York Town

York Town

The first settlers of Green Comity never tired of extolling the beauty of its prairies. Sometimes, when they watched the play of the sunlight on the long grassy billows before them, something of its brightness entered into their own hopes; and, with unusual confidence in the world's progress, they remarked to each other, sometime, though it vvo'n't be in our day, these prairies will all be in farms. Then, because they had come, originally if not immediately, from a wooded country, and it seemed to them more in accordance with the fitness of things to spend life making a clearing than to take one of nature's making, a great many of them turned their backs on the beautiful prairie and made their homes in the timber, though a few of them, after grubbing away their best years, adopted a contrary opinion and removed to the prairie, where they speedily acquired a competence. Even while they admired the prairies, most of these denizens of the forest lamented the country's great scarcity of trees; and, as the Indian was known to be the cause of some of the inconveniences to which they were subject, they ascribed the deficiency of trees also to him, or at least to the fires which he sent sweeping over the country every year to make the hunting good. By the time York was settled, prairies were in better repute than they had been five years before. It does not appear which one of the opposing theorists on the treelessness of prairies numbered the first settlers of York among his followers. These pioneers may have seen the cause of prairies in climatic influences, in dried-up lakes, or in peculiarities of soil ; though, since they saw that the seeming deficiency of trees was really a blessing - and there has always been a superabundance of wood land - it might have seemed to them a pity to deny the blame-laden Indian the credit of it. Whatever their theory was, and it is possible they never bothered themselves with any theory, the first settlers of York left the timber of the northern and western parts of the town unclaimed, and made their settlement on the prairie, near the south-east corner of the township.

John Stewart, the first settler, came from Ohio in 1840. The next settlers, Wm. C. Green, Chas. Reed, and Ezra Wescott, came together from New York state. They also came in 1S40. In i84i-'2, Amos Conkey, Albro, Chester, and Wm. Crowell, Joseph Miller, Philander Peebles, H. H. Hurlbut, J. F. Wescott, Wm. Spears, and Simeon Allen came, most of them from New York, the others from Ohio. Most of them settled at once in the south-eastern part of the town, calling their settlement Green's Prairie. They were poorly prepared for the cold winter of i842-'3, but they had health and hope, and only one person died - a little daughter of Philander Peebles, who had contracted consumption in New York.

It was several years before any settlement was madein the northern and western parts of York. Since 1S53 - '4 - '5, these parts of the town have been mostly occupied by Norwegians. There are also a few Germans and Irish, and near the south-west corner, Yankees are numerous enough to give one place the name of Yankee hollow.

As the prairie north of Green's Prairie was settled r it began to be called York, in honor of the original home of the people; and at the suggestion of the Rev.. Augustus Hurlbut, the first clergyman in the township,, this name was given to the town, which would probably have been named for Mr. Green had not Green been the name of the county. In 1846 or '47, Green's Prairie obtained a post office, to which the first postmaster,. Lemuel Chase, gave the name of Farmer's Grove, in allusion to a grove near his house, A little later, Edward Sendel opened a store on the prairie. Both office and store were farther north and west than the present village of Farmer's Grove. Mr. Sendell closed his store and Mr. E. T. Gardner opened another a short distance west of the site of the village. In the meantime Bern post office, named by admirers of the Hungarian general, had been established on York prairie, and the Farmer's Grove office had been moved south, and after several changes in the ownership of the store,

The village of Postville dates its beginning from the arrival of Albro Crowell, who made his home there when he first came to the county. The second and third houses were built by Ira Walker and Edwin Crowell. In 18^8, Gilbert Post built the fourth house, the lower story of which was used as a store. After a time, Mr. Crowell started another store. A drug store, a tailor shop, a harness shop, and more dwellings followed. The Stewart post-office, so called for York's first settler, was moved there from its first place a mile or two west, and the village was recorded as Postville. Through all succeeding changes Postville has prospered. The first store has been transformed into a hotel, and long ago the village was thought large enough to have a saloon; but York has never had a board that would grant a license.

During the summer of 1876 four large cheese factories, all owned by companies, were in operation in York. At Farmers' Grove, at the factory north of the village (where was formerly Eli George's tavern, the first voting place in the town), and at Yankee Hollow Limburger cheese is made. At Postville the cheese is American cheese.

Source changes here: from History of Green County, Wisconsin, by Union Publishing Company, Springfield, Ill., Pub. [from Old Catalog], published 1884; 9,723 words in this source stream.

York Town

This is the northwest town of the county. The territory is identically the same as that of congressional township 4 north, range 6 east, of the fourth principal meridian. It is bounded on the north by the town of Perry, Dane county; on the east by the town of New Glarus; on the south by the town of Adams; and on the west by the town of Moscow, Iowa county, and town of Blanchard, Lafayette county.

Topography

The western part of the eastern tier of sections make the water-shed between the waters that flow southeast, uniting with Sugar river, and the waters that flow southwest, uniting with the Pecatonica river. The eastern part of the town is very rolling, and generally prairie, interspersed with groves, and the larger j^art of the town, including the western part of the eastern half, and all of the western half is quite hilly. The hills in the western and southwestern portions reaches an elevation of from 150 to 250 feet above the valley level. Many of these hills are quite abrupt, but farmers living in the valleys are able to make roads leading to their lands on the ridges. Three considerable streams are made within the limits of this town, by spring branches coursing their way down the many valleys. These streams flow southwesterly, and finally find their way to the Pecatonica river. The many highways of the town are devious, now following a valley through a settlement, and now over a ridge or high land, and again entering a valley, ""i'liere is one exception to this rule. One well traveled road passes

The highlands with the exception of York prairie, spoken of, were originally timbered with the common varieties of oak, principally, black walnut, poplars, basswood and hickory. The valleys were generally filled with a rank growth of grass and weeds, varied by occasional patches of wild plum and wild apple trees, and j)lenly of wild grapes.

The soil of the prairies is a black loam, with a limestone and clay foundation. 'J'he valleys have generally an alluvial soil. The timbered highlands are principally clay with a limestone mixture. Plenty of limestone for all purposes is found, and in the southwest part considerable sandstone crops out.

