Viroqua City

Viroqua City

The town of Viroqua embraces all of congressional township 13, range 4 west, the two northern tiers of sections, and sections 13,14, 23 and 24 of township 12, range 4 west. It is bounded on the north by the town of Christiana; on the east by Webster and Liberty ; on the south by Kickapoo and Franklin ; and on the west by Franklin and Jefferson. The surface of this town is generally broken and hilly yet it contains some of the finest agricultural lands in the county. The eastern and northeastern parts of the town are made up of rolling prairie, interspersed, here and there, with small gi'oves. The balance of the town was originally covered with heavy timber; but much, if not the greater part of this, has been cleared away by the thrifty and enterprising settlers, and there are now valuable farms in all parts of the town.

Early Settlement

The early history of this town is to a great degree identical with that of the village, as most of the early settlers clustered about Viroqua. However, some of the most prominent first settlers will be noted.

The first settlement in the town was made in 1846. During August, of this year, George Ensign and Samuel Ingram came and located upon farms in this town. Mr. Ensign sold out about twenty years ago and left the country. Samuel Ingram remained until 1880, when he sold* out and moved to California.

T. J. DeFrees, Solomon Decker and John Harrison came during the same year. The two former are treated elsewhere at length. John Harrison took a claim which included what is now known as the See Spring. The farm lie located upon is now owned by Elijah Tilton. Harrison erected a saw mill on the west branch of the Kickapoo which was one of the first in the county. He afterward sold out and wont to Missouri.

Religious

The Norwegian Evangelical Lutheran Church on Coon Prairie, was organized in 1853, by Rev. H. A. Stub. The first members were: Ole A. Running, John C. Spellum, P. Eggen, Michael Larson, Svend Svendson, Erik Torkilsen, Hans Jenson, Gullik Olsen, Bernt Larson, Hover Sig-

Tlie first officers of the Church were: H. A. Stub, pastor; Tjostol Amundson, Thomas Johnson and Lars Christoferson, trustees. The first religious service was held in Han's Naprud's house, now belonging to his son E. H. Naprud.

H. A. Stub served as pastor from 1 854 to 1 8G1 , when he re-iigned on account of failing health. He is still living, in Winneshiek Co., Iowa, where his congregations at present are sitiiated. Rev. Stub's successor was Rev. A. C. Preus, who served as pastor from 1863 to 1872, when failing healtli compelled him to resign his position and return to Norway, where he died, as bishop, in 1878. After Rev. Preus came Rev. H. Halvorsen, the present pastor.

The first house of worship was a small frame building, 55x32 feet, costing about $2,000. It was dedicated in 1858. This church soon became unable to accommodate the growing number of the congregation, and in 1875 the erection of a capacious stone building, in the gothic style of architecture, was commenced.

This is without doubt the grandest church building in Vernon county, its size being 100x50 feet, tower projecting nine feet; height of spire 150 feet. Its present cost is $20,000. It stands on a beautiful elevation, overlooking Coon Prairie, and the surrounding country. The present condition of the Norwegian Evangelical Lutheran Ciinrch is prosperous, the number of the voting members is 200. The present olficers of the Church are: H. Halvorson, pastor; P. I'. Ilektoen, secretary and treasurer; John i

Clemmetson, C. A. Morterud, Anders Jenson Peder Halvorson, Edward Theige, Nils T. Nilson, Lars Hovde and Ole G. Hanson, trustees. The Metliodist Episcopal society was organized in 1854, by the Reverend Bishop, with twenty-two members. Philip Adams was class leader. The memhersliip was afterwards increased to sixty. A log church was erected in 1860, on section 22, which is still in use. The Church is not at present in a very flourishing condition, as many of the members have gone elsewhere, while others attend Church at Viroqua. The following are among the pastors who have filled the pulpit for the society at different times: Revs. Bishop, Purdun, Cooley, Fitch and Hartshorn.

Educational

District No. 2 is a joint district. It has a fair building, in a pleasant location, which is well furnished. 'J he school has a good attendance.

District Xo. 0 will soon abandon the old school building, as a new one is being erected at a cost of about $400, which will be ready for the winter term of school in 1883-4.

District No. 8 has a small but comfortable school building pleasantly located on Coon Prairie. The population here is almost wholly Norwegian .

The name of the town of Viroqua was formerly Farwell. As a general chapter is devoted to the creation and changes of name and boundaries of towns, it is unnecessary to here refer to the various changes through which the town of Viroqua has passed in assuming its present limits.

Biographical Sketches

The wealth and prominence of any county naturally finds a location in or near its county seat. Viroqua is no exception to this rule and the following named citizens represent a fair proportion of tlie financial, business and intellec ual forces that materially influence the moral progress and industrial growth of Vernon county-

James Foster is one of the pioneers of Vernon county. He came of the old Connecticut military stock that settled on the western reserve, in northeastern Ohio. He was born in Trumbull Co., Ohio, in 1814, and has been a resident of this State since 1835. At that date his father's family, together with five other families, went to Wellsville, Columbiana Co., Ohio, and there loaded a'l their household effects, provisions, stock and families on a keel boat and floated down the Ohio to the mouth of the Cumberland river, where they secured the services of a steamboat to tow them to St. Louis, .Mo. At this point they had their boat attached to another steamboat and followed in its wake up the beautiful ''Father of Waters" to Prairie du Chien, in Crawford Co., Wis. Here they rested from their long and tedious journey and all finally made permanent settlements in Crawford and Grant counties. Mr. Foster's fatlier was a millwright by trade and shortly after his arrival was employed to erect a saw mill in Grant county, which was one of the first mills in southwestern Wisconsin. He located in Crawford county, but only lived about two years after he made a settlement. His wife also died at about the same period. .James Foster lived in and near Prairie du Chien until 1847, when he came to what was tiien Bad As (now VeriiQu) c'>uiity and located on a quarter section of government land in Viroqua town. He still resides where he first settled and owns ninety acres of his first purchase. Mr. Foster has almost reached his three score and ten and about fifty of these weary years have been spent among the earlier scenes of Wisconsin's history. He has given the better portion of his life to assist in developing one of the grandest Slates in our Union and he deserves all the praise tliat tongue can speak or pen can trace. It is to be hoped tint his future years on earth may be generously su]i])lied with all the comforts of old age. His wife was Diantha Wells, born in Perry Co., Ohio, in 1828. Her parents were Benjamin and Eleanor Wells, who settled at Viroqua in 184s). The father died here many years ago and the mother afterward removed to Oregon with a son and there passed away from earth. Mr. and Mrs. Foster lutve one son, Silas, born here in 1851. He married Emily, daughter of Baker and Catharine Graham, one of the well known pioneers of VernoTi county. In 1861, he enlisted in the 14th regiment, Wisconsin Volunteers, served about six motiths and was discharged on account of disability. In 1842 Mr. Foster entered the United States army and served throtigh the Mexican War. For this service he received, in 1844, the land warrant for his present farm.

westward and located near Columbus, Ohio. He removed from the town of Franklin to the town of Utica, Crawford Co., Wis., in 1852, and in ISfio went to California, where he died in 1 S09. His widow departed thi.s life at Viroqua in 1S72. They were the ])arents of nine children, six sons and three daughters. Nathan was born in Zanesville, near Muskingum Co., Ohio, in 1827, but was reared at Columbus. He came to this county with his father, in 1848, from Lafayette Co , Wis., where the family had resided for about two years. Nathan also made a claim on section 1, in Franklin town, which land he owned until 1S82. In the spring of 1850 he joined the "madly rushing throng" on its way to the newly discovered gold fields of California, taking the overland route. He there remained for two years. He then returned to Franklin town and made that his home until 1804, the date of his removal to Viroqua. Mr. Coe has been engaged in farming the greater portion of his life and has also been an extensive dealer in real estate. He has owned at various times a large number of farms and his business transactions have been uniformly successful. He was united in the bonds of holy wedlock to Mary, a daughter of James Lawrence, who settled at Liberty Pole, in Vernon county, in 1851, and now resides at De Soto. Mrs. Coe is a n.itive of England. She is the mother of four daughters and one son - Attilla, Julia, Ida, Edward and Charity. Mr. Coe owns a farm of 1 15 acres, adjoining the village of Viroqua. Mr. Coe has been twice honored by his neighbors and friends by election to the office of sheriff. Rev. James A. Cook was one of the pioneer Methodist preachers of Vernon county. He was also one of the earliest settlers, having located on section 4, town 12, range 4, Viroqua town, in July, 1848. He was born in Kentucky March 4, 18-24 and removed with his parents to Illinois when two years of age. Here he grew to manhood. At ten years of age he was converteil, and was a class leader many years before entering the ministry. He commenced preaching as a local minister soon after coming to this town, and continued in the ministry until near the close of his life, Aug. 13,1881. His wife still lives on the claim which he located in l.-<48. Mr. Cook labored faithfully in the cause of his Master during the years when to be an itinerant minister of the Methodist Church required long journeys, exposure to all kinds of weather, and such accommodations as pioneer life afforded. He was twice married. His first wife was Susanna Hay, who died in Viroqua town in December, 1859, leaving eight children, three sons and five daughters, six of whom are living. Mr. Cook married Mrs. Juliann M. Shaner in September, I860. She was born in Perry Co., Ohio, and came to Wisconsin with her husband. Dr. Martin Shaner, in 1854. Dr. Shaner was drowned in the Kickapoo river at Readstown, June 9, 1857, in an attempt to rescue two children, who had fallen into the river, from drowning. Mrs. Cook had four chil'dren by her first marriage - Abbie, Daniel F., Learoy S. and Albert. Mr. Cook's youngest child, Hobart, and a daughter of Mrs. Cook, Martha Jane, were killed in the tornado of 1865, being two of the victims who perished by the destruction of the school house on that memorable day, June 28, of that year.

