Le Sueur County MN Archives History - Books .....Cordova, Elysian, Waterville 1882
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Book Title: History Of The Minnesota Valley

                     CHAPTER LXV.

CORDOVA- ELYSIAN-WATERVELLE-KILKENNY-MONTGOMERY—LANESBURGH.

  Cordova, one of the centre townships of the county, was first taken possession
of by settlers in the fall of 1856, A. Hess, H. Nelson, Henry Richardson and S.
Wheeler taking claims of 160 acres each. In the spring of 1857 they were
followed by a large number of families. Mr. Richardson had brought with him a
large load of general merchandise which he began business with after building a
log store, early in 1857, continuing for three years. A second store was started
the same season by C. Clark, but was short-lived.

   Shortly after his arrival S. Wheeler started a saw-mill, as they were obliged
to go to St. Paul and pay as high as $80 per thousand feet for lumber. With some
of the first products from his mill he built the first frame building, which was
for years used as a hotel.

   During the first year of their sojourn they were called upon to mourn the
loss of one of their number, Harvey Nelson, who died of consumption. The next
event of interest was the marriage of William McConkey to Miss Mary Hess, in the
summer of 1857. Early the following year a son, Andrew, was born to this couple,
the first birth.

   In the fall of 1858 a school was opened in the log building erected by H.
Richardson for store purposes, by Miss Kate Hess, there being seven scholars.
Three years later a more commodious school-house was built. There are now four
district schools in the township.

   Mission services were held in the school-house from 1859 to 1879, when two
societies were organized. The Disciples of Christ and United Brethren; neither
society built until 1881. The United Brethren had the first local pastor, Uriah
Cook.

   A post-office was established in 1857, Duran Densmore receiving the
appointment, and holding the office a number of years.

   Cordova is also an anti-liquor town, and has a flourishing temperance
organization, the Sons of Temperance, organized in 1877 with twenty-five members.

   Cordova village was incorporated in 1878, but has never acted as a separate
corporation from the township.

   The business now consists of three general stores, one hardware, two
blacksmiths, one wagon-shop, two hotels, two saw-mills; there is also one
school, one cemetery, two churches; present postmaster, W. V. Courtright.

   Niles Cottingham was born September 14, 1842, in Indiana, and lived there
until eighteen years of age. Went to Iowa in 1860 and one year later settled in
St. Peter, Minnesota, which was his borne four years. In 1862 he enlisted in
Company B, First Minnesota mounted rangers; served against the Indians fifteen
months. He learned coopering in Cleveland township and one year later removed to
Lexington; after a residence of eight years there, located in Cordova, where he
now resides. On the 29th of July, 1866, Miss Melissa Moler became his wife. Guy,
Ada, Lncy, Mildred and Mary are their living children. Edith died in 1868 at the
age of nine months.

   John Hankins was born in Coshocton county, Ohio, in 1826. In 1856 he located
in Kankakee county, Illinois, but in 1860 moved to Minnesota, and has since been
a resident of Le Sueur county. He was the first man from Waterville to volunteer
his services against the Indians at the Sioux outbreak in 1862; he participated
in the movement against them from Fort Ridgely to Swan lake. March 15, 1864, he
enlisted in the Third Minnesota light artillery, and after a service of thirteen
months was discharged, having been crippled in the right hand. Since returning
to Waterville he has held numerous town offices. Married in 1848 Mary J. McBane,
who has born him five children: Nathan S., Jesse and Jennie are living.

   Orange K. Hogle was born in 1819, in Ohio, where he remained until
twenty-seven years of age, then spent two years in Illinois. He removed to
Indiana, and in 1856 came to Minnesota; after a residence of eight years in Rice
county he located in Cordova, Le Sueur county. Here he has served as postmaster
seventeen years, also kept hotel; in April, 1881, he resigned his position as
postmaster. In addition to village property he owns a farm on section 14. He was
married in 1844 to Miss Mary Hankins, who has borne him one son and two
daughters; only one is living.

   Patrick Hunt is a native of Ireland, born in 1828. Until twenty years of age
he lived in his native country, then in 1848 came to America. For five years his
home was in Massachusetts; he then located in Wisconsin, remaining fourteen
years. Since that time he has lived in Minnesota, and is now located on section
16 of this town. His marriage with Miss May Hughes took place in 1858. Of the
five children born to them two are living.

   O. A. Jackson was born in Indiana in 1825 and there lived until 1860. When
about six years old be began learning the coopers' trade. During the fall of
1860 he settled in St. Peter, Minnesota, which place was his residence three
years. During the Indian troubles in 1862 he joined the volunteer company called
the "St. Peter Guards" and with them was stationed at New Ulm. From St. Peter
Mr. Jackson moved to Cleveland and three years later bought a farm of
forty-seven acres in Cordova township, on which he has since lived. Married in
1848 Miss Nancy Sheldon, who was born in 1833. Of the thirteen children born to
them only five are living.

   Adam Lucus was born April 12, 1823, in Ohio. When eight years old he moved to
Indiana, where he received his education and learned the trade of millwright. He
made a trip to California in 1850 and for two years engaged in mining. June 14,
1853 he married Mary Parker, a native of Ohio. They removed to Illinois, bought
a farm and remained until 1864, when they came to Cordova. Here Mr. Lucus owns a
saw and shingle-mill, also a grist-mill. He has served as justice of the peace
and supervisor. Eight children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Lucus; six are
living: Harriet, Hortense, Leona, Nancy, Charles, and George.

   Rose A. McCoy, eldest living daughter of Patrick and Bridget McCoy, was born
in Le Sueur Centre, Minnesota, May 13, 1861. Her father was one of the first
settlers of the county; located here in 1856 with a comfortable fortune which he
had acquired in California. This was his home until his death, which occurred in
August, 1865. He was the parent of four children, three of whom are living. Miss
McCoy began her education at the age of twelve years, and on returning home at
the age of seventeen, began her career as teacher in the district schools of the
county. Her home is on section 4, Cordova township.

   John G. Parker, born in 1826, is a native of Ohio. At the age of six years he
went to Indiana, and after a residence of twenty years in that state, moved to
Illinois. Enlisted in 1861 in the First independent battery of Indiana artillery
and was discharged eighteen months later. Came to Minnesota in the fall of 1862,
and in 1864 reenlisted in the Third Minnesota heavy artillery; was discharged
with the rank of second lieutenant of Company L. At the surrender of Harper's
Ferry, in 1862 he was severely wounded; participated also in three battles with
the Indians in 1864. Married Miss Cassandra Hankins in 1855. They have had two
children; one is living.

   James F. Richardson was born in Rochester, New York, on the 5th of December,
1858, and is one of a family of seven children, six of whom are boys. When two
years of age he came with his parents to Cordova and has since resided here;
received a common school education. He owns a farm adjoining the village of
Cordova. His mother was a native of Limerick county, Ireland; his father of
Tolland county, Connecticut. Their children are, Stephen, James E., Mary E.,
John O., Adam and Arthur.

   Jonathan H. Robbins was born in 1835 in Indiana. In August, 1862, he enlisted
in the 87th Indiana, Company F, and was discharged after a service of more than
two years on account of disability, caused by wounds received in battle.
September 20, 1862 he was wounded in the battle of Chickamauga, and escaped
death almost miraculously; was struck by shots six times. He was taken to the
hospital where he lay confined in bed forty-four days. On being lifted from the
field of battle, his knapsack was found to have been pierced by bullets in many
places, as was also the coffee can which hung on his cartridge belt at his side.
Three times the next soldier at his right fell dead, also one at his left. In
1869 he came to Minnesota and settled on section 14, Cordova. His wife was Miss
Ann Smith, married in 1860. Four of the five children born to them are living.

   Mrs. Mary Sierbert, whose maiden name was Mary Smith, was born in Germany, in
1842. She came to America in 1868; received her education in her native
language. Since coming to Cordova her home has been on section 31. Her late
husband, Henry Sierbert, who was also a native of Germany, died in 1879. Four
children were born to them.

   William T. Unger was born on the 18th of February, 1827, in Franklin county,
Pennsylvania. When eight years old he moved to Richland county, Ohio, where he
learned the trade of a blacksmith, serving an apprenticeship of seven years,
after which he received a diploma. After spending several months in Indiana, and
in Ohio, he located in Indiana, remaining nine years; in 1852 went to Wisconsin
and the next year came to Minnesota; lived in Rochester thirteen, years. He is
now located in Cordova in the pursuit of his trade. Married Rachael Watson in
1842, who has born him twelve children: Nancy, Mary, Catherine, Rose A., Susan,
and John are the living.

ELYSIAN.

