Carver County MN Archives History - Books .....Chaska And Carver 1882
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Book Title: History Of The Minnesota Valley

CHAPTER LIV.

CHASKA FIRST SETTLERS—SOHOOLS CHURCHES- BUSINESS —BIOGRAPHIES —CARVER EARLY
SETTLERS—SOCIETIES BUSINESS HOUSES BIOGRAPHICAL.

  The history of Chaska under the pale of civilization begins with the date of
1851. Thomas Holmes obtained a license to trade with the Indians at any point he
desired to locate on the Minnesota river from McLain the agent for the
Madahwahkan tribes, and in 1851 he located the town site of Shakopee and about
the same time that of Chaska. In the fall of 1851 David Fuller, an eastern man
who had located at St. Paul, came up the river, led by the desire to speculate
in town sites, which was the prevailing epidemic. In the spring of 1852 Holmes
sold him the town site of Chaska for $1,000 and he at once set plans in
operation for its development. The condition at this time is worthy of notice.
In contrast to the surrounding country which belonged to the "big woods" and was
densely wooded, at the location of the town site, about twenty acres was cleared
and bore evidence of former cultivation. Holmes states that strawberries grew
here in great abundance and at one time he picked with the aid of some squaws,
whom .he brought over from Shakopee, a wash-tub full and sent them down to
Fuller who kept a hotel at St. Paul. Asparagus, too, grew near the river and
indications of a garden and quite extensive buildings having once existed near
the bend of the river. At a later day bones and implements of iron, old
gun-locks for flints, hammers, tongs, etc., to a large amount were exhumed so
that every citizen could, if he chose, obtain relics of the past. It was thought
from the appearance of these relics, especially the bones, that they were sixty
years old. The relics were thought the traces of a Catholic mission, of which
the dates are obscure. It was probably a trading post existing not far from the
beginning of the present century and was abandoned years before settlement began
in the county. Another feature of the town site of Chaska was the existence of a
number A symmetrical mounds belonging to the period of ancient mound builders.
The situation and form of these mounds as well as the relics unearthed indicate
that they were different from the mounds of sepulture so commonly found in this
country. They were arranged in a circular form to the number of six with rising
ground extending from one to the other as though the whole might at some former
time have been a fort enclosed for defense. Excavations have developed bones in
large numbers but in such positions as to indicate that many had been killed in
some great battle and hastily gathered into one common tomb. Various implements
of the usual character have also been found in them. Doubtless they must be
classed among mounds of defense. A few of these have been destroyed by the
improvements of settlement but several are preserved in the public park of the
village where their form and purpose can be easily observed and the
archaeologists can speculate on them at their leisure.

   The first settlers of Chaska made their claim in 1853. The claimants were
mostly Germans, who had been at St. Paul, and for the most part brought their
families with them to share the trials of a pioneer life. Although they came
into an unsettled country and found here the Indian bands, who had not been
removed, still the rapid settlement left little space to solitude and isolation,
and the peaceful disposition of the tribes of Indians whose tepees were often
clustered in the timber excludes Indian barbarities from the history of the
town. The settlers of 1853 were Jacob Ebinger, whose claim in the south-west
quarter of section 8 is still occupied by his widow; Henry Sohns in the
south-west of section 7; Charles May, south-west of section 4, adjoining the
town site; John Schmidt, north-west of section 6; John G. Loy, familiarly known
as butcher Loy, north-east of section 8, adjoining the town site; David Ebinger,
adjoining the town site on the east in section 9; Henry Moser, north-west of
section 5; Adam Aamarbein, north-east of section 4; Henry Sauerbrei, north-east
of section 7. Some of these, as Sauerbrei, Schmidt and Loy, who came as single
men, were soon married, returning to St. Paul for wives.

   In 1854 Samuel Allen, as agent for or under contract with David L. Fuller, of
St. Paul, settled on the town site of Chaska; Joseph Veit on the south-east
quarter of section 7; John Humbel on the north-east quarter of section 5; Henry
Eschley on the east half of the east half of section 3; John Lee and Gamalial C.
Lee bought respectively of Humbel and Faber, besides building on the town site
under special contract with the "Shaska" company (the name "Chaska" was thus
mis-spelled in the act of incorporation of the company); Linus A. Clapp on the
south-east quarter of section 5. In 1855 the remainder of the land belonging to
the present limits of Chaska was taken up; some in smaller tracts than the usual
160 acre claims, except a few claims made in 1856; John Hau and James C. Katis
in section 2; F. Heymel in section 3; and Stillman Reid in section 6.

   In the spring of 1854 David Fuller employed Samuel Allen to locate on the
town site claim for the purpose of holding it, and he built a log cabin which
can still be seen in the western part of the village. In June of the same year
it was surveyed and platted by John T. Halsted, and filed for record September
6, 1854, in the office of the register of deeds at Minneapolis. At this time
this formed a part of Hennepin county for judicial purposes. The first settlers
voted in that county. After the claim had been secured, Allen deeded over the
claim according to contract, having secured in the meantime a fifteen year
charter for a ferry across the Minnesota river, landing at the foot of Walnut
street. The Fullers, David L., George and Albert, did not become residents, but
lived at St. Paul, and devised various schemes for speculation. The Shaska
company was an important feature in the town history, .but belongs more properly
to that of the county.

   The township of Chaska when organized in 1858 embraced more than three times
the area now belonging to it. April, 1859, a change was made in its bounds by
which sections 15, 16, 17 and 18 of township 115, range 24, were detached from
Chaska and became part of Carver. April 21, 1863, agreeable to petition, that
part of Chaska and Carver included in township 115, range 24, was organized into
a new town called Liberty, afterward Dahlgren.

   The name Chaska was derived from the Sioux language and means one, and is
applied to the first born. Doubtless the name chosen for the town site was
thought to be a talisman by which it should acquire a prominence among the
ambitious young towns of Minnesota territory.

   The prominent men of Chaska, in 1857, were: T. D. Smith, agent for the
Fullers: Frederick Greiner, Jacob Ebinger, Frederick DuToit, John Lee, J. D.
Noble, Ezekiel Ellsworth, G. Krayenbuhl, Thomas B. Hunt, Frank Miesseler.

   The first election took place at the office of T. D. Smith, May 11, 1858: T.
D. Smith, moderator; C. S. Wright, clerk. The following officers were elected:
Frederick Greiner, chairman; Henry Eschley and B. Soice, supervisors; Cyrus S.
Wright, clerk; Jacob Ebinger, assessor; Gustave Dressell, collector; Wilham
Gessert, overseer of the poor; A. C. Fisher and T. D. Smith, justices of the
peace; Stephen Poland and Frederick Hacklin, constables.

   The first tax voted in town was $500 for current expenses October 28, 1858.

   The first action of the town for raising volunteers for the war was August 4,
1864, when it was voted to hire the sum of $1,000, payable one-half in one year
and one-half in two years, with interest at 10 per cent, per annum, to fill the
quota of the town under the call of the president, dated July 18, 1864. March
17, 1865, it was voted to raise $510, and that bonds in sums of $15 each be
issued for that amount, to fill the quota under the new call of December 19, 1864.

   The greatest burden, however, assumed by the town was bonds for the purchase
of the county buildings. June 20, 1872, it was voted to issue the bonds of the
town to an amount necessary to raise $4,000, for the purchase of the county
buildings. Bonds for $5,500 were therefore issued, September 1, 1872; the
surplus, over $4,000, being required for expenses and discount. The last bond of
this debt was paid in July 1881, and the debt extinguished.

CHASKA VILLAGE.

   After government survey the town site was entered by Judge Andrew G.
Chatfield in January, 1856, and with him the ahstracts of title of Chaska begin.
The judge deeded it, June 7, 1856, to George Fuller. Samuel Allen deeded, April
22, 1856, to David Fuller what was platted as additions to the original site.

   David sold to George Fuller in 1857. George and Albert Fuller deeded to the
Shaska Company in 1857. The health of David Fuller, long undermined by pulmonary
disease, gave way and he returned to the east where he died.

   After the embarrassment of the Shaska Company, they deeded to Abby S. James,
and she deeded an undivided half in 1863 to Charles A. Warner.

   The town was re-surveyed in 1857 by E. B. Hood, and December 15, 1857, it was
filed for record. Additions were at one time made to the original site, but they
were subsequently vacated. March 6, 1871, the village was incorporated.