Elias H. Naprud is the son of Hans Nelson Naprud, who settled on section 4, Viroqua town, in August, 1848. Hans Nelson Naprud is one of the earliest Norwegian settlers of the town. He emigrated to the LTiiited States with his family in 1847, coming to Vernon county the following year. He had five children, four of whom are living - Nels, Gilbert, Helen and Elias H. Elias H., the youngest child, was boin in Norway, in November, 1836. He married Betsy Brathlie, daughter of Christojiher Brathlie. They have four children - Andrena, Leedwig, Laura and Nordahl. Elias H. occupies the homestead farm, which contains 200 acres His mother died on the homestead in 1874, his father in 1875.

Wendell H. Pulver was one of the early settlers of Jefiferson town. He was born in Seholiarie Co., N. Y., in 1793. He was a soldier of the War of 1812. He married and settled in Dutchess Co., N. Y., and thence to Ontario county about 18-36. He came with his family to Kenosha, Wis., in 1847, and to Rock county the following year, where the family lived till 1855, when they came to Vernon county, and settled at Springville, in the town of Jefferson, where he lived until his decease. He was a wagon maker by trade, and is said to have built the first wagon made in Vernon county. He died in 1871; his wife, Rachel (Teager) Pulver, died before the decease of her husband. They had six children, five of whom are living - Mrs. Mary A. Fish, Mrs. Catharine Waterman, David H., born in 1834, in Schoharie Co., N. Y.; Oliver H., borri in Ontario Co., N. Y., and William H., born in Ontario Co., N. Y., in 1840. The eldest son, John N., was born in Schoharie county in 1821; was a soldier in the war of the Rebellion, and died in the hospital at Madison, Ind. Daniel H. and William H. came to Viroqua from Springville, and engaged in wagon making and blacksmi thing in 1879. Previous to that- time they were engaged in the same business at Springville. David H., married Susan A. Wade, and William H., Elizabeth Wade.

William S. Purdy was one of the early settlers of Sterling town, and during his thirty years' residence in Vernon county held high offices of trust and honor, and possessed the confidence of a large circle of friends and acquaintances. He was a native of Carliste, Sullivan Co., Ind., born Aug. 28, 1822. His father died when he was eleven years of age and at fifteen he was apprenticed to a saddler of his native place to learn the trade. He worked at his trade for fifteen years, and in 1845 came west to the territory of Wisconsin. He was for a time engaged in mining, and afterward worked at his trade at Mineral Point for a few months

In 1849 he sought a new location in what was then the town of Bad Ax, Crawford county, but now in the town of Sterling. He was largely identified with the early history and growtli of that section of the county, and during liis residence tliere held nearly all the town offices, read law and was admitted to practice. He resided on the farm ten years, and finally gave up his early and well-tried associations and removed to Viroqua to accept the office of clerk of the circuit court, a position, to which he had been elected, and which he tilled for eight years, during which time he served one year in the State Senate. He was elected county judge in 1809, and subsequently re-elected, serving two successive terms. Judge Purdy was married in 1846 to Jane E. Lemen, also a native of Indiana. They have been blessed with eight children - Brice F., Kossuth F., William R., Henry II., Ella M., Frank, Ed, and Ida M. Only two of this large family are yet residents of Vernon county - Brice F. and William R. In 1878, on account of failing health, and tliinking that a change might prove beneficial. Judge Purdy removed to Pratt Co ,Kan, where he now resides. Brice F. Purdy, the eldest son, is a harness maker of Viroqua. He was born in Iowa Co., Wis., in 1849, just previous to his parents removal to this county. He learned his trade with his father and embarked in the business in 1871. Mr. Purdy married Hattie Coe, a sister of Nathan Coe. They have four children - William, Myrtle, Ella and an infant son.

Peter Hay located in the fall of 1850 on sec- 3, town 12, range 4 west, where he still resides. He was born in Wayne Co., Ohio, in 1818. When twenty-one years of age he moved with his parents to Wayne Co., 111. His father, Jonathan Hay, settled in Viroqua town in 1851, and died in 1868. Mr. Hay was married in Illinois to Mary Clarke, born in that Stale. They have had eight children, six of whom are living - Jonathan, Eliza Jane, John, Mary M., Martha E. and James. The names of their deceased children were - Peter and Julia. All except the two eldest were born in Viroqua. Mrs. Hay's father, Samuel Clarke, was a native of Kentucky. Her brother, Samuel Clarke, came to ihi.s town with M]-. Hay. lie enlisted during tiie Rebellion and died while in the service. Their oldest son, Jonathan, was born in Illinois in 1848. He married Marcella Adams, boin in Ohio. She died and he was again married. Mr. Hay has three children by his second wife - Mary Jane, Pearly and Frank. Jonathan enlisted in 1864 in company B, 50th regiment, Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry and served until the close of the war. Peter Hay's farm originally contained is40 acres. He h.is now 2C0 acres of land.

O. O. Kelland, Jr., is the son of O. O. Kelland who settled on the northeast quarter of section 7, Aug. 14, 1851, where his son now lives. Mr. Kelland, Sr., was one of the earliest Norwegian settlers in Viroqua town. He was born in Norway in 1797, and was there married to Anna C. Kelland. He came to the United States with his wife and four children in 1851, settling immediately in Vernon Co., Wis. He bought his farm, containing 107^ acres, of the State of Wisconsin, and lived thereon until his death, which occurred in 1877, he having resided on the farm for twetity-six yeais. Mrs. Kelland is still living. Four children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Kelland in this town. The names of their children are - Bertha, residing in Blue Earth Co., Minn. ; Mary Lesilet, residing in Jefferson town, this county ; Mary Ann, also in Blue Earth Co., Minn; Ellen B., deceased ; Christina, Sarah and Lars, deceased. O. O. Kelland, Jr., was born in Norway in 1844. He now owns and resides on the homestead. . He married Olena C. Oleson, who died in 1872. Air. Kelland has had two children, one of whom is living - Anna.

One of the prominent and successful farmers of Viroqua town is Nels J. Rudie. He was born in Norway, July 12, 1829, and emigrited to the United States in 1851, coming direct to this town. He worked in the Black river pineries till 185a, when he entered 160 acres of land on section 6, where he still r«sides. He has since added 200 acres to his first purchase, besides 200 acres in other adjoining towns, and has made good improvements thereon. He was married July 27, 1859, to Marith H. Dahl, born in Norwav, April 4, 1836. They have six children living and two dead - John N., born April 6, 1860 ; Am.alle N., born Dec. If, 1862, died ill August, 1864; Hans Myer, born April 27, 1865; Theodore Amandus, born Nov. 18, 1867; Normand N., born Sept. 16, 1871, died in July, 1872; Hannah Marie, born Sept. 11, 1873; Nordahl N., born July 26, 1876, and Amalie Elizabeth, born April 9, 1880.

Ananias Smith has resided in Vernon county thirty-two years, and from a poor man has risen to be one of the most prominent and influential citizens of the county. He came here from Rock Co., Wis., in June, 1851, with a yoke of oxen, a pair of steers and $1 in money. He bought 163 acres of land on section 31, Viroqua town, and commenced life anew. Half of this land was heavily timbered, but Mr. Smith possessed a good constitution, unlimited energy, and a determination to succeed, and a glance at his present possessions shows that he has succeeded. He owns 600^cres of the finest land in Vernon county, and his first cabin of logs has given way to a handsome farm residence. His stock is of the best breeds, especially his horses, in which he takes great interest aiul pride. He also owns the Park Hotel at Viroqua. Mr. Smith was born in Ulster Co., N. Y., in 1 821, and when a small boy removed with his parents to Duchess county, in the same State. His father, Nathaniel Smith, died in Duchess county, and his mother, Hannah Smith, afterward came to Vernon county, and here departed this life. Mr. Smith was united in marriage to Sarah N. Jcrman, a native of Schoharie Co., N. Y. They have four children - Helen, wife of Frank Southwick, of Salem, Oregon ; Rena, wife of LeRoy Hyles ; Antoinette and Albert.

Jolm C. Spellum came here in J 851, being one of the earjiest settlers of the town. He first entered eighty acres, for which he paid 8100, afterward entering another eighty at a cost of ^50 per forty acres, now owning 160 acres, located on sections 1 7 and 20. Mr. Spellum was born in Norway, in 1820. He came to the United States in 18-16, landing at Milwaukee, Wis., in July of that year. He was the only one of his family coming at that time, but a biother, Elias C, followed him and now resides in Nebraska. Mr. Spellum was married to Anna Thompson, also a native of Norway, and coming to this county with her parents in 1851. Mr. and Mrs. Spellum have had ten children, seven of whom are living - Nellie, Sadie, Libbie, John R., Chris, Albert and Oscar. They were all born in this town. Mr. Spellum has been a member of the town board eleven years.

Tliomas Thompson is a native of Norway, born in 1820. He emigrated with liis parents to the United States in 1846, settling in Racine Co., Wis. In July, 1851, he came to Vernon county, settling on State land on section 17, Viroqua town. His parents removed to this county in 1852. They are now deceased. In 1856 Mr. Thompson purchased, of Ole Anderson, a farm of 120 acres on section 8, Viroqua town, where he still resides. He has a valuable farm, with good improvements, all made by himself. Mr. Thompson married Mary Severson. She was also a native of Norway, and came to this county with her parents in 1852. They have ten children, two boys and eigiit girls - Ellen M., Anna C, Tolena A., Elizabeth M., Thomas, Sarah B., Matilda, Nora R., Minnie H. and Nordahl L. The changes which have taken place in the development of the country since Mr. Thompson's location here, have been great. His nearest markets were Prairie du Chien and La Crosse. He frequently drove an ox team to the latter place and back, the trip consuming about five days.

