Redwood County MN Archives History - Books .....Brookville, Willow Lake, North Hero, Springdale 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 September 23, 2015, 11:19 pm Book Title: History Of The Minnesota Valley CHAPTER LXXXII. BROOKVILLE WILLOW LAKE—NORTH HERO—SPRINGDALE-LAMBERTON-DELHI—THREE LAKES—UNDERWOOD-GALES—WATERBURY—JOHNSONVILLE—WEST LINE-VAIL-PAXTON HONNER-KINTIRE—MORGAN-VESTA-TOWNSHIP 111, RANGE 38. Brookville is situated in the southeastern part of the county, and includes all of congressional township 110-34. Settlement began in 1869. Among the first to locate were, H. M. Jensen, Knud Hanson, Peter Jensen, and Ole Petersen, Danes who came in the spring and located in section 24. Of the Americans, J. B. Moore was the first to settle; he came in the summer of 1869, and located in section 4 on the north side of the lake that bears his name. His daughter, Melinda F., married G. E. Conley, at her father's house, November 1, 1873, the first marriage in the town. The first town meeting was held at the house of Peter Bodiger, in section 30, April 19, 1873. Officers elected:—B. F. Cady, chairman; Theodore Johnson and D. McMullen, supervisors; W. H. Brown, clerk; Peter Bodiger, assessor; James Sommer and Otto Lamphier, justices; H. M. Johnson and Abe Lane, constables. No treasurer was elected. Mr. Cady failed to qualify as chairman of the town board, and A. L. McDonald was appointed in his place. The Danish Adventists began holding services at the house of James Sommer in the fall of 1872. The services were conducted by the Rev. J. F. Hansen. The Danish Lutherans began holding services about ten years ago at private houses and still continue. The first school was taught at the house of D. J. Sheffield in section 32. There are now three school-houses in the town. The first birth was that of Hans J., a son of J. A. Hansen. He was born early in 1870. The first death was that of Thorine, a daughter of Ole Nielson, in the spring of 1874. Zara Cornish was born in Ontario county, New York, in 1829. In 1853 he located at Reed's Landing; in 1863 removed to Goodhue county; and two years later to Nicollet county; then to Brown county and in the spring of 1871 entered a homestead in Brookville. In 1862 he enlisted in Company H, Fifth Minnesota; was discharged on account of disability. Married Matilda Youngs in 1848; thirteen children living, Martha, Hilaria, Ruth, Jesse, Emma, Joseph, Ella, Rhoda, Jack, Alice, Effie, Huldah and Hannah. D. McMillan, native of Canada, was born in Prescott county in 1841. In 1864 he went to Pennsylvania and two years after, to Michigan; in 1869 he came to Minnesota; worked at lumbering in the St. Croix Valley; took a homestead of 160 acres on section 22, Brookville in 1869, after which he engaged with a railroad bridge building firm, but now lives on his farm. J. H. Manchester, was born in Canada in 1855, At the age of three, he went with his parents to Ohio and when seven to Michigan, and to Wisconsin. In 1878 he came to Minnesota and settled on section 20, of Brookville. His father was a sailor for thirteen years and in 1850 married Jane Grant who bore him six children, two are living; Joseph and Cora D. The latter is a school teacher. D. J. Sheffield was born in New York in 1833. He was agent for the New York and Erie Railroad at Addison and in 1857 came to Minnesota and was clerk in the office of register of deeds at Minneapolis until fall; went to Belle Plaine and was receiver of wheat in a mill two years, then returned to New York. In the spring of 1860 he went to Wisconsin, which was his home till 1871, then located a homestead on section 32, Brookville. Married in 1870, Elsie Smith; one child; Frank J. Mr. Sheffield served three years in Company H, Third Wisconsin cavalry. WILLOW LAKE. This town is located in the southern part of the county and was first settled in 1871, by Christopher Whelan and his two sons, James McGuire and sons, and Martin Foy, seven persons; they made claims in the spring of 1872. The meeting for organization was held September 27, 1873 and eight votes were cast. H. B. Goodrich was elected chairman, H. Evans and John Deruer, supervisors; W. F. Smith, clerk; C. Whelan, treasurer; W. F. Smith and Martin Foy, justices; James McGuire and William McGrew, constables. NORTH HERO. This is in the southern tier of towns in the county and includes township 109, range 38 and was named after a town in Vermont; it was called Barton for several years. The first settler was Eleck S. Nelson, who came in 1871. Other early settlers were William Carter, Lafayette Bedal, Alfred Smith, and Thomas Allen. The first town meeting was held September 27, 1873, and elected G. G. Thompson, chairman; Edward Coburn and James Peterson, supervisors; Lafayette Bedal, clerk; Gustave Sunwall, treasurer; John Wiggins and Edward Ballard, justices; Alfred Smith and William Carter, constables. In April, 1874, the village of Walnut Grove was laid out on section 30, and an addition has since been made in the town of Springdale. There are in the village, three general stores, one hardware, one drug, one grocery and one furniture store, one flour and feed store, a hotel, confectionery, harness shop, shoe shop, blacksmith shop and one meat market; an elevator with capacity of 12,000 bushels, a lumber yard, one fuel dealer, one saloon, one physician and one law firm. Masonic lodge number 136, was organized in 1878 with twelve charter members, now increased to sixteen. The village was incorporated in 1879, and includes within its limits about 500 acres. The first election was held March 10, 1879; officers: Elias Bedal, president; T. Quartan, J. Leo and C. Clementson, trustees; F. H. Hill, recorder; W. H. Owens, treasurer; Charles Ingalls, justice; J. Russell, constable. The first building erected on the site of the village was the claim shanty of Elias Bedal; the first store was built by Sunwall & Anderson in 1873. Walnut Station post office was established that year; Lafayette Bedal was postmaster; in 1879 J. H. Anderson was appointed. The Congregational society began holding services in 1874 at James Kennedy's, and the following winter erected a frame church. H. C. Simmons is now pastor, and the society now numbers fifty members. The Methodists organized in 1876, and in 1881 built a church at the village; they organized with twelve members, and now have forty-two. Rev. J. N. Powell is pastor. The Swedish Lutherans also have an organization. The first school was taught in the winter of 1873-4 by Lafayette Bedal at his house, with fifteen scholors. There are at present three frame school-houses in the town. Newton M. Abbett was born in Kentucky in 1831, and in 1839 moved to Indiana. In 1865 he came to Minnesota and located in Dakota county, was there until 1872 when he settled on section 14, town of North Hero, Redwood county. He married in Indiana, in 1864, Mary Jane Bane. Elias Bedal was born in Picton, Canada, October 17th, 1822. At the age of 24 he went to Illinois and a short time after to Berlin, Wisconsin, where he lived ten years, then came to Olmsted county, Minnesota, where he farmed until 1863. He then enlisted in Company C, Brackett's battalion and was discharged at Fort Snelling in May, 1866. He then engaged in the grain trade at Eyota until 1875, when he came to Walnut Grove, built the first grain elevator and has since dealt in grain. He has been president of the city council. Married in 1846, Miss Maria Clark, of New York. They have had six children, five of whom are living. John R. Fitch was born in St. Lawrence county, New York, March 29tli, 1849, and remained there until nearly eighteen years old, then came to Minnesota. He lived in Winona county six years, then on a claim in Murray county until 1873. In October, of that year, he opened his store at Walnut Grove. He was chairman of the board four years. In 1868 he married Josephine Rice. They have two children. F. F. Goff was born in Oswego county, New York, May 24th, 1832. He began learning the trade of carriage making at seventeen which he followed until he enlisted in Company G, First N. Y. artillery in 1861. He was taken prisoner at Bristow Station and confined in Libby and Belle Island prisons four months. He was exchanged and on his return to his regiment was made second lieutenant; he was sent to hospital for sickness, and was discharged in January, 1864. He then went to Mexico, New York, and two years later to Tomah, Wisconsin, and engaged in carriage making. He lived in Plainview, Minnesota, and in St. Charles. In 1877 he came to Walnut Grove and after working at carpenter work three years, took charge of a lumber yard for Laird, Norton & Co. Married in 1855, Miss Delia Parkhurst. They have one daughter, Belle. Dr. R. W. Hoyt was born in New Haven, Addison county, Vermont, February 14, 1852. At the age of eight years he went with his parents to Iowa, and from there to Fillmore county, Minnesota. In 1875 he graduated from Rush Medical College, Chicago, and located at Lenora, Minnesota. One year later he came to Walnut Grove, where he has since practiced his profession. Married in June, 1880, Myra E. Tester, of New Lisbon, Wisconsin. Charles L. Webber was born in Racine, Wisconsin, in September, 1842. In the spring of 1862, he enlisted in Company E, 19th Wisconsin, and served until October 27, 1864, when he was taken prisoner at Fair Oaks, and held until just before the surrender of Richmond; he was discharged at Madison, and during the winter of 1865-6 attended commercial college at Milwaukee. In 1867 he settled at Eyota, Minnesota, and for three years clerked: then ran a lumber yard one year. Had charge of a store at Lafayette Mills, Wisconsin, for a time, then came to Walnut Grove and to a farm. In May, 1881, opened the store he now runs. In 1871, he married Lucy Bedal; has three children. SPRINGDALE. The town of Springdale is the extreme southwestern corner of Redwood county. Its surface is a rolling prairie. A man named Frink built a house in 1860, at Walnut Grove, but left at the time of the Indian outbreak. In June, 1867, Joseph Steves located on section 36, and built a house over the