Brown County MN Archives History - Books .....Milford, Cottonwood, Home 1882
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Book Title: History Of The Minnesota Valley

CHAPTER LXXIX.

MILFORD-COTTONWOOD-HOME-SLEEPY EYE—EDEN-PRAIRIEVILLE.

   Milford has within its limits the location of the first settlement made in
Brown county. The first man in the town was Edward McCole, who came across from
Nicollet county in 1853; his cabin was burned and while he was away his claim
was jumped by Anton Kaus; this claim now comprises the farm owned by Colonel
Pfaender. The next settlers were the members of the Chicago Land Verein who came
in the fall 1854; an account of their settlement at Milford is given in the
pages devoted to New Ulm. Of these colonists, those remaining in the town are
Ludwig Meyer, Anton and Atheneseus Henle, Peter Mack and David Haeberle.

    The first death was Martin Weidemann, of consumption, in February, 1855. The
first birth was in the spring of 1855, a daughter of Benedict Drexler.

    Father Winninger conducted the first religious services in 1856.

    The first school was taught at the house of Anton Henle in the spring of
1857, by a Pole, named Pokofski. In the winter of 1859-60 a log school-house was
built. There are now five school-houses in the town. The tornado of 1881,
destroyed the house in district number nine, but it was rebuilt. Two dwelling
houses were also destroyed, in addition to loss of stock, crops and timber.

    New Ulm post-office was first located in this town at the house of Anton
Kaus; in 1857 it was moved to New Ulm. Milford post-office was established in
1860 and Anton Henle appointed postmaster; he still has charge. In 1857 he
opened a hotel which he continued until 1880.

    The town of Milford, so named from the mill built where there was a ford
across the Minnesota river, was one of the towns set apart for organization by
the county board, June 28, 1858. The early records of the town are lost and the
first officers can not be given. The first chairman was John Doster.

    The town of Milford, lying contiguous to the Indian reservation, suffered
more loss of life during the Indian outbreak, than any other town in the county,
By reference to preceding chapters a full account may be found. The butcheries
in Milford are given in chapter 35 of this work.

    Bernard Adam was born June 12, 1819, in Luxemburg, Germany. He learned the
trade of carpenter in his native land, and in 1849 moved to Port Washington,
Wisconsin; remained until 1851, then visited Michigan and other states. At
Chicago, October 15, 1853, he married Susan Simart. After marriage they returned
to Port Washington and lived there until 1856, then removed to Dubuque, Iowa,
but stayed only one year; their home until 1865 was in St.Cloud, Minnesota, then
one year in Milford; after spending about eight years near Henderson they
returned to Milford. Mr. and Mrs. Adam have seven children.

   Nic. Arbes was born in Bohemia in 1830. He grew to manhood on a farm, and in
1867 came to America, proceeding directly to Milford township, Brown county,
Minnesota. In 1856 he was united in marriage with Mary Sypher, who was born in
Bohemia, in 1829. Joe, Maggie, John, Henry, Mary and Katie are their children.

   Michael Arnolda was born September 26, 1826, in Prussia. Served in the
Prussian army two and One-half years, and in 1851 was discharged; then came to
Milford, Brown county, Minnesota. At the time of the Indian outbreak he removed
with his family to Shakopee, but returned to his farm two years later, where he
has since lived. Married in May, 1848, to Anna Wetor, who was born in Luxemburg,
in February, 1835, and died November 15, 1879. Children: Mat, John, Mary, Peter,
Elizabeth, Margaretta, Emma and Mike. Jacob and Batis died.

   William P. Current was born May 15, 1815, in Monongahela county, West
Virginia. October, 1837, he moved with his family to Jay county, Indiana, and
pre-empted a farm, on which he remained until March 11th, 1872, then moved to
Milford, Brown county, and bought his present farm. July 29, 1835, he was united
in marriage with Rebecca Lake, who was born in Harrison county, Virginia. Emily,
George W., Nancy E., Mary M., Susan E., John A., Rhoda R., James W., Alonzo C.,
Caledonia, Marion E., and Emeline C., are their children.

   John Doster was born September 8, 1822, in Wurtemburg. Learned the trade of
stone-cutter, at which he worked until 1845; emigrating at that time to the
United States, he remained in Buffalo, New York, until June, 1855, then came to
New Ulm, Minnesota. He pre-empted a farm in Milford township, on which he still
lives. On learning of the outbreak of the Indians, he took his family to New
Ulm, thence to St. Peter, where they remained two weeks, then returned to the
farm. Mr. Doster has been county commissioner a number of years, chairman of the
town board and justice of the peace. May 16, 1850, he married Catharina Lang,
who died August 5, 1852, leaving one son, George, who died a few days after.
Married January 6, 1863, Susanna Young, who was born in Bavaria, in 1830.
Elnora, Eva M., George F. and August are their children.

  Edward Erdmann was born April 27, 1848, in Prussia. From 1868 until 1872 he
lived in Wisconsin, then came to Milford, and bought a farm. His parents are
living with him. Mr. Erdmann married, April 26, 1878, Mary Deubie, who was born
March 24, 1861, in Switzerland. She came to Rochester, Minnesota, in 1872;
remained until 1878, then came to Milford, where she was married. One son and
one daughter have been born to them: Lena and Mike.

   Jacob Essig was born May 16, 1853, at Green Garden, Will county, Illinois.
When twelve years of age removed with his parents to New Ulm, Minnesota; and at
the age of twenty-three started in life for himself; after clerking in a store
in Minneapolis a short time, and spending a few months in Rochester he returned
to New Ulm; then went to Germantown, Cottonwood county, and made a government
claim; remained until 1880; has since resided in Milford. Mr. Essig is the
inventor of a grain separator, which was patented October 8, 1878. July 9, 1879,
he married Albertina W. Kunn, who was born in Cottonwood, in 1861. Rudolph A. is
their only child.

   Henry Gluth was born December 20, 1848, in Milford, Minnesota, and has since
lived here. After his father's death, which occurred in 1866, he worked the
farm. Was in New Ulm at the time of the Sioux massacre, and after remaining
about one week removed to St. Paul, but two years later returned to his farm,
where he still lives. His brother John was killed, and another brother, August,
was taken prisoner, but escaped six weeks after. Married, June 9, 1881, Hannah
Frederick. Mr. Gluth's mother resides with him.

   Mary Heinen was born October 10, 1830, in Wurtemburg. January 27, 1851, she
married Nicholas Heinen, who was born in Wurtemburg. They came to New Ulm,
Minnesota, in 1855. Mr. Heinen took an active part in the defense of the
settlers at the time of the Indian massacre, and participated in the engagements
of August 19 and 23, 1862. Soon after the excitement subsided he moved with his
family to his farm in Milford, where the widow still lives, and with the help of
her children has carried on the farm. Mr. Heinen died September 3, 1874. John,
Annie, Joseph, Peter, Rosa, Anton and Mike are the living children.

   Athanasius Henle was born December 6, 1829, in Wurtemburg. Learned the trade
of carpenter, and in 1853 immigrated to New York; pursued his trade in that city
and Chicago until 1854, when he came to Milford, where he pre-empted the farm on
which he now lives. In April, 1856, he married Elizabeth Fink, who was born
March 19, 1831, in Wurtemburg. On learning of the depredations of the Indians he
started with his family for New Ulm. Mr. Henle figured prominently in the battle
of the next day, and after the fight joined the scouting party who were looking
for the dead or wounded; remained out two days; he was also engaged in carrying
supplies to Fort Ridgely. In November of that year he returned with his family
to the farm. At the organization of Brown county, Mr. Henle was chosen county
commissioner, and was also assessor of the county before its division into
townships. The children are Mary, Martin, Criscinthia, Athanasius, John, Anton
and Joseph.

   Henry Hoffmann was born May 9, 1830, in Baden, Germany; at the age of
seventeen years he learned the trade of blacksmith, at which he worked in
Germany until 1852, then lived in Cincinnati until 1856, when he came to New
Ulm; he bought the farm on which he now lives in Milford. When informed that the
Indians had left their reservation, he went to New Ulm and participated in the
conflicts. The Monday following the fight he removed his family to St. Peter,
thence to St. Paul. Returning in 1864 to New Ulm, he resided there until the
spring of 1869, since which time he has been on his farm. April 23, 1854,
Margaretta Schwinn became his wife, and ha£ borne him six children: Sophia,
Lizzie, Katie, Annie, Minnie and Willie.

   George Jones was born in Manchester, England, November 15, 1827. After his
father's death he moved with his mother to Buffalo, New York; remained about
eighteen months, then until 1849 resided in Erie, Pennsylvania; he then worked
at the trade of carpenter in St. Louis until 1853, then spent several years in
Iowa. During the summer of 1857 he pre-empted his present farm in Milford. He
participated in the fight at New Ulm, in August, 1862, after which moved with
his family to Kansas, but two years later returned to his farm. Married, October
23, 1853, Mary Thomas, who was born in 1835 in New. York. Annie, Henry T.,
Virginia, Sarah and Herbert are their children. Henry T. was the first white boy
born in Brown county. Mr. Jones has been justice several times.

   Johan D. Kruger, a native of Prussia, was born June 19, 1835. After attaining
majority he came with his parents to America, and directly to Milford, arriving
July 2, 1856. Was at New Ulm during the Indian fight, where, August 18, 1862,
his father was killed. Enlisted in the mounted rangers, under Captain Nix, and
served fourteen months on the frontier, and on returning enlisted in Company E,
11th Minnesota. In January, 1863, married Barbara Lenart, who was born in 1844,
at Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. Rosa, Fred, Ernestine. Mary, Katie, Augusta, Georgia,
and Martha art their children.

   Peter Mack, a native of Wurtemburg, Germany, was born June 29, 1830. He
arrived at New York, February 9th, 1854; after visiting several of the principal
cities in the east, he came to St. Paul, and during the fall of that year made a
claim in Milford. He gave his attention to the improvement of his farm until the
Indian outbreak, then moved with his family to New Ulm; was wounded twice. He
joined a scouting party and while exploring the country found and buried
eighteen who had been murdered. May, 1864, they returned from St. Paul to their
former home. Mr. Mack has held various town offices. Married in October, 1856,
Mary Mack, who died in 1874, leaving four children: William, John, Fritz and
Bertha. His second marriage was with Mary Haeberle. Katie and John are the
children by this marriage.

   Benedict Marti was born March 27, 1827, in Berne, Switzerland, where he was
educated in the public schools. Moved to Joliet, Illinois, in 1851, and there
engaged in farming until 1867; came thence to Milford, and bought the farm on
which he has since lived. Married August 3, 1857, Margaret Corman, who was born
in Berne, Switzerland, April 9, 1839. Their living children are Godfred, George
A., Frank, Benedict, Willie, Charlotte, Henry R. and Anna M.