Marvin Henry resides on section 32, where he owns 118 acres of land; has also eighty acres on section .34. He bought the former of Jesse Green and J. D. Brothers. Mr. Henry settled in Vernon county in 1852. He was born in Oakland Co., Mich., town of Southfield, sixteen miles from Detroit, in 1827. He lived there until his ninth year, when he removed to Indiana with his parents, Marvin and Elizabeth Henry. The former was a native of Massachusetts, and died in Indiana, in the fall of 1840. The latter was born in New York, and died in the town of Kickapoo, Vernon county, November, I860. In 1841 Mr. Henry removed with his mother's family to Illinois, where he giew to manhood, married and came to this county with his family in 1852, his residence in this county dating from May 9 of that year. At the time of his removal to Wisconsin, his family consisted of his wife and one child - Laura A. He settled on section 25, in what is now Jefferson town, where he purchased a farm of State land, which he improved and occupied for sixteen years, when he removed to the town of Viroqua. His wife was Elizabeth Hall, a sister of Ralph Hall, a sketch of whom appears elsewhere. Mr. and Mrs. Henry have had ten children, nine living - Laura A., John T., Rossetta I., Christopher K., George D., Ralph S., Andrew T., Tarama A. and Archibald A. They lost one daughter, Mary J. The parents of Mr. Henry had eleven children, six sons and live daughters ; all of whom but one have been residents of Vernon county. Mrs. Mary Van Vlack, Marvin and Samuel are residents of the town of Viroqua. Mr. Henry has held various town offices ; has assessed the town four times ; was justice of the peace of the town of Jefferson four years, and a member of the town board three terms. In 1874 Mr. Henry met with a severe loss. His barn and grain stacks were burned, on which there was no insurance. His loss was about $2,000.

Marslia'l C. Nichols was born Jan. 17, 1838, near Warsaw, Hancock Co., 111. His mother having dieil when he was eis^ht years old, he was taken to Carthage, in the same county, wliere he remained until 1S49, when lie accompanied his father to Le Claire, Iowa, and from there to Viroqua, in 1852. In 1855, he went to Hamilton, Ohio, where he remained at school until 1857, when he returned to his home in Viroqua. Here he commenced the mercantile business in August, 1858, conducting the business alone until 1870, when he formed a partnership with L. W. Nichols, under the firm name of Nichols Bros. In 1877 L. W. Nichols retired from the firm, and he continued the business alone until August, 1882, when he sold his general stock to Clarke Bros., continuing in the drug business until 1883, when he dispose^ of his drug stock and retired from the active business pursuits. During the summer of 1864, the darkest days of the late war, when our country was earnestly calling for more volunteers, Mr. Nichols left his business in charge of others, volunteered, raised a company, and joined the 42d regiment, Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry; was commissioned captain of company I, and continued in command of the company until the close of the war. He arrived home June 29, 1805, and found his store building and merchandise had been destoyed by tiie terrible tornado which struck the place the day before. The following September he went to Norfolk, Va., where he engaged in the mercantile business, and remained there until the summer of 18(J6, when he returned Viroqua, and resumed charge of his business there. In the fall of 1882, Mr. Nichols was elected a member of the State Legislature, from the second district of Vernon county. On Sept. 11, 1867, he married Hettie M. Rusk, daughter of the late Dr. James Rusk. She was born in Morganville, Morgan Co., Ohio, March 30, 1843; ! removed, with her parents to Vernon county, in May, 1857. She was one of the graduating class of the Normal department of the State

University, in 1865, and was one of the pioneer teachers, having taught before her marriage twelve terms in this county. They are the parents of six children - James Walter, born April 23, 18G9, died May 11, 1870; Annie D|elia, born July 11, 1871; Hettie Rusk, born Feb. 12 1874; Marshall C, Jr., born Dec. 27, 1879, died Jan. 6, 1881, and David Whitney, born April 12, 1882. Mr. and Mrs. Nichols are among the honored and respected citizens of Vernon county.

Stephen Stephenson is one of the settlers of 1852, having located on his present farm on section 17, Viroqua town, in July of that year. Mr. Stephenson came from Racine county to this place, coming over with an ox team and wagon. This team, with ten head of cattle, and ten cents in money constituted all his woildiy possessions at that time. He worked in La Crosse the winter previous to settling here, at which time La Crosse contained but three small stores and two taverns for the accommodation of the traveling public. His farm originally contained eighty acres, but he has now 160 acres. He married Torand Thompson, a sister of T. Thompson and Mrs. Spellum. They have five children, all of whom, with the exception of the oldest, were born in Viroqua - Ellen, wife of Joseph Omnndson, born Feb. 5, 18.T] ; Mary Ann, wife of August Sweger, born March 4, 1853; Tolena, wife of Severt Larson, born March 1, 1855; Thomas, born March lo, 1858; Mslena, born July 2, 1859.

J. W. Groves, dealer in musical instruments and sewing machines, is the only one engaged exclusively in this business in Viroqua. lie became established in 1879. He was born in Perry Co., Ohio, in January, 1855, and was engaged in teaching for a number of years in Vernon county. He kept a book and stationery store for some time before engaging in his present business. He wjis married to Rachel E. Biehl, who was born in Illinois. They have one child - Regina. His father, H. S. Groves, was born March 28, 1830, in Perry Co., Ohio.

He came to Vernon county in 1853, entered land in Liberty town, and settled with liis family two or three years later. In July, 1 85:3, he married Elizabeth Evans, born in Muskingum C'0.,Ohio. Mr. Groves was a blacksmith by trade. He settled in Viroqua village in 1865, although he had worked here at his trade before that time. He died Feb. 2, 1874. His wife still lives in Viroqua. They had five children, three of whom are living - J. W., Louie and Asa E.

Hiram A. Hicok has resided in Vernon county since 1853, at which time he located in Viroqua village, working at his trade, that of a plasterer. He was the first to engage in plastering as a business in that village, and probably the first in the county. He is still engaged in that occupation, also calcimiuing and brick laying. Mr. Hicok was born in Chenango Co., N. Y., April 21, 1823, and was reared in that State. He married Mary Hanchett, born in Lisle town, Broome Co., N. Y., in 1819. 'J'hey have one daughter - Mary M., born in December, 1849. She resides at home. One son, Simeon A., was born at Maine, Broome Co., N. Y., Feb. 2, 1848. He enlisted in the United States service in company B, 50th regiment of Wisconsin Volunteers, on the 23d of February, 1865, and was discharged at Benton Barracks on the 13th day of Apiil, 1865. He died June 5, 1881, in the insane asylnm at Elgin, 111. Mr. Hicok's father came with him to this county and died April 30, 1859. Mary Hicok is a poetess, taking generally fur her topics scriptural passages.

Edward Silbaugh settled in Vernon Co., Wis., in 1853, living for one year in Franklin town. In 1854 he settled on section 25, Viroqua town, and entered a farm. In 1869 he bought a farm of Michael Caniield, on section 28, this town, which he has since made his home. Mr. Silbaugh was born in 1822, in Pennsylvania. He is the son. of Philip and Jane Silbaugh. When thirteen years of age he removed with his parents to Ohio, coming from there to this i county. His parents are now deceased. Mr. Silbaugh married Catharine, daughter of Henry and Anna M. Acker. She was born in Tompkins Co., N. Y., removing with her parents to Ohio when fourteen years of age, and coming to Vernon county in 1869. Her father died in ISTO and her mother returned to Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Silbaugh have nine children - William A., Jacob J., Henry, Lewis, Jane, Mary A., Nancy, Lucy and Amy. The first five were born in Ohio, the others in Ver. on county. All, with the exceptiou of Mary A., are married. Mr. Silbaugh's homestead farm contains 160 acres. He has also sixty acres on sections 20 and 26. Like many other early settlers, Mr. Silbaugh had but little of this world's goods, but now has a comfortable home and well improved farm.

John Dawson is one of the early settlers of the county, having settled here in 1854. He owns a fine farm, containing about 200 acres, 130 of which are in cultivation. There is a good spring on the farm near the dwelling, affording an abundant supply of pure water. There is also a large, well conditioned orchard of many varieties of apples, plums, grapes and minor fruits, and covering an area of eight acres. Mr. Dawson was born in Belmont Co., Ohio, in 1832, and passed his early life in Morgan county, of his native State. He is of English parentage. In 1854 our subject came to Vernon Co., Wis., and for some time engaged in teaching. In 1856 he began a mercantile business at Viroqua, which he afterward extended by a branch store to the prairie north. He remained in trade almost continuously for thirteen years, during which time he married Martha, daughter of William H. Ady, also a native of Belmont Co., Ohio. The fruits of this union are three children - Miles M., Lucy R. and Jeremiah M. Since he sold out his stock of merchandise, Mr. Dawson has been chiefly engaged in general insurance business, although he devotes a portion of time to his farm.

to Viroqua town, Vernon Co., Wis., in the spring of ISol, purchasing of Thomas Reed a claim on section 23. His original farm contained 160 acres, which he increased to 360 acres, -200 of which are improved. He has good buildings on his place. Mr. Garrett lias been thrice married. His first wife was Lorena Allard. She died before Mr. Garrett came to Wisconsin. Subsequen'ly he married Mary J., daughter of John McClurg, and after her death, was married to his present wife, Martha, daughter of Vanness Brown They have three children - Pennel, born Nov. 1, 1857, married Lucy, daughter of Edward Silbaugh; William, born July 11, 1859, married Elizabeth, daughter of Enoch Enochson; and Clarietta, born July 6, 1868. Mr. Garrett's father, Pennel Garrett, was a native of Pennsylvania. He lived to be over ninety years of age. Noah and John, brothers of Mr. Garrett, also settled in Vernon county. Noah enlisted in the 1 8th Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, and John in the 25tb Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry. Both died in the service.

