Le Sueur County MN Archives History - Books .....Le Sueur City And Township 1882 ************************************************ Copyright. All rights reserved. http://www.usgwarchives.net/copyright.htm http://www.usgwarchives.net/mn/mnfiles.htm ************************************************ File contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by: Joy Fisher http://www.genrecords.net/emailregistry/vols/00001.html#0000031 August 15, 2015, 1:35 pm Book Title: History Of The Minnesota Valley CHAPTER LXIII. LE SUEUR-FIRST CLAIMS-SCHOOLS CHURCHES-BUSINESS-BIOGRAPHIES. The town of Le Sueur, named in honor of the early explorer of that name, is the oldest town in Le Sueur county, and dates its birth in 1852, one year previous to the creation of the county. It is beautifully situated upon a shelving slope on the east bank of the Minnesota river, in the northwestern portion of the county; contains three entire sections and the fractional part of ten others. In its early history there were three villages, Le Sueur, Middle Le Sueur and Le Sueur City, also the township of Le Sueur. Owing to a long dispute over the title of the property upon which Le Sueur City now stands, and the destruction of a portion of the town records by fire in 1866, many facts relating to the early organizations are not to be obtained. The first claim was made by George W. Thompson in the spring of 1852. Soon after, Henry McLean, armed with a license from the governor to operate among the Indians, and upon Indian territory, and in company with John Christy and John Cathcart, forced Mr. Thompson to vacate. A log house was at once erected, the first in the town. Making the best of the situation, Mr. Thompson took another claim one mile further up the river, where the business portion of the town now lies. The log house which he built that summer still stands, one of the oldest landmarks of the county. In June of the same year J. M. Farmer, James Kern and Alexander Bay purchased two-thirds of Mr. Thompson's claim, and immediately had it surveyed and laid out into a village (Le Sueur) by George Nichols, of St. Paul. Several log houses were erected during the fall by the above company. During this time Messrs. McLean, Christy and Cathcart had surveyed their claim, also naming the village Le Sueur. Much to their surprise they found that the Farmer party had outgeneraled them by having their plat recorded, and thereby stolen their name. They were obliged therefore to adopt a new name, and chose Le Sueur City. An attempt to establish a third village between the others, called Middle Le Sueur, added much to the rivalry for supremacy, and a dispute arose over the title to the property of Le Sueur City, growing out of the forcible seizure by McLean, Christy and Cathcart. The incorporation of Le Sueur and Le Sueur City was delayed until June 10 for the former, and June 17 for the latter, 1858. For nine years thereafter the two villages vied with each other, neither observing any regularity in civil matters. On March 9, 1867, by a special act of the legislature, the two rival villages were incorporated in one borough town, Le Sueur, and officers appointed as follows: J. H. Swan, mayor; K. K. Peck, J. C. Maag and H. C. Smith, councilmen; F. Cadwell, clerk; J. Oliver, treasurer; F. Cadwell, attorney; A. J. Rutan and G. W. Stewart, justices of the peace; L. L. Kulp and J. W. Wilkins, constables. Again in February, 1871, to avoid the necessity of two sets of officials, the township organization was done away with, and the entire territory included in the borough town of Le Sueur. Of the early settlers thus far introduced, J. M. Farmer is the only remaining resident. Mr. Thompson returned to St. Anthony two years later, and was accidentally shot in the pineries the following winter. Mr. Christy sold out in 1858, and was killed by the Indians in Nebraska. Mr. McLean also left at an early date. Mr. Cathcart remained until the fall of 1856, having been engaged in mercantile business in company with H. C. Smith during 1855-6; joined the army and was killed during the war. The oldest resident pioneers now living are Patrick Cantwell and his brother Henry, who took a claim of 160 acres, building the third house in the town in June, 1852. Early in the spring of 1853 George Risedorph took a claim and built a small house, which he soon enlarged and used as a hotel, doing a paying business for some time. He sold out and moved to Brown's Valley. In the fall of the same year Mr. K. K. Peck arrived and built a hotel in the lower part of the village. He was soon followed by Ira Myrick, who built a third hotel not far from Mr. Peck's. For several years these hotels did a flourishing business, Mr. Peck removed to Faribalt in 1874. In 1870 Mr. Myrick sold out and moved to Elysian. Among the early settlers who are now prominent business men of the town are W. H. Patton, who came in 1854; Hon. E. R. Smith and Dr. Otis Ayer, in 1856; H. G. Smith and John Maag, in 1855; John Smith in 1857, more extended mention of whom will be found in the biographical sketches. The first postmaster of Le Sueur City was K. K. Peck, appointed in 1853; of Le Sueur was Wallace Swan, appointed in 1854. The first school of which there is any record was taught by Silas Myrick in the winter of 1857, a small frame school-house having been built in the fall. In 1858 Miss Mattie Pearson took the school and taught for one year, having an attendance of from eighteen to twenty-two scholars. This building answered for educational purposes for some years. Soon after the consolidation in 1871 a move was made to erect a new building, and in 1872 the large, handsome two-story brick school-house, of which Le Sueur is justly proud, was built. The school is divided into four grades, the primary, intermediate, grammar and high. Average attendance, 269. Prof. C. M. Green assumed charge September, 1881. Six assistants are under his charge. The organization of religious societies was neglected for many years, even after Le Sueur had become quite a town. From 1855 to 1858 sermons were preached by Rev. C. C. Kidder, in charge of the Red Wing district of the Methodist church; also by Benedictine fathers of the Catholic missions. The Methodists organized the first society in 1856, with C. C. Kidder as mission pastor. There are now thirty-six members. In conjunction with the German Methodists a handsome frame church was erected and is jointly occupied by both societies. In 1858 the First Baptist church of Le Sueur was organized by Rev. E. C. Sanders. A small frame structure was immediately built, but was soon after destroyed by wind, and in 1859 a new and more substantial church was erected. Mr. Sanders acted as pastor most of the time from the organization up to 1879, since which there has been no local pastor. St. Anne Catholic church was organized by Father Venn in 1862, with twenty-six families. A small brick structure was built during the same year, and services have been held regularly ever since. Father Venn officiated until 1870; he was followed by Fathers Kennedy and Stecber. In April, 1880, Father Wurst was appointed local pastor and through his exertions the church has been enlarged and a parsonage purchased. There