   Samuel Marti is a native of Berne, Switzerland, born July 6, 1828. After
receiving a common school education he served three years in the infantry. In
1853, he came to America; until 1856, his home was on a farm near Joliet,
Illinois, when he came to Milford, Minnesota. Mr. Marti took part in the defense
of New Ulm, against the Sioux outbreak, remaining there nine days. Married in
March, 1857, Anna Sarle, a native of Berne, Switzerland, born in June, 1838, and
died August 31, 1875. Mary, Benedict, John, George, Anna, Albert, Elizabeth,
Nicholas, and Aucht are their living children.

   Valentin Orth was born December 13, 1829, in Germany. In 1849, he joined the
German army, and in 1850, came to America. Until 1852, remained in Cleveland,
Ohio, then visited different places in the west; finally made a claim in Helena
township, Scott county, Minnesota. In May, 1863, he removed to New Ulm, and
followed the trade of carpenter until 1865, after which he located on his farm
in Milford. November 3, 1858, he was united in marriage with Mary Defat, who was
born in Prussia, in 1832. Adolph, Louisa, Angle B., Anton A., Rosa, and Valentin
are their living children.

   Nicholas Permoentgan was born in Luxemburg in 1831. When twenty-four years of
age he moved to Chicago, Illinois, for one year, also spent one year in
Michigan; coming thence to Milford, Brown county, he pre-empted the farm on
which he now lives. In 1862 went to New Ulm, thence to Mankato and to St. Peter,
but returned to his farm the same fall. Married Mary March, on the 20th of
December, 1868. She was born in Luxemburg in 1844 and in 1868 removed to Iowa,
thence to St. Peter. Peter, Mike, Mick, Anton, Frank and Katie are their living
children.

   Jost Pfeiffer was born April 29, 1830, in Germany. He learned the trade of
butcher from his father. In 1856 he immigrated to Buffalo, New York; one year
later located in New Ulm and established a meat market, also engaged in farming
until 1862, then spent a few months in St. Louis. Returning to his former home
he contracted to furnish meat for the troops at Port Ridgely for the years 1863
and 1864. In 1872 he came to his present farm in Milford township. During the
cyclone of the summer of 1881 Mr. Pfeiffer lost his house and bam; his wife was
severely injured and the remainder of the family somewhat hurt. Mary Keck, who
was born in 1842 in Germany, became his wife October 5, 1864. She was a widow
and had one daughter, Caroline. Mr. Keck was killed by the Indians in 1862.
Harry, Fred, Minnie and Bertha are their living children.

   C. G. Schramm, a native of Germany, was born December 4, 1853. When only
three years of age came with his parents to Brown county, Minnesota. Remained
with his parents until attaining majority, then began business for himself,
locating on section 25, of Milford. He was driven away by the Indians in 1862,
but after spending a few weeks in New Ulm and St. Paul, returned to his farm.
His uncle was murdered by the Indians. Married March 8, 1874, Bertha Tramm, who
was born October 8, 1856, in Minnesota. Three children have been born to them
only one is living.

   C. C. Schubert was born September 13, 1858, in Manitowoc county, Wisconsin,
and when nine years old came with his parents to New Ulm. He attended both
German and English school here and in Wisconsin, and when seventeen years old
entered the Normal school at Mankato, remained four terms. After teaching school
one winter he went to Minneapolis and St. Paul as agent for sewing machines.
Returning again to New Ulm he taught school during the winter of 1880-'l, and is
at present teaching in both German and English in Milford.

   Christ. Sear was born October 24, 1831, in Prussia. Came to New York in 1850,
and until 1857 engaged as a clerk in a store. Removing to Milford he pre-empted
a farm; in 1860 he returned to New York, but came again to his farm in 1863. He
has been a member of the town board four terms; December 1, 1860, he was united
in marriage with Miss Rosa Kreger, who was born in Germany in 1834. Ernestine,
William, Herman, Henrietta, Caroline, Mary, Fred and John are their children.

   Christian Seifert was born in Austria February 19, 1854. In the spring of
1866 came to America and to his brother's home in Cottonwood, Brown county.
Until 1869 he worked for his brother, then engaged in a brewery in New Ulm two
and one-half years; went to California in 1872 and remained until 1876, then
went to Le Sueur, Minnesota and was in the brewery business fifteen months; he
then located on a farm in Milford. Was married in October, 1879, to Katie
Eckstein, who was born in Austria in 1859. Mr. and Mrs. Seifert have two
childran: Henry and Sophia.

   William Skinner was born in Sheshequin, Bradford county, Pennsylvania,
November 25, 1829. When but eight years of age, he was bound out to learn the
trade of harness making, at which he continued seven years, then worked on the
farm until reaching majority, when he started in the harness and saddlery trade;
continued it until 1855 then came to New Ulm and pre-empted his present farm. At
the Indian outbreak he removed his family to St. Peter, then went to New Ulm and
participated in the engagements; about two months after leaving his farm, he
returned. In 1876 he represented his district in the legislature; has also
served as county commissioner and justice of the peace and was a member of the
first grand jury of the district. December 24, 1853, he married Sallie Newell,
also a native of Bradford county, Pennsylvania. Martha, Eva, and Katie are their
children.

   Chris Spelbrink, Jr., was born March 5, 1849, in Hanover, Germany. He
received a common school education, and in 1858 came with his parents to
America, locating in Milford. During the Indian outbreak, Mr. Spelbrink heard
the shooting and in the afternoon was informed of the massacre. Going to New Ulm
with his parents he participated in the fight. Later he rented a farm near New
Ulm, but afterwards returned to the farm where his parents still live. He has
been chairman of the town board two years, town clerk since 1878 and assessor
two years. Married on the 28th of November, 1879, Louisa Goede, who was born in
1860 in Hanover. Louisa is their only child.

   Daniel Windland was born March 31, 1818, and is a native of Prussia. Remained
in his fatherland until 1853, then came to Beaver Dam, Wisconsin; his home was
there until 1872, when he came to Milford and bought a farm on which he has
since resided. January 1, 1848, his marriage with Rasina Nekaler took place. She
was born January 7, 1829, in Prussia. Seven children have been born to them:
William, Henry, Mary, Caroline, Daniel, Fred, and Adolph.

COTTONWOOD.

   This town is in the extreme eastern part of Brown county, and when first
established included what is now Sigel; the latter was set apart in 1862. The
first settlers were Peyton Nichols and S. A. Vanpatten, who came in the summer
of 1855, and located on section 13; other settlers of that year were Jacob
Brust, William Winkelmann, John Sturm, Jacob Pfenninger, Joseph Schaefer, and
Alexander Waibel. There was an Indian village about a mile above the mouth of
the Big Cottonwood, and Charles Michel, a Frenchman was in charge of a lime kiln
owned by N. Myrick, of Traverse des Sioux; Mr. Winkelmann jumped this claim and
still owns it.

   The first birth was John Schenler, in the fall of 1856. The first preaching
was in Jacob Brust's granary, by Dr. Blecken, a Lutheran. The Catholics held
services under Father Somereisen, and built the first Catholic church in the
county; it was of logs and belonged to St. Joseph's parish. The church was also
used as a public school-house; when the church in New Ulm was completed, it was
torn down. The Evangelical Association church was built in 1865; services were
first held by Rev. A. Huelster, in 1857. Rev. B. Simon is now pastor and there
are forty members.

   In 1860 this town was named as school district number one; the first school
was taught by Sarah Shaw. The first meeting of the town board was held October
24, 1858. The first members were: Jacob Brust, chairman, Nicholas Gulden and
Ulrich Lipp; A. S. Vanpatten was clerk.

   A water-power grist-mill was built by the Kuck brothers, near the Big
Cottonwood, on section 32, but was soon after burned. A woolen mill was erected
in its place in 1879 by Mr. Marsch.

   In 1857 a party of Indians who had been engaged in the Spirit Lake massacre
came into the town, but the people met and drove them from the town. Afterwards,
it was discovered that they had murdered Mr. Brandt who was living on the south
side of the Cottonwood. During the trouble of 1862, but two citizens of this
town were killed; Mr. Jones and Charles Lauer, the latter at upper Sioux Agency.

   John Manderfeld was born in Prussia in 1824. Came to America in 1851 and
followed the tanning business in Chicago two years. In 1853 he removed to
Dubuque, and engaged in farming there until coming to Minnesota in 1855; he
settled on his present farm in Cottonwood. Has held several offices of trust in
the town and county; was justice of the peace for twenty-one years, county
commissioner one term, and has been sheriff of Brown county three years. Married
in 1853 Miss Cicilia Legro. C. W., Clara, Peter, Minnie and Frank are their
children.

   Alonzo Nichols was born in West Virginia in 1852, and when a child of two
years accompanied his parents to Missouri, and in 1856 to Minnesota, locating in
Cottonwood on the farm where he now lives. Mr. Nichols has served his town as
clerk. His marriage with Miss Kate Seibert took place in 1879. Esther A. is
their only child. Mr. Nichols' father, Peyton Nichols, was one of the first
county commissioners, also one of the first town board, and held many other
offices. Was in the second battle of New Ulm, and was twice wounded. He died in
1863.

   Theodor Rein, a native of Germany, was born in 1833. Came to America in 1858,
and soon after located a home in Cottonwood; he was among the early settlers of
the town. He has been town supervisor three years, and town treasurer the same
length of time. Mr. Rein participated in the battle of New Ulm in 1862. In 1875
erected a brick residence at a cost of about $4,000; it is the finest house in
the town. Married in 1853 Miss L. Andrews. Alfred is their only living child.

   Joseph Schafer, a native of Germany, was born in 1822. Came to America in
1845 and located in Iowa, but removed to Minnesota in 1855; settled on his
present farm in Cottonwood township, Brown county. In 1861 he went into the army
and participated in the defense of New Ulm; served three years. Was united in
marriage in 1854 with Miss Teressa Brook. Dena, Joseph, Anna, Caroline, Teressa,
Mary, Fritz and Lizzie are their children.

   Emil Schloman, who was born in 1852, is a native of Prussia. Came to America
with his patents in 1869 and settled in Madelia, Watonwan county, Minnesota.
After learning the trade of a carpenter he was employed at that work several
years. In 1866 he located in Cottonwood township on his present farm. His
marriage with Miss Louisa Spenner took place in 1880. They are the parents of
one child: Anna.

   Joseph Schnobrich was born in Austria in 1841, and in 1858 came to America.
Soon after arriving he located in Cottonwood township, Brown county, where he
has since lived. In 1863 joined Company M, Second Minnesota cavalry, of which he
was sergeant; on returning from the army he came to his former home. Has been
assessor of the town for the past nine years. Mr. Schnobrich married in 1865
Miss Annie Pect, who has borne him seven children: Martin, Lizzie, Joseph,
George, Frank, Teressa and Henry.