Jason Glenn came to Vernon Co., Wis., June 16, 1854. He is the soc ')f Isaac Glenn, who was born in Ohio, Jan. 1, 1806, and came to this county with his family in June, 1854, settling on section 15, in the timber of Webster town. He was twice married. His first wife died in 18.49, in Perry Co., Ohio. He had seven children, four of whom are living. Mr. Glenn di. d in 1862. Jason was born in Ohio, and came to this county with his father. He enlisted in llie 35th Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, serving from Nov. 16, 1863 to March 15, 1866. He was at the siege of Spanish Fort, and also took part in other important battles. Mr. Glenn married Clarinda Norris, daughter of Edward Norris, who settled in Webster town, Dec. 4, 1854. Mr. Norris was a native of Ohio, born March 14, 1816, and died April 4, 1863. Mr. Glenn resides on section 29, of Viroqua town.

ten years of age, he removed with his parents to Michigan. Mr. Hornby has resided in this county since July, 1854, when he entered land on section 26, Franklin town In 1868 he sold that farm, and came to Viroqua town, purchasing, of Elisha Berbout, his present farm, situated on section 7, town 12, range 4. Mr. Hornby has four children - Martha Louisa, living in Union Co., Iowa; Alfred L., Estella and Minnie. His farm contains 120 acres. Robert Hornby, brother of James, lives in Franklin town, Vernon county.

Thomas Jerraan succeeded G. H. Bacon in the drug trade, in January, 1880. The latter had been in business only three months and is now a resident of Baraboo, Wis. Mr. Jerman was born in Norway, Aug. 14, 1846. His father, Soren Jerman, was born Jan. 8, 1812, and his mother, Dec. 16, 1810. They were the parents of six children, all natives of Norway, and five of whom are living - Peter, born June 3, 1835, a resident of Sterling town; Susan, wife of Andrew Thompson; Lottie, born Jan. 6, 1843; Thomas, born Aug. 14, 1846; Anna, born July 12, 1849; Elsie S., was born April 18, 1840, and is now deceased. In 1851 the family came over to these United States, and sought a new home in the then wild country of Bad Ax (now Vernon) county. They located in what is now known as Sterling town, and engaged in agricultural pursuits. The father died in that town Nov. 8, 1874, aged almost sixty-three years. His wife still survives him at the age of seventyone. Thomas was a small child when he came to Vernon county, and in his early life he learned the practical lesson of hardship and privation. lie has developed with the county, and few have been here longer, or witnessed mort wonderful and interesting changes than the druggist of to-day. In early life, he was employed I as a clerk in the town of Sterling, one year; Mt. Sterling, in (Crawford Co., Wis., for five years, and was engaged in general merchandising at Rising Sun, Wis., for about a year. He thea came to Viroqua, and previous to embarking in business for himself, was a clerk for six years, in the general store of N. McRie. In 1882 he erected his present handsome and commodious quarters. The building is of frame, veneered with brick, 25x60 feet in size, containing a store room on the ground Hoor, and Mr. Jerman's residence above. In 1S83 he erected another building, similar to the first, and adjoining the same. These buihlings form one of the finest bu>iiK'SS blocks in the city. Mr. Jerraan is a successful business man, and has built up a large trade. He married Blanche Terhune, daughter of Judge Terhune, one of the best known citizens of Vernon county. They have one son -Raymond L.

James H. Layne, of Viroqua, settled in the town of Franklin, in 1854. He purchased a farm which included what was afterward the village of I5rookville, which latter place he laid out and platted. He was born in Amherst Co., Va., in 1812. He removed to Kentucky, in 1828, where he resided till 1852, when he removed to Macon Co., 111. In the fall of 1853 he removed to Platteville, Wis., and came to this county, as before stated, in 1854. The farm that he owned in the town of Franklin, he purchased of Benjamin McCormick. Mr. Layne was one of the prominent early settlers of that town ; was chairman of the board of supervisors several years, and represented his district in the State Assembly, in the session of 1862-3. On his removal to Viroqua, he bought the farm of William Good, which was settled by Moses Decker, one of the well known pioneers of Vernon county, and engaged in farming, and nursery and hop business. He is at present engaged with his son, Samuel P., in the sale of farming implements. Mr. Layne has been twice married. His first wife was Minerva May, a native of Kentucky. She died in 1879. His present wife was Mrs. Amanda Burnett. He had five children by his first marriage, one daughter and four sons ; -daughter died in childhood ; sons all grew to maturity. Newton M. was born in Kentucky, in March, 1839. He studied law, was admitted to the bar, and began the practice of his profession. On the breaking out of the civil war, he raised company C, of the ISth regiment, Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry. Was elected cajitain on the organization of the company ; was captured at Shiloh ; was afterward exchanged, and participated in the siege of Vicksburg. He contracted a disease in the army of which he died.

Calvin Morley is one of the honored pioneers of Vernon county and Viroqua town. He came here from New York, his native State, in September, 1854. Mr. Morley was born in 1818, at Smyrna, Chenango county, where he grew to manhood. His parents, Abner and Amanda (Allen) Morley, were of New England stock, and located in New York after their marriage. At the age of sixteen years, Calvin was employed in a woolen factory, and continued in that business until 1853, when he learned the cabinet trade, and worked at it for one year. Upon coming to this county he pieempted a farm in Viroqua town, on which lie resided one year, and then removed to the vi'- lage. In 1861 he enlisted in company C, 18th regiment, Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, under Capt. Layne. He served about one year, and was discharged for disability. He participated in the battles of Shiloh and Corinth, and after the war, returned to Vernon county, and again engaged in the cabinet trade. He is the pioneer in that branch of trade, having first commenced in 1855. Mr. Morley's principal occupation is painting, which business he still follows. His wife was Elizabeth P. O'Toole, a native of Massachusetts, who removed to Utica, N. Y., with h'er parents when a small child. Mr. and Mrs. Morley have six children - William B., Margaret A., Fred, Frank E., Kate and Grace.

Aaron Riley lives on section 24, where he settled in September, 1854. He came to this town in July of that year. He has 160 acres of land which he bought of the government. He was born in Ohio; was married in Morgan county of tliat State, to Elizabeth B., daughter of Robert Adams, who also came here in 1854. Mr. Riley has five children - Hugh B., Robert N., Cyrus F., James F. and Arthur. Mr. and Mrs. Riley are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

Jacob Silbaugh, brother of Edward Silbaugh, settled 01) section 25, Viroqua town, in June, 1854, where he still resides. His farm contains 160 acres. Mr. Silbaugh was married in Ohio to Rebecca Jane Allen. They have four children - Louisa Catharine, wife of Philip Biterson; Frances Elraira, Luella Linora and Warren Haven.

Jerome S. Tinker is the son of Dr. E. W. Tinker, one of the early physicians of Viroqua town. Dr. Tinker was born in New York, in 1811. He was reared in Ohio, and studied medicine with Dr. Little, of Roseville, Muskingum Co., Ohio. About 1835 he began the ])ractiee of medicine in Rossean, Morgan county, and in 1854 came to Viroqua. In September, 1836 he married Mary Nulton, who died June 26, 1^*81. He subsequently married again. In 1883 he removed to Missouri. He had eight children. Jerome S. was born in Russcaii, Morgan Co., Ohio, in 1837. He came with his father to Viroqua, and has continued to reside here since. He served in the War of Rebellion, in the l-2lh Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry. He was for a time engaged in the drug and grocery business in Viroqua, and also kept what is now the Trcmont House, then called the North Star. Ilis farm is on section 10, town 12, range 4, in this town.

Rev. John Whitworth, of Viroqua, is one of that sturdy and valiant Ijand of pioneer preachers that are connected with the Methodist Episcopal Church, and early carry into every new and straggling settlement the Gospel of righteousness. He is a native of England, born in Lincolnshire, in March, 1810. At the early -age of fourteen years, he was thrown upon his own resources, and selected the farm as a healthy and vigorous training school for both mind and m\iscle. He entered the ministry as a Wesleyan local preacher of England, at about the age of twenty-seven years, and in 1849 was induced to emigrate to the United States of America. He lived at Janesville, Rock Co., Wis., for several years, and in 1854, made his first trip into Bad Ax (now Vernon) county, settling permanently the year following. He located land on sections 4 and 9, in Viroqua town, which he has disposed of recently. Mr. Whitworth was for several years a local and itinerant preacher of the M. E denomination. His first work in the cause of the Lord after coming to what is now Vernon county, was with the Bad Ax mission, which embraced a very large scope of country. He was afterward with the Lewis Valley Mission in LaCrosse county, but failing health caused him to desist his arduous duties for a time. Upon his recovery of his strength he was assigned to th e Viola Mission, where he remained a short time, then with the Ontario Mission one-half year, then took charge of the Newton circuit for two and one-half years. He has '-esided alternately on his farm and in the village of Viroqua since 1855. Rev. Whitworth has been twice married; his first wife was Mary Dawson, a native of England, who died in 1874. His present wife was Mrs. Mary J. (Bort) Walrath.