are now thirty-five families connected with the church. There is a flourishing Sunday school. The church property is valued at $10,000. The German Methodist society was organized in 1861 under the supervision of Bev. J. Speckman with four families. A parsonage was purchased and an addition built to the house, which answered the purpose of a church until 1863, when with the American Methodists a commodious edifice was erected. Rev. Adolph Dulitz is now pastor, and has under his charge 125 families. The First Presbyterian church of Le Sueur was organized in February, 1866, with twenty-one families. Rev. Rockwood McQuesten took the pastorate and acted until 1872. He was succeeded by Bev. Thomas Campbell, who is still pastor. In 1870 a substantial brick house was erected for worship. There are at present ninety-one communicants. The German Evangelical congregation was organized in 1867 by Rev. George Fachtmann, with twelve families. He remained pastor for three years, the last year building a good frame church. In 1870 he was succeeded by Rev. G. M. Eyrich, who is still pastor, having thirty-four families under his charge. In 1866 the Episcopalians organized a church society and put up a frame building. Rev. S. K. Miller is rector. Thirty families attend. One of the earliest religious incidents of the town and county is often spoken of by the old settlers. In the fall of 1852 a laborer who had come from the South was taken sick and after careful nursing by companions, passed quietly away. After taking his body to the grave even those rough frontiersmen laid it carefully down, and with sad faces called upon Patrick Cantwell to say a few words in honor of the dead, there being no clergyman in the country. The sermon that he preached is a model: "Friends, Jake came among us a stranger. He reached to us an ever helping hand, and with a kind, generous heart ever had a pleasant word for all. May we, when the trumpet sounds, be as well prepared to go as he. And now Jake, we bury you with all your faults, and will only remember your noble deeds." Thus was the first funeral of Le Sueur conducted. His remains with several others were interred in lower town, but were subsequently removed to the Hill cemetery, which was established in 1854. This burial place served all purposes until 1869 when the Catholic society organized one of their own. Le Sueur was the county seat from March 5, 1853 to July 30, 1875, except for a short time in 1860, when it was forcibly removed to Cleveland, and owing to its situation in one corner of the county, other towns became dissatisfied and in January, 1860, bloodshed was threatened, one town going so far as to send upwards of 100 armed men to forcibly remove the records and offices. The first birth was that of Mary Le Sueur Peck, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. K. K. Peck, born in 1853. The organization of the Le Sueur Christian Temperance Union which occurred in the fall of 1879, was the direct result of a series of temperance lectures, led by Dr. Tracy. An executive board of nine members, selected from the leading ladies and gentlemen of the town, rented two rooms, one a reading room and the other a restaurant. Various musical and dramatic entertainments were given, netting over $600 to the society which amount was invested in furniture and literature. In June of 1881 the rooms were given up, since which date the regular Monday meetings, when held, have been in one of the town halls. At its organization there were over 200 members. For the past three years the society has made temperance a political issue, succeeding in 1881 in electing one councilman. There are seven secret organizations. Masonic, Union Lodge No. 45, A. F. and A. M., was granted a dispensation in April, 1863, and in October, 1864 a charter was granted. Officers: Robert Travis, W. M.; George W. Taylor, secretary; E. R Smith, treasurer. A dispensation was granted to the Royal Arch Masons, in May, 1881, there being twelve charter members. The officers were: F. Caldwell, H. P.; J. Kinsey, secretary, and E. R. Smith, treasurer. The Equitable Aid Union was organized August 23, 1881, with twenty-four charter members. Officers elected: Robert Brown, president; D. W. Edwards, secretary, and J. M. Farmer, treasurer. The Ancient Order of United Workmen organized October 11, 1877, with fifteen charter members. Officers in 1881 were; C. L. Richardson, M. W.; John Taylor, recorder; D. Baker, financier. The I. O. O. F. was organized March 23, 1880, with five charter members. The officers in 1881 were: Robert Brown, N. G.; C. H. Kinsley, secretary, and E. Hunsaker, treasurer. A charter was issued the Good Templers order, January 7, 1875, there being thirty-one members. Officers for 1881 were: W. H. Bangs, W. C. T.; S. Brown, recording secretary, and E. Goodwin, treasurer. A charter was issued to the Knights of Pythias February 27, 1875, with twelve charter members. Officers in 1881 were: L. L. Kulp, C. C,; C. C. Burdick, K. of R. and S.; S. J. Hewson, M. of F. The various societies have united in furnishing a large and convenient hall, which is used jointly. There are two good weekly newspapers. The LeSueur Sentinel, started April 10, 1873, by Hon. J. J. Green, is an eight column quarto, issued every Thursday; democratic, and the official paper of the county. While it is the democratic organ, it is, strictly speaking, a local paper, and has done much towards the development of the county. The LeSueur News started in May, 1879, is the republican organ of the county. It is a seven column quarto, and is owned and edited by Mr. E. P. Huntington. It has a large and growing circulation. As a commercial town, Le Sueur is not far in the rear of the leading villages of the Minnesota valley. Four general stores, all doing a good business. H. C. Smith, the pioneer, started over twenty-five years ago; increasing his stock and room as the growth of trade demanded; he now occupies a large brick store at the corner of Main and Ferry streets, carries a large stock of groceries, clothing, boots and shoes, crockery and dry goods; also handles sewing machines. The double store of W. H. Patten & Co., was established in 1862 by Patten and Taylor. Soon after Mr. Taylor retired and Mr. Patten continued business alone until 1877 when he gave a one-third interest to his son, W. A., and sold a second one-third to G. W. Taylor. The firm name has since been W. H. Patten & Co. The firm handles all kinds of general merchandise, also large quantities of wood and pork. They have nine employes. Mrs. L. A. Dane opened a general store in 1873. She carries a complete stock of merchandise and gives employment to three people. The fourth general store was opened in 1877 by Funk Brothers. J. P. Funk is manager and has built up a large business. Le Sueur has two banks. The first was established in 1869 by George D. Snow. The following year M. Doran purchased an interest. Several changes were subsequently made. In 1878 E. R. Smith purchased an interest. A general banking, collection and loan business is done. They are agents for three steamship lines. The Le Sueur county bank was established in 1875 by L. Quackenbush, who is still proprietor. Two