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1917 Biographies
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1917 Biographies
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OLE AANONSON
Ole Aanonson, a resident farmer of Emmet county, has for more than
a half century lived within its borders, so that its history is
familiar to him from the period of its early development down to the
days of
modern progress. He is now engaged in farming on section 5, Jack Creek
township, where he has an excellent property. He was born in Norway on
the 15th of February, 1849, and is a son of Onond and Julia (Lewison)
Christianson, who came to the United States in 1853. After two years
spent in Dixon, Illinois, they removed to Iowa, settling first in
Mitchell county, where they remained for a number of years, arriving in
Emmet county in 1862. The father then homesteaded a quarter section of
land in Swan Lake township but later there proved to be a flaw to his
title and he received a deed for only eighty acres. He continued to
reside upon that farm until his death, which occurred in 1884. His
widow long survived him and passed away in 1902.
Ole Aanonson was but four years of age at the time of the arrival of
his parents in the new world. His education was acquired in the
common schools of Iowa and after reaching young manhood he worked with
his father upon the old homestead and also as a farm hand in the
neighborhood, but at length he determined to start out in the business
world on his own account and he also made arrangements for having a
home of his own by his marriage on the 19th of November, 1880, to Miss
Sarah Peterson, also a native of Norway, whence she came to the United
States in the year of their marriage. In the spring of 1880 Mr.
Aanonson purchased eighty acres of his present home farm. Upon that
place he has since continued and in subsequent years he has added forty
acres to his original holdings, so that he now has an excellent farm of
one hundred and twenty acres which in its neat and thrifty appearance
indicates the continuous care and labor which he has bestowed upon it.
He has most carefully, persistently and wisely tilled his fields and
everything
about his place indicates his careful supervision and progressive
effort.
To Mr. and Mrs. Aanonson have been born nine children, seven of
whom survive, as follows: Julia, the wife of A. Stueland, of
Estherville, Iowa; Onon, who follows farming in Swan Lake township;
Anna, who is the wife of D. W. Lucas, of Estherville, Iowa; John, an
agriculturist of Swan Lake township; Helen, who gave her hand in
marriage to Vern Haines, of Estherville, Iowa; Peter, who cultivates
the home farm; and Halvor, an agriculturist of Swan Lake township,
Emmet county.
In politics Mr. Aanonson is a republican, having supported that party
since age conferred upon him the right of franchise. He has served as
township trustee and for several years was a member of the school
board. He belongs to the Norwegian Lutheran church and he is one of the
well known and valued pioneer settlers of the county, with the history
of
which he is thoroughly familiar, his memory forming a connecting link
between the primitive past and the progressive present.
AMUND J. AMUNDSEN
Amund J. Amundsen, one of the representative farmers of Swan Lake
township, Enmiet county, was born in Norway on the 2nd of October,
1851, and is a son of John and Rachel Amundsen, both of whom were
natives of Norway, where they continued to reside until 1865, when they
brought their family to America and located upon a farm in Allamakee
county, Iowa. Subsequently they became residents of Emmet county, the
father purchasing a farm in Center township upon which he and his wife
spent their remaining days. In their family were seven children, five
of whom are still living.
In his native land Amund J. Amundsen attended school, being
fourteen years old at the time of the emigration of the family to
America in 1865. He remained under the parental roof until he had
attained his
majority, early acquiring a knowledge of agricultural pursuits, and
during the following ten years worked as a farm hand. At the end of
that time he went to North Dakota, where he served as manager of a
large farm for three years. Returning to Emmet county he was then able
to purchase eighty acres of land which he later sold and then bought
the farm on
section 29, Swan Lake township, where he now resides. Here he owns one
hundred and ninety-three acres of very valuable and productive land,
which he has placed under excellent cultivation and upon which he has
made many improvements, including the erection of good and substantial
buildings. He makes a specialty of the raising and feeding of stock and
in all his undertakings has met with well deserved success.
In 1882 Mr. Amundsen married Miss Amelia Amundsen, who though of
the same name was no relation. She, too, was born in Norway and has
become the mother of seven children, namely: George A., now a resident
of Illinois; Rubena E., the wife of Clarence Scrum; John A.;
Henry B.; Oren E.; Mabel Bertena; and Aline May. Mr. and Mrs. Amundsen
are members of the Lutheran church and are numbered among the leading
citizens of the community in which they reside. He is a self-made man
and the success which has attended his efforts is due entirely to
his own industry, enterprise and good management.
CHRIS P. ANDERSEN
Chris P. Andersen, a well established dealer in
hardware and farm machinery at Ringsted, is entitled to the credit
which is accorded a man who has succeeded through his own unaided
efforts as he has at all times been dependent solely upon his own
resources. His birth occurred in Denmark, March 15, 1865, and his
parents were Jens P. and Christina Sorensen, who in 1881 came with
their family to the United States. After remaining for a few months in
Chicago they located on section 24,
Denmark township, Emmet county, the father purchasing eighty acres of
land. He engaged in farming for some time, but the last years of his
life were spent in the enjoyment of a well earned leisure. Both he and
his wife are buried in St. Paul's cemetery.
Chris P. Andersen, who is the sixth in order of birth in a family
of eight children, received the greater part of his education in the
schools of Denmark, but attended the district schools of this county
for two years. He worked for his father until he attained his majority
and then went to Chicago and was for seventeen years in the employ of
the Pullman Car Company, ten years of that time being spent as
traveling inspector. Later he was for six years foreman in the car
shops of the Chicago,
Rock Island & Pacific Railroad Company in Chicago, but at the end
of that time returned to Emmet county and purchased two hundred acres
on section 23, Denmark township, which he cultivated for two years and
which he still owns. In connection with his nephew, J. P. Nelsen, he
purchased the Fink Brothers hardware and farm machinery business in
Ringsted and has proved very successful as a merchant. He carries a
well selected and up-to-date stock and has gained an enviable
reputation for fair dealing.
In 1892 Mr. Andersen was united in marriage to Miss Sophia
Bonnicksen, a daughter of Knut and Petrea (Juhl) Bonnicksen, who lived
for a number of years upon the farm now owned by Mr. Andersen but are
now deceased and are buried in St. Paul's cemetery. To Mr. and Mrs.
Andersen have been born six children, namely: Edna, the wife of Harry
Fink, of Ringsted; Alma, who is teaching in Palo Alto county; Ruth, who
is teaching in Denmark township; Esther, who is attending the Iowa
Teachers' College at Cedar Falls; and Agnes and Irene, both in school
at Ringsted.
The principles which have governed Mr. Andersen in all relations of
life are found in the teachings of the Danish Lutheran church and he is
an active member of St. Paul's congregation. He votes for the best man,
irrespective of party affiliations, and takes a commendable
interest in all things pertaining to the welfare of the community,
especially to the advancement of the public schools, and was for some
time school director in Ringsted. The unqualified respect in which he
is held by his fellow citizens is proof of his genuine worth.
LARS P. ANDERSEN
Lars P. Andersen makes his home on his farm on section 3, Center
township, but is practically living a retired life, leaving to others
the more arduous work of the fields. In the course of an active and
well spent career he has accumulated a substantial fortune and his
record should serve to inspire and encourage others, showing what can
be accomplished through persistent and honorable effort. The many
sterling traits of character which he has displayed have won for him
high regard. He was born in Denmark, February 17, 1849, and is a son of
Andrew and Henrietta Andersen, who were also natives of the same
country. The father reached the advanced age of one hundred and four
years and nine months ere death called him and his wife has also passed
away. In their family were eleven children.
Lars P. Andersen, who is the only one now living,
was reared and educated in Denmark and came to the United States in
1867, being at that time a youth of eighteen years. He made his way at
once to Iowa, settling in Black Hawk county, where he was employed as a
common laborer for some time, but laudable ambition prompted him to
save his earnings and at length his industry and economy brought him
sufficient capital to enable him to purchase a farm. In 1891 he
invested in land
in Emmet county and in 1893 he took up his abode upon his place on
section 3, Center township, where he has three hundred and seventy
acres of fine land, which he has bi'ought to a high state of
cultivation. His fields are well tilled and annually produce good crops
of corn, wheat and other cereals. To the farm he has also added many
substantial improvements in the way of good buildings, having a
pleasant home and large barns and sheds, which furnish ample shelter
for grain and stock. In a word he has made good use of his time and
opportunities and his labors have been rewarded by a very substantial
competence.
In 1871 Mr. Andersen was united in marriage to Miss Anna Elizabeth
Petersen, a native of Denmark and a daughter of Peter C. and Elsie Y.
Nielsen. They came to America in 1868 and established their home in
Butler county, Iowa, where the father carried on farming until his
death, after which the mother became a resident of Kansas, where her
last days were spent. Their family numbered five children, four of whom
are yet living. By her marriage Mrs. Andersen has become the mother of
ten children: Henrietta, now the wife of Nels Ling; Andrew, living in
North Dakota; Anna, who is teaching school; Nels C, whose home is in
Ransom county, North Dakota; Jens, also residing in that state; William
D., of Emmet county, Iowa; Carrie, the wife of
WilliamRathman; Thorwald, who is upon the home farm; Emma E., now
attending high school; and one deceased.
Mr. Andersen has always given his political allegiance to the
democratic party since becoming a naturalized American citizen. He and
his wife are members of the Lutheran church and they enjoy the esteem
of all with whom they have come in contact. At the time of their
marriage their financial resources were quite limited but they worked
together, utilizing every possible effort to advance their fortunes,
and today
they are the possessors of a very substantial and gratifying
competence.
Moreover, no one can grudge them their success, so honorably has it
been won and so worthily used.
SOREN ANDERSEN
Soren Andersen, who passed away on the 19th of April, 1913, was one
of the leading farmers of Denmark township, Emmet county, where he had
made his home since 1889. His early life was spent on the other side of
the Atlantic, for he was born in Denmark, April 2, 1851, and was a son
of Andrew Sorensen, a small farmer in that country. In the family were
seven children. The parents never came to the United States, but
continued to reside in Denmark until called to their final rest.
In his native land Soren Andersen pursued his education in the
district schools near his boyhood home and later devoted a year and a
half to military training. As an occupation he followed farming in the
employ of others until his emigration to America in 1886. For two years
he was a resident of Cerro Gordo county, Iowa, and in 1889 came to
Emmet county, being engaged in farming on rented land in Denmark
township for six years. At the end of that time he purchased the
southeast quarter of section 20 in the same township and continued its
operation up to the time of his death. His remains were interred in St.
John's cemetery.
In 1894 Mr. Andersen was united in marriage to Miss Maren Oxholm,
who was born in Schlcswig, Germany, June 2, 1865, and of that province
her parents, Hans and Anna Marie Oxholm, were lifelong
residents. When she was nineteen years of age she came to the new world
with her brother Carl, who is now a resident of Tyler, Minnesota. Four
years later she returned to Denmark and when she again came to the
United States she was accompanied by her other brother, Steffen. who is
now a banker at Tyler, Minnesota. At the time of her marriage Mrs.
Andersen was living in Ringsted, Iowa, with a friend, Mrs. Andrew
Larson, with whom she had spent a few months. The children born to Mr.
and Mrs. Andersen are Anna, Hans, Emma and Alma, who are at home with
their inother and assist in the operation of the farm.
The place is in a high state of cultivation and the fields yield
bounteous harvests
for the labor bestowed upon them. Mr. Andersen was an enterprising and
progressive farmer and the success that he achieved was due entirely to
his own well directed efforts. He was a democrat in politics and
acceptably served as township road supervisor for one year.
A. J. ANDERSON
A. J. Anderson, actively and successfully engaged in agricultural
pursuits in High Lake township, Emmet county, his home being on section
14, has resided within the borders of this county for forty-six years
or since 1871, at which time he arrived here with his parents when a
lad of ten summers. He was bom in Norway, March 16, 1861, a son of Ole
and Haldir (Paulson) Anderson, who were also natives of the same
country. They continued in the land of the midnight sun until 1871,
when they bade adieu to friends and native country and sailed with
their family to America. Making their way into the interior of the
country, they settled upon a farm in Emmet county, Iowa, where the
father built a log cabin which they occupied for a number of years. It
was in this county that
the mother passed away, but the father is still living and has long
been
one of the honored and respected agriculturists of this section of the
state.
A. J. Anderson was reared in the usual manner of farm boys,
dividing his time between the work of the fields and the acquirement of
a public school education. He remained at home up to the time of his
marriage, which occurred in 1888, Miss Julia Paulson becoming his wife.
She was born in Wisconsin, a daughter of Paul and Kari (Ellingson)
Paulson, who were natives of Norway but came to America in the latter
'50s and in 1864 removed to Emmet county, Iowa, taking up their abode
upon a farm which continued to be their home throughout their remaining
days. They had a family of eight children, of whom three are now
living. Mr. and Mrs. Anderson became the parents of four children, but
Ada J., the
eldest, and Hilma Odella, the youngest, are the only ones now living.
They lost two daughters. Hazel O. and Petra C.
Following their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Anderson took up their abode
upon the farm which is now their home, at first renting the property
but later purchasing it. The place comprises one hundred and ninety-six
acres on section 14, High Lake township, and constitutes today one of
the best improved farms of the locality, equipped with every modern
convenience and accessory found upon a model farm of the twentieth
century. His attention is devoted to the cultivation of those cereals
best adapted
to soil and climate and also to stock raising, and his labors are
attended with
a gratifying measure of success.
Mr. Anderson gives his political allegiance to the republican party but
has never sought nor desired office. He and his wife are members of the
Lutheran church and their well-spent lives have gained for them the
warm and enduring regard of many friends. Mr. Anderson is a thoroughly
reliable and progressive business man, and his well-directed efforts as
an agriculturist have brought him substantial success.
ALBERT ANDERSON,
M.D.
The consensus of public opinion places Dr. Albert Anderson in the
from rank among the ablest and most distinguished representatives of
the profession in northwestern Iowa. Indeed his ability makes him the
peer of the ablest physicians and surgeons of the state. He was born in
Linn county, Iowa, near Cedar Rapids, December 5, 1861. His
great-great-grandfather, John Anderson, emigrated from the north of
Ireland and settled in the wilds of western Pennsylvania before the
Revolutionary war. The great-grandfather and the grandfather of Dr.
Anderson were both born in that state. The wife of the latter was a
native of Maryland but of English descent and the maternal grandparents
of Dr. Anderson were both natives of Virginia and were of Scotch-Irish
lineage. His
father, Thomas H. Anderson, who was born in Ohio, became a resident of
Iowa in 1854 and in 1860 he wedded Mary E. Blair, who was also a native
of the Buckeye state but came to Iowa in 1848 and is now living with a
daughter in Oklahoma. At the time of the Civil war Thomas H. Anderson
responded to the country's call for troops, enlisting in the Union army
in 1862. He remained on active duty until January, 1865, when he died
in the service.
Dr. Anderson acquired a common school education, supplemented by two
years' study in a private school, after which he
began preparation for the practice of medicine and surgery as a student
in the medical
department of the State University of Iowa, from which he was graduated
on the 12th of March, 1890, the degree of M.D. being then conferred
upon him. In the meantime he had taken up the profession of teaching
and had won a teacher's first class certificate. Since completing his
course in the State University he has taken post-graduate work,
completing his studies in the Post-Graduate Medical School of Chicago
in May, 1896. His preparation for a professional career followed two
years of teaching in the country schools and four years of service as
telegraph operator and railroad agent. Laudable ambition, however,
prompted him to enter a larger field of labor and after winning his
professional degree he at once entered upon the active practice of
medicine. His advancement since that date has been continuous and his
practice has been of constantly growing extent and importance. From
1896 until 1912 he owned an interest in one of the leading drug stores
of the city and in 1896 he
was appointed division surgeon of the Burlington, Cedar Rapids &
Northern Railway and in 1902 local surgeon for the Chicago, Rock Island
&
Pacific Railway. He has since occupied the latter position. In 1900 he
built
aprivate hospital, which he conducted for nine years. His practice is
now largely limited to surgery and to consultation and his increasing
powers have gained him distinction along professional lines. He has
been a
close and discriminating student of everything bearing upon the science
of medicine and surgery and he keeps abreast with the latest researches
and discoveries. He is now chief surgeon for the Anderson Hospital at
Estherville and is chief medical examiner for twenty-five old line life
insurance companies and medical examiner for the Dakota division of the
Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railway.
On the 30th of May, 1883, in Palo, Iowa, Dr. Anderson was married to
Miss Effie A. Conley, a daughter of J. W. Conley, who was a prominent
farmer of Linn county, Iowa, emigrating westward from New York. He
married Marietta J. Hutchins, a native of the Empire state, and their
daughter Effie was born in Linn county, Iowa. Dr. and Mrs. Anderson are
the parents of a son, Lloyd L., who married Mary Ferguson, of Spirit
Lake, Iowa, and they have a daughter. Alberta F. Dr. and Mrs. Anderson
attend the Presbyterian church and he holds membership with the Masons,
belonging to lodge, chapter and commandery. He is also connected with
the Knights of Pythias, the Benevolent
Protective Order of Elks, the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the
Modern Woodmen of America, the Woodmen of the World and the Ancient
Order of United Workmen. In politics he is a republican and was
formerly chairman of the county central committee, taking an active and
helpful part in promoting party success. For three years he was a
member of the board of education and served as its president. For four
years he has
served as a member of the city council and for thirteen years he has
been commissioner of insanity in Emmet County. He belongs to the Sioux
Valley Medical Association, the Iowa State Medical Association, the
American Medical Association, the Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific
Railway Surgeons' Association and the American Association of Railway
Surgeons.
ANDREW L. ANDERSON
Andrew L. Anderson, editor of the Ringsted
Dispatch
and postmaster of Ringsted, was born in Denmark on the 3d of January,
1882, his parents being Chris and Christina (Thompson) Anderson, also
natives of Denmark. In 1884 the family came to America and settled at
Jewell, Hamilton county, Iowa, where the father found work at his trade
of shoemaking, which occupation he still follows. Since 1896, however,
he has also been in the employ of the Chicago &
Northwestern Railroad Company. He has now reached the age of sixty
years and his wife is also living.
Andrew L. Anderson was only two years of age when he accompanied
his parents on their emigration to America and he is indebted to the
public schools of Jewell, Iowa, for the educational advantages he
enjoyed during his boyhood and youth. He was graduated from the high
school at that place in 1898 and then entered the office of the Record,
where he learned the printer's trade, remaining there for three years.
The following four years were spent in Webster City, where he worked on
all the papers published there, and he has also been in the employ of
various other newspapers throughout the state. He spent three years in
Des Moines in job offices and at tlie end of that time returned to
Jewell, where he was employed as foreman of the Record for five years. In December,
1912, Mr. Anderson purchased the Ringsted
Dispatch
at Ringsted, Emmet county, and has since conducted that paper with
growing success, making it a bright, newsy sheet with a good
advertising patronage. Ho does general job work and has built up a
large calendar business, in the interest of which he goes upon the
road. Since March, 1915, he has also served as postmaster of Ringsted.
On the 27th of September, 1906, Mr. Anderson was united in marriage
to Miss Annetta Rierson, and they have one child, Ralph Wilbur, born
June 1, 1911. Mr. Anderson is a member of the Danish Brotherhood of
Ringsted and is a staunch supporter of the democratic party. In
re!igious faith he is a Lutheran. He is a public-spirited and
enterprising citizen, taking a commendable interest in public affairs,
and both personally and through his paper supports all worthy projects
calculated to benefit the community in which he lives.
BERT B. ANDERSON
A prominent figure in connection with the grain trade in this
section of Iowa is Bert B. Anderson, of Estherville, who owns a number
of elevators along the line of the Rock Island Railroad. He possesses
marked business enterprise and determination and carries forward to
successful completion whatever he undertakes, allowing no obstacle to
bar his path if it can be overcome by persistent, earnest eff'ort.
Mr. Anderson is a native of the state of New York. He was born
October 2, 1859, of the marriage of George A. and Nancy Anderson, who
were also natives of the Empire state and who in 1873 removed with
their family to Winneshiek county, Iowa, where they took up their abode
upon a farm. In 1877 they became residents of Lyon county, Iowa, where
the father and mother spent their remaining days. They had a family of
five children, all of whom are yet living.
Bert B. Anderson was a youth of fourteen at the time the family came to
this state. He acquired a public school education in New York and in
Iowa and through the period of his minority aided more and more largely
in the work of the home farm as his age and strength increased. After
attaining his majority he purchased land in Lyon county and resided
thereon for five years, at the end of which time he sold that property
and turned to commercial pursuits, engaging in the hardware, implement
and grain business in connection with G. M. Anderson at Inwood, Iowa.
He was located there for many years, but at length removed to
Minneapolis, where he became a stockholder in the Skewis Moen Grain
Company. He was traveling auditor for the company for four years and at
the end of that time the company dissolved. In 1905 Mr. Anderson came
to Estherville and here began dealing in grain and coal. He has since
acquired elevators at various points along the Rock Island Railroad and
is doing an extensive business as a grain merchant. He thoroughly
understands the trade and his enterprise and
progressiveness are bringing to him substantial returns.
In 1885 Mr. Anderson was united in marriage to Miss Lydia J.
Harrington, of Farmington, Illinois, by whom he has two children,
George H. and C. Morton, both at home.
In his political views Mr. Anderson is a republican, but has never
been an aspirant for office. Fraternally he is connected with the
Masons and the Odd Fellows at Estherville, with the Benevolent
Protective
Order of Elks and the United Commercial Travelers. He is also a member
of the Commercial Club and both he and his wife hold membership in the
Presbyterian church. Their lives are actuated by high and honorable
principles and they are now numbered among Estherville's most valued
and respected citizens, having here a circle of friends almost
coextensive with the circle of their acquaintance.
CARL ANDERSON
Carl Anderson, of Emmet township, Emmet county, who has won
gratifying success in his chosen occupation of farming and stock
raising, was born in Sweden, Februaiy 10, 1858. His parents, Andrew and
Anna (Anderson) Anderson, were also natives of that country and lived
there during their entire lives. Four of their nine children still
survive.
Carl Anderson remained in Sweden until his early manhood and is
indebted for his education to the schools of that country. It was in
1881 that he crossed the Atlantic to the United States and for five
years
thereafter he rented land in Emmet county, Iowa, at the end of which
time his financial circumstances permitted him to buy eighty acres of
land, to which a few years later he added a similar tract by purchase.
His
holdings now comprise three hundred and eighty-five acres, all on
section 25, Emmet township, and the value of his farm has been much
increased by the excellent improvements thereon. The buildings are
substantial and modern in design and there is also a fine grove which
he planted
himself. He makes a specialty of raising Duroc-Jersey hogs, finding it
more
profitable to feed his grain than to sell it.
In 1881 Mr. Anderson was married to Miss Anna Johnson, who was born
in Sweden and is a daughter of John and Mary (Larson) Johnson, who
lived and died in that country. Six children have been born to Mr. and
Mrs. Anderson, namely: Augustine; Mary C, the wife of Henry Hoganson;
Johanna, the wife of George Bartleman, now residing in Minnesota; Gust,
at home; Nora, the wife of Ralph Smith, and Nettie, deceased.
Mr. Anderson is a staunch adherent of the republican party and the
interest which he takes in matters pertaining to the general welfare is
indicated by the fact that he has served as a member of the school
board. Both he and his wife hold membership in the Lutheran church and
its work receives their hearty support. The prosperity which is now his
should be doubly a source of gratification to him as it is the direct
result of his own hard work and habits of thrift.
CHRISTOPHER ANDERSON
Actively identified with the farming interests of High Lake
township is Christopher Anderson, now the owner of eighty acres on
section 24, constituting one of the valuable and well-improved farm
properties of the district. He was born in Green county, Wisconsin,
November 20, 1851, a son of Andrew and Ingeborg Anderson, who were
natives of Norway. Coming to America in 1848, they established their
home in
Wisconsin, where the father carried on general farming until 1865. That
year witnessed his arrival in Emmet county, Iowa, which was at that
time a pioneer district in which the work of improvement and
development seemed scarcely begun. Much of the land was still in
possession of the government and he homesteaded the northeast quarter
of section 24. Upon that tract not a furrow had been turned nor an
improvement made. He built a log cabin with a sod roof and in true
pioneer style began life in his primitive western home, but his labors
soon wrought a marked transformation in the appearance of his place and
success
attended his efforts. To him and his wife were born eight children,
four of whom are yet living.
Through the period of his boyhood and youth Christopher Anderson
aided in the development of the home farm, continuing thereon until he
attained his majority, at which time he bought eighty acres,
constituting the west half of the old homestead. He has since given his
attention to its further development and improvement and he annually
gathers good harvests as the result of his practical methods in
operating his land.
Mr. Anderson was married in 1874 to Miss Andria Johnson, a daughter of
Lars and Martha Johnson, who were natives of Norway. They afterward
became farming people of Wisconsin, in which state they took up their
abode in 1844, and subsequently they removed to Emmet county, where
they spent their remaining days. Mr. and Mrs. Anderson have a daughter,
Mabel, now the wife of Herbert Bryan, who is the owner of a farm of
eighty acres on section 13, High Lake township, and they have become
the parents of three children, Ralph A., Ardythe L. and Wayne H.
Mr. and Mrs. Anderson are members of the Norwegian Lutheran church.
He votes with the republican party but has never been an office seeker,
preferring to give his undivided attention to his business
affairs, which are wisely and carefully directed, so that he is
acknowledged to
be one of the enterprising farmers of his district.
O. O. ANDERSON
Wallingford's business interests find a substantial and prominent
representative in O. O. Anderson, the cashier of the Farmers' Savings
Bank, of which he was one of the organizers. He is a representative of
that substantial class of citizens that Norway has furnished to Iowa.
He was born in the land of the midnight sun July 30, 1868, and is a son
of Ole and Haldis (Paulson) Anderson, who were also natives of that
country. Coming to America, they reached Emmet county, Iowa, in July,
1871, and took up their abode upon a farm within its borders. The
father at once concentrated his energies upon the task of developing
and improving his fields and he is still a respected resident of Emmet
county but in 1910 was called upon to mourn the loss of his wife, who
passed away on the 7th of August of that year. In their family were
five children, all of whom are yet living.
O. O. Anderson was less than three years of age when brought by his
parents to the United States, so that practically his entire life
has been passed in Emmet county. The common school system afforded him
his educational privileges and when he had mastered the branches of
learning taught in the district schools he went to Red Wing, Minnesota,
where he continued his studies for three years. Later he pursued a
commercial course in Decorah, Iowa, following which he returned to his
father's
farm and was his active assistant in the management and development of
the property for eight years. He then became one of the organizers of
the Farmers Savings Bank at Wallingford and accepted the position of
cashier, in which capacity he has since continued. This bank is
capitalized for fifteen thousand dollars and has a surplus of fifteen
thousand dollars. It has always had a prosperous existence and its
business relations have been constantly broadened. In addition to his
banking interests he owns a fine residence in Wallingford.
In his political views Mr. Anderson is a stalwart republican. He has
never been an office seeker although interested in the success of
his party and at all times keeping well informed on the questions and
issues of the day. For sixteen years he served as school treasurer. He
is a member of the Lutheran church and his life is guided by its
teachings,
his upright, honorable career causing his fellow townsmen to speak of
him always in terms of high regard.
PETER S. ANDERSON
Peter S. Anderson, who is engaged in general farming on section 15,
Twelve Mile Lake township, is one of Norway's contributions to the
citizenship of Emmet county. He was born in the land of the midnight
sun January 9, 1864, a son of Ole and Haldis Anderson, the former a
carpenter by trade. Leaving their native country, they came to America
in 1871 and established their home in Emmet county, where the father
secured a homestead claim in High Lake township. For almost two decades
he engaged in farming upon that place, remaining there until 1890, when
he retired to Wallingford to enjoy a rest which he had richly earned
and justly merits. In the family were five children.
Peter S. Anderson was a little lad of but seven years when the family
came across the Atlantic to the United States and upon the home farm he
was reared, with the usual experiences of the farm-bred boy who divides
his time between the work of the fields and the acquirement of a
district school education. He continued to work for his father until
1890 and when his father removed to Wallingford, Peter S. Anderson
purchased a farm comprising the northeast quarter of section 15, Twelve
Mile Lake township. He now gives his entire attention to the further
development and improvement of this property and has brought his fields
to a high state of cultivation, so that he annually gathers good
harvests.
Mr. Anderson was united in marriage to Miss Christie Herum, a
daughter of Peter and Bertha (Talle) Herum, of High Lake township. Mr.
and Mrs. Anderson have a family of six children: Hilda, who is teaching
in the schools of Wallingford; Chester, at home; Alvin, who is
attending Jewell Lutheran College at Jewell, Iowa; Harold, a high
school pupil in Estherville; and Pearl and Theodore, who are attending
the district schools.
The parents are members of the Norwegian Lutheran church and Mr.
Anderson gives his political support to the Republican party, of which
he has been a stalwart advocate since age conferred upon him the right
of franchise. He represents one of the old-time families of the county,
having for forty-six years resided within its borders, so
that his memory forms a connecting link between the primitive past and
the progressive present. He was acquainted with pioneer conditions here
and he has lived to witness a remarkable change as the labors of man
have claimed the region for the purposes of civilization, converting
the once wild prairie into rich and productive farms, dotted here and
there with
thriving towns and villages. The spirit of enterprise has ever been a
strong force here and Mr. Anderson has displayed that same spirit in
the conduct of his private business affairs. He has served as school
treasurer for the past eight years, has also been township trustee and
is a director of the Farmers' Bank of Wallingford.
LAURITZ P. BAAGO
Lauritz P. Baago, a well known and successful farmer of Denmark
township, has never had occasion to regret his decision to emigrate to
America for he has found here the opportunities which he sought and
through their utilization has won prosperity. He was born in Schleswig,
now a part of Germany but then belonging to Denmark, on the 23d of
April, 1861, and is a son of Cresten and Anna Christina Lauritzen, who
passed their entire lives in their native country. The father was by
profession a school teacher.
Lauritz P. Baago, who is one of a family of five children, received
his education under the instruction of his father, and, following his
confirmation went to work as a farm hand. He was so employed until he
was twenty-three years old, when he came to the United States. After
spending four years in New York state in the employ of various farmers
he removed to Emmet county, Iowa, and bought eighty acres of land in
Armstrong township. He devoted thirteen years to the operation of that
place and then sold it and bought a farm in Jackson county,
Minnesota, which he operated until 1912, when he returned to Emmet
county and bought the north half of the northeast quarter of section
23,
Denmark township, where he has since made his home. The land is in a
high state of cultivation, the buildings are substantial and of
practical design and his work is kept well in hand. He raises both
grain and stock as he finds such a course more profitable than
specializing in either.
In 1893 Mr. Baago was married to Miss Marie Christianson, whose
father died in Norway. Subsequently the mother came to the United
States and is now living with her son Erland, a resident of
Graettinger, Iowa. Mrs. Baago passed away in 1895 and is buried in St.
Paul's cemetery. She left one son, Hans. For his second wife Mr. Baago
chose Miss Helga Vik, a daughter of Sjur and Jurga Vik, natives of
Norway, whence they emigrated to the United States many years ago. The
mother is deceased and is buried in Jackson county, Minnesota, while
the father makes his home with Mr. Baago. Mrs. Baago died in 1906 and
is buried in Jackson county, Minnesota. She was the mother of four
children, Anna, Marie, Christina and John.
Mr. Baago is a republican in his political
affiliation but has never held office. He has, however, served as
school director. His religious faith is indicated by his membership in
St. John's Danish Lutheran church and the teachings of that
denomination have been the guiding principle of his life. He has
succeeded solely through his own eff'orts
and is accorded the honor due a self-made man.
SAMUEL M. BAKER
Samuel M. Baker, a farmer of Emmet township, Emmet county, owning
two hundred and forty-five acres of improved land on section 21 and 22,
was born in Morgan county, Indiana, November 24, 1863, a son of J. C.
and Sarah J. (Denney) Baker, who were also natives of that state, where
the mother is still living, the father having passed away in 1915. In
their family were eight children, six of whom yet survive.
Samuel M. Baker was reared and educated in the Hoosier state and
afterward removed to Champaign county, Illinois, where he cultivated a
rented farm until 1910. In that year he arrived in Emmet county, Iowa,
and purchased the farm upon which he now resides on sections 21 and 22,
Emmet township, comprising two hundred and forty-five acres of rich and
productive land which he has brought under a high state of cultivation.
The place is well improved with modern farm buildings and equipment and
his labors are bringing to him a substantial measure of success. He
raises stock in addition to the cultivation of the fields and that
branch of his business adds materially to his income.
In 1888 Mr. Baker was united in marriage to Miss Mary V. Roberts, a
native of Illinois and a daughter of Thomas and Jennie (Norton)
Roberts, the former now deceased, while the latter is still living. Mr.
and Mrs. Baker have become the parents of eight children: Alice, who
died in infancy; Samuel Clinton, twenty-six years old; Wylie and
Angelina, both deceased; Rosco Cameron and Allen, twins, the former of
whom is living and is seventeen years old while the latter died in
infancy; Robert Maurice, who is eleven years of age; and John Calvin,
six years old.
Fraternally Mr. Baker is connected with the Odd Fellows and with
the Modern Woodmen of America. His political allegiance is given to the
republican party and while he keeps well informed on the questions and
issues of the day he has never been an office seeker. He has always
preferred to concentrate his thought, purpose, effort and attention
upon his business affairs and is today one of the prominent farmers of
Emmet county - a self-made man, whose diligence has been the basis of
his growing success.
GEORGE H. BERGESON
George H. Bergeson resides in Center township, Emmet county, where
he owns a quarter section of land, and he also holds title to one
hundred and sixty acres in Armstrong Grove township. Although he is now
in very comfortable circumstances he began his independent career
without capital and without the aid of influential friends. He was born
in La Salle county, Illinois, March 13, 1870, a son of Berger and Ellen
Bergeson, natives of Norway. It was in 1856 that they came to America
and located in Illinois, where the father became a landowner. Both
passed away in that state. To them were born twelve children, of whom
four are deceased.
George H. Bergeson is indebted to the common schools of La Salle
county, Illinois, for his education and through assisting his father
with the operation of the homestead gained valuable training in
agriculural work. When twenty-two years of age he left home and rented
a farm in Hamilton county, Iowa, belonging to his father. Eight years
later he went to Norman county, Minnesota, and for three years operated
land there which he owned. He then came to Emmet county, Iowa, and
after renting land for six years purchased his present home farm,
comprising one hundred and sixty acres on section 1, Center township.
He has put in many rods of tiling, thus supplementing the natural
drainage of the farm, and has also erected fine buildings, making his
place one of the model farms of
the locality. He prospered financially and at length purchased one
hundred
and sixty acres on section 1, Armstrong Grove township, which is also
well improved, and he gives his personal attention to the operation of
both places. His life exemplifies the value of persistency and
industry, for although he has been dependent solely upon his own
resources since starting out in life as a young man, he is now one of
the substantial farmers of his township.
Mr. Bergeson was married on the 12th of February, 1894, to Miss
Hannah Williams, a native of Hamilton county, Iowa, and a daughter of
Elling and Torber Williams, natives of Norway, who emigrated with their
family to this country many years ago. The father is deceased but the
mother is still living. Twelve children have been born to Mr. and Mrs.
Bergeson, Bert E., Harvey G., Mabel, Laura E., Roy E., Archie O.,
Amanda, Mildred I., Lester K., Theodore W., Georgia Henrietta and one
who died in infancy.
Mr. Bergeson, who is a stalwart republican, takes an active
interest in political affairs and is now serving as township trustee.
Both he and his wife are communicants of the Lutheran church and its
teachings
constitute the principles which have governed their lives. Both are
highly respected and their personal friends are many.