Daniel W. Favor is a son of Jonathan Favor, who settled in Jefferson town, Vernon Co., Wis., where he lived until his death, in July 1854. He was a native of New Hampshire, but came to Vernon county from Illinois. His wife still lives on the homestead. Daniel W. was born in Erie Co., N. Y., in 1S37. He, with his brother Philctus and sister Minerva, came to Jefferson township in April, making prej)arations for the family who came the following July. Jonathan Favor exchanged his farm in Illinois for a half section of land in Jefferson town. Daniel settleil on eighty acres of this land, located on section 24, where he lived until 1877, when he removed to his present residence, the northeast quarter of section 33,

Viroqna town. He bought this farm of eightytliree acres of Dr. Tinker. He has a liberal supply of water on his place, having near his residence a fine spring of pure, cold water. He also has a fine stone quarry on his place. Mr. Favor was married to Cecelia, daughter of Alexander McConnell, April 23, 1861, an early settler of Jefferson town. They have had ten children, seven sons and three daughters - Cecil P., Oscar D., Lucius U., Loren D., Constantine A., Ambrosia C, Franklin C, Mattie R., William True and Mary E. They were all born in Jefferson town with the exception of the two youngest, who were born in Viroqua. Mrs. Favor's father remained here but a few years, returning to Indiana, his former residence. He died in Noble county, that State, May 4, 1819.

E. S. Goodell was born in Oswego Co.,N.Y., in .1847. He removed to Marquette Co., Wis., with his parents, in 1851. In 1870 he engaged ill the livery business in Viroqua, which business he continues to conduct. He was married to Helen Brown, whose father was an early settler in Greenwood township. His father, Merchant Goodell, came to Viroqua town with his family in 1855, settling on section 8 and removed to the village of Viroqua, in 1872, where he died July 29,188.3. The following notice we clip from one of the Viroqua papers:

Merchant Goodell was born at Charlestonj Mass., Sunday, Sept. 4, 1808, and would therefore have been seventy-five years of age if he had lived till the 4th day of next September. He removed to New York State in 1840, and from thence to Marquette Co., Wis., in 1851, where he resided over three years, coming to Viroqua and settling in the northern part of the town, in 1855. In 1834 he was united in marriage to Miss Janette Comstock, and four children were born to them, three of whom are living.

a member of the Methodist Church and a consistent Christian. His life was a pure and honorable one, upon which there was no stain. He enjoyed the friendship and respect of every one who knew him, for he was a good citizen, a true friend and a kind neighbor. His aged partner, with whom he had traveled the pathway of life so many years, and his sorrowing children have the sympathy of the whole community in their loss.

W. F. Lindemann is one of th* earliest settler of Viroqua, and one of its most prominent and successful business men. He is at present engaged in the banking business with Gov. J. M. Rusk, and also in mercantile pursuits. He owns a fine farm of 500 acres on sections 19 and 20, of the town of Viroqua, and is extensively engaged in ra sing fine s'ock. Mr. Lindemann was born in Prussia, Dec. 30, 1832. He came to the United States in November 1850, landing at New Orleans, La. He went to St. Louis, Mo., and from thence to Johnstown, Penn., where a brother-in-law was then residing. His next move was to St. Paul, Minn., and in 1855, he came to Vernon county. He was first employed as a clerk in the store owned by Keeler & Capon. This firm's name was afterwards changed to Keeler & Mc- Michael. In 1858 he become partner of H. Greve, his brother-in-law, he being the successor to Keeler & McMichael. In 1861 he sold out his interest to Mr. Greve and moved on a farm in the town of Sterling, Vernon county and returned toV roqua in 1862, and in 1863, he embarked in the mercantile trade for himself. In 1868, he went to Sparta, in this State,- and there engaged in mercantile pursuits, but was burned out one and a half years later, and returned to Viroqua. Mr. Lindemann was united in marriage to Rebecca Eckees, a native of Ohio. They are the parents of four children, three sons and one daughter - Henry, born in May, 1859, (is cashier of the bank,) Albon, born in May, 1362, is clerking in the store,

John McClurpf was born in Mercer Co., Penn, in 1805, where he grew to manhood. He was married to Jemima Booth, born in Ohio. He came to Vernon county from Muskingum Co., Ohio, in 18.55. He purchased his farm of Noah Garrett, who died in tlie Union service during the war. It is situated on section 27, Viroqua town, and was originally owned by Jonathan Hay. Mr. and Mrs. McClurg have had eight children, six sons and two daughters - Mary Jane, Mrs Jesse Garrett, (deceased,) John B., residing in Sterling town, James, died in the war at Long Island, Manassah, died in the hospital at H lena, Ark., while in the service, Nancy, wife of W. S. Moore, Seth, who reside- in this town, was also in the service, Luther, also enlisted, but died before entering the army, Sylvanus, who resides in Washington territory. In 1858 Mrs. McClurg died, and in July, 1859, Mr. McClurg married Mrs. Martha J. Payne, widow of Uri Payne. She was born in Lisle town, Broome Co., N. Y., in 1827, and was married in that State to Mr. Payne, coming to this county Sept 8, 1856. Mr. Payne died Jan. 3, 1857, of ty})hoid fever. He had not yet made a settlement. A son, George, died a short time previous to his father. Mr. and Mrs. McClurg have had three daughters, only one of whom is living - Eva, born in Viroqua town. Mrs. McClurg has lost two children by her first marriage.

William T. .VIcConnell was born in Muskingum Co., Ohio, in 181 7. He removed with his parents, to LaGrange Co., Ind., in 1831. He removed to Vernon (then Bad A.\) county, June 29, 1855. In the fall of 1854, with his brother, Alexander, he had purchased nearJy 1,000 acres of land, lying mostly in JefFeraon town. They also purchased a saw mill there, with the intention of manufacturing lumber. William T., however, sold -his interest in the mill to his brother Alexander, who operated it for several years. Subsequently they sold this tract of land to different parties. Mr. McConnell's first settlement in Wisconsin was in Crawford county, where he bought a half interest in a grist mill. He afterwards exchanged this for a farm in Jefferson town, on which he resided until 1882, when he came to Viroqua village and engaged in the grocery business. Mr. McConnell, during his agricultural life, paid much attention to the cultivation of fruit, being one of the earliest, as well as one of the mist successful fruit growers in Vernon county. He experimented with various kinds of fruit trees for the purpose of discovering those best adapted to this region. He made the cultivation of apples a specialty, and the mauy ])remiums which he received is evidence of his success in fruit growing. Mr. McConnell took great interest in the organization and success of the Vernon County Agricultural Society, of which he was the presiding officer for several years. He was also its secretary one year, and treasurer a number of years. He is highly respected and esteemed as an upright and honorable citizen. Politically, Mr. McConnell is a democrat. He has been chairman of the board of supervisors, and has several times been a candidate for office, but while he has generally run ahead of his ticket, his party has been too much in the minority to elect him. He has been twice married. His first wife was Rhoda Moses. She died in Indiana. He subsequently married Sarah A. Caldwell, a native of Virginia. She died in August, 1882. He has two children by his first wife - Marshall A., who resides near Sioux Falls, Dak., and Rhoda. He has three children by his second wife - Homer, of Sioux Falls, Dak., Agnes and Ellon.

Hiram Moody was born in Waldo Co., Maine, in 1813. In the fall of 1817 he removed with his parents to .Morgan Co., Ohio, where his father, Nathan Moody, resided till his death. He came to this county as early as 1853, entering at that time, 800 acres of timber land in Webster and Clinton towns. In 1855 he located on land in Jefferson town, part of which he still owns. He has a farm of 120 acres in Jefferson town and also owns considerable property in the village of Viroqua, on which he now resides. He married Sarah Longstreth, born in Muskingum Co., Ohio, in 1813. They have five children - James C, Catharine, Martha J., Nathan E. and Abigail. They lost one son - Bartholomew. Mr. Moody enlisted in the 14th Iowa Volunteer Infantry. He was transferred to the Hd Iowa Battery, and died while in the service at Corinth, Miss. One son, J. C. Moody, enlisted in company I, 6th Wisconsin regiment, where ha attained especial honors for bravery. Our subject also enlisted in the 18th regiment, Wisconsin Volunteers, serving a full term of three years.

Nathan E. Moody is a son of Hiram Moody. He was born in Perry Co., Ohio, in 1849. In 1855 he came with his parents to Vernon county. He is engaged in the manufacture of brick at Viroqua. Brick had been manufactured from an early period in the history of this town, but the present yard was established in 1874. It has been operated by different individuals, and has been quite an important feature since the advent of railroads. The quality of the brick is good, and their durability has been proven by long use. Mr. Moody has had charge of the yard since 1878. In IS-^S he manufactured 300,000 brick, supplying home trade only. There is but one other brick yard in Vernon county, located at Hillsborough. Mr. Moody married Martha, daughter of Rev. James A. Cook, born in Viroqua town in 18.52. They have two children - Bertha and Jessie They lost two daughters - Blanche and Edith, both of whom died when five years of age.

One of the successful farmers of the town of Viroqua is Michael Welch, who resides on section 10, town 12 north, of range 4 west, where he located in .June, 1855. He bought his farm the previous winter of Abner Conkling. Mr. Welch was born of Irish parents, in the city of London, England, May 16, 1816. His father, Michael Welch, was a native of county Cork, Ireland, where he was married, and with his family went to London. From London he came to the United States, to secure a home for his family, which he left behind him. He secured work near Philadelphia, Penn., where he remained several years. He sent for his family about 1820. In the mean time, his wife had died. He removed with his children to Harrison Co., Ohio, and thence to Perry county in the same State, where he died in 1857, at the age of seventy-eight years. He married again after coming to this country ; had four children by first marriage and three by his second union. Mr. Welch is the only survivor of the first children. On coming to this county in 1855 he purchased 200 acres of land, whore lie now lives, of Mr. Conkling. Very little improvement had been made upon the place, a few acres only being under cultivation and a log house had been built by Mr. Conkling. All other improvements have been made by Mr. Welch. He has now 340 acres well iniprov d, and is regarded as one of the most successful farmers of the town of Viroqua. His wife was Barbara Coher, born in Columbiana Co., Ohio She is a sister of the wife of Jeremiah Conaway, one of the early settlers of this town. Mr. and Mrs. Welch have had six children, five of whom are living - John, a public lecturer ; George, Mrs. Rebecca Ellsworth, Christopher and James. They lost one daughter - Mrs. Catharine Rogers.