hardware stores carry everything in their line of business. The first was started in 1855 by Charles Sheffler in a small frame store. In 1877 C. H. Ginthner bought him out and has since continued the business; now occupies a large store and warehouse. He employs four assistants. In 1868 W. H. Tomlinson started a hardware store which has grown from a small business with such rapidity that it now takes five men and a store room 150 feet in depth to conduct it. There are three millinery shops. Mrs. E. S. Brown started in 1874. Miss M. A. Salisbury in 1881 and Daniel Bennett established in 1868. Mr. Bennett also does a large dry goods business. A drag store was opened by H. Meckstroth & Son in 1865. In the spring of 1881 Geltch and Rethvill succeeded the old firm, adding ready mixed paints to their stock. Pierce Brothers succeeded Dr. Swaine in the drug business. They also handle musical goods. They occupy a large brick corner store. The furniture business was established in 1871 by Elshoff & Company. They manufacture a portion of their goods, giving employment to five men. In 1881 a second furniture store was opened by W. Weaver. He carries a large stock and does some manufacturing. There are three livery stables: S. Hewson started in 1880, E. Rutan in 1879 and the Higgins House stable in 1881. Two jewelry stores are run by W. C. Ralls, started in 1872, and Adolph Bernard, opened in 1875. L. E. Olmstead started an exclusive grocery store in the spring of 1881. J. P. Woods, grocer, started in 1876, and A. St. John, groceries, teas and coffees in 1880. The harness and trunk business is represented by two firms; Upheber & Baker, successors to Paul Huber, established in 1865. Ten years later a harness shop was opened by J. A. Cosgrove. Two firms deal in agricultural machinery. C. N. Cosgrove, started in 1875, does a large business, also handles a large amount of stock. In 1879 T. H. Doescher opened an agricultural implement agency. He also handles sewing machines. There is one exclusive clothing house, opened in 1881 by J. E. Ofstie, of Minneapolis. Six saloons are run by the following: H. Schiffer, started in 1877; H. Siemering in 1877; Paul Huber, 1878; John Ahlf, 1879; Frank Erlhoff, 1878; H. Krenke in 1878. There are four wagon shops and six blacksmiths. Two meat markets, John Maag and Boettcher & Wright. One paint shop, by Johnson k Chadwick. A. G. Blaser is a merchant tailor; also F. Baumann. Two good hotels do a large business, the Higgins House, kept by Cochrane Brothers, a three-story brick, and the McColaugh House, a two-story brick with mansard roof, is conducted by William McColaugh. An exclusive boot and shoe house was established by Henry Stiebeling in 1879. Books and stationery, L. B. Davis, established in 1868. M. B. Morton & Company opened a hard and pine wood lumber yard in 1876. A 45,000 bushel elevator was built by W. H. Patten & Co. in 1879. In 1875 Doran & Smith built a 28,000 bushel elevator. The Le, Sueur roller mill, owned by Doran & Smith, was remodeled and enlarged in 1881. It now has a capacity of 150 barrels of flour per day, giving work to eight men. It is run by an eighty horse-power engine. W. H. Stewart operates a one run of stone custom mill and carding-mill combined, built in 1875. A cooper shop, operated by Doran & Smith, employs eight men, who turn out 125 barrels per day. Two brick yards each make about one-half million brick annually, operated by Henry Kruse and H. Dehling. A commission house was opened in 1876 by J. Taylor & Co. The professions are represented by four physicians and five attorneys. E. J. 'Ayer, M. D., began practice in 1854; C. J. Spratt in 1870; Geo. D. Swain, 1875, and Dr. Vosterling in 1861 or '2, and D. W. Edwards, dentist, has practiced four years. The attorneys are A. W. Bangs, C. F. Caldwell, W. Bright, Thomas Hessian and O. S. Parker. There are three public halls, six church edifices, one school-house, a depot and freight-house, built by the Chicago, St. Paul, Minneapolis & Omaha road, which passes through the place, receiving a large passenger and freight business. A substantial iron bridge, which cost $22,000, crosses the Minnesota river. It was built entirely by Le Sueur. John Ahlf, a native of Germany, was born in 1848. On coming to America he landed first in New York, then went to Le Sueur, where for five years he worked on a railroad. He is now engaged in the liquor trade in Le Sueur. Miss Emma Welter became his wife in 1879. They are the parents of one son, John. Peter Arbes is a German, born in 1850. When seventeen years of age he came to America; for two years he engaged in farming at New Ulm, Minnesota, then was employed in various pursuits for several years; was in a brewery three years, manufactured soda-water three seasons, and in 1877 came to Le Sueur. He now gives his attention to brewing beer. His marriage with Miss Seifert took place in 1875. Joe and Charlie are their children. Otis Ayer, M. D., was born in Hampton, Stafford, now Belknap county; New Hampshire, June 19, 1817. He resided on a farm with his parents until 1835, receiving in the meantime a liberal academic education. After having read medicine with Dr. J. A. Danna at New Hampton for some time, he attended Dartmouth College, graduating in 1841. In March, 1842, he graduated from Jefferson Medical College at Philadelphia; removed to New London in 1853, after having enjoyed eleven years of successful practice in his native town. Three years later he came to Le Sueur, where he has since practiced his profession with marked success. During the terrible scenes of the Sioux massacre in 1862 Dr. Ayer, with gun in one hand and surgical instruments in the other, went from place to place attending the sick and wounded. He was the first vice-president of the Minnesota State Medical Society, and in 1877 became its president; is now president of the Minnesota Valley Medical Society. He is surgeon for the Chicago, St. Paul, Minneapolis & Omaha Railroad Company. In 1863 was surgeon of the Second Minnesota infantry, and ten years was examining surgeon for pensions. He is now president of the Le Sueur board of health and Old Settlers' Association. June 27, 1845, Miss N. V. Smith became the wife of Dr. Ayer, but died June 1, 1873, at Le Sueur. David Baker was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, December 22, 1852. He moved with his family to New Ulm, Minnesota in 1860, and lived on a farm about two and one-half miles from the town. At the Indian outbreak in 1862 they went to St. Paul. After the excitement had somewhat subsided the family returned to their farm. David assisted his father until 1870, then learned the trade of harness making in New Ulm. In 1872 he was sworn into a militia company, known as the Governor's Guards. Mr. Baker settled in Le Sueur in 1876 and entered into a partnership with E. Upheber, where he still pursues his trade. Was elected as representative from Le Sueur county in 1880. Daniel Bannatyne, a native of Scotland, was born in 1836. He served four and one-half years in the dry goods trade. He then went to Glasgow and clerked one and one-half years, thence to North England, remaining as a clerk three or four years. Came to America in 1858 and clerked in