   Schools. The first school in Chaska was taught in the spring of 1858 by Miss
Emiline S. Noble who is now Mrs. Linus Lee, of Paul, in a little shanty near
where the hotel called Farmers’ Home now is; she afterward taught over the old
store building on the levee, owned by the Fullers, where T. D. Smith kept a
store. While teaching the first school she "boarded around" among the various
families.

   Schools have been maintained by the Moravian and Catholic churches, notices
of which are found in their histories.

   The public schools of the town are now embraced in one district, and the
various departments are kept in the brick School building purchased in 1874 from
the Moravian society. This a, brick structure with two stories, and the rooms
are furnished with patent seats. The school is graded in three departments, the
principal receiving $70 per mouth and the teachers in lower departments $40.
Nine months school is maintained during the year. The average attendance during
the year 1881 was 216 pupils. E. A. Taylor, principal.

   Newspaper. The "Chaska Herald" was established in 1860 by Charles Warner. F.
E. Du Toit purchased it in 1865, and in company with his brother is still its
editor.

   Churches. The Moravian church was organized January 1, 1858, by Rev. M. A.
Erdmann. Fifteen members took part in the organization, all of whom are still
living. The church was completed and dedicated July 26, 1860. Rev. Erdmann’s
connection with the church was that of missionary, his circuit extending as far
as Henderson. In the latter part of 1860 Bev. A. C. Lehmann took the charge,
continuing until the present incumbent, Rev. William H. Oerter, in 1877, took
the charge, who still continues.

   About 1863 a school was established in connection with the church and under
the control of the pastor. At the same time a brick boardinghouse was erected.
The school continued in a flourishing condition for some time, but about 1872,
owing to had management, it declined and was closed. In 1874 the building was
sold to the school district of Chaska for the use of the public school. The old
boarding-house affords a comfortable parsonage to the pastor. Bev. Mr. Oerter
preaches to his German congregation in the morning and to the English-speaking
people in the evening. English sermons can be heard at no other church in town.

   The Catholic church of the Guardian Angels was founded in 1858 by the
Benedictine Fathers of Shakopee with the purpose of collecting the Catholics of
the neighborhood into a congregation, and the first church built in 1859. The
Benedictine Fathers governed the congregation until 1865, when secular priests
took the charge. In 1876 it passed over to the charge of the Franciscan Fathers,
under whom it still continues, embracing 160 families, nearly all Germans and
Hollanders. The new church was built and the school connected in 1871 by Father
Mayr, the secular priest in charge. The fine new school-house and monastery of
the Franciscian Fathers was built in 1880 and the whole is now under one
government in the charge of Peter Clementinus Lorbacher. The buildings are large
and imposing; church 90x30; school-house, 60x40 with addition 28x28, for sisters
employed as teachers; monastery, 55x33. The school numbers about 150 pupils with
three teachers. The cemetery conected with the church was established at the
same time as the church, half a mile north-west. The pastors in charge have
been, Benedictines, Bruno Biss, George Scherer, Meinolphus Stukenkernper, Magnus
Mayr; Secular priest: William Lette; Franciscans: Wendelinus Grante and
Clementinus Lorbacher, the present pastor.

   The German Evangelical church was organized September 15, 1878, Revs. George
Hielseher and H. E. Liuse officiating in Sargent’s hall. Services had been held
in 1871 by Bev. "William Ludlow. The church was built in 1878 and Bev. Hielseher
was first pastor continuing two years. Bev. George Holler, the present pastor,
took charge in May, 1881. The membership is twenty-three.

   Mount Pleasant cemetery is located just north of the village limits and
embraces nearly four acres. It belongs to the Mount Pleasant cemetery
association and in 1865 was surveyed by Lucien Warner.

   The post-office at Chaska was first established in 1855 with Thomas B. Hunt
postmaster and was held in the store belonging to the Fullers. Mails were
received three times each week, brought on foot by G. C. Lee, carrier. After one
year Hunt was succeeded by T. D. Smith, who was succeeded in turn by Frederick
C. DuToit. At present four mails are received daily by railroad, and stages
supplying communication with neighboring towns not on railroad lines.

   Societies. St. Peters’ Benevolent society, was organized June 29, 1880, with
eighteen charter members. Matt. H. Muyers, president; Andrew Conschat,
vice-president; Bernard Leivermann, secretary; Frederick Hammer, treasurer;
these, officers are now in office. Membership forty-two. The object of the
society is benevolence of all kinds, especially aiding widows and orphans of
deceased members, and it is maintained under the auspices of the' Catholic
church. Meetings are held at the Catholic school-house, on the second Monday of
each month.

   The Sons of Herman was instituted November 27, 1879, with twenty-seven
charter members. Peter Iltis, president; Frederick Greiner, Jr., vice-president;
Jerry Ehmann, ex-president; Henry Degen, treasurer; Adolph Schultze, secretary.
The present officers are William Barndt, president; Fred. Iltis, vice-president;
George Weist, treasurer; Theodore Kenning, ex-president; Ernest Biesemann,
secretary. Present membership forty-five; meetings, first and third Saturdays of
each month, at the hall of the National hotel.

   Chaska lodge, No. 55, I. O. O. F., was instituted November 3, 1876, with
nineteen charter members. Gustav Heinemann, N. G.; John Therker, V. G.;
Frederick Greiner, secretary; Philip Henk, treasurer. Present membership
thirty-seven. Peter Iltis, N. G.; Charles Moeschler, V. G.; Frederick Bullemer,
secretary; Peter Weego, treasurer. Meetings are held weekly at their hall over
Otto Streissguth’s store.

   Business. The first store in Chaska was that opened in 1854, by the Fullers,
on the levee, and in charge of their agent, T. D. Smith. Frank Miesseler opened
the first blacksmith shop. Without attempting to follow out the changes in
business, we give a showing of the present business, twenty-seven years later.

   The important business of Chaska now centers in the brick manufacture. Five
yards are in operation employing a large number of men. The extensive clay pits
furnish cream-colored brick of a quality that has given Chaska brick a
first-class reputation in the markets of Minneapolis and St. Paul. It is due to
the memory of T. D. Smith and Charles A. Warner to state that much of the
business prosperity of Chaska was due to their enterprise when in the early days
of competition the weight of one man’s character often decides the prestige of a
town.

   The business interests may be summed up as follows: Four lawyers, one
dentist, one bank, one real estate dealer, five brick yards, manufacturing
9,600,000 brick per year; one newspaper. Two steam flouring mills located on
Chaska creek, from which they receive a portion of their power; three elevators,
six general merchandise stores, two hardware, one drug, two furniture stores,
one meat market, two establishments farm implements, three millinery stores, two
tailors, one jeweler, one baker and manufacturer of confectionery, one
confectionery store, three dress makers, two carriage manufacturers, five
blacksmiths, one cooper, two harness makers, two shoe makers, two barbers, three
brewers; fifteen saloons and ten hotels.

   Specially worthy of notice is the elevator and store of William Seeger & Son.
A home market for grain is here afforded; the elevator has a capacity of 20,000
bushels. F. W. Henning’s store opened in 1875, with a small stock, and is now
doing a fine business.

   Mrs. M. Young continues successfully the store established by her deceased
husband. Several other large and successful stores with general merchandise are
in operation. P. Henk conducts a fine hardware store and operates a large mill.
John G. Eitel’s mill is quite an important institution, devoted mainly to custom
work.

   We cite the following brick establishments as an indication of the importance
of the business: J. W. Gregg and W. B. Grisword, under the firm name of Gregg &
Griswold, conduct business with a capacity in yard and machinery of 40,000 brick
per day. George Weist’s yard has a capacity of 16,000, and Bierline & Riedele
10,000 brick per day.

   Other extensive yards are operated. The total product in 1880 of the five
yards was 9,600,000 brick.

   1880—Valuation real estate, town and village, $105,742; personal, $54,153;
population, 1,255.