cellar Frink had abandoned. For several years he was the only settler in the town; in 1871 the land was taken by numbers, and the town is now well settled. The first school was taught by Rhoda Hall, in 1872. A post office called Summit was established on the west line of the town about 1872, and was discontinued when Tracy was established in 1874. The town was organized as Summit, November 21, 1873, but the name was soon changed to Springdale. The first town meeting was held at the house of Leonard Moses. LAMBERTON. Lamberton is located on the south border of the county, and in the third tier of towns from the west. It is named in honor of H. W. Lamberton, of Winona. The town was formerly a part of Charlestown, hut was separated in 1874. The first settler was J. F. Bean, who came in July, 1864, and located a claim in section 25. He brought his family out in December, 1866, and lived in the town but a few years when he sold out and went away. The next settler was M. B. Abbett, who came in the fall of 1869 and located in section 24, where he lived until the past fall, when having been elected sheriff of the county, he moved into Redwood Falls. In October, 1872, Praxel & Schandera erected a small building in section 20 and on the south side of the railroad and near what is known as Cottonwood Crossing. They put in a stock of goods and had quite a trade which they conducted until 1874, when they moved to the present site of Lamberton. Charlestown post-office was established in 1873, and located at their store, with A. A. Praxel as postmaster. He resigned when they moved their store, and G. L. Wagner was appointed. He held the office about two years when it was discontinued. The village of Lamberton is located in section 23, and was started in 1873. The first building on the site was the house of C. R. Kneeland. In 1875 the grasshopper plague gave the village a backset by causing all the business men to leave excepting one. In 1877 the village took a new start and has advanced with a steady, substantial growth. There are now in the village three hotels, five general stores, two hardware stores, one drug store, one bank, one shoe shop, two blacksmith shops, one wagon shop, two meat markets, three elevators, one coal and wood yard, one lumber yard and three saloons. The professions are represented by two lawyers and one physician. The Lamberton Commercial, newspaper, was established in December, 1878, by W. W. Yarham, and issued weekly. In June, 1880, he disposed of it to A. M. Goodrich, who continued the publication of the paper until January 19, 1882, when it was suspended for lack of support. Lamberton post-office was established in the fall of 1873, and located at C. R. Kneeland's store. Several changes in postmasters and locations have been made. The present postmaster is Dr. L. S. Crandall, and the office located at his drug store. The village was incorporated by an act, approved by the legislature March 3, 1879. The following persons were appointed commissioners to conduct the first election. J. S. Letford, Frank Schaudera and N. P. Nelson. The election was held at the school-house, March 17, 1879. Thirty votes were cast, and the following officers elected: J. S. Letford, president of council, N. P. Nelson, W. M. Beed and L. S. Crandall, trustees; Frank Schandera, recorder; W. E. Golding, treasurer; M. M. Madigan, justice, and J. A. Letford, constable. The corporate limits include the west half of section 23. The town of Lamberton was set apart for organization March 4, 1874. The first election was held April 1, following, at W. W. Kelly's warehouse. The judges of election were J. H. Abbett, H. Small, George Porter. The clerks were William Johnson and W. W. Kelly. The following officers were elected: J. H. Abbett, chairman, Hiram Small and John Pierce, supervisors; W. E. Golding, clerk; William Johnson, assessor; M. B. Abbett, treasurer; J. E. Libby and P. L. Pierce, justices, and Albert Small constable. The first school was opened in the summer of 1875 by Miss Louise Kelly, with about sixteen scholars, at J. H. Abbett's house in section 22. The following fall a building was erected and occupied the next winter. The town now has three school buildings, all frame. The Congregational society began holding services in 1875, in Mr. Kelly's warehouse. In 1877 an organization was effected under the ministry of the Rev. Leonard Moses. The present pastor is Rev. George Holden, and services are conducted weekly. The Catholics held services as early as 1876, but no organization has been effected, and services are conducted irregularly. The Methodists began holding services in the spring of 1879; the minister was Rev. John Gimson. An organization was effected the following summer with about six members, The present pastor is the Rev. J. H. Harrington, of Sleepy Eye, who conducts services once in four weeks. A frame church was partially built during the summer of 1880. M. B. Abbett was born in Bartholomew county, Indiana, in 1844, and lived there until seventeen years of age, then enlisted in Company G, 33d Indiana infantry, and served until mustered out in 1865. In the fall of that year he came to Minnesota, and until 1869 lived in Dakota county; he then came to Lamberton, among the first settlers. He was the first town treasurer, and was chairman of board four years; in 1881 he was elected sheriff of Redwood county, and assumed the duties of that office January 1, 1882. Married at Farmington in 1868 Hulda Hawkins. William Allen and Maggie Effie are their living children. Hogen Anderson, native of Norway, was born in 1830. In 1843 he came to America and located at Racine, Wisconsin; learned the trade of wagon-maker. Came to Minnesota and settled in Dakota county in 1865; to Cottonwood in 1868, engaged in farming. Came to Lamberton in 1879, and carries on the wagon-making business. Married in 1853 Anna Christopherson, who was born in Norway in 1832. Of eleven children born, nine are living. Franklin Archer was born in Livingston county, New York, in 1835, and at the age of three went with parents to Ohio. In 1852 moved to Wisconsin, and in 1867 to Iowa. Came to Minnesota and located a farm on section 2, town of Lamberton. Married in Columbia county, Wisconsin, in 1855, Eliza Preston, who was born in Livingston county, New York. They have six children living. Charles Chester was born in Norway in 1858, and came with parents to America in 1861, settling in Illinois. In 1862 came to Jackson county, Minnesota, and six months later to Howard county, Iowa, where they lived four years, then returned to Jackson county. He worked on a farm until fifteen, then followed clerking until 1878, when he began business at Lamberton with his brother. Lewis Chester was born in Norway in 1856. He came with his parents to this country and followed farming and clerking until he embarked in business with his brother under the firm name of Chester Brothers. In November, 1880, he married Mary Tagley, a native of Norway. R. Clausen was born in Denmark in 1840. He came to America in 1866 and engaged in brick manufacturing in New Jersey. Came to Minnesota the next year and located at Winona; was railroading and kept hotel and saloon until 1872 then came to Redwood county and for five years was on a farm in Waterbury. In 1878 he bought the Lamberton hotel and ran it until 1881, then engaged in saloon business next door. At Winona, in 1871, he married Mary Christiancy. They have had five children; only two are living. Dr. L. S. Crandall was born in 1834, in Allegany county, New York, and in 1846 the family moved to Wisconsin. Attended college there and in his native state, also studied medicine, which he continued with Dr. Russel after removing in 1863 to Sibley county, Minnesota. From 1870 until 1874 he was at Alden, then one year in Mankato and also practiced a short time Omaha. He was at Winnebago Agency from 1875 to 1878 and afterwards kept a drug store and continued his practice at Lamberton. Dr. Crandall enlisted in March 1865, and served till the close of the war. Married in Wisconsin in 1857, Eunice Campbell. Four children are living, in 1881 the doctor was appointed postmaster of this place. William E. Golding was born in 1838 in Indiana. After leaving school he learned blacksmithing, and remained in that state until 1860; came to Olmsted county, Minnesota and in 1861, enlisted in Company B, Second regiment of this state; remained in the army until the close of the war. Returned to Indiana, where he was employed at his trade. In 1871, removed to Charlestown, Redwood county, but eighteen months later he came to Lamberton. Since 1879 he has been farming on section 2. Henrietta Thrasher, born in Indiana in 1839, was married in 1864 to Mr. Golding. A. M. Goodrich is a native of Minnesota; he was born at Silver Creek, Wright county in 1860. After attaining his education at the high school of Anoka he passed three years in teaching winters and learning the trade of printer in the summers. On the 1st of June, 1880, he purchased the Lamberton Commercial. Antoine Goolen, native of Canada, was born in 1830; while young he removed to Vermont with his parents and there learned the trade of moulder. He went to Wisconsin in 1856 and engaged in farming; removed to Redwood county, Minnesota, in 1872 and afterwards to California where for fourteen months he was mining; located in 1875 on section 6 of Lamberton. In 1851 he married Mary L. Digneal, born in 1835 in Canada; eight of their ten children are living. W. A. Hackley was born in 1826 in New York. In 1844 he went to Michigan and in 1846 to Wisconsin, where he learned the trade of mason. From 1849 until 1856 he was engaged in mining and in mercantile trade in California, then returned to New York. He was in Wisconsin and Iowa from 1860 until 1871, at which date he came to Minnesota and has lived in different parts of the state, but since the spring of 1879, his home has been at Lamberton; works at his trade, also deals in wood and lumber. Mr. Hackley is justice of the peace. Married in 1862, Elmira Littlejohn; one child, Archie. C. M. Herreman, native of Ohio, was born in 1844, in Tioga