New York city until 1863.Enlisted in Company M, 16th N. Y. cavalry, as quartermaster sergeant; was discharged in 1865. He continued in the capacity of clerk in some of the wholesale firms of that city until 1869, then came to Le Sueur, started a small business and now has one of the finest stocks of fancy dry goods west of St. Paul. In 1881 he was elected one of the city council. His wife was Miss Elizabeth K. Williams, of New York, married in 1869. F. Baumann, tailor, was born in 1843 and is a native of Germany. In 1868 came to America and proceeded westward to Le Sueur. For about one year he engaged in different pursuits, then established a tailor shop; he learned that business in his native land, and still pursues his chosen trade successfully. His wife was Miss Augusta Demm. They are the parents of four living children. Frank Barnard, contractor and builder, and dealer in lumber, was born May 11, 1848, on Prince Edward's Island, and graduated from the Normal school of his native place. He removed to Boston where he worked two years as contractor and builder. Coming to Mankato, Minnesota, in 1871, he made that town his home six years, then settled in Le Sueur in 1877. Mr. Barnard is here interested in a lumber yard, also continues his business as contractor and builder. Elisha A. Bigelow, proprietor of the Higgins House, was born in Clinton county, New York, in 1824. He engaged in the manufacture of lumber two years, then sold out and was employed as bookkeeper in a glass manufactory two years, and afterward one year in Boston; subsequently he worked fifteen years as traveling agent. During the late war he located in Chicago and clerked for a boot and shoe house; afterward manufactured until 1871 when he suffered from the great Chicago conflagration. In 1872 came to Farmington, Minnesota, and was manager of a hotel there for three years, and in Minneapolis until 1879. Came to Le Sueur at that time and became proprietor of the Higgins House. In 1856 he married Caroline A. Henderson. E. Blaser, a native of Germany, was born February 28, 1853. Learned the tailor's trade in his native country, and when twenty years old came to America. He remained six months at Henderson, Sibley county, Minnesota, following his trade. Since becoming a resident of Le Sueur he has continued in the pursuit of his vocation. Miss Emma Demm became his wife in 1878. They have one child living: Lydia. Rev. Henry Boettcher was born January 1, 1834, in Brunswick, Germany. At the age of eleven years he came to America with his parents. Spent ten years in Missouri, and settled in Le Sueur in 1855, where for five years he gave attention to general merchandizing. In 1861 he entered the ministry of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. Boettcher has been located in Rochester, Red Wing, Salem, Washington circuit, Minneapolis and St. Paul, and is now presiding elder of the Mankato district at Le Sueur. His mother, aged seventy-seven years, and his father, aged eighty, are living with him, and have long since celebrated their golden wedding. Mrs. Julia M. Brown was born in Detroit, Michigan, in 1836. She was educated at Kalamazoo Theological College, and taught school in Kalamazoo county six years, also one year in Wisconsin. In 1859 she was united in marriage with J. W. Brown and settled in Wright county, Minnesota, where they farmed ten years. In 1868 came to Le Sueur and purchased 500 acres of land in the county. Mr. Brown has been largely identified with the milling interests of the county. Mrs. Brown is actively interested in temperance work. Of their seven children six are living. August Budke is a native of Ohio, born in 1852. He came to Le Sueur when fourteen years old and after completing his education learned the tinsmiths' trade. He worked at the trade eight years then was employed as a clerk two years. Subsequently embarked in general merchandising and has since continued, doing a good business. Married in 1874 to Miss Klauke who has home him two children; only one is living. P. Cantwell, a native of Ireland, was born in 1825. After learning the trades of carpenter and wheelwright, he worked in that business eight years. Came to America in 1848 locating first in Pennsylvania. He worked as a mechanic two years and in 1852 came to Le Sueur, there being at that time only one small shanty. Taking a claim of 160 acres he farmed the first year. He and his brother then worked a whip-saw, and by meaus of this slow process obtained suitable material to erect a few buildings which they did. In 1864 he resumed his trade, at which he is still engaged. Married in 1864 to Miss Doherty who has borne him seven children. John M. Cochrane, attorney-at-law, was born March 28, 1859 in Franklin county, Pennsylvania. When ten years of age he came to Minneapolis and began attending school; three months later he entered the University of Minnesota and studied law during his five years' course. He also attended the Curtiss Business College from which he graduated; then entered the Ann Arhor law school; graduated from a two years' course in 1881 and was admitted to the bar. Came to Le Sueur and was admitted to the practice of his profession in Minnesota on the 26th of May, 1881. Hugh Cochrane was born in Chautauqua county, New York in 1835. He lived on the farm until seventeen years of age; in 1852 moved to Wisconsin, resided in that state one year, then located in Wabasha county, Minnesota, and in 1869 settled in Le Sueur. He is now dealing in agricultural implements, etc., with C. M. Cosgrove. C. M. Cosgrove was born in Westfield, Chautauqua county, New York. In 1870 he came to Minnesota and settled in Wabasha county; two years later he came to Le Sueur where he engaged in agriculture and stock raising. He is now in company with H. Cochrane, dealing in agricultural machinery. In 1872 he married Miss Elizabeth Bradley. They have two children. Henry J. Dane was born February 25, 1834 at Mount Vernon, New Hampshire, and when two years old removed to Amherst. There he lived until twelve years of age, then went Groton Massachusetts. He afterwards resided in Boston; came to Minnesota in 1855. Located first in Nicollet county, but remained only a short time and came to Le Sueur the same year. In 1866 he embarked in general merchandising and is now at the head of the house. J. E. Derby is a native of Jackson county, Missouri, born in 1848. After receiving a common school education he was newsboy on a railroad one year; then went westward and for three years followed the life of a herdsman. After farming in Ohio he engaged in the barbers' trade in Illinois, which he has since continued in different places, locating in Le Sueur in 1872. Here he has since followed his trade except one year spent in New Ulm. Miss Emily C. Diener became his wife in 1876. Erastus H. Derby was born in 1810 in Massachusetts. Moved to Oneida county, New York, when two years old and was there educated in the Waterville academy. He learned the tailor's trade which he followed a number of years in different states. In 1836 went to Illinois and engaged six years in traffic with the Indians, and served six years as deputy sheriff, moved to Missouri and served as sheriff two years, then