister, officiating. Mr. Pete was afterward instrumental in the organization of the Congregational Church at Bird's Ruins, being the first church organization in the town.

Dr. Drake was the first physician in the town. He settled here in 1846, and practiced his profession for several years, then moved north, where he met his death.

The town of Medina lies on the eastern boundary line of the county, which separates it from the town of Waterloo, in Jefferson County, and is sixteen miles northeast of Madison. The town is well watered in the northern part by Waterloo Creek, which enters it on Section 5, passing out after a circuitous route on Section 12. This stream furnishes some excellent waterpower. There is but little prairie land in Medina, the most of the land being oak openings, interspersed with about an equal quantity of marsh or -meadow. T^he Watertown line of the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Railroad passes through the center of the town, entering on Section 12, and passing out at Section 6. The lands are very rich, and productive.

Village Of Marshall

The land upon which the village is located, was purchased by Zenaa Bird in 1839. In 1845 it passed into the hands of John Douglas, who afterward transferred it to A. M, Hanchett. The latter gentleman, in 1849, laid out a small portion of it and gave it the name of Hanchett- In 1859, another plat was made by Mr. Hanchett, and the village given the name of Howard City. The property soon afterward passing into the hands of Porter & Marshall, the name was changed to that of Marshall.

,. . ,": ^^y> iJi the fall of 1845, in one room of Douglas' house, started a small store, tralon having it that his principal stock in trade was a barrel of whisky, which as often as a

Mrag that, when winter set in, it froze solid. Sifert & Durban were the next persons to comence mercantile business, followed soon after by Thomas & Pinney, the latter remaining m "'°°*^^' ^^^"^ ^^^7 removed to the village of Lodi, in Columbia County. mil i\' ^^' ^^^'^^^^*' settled here, there was no post office nearer than Lake Mills, about ten «8 distant. A. M, Hanchett was made the first Postmaster. Mr. Hanchett was succeeded by

Bradford Hancock, who held the ofiSce until William H. Porter was appointed, who is the present Postmaster, with C. E. Bell as deputy, the latter having charge of all the business. Th« office was made a money-order office in 1878. The first order was issued July 1 of that year, and was drawn by Oliver W. Thornton, in favor of William Hill, Waukesha, for the sum of $1. The second- order issued was for |25, and the third for $50. Up to May, 1880 there were issued -835 orders amounting to $11,182, on which the Government received a commission of $101.75. There were paid during the same time, 174 orders, amounting to $3,028.97. The first order paid was from Mason City, Iowa, in favor of 0. W. Thornton, for $10.

In 1847, a lodge of Sons of Temperance was organized by George B. Sriiith and Judge Knapp, from Madison. It remained in existence about a year and a half, with variable sueceas, and then passed away. In 1849, an Odd Fellow's lodge was organized in the brick schoolhouse, but for some reason was sustained only a short time.

In 1852, A. M. Hanchett erected the first and only grist-mill in the village. Various improvements have since been made, until at present, it occupies a front rank among Wisconsin mills. It is now owned by William H. Porter.

Religious. - The first church organized in the village was that of the Oongregationalists in the winter of 1844-45. Among those composing its membership were N. F. Smith and wife, Herbert Smith and two sisters, Mrs. Martin Mead, Mrs. William Monger and J. W. Donaldson and wife. Rev. Mr. Reynolds was the first Pastor.

Baptist Qhurch. - A church was organized in the town of Waterloo, Jefferson County, February 1, 1845, Elders Conrad and Green officiating. Seven persons signed the articles of covenant - Clifford Harris and wife, John Sherwood and wife, S. L. Parsons and wife and Mrs. Bush. The first services were held in the log schoolhouses of that day, and when not convenient to meet there, in the private dwelling-houses of members and friends. After the village of Marshall had obtained a start, the place of meeting was then removed, and, in 1870, a church edifice was erected at a cost of $4,849. Since its organization, the church has had seven Pastors - A. B. Green, Thomas Theal, Isaac Walden, J. J. Mclntyre, S. D. Thales, L. G. Cotspole and G. M. Daniels. Its present membership is thirty-eight.

Cheese Factory. - A factory was erected in the spring of 1880, and a company formed for the purpose of manufacturing cheese. Joseph Hart was elected President ; George Allen, Secretary ; W. H. Porter, Treasurer. The milk of about 250 cows is being used.

Village Op Deansville

On the completion of the Sun Prairie Division of the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Railroad, Richard Dean laid out a small part of Section - , to which he gave the name of Deansville. This was in 1860.

A post office was established here in 1860, with Richard Dean as Postmaster. He was succeeded successively by A. A. Aldrich, R. C. Perrigo, J. B. Carr, H. S. Clark, Cyras Stewart and R. B. Smith.