county, but when young went to Columbia county, Wisconsin, to live, and completed his education at the Appleton University. Until 1863 he followed teaching and clerking, then enlisted in Company B, 22d Wisconsin infantry and was mustered out when the war closed. In 1870 he went to Mankato, but in 1874 removed to New Ulm and engaged in painting; came to Lamberton in 1877 and located on section 6. January 1, 1875, he married Rena Johnson. They have three living children. J. N. Hymes, born in 1853, is a native of Paw Paw Grove, Lee county, Illinois. In 1857 he accompanied his parents to Rochester, Minnesota. He was employed, after leaving school, in farming and wheat buying; has continued in the grain trade since coming, in August, 1880, to Lamberton. Mr. Hymes was married in 1874; his wife was Miss Ella Dieter, born in 1854, in Wisconsin. Their children are Clara L. and Herbert J. Fredrick Immel was born in 1833, and in 1852 emigrated from Germany, the land of his birth, to America. He acquired his education under a private tutor, and located in New York city, where he learned wood carving. Afterward worked at his trade in Baltimore, and from 1857 to 1861, in Cincinnati. Married in the latter city, in 1858, Augusta Parbs, who was born in 1833, in Germany. Lived in New Ulm from 1861 until 1877, when he opened his hotel in Lamberton. Mr. Immel has a step daughter. W. W. Kelly was born in 1833, in Michigan. Migrated in 1855, to Winona county, Minnesota; worked at farming also insurance and machine business; about 1871 he came to Redwood county, and in 1873, to Lamberton, where he was in the hardware trade; also dealt in lumber and grain; sold in 1877 and afterward was in real estate business; for a time his family resided at Northfield, because of better educational advantages. Since 1880 their home has been on section 12, of Lamberton. Married in 1857, Laura L. Murry. Louisa C. is their only living child. C. R. Kneeland was born in Medina county, Ohio, in 1846. When he was a babe the family settled in Wisconsin, where he was brought up and engaged in mercantile trade. In 1872 he removed to Charlestown, Minnesota; the year following he came to Lamberton, and it was he who erected the first building in what is now the village; until 1876 he kept a store and eating house then went to Wisconsin but returned in 1878 and has been farming on section 14, since. Kedi_ Sayles, born in 1848, became his wife in 1866. A. C. Lamport, native of Illinois, was born in 1852 at Aurora, and while young accompanied his parents to La Salle county. Removed in 1857 to Wisconsin; completed his education in Benton Harbor, Michigan, and afterward engaged in teaching. Came to Minnesota in 1880; is employed in the public schools here. Married in 1876 at Mount Pleasant, this state, Heppie M., daughter of Hon. John A. Jackson. John B. Lauer was born in 1858 in Brown county, Minnesota, and completed his education at Mankato. Learned painting in that city; after working at it three years he followed butchering in Mankato, two years. Came to Lamberton in 1878, clerked one year and has since been in the butcher business. Mr. Lauer's wife was Hettie R. Fisher, she was born in Wisconsin in 1860, am married in 1879. They have one child, Sylvia. J. S. Letford was born in England in 1826, and came to this country in 1840. In Cincinnati, Ohio, he learned the trade of making machine patterns and worked there until 1855, then came to Minnesota. After working at his trade eighteen months in St. Paul, he engaged in building, in Carver county. He was a member of the legislature from that county in 1859, '60 and '62, then engaged in real estate and money loaning business. In 1872 he went to Golden Gate and was engaged in merchandising four years, then came to Lamberton, opened a store and also engaged in banking business. He is agent of the American Express Company and was postmaster at Golden Gate and in this town, for several years. He married in Cincinnati in 1846, Jane Jones; of the seven children born, five are living. Mr. Letford's father was in the British Army and was wounded at the battle of Waterloo. Joseph E. Libby, born in New Hampshire in 1827, removed with his parents to New York city where he attended school and afterward engaged in hotel business. Since 1872 he has been farming in Lamberton; owns 160 acres of land. For eight years he has been justice of this town. In 1850 he married Eliza A. Van Schaack, who was born in 1829, in New York. Of their five children one is living: George W., a lawyer, practicing in Lamberton. M. M. Madigan, native of Wisconsin, was born December 20, 1850, and at the age of fourteen moved to Rochester, Minnesota for one year after which, until 1868, he ran on the river. He attended college two years at Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, then engaged in teaching in Wabasha, Minnesota. Mr. Madigan was admitted to the bar January 4, 1879, and located in Lamberton; he was the first president of this village. His wife, Nettie Bang, was born in 1861 in Norway; their marriage occurred in 1878. They had one child who died in infancy. N. P. Nelson was born in 1842, in Denmark, where he learned milling. Immigrated to Wisconsin in 1864; moved to Stillwater and until 1869 was in the lumber trade; then dealt in merchandise at Carver. He afterward did business at Golden Gate and Sleepy Eye; in 1877 came to Lamberton and bought the lumber business of W. W. Kelly which he still continues; also kept, for a time, a hotel and agricultural store; Elida E. Letford became his wife in 1870, and has borne him two children: one is living. Rasmus Olson, native of Denmark, was born in 1852. He learned the trade of butcher in that country, and afterward spent two years fishing in Greenland; returned to Denmark for a few months, and in the fall of 1878 immigrated to Lamberton, Minnesota. He built the fine meat market where he is now doing business. Mrs. Anna W. Osher nee Frederickson, was born in 1857, in Norway. In 1862 the family moved to Iowa, where she was married, October 5, 1876, to William Osher, who was born in 1856 in Wisconsin, moved to Iowa at the age of fifteen and completed his education at Decorah, after which he taught several terms, and then engaged in general mercantile trade. Removed to Redwood county, Minnesota, and since 1879 she has been in business at Lamberton. Mrs. Osher has one child, Mabel. Josiah Pierce, native of New York, was born in 1822, in Livingston county. After leaving school he was employed in farming, which occupation he continued after moving, in 1857, to Wisconsin. Removed to Iowa, and in 1876 located on his farm on section 4, Lamberton; owns 480 acres of land. His marriage with Cordelia Brown occurred in 1841. The children are Josiah and Cordelia. P. L. Pierce, native of New York, was born in 1839, in Livingston county, and when five years of age went with his parents to Columbia county, Wisconsin. Removed in 1861 to Bremer county, Iowa, where he kept a hotel and was also employed in farming. He came to Minnesota in 1872, and located at Lamberton; April, 1881, he became proprietor of the Lamberton House. Mr. Pierce was married in Wisconsin in 1869, to Rebecca Briggs, born in 1844, in Indiana. Four of their five children are living. A. A. Praxel was born in Austria in 1838. He came to America in 1849 and located at Meadville, Pennsylvania; in 1854 came to Winona, Minnesota, and was on a farm and in the implement business until 1859. He then began traveling for a Cincinnati drug house and was in that business until 1862. In August of that year he enlisted in Company E, Sixth Minnesota, and was discharged at Fort Snelling in 1865. He traveled through the state until 1871, then opened a store at Cottonwood station, and in 1874 moved to Lamberton, and is a member of the firm of Praxel and Scharbera, general merchandise. Married in 1865, Mary King, of France; she died in 1866 and he married Mary Nallenger. They have four living children. N. P. Reed, son of William and Sarah Reed, was born in 1857, at Newark, New Jersey, and lived in that state until 1871. After residing several years at Saginaw and Green Bay, he came in 1879 to Lamberton and opened a lumber yard. His father, who was born in Ireland, is living in New York, which was the native state of the mother, Sarah Palmer. There are two sisters, Mary J. and Anna M., and one brother, William. John Roth, native of Germany, was born in 1843. He came to this country in 1859 and located in Columbus, Wisconsin. In that state he learned the blacksmith trade, and in the spring of 1861 enlisted in Company H, Second Wisconsin infantry; served until the close of the war. He came to Minnesota in the fall of 1866 and lived in New Ulm until 1868, then moved to a farm in Cottonwood county. Since 1876 he has had a blacksmith shop in Lamberton. In 1862 he married Louisa Halter. They have had ten children; five are living: Fred, Henry, Clara, Emma, Elizabeth. Hiram Small was born in Somerset county, Maine, in 1835. He moved with his parents to Illinois in 1846, and to Minnesota in 1857. He lived in Wabasha until 1872, then came to Lamberton and located on a farm in section 22. He enlisted at Lake City in February, 1865, and served through the remainder of the war. Married in Grundy county, Illinois, in 1855, Sarah Roberts, who was born in 1837. Of the ten children born to them eight are living. H. J. Smith was born in Dodge county, Wisconsin, in 1857, and was raised on a farm. After leaving home he was agent for the Wisconsin Central Railroad at Elk Lake. He came to Minnesota in 1878 as agent at Minneota; from there went to Lake Benton, then to Volga, Dakota; from there he came to Lamberton as agent of the Winona and St. Peter Railroad. He is also engaged in the wood and coal trade. His father, Daniel Smith, was a native of Rhode Island, and died at Macon, Nebraska, at the age of fifty-nine years; his mother still resides at that place. DELHI. Like all the other towns in the county this one was once a part of Redwood Falls. It is situated in the northern part of the county and borders on the Minnesota river. When first set apart for