built a saw-mill which he ran until 1853; then worked at carpentering in Chicago two years. December 13, 1861 he enlisted in Company B, 68th Ohio infantry, serving until May, 1863, when he was discharged on account of disability. Subsequently he re-enlisted in the veteran reserve corps and was discharged in 1865. Came to Le Sueur in 1872 and has since resided here. Married Miss R. B. Knowlton. She has borne him fourteen children: seven are living. August R. Doescher was born December 6, 1841, in Hanover, Germany. He received the rudiments of his education in the schools of that country, and at the age of eighteen immigrated with his parents to Le Sueur. In in the fall of 1864 he enlisted in the 10th Minnesota; participated in the battles of Nashville and Tupelo; was finally discharged on account of protracted illness. Immediately following the Indian outbreak of 1862 he with others went to New Ulm to the relief of those in danger. While at a well to water his team the Indians fired volley after volley into the well-house, but he escaped unhurt. J. L. Drake, a native of New York, was born in 1823. When fourteen years of age he moved to Ashland county, Ohio, with his parents. There he completed his education and learned the cooper's trade, at which he worked until 1854. Came to Le Sueur at that time and made a claim of 160 acres of land and built a log house, which still stands in good condition. Mr. Drake now owns 380 acres in this county. Married in Ohio, in 1850, Miss Helen Swan. Three children have been born to them; Mary and Erba are the living. Reverend Adolph Dulitz, a native of Germany, was born in 1838. He enlisted in 1857 as a private in King William's body guard, serving three years. His time was then spent in farming until 1864, when he came to America. After a brief time in St. Louis He went to Illinois, remained until 1865, then moved to Iowa. Purchased 100 acres of land, which he sold four years later and bought another farm of the same size. In 1873 he began preaching in Iowa. Two years later located in Sleepy Eye, Minnesota, as pastor of the German Methodist church. In 1876 he moved to Nicollet county, remained two years, also two years in Mankato. Located in Le Sueur in 1880, and has since been pastor of the German Methodist church of this place. Miss Catherine Bachhaus became his wife in 1867. Four of their five children are living. David W. Edwards was born near Beaver Dam, Dodge county, Wisconsin, February 1, 1849. In 1858 he removed with his parents to Waterloo, Iowa. In 1866 they returned to Columbia county, Wisconsin; he remained with his parents until nearly twenty-two years old, then started out for himself. He succeeded in learning telegraphy, and while taking a course in a commercial college used the knowledge as a means of earning the necessary funds to pursue the study of dentistry. In May, 1878, he located in Le Sueur and opened an office for the practice of his profession. October 21, 1875, he married Miss Mattie James, a teacher in the schools of Columbia county, Wisconsin. They are the parents of two little girls. William E. Elshoff was born in Germany in 1834. When only five years of age he came to America and settled in Ohio, where he learned cabinet-making and pursued the trade twelve years. He came to Le Sueur in 1865; for three years engaged as a carpenter, then commenced the manufacture of furniture, forming a partnership with Charles Steinigeweg, which still exists. This firm is one of the most enterprising in the town, and carries a large stock of goods. Mr. Elshoff married in 1872 Miss Stieding, who died in 1877. Frank Erlhoff, a native of Germany, was born in 1840. Came to America in 1866 and worked in a bakery in Chicago until 1873. Come to Le Sueur and started a bakery. In 1878 he engaged in the saloon and restaurant business, and is also running the only bakery in town. Married in 1869 Miss Shobach. Three children have been born to them; all are living. W. D. Evans was born in New York in 1853. Removed when young with his parents to Pennsylvania and engaged in farming, also worked in a saw-mill- There he learned the engineer's trade, and for three years worked in the oil regions. He was afterward engineer in a saw-mill in Illinois a few months, and in 1876 came to Le Sueur county. For three years he ran engines in different parts of the county, and in 1879 accepted the position of engineer in the Le Sueur City mills. Miss Clara E. Parker became his wife in 1880. Reverend G. M. Eyrich, a native of Germany, was born in 1850. Attended common school four years; afterward graduated from Pasel College, and one year later from Steeden College. In 1871 he immigrated to St. Louis and entered the Concordia College, where he graduated; went to St. Paul and was ordained in 1873 by Rev. L. Van Rague. He had charge of the German Lutheran church at St. Peter for nine months; was then stationed in Olmsted county nearly six years, and in 1879 came to Le Sueur, is now pastor of the German Lutheran church at this place. His wife was Miss Ernestine Vogel, married in 1873. They have three living children. John M. Farmer is a native of Virginia, born in 1819. When nine years old he moved to Ohio and there received his education; learned the carpenter's trade in Cleveland. In 1837 he went to Iowa; worked at his trade some time, afterward spent three years South. He resided in Burlington, Iowa, two years, in Galena, Illinois, three years, and in 1849 went to California; worked at mining nearly two years, then returned to Iowa, and in 1851 first visited St. Paul. In June of the next year he with two or three others came to what is now Le Sueur, purchased the town site, laid it out, and had it surveyed. Returning to St. Paul he remained until 1855; was engaged in grocery business; he served there as deputy sheriff. Came to Le Sueur again in 1855; he followed steamboating a number of years. Was appointed on the gunboat service as ensign in 1863; served until the close of the war. In January, 1874, he was appointed postmaster of Le Sueur, and has since held the position; has also been justice of the peace eight years. A. S. Ford, a native of Norway, was born in 1855. Came to America in 1875, to Dodge county, Minnesota. The first summer he engaged in farming, and the next season went to Austin; worked in a railroad shop five months. He learned the engineer's trade in a cotton mill in his native country, and has since worked at that business in different places. He worked in an elevator and lumber yard in Brownsdale two years, and in 1878 settled in Le Sueur, and has since had charge of the engine for Patten & Company. John P. Funk, of the firm of Funk Brothers, was born in Illinois in 1856. While young he came with his parents to Minnesota, and for a short time attended school in St. Paul, then entered the German Wallace College of Ohio, remained three years and graduated with honor. He then came to Le Sueur and engaged in the boot and shoe business with his brother, who is now in business in St. Paul. Gradually Mr. Funk has added other goods, until now he has a fine stock of general merchandise. His wife was Miss Kate Heinlein, married in 1879. They have one child living. Charles