Early Settlement

John Stewart made the first settlement in the territory now known as the town of York, in in 1838. He came from Union Co., Ohio, in 1837, after which he spent one year in Wiota, Lafayette county. He made a claim upon section 27. This claim was mostly prairie, but the west side was covered with timber; in which, near a si)ring, he built his log house. Mr. Stewart was born in 1806. His father, Joseph Stewart, settled in Ohio in the early part of this century. John Stewart was married in Union Co., Ohio, to Adeline Robinson, March 2, 1830. She was born Oct. 13, 1809. When he came to

Wisconsin he had five children. One child, John W., died at Wiota, when quite young. His death was caused by a singular accident. He was trying to blow a large tin dinner horn, and fell, driVing the small end of the horn through the roof of his mouth and the side of his head, causing death a few days later. In 1884 only two of the children were living. Decatur lives in Turner Co., Dak.; and Ellen, who was born at Wiota, is the wife of Charles Green, and lives in Nebraska. The others were Adeline, who died when but a child, in 1847; Jerusha, deceased wife of E.N.Thayer; and George who died in California. His wife died Sept. 5, 1844. In 1850, accompanied by his son, George, Mr. Stewart went to California, returning in the winter of 1851-2. A few years later George went back to California where he died. Some years after his wife's death, Mr. Stewart married Mrs. Huldah Brown. Two children was the result of this union - Banks, who lives in Lincoln, Neb.; and Grant, who lives with his widowed mother in Albia, Iowa. John Stewart was one of the best blacksmiths and iron-workers ever known in this country, excelling in handling edged tools. Mr. Stewart is well remembered by the early settlers as an honest, industrious citizen, kind and charitable; genial in his intercourse with all men. He never was a party either as plaintiff or defendant in a lawsuit. His death, which occurred in February, 1867, caused much sorrow among his many friends. His youngest child by his first marriage was John W. Stewart.

John W. Stewart, son of John and Adeline Stewart, was born Sept. 4, 1844. He was married to Carrie M. Lundly, Oct. 30, ]8'70. She was born during an ocean voyage May 20, 1852. Her parents are now living in this town. They have three children - John W., Ida A. and Nellie M. Mr. Stewart now lives on section 22, town of York.

log house. He returned to New York, coming back the following spring with his wife and children. His children were - Rebecca, wife of Clark Hickox, of Iowa county; Jane A., wife of Duncan McDonald, Vernon Co., Mo.; Amy, wife of Thomas Biggs, died in 1855; William U., who enlisted in company C, 37tl> Wisconsin Volunteers. In one of the assaults made in the fall, 1864, upon the defenses of Petersburg, as 2d sergeant he had charge of the colors of the regiment. The charge was repulsed and being wounded in both legs he was unable to walk, and under the terrific fire of the rebel lines, he dragged himself (drawing the colors by his teeth), back to the Union intrench ments, a brave and glorious deed by a worthy son of a worthy sii-e. He died in the hospital from wounds received that day. Another son, John Murray, a veteran of the 3d Wisconsin Volunteers, died in the service at Fayetteville, Tenn. Franklin L. died in 1855. One daughter, Laura, is the wife of Decatur Stewart, Dak.; and Martha Ann lives in Woodstock, Ohio, wife of Ralph J^urnhani. Three children were born in this town - Albert^M., (see his biography), Charles R., resident of Madison Co., Neb.; and Isabelle S., wife of Edward Ruff, of Denver, Col. Mr. Green settled on section 23. The old log house Htill stands, near the fine residence of his son, Albert M. He was a prominent man in public affairs in his town and county. He was a man of many sterling qualities, and represented Green county in the State legislature of 1850. Joanna, his wife, died in this town, Oct. 21, 1846. In the year of 1848, Mr. Green married Mrs. Eliza Hobbs, and in the year 1861 they made their home in Monroe, where Mr. Green died Aug. 3, 1870, aged seventy years. His widow is now living at Monroe.

Amos Conkey came from Wyoming Co., N. Y., in the year 1841, accompanied by Samuel and Josiah Eddy. Mr. Conkey settled on section 14, on land previously owned by Hall Chandler, who was from the same town and conned lyinNew York. He built a log house and lived a bachelor several years. When about forty years of age he married Mrs. Mary Ann Marston. She was born and reared in Englatid. Mr. Conkey died near Monroe, (where he lived the latter years), Dec. 21, 1874, aged sixty-live years. His widow yet survives him.

Albert M. Green, a son of Hon. William C. and Joanna Green, was the second child born in this town. The date was April 23, 1842. His father was the second settler of this town, and perhaps the most prominent man of the town in its early days. (For extended notice of him and family see history of early settlement.) Albert M. Green was reared a farmer. He was one of the first to respond to the call of his country upon its patriotic sons. He enlisted in company B, 18th Wisconsin Volunteers, and one week from the day of leaving Milwaukee the untrained regiment was fighting gallantly in the front of Prentiss's division at the battle of Pittsburg Landing. In this engagement with many others of the regiment, who held out until retreat was impossible, he was taken prisoner; he was held until June and then paroled. He then went into the parole camp at St. Louis, and remained there until October. He was then sent to Superior City with a part of the reserve force in the Indian campaign against the Sioux (1862). He was exchanged and rejoined the regiment July 20, 1863. After some hospital experience he was discharged for disability in January, 1864. His disability was permanent and he now receives a pension. Dec. 6, 1864, he married Ella G. Brown, daughter of Mrs. Huldah Brown, the second wife of the old pioneer, John Stewart. Mr. and Mrs. Green have had four children - Ralph B., Dall H, (died at the age of eighteen monihs), Nellie Grace and Amy K. As one of the first born of this township, Mr. Green lias witnessed its growth and development and to this has contiibuted his full share. He has always voted the republican ticket.

Charles Reed, came with Mr. Green's family in 1840. He was a single man about twenty years of age. He worked for Mr. Green to pay for eighty acres of land, entered for him by Mr. Green, on section 23 This land he sold to Albro Crowel next year. Mr. Reed then made a new claim, and in 1846, he returned to New York, and married his afiianced, Amelia Sherman. His wife died in this town in 1882. Later he sold his farm and moved to Dunn county, this State. None of the family are now residing in the town.

Albro Crowel with hie wife and one child accompanied by his brother, Chester, came from Wyoming Co., N. Y., in 1841. He settled on section 23. on land purchased of Reed. His farm is now owned by R. Mosher, and part of the village of Postville is on this land. Mr. Crowel sold his farm in 1858, and moved to Kansas, where the same year his wife died. The following spring he returned to this town and bought a farm on section 25, where he died in February, 1880. His brother, Chester Crowel, married Lydia Ann Day, in November, 1843. This was the first matrimonial event in town. They went to Iowa in 1854, and shortly after to Kansas, where he died in 1875.