   Frederick Shrip, whose native country was Prussia, was born in 1824. Came to
America in 1846 and for about ten years made his home in Wisconsin. Coming
thence to Minnesota he settled on a farm in Cottonwood township, on which he
still lives. His marriage with Miss Anna Sephet took place in 1851. Fred, John,
Kate, Louisa, Mary, and William are their children.

   John B. Sturm was born in Cottonwood, Brown county, Minnesota, in 1858, and
is the son of B. Sturm, who was one of the earliest settlers of the town, having
located here in 1855. He has received a common school education in this county
and is now located on a farm.

   Alexander Waibel a native of Germany was born in 1829. He came to America and
settled in New Jersey in 1853, and two years subsequently came west to
Minnesota. He settled on section 19 of Cottonwood township on his present well
cultivated farm. Mr. Waibel was at the siege of New Ulm in 1862. Married in
1852, Miss Z. Ruhpe. John, Margaret, Alex., Ada, Caroline, Bernhardt, Benedict,
Henry, Mary, Theodore and Zeciblia.

   Fritz Yahncke was born in Germany, in 1832. Came to America and for one year
was in Chicago and in 1856 came to Minnesota. He settled in Cottonwood township
where he has since lived on his farm on section 20. He was at the defense of New
Ulm against the Indians in 1862. Mr. Yahncke has been one of the town
supervisors for the past two years. Married in 1861, Miss Charlotte Schur, who
has borne him seven children; Robert, Louisa, Amelia, Clara, George, Lizzie and
Fritz.

HOME.

   This is the largest town in the county, including in its limits fifty-three
square miles. The first claims were made in 1857 by Hyacinth St. Couturier, now
of Sleepy Eye, Mathew Ryan, and William Tubbs. The two latter located on the
south side of the Big Cottonwood, in the southeastern part of town. Mr. Ryan and
Mary Schmitz, went to Mankato and were married in February, 1858. Their
daughter, Catherine, born April 20, 1861, was the first birth in the town. Mr.
Tubbs was killed by an Indian in 1859, supposed to have been on account of
jealousy. April 28, 1859 J. P. Schmitz was murdered while digging a cellar; an
Indian was arrested on suspicion, but escaped before the time set for trial. The
first settlers after the Indian war, were Edward Taylor, Philander Lee, John
Pickle, John Roberts, Daniel Middleton and the Current brothers who came in 1864.

   The first marriage was that of W. H. Hawk and Mary Middleton, August 27,
1866. The first religious services were held December, 1864, at the house of
Current brothers, by Rev. O. L. Howard, a United Bretheren minister. At one time
he failed to arrive at the appointed hour, and the assembly not wishing to waste
the time, organized a dance. A violinist was procured and they were in the midst
of a "good time" when, about nine o'clock the minister appeared; the dance
ceased and in a few minutes they were engaged in worship. In May 1877 the Advent
church was organized at Golden Gate; services were held in a hall and R. B.
Simmons officiated.

   The first school was taught in 1866, by Miss Hattie Wright in a log building
put up for the purpose, in the northeastern part of town; this is now district
13; the present school-house cost §800. The town now has seven school buildings.

   Home post-office was established in October, 1868, with Joseph Libert
postmaster, and the office at his house. In March, 1869, J. P. Current received
the appointment and has since held it. Golden Gate was established about the
same time, with Ebenezer Fuller in charge. After several changes, Horatio
Werring, the present postmaster succeeded and the post-office was located at his
store. The village of Golden Gate took its name from the post-office. The first
store was started by R. B. Simmons, whose store with Mr. Werring's constitutes
the business of the place. John Pickle has a blacksmith shop about a quarter of
a mile east. The Golden Gate mill is north of the village and is owned by John
Heimerdinger & Sons. He built the first mill in 1869 and made all the machinery
himself; the present mill was built in 1872 and is run by water and steam power;
it contains two run of stone.

   There were no people living in the town at the time of the Indian outbreak,
but there was a military post and stockade about three miles southeast of Sleepy
Eye lake.

   The first town meeting was held June 30, 1866, at the house of the Curreut
brothers. W. H. Hawk, chairman; D. Bertrand and John Nicklin, were the first
board of supervisors.

   James Addy was born in county Cavan, Ireland, June 1, 1833. Came to America
when about eighteen years of age, landing in New York city. Soon after he
removed to New Jersey, and one year later to Connecticut, and lived in that
state seven years. Came to Minnesota in 1865 and settled near Rochester, but
took a claim of 160 acres on section 27, of Home township, to which he moved in
1878. He has served as justice of the peace; his oldest son is the present
chairman of the town board. Married July 4, 1853, Miss Julia McGovern. Six
children have been born to them, of whom four are living.

   C. E. Brown was born January 20, 1830, in St. Lawrence county, New York. When
quite small he moved with his parents to Canada, then to northern Illinois, and
was there engaged in the lead mines. At the age of seventeen years he removed to
Decorah, Iowa, remained until reaching majority. In 1851 he came to Minnesota
and took a claim near Rochester, on which he lived until 1861, then moved to the
town of Leavenworth, Brown county; in 1872, located on his present farm on
section 33, Home township. Married in 1863, Miss Sarah Allen. Four of the eight
children born to them are living.

   T. C. Cumings was born February 8, 1832, in Walpole, New Hampshire. He spent
his childhood with his grandparents in Herkimer county, New York, there
remaining until 1854; coming thence to Minnesota, he located near where
Rochester has since been built; the city now includes his claim of 160 acres. He
came to the town of Home in June, 1878, where he owns a farm, also the ferry
known as the Fort Ridgely ferry. Married in 1844, Betsy Hope, who was born in
Herkimer county, New York, and died in November, 1863. They had a family of six
children: two sons and two daughters are living.

   William Cutting was born in Suffolk county, England, December, 1823. When
eight years of age he accompanied his parents to Canada West, but in 1857 he
removed to Minnesota and located in Henderson; came to his present farm of 160
acres in 1869. Married in 1849, Eliza N. Clancy, who was born in Canada. They
have had nine children, seven are living. The eldest son, John, is a native of
Ontario, Canada, but has lived in this state the greater portion of his life;
has received a good education, and for the past six or seven years has been
quite successful as a school teacher. His marriage with Miss Maggie McGowan took
place in 1877. They have one child. Since 1878 they have been on a farm of his
own on section 32. He has been town clerk several terms.

   Elisha Davis was born in 1819, in Oneida county, New York. He learned the
shoemaking trade and pursued it in his native place until 1851, then settled in
Auburn, Wisconsin. In 1866 he came to Mankato, Minnesota, and the next year
settled in Home township, Brown county, on a claim of 160 acres. Married March
6, 1842, Martha Bestor, who was born in Trenton, New York. Twelve children have
been born to them; ten are living.

   Frederick Gerboth, a native of Germany, was born June 11, 1841. Came to
America in 1850 with his parents, and until 1860 lived in Pittsburgh,
Pennsylvania, where he learned the machinist's trade; on leaving there he came
to Court -land, Nicollet county, Minnesota. In October, 1861, enlisted in the
First Minnesota battery; was honorably discharged in Georgia, 1865. Returning
home he spent 1866 in St. Paul, then engaged in engineering in New Ulm three
years. After having a store for about eight years in Iberia, he settled in 1877,
on a farm on section 27, of Home. Married in 1866, Carrie Grimmer, of Germany.
Clara, Edward, Lulu and Fred are their children. The father of Mr. Gerboth was
killed by Indians at his farm in 1862.

   D. A. Gibbs was born near the village of Delhi, Delaware county, New York,
December 21, 1843. In October, 1861, he enlisted at Delhi in the Eighth New York
independent battery; re-enlisted in the same regiment and was honorably
discharged in July, 1865. Returning to his native place, he remained until
moving to Minnesota in 1866; came directly to his present farm of ninety acres
on section 4, of Home township. Married in October, 1866, Miss Isabel H. Loomis,
who was born in Springville, Pennsylvania, and died November 25, 1880. Charles
B. and Kelley D. are their children.

   L. A. Glatigny was born in Paris, France, May 10, 1848. Came to America in
1858 with his parents and settled with them in Henderson, Minnesota. After a
residence there of eight years, removed to Sleepy Eye, then settled on a farm-of
200 acres on section 20. Mr. Glatigny has been twice married; to his present
wife, who was Emily Beliveau, on the 8th of November, 1880.

   De Foris Greene was born near the village of Watertown, New York, November
18, 1837. Accompanied his parents in 1850 to Wisconsin; learned the trade of
carpenter, at which he has since worked. In January, 1862, he enlisted in
Company G, 16th Wisconsin infantry; participated in many of the heaviest
battles, and was honorably discharged near the close of the war. He returned to
his former home in Wisconsin, and in 1867 came to Minnesota, first to Blue Earth
county, where he worked at his trade. Came to his present farm of 178 acres in
1868. Married in 1869 Miss Lucinda Bunce, born in Janesville, Wisconsin. Seven
children have been born to them, one son and six daughters.

   Mrs. Phidelia Greene, whose maiden name was Phidelia Royce, was born October
30, 1817, in Champion, New York. In March, 1838, she was married to Chester
Greene. He came to Minnesota in 1864, and to the farm on which his family is now
living in 1868. The farm consists of 160 acres, of which thirty are timber and
seventy-five under cultivation. He was instrumental in the organization of the
township of Home, and held the office of justice of the peace, also other
offices. His death occurred November 10, 1876; he left a widow with a family of
six children, all of whom are married excepting the youngest son, Frederic B.,
who lives at home.

   Ferdinand Heimerdinger, a native of Germany, was born September 30, 1850.
Came with his parents to America in 1854, and to Minnesota in 1856; located
first at New Ulm. His father, John Heimerdinger, helped to build the first steam
mill at New Ulm, under the supervision of the Chicago Turner Society. During the
Indian war of 1862 he enlisted, and was on duty during the fight at New Ulm.
Came to his present home in 1867; has a farm of 160 acres and a flouring mill.
He erected a small one first in 1870, which was the first flouring mill in Home.
He married in 1840 Miss Ragina Merst, who died June 11, 1868. His sons,
Ferdinand and Henry, have charge of the mill and the farm; both have learned the
milling trade. Ferdinand married in 1879 Miss Anna Hoffman, and has one child.

   Robert B. Henton was born in Erie county, Pennsylvania, August 7, 1832. Came
west with his parents in 1842, and in 1856 located in Sigel, Brown county,
Minnesota. During the Indian war they were driven from their home, which was
nearly destroyed. He joined a party who went out to rescue any who might be in
peril, and on returning, August 19, was attacked by the Indians, who killed all
but six. Mr. Henton was an able worker during the entire conflict, and afterward
went to Wisconsin. Returning in 1864, he enlisted in August, in Company A, 11th
Minnesota; was discharged at the close of the war. Since 1869 he has lived in
Home, where he has a farm of 178 acres. He has been chairman of the town board,
and has for six years served as clerk. In 1856 he married Miss Margarett Thomas,
who has home him seven children; six are living.