   L. L. Baxter, a native of Vermont, was born in Cornwall, June 8, 1832. Was
educated at Castleton and at the Norwich University. Studied law with Horatio
Seymour in Middlebury, and in 1853 came west and practiced law in Geneva,
Wisconsin, until 1857. During that year he removed to Glencoe, McLeod county,
Minnesota, and there in company with a brother established the "Glencoe
Register," the first newspaper edited west of the "big woods." In September,
1861, enlisted from Carver village as captain of Company A, Fourth Minnesota
volunteers; in April, 1862, was promoted major of his regiment. On being
mustered out of service Oct. 10, 1862, he returned home and removed to Shakopee,
as he found his house filled with Indian refugees. In November, 1864, he
reenlisted as major of First battalion and was promoted to lieutenant-colonel in
February and to colonel the following May. Was honorably discharged in October,
1865. He resumed the practice of law in Shakopee, continuing until 1868, then
removed to Chaska where he has since lived, but does business in Minneapolis,
the law firm being Baxter, Grethen & Penny, located at 108 Hennepin avenue.
While living in Carver in 1858, he established the "Carver County Democrat," the
first English paper in the county. Was elected judge of probate in the fall of
1857, and resigned within the year; elected attorney of Scott county in 1863;
elected senator in 1864 and re-elected in 1866. On moving to Carver county in
1868 was elected the same fall to the legislature; was elected to the senate in
1869, holding the office five years by re-election. In 1874- was again elected
to the legislature, and since 1878 has held the office. His marriage with Miss
Emma Ward took place at Geneva, Wisconsin, in September, 1856. She died in 1872,
leaving three children, two of whom, Chauncey L. and George A. are living. His
second wife was Barbara Denhs, married in 1874. May 10, 1881, she died, leaving
one child, Bertha.

   Jacob Beihoffer was born in Germany, October 6, 1817. Came to America in
1842, and for five years lived in Buffalo, New York, then removed to Racine,
Wisconsin. There he followed the trade of carpenter nine years, then in St. Paul
two years. Then made a claim near Chaska, on which he lived until 1865, then
moved into the village. In 1877 he started the Old Settlers’ Hotel, which he
still owns. Married December 1, 1844, to Frances Remerman, a native of Germany,
who has borne him eight children. William, Henry and Jacob are living.

   M. Bierline was born in Ohio in 1851. When only six years old he moved with
his parents to Laketown, Carver county, Minnesota. His father made a claim of
120 acres, on which he lived and attended school until eighteen years of age.
Came to Chaska and began working in the brickyards, remaining until 1876.
Removed to Steams county and started a brickyard, which he sold eight months
later and returned to Chaska. He continued in the brick-making business eleven
months, then engaged in milling in Waconia, erecting a mill at a cost of
$16,000. Ten months later he removed the building to Chaska, and continued
milling two years. He took as a partner A. Riedele in March, 1881, and started a
brickyard. They employ fifteen men, and make from ten thousand to twelve
thousand per day. Miss Bertha Hecklin became his wife in 1874. Ida, Oliver and
Amile are their living children.

   Joseph Belsing, who is a blacksmith, was born in Germany in 1853. When a lad
of ten years he came to America with his parents. After attending school one
year in Carver, Minnesota, he located in Chaska. For two years he followed
farming, then resolved to learn the blacksmith’s trade, which he did. Five years
he devoted to his trade here, then opened a shop in Winsted, which he ran one
year. Returning to Chaska he built his present shop, one of the best in the
town, and is doing a thriving business. His wife was Lena Johnson, married in
October, 1878. In January, 1881, she died, leaving two children. Mary is the one
living.

   James F. Dilley, a native of Ohio, was born in 1841. Until fifteen years old
he attended school, then with his parents came to Webster, Rice county,
Minnesota. He worked at farming with his father until 1861, when he enlisted in
the Fourth Minnesota; he served four years and was honorably discharged at St.
Paul in August, 1865. Removing to Farmington he with his brother rented 160
acres of land, which they tilled two years, then were interested in livery
business two years. While residing in Dakota county Mr. Dilley was twice elected
to the legislature. In 1873 he located in Chaska, and for four or five years
engaged in livery business, then for one year sold machinery. He has since been
keeping a hotel in this place with success. He has been a member of the
legislature two terms. Miss Mary Sheridan became his wife in 1871, and has borne
him five children, all of whom are living.

   Frederick E. Du Toit was born in Harrisville, Lewis county, New York,
September 24, 1845. He acquired a good education. He arrived at Chaska in May,
1856, accompanied by his father’s family. He apprenticed to the printer’s trade
after attending school about three years. September 26, 1861, enlisted in
Company A, Fourth Minnesota, as private; in October, 1864, received the
commission of second lieutenant of Battery C, First Minnesota heavy artillery.
Was mustered out July 4, 1865. Was town clerk from 1867 to ’69; elected county
commissioner in 1869 for three years; in 1871 was made county superintendent of
schools and resigned his office of county commissioner; was representative to
the legislature for the first district of Carver county in 1872, serving two
terms by re-election. He now holds the office of sheriff, to which position he
was elected in 1874.

 In 1880 was appointed enumerator for the census for Chanhassen and Chaska. He
in company with his brother owns and publishes the "Weekly Valley Herald."
Married, May 31, 1879, Miss Josephine Brinkhaus, who died February 1, 1881.

   John G. Eitel, a native of Germany, was born in 1827. He acquired a knowledge
of carriage making aud blacksmithing. In 1849 came to America and worked in a
cotton mill in Pittsburg some time. He afterwards was employed at his trade in
the ship yards, then in St. Louis, Missouri, Peoria, Illinois, and New Orleans.
He then went to California. Here he mined three years and on returning, located
in Chaska in 1855, and preempted 173 acres of land which he still owns. He
farmed several years, then visited the mining regions of Idaho and remained two
years. Since returning to Chaska he has been proprietor of the Valley Flouring
mill, and has had a fine business. In 1857 he married Mary Ulmer. George,
Gothilf, Augustus, David, Fred and Adam.

   Samuel Fowler is a native of Yorkshire, England, born March 18, 1848. When
only two years old he moved with his parents across to Coburg, Ontario. He began
the study of law in 1865 with J. D. Armour of that place. Graduated at Toronto
in 1870, then went to Winnipeg, Manitoba and began the practice of law. In 1871
he returned to his former home in Ontario and the next year settled in Carver,
Minnesota. In February, 1873 was admitted to the practice of law in this state,
soon after located at Henderson, where he was county attorney of Sibley county
two years. In 1878 he became a resident of Chaska and has since pursued the
practice of law. Miss Margaret C. Scollie, of Coburg, Ontario, became his wife
in 1872. Five children have been born to them.

   John W. Gregg, one of the pioneer brick makers of Carver county, was born in
Madison county, New York, in 1827. In 1838 moved to Wisconsin with his parents.
His father, George Gregg, owned a large brick yard, and with him John became
acquainted with the business in all its details. Remained with his father until
1848, then engaged in various pursuits until coming to Minnesota, in 1854.
Located in Shakopee and was employed at brick making for two years, then removed
to Chaska. In 1864 he took as a partner in the business, C. W. Griggs, and three
years later Mr. Gregg removed to Mankato, Blue Earth county. In 1874 returned to
Chaska and started his present brick yard with W. B. Griswold as partner. They
now employ fifty men and make about forty thousand brick per day. In 1853 he
married Miss Egliston, of Wisconsin, who has borne him five children; Carrie,
Caroline, Frank, William and Harry.

   F. Greiner is a native of Wurtemburg, Germany, born April 13, 1829. After
receiving a public school education, he studied architecture. Came to America in
1849 and settled in St. Louis, Missouri, remaining one year. He then came to St.
Paul, Minnesota, and four years later took a claim near Chaska. For two years he
farmed then gave his attention to the mercantile trade at Chaska one year. He
afterwards ran the Chaska House until 1872, after which he served as sheriff of
Carver county two years; was also chairman of first board of county
commissioners. In 1874 was elected register of deeds, and still fills that
office. Married in 1853, at St. Paul, to Miss Katrina Faber, who has borne him
seven children, all living.

   William B. Griswold, dealer in lumber and brick, of the firm of Gregg &
Griswold, was born near Ypsilanti, Michigan, November 9, 1834. When 4 years old
he removed to Quincy, Illinois, his father being principal of the Mission
Institute of Quincy. Under his father’s guidance his education was acquired, and
when 16 years of age he began teaching. The year following he went to California
where he remained until attaining majority, engaged in lumbering and mining.
Returning to Quincy in 1855, he entered the law office of O. H. Browning and
graduated in law in 1860. The same year he came to Minnesota and was admitted to
the bar of the state in the fall of that year. He then began practicing his
profession in Chaska, with J. A. Sargent. During 1863-64 he edited the Valley
Herald, and the next year moved to Mankato and published the Mankato Union ten
years. Was postmaster of Mankato during 1869-70. Returning to Chaska in 1875 he
became one of the firm of Gregg & Griswold, dealers in lumber and brick. Married
November 25, 1862, Mrs. Caroline M. Lathrop nee Gregg. They have one son and one
daughter.