   The township of Elysian, organized in 1858, is one of the centre of the most
southern tier of townships in the county and differs somewhat in the nature of
its natural surface, being more hilly and the soil more sandy than most of the
county. There are two large, clear lakes within its borders, German and Lake
Francis, besides numerous smaller lakes. Among the earliest settlers in Elysian
were M. Logan, Geo. Johnson, Edward Morshing and Godfrey Dean, all of whom took
the most available claims of 160 acres in the spring of 1855 and proceeded at
once to open farms and build log houses. During the summer and fall of that year
large numbers of new settlers arrived and proceeded to make themselves homes.

   As early as 1857 a school was established and a small log building erected,
which served for several years. There are now seven school districts in the
township and six substantial school-houses.

   In 1859 the German Lutherans organized a church society with eleven families;
also building a log house of worship in which occasional services were held by
district missionaries. A new frame edifice superseded the old log building in
1870, and was in charge of Rev. H. Springier, for four years thereafter. A few
years ago a second church was erected on section 30 by a society of the United
Brethren. A Methodist Episcopal church and cemetery is located near the centre
of the town.

   In September of 1856, the inhabitants were thrown into a state of great
excitement by the announcement that a great fire was approaching their section
of the country from the south-west. The ground was deeply covered with dry
leaves and great damage was feared, but the sturdy pioneers at once devised a
plan which proved successful in saving their houses and stock. There is a chain
of lake's reaching nearly across the town, and the settlers at once proceeded to
rake leaves, plow, ditch, and burn the strips of land between the lakes,
completing their labors just in time to effectually stop the ravages of the
fire. A few however, living on the southern shores were not so fortunate, having
to take refuge in the center of their fall plowed fields, and even then being
nearly smothered by heat and smoke; some lost their all, while others saved
their houses and portions of their stock. Nearly all the hay which was put up in
the sloughs was destroyed, causing much suffering to the remaining stock.

   In 1857 the village of Elysian was surveyed, and the following year a
post-office established, Aug. Lang being appointed postmaster and holding the
position until 1880.

   The first death recorded was that of a Mr. McCormick in the summer of 1857.
He was buried in a private yard, there being no cemeteries laid out until about
1870. The following year, 1858, Charles Folzmann married Miss Augusta Sperber.

   The present postmaster of the village is G. Raeker. The business of the
village can be summed up as follows: Two general stores, three hotels, two
blacksmiths, two wagon shops, steam saw-mill, two shoe shops and one carpet weaver.

   John Chadwick was born in New York in 1828. When a lad o£ eight years he left
his native state for Ohio, locating in Lake county. His home was there for
twenty-two years, attention being given chiefly to farming. Coming to Minnesota
in 1857 he bought a farm, and still lives in Elysian township. Enlisted in 1864
in the First Minnesota heavy artillery, and at the close of the war was
honorably discharged. His marriage with Miss Vashti Covill took place in 1850.
Four children have been born to them, three of whom are living.

   A. D. Chase was born in Maine in 1845; when seventeen years of age came to
Minnesota. He is now located in Elysian township, on section 32. Miss Henrietta
Smith became the wife of Mr. Chase in 1869. She has borne him three children,
all of whom are living.

   William Clarke is a native of England, born in 1839. When twelve years of age
he came to America, and first settled in Chicago; remained there seven years;
after spending the winter in Iowa he came to Elysian and settled on section 34
in 1857. He has been chairman of the board of supervisors for the past three
years. Married in 1866 Miss Helena Fitzgibbon, who has borne him ten children;
nine are living.

   Ephriam Davis was born in 1809, and is a native of New York. Came to Ohio,
having previously learned the trade of a cooper; after a residence there of
twelve years he located in Watertown, Wisconsin, where he remained twelve years;
in 1858 came to Minnesota, and since that time his home has been in Elysian
township. Enlisted in 1861 in Company H, Third Minnesota, and served three
years; was taken prisoner at Murfreesboro, but was soon after paroled and
returned to Minnesota; served against the Indians at the battles of Birch Coolie
and Wood Lake. Miss Sarah Simons became his wife in 1864.

   Aug. H. E. Lange was born in Prussia in 1828. He resided there until 1851,
then came to America and worked as a jeweler in Washington five years; in 1856
he came to St. Peter, Minnesota, and the next spring removed to Elysian; is
engaged in general merchandising here. Represented his district in the
legislature in 1878; was postmaster for fifteen years, and has also officiated
as town treasurer and clerk. During the war Mr. Lange served only six months,
being discharged on account of sickness. His first marriage took place in 1868,
but his wife died seven months later. His second marriage took place in 1879.

   Frank M. Long was born in 1839 in Ohio. There he lived until 1861, when he
enlisted in Company B, 26th Ohio, and served four years and seven months; was in
the battles of Stone River, Shiloh, Chickamauga, Franklin, Nashville, Mission
Ridge and other minor engagements. Was mustered out in the rank of orderly
sergeant. He visited Minnesota in 1856, and finally settled in Le Sueur county
Elysian township, on section 32. In September, 1871, he married Martha Lewis.
They are the parents of four children.

   Ira Myrick was born in New York in 1820, where he resided until 1851, then
came to Wisconsin. He erected the first frame building in La Crosse and remained
there three years. Was elected county treasurer of La Crosse county in 1853, but
resigned on account of his proposed removal to Minnesota. Built a saw-mill near
Le Sueur, but subsequently removed it to Elysian, where he has since lived and
given his attention to the manufacture of lumber. Has served as county
commissioner and justice of the peace. Married in 1843 Miss Rosaline Bigelow, a
native of New York. Of the six children born to them, four are living.

   A. E. Prosser was born August 14, 1836, in Orange county, Indiana. In 1855 he
started for Minnesota, coming from Dubuque to St. Paul on the steamer "Lady
Franklin." Arrived at St. Peter May 10, 1855, and pre-empted a farm. For some
time he was in the office of the "St. Peter Courier." He moved on the farm in
1858, and is settled on section 33, Elysian. Enlisted in 1864 in Company H,
Second Minnesota. Has held nearly all the offices in the gift of the citizens;
is now supervisor and justice of the peace, also reporter to the agricultural
department at Washington. In December, 1857, he was wedded to Miss Elizabeth
Ulven, who has borne him eleven children; ten are living.

   George H. Sterling was born in Orleans, New York, in 1829. When twenty years
of age he migrated to Scott county, Iowa, and remained two years, thence to
Muscatine. Came to Minnesota in April, 1853; made a trip from St. Paul to St.
Louis on a raft; visited Illinois on his return, and again reached St. Paul in
September, 1854. The first buzz-saw used in sawing cord-wood in that city was
operated by him. On coming to Elysian in 1856 he found only one family had
reached it before him. He first settled on section 26, but subsequently sold and
bought on section 27. Miss Ellen Fitzgibbons became the wife of Mr. Sterling in
1855. They have had ten children; seven are living.

   Asa B. Swaine was born at Athens, Bradford county, Pennsylvania, in 1822.
When six years old he went to Vermont and lived there nineteen years, then went
to Ohio and remained there three years. Went to Wisconsin in 1844; lived there
until 1865, then came to this state. In the spring of 1862 he recruited Company
H, 30th Wisconsin, of which he was chosen captain. He was principally on special
duty in Iowa and Minnesota. Four companies of the 30th Wisconsin built and
located Fort Wadsworth, and were later ordered to join Sherman. Mr. Swaine was
discharged from service in 1865. Married in November, 1845, Miss Catherine
Cross. They had eight children; four are living. One son, George D., is a
practicing physician at Le Sueur.

   J. C. Swain was born in Bradford county, Pennsylvania, in 1824. When quite
young he went to Vermont and remained two years then to Ohio two years;
returning again to Vermont, he remained until attaining the age of fifteen;
after spending five years in Ohio, he went to Wisconsin, and in 1856 came to
Minnesota; has been chairman of supervisors in Elysian a number of times;
assessor sixteen years and superintendent of schools in the township four years;
is at present a county commissioner, and in 1873 was a member of the
legislature. January 23, 1845, he was married, and has six living children.

   William Warner is a native of Northamptonshire, England, where he was born in
1839. Came to America in 1853, and for ten years resided in Wisconsin. He
located in Elysian township in 1863 and now lives on section 23. He was united
in marriage in 1864, with Miss Mary Somers who has borne him five children; all
are living.

WATERVILLE.

   Waterville occupies the southeastern corner of Le Sueur county, and is one of
the most prosperous and thickly settled townships. It contains two of the most
attractive lakes in that section of the state; Tetonka, four miles in length,
and Sakata, three miles; both have clean sandy shores, the water is of crystal
purity and abounds in all kinds of fish.