Israel Williams came to Viroqua town, Vernon Co., Wis., with his family in 18.55. He was a native of Connecticut, where he was born in 1799. He removed when a young man to New York State, where he married Harriet Rockwood, born in Herkimer county. In 1S37 they removed to Walworth Co., Wis , settling in Spring Prairie town, being among the earliest settlers of that county. Tliey came from there to this county, as before stated, in 1855 They did not survive long after coming to this county, Mr, Williams dying in 1856, and his wife the year following. They had nine children, seven of wliom are livins; - Caroline, wife of J. I. Taylor ; George IL, Clarke D., Howard D., Louise, wife of E. A. Rogers ; Amanda, wife of Col. E. M. Rogers, and Frank E. Two sons, Clarke D. and Howard D., are residents of the village of Viroqua, and are among her prominent business men. But one daughter resides here, Mrs. E. M. Rogers.

Clarke U. Williams was born in Walworth Co., Wis., in 18.37. He came to Vernon county with his parents. In 1859 he went to California, residing there and in Nevada for ten years, returning in 1869, since which time he has been engaged in farming and in merchandising. He married Sarah V. Jewell, daughter of J. II. Jewell. They have three children - Florence v., George J. and Le Roy J.

Howard D. Williams was born in Walworth Co., Wis., in 1S39. He spent several years in New York State, after which he came to this county. He is a member of tlie mereantih firm of Rogers, Henry & Williams. He mai ried Mrs. Sarah C. Tourgee, widow of Charle^ Tourgee. They have one son - Frank, born ii Franklin town. She has a daughter by her firs: husband - Emma Tourgee.

William Bowman was born in Perry Co.. Ohio, in 1825. His father, Thomas Bowman, came to Vernon county with his family in 1856. He lived in Viroqua town but a year or two, when he removed to Missouri, and from thence to Iowa, where, in 1981, he died. He was twice married. He had si.K children by his first wife, and nine by his second. William is the only one of his father's family who resides in Vernon county. Like many otlier early settlers he came here poor, but by industry and economy he has secured a compi^'tency. The farm on which he resides, on section 21, contains 100 acres, under a good state of cultivation. He also owns 200 acres of land elsewliere in the town. He was married in Ohio to Grizelle Crawsky. Thev have eight children, four sons and four daughters - Mary E., wife of Sebastian Silbaugh;

Amos W. Green came to Vernon Co., Wis.,- in 1856, settling on section 27, Viroqua town, where he resided two years. He purchased his present farm in 1864, of Joseph Brothers. It contains 101 acres on section 33. He also has 160 acres of land on section 35, this town. Mr. Green was born in Morgan Co., Ohio, in 1S33, where he was married to Mary E , daughter of Joshua Ady, born in Morgan Co., Ohio, in 1837. They have no children of their own, but have an adopted daughter - Minnie J. She is a daughter of Thomas Ady, of Jefferson town. Mr. Green is the only member of his family in this county. He has two sisters in Monroe Co., Wis. Mrs. Green has a brother, Thomas, in Jefferson town, and a sister, Mrs. Elijah Tilton, in this town. Jesse Green, father of Amos W., was a native of INInine. He came to Vernon county in is.j", settling on afarm adjoining that now owned by his son, which is now the property of Marion Henry. He subsequently removed to Sparta, where he died in 1882. His wife (lied while in Viroqua town in 1876.

Mrs. Martha A. (Sabin) Hall is the relict of Ralph Hall, who with his family came to Vernon county in October, 1856, and settled on section 5, town 12 north, of range 4 west, where Mrs. Hall with her family still resides. Mr. Hall purchased the farm of Oscar Henry. He was born in England in 1.^'30, and came to the United States in July, 1843, with his parents, who settled in Cook Co., III. He was married in Illinois in 1851, to his present widow, Martha A. Sabin. Mr. Hall died July (!, I,s72. His father, George Hall, died in Illinois. His mother came to Viroqua in the fall of 1806, where she still resides. Mr. Hall was a highly resjiecled and industrious citizen; was a charter member of the Vernon Cou?ity Agricultural Society, and was also for some time treasurer of that organization, and was also at one time chairman of the town board of Viroqua. Mrs. Hall was born near. Cleveland^ Ohio, in October, 1830. Her parents, Sylvester and Phebe Hall, settled in Cook Co., III., in

3 841, where they lived till their decease: Mrs. Hall has three cluldren^Phebe A., wife of Henry McDermott, was born in Cook Co., 111.; Ananias, born in the town of Viroqua, in December, 1858, and John, born in 1868. She still resides on the homestead farm, which contains 140 acres.

4 west, in June of that year. He is not only one of the early settlers, but is also one of the most aged citizens, having been born in 1804 in Guernsey Co., Ohio, where lie resided until coming to Vernon County. His father, Hans Morrison, was a native of Pennsylvania. Mr. Morrison was married, in Ohio, to Charlotte Havens, born in Pennsylvania. She died Sept. 22, 1866. He has had nine children, five of whom are living - Elisha, Robert B., Alexander C, Natharael and John, all of whom, with the exception of Nathaniel, who lives in Kansas, live in Vernon county. Alexander served in the army during the war, enlisting Aug. 14, 1862, in company A, 25th Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, and serving until the close of the war. He married Sarali, daughter of F. K. Van Wagner, an early settler of Franklin town. Nathaniel enlisted, in 1863, in the 35th Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, and served until the close of the war. Mr. Morrison lost two children who had arrived at maturity - Mary Ann, who mari-ied Justice Smith; he died of disease contracted in the army; Margaret, who married Oliver C. Smith. Mr. Morrison still owns his original farm of 200 acres. He was a member of the town board for nine yc.Tr. He is connected with the Christian Church.

Earl M. Rogers, of Rogers, limiry & Williams, merchants of Viroqua, has been a resident of Vernon county since May 1, 1S56, wlien he located at Liberty Pole. Col. Rogers was born in Wayne Co., Penn., in 1839. His father, Clayton Rogers, settled with his family in Crawford Co., Wis., in 1850. In 1860 Col. Rogers crossed the plains to the mountains, but returned in 1861, to enter the Union army. He enlisted in company I, 6th regiment, Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry in June, 1861, and was made a lieutenantin December, 1861. He was for one year aid-de-camp to Brig.-Gen. Wadsworth, and on the death of that gallant officer, served in the same capacity with Brig.-Gen. Bragg. He was severely wounded, June 18, 1864, in the assault on the works of Petersburg but, returning to the army in October served till April, 1865. In 1867 he re-entered the array, receiving a commission as lieutenant in the 3d United States Infantry; served two years in frontier service, and resigned to return to Vernon county. He then embarked in mercantile pursuits at Liberty Pole, and in 1872 came to Viroqua, engaging in business under the firm name of Rogers & Henry. In the fall of 1880 the present firm was formed under the firm name of Rogers, Henry & Williams. Col. Rogers married Amanda, daughter of Israel Williams. They are the parents of three children - Edith, Henry and Edward.

C. C. Brown has been dealing in furniture in Viroqua since 1^67. He carries quite an extensive stock, and, as this is the only furniture store of any importance in Vernon county, his trade is naturally very large and lucrative. Mr. IJrown was born in Oakfield, Perry Co., Ohio, in 1844. His father, James Brown, came to Vernou Co., Wis., in 1856. He was a native of Maryland, and by occupation a surveyor. He found plenty of work to do in the new counti-y, and was soon made county surveyor. With the proceeds of his labors, he bought a farm in the town of Greenwood, where he resided till his death, in 1878. His widow is a native of Bloody Run, Penn., and now resides in Viroqua. C. C. Brown resided in his native State until May, 1857, when he joined his father's family in this country. He married Dora Graff, a native of

Illinois. Her father died when she was but a small child, and she subsequently lived for a number of years at Viroqua with her grandfather, Moses Decker, one of the well-known pioneers of Vernon county. Mr. and Mrs. Brown have two children - Otto and Bennie.

Levi R. Gaines resides on section 32, adjoining the town plat of Viroqua. He was born in Litchfield, Conn., in 1833, and was reared amid the refining influences and ingenious productions of the Nutmeg State. In 1852, he left New England manners and conventionalities, and sought a new home at Kenosha, Wis., among the frank, practical and pleasant inhabitants of the Beaver State. His father, Theodore Gaines, came to Viroqua, with his family, in 1856, and died there May 31, 1862. Levi followed his father's family the next year (185'7) and has since been a resident of Vernon county. He early learned the carpenter trade, and erected many of the earlier private residences and public buildings of Viroqua, including the Congregational and Methodist churcl edifices. Since 1869 Mr. Gaines has beei' engaged in selling sewing machines and musical instruments. He resides in a pleasani home just without the limits of the village, and also owns a farm in the town of Webster. He married Cornelia, daughter of A. C. Stevens, born in Oswego Co., N. Y. Four children were born to this union, two sons and two daughters. The former are living and named Eugene and Edward.