   H. M. Hills was born May 23, 1835, near Pittsfield, Massachusetts. In 1842 he
accompanied his parents to Rock county, Wisconsin, and remained on the farm
until thirteen years of age; after that time was dependent upon his personal
exertions for a livelihood. Returning to Massachusetts he remained until 1858;
attended school during the winter months, and made a specialty of the study of
civil engineering. In January, 1865, enlisted in Company A, 46th Illinois
veteran infantry; was mustered out in 1866. Went to Freeport, Illinois, and soon
after came to his present farm; he has about 170 acres. Married in 1858 Miss
Maria R. Scovill, who was born in New York. Seven children; five are living.

   Francis M. Kennedy was born in Trumbull county, Ohio, January 7, 1837. He
remained in his native place until the age of eighteen; completed his studies in
the high school at Warren. Came with his parents to Minnesota in 1856, and
located in Nicollet county on a farm. In March 1863, at Fort Ridgely, enlisted
in Company B, first mounted rangers; was in General Sibley's expedition across
the plains; was honorably discharged after a service of nine months. Came to his
present farm of 160 acres in 1868. Mr. Kennedy married in 1864, Miss Jerusha
Post, who was born in Ohio. They have two sons and four daughters.

   Charles Kisner, a native of Prussia, was born in 1837. Came to America in
1860, and settled in Champaign county, Illinois; four years later removed to
Green Lake county, Wisconsin, and in 1867 settled on section twenty-eight of
Home township, and made claim to a quarter section of land. He has been
treasurer of school district 30, also constable. Married in 1867, Augusta
Tassmer, a native of Prussia, born in 1847. Ida, Albert, Emma, Henry, Lydia,
Ellen and Eddie are their children.

   Alva S. Larrabee was born in Addison county, Vermont, February 17, 1816. In
1839 went to Lester, Vermont, and was engaged in the tanning and shoe making
business. Married in 1840, Marion Enos, who bore him one child, and died in
1842, after which he came west and spent about two years, then returned to
Vermont. In 1847, married Amy Humphrey. They went to Winnebago county,
Wisconsin; he engaged in farming and in the shoe trade until 1861, then resided
three years in Freeborn county, Minnesota; in 1864 made a claim on section 34 of
Home, of 160 acres and has since added 40 acres. Has held the offices of
assessor and justice of the peace. They have six children.

   Isaac Martine was born in New York city, April 1, 1824. Went to Monroe
county, where he grew to manhood and was educated. Removed to Racine county,
Wisconsin, in 1847. Enlisted in 1861 in Company F, Second Wisconsin infantry;
was honorably discharged in December, 1862. Returned to Racine county, but in
1866 came to Minnesota and soon after settled on his present farm of 173 acres
in Home. Married Amy M. Close in 1845, who died in August 1855. His second
marriage was with Miss Elizabeth M. Werring, in 1866. Walter N., George H., and
Isaac S. are their living children.

   Colin McKenzie, a native of Scotland, was born in 1842. Came to Canada in
1849. Made a claim of 160 acres on section 17 of Home township in 1867, to which
he removed and on which he has since resided. His parents came in 1868 and still
reside with him.

   Fowler Middleton was born near Warsaw, Indiana, July 14, 1853. Came with his
parents to Minnesota in 1865, directly to the town of Home and located with them
on the farm which he is managing at present; he also owns a farm of 60 acres.
His mother resides with him. Married in 1880, Mrs. Current, whose maiden name
was Mary Labert. At the time of their marriage she had a daughter, Ella.

   James N. Montgomery was born January 10, 1836, in Ontario. There he remained
until 1867, then came to Home and took a claim of 160 acres on section 8. He has
been supervisor one term and chairman of the board one term. Married April 13,
1847, Jennet McDermid, who was born in Canada June 1, 1822. John T., James, Hugh
A., Susanna L., Catherine J., Margaret J., Duncan A., Martin P. and an adopted
daughter, Amanda L. Erwin, are their living children.

   Martin Penning, a native of Luxemberg, Germany, was born September 29, 1840,
and when five years old came to America with his parents. Lived in Wisconsin
until 1865, then made a claim of 160 acres on section 35 of Home township.
Enlisted in 1863, in Company C, 34th Wisconsin and after a service of ten months
was discharged. October 13, 1869, he married Cresendia Smucher. She was born in
Germany, September 3, 1844, and has borne him four children; Rosa and Emma are
the living. Robert and Oscar died in 1880.

   John E. Pickle was born in Lower Canada February 9, 1840. At the age of
seventeen years he came to Dover, Olmsted county, Minnesota, with his parents.
Learned the trade of blacksmith, which he has followed most of the time since.
In February, 1861, enlisted at St. Paul, in Company B, independent battalion;
was in service on the frontier and honorably discharged at Fort Snelling in
June, 1866. On returning he came to his farm on section 29 of Home, where he
also has a blacksmith shop. Married in November, 1861, Nancy M. Lee who was born
in Jefferson county, New York. Of the seven children born to them only two
survive, Dolla A. and Celia A.

   C. H. Potter was born Jefferson county, New York, April 17, 1830. At the age
of eighteen he began to earn his own livelihood. In 1851 came to Green county,
Wisconsin, and located on a farm near Ripon. Came to Minnesota in 1861 and
settled first in Blue Earth City, removing in 1869 to his farm of 129 acres in
Home. Married in February, 1858, Adeline Greene, who was born in Lewis county,
New York, September 1, 1810. Orin C., Charles G. and Frank W. are their living
children.

   Henry Romberg, a native of Germany, was born in 1837. Came to America in
1856, located in Milwaukee, thence removed to Washington county, Wisconsin, and
followed farming also in Waukesha county. In 1866 came to Minnesota and made a
claim of 160 acres on section 33, Home township. Married in 1867, Dora Knoke,
who was born in Germany in 1811. Five children have been born to them of whom
four are living.

   Horatio Werring was born in Cornwall county, England, February 21, 1819. With
his parents he came to America in 1853 and settled on a farm in Wisconsin. Came
to Minnesota in 1856 but did not locate permanently until 1866, then made a
claim on section 32 of Home. He now has a store of general merchandise at Golden
Gate which he started in 1877; has also had the post-office in his store since
his location here. Married in January, 1873, Miss Ellen McGowan. They have two
children. His father was drowned in the Minnesota river, near West Newton, in
June, 1871. His mother still resides on the farm on section 32.

   Truman Wheeler was horn in Malone, Franklin county, New York, in May, 1829.
There he lived until twenty years of age, then spent three years in
Massachusetts and in 1852 returned to his native town. Enlisted in 1862 in
Company H, 142d New York infantry, and served until May, 1865. He then returned
again to Malone, and in April, 1866, started for Minnesota; in August of that
year located on section 34 of Home, making a claim of 160 acres. Married in
1851, Miss Polly Bond, who bore him nine children, of whom eight are living. She
died December 11, 1871. His second marriage was in September, 1879, to Mrs.
Delila Read.

SLEEPY EYE LAKE.

   This thrifty and enterprising village is located in the southwest corner of
the town of Home, and at the junction of the Redwood Falls branch of the Winona
& St. Peter railroad with the main line. It was surveyed and platted in the fall
of 1872 on land owned by Thomas Allison and W. L. Brackenridge. The growth of
this village was comparatively slow until the completion of the Redwood Falls
branch in 1877, and the location of a round house and machine shops of the
railroad company in 1878. Since that time it has grown rapidly and steady and
now has a population of about 1,300. In February, 1878, the village was
incorporated as Sleepy Eye, named from the Indian chief. This name was
subsequently changed to Loreno, and later, to Sleepy Eye Lake. The act making
the last change increased the territory within its limits and increased the
powers and duties of its officials. The territory now embraced amounts to one
and a half square miles.

   The first election was held March 19, 1878. Officers elected: Council —
Francis Ibberson, president; Louis Hanson, T. F. Talbot and T. J. Murfin,
trustees; R. H. Bingham, recorder; Peter Runitz, treasurer, and M. C. Burnside,
justice. There was a tie vote on constable and L. Pease was appointed by the
council, at a subsequent meeting.

   The business of the place is represented by classes, as follows: One bank,
five hotels, eight general stores, two drug stores, two hardware stores, two
furniture stores, one boot and shoe store, one merchant tailor, four millinery
and dressmaking establishments, two harness shops, two shoe shops, six dealers
in agricultural implements, two wagon shops, six blacksmith shops, one bakery,
three restaurants, two meat markets, two liveries, one feed store, one cigar
store and manufactory, one news stand, one elevator, capacity, 100,000 bushels,
two warehouses, three lumber yards, four insurance offices, two barber shops,
two photograph galleries, one brewery and twelve saloons.

   Two weekly newspapers represent the interests of the town, at home and
abroad. The Brown County Republican is republican in politics, and is the
property of C. Bromwich. The Sleepy Eye Herald, democratic in politics, is
published by T. F. Brown, editor and proprietor. There have been two other
papers published, The Sleepy Eye Wide Awake and the Sleepy Eye Gazette.

   The professions are represented by two law firms and four physicians. There
are six churches and several organizations that hold services in churches
belonging to other denominations or elsewhere. There is also a circulating
library and reading room. About $200 have been expended for books and
periodicals. The present school-house is a two story frame structure 24x60 feet
with an addition the same size. It contains four rooms in which four teachers
are employed at an annual cost of $2,100.

   The first religious services on the present site of the village, were
conducted by Rev. Kent, a Presbyterian minister, during the summer of 1868, in
the grove on Thomas Allison's farm. Since then, services have been held by
different denominations at different places. The Presbyterians were first
organized at Golden Gate, with nineteen members, a number of whom were
Congregationalists. When the village of Sleepy Eye was started they moved their
place of worship here. Although owning a church, they have, at present, no
regular pastor. In 1873, the Congregationalists began holding services under the
ministry of the Rev. E. H. Alden, of Waseca. Those of this sect belonging to the
Presbyterian organization joined them and they now have a membership of
thirty-four, with the Rev. W. A. Lyman for pastor. The Methodists had an
organization in Prairieville and moved to Sleepy Eye. Their present pastor is
Rev. H. J. Harrington. The membership is about twenty and services are conducted
in the Presbyterian church. The first services connected with the Baptist
church, were under the leadership of Rev. Anthony Case in the spring of 1872,
and two years later a church was organized with twelve members. With the
exception of two years, when absent, Mr. Case has since been the pastor.
Services were for some time held in the Congregational church, but, at present,
are conducted in the Presbyterian church. The German Methodist denomination was
organized in Leavenworth, about 1870, and later built a church. In 1874, they
began their services in the village, and in 1877, they moved their house of
worship here. The membership is now about seventy-five, and the present pastor
is Rev. G. Reihle. The first Catholic services were conducted by the Rev. Father
Berghold. He continued there until about 1876, when he was succeeded by Father
John Tori. In 1874, the society built their present church, at a cost of about
$3,600. The membership is now 125 families and the local priest is Father B.
Sandmayer. The Evangelical Association was organized by the Rev. George Simon,
in 1876, with eighteen members. In 1877, a church was built at a cost of about
$900. The membership has increased to twenty-eight, and the pastor is Rev. B.
Simon. The German Lutherans began holding services about 1875. In 1876, they
built their church, at a cost of about $1,800. Their first pastor was Rev.
Christof Meyer, and the membership at that time about twenty. The present
membership is forty. Their pastor, Rev. S. Deuber, also preaches in Eden,
alternate Sabbaths.