   George Henk was born December 10, 1861, in Chaska, Minnesota; he attended St.
John’s College in Steams county, two years; returned to Chaska and engaged in
the hardware trade in his father’s store three years, thereby becoming
thoroughly acquainted with the business in all its details. Went to Minneapolis
and was employed in the hardware store of Smith & Scribner six months. He has
since had charge of his father’s hardware store, with a general supervision of
the business. They own a fine store, and carry the largest stock of hardware in
the town.

   F. W. Henning, dealer in dry goods and groceries, is a native of Germany,
born May 22, 1836; came to America in 1865; previous to his coming he spent two
years in the German army. Locating in Chaska, he began clerking for the firm of
Charles A. Warner & Co., and continued with them nine years. He then embarked in
the general merchandise trade, and in the spring of 1878 admitted his brother
Charles as a partner. In 1868 he married Miss Christiana Kieckbusch, who has
borne him five children. Four of them are still living.

   Frederick Iltis was born in 1842, in Elses, France. Came with his parents to
America when only ten years of age, and settled in Du Page county, Illinois.
Three years later came to Minnesota, locating in Yorkville, near Chaska. In 1862
Frederick enlisted in Company G, Sixth Minnesota, serving first against the
Indians in the Sioux war; in 1864 went South, was promoted to sergeant of his
company, and finally discharged at Fort Snelling, August 19, 1865. He then
returned to Chaska and for two years was engaged in the hardware trade. For the
past seven years he has held the office of county commissioner of Carver county.
He was united in marriage with Miss Minnie Miller, of Benton, Carver county. Six
of the nine children born to them are living.

   John Kerker, proprietor of Washington House, is a native of Switzerland, born
in 1824. He acquired a collegiate education, preparing in the meantime for a
teacher; graduated in 1846. He then began as a teacher and continued fourteen
years, coming to America in 1859. For three years he was employed as tutor in
the schools of New York. Removing to Minnesota in 1865 he followed his
profession in Shakopee two years, also in Chaska two years. He has also a fine
musical education, and has the reputation of being a thorough teacher in music,
both instrumental and vocal. In 1872 he erected his present hotel, which is one
of the best in town. Mary Rich became his wife in 1847. Dagobert, Thomas,
Xavier, Monika, Anthony, Christina and Rosa are their children.

   Gustave Krayenbuhl is a native of Switzerland, born August 22, 1822. Engaged
as book-keeper, which position he filled in a forwarding and commission store
eleven years. In 1847 came to the United States, and after spending eight or
nine years as a farmer and store-keeper in Lewis county, New York, he came to
Chaska. Here he spent a year or more in the mercantile trade, then became a
member of the Dakota Land Company, and went to the Sioux valley in that
territory; was soon after appointed postmaster 'of Medary, Midway county,
Dakota. He left Medary at the burning of that town by the Yankton Indians,
returning to Chaska in 1858. Mr. Krayenbuhl became treasurer of Carver county in
1855; held the office one year by appoiutment and two years by election. Soon
after retiring from this office, was elected register of deeds; for eighteen
years has been clerk of the court and deputy auditor. In December, 1851, Miss
Constance Gebner, a native of Switzerland, became the wife of Mr. Krayenbuhl. Of
the eleven children born to them, seven are living.

   Henry Krumwiede was born in Chicago, Illinois, in 1856. When a child of six
months he was taken by his parents to Belle Plaine, Minnesota, where they lived
two years. Removed to Jordan, Minnesota, and made that village their home until
Henry reached the age of fourteen years. After passing one year in New Ulm he
returned to his former home and learned the trade of wagon making. In March,
1880, he located at Chaska, and has a good wagon shop. His marriage with Bertha
Rudolph took place in 1878. They have one child.

   B. Leivermann, proprietor of Chaska brewery, was born in Germany in 1842.
Came to America in 1867 after having learned the brewing business -in his native
country. He located in St. Paul and worked at his trade until coming to Chaska
in 1875. Here he owns the Chaska brewery. His wife was Miss Bertha Schwartz,
married in 1873. Their four children are all living.

   E. H. Lewis, M. D., was born in Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, April 17,
1842. He lived in Lancaster City until eight years of age, then moved with his
parents to Washington county, Maryland. At the age of nineteen years he began
the study of medicine with William Ward, of Clear Spring, and graduated from
Georgetown Medical College in March, 1862. He then enlisted in Company E, 135th
Pennsylvania, as hospital steward. At the battle of Chancellorsville, May 3,
1863, was promoted to assistant surgeon, and was transferred to hospital No. 8,
at Nashville, Tennessee, where he served until the close of the war. After
practicing medicine at Nashville one year, he moved to Washington, practicing
there until 1870. Came to Carver, Minnesota, and remained until June, 1880, then
came to Chaska, and has since practiced his profession here. Married in 1864,
Jessie Gibson, of Georgetown, District of Columbia. Two of their four children
are living.

   B. Logelin, a native of France, was born in 1820. At 14 years of age he
learned the tailor’s trade, which he followed until 1852. Coming to America at
that time he engaged in the pursuit of his trade three years in Ohio. He then
removed to Hennepin county, Minnesota, and farmed one hundred and sixty acres
which he pre-empted. On account of his failing health he left his son in charge
of the farm and traveled some time. He subsequently worked at his trade in St.
Paul three years, and in 1876 became a resident of Chaska, still engaged at his
trade. In 1852 he married Miss Hugin, who has borne him five children. Felix and
Mat. are the living ones.

   John Macdonald is about 60 years of age, and a native of Glasgow, Scotland.
Acquired a collegate education, and in 1840 went to Nova Scotia, and was
principal of St. Andrews school for eight years. He located at Pittsburg,
Pennsylvania, in 1849, and engaged in teaching four years, then came to St.
Paul, and soon after made a claim at Belle Plaine, on which he lived four years.
He then attended the medical school at Keokuk, Iowa, graduating in medicine in
1860. Enlisted in 1863 as surgeon of the Second cavalry, serving until honorably
discharged in 1865; during the time was post surgeon at Fts. Ridgley and Ripley.
Subsequently he located in Chippewa county, Wisconsin, removing in 1880 to
Chaska, where he is now practicing his profession. His wife was Miss Maggie
McKinley, whom he married in Scotland.

   Reuben Melvin was born in Burton, Geauga county, Ohio, in 1844. His youth was
spent in his native place, until the fall of 1861 when he enlisted in Company H,
Twelfth Michigan; served one year and was honorably discharged at Cincinnati,
Ohio. In 1863 he came to Chaska, and has since been employed in making brick.
Married January 11, 1864, to Amelia C. Howe. Four of their six children are living.

   Lyman W. Noble was born in Dresden, Washington county, New York, October 3,
1832. While yet a small child he moved with his parents to Northampton,
Massachusetts, and was there educated and learned the mason’s trade, at which he
worked some years. He arrived in Minneapolis, Minnesota, May 22, 1856; after
spending one year at his trade in Princeton, Illinois. His home was in
Minneapolis one and one-half years, then in 1857 he came to Chaska. He built the
first brick house in Carver county for John Lee, on Chaska town site. This town
has since been his home. He was elected constable in 1878 and held the office
two years. Married January 20, 1868, to Sarah A. Ellsworth, who has born him
five children. The living are Harvey H., Burt L. and Ella M.

   William C. Odell was born at Gorham, New York, Oct. 20, 1850. When 5 years
old he accompanied his parents to Muskegon, Michigan, and attended the public
schools of that place and college at Kalamazoo until 1868. He then began the
study of law at Muskegon; went to Balls-ton Spa, New York, in 1869, and
continued his studies there until 1871. Returning to Michigan he was admitted to
the bar at Grand Haven, Ottawa county, and began practicing at Muskegon with J.
Baker. In the fall of 1872 he entered the office of 0.1. Walker, of Detroit,
remaining until the fall of 1875, then came to Faribault, Minnesota. He located
an office in Jordan, hut remained only about two months. In 1877 came to Chaska,
beginning here the practice' of law. Two years subsequently he was elected
county attorney of Carver county, which office he still holds. His marriage with
Miss Lucy Du Toit took place in February, 1878. They are the parents of two
children.