In 1842 William Crowel and his family settled on section 22. He was the father of Albro and Chester. The rest of the family came with him. Of the children only one now resides in this town, Roswell Crowel, a son, living on section 22. Mr. Crowel had two married daughters, Alma, wife of Simeon Allan and Polly, wife of Joseph Miller. The former came in 1841, and the latter came in 1842. Mr. Allan and his wife afterwards went to Iowa, where he died; his widow now lives in Minnesota. Mr. Miller and his wife are now residents of the city of Monroe. 'I'he other children, all sons, are away from here. Riley lives in Dakota; Dan, in Moody Co., Dak.; Harlow, in St. Joseph, Mo.; and Seth enlisted in the War for the Union, in an Iowa regiment, and died at

Roswell Crowel, son of William and Polly Crowel, was born in Genesee Co., N. Y., Oct. 19, 1826. He came to the town of York with his parents, when sixteen years of age. He was married July 2, 1853, to Janet Scott, daughter of Joseph and JNIargaret Scott, of Argyle. Her mother died in Scotland, and she came to America with her father in the winter of 1842-3. Five years later, her father settled in Argyle, where he died in 1856. Mr. and Mrs. Crowel have six children - Flora, wife of Arthur Gabriel, of Calhoun Co., Iowa; Dan C, a resident of York; Lottie, wife of Andrew Peterson, a merchant at Pof<tville; Lillie, Spencer and John S., are living with their parents. Mr. Crowel resides on section 22, where he owns a fine farm of 190 acres. Mr. Crowel is one of the pioneers of the town of York, and has contributed his full share to its growth and development.

Ezra Wescott, who came from State of New York, in 1840, was here transiently during the two or three years following, making his home with William C. Green, when in the town. He taught school at Wiota a portion of the time. He selected land on section 25, and in 1842, commenced improvements. In November, 1845, at Wiota, he married Nancy Brown. He was the first magistrate in the town of York, and a prominent public man in the township and county. He represented the south assembly district in the legislature of 1863. He" also served as register of deeds and county treasurer. Before the war he became a resident of the town of Cadiz. He died in Minneapolis, while there for medical treatment. His widow in 1884, was living in Cadiz.

J efferson F. Wescott settled on section 25, in 1842. He was one of the public spirited men of this town, farmer, merchant and magistrate. He represented his assembly district in the legislature of 1869. He died much regretted Feb. 16, 1879.

Jefferson Fayette Wescott was born March 26, 1826, in the town of Wethersfield, Wyoming Co., N. Y., where he lived until 'the summer of of 1842, when he came to Farmer's Grove, Wis., in company with his brother Ezra, and A. L. Cleveland. They embarked on a brig at Buffalo, and after a long, tedious and perilous trip, arrived at Milwaukee. From there they came on foot, arriving at Green's Prairie one dark, stormy night, about midnight, having followed the Indian trail which led from Rock river to Galena. Tliere was, at this time, only two settlers on the prairie, John Stewart and William C. Green, and they boarded with Mr. Green until fall, when they made a claim and built a cabin, where for more than a year they kept "bachelor's hall," supplying their table with bread from corn which they raised, and with meat from the deer and wild turdeys, of which they killed an abundance from the door and window of their cabin. In the winter of 1843 he taught the first district school ever kept in the northern part of the county, and in the years following taught several terras in diJfferent parts of the county. In 1849 the township form of government having been adopted, and his cabin being just within the limits of New Glarus, he was elected town clerk and justice of the peace, for that town; and as it had just been settled with Swiss people, unacquainted with our language or laws. Mr. Wescott and his father (who had been elected chairman of supervisors), really discharged the duties of all the town offices <»f that town, for that and the following year. He was married March 26, 1856, to Sarah E. Rogers, who was born in Bradford Co., Penn., Feb. 22, 1831, and her father, Dickerson Rogers, settled on section 31, in 1854, and now lives in Argyle, Lafayette county, aged eighty-nine years. Mrs. Wescott's mother died Dec. 7, 1861. One sister, Fannie, wife of William Brooks, lives in Exeter; one brother, Henry D., lives in Argyle. Mr. and Mrs. Wescott have had eight children, all of whom are now living - Myra E., wife of Charles E. Brooks; Frank, who is married and lives on part of tlie farm; Charles, who lives in Nebraska; Clara, who is a school teacher; Mary, wife of Albert Loveland; Nellie, Walter and Daisy are living at home. In 1869 Mr. Wescott was elected to the assembly from the first assembly district of this county, and discharged the duties of the office with credit to himself and to the satisfaction of his constituents. He was a man of more than ordinary ability, having all hiis life been a student, and having a wonderfully retentive memory, was able to treasure up what he learned for future use. He was very diffident and retiring in his manners, and never effected a knowledge or an ability he did not possess. He was kind and courteous to all, as well as generous and just, and never intentionally wronged a human being. Politically, he was an active repuVdican, having helped in the organization of that party, and ever afterward labored faithfully and earnestly to maintain its ascendency. He was strictly a temperance man, having never used tobacco or liquors in any form. His health was always good, until the summer of 18Y7, when he was injured at a barn raising at a neighbor's, from the effects of which he never recovered. He died Feb. 16, 1879. His widow and family live on the old homestead, which now contains 3.50 acres. Mrs. Wescott is a lady of refinement and intelligence, possessing, in an eminent degree, those qualities of heart and mind which constitute the true woman.

William Spears came from Ohio and settled on section 2.5, in 1842. After a few years' residence here he sold his place and went to Primrose, Dane county, and died in Moscow, Iowa county.

Bolvin Day came also in 1842 with quite a family, and settled on section 3.5. He was a farmer and a mechanical genius. He procured a turning lathe ; he made chairs, bedsteads, baskets, etc. He died in the State of Iowa. His son, David, settled on section l,in 1843; he now lives in Brodhead. None of the family are imw residents of this town.

Philander Peebles came in 1842, and settled on section 13. He was born in the town of Middlebury, Genesee Co., N. Y., Jan. 7, 1816, At the age of sixteen years he was apprenticed to learn the blacksmith trade. He followed that avocation until he settled in this town, and a portion of the time twenty years later. He was married to Hannah Hurlbut, March 12, 1837. They lived in Wethersfield, Wyoming county, until October, 1842, when they came here. Mr. Peebles bought government land on section 13. where he has since lived. Mr. and Mrs. Peebles have had fourteen children, five girls and nine boys, eleven of whom are living.

Henry Hurlbut, a brother of Mrs. Philander Peebles, came at the same time, and settled on adjoining lands. He left this town in 1882, and now lives in Peterson, Clay Co., Iowa. His father, Augustus Hurlbut, with his wife and two children, in 1843, settled also on section 13, where he died in 1870, and his wife died soon after. He was an ordained minister of the denomination known as Christians. He held religious services frequently in the new settlement, and was always ready to respond to the calls of the afilicted, and to assist in Chri.stian burial of the dead. He was a good man, and universally respected.