   There are eight secret societies in the village, having a united membership
of about two-hundred and twenty. The largest of these, Key Stone Lodge No. 94,
A. F. & A. M., was organized in the town of Stark, and moved into the village in
1872. This society built a fine hall in 1876, at a cost of $2,300. The present
membership is about sixty. Albert Chapter number 31, R. A. M. was organized in
1875, with nine charter members, and the following officers: John Moore, M. E.
H. P.; J. W. B. Welcome, E. K.; J. M. Thompson, E. S.; W. M. Murfin, C. of H.;
T. J. Murfin, P. S.; David Eshbaugh, R. A. C.; George Pickelhaupt, G. M. 3d V.;
O. W. Jones, G. M. 2d V.; and Jacob Duncan, Sr., G. M. 1st V. The present
membership is thirty-six.

   Sleepy Eye Lake Lodge No. 83 I. O. of O. F., was organized in October, 1881,
with six charter members; there are now sixteen members.

   Sleepy Eye Lodge, No. 67, A. O. U. W. was organized in June, 1880, with
sixteen charter members and the following officers—T. M. Marcellus, P. M. W. and
Deputy; L. W. Dousman, M. W.; H. G. Eaton, F.; C. B. Peck, O.; Isaac Gallagher,
Eecorder; J. F. Bidwell, Fin. R.; H. Bingham, Receiver; G. R. Whomes, G.; Thomas
Horn, I. W. and J.; W. Kolby; O. W. The present membership is twenty-four.

   Sleepy Eye Temple of Honor, No. 36, was organized in April, 1881, with eleven
charter members, and the following officers—Rev. W. A. Lyman, W. C. T.; Hans Mo,
W. V. T.; Isaac Gallagher, W. R.; L. Mauch, W. F. R.; H. G. Eaton, W. T.; John
Liddell, W. C.; D. W. Coulthard, W. U.; J. Benham, D. U.; William Duncan, W. G.
and Eli Benham, W. S. D. I. Russell was appointed W. P. C. T. They now have a
membership of eighteen. A social temple was organized in connection, April 30th
following, with eighteen members.

   The Brotherhood of Locomotive Firemen was organized in July, 1880, with
eleven members and the following officers—J. C. Curtis, M., J. J. McDonald, R.
S., James Ashworth, F. S. and T. The membership has increased to thirty. The
motto of the society is, Industry, Benevolence and Sobriety. The object of the
society is the furtherance of the locomotive firemen and engineers.

   The Professional Men's Association of Sleepy Eye Lake, was organized in the
spring of 1881, and now has ten members, representing the different professions.

   The first store on the site of the village, was built during the fall of
1872, by William Robinson. The first hotel was built by Chris. Emery, the Lake
House. He still owns the building, but does not conduct the business.

   The post-office was established in 1873, with A. W. Williamson, as
postmaster. It has been in the hands of several. The present incumbent, Lars
Hanson, received his appointment in 1876.

   Hyacinth St. Couturier, Canadian Frenchman, came in the fall of 1857 and
located on the east side of the lake from which the village derives its name. It
was formerly called by the Indians Big Wood lake. He was the first white settler
on what is now the village. He left his claim during the Indian outbreak, and
remained away three years; returned and located on his old claim, where he now
lives. His daughter, Mary, born December 6, 1857, was the first birth at what is
now the village of Sleepy Eye.

   Thomas Allison made a claim in 1864 to the land now embraced by the village;
his family came in 1866. The first marriage was that of Joseph Wylie and Mary E.
Kelly, at Thomas Allison's in November, 1869.

   The first school was taught by Mrs. Wylie during the summer of 1870, in a log
building erected for the purpose; about twenty pupils attended.

   Thomas Allison was born in Illinois in 1825; he grew to manhood on a farm and
in 1857 left his native state for Olmsted county, Minnesota. Made a claim where
Sleepy Eye is now located, in 1864. In 1872, in company with W. L. Breckenridge,
laid out the town site of Sleepy Eye, and has since been here to witness its
growth and prosperity. Married in 1851, Eliza Kelly; she had three children. By
this marriage two children have been born.

   Frank J. Barton was born in Kenosha county, Wisconsin, in 1857. When about
seven years of age accompanied his parents to Jefferson county, New York;
remained until 1867; removed thence to Mankato, Minnesota, and finally to Brown
county; he located on a farm in Prairieville township, but in 1881 came to
Sleepy Eye. Married in 1880, Miss Hattie Green. They have one child.

   Carl Berg, a native of Germany, was born in 1847. Came to the United States
in 1856 with his mother, and for nine years lived in Jefferson county,
Wisconsin. In 1866 came to Brown county, Minnesota, and engaged in farming. For
the past seven years he has been in Sleepy Eye as manager of the Minnesota
House. Married in Brown county in 1870, Miss Theresa Hageman. Of the six
children born to them three are living.

   John P. Bertrand was born in Germany in 1845. Came to America when ten years
of age, and in 1857 settled in Minnesota. When twenty years old he began an
apprenticeship of two years with Leonard Rothmund in the harness trade. For six
years he continued his trade in New Ulm, and in 1878 came to Sleepy Eye. At New
Ulm, in 1877, his marriage took place with Miss Elizabeth Kioes. Two children
have been born to them.

   R. H. Bingham was born in Canada East, and in 1859 left his native place,
with his parents, who located in Franklin county, Vermont. In 1863 he came to
Minnesota and settled in St. Charles, then to Sleepy Eye in 1872. Here he was
among the first to engage in trade; his business was hardware and lumber. He
experienced misfortune in 1879, losing his store by fire, which, however, did
not cause much financial embarrassment. Miss Jennie N. Baker became his wife in
1874, and has borne him three children.

   A. Blanchard was born in Green Lake county, Wisconsin. When but four years of
age he came with his parents to Winona county, Minnesota, and remained with them
on the farm until 1876; then became interested in the grain trade at Minnesota
City, and in September, 1881, located in Sleepy Eye, engaged in the same trade.
Married Miss Grace F. Kennedy.

   Thomas E. Bowen, editor of the Weekly Herald, was born October 13, 1849, at
Blossburg, Pennsylvania. Came with his parents to Minnesota in 1855, and with
them resided on a farm in Nicollet county, until sixteen years old; Was then
sent to school at Mankato; his father also moved there in 1877, and was
afterwards elected sheriff of Blue Earth county. Thomas entered the State Normal
School and graduated in 1870. He subsequently taught and was principal the
following year of the schools at Lake Crystal; in 1875 and '77 was principal of
the schools at Sleepy Eye. Removed to Sleepy Eye in March, 1878, and in
February, 1879, established the "Herald." He bought the "Gazette" at Sleepy Eye
in 1880, which is now consolidated with the Herald. On the 1st of November,
1877, at Sleepy Eye, he was united in marriage with Miss Emma E. White.

   Henry Burk, a native of Ireland, was born in 1830. Came to America in 1850
and settled in Oneida county, New York; two years later went to Ann Arbor,
Michigan, for five years; removed to St. Paul, and one year later to Belle
Plaine, where he lived seven years. Took an active part in the suppression of
the Indians at the time of outbreak. For the past fifteen years has given his
attention to locomotive engines and now has charge of the water engine at Sleepy
Eye. Married in 1856, Bridgett Plunkett. Oliver, Thomas, John, Joseph, Francis,
James, Mary and Anna are their children.

   Jens P. Christenson was born in Denmark, in 1857. Came with his parents to
the United States in 1863. After remaining in Chicago, about six months, their
house was destroyed by fire. Coming thence to Freeborn county, Minnesota, he
remained about three years, then in 1866, came to Brown county. Lived on a farm
until 1877, then came to Sleepy Eye and engaged in the machine trade. Married in
1879, Miss Carrie Madson.

   D. T. Clary was born in Ireland in 1812. When about ten years of age he
accompanied his parents to America. After remaining some time in Connecticut and
Massachusetts, removed to Avon Springs, New York, and in 1856, to Wisconsin.
Completed his education by graduating from Eastman's Commercial college in New
York; he then engaged with the National Bank Note Printing company. In 1861,
located near New Ulm and engaged in teaching school and farming. He has been
county superintendent of schools since 1879. His marriage with Abby Kugan took
place in 1872. They have two children living; Agnes C. and Paul D.

   David W. Coulthard was born in Canada and from there came to Minnesota in
1855, locating first in Shakopee. Enlisted in 1862 in the army of the Cumberland
and was mustered out of service in 1865; served as a non-commissioned officer in
the Second Minnesota battery. In 1878 he located in Sleepy Eye and engaged in
the farm machinery trade. Married in 1867 Annie McMullen who died in December of
that year. His second marriage was with Mary Huntsman in 1870. They have two
children living.

   William Duncan was born in Muskingum county, Ohio, January 21, 1846. When
five years of age accompanied his parents to Bartholomew county, Indiana, and
twelve years later went to Clay county, Illinois. In 1866 came to Sleepy Eye,
Minnesota, and engaged in farming until 1870 since which time has been in the
machine trade. Married in 1876, Miss Cornelia Hatch, a native of Vermont, who
bore him four children; three are living. Mrs. Duncan died in 1876.

   F. H. Dyckman was born in Orange, New Jersey, November 11, 1858, and is of
American and Scotch parentage. He began his business career in New York city, in
the Merchants' Bank. From there he came to Minnesota and established a banking
house in the winter of 1880-81 at Sleepy Eye, and is largely interested in a
money loaning corporation of Scotland, and loans money throughout the entire state.

   H. G. Eaton was born in Rock county, Wisconsin, in 1841. When ten years of
age removed with his parents to Green Lake county, and there remained ten years,
thence to Rochester, Minnesota. Enlisted in the spring of 1865 in Company G,
First Minnesota battalion infantry and served until the close of the war. He was
in the grain trade at Rochester, eight years and three years at New Ulm. Finally
settled in Sleepy Eye in charge of VanDusen & Company's warehouse. Married in
1867, Lydia J. Kendall. Of their four children one is living.