  The township was first settled by immigrants coming from the south and east.
Among the earliest and most enterprising were Jacob Dawald, Samuel Drake,
Michael Ferch, Amos Robinson and Charles Christman.

   Early in the spring of 1857 A. Tidball and L. Z. Rogers paid the county a
visit. Mr. Tidball at once locating, followed in the summer by Mr. Rogers and
his family. Both gentlemen opened general stores soon after their arrival; Mr.
Tidball built the first frame building at the present town site, and occupied it
as a general store for many years. Mr. Rogers upon his second arrival brought a
large stock of merchandise and immediately opened a store which he still runs.

   It was in this year that the town of Waterville was surveyed and »
post-office established, with Samuel Drake as postmaster. He resigned in August
and Mr. Rogers was made his successor. On the 29th of August, Major Lewis Stowe,
who was then acting as deputy, turned over the office to Mr. Rogers, bringing
the complete outfit including all unclaimed mail matter, in an ordinary cigar box.

   A hotel was built the same year by Jacob Dawald, which has been changed and
added to since, it being now the leading house in the village.

   The first death which occurred was in the fall of 1855, the young son of
Samuel Drake, who died of small pox. In the spring following another son was
born to Mr. Drake, which was the first white child born in the town. During the
same year Michael Ferch and Miss Francisca Densbabach were united in marriage.

   Of the many towns in that vicinity during the great Indian scare of 1862,
Waterville was the only one which felt safe, and no guards were put out. She,
however, claims the honor of having taken the last Sioux scalp, for which a
liberal bounty was received.

   Educational matters received some attention in 1857; a small frame building
was erected, and school opened by Miss Davison (now Mrs. Dr. Hitchcock) with an
attendance of thirteen scholars. This building gave place to a large one a few
years subsequent. The Waterville district is now independent, having a $9,000
school-house, graded, with departments as follows: Primary, intermediate,
grammar and high: principal, Prof. Hedger. In the township there are nine
districts, eight of which have good buildings; the ninth is a fractional
district, the building being located in the adjoining town, Morristown.

   The Episcopalians were the first to hold religious services. Rev. J. Lloyd
Breck preaching at the various houses and in the school building from 1858 to
1870. In January of the latter year a society was formed with sixteen members, a
church edifice was started but not completed until 1874. There is now a
membership of twenty-six. Rector, Rev. E. G. Hunter.

   In 1866 the Methodists organized and built a frame church. There are at
present seventy-six members. Pastor, S. B. Smith.

   September 16th, 1860 a Baptist society was organized with eleven members;
services being held at various places until the M. E. church was built, since
which time meetings have been held there. The present membership is twenty-eight.

   The Presbyterians organized in 1879 with fifteen members, services held in
the Episcopal church.

   The various organizations unite in a Union Sunday school, which has proved
very successful.

   During 1879 and 1880 Catholic services were occasionally held. In 1881 a
society was organized, a dwelling house purchased and remodeled, now doing
service as a church.

   The German Methodists have a church situated on the north-east quarter of
section 3. There is also a cemetery connected with this church.

   The Sakatah Cemetery Association was formed and incorporated in 1868.

   There is one Masonic lodge; Sakatah Lodge, No. 32, A. F. and A. M.,
dispensation issued June 1859 and a charter granted in 1862.

   The present business of the village is represented by energetic men in nearly
all branches.

   L. Z. Rogers, the oldest established general merchant, began in 1857 with a
moderate stock, and in a comparatively small store. He has developed with the
country and now occupies three large stores at the corner of Third and Paquin
streets, embracing in his stock, groceries, clothing, dry goods, boots and
shoes, and drugs. It requires the help of nine assistants to manage the business.

   P. W. Knaak also does an extensive business in general merchandise. He
started in a small way in 1866, increasing his trade year by year, until he now
occupies one of the largest stores in the town.

   In 1874 a third general store was opened by E. H. Zander, on Main street,
which has enjoyed a good business. He now occupies a large two story frame
building.

   A fourth general store was established in 1877 by D. E. Potter, which has
been doing a large and paying business.

   There are two good hardware stores. The first was established in 1870 by R.
W. Jacklin, with a medium sized stock. He now does a very large business in
hardware, stoves and agricultural machinery. Carlton & Roberts started in 1877,
since which date they have worked up a flourishing business. They handle, aside
from hardware, agricultural machinery and sewing machines.

   The Bank of Waterville was started in October, 1881, by Green & Everett, in a
new building erected by themselves. Aside from a general banking business, they
handle insurance, collections, real estate, &c. There are two drug stores, one
by L. Z. Rogers, in connection with his general store, and the second by J.
Piper, established in the spring of 1881, at the corner of Main and Third
streets. One exclusively clothing store, established in 1881 by W. J. Janisch,
is doing a large and growing business. The oldest jewelry establishment was
started in 1870 by L. H. Puller, who at that time opened a repair shop, adding
to his stock as trade increased. In the spring of 1881 a second jewelry store
was opened by C. E. Huiton, with a large variety of goods. He also carries a
full line of stationery. One furniture store, started by J. G. Worlein in 1873,
enjoys a large trade. Much of the cheaper grades of goods are manufactured at
the store. G. C. Kanne is proprietor of the only harness shop, which he started
in 1880. He employs one man. A. Tidball makes a specialty of bees and honey,
having been in the business for several years. Two meat markets find plenty to
do. Botz and Tidball opened a market in 1879, and were soon followed by P. P.
Rice. They both carry a full line of fresh and salt meats. Mrs. E. D. Kettlewell
has a well stocked millinery store on Third street, established in 1878. On Main
street Mrs. Todd does a large millinery business. Three hotels are well
supported. The oldest, established over twenty years ago, is the Waterville
House, Jacob Dawald proprietor. It is centrally located, and has a commodious
barn connected. The Minnesota House was opened in 1877 by Herman G. Shulz. It is
a two-story frame structure, and will accommodate sixteen guests. A new hotel
was opened by. James Hanes in the fall of 1881. It is a large frame structure.
There are three restaurants. H. Giles, on Third street, opened in spring of
1880. W. T. Edwards, on Main street, also opened in 1880, and E. D. Kettlewell,
on Third street, who began in 1878.

   There are two wagon and repair shops. D. G. Miller started in 1877, doing all
his work himself. He now gives employment to two hands. John Niebels runs a
wagon and blacksmith shop combined. He started business in 1876. Employs one
assistant.

   The first blacksmith shop was opened late in the season of 1857 by A.
Sheridan, who now employs three men in his business. In 1878 J. Anderson opened
a shop. He employs one man. A livery stable which had been run for several years
by Mr. Eastman was purchased by A. Labolt in 1881, who has added to the livery
business a general sale stable. There are five saloons. A small lumber yard is
run by Mr. Merrill. An elevator, operated by L. Z. Rogers, has a capacity of
20,000 bushels.

   There are several manufactories. In 1881 E. J. Callendar built a three story
frame flour-mill with three run of stone, and does a large business.

   A saw-mill, capacity eight thousand feet per day, was built in 1876 by Mr.
Higgins.

   Carr and McCarty built a hame factory in the spring of 1881 with a capacity
of one hundred dozen set of hames per day. When in full operation fifty men can
find employment.

   There is quite an extensive business done handling fish by Todd & Smith who
keep a fleet of row and sail boats.

   The Minneapolis & St. Louis railroad runs through the township and village.
They have a convenient depot and freight house and receive a large amount of
business, wheat, wood and stock being the main articles of traffic. The village
was incorporated in 1878.

   Valuation, including village, $174,557; personal, $33,681. Population,
including village, 1,324.

   Elias Alexander was born in Massachusetts in 1821. His father dying when he
was nine years old, he was reared by Colonel R. Hastings in Greenleaf; he worked
at gunsmithing a short time and was employed in a carding mill two summers Came
to Waterville, Minnesota, in May, 1861, and located where he still lives. The
county at that time was quite new and many of the settlers cut roads through the
timber to reach their claims. Married in Massachusetts in 1845 Miss Sarah H.
Wheelock. Larome E., Charlie E. and Lyman are their children.

   R. Anderson was born in Blackford county, Indiana, in 1852. When but three
years of age he moved to Rice county, Minnesota, with his parents and there
received his education, also acquired a knowledge of blacksmithing in Faribault
with Roberts & Anderson, serving an apprenticeship of three years; afterward
served three years longer in a horseshoeing shop. Came in 1877 to Waterville,
where he enjoys a thriving business. Married in 1876, Miss Jane McCallow. They
have had two children, but have lost them both.

