Sibley County MN Archives History - Books .....Dryden, New Auburn, Transit 1882
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Book Title: History Of The Minnesota Valley

CHAPTER LXI.

DRYDEN — NEW AUBURN-TRANSIT-ALFSBORG-CORNISH—BISMARK-GRAFTON-MOLTKE—SEVERANCE.

   Dryden was originally called Williamstown, but changed at an early day by
request of H. Beatty and others. It is one of the border townships dividing the
wooded and prairie portions of the county, embracing all of township 113 north,
range 28 west. While the surface is covered with the same deep, rich loam which
prevails throughout the county, it is more diversified, there being numerous
lakes of various sizes, some with high, steep shores, heavily timbered, others
with low, marshy shores, and still others with gradually elevated, sandy
beaches. The north-eastern portion has a light covering of young timber, while
for about one mile back from the shores of Lake Tit-low, just south-west of the
center of the town, there is a heavy stand of oak, maple and butternut. In 1854
Edward Price and John Dorr took the first claims, locating near the centre. In
1856 Frederick Norton, Thomas Lewis and Henry Altnow located upon section 11;
William Stevens on section 14; William Williams on section 4; Frederick Nessay
and Thomas Heath on section 10.

   First officers, elected on May 11, 1858: Hamilton Beatty, chairman, Joseph
Tamble and Isaac Troxel, board of supervisors; J. W. Beatty, town clerk; Robert
Beatty, collector; Andrew Beatty, assessor; Thomas Heath, overseer of poor; John
Dresser and H. Beatty, justices; and J. Lewis and J. Tamble, constables.

  In March, 1856, Elizabeth Callahan was born, the first birth. The first
marriage took place on New Year's day, 1859, James Lewis and Miss Mary Hermining
being married by Justice H. Beatty, at the residence of Charles Nessey. Robert
Beatty, Jr., died September 6, 1858, aged twenty-five years, the first death.

  Three school districts have been established. The earlier schools were held at
private houses, and few records kept.

  An Evangelical church was organized in 1878, and a house for worship erected.
There is a membership of five families, under the charge of Rev. August Jedno.

  As early as 1866 the residents in the western part of Dryden and eastern
portion of Transit united in forming a church society known as Johannes German
Evangelical Lutheran Association. A church edifice was at once built just inside
the limits of Dryden, and placed in charge of Rev. Mr. Karlow. In 1881 there
were seventy families connected with it, and in charge of Rev. Charles
Kruchmier. A cemetery containing four acres, was laid out adjoining the church.
The earliest schools were taught in this church.

   A post-office was established in May, 1864, and the present incumbent,
Patrick Mohun, appointed postmaster. Mails are received twice each week.

   The settlers of this town had quite an experience during the great Indian
scare of 1862, a large number of the savages indulging in war dances and hostile
demonstrations in that vicinity. A stockade was built and guarded by 300 men,
for some time. Many of the inhabitants fled to remote towns; nothing serious
resulted.

   Augustus Altnow, born in Prussia in 1849, came with his parents to the United
States in 1855 and lived with them one year in Watertown, Wisconsin. In the
summer of 1856 he came to Dryden, Sibley county. Here he has since lived and has
taken a prominent part in the affairs of the town; has been supervisor, justice
of the peace, and is now a school officer. At Dryden, in 1871, he married Miss
Adeline Groshong who has borne him two sons and two daughters: Emma, Francis,
August and Louisa.

   William Altnow, brother to Augustus, was also born in Prussia. He came to the
United States in 1854 and to Dryden, Minnesota, in 1856. Was also an early
settler and figured prominently in the organization of the town, and has held
several important offices. He was a soldier in the late war in the Second
Minnesota infantry; participated in the siege of Atlanta and the other
engagements. About fourteen years ago he left Minnesota and settled in the
Willamette valley, Oregon, where he is successfully engaged in stock raising.

   Robert Beatty was born in the north of Ireland in 1803. Came with his parents
to America, and landed in Quebec. His father, Andrew Beatty, located in
Pennsylvania, and with him Robert remained until 1855, then removed to Illinois.
Game to Minnesota in the spring of 1857 and settled in Dryden, Sibley county,
together with his four sons, Andrew, Hamilton, Robert and Joseph W.; all made
claims of 160 acres each. Mr.Beatty was married in 1824 to Nancy Wilson; five of
their twelve children are living. Andrew still lives on his claim; Hamilton is
the present treasurer of Sibley county; Samuel B., a farmer in the township;
James R. and George W. reside with their father. James R. was married in 1879 to
Emily Maas. They have one daughter, Sarah M.

   S. B. Beatty, son of Robert Beatty, was born in Indiana county, Pennsylvania,
in 1841. He remained in his native state until moving with his parents to
Illinois in 1855. Two years later the family came to Minnesota and settled in
Dryden township. Enlisted April 14, 1863, and served under Captain M. J.
Severance; passed through many severe battles. In 1868 he purchased a farm of
160 acres in Dryden; now owns 230 acres. He was elected to the legislature in
1878, and served one term. Married in 1867 Kate R. Storey. The children are
Gertrude, Lulu, Cora, and Horace D.