   Prof. C. E. Ferguson was born November 14, 1854, at St. Thomas, Ontario,
where he attended the public and high schools. Removed to Hamilton, Ontario, in
1875, and attended the Hamilton college, graduating in 1877. He spent three
years in the university at Toronto, then spent one year traveling through the
west. In July, 1881 located in Sleepy Eye, Minnesota, and accepted the
principalship of the public and high schools.

   John P. Franz was born in Beloit, Wisconsin, in 1855. Came to Minnesota in
1878 and settled in Sleepy Eye. His father came from Germany in 1850 and settled
in Beloit and in June, 1878, came to Sleepy Eye and engaged in the liquor trade.
Mr. Franz was married in his native town in 1878 to Miss Henrietta Hoffmaster.

   Isaac Gallagher was born in Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania, in 1840. In
the spring of 1856 he came to Wisconsin, and engaged in teaching school and
farming. Enlisted in Company D, 14th Wisconsin, and was discharged on account of
wounds received. After recovering he re-inlisted and was honorably discharged
October 9, 1865. Followed farming and teaching in Goodhue county until 1878,
since which time has been a resident of Sleepy Eye, where he has served as
justice of the peace. He is interested in the real estate and insurance
business. Married in 1865, Catherine McEwen. Four children have been born to
them; two are living.

  August Gauerke, a native of Germany, was born in 1848. Came to the United
States with his parents in 1852 and with them settled on a farm in Washington
county, Wisconsin. In 1872 came to Brown county, Minnesota, locating in Sleepy
Eye, and engaged in the mercantile trade with T. H. Mitchell. His marriage with
Miss Bertha Vadler took place in 1871. They are the parents of four living
children.

  William Gebser, born in New Ulm, Brown county, Minnesota, in 1860, is a son of
F. W. Gebser, who was a book-keeper. William was educated and grew to manhood in
New Ulm, and learned the trade of cigar-making. In 1878 removed to Sleepy Eye,
and began the sale and manufacture of cigars, and by giving strict attention to
his trade has gained a good patronage.

  Lars Hanson was born in Denmark, in 1848. On coming to America in 1865, he
made his home in Illinois for three years. Came to Sleepy Eye, Minnesota, in
1865, and after farming five years, accepted the position of baggage master at
the depot. On the 8th of May, 1876, he was appointed postmaster. Married Miss
Mary A. Christenson in 1872. They have four living children.

  Francis Ibberson was born in Cambridgeshire, England. In July, 1849, he came
to the United States and settled in Wisconsin; came to Sleepy Eye, Minnesota, in
1873, and is engaged in the drug business, and is also interested in farming.
Married Maria Coopley; in New York City, who arrived there from her native
country, in 1850. Eight children have been born to them, of whom five are living.

  Edwin P. Illsley was born in Nova Scotia, in 1859. He came to the United
States in 1874, and located in Dover Center, Olmsted county, Minnesota. He
removed to Brown county in 1880, and began working at the trade of blacksmith,
in Sleepy Eye, where he still remains. Married in 1880, Miss Georgia Ellsbury.

  Paul C. Jacobson was born in Denmark, in 1854. Came to America in 1862, and
located in Waukesha county, Wisconsin. In 1869 came to Brown county, Minnesota,
and remained on a farm seven years, then went to New Ulm. One year later located
in Sleepy Eye, and has since been interested in farm machinery business. Married
in 1880 to Miss Mary Roy.

   Ole H. Jertson was born in Columbia county, Wisconsin, July 28, 1853. After
learning the trade of carpenter, he worked at that business in his native place
until coming to Sleepy Eye in 1876. Since locating here he has continued his
trade. Married in 1877, Mary Arverson. Hans, born in March, 1879, is their only
child.

   Hans C. Johnson is a native of Denmark, and came to the United States in May,
1880. Soon after, he located in Sleepy Eye, and engaged in the tailoring
business with C. S. Peterson. Married in his native country, Miss Mary D.
Hanson, who has borne him five children.

   C. E. Johnson was born in Franklin county, Vermont, in 1844. At the age of
twenty years he came to New Ulm, Minnesota: made that place his home until the
spring of 1881, engaged as a hotel clerk. Locating in Sleepy Eye, he started in
the saloon business, where he still continues. Miss Lizzie Richards became the
wife of Mr. Johnson in 1872. They have three living children.

   Thomas P. Keegan was born in Massachusetts in 1850, and there grew to manhood
on a farm. Came to Minnesota in 1867, and located in Brown county; until the 1st
of January, 1880 he remained on a farm, then came to Sleepy Eye and engaged in
the mercantile business in company with John H. and J. W. Keegan. Married in
1880, Miss Lillie Fitzgerald.

   F. Koehne, a native of Germany, was born in 1848. Came to America in 1870,
and located in New Ulm, Minnesota, where he was clerk in a hotel four years,
than managed the Northwestern Hotel for three years. Coming to Sleepy Eye, he
managed the Union House two years, then engaged in stock trade until 1881, when
he purchased the block on the corner of Main and Fifth streets. Married in 1853
Augusta Dettbenner. They are the parents of four children.

   Louis Landon was born in the state of New York in 1841. Moved to Wisconsin
and remained until 1872, then came to Minnesota, and located in Sleepy Eye in
1S7K: engaged in the hotel business. Enlisted in 1862 in the 18th Wisconsin, and
was honorably discharged at the close of the war. Married Miss Barbara Kinnear,
who has borne him four children, of whom three are living.

   J. J. Legge was born in Jackson county, Iowa, July 20, 1854. His father sold
the farm in 1867 and moved his family to West Point, Iowa. In spring of 1868 Mr.
Legge removed to Davenport, then to Bellevue, and in the fall of 1870 went to
college at Mount Calvary, Wisconsin, and studied classics. Went to Chicago in
1875; in 1880 located in Sleepy Eye, and started a drug store.

   Daniel Liddell was born in Canada, and came to the United States when
seventeen years of age. Lived in Michigan two years, and came thence to
Washington county, Minnesota, in 1868; in 1873 he located in Brown county, and
engaged in farming until the fall of 1880, then came to Sleepy Eye. Here he has
since been interested in the livery business. Married in 1873 Anna F. MacNider.
They have one living child.

   Peter Majewski is a native of Germany, and came to America in 1868. After
remaining a short time in Illinois, he came on the 13th of January, 1869, to
Nicollet county and settled on a farm. Came to Sleepy Eye in the spring of 1873,
and engaged in the furniture business. Married in the spring of 1874 Miss
Augusta Zieske, who has borne him two children.

   T. M. Marcellus, M. D., was born in Canada West in 1852. Came to the United
States in 1866, and for twelve years lived in Northfield, Minnesota; for three
and one-half years was a student in Carleton College. Attended medical lectures
at Michigan University, and graduated in March, 1878; since July of that year he
has been practicing his profession in Sleepy Eye. Married Miss Marion Wheeler,
in Northfield, in 1879.

   Lawrence Mauch was born in Wisconsin in 1855. In 1868 came to Brown county,
Minnesota, and commenced the hardware trade in Sleepy Eye in 1878. He is
associated with Daniel Moll, under the firm name of Moll & Mauch. They keep a
large stock of heavy and shelf hardware. Mr. Mauch is classed among the best
business men in the place.

   Thomas H. Mitchell was born in Wisconsin in 1850. His parents were born in
England, and came to America in 1848, locating in Wisconsin, where they still
reside. Mr. Mitchell came to Sleepy Eye March 1, 1880, and started a general
merchandise store, which was the fifth store of the kind in the place. Married
in 1877 Miss Jessie, daughter of Rev. G. N. Annes. They have one child.

   Hans Mo, a native of Norway, was born March 17, 1850. There he received a
good education, after which followed book-keeping. Came to America in 1872, and
settled in Byron, Minnesota, where for six years he worked at clerking. Coming
to Sleepy Eye he was clerking in a drug store until April, 1881, then took
charge of S. D. Peterson's machinery depot. Married in 1877 Anna Johnson.

   W. M. Murfin was born October 7, 1841, in Adams county, Ohio. He taught
school in Sciota two years. Enlisted in 1863 in Company E, First Ohio heavy
artillery, and was discharged in 1865. Soon after, he settled in Rochester,
Minnesota, and engaged in the grain trade until 1867; then continued the trade
in Waseca until 1870, and until 1872 was depot agent and dealer in grain in
Claremont. Locating finally in Sleepy Eye, he, in company with his brother,
engaged in general merchandise trade. Removed to Kansas City in 1878, but
returned in 1881, and is now one of the firm of Murfin Brothers & White. Married
in 1869 Le Verna S. Ireland. Charles H. and Leroy are their children.

   Charles S. Peterson is a native of Denmark, and in 1879 left that country for
America. Soon after he reached Sleepy Eye, and at first engaged as clerk in a
dry goods store. In 1880 he opened a merchant tailoring establishment, in which
he has a good trade.

   Mason W. Phelps was born in New York in 1827. Came to Minnesota in 1866 and
located near Fort Ridgely, Nicollet county, on a farm; removed thence to New
Ulm, and to Sleepy Eye in 1879. Here he opened the Exchange Hotel, of which he
is still the proprietor. In 1848 was united in marriage with Miss Cornelia A.
Weever. They have one child living.

   A. P. Poaps, M. D. was born August 11, 1859, in Montreal. After receiving,
his early education in that city, entered the Kingston Royal College of
Physicians and Surgeons, which he attended during 1877 and '78; then entered the
Bellevue Hospital, of New York, and graduated in the spring of 1881. In August
of that year he located in Sleepy Eye and is now enjoying a fair practice.

   William H. Post was born in Summit county, Ohio, in 1840, and while a child
went with his parents to McHenry county, Illinois. In 1852 he came to Nicollet
county, Minnesota, and his father took a claim of 160 acres. Enlisted in 1861 in
Company H, Fourth Minnesota; was discharged for disability at St. Louis, after a
service of one year. In 1865 made a claim in Birch Cooley, on which he lived
eight years; then started a drug store at Redwood Falls; remained until coming
to Sleepy Eye in 1880. When eighteen years of age was employed at the Lower
Sioux Agency as interpreter. Was married August 4, 1865, to Marietta Frazier.
Julius D., Laudin E., and Lulu E. are their children. Mrs. Post died in 1879.

   Granville F. Prescott, was born in Wisconsin, in 1857. He grew to manhood in
the city of Winona, Minnesota, and at the age of fourteen years began learning
the trade of blacksmith, with C. F. Prescott. Came to Sleepy eye with his
parents, when the village was first started and is still here enjoying a
lucrative trade. Married in 1877, Miss Sarah Youngmann, who has borne him one
child.

   A. Rinke, a native of Germany, was born in 1846. Came to the United States
with his parents in 1860 and located in Racine, Wisconsin. In 1870 he came to
Brown county, Minnesota and engaged in the manufacture of wagons; locating in
Sleepy Eye in 1871, he continued his former trade until 1876, then engaged in
the mercantile business with T. F. Talbot. Married in 1873, Miss Mary Mandal.
They have three children.