Town Of Middleton

The territory now constituting the town of Middleton, Township 7 north, of Range 8 east, had no organization for purposes of town government until the 1st Tuesday in April, 1846, when the town of Madison was organized, of which it was a part. By the act of the Territorial Legislature of February 11, 1847, the town of Madison was reduced from twenty-four township? to three - the western one being the present Middleton. It continued a part of Madison until March 11, 1848, when, by an act of that date, it was created a distinct town and named Middleton - 80 called by Harry Barnes after a place in Vermont. The town was organized on the first Tuesday of April following, by the election of Thomas T. Whittlesey, Chairman ; Orson Cook, Linus M- Palmer, Supervisors ; P. J. Starr, Clerk ; John B. Colton, Treasurer ; Andrew Starr, Assessor, and other officers.

The surface of this town is diversified by a pleasing succession of hills, valleys and prairies ; it is what is usually called a rolling country, there being very little of the land that lies entirely level, and scarcely any so rough or broken as not to be readily cultivated. On Sections 8 and 9, in the northern portion, there is quite an extensive tract, now known as Mud Lake, a boggy area, doubtless at some former period the bed of a lake. Adjoining this " lake " there is considerable marsh or hay land ; also on Sections 11 and 23 there is some excellent meadow. In the south part of the town, on Section 27, there is an elevation, from which, on a clear day, a view of the surrounding country for miles can be obtained ; also near this is another and more remarkable physical feature, a cave, discovered by J. D. Sanford, in 1842, on the farm of Mr. Richardson, Section 33, the mouth of which is just over the line in the town of Verona. There is also what is known as the big marsh, in the north part of the town, where are found extensive beds of peat bog.

The soil of this town is usually a rich black loam, with an intermingling of clay, limestone, marl and sand, and is as productive and lasting in fertility as any in the county, there having been rawed forty bushels of wheat to the acre in an early day, and more recently 107 bushels of shelled corn to the acre, by Mr. J. D. Sanford.

The town is watered by the streams known as Pheasant Branch and Black Earth Creek. The former flows easterly through the northeast part, and empties into Lake Mendota, the west end of which lake projects into the town. The Black Earth flows through the northwest part of the town.

The timber consists almost entirely of white and burr oak, of which, in an early day, there were large quantities. There is also some hickory, poplar and elm.

The inhabitants are of difierent nationalities, the Germans preponderating largely. The social, religious and educational condition is exceptionally good, there being a large number of denominational and secular societies - and good schools, including a high school.

The first person to settle in the town was Orson Cook, who came here and made a claim on Section 26, in the spring of 1841, and did some breaking and built a dug-out cabin. Later in tne season, J. D. Sanford came on to his present farm on Section 27, which had been entered by MS brother in 1837. Mr. Sanford immediately went to work and erected a house preparatory bringing in his family, which arrived in the fall of this year, his wife being the first white woman in the town.

The first German settlers were James Dohr, Christopher Hendricks, James Ben, Henry Prier, Ed Ryder and Mr. Muehlenbucht and some others who came in before 1854 and settled on the school section, and there are a few still living here.

In June, 1842, Orson Cook went and took a wife unto himself, in the person of Jane Thompson, who was the second woman in the town, and the only one Mrs. Sanford had seen in six months.

The second marriage was that of William Cooley and Louis Hayden, and the first death and funeral was that of William Cooley, not long after his marriage.

The thrashing machines used for the first eight or ten years were the feet of horses, and the fanning-mills were the winds, that required no propelling.

The first stopping-place for travelers in the town was with Mr. Sanford. At that time the travel was over the Mineral Point road, and was very large, especially in the number of emigrants.

B. Clewett settled on Section 26, in 1845, and after that travelers found shelter with him. His sign, " The Junction House," gave Bast Middleton its first title, which it is best known by now.

Mr. Clewett was the first shoemaker in town. He was for many years one of the most vprominent Masons in the State, being Tiler of the Grand Lodge.

During that year a regular tavern was opened in town on the Madison and Sauk City road, )in the northeast corner of town, on Section 2, known as the " Bight Mile House," by M. K. McCord.

In 1847, Mr. Sanford erected a hewed-log building at an expense of $144, to be used as a schoolhouse, church, or public building. Very soon after, Lucinda Rhodes was engaged and taught the first school, at about $2 per week.

At this time the Junction, or, more properly, Middleton Post Office, was the metropolis of the town. There were two taverns, a saloon or two, one shoe-shop, and J. D. Sanford had such groceries, to sell as the settlers might need. In after years, there were several stores here, the first started by William Gould, and, at different times, various mechanical shops Tiave been started. At the present time, there are two saloons, with stores connected, and one tailor-shop to represent the business of the place. The post office is now called East Middleton, though at one time, after the naming of Middleton Station, it was named the Junction.

James Dohr, who was the first German settler in town, started the first wagon-shop at Pheasant Branch in 1851. The first blacksmith-shop was opened by Henry Prien soon after.

One of the enterprises started in this town at a large expense, and no profit to the operators, was the draining of the big marsh and opening the peat beds on Section 3 by W. B. Slaughter and Frank Gault. A large stone building was erected and some smaller frames. An apparatus for drying and pressing was bought, but, after the expenditure of a large amount