JACOB K. BERVEN
Prosperity has crowned the efforts of Jacob K. Berven in the
operation of his home farm on section 36, Swan Lake township, to which
he has given the name of the Instenes Farm for his father's old farm in
Norway. He is a native of that country, born July 7, 1866, and is a son
of Knute and Christi (Jacobson) Berven, who never left the land of the
midnight sun. Both have passed away but with one exception all their
nine children survive them.
In the schools of Norway Jacob K. Berven obtained a good practical
education and early became familiar with farm work in all its phases.
Believing he would find better opportunities for advancement in the new
world he came to America in 1883 and first located in Lee county,
Illinois, where he worked as a farm hand for ten years. At the end of
that period he went to Montana, where he spent thirteen years engaged
in railroading and ranching. Since then he has made his home in Emmet
county, Iowa, having purchased a farm on section 36, Swan Lake
township. He has made many useful and valuable improvements upon the
place, erecting good and substantial buildings and placing the land
under excellent cultivation.
Mr. Berven was married in 1889 to Miss Bell Knutson, and to them
were born seven chilren, namely: Kearney, George C., Clarence, Edmund
W., Jacob A., Elmer L. and Emma C. The wife and mother died in Montana,
June 10, 1903, and Mr. Berven was again married in 1906, his second
union being with Miss Marie Peterson, a native of Denmark, by whom he
has three children: Evelyn, Martin L. and Oscar J.
Mr. and Mrs. Berven are faithful members of the Lutheran church,
and he is also identified with the Modern Woodmen of America and the
Independent Order of Odd Fellows, having filled all of the chairs in
the local lodge of the latter organization. The republican party finds
in
him a staunch supporter of its principles and he served as assessor of
Swan Lake township for one term. He is now a school director, having
been a member of the school board for the past ten years, and he always
gives his support to any enterprise calculated to promote the moral,
educational or material welfare of the community in which he lives.
OLE K. BERVEN
Ole K. Berven, one of the well-to-do farmers of Emmet county,
residing on section 35, Swan Lake township, was born on the 4th of
June, 1861, in Norway, of which country his parents, Knute and
Christina (Jacobson) Berven were lifelong residents. They are now
deceased and one of their nine children has also passed away. In his
native land Ole K. Berven grew to manhood, his education being acquired
in the local schools. It was in 1882 that he came to America and
located in Lee county, Illinois, where he worked as a farm hand for
some time. In 1884 he came to Iowa, but after spending two years in
Hamilton county removed to North Dakota, where the following ten years
were passed. At the end of that time he came to Emmet county, Iowa, and
purchased his present farm of one hundred and sixty acres on section
35, Swan Lake township. He is an energetic and progressive farmer and
has made
excellent improvements upon his place so that it now ranks among the
best farms in the locality.
Mr. Berven was married in 1896 to Miss Julia L. Warberg, also a
native of Norway, and they have become the parents of eleven children,
namely: George; Anna, the wife of Luther J. Risk; Lewis; Knute; Emma;
Antone and Oscar, both deceased; Antone, the second of that name;
Joseph; Alma; and Theodore. The family attend the Lutheran church of
which Mr. and Mrs. Berven are members, and he is now serving as one of
its trustees. He is also filling the office of trustee of his township
and has served as school director. In politics he is an ardent
republican. He is one of the self-made men of his community, as on
coming to this country he was empty handed and all that he now
possesses has been acquired through his own industry, good management
and economy. He is one of the representative farmers of his township
and is a man highly respected and esteemed by all who know him.
LUMON L. BIXBY
Lumon L. Bixby, deceased, was for many years a resident of Emmet
county, where for a time he was engaged in general agricultural
pursuits and then turned his attention to commercial interests. He was
always thoroughly reliable and his upright life, characterized by
honorable
principles, won for him the confidence and high regard of those who
knew him. He was born in Vermont, April 5, 1839, a son of William and
Patience (Nye) Bixby, who were also natives of the Green Mountain
state, in which they spent their entire lives. They had a family of
thirteen
children, of whom but two are now living.
Lumon L. Bixby spent the days of his boyhood and youth in Vermont
and more than forty years ago came to Iowa, settling on a farm in Emmet
county, after which he devoted his time and attention to the
cultivation and development of the fields for a number of years. Later
he took up his abode in Estherville, where he established a harness
store and later he conducted a meat market. He was a thrifty, energetic
and active
business man who contributed much to the material development of the
city in which he made his home. He was thoroughly reliable in his
undertakings and his well-directed energy brought to him a substantial
measure of success.
Mr. Bixby was a Civil war veteran, for following the outbreak of
hostilities between the north and south he joined Company D of the
Tenth Vermont Volunteer Infantry, with which he served for one year,
when he was honorably discharged because of illness. He then returned
to his home and family in Vermont, for he had previously married. It
was in 1860 that he wedded Miss Ellen M. Wells, who was born in the
Green Mountain state in 1842, a daughter of Nathaniel and Lovey (Carr)
Wells, who spent their entire lives in that state. Mrs. Bixby was
theyoungest in a family of five children, four of whom have passed
away, and by her marriage she became the mother of thirteen children:
Amanda Jeannette, the wife of Orville Manning, a resident of Waterloo,
Iowa; Lumon J., now living in Minneapolis, Minnesota; Arby Anson;
Clarence M.; Roswell W., living in Waverly, Iowa; Burt G., Cora B.,
Cora E. and Daisy M., all now deceased; Charles D.; Adelbert R., who is
living in South Dakota; Archie, of Estherville; and Migie, who has also
departed
this life.
The death of the husband and father occurred December 2, 1905, and
he was laid to rest in the East Side cemetery, leaving a widow and
seven children to mourn his loss. He held membership in the Grand Army
post at Estherville and his demise was greatly deplored by his old army
comrades as well as by many other friends who had learned to know and
highly respect him through the long years of his residence in
Estherville. He
lived a quiet and unostentatious life but he possessed many sterling
traits of character that endeared him to those with whom he came in
contact.
OLE ANDERSON
BJORKJONLI
Ole Anderson Bjorkjonli, a retired farmer living in Estherville,
has been a resident of Emmet county for thirty-four years and a life of
well directed energy and thrift has brought him to a place where he is
now in possession of a comfortable competence that enables him to rest
from further labors. He was born in Norway on the 14th of May, 1842,
and is a son of Andrew and Mary (Olson) Jorgenson, who came to the
United States in 1868, a year after the arrival of their son, Ole
Anderson
Bjorkjonli, in this country. They settled in Worth county, Iowa, and
there the mother passed away in 1881, after which the father made his
home with his son Ole until his death, which occurred in 1904.
Mr. Bjorkjonli acquired a limited education in the common schools
of Norway and in 1867 came to the United States, establishing his home
in Cerro Gordo county, Iowa, after one year spent in Winneshiek county,
Iowa. In Cerro Gordo county he purchased one hundred acres of land and
began farming on his own account. The same year he made further
preparations for a home of his own by his marriage to Miss Hannah
Paulson, also a native of Norway, who came to the United States with
her parents when in her fifteenth year.
Mr. Bjorkjonli became a resident of Emmet county in 1882, but in
1876 he purchased two hundred and forty acres of land, upon which he
took up his abode six years later. In subsequent years he added to his
holdings from time to time as his financial resources increased until
his farm comprised almost a full section of land. Later, however, he
sold a portion of this property but still owns four hundred acres in
Emmet county and two hundred and forty acres in Todd and Cass counties,
of Minnesota, his landed possessions affording him an excellent annual
income. While upon the farm he converted his place into rich and
productive fields, from which he annually gathered good harvests that
enabled him to put aside something from his earnings year by year until
in 1906,
possessing a handsome competence, he retired from active farm life and
removed to Estherville, where he has since made his home, enjoying a
rest which he has truly earned and richly deserves. In the meantime Mr.
Bjorkjonli broadened the scope of his activities by becoming one of the
organizers of the Emmet County Farmers' Cooperative Insurance Company
and upon its organization was made a member of its board of directors,
in which position he has served continuously since, covering
twenty-four years, while for the past sixteen years he has been
treasurer of the company. He is now agent for several Scandinavian
steamship lines but otherwise has no active business connections.
To Mr. and Mrs. Bjorkjonli have been born thirteen children, eight
of whom still survive, as follows: Albert, who follows farming in Emmet
township, Emmet county; George, who is engaged in the land business at
Estherville, Iowa; John, an agriculturist of Clearwater county,
Minnesota; Isaac, who follows farming in Todd county, Minnesota;
Josephine, the wife of Frank Doyle, of St. Paul, Minnesota; Nettie, the
wife of Edward Koenecke, who operates one of Mr. Bjorkjonli's farms in
Emmet county; Jacob, a student in the Iowa State University; and
Jennie, the wife of Lawrence Sargeant, who cultivates the old home farm
of Mr. Bjorkjonli.
Politically Mr. Bjorkjonli is a republican, having long supported
the party. He served as township trustee for fifteen years and as
justice of the peace for about the same length of time and in both
offices
discharged his duties with promptness and fidelity, his decisions as
justice being strictly fair and impartial, a fact which is indicated by
his long
retention in the office. He has been officially connected with the
schools for
many years as a member of the school board and he has put forth every
possible effort to advance the welfare of the community and uphold its
civic
standards. Mr. and Mrs. Bjorkjonli are members of the Norwegian
Lutheran church and are numbered among the well known and highly
esteemed residents of this part of the state. Laudable ambition
prompted Mr. Bjorkjonli to sever home ties in early manhood and seek
his fortune in the new world. With the passing years he has made steady
progress and his energy and determination have enabled him to overcome
all
difficulties and obstacles in his path. His life record should serve to
inspire and encourage others, showing what may be accomplished through
individual effort and proving also that success and an honored name may
be won simultaneously.
JOHN B. BLOM
John B. Blom, living on section 3, Center township, was born in
Holland, June 26, 1860, a son of Barnard and Mary (Myers) Blom, who
were also natives of the same country. In 1871 they severed home ties
there and came with their family to America, establishing their home at
Ackley, Hardin county, Iowa, where their remaining days were passed.
They had a family of twelve children, seven of whom are yet living.
John B. Blom was a youth of eleven years at the time of the emigration
to the new world and upon the home farm in Hardin county he was reared,
while his education was acquired in the district schools of the
neighborhood. He was early trained to the work of the fai'm and soon
became familiar with the best methods of tilling the soil and caring
for the crops. After attaining his majority he began railroad work with
the bridge and wrecking gang of the Iowa Central Railroad, with which
he was connected for five years. At the end of that time he married and
began farming on his own account on rented land in Grundy county, Iowa,
where he remained for seven years. In 1892 he removed to Emmet county
and purchased his present farm on section 3, Center township, becoming
owner of one hundred and sixty acres, which he has since
improved with substantial buildings. His fann is today one of the
attractive features of the landscape. In addition to the work of
tilling the soil he has made a specialty of raising and feeding stock
of all kinds
and this branch of his business is proving very profitable, for
he is an
excellent judge of stock and therefore makes his investments wisely,
leading to profitable sales.
Mr. Blom was united in marriage to Miss Tillie Juergens, a native
of Germany. They have become parents of eight children: Jerry, living
in Emmet county; Bennard, now of Minnesota; Aldrick, Joe, Chris and
Thomas, all in Emmet county; Mary, the wife of Charles Fank; and one
who died in infancy.
The parents are consistent and loyal members of the Lutheran church
and Mr. Blom is a stalwart supporter of the republican party, believing
that its platform contains the best elements of good
government. He is now serving as road superintendent and he has also
served on the school board. He is interested in all those forces which
work for the progress and upbuilding of the community and at no time is
he remiss in the duties of citizenship. He works for the benefit and
upbuilding of the district as well as for the advancement of his own
fortunes and in his business career he may well be termed a self-made
man, for he owes his prosperity entirely to his close application and
indefatigable
energy.
CHARLES BLAIR
Charles Blair, a merchant of Hoprig, was born in Edinburgh, Scotland,
on the 7th of February, 1860, a son of Charles and Margaret (Dick)
Blair, who were also natives of the land of hills and heather and there
spent their entire lives, the father being connected with the
wholesale stationery business.
Charles Blair when a youth of fourteen was apprenticed to the
wholesale paper business, receiving about fifty dollars for his first
year's services, out of which sum he paid for his board and also
purchased his clothing. He remained with that house for six years and
in 1881 he came to the United States, arriving in Emmetsburg, Palo Alto
county, Iowa, on the 2d of April of that year. Two weeks later he
removed to Emmet county and for six months he worked for his board for
Joe Hardy. He afterward spent eighteen months in the employ of Samuel
Blair, again working for his board, but during that period he was
gaining valuable experience together with a knowledge of American
manners and customs and, furthermore, a knowledge of land values. At
the end of that time he bought three hundred and twenty acres of land
for his brother, John G. Blair, and for two years operated the farm, or
until his brother came to America. The brothers then cultivated the
place in partnership for five years, at the end of which time Charles
Blair went to Chicago, where he was employed in the wholesale grocery
house of Sprague, Warner & Company, with whom he continued for
fifteen years. Later he became identified with the Northern Trust
Company Bank of Chicago, with which he remained for five years. On his
return to Emmet county he established a mercantile business at Hoprig,
with which he has since been identified.
Mr. Blair was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth Thompson, of
Emmetsburg, who passed away two years later. His political allegiance
is given to the republican party but he does not seek nor desire the
honors and emoluments of office, preferring to concentrate his efforts
and interests upon his business affairs.
HANS K. BONNICKSEN
One of the prosperous farmers and leading citizens of Denmark township,
Emmet county, is Hans K. Bonnicksen, who, like most of the residents of
that locality is of Scandinavian birth. He was born in
Denmark on the 27th of February, 1865, and is the third in a family of
six children, their parents being Knud and Katrina Bonnicksen. In 1872
the father brought his family to America and settled in Clinton, Iowa,
where he was employed as a teamster for two years. The following six
years were spent near Malone, Iowa, where he engaged in farming on
rented land, but at the end of that time he returned to Clinton, where
he again made his home for two years. Coming to Emmet county in 1883 he
purchased the southeast quarter of section 23, Denmark township, and
later added to this the south half of the northeast quarter of the
same
section, whereon he continued to reside for several years, his time and
energies being devoted to the cultivation and improvement of his farm.
During the last few years of his life, however, he lived retired, first
in
Armstrong and later in Ringsted, where he passed away July 18, 1913.
His wife had died on the 6th of November, 1902, and both were laid to
rest in St. Paul's cemetery.
Reared under the parental roof, Hans K. Bonnicksen attended the
neighboring schools until sixteen years of age and gave his father the
benefit of his services upon the home farm until he attained his
majority. His life has practically been devoted to agricultural
pursuits and at
the age of twenty-six years he purchased the north half of the
southeast
quarter of section 22, Denmark township, to which he subsequently added
the north half of the south half of that quarter section, making one
hundred and twenty acres in all. Still later he purchased the north
half of the south half of the northwest quarter, of section 23 and has
since been
actively engaged in the operation of this land.
In 1892 Mr. Bonnicksen married Miss Lena Schulz, a daughter of Peter
and Krogh Schulz, who came to this country from Denmark and were early
settlers of Denmark township, Emmet county. Her father is deceased and
is buried in St. John's cemetery, but her mother is still
living and is now Mrs. N. C. Nielsen, of Ringsted. The children born to
Mr. and Mrs. Bonnicksen are Carl, Katrina, Christina and Arnold, all at
home.
The family hold membership in St. John's Lutheran church, and Mr.
Bonnicksen affiliates with the republican party. He has been called
upon to serve as township clerk two years, school director one year and
road supervisor one year. For a number of years he has been a director
of the Ringsted Creamery Company and is also a director of the Farmers
Savings Bank of Ringsted. In business affairs he has steadily prospered
owing to his wise judgment and untiring industry and he now ranks among
the well-to-do farmers and representative citizens of his community.
KNUDT BONNICKSEN
Knudt Bonnicksen, who is giving his undivided attention to the
operation of a good farm of eighty acres on section 13, Denmark
township, was born in Clinton, Iowa, on the 14th of June, 1885. His
parents, Jurgen and Laura Bonnicksen, were born in Denmark but
emigrated to the United States many years ago and after living for a
time in Clinton, Iowa, removed to Kossuth county, where the father is
now farming.
Knudt Bonnicksen, who is the firstborn of a family of nine children,
attended the public schools of Kossuth county until he was sixteen
years old and later was for two terms a student in Elkhorn College at
Elkhorn, Iowa. He assisted his father with the operation of the home
place until he was twenty-five years old and then came to Denmark
township, Emmet county, where he rented land for four years. Two years
were spent as a renter in Kossuth county, but at the end of that time
he returned to Denmark township, Emmet county, and bought the west half
of the southeast quarter of section 13, on which he has since resided.
He has made a number of improvements upon his farm and is
careful to conserve the fertility of the soil. He is up-to-date and at
the same time practical in his methods and receives a good annual
income from his land.
Mr. Bonnicksen was united in marriage on the 26th of January, 1910,
to Miss Gina Toft, a daughter of Hans and Abilena Toft, who were among
the first settlers of Denmark township and are now living retired in
Ringsted. Mr. and Mrs. Bonnicksen are the parents of three children,
namely, Vivian, Chalmer and Harry.
Mr. Bonnicksen supports the republican party at the polls, but has
not been otherwise active in politics. He is a member of St. John's
Danish Lutheran church and fraternally is identified with the Danish
Brotherhood. He has been entirely dependent upon his own resources
since starting out in life for himself and the prosperity which he has
gained is an indication of his ability and industry.
WILLIAM EDWIN
BRADLEY, M.D.
Dr. William Edwin Bradley, successfully engaged in the practice of
medicine at Estherville, comes to this field well equipped by liberal
university and college training for the responsible duties which
devolve upon him in this connection. He was born in LaCrosse county,
Wisconsin, February
14, 1865, a son of Albert O. and Jennie (Mois) Bradley. The father was
born at Spring Prairie, Walworth county, Wisconsin, November 13, 1838.
The mother, a native of England, born April 11, 1840, came to America
when four years of age and passed away in Estherville on the 9th of
July, 1911. The family lived for many years in La Crosse county and
during the period of his youth William E. Bradley mastered the branches
of learning that constitute the curriculum of the public schools there,
becoming a high school pupil at Sparta. Subsequently he entered the
University of Wisconsin, in which he remained a student from 1886 until
1890, winning the Bachelor of Science degree. He next entered the Rush
Medical College of Chicago and
completed his professional course by graduation with the class of 1892.
For six months he practiced in Stanley, Wisconsin, and since November,
1892, has resided continuously in Estherville, where during the
intervening period of twenty-five years he has built up a very
successful and gratifying practice. He is most conscientious in the
performance of all his professional duties, recognizing fully the
obligations and
responsibilities that devolve upon him, and he has ever kept well
informed concerning the latest discoveries in medical science, and
while never hasty in discarding old and time-tried methods, he is yet
quick to
appreciate the worth of new ideas advanced and to utilize them in his
professional labors.
On the 17th of July, 1895, in Estherville, Iowa, Dr. Bradley was united
in marriage to Miss Eva C. Robinson, daughter of John M. and Martha
Robinson. They are now the parents of two children, Janet Marian and
William Robinson. Dr. Bradley and his wife are consistent members of
the Presbyterian church and in social circles they occupy an enviable
position, the hospitality of the best homes of the city and
surrounding country being cordially extended to them in appreciation of
their sterling worth. Dr. Bradley is also a well known Mason,
holding membership in lodge, chapter and commandery, but he makes all
other interests subservient to his professional duties and in his
chosen
calling he has continuously progressed by reason of his wide study, his
broad experience and his sympathetic and almost intuitive understanding
of
people.
JESSE V. BURKHEAD
Jesse V. Burkhead, the proprietor of the only clothing store in
Armstrong, Iowa, is an up-to-date and enterprising merchant, sparing no
pains to satisfy his customers. He was born in Brandon, Buchanan
county, Iowa, September 12, 1884, and is a son of Gilbert W. and Nora
R. (Pike) Burkhead, likewise natives of Buchanan county. In 1889 the j
family removed to Emmet county, where the father became a landowner,
and agricultural pursuits continued to claim his attention until 1906.
He now makes his home with his son, Jesse V., but the mother passed
away on the 25th of December, 1914.
Jesse V. Burkhead was but a child when the family home was
established in this county and received his education in the schools
here. For several years he clerked in a clothing store in Armstrong and
in 1906 he engaged in that line of business on his own account in
partnership with H. J. Felkey, his father-in-law, under the firm name
of Felkey & Company. This connection was maintained for four years,
at the end of which time Mr. Burkhead became sole proprietor of the
store, which he is still conducting. It is the only clothing store in
the town and he enjoys a large patronage, his trade covering not only
Armstrong but the adjoining districts. He carries a large stock of the
best makes of ready-to-wear clothing and is thoroughly reliable in all
his business dealings. He also owns a store at Swea City, Iowa.
The marriage of Mr. Burkhead and Miss Florence M. Felkey was
celebrated on the Ist of January, 1908. She is a daughter of H. J. and
Rebecca Felkey, a sketch of whom appears elsewhere in this work.
To this union have been born two children: Lorna D., whose natal
day was July 31, 1909; and Jesse V., born November 30, 1916.
Mr. Burkhead casts his ballot in support of the men and measures of
the republican party and has been honored by election to the town
council, of which he has been a member for three years. He is a Mason.
In building up the large trade which he enjoys he has not only won
individual success but has also contributed to the commercial
development of his town and can always be counted upon to cooperate
with others in advancing the interests of the community as a whole.
RALPH M. BUTLER
Ralph M. Butler, who is acceptably serving as cashier of the
Farmers Savings Bank of Ringsted, is a native of Iowa, his birth
occurring in
Benton county on the 15th of February, 1890. His parents are Allen R.
and Josephine (Grettenberg) Butler, the former a native of Ohio and the
latter of Black Hawk county, Iowa. It was during his childhood that the
father came to this state and located in Benton county, where he made
his home until 1894, when he removed to Emmet county, Iowa. After
farming here for some time he embarked in the hardware business at
Dolliver and in April, 1915, after serving as sheriff of Emmet county
for eight years, removed to Ceylon, Minnesota, where he has since
engaged in the banking business, being president of the First National
Bank at that place and one of its leading business men. His wife is
also living.
Being only four years of age on the removal of the family to Emmet
county, Ralph M. Butler was here reared and educated. At the age of
eighteen he entered a bank at Dolliver as bookkeeper and held that
position for three and one-half years. Subsequently he was cashier in a
bank at Cylinder for the same length of time, and' then came to
Ringsted, Emmet county, to accept the position of cashier of the
Farmers Savings Bank. This institution was organized in 1915 by Mr.
Butler and his father and the capital stock is fifteen thousand
dollars, while the
deposits now amount to seventy thousand dollars. The present officers
are Andrew Larson, president; J. M. Resh, vice president; R. M. Butler,
cashier;
and S. C. Horen, assistant cashier. Beside his interest in this bank
Mr.
Butler is a stockholder of the First National Bank of Ceylon,
Minnesota. He is
a man of good business and executive ability, thoroughly understands
the financial interests of the country and in his chosen field of labor
is
meeting with excellent success.
In politics Mr. Butler is a republican and is now serving as town
clerk
of Ringsted and as secretary of the school board. Religiously he is a
member of the Presbyterian church and fraternally is connected with the
Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the Loyal Order of Moose, the Modern
Woodmen of America, and the Yeomen. He is one of the
representative
young business men of Emmet county ho has already met with
success in life and a bright future seems in store for him.
GEORGE W. CANON
George W. Canon, who is living retired in
Armstrong, is characterized by an unusual degree of public spirit and
has been active in local affairs, especially in the promotion of the
educational interests of the town. He was born in Sullivan county, New
York, June 30, 1865, and his parents were Cornelius and Ruth (Wood)
Canon, natives of Sullivan county and Delaware county, New YoRk,
respectively. In June, 1872, the family emigrated to the west and took
up their residence in Armstrong Grove township, Einmet county, Iowa,
where the father homesteaded land. He devoted the remainder of his life
to the operation of that farm and passed away on the 2nd of August,
1895, when seventy-three years old. The mother died in March, 1902,
also at the age of seventy-three years.
George W. Canon was reared and educated in this county and has been
a witness of much of its development. He remained with his parents
until he attained his majority and then farmed rented land for a year.
At the end of that time he purchased one hundred and sixty acres in
sections 24 and 25, Armstrong Grove township, which he farmed until
1896. He then sold that place and bought another tract of land which he
operated for three years and then sold. He then came to Armstrong and
for eight years engaged in the produce business, handling poultry and
eggs. At the end of that period he again turned his attention to
farming, purchasing land in section 20, Iowa Lake township. For five
years he cultivated that tract and then disposed of it and bought a
quarter section in Pipestone county, Minnesota, but at the end of a
year sold that place and returned to Emmet county, farming land
belonging to his father-in-law for two years. He then purchased five
acres within the corporation limits of Armstrong and has since resided
here, enjoying a well-earned leisure. He erected a fine residence
modern, in every
particular.
In July, 1891, Mr. Canon was united in marriage to Miss Victoria
Horswell, a daughter of Richard and Dorcas Horswell. Mr. and Mrs. Canon
have a daughter, WinifREd, whose birth occurred on the 27th of April,
1894.
Mr. Canon is a staunch supporter of the RepubHcan party, in
rehgious faith is a Methodist, and fraternally is connected with the
Masonic Order. He was assessor for one year and for seven years has
been a member of the school board. He was instrumental in the building
of the new consolidated school at Armstrong, of which the community is
justly proud, and was also a member of the board that erected the old
schoolhouse. All that he has undertaken he has done to the best of his
ability and his efforts have been crowned with success.
FRANK CARPENTER
Frank Carpenter, who since 1888 has been connected with the Estherville Democrat and has been
owner and editor of the paper since November, 1896, is now also filling
the position of postmaster in
Estherville. Iowa numbers him among her native sons, for his birth
occurred in Webster City, November 5, 1870. His parents were Charles
and Louise P. (Miller) Carpenter. In the schools of Webster City and of
Estherville he pursued his education and his early life was devoted to
agricultural pursuits, but later he took up the newspaper business, in
which he has since been engaged, securing a position on the Estherville Democrat in 1888. Finding this
pursuit congenial, he worked his way upward and in November, 1896, took
over the paper by purchase and has since been its owner and publisher,
making it one of the chief
democratic organs and leading newspapers in the northwestern part of
the state. He also has other business interests, being one of the
stockholders and directors of the Iowa Savings Bank of Estherville.
Mr. Carpenter is identified with several fraternal organizations,
having membership with the Elks, the Woodmen, the Homesteaders and the
Moose. In politics he has always been an earnest democrat since age
conferred upon him the right of franchise and from 1910 until 1914 he
served as chairman of the democratic county central committee. In July,
1913, he was appointed by President Wilson to the position of
postmaster of Estherville and has since served in that capacity. He has
ever stood for progress and improvement in community aff'airs as well
as for advancement in matters of national importance and he is
recognized as a splendid type of American manhood and chivalry.
ROY D. CARSON
Roy D. Carson, a well known resident of Armstrong, is one of Iowa's
native sons, his birth occurring in Union, Hardin county, October 23,
1882. His parents were Eli William and Melissa (Humphrey) Carson,
natives of Indiana and Ohio respectively. During the Civil war the
father served in the Union army for three years and eight months and
was holding the rank of lieutenant when mustered out. He afterward
removed to Cresco, Iowa, where lie purchased land and engaged in
farming for some time. Subsequently he owned and operated a farm near
Union in Hardin county for many years, but finally retired from active
labor and removed to Union, where he was living at the time of his
death, which occurred in October, 1915, when he was seventy-nine years
of age. His wife had passed away in 1901.
In the public schools of Union, Iowa, Roy D. Carson acquired his
education and in early life he learned the barber's trade, at which he
worked in different places until 1914. In 1908 he had become a resident
of Armstrong, Emmet county, and since selling his barber shop there has
conducted a billiard hall at that place and has also engaged in the
real estate business, handling Iowa, Minnesota and North and South
Dakota lands. To some extent he has also followed auctioneering. He
owns the building in which he is now engaged in business and also a
nice residence in Armstrong.
On the 31st of March, 1905, Mr. Carson married Miss Lulu Shea, a
daughter of John and Elizabeth Shea, and they have one child,
Virginia, born in 1915. In religious faith they are Methodists, and Mr.
Carson is also a member of the Modern Woodmen of America. The
republican party finds in him a staunch supporter of its principles and
he takes a deep and commendable interest in public affairs. Wherever
known he is held in high esteem and he has a host of friends in
and around Armstrong.
FRED W. CHEEVER
Fred W. Cheever, who is devoting practically his entire time to the
operation of his excellent farm on section 15, Iowa Lake township, is
also interested financially in a number of local business
enterprises. His birth occurred in Butler county, Iowa, in March, 1874,
and he is a son of Samuel W. and Helen (Tufts) Cheever, an account of
whose lives appears in the sketch of John T. Cheever.
Fred W. Cheever remained at home until he was twenty-three years of age
and after completing his education in the district schools
assisted his father with the farm work for several years. For a time he
had charge of the operation of the home place, but in 1898, at the
outbreak of the Spanish-American war, offered his services to the
government. He enlisted in Company D, Fifty-second Iowa Volunteer
Regiment, but was transferred to Company D, Forty-ninth Iowa
Volunteers. He was taken ill while in camp and was in a hospital at
Fort McPherson,
Atlanta, Georgia, for twenty weeks. On the 24th of May, 1899, he
returned home and in the following year arrived in Emmet county, Iowa,
where he has since lived. He purchased one hundred and twenty acres on
section 15, Iowa Lake township, and at once began the operation of his
place. During the first winter, however, he also engaged in teaching
school but is now concentrating his energies upon his farm work. He has
added to his holdings eighty acres adjoining his original purchase and
the entire tract of two hundred acres is in a high state of cultivation
and
produces excellent crops. He also raises some stock and his annual
income ensures him of all the comforts of life. He is a stockholder in
the Farmers Elevator Company of Armstrong and also in the Armstrong
cement factory, of which he is likewise vice president and a director.
Mr. Cheever was married on the 23d of December, 1901, to Miss Martha
Hanson and they have become the parents of three children: Lester F.,
who was born December 9, 1908; Arnold N., born September 24, 1912; and
Martha Fern, born in August, 1915.
Mr. Cheever is a strong republican in his political belief and is quite
influential in public affairs. He is now town clerk, which office he
has filled since 1905, and for many years has been secretary of the
school board, his experience as a teacher qualifying him unusually well
to have voice in the management of the local schools. He is
characterized by those qualities which invariably win esteem and regard
and his
personal friends are many.
JOHN T. CHEEVER
John T. Cheever, who owns and operates two hundred and forty acres
on sections 14 and 15, Iowa Lake township, was born in Oneida county,
New York, August 12, 1866. His parents, S. W. and Helen (Tufts)
Cheever, were also natives of the Empire state. The father followed
contracting there until 1874, when with his family he removed to Butler
county, Iowa, where he became a landowner. There he engaged in farming
until his death on the 2nd of June, 1891, at the age of
sixty-six years and three months. The mother's death occurred in March,
1896, and she was at that time fifty-seven years and seven months old.
John T. Cheever attended the public schools in New
York State and Butler county, Iowa, in the acquirement of his
education, and through assisting his father as a boy and youth gained a
valuable knowledge of farm work. After attaining his majority he rented
land in Butler county, in March, 1896, came to Emmet county and rented
land here. He operated that place for two years, after which he bought
his present farm, comprising two hundred and forty acres on sections 14
and 15, Iowa Lake township. The buildings are located on section 14 and
they, as well as the other improvements upon the farm, have been placed
there by Mr. Cheever. His property is one of the best developed and
most attractive and valuable farms in the locality. He raises both
grain and stock and finds that the two phases of farming co-ordinate
well. He is a
stockholder in the Armstrong Cement Company.
Mr. Cheever was married on the 31st of January, 1893, to Miss Ella M.
Babcock, and they have become the parents of three children, namely:
Carl A., who was born January 9, 1895, and died the following June;
Linden L., born in September, 1899; and Laura H., born December 3, 1904.
Mr. Cheever is an advocate of Republican principles and supports
the candidates of that party at the polls. He is now township assessor
and for the past two years has been one of the school directors. He has
been characterized throughout his life by industry, perseverance and
strict integrity, qualities which go far toward gaining success in any
field of endeavor.
JENS CHRISTENSEN
For a third of a century Jens Christensen, who is now living retired in
Ringsted, has resided in Emmet county and during that period has seen a
transformation that is well nigh incredible. When he arrived here the
county was a frontier district with a few widely scattered white
settlers and today it is a prosperous and up-to-date farming region.
For many years he engaged in agricultural pursuits but is now living in
honorable retirement. He was born in Denmark, November 23, 1849, and is
one of six children whose parents were Christian and Carrie Marie
(Clausen) Jensen, lifelong residents 'of that country, where the father
was a blacksmith and small farmer.
Jens Christensen attended the public schools until he was confirmed and
from that time until he was twenty-three years of age, with the
exception of six months spent in military training, worked for others,
thus providing for his own support. He desired to take advantage of the
unusual opportunities which he had heard the United States offered to
energetic young men and in 1873 came to America, locating in the upper
peninsula of Michigan, where he was employed in the iron mines for two
years. Later he worked on farms near Oshkosh, Wisconsin, and while
there received his citizenship papers. After a year he
returned to the mines, where he remained for a year, and then went to
Illinois, being employed in the stone quarries at Lamont and Joliet for
three years. He next operated a rented farm near Green Bay, Wisconsin,
and in 1883 came to Denmark township, Emmet county, Iowa, and purchased
eighty acres of land, comprising the west half of the southwest quarter
of section 22. Later he bought the northeast quarter of section 28 and
the east half of the northwest quarter of that section. As soon as
possible he brought his. land under cultivation and for almost three
decades his time and energy were given to farming and stock raising. He
was not afraid of hard work and his industry, combined with his good
management, enabled him to gain a substantial competence. In 1911 he
retired from active life and built a fine modern home in Ringsted,
where he is now living.
In 1880 occurred the marriage of Mr. Christensen and Miss Mary Hansen,
likewise a native of Denmark, where her parents lived and died. To Mr.
and Mrs. Christensen were born six children: Arthur, who is married and
lives near Antelope, Sheridan county, Montana; Will, also a resident of
that locality; John, who is married and lives in
Ringsted; Harold, who is married and resides in Sanders county,
Montana; Anna, at home; and Elmer, a resident of Sheridan county,
Montana.
Mr. Christensen is a staunch republican in politics, but has never had
the time nor inclination to take an active part in public affairs
although never remiss in his duties as a good citizen. He came to this
country empty handed and had no influential friends to aid him in
gaining a start but was determined to succeed and has accomplished his
purpose, for
he is now in very comfortable circumstances. Moreover, he has never
resorted to questionable dealings and is esteemed for his
integrity as well as his ability.
CHARLES CHRISTIAN
The wealth of Emmet county consists largely of its productive and
finely improved farms and its prosperity depends more largely upon the
farmers than upon any other class of people. Among the most progressive
and successful agriculturists of Jack Creek township is Charles
Christian, a native of La Salle county, Illinois. He was born on the 2d
of February, 1862, a son of Thomas and Hellen (Rasmussen) Christian,
who were born in Norway. On emigrating to America both located in
Illinois, where their marriage occurred. From La Salle county they went
to Livingston county, that state, whence they later removed to
Cass county, Iowa. There the father died but the mother is now living
in Ada, Minnesota.
Charles Christian is one of five living children of a family of
nine and his education was that afforded in the public schools of
Illinois.
When twenty-two years of age he left home and went to South Dakota but
after spending a year in that state returned to Cass county, Iowa,
where he worked on a farm for two years. The succeeding three years
were devoted to the cultivation of rented land in that county. In the
spring of 1901
he came to Emmet county and bought one hundred and sixty acres on
section 6, Jack Creek township, to the development of which he has
since devoted his energies. He has erected fine buildings upon the
place and has otherwise improved it and his hard work and good
management have led to the accumulation of a competence.