John W. Aikins was born in Vernon Co., Wis., in July, 1859. He resides on section 8, Viroqua town, on a farm purchased by his father, Daniel Aikins, of William Beabout. A sketch of Daniel Aikins will be found elsewhere. Mr. Aikins was married to Ella, a daughter of Capt. R. S. McMichael, of Viroqua. They have two children - Walter L. and Cora. His farm contains 120 acres.

and many of the private and public buildings of Viroqua sliow evidence of his handiwork. He was born in Bristol Co., Mass., in 1838, and when a young man went to Cleveland, Ohio, where he served an apprenticeship to the carpenter trade. In 1859, he came still further west, and located in the town of Wheatland, where he found work at his trade. On the breaking out of the war, he immediately returned to New England, and enlisted as a private in the 12th regiment, Maine Volunteers serving three years and tlree months. The regiment was first attached to the command of Maj.-Gen. Butler and afterward to that of Maj.-Gen. Banks. He participated in all the important engagements of the southwest, and at the siege of Port Hudson performed an act of valor which gained for him the admiration of both friend and foe, and deserves special mention in this work. The two armies were resting in their entrenchments after a temporary repulse of our forces from an attack on the enemy. Thev were but a few rods apart and within short range of musketry. Many of the sorely wounded lay writhing md groaning under the broiling sun, in the narrow space that separated the combatants. One poor comrade in particular was mortally wounded, aii<l cried piteously for a drink of water, to allay his burningthirsl. Mr. Blake listened to his pleadings but a short time, and could stand it no longer. He volunteered to make an attempt to relieve him, although the sufferer lay just before the rebel fortifications, and within easy range of their guns. Filling a canteen with fresh water, he cautiously emerged from behind the intrenchments, and secreting himself behind the dead bodies of his comrades, he crawled slowly toward the wounded man. He had passed over about half of the intervening distance, when'he chanced to look toward the enemy, and found an unbroken line of rebel muskets staring him in the face. He was hailed by one of the enemy, and asked if he was wounded. Think- ing to gain time and possibly further progress, he replied in the affirmative, but on Hecond thought concluded to face the danger, if any, at once. He boldly arose to his feet, and relying upon his errand of mercy for respite from danger, swiftly sprang to the side of his comrade. The poor fellow swallowed the contents of the canteen, and in a faint voice thanked his benefactor for his kindness. Mr. Blake was seized with a desire to drag the wounded man back to the friendly intrenchments, but he was too badly wounded to endure the kindly meant but rough treatment. By this time, the enemy were wild with excitement, and scores of guns were nervously and threateningly handled to compel the audacious "yank"' to surrender. He looked around, and seeing no alternative, cooly marched over and gave himself up as a prisoner of war. When the enemy learned that the poor soldier whom he had supplied with water at the risk of his own life was not a brother, as they had supposed, but a perfect stranger to his benefactor, they were struck with admiration for their brave captive, and treated him with due respect. He w.is kept in confinement until the capitulation of the enemy. The wounded soldier was subsequently identified as Sergeant Hall, a resident of Monroe Co., Wis., living near parta. After the war, Mr. Blake returned to De Soto, in the town of Wheatland, and resumed work at his trade. He has been a resident of Viroqua since 1872. He married Ella R., daughter of James Osgood. They have two children - Edith and Willie.

P. P. Hektoen was born in Hamar Stift, Norway, in 1839. He received a good education in a school corresponding to the normal schools of the United States. He came to the United States in 1859, coming directly to Viroqua town. In 1861 he bought a small farm of I. Bjorseth, on section 3, town 13 north, of range 4 west, where he still resides. In 1862 he married Olive Thorsgaard, also a native of Norway. Their oldest son, Ludvig, graduated from the Norwegian Lutheran College, at Decorah, Iowa, in

David Strawn has resided in Vernon Co., Wis., since 1859, and at present, is a retired farmer. He purchased a part of his last farm, on section 29, north of the village of Viroqua, of Alonzo Pierce. Mr. Strawn was born, in 182V, in Perry Co., Ohio, where he grew to manhood. His parents were John and Rebecca Strawn, the former a native of Pennsylvania and the latter of Virginia. They resided in Ohio until their death. Mr. Strawn married Amy Hone, born in Ohio. They have two children - Mary A., now Mrs. L. W. Ady, and Grant. Mr. Strawn's farm contained 320 acres, well improved, including good buildings, and was sold in July, 1883, to Philip Rhodes, who has been a resident of Vernon county for thirty years. He began poor, and has made all his improvements, making it one of the best farms in the county.

Elijah Tilton is the son of Simeon II. and Eliza (Brown) Tilton, and was born in what was then Hocking, now Vinton Co., Ohio, in 1833. He came with his parents to Vernon Co. Wis., in 1860. He was married, in Ohio, to Lydia A. Mercer, a native of that State. She died in 1864. They had three children, one of whom is living - Mrs. Eliza E. Smith. Subsequently. Mr. Tilton married Mrs. Sarah C. (Ady) King, by whom he has eight children, six boys and two girls - Pearly J., William L., Henry L., Jesse E., Hannah A., James E., Grace E. and Carl E. Mr. Tilton enlisted Feb. 18, 1865, in company B, 50ih Wisconsin Volunteer In fantry, serving until the close of the war. Mr. Tilton has a farm of 200 acres, seventy of which is timber land and the remainder under cultivation.

Simeon H. Tilton was born in Pennsylvania, in 1809. When nine years of age, he went with his parents to Indiana and from thence to Ohio. In 1854 he came to Vernon Co., Wis., purchasing land in Webster town. In 1860 he settled on section 24, Viroqua town, and in 18G.S on section 33. Mr. Tilton was married to Eliza Brown, b >rn in Pickaway Co., Ohio. They had five children, th'^ee of whom are living - Elijah, Rebecca and Mary, now Mrs. William C. Aldon. Tiiese children all live in this town. Mr. Tilton died Dec. 31, 1876. Mrs'Tiltonis still living.

J. Henry Tate, general merchant, has been a resident of Viroqua since 1865. He was born in the town of Landgrave, Bennington Co., Vt., in 1830. He was reared to the business of farming. In 1847 he went to Boston, Mass., where he was engaged as clerk for two years. In 1849 he went to California; was absent about two years, when he returned to New England; lived in Boston several years, and went to Rhode Island in the spring of 1860. He enlisted on the breaking out of tlic war, in the 2d Rhode Island Volunteer Infantry, and went into the service as commissary sergeant. He was in the service three years; was, for ten months, assistant quartermaster of the 3d Division of the 6th Army Corps. He was present at several of the earlier battles of the war, including the first battle of Bull Run, battle of Kredericksburg and Salem Heights. Col. Tate is one of the prominent business men and one of the enterprising citizens of Vertion county. He is an ardent republican, politically. He was elected to the State Assembly in 1873, and was a member of the State Senate in 1876 and 1877. He is engaged in general merchandising at Viroqua, also has another store at Casliton; the firm name there being Tate & Nelson. Mrs. Tate was formerly Helen M. Walker, also born in the town of Landgrave, Bennington Co., Vt. They have six children - Mrs. Nellie M. Towner, Mrs. Ella I. Boyer, J. Henry, Jr , Addie M., Frank E. and Frederick A.

George W. Morgan is the only resident phoiograpiier in Vernon county, and as his artistic ability is excellent, his patronage is large and remunerative. Mr. Morgan was born at Elk «rove, Grant Co., Wis., in 1845. His father, Samuel Morgan, was an early settler of that county, ami a wagon maker by trade. He removed to Allamakee Co., Iowa, in 1850, where he now resides. George W. commenced learning the art of photography in 1866, with Dr. Hall, of Lansing, Iowa. Dr. Hall subsequently died, and Mr. Morgan took charge of his business and continued it with fair success for about six years. In June, 1872, he located in Viroqua. Mr. Morgan married Hattie L. Murry, a native of Ohio.

Frank M. Towner is proprietor of the only exclusive book and stationery house in Veinon county. He carries a full stock and varied assortment, including fancy goods, musical instruments, etc., and his stock is valued at from $8,000 to $10,000. Mr. Towner was born in Erie Co., Penn., in 1854. In his earlier life, he took a select course of study in the University of Michigan, at Ann Arbor and was subsequently a student in the Wisconsin State University, at Madison. He came to Viroqua in 1866, and embarked in his present business in the fall of 1872. Mr. Towner enjoys a first class custom, and is highly respectetl as a citizen. He married Nellie, daughter of Col. J. Henry Tate, one of the most prominent merchants of Viroqua and Vernon county.

N. McKie is a |)rominent and successful merchant of Vernon county. He is extensively engaged in the drug, hardware and lumber trade at Viroqua, and is held in liigh esteem by his acquaintances. He was born in sunny England, in 1828, and served an apprenticeship in the drug business, at Dumfries, Scotland. In 1848 he went to St. Louis, Mo., where he opened and operated two drug houses, in the retail trade for ten years. From 1851 to 1861 he was engaged in farming and merchandising, in St. Clair Co., III., and in 1869, he located at Viroqua. He immediately embarked in the general mercantile trade, and his stock is mostly composed of drugs and hardware. In December, 1880, he engaged in the lumber trade, in which he has been fairly successful. In addition to his business interests in Vernon county, he has also liad a branch establisliment in Crawford Co., Wis. Mr. McKie married Sarali J., daughter of Dr. James Rusk. They liave six children - Harriet, Sarah E., Jane E., James H., Hugh and Ernest.

John J. Hammond resides on section 32, Viroqua town, where he settled in the spring of 1871. He purchased of N. Wells fortyfour acres of good land, especially ^adapted to the raising of small fruit. Mr. Hammond devotes the major portion of his time to fruit growing. His vineyard produced, in 1880, about 6,000 pounds of fine Concord grapes, and in 1882, over 4,000 pounds. Berries form a respectable part of his fruit interests, and in 1882, he raised over fifty bushels of excellent Early Richmond cherries. He is also engaged in the cultivation of sugar cane, making annually from 100 to 600 gallons of sorghum molasses. John J. Hammond is a native of Northamptonshire, England, born in 1839. When seventeen years of age, his father and mother, William and Elizabeth Hammond, emigrated to these United States, and located in New Jersey. There the father embarked in the boot and shoe trade, which he continued until his death, in the spring of 1882. In 1861 he removed his family to Illinois, where he lived during the remainder of his life. Mr. Hammond was united in marriage, in 1863, to Ann Hall, a native of Illinois, whose parents came from England. Mr. and Mrs Hammond have been blessed with nine children, three of whom are living - Alice Ann, Ida Mai-y and Addie Belle. Those deceased were named Alice P., Elizabeth Ann, Lydia M., Oliver S., Eleanor S. and Cora Estella.