organization, it included all in the county of congressional township 113, range 36, subsequently the fractional part of township 114, range 36, was attached. The first town meeting was held at Worden & Ruter's mill in section 36, February 19, 1876. Officers elected: Thomas H. King, chairman, George Stronach and John Anderson, supervisors; James Anderson, clerk; Daniel McLean, treasurer; Alex. McCorquodale, assessor; Isaac Leslie and Ezra Ticknor, justices; George Gaffney and John Whittet, constables, and David Whittet, overseer of highways. The first settler was Carl Simondet, who came in 1865, and settled on section 13, where he lived until 1880, when he died. His son, who also took a claim in 1865, now lives on the old homestead. There appeared no more settlers until 1868, when John and James Anderson and Alex. McCorquodale came in. The first birth was that of Christina, a daughter of Isaac and Margaret Leslie January 18, 1873. The first marriage was that of Andrew Stewart and Miss Kate McLean in December, 1872. John McLean died June 30, 1877, and was buried in the cemetery at Redwood Falls; the first death in the town. The first school was taught by Miss Thora McNiven, with seven pupils, in section 20, during the summer of 1873; there are three organized districts in the town and but two school-houses. In the summer of 1870 religious services wen held at the home of John McLean by Rev. R. G. Wallace, Presbyterian minister. During the winter of 1870-1, an organization was effected by the Rev. J. L. Whitta, with thirteen members. They now have a membership of twenty-eight. James Anderson, native of Canada, was born in the province of Ontario, October 29, 1845. It 1864 he went to Iowa and shortly after returned to his old home, where he remained with his parents until 1867, then came to Minnesota and in the spring of the following year, to his present farm, which consists of 320 acres. He married it 1874, Maggie B. Brown, of St. Mary's, Canada. Mr. Anderson has held the office of town clerk and clerk of school district since its organization. Is now a county commissioner. William Anderson was born near the village of St. Mary's, Canada, March 3, 1851. He liyed with his parents until eighteen years of age, then went to Iowa where he was employed on a farm. He returned to Canada and in March, 1880, came to Redwood county and to the farm he now owns. He has eighty acres of land, forty acres cultivated. In connection with farming he works at the carpenters' trade. Married Joanna Steel in 1876; she was born at Toronto in 1856. They have two children, Maggie Isabella and Edward George. A. J. French was born in Jo Daviess county Illinois, March 14th, 1855. His parents removed to Cedar Falls, Iowa, in 1861, where his father worked at carpentering. A. J. came to Minnesota in 1874, and located in Wabasha county. In 1880 he came to Delhi; he is now conducting a farm of 220 acres for A. T. Felton, Mr. French married in March, 1880, Miss Mary Allison, who was born in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, in 1857. They are the parents of one child. George Reiber was born in Wurtemburg, January 6th, 1843, and when nine years of age came with his parents to America. They settled near Niagara Falls, New York. In 1861 he enlisted in Company C, 28th New York infantry, and participated in many hard fought engagements. For eleven months he was confined as a prisoner in the pens of Andersonville. He served until 1865, and was discharged at New York city. In 1867 he came to Minnesota and located a farm in Sheridan Redwood county, the next year. He came to the farm on which he now lives, in 1877, but still owns his original claim in Sheridan. Married in 1867, Miss Evaline Knowlton, who has borne five children; two boys and two girls are living. G. L. Richardson, native of Ohio, was born in Columbiana county, near the village of New Lisbon, June 5tb, 1849. His parents moved to Williams county and he was there raised on a farm. In 1865 he enlisted in the 195th Ohio and served until the close of the war. In 1873 he came to his farm of 320 acres in the town of Delhi. Was married in 1873 to Miss M. J. Dolvin; they have three children, two girls and one boy. Mr. Richardson has been justice and constable. George Stronach was born in Scotland, October 21, 1837. He was brought up on a farm, and in 1869 came to Wabasha county, Minnesota. In 1874 he came to his present farm in Delhi, of 160 acres on section 20, seventy-five acres under cultivation. He has been supervisor and treasurer. D. G. Willard was born at Utica, New York, March 23, 1854. In 1868 he came with parents to Mankato, where they remained until they died. He had charge of a flour mill at Garden City five years, and in 1878 came to Delhi, Redwood county, where he has 320 acres of land. Married in 1878, Lizzie Thurston, who was born at Garden City, Minnesota. They have two boys and one girl. Mr. Willard is justice of the peace. THREE LAKES. This town is in the eastern part of the county, and derives its name from the group of lakes in the northern part of the town. The first claim was made in the spring of 1868 by David Watson; the claim was jumped by two men, Hunt and Walker; they put up a shanty and lived there for a time, but in 1869 Watson regained possession. Settlers of 1869 were David Parker, Henry Blanchard, Ora A. and Oland Sisson, Mike Mahoney and A. J. Welch. Mary Tenney taught the first school in 1874; a frame school-house was built in 1876. Three Lakes post-office was established in 1875, and discontinued in two years. The first town meeting was held at the house of David Watson, April 4, 1876. Officers elected: James Watson, chairman, Robert Parker and Abel Leighton, supervisors; Daniel Watson, clerk; Robert Parker, assessor; Robert Montgomery, treasurer; James and David Watson, justices; David Parker and Albert Dahms, constables; Robert Montgomery, poundmaster. James Watson, native of Scotland, was born in 1842, and remained in that country until twenty-seven years old. He then came to the United States and remained one year in Lake City, Minnesota, then came to Redwood county. He was chairman of the board when the town was organized, and has also been justice of the peace; has been town clerk for the past four years. He married in 1875 Mary E. McPhee; they have four children: Maggie, John, Arlo and Lizzie. UNDERWOOD. This town is in the north-west corner of the county. Levi Ten Eyck, who located on section 20, in August, 1869, was the first actual settler. George and Charles Mead, Archie and William Stewart, John Noble, Archie McLean and R. H. McKittrick came the nest year. May 2, 1876, the town was organized; the first officers were: William Cahoon, chairman, Malcom McNiven and A. H. Morgan, supervisors; Daniel McNiven, clerk; R. H. McKittrick, assessor; Levi Ten Eyck, treasurer; Archie Noble and James McKay, justices; Collin Matheson and James Gilkey, constables. There was no school till the winter of 1879, when Mrs. William Simmons taught at home. Box Elder post-office was established in 1879, and Eben Martin appointed postmaster. The first marriage was James McKay and Anna Monroe, by Rev. Mr. Simmons, in 1877. The first birth was Van Dyke, son of Levi Ten Eyck, born March 20, 1870. A son of Henry Johnson died in 1877: the first death. R. H. McKittrick was born near Belfast, Ireland in 1847, and at the age of six, came with his parents to Berlin, Wisconsin. He learned the trade of cabinet maker. In August, 1863, he enlisted in Company B, of heavy artillery, and served until honorably discharged at Madison. During his service he was in hospital several months. In 1869 he made a claim of 160 acres in the town of Underwood, where he now lives. Married in 1871, Miss Mary E. Barr. One child, Nessie M. Malcolm McNiven, native of Scotland, was born May 20, 1818. Went with parents to Nova Scotia in 1822 and lived there until 1852, then moved to Canada. In 1868 he came to Olmsted county, Minnesota, and one year later to Redwood county; finally settled on section 6, Underwood, where he has since lived. Married in 1843, Miss Mary McIntyre. The children are Julia A., Flora, Margaret, Elizabeth, Colin, Donald and James. Colin McNiven was born in Nova Scotia in 1846 and at the age of six years went to Canada with his parents. He resided in that country until 1860. In 1868 he came to Minnesota and has since run a livery stable at Marshall; he also has 160 acres of land. A. H. Morgan, native of Connecticut, was born in 1833, and remained in that state until twenty-two years of age, then went to Illinois. He moved to Lodi, and after attending business college at Indianapolis, went into a store at Lodi, where he remained until 1874. In that year he came to Underwood, Redwood county, where he has since lived. Has been assessor and supervisor. Married in 1870, Mrs. Mary J. Odell, who had one child, Lyman R. She has borne him three children; Ella S., Albert T. and Walter G. A. Noble, native of Nova Scotia, was born in 1838, and when fourteen, moved to Canada, where he remained until 1865. He went to California and remained four years, then after a short time in Minnesota, returned there and remained one year. He was next on Lake Superior two years, and in 1872, came to Underwood township and settled on section 6. Has been justice since the town was organized. In 1873, Flora McPhee became his wife. Alfred and Mary are the children. Levi Ten Eyck was born in New York State in 1837. In 1856 he went to California, and was mining in Nevada county. From there he went to Peoria county, Illinois, and remained until 1869; he then came to Minnesota and located on section 20, Underwood township. With the exception of one year has been treasurer since the organization of the town. Married in 1862, Miss Altha Root; they have six children; William, Samuel, Isaac, Norman, VanDyke and Levi. GALES. This town is located on the west side of the county, and was named for the first settlers, A. L. and S. S. Gale, who came in May, 1872; at the same time C. H. and C. W. Piper located. A. J. and C. E. Porter came during the same summer. July, 1876, the first town