Silvenas Conkey family came from Ohio in 1843, and settled on section 14. He was elected magistrate in 1844. He went to California, in 1850, and returned in 1853, for his family. He died in California.

Lemuel Case settled on section 14 in 1843. His wife was a widow when she married him, and was the mother of the two Conkeys. He u as the first postmaster in the town, and was a well-educated man. His last days were shrouded in poverty. He died in Dane county.

Hibbard Peebles came to t^)is town in October, 1845, and bought land on section 13, leav iiighis family in Michigan. They joined him in May, 1846. He was born in Wethersfield, (now Genesee) Wyoming Co., N. Y., Feb 28, 1820. He was married Nov. 3, 1842, to Mary

Green, who was born in Gainsville of the same county, Aug. 1, 1822. Their only child, GuilforJ, was born Jan. 13, 1844. Mr. Peebles located in the town of York, on section 13, in October, 1845. His family joined him in May, of the year following. He lived on section 13 until 1879, when he sold out and bought his present home on section 23, a fine farm of 118 acres. He is a good citizen, an ".lonorable, upright man, and is prominently identified with the Free Will Baptist Church. Guilford Peebles has always lived with his parents, excepting the time of his service in the army. He was drafted Sept. 29, 1864, and assigned to company B, 3d Wisconsin Volunteers. He was at Navshville, Tenn., Dec. 15, 1864, at the time of the great battle between Generals Thomas and Hood; did picket duty, etc., but was not brought into the battle. He was taken prisoner at the capture of a railroad train in Kentucky, December 23, and was paroled on the field. The parole was not recognized by his commanding officers, and he joined the regiment Jan. 8, 1865, at Savanna, Ga. He was in the campaign through the Carolinas, under Sherman, was in the engagement at Robertsville, S. C, Jan. 29, 1865, also at Averysboro, N, C, March 16; he was at Bentonville, but not under fire, March 19. He was in line at the grand review at Washington, June 24, 1865. He was married to Adeline Saddler, Dec. 7, 1870.

Hiram Gabriel came to this town in 1845, from Union Co., Ohio, and settled on section 34, where he now resides. He owns about 800 acres of land, mostly improved. He owns the hotel property formerly owned by Gilbert Post, at Postville. Mr. Gabriel has served as chairman of the town board of supervisors, town clerk and assessor; he also represented his assembly district in the legislature of 1882 and 1883.

The first Norwegian settler of the town of York, was Rasmus Dahlen. He came from Norway with his wife and two daughters in 1851, and settled the same year on section 4. His daughters were - Anna and Ingabor. He lived in this town several years and then moved to Kendall Co., 111., where both he and his wife died during the same week, in 1879. Anna also died in that county.

The next settlers were Christian Ula and Ole Kanutson, who came together in 1853, from Albany, this county, where they had lived about one year; they left Norway in 1852. Both men had families. Mr. Ula settled on section 20, where he now lives.

Christian H. Ula was born in Norway, June 22, 1808, and was married in May, 1839, to Olang Oleson, born Oct, 14, 1804. They came to the United States in 1852, and to this county, bringing five children with them, 'l^hey lived on a rented farm in the town of Albany one year. In the spring of 1853 they came to the town of York, and bought 120 acres of government land on section 17. He afterwards bought fifty acres of land on section 20, and moved there in the fall of 1866, where he and his wife 'still live, with their son, John C, who now owns the farm. Of the other children who came from Norway - Julia is the wife of E. L. Soper, of the town of Jordan; Hans C, livys in the town of York; Ole C, lives in Buffalo Co., Wis.; Inger is the wife of Iver A. Skindingsrud, of this town.

John C. Ula, the oldest son, with whom the parents are living, was born Aug. 31, 1840. He was married June 27, 1864 to Thora A. Skindingsrud, who was born in Norway, Aug. 11, 1847. She came to the United States with her parents in 1857, and settled in the town of Adams. This union has been blessed with twelve cliildren, all of whom are now living, and make their home with their parents - A. Christian, C. Andrew, G. Olena, O. Jertina, I. Thoneta, Olia, Hannah, Peter O., Johan T., T. Julia, Anna E.. and Clara T. Mr. Ula has now a farm eontaijiing 411 acres, and he is one of the prominent representative citizens (^f the town. He has held several offices in the town, two terms as chairman of the town board; has town treasurer three years, magistrate six years and notary public the last ten years. He also took the United States census in this town in 1880. In February, 1865, lie enlisted in company A, 46th Wisconsin Volunteer, and served until the close of the war, when the regiment was mustered out of service at Madison, Wis. M. O. Eidsmore was born in Valdeis, Norway, Aug. 6, 1825. He came to the United States in 1852, reaching Blue Mounds June 13, of ih;it year. On September 2 of the same year lie was married to Annie Helland, who was born July 17, 1827, in Norway. They were members of the same party of emigrants. They settled in the town of York, May 10, 1854, when lie pre-empted forty acres of land on section 10. He has added to this land until the homestead now contains 160 acres. He also owns a timber lot of seventeen acres on section 6. They have five children - Ole M., born in 1853; Gunhild O., born in 1855, the wife of J. A. Kiltleson; Julia, born in 1858, wife of Otto Peterson, of Moscow; Martin, born in 1861, and Anton, born in !S63. The two last named are living with their parents. Ole M. suffered by a partial stroke of paralysis when three years old. He has but little use of his right arm. He is a school teacher by profession, having received his education in the district schools, the Normal school at Platteville and State University. M. O. Eidsmore served in the Kings army in Norway, from tlie spring of 1848 to the spring of 1852. In February, 1865, he enlisted in company I, 45th Wisconsin Volunteers, and served until the close of the war. He is a good citizen and possesses many commendable traits of character. A brother of his, A. O. Eidsmore, came from Norway in 1852. In his journey west he passed through Buffalo, and there embarked for Detroit in the fated steamer Atlantic. This boat left her dock at Buffalo on a beautiful midsummer night, filled with emigrants from every State in the east. She also numbered among her passengers an emigrant part}'^ of 132 Norwegians. The hundreds of human souls, filled with confident hope of a new life in the bountiful west, then beginning to develop its teaming wealth, were all joyous in the prospects before them. How sad the tragedy of the morning. Off the port of Erie, in the darkness preceding the break of day, the ill starred steamer was struck by the east-bound propeller Ogdenshurg, and in less than twenty minutes, was engulfed in the waters of the lake, with hundreds of her passengers. The fates were merciful to Mr. Eidsmore and his. He was saved with his wife and two children, but with the lost were sixty-eight of the hardy sons and daughters of the Norsland. He made his home in Dane county until 1854, when he came to this town and made his home on section 10, where he now lives, (1884). Another brother, Christopher Eidsmore, also left Norway in 1852; each of the three families, though leaving Norway the same year, came at a different time. He settled first in Springdale, but came to this town in 1854, and settled on section 15. After several years he made his present residence on section 1.