H. Ginthner, born in 1849, is a native of Germany. He came to America with his parents when quite young, and with them settled in Wabasha county, Minnesota, in 1855. Until sixteen years of age he lived on the farm and attended school, then learned the tinsmith's trade, which he followed three years. Removed to Chicago and pursued his trade three years, also four years at Fort Wayne, Indiana. In 1876 he came to Le Sueur; after working as tinsmith two years he established his present hardware business. He married in 1873 Miss Dunu. Mr. Ginthner is a member of the council. James J. Green was born in Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, January 29, 1830 and with his father's family moved to Ohio in 1836; finally located near Springfield where he served an apprenticeship in the printing business, and where for a time he was part owner and editor of a newspaper. He married Miss Minerva Whitridge in September, 1853. Removed to Kankakee, Illinois, in April, 1856 and became joint editor and owner of the Kankakee Democrat. August of that year he moved to Minnesota; the fall and winter were spent in St. Anthony and in the spring of 1857, after the bill for the removal of the territorial capital from St. Paul to St. Peter had passed, he removed to the supposed new seat of government. In August of that year he issued the first number of the Traverse des Sioux Reporter which after a brief existence of six weeks, was swept into oblivion by the sudden financial crash. In June, 1858, Mr. Green, nothing daunted, by the absence of circulating medium, launched upon the sea of journalism again with the Minnesota Statesman, which he continued to publish weekly at St. Peter until the close of 1862. Enlisted in Col. McPhaill's regiment of Minnesota mounted rangers in the capacity of quartermaster sergeant. His paper was revived on his return, and its publication continued at St. Peter until April, 1865, when it was removed to Le Sueur and there destroyed by fire. Mr. Green removed to Winona where he bought one-half interest in the Winona Weekly Democrat. In May, 1869, he became editor of the St. Cloud Times, which relation was continued until the latter part of September, 1870. He then moved to Minneapolis and took editorial charge of the St. Anthony Falls Democrat, continuing in that position until January 1, 1873. In April, 1873, Mr. Green started the Le Sueur Sentinel and has continued its publication regularly since, having meanwhile made it one of the most successful and influential weeklies in the state. Mr. Green has been identified with the history of Minnesota since his entry into it in 1856, not alone as the editor of newspapers but has held several responsible public positions. He was elected clerk of the district court of Nicollet county in October 1857, for a term of four years; was appointed postmaster at St. Peter in 1859, and held the office until the new administration of President Lincoln came into power; was chosen one of the democratic delegates to the national convention in New York city in 1868; was twice elected a member of the board of education of St. Anthony and East Minneapolis; was a member of the joint committee, which united the cities of Minneapolis and St. Anthony; is now mayor of the town of Le Sueur. Thomas Hessian, county attorney, was born in Rockland, Maine, in 1852. Came with his father's family in 1866, to Le Sueur, where for two and one-half years he clerked in a store, after which he embarked in the grocery and confectionery trade. During his spare time he studied law; subsequently he read with Mr. Cadswell for some time and in September, 1877, was admitted to the bar of Minnesota. For one year he was associated with a partner but since 1878 has practiced alone. He was elected county attorney in 1880. October 25, 1877 be married Miss Agnes Barrett. They have three children. Samuel J. Hewson was born September 28, 1857 in Detroit, Michigan. He attended school until thirteen years of age, then was employed as time keeper of two hundred and twenty-five men, for two years. He afterwards learned the trade of working in tin and sheet iron and followed it until 1879. After working as assistant foreman in a tobacco factory two years he came to Le Sueur in the fall of 1880 and engaged in the livery business. Ed. P. Huntington was born March 14, 1855, at Hudson, St. Croix county, Wisconsin. In his native place and New Richmond he was educated, then served an apprenticeship of two years in New Richmond as a practical printer. Subsequently he worked in various offices and with a classmate started the "North Wisconsin News," at Clear Lake, Wisconsin. This paper was conducted creditably for two years when Mr. Huntington sold his interest to his partner. In May, 1879 he located in Le Sueur, and established the "Le Sueur County News," of which he is still editor and proprietor. John Kreger, born in 1837, is a native of Pennsylvania. Until twenty-five years of age he assisted his parents on their farm. Previous to coming to Le Sueur in 1864 he for five years worked in the pineries. Making Le Sueur his home he engaged in teaming for the government from St. Paul to Fort Ridgely; subsequently he gave his attention to farming, and has since been engaged in various pursuits, among which hotel keeping has been the principal one. He was manager of the Key Stone House four years; also four years in the Higgins House; he now keeps a private boarding-house. Married in 1863, Miss Sarah A. Kulp. Of the three children born to them only one is living. Henry Kruse is a native of Ohio, born in 1836. Until twenty years of age be lived on the farm with his parents; afterward spent two years in brick making. Came to Le Sueur in 1861 and after engaging two years in farming he began the manufacture of brick, which he still continues. Married in 1856, Bliss Elizabeth Redwill. They are the parents of eight children. John C. Maag is a native of Switzerland, born April 25, 1811. He learned the butcher's trade, which he followed in his native country, also in different parts of Europe, until 1838. Returned home and remained until 1847, then came to America and bought a farm in Ohio, which he ran four years, then moved into the city of Toledo where he engaged in the meat trade until 1855; during that year he came to Le Sueur. Making a claim of eighty acres he farmed until his enlistment, which was in Company H, Fourth Minnesota. For ten months he served as bugler of the regiment, under Colonel Baxter; had a sunstroke, was also wounded, and was honorably discharged from a hospital in Missouri. Returned to Le Sueur and again embarked in the meat trade; continued with a thriving business until 1880 when he retired. Mr. Maag has spent considerable time in travel through Europe, Asia and America. Christina A. Maag, of Switzerland, became his wife in 1839. Eight children have been born to them: John E., Augusta M., Eliza J. and Odelia P. are the living. George Noys was born July 30, 1813, in England. After learning the shoemaker's trade he worked at it until 1852, then went to Canada where he continued his trade three years. Located in Le Sueur county in 1855 and made a claim of eighty acres which was jumped during the Indian scare; He