meeting was held at the house of A. J. Porter; officers elected: A. J. Porter, chairman; C. J. Nelson and J. J. Kelsey, supervisors; C. E. Porter, clerk; S. S. Gale, assessor; C. J. Nelson, treasurer; A. L. Gale and A. P. Langnest, justices; Hans Peterson, constable. The first school was taught by Ada Thrall in the summer of 1879, using O. W. Ellis' granary. There are now three frame school-houses in the town. F. W. Harding, who is a native of Canada, was born September 12, 1857. When but six months old he accompanied his father's family to Iowa and lived in different parts of that state until 1877 then located permanently in the town of Gales. Mr. Harding's marriage took place December 13, 1877; his wife, Frances E. Seargeant was born January 21, 1859 in Fond du Lac county, Wisconsin. They have one child, Ethel B. I. G. Harding was born in 1853 in Lowell, Vermont. From there he went to Canada with his parents and in 1859 removed to Iowa; lived in Mitchell county eleven years and seven years in Winneshiek county. Remove to Minnesota and lived on his farm of 160 acres on section 6, town of Gales; besides conducting his farm he works at the trade of mason. Miss B. E. Russel, native of Canada, was married to Mr. Harding September 22, 1873. They are the parents of three children: Gardner J., Lelia L. and Curtis L. Charles Hawes, a native of Wisconsin, was born June 3, 1850 in Dodge county. In 1869 he went to Beauford, Minnesota, and from there to Good Thunder's Ford where he was in mercantile business and held the office of postmaster; afterwards turned his attention to farming and since 1879 has lived in Gales; his farm here contains 160 acres. Married, November 3, 1873, Mary A. Grover who was born November 30, 1853, in Wallingford, Vermont. Of their three children, two are living: Alpha C. and Alfred B. James Kennedy was born January 14, 1825, in Canada. In 1853 he visited St. Peter, Minnesota; made this state and Canada his home for several years; came to Goodhue county in 1866, and one year after went to St. Peter for a time; then lived in the town of Home, Brown county, until 1875, at which time he came to Redwood county. His farm of 160 acres is in section 6, Gales. Margaret McEwen, native of Canada, was married January 7, 1859, to Mr. Kennedy, and has borne him eight children: Christie M., Catherine I., Daniel, Alexander, Nettie, Anna E., John D. and Edwin J. The daughters Christie, Catherine and Nettie are teachers. J. A. Tupper was born July 15, 1839, at Glen Falls, New York. From 1874 until April, 1878, he lived in Winona county, Minnesota, then came to Redwood county, and in 1878 settled on section 4, Gales. Married in April, 1864, Clara W. Kellogg, who was born August 24, 1839, in New York. Fred. H., Eva M., Scott W., Nellie M. and Archie are their children. Mr. Tupper enlisted in September, 1861, in Company C, 93d New York infantry; was promoted to sergeant, and in August, 1865, was mustered out. Eli Webb is a native of Franklin county, Illinois. From November, 1861, until February, 1864, he served in Company D, 60th Illinois infantry; re-enlisted in the same, was promoted to first lieutenant, and August 9, 1865, was honorably discharged. In 1874 he came to Gales, Minnesota, and now owns 240 acres. Mr. Webb is town clerk, and in 1880 was census enumerator. He was united in marriage with L. A. Payne in 1866; she died April 11, 1874. Wilson is her only living child. Sarah Gwin became his wife November 2, 1878, and has one child: Henry. WATERBURY. Waterbury is located in the southern part of the county, and includes all of congressional township 110, range 37. The name was derived from a town of the same name in Vermont. The first settlers were W. J. and Alfred Swoffer, and M. M. Madigan; they came in the spring of 1872, and all located in section 3. James P. and A. Christenson came the same year. The first town meeting was held April 9, 1878, at Alfred Swoffer's house in section 28. Officers elected: R. Clausen, chairman, Hans Hanson and John Belfany, supervisors; W. J. Swoffer, clerk; J. E. Kenyon, assessor; Lewis Basel, treasurer; Benjamin Butler, justice, and Henry Schmidt constable. The German Methodist denomination have an organization and hold services at the houses of the members, occasionally, having no regular pastor. The first marriage in the town was that of Alfred Swoffer and Miss W. M. Knight, December 1, 1879. The first birth was that of Charles W. Clausen, a son of R. and Mary Clausen, May 1, 1874. The first death was that of an infant daughter of John Balfany in September, 1878. John Balfany was born in Prussia, in 1849. He came to this country in 1866, and after a stay of fourteen months in New Jersey, lived in Franklin, Wisconsin, until 1870. Lived in Illinois eight months, then in Bremer county, Iowa, until 1873, when he came to Minnesota; settled in section 30, Waterbury township, in the fall of 1873. Was married at Waverly, Iowa, in 1870, to Mary Basel, who was born in Germany in 1851. They have had five children, four of whom are living. Alfred Swoffer, native of England, was born in Kent county, in 1845, and there learned the harness maker's trade. He came to Minnesota in 1871, and located in Waterbury township; he was one of the organizers of the township, has been assessor and is now clerk. Married in December, 1879, Mrs. Mary Knight, who was born in Michigan. Mrs. Knight had one child by her first husband, and has borne Mr. Swoffer one. JOHNSONVILLE. Township 110, range 38, was set apart for organization, July 16, 1878, but no election was held on the day named. January 9, 1879, the county commissioners appointed officers to hold till the following election: August Larson, chairman, H. Burmeister and Gust. Johnson, supervisors; A. P. Johnson, clerk; Swan Johnson, assessor; C. Noah, treasurer; C. Herder and C. P. Johnson, justices; C. Eckland and L. Johnson, constables. The first settlers were Andrew Larson, Charles Lund, Peter Halt, Henry Anderson, Gust, and Lewis Johnson, who came in 1872. The town was named for the Johnsons living in it. WEST LINE. West Line, as its name indicates, is located on the western border of the county and includes all of congressional township 111-39. The surface is a rolling prairie. Horse Shoe lake in the southwest, covers about one-hundred and sixty acres. Settlement began in 1872. In May, of that year, Michael Murray and his sons, Thomas and Garrett, with families, came in and located in section 14, where they still remain excepting Thomas, who went to Colorado in 1877. John Cole came in 1873. The town was organized October 14, 1878, at the house of H. N. Eggleston. The following officers were elected: C. West, chairman; Garrett Murray and James Shaw, supervisors; Benjamin Frost, clerk; Hugh Curry, treasurer; H. N. Eggleston and N. B. Weymouth, justices; and William Arnold, constable. There are three frame school-houses in the town. The first school was taught by Miss Ada Chamberlain during the spring of 1879. West Line post-office was established in the fall of 1878, N. B. Weymouth was appointed postmaster and the office located at his house in section 26. The office was discontinued in the summer of 1880. A Mr. Webster and Jane Shaw were married at the house of G. M. Shaw, in the spring of 1879. This was the first marriage in the town. The first birth was that of Patrick Murray, in February, 1875. He was a son of Thomas and Honora Murray. The first death was that of Oscar Eggleston, a son of H. N. Eggleston. He died December 13, 1881, and was buried at Marshall, in Lyon county. William H. Arnold was born May 14, 1847, at Antioch, Illinois, where he resided until 1857, then moved with parents to Hastings, Minnesota, and to Lake City, where he lived until 1877. In that year he came to the town of West Line, and settled on section 28, where he has a farm of eighty acres. He was married March 23d, 1874, to Rebecca Jackson; Josephine, Edna and Mary W. are their children. Joseph B. Brown was born at Johnsburgh, Warren county, New York, October 26, 1833. He came to Winona county, Minnesota, in 1865, and engaged in farming until 1872, when he came to this town; he has a farm of 160 acres. When twenty-three he was made a minister of the Baptist church, and preached twelve years, but had to retire on account of throat trouble. Was married February 18, 1858, to Elizabeth West, who has borne him ten children, six of whom are living; Lucy V., Charles S., Laura, Ann, Herman E., and Irene E. His oldest daughter is a graduate of the State Normal School and is engaged in teaching. John Casserly, native of Ireland, was born November 25th, 1841. He went to Lake county, Illinois and in that and Cook county he lived fourteen years. For three years he was a member of the Chicago police force. In 1876 he went to Monroe county, Wisconsin, and in 1878 came to West Line and settled on 160 acres in section 24. Ho is justice and school director. Married in 1865, Maria Fenny, native of Ireland. Their living children are Charles, Ambrose, John, Mary, Peter, James, Kate, Agnes and an infant. Isaac Chamberlain was born in 1821, in the town of Luzerne, Warren county, New York. He was raised in Washington county, and in 1867 came to St. Charles, Minnesota, where he lived six years; went to Berlin, Steele county, and lived there until coming to the town of West Line. He was married to Harriet Bailey, October 11, 1843, in Fort Ann, New York. They have had five children, only two of whom are living, Mary Theodosia and Isaac Henry. Chester Cook was born in Oneida county, New York, September 11, 1828. He worked at farming and for two years ran a canal boat. In 1860 he went to Wisconsin, where he followed farming, until 1877, then came to Sherman, Redwood county, and one year later settled on section 26 town of West Line. Married Martha Flower in 1849; she died, leaving three children, Benjamin, Adelbert and Edward. His second wife was Sophia Goodfellow, who has borne him three children; Frank, Marion Augusta, and Harriet. John Cull, native of Ireland, was born in 1836, and at the age of seventeen emigrated to Vermont; lived there eighteen months, then went to