First Events

The first death which occurred in the new settlement was that of Harriet, daughter of Philander and Hannah Peebles. She died Jan. 1, 1843, aged two years and seven months.

The first birth in the town was that of Lucy Jane, daughter of Joseph and Polly Miller, which event occurred Dec. 2, 1841. She died March 12, 1859.

Emeline, daughter of Albro and Elmira Crowel, was born March 30, 1843. She is now the wife of John Burr of this town. The first marriage solemnized in this town was that of Chester Crowel and Libby Ann Day, in November, 1843. Ezra Wescott and Nancy Brown were married in 1845, Thomas Biggs and Amy Green were also married in 1845.

The first stone house was built by Philander Peebles in 1851. The first to break land and built by in 1852. The first frame house was Hibbard Peebles raise crops was John Stewart. The first public house in the town of York was a log house opened on section 12, by Eli George. The York Prairie House was opened on the sanje section in the same year.

The first man to enlist in the Union army from the town of York in 1861 was Levi Bryant. He lost an arm at the battle "of Chancellorsville; he afterwards found employment under the general government at Washington, in which he is now (1884) engaged.

The early settlers found market for their produce at Mineral Point, Galena, lead mining districts, and Milwaukee. They have drawn wheat to Milwaukee, a distance of 110 miles and sold it for forty and fifty cents per bushel. They would get a return load of store goods and emigrants, occupying seven days to make the round trip.

Organization Of The Town

In the winter of 1841-42 a meeting of the settlers was held to adopt a name for the settlement, at which time, the name Gi'een's Prairie was adopted. After the organization of the State, the county of Green was organized, and being sub-divided into several townships, this town, in honor of the old home of most of its settlers - "York State," was called York. Its first election as a separate township was held in April, 1850. Among the men who have been prominent in town affairs, are William C. Green, John Stewart, P. Peebles, J. F. Wescott, D. C. Day, J. S. Gabriel, H, Gabriel, E. B. Crowel, A. O. Eidsmore and S. C. Campbell. The present ofiicers of the town are: Hiram Gabriel, chairman; S. C. Campbell and Briiidiel Syverson, side board; Dr. A. L. Day, town clerk; J. A. Kittleson, assessor; A.Peterson, treasurer; A. O. Eidsmore and A. Wheeler, justices of the peace

There are five joint districts in the town. District No. 1, Perry and York. The school house is situated in Perry. Number of pupils in York, nine.

District No. 2, York and New Glarus. The frame school house is situated on section 12, town of York, valued at $125. Number of pupils in this town, thirty.

The first religious services were held in this town in the year 1842, by Rev. Mr. Halstead, (the Methodist minister then located at Monroe) at the reside .ce of Joseph Miller. Services by that denomination from this time onward were held in this town with more or less regularity. They have always maintained an organization since that date, and in 1868 completed and dedicated a church in Postville. This building is 36x50 feet in size, has a belfry, but no bell; its cost was $2,300. Its trustees and building committee were: G, Post, James Byrne, S C. Campbell, R. Crowel, Alvin Thatcher and others. Rev. P. W. Matthews, presiding elder of the Madison district, conducted the dedicatory ser- vices in December, 1868. Rev. Thomas Clawson was the first pastor of the Church. He was followed by Revs. A. D. Jenks, Richard Pengallie, Robert Bnrnip, E. W. Allan, P.K.Jones, W. N. Thomas, W. T. Briggs and the present pastor, appointed in 1883, Rev. Mr. Case.

The Free-will Baptist Society also built a church in Postville the same year (1868). Thoy dedicated their church in January, 1 869, the Rev. Dr. Graha.a, of C!hioago, officiating. This church has a belfry but no bell. The building is 36x45 in size. Its cost is $2,300. The church was built under the pastorate of Rev. J. S. Dinsmore. The building committee were: Joseph Miller, Rev. J. S. Dinsmore and William Johnson, with Hibbard Peebles as tieasurer. Rev. Dinsmore was succeeded by Rev. W. A. Pott( r, who was settled here about ten years, and was succeeded by Rev. O. H. True. He is now (1884) the pastor of that Church.

The Norwegian Evangelical Lutheran church is located on section 5. It was built in 1861. It size is 36x56 feet. It has a belfry but no bell, and its cost was $3,000. The building committee was E. S. Holland, William '^I'jentland and Christopher Gulson. Rev. Mr. Fjield was was the first pastor. He remained until 1881, when he retired from the active ministry, and is now living in Black Earth, Dane county. The congregation has been divided, and one part is under the pastorate of Rev. M. Isberg, while the other is under the pastorate of Rev. Theodore Reimestead. Both societies worship in the store.

The York Prairie Cemetery was located on section 23, in 1846. Joanna, wife of Hon. William C. Green, was the first person buried there; she died Oct. 21, 1846. Mrs. Molly Peebles, who lived to the age of ninety-one years, was buried in this ground in 1853. Mrs. Lucy Miller, who reached the same age, was buried here in 1867. Elisha Gorhara, in his ninetieth year, was buried here in 1873.

On section 27 there was a private burying ground on the old John Stewart farm. Mrs. Adeline Stewart, wife of John Stewart, was the first one buried here; she died Sept. 5, 1844.

The Norwegian cemetery on their church grounds, was established the year their church was built. The first burial there was that of Karine, daughter of Thomas Thompson. This event occurred the day the frame of the church was put in position, in June, 1861. There is an older Norwegian cerhetery located on section 17. This was the first Norwegian burial place in the town.

The first postoffice was established in 1846 and called Farmer's Grove. Lemuel Chase was made postmaster, and the office was kept at his residence on section 14. He was succeeded by Obadiah Ames. His wife, Mrs. Sarah Ames, was the deputy, and did all the business of the office. Gilbert Post was the successor of Mr. Ames; and he was followed by Robert Garrett, and he by J. F. Wescott, who kept the office at his residence on section 25, until his death in 1879. Then his widow, Mrs. Sarah E. Wescott, was made postmistress, and still retains the office. With each change of officers until the last, the office has been moved. The name of the office has attached itself, for the time being, to each neighborhood in which it was situated. The next postoffice established, about 1850, was called Bern; Charles Crowel was the first postmaster and kept the office at his residence on section 12. This office is now kept by William Owens, Jr., at his residence on section 13. The third postoffice established, about 1862, was named Stewart, in honor of the pioneer settler, Jolm Stewart. Fred Durham was the first postmaster; he was succeeded by John Hollar, and he by Albro Crowel, and lie by Alanson Sherman. R. S. Mosher is the present postmaster, but the office is kept by Andrew Peterson, deputy, at his store in Postville.