   E. P. Case, M. D., was born in Grant county, Indiana, in 1850. He accompanied
his parents to Minnesota when only six years old, and located on a farm. He was
educated in the high school at Faribault, and graduated in medicine from the
Medical College at Iowa City; he is a member of the Minnesota State Medical
Society; was a delegate to the American Medical Association which met at
Richmond, Virginia, in May, 1881. Dr. Case, is now located at Waterville in the
practice of his profession. Married Miss Emma A. Nutting. Mason N. is their only
child.

   Herman Christman, one of the pioneers of Le Sueur county, was born in
Pennsylvania in 1807. He learned saddle and harness making. In 1830 he married
Miss Elizabeth Peal, then removed to Ohio, where Mrs. Christman was severely
burned by her clothes accidentally catching fire. After her recovery Mr.
Christman went to southern Illinois to engage in business; but experiencing a
severe attack of ague he returned, and went to Milwaukee; after spending one
season, he again returned to Illinois, but found his former enemy ready to
welcome him with the shakes so removed to the northern part of the state and
followed farming ten or twelve years. Came to Le Sueur county in 1856, and
settled on land near Waterville. He has served as justice of the peace several
terms.

   Nathaniel Damp was born in New York in 1832. At three years of age he
accompanied his parents to Erie county, Ohio, where he received the rudiments of
his education. Removing to Wisconsin, he there completed his studies; resided
there sixteen years. Came to Rice county, Minnesota, and six years later to Le
Sueur county, and located about two miles from Waterville; has a farm of 120
acres. Mr. Damp has been twice married, first in 1857 to Miss Dollie Smith, who
died November 20, 1876, leaving him with two children; Ralph and Frederick. His
present wife was Mary J. Rowe, married June 6, 1878.

   Jacob Dawald, a native of Prussia, was born in 1828. Come to this continent
in 1843 and located in Lake county, Indiana, where for twelve years he worked at
farming, then nine years in Waterville where he had settled in 1855; then
removed into the village of Waterville; engaged in the meat trade two years and
has since been manager of a hotel. On his arrival in this township the
inhabitants numbered only fifteen. Miss Barbara Bony became the wife of Mr.
Dawald in 1851, the marriage taking place in Indiana. Nine children were born to
them, seven are living.

   G. W. Fowler was born in New Hampshire in 1848, but when quite young he
accompanied his parents to Steele county, Minnesota, where he was educated,
completing his studies at the Faribault school, under the supervision of the
Episcopal society. He was orphaned while quite young and was left to battle the
storms of life alone. Being an engineer by trade he is engaged in the saw-mill
owned by J. H. Higgins. In 1870 he married Miss Calphurnia Higgins, daughter of
J. S. Higgins, of Waterville. Byron J. is their only child.

   H. Giles, a native of Ohio, was born in 1834. After reaching majority he came
to Minnesota, but remained only one year, then returned to Ohio. Three years
later he again visited Minnesota and in 1867 located in Waterville; he engaged
in farming and teaching music until 1878; since that time has been successful in
the restaurant business. In 1855 he was united in marriage with Miss Sarah,
daughter of Dr. David Shepherd; of Ohio. They have one son, Ernest.

   Henry L. Gish was born in Clark county, Ohio, in 1838; removed with his
parents when only three years old to Cass county. He is one of the pioneers of
Waterville township, having located here in August, 1857; now owns a nice farm
on section 9. March 11, 1862, he enlisted in Company I, Fourth Minnesota; was
wounded at Vicksburg May 22, 1863 and was discharged March 4, 1864. He was a
member of the legislature from Le Sueur county in 1876; has held the office of
justice of the peace ten years; has been chairman of supervisors twelve years
and was instrumental in organizing the school district in which he lives.
October 10, 1861 he was married to Miss Bridget Holan. Jacob, John, William G.,
Louis, Mary J., Dora L. and Bertha are their living children.

   Wenzel Groh, born in 1837, is a native of Austria. He lived there until 1864,
and there acquired a good practical education. On coming to America he settled
first in Steele county, Minnesota, remaining, however, only a short time.
Removing to Le Sueur county he began fanning, and although having only five
dollars to start with, now has a farm of 280 acres situated about two miles from
Waterville. His wife was Miss Annie Fisher, whom he married in his native
country in 1864. Nine children have been born to them, eight of whom are living.

   J. C. Hanes was born in Illinois in 1841. When six years old he went to
Wisconsin with his parents. In 1861 he enlisted in Company I, Fourth Minnesota.
At the battle of Vicksburg he was shot through the body the shot passing through
the liver. Since returning to civil life he has tried farming. He removed to
Faribault and kept hotel one year, and to Waterville and opened a hotel which
was subsequently burned; he is erecting another which, when complete, will be a
credit to the town. In 1863 he married Jennie Smith, who died April 23, 1871.
His second marriage was with Martha A. Smith, November 15, 1877. They are the
parents of three living children.

   J. S. Higgins, born September 23, 1819, in Connecticut. While young his
parents moved to New York, where he was educated. He began the trade of a
mechanic when about seventeen years of age, which he has followed much of the
time since. After being a builder in Illinois for some time, he in 1855 came to
Minnesota. His home was Rice and Steele counties for twenty years. In 1875 he
located in Waterville and is here interested in the manufacture of lumber. He is
a member of the Baptist church and for a term of years has been one of the
deacons, and superintendent of its Sunday school; has also served in a number of
the town offices. His wife was Miss Margaret T. Woodman, married in New York,
September 17, 1843. One daughter, Calphurnia, has been born to them.

   C. E. Hinton was born in 1854 in Wisconsin. He went to Detroit, Michigan, in
1873 and there was employed as a weekly newspaper correspondent. From there he
came to Faribault, Minnesota, and embarked in the jewelry business. May 15,
1881, he started in trade in Waterville; keeps a general assortment, consisting
of jewelry, books, stationery, etc.

   R. W. Jacklin was born in 1842 in England. With his parents he came to
America in 1844 and made his home in Detroit, Michigan, where he was educated.
Was a member of the Detroit light infantry zouaves and light guards; in the fall
of 1861 enlisted in Captain Dygert's company of Brady sharp shooters and served
as private until February, 1862, when he was promoted to orderly sergeant of the
company, which was afterwards attached and formed the 11th company of the 16th
Michigan infantry; he was made lieutenant and adjutant of the regiment; one year
after was promoted to captain of Company D, and for meritorious conduct at the
battle of the Wilderness was made brevet major; was detached from his regiment
and placed in command of a battalion of sharp shooters, serving in this command
until the surrender of General Lee. About that time he was commissioned full
major and afterwards brevet lieutenant-colonel. Major Jacklin was the officer
who received the flag of truce for the surrender of General Lee's army, his
division having received the surrender by order of General Grant. During the war
he participated in fifty -one battles; had his sword shot from his side, and was
the only officer mustered from the veteran regiment without a wound; received
his discharge July 21, 1865. The year following he came to St. Paul and for
three years served as clerk in the old house of Nicols & Dean. Since locating in
Waterville in 1870, he has been a hardware merchant. In 1865 he married Eliza
Wingert.

   Vincent Kletschke, a native of Austria, was born in 1835. He was there
educated and in 1854 came to America; located on a farm in Michigan, but
remained only a short time. After devoting considerable time to the study of the
English language, he came in 1856 to Minnesota and located on land in Le Sueur
county; now owns one of the many fine farms in the county, a short distance from
Waterville, and in addition he has a hardware store in the village. He
participated in the defense against the depredations of the Indians in 1862; in
1873 was a member of the legislature. Mr. Kletschke married in Iowa, in 1855,
Miss Mary Risha. Of their ten children eight are living.

   A. Labott was born in New York in 1826. Went to Wisconsin and engaged in the
livery business, also bought horses for the government; afterwards spent five
years in travel with "Yankee Robinson;" and has since continued the livery
business in Missouri, Des Moines and other places. After becoming a resident of
Waterville in 1881 he purchased a livery stock, and has also a good stable.  His
wife was Miss Oliva Casey, married in 1877.

   R. Lussier, wagon-maker, was born in Canada in 1826. He located in New York
in 1845, where he learned the trade of cabinet-maker. Came to Waterville in
August, 1858, and has since lived here. Mr. Lussier at once commenced the
manufacture of wagons and cabinet furniture, in which he successfully continues.
He married in New York in 1850 Miss E. Yatton. Ten children have been born to
them; eight are living, five of whom are married.

   W. G. Mathes was born in New Hampshire in 1810. Until twenty-six years of age
he lived on the farm, then began contracting and railroad building; at Great
Falls, Massachusetts, he was employed as contractor by the Lawrence
Manufacturing Company. Went to California in 1850 and spent two years, then
returned, but six months later went again to California and farmed there two
years. In October, 1856, he located in Waseca, Minnesota, where for four years
he lived on a farm, then bought his present place; owns 350 acres of land in
Waterville. In Massachusetts, in 1846, he married Elizabeth Poor; she died in
1847, leaving one child, who died in October, 1848, His second marriage took
place in 1855, with Helen M. Ricker. Edwin H., Mary S. and Lizzie H. are their
living children.