Canada and in 1873 came to the town of West Line and settled on section 32, where he owns a half section of land. Married February 5, 1866 Mary Ann Murray, of Canada. Their children are Mary Ann, Margaret, Honora, Bridget, James, Clara and Teresa. Benjamin C. Frost was born in Saco, Maine, in 1832, and when eight years of age went to Bangor and attended school until fifteen years of age, then began to learn the drug business, which he followed thirteen years. When the rebellion broke out he enlisted as private in Company D, 18th Maine infantry, and served as hospital steward for eighteen months; was then made 2d lieutenant in Company M, First Maine artillery, and promoted 1st lieutenant of Company B, same regiment; was mustered out in September, 1865. In 1866 he came to Lake City, Minnesota, and followed farming until 1874, then was agent for the American Express company at Lake City three years, after which he came to this town where he has a farm of 160 acres. Was married December 3, 1859, to Lucy J. Dodge, at Saco, Maine. They have two children: William D. and Nellie L. John A. Jackson was born at Fairfax Court House, Virginia, May 10, 1824, He went with his father, who was a Methodist preacher, to Nova Scotia, and from there to Boston, Massachusetts, from which place he shipped as cabin boy on an African trading vessel; followed the sea three years then worked at blacksmithing. When twenty-one he engaged in the boot and shoe business, and was for twelve years in Philadelphia. In March, 1855, he came to Minnesota and settled in Goodhue county, and in 1860 moved to Wabasha county. In 1878 he came to West Line, Redwood county. Mr. Jackson was one of the first board of commissioners for Goodhue county, and in 1874 represented his district in the legislature; was also appointed a speaker at the Centennial. In 1864 he enlisted as private in the Sixth Minnesota infantry and served until the close of the war. His wife was Rebecca Clifford, whom he married September 14, 1845. She was born in England. They have had twelve children, seven of whom are living: Henry 0., Bebecca, William B., Heppie, Frank, Virginia and Grace M. John N. Jones, native of South Wales, was born April 13, 1851. He came in 1867 to Ohio, where he worked in coal mines and rolling mills until 1874 when he went to Illinois. In 1880 he came to Redwood county and settled on section 26, town of West Line. He has held offices in his school district. Married June 6, 1873, Jemima Jenkins at Youngstown, Ohio; their children are: Thomas Edward, Mary and Sarah Jane. Charles F. Mabrey was born May 24, 1844, in Chatham county, North Carolina. When seven years of age went with parents to Hamilton county, Indiana, and in 1862 enlisted in Company I, 75th Indiana infantry, and served until June 16, 1865. He was taken prisoner and exchanged; at the battle of Chickamauga received wounds for which he draws a pension. In 1866 he went to Hennepin county, Minnesota, and after one year went to Jefferson City, Missouri, and worked as fireman and engineer on the Missouri Pacific Railroad until 1871, then went to Hennepin county again, where he farmed until 1878, then settled on section 34, town of West Line, where he has 320 acres. June 27th, 1868, married Sarah E. Grave, of Hennepin county. Their children are: Orianna, Mary E., Leo B., Vesta P. and Virgia Prue. Garrett Murray, native of Canada, born March 13, 1847, was raised on a farm. At the age of twenty-two he come to Minneapolis, and after living there two years came to Redwood county and settled on section 14, town of West Line; he was one of the first settlers. In 1868 he married Marguerite Bing; they have had eight children; six are now living: Anna B., Martin A., Edmond J., Thomas F., Mary and Elnora. Michael Murray was born in Ireland, in 1809, and in 1842 emigrated for Canada. In 1872 he settled in the town of West Line among the first settlers; he has a farm of 160 acres. Was married in 1836 to Ann Mulloy, who was born in county Mayo, Ireland, in 1819. Of the eleven children born to them, seven are living. Thomas, Mary Ann, Garrett, Bridget, Maggie, Michael and John. The latter was caught in a storm, while on his way to the post-office, and nearly perished with cold, being out all night. David Robinson was born April 7, 1842, in Willimantic county, Connecticut. He lived on a farm and at the beginning of the war of 1861, he entered Company B, 10th Connecticut infantry. After a service of two years, he was discharged on account of sickness and now draws a pension. In 1865 he came to Lake City, Minnesota, and remained there until 1878, when he settled on section 18, town of West Line. For the past five years he has taught school. October 1, 1867, he married S. Emily Williams, at Lake City, Minnesota; she was born in Ohio. They have two children: Mary Low and Lois Emily. George M. Shaw was born January 19, 1818, in Seneca county, New York, and lived there until 1855. Went to Wisconsin, and in 1857 to New Mexico, and engaged in general freight and milling business until 1863. He then came to Minnesota and lived in Wabasha county until 1878 in which year he settled on section 22, West Line; he has held several town offices in this and other towns where he has lived. He married Sarah E. Hatch in 1842. She bore four children, three of whom are living: Elizabeth, George and Mary; Rosette died in 1856. Mrs. Shaw died in June, 1867 and in July, 1868, Mr. Shaw married Jennie Higgins, of Wabasha county, Minnesota. VAIL. This town is located in the central part of the county and includes all of congressional township 111, range 34. When set apart for organization July 30, 1879, Center was the name given. Upon learning that the name was inadmissable, it was changed by the county board in August following to Vail in honor of Mr. Hotchkiss, then a member of the board, that being his middle name. John Taber was the first settler; he came in the spring of 1869 and located in section 4. James Longbottom came in October and settled in section 8. The next settlers were A. Milloy, M. McMillan and Henry Meyer. The first town meeting was held at James Longbottom's house, September 16, 1879, and the following officers were elected: James Longbottom, chairman, David Weaver and Archibald Milloy, supervisors; John Longbottom, clerk; Chauncey Bunday, assessor; Henry Meyer, treasurer; Theodore Daub and John Taber, justices; Henry Meyer and James Longbottom, constables. The first marriage was that of John A. Peterson and Elizabeth Longbottom. They were married in January, 1875, at the residence of James Longbottom in section 8, by the Rev. Chamberlain. John Daub, born December 31, 1812, is a native of Germany, where he attained a collegiate education and then taught for thirty-two years. In 1871 he immigrated to the United States and located in what is now Vail; the Daub family was among the earliest settlers of this town. His marriage occurred in 1842 in Germany, and his wife died in 1874. The children are Theodore, Elizabeth, Ellinore, John and Matilda. Margaret Denney, whose maiden name was O'Hara, was born in 1840 in Ireland. On the 15th of June, 1860, she became the wife of James Callery, who was born in 1837 in Dublin. They settled in Canada in 1861, and in 1868 Mr. Callery took the first claim in Vail, Minnesota; he was accidentally drowned in the Redwood river, April 16, 1869; Mrs. Gallery and family came here that year from Canada. Their children are James, Annie M., William H. and Katie. In November, 1870, Mrs. Gallery was married to William Denney, who was born in 1829 in Maryland. Their children are Francis I. and Charles A. John Longbottom, who is a native of Canada, was born in 1850. He came to Minnesota in 1869 with his parents, who were among the first settlers of Vail, and in 1870 he took a claim, the same on which he now resides. He was the first clerk of the town, and has held other offices. Miss Elizabeth Johnson was married to him in 1873. Edward, Alvin, Jennie and Carl are their children. John Taber was born in 1824 in England. At the age of nineteen he moved to Canada, and eighteen months later to Michigan. April 1, 1847, he enlisted in Company K, Third United States dragoons, and served through the Mexican war, participating in many engagements; of the one hundred and four men in the company, only seventeen remained alive at the close of the war; for more than a year he was one of General Scott's body guard. Returned to Canada, and in 1869 came to his present farm; his was the first house built in the town of Vail. He was married October 1, 1856, and has eight children: Elizabeth A., Charlotte L., Emma S., Mary A., Caroline, Ellen S., William O. and Minnie E. PAXTON. This town was a part of Redwood Falls till 1879, when it was organized and named in honor of J. W. Paxton, who once owned the large tract of land now owned by O. B. Turrell. The first town meeting was held September 13, 1879; officers elected: William Perry, chairman; Z. Y. Hatch and Benjamin Wolf, supervisors; S. F. Cale, clerk; A. A. Wilson, treasurer; D. R. Morrison and W. W. Byington, justices; C. E. Goodwin and Charles Tyrrell, constables. The first settlers were John McMillan, Sr. and son James, Paul Brott, Norman Webster, George Johnson and C. D. Chapman. The farm allotted to the Indian Chief, Little Crow, was in this town; a number of buildings had been erected by the government for the Indians, and these the settlers occupied on their arrival. The first school was taught by Mary Bailey in the winter of 1866-7, supported by subscription. The next year a building was erected; there are now two frame school-houses in the town. The first religious service was held in the fall of 1870, by a Presbyterian, Rev. Lyon. The Advent denomination formed a society in 1876, under the leadership of Elders Grant and Dimmick; the present leader is Elder C. D. Chapman. Paxton village was surveyed in 1878, on section 26; a small store was conducted by the Cale Brothers, a couple of years, the only improvement made. The post-office was established in 1878 with S. F. Cale postmaster; Harvey Moore now has the office at his house near the