came to Le Sueur city in 1862, where he has since pursued his trade with the exception of five years spent in Canada. Married in 1843, Miss Cushen. They have one son living, John E. Herman Ohde, a native of Germany, was born July 4, 1855. While a mere child he came to America with his parents, they settling in Wisconsin. He learned the trade of shoemaker, and when seventeen years of age went to Milwaukee to attend college. During the war he joined the militia as drum major of the First Wisconsin; after returning he worked at his trade one year in Boston. From there he migrated to St. Paul, thence to Le Sueur, and has since had charge of Mr. Scheffer's saloon. December 25, 1880, he married Miss Fine. Hon. William H. Patten was born June 20, 1826, in Yarmouth, Nova Scotia, and at the age of eight years moved to Middlesex county, Upper Canada. When sixteen years old he commenced a seafaring life; subsequently became an Indian trader and was so successful as to become the owner, with his brother, of a three-mast barque; on its second voyage it was wrecked and Mr. Patten was thereby made penniless. For some time he was captain of a steamer in the Montreal trade, and in 1854 settled in Le Sueur, where he took a claim. During the Indian outhreak of 1862 Mr. Patten went to New Ulm and there joined a relief party and participated in the defense of the town. In 1863 he began trade in Le Sueur; he is of the well-known firm of Patten, Taylor & Co. In 1861 he was appointed internal revenue assessor, and held the office nine years; was elected to the legislature in 1864 and served one term. He has since devoted his entire time to his large and growing business. W. S. Pierce, of the firm of Pierce Brothers, druggists, was born in Maine in 1849. Came West in 1863 and located at Hudson, Wisconsin, and one year later moved to New Richmond. At the latter place he with his father and brother engaged in farming and milling until 1873. In 1874 he established a drug store at New Richmond and after one year his brother, S. H. Pierce, became a partner. After two years the firm removed to Le Sueur where they have since been located and have built up a fine business. George Plowman was born in Ontario in 1839; be learned the blacksmith trade and for three years followed it. In 1858 he came to Le Sueur, and until his enlistment in 1861 pursued his trade. He joined Company K, Second Minnesota, serving one year; then on account of sickness was discharged. In 1862 he joined the 10th Minnesota; he also took a very active part in the defense of New Ulm and was commissioned second lieutenant of the Fourth Minnesota, afterward promoted to first lieutenant. Was honorably discharged in 1865 at Louisville, Kentucky. Returning to Lo Sueur he resumed his chosen trade. He married Miss Taylor in 1867 and is the parent of one son, George T. Livingstone Quackenbush was born October 11, 1840, in Rensselaer county, New York, where he received a common school education. In 1869 he came west and settled in Le Sueur where he embarked in the hardware trade and in 1875 started the Le Sueur County bank, of which he is now president. In 1878 he became a candidate for senator. Since then he has declined placing his name on any ticket, preferring to give his undivided attention to his personal business interests. During the war Mr. Quackenbush was drafted but rejected on account of physical disability. W. C. Ralls was born in Illinois, in 1835. At the age of fifteen years he began learning the jeweler's trade in St. Louis, and in 1858 moved to Rushville, Illinois; followed his trade until 1861. In August of that year he joined Company C, 33d Illinois infantry, and participated in many important conflicts: was wounded at the battle of Jackson, Tennessee, in which he lost the use of one eye and was shortly after wounded in a railroad collision; served until May, 1865, when he was honorably discharged at New Orleans. In 1872 he became a resident of Le Sueur and is now having a good trade in the jewelry business. His wife was Miss Elizabeth King, married in 1877. Mrs. Alice Robertson, widow of the late John Robertson, was born in 1835, and is a native of Lower Canada. Until the age of eighteen years she attended school, and in 1858 was united in marriage with Mr. Robertson. For twenty-two years they engaged in farming, then sold their farm and came to Minnesota. In 1877 they purchased another but soon after Mrs. Robertson was left a widow with five children. She is now keeping a restaurant with a general assortment of confectionery, cigars, etc. E. P. Rutan was born May 31, 1850, in Williams county, Ohio, but when four years old his parents moved to Indiana and remained one year. Coming to Minnesota they lived in Tyrone township six months, then spent one year on a farm in Lexington township. He was subsequently employed on the Sioux City railroad for three years, after which he gave his attention to photography for the space of five years. In 1880 he began the livery business in which he is very successful. In 1872 Miss Putnam became the wife of Mr. Rutan. She has borne him four children: Lula,William B., and Rena are the living. Herman Schiffer, a native of Germany, was born December 13, 1848. He learned the tailors' trade in his native land and worked at it eight years previous to coming to America in 1870. He settled first in Henderson, Minnesota, hut remained only six months; afterwards remained a few months in Belle Plaine, also in Blakely; returning to Belle Plaine he opened a saloon which he kept two and one-half years, and came to Le Sueur in 1876; here he again opened a saloon and has since continued the business. He was united in marriage with Miss Passmann in 1877; Joseph and William are their children. Hermann Siemering is a German born in 1843. In 1871 he came to America, locating in Le Sueur; he was employed on a railroad five years, then returned to his native land to visit his relatives and friends. Returning again to America and to his former home in Le Sueur, he soon after began the liquor trade in which he still continues. Married in 1878, Miss A. Steinke; one son, Theodore. Hon. Edson R. Smith was born April 8, 1836, in Shoreham, Addison county, Vermont. He worked on his father's farm until seventeen years of age, then in a store in Shoreham two or three years, finishing his education in Newton academy in his native town. In 1856 he came to Le Sueur and formed a partnership with his brother in the mercantile trade, remaining in trade with him until 1859, when he went into the county auditor's office, serving one year as deputy and two years as auditor. In 1863 he resumed mercantile life in company with his brother, continuing until 1878, when he became partner with Hon. M. Doran, in the banking business in Le Sueur. Messrs. Doran & Smith own the Le Sueur steam flouring mill and elevator. Mr. Smith was a state senator in 1868 and '70, and was chairman of committee on the state prison one year, also committee on enrollment the next year; was town councilman five years, a member of the school board seven years, serving as its treasurer principally. He is also a Knight Templar and for three years was master. November 3, 1859, he married Mattie