   D. G. Miller was born in Canada in 1844. When only five years old he moved
with his parents to New York; learned the trades of wagon-maker and blacksmith.
After traveling about some time he settled in 1866 in Anoka, Minnesota, where
for four years he gave his attention to gunsmithing. He became one of the
proprietors of the town site of Cambridge, Isanti county, and there worked at
his trade. Came to Waterville in 1877, where he is now engaged in the
manufacture of wagons. At Anoka he married Annie L. Anderson. Reuben E. and
Morra are their children.

   E. L. Norton was born in Chicago, Illinois, August 29, 1854. While young he
moved with his parents to Iowa; remained six years and went to Charlestown,
Massachusetts. At Washington, D.  C., he attended and graduated from the
Franklin Grammar school. In 1870 came to St. Paul, and in the fall of the same
year entered the employ of the St. Paul & Pacific Railway Company; he held
various positions for more than six years; then resigned to accept a more
lucrative position with the Northwestern Telegraph Company. On account of
ill-health he was compelled to again resign his position, but in a few months
resumed business in the employ of the Minneapolis & St. Louis Railway Company;
now has charge of their business at Waterville.

   Johnston Piper was born in Pennsylvania in 1833. Came to Le Sueur county,
Minnesota, and for eighteen years followed farming. In 1861 he enlisted in
Company I, Fourth Minnesota; was honorably discharged in August, 1865. Worked at
farming until 1874, then engaged in hotel business in Waterville six years;
afterward bought the drug store formerly owned by J. A. White, and is now in the
drug trade. Mr. Piper has held the office of justice of the peace two terms, was
member of the town board two years, and constable two years. In 1857 be married
Miss Samantha Evans. They have seven children living; three are dead.

   F. A. Pischel, a native of Prussia, was born in 1842. After receiving a good
education in his native language he came to America; located on a farm in
Illinois with his parents; he was there educated in the English language, and
afterward came to Waterville, where he engaged at once in farming. He has been
county commissioner, and was chairman of the board; in 1880 was a candidate for
representative, but was defeated by a majority of seven votes; for five years he
has served on the town board, and is now town clerk. In 1864 he married Miss
Catherine Birkel, who has borne nine children; seven are living.

   Captain D. E. Potter was born in Washington county, New York, in 1836. He
grew to manhood on a farm; attended the Port Edward Collegiate Institute two
years, then taught school one year. Engaged in teaching and clerking in
Illinois, and in 1857 came to Minnesota, locating at Belle Plaine. In 1860 went
to Chicago, and in July, 1861, enlisted in the Fourth Illinois cavalry; in 1863
was promoted to captain of Company A, 12th Louisiana colored volunteers; he
afterward resigned, and was commissioned first lieutenant of the Third United
States cavalry, and acting assistant adjutant general of the Fourth brigade of
cavalry for the district of West Tennessee. He was honorably mustered out in
February, 1866, and came to Faribault, Minnesota, engaging as book-keeper and
salesman of school furniture. In 1877 he came to Waterville; worked at
railroading a short time, then began his mercantile business. In Faribault, in
1867, Mr. Potter and Miss Stella A. Cowles were united in marriage. She has
borne him two children: Eva and Bertha.

   P. P. Rice was born in Illinois in 1843. With his parents he went to
Wisconsin when eight years old, and there learned the trade of miller. In
August, 1862, enlisted in the 29th Wisconsin infantry; in April, 1863, was
transferred to the 16th Ohio battery; became ill, and was sent, July 4th of that
year, to the hospital at St. Louis, where he remained until October 26. He was
again transferred to the Second regiment of the veteran reserve corps, First
battalion, and sent to Detroit, Michigan; served there on guard duty until the
close of the war. He came soon after to Minnesota, and for some time followed
farming and milling, also railroading; then took a claim in the grasshopper
reservation, on which he lived four years. After being in the mercantile trade
he started his present meat market in Waterville. Married in Michigan, in 1865,
Josephine Chrystler, who has borne him eight children; six are living.

   Zoar Rogers was born in Orleans, Massachusetts, January 10, 1801, on the
property which his ancestors for seven generations had owned. He is a regular
descendent of John Rogers, the martyr. The first ancestor settled in Orleans,
Massachusetts, in 1632, and the first on his mother's side was Reverend John
Mayo who was pastor of a church in Boston, in 1637. Mr. Rogers married in
Orleans, March 4, 1827, Miss Phebe S. Kenrich. In 1834 moved to Brewer, Maine;
remained until ill health of his family and a desire to better educate his
children prompted a removal to Providence, Rhode Island, in 1847. The eldest
daughter, Maria J., died there the following year. In 1856 he moved with his
family to Cambridgeport, Massachusetts; again ill health required a change. He
located in Waterville in May, 1858, with his wife and two daughters, Julia F.
and Helen S. who is now the wife of C. A. Baker, of Hastings. Three sons, Albert
B., Caleb E. and Luther Z., located in Waterville some time previous to their
father. Here the golden wedding of Mr. and Mrs. Rogers was celebrated March 4,
1877, attended by every child and seven grand children. Mrs. Rogers won the love
of all and was deeply mourned at her death, which occurred August 17, 1879. Mr.
Rogers was active in organizing the Baptist church in this town.

   Major A. B. Rogers was born in Orleans, Barnstable county, Massachusetts, in
1829. His parents removed with him to Maine in 1837; and to Providence, Rhode
Island in 1847. He entered the engineering department of the Brown University;
subsequently went to Yale College as assistant to Professor Norton, and there
graduated, receiving the degree of A. B. He went to New York as an engineer,
thence to Iowa, and in 1858 came to Waterville; engaged in mercantile trade with
L. Z. Rogers until 1865. In 1861 he took charge of the construction of the Iowa
and Minnesota division of the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul railroad. Mr. Rogers
was among the first to assist in defending St. Peter against the Indians in
1862; was appointed major by Governor Ramsey. Since then he has given his entire
attention-to the construction of railroads, and is now in charge of the Canadian
Pacific road from the Pacific Ocean easterly. He married in 1857 Sarah Lawton,
of New York, who died in Waterville. His second marriage was with Nellie Brush,
of Iowa, who is now deceased. Mr. Rogers makes his home with his father.

   Honorable L. Z. Rogers, a native of Maine, was born in 1837. He removed to
Providence, Rhode Island with his parents, when only ten years of age and was
educated in the high schools of that city. After leaving school he was clerk in
a store three years, then began book-keeping in Boston, in which he continued
three years longer. August 22, 1857, Mr. Rogers located in Waterville and at
once embarked in the mercantile trade. Since fifteen years of age he has been in
business of some kind, and has been out of employment only two weeks during the
time. He owns an elevator, also a wood yard three miles distant, and the side
track leading to it; he has a stock farm of 200 acres located near town and owns
in all 1,500 acres of land. He is deputy grand commander of the order of Knights
Templar of Minnesota; has been president of the council three years and
president of the school hoard since its organization; was a member of the
legislature in 1865, and was elected to the senate in 1871. His marriage with
Miss Elizabeth M. Christman occurred at Waterville in 1861. Ellen M., Charlotte
L., Florence E., are their living children.

   H. G. Schulz, a native of Germany, was born in 1853. Acquired an education in
the German language and in 1868 came to America, locating in Wisconsin, where he
followed various pursuits. In 1872 he migrated to Rochester, Minnesota and was
there dealing in lumber five years. Became a resident of Waterville in 1877, and
built the hotel known as the Minnesota House, of which he is landlord. He was
married in Rochester in 1875; his wife's maiden name was Louisa Schulz: they
have one son, Walter H.

   A. Sheriden, a native of Ireland, was born in 1835. While a small babe his
parents came to the United States and settled in New York. He was educated there
and learned the blacksmith's trade with Walter A. Wood. In 1858 he located in
Waterville and has since been actively engaged in the blacksmiths' trade. He
married in New York in 1855; his wife was Sarah Reynolds. Thirteen children have
been born to them, six of whom are living.

   E. J. Stangler was hom in Austria, in 1845. After receiving his education he
came in 1860 to America; located at Owatonna, Minnesota; was a miller six or
seven years, then began farming in company with his father. Coming to Waterville
in 1862 he again gave his attention to milling a few years, then returned to
farming, settling on a place near the village; his farm consists of 160 acres
nicely located. Mr. Stangler married Miss Rosa Fisher. Ludwig, Ernestine, Eddie
and Otto are their children.