   Rev. W. H. Oerter was born at Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, April 9, 1848. When a
child of 6 years h 3 accompanied his parents to Appanoose county, Iowa,
remaining west until 13 years of age. Returning to his native town he was there
educated, graduating from the Bethlehem Moravian College in 1874. Immediately
after he assumed charge of a church at South Bethlehem, where he labored until
October, 1877. Came to Chaska at that time and took charge of the Moravian
church at that place. Married in 1874 to Miss Anna M. Bishop, of Bethlehem.

   Charles A. Ramsdill, postmaster at Chaska, was born in Jefferson county, New
York, March 31, 1843. When a child moved to McHenry county, Illinois, making his
home there until 1861. Enlisted in that year in company A, Seventh Illinois
infantry; was taken prisoner at the battle of Corinth and held as such two
weeks. In October, 1864, was wounded at the battle of Altoona.' This disabled
him for several months and he was afterwards appointed regimental postmaster,
serving in that capacity until honorably discharged at Springfield, Illinois,
July 9, 1865. Two years later he moved to Wisconsin and worked at the carpenter
trade in Adams and Columbia counties until 1869, then returned to Illinois and
spent one year. Became a resident of Chaska in 1871 and for the first five years
worked at his trade; was then appointed postmaster. In October, 1866, he married
Miss Adelia Stevens, of Adams county, Wisconsin. They have five children, all
living.

   A. Riedele, a native of Germany, was born in 1829. Until attaining majority
his time was spent in the milling business. Coming about that time to America,
he spent one year farming near Philadelphia. In 1855 he came to Minnesota and
took a claim of 200 acres near Chaska and lived on it for fourteen years. He
then purchased » flouring mill which he ran twelve years, selling subsequently
both farm and mill. In 1879 he built a fine, commodious brick house near the
railroad and is keeping hotel. In 1881 he formed a partnership with Mr.
Bierline. They have a good brick yard, employ fifteen men and make about 15,000
brick per day. In 1855 Miss Neabale became his wife. Flora, Philip, Antone and
Clara are their living children.

   Joseph Augustus Sargent was born at Hallowell, Maine, November 28, 1821. The
maternal grandfather of our subject, William Griffin, served in the war of
1812-15. Joseph S. Sargent moved to Portland when his son was fourteen years
old. Here his literary education was finished at North Yarmouth Academy. He read
law with R. A. L-Codman, of Portland, teaching one term about that time. He then
went into the mercantile business, thinking then to abandon the law altogether.
In 1854 Mr. Sargent came to St. Paul, Minnesota, and resumed his law studies,
reading with Hon. C. D. Gillfillan; was admitted to practice in that city in the
spring of 1855. He immediately opened an office in Carver, practiced there until
1860, then moved to Chaska, and has since continued his practice here. Most of
the time he has been kept in some public position, often holding two offices at
the same time. At an early day he was county attorney of Carver county two
terms; was soon after register of deeds an equal length of time; was county
superintendent of schools a short time; justice of the peace ten years and has
been judge of probate for the past seventeen years. He is one of the most
popular men in the county, performing the duties of every office which he holds
or has held with the utmost faithfulness and to the satisfaction of the people.
The judge is usually classed with the democrats, yet often runs on an
independent ticket, sometimes receiving his nominations from the republicans.
There is very little of the partisan in his composition; he finds good men in
all political parties and all political parties find a good man in him. In
religions belief he is an Episcopalian, holding his connection with the church
in Shakopee. Judge Sargent has been twice married, the first time in May 1846,
to Miss Maria Whiting, of Portland, Maine. She had three children by him, and
lost one; she too passed away in October, 1863. His second marriage was with
Miss Elizabeth Thompson, of Troy, New York, in July, 1865, Clara M., Emily A.
and Joseph S., are their children.

   N. Schoenbom, a native of Prussia, was born in 1830. Came to America in 1846
and settled in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin making that place his home for ten years.
Coming to Chaska in 1857 he started a saloon. Enlisted in 1862 in company E,
Fifth Minnesota, and served until honorably discharged on account of disability
at Fort Snelling, in 1865. Returning to Chaska, he resumed his former occupation
and still continues it. He has served as deputy sheriff of Carver county four
years. Mr. Schoenborn has been married three times, the first in 1854 to Amelia
Hurd, a native of New York, who died February 22, 1855. His second wife was Miss
Delia Smith, married in 1857. She died in 1865, leaving three children. His
present wife was Caroline Kronschnabel who has borne him seven children, six of
whom are living.

   Frederick P. Seeger is a native of Moscow, Russia, born in 1846. He left his
native land with his parents, when quite young, and located at Cincinnati, Ohio.
After leaving school he worked in a drug store four years. His parents having
moved to St. Peter, in the meantime, he followed them, and for one and one-half
years engaged in the manufacture of cigars. Enlisted in the Ninth Minnesota
infantry, in 1862, and served three years; discharged at Fort Snelling, in
September! 1865. Returning home he engaged in milling until 1875, then became a
resident of Chaska. He and his father began business together, speculating in
wheat. He now buys the wheat for their commodious elevator. In 1872, Mr. Seeger
married Miss Elizabeth Mace. They have lost one child and have four living.

   William Seeger, Sr., is a native of Hamburg, Germany, born May 12, 1810.
There he remained until twenty-six years of age, then went to Moscow, Russia. He
was interested in the banking and importing business sixteen years, and in 1852,
came to America, and settled in Cincinnatti, Ohio. Until 1857 he was engaged in
the leather trade. He made St. Peter, Minnesota, his home, and for six years
gave his attention to brewing and distilling, then spent five years at LeSueur,
in the grain and mercantile trade. After serving four years as deputy he was
elected to the office of state treasurer serving two years. He was instrumental
in locating and establishing a Russian colony in Cottonwood county, Minnesota,
acting entirely upon his own responsibility. He was thus employed about four
years. In 1856, in company with Colonel William Pfaender, he located a German
colony in what is now New Ulm. Enlisted in 1862 and served six months in company
D, Ninth Minnesota; was honorably discharged on account of disability. His three
sons and two sons-in-law also served in the army. In 1838, Mr. Seeger was
married to Christiana Wolf, of Hamburg, who has borne him five sons and four
daughters. All are living and all married. In 1876 he located in Chaska, and has
since given his attention to grain and mercantile trade.

   Leonard Streukens, born September 14, 1842, is a native of Holland. He
attended the public schools, also the college, of his native place. Caine to
America with his parents and located at Benton, Carver county, Minnesota, where
Leonard taught a German school. Subsequently he went to St. Paul in order to
better acquaint himself with the English language; after that he taught several
years. In 1868 was appointed postmaster at Benton, retaining that position until
1873 when he was elected auditor of Carver county. This office he still holds.
January 13, 1868, Miss Geneva Ebborall, a native of Pennsylvania, became his
wife. They have four living children.

   Prof. Edwin A. Taylor was born in Tioga county, New York, June 5, 1850. He
lived in Potter county, Pennsylvania, two years, having moved there with his
parents; the family then moved to Fond du Lac county, Wisconsin, where Edwin
attended the public schools. After a nine years’ residence moved to Eyota,
Minnesota, where until 1870 his time was divided between attending school and
farming. He afterward taught one and one-half years in Olmsted county, then came
to Chaska having charge of the public schools for some time. In December, 1874,
he graduated from the Normal school at Winona, then taught in the grammar school
at Anoka for six months. He then completed his course at the Curtiss Business
College, of Minneapolis, assisting during the time in the preparatory and common
school courses. Then came to Chaska. He has since had charge of the public schools.

   F. H. Thomas was born in Madison county, New York, November 13, 1844. When 5
years of age he went to Hartford, Connecticut, remaining eighteen years
attending the public schools, also Wilbraham, Massachusetts, afterward at
Trinity College of Hartford, graduating in 1865. In 1861 enlisted in Company B,
Sixteenth Connecticut, and served until honorably discharged at Washington, in
1863; was wounded at the battle of Antietam. In 1866 he went to Philadelphia,
where until 1870 he was employed as a book-keeper. He then came to Chaska and
has since been engaged in teaching. At Minneapolis in 1870 he married Miss Sarah
French, of New York. Three children have been born to them.