   Peter P. Roller was born in Iowa in 1861. Came with his parents to Minnesota
and settled in Belle Plaine; remained on the farm until fourteen years of age,
then attended school at Shakopee and St. Cloud. After leaving school he engaged
in the farm machinery trade in St. Cloud and St. Paul, then embarked in the
sewing machine business at Mankato. Located in Sleepy Eye in 1879 and has a good
trade in sewing and farm machines.

   C. Salkowske, a native of Germany, was born in 1844. Came to America and
settled in Green Lake county, Wisconsin, and three years later came to Brown
county, Minnesota. After engaging in farming for two years, he went to western
Minnesota as a missionary. In 1866 he located in Sleepy Eye and began the grain
business; continued one year, then started in the general merchandise trade.
Married Miss Heine in 1868.

   Andrew J. Sanderlin was born in Tennessee, in 1823. Removed to Ohio in 1844;
six years later went to California, and in 1855 came to Minnesota, locating at
Hastings. In 1857 removed to Rice county, thence in 1870 to Colorado. After a
residence there of five years he returned to Minnesota and began farming in
Steele county. Located in Sleepy Eye in 1878 and engaged as a barber. Married
Miss Barbara Wertzler, who has borne him three children. Mr. Sanderlin was in
the Mexican war.

   H. B. Sandmeyer was born March 17, 1853, in the province of Westphalia,
Germany, After obtaining a high school education, he came to the United States
in 1876 and entered upon his theological studies at St. John's college,
Minnesota; was ordained priest by Bishop Grace, of St. Paul. The next year was
assistant priest at New Ulm and from there went to his missionary field which
included all places as far west as Watertown, Dakota. He is at present stationed
at Sleepy Eye as parish priest.

   John B. Schmid was born in Germany in 1852. Came to Brown county, Minnesota,
in 1868, and gave his attention to music. In 1879 located in Sleepy Eye and has
since engaged in the hotel business. Married in Brown county, Miss Mary Adam who
has borne him four children.

   Silas D. Scudder was born in India in 1859. His parents were of American
birth, and went to India as missionaries, and while there their son was born. On
returning to America his parents left him in Germany to complete his education.
He graduated at the age of seventeen years. Arriving in America he entered the
Bank of Montreal in New York city. In December, 1880, he came to Sleepy Eye,
Brown county, Minnesota, and began the banking business.

   William Sencerbox was born in Scott county, Minnesota, in 1856, and is a son
of J. W. Sencerbox, who resides at Shakopee. William grew to manhood in Shakopee
and there received an education. He learned the trade of jeweler with C. R.
Newel, and after completing his trade came to Sleepy Eye in 1880; here he has
since engaged in the jewelry business.

   George W. Somerville was born in Ripley county, Indiana, in 1857. Came with
his father to Rochester, Minnesota, in 1874. Graduated from the high school of
Rochester, in 1876, then for one year read law with H. G. Butler. Entered the
law department of the Michigan State University at Ann Arbor, from which he
graduated in 1877. In June of the same year he located in Sleepy Eye and has
since been engaged in the practice of his profession.

   Frank N. Stewart was born in Geneseo, Henry county, Illinois, January 12,
1856. In 1863, graduated from the Geneseo seminary. Removing to Winona,
Minnesota, he acted as assistant train despatcher at that place; in 1878, came
to Sleepy Eye and has been train despatcher of all Watertown and Redwood Falls
trains. Married on the 30th of September, 1881, Miss Clara Grant, of Rochester.

   George Stevenhofer, a native of Switzerland, was born in 1853. Came to the
United States with his grand-parents when but four years of age and settled in
Indianapolis, Indiana. Removed to Wisconsin in 1839; remained in Sauk county
until 1876, then removed to Waseca county, Minnesota, and in 1880, to Sleepy
Eye, where he is employed as clerk in a drug store.

   Thomas F. Talbot was born in London, England, in October, 1844. When about
nine years of age he came to America with his parents and remained on a farm in
Wisconsin until coming in 1860, to Minnesota. He served in Company C, 6th
Minnesota, and was discharged in 1865. In 1872, he located in Sleepy Eye and
embarked in the mercantile trade; formed a partnership with Andrew Rinke, in
1878. Married in June, 1864, Miss E. V. Fraser. Three children have been born to
them; one is living.

   Joseph Troutmann, a native of the old country, came to the United States in
1855 and settled in Chicago, and one year later went to New Ulm, Minnesota; was
one of the pioneers of the county. He located in Sleepy Eye when there were but
two buildings in the place, and erected a meat market. Here he has since
continued and is doing a fine trade. During the Indian massacre Mr. Troutmann
experienced several narrow escapes.

   Dr. Jacob W. B. Wellcome, was born in New Portland, Maine, June 4, 1825. At
the age of sixteen he entered Burnham's high school and remained three years,
then studied medicine. He received a diploma, and in 1856 went to Wisconsin;
practiced there until 1858, then came to Minnesota, and the next year located in
Garden City. In 1862 he was appointed examining surgeon for the draft, with his
office at Mankato; in 1863 was first assistant surgeon, in the place of Dr. W.
W. Clark, who was ill; was surgeon of the hospital seven months; in 1872 was
appointed surgeon for pensions and held the position four years. Dr. Wellcome
assisted in forming the first medical society in the Minnesota Valley, and has
been its vice president and secretary. For two years was surgeon for the Chicago
and Northwestern Railway Company; he is a member of the St. Louis College of
Physicians and Surgeons, where he attends the lectures. He was at Garden City at
the time of the Indian outbreak, and with other physicians cared for the wounded
and dying.

   W. R. White was born in Canada, in 1826, and came to the United States in
1839, locating in Vermont. Went to DeKalb county, Illinois, and remained two
years, then spent seven years in Bad Axe, Wisconsin. Came to Minnesota in the
spring of 1868, and in 1874 located in Sleepy Eye. He has since engaged in
various pursuits, and, in company with his son, is now managing the Loreno
House. Married Miss Judith Chester, in 1848. They have seven living children.

   Harper M. Workman, M. D., was born in Circleville, Ohio, May 14,1855. He
graduated in medicine from the Chicago Medical College, in 1878. In 1881 he
located in Sleepy Eye, Minnesota, and is here practicing his profession.

   J. N. E. Wolfe was born in Knox county, Indiana, in 1839. There he remained
until 1880, engaged in farming, merchandising and hotel keeping. Came to Sleepy
Eye at that time and was employed by Van Dusen & Company until April, 1881, then
engaged in the meat trade. Married in 1867, Lydia Hutchings. They have two
living children.

   John C. Zieske, a native of Prussia, was born in 1842. Came to America in
1854 and settled on a farm in Green Lake county, Wisconsin. Enlisted in Company
H, 18th Wisconsin, and served until July, 1865. Coming to Minnesota, he settled
in Nicollet county; in 1873 he located in Sleepy Eye, and began soon after in
the harness trade. Mr. Zieske represented his district in the legislature in
1881. Married in Minnesota in 1867, Miss Mary Strassburg. Of the six children
born to them, only three are living.

EDEN.

   This town is in the north-western part of the county, and comprises all in
the county of fractional townships 111 and 112, range 33. It was a part of the
Sioux reservation until 1863. In 1866 Eden was attached to Home for official
purposes, and in 1867 was organized separately. The first town meeting was held
at the house of W. O. Hewitt, April 2, 1867; officers elected: H. S. Eldred,
chairman; P. D. Winchel and Hiram Jones, supervisors; I. A. Root, clerk; Milton
Jones, assessor; Isaac Johnson, treasurer; H. W. Munsell and William Brown,
justices; Amos Root and O. A. Dresser, constables.

   The first settlers were Isaac Johnson, W. O. Hewitt, O. A. Dresser, Samuel
Tate and Abner Franklin, who came with their families in December, 1864, and
located in the north-western part of the town. When the town organized there
were but thirteen voters; the population is now about one thousand.

   The first birth was Caroline, daughter of Isaac and Elmira Johnson. The first
death was that of John, son of Amos Root, in January, 1866. Leslie Hillyer and
Jane Tate were the first couple to marry; the event occurred July 4, 1868.

   The first school was taught in the summer of 1867, by Ellen Eldred, in a
claim shanty; in the winter following a log building was erected by subscription
on section 32, and now belongs to district number 16. There are three other
school-houses.

   The Presbyterians organized in June, 1870, with fourteen members. In 1871 the
church was built and cost $1,500. The society no longer exists. In 1869 a
Methodist church was organized with nine members, by Rev. Swift. The membership
increased to about sixty, and in 1881 divided, a portion adopting the
Congregational doctrine; the latter bought the church built by the
Presbyterians, and are under the guidance of Rev. H. S. Eldred. The Methodists
hold services with Rev. S. B. Smith, pastor. The Lutherans built a church near
Lone Tree lake in 1881. There are also organizations of Danish Lutherans,
Seventh Day Adventists, Danish Baptists and German Methodists. The latter have a
small log church.

   The post-office of Lone Tree Lake was established in 1869, with Ferdinand
Hartwick in charge. The office is kept at his store on section 5, where he also
keeps a hotel. A store was opened in 1868 by Louis Erstman, near the old
government ferry, which was run but a short time. Charles Fletcher built a steam
saw-mill a few years ago on section 34; it is run by a forty horse-power engine
and is now owned by Charles Ritz.

   H. M. Ball was born near Elmira, New York, March 1, 1849. He moved to Fond du
Lac county, Wisconsin in 1855; learned the trade of a carpenter, which he has
made his principal business until recently. Came to the town of Eden in 1867;
located permanently on his present farm of 130 acres in 1874. For the past three
years has given his attention to importing and cultivating forest trees. Married
in 1874 Miss Gussie Hartwick, who was born in New Jersey. William and Elizabeth
M. are their children.

   Henry W. Chase was born near Cleveland, Ohio, June 13, 1832. He was brought
up in Michigan and in 1860 came to Minnesota, settled first in Houston county,
where he farmed for six years, then came to Eden and located on a farm on
section 32. Married in 1860, Ann Cleveland, who was born in Orleans county, New
York. They have had eight children; five are living; one daughter is a school
teacher.

   James Clancy was born in Canada, October 24, 1827. In 1857 left his native
place for the United States, locating in Sibley county, Minnesota. Came to his
present farm of 160 acres in Eden in 1872; also owns 40 acres in Home. Married
in 1850 Anna Cutting, a native of England. They have five sons and one daughter
living. The eldest son, John M., has been teaching school for the past eight
years, also owns a farm of 160 acres on section 24. He has held the office of
town clerk two years.