   A. Tidball, the oldest settler in the village of Waterville, was horn in
Mercer county, Pennsylvania in 1823. Leaving Pennsylvania in 1845 he went to
Wisconsin and was instrumental in framing that state's constitution. In the
spring of 1857 he came to what is now the village of Waterville; still lives in
the house he built in 1857, and in which he carried on a large mercantile trade
two years. In Ohio in 1852 he married Miss Caroline Fee, who died in 1869,
leaving three children. The second marriage of Mr. Tidball was with Mrs. M. E.
Babcock of St. Paul, in 1875. She is a daughter of A. O. Wing, deceased, an
early settler of Waterville. Mr. and Mrs. Tidball are members of the Methodist
Episcopal church.

   Frank Tousley was hom June 19, 1847, in Medina county, Ohio. Leaving Ohio
when nine years of age he came to Minnesota with his parents; settled in Le
Sueur county where he was educated, and worked on the farm about ten years. In
1878 he was appointed route agent between Minneapolis and Albert Lea, which
position he still holds with credit to himself and to those recommending him to
the department. Ho is pleasantly situated in Waterville. March 30, 1875, he
married Mrs. S. D. Williams. John W. is their only child.

   Asa A. Wait, deceased, was born in Cattaraugus county, New York, in 1834. He
was reared on a farm and attained his education at the public schools. On moving
from his native state he went to Michigan, thence to Illinois; locating in
Wisconsin he followed railroad contracting until coming to Faribault, Minnesota,
in 1855; while there he engaged in the milling business, erecting a steam mill.
He represented his district in the legislature in 1871; was one of the
proprietors of the town site of Wilton, Waseca county. Married in 1857, Miss
Charlotte Field, of Walworth county, Wisconsin, and the same fall they came to
Waterville. Mr. Wait died in 1874. His widow and her family still reside at
Waterville. Mary, the eldest daughter, was among the first white children born
in Waterville.

   F.  H. Zander, a native of Germany, was born in 1849. When six years old he
accompanied his parents to America, locating first in Wisconsin. After farming
one year clerked in a general merchandise store at Beaver Dam three years. Came
to Faribault, Minnesota, and engaged as a clerk two years, and in 1868 located
at Waterville; for six years he was employed as clerk by L. Z. Rogers, then
embarked in the mercantile trade for himself; erected a good store building and
is now doing a thriving business. He married in Waterville, in 1870, Miss C. A.
Sabin. They are the parents of four children; three are living.

KILKENNY.

   Kilkenny is next to the most southern of the eastern tier of townships in Le
Sueur county. John and Dennis Doyle, William Lee, K. Brock and H. Richardson
located in 1856 being the first to settle. Soon after their arrival the
hardships proved too much for William Lee and he was mourned as the first to
die. Consumption claiming him as a victim. A few months later the vacancy in
their numbers was filled by the arrival of a native pioneer, Stephen, son of H.
and K. R. Richardson.

   The town, like most of the others in the county, was heavily covered with
timber.

   In 1857 Dennis Doyle opened the first store, which is still in operation by
him, having advanced with the country, occupying now the leading place among
Kilkenny enterprises. In fact the experience of Dennis Doyle forms the larger
portion of the earliest history. He was the first of the town to marry, this
event taking place the first year of his arrival. He taught the first school in
a log house in 1858, with attendance of fifteen scholars.

   The first religious services held under a roof were held in his house, one
meeting having previously been held in the woods near his house. He was the
first postmaster, being appointed in 1859, and still retains the position. He
was the first town clerk and one of the first county commissioners.

   A Catholic church society was formed in 1858 with thirty families connected,
services being held at the various private houses until 1867, during which year
a small frame church was built. This was succeeded in 1880 by a large brick
structure, costing nearly $4,000, with an average of 150 families in attendance.

   The village of Kilkenny is situated near the centre of the township, and for
a town but a trifle over four years old, presents quite a business appearance,
there being seven general stores, two hotels, three blacksmith shops, one shoe
shop, a saw-mill, five saloons, one elevator, depot and freight house of the
Minneapolis & St. Louis railroad.

   The county poor farm is located on section 6, of this township.

   In the south-western portion of the township is a second post-office,
Anawauk, which has been in charge of A. R. Eckert for many years.

   On section 30 is a good saw and planing mill. The only cemetery is located on
section 21. There are eight school districts, all with convenient buildings and
modern improvements.

   Caleb Brock was born in Belleville, Virginia, in 1819. With his parents moved
to Indiana when only three years old, and for two years lived near Vincennes,
then moved to Charlestown. Went to Ohio and remained until 1853; returned to
Indiana, and three years later moved to Minnesota. In 1840 he married Mary A.
Troy, who was born in 1822, and died in April, 1854. Of the six children, four
are living: Andrew J., James K., Charles T. and Lucy J. Three sons were in the
war; Andrew and Columbus were in Company H, First Minnesota infantry, James in
Company A, Second Minnesota cavalry. At the first battle of Bull Bun, Columbus
was killed; he was the first man who fell from the state of Minnesota. One son,
Lorenzo D., died in infancy. Mr. Brock located in Kilkenny, Le Sueur county,
with the first settlement, and has remained within the limits of the county since.

   F. A. Carll was born in Port Huron, Michigan, August 2, 1846. There he lived
until the age of eighteen years, and July 19, 1864, arrived in Mower county,
Minnesota. The next year he visited Wisconsin, Iowa and Illinois; returned to
Minnesota in 1872. He now owns 136 acres on sections 30 and 31 of Kilkenny,
where he located in the fall of 1877. Mr. Carll was united in marriage with Miss
Georgia King, by Reverend Edmund Gale, at Faribault, Minnesota, February 18,
1873. Francis E. and Jennie E. are their living children; two have died.

   Honorable. Dennis Doyle, a native of Ireland, was born in 1824. He received a
liberal education in that country, and until coming to America followed farming;
immigrated to St. Paul in 1851 and there accepted a position as teacher in one
of the three schools of which the place boasted; there were then but two
churches. In 1856 he located in what is now Kilkenny; there were then five other
voters in the precinct in which two hundred and fifty votes are now cast. He
assisted in naming all the towns of the county, was a member of the first hoard
of county commissioners, has held the offices of probate judge, clerk of
district court, and county treasurer; for the past twenty-five years has been
justice of the peace and postmaster of Kilkenny, and in 1868 represented Le
Sueur county in the legislature. He lives on his farm, and in connection with
his mercantile trade he owns and operates the only elevator in the place.
Married Catherine Raway in 1856. They have had thirteen children. During the
Indian outbreak he accompanied his wife to Hastings, then returned and was one
of the four persons who remained.

   Michael Dooly, born in 1826, is a native of Ireland. Immigrated to Illinois
in 1852; lived there four or five years and removed to Minnesota, locating soon
after in Kilkenny, on section 8. Here he has since lived and now owns a fine
farm and surroundings. Miss Catherine Sullivan became his wife in 1858. They
have eleven children, five sons and six daughters: Richard, James, Michael,
John, Mary, Agnes, Catherine, Thomas, Hannah, Margaret and Ellen.

   Lewis Doyle is a native of Ireland, born in 1824. He immigrated to Michigan
in 1840, where he made his home fourteen years; after spending one year in the
Minnesota pineries and one year in Mendota, he settled in Kilkenny in 1856, and
bought eighty acres on section 19. He is a prominent farmer and a practical
gardener, having the best cultivated garden in Le Sueur county. He occasionally
writes articles for the agricultural papers; several of his contributions have
appeared in the "Pioneer Press" over the nom de plume of "L. D." In 1857 he
married Winnifred O'Reilley, who bore him eleven children, and at the age of
thirty-five years departed this life. Clara J., Winnifred, Kate, Mary, Patrick
H., Thomas A., Bridget, Sarah and Margaret are the living children.

   Jacob Etsel was born in Lebanon county, Pennsylvania, in 1838. When seventeen
years old he went to the city of Philadelphia, and there learned shoemaking. In
that city in 1857 he married Miss Ann Brown, who died in 1861. Mr. Etsel
enlisted in the 21st Pennsylvania cavalry, and served three years; he spent a
short time in Chicago; came from there to Minnesota, but soon after returned to
Wisconsin. He was married there to Margaret Fergus, who bore him three children;
Patrick, Caroline and an infant son. Returning to Minnesota in 1875, Mr. Etsel
with his family, settled at Shieldsville and four years later located at
Kilkenny and opened a shoe shop.

   D. Flynn, a native of New York, was born May 20, 1849. Came to Minnesota in
1855 and made a home in Rice county; subsequently he traveled through Wisconsin
and Illinois and came to Kilkenny township in 1878, and here accepted the
position of section boss for the Minneapolis and St. Louis railroad company. He
married in Montgomery, Anna Ryan. Of their nine children five are living; John,
Patrick, Mary M., Daniel, and Richard. Ellen, Bridget and Elizabeth were
triplets, who were born July 9, 1873 and died on the day of their birth.