In 1892 Mr. Christian was united in marriage to Miss Christina
Paulson, who was born in Minnesota, and they have nine children,
Gilbert T., Hazel A., Tomena G., Carl C., Anna D., Melvin R., Milford
J., Edward L. and Agnes J.
Mr. Christian supports the republican party at the polls and is now
serving his third year as township assessor and is also township
trustee. His interest in the schools is indicated by the fact that he
is serving upon the board of school directors. Both he and his wife are
identified with the Lutheran church and in their daily lives practice
the teachings of Christianity.
CHARLES S. CHURCHILL
Charles S. Churchill, of Armstrong, has the reputation of being one
of the most skilled carpenters of the town and his services are in
great demand. He is also a leading factor in public aff'airs, having
been
called to many local oflices. He was born in Jackson county, Iowa,
January 25, 1859, and is a son of Samuel B. and Elizabeth (Smith)
Churchill, born respectively in New York and in Canada. After leaving
Jackson county, Iowa, the family removed to Mitchell county, whence in
1872 they came to Emmet county. The father bought a relinquishment on a
homestead claim in Armstrong Grove township and devoted the remainder
of his life to the operation of his farm. His death occurred in
September,
1885, but the mother survives and is still living upon the home place.
Charles S. Churchill obtained his education in the schools of
Mitchell and Emmet counties, Iowa, and gave his father the benefit of
his labor until he was twenty-five years of age. He then rented land
and three years later bought eighty acres in Armstrong Grove township,
on which he resided continuously until 1896. He engaged in general
farming and stock raising and derived a gratifying annual income from
his land. As time passed his resources steadily increased and in 1896
he sold his
place and removed to Armstrong, where he has since followed the
carpenter s trade He is very proficient in that line of work and has
erected many of the best buildings in the town. He owns his home and
another good residence, which he rents.
In March, 1884, Mr. Churchill was united in marriage to Miss Amanda
J. Clark and they have become the parents of five children, Sadie and
Mina, twins; Mary, Addie and Lilly. Mr. Churchill believes firmly in
the principles of the republican party and for years has taken an
active part in political affairs. For eighteen years he held the
office of constable, is now street commissioner and is also serving as
city
marshal and water commissioner, having been appointed to the last two
offices in May, 1916. He is very conscientious in the discharge of his
official duties and no trust reposed in him has ever been betrayed. His
life has been a busy and active one and has made for the advancement of
his community as well as for individual success.
BERT L. CLARK
Bert L. Clark, engaged in the real estate and insurance business at
Dolliver, was born in Rock Falls, Wisconsin, April 29, 1882, and is a
son of B. P. and Ella (Wallace) Clark, the former also a native of
Wisconsin and the latter of Pennsylvania. The parents were married in
Wisconsin where they continued to reside until 1889 and then came to
Emmet county, Iowa, locating on a farm in Iowa Lake township which the
father still owns. The mother passed away October 26, 1916, leaving two
children, namely: Grace, now the wife of W. A. Richmond; and Bert L.,
of this review.
The latter was seven years of age on the removal of the family to
Emmet county, where he passed the days of his boyhood and youth in much
the usual manner of farmer boys. He attended the common schools and was
graduated from the high school of Estherville in 1901. He also pursued
a commercial course in a business college at Cedar
Rapids and for one year was connected with the Iowa Savings Bank at
Estherville, Iowa. In 1906 he was made cashier of the Citizens Bank of
Dolliver and after its reorganization as the Farmers Savings Bank in
1912
continued in that position until January 1, 1917. He is now engaged in
the real estate and insurance business. He owns a nice residence in the
village and also one hundred and twenty acres of land and a half
interest in an eighty-acre tract in Emmet county.
Mr. Clark was married in 1911 to Miss Hazel Follett, a native of
Emmet county and a daughter of E. A. and Katherine (Gardner) Follett.
Her father was born in New York state and her mother in Vermont, but
for many years they have made their home in Iowa. To Mr. and Mrs. Clark
have been born three children: Faye C., who died March 15, 1916;
Loraine E.; and Mavis C. Mr. Clark affiliates with the republican party
and is now serving on the town board. Fraternally, he is identified
with Armstrong Lodge, No. 533, A. F. & A. M. He is one of the
representative business men of the town and wherever known he is held
in the highest esteem.
HARVEY E. CLARK
Harvey E. Clark, a well known representative of farming interests
in Center township, Emmet county, resides on section 5, where a
well-improved farm of one hundred and sixty acres pays tribute to the
care and labor which he bestows upon it. Indiana claims him as a native
son, his birth having occurred in Putnam county. May 6, 1862, his
parents being Alexander C. and Nancy (Bly) Clark, natives of the
Hoosier state, who in 1864 removed to Dallas county, Iowa, where they
settled upon a farm. Both are still living. To them were born fourteen
children, eight of whom survive.
Harvey E. Clark was but two years of age at the time of the removal
to Dallas county, so that the period of his youth was largely passed
there and to the public school system he is indebted for his
educational
opportunities. His farm training was received under his father's
direction and he continued to assist in the development of the old
homestead until he reached the age of twenty-five years, when, desirous
of engaging in farming on his own account, he bought land in Dallas
county which he continued to cultivate until 1911, when he sold that
property and
invested in six hundred acres in Center township, Emmet county,
constituting his present home property. This is well improved and his
attention is systematically given to the work of the farm and results
in the
harvesting of good crops annually.
In 1887 occurred the marriage of Harvey E. Clark and Miss Deborah
C. Mills, a native of Dallas county, Iowa, and a daughter of Jeremiah
and Nancy (Etchison) Mills, both now deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Clark have
become the parents of six children, but lost their firstborn. Bertha.
The others are: Earl C, Ivol W., Esther P., now Mrs. T. O. Marriott;
Everett A., and Dean A.
The parents are consistent members of the Christian church and Mr.
Clark gives his political allegiance to the Democratic party. He is now
serving as chairman of the board of trustees in his township and is
ever loyal in his support of all plans and projects tending to
promote the public welfare. His has been an active and well spent life
and his labors have found their legitimate reward in substantial
success.
R. C. COLEMAN, M.D.
Striving ever to reach high professional standards, his attainments
along the line of his chosen life work have brought Dr. R. C. Coleman
prominently before the public as a most capable physician and surgeon
of Estherville. He was born in Livermore, Iowa, on the 12th of
November, 1889, a son of Isaac Coleman, a native of Toronto, Canada,
who when about sixteen years of age crossed the border into New York
state, where he resided for five years. He then removed westward to
Iowa, settling at Lost Nation, Jackson county, where he spent three
years. He afterward removed to Livermore, Humboldt county, and in 1899
came to Emmet county, establishing his home in Dolliver, where he
remained for four years. During that period he devoted his attention to
the hardware business, after which he took up the occupation of
farming, in which he continued throughout the remainder of his active
business life. In 1914, however, he put aside business cares and
removed to Estherville, where
he is now enjoying a well earned rest. It was subsequent to his removal
to Iowa that he married Miss Nettie Moulton, of Maquoketa, whose
parents had removed to Jackson county, Iowa, from New York in 1844,
being among the first of the pioneer settlers of that district.
At the usual age Dr. Coleman became a public school pupil and
continued his education in the high school at Armstrong, from which he
was graduated with the class of 1904. In the fall of 1905 he entered
the Iowa State University, in which he pursued a two years' course in
the liberal arts. In 1908 he matriculated in the medical department of
the State University and won his M.D. degree in due course of time as a
graduate of the class of 1912. He spent the following year as an
interne in the University Hospital and in post graduate work and
through his hospital experience gained that broad knowledge and
efficiency which can be secured in no other way as quickly as in
hospital practice. In July, 1913, he went to Europe for further study
and spent eight months in attendance at the clinics in Vienna, after
which he made his way to Gratz, Austria, where he spent six months in
further study, whereby he became familiar with the methods of some of
the most eminent
physicians and surgeons of the old world. In October, 1914, he returned
to the United States to take up the practice of his profession and on
the
20th of January, 1915, opened an office in Estherville, Iowa, where in
the
past two years he has built up an extensive practice.
On the 24th of May, 1916, Dr. Coleman was united in marriage to
Miss Josephine Dean Smith, of Minneapolis, Minnesota. He is a member of
Estherville Lodge, No. 545, B. P. O. E., and of the Phi Rho Sigma, a
college fraternity. Dr. Coleman also belongs to the Emmet County
Medical Society and the Iowa State Medical Association, and while one
of the younger, he is also recognized as one of the foremost physicians
and surgeons of Emmet county, thoroughly in touch with the mos modern
methods and scientific practices known to the profession.
MISS VERA M. COLEMAN
Miss Vera M. Coleman, now serving as postmistress of Dolliver, is a
native of Humboldt county, Iowa, and a daughter of Isaac and Nettie
(Moulton) Coleman. Her father was born in Toronto, Canada, and when
about sixteen years of age removed to New York state, where the
following five years were passed. At the end of that time he came to
Iowa and spent three years at Lost Nation, Jackson county. Subsequently
he made his way to Livermore, Humboldt county, Iowa, and in 1899 came
to Emmet county. For four years he was engaged in the hardware business
at Dolliver and then turned his attention to
agricultural pursuits, which he continued to follow throughout the
remainder of his active life. Since 1914, however, he has made his home
in
Estherville and has lived retired. His wife was born in Maquoketa, her
parents having become residents of Jackson county, Iowa, in 1844. They
were from New York and were early settlers of Jackson county.
Miss Vera M. Coleman was given good educational advantages and is a
graduate of Dolliver high school. She also spent one year at the Iowa
State University. In 1914 she was appointed postmistress of
Dolliver by President Wilson and has acceptably filled that position
ever since. She is one of the most prominent ladies in the town and is
an earnest member of the Methodist Episcopal church.
PETER CONLIN
Peter Conlin followed agricultural pursuits
throughout his active life and his well directed labors yielded him a
good financial return.
His last days were spent in honorable retirement from business cares in
Armstrong, where he passed away September 4, 1916. He was born in
Massachusetts on the 20th of March, 1845, and is a son of James and
Anna (Gallagher) Conlin, who emigrated to this country from Ireland in
an early day and located in Massachusetts. The father farmed there
until the removal of the family to Wisconsin, where he became a
landowner. He passed away in 1886 at the advanced age of eighty-four
years, and the mother died in 1858.
Peter Conlin spent his boyhood and youth in Wisconsin and received
his education in the public schools of that state. When not quite
seventeen years of age he was employed in hauling provisions for the
Union army and was at the front for about three years. He was taken
captive and because of the terrible conditions of prison life became so
emaciated that he was little more than a skeleton when he returned to
his home in
Wisconsin. As soon as he had sufficiently recovered his strength he
went to work as a farm hand and so continued until 1871, when he came
to Emmet county, Iowa, and took up a homestead in Armstrong Grove
township. He brought that place to a high state of cultivation and made
many improvements thereon. For thirty-three years his time and energy
were taken up with the operation of his farm, and his good management
and thrift enabled him to accumulate a competence. At length he retired
and took up his residence in Armstrong, where he died September 4,
1916, at the age of seventy-one years and five months.
On the 4th of December, 1869, Mr. Conlin was married to Miss Delia
Harrity, a daughter of John and Bridget (Thornton) Harrity, who were
natives of Ireland but emigrated to America, locating near
Cleveland, Ohio. The father was for a time foreman on a large farm
there, but later the family removed to Wisconsin and he purchased land,
which he cultivated until his death. To Mr. and Mrs. Conlin were born
five children: Anna, who died April 24, 1906; Mary and John, twins;
James, and Patrick, who is a resident of Emmetsburg.
Mr. Conlin was a Democrat in politics but was without ambition to
hold office, being content to discharge his duties as a citizen in a
private capacity. However, he was chosen by popular suffrage trustee of
his township. In religious faith he was a Catholic. The patriotism
which prompted him to give his services to the Union at the time of the
Civil War characterized him throughout life and he always placed the
general welfare above his personal interests.
BYRON M. COON
Byron M. Coon is engaged in the practice of law in Estherville, being a well known attorney of Emmet county. He was born in Washington, D. C, March 3, 1880, and is a son of Byron C. and Janet (McPherson) Coon, who were natives of New York and of Maryland respectively. The father is now a distinguished citizen of the nation's capital and at present is filling a position in the office of the second assistant postmaster general. He has been connected with the postoffice department there for forty-five years and no higher testimonial of fidelity and capability could be found than the statement of the fact of his long connection with the department and his steady advancement in the service.
Byron M. Coon, reared in his native city, attended
the George Washington Law University, from which he was graduated on
the completion of the regular course. He was then admitted to practice
before the supreme court of the District of Columbia and in the United
States courts in 1908. He spent six months in a law office, gaining
practical experience, and on the expiration of that period removed
westward to Estherville, Iowa, where he became associated in practice
with George E. Patterson, opening an ofiice in the old Coon block. This
was before the fire of 1904. He continued his connection witli Mr.
Patterson for a year and later was associated in law practice with
Judge N. J. Lee for a year subsequent to 1910 but between the years
1904 and 1910 was alone in practice. In April, 1916, he was joined by
S. G. Bammer in a law partnership that is still maintained. He is
devoting his attention to general law practice and is a strong and able
attorney, preparing his cases with great thoroughness and care. He is
resourceful, being seldom surprised by the unexpected attack of an
adversary, and at all times his deductions are sound, his reasonings
logical and his arguments convincing. He first gleaned knowledge of
Estherville through a visit with relatives, Mr. and Mrs. C. C.
Doolittle, and becoming
impressed with the city and its opportunities, he returned to enter the
field of active practice here in 1903. In 1901 he had been connected
with the agricultural branch of the twelfth federal census, editing the
agricultural data, and this brought him much knowledge concerning the
state, its conditions and its opportunities, leading to his later
investigation, with the result that Iowa gained a substantial citizen
and Mr. Coon found here a profitable field of labor.
In 1906 occurred the marriage of Mr. Coon and Miss Mary E. Lesher, a
daughter of W. A. and Alvira Lesher, then of Estherville. The mother is
now deceased, while the father at the present time resides in Le Mars,
Iowa. Mr. and Mrs. Coon have become the parents of three children: Paul
L., who was born April 12, 1907; Janet, April 4, 1909;and Mary
Elizabeth, June 30, 1912.
The parents are members of the Presbyterian church and in the social
life of the city they occupy an enviable position. Fraternally Mr. Coon
is connected with the Elks, the Odd Fellows, the Modern Woodmen of
America and the Yeomen. For two years he was venerable consul of the
Modern Woodmen camp at Estherville and was lecturing knight for the
Elks for a year. His political endorsement is given to
the republican party and he has several times been called upon to fill
positions of honor and trust. For four years he served as justice of
the peace and his decisions in that office were strictly fair and
impartial. For a similar period he filled the oflice of secretary of
the
independent school district of Estherville. In 1905 he was called to
the position of city attorney, which office he occupied for four terms,
resigning in
1913 to become county attorney, in which position he is now serving for
the second term, making an excellent record by his devotion to duty,
coupled with his comprehensive knowledge of the law and his ability to
correctly apply its principles.
ROBERT IRVIN CRATTY
One of the most prominent and influential citizens of Armstrong
Grove township, Emmet county, is Robert Irvin Cratty, the proprietor of
The Maples, located on section 11. He was born in Butler county,
Pennsylvania, February 5, 1853, and is a son of William C. and Martha
(Hirsch) Cratty, who were also natives of the old Keystone state. The
father followed farming in Pennsylvania until 1863, when he removed
with his family to Illinois and cohtinued to engage in the same
occupation in that state until his death in 1875. The mother had passed
away in 1865.
Robert Irvin Cratty began his education in the schools of Pennsylvania
and later pursued his studies in the schools of Illinois. On leaving
the latter state in 1877 he came to Iowa, where he engaged in teaching
school for twenty-one years. He was principal of the schools of
Estherville from 1879 to 1882. Prior to this, in 1878, he purchased his
present farm of one hundred and sixty acres on section 11, Armstrong
Grove township, and began its improvement. He now has a very valuable
tract on which are good and substantial buildings and the land is under
excellent cultivation.
Mr. Cratty was married April 19, 1878, to Miss Lovina E. Canon, who
died on the 22nd of December, 1896, leaving four children, namely:
Mabel E.; Edna R.; Alta M.; and Ralph W. On March 4, 1910, Mr. Cratty
was united in marriage to Mrs. Mollie E. Webster, of Minneapolis,
Minnesota. They are active and consistent members of the Presbyterian
church and Mr. Cratty holds the office of Elder. In politics he is a
republican and at present is serving as township clerk, which position
he has filled for many years. He has also been township trustee and, in
fact, has held either one or the other of the two offices for twenty
years. He was also treasurer of the school board for twenty years and
is a stockholder of the First National Bank of Armstrong. Botany has
become his hobby and he has made a large collection of Iowa and
Minnesota plants, having a herbarium of six thousand species. He has
also written much on the flora of Iowa and has devoted much of his
leisure time to that study. He is one of the leading citizens of his
community and is a man who commands the respect and confidence of all
with whom he isbrought in contact in both business and social life.
CHARLES W. CRIM
Charles W. Crim, a member of the Estherville bar, was born in
Carroll county, Ohio, in May, 1850, a son of John and Salina Crim, who
were farming people of the Buckeye state, whence they removed to Iowa
in 1855, settling in Boone county, near Mineral Ridge, where they spent
their remaining days. They were members of the Methodist Episcopal
church and people of genuine personal worth. They reared a family of
three sons and six daughters. The Crim family comes of German ancestry
and was established on American soil prior to the Revolutionary war,
settlement being made in Virginia. One branch of the family, opposed to
the institution of slavery, removed to Ohio and from that
state its representatives have gone to all parts of the country,
especially to various states of the west.
Charles W. Crim learned life's lessons practically in the hard
school of experience. He worked on a farm through the summer and in the
winter months mastered such branches of learning as were taught in the
district schools near his father's home. Between the ages of eighteen
and twenty-four years he taught school and devoted the hours which are
usually termed leisure to the study of law, utilizing every possible
moment in that manner until admitted to the bar on examination. In the
meantime he had spent a few terms as a pupil in Simpson College at
Indianola, Iowa, but otherwise he has been self taught. He had the
usual
experiences of the pioneer boy, living in a log cabin in an unsettled
country with
its attendant hardships, the meals of the family largely consisting of
corn bread, pork and hominy. Such a life, however, is not without its
pleasures and its opportunities. Necessity perhaps calls for hard
labor, but at the same time it develops the best in the individual,
gives him strength and power of resistance and makes him ready for
anything that may come. Laudable ambition prompted Mr. Crim to prepare
for the bar and since his admission he has continuously practiced his
profession in the state and federal courts. At the same time he has
been a reader
of general literature and has kept in touch with the trend of modern
thought and progress. He has also broadened the scope of his business
connections through investments in banks and other local enterprises,
including a wholesale grocery house and a telephone company.
In September, 1890, Mr. Crim was married to Miss Sarah McCulla
daughter of Robert and Jane McCulla, of a Scotch-Irish-Canadian family
of farming people. Mrs. Crim was born in Iowa and engaged in teaching
school prior to her marriage. Their daughter, Grace, who has been a
student in the Universities of Minnesota and of Iowa, is now
completing a course in language, liberal arts and music. The son,
Charles Harold,
is a student of engineering in the State University of Illinois.
As a farm boy Mr. Crim became a member of the Grange. He has since
become identified with the Masonic bodies and the Knights of Pythias.
His military experience covers service with the Iowa State Militia from
1878 until 1880. From 1892 until 1898 he filled the office of
prosecuting attorney but has never been an aspirant for office,
preferring to concentrate his eff'orts upon the private practice of
law. In politics he has always been a republican and is a believer in
preparedness, military and otherwise. He is also a protectionist and is
rather inclined to the Hamiltonian than the Jeffersonian theory of
popular government. He has ever believed that the surest road to
permanent success in life is through untiring industry, hard work and
unflinching
integrity and he has thus shaped his course with the result that he
stands today among the most able and prominent of the lawyers of this
section of the state. He is a believer in the religion of correct
living as defined by
the golden rule and as explained in Bryant's "Thanatopsis."
L. E. CRIM
L. E. Crim, postmaster at Wallingford, to which position he was
appointed on the 12th of January, 1916, is a native son of Emmet
county, his birth having occurred at Estherville, August 18, 1888. His
parents were A. A. and Eva (Brown) Crim, the former a native of Boone
county. Iowa, and the latter of Massachusetts. About forty years ago A.
A. Crim took up his abode in Emmet county, where he and his wife
are still living, being among the well known and worthy farming people
of this section of the state. In their family were four children and
the family circle yet remains unbroken by the hand of death.
The usual experiences of the farm bred boy came to L. E. Crim in the
period of his youth. He attended the district schools and through the
summer months aided in the work of the fields, early becoming familiar
with all the duties and labors that fall to the lot of the
agriculturist. In 1913 he engaged in the hardware and implement
business at Wallingford and has since conducted his store in that city.
He
carries a carefully selected line, representing the leading
manufacturers of the country, and from the beginning his trade has
constantly grown. He is also filling the position of postmaster, as
previously indicated,
thus
becoming one of the active officials of his city.
In 1911 Mr. Crim was married to Miss Gay Shaffer, a native of Grundy
county, Iowa, and a daughter of W. A. and Lydia Shaffer, who are now
residents of Waterloo, this state. Mr. and Mrs. Crim have become the
parents of a son, Keith W., who was born on the 18th of June, 1912.
Mr. Crim has always been a democrat since age conferred upon him the
right of franchise and gives stalwart support to the party, believing
firmly in its principles. His entire life has been passed in Emmet
county, where he has a very wide and favorable acquaintance, and he is
now numbered among its enterprising and substantial young
business men.
HENRY CRONK
A fine farm of one hundred acres of excellent land in Armstrong
Grove township, Emmet county, is evidence of the industry and thrift of
Henry Cronk, who died February 7, 1917. He was a progressive and
successful farmer and stock raiser. He was born in Canada in September,
1840, a son of David and Nancy (Clark) Cronk, also natives of that
country. The father engaged in farming there until his death in 1866
and nine years later the mother also passed away.
Henry Cronk remained at home until he became of age and obtained
his education in the public schools of the Dominion. After beginning
his independent career he farmed there for a time and also engaged in
threshing during the summer seasons but in 1866 he came to Emmet
county, Iowa, and bought a relinquishment on a claim of three hundred
acres on section 13, Armstrong Grove township. He at one time owned
three hundred and twenty acres but disposed of all save one hundred
acres, which he continued to operate until his death. He raised grain
but paid particular attention to the breeding of fine stock. He was the
first
man to bring a thoroughbred animal into Emmet county and for some time
engaged extensively in raising shorthorn cattle and Poland China hogs.
Success attended his well directed laljors and a substantial competence
was his.
Mr. Cronk was married in February, 1867, to Miss Bessie Horswell,
an account of whose parents appears in the sketch of Richard elsewhere
in this work. To Mr. and Mrs. Cronk were born twelve
children, namely: Byron, Amy, Charley, George, Richard, Olive,
Earl, Bessie, Irwin and Jennie, all of whom survive; and Addie and
Ross, both of whom died in infancy.
Mr. Cronk was a staunch republican in politics but never was an
aspirant for official honors. He belonged to the Free Methodist church
and in all his dealings conformed his conduct to high ethical standards.
ELMER E. CRUMB
Elmer E. Crumb, who owns and operates a valuable
farm in Emmet township, was bom in New York state on the 30th of
August, 1862, a son of John and Maria H. (Nye) Crumb, also natives of
that state. In 1866 the family removed to Emmet county, Iowa, and the
father homesteaded one hundred and sixty acres on section 24, Emmet
township. That was in the early period of the development of the county
and for a number of years the family lived in a log cabin, while the
other conditions of life were such as are usually found in an unsettled
region. The mother passed away on the 13th of March, 1875, and on the
5th of October, 1886, the father likewise responded to the final
summons. To them were born seven children but two are now deceased.
Elmer E. Crumb was reared in Emmet county, being but four years of
age when brought here by his parents, and his education was that
afforded by the pioneer schools. On attaining his majority he took over
the management of the homestead and subsequently purchased one hundred
acres of the place. He still owns that property and as the years have
passed has made his farm one of the best improved in the township. He
has erected commodious and substantial buildings and sees to it that
everything is kept in excellent repair. He divides his time and
attention between grain farming and stock raising and feels
that he thus secures the greatest possible return from his land.
On the 12th of December, 1888, Mr. Crumb was married to Miss Sadie
A. Butler, who was born in Minnesota, a daughter of Uriel and Amy
(Comstock) Butler, natives of New York, who became early settlers of
Wisconsin, whence they removed to Minnesota. The mother died on the
26th of April, 1896, in Palo Alto county, but the father survived until
January 29, 1911, and died in Emmet county. Mrs. Crumb is one of six
children, of whom but two survive, and by her marriage has become the
mother of three children, namely: Frank W.; Elma L., at home; and one
who died in infancy.
Mr. Crumb is a staunch advocate of republican principles and is
faithful in the discharge of all his duties as a citizen. He is
especially interested in the welfare of the schools and for several
years was a member of the school board. Both he and his wife belong to
the Baptist church and his fraternal affiliation is with the Modern
Woodmen of America. He is veiy loyal to the interests of the county, in
which almost his entire life has been spent, and is satisfied that the
opportunities here offered the agriculturist cannot be surpassed
elsewhere.
WALTER R. CUMMINS
Walter R. Cummins, a representative and progressive agriculturist
of Iowa Lake township, Emmet county, cultivates three hundred and
twenty acres of valuable land on section 25. His birth occurred at
Painted Post, Steuben county, New York, on the 10th of July, 1863, his
parents being Dwight and Martha (Drake) Cummins, who were natives of
Vermont and Ohio respectively. The father, who worked at the
millwright's trade throughout his active business career, resided in La
Salle county, Illinois, during the greater part of his life. His demise
occurred
January 15, 1893, when he had attained the age of seventy-four years,
but his widow still survives and makes her home in Illinois.
Walter R. Cummins was reared and educated in Illinois and there learned
the millwright's trade, to which he devoted his time and
energies until 1903. In that year, however, he turned his attention to
general agricultural pursuits in La Salle county, Illinois, and was
thus engaged for four years. On the 28th of February, 1907, he came to
Emmet county, Iowa, and rented a half section of land in Iowa Lake
township, in the cultivation of which he has been engaged continuously
to the present
time. He served as secretary and treasurer of the Lake Road Telephone
Company for one year and is widely recognized as an
enterprising citizen and successful agriculturist of his community.
On the 25th of December, 1883, Mr. Cummins was united in marriage
to Miss Emma Benton, by whom he has five children, namely: Vivian D.,
who has held the office of township assessor for four years; Minnie,
who is the wife of Roy Drake and resides in Armstrong; and Edna, Rufus
and Ralph, all at home.
Since age conferred upon him the right of franchise Mr. Cummins has
supported the men and measures of the republican party. He is now
serving in the capacity of trustee, having been elected to that
position for a three years' term in the fall of 1916, and he has also
been school director, acting as president of the board of education for
seven years. Fraternally he is identified with the Modern Woodmen of
America, while his religious faith is that of the Methodist church. He
has become widely known during the period of his residence in Emmet
county and his circle of friends is almost coextensive with the circle
of his
acquaintance.
JOHN CUNNINGHAM
In the death of John Cunningham Emmet county lost a substantial,
worthy and respected citizen, a man who had long been prominently and
actively identified with its agrcultural interests and who in every
relation of life had conducted himself with such signal energy as to
win the
esteem of all with whom he came in contact. He was born in Dublin,
Ireland, on the 10th of May, 1822, and on crossing the Atlantic to the
United States when twenty-six years of age made his way to Tennessee.
There he worked as a stone and brick mason for a number of years and
afterward went to Wisconsin, where he was employed at railroad work and
in lumber camps. He also worked to some extent at the stone mason's
trade.
Thinking to find still better business opportunities in the new and
growing western country, he made his way to Emmet county and was one of
the first to settle within its borders. He came with the Mahers just
after the Indians drove out the original settlers and before the
Ridleys came. Mr. Cunningham purchased the south half of section 36,
High Lake
township, a tract of raw land on which not a furrow had been turned nor
an improvement made. He at once began to develop and cultivate the
property and lived thereon during the rest of the hard times when
existence in Emmet county meant a continuous struggle. As the years
advanced, however, times and conditions changed and Mr. Cunningham's
efforts resulted in converting his tract of wild prairie into rich and
productive fields from which he annually gathered good harvests that
brought him a substantial financial return. He remained upon that place
to the time of his death, which occurred September 22, 1904. His life
was one of
untiring industry, thrift and perseverance and his success was due to
those qualities.
Mr. Cunningham was married in Wisconsin to Miss Elizabeth Banks, a
native of Dublin, Ireland, whose parents never came to the United
States. Eight children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Cunningham: Michael,
who has passed away; one who died in infancy; John, a resident of
Emmet county; Thomas and William, both deceased; Adeline, living in
Waterloo, Iowa; James, who is cultivating the old home farm; and Mary,
the wife of Philbert John Lee Master, who is associated with her
brother James in carrying on the old homestead.
Mr. Cunningham was a Catholic in religious faith and in politics was a
democrat. He held all the township offices and his loyalty in
citizenship stood as an unquestioned fact in his career. His was an
active and useful life and indicates what may be accomplished when
there is
determination and energy. In the face of obstacles and difficulties he
worked his way upward and was thus able to leave to his family a very
substantial competence as well as an honored name.
E. H. DACK
E. H. Dack, wide-awake and enterprising in his business affairs, is
now the owner of a valuable farm property of two hundred and forty
acres on section 10, Swan Lake township, Emmet county, to which he
removed in 1912. He is yet a young man, his birth having occurred in
Dallas county, Iowa, November 5, 1881, his parents being John F. and
Nancy A. (Fox) Dack the former a native of Canada and the latter of
England. At an early period in the development of Iowa they became
residents of this state, where the father followed the occupation of
farming, and both he and his wife died in Dallas county. In their
family were four children, three of whom yet survive.
E. H. Dack was reared and educated in Dallas county, pursuing a
common school course, while his youthful experiences upon the home farm
made him familiar with the best methods of tilling the soil and caring
for the crops. He was thirty years of age when he removed to Emmet
county in 1912 and purchased his present farm on section 10, Swan Lake
township, a tract of two hundred and forty acres of rich and arable
land which he has brought under a high state of cultivation, adding
many modern improvements to the place. It is now a splendid farm
and thereon he makes a specialty of dairying, keeping high grade
cows for this purpose.
Mr. Dack was married in 1902 to Miss Myrtle J. Boll, a native of
Dallas county, Iowa, and a daughter of M. B. and Hannah Boll. Her
mother is now deceased, but her father is still living in Dallas
county. Mr. and Mrs. Dack have two children, Herald A. and Verna I.
Mr. Dack votes with the republican party and keeps well informed on
the questions and issues of the day. He has been school director and
township assessor and he is interested in all those forces which make
for the upbuilding and development of the district in which he lives.
He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church and guide
their lives according to its teachings, so that many sterling traits of
character have won for them the wann regard of all with whom they have
been brought in contact.
AUGUST DOBBERSTEIN
A large and well developed farm of two hundred and seventy-nine acres
on section 18, Emmet township, pays tribute to the care and labor
bestowed upon it by its owner, August Dobberstein, whose life of well
directed energy and thrift has brought him a substantial measure of
success. He was born in Germany, April 6, 1858, and is a son of Antone
and Julia Dobberstein, both of whom were natives of Germany, where they
spent their entire lives, there rearing their family of six
children, four of whom survive.
August Dobberstein acquired his education in the schools of the
fatherland and remained a resident of that country until he reached the
age of twenty-five years, when he severed home ties and crossed the
Atlantic in 1883, first making his way to Wisconsin. In 1884 he removed
to Butler county, Iowa, where he resided for nineteen years, and in
1903 he became a resident of Emmet county, Iowa, where he purchased the
farm on section 18, Emmet township, upon which he now makes his home.
It is an excellent tract of land of two hundred and seventy-nine acres,
which he has brought to a high state of cultivation and to which he has
added many modern and attractive improvements in the way of fine
buildings, so that his farm constitutes one of the pleasing
features of the landscape.
In 1882 Mr. Dobberstein was united in marriage to Miss Rosella
Kreinke, a native of Germany, and to them have been born five children:
Elsie, who married Joe Kenny, of Emmet county; August, deceased; John,
at home; Lena, the wife of Elmer Herbranson, now of Minot, North
Dakota; and Francis, at home. The parents are members of the Catholic
church and Mr. Dobberstein gives his political allegiance to
the democratic party. His life has been one of untiring activity and
all
that he possesses has been made by him since he came to the new world.
He has steadily and persistently worked his way upward and his
achievements show what can be accomplished when one has the will to
dare and to do.
THOMAS WILLIAM DOUGHTY
Thomas William Doughty, who since 1892 has been cashier of the
Emmet County Bank at Armstrong, was born in Dumfriesshire, Scotland,
June 19, 1870, of the marriage of David and Lillias Doughty. He
attended school in Dumfriesshire and in Edinburgh, Scotland, and
received his business training in a business college at Des Moines,
Iowa. He first entered the banking business in 1892, when he was made
cashier of the Emmet County Bank at Armstrong. He has since held that
office and under his management the affairs of the bank have prospered.
It has held the unqualified confidence of the public, has been a factor
in the commercial development of the town and has paid good dividends
to its stockholders. In addition to the bank stock which he owns he
holds title to a great deal of valuable real estate in Emmet county and
also
in Wisconsin and South Dakota. Some of his farms are recognized as the
best improved properties in this section of Iowa and his progressive
spirit has been as strongly marked in work for the public good as in
the development of his private holdings. It has been largely due to his
eff'orts that many of the forward movements in Armstrong in the last
quarter of a century have succeeded.
Mr. Doughty is independent in politics and has been treasurer of
the town of Armstrong continuously since 1895. He has been asked to
become a candidate for many other offices, including that of state
representative, but has refused. At one time he was associated with the
Knights of Pythias, and in religious faith he is a Presbyterian. His
sterling worth is indicated in the fact that those who have been
intimately associated with him for years are his warmest friends.
FRED R. DOWDEN
A well known representative of banking interests in Emmet county is
Fred R. Dowden, numbered among Iowa's native sons, his birth having
occurred in Marion county, December 29, 1882, his parents being W. O.
and Frances (Hyer) Dowden, who were natives of Ohio. In the year 1855
they came to Iowa and established their home upon a farm in Marion
county. In 1892 they removed to Emmet county and took up their abode
upon a farm in Lincoln township. To them were born five children, all
of whom are yet living.
Fred R. Dowden was a lad of ten summers when the family home was
established in Emmet county, so that he has been largely reared and
educated within its borders. After mastering the branches of
learning taught in the district schools he continued his education in
the Dolliver high school, from which in due course of time he was
graduated. He continued under the parental roof until after he attained
his
majority and, starting out in business life, was employed as a
bookkeeper in the Dolliver Savings Bank, there remaining for four
years. On the expiration of that period he went to South Dakota, where
he continued for a year, and in 1908 he removed to Gruver, where he now
makes his home. In that year he accepted the position of cashier in the
Gruver Savings Bank, in which capacity he still continues. That he has
prospered as the years have gone by is indicated in the fact that aside
from his bank stock he owns a residence in Gruver and is the owner of
one hundred and sixty acres of excellent farm land on section 31,
Ellsworth
township.
In 1908 was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Dowden and Miss Bessie
E. Reed, who was born in Carroll county, Illinois, a daughter of Samuel
B. and Sylvia (Bailey) Reed, who were likewise natives of that state
and in 1891 came to Emmet county, where they settled upon a farm. Mr.
and Mrs. Dowden have become p'arents of three children: Opal L., who
was born December 17, 1909; Avis V., born January 19, 1911; and Eileen
E., born September 27, 1914.