John Stewart built a saw-mill on section 20, on a branch of the Pecatonica river, which was ready for operation lu 1855. Alonzo Wheeler was the builder. Mr. Stewart, a few years later, sold the property to his son, Decatur, who afterwards sold it to John Presher. Mr. Presher operated the mill until about 1868, since which time it has been unused.

Albro Crowel, who settled in 1841, built the first house in Postville, which is now standing. A few years later he opened a small stock of goods at his residence. He was the first merchant in the town of York. He traded two or three years only. Some years later he was again in trade, in a larger way, and continued until he moved to Kansas, in 1868.

The next mercantile venture was that of Edward Sendel, who erected a small building on section 14, in 1848, and kept a small stock of goods. He closed out in about two years.

About 1850 E. T. Gardner, in the neighborhood of Farmer's Grove, on section 25, opened a store. Two years or so later he sold his goods to Gilbert Post, and his farm to Milton Kelly. Mr. Post traded there until 1858, when he moved his stock to what was afterward known as Postville. Trade was continued at Farmer's Grove by J. F. and W. S. Wescott, in a building erected by J. F. Westcott for that purpose. This business was commenced in 1862. In 1866 J. F. Wescott bought the interest of his partner, and continued the business until his death, in 1879. During the active business life of Mr. J. F. Wescott, Farmer's Grove was quite a point. There were two blacksmith shops open there, and several families living there. Nothing of its former business now remains (1884.)

The growing corners began to assume the appearance of a village in about 1858, when Gilbert Post moved in from the prairie and commenced trade there. Mr. Post erected a building for a residence and store under the same roof. This property for many years has been known as the Postville Hotel, and in 1884 was owned^ by Hiram Gaoriel. Mr. Post sold his goods to Pascoe & King in 1874, ani3 in tR*?? moved to Monroe. In 1883 he went to Lemars, Iowa. He had two twin sons - Owen G. and Orren C. The former left Postville in 1882, and the later in 1883. They also live in Iowa. The firm of Pascoe & King, who succeeded Mr. Post, was dissolved by the dealh of Mr. Pascoe in May, of the following year. His death was caused by injuries received from the running away of a team. The firm was changed to King & Crowel. They occupied a new building, erected by O. S. Jones during that year. The firm became King & Jones in February, 1876. They did business until May 1, 1879, when they sold to Andrew Peterson &H. Hurlbut. In September, 1880, Mr. Peterson bought the interest of his partner, and is now (1884) in the business. Postville has one other store, which was built in 1870 by E. Sherman, who, the next year, put in a light stock of goods. He only traded a short time, and now lives at Lemars, Iowa. In 1873 John W. Gabriel and R. M. Hurlbut stocked the store and continued in trade about one year, when they sold their stock to H. Cunningham, who moved the goods from the town. Mr. Gabriel now keeps a railroad hotel in Ohio. R. Barlow, F. E. Legler and R. A. Etter have successively occupied the building. Mr. Etter sold his stock to Hurlbut, of the old firm of Gabriel & Hurlbut, who, in 1883, closed out and moved his stock to Peterson, Iowa, where he is now in trade. The building is now occupied (1884) by Gabriel & Lundy, stock to Gilbert Post. Dr. Rundlet owned the stock afterwards. After liim Dr. Pierce kept a small stock of drugs. After the return of Dr. Day from Iowa, he kept a drug department in the store of King & Co., two or three years, then he sold his stock to the company, who sold out the trade.

A shop was built by Gilbert Post in 1859, and occupied by Thomas Mitchell, afterwards by Peter Olson, and later by Mr. Kayser, and after him by Andrew Thompson. When Peter Olson left the old shop, he built a new one, which he afterwards sold to Andrew Thompson, who closed the old shop. He continues the the business of blacksmithing and wagon repairing. There is another shop in the village with Samuel Copeland as proprietor. Mr Rathburn had a cabinet shop here in the early days. Mr. Fellows was the first wagon maker and repairer. He now lives in Iowa.

Dr. Smith located here in 1856. He owned a farm and lived within the present limits of the village. He was a botanical physician. He moved to Monroe about 1859. He died there not many years ago. The town some years after his removal was without a resident physician.

In 1867 Dr. A. L. Day commenced practice here, continuing two and one-half years, when he moved away. He returned here in 1875, and is now the resident physician of the town. He has the confidence of all and his practice is consequently large. He is skillful as a surgeon as well as a physician.

A large well-built and well-furnished cheese factory was built and put in operation in Postville in 1874. It was built by a stock company at a cost of $2,500. The officers of the company are: S. C. Campbell, president; E. H. Miller, secretary. The association of farmers operating the factory have a board of directors with J. S. Gabriel, president; E. H. Miller, secretary; and D. Ash, treasurer. The milk of about 450 cows is used in the manufacture of American cheese.

The Farmer's Grove Cheese Factory, located on section 25, was built in 1877. It is owned by an association of farmers with John Burr, president; J. M. Peebles, secretary; Jacob Hoesly, treasurer. The milk of abqut 200 cows is used in the manufacture of Limburger cheese.

A cheese factory was put in operation by a farmer's association on section 16, in 1882. They use the milk of about 200 cows in the manufacture of Swiss cheese.

On section 10 there is a factory in operation, using the milk of about ninety cows in the manufacture of brick cheese. This is also owned by an association of farmers, and put in operation in 1882.