   William Grinnell was born in Spring Green, Sauk county, Wisconsin, November
26, 1858. He received an excellent education, after which he acquired a
knowledge of carpentering. His time is spent mostly in teaching school at which
he is successful. At present he is clerking for J. Kenny in the Commercial Hotel
at Kilkenny.

   C. M. Hall was born November 25, 1827, at Williston, Vermont. At the age of
twelve years he went to Wisconsin, and there, January 29, 1852, he married Olive
Thurber. In 1867 they came to Minnesota and engaged in farming and lumbering in
Douglas county, until 1874, then moved to Hastings. After a residence of four
years at that place, located on section 31, Kilkenny township, where he owns a
farm of eighty acres. He has held various town offices. Mrs. Hall is a native of
Vermont, born in Franklin county, in 1833. They have had two children O. J. and
Henry O. The latter died at the age of three years at Fort Winnebago.

   Merell S. Kendall was born in Wisconsin, September 11, 1850. At the age of
fifteen years he came to Minnesota, and with his father's family settled in
Cordova township. There he married Catharine Vail on the 25th of September,
1872. In the fall of 1877 he moved with his family to his present farm of eighty
acres on section 30, Kilkenny. Mrs. Kendall was born in 1857. Five children have
been born to them; Norman, Carrie, Jennie, Nora, and William.

   John Kenny, proprietor of the Commercial Hotel, was born in 1824, in Ireland.
When only seven years of age he came alone to America and went to Burlington,
Vermont, where he engaged as office boy in the Howard House; there he continued
until 1840, then followed a sailor's life on the lakes for four years. He
afterwards accepted a position in Judge Burt's engineer corps; remained one
year, then was foreman of a company of men in the Michigan pineries. Mr. Kenny
served in the Mexican war; was honorably discharged at St. Louis in 1840. He was
one of the sufferers from the Peshtigo, Wisconsin, fire in 1871; lost about
$35,000 worth of property. The first building erected in Kilkenny was built by
Mr. Kenny who finally settled here in 1877, and for the first six months was
engaged in making railroad ties. He is at present the genial landlord of the
Commercial House. At Chicago, in 1849, he married Anna O'Brien, who died at Fond
du Lac, Wisconsin, in 1873, leaving seven children, five are living.

   J. Kent, who is a school teacher, is a native of Ireland. He came to this
country in 1848 and after making his home in Canada some-time came to Minnesota.
Having acquired an excellent education in this and his native country, he is
fully competent for the profession he has chosen. The schools of this state have
for a number of years found in him an efficient and skillful teacher.

   Martin Klingele was born January 11, 1844, in Baden, Germany. In 1865 he came
to America; after a residence of one and one-half years in New York he visited
Toledo, Ohio, then went to Wisconsin. In 1878 he came to Minnesota; soon after
settled in the village of Kilkenny, where he served in the capacity of clerk for
Scherer & Potter for a short time, then embarked in the boot and shoe business;
he had learned shoemaking previous to coming to this country; is a competent
workman and does all work neatly and promptly.

   John A. Knapp was born in Hesse-Darmstadt, in 1829. The family immigrated to
Franklin county, Pennsylvania, in 1830, and eight years later removed to Posey
county, Indiana. He there married, in 1852, Mary E. Pittmann. Removing to
Minnesota in 1867 they settled in Kilkenny township; bought 160 acres which he
still owns, except three acres which he donated to the Catholic society for
church purposes; also owns a village lot on which has been erected a large store
building. Eight children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Knapp: Joseph, George,
Mary, Barbary, Stephen, Elizabeth, Anna and Catharine.

   Dennis Moore was born in Logan county, Ohio, January 27, 1823. He removed to
Minnesota in 1856 and has since lived in this state. His farm is on section 31
of Kilkenny township. He enlisted in Company K, Fifth Minnesota infantry and
served one year, being honorably discharged at St. Paul in 1865. During the time
was imprisoned once being obliged to remain two months in Andersonville prison.
In 1849 he was united in marriage with Miss Nancy Bennett, who has borne him
five children; all are living except George, who died at the age of fifteen years.

   John Murray was born in Illinois April 26, 1854, He moved with his father's
family to Minnesota in 1857, and has since lived on section 7, Kilkenny
township; owns a quarter section of land. He is one of a family of nine
children, whose father was killed by a falling tree subsequent to his coming to
Kilkenny.

   R. R. O'Hearn was born in Ireland in 1845. With his parents he moved to
England in 1846 and in 1850, to Mobile, Alabama, which was their home for seven
years. Mr. O'Hearn came to Minnesota in August, 1858; settled in Shieldsville,
Rice county, where he resided twenty years; in 1878 he located in Kilkenny
village and is here engaged in the manufacture of lumber. His marriage with
Elizabeth Larkin occurred at Shieldsville. William, John, Catharine, Elizabeth,
Mary and Annie are their children. Maggie died at the age of three years.

   William Oney was born in Prestonburg, Kentucky, in 1841. In 1862 he removed
to Ohio; while in that state he married Miss J. Campbell, in 1865; she is also a
native of Prestonburg, Kentucky, born on the 12th of August, 1849. Eight
children have been born to them; the living are, John, Richard, Rhoda B.,
Solomon, William, Martha M., and Theodore. Mr. Oney and family now reside on
section 30, Kilkenny township.

   Anthony Pittmann was born October 19, 1827, in Germany. He immigrated to
America in 1844; lived in Indiana until 1856, then removed to Minnesota and
located on his present farm on section 34 of Kilkenny. Mr. Pittmann has been
twice married, and is now a widower. His first marriage was with Louisa Reble in
1852; she died August 2, 1872; of their ten children, eight are living. In 1873
he married Teressa Hamle who died February 2, 1880. Joseph, Mary, Anthony,
Frank, Robert, Anna, Matilda, and Ludwig are the living children by his first
marriage. Albert and Nicholas died in infancy.

   Joseph Pittmann was born in Indiana in 1852. With his parents came to
Kilkenny township when only four years old; this has since been his home. He
received a common school education. In 1875 married Miss Mary L. Unger, of
Cordova, Minnesota. They are the parents of three sons: Frank, William and
Peter. Mr. Pittmann and family resided on their farm until 1880 then moved into
the village where they are now living. The firm of Slusser & Pittmann does a
large business in fuel and railroad ties.

   Ira Simpson was born May 10, 1855, in Wabash county, Indiana. In June, 1878,
came to Minnesota, locating on section 17, Kilkenny township. In April, 1874, he
and Miss Mary M. Miller were united in marriage. His wife was born February 9,
1853. One son and one daughter have been born to them: Arthur and Eva May, aged
respectively six and two years.

   Joseph Smith, a native of Germany, was born in 1826, and when about twenty
years old came to America. He remained in Wisconsin one year and enlisted in the
Mexican war, in Company I, 15th volunteer infantry, and after serving eighteen
months was discharged in July, 1848. In 1853 went to California, where he
remained until 1855 engaged in mining. In the fall of 1856 he married Miss
Margaret Falhim, who is a native of Germany, born October 5, 1834. Soon after
marriage Mr. Smith and wife came to Minnesota and settled on section 35,
Kilkenny township. In 1864 he enlisted in Company I, Second Minnesota, and was
discharged at Louisville, Kentucky, July 11, 1865. Mr. and Mrs. Smith have
eleven children: Nicholas, Peter, Frank, Lena, John, Mary A., Joseph, Anna C.,
Elizabeth, George and Margaret.

   Leopold Zipf was born in Germany, in 1849. On coming to America he lived
seven years in New Jersey, then removed to the state of New York. Came to
Minnesota in September, 1869. In November, 1880, he erected a wood-working and
blacksmith shop in the village of Kilkenny, in which he does a good trade.
During the war he served as scout under Major General Hancock, in Company F,
Eighth New Jersey infantry, having enlisted January 14, 1862. Participated in
many severe battles. Blamed in 1876, Miss Annie Morris, who was born in
Morristown, June 13, 1858. Mary A. and Leopold are their children.

MONTGOMERY.

   In the early history of Montgomery it formed one-half of the township of
Lanesburgh, but in 1859 was set off by itself.

   In 1856 August Richter, G. Augst and several others arrived, taking claims of
160 acres each, and building the first log houses in the township. In 1859 a
general merchandise store was opened by A. Richter, not far from the present
site of Montgomery village, which he continued until the advent of the
Minneapolis & St. Louis railroad in 1877, when he erected a large frame store in
the village, removing his stock of goods and continuing business at that point.