Mrs. Dowden is a member of the Presbyterian church. Mr. Dowden is
well known in fraternal circles, holding membership in the masonic
lodge at Estherville, in which he has filled all the chairs, and in the
Odd Fellows Lodge, No. 67, in which he has occupied some of the
offices. He is also connected with the Modern Woodmen of America and
his political allegiance is given to the Republican party. He is
actuated by a spirit of enterprise and progress in all that he does and
in his business career has made steady advancement that is the direct
result of ability and fidelity.
ALEXANDER DUNDAS
Alexander Dundas, who is living retired in Armstrong after many
years of successful farming, was born in Canada, April 17, 1852. His
parents, James and Anna (McFadden) Dundas, were natives respectively of
Scotland and of Ireland but the mother was also of Scotch descent. On
emigrating to America in 1824 the father located in Canada, where he
farmed for many years. At length, however, he went to De Kalb county,
Illinois, where he rented land until the spring of 1865,
when he removed with his family to Kossuth county, Iowa, driving from
Illinois to his destination. A son-in-law, John Carroll, came west at
the same time and they drove their live stock the entire distance. The
household effects of the two families were brought in four covered
wagons.Mr.
Dundas took up a homestead in Kossuth county but after farming there
for five years removed across the line into Emmet county,
purchasing eighty acres of land in Armstrong Grove township. He resided
upon that place for a number of years but passed away in Armstrong on
the 9th of February, 1891, when he had reached the venerable age of
ninety-one years. His wife died on the 13th of the same February, when
she was eighty-five years old.
Alexander Dundas remained at home until he was twenty-two years of
age and received his education in the public schools. On beginning
his independent career he went to Oregon, where he was employed on a
ranch for three years, after which he returned home and operated the
homestead for two years. He next drove the stage from Webster City,
Iowa, to Algona, a distance of sixty-five miles, for a year, and then
turned
his attention to breaking the prairie for others. In all he broke
eighteen hundred acres of land, a record equaled by few. In the early
days in the county the nearest mill was at Estherville, Iowa, or Blue
Earth,
Minnesota, and as horses were very scarce most of the settlers used
oxen as draft animals. At length he decided to turn his attention to
some field of activity other than agricultural pursuits and for two
years was
employed in an implement store, working one year for Jack Graham and
one year for J. B. Johnson. At the end of that time he again took up
the work of the fields, purchasing a farm from his brother in Kossuth
county. Eleven years were devoted to the opreation of that place. He
then removed to Armstrong and for two years took care of his parents,
who were then advanced in years. After returning to his farm he engaged
in agricultural pursuits for eight years but at length sold the place
and went with his family to Oregon, where he remained for only six
months. He came again to Emmet county and bought land one mile from
Armstrong, farming that place for three years. He kept well informed as
to the discoveries in scientific agriculture and was constantly seeking
to become more efficient in the management of his farm work. He was the
first man in the county to raise alfalfa and was ranked among those who
lead rather than those who follow in the development of the
agricultural interests of the county. In March, 1904, he retired from
active life and removed to Armstrong, where he purchased a good
residence, and there
he still makes his home. He has seen many diff'erent parts of the
country. In addition to the places already mentioned he lived for a
time in
Texas, going there when a young man. He was not pleased with
conditions, however, and only remained for six months, returning to
Iowa. He is fully convinced that the opportunities offered the farmer
in Emmet
county are the equal of those to be found anywhere else in the country.
On the 12th of December, 1888, Mr. Dundas was united in marriage to
Miss Susie Brayton and they have five children: Edith V., the wife of
Peter H. Gehrtz, a resident of northern Minnesota; Minnie R., who
married John Van Buskirk and resides in Montana; Clifford, who is
living in Armstrong; F. Louvin, a resident of Washburn county,
Wisconsin; and Nellie M., at home.
Mr. Dundas is a staunch republican and served ably as justice of the
peace and as school director while living in Kossuth county. He attends
the Presbyterian church and is a member of the Masonic order and the
Eastern Star, these associations indicating the principles which have
governed his life. He has a wide acquaintance in this locality and is
an authority upon the history of this region as he removed here when it
was just being opened to settlement. In fact he and his brother David
are
the oldest living settlers of this locality. He has at all times
discharged
to the full the obligations resting upon him as a man and a citizen and
the high esteem in which he is held is well deserved.
DAVID DUNDAS
David Dundas, who is farming on section 10, Armstrong Grove
township, Emmet county, has been a witness of the development of the
county since an early period in its history and has done his part in
bringing about its advancement along agricultural lines. He was born in
Canada in 1849 and is a son of James and Anna (McFadden) Dundas,
natives respectively of Scotland and Ireland, although the mother was
also of Scotch descent. They emigrated to the Dominion in an early day
and the father cultivated land there for many years. At length he went
to DeKalb county, Illinois, whence in 1865 he removed with his family
to Kossuth county, Iowa. After farming there for five years he came to
Emmet county, Iowa, and bought land in Armstrong Grove township and
also took up a homestead there. He operated his farm for a number of
years and met with gratifying success. He died in Armstrong, February
9, 1891, and four days later his wife also passed away.
David Dundas received his education in the public schools and
remained at home until he was twenty-three years of age, when he took
up a homestead in Ai'mstrong Grove township which he operated for
thirty-one years, at the end of which time he traded that property for
eighty acres on section 10, Armstrong Grove township, adjoining the
town of Armstrong, where he has since resided. He has made a number of
improvements upon the place and his well directed labors are rewarded
by good crops.
Mr. Dundas was married in November, 1874, to Miss Hattie Churchill,
a daughter of Samuel and Elizabeth (Smith) Churchill, who were born in
New York. They were pioneers of this county, where the father
homesteaded land, and he was identified with agricultural interests
here until his death in 1886. The mother is still living. Seven
children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Dundas, namely: Alfred; Ella,
the wife of John Fox; Cora, who married Peter Richardson; Archie;
Libbie, the wife of Lee Hoppus; Walter, who died when nine months old;
and Leonard, who died at the age of two years.
Mr. Dundas is a republican in his political belief and in religious
faith is a Methodist and the fact that those who have known him
intimately since boyhood are his staunchest friends is evidence of the
uprightness and rectitude of his life.
JOHN DUNDAS
For many years John Dundas was actively identified with the
agricultural interests of this section of the state but his last days
were spent in retirement in Estherville, where he passed away on the
6th of July, 1915, honored and respected by all who knew him. He was
born in Ireland, May 1, 1838, a son of James and Anne Dundas, who
emigrated with their family to the new world when John was only four
years of age. They first located near Quebec, Canada, where the father
engaged in farming for a few years, but in 1861 removed to De Kalb
county, Illinois, living there for five years. At the end of that time
he came to Emmet county, Iowa, and took up a homestead in Armstrong
Grove township, where he followed farming until his death. The mother
is also deceased and both were laid to rest in the Armstrong cemetery.
John Dundas accompanied his parents on their various removals until
the family came to Emmet county, when he took up a homestead just over
the line in Kossuth county. There he successfully engaged in
agricultural pursuits until 1893, when he retired to Estherville and
built a home on the west side. He lived there until 1913, when he
removed to another residence on the same side, it continuing to be the
place of his abode until called from this life.
On the 7th of April, 1868, Mr. Dundas was united in marriage to
Miss Jane Gibbon, a daughter of William and Jane Gibbon, who were born
in England and on crossing the Atlantic settled near Montreal, Canada,
but later came to Iowa, the family becoming residents of
Winneshiek county when Mrs. Dundas was quite small. Mr. Gibbon took up
a homestead in Kossuth county, ten miles from Armstrong, about the same
time the Dundas family located in that neighborhood. Fifteen years
later, however, Mr. and Mrs. Gibbon removed to Oregon, settling in the
Willamette valley, near Salem, where both died and were buried. All the
brothers and sisters of Mrs. Dundas still live in that locality.
Seven children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Dundas, namely: Frank H.,
now a resident of Armstrong; Anna, the deceased wife of Arthur Lewis of
Armstrong; Jane, now the widow of James Carroll of Kossuth county and a
resident of Armstrong; Carrie, the wife of U. V. James of Estherville;
William, who died in infancy; Mina, who died at the age of nine years;
and Dora, now Mrs. William Hirth, livng near
Armstrong.
By his ballot Mr. Dundas supported the men and measures of the
republican party and was called upon to fill a number of township
offices while a resident of Kossuth county. He was an earnest and
consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal church, to which his widow
also belongs, and their circle of friends was almost coextensive with
their circle of acquaintances. Although he started out in life with
nothing, Mr. Dundas was able to leave his family in comfortable
circumstances for he was a man of good business ability and met with
success in his
undertakings.
CHRIS ECKHART
Since removing to Armstrong from his farm Chris Eckhart has
conducted a horse and auto livery and has proved very successful in the
management of his business interests. A native of Illinois, he was born
in Lee county on the 17th of April, 1862, a son of Henry and Martha
(Motz) Eckhart, who removed from Germany to America many years ago. The
father purchased land in Lee county, lllinois, and engaged in farming
there until his death in 1876. He was survived for many years by his
widow, who died in October, 1913.
Chris Eckhart was reared and educated in Lee county, Illinois, and
remained with his mother until he became of age, when he removed
westward to Tama county, Iowa. He rented land there until 1892, when he
arrived in Emmet county and bought land in Lincoln township. The farm
was unimproved when it came into his possession, but as the years
passed he made it one of the best developed farms of his locality,
devoting his entire attention to its operation until February, 1916,
when he sold the place and came to Armstrong. He has since conducted a
horse and auto livery and derives a good income from his business. He
likewise owns stock in the Farmers Elevator Company of Armstrong and
the Farmers Savings Bank at Dolliver.
In 1895 Mr. Eckhart was united in marriage to Miss Lena Bloss, who
died in 1898, leaving two children, Fred and Mary, both still at home.
On the 17th of December, 1900, Mr. Eckhart was married to Miss
Henrietta Sievers and they had two children, but both died in infancy.
Mr. Eckhart is a strong republican and has discharged to the full
the duties devolving upon him as a good citizen but has never been an
office seeker. He is in sympathy with the work of all the churches, but
has never been identified with any one denomination. He Is
characterized by broad-mindedness, enterprise and strict honesty and is
justly held
in high esteem by all who know him.
HALVOR AND ERIK EGERTSON
Halvor Egertson, a well known and representative farmer of Twelve
Mile Lake township, Emmet county, resides on section 2. He was born in
Norway, November 26, 1851, a son of Egert and Gro Erikson, who always
remained residents of Norway, never coming to the new world. The father
was both a farmer and a mason. In the family were seven children, six
sons and a daughter.
Halvor Egertson attended district schools in his native country and
in 1881, when in his thirtieth year, crossed the Atlantic to the United
States, making his way at once to Iowa. Taking up his abode in Emmet
county, he worked on a farm until 1888 and during that period carefully
saved his earnings until his industry and economy had brought him
enough capital to enable him to purchase land. He then became owner of
the south half of the northeast quarter of section 2, Twelve Mile Lake
township, and afterward purchased forty acres adjoining his farm on the
south, thus making it a tract of one hundred and twenty acres, which he
has since carefully and successfully conducted. He now has a well
improved farm property and the practical and progressive methods which
he follows in cultivating his fields result in winning substantial
harvests.
In 1876 Mr. Egertson was united in marriage to Miss Christie
Nestegard, a daughter of Lars and Bertha Nestegard, also natives of
Norway. To Mr. and Mrs. Egertson were born seven children: Erik; Louis
and Gundy, both at home; Stephen, deceased; Belle, at home; Helene, now
the wife of A. H. Gunderson, of Twelve Mile Lake township; and Emma,
the wife of John Nelson, who is living in Wallingford, Iowa.
The parents are members of the Norwegian Lutheran church and guide
their lives according to its teachings. In his political views Mr.
Egertson is a republican and has held a number of township offices, to
which he has been called by his fellow townsmen, who recognize his
loyalty and progressiveness in matters of citizenship. He has won
success through hard work, earnest effort and persistency of purpose
and is now one of the substantial agriculturists of the community.
His eldest son, Erik Egertson, was born in Norway, January 29, 1877,
and was therefore a little lad of four years when his parents came to
the new world. At the usual age he entered the district schools, in
which he pursued his education until he reached the age of sixteen. He
then began working for his father on the home farm and also followed
carpentering until he reached the age of twenty-six. In the meantime,
or when he had attained his majority, he purchased the west half of the
southeast quarter of section 2, Twelve Mile Lake township, and
five years later he began farming upon that tract of land. He has since
given his attention to general agricultural pursuits and has followed
progressive methods in all that he has undertaken, transforming his
place into a highly improved and productive farm.
In 1903 Erik Egertson was married to Miss Sophia Myhre, a daughter of
Ole and Gunild (Brunweld) Myhre, of Center township, Emmet county. They
have five children: Hagbert, Oswald, Ernest, Kermit and Lauritz. Erik
Egertson has served as school director and, like his
father, is interested in all those forces which tend to advance the
welfare and progress of his community. At the same time he is, like his
father, a representative agriculturist of his section of the county,
leading a
life of honorable activity fraught with good results.
ELLEF E. ELLEFSON
The northwest quarter of section 2, Twelve Mile Lake township, in
Emmet county, is the farm property of Ellef E. Ellefson, a self-made
man whose life indicates what may be accomplished through determined
purpose and unfaltering industry. He was born in Hallingdal, Norway,
December 2, 1869, a son of Ellef and Birgit (Knutson) Ellefson, who
came to the United States when their son Ellef was a babe of but six
months. They established their home in Emmet county in 1870 and the
father
purchased a homestead right covering the tract of land upon which the
subject of this review now resides. There he engaged in farming for
many years, becoming one of the active and repi'esentative
agriculturists of
his district as well as one of its substantial and valued citizens, for
he
took an active interest in public affairs and supported all movements
that he believed would benefit the community. His fellow townsmen,
appreciative of his worth, called him to serve in various township
offices. He passed away in 1910, his remains being interred in
Riverside cemetery, but his widow still survives and on the 18th of
January, 1917, celebrated the eighty-seventh anniversary of her birth,
being still in good health. In the family were but two children, the
younger being a daughter, Anna, who is now the wife of Nels Michelson,
of Twelve Mile Lake township. By, a former marriage the mother had a
daughter, Gumil, who was the wife of Severt Severtson, of Twelve Mile
Lake township, but is now deceased.
Reared in Emmet county, Ellef E. Ellefson of this review attended the
district schools to the age of thirteen years and afterward gave his
undivided attention to the work of the home farm until he reached the
age of twenty. He then rented the home place for three years, after
which he purchased the property, of which he is still the owner, so
that it
has been continuously in possession of the family for forty-seven years
and
his labors have largely converted it into the productive and valuable
tract which it is today. In addition to the home farm Mr. Ellefson owns
a house and lot in Wallingford on Fifteenth street, near Wall street.
In
1892 Mr. Ellefson was married to Miss Julia Michelson, a daughter of
Michael and Anna (Olson) Michelsen, of Dickinson county, Iowa. Her
father passed away and was laid to rest in Riverside cemetery, but the
mother is now living with her son Nels. Mr. and Mrs. Ellefson have one
son, Elmer Martinus. They are members of the United Norwegian Lutheran
church, in the work of which they take an active and helpful interest,
Mr. Ellefson serving as church treasurer for a number of
years. His political endorsement is given to the republican party and
he is now filling the office of township trustee. He has also been
school director and he is interested in all that pertains to public
progress in his
community. He represents one of the old-time families of the county and
his memory forms a cynnecting link between the primitive past and the
progressive present. He has done much to promote agricultural
development and his labors have been productive of good results.
EDWARD H. ELLERSTON
Many of the substantial citizens of Emmet county are of Norwegian
birth or ancestry and possess the sterling traits of that hardy race,
who have ever been characterized by industry and reliability. Among the
number in Emmet county is Edward H. Ellerston, who was born in Chicago
on the 14th of December, 1868, a son of Christian and Jennie (Jensen)
Ellerston, who were natives of Norway. After coming to the new world
the father became captain of a commission boat on Lake Michigan but
later removed to Iowa and engaged in the milling business at Norway,
Benton county, taking up his abode there when his son Edward was but a
year old. He continued his residence there until about 1890, when he
returned to the old country, where he died. Later his widow came to
Estherville, where she is now living.
Edward H. Ellerston has practically been a lifelong resident of
Iowa and in the district schools he pursued his education to the age of
fifteen years. He worked at different vocations for ten years and when
a young man of twenty-five years came to Emmet county, where he
invested his savings in land, becoming the owner of the north half of
section 25,
Emmet township. He still owns this property, comprising three hundred
and twenty acres of rich and productive land which he has carefully
cultivated throughout all the intervening years, converting the tract
into well tilled fields which are divided by well built fences. He has
good buildings upon his farm and is leading a most busy life in the
further cultivation of the land in the production of those cereals
which are
best adapted to soil and climate.
In 1893 Mr. Ellerston was joined in wedlock to Miss Mary Johnson, a
daughter of John and Mary Johnson, of Norway, Iowa. Their four
children, Irving, Ruby, Verna and Leona, are all attending the
Estherville schools and reside with their paternal grandmother. In his
political views Mr. Ellerston has always been a republican and is now
filling the office of road superintendent. He belongs to the Episcopal
church and his entire life is in harmony with his professions. He has
ever been
found honorable and upright and thoroughly reliable in his business
connections, and those who know him entertain for him warm personal
regard.
ARTHUR EMANUEL ERICKSON
Estherville, with its varied and growing business enterprises, may
well be proud of the one which Arthur E. Erickson has developed in its
midst, for he is there conducting the finest photographic studio in
northwestern Iowa. Familiar with all the latest processes and
improvements of photography, his work ranks with the best to be found
in the larger cities and at all times he keeps abreast with the highest
standards of
the art. A native of Illinois, he was born at Kensington, Chicago, May
23, 1885, his parents being Lars August and Johanna Mathilde Erickson,
both of whom were natives of Orebro, Sweden. They became residents of
Chicago in 1871 and the father was employed on the building of the
foundation for the Pullman car shops at Pullman, Illinois, where he has
worked continuously since. In 1917, however, he will be pensioned by
the company as a recognizition of long, capable and faithful service.
His wife died in 1900.
Arthur E. Erickson acquired his education in the West Pullman
school, from which he was graduated on the 23d of June, 1899. He took
up the study of photography and became a traveling photographer, in
which connection he traversed the country from Canada to Texas.
Continually he has progressed in his chosen field of labor and the
excellence of his work has been the basis of his growing success until
now he is owner of the finest photographic studio in northwestern Iowa.
He has been located at Estherville since 1915, drawing his patronage
from a wide territory.
On the 1st of October, 1913, at Linn Grove, Iowa, Mr. Erickson was
united in marriage to Miss Mabel May Reese, her parents being Mr. and
Mrs. Henry Reese, of that place. They now have a daughter, Enid. In his
fraternal connections Mr. Erickson is a Mason and exemplifies in his
life the beneficent spirit of the craft. He also belongs to the
Photographers Association of America. He is ever actuated by laudable
ambition and he has that keen interest and delight in his work which is
always the basis of successful accomplishment.
THE ESPESET FAMILY
The name of Espeset has been well known in Emmet county and has been
associated here with integrity, ability and public spirit for more than
fifty years, or ever since the arrival within the county of Knute
Espeset, who was one of the early settlers, coming in 1865. He was long
prominent in business and political circles of the community. His
attention was first given to farming and subsequently he engaged in the
farm implement and hardware business, becoming one of the foremost as
well as one of the early merchants of the county. He also figured
prominently in connection with political interests and held the office
of county sheriff and county treasurer.
His son, James Espeset, was a native of Allamakee county, but was
reared upon the home farm near Estherville and in early manhood took up
the profession of
teaching. At one time he served as deputy county treasurer and was also
deputy postmaster. Later he entered the employ of the Estherville State
Bank, with which institution he was identified for a quarter of a
century,
being the cashier thereof at the time of his retirement in 1910. Since
then he has devoted his attention to the abstract business. He married
Edith Graves, who was born in Winneshiek county, Iowa, but was reared
in Emmet county, having been brought to this county during her infancy
by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Howard Graves. Her father was one of the
founders of Estherville and became the pioneer banker of this
section of the state. Mrs. Espeset has always been prominent in church
work and social activities and is a member of the P. E. O., the Eastern
Star and the Daughters of the American Revolution.
From such ancestry comes Howard Espeset, a son of James Espeset, and
fortunate is he that his lines of life have been cast in harmony
with the untarnished family record. He was born in Estherville, April
2, 1882, and attended the Estherville public schools, being graduated
from the high school with the class of 1898, after which he studied for
a
year at Parsons College in Fairfield, Iowa, and for three years in the
State University of Iowa at Iowa City, being graduated from the latter
institution in 1902, at which time the degree of Bachelor of Philosophy
was conferred upon him. He then entered the field of banking and
continued to occupy the position of assistant cashier of the
Estherville State
Bank until 1912. Since that time he has been engaged in the abstract
business with the firm of Graves & Espeset. This firm was
established by
Howard Graves in an early day, and as the county records were burned in
the courthouse fire of 1876, the only evidence of title to lands in
Emmet county prior to that time is found in the old abstract books used
by
this firm. In 1910, in California, Mr. Espeset was joined in wedlock to
Miss Marie Thomas, of Las Vegas, Nevada. Mrs. Espeset is interested in
church activities and in women's club work. Mr. Espeset holds
membership in the Presbyteran church and he is a member of the Masonic
and Elks lodges at Estherville and of the Estherville Commercial Club.
In politics he has always been a republican and for some time has been
actively identified with the work of the party in Emmet county, but has
never sought nor desired public office. He is interested in all that
pertains to the welfare and upbuilding of city and county, however, and
for a number of years was a member of the city library board. His
influence is always on the side of progress and improvement and his
entire career has been actuated by high and honorable purposes, his
life measuring up to advanced standards of manhood and citizenship.
KASPAR FALTINSON
Kasper Faltinson, a well-known member of the bar
at Armstrong, has served as postmaster since June, 1913, and has made a
record which is highly creditable to his efficiency and fidelity to
trust. A native of
this state, he was born in Iowa county, September 10, 1864, and is a
son of Faltin and Anna Maria Faltinson, both of whom were born near
Stavanger, Norway. In 1855 they came to the United States and five
years later took up their residence on a farm in Iowa county, where the
father died in 1889. The mother still lives on the homestead. They were
the parents of twelve children, of whom seven survive. After becoming a
naturalized citizen the father supported the democratic party, casting
his first
vote for Stephen A. Douglas and taking an active part in local
politics.
Possessing the high regard for the individual and the strongly
developed sense of personal independence characteristic of the
Norwegian race, he hated a monarchial form of government and was
heartily in sympathy with the ideals of the American democracy.
Kaspar Faltinson was given unusually good educational advantages,
as after attending the public schools he was a student in the Iowa City
Academy and the State University of Iowa, graduating from the law
department of the latter institution in 1891. In 1893 he located in
Armstrong for the practice of his profession and has since been a
member of the local bar. He has demonstrated his ability to meet
successfully the problems that arise in the preparation and trial of
cases and has built up a representative clientage. From 1894 until 1908
he was also editor of the Armstrong
Journal and since June, 1913, he has been postmaster. He has so
discharged his duties as to win the commendation of the
citizens of the town and in fact in all that he has done has proved
highly
capable.
On the 4th of June, 1899, Mr. Faltinson was married to Miss Lora Marie
Haughton, who was born August 20, 1879, and is a daughter of Mr. and
Mrs. L. R. Haughton. She is a granddaughter of Captain Hiram Haughton
and a niece of Colonel Haughton, early settlers of Toledo,
Ohio, and for many years prominent in business circles of that city and
in
state politics. When twelve years of age she accompanied her parents to
Iowa and has since been a resident of this state.
Mr. Faltinson was reared in the Lutheran faith and has always taken
a keen interest in those movements which make for righteousness. He has
been a member of the Masonic order since 1894 and in 1895 and 1900
served as worthy master of Emmet Lodge No. 533, A. F. & A. M. He is
one of the most prominent democrats of his section of the state, has
been a delegate to every state convention of the party since 1894, was
its candidate for congress in the tenth district in 1900 and four years
later was a candidate for county attorney, while for six years he
served as
m.ayor of Armstrong and was also for six years a member of the city
council.
GEORGE FELKEY
George Felkey, who carried on agricultural pursuits in Armstrong
Grove township, had a large acquaintance in Emmet county and his demise
was deeply regretted. A native of Illinois, his birth occurred October
29, 1847, and he was a son of Daniel and Florinda Felkey, an account of
whose lives appears in the sketch of H. J. Felkey elsewhere in this
work.
George Felkey was reared under the parental roof and received his
education in the schools of Illinois and Iowa, the family home having
in the meantime been established in this state. After attaining his
majority he rented land in Mitchell county, Iowa, for three years but
in 1871
took up a homestead in Armstrong Grove township, Emmet county. In 1873
when there were but few settlers, in this section he began carrying the
mail from Algona to Swan Lake and was so employed for six years and
nine months. He also took advantage of the tree claim act, thus
acquiring title to another eighty acres, and subsequently bought forty
acres, making his holdings in all two hundred and eighty acres. He
brought all of his land under cultivation, erected substantial
buildings and
otherwise improved his place. He was at once energetic and progressive
and it was but natural that he should meet with success. For a number
of years he was a director of the Farmers Mutual Insurance Company and
was recognized as a man of business ability. He died after a long
illness October 31, 1910, when sixty-three years of age.
In August, 1868, Mr. Felkey was married to Miss Mary Churchill, a
daughter of Samuel and Elizabeth Churchill, further mention of whom is
made in the sketch of Charles S. Churchill elsewhere in this work. To
Mr. and Mrs. Felkey were born eight children. Rose is the wife of F. M.
Goldsberry, a farmer of Armstrong Grove township. Jesse J. is also a
farmer of this township. John is a resident of Armstrong. Isabelle
married Chris Peterson, a farmer of Lincoln township. Elmer, who is
operating the home place, was married on the 14th of December, 1910, to
Miss Addie Patterson, a daughter of John and Emma (Stewart)
Patterson, of Kossuth county, Iowa, and has two children. Fay Leona and
Ethel Fern. Mary is the wife of Chris M. Peterson, a farmer of Swan
Lake township. Myrtle and Albert are both deceased. Mrs. Felkey still
resides upon the home farm and has many warm friends throughout the
county.
Mr. Felkey was an adherent of the republican party and held the
offices of trustee and road supervisor. In religious faith he was a
Presbyterian. Those who knew him intimately still hold his memory in
honor, for he was a man of sterling worth and of many attractive
personal
qualities.
HARVEY J. FELKEY
Harvey J. Felkey, who is living practically retired in Armstrong,
Emmet county, has been a factor in both the agricultural and commercial
development of the county and is still financially interested in a
number of local business concerns. He was born in Livingston county,
Illinois, December 27, 1849, and is a son of Daniel and Florinda
(Brooks) Felkey, natives, respectively, of Ohio and of Pennsylvania.
They became early settlers of Livingston county, Illinois, and the
father purchased
land there which he farmed until 1862, when removal was made to
Mitchell county, Iowa. After cultivating land there for several years
he went to South Dakota, where he farmed for five years. He then came
to Emmet county, Iowa, and bought land here, to the operation of which
he devoted his time and attention until he removed to Armstrong, where
he conducted a store during the remainder of his life, passing away in
October, 1910. He was survived by his widow for only a short time, as
her death occurred in February, 1911.
Harvey J. Felkey grew to maxlhood in Mitchell county, Iowa, and
attended the public schools there in the acquirement of his education.
After becoming of age he engaged in farming for two years in Mitchell
county and in 1874 he arrived in Emmet county, Iowa, and purchased a
farm in Armstrong Grove township. For more than a quarter of a century
he engaged in the raising of grain and stock upon that place,
but in March, 1900, removed to Armstrong and engaged in the clothing
business there. After three years he disposed of that business and has
since lived practically retired. He is, however, treasurer of the
Farmers'
Elevator Company and of the Armstrong Cement Company and is a director
of the First National Bank of Armstrong.
On New Year's Day, 1872, Mr. Felkey was married to Miss Rebecca
Godfrey, whose parents, Samuel and Matilda (Dickson) Godfrey, were
natives, respectively, of Scotland and Ireland. They emigrated to
America many years ago and after living for a time in New York went to
Wisconsin, where the father purchased land from the government. In 1864
he went to Mitchell county, Iowa, and there resided until his death in
1880. The mother passed away three years later. Mr. and Mrs. Felkey
have become the parents of four children: One who died in infancy;
Lelah, who became the wife of C. A. Mathews and died February 29, 1916,
at the age of thirty-nine years and ten months, leaving three
children; Grace, Milo and Maynard; Roy B., who is farming in Armstrong
Grove township; and Florence, the wife of J. V. Burkhead, a merchant of
Armstrong.
Mr. Felkey is a trustee of Orange Grove township and has served in
that capacity for twelve years, his long continuance in the office
indicating the efficiency with which he discharges his duties. He has
also held the office of school director. His political allegiance
isigven to the
republican party and his religious faith is that of the Presbyterian
church, while fraternally he belongs to the Masonic order and the
Eastern Star. He is a man of unusual energy and ability and is
recognized as a leader
in his community.
JOHN FOX
Among the representative and progressive farmers of Armstrong Grove
township is John Fox, who resides on section 27. He also owns land on
section 22, that township, and on section 36, Swan Lake
township. His birth occurred in Jasper county, Iowa, May 13, 1864, and
he is a son of Robert and Rachel (Conn) Fox, who emigrated from Ireland
to America many years ago and located in Jasper county, Iowa. There the
father purchased land and during the remainder of his life engaged in
agricultural pursuits there. He died in October, 1881, but the mother
is still
living at the age of eighty-five years.
John Fox was reared and educated in Jasper county, Iowa, and remained
at home for several years after he attained his majority,
relieving his father of the work of operating the farm. In December,
1890, however, he came to Emmet county county, Iowa, and bought one
hundred and sixty acres on section 27, Armstrong Grove township, paying
therefor ten dollars an acre. Something of the marvelous rapidity with
which land values have advanced in this county is indicated in the fact
that
the same land would now sell for one hundred and fifty dollars an acre.
He at once began bringing his land under cultivation and as the years
have passed has continued its development. He has also added to his
holdings from time to time and now owns an addition to his home place
eighty acres across the road on section 22 and one hundred and sixty
acres on section 36, Swan Lake township. He operates all his land and
his annual income is an enviable one. He has found stock raising
especially
profitable and feeds about four carloads of cattle per year and ships
ten carloads of hogs. He engages to some extent in the business of
buying and selling hogs and cattle.
On the 23rd of September, 1894, occurred the marriage of Mr. Fox and
Miss Ella Dundas, a daughter of David and Harriett (Churchill) Dundas,
an account of whose lives appeared in the sketch of David Dundas
elsewhere in this work. Mr. and Mrs. Fox have become the parents of
four children, Lloyd S., Vernon, Florence, and one who died in infancy.
Mr. Fox is much interested in affairs pertaining to the general welfare
and can always be counted upon to further worthy public projects. His
religious faith is that of the Methodist church and in all relations of
life he has held to high standards of conduct.
PETER A. GAARDE
Much of the success which has characterized the history of the
Farmers Mutual Insurance Company is due to the efficiency of its
secretary, Peter A. Gaarde, of Armstrong. He was born in Denmark in
September, 1877, and his parents, Anderson N. and Mary (Hansen) Gaarde,
were likewise natives of that country. About 1880 the family emigrated
to the United States and after residing for two years in the vicinity
of Clinton, Iowa, removed to Emmet county, where the father purchased
land in Denmark township. He engaged in farming there until his wife's
death in September, 1887, when he sold out. From that time until his
demise, which occurred on the 13th of July, 1907, he made his home with
his children.
Peter A. Gaarde was but five years old when the family located in
Denmark township, Emmet county, and his early education was therefore
acquired in the district schools there. Later he was for a time a
student at Sioux City, Iowa. When but thirteen years old he went to
work and at the age of twenty years he purchased land in Denmark
township which he operated for about sixteen years. Subsequently he
conducted a furniture store in Ringsted for one year, after which he
clerked for a year. He then returned to the farm, but in 1915 took up
his residence in Armstrong, where he has since remained. He is devoting
much of his time and attention to his duties as secretary of the
Farmers Mutual Insurance Company, a local organization, which has built
up a large business. He also looks after his farming interests as he
still owns three hundred and twenty acres in Denmark township and two
hundred and forty acres in Iowa Lake township.
On New Year's Day, 1908, was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Gaarde
and Miss Myna Churchill and they have become the parents of five
children, Arnold, Fern, Bernetta, Earl and Grace. A careful study of
social and political conditions has led Mr. Gaarde to support
the socialist party and he keeps well informed concerning the questions
and issues of the day. He belongs to the Modern Woodmen of America
lodge and is also a member of the Lutheran church. He has a wide
acquaintance throughout the county and his genuine worth is attested by
the fact that those who have known him the most intimately are his
staunchest friends.
WILLIAM P. GALLOWAY, D.D.S.
Dr. William P. Galloway, ex-mayor of Estherville and one of the leading
dentists of that city, is one of Iowa's native sons, having been born
in Union on the 26th of December, 1861, a son of John and Lydia (Haas)
Galloway, both of whom were natives of Ohio. He was the third in order
of birth in their family of twelve children, two of whom died
in infancy. In early life the father followed the cooper's trade but
later engaged in farming and spent his last years in retirement at
Marshalltown, Iowa, where he passed away October 6, 1913. His widow is
still living there. In 1906 they celebrated their golden wedding.
Dr. Galloway began his education in the district schools near his
boyhood home and subsequently attended the high school at Union, Iowa,
and completed a commercial course in the college at Valparaiso,
Indiana,
from which he was graduated in 1883. For one year he was engaged as
bookkeeper in a general store and bank at Melbourne, Iowa, and for
three years taught school in Hardin county, this state.
On the 27th of August, 1885, Dr. Galloway was united in marriage to
Miss Belle Northam, whose parents were residents of Indiana. To this
union two children were born: Vera, who is now Mrs. P. J. Christensen,
of Spirit Lake; and J. Carlton, who is a graduate of the Iowa State
Agricultural College at Ames and is now principal of the high school at
Sanburn, Iowa. He is also married.
For one year after his marriage Dr. Galloway was principal of the
public schools of New Providence, Iowa, while his wife had charge of
the primary department. The following year he accepted a position in
the auditor's office of the Minneapolis & St. Louis Railroad at
Marshalltown, where he remained for five years, during which time he
was promoted to chief clerk in the ticket auditing department and
served as such one year. For a short time he studied dentistry under
Drs. Billings & Whinnery, of Marshallown, and for two years
continued his studies
in the University of Iowa. He was then given a permit to practice,
receiving the highest marking ever received by an undergraduate student
applying for a permanent perrrrit. He bought a practice in Union, Iowa,
where he remained until 1895, and then sold out in order to enter the
Philadelphia College of Dentistry, from which he received his degree of
D.D.S. m 1896. The Doctor then reentered practice at Marshalltown,
remaining
there until coming to Estherville in 1900. Here he practiced in
partnership with his brother, Dr. C. C. Galloway, now of Washington,
D.C, until 1904, when he purchased his brother's interest in the
business and has since been alone. He has met with good success in his
chosen
profession and is regarded as one of the foremost dentists of this part
of the state.
The republican party has always found in Dr. Galloway a staunch
supporter of its principles and he has been called upon to fill
official positions of honor and trust. He was a member of the city
council of Estherville from 1903 to 1905, inclusive, and served as
mayor of the city in 1906 and 1907. During his administration the city
water plant was purchased and the deep well system superseded the old
river system, which was a decided improvement. The Doctor labored
untiringly for the interests of the city and never withheld his support
from any
measure which he believed would prove of public benefit. He is a member
of the Presbyterian church and is past master of the Masonic blue lodge
at Estherville and past noble grand of the Odd Fellows lodge. He is now
serving as president of the Commercial Club and in this capacity is
prominently identified with the upbuilding and development of the city.