Biographical Sketches

Joseph S. Gabriel was born in Union Co., Ohio, Nov. 16, 1826. He was reared a farmer. He came to the town of York, in April, 1846, and worked for his uncle, John Stewart, on the farm now owned and occupied by himself, until October of the same year, when he went back to Ohio, and remained eighteen months. He then returned to this town and worked on a farm until the fall of 1849. He then took a trip through northern Iowa, and southern Minnesota, working a few weeks in a sawmill in Clayton Co., Iowa. In the spring of 1850, in company with his brother, Hiram, his uncle, Johii Stewart, and George, son of John Stewart, he went to California. Starting on the 22d of April, and crossing the plains, arrived at Georgetown on the 10th of September, raining on the American river with his brother, until October, 1861, wlien they returned to Ohio, by the way of San Francisco, Acapulco and Papama city, then came down the Shagres river sixty-five miles in asmallskiff to Shagres. Then shipped aboard the steamer Ohio, for New

York, landing their on the first day of November; thence by the way of Philadelphia to their destination, where Joseph remained until 1852. In that year, he again came to York and bought 280 acres of land on section 30, upon which he lived till 1868, when he bought his present farm on section 27, which was the first farm made in the town, by John Stewart, the pioneer settler. Mr. Gabriel was married June 3, 1853, to Eliza Jane Cunningham, who was born Sept. 11, 1834, and is a daughter of Matthew Cunningham, who came from Darke Co., Ohio, and settled in the town of Adams, in March, 1841. He died in 1872. His widow, Mrs. Prudence Cunningham, now lives in Iowa county, with her sister, Mrs. Mary King, widow of John King. Mr. and Mrs. Gabriel, have ten children - Lethe M., wife of Fred L. Ames; Mary Jane, Huldah O., Maria S., John Houston, George L., Hittie Luella, Byron J.. Hiram A. and Rodney C. Mr. Gabriel is a prominent representative citizen. He has served three or four terms as chairman of the town board, also as a member of the side board, as assessor, several terms as treasurer, and also as magistrate.

Samuel C. Campbell was born in Washington Co., Va., July 1, 1827. His father, James Campbell, was a farmer, and to this avocation the son was reared. His father died Aug. 18, 1840, aged fifty-four years. Samuel C. Campbell and Martha J. Cook were married Feb. 10, 1846. She was born Jan. 15, 1827. Being under age, they were obliged to leave the State to have the ceremony legally performed. They crossed the western line of the State, and were married in Tennessee, Oct. 16, 1847. They left their home destined for Memphis, Tenn. They remained there until March 7, 1848. Then they came to Green county, by way of Galena, renting a farm in this town the first season. In December, the same year, Mr. Campbell made a claim in Perry, Dane county. He moved there in February of the following year and lived tliere nineteen years. In the fall of

1867, he sold his farm there of 204 acres, and moved to York, buying the farm iie now owns and occupies, on section ^5. His farm was known as the "Gorham place," and contains 231 acres. 'J'hey have had seven children and all are living - James R, a commission merchant in Eau Claire, Wis.; Frank B., who lives also in Eau Claire in the agency business; Charles C, living in Monroe, is in the agency business; Sarah A., the wife of E. H. Miller; Addie A , wife of R. A. Etter, of Monroe; Ulysses Grant, was (1884) attending school at Monroe; Samuel A., lives with his parents. Mr. Campbell is a prominent public spirited citizen of the town, an active promoter of evex'ything tending to public good. He is now (1884) one of the board of supervisors of the town. His mother died Sept. 3, 1883. Politically he is a republican. Mr. and Mrs. Campbell are both members of the M. E. Church.

Richard Gabriel came to Green county in 1845, locating in the town of Adams, where he purchased land and engaged in farming and prospecting for mineral, also worked a portion of the time, in the Badger Diggings, until 1850. In that year he moved to the town of York. He was born in Union, Union Co., Ohio, May 20, 1813. In November, 1836, he came west and located in Wiota, remaining in that vicinity about four years, engaged, generally, in mining. In 1840 he removed to Grant county, and settled near the headwaters of Cedar creek. Pie remained there about eighteen months, then returned to Wiota. In 1851 he purchased 160 acres of land on section 27, and made his home there. In 1872, he sold this farm and bought a farm a little west of the village of Postville, where he and his wife now reside. Mr. Gabriel was married Jan. 14, 1846, to Elizabeth Cunningham, who was born in Marshall Co., Va., Nov. 11, 1830. They were the first couple married in the town of Adams, Green Co., Wis. The ceremony was performed by Sylvanus Conkey, Esq. Seven children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Gabriel - Prudence, widow

Di Rodney Gabriel, resides in Union Co., Ohio. Catharine died in infancy. Their twin sons, Arthur and Cyrus, live in Calhoun Co., Iowa. Joseph P. is a residenL, of Ohio. John Wesley lives in Union Co., Ohio. Rv^bert lives in Iowa. Obadiah Ames came from the State of Maine in 185(». He lived for three years upon rented land, then settled on section 25. His family, who accompanied him from Maine, consisted of a wife and iive children - Maria, now the wife of Jacob Garrett, Eau Claire, Wis.; Laban L. living at Fall City, Dunn Co., Wis.; George R. resident of Nebraska; Lucinda, wife of C. O. Westcott, and Elwin are living at Farmer's Valley, Neb. One child - Fred L., was born in this town.

Fred L. Ames and Lethe Gabriel were married Dec. 23, 1875. They have one child - Theodore, born Sept. '/, 1880. He (Fred L. Ames) sold his farm on section 35, early in 1884, with the intention of removing to Farmer's Valley, Neb., in the spring of 1885, where he has purchased an improved farm. George R. Ames was a member of the 8th Wisconsin Volunteer regiment (the Eagle regiment) com- E. He served four years and was wounded at the Spanish Fort at Mobile. The wound was not serious, but through an injury to the spinal nerve, he was permanently disabled, so as to prevent manual labor or active business life. He receives a pension of $30 per month. He was married to Olive Tibbetts, of Downsville, Dunn ^Co., Wis. They have four children - Walter H., Hartley L., Maud and Earl. Their residence is in Aurora, Hamilton Co., Neb. Mr. and Mrs. Obadiah Ames removed to Monroe in the spring of 1881. Mrs. Ames, while on a visit to her children in Nebraska, died in the of 1883. Mr, Ames was at one time postmaster at Farmer's Grove, his wife attending to the business of the officers.

John Burr was born in Lincolnshire, England, Feb. 9, 1829. In 1837 he was brought to the State of New Jersey by his cousin, William Burr. About one year after he went to Ohio.

He lived with Gilbert Post during the latter part of Mr. Post's residence in Ohio and came to this town with him in 1852. He worked here for Mr. Post and others at farm work, until he enlisted in company E, 8th W^isconsin Volunteers (Eagle Regiment) Aug. 21, 1861. He was wounded at the battle of Corinth, Oct. 3, 1862, which necessitated his discharge from the army. He now receives a pension. March 15, 1863, Mr. Hurr married Emeline, daughter of Albro and Alraira Crowel, who settled in this town in 1841. Mrs. Burr was the third white child born in this town, March 30, 1843. After their marriage they lived upon rented lands until the spring of 1866, when he bought, on section 16, a farm of 160 acres known as the Henry Green place. In the fall iie sold his place and worked his father-in-law's farm in 1867. He afterwards made other changes, and in the year 1874, he bought ninety-one acres of improved land of D. T. Biggs, on sections 24 and 36. His '-esidence is on section 24. They have two daughters residing at home (1884) - Nettie A. and Almira E Politically Mr. Burr has always been a republican.