   Walter Doheny was born in county Tipperary, Ireland, in 1840. Soon after his
birth his parents came to America and resided in Pennsylvania until coming to
Minnesota in 1851. After remaining two years in St. Paul, they moved to Sibley
county. He was in General Sibley's expedition in 1862, then enlisted in
September, 1864, in Company B, First Minnesota artillery and served until June,
1865. Came to Eden in 1871; owns a farm of 160 acres. In 1868 he married Mary A.
Reel. Of their eight children, six are living.

   Oscar A. Dresser was born in Ohio, July 28, 1840. Accompanied his parents to
Wisconsin while young but removed to Minnesota and Mankato in 1863, and to his
present farm of 105 acres in Eden. He is the present chairman of the town board
and has been for three years, also served as supervisor one year. Mr. Dresser
married 1868, Miss Ella A. Day, who was born in New Jersey. They have had two
children.

   H. S. Eldred was born in Canandaigua, New York, November 25, 1837. Removed to
Michigan in 1842, and to Wisconsin in 1859. August, 1862 he enlisted in Company
G, 21st Wisconsin infantry; was severely wounded in the battle of Chickamauga,
from which he was confined in the hospital thirteen months; at the close of the
war was honorably discharged. In 1867 came to his present farm. He was
instrumental in the organization of the town of Eden and has since held numerous
offices. Mr. Eldred has two lots near Hamline University, to which he
contemplates moving that he may better educate his family. Married Helen Cooley
in 1860. They have five children. Mrs. Eldred taught the first school in Eden.

   Rev. L. C. Gilbert was born in Augusta, Madison county, New York, in 1805. He
graduated from Western Reserve College, of Ohio, in 1833, and from Auburn
Theological Seminary of New York in 1836. In Illinois in 1839 he began as a home
missionary, and continued as such until his death June 8, 1878. He had located
in Eden in 1874, and bought the farm on which the family still live. He was an
earnest Christian worker in the Congregationalist church. One son, T. L.
Gilbert, is carrying on the farm. In June, 1875, he married Jennie Grover.
Theron R., Henry E., and Seth A. are their children.

   George Hart was born near Liverpool, England, July 12, 1842. He learned the
trade of silk weaving, and in 1857 immigrated to Wisconsin; came to Minnesota in
1859, and in April, 1868, located on section 11 of Eden; has served as assessor,
chairman of town board and county commissioner. Enlisted in Company P, Fourth
Wisconsin cavalry; was in active service until receiving an honorable discharge
in June, 1865. Married in 1869 Ruth Jennings, who was born in Indiana. They are
the parents of three sons and three daughters.

   Jerome Hewitt was born near Berlin, Wisconsin, January 26, 1860. Soon after
his birth the family removed to Houston county, Minnesota, and in 1865 to Eden;
he remained with his parents until the spring of 1881, then moved to his farm of
120 acres on section 31. Married in 1877 Mary Hewett, who was born in Michigan.
Eugene and Pearl are their children.

   Eugene Leatherman was born January 6, 1852, in Adams county, Wisconsin. He
lived near the village of Oxford until the age of nine years, then moved to
Green Lake couuty; came to Eden in 1871. Until 1878 remained on the old
homestead, then settled on his farm on section 4; has also eighty acres on
section 16. Was married January 22, 1874, to Martha Adsit. George and Maud are
their children.

   Reverend V. E. Loba was born in St. Louis, Missouri, December 21, 1853. His
parents came from Switzerland to America, and were converted to the Mormon
faith. His mother died while on the way to Utah; the father became an elder in
the Mormon church; subsequently renounced the faith and went to Illinois, where
he died March 18,1864. He entered St. Joseph's Male Orphan Asylum at St. Louis,
but remained only a short time; soon after received forty dollars from
Switzerland, which assisted him in going through the primary department of
Olivette College, Michigan, and in 1876 he graduated. After spending two years
in Ohio, he was commissioned to preach at Sleepy Eye, Minnesota. In 1880
organized the Redwood Academy. Mr. Loba is at present residing in Eden.

   Wesley Luddington was born in Ithaca, New York, October 1, 1843. Accompanied
his parents to Pennsylvania, in 1851, and in 1865 located on a farm near
Kalamazoo, Michigan; remained until coming to Minnesota, in 1868. Came to his
present farm in Eden, in 1869. The same year he married Miss P. O. Pound, who
was born in New York. For twelve years before marriage she was engaged in
teaching school. Five children have been born to them, four are living.

   G. W. Robinson was born in Springfield, Massachusetts, February 28, 1856;
accompanied his parents to Connecticut thence in 1860, to Indiana and to
Minnesota in 1862; completed his education at Rochester, and for the past seven
or eight years has been teaching during the winter seasons. Came to Eden in
1881, and is now renting a farm, but intends locating permanently in Sherman,
Redwood county. His marriage with Miss Mary B. Simons took place in 1880.

   David Sherman was born near Utica, New York, January 9, 1822. In 1836 he
located with his parents, on a farm near Cleveland. In 1852 removed to Wisconsin
and remained near Fond du Lac until coming to Minnesota in 1870; he has since
resided in Eden. He married in 1840, Maria Claggett, who died in March, 1877.
Mrs. Elizabeth Sherman, nee Ellis, became his second wife in November, 1879. By
both marriages they have thirteen children. There are five generations of the
Sherman family now living in Eden.

   Henry Winter was born in Indiana, about forty miles west from Cincinnati,
Ohio, October 8, 1845. When five years old he came west with his parents, who
located in Wabasha county, Minnesota. He was in Brown county during the Indian
outbreak, and soon after came to Eden, He has a farm of 160 acres on section 3.
In 1869 he married Mary Hart, a native of Lincolnshire, England. They have one
son and two daughters.

PRAIRIEVILLE.

   Although this town was not entirely within the Indian reservation, no
settlers came until 1866, when Rev. Andrew Johnson and Niels Alexandersen
located on section 1. They were members of a party of Danes, most of whom
settled in Eden. Mr. Johnson was a Baptist preacher and held services soon after
his arrival. Anna, his daughter, born in the fall of 1867, was the first birth.
The first death was Mads. Jensen, in 1868. The first marriage was James Johnson
to Anna Knudson, in November, 1869.

   Miss M. L. Lang taught a school in the summer of 1871, probably the first in
the town. There are now four frame school-houses.

   The Danish Lutherans hold religious services once a month in a building owned
by them on section 16.

   The first town meeting was held at the house of Rasmus Nelson, on section 15,
in March, 1870. First officers: G. N. Dayton, chairman, Gustav Plath and Julius
Krueger, supervisors; J. F. Barton, clerk; C. H. Christensen, assessor; John
Liddell, treasurer; C. H. Christensen and J. B. Barton, justices; H. J. Knudson
and Edwin Ricker, constables; Peter Mertz held the position of chairman until 1881.

   Jeremiah F. Barton was born in New York in 1831. At the age of twenty years
he went to Wisconsin; in 1854 he removed to Iowa; after visiting New York and
Illinois returned to Wisconsin. Enlisted in May, 1861, in the Eighth Wisconsin
infantry; was promoted to assistant sergeant and served until the close of the
war. Came to Minnesota and resided some time in Mankato, then settled on a farm
in Prairieville. Married in Wisconsin in 1855, Lydia M. Parks. Their living
children are Frank J., Eva M., Cora L., Clark A. and Fred D.

   Oliver Cole was born in Vermont in 1846. He went with his parents to
Wisconsin when quite young, and remained with them until nineteen years of age.
In 1862 came to Minnesota, but two years after returned to his former home. In
the fall of 1868 he again came to this state and has since remained; has eighty
acres of land on section 30, of Prairieville. Was united in marriage with Miss
Matilda Leddick, who has borne him four children: Emma M., J. Francis and Nellie
M. are living.

   Thomas Foster was born in 1838 in England, and removed with his parents to
Canada, where he was educated in the public schools. In 1862 he went to
Nashville, Tennessee; was employed by the government, building bridges for the
Union army. In Wisconsin he engaged in lumbering four years, and in the spring
of 1868 came to Prairieville; owns a farm of 190 acres. Has been for eight years
treasurer of the town. Married in Wisconsin in 1868, Ann K. Knudson. Joseph,
George, Mary A., John and Margaret are their children.

   Lars Frederikson, a native of Denmark, was born in 1845. Came to America in
1867 and lived about one year in Illinois, when his parents came to this
country, and accompanied by them he came to Minnesota and settled on a farm on
section 32, Prairieville; now owns a farm of 200 acres. Mr. Frederikson has
served his town in various offices. Married in 1867, Miss Mary Sorensen, who has
borne him two sons and two daughters: Soren C., Nels P., Martha and Anna C.

   Fred Kissner, a native of Germany, was born in 1845. In 1862 he came to
America and settled on a farm in Wisconsin; remained three years, then came to
Minnesota and located in Steele county; in 1868 came to Prairieville and settled
on a farm of 200 acres about four miles from Sleepy Eye. Married in Brown county
in 1870, Miss Anna, daughter of John Anderson. Four children have been born to
them; three are living, Lewis, Joseph and Lydia.

   Lois Lamp, a native of Denmark, was born in 1837, and came to America at the
age of twenty-two years. For fifteen years his home was in Milwaukee; in the
fall of 1873 he came to Minnesota and settled on a farm of 120 acres in
Prairieville. In 1858 he married Anna Anderson, who has borne him thirteen
children, eleven are living: Andrew, Eli, Julia, Alfred, Albert, Frank, Emma,
Charley, Christ., Edward and Henry.

   Alexander McBain was born in Canada, in 1848. At the age of eighteen he moved
to Goodhue county, Minnesota, thence to Stillwater, and soon after returned to
Canada. Came to Minnesota in 1870 and located on a farm in Prairieville. His
marriage with Miss Catherine, daughter of Alexander McIlreavie, took place in
1872. They have two sons and two daughters: Simon D., Alexander H., Catherine M.
and Mary J.

   Alexander McIlreavie, Sr., was born in Scotland in 1805. Came to America in
1831, and for thirty-five years lived in Canada; removed to Minnesota in the
spring of 1866 and settled in Wabasha county, but in 1870 came to Prairieville.
He married in 1845, Miss Catherine McLean. Of the nine children born to them six
are living: Hugh, Neil, Sarah, Catherine, Mary A. and Alexander. The son
Alexander was born in Canada in 1858 and resides with his parents on the farm.

   Daniel Stage was born in Prussia, in 1848. In 1864 he came to the United
States and for four years was farming in Wisconsin. Came to Minnesota in 1868
and located in Prairieville. Married in 1869 Amelia Platt. Frederick, Charles
and Daniel are their living children. His father, Daniel Stage, had spent three
years with his children in Minnesota, then returned to Europe and two years
later again started for Minnesota but was taken ill and died on the ocean.


Additional Comments:
Extracted from 

History of the Minnesota Valley
Minneapolis: North Star Publishing Co. (1882)


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