THOMAS V. GAMMELGAARD
Thomas V. Gammelgaard, deceased, was an honored citizen of Emmet
county, his home being on section 21, Denmark township, where his
family still reside. Of Danish descent, he was born in
Schleswig-Holstein, Germany, and there he was reared and educated. His
parents, who are also deceased, never came to the United States. In
their family were
only two children, a son and daughter, and the latter is still a
resident of
Denmark.
Mr. Gammelgaard, of this review, served for three years in the
Danish army, and at the age of twenty-five years came alone to America,
believing that here he could better his financial condition. He first
located in Clinton county, Iowa, but a year later removed to Humboldt
county,
this state, where he worked as a farm hand for a time. In 1894 he
became a resident of Denmark township, Emmet county, where he engaged
in farming upon
rented land for six years, and in 1900 purchased the west half of the
southwest quarter of section 21, where he continued to follow
farming with good results until his death, which occurred June 30,
1907. His remains were interred in St. John's cemetery.
In 1897 Mr. Gammelgaard married Miss Laura Petersen, whose parents died
in Clinton, Iowa, when she was quite small, and she was adopted by P.
L. and Christina Petersen, now living retired in Ringsted. To Mr. and
Mrs. Gammelgaard were born four children: Alfred, Myrtle, Edward and
Emil, all at home. By a former marriage Mr. Gammelgaard had one son,
Chris, who is now engaged in farming near Rutland, Iowa.
Mr. Gammelgaard cast his ballot with the democratic party and
acceptably served as school director in his district. He was an earnest
and consistent member of St. John's Lutheran church, and also held
membership in the Danish Brotherhood, the Modern Woodmen of America and
the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He was one of the highly esteemed
citizens of his community and had the confidence and respect of all who
knew him.
GUSTAV GILBERT
Gustav Gilbert, whose well improved farm on section 10, Twelve Mile
Lake township, gives evidence of the careful supervision and
progressive methods of the owner, is numbered among Iowa's native sons,
his birth having occurred in Fayette county on the 20th of February,
1869. His parents, Ingebret and Emily Gilbert, were natives of Norway
and in early life the father followed the occupation of farming, while
later he turned his attention to merchandising in Elgin, Iowa. In 1878
he became a resident of Emmet county and purchased a farm in Ellsworth
township, comprising the south half of the southeast
quarter of section 30. There he continued to devote his attention to
general
agricultural pursuits until the last ten years of his life, which were
spent in honorable retirement from labor. He died at the home of his
son Gustav in 1908, having for six years survived his wife, who passed
away in 1902. The family was well known in this county and Mr. Gilbert
served as township clerk and was also a school director for a number of
years. To him and his wife were born ten children, of whom five are yet
living.
Gustav Gilbert of this review spent his youthful days like the other
children of the household, dividing his time between the acquirement of
a public school education and such tasks as were assigned him by
parental authority. He continued to work for his father until after he
had attained his majority and gained broad and valuable practical
experience in that connection. He afterward rented land from his father
for five years and eventually he purchased the south half of the
northeast quarter of section 10, Twelve Mile Lake township, and is now
the owner of an excellent farm of eighty acres. He carefully and
persistently tills his fields, which return to him golden harvests as a
reward for the labor which he bestows upon them. In addition to tilling
the soil in the production of crops best adapted to climatic conditions
here he is engaged in the raising of thoroughbred shorthorn cattle. His
farm is splendidly improved with all modern equipments and his success
is indeed the legitimate reward of his labor.
On the 27th day of September, 1894, Mr. Gilbert was married to Miss
Barbara Sando and they have become the parents of seven children: Alma,
who is in the city clerk's office in Estherville; Frithjof, who is
attending the Jewell Lutheran College at Jewell, Iowa; and
Viola, Luella, Odena, Rudolph and Margaret, all at home.
The religious faith of the parents is that of the Norwegian Lutheran
church and politically Mr. Gilbert maintains an independent course,
supporting men and measures rather than party. He has been township
assessor for the past four years, was township clerk for eight years
and for four years occupied that position in Ellsworth township. He is
never neglectful of the duties of citizenship and always
faithfully performs every public service entrusted to him. He has many
genuinely fine qualities and he is a representative of that class of
successful agriculturists who have done much for the upbuilding of the
state.
W. G. GORDON
One of the valuable and highly improved farms of Emmet county is
the property of W. G. Gordon and comprises two hundred and eighty-one
acres on section 33, Center township, on which he took up his abode in
1915. He was born in Forest county, Pennsylvania, May 23, 1870, his
parents being Alexander and Mary (McBride) Gordon, both of whom were
natives of Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania. There they were married
and later they became residents of Elkhart county, Indiana. They had a
family of eight children, of whom six are now living. In the year 1882
the father came to Emmet county, Iowa, which was then largely an
unsettled and unimproved district, and purchased a large tract of land
at four dollars per acre. He afterward gave to his son, W. G. Gordon,
part of the farm which he now owns. He died at Elkhart, Indiana, in
August, 1904.
W. G. Gordon was reared in the Hoosier state and completed his
education at Notre Dame University. He lived with his parents until he
reached adult age arid then removed to Oregon, settling near Medford.
For seven years he devoted his time and attention to the developmnt of
a fruit farm in that district and was quite successful in its conduct.
In 1915 he came to Iowa and established his home in Emmet county upon
the farm on section 33, Center township, where he now resides. This is
an excellent tract of land, naturally rich and productive, and the
fields respond readily to the care and labor which he bestows upon
them. The farm methods which he employs are most progressive and in all
that he undertakes he is systematic and persistent.
In 1894 Mr. Gordon was united in marriage to Miss Florence Throop,
a native of Indiana and a daughter of Samuel B. and Helen F. (Evans)
Throop. The father is a native of Canada and the mother of Indiana and
they are still living in the Hoosier state. They became parents of
three children, all of whom survive. Mr. and Mrs. Gordon have a
daughter and son, Margaret H., and Howard T.
Mr. Gordon is a stalwart champion of republican principles but has
never been an office seeker. He belongs to the Masonic lodge at Celina,
Ohio, and he and his wife are members of the Eastern Star. They also
attend the Presbyterian church and their genuine worth entitles them to
the high regard in which they are uniformly held. While residents of
Emmet county for but a brief period, they have already become quite
widely known and their circle of friends is constantly increasing as
their circle of acquaintance broadens. Mr. Gordon has proven himself a
capable business man and his genuine worth is seen in many other ways.
GEORGE L. GORTON
George L. Gorton, who follows farming on section 13, Estherville
township, Emmet county, is one of Iowa's native sons, his birth
occurring in Linn county, March 23, 1871, and he is the seventh in a
family of ten children. His parents, Foster E. and Lucy (Herrick)
Gorton, were born in New York and Ohio respectively and at an early day
came to Iowa. It was in 1894 that they became residents of Estherville
township, Emmet county, where the father purchased the southwest
quarter of section 13,
on which our subject now resides.
At the usual age George L. Gorton began his education in the
district schools near his home, and he continued his studies until
sixteen years of age. He then gave his father the benefit of his
services until
twenty-five, when he took charge of the home place and cared for his
parents until they were called to the world beyond, the father dying in
1910 and the mother in 1909. They were buried in Oak Hill cemetery near
Estherville. George L. Gorton still lives on the homestead and in his
farming operations has met with well merited success, being regarded as
one of the substantial citizens of his community.
In 1901 Mr. Gorton was united in marriage to Miss Katherine Frank,
a daughter of Henry and Katherine Frank, who came to this country from
Germany in early life, the former settling in Emmet county, Iowa, and
the latter in Dickinson county. Mr. Frank has passed away and is buried
in Estherville, but his .wife is still living and makes her home in
tliat
city. Mr. and Mrs. Gorton have two children, Ruth and Esther.
Since attaining his majority Mr. Gorton has affiliated with the
republican party and for a number of years he efficiently served as
township trustee. In religious faith he is a Methodist. He is a man of
good
business ability and as he thoroughly understands the occupation which
he follows, is progressive and energetic, he has met with success in
his
farming operations and is today quite well-to-do.
Mrs. Sarah Gunderson is well known in Emmett
County, where she has long resided, her home being now on section 12,
in Twelve Mile Lake township. She is the widow of Andrew Gunderson and
is a native of Columbia County, Wisconsin. Her parents were Knut and
Olive (Isaacson) Knutson, who were natives of Norway, and her father
made farming his life work. Coming to the new world, he established his
home in Wisconsin and was there residing at the time of the outbreak of
the Civil War. Responding to the country's call for military aid, he
joined Company A of the Second Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry and went to
the front, serving until honorably discharged on account of illness. He
never recovered his health and died three years after leaving the army.
He had three sons who were also in the service: John, who was wounded
while at the front but recovered; Thomas, who was killed, thus laying
down his life on the altar on his country, and Isaac, who died from
illness in a hospital during his term
of service.
Mrs. Gunderson spent her girlhood in her native state, was
confirmed in Iowa and pursued her education in a Norwegian school in
Wisconsin. When eighteen years of age she gave her hand in marriage to
Andrew Gunderson and two years later they left Wisconsin for Iowa,
taking up their abode in Twelve Mile Lake township, Emmet County. Mr.
Gunderson purchased the northwest quarter of section 12 and later the
northeast quarter of section 11, but afterward forty acres of the farm
was sold to his brother, L. L. Gunderson. Andrew Gunderson was born in
Norway, June 1, 1843, a son of Louis and Lena Gunderson, the former a
shoemaker by trade. The son attended the common schools of his native
country and when eighteen years of age came to America with his
parents, the family home being established in Dane County, Wisconsin.
The father followed shoemaking in Lodi, Wisconsin, and there he and his
wife remained until called to their final rest. Their family numbered
four sons and three daughters. Andrew Gunderson became familiar with
the trade of shoemaking and worked with his
father up to the time of his marriage. He then started out
independently and, as previously indicated, became interested in
farming in Emmet County, securing a tract of land which he converted
into rich and productive fields. He annually gathered golden harvests
as a reward for the care and labor which he bestowed upon his place and
became recognized as one of the foremost agriculturists of his district.
To Mr. and Mrs. Gunderson were born eleven children, of whom nine
are yet living. The eldest, Lena, became the wife of George Wigdahl and
died in 1896, leaving her husband, who is now a resident of Colton,
South Dakota, and two children: Oberner, a resident of Chicago, and
Lawrence, also of Colton, South Dakota. The second child of the family
was George Leland, who died in infancy. The others of the household
are: Olive, the wife of Henry Beucus, of Monee, Illinois; Louise, who
married Otley R. Westfall, of Chicago; Hans, who married Bertha
Ellingbo and is now living with his mother, for whom he cultivates the
home farm; Knut, at home; Ellen, the wife of John Christman, of
Chicago; Emma, the wife of Clay Foley, of Chicago; Andrew, who married
Ada Waldo and is living in Monee, Illinois; and Hazel and Alma, both
residing in Chicago.
The death of the husband and father occurred December 11, 1894, and
he was laid to rest in Riverside cemetery at Wallingford. He served as
a member of the school board in Twelve Mile Lake township and was much
interested in the cause of education, recognizing the fact that the
public school system is one of the bulwarks of the nation. He voted
with the Republican party but was never an aspirant for oflice. His
religious faith was that of the Norwegian Lutheran Church. He won
material success in life through his indefatigable industry and
perseverance and at his death he left to his family not only a
comfortable competence but also the priceless heritage of an
untarnished name. Mrs. Gunderson, surviving him, is numbered among the
old-time residents of the county, having long made her home here, so
that she is familiar with the history of its development from pioneer
days to the present.
GEORGE T. HAAHR
George T. Haahr, of Denmark township, has gained a competence
through unrelaxing attention to his work as a farmer and through the
practice of thrift. His birth occurred in Denmark, August 25, 1875, and
he is one of seven children born to Knud and Christiana (Andersen)
Haahr. The mother passed away in 1884 in Audubon county, Iowa, where
the family had located upon their emigration to the United States in
1883. The father subsequently married again, choosing as his second
wife Karen Mikkelsen, by whom he had eight children. He purchased a
farm in Audubon county, but after living there for seven years removed
to Buena Vista county, whence after two years he went to Larimore.
North Dakota, where he and his wife are still living.
George T. Haahr attended the district schools for a time in Audubon
county, but as soon as he was old enough began working as a farm hand.
When twenty-six years of age he rented a farm in Buena Vista county
which he operated for two years. Since the spring of 1905 he has
resided in Denmark township, Emmet county, and after farming the
northwest quarter of section 11 for three years under lease he
purchased the place, which he is still operating. The farm is well
improved and everything is kept in first-class condition, thus
facilitating the work
of caring for the crops and livestock. Mr. Haahr was for some time a
director of both the Denmark Creamery and the Farmers' elevator and is
accounted one of the substantial men of his township.
On the 2nd of October, 1901, he was united in marriage to Miss Kate
M. Christiansen, a daughter of Christopher and Karen M. (Nelsen)
Christiansen, who located in Blackhawk county, Jowa, on removing from
their native Denmark to the United States. They resided in that county
for eighteen years and subsequently lived for a considerable period in
Buena Vista county, but at length took up their residence in Denmark
township, Emmet county, where the father died. He is buried in St.
John's cemetery. The mother survives and makes her home with her
children in Denmark township. Five children have been born to Mr. and
Mrs. Haahr, as follows: Earl, deceased; Orvil Eugene, Earlys Ardell,
Marion Thorlund, and Lavinia Christiansen.
Mr. Haahr supports the Democratic party where national issues are
at stake, but at local elections votes for the candidates whom he deems
best fitted to fill the office without regard to their party
affiliation. He is identified with the Danish Brotherhood and his
religious faith is
indicated by his membership in St. John's Danish Lutheran church. He
began his independent career with no assets save his knowledge of farm
work, his energy and his determination to succeed, and with these as a
foundation he has builded well, gaining financial success and the
unqualified respect of all who know him.
H. C. HANSEN
H. C. Hansen, who owns and operates a fine farm of one hundred and
twenty acres on section 21, Denmark township, Emmet county, comes of a
good old Danish family, his birth occurring in Denmark, June 12, 1858.
He is a son of Mads P. and Karen Marie (Jensen) Hansen, in whose family
were eight children. In 1880 they crossed the ocean and took up their
residence in Story county, Iowa, where they lived for five years, and
then settled on a farm in Palo Alto county, just across the line from
Denmark township, Emmet county. Both parents have now passed away and
are buried in St. John's cemetery.
H. C. Hansen was reared and educated in his native land, being
twenty-two years of age when the family came to the new world. Coming
to Iowa he worked as a farm hand in this state for ten years and has
since engaged in agricultural pursuits on his own account. After his
marriage he purchased one hundred and twenty acres of land on section
2, Independence township, Palo Alto county, and continued its
improvement and cultivation until 1900, when he purchased his present
farm on section 21, Denmark township, Emmet county, which also consists
of one hundred and twenty acres. In connection with general farming he
is raising registered Hereford cattle and finds that branch of his
business quite profitable.
In 1890 Mr. Hansen was united in marriage to Miss Ellen C.
Petersen, a daughter of Eric Petersen, of Muskegon county, Michigan,
where he had homesteaded and where he continued to reside until his
death in 1915. She lost her mother when quite small. Of the seven
children born to Mr. and Mrs. Hansen two died in infancy, the others
being Anna, Carrie, Ruth, Eric and Julius, all at home. They hold
membership in St. Paul's Lutheran church, and Mr. Hansen is a
republican in politics, taking a deep and commendable interest in
public affairs.
RASMUS HANSEN
For six years Rasmus Hansen was actively identified with the
commercial interests of Emmet county as one of the leading business men
of Ringsted but now devotes his time and attention to agricultural
pursuits, owning and operating a fine farm on section 30, Denmark
township. He was born on the 27th of March, 1865, in Denmark, and is
the fourth in order of birth in a family of eight children whose
parents were Mads P. and Karen Marie (Jensen) Hansen. The first fifteen
years of his life were spent in his native land and he then accompanied
the family on their emigration to the new world. It was in 1880 that
they arrived in Story City, Iowa, and the father pui'chased a farm in
Story county, which he operated for five years. In 1885 he removed with
his family to Palo Alto county, locating just across the line from
Denmark township, Emmet county, and the farm which he there secured he
improved and cultivated for a number of years. At length his son Rasmus
purchased the place and cared for his parents until death. The father
passed away on the 31st of December, 1898, and the mother died January
18, 1916, both being laid to rest in St. John's cemetery.
During his boyhood and youth Rasmus Hansen became thoroughly
familiar with the best methods of carrying on agricultural pursuits and
he followed farming until 1900, when he embarked in the hardware
business at Ringsted and continued operations along that line for three
years. During the following three years he was engaged in the coal and
feed business at that place, but in 1906 resumed farming, purchasing
the southwest quarter of section 30, Denmark township, Emmet county,
where he now resides. He has drained the land and made many substantial
improvements thereon, converting it into one of the best farms of the
locality. He raises high grade Holstein cattle and also hogs,
keeping
registered boars for that purpose.
In 1893 Mr. Hansen married Miss Johanna Marie Madsen, a daughter of
Jens P. and Maren Madsen, who were lifelong residents of Denmark. Mr.
and Mrs. Hansen have four children: Carrie, Sine, Minnie and August.
The family are communicants of St. Paul's Lutheran church and Mr.
Hansen is identified with the democratic party. He assisted in the
incorporation of the town of Ringsted and served on the council two
years. He takes an active and commendable interest in public affairs
and never withholds his support from any enterprise which he believes
calculated to promote the moral, educational or material
welfare
of his community. He is a straightforward and reliable business man and
well merits any trust reposed in him.
JOHN HANSON
The record of John Hanson, who owns four hundred and forty acres of
the finest land in Emmet county, is one that should prove very
stimulating to young men just beginning their independent career as
when he arrived in the United States he was not only a stranger to the
customs of the country but was also handicapped by lack of capital.
However, he possessed in large measure the determination and energy
characteristic
of the Norwegian race and the exercise of these qualities has brought
him to his present notable position as one of the leading farmers in
this
prosperous agricultural county. He raises stock on an extensive scale,
specializing in the feeding of sheep for the market.
Mr. Hanson was born in Norway on the 19th of December, 1870, and is one
of the four surviving children of a family of five whose parents were
Hans and Bertha Hanson, lifelong residents of the land of the
midnight sun. He attended the schools of his native country in the
acquirement of an education but in 1889, when nineteen years of age,
emigrated to America, making his way to Grundy county, Illinois, where
for eight years he worked as a farm hand. He next rented land in
Webster county, Iowa, for six years but in 1903 removed to Emmet county
and bought one hundred and forty-six acres on section 18, Center
township. Three years later he sold that place and for two years
cultivated rented land but at the end of that time purchased a farm in
High Lake township, on which he resided for a year. He then disposed of
that property and purchased land in Webster county which he cultivated
for three years. Upon selling that farm he came again to Emmet county
and bought his present place, comprising four hundred and forty acres
on section 26, Center township. He has erected a number of substantial
and up-to-date buildings and has otherwise improved his place, which is
one of the model farms of the township. He raises all kinds of stock
but pays particular attention to
feeding sheep, having a thousand head upon the farm during the winter
of 1916-17.
Mr. Hanson, was married in 1897 to Miss Martha Larson, a native of
Webster county, Iowa, and a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Larson, the
latter of whom is deceased. To the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Hanson have
been born nine children, namely, Belle S., Tillie H., Clarence J.,
Ernest, Lawrence, Clifford, Melvin, Lester and Genevieve.
Mr. Hanson is an adherent of the republican party and has always
taken the interest in public affairs incumbent upon an American citizen
but has not been an aspirant for political office. However, he has
served his district as school director. Both he and his wife are
communicants of the Lutheran church and are factors in the advancement
of its work.
T. M. HANSON
An excellent farm of one hundred and sixty acres situated on section
25, Swan Lake township, is the property of T. M. Hanson and pays to him
substantial tribute for the care and labor which he bestows upon the
fields. He was born in Norway, November 25, 1867, a son of Mons and
Johanna (Hatteberg) Hanson, both of whom were natives of Norway. Coming
to America in 1869, they settled first in Kendall county, Illinois,
taking up their abode upon a farm whereon they resided for seven years.
They afterward became residents of Ford county, Illinois, and there
resided for twelve years, after which they came to Iowa,
establishing their home in Emmet county, where their remaining days
were passed. They had a family of six children, of whom five are now
living.
T. M. Hanson was reared and educated in Illinois, having been less than
two years of age when brought by his parents to the new world. He left
home at the age of nineteen and began earning his own living as a farm
hand, being employed in that way for about seven years. He afterward
came to Emmet county, Iowa, and invested the money which he had saved
from his earnings in one hundred and sixty acres of land on section
25, Swan Lake township, which he has improved. He has made a specialty
of raising hogs and that branch of his business adds
materially to his income.
In 1911 Mr. Hanson was united in marriage to Mrs. Rachel (Thompson)
Wetterhus and to them was born a daughter, Johanna Elmira, who died at
the age of seven months. By her former marriage Mrs. Hanson had a
daughter, Maurine, who is now at home. Mr. and Mrs. Hanson hold
membership in the Lutheran church and he gives his political allegiance
to the republican party but has never sought nor held office,
preferring to concentrate his energies upon his business affairs. He is
a self-made man whose prosperity has all been won through his own
efforts since he started out in life on his own account. Diligence and
determination have characterized his entire career and made him one of
the substantial citizens of Swan Lake township.
JOSEPH A. HARING
Joseph A. Haring, wide-awake, alert and energetic, is prominently
connected with the business interests of Wallingford, where he is also
filling the office of mayor, and in this connection is giving to the
city a businesslike and progressive administration. He was born in
Pennsylvania in 1872 and is a son of William and Magdalena Haring, who
were
also natives of the Keystone state. The father was a railway engineer
for a long period and during the last few years of his life devoted his
attention to agricultural pursuits. Both he and his wife have now
passed away and their remains were interred at Clinton, Iowa. They had
a family of eight children: George, now deceased; William, who is
married and makes his home in Reading, Pennsylvania; Mary, the wife of
J. S. Jones, of Lyons, Iowa; Lizzie, the wife of Charles Aue, of this
state; Kate, the wife of J. F. Bockstaller, of Clinton, Iowa; John G.,
who is married and resides in Clinton; Joseph A.; and Robert, who is
married and also makes his home in Clinton.
Joseph A. Haring was a little lad of but six years when he
accompanied his parents to Clinton, Iowa, where the father was first
employed as a railroad engineer, while later he turned his attention to
the growing of fruit. There Joseph A. Haring entered the public
schools, which he attended until graduated from the high school. He
afterward learned the machinists trade, which he followed until he
reached the age of
thirtysix years. Later he was engaged in merchandising with Frank Irwin
at Marseilles, Illinois, for a year and after coming to
Wallingford joined Frank in organizing the present firm
of & Haring for the conduct of a general mercantile
establishment. They also deal in
hardware and meats and have built up a trade which is substantial and
gratifying.
On the 24th of November, 1898, Mr. Haring was united in marriage to
Miss Myra , a sister of his partner, and they have one son, ,
who was born in 1907.
Mr. Haring is a Mason, belonging to the lodge at Lyons, Iowa, and
he is also connected with the Modern Woodmen camp at Wallingford, of
which he is serving as clerk. He attends the Presbyterian church. His
political support is given to the republican party and he is
acknowledged one of its leaders in his community. On the city ticket he
was elected mayor of Wallingford and is now the present chief executive
of the town, directing its interests and seeking ever to promote its
welfare.
R. S. HARRIS
R. S. Harris, proprietor of the Lake Road Farm on section 2,
Armstrong Grove township, Emmet county, is a native of the neighboring
state of Illinois. He was born in Carroll county, April 19, 1868, and
is a son of John and Eliza (Hanna) Harris. The parents were both
natives of Ireland, but in early life came to America and located in
New York state, where they made their home for a time. From there they
removed to Illinois, and Mr. Harris purchased a farm in Carroll county,
which he operated until ten years prior to his death when he retired
from active life. He passed away in August, 1903, and his wife survived
him for about two years, dying in May, 1905.
R. S. Harris is indebted to the public schools of his native county
for his early education and he remained with his parents until
twenty-five years of age. He then rented his father's farm, which he
successfully operated for five years, and at the end of that time
removed to Black Hawk county, Iowa. One year later he became a resident
of Emmet county and purchased two hundred and forty-five acres in
Annstrong Grove township, to the improvement and cultivation of which
he devoted
the following thirteen years. On disposing of that place he bought a
half section, a part of which was on,section 1 and the remainder on
section 2 of Armstrong Grove township, but he subsequently sold a
quarter of section 1. He has made many excellent improvements upon the
remainder of his land and in its operation and cultivation has met with
marked success. In connection with general farming he pays
particular attention to stock, and feeds a carload of cattle and hogs
for the market every year.
On the 19th of February, 1895, Mr. Harris married Miss Margaret
Calder, a daughter of William and Catherine (McKay) Calder, who were
natives of Nova Scotia. There her father died in 1865 and her mother,
who long survived him, passed away on the 30th of October, 1893. Mr.
and Mrs. Harris have four children, namely: Willis and Wilbur, twins,
born August 6, 1896; Ransom C, bom August 16, 1899; and Charles R.,
born February 3, 1907.
In politics Mr. Harris is a staunch republican and his fellow
citizens, recognizing his worth and ability, have called upon him to
fill
positions of trust and responsibility. For the past twelve years he has
served as assessor and has also filled the office of trustee of
Armstrong Grove township for four years. He is the present secretary of
the Farmers Telephone Company, president of the Farmers Elevator
Company of Armstrong and vice president of the Farmers Improvement
Association of Emmet county. He is also a member of the Armstrong
Consolidated high school board and is a trustee of the Presbyterian
church, to which he and his wife belong. Fraternally he is a member of
the Modern Woodmen of America and the Yeomen lodge, and in both social
and business circles he occupies an enviable position, having the
confidence and respect of all with whom he is brought in contact.
CHARLES G. HARRISON
Charles G. Harrison, whose home is on section 14, Armstrong Grove
township, Emmet county, where he is successfully engaged in
agricultural pursuits, was born on the 29th of August. 1862, in
Wisconsin, and is a son of James and Martha (Pierson) Harrison, who
were natives of
-Yorkshire, England, and came to America in the early '50s. Locating in
Wisconsin, father purchased land in Ironton, Sauk county, where he
followed farming for many years. When the country became involved in
civil war he enlisted in a Wisconsin regiment and remained in the
service for three years. He then returned to his home and resumed
farming, continuing to make his home in Wisconsin until his death,
which occurred in 1906. His wife survived him five years, passing away
in 1911.
On the old home farm in Wisconsin Charles G. Harrison grew to
manhood with the usual educational advantages and he remained under the
parental roof until twenty-three years of age, when he went to
Washington, where he remained eleven years and took up a homestead
eight miles from Olympia. On his return east he settled at Luverne,
Iowa, where he purchased land and engaged in its operation for five
years. At the end of that time he came to Emmet county and bought one
hundred and sixty acres on sections 14 and 24, Armstrong Grove
township. He resides on the former section and now has a well-improved
and valuable farm, pleasantly located only a half mile from the city
limits of
Armstrong. He has residence property and five acres of land in that
place besides his farm.
In 1892 Mr. Harrison was united in marriage to Miss Ida M.
Griflfin, and to them were born two children: James A., who died in
1896; and Clifford C, who graduated in 1917 from high school and now
follows farming. Mr. Harrison is a life member of State Lodge No. 68,
A. F. & A. M., at Tacoma, Washington, and also belongs to the
Yeomen. He attends the Methodist church at Armstrong and politically is
identified with the republican party. He is one of the successful
farmers and
representative citizens of his community and well remits the respect
which is accorded him.
JOHN C. HARRISON
The well ordered appearance of the farm of one hundred and sixty acres
in Armstrong Grove township, Emmet county, belonging to John C.
Harrison is evidence of the care and labor which he bestows upon the
place and which enables him to secure a gratifying income from his
land. He was born on the 12th of March, 1846, in Michigan, a son of
Alanson and Eleanor (Patek) Harrison, both natives of New York state.
The father followed the stonecutter's trade in the east, but after his
removal to Michigan engaged in farming there. At length he retired and
removed to a nearby town, where he spent his last years, his death
occurring January 2, 1882. On the 9th of May, 1884, his wife also
passed away.
John C. Harrison grew to manhood in his native state and received his
education in the common schools. On attaining his majority he left home
and traveled during the greater part of the time for three years. He
then went to California, where he was employed as a railroad brakeman
for some time and where he learned and followed the carpenter's trade.
At length he returned to Michigan, but in the spring of 1871 he and two
brothers came to Emmet county, Iowa, where all took up homesteads. John
C. Harrison filed on one hundred and sixty acres on section 20,
Armstrong Grove township, and has there made his home during the
intervening forty-six years. During that time the transformation
wrought in his farm and in the county as a whole has been nothing short
of marvelous. When he came here this was a frontier district, much of
the land was unbroken and there were few white settlers. Now his highly
cultivated and splendidly improved place is typical of the farms of the
county and country life has many advantages that even a comparatively
few years ago were supposed to belong to city life exclusively. He is a
stockholder in the Farmers Creamery Company of Armstrong and the
Farmers Telephone Company, believing thoroughly in the importance of
cooperation among farmers.
Mr. Harrison was married February 16, 1877, to Mrs. Elizabeth Baker, a
daughter of George and Jane (Froice) Martin, natives of England, whence
they emigrated to America many years ago. Mr. Martin farmed in New York
state and also engaged in the butcher business there until 1871, when
he removed with his family to Iowa City, Iowa, where he operated a meat
market for three years. He then came to Emmet county, Iowa, where a son
homesteaded land. Following the death of the son Mr. Martin took over
the operation of the place, which he continued to cultivate for several
years. At length he sold the property and from that time until his
death, which occurred in 1904, made his home witli Mr. Harrison. The
mother died in December, 1893. To Mr. and Mrs. Harrison has been born a
son, Harry, whose birth occurred in December, 1877, and who is now
operating the home place. He married Miss Amy Moore and they have a
daughter, Mabel Viola.
Mr. Harrison votes the republican ticket and has acceptably filled the
offices of assessor and township clerk and has likewise been a school
director. His religious faith is indicated in his membership in the
Presbyterian church and in all relations of life he has sought to
conform his conduct to high ethical standards.
THADDEUS S. HAYS
In the death of Thaddeus S. Hays, Emmet county mourned the loss of
one of its valued and representative citizens, for he was long
identified with business and financial interests in the county and was
ever found loyal and faithful to the trust reposed in him. He was born
in Prairie City, Illinois, in November, 1867, a son of Charles and
Mattie (Loughry) Hays, who were natives of Pennsylvania and at an early
day became residents of Illinois. While living in McDonough county,
that state, the father served as county sheriff and accordingly became
a resident of Macomb. Later he removed to Iowa and subsequently to
South Dakota, where he filled the office of county treasurer.
Thaddeus S. Hays was largely reared and educated in Shenandoah,
Iowa, and after putting aside his textbooks was appointed to the
position of deputy county treasurer under his father at Woonsocket,
South Dakota. After retiring from that position he entered a bank there
and later
removed to Chicago, where he was employed in the collection department
of Deering & Company for four years. When that period had passed he
went to Graettinger, Iowa, where he engaged in the banking business but
later removed to Armstorng, where he became cashier of the Armstrong
State Bank and one of its large stockholders. He continued to act in
that official capacity throughout his remaining days and was not
quite thirty-seven years of age when, after an illness of less than a
week, he passed away in August, 1904. In addition to his business
interests at Armstrong he was the vice president of a bank at Dolliver
and director of the bank at Winnebago, Iowa, and he also owned
considerable farm land in Kossuth and Emmet counties.
It was on the 3d of June, 1896, that Mr. Hays was united in
marriage to Miss Hannah L. Gaarder, a daughter of Harry and Bergitte
(Leerberg) Gaarder, who were natives of Norway, whence they came to the
new world in early life. The father was a farmer and engaged in tilling
the soil for many years. Eventually he became a resident of
Graettinger, Iowa, and in that vicinity purchased land which he rented.
He died in 1901, while his vnfe passed away in Wisconsin. Mr. and Mrs.
Hays became the parents of three children, Gladys, Francis and Thaddeus
S., all of whom are attending school, the eldest being now a college
student in Huron, South Dakota. Mrs. Hays has taken up the management
of her husband's business interests. She has been a stockholder and one
of the directors of the Armstrong State Bank for the past twelve years
and she has valuable property holdings which return to her a most
gratifying
income. Her residence is one of the most beautiful homes of Armstrong
and is the abode of warm-hearted hospitality.
In all of his business career Mr. Hays was thoroughly reliable as
well as enterprising and his activities measured up to the highest
standards. He ever assisted in movements for the benefit and welfare of
his community and he served as a member of the town council of
Armstrong and also as a member of the school board. His political
allegiance was given to the republican party. Fraternally, he was a
Mason and a Knight of Pythias, while his religious faith was that of
the Presbyterian
church. While devoted to the public welfare and to the interests of his
friends, his best traits of character were ever reserved for his own
home and fireside and there he was a most devoted husband and father,
counting no sacrifice on his part too great if it would enhance the
happiness and welfare of his wife and children.
C. R. HENRY
Business enterprise, intelligently directed, has made C. R. Henry
one of the representative merchants of Emmet county, within whose
borders he has made his home since 1913. He is now proprietor of a
hardware store at Gruver. His birth occurred at Bonfield, Illinois,
July 20, 1891, his parents being George O. and Emma (Bally) Henry, who
are also natives of that state, where they are still living. To them
were born eight children and the family circle yet remains unbroken by
the hand of death.
C. R. Henry spent his boyhood and youth in the state of his
nativity and is indebted to its public school system for the
educational
opportunity which he enjoyed. He left home at the age of seventeen
years to make his own way in the world and whatever success he has
since achieved is attributable entirely to his earnest effort. His
first
position was that of shipping clerk with James H. Watson at Bradley,
Illinois, where he remained for a year. He next entered the service of
the Chicago, Indiana & Southern Railroad Company, with which he
continued for a year, and on the expiration of that period he spent two
years with the firm of Sears, Roebuck & Company. In 1913 he arrived
in Emmet county and opened the hardware store at Gruver which he now
carries on. He is one of the enterprising merchants of the town and his
business activity is bringing to him merited success.
Mr. Henry belongs to the Modern Woodmen camp and he gives his
political allegiance to the republican party, feeling that its platform
contains the best elements of good government. He is actuated in all
that he does by a spirit of enterprise and progress which assures his
continued advancement in the business world.
GEORGE HERRICK, SR.
George Herrick, Sr., who is successfully engaged in agricultural
pursuits on section 24, Swan Lake township, was born in Sturton,
Lincolnshire, England, on the 20th of May, 1849, and is a .son of John
and Ann (Wheatcroft) Herrick, who continued to make their home in
England throughout life, the father being engaged in farming. Our
subject
attended the common schools of his native land, but his educational
privileges were limited. Although he left school at the age of eleven
years he has always been a reader and a student, and is today a well
informed man.