William Owens, Jr., a native of Canada West, was born Jan. 3, 1853. In 1 854 his father, William Owens, moved to the town of York, where he has, until recently, been engaged in farming. He now lives in the village of Postville. William Owen, Jr., was married May 10, 1875, to Mrs. Martha J. Byrnes. They have four children - Ernest E., Frederick L., Oliver Garfield and Lillie. Mrs. Owens' first husband, Jaraes Byrnes, came from Canada in 1851, and settled on section 13, of *Jie town of York. He died Aug. 30, 1869, leaving fourchildren - William J., Mary J., George and Emma. Mr. and Mrs. Owens reside upon the homestead of Mrs. Owens' first husband, which contains 300 acres of valuable land. Mr. Owens is postmaster of Bem postoffice which is kept at liis residence.

tbe year following. One child was born to them in Norway - Catharine. She was two weeks old when they started for this country. His first settlement was made in Dane county. He bought 120 acres of land near Stoughton and lived there until 1854, when he sold out and came to the town of York and bought 214 acres of land, which he still owns and occupies. His residence is on section 2. They have had six children born in this country - Berthine, the deceased wife of Thorsten Eidsmore; Julia, wife of George Johnson, who lives in the town of Perry; Olena, a resident of Chicago; Olaus, Susan and Gustav, who live with their parents. Mr. Olsen is a very intelligent, enterprising citizen, a man of strict integrity and a good neighbor.

Adne Burgeson was born in Norway in 1809. He came to the United States, withhis wife and three children, in 1843, and settled in Christiana, Dane county, where he lived until 1855. In the spring of that year he sold his farm there and bought 160 acres of land on section 1, of the town of York, where he and his wife now live, advanced in years, with their son, Ole, who now owns the homestead. The children who came from Norway with them are - Elizabeth, the wife of Ole Kettleson; Rhoda, deceased, wife of Jacob Jorgeasen; William, who enlisted in the 15th Wisconsin Volunteers, in 1861, and died in the general hospital at Nashville, in October, 1863. There were born in this State - Ole, who died in infancy; Edwin, who died in 1882; John, a resident of Lake Mills, Iowa; and Ole, with whom the parents are now living. Ole was born Nov. 1, 1851, and was married April 14, 1882, to Julia Hadley. She was born Oct. 28, 1858. They have two children -Anna Helena, born in February, 1883; and Huldah Amanda, born in April, 1884.

James T. Hilton was- born in Somerset Co., Maine, Oct. 1, 183u. His father, John Hilton, was a farmei', and to this avocation James was reared. He came to Green county in 1850, and lived in the town of Washington, seven years owning a farm of 100 acres on section 7. In 1857, he bought the farm he now owns and occupies, on section 25, this town. The land was entered as government land, by Amos and Horace Green. His purchase included 148 acres. He has added to this, and now owns 240 acres. Oct. 10, 1858, he married Ellen, daughter of Philander Peebles. She was born in Wyoming Co., N, Y., in October, 1838, and was four years of age when her parents settled in this town. Six children have been born to them - Edith, the wife of Frank Westcott; Nira, wife of John Snow; Elam, Hannah, Lucinda and Ernest. Mr. Hilton enlisted in company I, 46th Wisconsin Volunteers, and served until the regiment was mustered out, Daniel, his oldest brother, came west in the fall of 1850, and lived twenty years in the town of Washington. He now lives in Pocahontas Co., Iowa. One brother, Parker L. Hilton, lived in this town one year, 1849-50. He then went to California, and afterwards back to the State of Maine. Two brothers, Joseph and Gustavus, settled in Washington, in 1851, and the former moved to Sioux Co., Iowa, in 1884. His father died in Somerset Co., Maine, aged eighty-eight years. His mother has for many years lived with him. She was ninety-tive years of age, April 17, 1884, and in good health. She reads and enjoys herself and is seldom absent from the family table.

Alonzo Wheeler was born in Oneida Co., N. Y., Nov. 6, 1819. His father, Joseph Wheeler, shortly after moved to Oswego county, where the subject of this sketch was married to Frances M. Rich, May 19, 1851, and came directly to Beloit, in this State. Living there one year, they went to Lafayette county, where he rented some land and worked at his trade of millwright. In December, 1853, he moved to the town of York, and lived in a house owned by William Crowel. In March, 1855, he moved to Adams, rented a farm and worked at job work of different kinds. In 1850 he bought 120 acres of land on section 8, of the town of York, where he lived until 1866, when he bought the farm he now owns and occupies, which contains 190 acres, with the residence on section 14, and was the third place to be settled in the town, known as the "Amos Conkey place." The first postoffice of thistown, "Farmer's Grove," was established on this place. Mr. atid Mrs. Wheeler have had twelve children, and eleven of them at this time (1884) are living, and with their parents. Don A., Willard R., DeAlton, Reuben L., Edward C, Laura A., Cora R., Isaac J., Mary, Frank, who died March 23, 1872; Julia and Lettie. Mr; Wheeler is a good mechanic. In early days he built the John Stewart saw mill on section 20. He is a good citizen, an upright man, and has the respect of the community in which he lives.

Jacob A. Kittleson lives upon section 10, where he settled in 1872. He was married in November of that year, to Gunhild, daughter of M. O. and Anna Eidsmore. Mr. Kittleson was born July 13, 1850, in Norway. His wife is a native of this town, born July 3, 1855. His father, Isaac Kittleson, came to the United

States in June, 1855, and settled in the town of Perry, Dane county, where he now resides, and owns 240 acres of land. His family, who accompanied him from Norway, consisted of his wife, Ellen Christine (Lee) Kittleson, and three children, all boys - Jacob A., subject of this sketch; Christian E. and James E The latter died at the age of seventeen years. The former is living in Trempealeau Co., Wis. Five children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Kittleson in Wisconsin - Anna M., now the wife of Herman B. Dahle, a merchant at Mount Vernon; Eliza, living with her parents; Elsie A., wife of A. P. Dalby, Edelle and Isaac E. are living at home. Jacob Kittleson purchased his farm of M. O. and C. O. Eidsmore. It contains 160 acres. He is a prominent and useful citizen. He served as town clerk in 1874 and 1875, and again in 1880 and 1881. He was elected chairman of the town board in 1882, and re-elected in 1883. He was elected assessor in 1884. Mr. and Mrs. Kittleson have five children - Isaac M., Edward A., Clara A., James G. and Ellen G.