   Not until 1860 was there much attention paid to educational matters the
settlements being so few and far between. Several small schools were taught at
private houses. It was not until within the past few years that any system has
been observed. There are now six districts within the township, and all have
substantial buildings.

   The first post-office, called Montgomery, established two miles west of the
village, was removed after the establishment of the railroad station.

   There are two religious societies. St. Michael's Catholic church, on section
twenty-six, and a Catholic church in the eastern part upon section 7.

   A birth was recorded in the summer of 1857; W., daughter of G. Augst. She
died in 1870 of the small pox.

   Montgomery village, in 1877, when the Minneapolis & St. Louis was first
built, was nothing but a dense forest of heavy timber. A resolute class of men
took the matter in hand, surveyed and laid out the village, and at once began
active business operations. A. Richter was the first, opening a large general
store, which is still in successful operation.

   T. W. Sheehy & Co. followed immediately with a large general store, which has
greatly increased its business, until they now stand at the head. A large
furniture store was opened the same year by Frank Havlicek, who still conducts a
lucrative business. A hardware store was also built the same season by L.
Schrauth and Brother. They are now one of the leading firms.

   The following year Mr. Joseph Chadderdon located and established a weekly
newspaper, the "Montgomery Standard," an independent six column quarto sheet,
which has proved a paying investment. Mr. Chadderdon also opened a law and
insurance office in addition to his newspaper business.

   In 1878 a large frame school-house, two stories in height, was erected.
Thomas G. Hovorka is the principal.

   Catholic services were irregularly held prior to 1881. During that year,
through the exertions of Father Prebble, 150 families organized and built a
substantial church edifice costing over $3,000.

   When the post-office was established in 1877 Frank Becker was appointed
postmaster, and still acts in that capacity; also does a large mercantile
business, being one of the earliest settlers and merchants.

   In 1880 a fire company was organized with one hook and ladder, hose and
engine company. They have a hand engine, and good engine house. P. D. Smith is
chief of the department.

   The business of the village consists of five general merchants, one drug, two
hardware, two furniture, one grocery and three boot and shoe stores, one
harness, four blacksmith, one wagon, two tailor and one barber shop, nine
saloons, one flour and one saw-mill, one large stave factory, two elevators,
three hotels, weekly paper, job printing office and three agricultural machine
depots. There are three physicians, three attorneys and two insurance agencies.

   In the southern portion of the township is a small railroad station, Doyle;
the town consists of a shoe shop and two houses. On section 15 is a small
brickyard.

   Joseph Chadderdon was born in New York, in 1845. With his parents he left his
native state in 1846 and settled in Wisconsin, there remaining until 1854. He
then went to Belle Plaine, Minnesota and in 1871 moved to Jordan; six years
later he located in Montgomery, Le Sueur county, and started the Montgomery
Standard. In 1872-73 and '75 he represented Scott county in the legislature. His
marriage with Miss Lela Earl took place in 1869. Two daughters have been born to
them; Lillie and Mable.

   Frank Guslander, manager of the Montgomery stave factory, was born in
Illinois in 1849, and is of Swiss parentage. During youth he became thoroughly
acquainted with the trade of cooper, and is now pursuing that business in
Montgomery, where he located in 1874. He previously resided in Chisago county.
In 1875 he married Miss Maggie Sweeney and has three sons; Joseph H., John and
Charles.

   T. W. Hammond, M. D., was born in Plymouth county, Massachusetts, in 1850.
After graduating from Prince Academy, at Middleborough, in 1866, came to
Minnesota, to Le Sueur county, and remained one year; returning to his native
state he engaged in the grocery business one year then spent two years at sea.
After visiting New York and Minnesota he entered Ann Arbor Medical School, where
he studied and took a course of lectures. The next spring removed to
Philadelphia, and in 1874 graduated from Jefferson College. After remaining some
time in Nashville, Tennessee, he, in 1877, came to Montgomery and practiced
medicine until beginning the study of law; is now practicing law, having been
admitted to the bar in the spring of 1881. Mr. Hammond is also justice of the
peace. Miss. L. W. Purrington became his wife in 1876; they have two children.

   Frank Havlicek is a native of Germany, born in 1851. Came to America in 1861
and settled in New Prague, Scott county, Minnesota. Bemoved to Montgomery in
1877 and engaged in the furniture trade; also deals in all kinds of lumber. He
was married in 1879 to Miss Agnes Patrak, who has borne him two sons; Prank and
John.

   Thomas G. Hovorka was born in Bohemia in 1850. He came to America in 1869 and
located in Scott county, Minnesota. After coming to America he acquainted
himself thoroughly with the English language at Jefferson College. Mr. Hovorka
is now principal of the graded schools at Montgomery. He has also served as
justice of the peace since 1875, and is notary public. Married in 1874 Katherine
Stanek. Their children are Thomas, Joseph, Mary and William.

   August Richter was born in Saxony in 1837. He learned the trade of weaver,
and in 1856 came to America and to Minnesota. In 1859 settled in Montgomery
township on section 8. He started a small store, and soon after moved to the
village and engaged in general merchandise business. He came here a poor man,
but industry and economy have won for him a competence. He now owns 1,200 acres
of land. His wife was Mary J. Krahl, also a native of Saxony, married in 1859.
William, Charles, Mary, Edward, Herman and George are their children.

   L. Schrauth was born in Ohio in 1848. His youth was spent on the farm;
received a common school education, and left Ohio in 1860 for Faribault,
Minnesota. In 1877 he located in Montgomery and embarked in the hardware trade
under the firm name of Schrauth & Brother. His wife was Miss Maggie McBreen,
married in 1874. Fred., Mary and John are their children.

   T. W. Sheehy was born in county Limerick, Ireland, in 1829. He immigrated to
Connecticut in 1850; lived there two years, then spent four years in South
Carolina and two years in Kentucky. After engaging in the mercantile trade in
St. Paul several years with a brother, he in 1875 went to Faribault and embarked
in business under the firm name of Murphy & Sheehy; the partnership continued
until 1880; Mr. Sheehy then came to Montgomery, and is now in the mercantile
trade with his son John P. as partner; they have a fine store and do an
extensive business. Miss Catherine Brown, also of Irish birth, and Mr. Sheehy
were married in 1859. Cassy, John P., Mary, Margaret, Richard N. and William M.
are their children.

   J. J. Thomas was born in Winnebago county, Wisconsin, in 1857. He acquired a
knowledge of the trade of a cooper. Came to Minnesota in 1881 and located in
Montgomery. He married in 1876 Miss Ida Grey. They have two boys: Albert and
Walter.

   W. H. Woods, M. D., was born in Ohio in 1823. He was educated in the medical
profession from childhood. After attending college in Cleveland and Ann Arbor,
Michigan, he graduated at Euclid, Ohio. Came to Minnesota and settled in
Owatonna in 1856; remained until 1866. Removed to Le Sueur and resided there two
years, and in 1868 moved to Madelia. Since 1879 he has lived at Montgomery,
engaged in practice. Dr. Woods was the attending physician upon the notorious
outlaws, the Younger brothers, after their capture at Madelia until their
removal to Faribault. He has in his possession six teeth from the mouth of James
Younger and the clothing of Charles Pitts, who was killed in the capture. In
1843 Dr. Wood married Miss C. Taisley. They have had fifteen children; eleven
are living.

LANESBURGH.

   Lanesburgh occupies the extreme north-eastern portion of the county, and was
one of the first interior towns to invite settlement. Settlers began taking
claims as early as 1854. Frank Heil and A. Stahl taking the lead. They were soon
followed by J. Reueck, F. W. Rolars, A. Richter and others. Much of the most
available land being in the western portion of the township, quits a settlement
was formed by 1869, and a post-office established. Frank Maertz, postmaster. A
Catholic society was also formed, a church built and cemetery located. There are
now at this point one general store, one shoe shop, blacksmith shop, grist and
saw mill. Present postmaster Joseph Haieal.

   The German Lutheran society have a good church edifice and cemetery located
upon section 6.

   Six good schools are located at convenient points throughout the township.

   Upon section 3, Frank Redley runs a brewery built in 1877.

   A fraction of the town of New Prague lies in the northern part of section 3,
there being but a few private dwellings in this fraction, however.

   Joseph Petricka is a native of Bohemia, born in 1833. He spent his youth in
his native country. In 1869 he came to America; he subsequently located in
Lanesburgh township, on section 4, where he now resides with his family. He was
united in marriage with Miss Mary Swoboda, who has borne him eight children.


Additional Comments:
Extracted from 

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


File at: http://files.usgwarchives.net/mn/lesueur/history/1882/historyo/cordovae80gms.txt

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