A. Pierson, of New Hampshire. Lewis O., Rollin E. and Fred P. are their children. Henry C. Smith was born March 15, 1834, in Vermont, where he received his academical education. In March, 1855, he came to Minnesota; after a residence of a few months in St. Paul he settled in Le Sueur. On arriving he opened a store of general merchandise, which has grown into a large and flourishing business. Mr. Smith, although thoroughly interested in the business and political welfare of the town, has never entered into public life except a term of four years as county treasurer and twelve years as postmaster. John Smith was born November 20, 1821, in Canton Zurich, Switzerland, where he was educated and learned the trade of wagon-maker. On the 20th of March, 1857, he left there for America; arrived at Le Sueur May 9, and has since lived here, employed in wagon-making. Following the Sioux outbreak in 1862 he went to New Ulm, where he joined a relief party and went out to care for the suffering and bury the dead. During the attack of the Indians on the memorable 26th of August, 1862, he participated in the defense of New Ulm; was wounded in the arm, sent to the hospital for treatment, and for three months following was disabled. Mrs. Harriet C. Snow, whose maiden name was Kniffin, was born August 28, 1833, in Cornwall, Orange county, New York. At the age of seventeen she accompanied her parents to Hoosick Falls, Rensselaer county, where she was married to George D. Snow in 1856. She had previously attended school two years at Pittsfield, Massachusetts. In 1857 she with her husband migrated to Minnesota, and after spending a few months at St. Anthony, settled in Le Sueur county. Her husband died in 1873, and she still resides at the old home. Charles Steinigeweg is a native of Germany, born in 1846. He came to America in 1862 and settled first in Ohio, where he learned the carpenter's trade, at which he worked four years. Came to Le Sueur in 1866, and two years later became a partner with Mr. Elshoff in the manufacturing of furniture. Mr. Steinigeweg was united in marriage with Miss Annie Bode in 1873. They are the parents of three living children. Henry Stiebeling, a native of Germany, was born in 1846. After learning the shoemaker's trade he in 1862 came to America. Locating in Chicago he engaged in the pursuit of his trade ten years; in the great conflagration he lost the accumulations of many years of toil. Came to St. Paul and spent two years; then two months in Minneapolis and Red Wing. In 1877 became a resident of Le Sueur, where he has since lived. Married Miss Mary Ludwig in 1863, and by her is the parent of twelve children, five of whom are living. George D. Swaine, M. D., was born February 18, 1850, in Wisconsin. Was on the farm until thirteen years of age, when in 1865 he came to Le Sueur county with his father's family. Began the study of medicine during spare time, and at the age of eighteen years gave his time wholly to study for two years. He then entered Rush Medical College at Chicago, and remained three years, at the end of which he graduated. Returned to his former home and practiced as a physician and surgeon six months, then removed to Negaunee, Michigan, and there pursued his profession until locating in Le Sueur in 1874. In 1876 he married Miss Ida Stewart. George W. Taylor was born in Canada, March 9, 1841. There he resided until 1863; removed at that time to Buffalo, New York, thence in 1865 to Minnesota. The same year he went to Port Wadsworth, Dakota, and served in the quartermaster's department three years; he then returned to Le Sueur, and is now one of the firm of Taylor, Patten & Company. He had only a common school education, but while at Fort Wadsworth procured books and spent his leisure in studying French and German, which he writes and speaks quite fluently. W. H. Tomlinson was born in Franklin county, New York, in 1843. He attended school until twenty years of age at a seminary in Iowa, where he had moved when thirteen years old. He then clerked one year, after which he spent two years on a farm; removed to Nebraska and with his brother Charles, was employed by the government in getting out wood and ties. Two years later he removed to Iowa and devoted the subsequent two years to hotel keeping. In the spring of 1871 he became a resident of Le Sueur; embarked in the hardware business and now has one of the largest assortments of shelf and heavy hardware in town. His wife was Miss Mary A. Thayer, married in 1862. They have two children. Orr Touslev, a native of Vermont, was born in 1803. When thirteen years of age he accompanied his parents to New York and completed his education in the schools of Jefferson county. Until 1831 he engaged in farming there, then until 1857 lived on a farm which he bought in Portage, Ohio. One year during the time he was a merchant. He arrived at Le Sueur in 1857 and for three years lived on a farm, then was the ferryman at Le Sueur five years; now lives at his farm. Mr. Tousley was elected justice of the peace in 1858 and served two years. In 1828 he married Miss Tirzah Randall, who died January 1, 1866; she bore him eight children; two are deceased. His second wife is still living. Rev. H. J. Van Fossen was born in Ohio, in 1847. At the age of twenty-two years he entered the Ohio university in which he remained three years, then left on account of failing health. One year later he entered the Garrett Biblical institute at Evanston, Illinois; remained three years, then removed to Michigan and preached two years; during the time he continued his studies. In 1877 he came to Minnesota, was admitted to the conference and appointed pastor at Heron Lake where he remained one year. In 1878 he was appointed to the Le Sueur pastorate. Miss S. Randolph became his wife in 1878. One daughter, Mary L. Frederick Vasterling was born in Germany January 11, 1813. He came to America in 1856; was for fourteen years previous a shoemaker. Located in Jackson county, Missouri, where he farmed and .practiced medicine for ten years. Coming to Le Sueur county, be took a claim of 160 acres on which he lived fifteen years, and gave a portion of his time to the practice of medicine. He is now a resident of Le Sueur and is practicing in the Homeopathic school. In 1836 he was united in marriage with Miss Sophia Leikfet and has had eleven children, only two survive: John H. and Henrietta. John H. Vasterling, son of Frederick and Sophia Vasterling was born September 3, 1860 in Sharon, Le Sueur county. He attended school and worked on his father's farm until the age of sixteen years, then began as brakeman on the Sioux City railroad, in which capacity he still serves. Rev. Maximilian Wurst was born October 12, 1855, in Germany, and was educated in the schools of that country, but ultimately graduated from the Grand seminary of Montreal. He was ordained to the sacred ministry on the 20th of April, 1878, by Bishop Grace, of St. Paul. His first charge was in Rochester, Minnesota, and on April 1, 1880, he was appointed to Le Sueur church. 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/lesueurc78gms.txt This file has been created by a form at http://www.genrecords.org/mnfiles/ File size: 58.0 Kb