   Frank Waldo was born in Chicago in 1856. He attended school until 16 years of
age, then learned the barber’s trade with his father, P. Waldo, continuing with
him three years. After his father’s death, in 1875, he sold the business and
began working for others. Three years later he came to St. Paul, Minnesota,
followed his trade one year, and removed to Chaska. Here he rents a building on
Second street. His marriage with Miss Florence Disbrow, of Illinois occurred in
1876. One son, Howard.

   August Weher, a native of Germany, was born in 1847. Came to America in 1862,
settling in New York city. Enlisted the same year in Company D, One Hundred and
Nineteenth New York and served three years. Enlisted in the regular army in
Company D, Twenty-sixth regulars, and honorably discharged on the Bio Grande in
1868; reenlisted in 1869 in Company K, Nineteenth regulars, and was honorably
discharged at Ft. Wallace in 1874. The next year he joined Company B, Seventh
regulars, and was honorably discharged in 1880; came at that time to Minnehaha.
He married March 28, 1880, Miss Louisa Henry. During the summer following they
became residents of Chaska.

   Peter Weego, the present treasurer of Carver county, was born in Sweden,
October 1, 1831; he came to America in 1853 and settled in St. Peter. One year
he followed farming, and was then elected to the office of treasurer of Nicollet
county. In 1859 came to Carver and was employed as a clerk until his enlistment
in 1861 in Company A, Fourth Minnesota; he served until honorably discharged on
account of disability in 1862. He returned to Carver and in 1864 was elected
auditor of Carver county, which office he held eight years. Until 1875 he
continued clerking, and was then elected treasurer of Carver county, and still
holds the position. Mr. Weego has been twice married; the first time was in 1861
to Miss Anna Erickson, who died in 1868, leaving two children. Miss Bertie
Erickson became his second wife in 1869, and has borne him four children.

   George Wiest was born in 1848, and is a native of Pennsylvania. While yet a
babe he accompanied his parents to Cincinnati, Ohio, where they remained three
years, then came to Chaska. His father, Michael Wiest, died here in 1866. In
1872 George began brickmaking, which trade he has since followed. Miss Mary
Burghler became his wife in 1873. Four of their five children are living.

   Henry Young, deceased, was born in Saxony, Germany, March 24, 1829. When
about thirteen years of age his father died. He was about to be compelled to
learn the shoe trade; it being distasteful to him he ran away from home and
learned cooking. In 1847 he came to America and made New York his home four or
five years, pursuing in the meantime his trade. Coming to St. Paul he followed
steamboating on the Minnesota river two years. He then engaged in the grocery
business at Chaska, which he continued until his death, which occurred April 24,
1874, by drowning. In 1860 he was united in marriage with Miss Madeline Iltis.
Five of their children have passed away. The widow and five children still survive.

   M. Zeney was born in New York city, August 26, 1853. Came to Minnesota with
his parents when two years old. After acquiring an education he learned the
printer’s trade at Mankato. After following his trade for some time he was
employed by Gregg & Bro. in their brick-yard as a day laborer. He remained with
him three years, and soon after began working for the Mankato Brick Company, and
was in the employ of the company eight years. In March, 1881, he became a
resident of Chaska and entered the employ of Gregg & Griswold as foreman of
their extensive brick-yard, where he still remains. In April, 1880, he was
united in marriage with Mrs. Mary Plant; she had one son, George. One son,
Frankie, has been born to them.

CARVER.

   Carver is located in the eastern part of the county on the Minnesota river,
and since 1877 has ceased to be a town and is wholly included under the village
corporation.

   Its history as a settlement begins with Axel Jorgenson, who in 1851 or ’52
settled on the land now occupied by the town site, under the code of squatter
sovereignty. After a few years he sold out such title as he had and removed to
Wright county where he still lives. John Goodenough, who came in 1852, was the
next settler. Eben Ladlee, who came from Pennsylvania in 1854 and located in the
south-western part of section 24, where he now resides, is the oldest settler
now in Carver. His wife was the first white woman in the town. In October, 1854,
Levi H. Griffin came with his wife. He was from Maine, was married in Boston and
previous to his settlement here had visited California and enjoyed extensive
opportunities for adventure. In February, 1854, previous to his removal from St.
Paul to Carver, he had visited this point and in company with Alexander Ramsey,
C. D.  Gillfillan, Joseph E. Fullerton, J. W. Hartwell, James K. Humphrey and
Mathew Groff, purchased the town site from Axel Jorgensen. Other early settlers
were Anton Knoblauch, A. G. Anderson, F. Strache and Peter A. Johnson, all of
whom came in 1855. Herman Muehlburg and Christian Brustle came in 1856; Enoch
Holmes, C. A. Blomquist, Charles D. Dauwalter, and B. Hertz, in 1857. From this
date settlement went on rapidly. When the towns of the county were first formed,
in 1858, Carver was organized, a long, narrow town, extending with ah irregular
boundary west across and including a large portion of what is now Dahlgren. One
year later its territory was enlarged by the addition of four sections taken
from Chaska. April 21, 1868, that part of Chaska and Carver included in township
115, was organized into a new town first called Liberty, afterwards Dahlgren.

   The name Carver was given to the town by suggestion of Governor Ramsey, in
honor of the distinguished explorer whose history is found in this volume.

   The first town meeting was held at the Carver House May 11; William A.
Griffin, moderator; William B. Baxter, clerk and the following officers elected:
J. S. Letford, chairman; Ole Paulson, and Charles Luedloff, supervisors; George
A. Bucklin, town clerk; Charles Sorenson, assessor; Charles Johnson, collector;
Elec. Nelson, overseer of poor; Charles Basler and S. Oleson, constables;
Charles Johnson and Charles Sorenson, justices of the peace.

   The village of Carver was first surveyed in February, 1857 by J. S. Halsted
on land owned by the town site company previously enumerated. The original site
embraced about 415 acres. The plat was filed for record June 5, 1857. February
17, 1877, the village was incorporated and the residue of the town of Carver was
by the act of incorporation included within the village and the ex-officio town
officers made its first officers. The town of Carver was thus extinguished.

   Eliza O. Griffin, now Mrs. Leslie McBride, was the first white child born in
Carver. She was born May 29, 1555, and was the daughter of Levi H. Griffin. The
first death was that of a man whose name is unknown, knocked from the steamboat
by a projecting limb; funeral service was read by Levi H. Griffin. The first
marriage was that of John Bloedel to Barbara Bastian, September 12, 1857.

   The first school in Carver was held in the winter of 1855-6, in an old claim
shanty, with about twenty-five pupils; George Bennett, teacher. The schools of
Carver with their present attendance of 240 pupils present a strong contrast to
this feeble beginning. The public school building, built in 1878, is the best in
the county, and is furnished with patent desks, maps, charts, globes and
requisite school furniture. The building, 34x70, cost $5,000, including
furniture. A Catholic school with forty pupils is also maintained, taught by
Sisters Gertrude and Antonia in a two-story brick building. A German school is
held in the German Lutheran church, taught by Rev. H. Raedeke, pastor. A Swedish
school has been lately opened in the Swedish church.

   The German Lutheran church was organized in 1856 by Bev. Mr. Springier, from
Young America. It had no regular pastor until 1869, when Bev. Victor Both took
the charge, at that time consisting of thirty members. The church, costing
$1,200, 24x40 feet, built in 1869, is a wooden structure. Present membership 45;
H. Baedeke, pastor.

   The Swedish Methodist church was organized in 1875 by C. J. Nelson with three
or four members. They purchased for $650 their church from the German
Evangelical Association. It is 28x40 feet, and its present value is about
$1,000. Present membership, fifteen; Axel Gabrielson, pastor.

   The land for the cemetery of Carver was purchased from Frederick Greiner, and
was surveyed in November, 1863, by J. O. Brunius. The land for the Catholic
cemetery was donated by John Riesgraf.