station. G. H. Bowe was born in Pittsfield, Rutland county, Vermont, in 1839. At the age of seven he went with parents to Wisconsin. In 1855 he started out for himself, working in the woods in winter and sailing on the lakes in summer. In 1857 he went to Iowa, and from there traveled throughout the west and south, working at various kinds of work. In 1861 he came to Olmsted county, Minnesota, and in the fall enlisted, but was discharged in a year on account of disability. He farmed for eleven years in Olmsted county, then came to Paxton, Redwood county, where he has a fine farm. In 1866 he married Ermina Daniels; their children are: Jennie D., Edith M., Gertie E., Nettie E. and Harry B. E. H. Grover, native of New York, was born in Franklin county, in 1843, and three years later went to Lee county, Iowa. His parents moved from there to Wisconsin, where he lived, in Dane and Monroe counties, until August, 1862, when he enlisted in Company D, 25th Wisconsin; served two years, then farmed in Wisconsin until 1868. He then traveled until 1871 through the West. In 1878 he went to Granite Falls, and soon after settled in Paxton, Redwood county, where he now lives. He was married in Monroe county, Wisconsin, to Miss Hannah Kinmore. H. H. Moore was born in Moultrie county, Illinois, in 1852. In 1869 he moved to Paxton, Redwood county, Minnesota, and is now proprietor of the hotel, store and blacksmith shop at Paxton station, and also holds the office of postmaster. He was married in Brown county, Minnesota, to Miss Mary V. Ross, who has borne him two children: Walter and Emma. D. R. Morrison, native of New York, was born at Plattsburg, in 1827. In June, 1850 he moved to Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, and followed the trade of miller six years. In 1856 he came to Minnesota, and for twenty years worked at milling in Olmsted county; in 1876 he came to his present home in Paxton. He married in St. Lawrence county, New York, Miss Laura A. Stevens. Of the eight children born, six are living: Mary J., Laura M., Charles H., Francis F., Lillian M., and Hattie G. A. William Perry, native of Scotland, was born in 1832. He came to Minnesota in 1854 and lived in Wabasha county until 1876, when he moved to Redwood county and located on section 5, Paxton, near the village of Redwood Falls. In March, 1864, he enlisted in Company G, Third Minnesota, and served until the close of the war. He was supervisor when the town contained ten congressional townships, and first chairman of the Paxton board. Married in Wabasha county in 1859, Miss Martha Sterling who has borne ten children. The living are: George N., Jessie M., Nellie, James A., Charles, William, Mattie and Ora. E. M. Preston was born in Unionville, Connecticut, in 1836, and there lived on a farm until 1874, when he moved to Janesville, Wisconsin, and after farming for five years, came to Redwood Falls, and two years later to Paxton, where he now lives. Married Miss Esther H. Curtis, who has home him nine children of whom eight are living: Frances E., Addie, Mary W., Edward N., Charles L., Elisha M., Susie P. and Maud S. Peter Robidou, native of Canada, was born in 1825. At the age of twenty he went to Kankakee, Illinois, and soon after to St. Louis, where for three years he worked at rafting and ferrying. He then came to Belle Plaine, Minnesota and lived on a claim. His nearest neighbors were twenty-six miles distant. After living there eight years he went to Pike's Peak and in August, 1862 returned to Chicago and three months later enlisted in Company G, 113th Illinois and served three years. He then lived in Michigan two years; in Lake City, Minnesota, until 1868, then came to Paxton, where he has a farm of 160 acres. Married at Belle Plaine, in 1854, Mrs. Pauline Bronayer; they have two children, Benjamin and George. Edward M. Smith was born in Gallia county, Ohio, in 1844, and lived on a farm until 1861, when he enlisted in the 36th Ohio; veteranized in the same regiment and served until the close of the war. He then settled in Steele county, Minnesota, and lived there until March, 1876; since that time has been a resident of Paxton, Redwood county; he holds the office of town clerk. Married in Owatonna, Minnesota, July 4, 1871, Miss Laura M. Morrison, who was born in Wisconsin, in 1854. They have four children: Edward R., Sylvia M., Arthur M. and Francis E. HONNER. In 1853 S. F. Brown, brother of the noted pioneer of Minnesota, J. R. Brown, had a trading post at the mouth of the Redwood river, in what is now the town of Honner. When the Sioux were removed to Yellow Medicine he went there, and is now living in Redwood Falls. In 1864 a claim was made by J. S. G. Honner, but not located upon until later; he now lives in section 29. He was the chairman of the first board of county commissioners, and has always occupied a prominent position in his town and the county. The town was named for him. The first actual settler was probably Hugh Curry, who came in the spring of 1865 and located in the eastern part of the town, and close to the Paxton line. A village was laid out partly in each of sections 20 and 29, on land owned by E. B. Daniels, about 1876, and called Riverside. A store, an elevator, a hotel, a blacksmith shop and a few other buildings were put up; a post-office was also established. The town was not a success; the hotel and elevator were moved into Redwood Falls, and there remain but two small buildings on the site. In 1869, E. Birum & Brother built a waterpower saw-mill in section 30 on the Redwood river. It continued in operation as such until 1879, when it was changed to a grist-mill. It now has two run of stone, and is operated by E. Birum, the present proprietor. The German Evangelical congregation held services at the house of Bernhard Kunzli in section 29, in 1867, conducted by the Rev. Hillscher. An organization was effected by the Rev. Schmidt in 1880, with seventeen members. A school was taught in 1876, in an old building in section 21, by Miss Alice Patton; she had about twelve pupils. This was the only school taught in the town, as it is divided into joint districts, one part going to Redwood Falls and the other to district number 2, in Paxton. The first birth was that of Frederick, a son of J. S. G. Honner and wife. He was born October 24, 1868. The first death was that of a little daughter of George and Mary E. Johnson, who died in October, 1868. The first marriage was that of William Davis and Mahala Johnson in the spring of 1867. The town was formerly part of Redwood Falls. In 1872, an attempt was made to organize in connection with what is now Paxton under the name of Blackwood, but failed. Paxton became organized separately in 1879 and Honner was set off for separate organization, January 10, 1880, under the name of Baldwin. This name was changed to Honner upon learning of there being another town in the state named Baldwin. The first town meeting was held at the house of David Watson in section 31, January 24, following. Officers elected: Henry Birum, chairman, Marion Johnson and Stephen Russell, supervisors; J. K. Doming, clerk; J. S. G. Honner, assessor; R. W. Rockwell, treasurer; David Watson, justice and G. B. Dove, constable. Ener Birum was born in Norway, November 14, 1839. He came to Baraboo, Wisconsin, with his parents in 1843. In 1861 he enlisted for three months but was rejected; he afterwards enlisted in the 6th Wisconsin, Company A, and served three years; he re-inlisted in Company G, 30th Indiana, and served one year; he was in eleven battles. Remained in Wisconsin, farming for three years after the war, then came to Redwood Falls and built a saw-mill, which has since been fitted up as a flour-mill. Mr. Birum has been chairman of the town of Redwood Falls and also the town of Honner. In October, 1872, he married Aunie Ortt, in St. Peter. Nellie M., Herbert L., and Arthur A., are their children. J. S. G. Honner, native of New York, was born in 1831. His parents took him to Canada, where he lived until fifteen years old, then went to Michigan. He ran an engine in that state and Canada, and in 1856 came to Minnesota. For two years he was in charge of a saw-mill in Waseca county, then engaged in farming. He was elected county commissioner in Waseca county, two terms. In 1864 he came to Redwood Falls, where he lived five years, then began farming again. He is now located in the town of Honner, which was named for him, and owns 340 acres of land. He was elected to the legislature in 1865, again in 1870, and in 1872 to the state senate. He was one of the first commissioners of Redwood county, and her first register of deeds; has held the office of assessor since his town was organized. He was married in Waseca county in 1858, to Antoinette Green. They have had six children, four of whom are living: Edward, Howard N., Frederick G. and Minnie E. D. O. King was born at King's Mills, near Syracuse, New York. At the age of seventeen he went to sea and followed the vocation of sailor for seven years. When the war broke out he was appointed revenue inspector, by the collector at Puget Sound, W. T., and served in that capacity, in office and on board of revenue cutter, until 1865, when he resigned and went to Sau Francisco, and shortly after to Chicago, where he remained one year. He came to Minnesota and settled in the town of Honner, Redwood county, on section 32. He has been chairman of the county commissioners, and was supervisor of Redwood Falls one term. Was married July 10, 1867, to Nettie King. Bernhard Kinsley, native of Switzerland, was born in 1825. He came to America in 1847, and one month after he landed at New Orleans, enlisted in the Third Louisiana regiment for the Mexican war, and served until its close. After a time in New Orleans he returned to Switzerland, and remained until 1863, then came to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and for two years farmed near there. In 1865 he came to Redwood county, and is now the owner of 600 acres of land. April 4, 1851, he married in Switzerland, Mary Luscher. Of the eleven children born, eight are living: Gottleib, Charles, Emil, Mary, Lena, Margaret, Bertha