In 1871 Mr. Herrick sailed for the new world and landed in Quebec,
Canada, whence he made his way to Chicago and from there came direct to
Iowa. He crossed the Mississippi river at Burlington on the 8th of
July, 1871, and although his ticket was to Ottumwa he stopped over at
Mt. Pleasant to visit relatives. His wife accompanied him, and on their
arrival at Mt. Pleasant they found that their capital consisted of only
ten dollars and it was necessary for Mr. Herrick to go to work. He
secured a position as a farm hand and his wife assisted in the
housework, thus paying for her board. He received twenty dollars a
month for his services and remained with his employer until the close
of corn picking, when he and his wife went to live in a log cabin on
the farm where he
had worked and where he was still employed at doing odd jobs until the
following spring. On moving to Mt. Pleasant he secured a position in a
nursery where he remained for four or five years, and after the death
of his employer he was with his successor. He had charge of selling the
nursery stock and also farmed the surplus land. The farm was finally
sold and the business discontinued. Mr. Herrick then removed to
Fillmore county, Nebraska, where he rented a farm on the cash basis and
engaged in agricultural pursuits on his own account. His wheat crop was
poor, however, and only sold for forty cents a bushel and the
grasshoppers ate his corn. In the fall he returned to Iowa. He had paid
one hundred dollars for a freight car to move his goods to Nebraska,
but the return trip was made by horse and wagon. Mr. Herrick located at
Grand Junction, Iowa, where he ran a dray line for two or three years,
and then resumed agricultural pursuits, purchasing a small farm which
he operated until 1891. Since that time he has been a resident of
Emmet county and has lived on his present farm in Swan Lake
township. He is a progressive and up-to-date farmer and since locating
here has met
with good success in his labors.
Before leaving England Mr. Herrick was married in 1871 to Miss
Elizabeth Chamberlain, by whom he has had six children, two sons and
four daughters, namely: Anna, who is now the wife of E. P. Myers, of
Spencer, Iowa, and has three children, Bethel, Mildred and Donald;
Carrie, the widow of J. M. Taylor, of Iowa Falls, who was accidentally
killed December 16, 1916; Grace, who is the wife of L. R. Taylor, of
Armstrong, Iowa, and has three children, Leora, Dorothy and Beryl;
Lilly M., the wife of John S. Dininger, who is now operating Mr.
Herrick's farm; George, Jr., a resident of Denison, Iowa; and Ira D.,
who is living in Maple Hill, Emmet county, is married and has four
children, Earl, Walter, Thelma and Lura.
Mr. Herrick casts his ballot for the men and measures of the
republican party and has most acceptably served as justice of the peace
for ten years and as township trustee and road supervisor for several
terms. He is a member of Armstrong Lodge No. 635, I. O. O. F. of which
he was one of the organizers and both he and his wife hold membership
in the Baptist church. He is one of the most influential citizens in
his
community and has a host of warm friends in Emmet county.
JACOB HERUM
A valuable farm of one hundred and ninety-six acres on section 22,
High Lake township, pays tribute to the care and labors bestowed upon
it by its owmer, Jacob Herum, who is acknowledged one of the
progressive and enterprising agriculturist of Emmet county. He was born
in Dane county, Wisconsin, January 24, 1862, and is a son of Peter E.
and Bertha Herum, who were natives of Norway. On coming to the United
States they made their way to Dane county, Wisconsin, in 1847 and there
resided for almost a quarter of a century, or until 1870. In the latter
year they came to Emmet county, Iowa, and Mr. Herum purchased farm land
in High Lake township. He then began to develop and improve his farm,
bringing his fields to a high state of cultivation. He continued active
in that work until his death and his wife has also
passed away. In their family were twelve children, nine of whom are yet
living.
The common school system of Emmet county afforded Jacob Herum the
educational privileges which he enjoyed. He was but eight years of age
when brought by his parents to Iowa and through the period of his
boyhood and youth his time was divided between the duties of the
schoolroom, the pleasures of the playground and the work of the home
farm. In fact he continued upon the home place until 1896, when he was
united in marriage to Miss Ina Bauge, a daughter of Joe and Julia
(Halverson) Bauge, natives of Norway, who became early settlers
of Iowa, where they still reside. Mr. and Mrs. Herum have become the
parents of five children, Percy B., Joseph G., Raymond J., Robert G.
and Margaret M.
Devoting his time and energies to general agricultural pursuits,
Jacob Herum is now the owner of one hundred and ninety-six acres of
land, which embraces the northeast quarter of the northwest quarter of
section 22, High Lake township, the north half of the northeast quarter
of section 22 and the southeast quarter of the northeast quarter of the
same section. He has resided thereon continuously since his marriage
and is now engaged in general farming and in dairying, keeping good
grades of cows for that purpose. There are excellent improvements upon
his land in the way of good buildings and well kept fences, his
machinery is of the latest improved models and his farm work is carried
on
according to the most progressive methods.
Mr. and Mrs. Herum are members of the Norwegian Lutheran church.
His political endorsement is given to the Republican party and he has
filled the office of road supervisor. He has also been school
director for two years and the cause of education finds in him a
stalwart champion. Practically his entire life has been passed in Emmet
county, where he has now lived for forty-seven years, and there is no
phase of its development and progress with which he is not familiar,
having
witnessed the greater part of its growth and upbuilding.
CHARLES H. HIGINBOTHAM
Charles H. Higinbotham, who is engaged in general merchandising at
Gruver, was born in Winnebago county, Iowa, April 26, 1870. His
parents, William and Rachel (Miller) Higinbotham, are natives of Ohio
and Virginia, respectively. About the year 1860 they took up their
abode in Iowa and are still residents of Winnebago county. They had a
family of eight children, of whom six are yet living.
Spending his youthful days under the parental roof, Charles H.
Higinbotham was educated in the common schools of Winnebago county and
in the high school at Forest City. He continued upon the home farm
until he attained his majority, when, thinking to find other pursuits
more congenial, he turned his attention to commercial interests by
securing a clerkship in a store, in which he was employed for a year.
Later he was connected with a grain elevator for six years or until
1899, when he built an elevator in Gruver, which he conducted for a
short time. He then sold out and established his present general
merchandise store, which he has since conducted. He carries a
substantial and attractive line of goods and finds a ready sale
therefor, owing to his reliable
business methods, his reasonable prices and his earnest desire to
please his patrons. He owns the store building which he occupies.
In 1893 Mr. Higinbotham was united in marriage to Miss Grace Lawrence,
a native of Kansas and a daughter of Lester L. and Irene (Kays)
Lawrence. Her mother is now deceased, while the father resides in Cedar
Rapids, Iowa. Mr. and Mrs. Higinbotham have become the parents of two
children, William L. and Lawrence.
Mr. Higinbotham is a well known and representative member of the
Odd Fellows' Lodge No. 69, also of the Knights of Pythias and the
Modern Woodmen of America, and in the local organizations has filled
various chairs. He votes with the Republican party and his fellow
townsmen, appreciative of his worth and ability, have frequently called
upon him to fill public offices, so that he has served as justice of
the peace, as town clerk and as a member of the school board. His wife
belongs to the Presbyterian church, and both are highly esteemed in the
community where they make their home, their many substantial
characteristics winning for them the high and favorable regard of all
who know them.
WILLIAM A. AND FRANK A. HILDRETH
William A. and Frank A. Hildreth are progressive and representative
farmers of Twelve Mile Lake township. Their ancestral history, a most
interesting one, has been given as follows: "In 1640, Richard,
first of the Hildreth immigrant ancestors, came with the English
Puritans to America and settled in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Of his
children Joseph Hildreth was the first male child in the Hildreth line
born in America. From him the descent is traced down through Joseph,
Hosea and Nathaniel Hildreth, who was the first of the family to leave
Massachusetts, removing from that state in 1817, at which time he took
up his abode near Richmond, Virginia. There he lived for twenty-five
years and
afterward went to Greene county, Ohio, where he died in 1844." His son,
the grandfather of William A. and Frank A. Hildreth, was John Parker
Hildreth, who was born in Virginia in 1821 and married Susan Spahr. He
removed to Jay county, Indiana, and at the time of the Civil War
enlisted in 1864 in the One Hundred and Fortieth Indiana Volunteer
Infantry, but becoming ill, he was sent home on a furlough and,
returning to the front before he had sufficiently recovered, he died at
Murfreesboro, Tennessee, February 11, 1865. His wife had passed away
May 3, 1862, and their children afterward became scattered.
Their son, William Hildreth, Sr., married Samantha Whiteman and for
a few years resided in Logan county, Illinois, where William A.
Hildreth was born on the 20th of August, 1871. During his infancy the
parents removed to Polk county, Iowa, and there the father purchased a
farm of two hundred acres which he at once began to develop and
improve. Thereon he passed away in December, 1884, at the age of
thirty-seven years. His widow and children continued to cultivate the
farm for some time. Mrs. Hildreth still survives and is now living with
her son James. The members of the household were: Edward and James, who
are now residents of Calhoun county, Iowa; Emery, who is living in the
same county; Harry, deceased; Nellie, the wife of Dan Stebleton,
residing near Egeland, North Dakota; Mark, who is also near Egeland;
and William A. and Frank A., of this review.
William A. Hildreth attended the common schools until he reached
the age of sixteen years. He and his brother came to Emmet county in
1898 and purchased farms. William A. Hildreth became owner of the
southeast quarter of section 18, Twelve Mile Lake township, whereon he
now resides, and he has since converted the place into a rich and
productive tract of land from which he annually garners good harvests.
On the 5th of October, 1899, he was married to Miss Jennie Long, a
daughter of James and Mary Long, formerly of Polk county, Iowa, but
both now deceased, their remains having been interred in Ames, Iowa.
Mr. and Mrs. Hildreth have become the parents of six children: Cora,
Russell, Howard, Charles, Wilbur and Esther, all at home. The parents
are
consistent members of the Methodist church and in political views
William A. Hildreth is a republican, but while he is conversant with
the leading
questions and issues of the day, he does not seek nor desire office. He
has served as a school director and is interested in all matters
pertaining
to the general welfare.
Frank A. Hildreth was born in Polk county, Iowa, January 8, 1874.
He was married in 1895 to Dora Boda, a daughter of Adam and Louise
(Ringenburg) Boda, of Polk county. The father died and was buried at
Polk City, while the mother is now living at Sheldahl, Iowa, with her
daughters. Mr. and Mrs. Frank A. Hildreth have become parents of a son,
William. On removing to Emmet county in 1898, Frank A. Hildreth
purchased a valuable and productive farm on section 17.
Like their forefathers,
the two brothers are tillers of the soil and are extensively engaged in
stock raising, specializing in feeding more than in breeding. Theirs
are among the finest improved farms of the county and their property
has been won through earnest, persistent labor. Both brothers are
deeply interested
in
everything pertaining to the welfare and progress of the community, and
Frank A. Hildreth became one of the first directors of the First
National Bank at Terril, Iowa. He, too, has served on the school board
and as township trustee and, like his brother, he adheres to the
Methodist
faith and is a republican in his political views. The Hildreths are
among the prominent families of the county and both William A. and
Frank A.
Hildreth
enjoy the unqualified regard and confidence of all who know them. Their
labors have largely set a standard for agricultural development
in the community where they live and their labors have brought them to
the present prominent position which they now occupy.
JORGEN N. HOIEN
Jorgen N. Hoien, a resident farmer of Jack Creek township, his
home being on section 2, is a native of Denmark and his birth occurred
on the 30th of March, 1866. He is a son of Jens Peter and Else Marie
Hoien, who came to the United States in 1888, settling in Ohio, and in
1893 made their way to Iowa, establishing their home in Blackhawk
county, where the mother passed away. The father afterward came to
Emmet county to make his home with his son Jorgen, with whom he
continued until his death, which occurred in June, 1912.
Jorgen N. Hoien pursued a common school education to the age of
seventeen yars, or until 1883, when he came to the United States. While
in Ohio he was employed in a nail factory at Martins Ferry for two
years, after which he came to Iowa and for a similar period worked as a
farm hand in Blackhawk county. He then went to the Pacific coast and
spent two and a half years in California, working with the bridge gang
of the Santa Fe Railroad Company. Subsequently he returned to Blackhawk
county, Iowa, and began farming on his own account as a renter. There
he remained for eleven years, or until 1900, when he took up his abode
in Emmet county, where he has since lived. He first bought one hundred
and sixty acres of land and later purchased two quarter sections. He
has since sold one quarter and now owns three hundred and twenty acres
of rich and valuable farm land in Emmet county. His time and attention
are concentrated upon the work of the farm and the neat and thrifty
appearance of his place indicates his practical eiforts and progressive
methods. He has good buildings upon his farm and the latest improved
machinery to facilitate the work of the fields and there is nothing
that he can do to enhance the value and productiveness of his place
that he neglects.
In 1890 Mr. Hoien was united in marriage to Miss Anna Lund, of
Blackhawk county, Iowa. They have become the parents of seven children:
Jens, who is engaged in farming in Emmet county; Soren, who occupies
the position of clerk in the Farmers Savings Bank at Ringsted, this
county; and Jorgen, Christina, Iver, Else Marie and Annetta, all at
home.
In politics Mr. Hoien is a democrat and has served as township trustee
and as a member of the school board for a number of years. He belongs
to the Danish Brotherhood and to the Lutheran church and his life is
guided by high and honorable principles that make him a man fully
worthy of the high regard which is everywhere entertained for him. He
came to the United States a poor boy but with the passing years has
steadily worked his way upward and is now one of the substantial and
worthy citizens of Jack Creek township.
WARNER L. HOPPUS
The operation of his fine farm of one hundred and sixty acres in
Armstrong Grove township requires practically the entire attention of
W'arner L. Hoppus, leaving him little time for outside interests. He
was born in Clayton county, Iowa, December 8, 1857, and is a son of
Daniel and Frances (Hanna) Hoppus, natives respectively of Pennsylvania
and of Ohio. The father was a butcher by trade but following his
removal to Iowa carried on farming here. Subsequently he was similarly
engaged in Minnesota and in Canada, his death occurring in the Dominion
in August, 1912, when he had reached the venerable age of eighty-eight
years. His wife is still living in that country.
Warner L. Hoppus grew to manhood in Hardin county, Iowa, and had
the privilege of attending the common schools until he was fourteen
years old. He then began working as a farm hand and so continued until
1881, when he rented land. Two years later he bought a farm in Hardin
county which he operated for three years but at the end of that time he
again rented land, which he cultivated for two years. He at length
purchased another farm in Franklin county, Iowa, but after giving five
years to its operation he came to Emmet county in 1894. For seventeen
years he operated one farm in Armstrong Grove township under lease but
at the end of that time realized a long cherished purpose as he
purchased one hundred and sixty acres of fine land. His place is
situated on section 21, Armstrong Grove township, and its value has
been
increased by many improvements. He is engaged in general farming and
his yearly income is a gratifying one.
Mr. Hoppus was married on the 28th of December, 1881, to Miss Julia
Rogers and to them were born three children: Lyman E., who was born on
the 13th of November, 1883, and died in 1886; Lee L., who was born
October 7, 1887, and is now farming in Armstrong Grove
township; and Luella Blanche, born July 30, 1889. On the 6th of May,
1911, the wife and mother died suddenly of heart failure. She had many
warm friends and her demise was the occasion of much sincere grief.
In politics Mr. Hoppus is a republican and fraternally is
identified with the Modern Woodmen of America. In successfully managing
his agricultural interests and improving his farm he is not only
gaining
prosperity for himself but is also contributing to the development of
his township
and county, whose wealth consists chiefly of rich farm lands.
REV. JOHN R. HORSWELL
Rev. John R. Horswell, one of the well known and valued residents
of Emmet county now living retired in Estherville, was born in England,
May 13, 1846, a son of Richard and Mary Ann (Wood) Horswell, both of
whom were natives of England. They crossed the Atlantic to Canada about
1849 and there resided for twelve years, after which they returned to
England, where they again lived for six years. On the expiration of
that period they went once more to Canada, where they settled in 1867.
The mother contracted cholera on the journey and died in Kingston,
Canada, soon after their arrival. In the year 1869 the Rev. John R.
Horswell came to the United States, establishing his home in Humboldt,
Iowa, and in
the fall of the same year he was joined by his father, who, after
living in Humboldt for two years, learned of a homestead in Emmet
county adjoining Armstrong which had been abandoned by a former
settler. Mr. Horswell accordingly came to Emmet county and filed on the
homestead, which he continued to occupy up to the time of his death. He
was in his ninety-fourth year when he passed away on the 4th of August,
1915,and he remained very active to the last, being a remarkably well
preserved man.
Rev. John R. Horswell acquired his education in the common schools,
supplemented by academic training in England, and there he prepared for
the ministry of the Methodist Episcopal church. He entered upon
ministerial work in Canada in 1868 and soon afterward came to Iowa. For
thirty years he was identified with the Des Moines annual
conference, his first charge being at Humboldt, Iowa. After the mission
was opened from Manson to Storm Lake on the Illinois Central Railroad,
Rev.
Horswell established churches at various points from Manson to Alta and
he was the first Methodist Episcopal minister at Storm Lake. For many
years thereafter he was one of the well known preachers in the state,
working zealously and untiringly for the advancement of the cause. His
labors were not denied the full harvest nor the aftermath and
constituted a most forceful factor in the moral progress of the
districts in which
he labored. In 1895 he entered into superannuated relations with the
church and removed to his farm in Emmet county which he had previously
purchased. Through the following eighteen years he devoted himself to
agricultural pursuits and thereby regained his health, which had become
impaired through close confinement in church work. He made a specialty
of raising cattle while upon the farm and was one of the first to
recognize how much it would mean to the community to produce a better
grade of cattle. He built up a herd of thoroughbred Aberdeen Angus
cattle and was the first man to exhibit from Emmet county at the state
fair and at the International Stock Show, receiving premiums at both
shows. The herd which he sold at the time he retired from active
business brought about ten thousand dollars. He had become recognized
as one of the foremost stockmen of his part of the state and he had
proven his ability not only through contributing to the moral
development of
his community but also by aiding in its material progress. He was very
successful in his farming and cattle raising interests and acquired
eight hundred acres of land, but has since disposed of four hundred
acres by sale and by division among his sons.
On the 20th of December, 1871, Rev. Horswell was married to Miss
Susan C. Murton, of Kingston, Ontario, and to them were born six
childred, four sons and two daughters: Ulysses M., now a practicing
physician of Wausaukee, Wisconsin; Abigail, a teacher in Bennet Academy
at Mathiston. Mississippi; John S., who follows farming near Harris,
Iowa; Floy Georgetta, the wife of H. H. Hansen, of Estherville, Iowa;
Joy R., who is engaged in the real estate business at Estherville; and
Hugo W., who is operating the home farm.
Rev. Horswell's more recent public work in this county has been the
organization of the Emmet County Farm Improvement Association, which
employs a graduate of the State Agricultural College, who keeps in
close touch with the farming interests and works for more intensive
cultivation and for better farming methods generally. After the
organization Rev. Horswell was chosen president, in which capacity he
is now serving. The society is proving a most potent force in Emmet
county in raising the standards and improving the methods of farming
and splendid results are being achieved thereby. He was also
instrumental in the organization of the Emmet County Fair Association
and in securing the passage of a bill whereby twelve thousand dollars
was voted for the purchase of a tract of land of sixty acres adjoining
the city of
Estherville. This was done at the November election of 1916, the
grounds to be ready for exhibition purposes in the fall of 1917. Rev.
Horswell is a member of the board of directors of the Fair Association
and he is
likewise secretary and a member of the board of directors of the
Estherville Free Public Library. In politics he is a republican and has
been importuned to accept the nomination for state representatiye but
has declined the honor. Emmet county places his name high on the roll
of its foremost citizens, recognizing the value and worth of his work
in advancing higher standards for the material, intellectual, social
and
moral development of the community.
RICHARD HORSWELL
Richard Horswell, deceased, was for many years identified with the
agricultural and stock raising interests of Emmet county, his home
being on sections 13 and 14, Armstrong Grove township. He was born in
England, March 25, 1822, and was a son of John and Mary (Upham)
Horswell, who never came to America but died in England, the former in
1835 and the latter in 1830. In the land of his birth Richard Horswell
was reared and educated and at the age of thirteen years started out to
make his own way in the world. When fourteen years old he began
learning the milling business which he followed in England and Canada
for
thirty-five years. At the age of twenty-one he removed to Canada but
was afterward taken ill and returned to his native land for the benefit
of
his health. He remained there four years, during which time he was
married. At the end of that time he again went to Canada accompanied by
his wife and their two children, but twelve years later we again find
them in
England, in order that their children might have better educational
advantages. In 1867 Mr. Horswell again took his family to Canada, where
his wife died the same year. From there he removed to Humboldt county,
Iowa, where he remained for two years and then came to Emmet county,
taking up a homestead of one hundred and sixty acres on section 14,
Armstrong Grove township. Subsequently he purchased another quarter
section across the road on section 13. He at once began the improvement
of his place and made it one of the finest farms in the county. He was
a
breeder of thoroughbred Durham cattle and Poland China hogs, and during
his residence here met with well-deserved success in his labors. He
continued to reside upon his farm up to the time of his death, but for
the last
ten years practically lived retired, renting his land to tenants.
In 1845 Mr. Horswell was united in marriage to Miss Mary A. Wood,
by whom he had seven children, John R., Mary E., Adeline, George,
Charles, Albert and Victor. The last named is now deceased and the wife
and mother passed away in 1867. In March, 1870, Mr. Horswell wedded
Dorcas Cronk, a daughter of David and Nancy (Clark) Cronk, natives of
Canada. Her father, who was a farmer by occupation, continued to reside
in Canada throughout life and passed away in 1867 at the age of
sixty-five years, and her mother died in 1890 at the age of
seventy-nine years. By his second marriage Mr. Horswell had the
following children, Victoria, Walter, Maude, Thyrza, Frances, May,
Garfield, Blanche, Blaine and Lincoln. Of these Frances is deceased.
After a useful and well-spent life Mr. Horswell passed away on the
4th of August, 1915, at the advanced age of ninety-three years, four
months and ten days. His widow still makes her home on the farm. He was
a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and a Methodist in
religious faith. Politically, he supported the men and measures of
the republican party. During his residence in Emmet county he became
widely and favorably known, and at his death left many friends as well
as his immediate family to mourn his loss.
WILLIAM O. HOWARD
William O. Howard, editor of the Armstrong Journal, was born March
10, 1874, in Drakesville, Davis county, Iowa, and is a son of George O.
and Susan F. (Seay) Howard, natives of Ohio and Iowa respectively. The
father, who was a shoemaker by trade, died in 1878, and the mother then
removed to Clarinda, Iowa, to make her home with her father, the Rev.
Isaac M. Seay, who was a pioneer Baptist minister of the state.
William O. Howard was reared and educated in Clarinda, and at the early
age of twelve years entered the office of the Page County Democrat, where he
quickly acquired a good knowledge of the printer's trade. At the age of
sixteen years he established the Bradyville
News
and became the youngest newspaper publisher in Iowa. On disposing of
the business there he worked at his trade in Minnesota for ten years, a
part of which time he was in the employ of Brown & Bigelow, art
calendar publishers of St. Paul. In 1908 Mr. Howard located at Forest
City, Iowa, and for three years owned the controlling interest in the Forest City Summit. On selling out
there he purchased the Wall Lake
Blade,
which he published until the spring of 1916 when he sold out, and in
the fall of that year became a resident of Armstrong, Emmet county.
Here he bought the Armstrong Journal
which he now publishes. He has a well equipped office and being a
thorough newspaper man undoubtedly will meet with success in his new
field of labor.
On New Year's Day of 1897 Mr. Howard was united in marriage to Miss
Sadie Peterson, a native of Norway, and they have become the parents of
four children, namely: Harold M., born May 6, 1898; Morton O., July 3,
1899; Francis E., June 22, 1901; and Ruth M., September 17, 1904.
Fraternally Mr. Howard is a member of the Masonic order and is also
identified with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. In politics he is
a progressive republican, taking a commendable interest in public
affairs and supporting all worthy enterprises for the benefit of his
town and community.
FRANK IRWIN
Frank Irwin is one of the proprietors of a well appointed general
merchandise establishment at Wallingford and is accounted one of the
progressive and enterprising business men of his town. He was born in
the state of New York, March 6, 1873, a son of Eugene and Margaret .
The father was a farmer by occupation and about 1880 removed
westward to Iowa, settling at Lyons, where he turned his attention to
horticultural pursuits. Mr. passed away in 1902, his remains
being interred in Sullivan county. New York, and his widow now resides
with her elder daughter. To him and his wife were born three children:
Myra, now the wife of J. A. Haring, of Wallingford; Flo, the wife of S.
B. Hill, of New York; and Frank.
The last named was a little lad of but seven summers when he
accompanied his parents to tlie middle west and through the period of
his boyhood he attended the pubUc schools and also worked with his
father until he reached the age of about eighteen years. In 1900 he
came to Emmet county and spent two years on a farm in High Lake
township. He afterward purchased a general store in Wallingford and was
associated with E. G. Sando in the conduct of the business for two
years. In 1908 he removed to Marseilles, Illinois, where he spent two
years, and in 1910 returned to the old store in Wallingford,
entering into partnership with J. A. Haring in the sale of general
merchandise, hardware and meats. They enjoyed a good trade and their
close
application and enterprise have developed their business along
substantial lines.
In 1897 Mr. Irwin was united in marriage to Miss May Adams, a
daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Adams. The father died during her
girlhood and the mother afterward became a resident of Morrison,
Ilhnois, where she passed away in 1915. Mr. and Mrs. have two
children: Basil, born in 1902; and Ray, in 1908. The parents have the
warm regard and friendship of those with whom they come in contact.
Mr. belongs to the Mystic Workers and in politics maintains an
independent course, voting for the candidates whom he regards as best
qualified for office rather than for party.
JOHN C. IRWIN
John C. Irwin, now living retired, is an honored veteran of the
Civil war and one whose loyalty in citizenship has never been called
into
question. He has always stood for progressiveness and improvement in
public affairs as well as in private life. He was born in Mercer
county,
Pennsylvania, September 23, 1837, and is a son of Luke and Mary (Adams)
Irwin, both of whom were natives of the Keystone state. In 1851 they
arrived in Jackson county, Iowa, and settled on a farm, there spending
the remainder of their days. In their family were eleven children but
only two are now living.
John C. Irwin was a youth of fourteen years when the removal was
made to this state and his early education, begun in Pennsylvania, was
supplemented by further study in Jackson county. He assisted his father
in the work of the fields through the period of his boyhood and youth,
remaining at home until he attained his majority, and he became
familiar with all of the experiences and hardships of this district
when it was a frontier settlement. After attaining adult age he engaged
in breaking prairie with five yoke of oxen for three years and spent
two years in Missouri previous to his beginning farming in Iowa. With
the outbreak of the Civil war his patriotic spirit was aroused and in
response to the country's call for troops he enlisted in 1861 as a
member of Company D, Ninth Iowa Volunteer Infantry, serving with the
rank of sergeant. He remained with his command for three years and
participated in the siege of Vicksburg, the battle of Missionary Ridge
and in the campaign from Atlanta to the sea. He was mustered out in
Georgia and returned to his home with a most creditable military
record, for he had never faltered
in the performance of any duty assigned him, whether called to the
firing line or stationed on the lonely picket line. His loyalty and
valor were unquestioned and his course was indeed commendable.
When the country no longer needed his aid Mr. Irwin took up his
abode in Benton county, Iowa, where he purchased a farm which he
developed and improved for eighteen years, transforming it into a very
productive tract. He afterward removed to Cherokee county, Iowa, where
he resided until 1901 and then came to Emmet county, settling in
Estherville, where he has since lived retired. He was an active and
progressive agriculturist through many years of his life and his well
directed industry and thrift brought him a substantial measure of
success.
On February 22, 1865, Mr. Irwin was united in marriage to Miss
Amanda Beller, a native of Ohio and a daughter of Robert and
Rachel (Davis) Beller, who removed to Peoria county, Illinois, and
afterward became residents of Benton county, Iowa. There the mother
passed away, while the father's death afterward occurred in Ponca,
Nebraska. Mr. and Mrs. Irwin had seven children. L. W., the eldest, is
now a resident of Independence, Iowa. Minnie E. is the wife of C. E.
Person, of
Estherville, Iowa. Perry C. is engaged in farming in Emmet county.
Estella has departed this life. J. Albert is living in Emmet county.
Wiley C. is also deceased. Olive R. is the wife of Roy A. Burt, who was
born in Emmet county, July 17, 1882, a son of Peter H. and Anna (Davis)
Burt. He was reared and educated in Emmet county and pursued a course
in dairying at the Agricultural College at Ames, being graduated in
1902. He afterward worked as butter maker in a creamery for ten years
and in March, 1911, came to Estherville, where he established a feed
and
seed store. In 1914 he sold a half interest to F. M. Jones and business
has since been conducted under the name of the Burt & Jones feed
and
seed store. They also handle coal. It was in 1906 that Mr. Burt wedded
Miss Olive Irwin and they have become parents of a daughter, Eloise
Ruth, born June 20, 1914. Mrs. Amanda Irwin passed away in 1905 and was
laid to rest in the East cemetery at Estherville, Iowa. She had many
admirable traits of character worthy of all praise and her death was
deeply regretted by many friends as well as by her immediate family.
Mr. Irwin holds membership in the Methodist Episcopal church and guides
his life according to its teachings. He belongs to the Grand Army post
of Estherville and thus maintains pleasant relations with his old army
comrades. His political support has always been given to the republican
party since he cast his first presidential vote for Abraham Lincoln,
and in days of peace he has been as true and loyal to his
country as when he followed the old flag on the battlefields of the
south.
E. M. IVERSON
E. M. Iverson, actively engaged in general farming on section 9,
Lincoln township, Emmet county, is numbered among Iowa's native sons,
for his birth occurred in Franklin county on the 22d of August, 1869.
Like many of the most substantial citizens of the state, he is of
Norwegian descent, his parents, Erick S. and Martha (Erickson) Iverson,
being natives of Norway, whence they came to the new world in young
manhood and young womanhood. They first settled in Green county,
Wisconsin, and were there married. They established and maintained
their home in that county until after the birth of three of their
children and in 1868 they removed to Iowa, settling in Franklin county,
where they continued to make their home until called to their final
rest. At the time of the Civil war Mr. Iverson had responded to the
country's call for aid and went to the front with a Wisconsin regiment
of volunteer infantry, with which he participated in a number of
important
engagements that contributed to the victory that finally crowned the
Union arms. He died August 23, 1903, in his seventy-second year, and
his death was deeply regretted by all who knew him. He was a devout
Christian man, a member of the Norwegian Lutheran church and was one of
the most highly esteemed citizens of Franklin county. His widow
survived him until 1907, when she, too, passed away.
E. M. Iverson, following the acquirement of a common school education,
came to Emmet county in the spring of 1893, when a young man of about
twenty-four years. He had purchased one hundred and sixty-two and
one-half acres of land in the previous fall and upon his arrival he
began the cultivation of this tract. He further completed his
arrangements for having a home of his own by his marriage on the 11th
of July, 1894, to Miss Olena Ula. of Blanchardville, Wisconsin, in
which state she was born and reared. Her parents came to this country
from Norway in childhood with their respective parents, who were among
the earliest settlers of Green county, Wisconsin. Mr. and Mrs.
Iverson have two children, Elva J. and Maurice T., both at home.
Politically Mr. Iverson is a stalwart republican and for seven or
eight years served as a member of the township board of trustees, while
for two years he was a member of the school board. He and his wife are
identified with the Norwegian Lutheran church and his influence is
always on the side of progress and improvement, of truth and right. His
life, ever a busy and useful one, has been devoted to agricultural
pursuits and his present farm comprises a little more than two hundred
and eight acres of land, constituting one of the well improved
properties of Lincoln township.
LEWIS IVERSON
Lewis Iverson, who owns and cultivates one hundred and sixty acres
of excellent farm land on section 25, High Lake township, has
throughout his entire life been identified with agricultural interests.
He was born in that township on a farm that had been homesteaded by his
parents, John and Julia Iverson, in 1865. The father was a native of
Norway and was thirty-nine years of age when he took up his claim in
Emmet county. After coming to the new world he had resided for some
time in Wisconsin and was there married, his wife being a native of
that state. They became closely associated with the pioneer
development of northwestern Iowa, aiding in reclaiming this region for
the purposes of civilization. They remained valued residents of the
district for many years but in 1901 removed to South Dakota. There the
father died the following year and his remains were brought back for
interment in High Lake cemetery. Mrs. Iverson survived him until 1912.
They were the parents of twelve children, of whom six are yet living,
three being residents of South Dakota and two of North Dakota.
The other member of the family is Lewis Iverson of this review,
whose early associations were such as fall to the lot of most boys who
are reared upon a farm. He attended the district schools until he
reached the age of sixteen years and in the school of experience has
since learned many valuable lessons. After that time he concentrated
his efforts upon farm work upon the old homestead, assisting his father
until he reached the age of twenty-six, when he began farming on his
own account, purchasing the southwest quarter of section 25, High Lake
township, whereon he now resides. He has converted the place into a
valuable and productive farm, which he conducts according to modern
progressive ideas of agriculture.
In High Lake township Mr. Iverson was united in marriage to Miss
Ella Johnson, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Johnson, of Mitchell
county, Iowa, both of whom have now passed away. Mr. and Mrs. Iverson
have become the parents of four children: Edith, the wife of Robert
Elsenbast, of Palo Alto county, Iowa; and Gladys, Elmer and Mabel, all
at home.
Mr. and Mrs. Iverson give loyal support to the Norwegian Lutheran
church, in which they hold membership. His political endorsement is
given to the republican party, in the work of which he has been
somewhat active, serving for three years as county trustee. The major
part of his thought, time and attention, however, have been given to
his agricultural interests and by hard work he has become the owner of
a well improved farm, while at the same time he has developed a
character that commands the respect and goodwill of all who know him.
M. J. IVERSON
M. J. Iverson, who is successfully engaged in farming on section 8,
Lincoln township, was born in Franklin county, Iowa, on the 24th of
July, 1871, a son of Iver and Anna (Erickson) Iverson, natives of
Norway, where they were reared and married. Immediately following their
marriage they came to the United States in 1868 and established their
home in Franklin county, Iowa, the father purchasing forty acres of
land on which he began farming. From time to time he has added to his
holdings by additional purchase as his financial resources have
increased until his landed possessions now embrace five hundred acres,
constituting a very valuable and productive tract.
M. J. Iverson pursued his education in the common schools of his
native county and in 1893 came to Emmet county, his first investment in
land making him owner of one hundred and sixty acres, on which he now
resides. Ambitious to attain success, however, he has added to his
possession and is now the owner of two hundred and sixty-eight acres in
his home farm, in addition to which he has one hundred and sixty acres
on section 18, Lincoln township, and two hundred and forty acres in
Martin county, Minnesota. He is a progressive agriculturist, studying
closely the best methods of tilling the soil and caring for his crops,
and he annually gathers rich harvests. He also raises thoroughbred
stock and is one of the progressive and successful agriculturists of
Emmet county. In addition to his farming interests he was one of the
organizers of the Farmers Savings Bank of Dolliver and in 1915 was
elected to the presidency, in which position he still continues.
In 1895 Mr. Iverson was united in marriage to Miss Cora Olson, of
Hardin county, Iowa, by whom he has three children: Albert, Josephine
and Leona. Politically, Mr. Iverson is a republican and has served as
township trustee and township clerk. He has also been a member of the
school board for many years and the cause of education finds in him a
stalwart champion. The extent and importance of his business affairs
and his activity in support of those interests which contribute most to
the welfare of the community make him an influential and valued vitizen
of Lincoln township.
JOHN JACKSON
John Jackson is numbered among the self-made men of Wallingford
with a record that redounds to his credit and honor, for it has been
through persistent purpose, indefatigable energy and perseverance that
he has won the success that now enables him to live retired. He was
born in Scotland, August 20, 1860, and his parents, George and Anna
(Carrol) Jackson, were also natives of that country, where the father
was a shepherd. In their family were twelve children.