   The German Reading Society of Carver was instituted February 24, 1866, with
ten charter members. The first officers were, H. Muehlberg, president; Jacob
Honer, vice-president; Charles Gebbard, secretary; S. Kult, treasurer, The
society has in its possession a German library, the value of which is about
$1,000. At one time the society numbered forty-eight members, but has decreased
to thirty-eight at the present time. The object of the society is to impart
knowledge and to promote morality.

   Carver Lodge, No. 111, A. F. and A. M. Dispensation for a lodge at Carver was
issued in January, 1874. The first meeting U. D. was held February 7, 1874;
officers named in dispensation: W. H. Mills, W. M.; H. E. Denny, S. W.; A. P.
Peterson, J. W. The charter was granted in 1875 and the lodge was constituted,
consecrated and officers installed February 25, by the R. W., F. L. Smith. W. H.
Mills, W. M., H. B. Denny, S. W., A. P. Peterson, J. W.; G. Krayenbuhl,
treasurer; H. W. Busse, secretary; F. C. Mosbaugh, S. D.; W. Rhoy, J. D.; John
O’Brien, S. S.; C. D. Dauwalter, J. S.; George Houghton, tyler; charter members,
sixteen. The lodge owns a fine building, well finished and very convenient, and
may be said to be in a prosperous condition. The present membership is thirty-five.

   There are three physicians, one lawyer, one real estate and loan office, one
flour mill, one elevator, six general stores, one carding and feed mill, two
drug stores, two brick yards, two hardware stores, two lumber yards with other
business, two farm machinery, dealers, one grocery, one brewery, two
watch-makers, two carriage makers, one meat market, one photographer, two
harness makers, one tailor, one veterinary surgeon, two boot and shoe makers,
one milliner, one bakery, five saloons and two hotels.

   Prominent among the business interests are the general merchandise stores of
John Bloedel, Anderson and Skoog, C. A. Goetze, Peter A. Johnson, Brustle &
Bengston; Anton Knoblauch deals in farm machinery and does a small banking
business. G. F. Sunwall conducts a business in grain in the elevator belonging
to Anton Knoblauch, which has a capacity of 35,000 bushels.

   The brick yards are operated, one by J. M. Nye & Co., which made last year
1,250,000 brick; the other by Ahline & Co.

   Newspaper. The "Carver Free Press" was established in 1875 by W. B. Colton.
In 1878, it changed bands and was enlarged in size. 1880 it was further enlarged
to its present generous dimensions and in January, 1881, was purchased by the
present owner, H. Muchberg.

   A. G. Anderson, a native of Sweden, was born on July 14, 1840. Came to
America in 1855, and located in Carver, where he began attending school. In 1857
commenced clerking for G. A. Bucklin, remaining with him until going south to
Louisiana in 1860. Returning in 1861 he enlisted the next year in Company H,
Ninth Minnesota; was taken prisoner at Guntown, Mississippi, June 11, 1864, and
remained in Andersonville prison until November 18, 1864; was honorably
discharged at Fort Snelling in August, 1865. On returning he began clerking for
E. Holms, and in 1872 began business with John Sundine; three years subsequently
E. Holms was admitted as a partner. Mr. Sundine retired in 1878, and in 1880 Mr.
Anderson disposed of his interest to his partner. In December of that year,
however, be again started in business alone. Married in 1862 to Emma DeMers, of
Carver. They have three children.

   John Bloedel, one of the early settlers of Carver, is a native of Germany,
born in 1834. Came to America in 1854, locating in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, which
was his home only two years. Having learned the blacksmith trade in his native
country, on coming to Carver in August, 1856, he opened a blacksmith shop which
he kept in operation nineteen years. In 1875 started a restaurant and saloon,
which he continued until 1879, then engaged in the mercantile trade. Miss
Barbara Bastion became his wife at Carver in 1857, the ceremony being performed
by Dr. Griffin. Mr. and Mrs. Bloedel were the first couple married in Carver. Of
the six children born to them four are living.

   C.  A. Blomquist was born in Sweden, April 4, 1833. On coming to America be
first located in Chicago, and in April, 1854, came to St. Paul. He remained
until 1857 working at the carpenter’s trade most of the time. In 1857 came to
Carver, and soon after began steamboating which be followed until 1868, then
bought the Planter's House, in which he still remains. Married in 1857 to
Henrietta Swanson, who has borne him nine children, six of whom are living.

   Christian Brustle, a native of Germany, was born August 8,1845. Came to
America in 1856 with some relatives who settled in Carver county on a farm. He
remained with them until 1862, then enlisted in Company E, Sixth Minnesota; was
honorably discharged at Ft. Snelling in 1865. Returning to Carver he began
clerking, followed it eight years then engaged in business with M. J. Gunter.
About six months later he began business with Mr. Bankson, his present partner.
Anna E. Shoenmakers, of McLeod county, became his wife in 1867. Of the six
children born to them three are living.

   Charles D. Dauwalter is a German, born in 1833, came to America in 1850 and
learned the trade of blacksmith at Sandusky, Erie county, Ohio, where he lived
five years. Settled in Carver in 1857 and began working at his trade as a
journeyman for John Bloedel. After remaining with him three years he in 1860
returned to Ohio. In 1861 he married Miss Elizabeth Lill and returned to Carver.
This has since been his home. They have three children living and have lost two.

   William A. Griffin, M. D., was born at Lee, New Hampshire, November 25, 1824.
At the age of thirteen he was bound out for four years to work for his board and
clothes. When seventeen years old he lost his father, and soon after began
working for himself. He first worked on a farm seven months for sixty dollars,
next on a farm seven months at ten dollars per month. In searching for work he
was often compelled to walk long distances from town to town. He finally
succeeded in getting a position in a tannery at twelve dollars per month, at
Danvers, Massachusetts. His aim in life was to become a physician, and he
determined to begin the study of medicine as soon as he could command five
hundred dollars. Before this coveted sum was gained he was compelled to abandon
his trade, which he did, and returned to his native town. He began attending the
Durham Academy, and afterward taught until the fall of 1849, when he began the
study of medicine at Roxbury, Massachusetts, with Dr. Nute; soon after studied
with Dr. Ira Allen, who had charge of the hospital in the city almshouse at
Roxbury. He remained with him three and one-half years, the last two years being
assistant surgeon of that hospital. Finally, November 8, 1853, he graduated at
Dartmouth College, receiving a diploma. Subsequently he received one from the
Massachusetts State Medical Society, and one from the Minnesota State Medical
Society. Dr. Griffin was made a master mason at St. Paul Lodge, at Boston, in
1853. In January, 1854, he was appointed by Governor Clifford surgeon of the
state almshouse at Munson, in which office he remained two years. After spending
the summer of 1856 in Warrenton, Missouri, he came to Minnesota, and has since
made his home principally in Carver. During the war he was examining physician
of Carver county. He was also first justice of the peace of Carver, and has
since been president of the village and town treasurer. Dr. Griffin has been
twice married, the first time in 1855, to Mary A. Spencer, of West Springfield,
Massachusetts, who died at Minneapolis in July, 1874, leaving three children:
John, Josephine E. and William A., Jr. Miss Anna E. Worthley, of Brookline,
Massachusetts, became his second wife.

   Levi H. Griffin was born October 22, 1822, at Vassalborough, Kennebec county,
Maine, and received a common school education. Learned the trade of blacksmith
at Augusta, and on moving to Boston followed it there until 1849. He then made a
trip to California via Cape Horn on the "Leonore." Returned in the fall of 1850,
but made a second trip in the spring of 1851, returning the following fall.
After spending one year in the mercantile trade in Boston he started for
Minnesota, arriving at St. Paul in April, 1853; returning to Boston he brought
back his family in June of that year, and established himself in the blacksmith
trade. In February, 1854, in company with J. E. Fullerton, of St. Paul, Mr.
Griffin visited Carver and purchased the town site of Axel Jorgensen, the first
settler. October 25 of that year he moved his family to the new place and opened
a store. He also kept a hotel, which, as well as his store, was well known by
all the early settlers in this and adjoining counties. Mr. Griffin was appointed
the first sheriff and assessor by Governor Gorman, and has held many important
offices of the county, and minor offices in the town. At Boston, in 1847, he
married Miss Eliza J. Torrey, who is still living; she has borne him nine
children, seven of whom are now living.