Capt. Robert P. Clarke was not an early settler of Vernon county, but was so intimately and prominently connected with the early history of the Mississippi valley that a brief sketch of him here will probably be of interest to the readers of Vernon county history. He was born near Pittsburg, Penn., in 1802. He began keel-boating ou the Ohio river when but twenty years of age, and followed boating in that kind of a craft until steamboats began plying the Mississippi. At one time, when ascending the Mississippi river, he was attacked by a large party of Indians, not far from the city of La Crosse. After a desperate fight with the savages, in which twelve of his crew were killed, he succeeded in beating off the Indians. He commanded one of the first steamboats that ever ascended the Mississippi river. It was called the Mexico, which, under his command, carried the first private freight to the head of navigation on that river, and he also commanded the third steamer that ascended the Missouri river. He owned and commanded a number of the finest river steamboats, including the Mexico, Lady Washington, George Washington, Chief-Justice Marshall, General LaFayetle and others, and was identified with steamboat interests down to nearly the time of the close of his long and eventful life. Daring the Texas war for independence, his sympathies were aroused by the struggling Texans in their struggle tor independence. He organized a company, consistingnnostly of the crew of his steamboat, and left St. Louis, Mo., with his company for the headquarters of Gen. Samuel Houston, the commander of the Texan forces. He joined that general and participated in the sanguinary^battle of San Jacinto, where the Mexicans lost 630 killed, and 730 taken prisoners. Among the latter were included Gen. Santa Anna. Capt. Clarke was the first to carry the news of that important victory to New Orleans. After he retired from steainboating he located at Cincinnati, afterward removing to St. Louis, which was his home for many years. He was a resident of the latter city when the war for the Union broke out, and although too old to engage in active service he took a deep interest in tlie success of the Union cause, and was an ardent supporter of the old flag during that fearful struggle. Notwithstanding he followed the river so many years, where moral and religious principles are not supposed to predomi- iiate, Capt. Clarke was a man of strong religious convictions, and highly respected wlierever known. As wassaidof himathisdeath, he was "a public spirited and Christian gentleman, honest, plain spoken, frank and kind-hearted." lie received ills first religious impressions under the ministrations of Dr. Lyman Reecher, at Cincinnati, Ohio. He removed to De Soto, Wis., where his children resided, in 1874, where he died in October, 1880. The respect and esteem in which he was held was well attested by the large number of prominent citizens that attended the funeral of their deceased friend and neighbor. He was married twice, the first time at Wheeling, W. Va. He had three children by this marriage, but he lost his whole family in one night at Wheeling, by that dreadful, destroying scourge - yelhiw fever. In IS-tO he married a Vermont lady, Mary Warren, by name, whom he met as a passenger on his boat, while ascending the river. He had five children by this marriage, four of whom are living. His oldest daughter, Maiy L., is the wife of Rev. William J. Clark, of Knox Co., Ohio. A younger daughter, Elizabeth VV., resides with lier brother, C. Edward, at Viroqua. The mother of these children, the second wife of Capt. Clarke, died at St. Louis, Mo., of cholera, in 1849.

George H. and C. Edward Clarke, sons of Capt. Robert P. Clarke, comprise the firm of Clarke Bros., general inereliants, Viroqua. They eng^iged in business here in 1SS2 and are doing an extensive business.

George H.Clarke, of the above named firm, ^as born in 1845 at St. Lonis, Mo., where he grew to manhood. In 1863 he went to Colorado, where lie was engaged in mining and merchandising. 'Ihe party to which he belonged had several severe battles with the savages, this being the i)eriod of active Indian hostilities. In is(j6 he returned to St. Louis, soon after becoming connected with the Kansas Pacific Railway survey. He continued thus occupied for about a year, meeting with many thrilling adventures in the wild regions of the west. He again returned to St. Louis, engaging in merchandising and in 1873 settling in De Soto, where he continued until 1882, when he came to Viroqua. Mr. Clarke has been twice married. His first wife, Martha M. Trott, was a native of Maine, but was reared in Vernon Co., Wis. His present wife was Miss L. M. Sweet, born in Richland county, and by whom he had two children. While at De Soto Mr. Clarke was engaged in various enterprises besides that of merchandising, among others that of putting up ice for the St. Louis market, being the first in the county to engage in that business. He put up on an average about 5,000 tons of ice annually.

C. Edward Clarke was born in St. Louis, in 1843. When seventeen years of age he accompanied his father to the mining regions of the west. They took a quartz mill with them, being interested in the mining business for about six years. In 1864, joining a volunteer force that was organized to put down an Ir.dian outbreak, he participated in a hard fought battle with the Indians, including the battle of Sand creek, Nov. 29, 1864, in which 500 Indians wtre killed. In 1866 he went' to Arkansas, where he became interested, with his fatherand Joseph Brooks, in cotton farming, afterwards merchandisinjj and interested in railroad con tracts and cotton buying on an extensive scale at Indian Bay and Duvall's Bluff on White river, Ark. In 1876 he came to Vernon county, locating in DeSoto. In 1882 he came to Viroqua, engaging with his brother in tiie general merchandise trade. Mr. Clarke is a cultured gentleman. He has traveled extensively, and possesses much general information.

George Dennis lives on section 22, where he settled in 187.3. He was born in Morgan Co., Ohio, April 3, 1824, where he lived till became to tills county. He was married to Sarah J. Aikins and came to Vernon county in 1854 and has been a resident of t)ie town of Viroqua since that time. Mr. and Mrs. Dennis have five chil- dren - Luciiula, Nancy J., James, Herman and Henry. Mr. Dennis' farm contains 120 acres. He has a good farm, well improved. Mr. Dennis is of German descent, his paternal grandfatlier being a native of Germany. His parents, William and IMary Dennis, died in Ohio.

J. K. Schreiner, M. D., resides in Viroqua village. He was born in Christiana, Norway, in 1857. In 1875 he began the study of medicine and for six years was a student of the medical department of the University of Christiana, graduating from that institution in 1881. He came to the United States soon after hisgraduation. Dr. Schreiner is a cultured gentleman and thoroughly educated in the science of medicine. He has established an excellent practice and receives not only the patronage of his own countrymen, but is appreciated as a skillful physician by other nationalities. He spends Tuesday and Saturday afternoons of each week at the village of Westby, attending to his professional calls. Dr. Schreiner married Christina Gjerdrum. She is a well educated and refined lady.

O. Tollefson is a native of Norway and a brother of L. Tollefson, Esq., of Viroqua. He was born in 1854 and came to this country with his parents in 1860, settling in Allamakee Co., Iowa. In 1871 he went to La Crosse, Wis., and engaged as clerk in the wholesale establishment of Marsten & Son. He was also engaged for a time with Chai'les Solberg and afterwards was in business three years for himself. He came to Viroqua in 1882, forming a partnership with Joseph Omundson in the general mercantile business, under the firm name of Tollefson & Omundson. Mr. Tollefson has since purchased the interest of Mr. Omundson and is now doing business under the firm name of O. Tollefson & Co. Mr. Tollefson is one of the most enterprising young merchants in the county.

dentistry in January, 1883. He was born in 1857 and commenced the study of his profession at Frankfort, Ind., where he served an apprenticeship with Dr. J. D. Wirt. He came to Wisconsin in September, 1880, and located at Viola in Richland county, where he remained about two years and then came to Viroqua. Dr. Gochenour is well educated in his chosen profession, and during his short residence in Vernon county has secured by his merits the confidence of the public aud established a good patronage. He married Emily Landes, a native of Virginia. They have one daughter - Blanche.

B. F. Ferguson, of Morley & Ferguson, who succeeded P. B. Vess in November, 1882, in the harness trade, has been a resident of Vernon county since 1852. He was born in the town of Highland, Iowa Co., Wis., in 1850. His father, William Ferguson, was an early settler in the town of Wheatland, this county, where he still resides. Mr. Ferguson learned his trade with the firm of B. F. Purdy & R. L. Ferguson, his brother, of Viroqua, aud has been in business for himself over a year. He was married to Attilla, daughter of Nathan Coe, of Viroqua. Mr. Morley, of this firm, is a son of Calvin Morley, a sketch of whom will be found in this volume.

Ethan A. Stark manufactures wagons aud does repair work in Viroqua. He has been a resident of Vernon county twenty-seven years and engaged in his present business about nine years. He was born in old rock-ribbed New Hampshire, in 1825. His father was Jedulhan Stark, who died when Ethan was but a lad. When thirteen years of age Mr. Stark went to Lowell, Mass., and secured emjjloyment in the large woolen mills at that point. He was only a boy, but thrifty and industrious, and finally became overseer in the factory where he first entered. He held this responsible and laborious position for sixteen years, and then resigned to come west. He located in Vernon county and purchased a farm in Viroqua town, where he has engaged in agricultural pursuits for some years. In 18V5 he succeeded Samuel Metcalf in the wagon maker's trade, and has since conducted the business with fair success Mr. Stark ma ried Amanda F. Weeden, born in

Vermont, in 1829. Her father died in Vermont, but her mother came to Viroqua and liere departed this life Aug. 26, 1805. Mr. and Mrs. Stark have one daughter - Helen M., born Sept.