and Anna. T. J. Treadwell was born in the state of New York in 1851, and when two years of age his parents brought him to Wisconsin. At the age of eighteen he learned the miller's trade, which business he still follows. He came to Minnesota in 1878 and located near Redwood Falls, and works in Birums' mill. He is town clerk of Honner. Miss Helen B. Owen became his wife at Waupun, Wisconsin, in 1873. They have had five children only two of whom are living. John Weiss, native of Germany, was born in 1825. He learned the trade of brewer and worked at it some ten years; was also a soldier for six years. In 1855 he came to Wisconsin and following brewing until 1872, when he came to Redwood county and located on section 29, town of Honner. He was married in Wisconsin, to Louisa Fleishhauer, who has borne three children: Anton, Louisa and William. KINTIRE. This town was formerly a part of Swedes Forest. It was set apart for separate organization, in May, 1880, including in its limits all of congressional township 113-37. Lyman Walsh, who came in the summer of 1872, and located in the southwestern part of the town, was the first settler. Soon after Mr. Walsh, Albert Devreaux came in and settled where he now lives. Archibald Stewart came the following fall. The first town meeting was held at the house of Archibald Stewart, in section 13, May 25, 1880. Twelve votes were cast and the following officers elected: M. Keller, chairman, J. B. Holmes and Albert Devreaux, supervisors; W. C. Cook, clerk; Archibald Stewart, treasurer; H. F. Jones and Lucius Thurston, justices; Ole C. Johnson and J. F. Jones, constables; and M. Keller, overseer of highways. Ole Johnson Boklep, native of Norway, was born in 1845. In 1871 he came to America, and for three years lived in Freeborn county, Minnesota, then came to Delhi, Redwood county; three years later he moved to Kintire, where he has a farm on section 3. His mother lives with him. Hans Jensen was born in Denmark in 1847 and came to this country in 1868. Lived in Racine, Wisconsin, one year, and in Beloit until the spring of 1879, when he came to this county and settled on section 2, Kintire township. Was elected justice in the spring of 1881, and still holds that office. Married in 1872, Miss Rena Peterson. Julius and Mary are the children. Ole C. Johnson, native of Norway, was born in 1843. Until the age of fifteen he lived on a farm, then acted as clerk and book-keeper in a store. Came to America in 1866 and engaged in various lines of business about eight years, then settled on section 2, Kintire, and owns 200 acres of land; has been justice, supervisor and school officer. Married in 1877, Miss Sarah Peterson, who was born in Norway in 1846. Hilda C. and Josie B. are their children. MORGAN. This town is situated in the eastern part of the county, and was set apart for organization May 11, 1880. The first town meeting was ordered to be held at the station house in the village May 26 following, but owing to insufficiency of notice, was not held. The county commissioners being notified of the fact, appointed the following officers: Thomas Butcher, chairman, L. C. Ketcham and William McGinnis, supervisors; James Butcher, clerk; C. Christianson, treasurer; Peter Madsen and Knud Peterson, constables. The first settlement was made by the tenants on the farms of the large land-owners, who own over two-thirds of the town. They began to open up these farms about eight years ago, and built a number of houses for their tenants. Settlement by men on their own land began a couple of years later. The village of Morgan was laid out in August, 1878, and contains one general store, one blacksmith shop, one lumber-yard, one elevator and one hotel. The post-office was established the same year, and the present incumbent, George Knudsen, appointed postmaster. S. F. Deming was born in Washington county, Wisconsin, in 1847. For thirteen years he taught school in that state. In 1867 he first came to Minnesota, to Fillmore county, where he lived a year. He has lived in Kansas and Nebraska and since 1877 has been a permanent resident of Minnesota; he has taught school most of the time since coming here, in Redwood county, and is now the owner of the hotel at Morgan station and holds the office of town clerk of Morgan township. In 1879 he married Martha B. Hanson, daughter of John Hanson now living in Pope county, Minnesota. VESTA. Vesta is in the western part of the county and embraces township 112, range 38. The first claim was taken by William Smith in the fall of 1868 on section 14. He was followed by Mathias and Hubbard Burgess, Hiram Eldredge, George and Albert Dunning, in May 1869. The town was set apart for organization May 11 1880, and the first election was ordered held at the house of Sarah McIntosh, May 29 following. The name was given by Commissioner Hotchkiss after the goddess Vesta. The first school was taught by Mrs. Mary Reed in 1872, at the house of Hubbard Burgess; schools are still conducted in private houses. Religious services have been conducted by the Methodist society, for several years at private houses. The first marriage was that of S. Ho]son and Eliza Burgess in the winter of 1873 The first death was an infant daughter of William Smith, that died in November, 1870 and was buried on the farm. James Durtnal, native of England, was born in Kent county, in 1824, and there learned the millers' trade which employment filled his time until he emigrated, in 1856. He went to Illinois and in 1857 came to this state; he lived in Goodhue and Waseca counties until 1871, then came to Redwood Falls. He kept a general store for four years and in 1875 was elected sheriff of Redwood county, and two years later moved to his farm of 320 acres on section 34, town of Vesta. He was town clerk and supervisor one year in Redwood Falls. Since coming to his farm he has given considerable attention to stock raising. His wife was Catharine Currie, whom he married in 1880. Sewell A. Johnson was born October 22d, 1849, in Piscataquis county, Maine, and at the age of fifteen came to the town of Elgin, Wabasha county, Minnesota. In 1870 he came to Redwood county and located on section 26, Vesta township; he is a supervisor and director of school district; has also been constable. Married, March 24, 1869, Martha J. McCormick. Their children are Ida May, Charles W., Roy S., James M., Katie M., Claude. Alfred Stevens, born June 9, 1849, is a native of St. Lawrence county, New York. At the age of sixteen he started out for himself and in 1866 came to Minnesota. For ten years he lived in Faribault and Freeborn counties, then came to Vesta, Redwood county and has a farm of 160 acres on section 28. Is treasurer of his school district and was for three years road overseer in the town of Seely, Faribault county. Married September 10, 1871, Nancy Marvin, who was born in Wisconsin, in 1850. They have four children, Ralph H., Hulda A., George A., and Ruby V. TOWNSHIP 111-38. Although settlement began in 1872, this township remains unorganized, being the only one in the county in that condition. The first settler was J. C. Vining, who came in the spring of 1871, and located in section 2, where he lived until 1876; W. W. Howe came the following fall, and took a claim also in section 2; his family came out in the spring of 1872, and is still living on his original claim. No other settlers came until 1874, when a few came in and took claims, but moved away after a short stay, on account of the grasshoppers. Settlers began to move in again in 1877. The first marriage in the town occurred in December, 1881. The contracting parties were Charles Noah and Sarah Comstock. The first birth was that of Abbie F. Howe, a daughter of W. W. and Sarah Howe, born July 2, 1872. William Comstock was born September 25, 1827, in Cattaraugus county, New York. When he was a child the family moved to Ohio, thence in 1840 he went to Wisconsin, and in 1847 to Iowa, where he lived until coming in 1874 to Redwood county, Minnesota; he has 160 acres on section 22 of town 111. Mr. Comstock married Eliza A. Miller, who was born June 7, 1834, in Michigan, and while young accompanied her parents to Clinton county, Iowa, where she was married. She is the mother of thirteen children; only five are living: Nelson, Sarah A., David, Horace L. and Monroe. Henry Gohrman was born in 1848 in Hanover. Came with his parents to the United States; after living at Sauk City and Madison about four years he removed to San Francisco; was educated at St. Mary's College. After going to Maine, Massachusetts, Texas, Arkansas and Indian Territory, he came to Minnesota; has lived in Winona and Sibley counties, but is now located on his farm of 300 acres in town 111, Redwood county. Although but sixteen years old at the time of the rebellion, he enlisted in Company A, Seventh California infantry. In 1873 he married Martha F. Shields, a native of Wisconsin. They have six children: Catherine, Alice B., Henry, Anna A., Birdie E. and Mary A. W. W. Howe was born February 22, 1840, in Kalamazoo county, Michigan. Lived in that state and Wisconsin until 1869; after passing three years at Rochester, Minnesota, he located at his farm on section 2 of town 111. During the civil war he served one year in Company K, 12th Michigan infantry. The wife of Mr. Howe, Sarah E. Towle, was born in Maine; when thirteen years old she moved with her parents to Green Lake county, Wisconsin, where she was married July 3, 1867. Their children are Archie E., Abby F., Mina B. and Elijah J. Mathew Parsons was born in Canada, where he grew up and acquired his education. In 1875 he came to Minnesota; worked two years in a sawmill in Redwood, and afterward did some farming; settled in town 111 in 1878, and now has a good farm of 160 acres on section 22. Mr. Parsons' wife was Jane McPhee, born September 17, 1851, in Canada. She has borne him five children; The living are Elizabeth A., May J., John E. and George A. Additional Comments: Extracted from History of the Minnesota Valley Minneapolis: North Star Publishing Co. 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