   C. A. Goetze, merchant, was born April 27, 1843, in Germany. He lived in his
native country until 1858, receiving there the advantages of a common school
education. He first visited Minnesota in June, 1858, and for one year worked on
his father’s farm, in what is now Dahlgren township. The subsequent two and
one-half years he was an apprentice to the boot and shoe trade, then worked at
his trade six months. In 1863 he opened a shop for himself, and the next year
added a stock of sale boots and shoes. Having since increased his stores, he now
carries a large stock of general merchandise. Mr. Goetze was married in Carver
county, September 27, 1863, to Miss Maria C. Hartung. Emma, George C. E.,
William, M. E., Alma, and Otto, J. C., are their living children; four have died.

   E. C. Hartley, M. D., was born at Rockford, Illinois, August 24, 1855. At the
age of nine years he was run over by a train, thereby losing his left leg. In
1875 he began studying medicine at the Bennett Medical College, of Chicago,
graduating therefrom with the class of ’77. He then took a course at the Rush
Medical College, finally graduating in 1879, from the Chicago Medical College.
In July, of the same year, he became a resident of Carver, and has since
practiced his profession here.

   Berthold Hertz, a native of Baden, Germany, was born in 1830. In his native
country he learned the shoemakers' trade, and came to America at the age of
twenty-one. He remained in Buffalo,New York, one summer, then went to Cleveland,
Ohio, making that his home one year. After working four years in the Lake
Superior copper mines, he located on a farm in Carver county. In 1866 he
purchased the brewery in Carver. At Cleveland, Ohio, in 1851, he was united in
marriage with Anna Kronschnabel, who has borne him six children, of whom five
are living.

   Enoch Holmes, born September 13, 1828, is a native of Pittsburg,
Pennsylvania. While quite young, accompanied his parents to Armstrong county,
and soon after began clerking in a store at Rural Valley, remaining about six
years. The subsequent eight years he clerked at Red Bank Furnace, then returned
to his native city, and in 1857 came to Carver. He gave his attention at that
time to merchandising, and has since been closely identified with the business
interests of the town, although for the past few years he has been interested in
milling at Minneapolis. In October, 1878, he moved to Minneapolis for the
purpose of giving his children better educational advantages. Married in 1863 to
Jeanette Kennedy, of this county. They have two children living and one deceased.

   H. H. Holms was born November 25, 1847, in Norway. He came to America and to
Carver in 1869; remained only a few months, then went to Minneapolis. In that
city he made his home until August, 1876, then visited the exposition at
Philadelphia, proceeding thence to visit the home of his childhood. He remained
in Norway until the spring of 1877, and at that time returned to this country.
He located again in Carver in 1878, and on arriving purchased a stock of genera]
merchandise and started a store. He has since given his attention to his trade,
carrying at present a stock of $2,000.

   P. A. Johnson, merchant, was born December 11, 1841, in Sweden. He came to
St. Paul, Minnesota, September 23, 1852. In July, 1855 they removed to Carver
county and have since resided here. Peter stayed with his parents until his
enlistment, February 11, 1865 in company H, first Minnesota heavy artillery; was
discharged at Fort Snelling in September of that year. Returning to the old
homestead he remained until 1877 then moved to Carver village. In December,
1880, he purchased a stock of general merchandise of John Sundine. Miss Mary
Johnson became his wife December 11, 1862. Of the eight Children born to them
three are living: George E., Lizzie A. and Josephine A.

   Peter Johnson, farmer, is a native of Sweden, born November 29, 1828. He was
engaged in farming in his native land until coming across to America in 1861.
The same year he came to Carver county but remained only one winter. Removed to
Washington county and remained there seven years, then settled on a farm of 120
acres in Carver on section 30. He has since given his attention to agriculture
and has been quite successful; has added to his original farm seventy acres. Was
married in 1854 to Miss Mary Ole. Hannah, Anna, John and Alfred are their living
children.

   Anton Knoblauch, for many years a resident of Carver, is a native of
Wurtemburg, Germany, born August 24, 1835. When 18 years of age he came to
America and for two years lived in Ohio. Came to Minnesota and settled at
Carver; has since made this his abiding place. For eight years he was. employed
as a clerk for E. Walton, then embarked in trade for himself, continuing for
twelve years. He has since been interested in machinery and banking business.
Married in 1864 to Miss Anna Johnson, of Carver, who has borne him four
children; three of them are living.

    Luis Larsen, proprietor Minneapolis Hotel, born July 13, 1843, is a native
of Sweden. His youth was spent on a farm and in 1867 he came to America, and to
Carver. For nine summers he worked wood barges on the Minnesota river and during
the winter season was employed in the woods. In 1867 commenced working in a
hotel in Carver, and in 1877 rented the Washington Hotel for three years. At the
expiration of the term he erected his present house, the Minneapolis Hotel.
February 6, 1877, Miss Christiana Holquist became his wife. Frank O. and John E.
are their children.

    Hermann Muehlherg, proprietor and editor of The Carver Free Press, was born
in 1833 in Gross Floethe, Hanover,Germany. Immigrated to the United States with
his parents in 1846. After learning the printers’ trade in St. Louis Missouri,
worked at his trade six years in Dubuque, Iowa. Came to Carver, June, 1856, and
clerked in a store until 1860, then moved to his farm near Waconia. Served as
county surveyor, county commissioner and in several town offices. In February,
1862, enlisted in company E, Fifth regiment; was soon after promoted to
sergeant. In August, 1863, was promoted captain of company D, serving as such
till the close of the war. He then removed to Wisconsin and there owned and
edited the Pioneer and Wisconsin at Sauk City. He again located at Carver,
January 1, 1881, and took possession of the Free Press. His marriage with Miss
Clara Freese occurred at Dubuque, Iowa, in 1854. Albert, Clara, Hermann,
Doratha, Elise, and Hermine are their children.

    A. P. Peterson, of the firm of Holmes, Peterson & Co., was born in April,
1843, and is a native of Sweden. In 1858 he came to America, proceeding to
Carver, Minnesota. Began learning the trade of tinsmith in 1860, at which he
worked three years. He then spent two years in Minneapolis, and in 1866 returned
to Carver, and worked at his trade four years longer. Engaged in the hardware
and farm machine trade in 1870, in company with Mr. Hebeisen. This firm
transacted business until 1880, when Mr. Peterson purchased the interest of Mr.
Anderson, in the firm of Holmes and Anderson. At Minneapolis, in 1866, Miss Anna
K. Swanson became the wife of Mr. Peterson. They have two daughters: Hattie A.
and Ellen F.

    F. Strache, proprietor of Temperance Hotel, was born May 4, 1818, in
Prussia. Came to America in 1850, locating first in Wisconsin. He soon after
moved to Indiana, and there worked on a railroad until coming to Minnesota in
1855. Since that time he has been a resident of Carver county; he first located
on a claim of one hundred and sixty acres, on which he lived until 1862.
Removing to Carver he opened the Carver House, of which he was manager until
1876. He then built the Temperance House, the only strictly temperance house in
the town. Married in Indiana, in 1853. Mary, William and Bertie are their living
children.

   Gust. Sunwall, wheat buyer, was born in 1852, in Sweden. Came to America in
1869, locating in Carver. Here he remained until 1872, engaged in clerking for
John Dunn. He then moved to Walnut Grove and built the first house in the place;
remained there in trade until 1874. Then went to St. Paul. For two years he was
in the employ of R. Bardon, as wheat buyer, and in 1876 moved to Blakely. He was
interested in the wheat trade at this place also until 1879, when he again
located in Carver. His time is devoted to buying wheat; he has charge of all the
elevators at this point. Married in 1878 to Anna E. Kelly, of Blakely. One son
and one daughter gladden their home.

   Frank Warner, attorney at law, born at Jefferson, Ashtabula county, Ohio, May
27, 1831. He received a common school education which was supplemented by an
attendance at the Jefferson Academy and Grand River Institute. Was admitted to
the bar at Warren, Trumbull county, Ohio, in 1854. The next year he came to St.
Paul, Minnesota, but soon after moved to Shakopee and began the practice of law.
He remained at Shakopee four years, and during the time was a member of the
state constitutional convention from Scott county. In 1859 he located at Carver
and has since practiced his profession at this point. In 1862 was elected county
attorney, which office he held six years; elected judge of probate in 1877,
serving as such one term. Married June 18, 1859, to Miss Jane Mitchell. They
have four children living and have lost one.


Additional Comments:
Extracted from 

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


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