Reared in the land of hills and heather, John Jackson remained
there until twenty-three years of age, when the reports which he heard
concerning the opportunities of the new world led to his determination
to try his fortune on this side the Atlantic. He came alone to America
and made his way to Bismarck, North Dakota. Soon afterward he became
identified with the sheep and cattle industry there, working for others
for four years, on the expiration of which period he purchased a
homestead right in Emmons county, North Dakota, where he lived for
fifteen years. In 1899 he came to Emmet county, Iowa, after having paid
a visit to his old home in Scotland. The following spring his mother,
two brothers and two sisters came to the United States, two older
brothers having previously crossed the Atlantic. All went to North
Dakota and with the exception of Mr. Jackson of this review none of the
family ever became residents of Iowa. His father had died in Scotland
in 1896 ere the mother and four children came to the new world. Mrs.
Jackson still makes her home in Bismarck, living with her son Hugh, and
is enjoying good health at the age of eighty-three years.
After taking up his abode in Emmet county, Iowa, John Jackson
joined Benjamin Allen in the purchase of land in Twelve Mile Lake
township. Seven years later they divided their land interests, Mr.
Jackson becoming the owner of the east half and the southwest quarter
of
section 23. Since that time he has sold one hundred and sixty acres but
still retains the east half of the section, upon which his son, Charles
P.
Jackson, now resides. It constitutes a valuable property of three
hundred and twenty acres of rich Iowa farm land which he converted into
very
productive fields, annually gathering therefrom abundant harvests as a
reward for the care and labor bestowed upon the land. He also added
many substantial improvements to the place in the way of good
buildings, well kept fences and modern machinery and his progressive
farm work made him in time one of the men of affluence of Emmet county.
On September 5, 1887, Mr. Jackson was united in marriage to Miss
Margaret Keith, a daughter of Archie and Kate (McArthur) Keith, natives
of Scotland, where they passed away, the mother in 1870 and the father
in 1901, never having come to the United States. To their union were
born nine children. Following the death of his first wife Mr. Keith
married Mary Quantin and they became the parents of five children, of
whom two survive. Six of the children of the first marriage are still
living but Mrs. Jackson is the only one who has come to the United
States. Mr. and Mrs. Jackson have two children. Charles P., who is
farming the old home place in Twelve Mile Lake township, was married
September 18, 1912, to Miss Mabel Andahl, a daughter of George and Anna
Andahl, of the same township, and to this union has been born a son,
Bernard Francis, whose natal day was June 17, 1916. Janet K. was
married on the 26th of November, 1913, to Arthur Andahl, who is also
engaged in farming in that township, and they have a daughter, Goldie
May, born October 20, 1915.
Mr. Jackson continued upon the farm until 1912, when he put aside
the cares of business life and established his home in Wallingford,
where he is now comfortably located. He gives his political endorsement
to the men and measures of the republican party and he and his wife are
consistent members of the Presbyterian church, their well spent lives
having gained for them the goodwill and kindly regard of those with
whom they have been associated.
LEWIS JACOBSON
For over forty years Lewis Jacobson has been a
resident of Emmet county and he now owns and operates a fine farm of
one hundred and sixty acres, comprising the southeast quarter of
section 34, Estherville township. He was born in Dane county,
Wisconsin, March 1, 1857, and is a son of Jacob and Mary (Gilbertson)
Thorson, natives of Norway, where they were reared and married.
Crossing the Atlantic, they settled in Dane county, Wisconsin, in 1848,
and were numbered among the pioneers of that locality. There the father
owned a tract of one hundred and sixty acres, on which he engaged in
farming until his death in 1870. The mother survived him for many
years, passing away at the home of a son in Dane county in 1908, and
both were laid to rest in a cemetery near Perry, Wisconsin.
Lewis Jacobson attended the district schools near his boyhood home
as he found opportunity, but during the busy season his services were
needed on the farm and he continued to aid in its operation until
nineteen years of age. At that time he came to Emmet county, Iowa, and
has since made his home in Estherville township. Two years after his
arrival he purchased his present farm of one hundred and sixty acres on
section 34. He has placed many useful and valuable improvements upon
the place and has been very successful in its operation.
In 1880 occurred the marriage of Mr. Jacobson and Miss Kristi
Paulson, who is a native of Norway and a daughter of Tullof and Julia
(Olson) Paulson. At an early day her parents came to the new world and
settled in Estherville township, Emmet county, Iowa. Both are now
deceased and are buried in Riverside cemetery. To Mr. and Mrs. Jacobson
have been born nine children, namely: Mary, now the wife of Andrew
Bamble, of Lemmon, South Dakota; Augusta K. and Jacob, both at home;
Tilda, the wife of James Kasa, of Riviera, Minnesota; Pauline, the wife
of Ben Nelson, of Estherville township, Emmet county; and Lydia, Alpha,
Eda and Cecil, all at home. The family are communicants of
the Norwegian Lutheran church and Mr. Jacobson is a republican in
politics. He has served on the school board in his district and does
all in his power to promote the moral and educational interests of his
community.
NIELS JAKOBSEN
Among the successful farmers whom Denmark has given to Emmet
township is Niels Jakobsen, who now owns one hundred and sixty acres on
section 11, Denmark township. His birth occurred November 4, 1870, and
he was one of the seven children born to Robert and Carrie (Hansen)
Jakobsen, who passed their entire lives in their native country. He
received his education in the public schools of Denmark and after
putting
aside his textbooks worked for others there until he was nineteen years
of age, when he came alone to the United States. He made his way to the
vicinity of Grandville, Michigan, and during the summer was employed as
a farm hand, while the winter was spent in the lumber camps. In the
spring of 1890 he came to Denmark township, Emmet county, Iowa, and for
thirteen years rented land here. At the end of that time he had saved
sufficient capital to enable him to purchase the north half of the
southeast quarter of section 11, where he still
resides.
He is industrious and up-to-date in his methods and it is but natural
that he should receive a gratifying financial return from his land.
In 1894 occurred the marriage of Mr. Jakobsen and Miss Elsie Marie
Mikkelsen, a daughter of Lars and Paulina Mikkelsen, natives of
Denmark, where both passed away. To Mr. and Mrs. Jakobsen have been
born seven children, Robert, Lawrence, Clara, Ernest, Lillian, Metha
and Harvey.
Mr. Jakobsen is a staunch Democrat in politics, but has confined
his activity in public affairs to the exercise of his right of
franchise. He holds membership in St. John's Danish Lutheran church and
fraternally is connected with Denmarks Minde. He has made his own way
unaided since a boy in his teens and the competence which he has won is
the best evidence of his ability.
ALFRED M. JENSEN
A fine farm on section 24, Denmark township, pays tribute to the care
and labor bestowed upon it by its owner, Alfred M. Jensen. He was born
in Denmark, April 6, 1873, the third in a family of seven children,
whose parents were Robert and Lorina Jensen. The mother died when her
son Alfred was but two years old and the father also passed away in
Denmark. He was a farmer by occupation.
Alfred M. Jensen is indebted for his education to the public schools of
Denmark, which he attended until he was confirmed. The next few years
were devoted to work on farms in that country but when nineteen years
old he came to the United States and located near Goldfield, Iowa.
After working as a farm hand in that locality for a year and a half he
came to Denmark township, Emmet county, in 1895, and was in the employ
of various farmers of the township until 1900. He then bought the north
half of the southwest quarter of section 24, on which he is still
living. He devotes his entire time to the cultivation of the fields and
the care of his live stock and as the years pass his capital is
steadily increasing, for he manages his business interests well.
Mr. Jensen was married in 1902 to Miss Henriette Hansen, the adopted
daughter of Hans and Margaret Hansen, of Denmark township. Mrs. Hansen
has passed away and is buried in St. John's cemetery, but Mr. Hansen
survives and is living in Ringsted. To Mr. and Mrs. Jensen have been
born three children, Harold, Myrtle and Severin.
The democratic party receives the hearty support of Mr. Jensen and
every duty devolving upon him as a citizen is discharged to the full,
but he has never sought official preferment. He belongs to the Danish
Brotherhood and is also a member of St. John's Danish Lutheran church.
He is entitled to the honor which is accorded a self-made man, for he
began his independent career empty handed and has been dependent
solely upon his own resources.
HANS C. JENSEN
Hans C. Jensen is farming on sections 12 and 13, Denmark towniship,
and has never had occasion to regret the choice of agriculture as a
life work. He was born in Denmark, June 9, 1869, and his parents,
Jorgen and Caroline (Hansen) Jensen, were likewise natives of that
country, where the father engaged in farming. They came to the United
States when their son Hans was fifteen years of age and the father
bought the north half of the northeast quarter of section 13 and
subsequently added thereto the south half of the southeast quarter of
section 12, Denmark township, Emmet county. He also became the owner of
the northeast quarter of the northwest quarter of section 13 and
resided upon his land until two years before his death. Having
accumulated a competence, he removed to Ringsted, where he lived
retired until his demise, which occurred on the 20th of June, 1914. He
was survived by his wife until November, 1915. Both are buried in St.
Paul's cemetery. They had three childi'en: Hans C.; Jens P., who is
farming in Denmark township; and Christine, now Mrs. H. J. Fink, of
Ringsted.
Hans C. Jensen received a common school education and assisted his
father in the cultivation of the home place until he was thirty
years of age, when, in 1900, he began farming on his own account,
buying the south half of the southwest quarter of section 12, which he
still owns, together with the north half of the northwest quarter of
section 13. He is energetic and progressive and derives a good annual
income from his farm.
In 1901 occurred the marriage of Mr. Jensen and Miss Katrine N.
Jensen, whose parents, Nels and Elsie (Petersen) Jensen, lived and died
in Denmark. To Mr. and Mrs. Jensen have been born six children, namely,
Anna, Richard, Esther, Harold, Jens, Christian and Ruth.
Mr. Jensen votes the republican ticket but has
never held political office. He has, however, served as school director
and has always felt a strong interest in everything relating to
educational advancement. He is a communicant of St. Paul's Danish
Lutheran church and his life has conformed to the highest standards of
manhood.
HANS W. JENSEN
For fifteen years Hans W. Jensen has been identified with the
banking interests of Ringsted and is today regarded as one of the
foremost citizens of that place. He is a native of Ringsted, Denmark,
and in 1882 accompanied his parents, Hans and Mary Jensen, on their
emigration to America. Coming direct to Emmet county, Iowa, the family
located on a farm near Ringsted in Denmark township, where the father
followed agricultural pursuits until 1890, and then removed to
Graettinger, where he was engaged in the buying of grain in partnership
with H. N. Osher until 1906, selling out in that year to the Farmers
Elevator Company. Mr. Jensen died in the winter of 1911 but his widow
is still living.
During his boyhood Hans W. Jensen attended the public schools of
Graettinger and for two winters pursued his studies in a night school
in order to keep up with his classes while working in a large store at
that place. He began his business career as clerk in the department
store of H. N. Osher at Graettinger, where he was employed until 1902,
and then accepted a position as bookkeeper in the Danish-American
Savings Bank at Ringsted, where he has since made his home. In 1903, at
the early age of twenty-three years, he was elected cashier of the bank
and continued to serve in that capacity until the 1st of January, 1905.
Mr. Jensen
then resigned to engage in mercantile business with Carl Iverson, under
the firm name of Iverson & Jensen, and they conducted general
stores in Ringsted, Hoprig and Halfa until 1908, when he sold his
interest in
these establishments to H. L. Iverson. After the sale of the
Danish-American Savings Bank to parties in Algona he was again offered
the position of cashier, which he accepted June 1, 1909, and which he
filled until
December 14, 1911. The bank was then consolidated with the Ringsted
State Bank and Mr. Jensen was elected assistant cashier of the new
organization and served as such until the 1st of January, 1915, since
which time he has filled the office of vice president. He owns
considerable stock
in the Ringsted State Bank and several business houses in the town
besides some valuable farm land.
On the 27th of October, 1909, at Ringsted, Mr. Jensen was united in
marriage to Miss Edith M. Young, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Oscar N.
Young living near Hoprig, Iowa. Her father, who was one of the
successful farmers in that locality and stood high in the community,
served as vice president of the Danish-American Savings Bank, of which
he wasa
director, and in 1915 was elected president of the Ringsted State Bank.
He died in July of that year, leaving a wife and two daughters, Edith
May and Blanche Irene, and son, Harry. Mrs. Jensen was born in
Oskaloosa, Iowa, and came with her parents to Emmet county in 1896. She
was graduated from the Ringsted schools and studied music at Storm
Lake, Iowa, in Buena Vista College, after which she engaged in
teaching music in and around Ringsted for several years. She is now the
organist of the Presbyterian church at that place and is a leader in
church work. Mr. and Mrs. Jensen have a daughter, Verda Belle, born
December 3, 1910.
During the years 1898 and 1899 Mr. Jensen was one of the most
prominent cyclists in this section of the state, being classed among
the professional riders, and he won a great many gold and silver
medals. He was the champion rider of Palo Alto county and many times
won races at Estherville and other places. He took part in the national
events at St. Paul, Minneapolis, and other cities, where there were
professional riders from all over the United States. During one of
these races for the national three-mile handicap there were seventeen
starters but only three of them finished the race and Mr. Jensen was
one of these, coming in third. He is a republican in politics and is a
member of the Masonic lodge at Armstrong, Iowa. He is one of the
leading and prominent members of the Presbyterian church of Ringsted
and is now serving as an elder and one of its board of trustees. He
occupies an
enviable position in business circles, where his true worth is widely
recognized, and the success that has come to him is but the just reward
of his own
well-directed efforts.
JULIUS M. JENSEN
Julius M. Jensen is one of the prominent merchants of Ringsted, his
general store being well stocked and well patronized. A native of Iowa,
he was born in Kossuth county, January 1, 1878, of the marriage of
Peter W. and Maria (Jacobson) Jensen, natives of Norway. The father was
a farmer and was held in high esteem in his community. He passed away
in Ringsted and is buried in the Norwegian Lutheran cemetery at Seneca,
but the mother survives and makes her home in Ringsted. To them were
born five sons and four daughters.
Julius M. Jensen attended school during the winter months until he
was nineteen years old and for three more years remained at home
assisting his father with the farm work. He then cultivated land on his
own account for two years in Kossuth county, after which he conducted a
general store in Odin, Minnesota, for three years. Upon leaving that
place he located in Ringsted, Emmet county, and for four years engaged
in the furniture business here but then disposed of those interests and
bought out the general store formerly conducted by A. C. Pies. He
carries an up-to-date and well-chosen line of dry goods, groceries and
shoes and
the attractiveness of his stock, combined with the integrity of his
business methods, has resulted in the building up of a representative
and
profitable trade.
On the 20th of March, 1901, Mr. Jensen was married to Miss Sena
Christiansen, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Christiansen, who lived
for a number of years in Lonerock, Kossuth county, but passed their
last days in honorable retirement in Ringsted. Both are buried in
Seneca, Kossuth county. To Mr. and Mrs. Jensen have been born two
children: Opal, whose birth occurred in 1903; and Wendell, born in 1910.
The republican party has a staunch adherent in Mr. Jensen and he is
now serving as a member of the town council, his fellow citizens having
recognized his fitness for official preferment. He is a communicant of
the Norwegian Lutheran church and supports heartily the various phases
of its work.
CHRIS JOHNSON
Chris Johnson, a retired farmer living in Ringsted, has taken a
prominent part in public affairs here ever since his removal to the
town and is now acceptably filling the office of mayor. He was born in
Denmark, May 7, 1859, and is a son of Johan and Magdalina
(Christianson)
Johanson. The father was a laborer and was a lifelong resident of
Denmark, as was his wife. They were the parents of nine children, of
whom four died in infancy.
When only seven years of age Chris Johnson began working for farmers
but was allowed the privilege of attending school until he was fourteen
years old. In 1881, when twenty-two years old, he came to the United
States and made his way to Council Bluffs, Iowa, where he was employed
for seven years by the Northwestern Railway Company. He saved
sufficient money to enable him to buy eighty acres on section 36,
Denmark township, in 1883 and four years later took up his residence
upon the place, which he improved and brought to a high state of
development as the years passed. He resided there until the fall of
1909, when he
sold that place and removed to eight acres adjoining the town of
Ringsted, where he now makes his home. He supervises its operation but
the actual work is done by hired help.
On the 26th of May, 1886, occurred the marriage of
Mr. Johnson and Miss Anna C. Andersen, a daughter of Anders Jorgen and
Marie (Hanibalsen) Pallesen, who passed away in Denmark. Mr. Johnson
was justice of the peace for twenty-two years, township trustee for
three years and a member of the school board for thirteen years, twelve
years of that period being consecutive, and was on the committee which
established the library in the Ringsted schools. He was one of those
who gave generously to the fund for providing books for the library and
has never ceased to take an interest in its growth. He has held other
offices as
for two years he was road supervisor and has twice been United States
census taker, while he is now mayor of Ringsted, in which capacity he
is doing valuable work for the advancement of the town. He is one of
the leading republicans of the county and for a long period was
township committeeman. His religious faith is indicated by his
membership in St. John's Danish Lutheran church. His boyhood and youth
were characterized by hard and unremitting work and in his efforts to
gain a living he received no aid from outside sources, but he proved
equal to the
demands made upon him and as the years passed his resources increased
so that he now has more than a competence.
MRS. SUSAN JOHNSON
Mrs. Susan Johnson is well known in High Lake township, making her
home on section 11, where she owns a good farm. She was born in Sogn,
Norway, March 30, 1845, a daughter a Peter N. Brudjeld and
Gertrude Thorsness. Her parents came to the United States when their
daughter Susan was a little maiden of three summers, bringing with them
their family of five children. They made their way to Wisconsin,
settling in Columbia county, where they resided until 1865, in which
year they came to Iowa, establishing their home in High Lake township,
Emmet county. They were among its earliest residents and contributed in
no small measure to the development of the district.
Mrs. Johnson was a
young woman of twenty years at the time the family came to this state
and she was married in 1870 to John K.
Johnson, a son of Knut and Sigre Johnson, who were natives of Norway,
in which country the mother passed away. The father afterward came to
the new world and for a time was a resident of Emmet county, Iowa, but
spent his last days in Faribault county, Minnesota, where his death
occurred in 1884. The birth of John K. Johnson occurred in Norway,
September 3, 1841, and he was twenty years of age when he came with his
parents to the United States. Following their marriage, Mr. and Mrs.
Johnson located on the west half of the southwest quarter of
section 11, High Lake township, on which farm they still make their
home, and where he and his son are actively and successfully engaged in
general agricultural pursuits.
To Mr. and Mrs. Johnson were born eight children: Tina, now the
wife of O. T. Johnson, of Bricelyn, Minnesota; Nels, who is on the home
farm; Hannah, the wife of O. M. Olson, a resident of Pequot, Minnesota;
Carrie, the wife of Olin Anderson, living in High Lake township, Emmet
county; Helen, the wife of L. E. Berg, whose home is in Twelve Mile
Lake township; Sena, the wife of J. 0. Carter, of Pequot, Minnesota;
Bertha, who died in infancy; and Manda, the wife of Otto Larson, of
High Lake township.
Mr. Johnson is a republican in his political views and he belongs
to the Norwegian Lutheran, church, in which Mrs. Johnson also holds
membership. She is today one of the oldest residents of Emmet county in
years of continuous connection therewith, having lived in High Lake
township for more than a half century. She has witnessed many changes
that have brought the county to its present condition of advancement
and improvement and she can relate many an interesting tale concerning
the early settlement here. Her many good qualities have won her the
high esteem of those who know her and she has a wide circle of
acquaintances in this part of the state.
JAY JOHNSTON
Jay Johnston, an enterprising merchant of Estherville, is engaged
in the sale of jewelry, drugs, wall paper and paints. He has always
lived in this state and the spirit of western enterprise finds
expression in
his business career. He was bom in New Hampton, Iowa, August 25, 1877,
a son of A. W. and Margaret Johnston, both of whom are natives of this
state; although representatives of old families of Pennsylvania of
Scotch-Irish origin. The father is a carpenter by trade and he and his
wife are still residents of New Hampton, Iowa. Their family numbered
two sons and a daughter.
After pursuing his education in the public schools of his native
city until he had completed the high school course, Jay Johnston
entered the Highland Park College at Des Moines, while his practical
experience in commercial circles came to him through an apprenticeship
in a drug store at New Hampton. He came to Estherville in 1901 and
entered the employ of F. H. Richman, with whom he remained until 1903,
when he bought out
the business, which he has since conducted at the same place, carrying
a well selected line of drugs and jewelry, wall paper and
paints. He is careful in the selection of his stock and his reasonable
prices
and fair dealing have won for him constantly increasing success.
On the 15th of June, 1904, Mr. Johnston was married to Miss Anna E.
Callwell, a daughter of R. B. and Anna Callwell, both now deceased. Her
father was a civil engineer. To Mr. and Mrs. Johnston has been born a
son, George Barklie, who is now attending school. The religious faith
of the parents is that of the Episcopal church.
Mr. Johnston exercises his right of franchise in support of the men and
measures of the republican party and he belongs to the Commercial Club,
thus manifesting his deep interest in the welfare and progress of his
city. He has membership also with the Benevolent Protective Order of
Elks and is a prominent Mason and member of the Mystic Shrine. He has
taken the degrees of the blue lodge, chapter, commandery and
consistory and in the lodge has filled all the chairs, exemplifying in
his life the beneficent spirit of the craft, which is based upon a
recognition of the brotherhood of man and the obligations thereby
imposed.
ERIC JUHL
Eric Juhl, a resident farmer of Center township, his home being on
section 4, was born in Lee county, Iowa, near Keokuk, on the 13th of
January, 1876, a son of Gregers and Dorothy Juhl. He was about eleven
years of age when the family removed to Emmet county and under the
parental roof he spent the days of his boyhood, attending the district
schools until he reached the age of eighteen. He was early trained to
the work of the fields and he continued to assist his father until he
reached the age of twenty-five. He then rented land in Ellsworth
township, upon
which he lived for four years, and for three years thereafter he
engaged in the cultivation of a rented farm in Center township. During
that period he carefully saved his earnings until his industry and
economy enabled him to purchase land. He then bought a farm in
Dickinson county upon which he lived for two years, after which he sold
his
property and invested in two hundred and ten acres in Center township,
including the northeast quarter of section 4. Upon that place he now
makes his home and he has converted the tract into one of the
splendidly improved farms of the district.
In 1901 Mr. Juhl was united in marriage to Miss Carolina Hanson, her
father being Christian Hanson, who is a native of Denmark and still
resides in that country. To Mr. and Mrs. Juhl have been born three
children, Dorothy, Clarence and Edwin. Mr. Juhl is connected with the
Woodmen of the World and his moral standards are indicated in the fact
that he is a consistent member of the Presbyterian church. His
political endorsement is given to the republican party and for two
years he filled the office of constable, but he prefers to concentrate
his
efforts, upon his business affairs. He has won success by hard work and
his life proves the force of diligence, indefatigable energy and sound
judgment
as factors in the attainment of prosperity.
 |
 |
GREGERS JUHL
Gregers Juhl, who is engaged in general agricultural pursuits on
section 4, Center township, Emmet county, was born in Denmark on the
9th of January, 1850, his parents being Eric and Anna Juhl, who spent
their entire lives in Denmark. There they reared their family of six
children, of whom Gregers was the only son. Four of the daughters are
now deceased, the surviving sister of Gregers Juhl being Mrs. P. C.
Peterson, living in Buena Vista county, Iowa. The father followed the
occupation of wagon making and he and his wife remained residents of
Denmark until called to the home beyond.
Gregers Juhl spent the first seventeen years of his life in his
native country and then came alone to the new world, for the tales
which he had heard concerning business conditions and opportunities on
this
sidethe Atlantic led him to the belief that he might have better
advantages in America. He first made his way to Lee county, Iowa, where
he
purchased land and carried on farming for thirteen years. In 1886 he
arrived in Emmet county and purchased the northwest quarter of section
4, Center township. Since that time he has added to his holdings a
tract of eighty acres on section 33, Ellsworth township, so that he is
today the owner
of two hundred and twenty acres of rich and productive land which his
careful labors have brought to a high state of cultivation. His is a
well-improved farm and he annually harvests good crops as a reward for
the care and labor which he bestows upon the fields.
In 1874 Mr. Juhl was united in marriage to Miss Dorothy Thompson,
of Lee county, Iowa, and they became the parents of six children: Eric,
who is mentioned elsewhere in this work; Chris, who is married and is
practicing veterinary surgery at Osage, Mitchell county, Iowa; Thomas,
who is married and follows farming in Ellsworth township, Emmet county;
Andrew, who is a widower engaged in farming in Center towaiship, Emmet
county; Louis, who is married and lives in Eagle
Grove, Iowa; and John, who is married and follows farming in Ellsworth
township.
Mr. Juhl is a member of the Danish and Norwegian Lutheran church
and his life is guided by its teachings. Throughout his entire career
he has followed honorable principles and his life record is one which
will bear the closest investigation and scrutiny. He has never had
occasion to regret his determination to come to the new world, for here
he has found the opportunities which he sought, and by reason of his
persistent effort intelligently directed has gained substantial success.
WILLIAM A. KERR
William A. Kerr, who since 1910 has been manager and is one of the
stockholders of the Estherville branch of the Spurbeck-Lambert Creamery
Supply Company of Algona, Iowa, was born at Eagle Center, this state,
on the 12th of April, 1875, a son of William and Eliza (McMurray) Kerr,
who were natives of Ireland and New York respectively. Through the
period of his youth William A. Kerr attended the common schools and
worked upon his father's farm until he reached the age of sixteen
years, when he secured a position in a tin shop, with which he was
connected until 1906. He worked his way gradually upward in that
business and during the last three years of the time was proprietor of
the shop. In 1906 and 1907 he was employed in a hardware store at
Bancroft and in the latter year he entered the employ of the
Spurbeck-Lambert Creamery Supply Company of Algona, Iowa. In 1910 he
was made manager of the Estherville branch of the business and is now
one of the stockholders in this company, which is operating extensively
along the line indicated and controls a large and gratifying business.
This
company was incorporated as an Algona concern in 1892 but the original
owners are now deceased, their plants being taken over by others, Mr.
Kerr being now vice president. The company manufactures butter tubs,
tanks, etc., and handles a complete line of creamery supplies of all
kinds. They find an excellent market in Iowa, which is so largely given
to
dairying, and their trade now covers a wide territory.
In 1900 Mr. Kerr was united in marriage to Miss Lotta Bliss, a
daughter of A. E. and Charlotte (Liscum) Bliss, then of Fenton,
Iowa,but later of Bismarck, North Dakota. The father has now
passed away, his remains having been interred at Springdale, Arkansas,
but the mother is yet living and makes her home at Bismarck. Mr. and
Mrs. Kerr have become the parents of a son, William, who was born in
1901.
Mr. Kerr exercises his right of franchise in support of the men and
measures of the republican party. Fraternally he is connected with the
Masons and exemplifies in his life the beneficent spirit upon which
that organization is based. His religious faith is that of the
Methodist
church and his has been an upright, honorable life actuated by good
purposes and fraught with kindly deeds.
MILTON MAHAN KNAPP
Milton Mahan Knapp, division freight agent at Estherville for the
Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railway Company, has a notable
record of faithful and continuous railroad service, having never lost a
day's salary during the last forty-four years. He was born August 6,
1851, near Larue, Marion county, Ohio, a son of Calvin Williams and
Emily (Gilmer) Knapp. He is a representative of the eighth generation
of the descendants of Nicholas Knapp, who emigrated from England to
America in 1630 and settled in Watertown, Massachusetts, with Governor
Winthrop's second installment of colonists to Massachusetts. Early
records, covering the years 1279 and 1280, show the name to have been
of Saxon origin.
Milton M. Knapp acquired a country school education and when a
youth of seventeen years entered the telegraph office at Larue, Ohio,
on the 19th of October, 1868. He was afterward employed in various
localities as telegraph operator and station agent and on the 11th of
August, 1873, he was appointed train dispatcher and superintendent of
telegraph for the Davenport & St. Paul Railroad Company at
Davenport, Iowa, in which position he remained until 1879, when the
railroad was absorbed. He was next appointed agent for the Chicago,
Milwaukee & St. Paul at Sabula, Iowa, and served as agent for the
same railway at Davenport, Iowa, from 1882 until September 9, 1884,
when he received the appointment of agent of the Burlington, Cedar
Rapids & Northern Railway at Luverne, Minnesota. His next
appointment, received on the 25th of August, 1885, made him travehng
freight agent for the same road, and in 1886 he became travehng
passenger agent. On the 1st of March, 1889, he was appointed chief
clerk in the general freight office at Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and on the
4th of January, 1891, was advanced to the position of general agent at
Davenport, Iowa. On the 1st of
September, 1893, he was appointed division freight agent, which
position he still retains, with headquarters at Estherville. Forty-four
years of continuous service witliout a day's loss of salary indicates a
record
that is indeed most commendable. His fidelity staiids as an
unquestioned fact in his career, as does his capability, for great
corporations like the
railroad companies do not retain incompetent men in their employ. Added
duties and responsibilities have come to him with his various
promotions and his powers have been found adequate to every task
imposed upon him.
On the 20th of September, 1877, at Davenport, Iowa, Mr. Knapp was
united in marriage to Miss Jessie C. Randall and they have a daughter,
Mabel R., who was married August 17, 1905, to Alexander Johnston, of
Estherville, by whom she has one child, Virginia Knapp Johnston, born
November 26, 1912.
In his political views Mr. Knapp has always been a stalwart Republican,
but not an office seeker. He belongs to North Star Lodge, No. 445, F.
& A. M., of which he served one term as senior warden, and he was
enrolled as the second charter member of Estherville Lodge, No. 528, B.
P. O. E. He is today one of the best known representatives of
railroad interests in the state with a record unsurpassed for faithful
and loyal service.
JAMES B. KNIPE, M.D.
Dr. James B. Knipe, who is successfully engaged in the practice of
medicine in Armstrong, was born in Butler county, Iowa, February 15,
1881, his parents being Jacob M. and Anna (Bolton) Knipe, the former a
native of Pennsylvania and the latter of Virginia. During their
childhood they were brought to Iowa, however, and on reaching mature
years were married in this state. They now reside in Butler county. To
them were boi'n four children but the Doctor is the only one now living.
Reared to manhood in Butler county, Iowa, Dr. Knipe obtained his
early education in the common schools and later attended Cornell
College for one year. For two years he was a student at Drake
University in Des Moines and then entered the medical department of the
State
University of Illinois, from which he was graduated with the degree of
M.D. in 1904. In August of that year he located in Armstrong and as
time passed he gradually built up a good practice which he is now
enjoying. He keeps well informed on the latest discoveries made in the
science of medicine and surgery and today ranks among the leading
physicians of Emmet county.
On the 1st of June, 1908, Dr. Knipe married Miss Grace Stuart, a
native of Grundy county, Iowa, and a daughter of William and Jennie
Stuart. The Doctor and his wife have two children, Alice Edith and
William Jacob. They own a nice residence in Armstrong and are earnest
and consistent members of the Methodist Episcopal church at that place.
In politics the Doctor is a republican and is now serving as a member
of the town council. For three years he was also a member of the school
board and he never withholds his support from any enterprise that he
believes will benefit the moral, educational or material welfare of his
community. He is a member of the Masonic Lodge, No. 533, A. F. & A.
M., in which he has filled all of the chairs, and also belongs to the
Modern Woodmen of America.
WILLIAM A. KNOLL
William A. Knoll is actively engaged in general farming on section
32, Center township, Emmet county. He was born in Ottawa, Illinois, on
the 20th of December, 1891, a son of William H. and Minnie Knoll, who
are natives of Illinois and Germany, respectively. The father devoted
his
life to farming and thus provided for the support of his family,
numbering wife and four children: Edward, Ida, Rena and William A., all
living at Ottawa, Illinois, save the subject of this review.
William A. Knoll spent the days of his boyhood and youth in his
native city and the educational privileges which he there enjoyed well
qualified him for life's practical and responsible duties. In 1900 his
father
purchased land in Center township, Emmet county, comprising the
northwest quarter of section 32, and in 1914 William A. Knoll took up
his abode upon this
farm and has since devoted his time and energies to its development and
improvement. He is now busily engaged in its cultivation and his labors
are bringing forth excellent results.
In 1915 Mr. Knoll was united in marriage to Miss Minnie Gephard,
both of whose parents passed away in Ottawa, Illinois. Mr. and Mrs.
Knoll have a daughter, Dorothy. The parents are members of the German
Lutheran church and :\Ir. Knoll gives his political allegiance to the
republican party, believing firmly in its principles. He stands for all
that is progressive in citizenship and he is regarded as an ambitious,
energetic young man whose success is the merited reward of earnest,
persistent labor.
SILAS B. KNUDSON
Silas B. Knudson owns one hundred and sixty acres of fine land in
Armstrong Grove township and is concentrating his energies upon the
development and improvement of that place. He was born in La Salle
county, Illinois, July 10, 1872, and is a son of Henry and Martha
(Knudson) Knudson, natives respectively of Illinois and of Norway. When
about five years old the mother was brought to America by her parents
and received her education in this country. In 1881 the family removed
to Humboldt county, Iowa, where the father rented land which he
operated until 1887. He then purchased a farm and was engaged in its
cultivation until he retired from active life, removing in Humboldt,
where he lived for a decade, or until his death in September, 1915,
when seventy-three years old. The mother survives.
Silas B. Knudson remained under the parental roof until he became of
age and received his education in the schools of Illinois and
Humboldt county, Iowa. After leaving home he rented land in Webster
county, Iowa, for five years but in 1901 came to Emmet county and for
ten years
thereafter operated rented land here under lease. During this time he
carefully saved his money and at length had accumulated sufficient
capital to purchase the northwest quarter of section 10, Armstrong
Grove
township, which has since remained his home. The improvements upon the
place compare favorably with those on other farms of the township and
everything is kept in excellent condition, thus facilitating the farm
work. He is also a stockholder in the Farmers Elevator Company of
Armstrong, of which he was for a time trustee.
On the 27th of December, 1899, occurred the marriage of Mr. Knudson and
Miss Bertha Braland and they have had five children; Angeline, Maymie,
Lloyd and Arnold, all of whom survive; and one who died in infancy. Mr.
Knudson gives his political allegiance to the republican
party and is now serving his second term as township trustee. In
religious faith he is a Lutheran and his sterling qualities of
character have won him the unqualified respect of all who have come in
contact with him.
AUGUST L. KOENECKE
Among the enterprising young business men who are contributing in
large measure to the commercial upbuilding of Dolliver is August L.
Koenecke, who is the proprietor of a hardware store. He was born in
Martin county, Minnesota, March 31, 1884, of the marriage of Henry and
Augusta (Deering) Koenecke, natives of Germany. For many years,
however, they have been residents of Martin county, Minnesota, where
the father is still engaged in farming. To them were born twelve
children, of whom the only daughter, Mrs. William J. Parnell, is a
resident of Estherville township and a son, Ed, is married and is
engaged in farming in Emmet township, Emmet county.
August L. Koenecke attended the public schools until he was
seventeen
years of age and for four years thereafter worked for his father on the
home farm. He then entered the employ of C. L. Jeglum & Company,
hardware dealers of Huntington, Iowa, with whom he remained for five
years. He was also associated with that business for a year with Albert
Myhre, the successor of his first employers. He then entered the
Estherville Business College, where he was a student for eight months,
thus further preparing himself for a business career. After leaving
that institution he was for six months in the employ of T. T. Sunde,
Jr., a dealer in hardware and groceries at Huntington, and then entered
business on his own account, buying out the hardware store of Gustav
Reke at Dolliver. He is still conducting that business and has managed
his affairs so efficiently that he has built up a large and
profitable trade. He keeps in close touch with the needs of his patrons
and has developed his business in every possible way.
In 1909 Mr. Koenecke was united in marriage to Miss Alice Reed, a
daughter of S. B. and Sylvia Reed, of Dolliver. To this union has been
born a daughter, Lomena. Mr. and Mrs. Koenecke are members respectively
of the German Lutheran and Methodist churches and the principles which
have been the determining factors in their lives are found in the
teachings of those denominations. He has held the office of town
assessor and is now efficiently serving as chief of the fire
department. The qualities of foresight, determination and sound
judgment, which have made possible the success which he has gained,
ensure his increased prosperity in future years.
M. F. KOHL
Since 1904 M. F. Kohl has engaged in farming on section 8, Denmark
township, and is recognized as one of the leading agriculturists of his
locality. He was born in Linn county, Iowa, in the vicinity of Lisbon,
on the 15th of January, 1863. His parents, Simon and Catharine
(Blessing) Kohl, were born respectively in Berks and Dauphin counties,
Pennsylvania, and their children were eight in number, M. F. Kohl being
the sixth in order of birth. The mother's natal day was March 8, 1827,
and in 1845 she married Joseph Keller, by whom she had two children,
both of whom died in infancy. She and her husband joined a party of
emigrants bound for Iowa and embarked on the ill-fated steamer Belle of
the West. The vessel was burned near Warsaw, Kentucky, and Mr. Keller
with fourteen others perished, but Mrs. Keller was rescued from the
water. She lost all her effects but was cared for by the other
survivors and at length reached Iowa, where the party founded the town
of Lisbon. In 1851 she was married to Simon Kohl. She reached the age
of seventy-one years, dying on the 30th of October, 1898. Mr. Kohl was
born on the 3d of July, 1827, and lived to an advanced age as his death
occurred on the 31st of December, 1912. He was an active member of the
United Brethren church and in his daily life exemplified the teachings
of Christianity. Five of his eight
children survive: Mrs. Lavina Koch, of Hampton, Iowa; M. F.; Albert, a
resident of Cedar Rapids; Mrs. Elizabeth Walmer, of Lisbon; and Mrs.
Barbara Andre, of Mechanicsville.
M. F. Kohl received his education in the common schools and devoted his
time and energy to farming rented land until he was twenty-eight years
old, when he bought a farm in Cedar county. After operating that place
for nine years he sold it and cultivated rented farms for
three years, but in 1903 came to Denmark township and erected buildings
upon the north half of the northwest quarter of section 8, which he had
purchased, and in the spring of 1904 took up his residence upon the
farm. He is there engaged in grain and stock raising and his
familiarity with agricultural work and his enterprise are important
factors in his success.
In 1892 occurred the marriage of Mr. Kohl and Miss Ida A. Yessler, a
daughter of Henry and Mary Yessler, residents of Linn county. Two
children have been born to this union, namely: Alma, who married Joseph
Madden, of Swan Lake township; and Alta, the wife of George Madden,
also of Swan Lake towniship.
Mr. Kohl supports the republican party at the polls and is faithful in
the discharge of all his duties as a citizen but has never been an
office seeker. He has, however, served as school director and his
interest in the forces that make for advancement is also manifest in
the fact that he is a trustee of the Presbyterian church at Halfa. He
is a self-made man and is entitled to all the credit which that term
carries with it, implying as it does determination, sound judgment and
industry.
JOHN KORRECT
John Korrect was one of the many successful farmers who after
accumulating a competence removed to Armstrong, there enjoying a period
of rest from labor. He passed away here in April, 1914, when
sixty-eight years old. A native of Germany, his birth occurred in
Cologne on the 24th of March, 1846, and he was a son of Wymer and Helen
(Hiprich) Korrect. At an early day in the development of the middle
west the family emigrated from Germany to the United States, the voyage
requiring seventy-seven days, and about 1856 located in Peru, Illinois.
The father purchased land in that vicinity and farmed there until his
death in 1883. The mother died sixteen years later.
John Korrect began his education in Germany and completed it in the
schools of Peru, Illinois. He early became familiar with practical
methods of farm work and remained with his parents until he was
twenty-three years old, when he began farming on his own account in
Illinois. It was in 1893 that he purchased land in Kossuth county,
Iowa, and for eighteen years he gave his entire attention to the
cultivation of that place. At length he removed to Armstrong, where he
lived in honorable retirement until his death. He was a stockholder in
the First National Bank of Armstrong. The success which he gained was
the result of his industry, his good management and his thrift, and his
many
excellent qualities commended him to the esteem of his fellows.
On the 18th of November, 1869, Mr. Korrect was united in marriage
to Miss Sophia Trecker, a daughter of Henry and Ann M. (Brochite)
Trecker, also natives of Germany. The family came to America in 1853,
the mother and four children locating in Peru,
Illinois. The father was taken sick en route and died after an illness
of only
three days and was buried at sea. Two years after her arrival in this
country Mrs. Trecker was again married and for many years her second
husband engaged in farming in the Prairie state. Her demise occurred in
July, 1912, when she was eighty-eight years of age. To Mr. and Mrs.
Korrect were born ten children, as follows: William, who is farming in
Minnesota; John P., an architect and civil engineer, who resides with
his mother; George, who is living retired in Armstrong; Anna, the wife
of Edward Scully, of Kossuth county; Elizabeth, the wife of Edward
Reilly, of
Lonerock, Iowa; Josephine, who married Albert Tumbaugh, of Swea City,
Iowa; Ida, the wife of Anton Guerdet, of Kossuth county, Iowa; Henry,
who died in March, 1912, when twenty-eighth years old; Rosa, at home;
and Minnie, the wife of Fred C. Boland, of Armstrong.
Mr. Korrect did not consider himself bound by allegiance to any
party but voted for the man whom he deemed best fitted for the office
in question. His religious faith was that of the Catholic church. His
demise was widely regretted and there are many who still hold him in
affectionate memory.
AUGUST KREIS
August Kreis resides on a farm of section 12, in Twelve Mile Lake
township, owning the southeast quarter of that section, which is a
valuable and productive tract of land. The family home was maintained
in Twelve Mile Lake towmship at the time of his birth, which occurred
on the 15th of May, 1870. His parents were natives of Germany and were
among the earliest settlers of Emmet county. There the father
homesteaded, for at that period much of the land had not yet been taken
up but remained in the possession of the government just as it came
from the hand of
nature. Not a furrow had been turned nor an improvement made upon the
tract which Mr. Kreis secured and with the characteristic energy he
began to improve and develop the property. Thereon he reared his family
of five children, of whom two are living, the daughter being Carrie,
now the
wife
of Sam Molster, of Story City, Iowa. The parents have both passed away.
August Kreis attended the district schools in the winter months
until seventeen years of age and through the summer seasons assisted
more and more largely in the work of the farm as his years and strength
increased. He continued his work upon the old homestead until he had
attained his majority, after which he was employed at farm labor in
various
places. He now owns the southeast quarter of section 12, Twelve Mile
Lake township, and in addition has two hundred and seventy-six
acres of land in Aurora county. South Dakota.
Mr. Kreis maintains an independent course, politically, casting his
ballot for the candidates whom he regards as best fitted for office
without regard to their party affiliation. He has a wide acquaintance
in the county in which his entire life has been spent and it is a
well-known
fact that his success is due to hard labor, so that he deserves much
credit
for what he has accomplished, overcoming many obstacles and
difficulties in the attainment of his present prosperity.
HENRY KRUSE
Henry Kruse, interested in general farming on section 7, Center
township, Emmet county, was born in Germany on the 13th of November,
1846, a son of Fred and Bendena Kruse, who were also natives of that
country. In 1866 they left the fatherland and started for the new world
but the mother died while on the ocean and was buried at sea. The
father continued the journey with his children and they were seven
weeks on the ocean on a sailing vessel. Eventually he took up his abode
upon a farm in Ogle county, Illinois, where his death occurred a year
later.
Henry Kruse is the only survivor of a family of five children. He
was reared and educated in Germany, being twenty years of age at the
time of the emigration of the family to the new world. He was employed
as a common laborer in this country for about a decade and in 1876
began farming on his own account in Grundy county, Iowa, where he
rented land for two years. During that period he carefully saved his
earnings and was thus able to purchase a farm in Grundy county, which
he continued to own, occupy and cultivate until 1895. He then sold out
and removed to Emmet county, where he purchased two hundred and ten
acres of section 5, which he sold, and then bought his present eighty
acres on section 7, Center township. The soil is naturally rich and
productive and
responds readily to the care and labor which he bestows upon it. He has
improved the place with fine buildings and through the careful conduct
of his
business affairs has become one of the prosperous citizens of the
community.
In 1878 I\Ir. Kruse was united in marriage to Miss Ida Smith, who
was born in Ogle county. Illinois, a daughter of Thomas and Eliza
(Dubert) Smith, the former a native of Canada and the latter of
Germany. Mr. and Mrs. Kruse have become the parents of eleven children:
Fred P., born February 14, 1879: Effie E., who was born March 12, 1881,
and is the wife of Orlando Anderson, of Brookings, South Dakota; Etta
E., who was born April 4, 1883, and died December 16, 1886; Roy E., who
was born September 20, 1885, and died November 8, 1887; Elmer E.,
who was born June 8, 1887, and died September 4, 1916; Guy, who was
born July 15, 1889, and is now in South Dakota; Otto Leo, born October
4, 1891;
Mattie Izetta, born May 27, 1893; Earl Smith, born March 7, 1895; Ray,
who was born April 15, 1897, and passed away in 1898; and Henry A.,
born July 16, 1901.
Mr. Kruse votes with the republican party, which he has supported
since becoming a naturalized American citizen. He has served on the
school board and is interested in all matters pertaining to the general
welfare. He may indeed be called a self-made man and deserves all the
credit which that term implies, for he had only five cents when he
landed in New York City and since that time has made a substantial
fortune through honorable methods, being now one of the men of
affluence in Center township.
PETER KYHL
Peter Kyhl won success as a farmer and is now living retired in
Ringsted, enjoying at liis ease the comforts of life. A native of
Denmark, his birth occurred on the 12th of March, 1854, and he is one
of the six children born to Nes and Anna (Scott) Kyhl, life-long
residents of Denmark, where the father worked as a laborer.
Peter Kyhl spent his first eighteen years in his native country and
there received his education. Attracted by the many favorable reports
which he heard concerning the United States, he came to this country
with his sister Anna, who later became the wife of Rasmus Rasmussen, of
Clinton, and is now deceased. For several years before leaving
Denmark he worked for others and after coming to this country was
employed in a sawmill and lumberyard at Clinton, Iowa, for six years.
In 1883 he came to Demiiark township, Emmet county, and purchased the
north half of the northeast quarter of section 23, upon which he took
up his residence at once. There he lived for over three decades and
during those years gave the closest attention to the cultivation of his
fields and the care of his live stock. His unremitting industry and his
wise management were rewarded by a gratifying financial return and he
in time accumulated a competence. In 1915 he retired and built an
attractive home in Ringsted, where he now resides.
In Clinton, Iowa, Mr. Kyhl was married to Miss Anna Holm, likewise
a native of Denmark, where her parents passed their entire lives. By
her marriage she became the mother of six children: Robert, who is
married and is farming in Denmark township; Albert, who is married and
is a resident of Clinton county, Iowa; Anna, now the wife of Peter
Oliver, a banker of Potania, North Dakota; Nes, who is married and
lives near Doyon, North Dakota; Alma, the wife of Henry Sorem, of
Seneca, Kossuth county, Iowa; and August, who is married and is farming
in Denmark township. The wife and mother died March 1, 1910, and is
buried in St. Paul's cemetery. In 1912 Mr. Kyhl was united in marriage
to Mrs. Christiana (Hansen) Kyhl, the widow of his brother, Jurgen
Kyhl, of Marcus, Iowa, where he had settled with his wife upon their
emigration to the United States in 1883. They were the parents of a
daughter, Anna, who died at the age of fourteen and is buried in
Marcus. The father and mother of Mrs. Kyhl were lifelong residents of
Denmark.
Peter Kyhl is a republican and has served as township trustee for a
number of years and has likewise been a member of the school board for
several terms. He belongs to St. Paul's Danish Lutheran church and
fraternally is connected with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows of
Ringsted and the Danish Brotherhood. He found in this country the
opportunities which he sought and through their utilization has not
only won individual prosperity, but has also contributed his share
toward the advancement of his community along various lines.
WILLIAM ALFRED LADD
The financial interests of Emmet county have a
worthy representative in Andrew Larsen, who is now serving as president
of the Farmers Savings Bank of Ringsted. Like many of the leading
citizens of Iowa he is of foreign birth, born in Denmark, November 3,
1855, and his parents, Lars and Anna Sophia Andersen, were also natives
of that country. There the father engaged in business as a merchant
throughout his active life and passed away there in October, 1914, at
the advanced age of ninety years. The mother is still living at the age
of eighty-seven.
In the land of his nativity Andrew Larsen grew to manhood, acquiring
his education in the common schools and working for his father until
fifteen years of age, when he began learning the cabinetmaker's trade,
which he followed in Denmark until 1878. During the following two years
he served in the Danish army and in 1880 came to the United States,
locating at Council Bluffs, Iowa, where he worked at his trade in the
employ of the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad for ten years.
In 1890 Mr. Larsen came to Emmet county and settled in Denmark
township on land which he had purchased in 1882. For some years he
devoted his time and energies to agricultural pursuits with good
results but in March, 1916, he retired from farming and removed to
Ringsted. For three years he had been interested in general
merchandising at
Emmetsburg, but on the organization of the Farmers Savings Bank at
Ringsted in 1915 he became its president and has since served in that
capacity. He is a stockholder in the Bankers Trust Company & Savings
Bank of Minneapolis, in the Bankers Trust Company of Des Moines, and in
the Iowa National Fire Insurance Company, of Des Moines, all of which
are million dollar concerns, and is also a stockholder of the
Ringsted State Bank and the Farmers Elevator Company, of which he was
one of the organizers, serving as vice president of the same for some
years. He was formerly secretary of the Ringsted Creamery Company. He
has
improved three different farms in Emmet county, but at present only
owns one of these—a tract of one hundred and twenty acres on section
22, Denmark township, one of the best improved farms in that locality.
On the 11th of May, 1914, most of the buildings upon the place were
destroyed by cyclone. Mr. Larsen has been very successful in his
farming operations and raised high grade stock on his land, feeding
about one carload for market annually.
In November, 1882, Mr. Larsen married Miss Hansine Miller, who died
leaving two children: Anna Eleanor, now the wife of Lars P.
Larsen, a farmer of Emmet county; and Agnes Matonea, wife of Bernhard
Nelsen, of Chicago. For his second wife Mr. Larsen married Miss
Carolina Petersen, who died in 1891, and by that union there was one
child, Hans Henry Grant Larsen, at home. In December, 1893, Mr. Larsen
was united in marriage to Miss Katherine Petersen.
Mr. Larsen supports the men and measures of the democratic party
and he has served as township clerk and president of the school board
for many years. He is a member of the Danish Lutheran church and is
also connected with the Denmarks Minde, the Modern Woodmen of America,
the Loyal Order of Moose and Danish Brotherhood of America. It is as a
business man, however, that he is best known and he today occupies an
enviable position in business circles. He is a banker of sound
judgment and keen insight into financial affairs and the success that
has come to him is the just reward of earnest and persistent labor
guided by a mind alert and far sighted.
JOHN C. LARSEN
A well improved farm property is that owned by John C. Larsen on
section 10, Twelve Mile Lake tovmship, and he is leading a life of well
directed energy, enterprise and thrift in conducting his farm. He was
born in Norway, August 23, 1871, his parents being Lars and Inger
(Johnson) Larsen, who spent their entire lives in the land of the
midnight sun and there reared their family of nine children, of whom
five are yet living.
John C. Larsen was reared and educated in Norway and in 1889 he
came to the new world, being then a youth of eighteen years. He had
heard favorable reports concerning the opportunities afforded to young
men on this side of the Atlantic and he resolved to win success if it
could be done through earnest, persistent and honorable effort. He
first took up his abode in Jones county, Iowa, where he worked as a
farm hand and later he embarked in the grocery business in Monticello,
Iowa, but
eventually sold out there and came to Emmet county. Here he invested in
his present farm on section 10, Twelve Mile Lake township, and has
since given his undivided time and attention to its further development
and improvement. His fields are now highly cultivated according to
modern methods and all of his work in systematically done, so that he
annually gathers substantial harvests, while his farm constitutes one
of the attractive features of the landscape.
In 1909 Mr. Larsen was united in marriage to Miss Johanna Lavold
who was born in Norway, and they have become parents of three children:
Lester, Trygve and Inger. Mr. and Mrs. Larsen hold membership in the
Lutheran church and he exercises his right of franchise in
support of the men and measures of the republican party. He has never
had
occasion to regret his determination to come to the new world, for here
he has found the opportunities which he sought and which, by the way,
are always open to ambitious, energetic young men. He has never held to
false standards of life but has ever realized that industry is the
basis of all honorable success and by hard work he has won his present
creditable position as a substantial farmer of Twelve Mile Lake
township.
LARS PETER LARSEN
Lars Peter Larsen is devoting his time to farming and has never had
occasion to regret his choice of an occupation, for he has won a
gratifying measure of success. He was born in Denmark, June 5, 1872, a
son of Nels and Maren Larsen, who are still living in that country,
where the father is a small farmer. Of their six children, five
daughters and one son, Lars Peter Larsen, was the only one to come to
the United States. After completing the course offered in the district
schools he attended what corresponds to the American high school from
the age of sixteen to eighteen, and when nineteen years old came along
to
America. For about a year he managed a creamery in Freeborn county,
Minnesota, and then purchased eighty acres of land in Wharton county,
Texas, where he remained for a year. He then rented his farm and
removing to Ringsted, Iowa, was employed for seven years as a brick and
stone mason. He next rented a farm just across the line in Kossuth
county for three years, after which he bought the west half of the
northeast quarter of section 15, Denmark township, which he has since
cultivated. He raises both grain and stock and has been very successful
in the management of his intei'ests.
On the 28th of February, 1905, Mr. Larsen was married to Miss Anna
Larson, a daughter of Andrew Larson, of Ringsted. To this union have
been born six children, Nels, Signe, Thyra, Dagmar, Andrew and Erling.
Mr. Larsen votes for the man rather than the party and is an
Intelligent student of the issues of the day. He belongs to the Yeomen
and the Danish Brotherhood of Ringsted and is a communicant of St.
John's Danish Lutheran church. He has thoroughly identified himself
with his adopted country and is American in spirit as well as in name.
LUDVIG LARSEN
Ludvig Larsen, living on a farm on section 6 in High Lake township,
was born in Norway, June 7, 1866. His parents, Lars and Inger (Kril)
Larsen, were also natives of that country, where they lived and died.
They had a family of nine children, six of whom yet survive.
Spending his youthful days in his native land, Ludvig Larsen there
obtained a public school education and in 1886, when twenty years of
age, came to the new world. He did not tarry on the Atlantic coast, but
made his way at once west of the Mississippi and settled in Jones
county, Iowa, where he lived for sixteen years. He then returned to
Norway, where he remained for four and one-half years, when he came
once more to America and established his home in Emmet county. He
settled upon the farm where he now lives on section 6, High Lake
township, and gives his attention to the further development and
improvement of his fields. Within the boundaries of his farm are
comprised one
hundred and ninety-nine acres, constituting one of the attractive and
well improved farms of the township. It is lacking in none of the
modern accessories which facilitate farm work and promote the success
of the agriculturist. Mr. Larsen makes a specialty of raising and
feeding stock and as the years have gone by he has won substantial
returns as the reward of his labor, being now one of the prosperous
citizens of Emmet county.
In 1900 occurred the marriage of Mr. Larsen and Miss Lena Hankin, a
native of Jones county, Iowa. They have become parents of five
children: Hilma; Etta, deceased; Hannah; Leo, who has also passed
away; and Norman. The parents are members of the Lutheran church and
guide their lives according to its teachings. In his political views
Mr. Larsen has been a republican since becoming a naturalized American
citizen. For six years he served as school director and he is always
interested in those plans and projects which work for the development
and upbuilding of the community. He has many sterling traits of
character and his life record indicates what may be accomplished
through persistent, earnest effort prompted by laudable ambition.
CHRISTOPHER LARSON
Christopher Larson, engaged in general merchandising at
Wallingford, has also been prominent in connection with the public life
of the different communities in which he has lived and in a word is an
enterprising and progressive citizen of Emmet county. He was born in
High Lake township, August 23, 1870, and is a son of Peter and Anna
(Aaby) Larson, who were natives of Norway. On coming to America they
made their way westward to Iowa and cast in their lot with the pioneer
settlers of Emmet county, taking an active and helpful part in
promoting its progress and improvement. They had a family of eleven
children: Halvor, who is now married and resides in Wallingford; Anna,
who is the widow of I. B. Peterson, of Williams, Minnesota; Tom, a
widower living at Whittemore, Iowa; Belle, the widow of A. B. Peterson
and a resident of Lake Mills, Iowa; Christopher; Bertha, the wife of
Ole Lee, a resident of Oakley, Minnesota; Oliver, who is engaged in
farming in Twelve Mile Lake township; Andrew, who follows farming at
Coteau, North Dakota; Thea, the wife of L. Nelson, of Coteau, North
Dakota; Lena, the wife of L. Carter, a farme.r of West Bend, Iowa; and
Emma, the wife of O. T. Akre, of Mankato, Minnesota.
Christopher Larson attended the common schools and worked with his
father upon the home farm until he reached the age of sixteen years. He
was afterward variously employed for about six years and when a young
man of twenty-two established the second store in Wallingford, securing
a stock of general merchandise. He successfully conducted that business
for fifteen years and then sold out, after which he
removed to Turtle Lake, Wisconsin, where he owned a genei'al store for
four years. He next went to St. Paul, Minnesota, where he was connected
with general merchandising for two years, and on the 1st of May, 1915,
he retui'ned to Wallingford, where he pui'chased the hotel building,
the postofhce and three residences. In 1916 he erected a new general
store building and now handles a complete line of groceries, shoes, dry
goods and men's furnishings. He has won a liberal patronage and his
success is the merited reward of earnest, persistent labor
intelligently directed.
In community affairs Mr. Larson has also taken a deep and helpful
interest and for live years he filled the otlice of postmaster under
President Cleveland. He was justice of the peace for eight years,
during which time his rulings were strictly fair and impartial. For
seven years he served as president of the school board and while at
Turtle Lake, Wisconsin, was police justice and justice of the peace and
also a member of the town council and the board of health. He has never
lightly regarded the obligations of citizenship but has faithfully
performed every task devolving upon him in that connection. He became a
member of Turtle Lake Lodge, No. 328, I. O. O. F., assisted in
organizing the Modern Woodmen camp at Wallingford, of which he served
as clerk for eleven years, and also became connected with the Royal
Neighbors. He holds membership with the Norwegian Lutheran church
and he has always voted with the democratic party. It is well known
that he is a man true to his honest convictions and nothing can swerve
him from a course which he believes to be right.
HUGH B. LAWRENCE
Hugh B. Lawrence is proprietor of the leading clothing store of
Estherville, an establishment which would be a credit to a city of much
larger size, for he carries a complete and well selected stock of
clothing and his store is tastefully appointed, neatly arranged and
systematically conducted. Mr. Lawrence has been proprietor of this
establishment since 1907 and in the intervening years his business, as
the result of his
careful
management and enterprise, has constantly expanded. Iowa numbers him
among her native sons, his birth having occurred at Lawler in 1883, his
parents being William and Pauline Lawrence, natives of
Maryland and of Michigan respectfully. They became residents of Iowa in
childhood days and after attaining his majority the father en gaged in
the harness and implement business at Lawler, where he became known as
a representative citizen and business man. To him and his wife
were born four children: Nellie, the wife of H. G. Graaf; Cora, the
wife of L. S. Kucker; Mary, the wife of G. E. Ridley; and Hugh B., of
this review.
In the attainment of his education Hugh B. Lawrence completed a
course in the high school at Lawler and later attended the Nora Springs
Seminary. He has been identified with commercial interests in
Estherville since 1899, at which time he accepted a clerkship in the
Graaf clothing store, where he remained for seven years, gaining
comprehensive knowledge of the business and wide experience during that
period. He afterward conducted business along the same line on his own
account in Parker, South Dakota, for a year, but in 1907 returned to
Estherville and purchased the store of Mr. Graaf. Since then he has
successfully conducted and managed the business, handling a large and
well selected stock, making a specialty of the Hart Schaffner &
Marx clothing, the Walkover shoes and the Stetson hats, all standard
goods.
In August, 1904, Mr. Lawrence was united in marriage to Miss
Marybelle Scoville, a daughter of George and Bertha Scoville, of Grundy
Center, Iowa. The mother passed away and was laid to rest in the
cemetery at Vinton, Iowa, while the father is now a resident of Conrad,
Iowa. Mr. and Mi\s. Lawrence have one son, George, who was born in 1909.
Mr. Lawrence is identified with all the different
Masonic bodies and with the Eastern Star and he likewise has membership
with the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks. In politics he is a
republican with independent tendencies, for while he is a believer in
the principles of the party, he does not consider himself bound by
party ties and at local elections considers the capability of a
candfdate rather than his party affiliation. He and his wife are
members of the Presbyterian church and they occupy a prominent social
position in Estherville, where they
have an extensive circle of warm friends.
S. H. LEE
S. H. Lee, who owns and cultivates an excellent
farm comprising the northeast quarter of section 35, Emmet township, in
Emmet county, was born in Norway on the 16th of June, 1844, and is a
son of Hans and Mary (Nelson) Lee, who were both of Norwegian birth and
spent their entire lives in the land of the midnight sun. In their
family were four children, three of whom are yet living.
S. H. Lee was reared and educated in Norway, enjoying the
privileges afforded by the public schools. He had attained his majority
when in 1865 he bade adieu to friends and native land and sailed for
the United States, hoping to find better business opportunities in the
new world. He at once made his way to Iowa and was employed as a
laborer until 1878, but during that period he carefully saved his
earnings, for he was ambitious to engage in business on his own account
and secure farm property. In 1878, therefore, he came to Emmet county
and purchased the northeast quarter of section 35, Emmet township. He
at once took up his abode upon that place, which he has now occupied
for about thirty-nine years, and he has wi-ought a marked
transformation in its appearance by the many improvements which he has
added to his farm. It is now a valuable property, made so by the
efforts and
progressiveness of Mr. Lee, whose life has been one of untiring
industry and perseverance.
In 1878 Mr. Lee was united in marriage to Miss Christina Nelson, a
native of Norway and a daughter of Nels and Anna (Olson) Nelson. The
year 1874 witnessed their arrival in Emmet county, Iowa, and the father
here purchased a farm on which both he and his wife spent their
remaining days. Mr. and Mrs. Lee have five children, as follows: Hans
N., a railway engineer, and Anna M., Carl O., Arnt T. and Louisa, all
at home.
The parents are members of the Norwegian Lutheran church, and Mr. Lee
gives his political support to the Republican party, with which he has
voted since becoming a naturalized American citizen. He is
conversant with the leading questions and issues of the day and he has
become thoroughly American in spirit and interests—one of the
substantial adopted sons that Norway has furnished to the United States.
JOHN PAUL LITTELL
Prominent among the successful insurance men of Iowa is John Paul
Littell, of Estherville, who represents the National Life Insurance
Company of the United States of America. He was born in Presque Isle,
Michigan, on the 18th of December, 1855, a son of Aaron and Mary E.
(Brown) Littell. The father was born, reared and educated in Virginia,
but when a young man went to Brookfield, New York, where he engaged in
the practice of medicine and surgery for some time. Subsequently he
removed to Presque Isle, Micliigan, becoming one of the pioneer
physicians of that place, and about 1860 he located in Alma, Wisconsin,
where his death occurred in 1865. His wife was a native of
Massachusetts and in childhood became a resident of Brookfield, New
York, where their marriage was celebrated. In 1870 she accompanied her
oldest son to Estherville, Iowa, where she continued to make her home
until she passed
away in 1887.
John Paul Littell attended school in Alma, Wisconsin, and Wabasha,
Minnesota.
When a young man he engaged in lumbering in the pine regions of
Wisconsin and became foreman of a log drive on the Chippewa river. In
1885 he came to Estherville, Iowa, where his mother and
brother had previously located, and here he bought a milk business,
which he
ran for one year. It was in 1887 that Mr. Littell became identified
with the life insurance business as general agent for the Des Moines
Life, which merged with the National Life Insurance Company of the
United States of America, with headquarters in Chicago, and he has
since remained with them, being at the present time general agent for
Iowa with
headquarters at Estherville. He has been in the service of the same
companies for thirty years, a record probably unexcelled by any other
life
insurance agent in America and certainly not by any other agent with
the National Life. He has probably written more life insurance policies
than any
other man in Iowa and has frequently led all Iowa insurance agents in
the
volume of insurance written annually. He is a member of the Hundred
Thousand Dollar Club of the National Life Insurance Company and attends
all of the annual conventions of the club in Chicago.
At Wabasha, Minnesota, Mr. Littell was married July 18, 1878, to
Miss Mary Johnson, who was born, reared and educated in Westfield,
Wisconsin, and from there removed to Wabasha. Her parents, Albert and
Sarah Ann (Lackey) Johnson, were natives of New York and Canada
respectively and were pioneers of Wabasha, Minnesota. Near that place
her father engaged in farming for some time but later conducted a
livery business in Wabasha and spent his last years in retirement at
St. Paul, Minnesota, where both he and his wife died. To Mr. and Mrs.
Littell were born four children. Hariy A. Littell, born in Wabasha and
educated in the schools of Estherville, Iowa, is now associated with
his father
in the insurance business. Ada Littell, also born in Wabasha, was
educated in Estherville, Iowa, and won the oratorical contest in the
latter city
and also the district contest. Her health failed and she died in
Estherville at the age of eighteen years. Edith M. Littell, born in
Estherville, is
now a deaconess of the Methodist Episcopal church at Des Moines. She
received an excellent education, attending the public schools of
Estherville, Morningside College at Sioux City, the Iowa State
Teachers' College at Cedar Falls and the Deaconess' College at Des
Moines, from which she was graduated. The fourth child died in infancy.
Mr. Littell is a staunch supporter of the republican party and has
taken an active and influential part in local politics, serving on the
congressional committee for Emmet county, but he has never cared to
hold office though many nominations have been offered him. He served at
one time, however, as city marshal of Estherville. He is a strong
temperance worker and active in church affairs, having been for many
years a member of
the official board of the Methodist Episcopal church, to which he and
his
wife belong. He has also been a Sunday school teacher for a long
period. Mrs. Littell has also been prominent in church and charity
work, being now superintendent of the Estherville Associated Charities,
and the poor and needy always find in her a friend, no one being turned
away without some word of cheer or more substantial aid when they
appeal to her for help.
Fraternally Mr. Littell is a member of the Masonic Lodge of
Estherville. He is the owner of a large and well selected library, with
the contents
of which he is thoroughly familiar, for he is very fond of reading. He
not only enjoys the best literature but is fond of art in its various
forms
and loves a good lecture or sermon. He is a strong temperance man,
never using liquor nor tobacco in any form, and he opposes strongly all
those forces which promote vice and as strongly endorses those
interests
which lead to the acceptance of Christianity among men, doing
everything in his power to influence people to turn from the error of
their ways to Christianity. He is the owner of a highly improved farm
west of
Estherville besides his city property, for in business affairs he has
prospered. He is one of the best known life insurance men in Iowa and
is justly accounted one of the leading and representative citizens of
the town
where he has now made his home for almost a third of a century.
LORENZO LOUGH
For over a quarter of a century Lorenzo Lough has been in the
service of what is now the Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railroad
Company as one of its trusted employes. He was born in Scott county,
Minnesota, on the 19th of April, 1870, and is the sixth in order of
birth in a family of seven children, whose parents were James W. and
Alcy Ann (Darland) Lough, natives of Indiana. In 1857 they became
pioneers of Minnesota, where the father followed farming until 1877,
when he decided to move to Missouri and started south, driving a large
herd of cattle. Stopping at Estherville, Iowa, he was so well pleased
with the place that he purchased a farm at the edge of town and took up
his abode thereon. When the Burlington, Cedar Rapids & Northern
Railroad was built through Estherville in 1882 he laid out two
additions to the town but continued to farm the remainder of his place.
For two years prior to his death, however, he conducted a general store
under the firm name of the Estherville Mercantile Company. He passed
away in September, 1906, and was buried in the East Side cemetery. His
widow now resides at 1009 East Robert street, Estherville.
Lorenzo Lough was only seven years of age when the family came to
Iowa and here he grew to manhood, acquiring his education in the public
schools of Estherville. Until he attained his majority he
assisted his father in the operation of the home farm and then started
as a
fireman on
the Burlington, Cedar Rapids & Northern Railroad, now a part of the
Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railroad. In 1901 he was
promoted to engineer and has since served in that capacity.
Mr. Lough was married in 1893 to Miss Minnie B. Neville, a daughter of
Oswald and Mary Neville, old settlers of Estherville who are still
living. To this union have been born three children: Harold, William
Emerald and Frances Marian, all at home. The family occupy a fine
residence on the west side and are held in the highest esteem by all
who know them. Mr. Lough is a member of the Brotherhood of Locomotive
Engineers, of the Masonic blue lodge and Eastern Star chapter, and is
also identified with the First Church of Christ, Scientist.
WILLIAM LUSCOMBE, SR.
The farm in Armstrong Grove township belonging to William Luscombe,
Sr., is in itself evidence of his progressiveness and enterprise, for
it is one of the most highly developed places in Emmet county. He is
largely concentrating his attention upon the raising of high grade
stock and derives a gratifying income therefrom. A native of England,
he was born in Devonshire in March, 1846, and is a son of John and Jane
(Willing) Luscombe, also natives of that country. The father was a
gamekeeper for a time but learned the shipbuilders' trade, which he
followed in his native country until 1849, when with his family he
crossed the Atlantic to America and located in Rockford, Illinois. That
was long before the advent of the railroad in the west and he drove
from Chicago to Rockford, the trip requiring several days. While on the
way his wife died and added to his grief at her demise was the burden
of financial woriy, for when he arrived at Rockford he had only fifty
cents in money. However, he succeeded in renting land, which he farmed.
In order to add to his income he broke prairie and threshed for others,
thus
securing enough to support his family. After nine years' residence in
that
locality he removed to Carroll county, Illinois, where he rented land
until 1865, in which year he arrived in Marshall county, Iowa. For
three years
he was largely employed in breaking prairie and then removed to Hardin
county, where he bought land, upon which he made his home until his
death in 1897.
William Luscombe, Sr., grew to manhood in Illinois and received his
education in the public schools there, but at the age of eighteen,
or in 1864, enlisted for service in the Union army, becoming a member
of Company G. One Hundred and Forty-second Illinois Infantry, with
which he served for nine months. He was mustered out at Chicago and
returned home, remaining with his parents until he was twenty-five
years old. He then rented land in Hardin county, Iowa, and for many
years operated farms belonging to others. He also worked in the timber
to some extent, getting out ties for the railroad. At length he
purchased four hundred acres of land in Hardin county and also a farm
in Franklin county which he operated until 1900. He then came to Emmet
county, Iowa, and
purchased his present farm, comprising two hundred and five acres on
section 4, Armstrong Grove township. He realizes fully the value of
up-to-date equipment and his barn is said to be one of the best in the
entire
state. He has been unusually successful in raising Poland China and
Duroc Jersey hogs and shorthorn cattle and is considered an authority
upon questions pertaining to stock breeding. He is also financially
interested in the Farmers' Elevator at Armstrong and in the opera house
building there.
On the 25th of February, 1871, Mr. Luscombe was married to Miss
Catherine Glazier and they have eight children. Amy, Mary J. and Ann
E., twins, Dorothy, William, Ida, James and John. Mr. Luscombe is a
stalwart adherent of the democratic party and in religious faith is a
Presbyterian. He takes justifiable pride in wearing the little bronze
button which indicates him to be a member of the Grand Army of the
Republic and through this organization he keeps in touch with others
who fought the nation's battles at the time of the Civil war.
Throughout his life
he has discharged to the full all the obligations resting upon him and
his many admirable qualities have gained him a high place in the regard
of his fellows.