   Charles L. Dresser was born on the 25th of February, 1839, in Allegany
county, New York. During youth he learned the trade of mason, and in 1857 came
to Minnesota, locating soon after in Dryden. For the past ten years he has been
successfully engaged at his trade. Enlisted in-1862 in Company H, Fourth
Minnesota, and received his discharge in 1865. Adelaide E. Harris, of New York,
became the wife of Mr. Dresser, and has borne him three children: Milton, Harry
and Florence.

   Charles Hahn was born in Germany in 1848, and when seven years of age came
with his parents to the United States, remaining in Wisconsin until 1862. After
receiving a good common school education he learned the trade of an engineer, at
which he worked two years. Came to McLeod county, Minnesota, in 1862, and the
next year located in Dryden on his farm of 240 acres. Mr. Hahn has held town
offices, and is one of the trustees of the St. Johannes Lutheran church.
Married, July 1, 1870, Willhelma Letzke, of Scott county. Henry, Teressa, Hannah
and Louis are their living children.

   William R. Hamilton was born in Penobscot county, Maine, in 1829, where he
remained until 1864. After leaving school he spent his time in farming and
lumbering. During the fall of 1864 he located in Minneapolis; made his home in
that city until 1868, then came to his present place in Dryden, for the purpose
of giving his attention to stock raising and farming. He has a fine farm of 160
acres, situated on Lake Titlow, on section 32, Married in 1854 Miss Eunice J.
Brookings, who died in Minneapolis in 1868, leaving two children, Willie and
Mabel. His second marriage was with Miss Susie Woodard, cousin to Honorable C.
C. Washburn. Eddie, Bessie and Flora are their children.

  Norman Hubbard was born in Erie county, New York, in 1832. He lived with his
parents on the farm until twenty years of age, when he migrated to northern
Illinois, and two years later came to the territory of Minnesota, visiting in
the meantime Missouri, Iowa and Kansas. He located on section 8 a claim of 160
acres, which he subsequently sold and settled on section 4. Mr. Hubbard has a
finely improved and well stocked farm. He was instrumental in the organization
of the town of Dryden, where he has held numerous offices. During the Indian war
of 1862 he was one of the few men who remained in the vicinity. Married in 1858
Miss Frances J. Dresser. Two sons and three daughters have been born to them:
Archie, Boy, Paulina, Hattie and Lucy.

  Martin Mannsfeldt, a native of north Germany, was born in 1830. While living
in that country he learned wagon-making. In 1851 immigrated to America, and
until the summer of 1862 pursued his trade in Jefferson county, Wisconsin.
Coming thence to Sibley county, Minnesota, he made a claim, which he abandoned
during the Indian troubles, but afterward returned. Moved in 1866 to his present
farm, which comprises 240 acres, on section 20. In 1852 he married Miss Sophia
Kammer. Theodore, William, Henry, Minnie, Martin, Richard and Sophia are their
children. William is a wagon-maker, residing in McLeod county. Theodore is a
blacksmith, living in St. Peter.

  Patrick Mohan is a native of Ireland, and when about twenty-three years of age
came to the United States. He landed in Boston, Massachusetts, and remained in
Provincetown, on Cape Cod, until coming to Minnesota, in the meantime working as
a teamster; also kept a provision store. On arriving in this state he settled in
Dryden township and claimed 160 acres on sections 4 and 9 and has since given
his time chiefly to farming and stock raising; has been town clerk a number of
years and since May, 1864, has had charge of the post-office. Married in Boston
in 1852, Mary Duff. Their children are John B. P., a farmer in Renville county;
Thomas D., a merchant in Hector, Renville county; James and Mary A. John B. P.
invented an automatic railroad car coupling, which was patented March 6, 1877
and for which he has received some liberal offers.

   Peter Mohan was born in Ireland. He left his native country in 1847, when
about fifteen years of age, and came to America, settling in Illinois the same
year. Soon after he returned to his old home, but came again, landing in
Philadelphia the next year. After making his home in Provincetown,
Massachusetts, until 1855 he came west and in 1856 settled in Dryden township
claiming 160 acres of land on section 4; here he has since resided. In 1854, in
Boston, Miss Bridget Duff became the wife of Mr. Mohan. One daughter, Annie M.,
has been born to them.

   Friedrich Norten was born in the Kingdom of Hanover, Germany in 1820 and
immigrated to the United States in 1847, settling first in Cook county,
Illinois, near Chicago. He remained in that state until 1856, then came to the
territory of Minnesota and settled in his present home in Dryden. Mr. Norten was
the first settler in this part of the county. On arriving he claimed 160 acres,
Married in Illinois in 1852 and is the parent of eleven children. Fred, Sarah,
wife of August Schatz, of McLeod county, Conrad, Henry, August, William, Albert,
Walter, Amelia, Emma and Georgia. Conrad is married and is farming in Sibley
county.

   Thomas O'Neill was born in Ireland in 1831. At the age of seventeen years he
moved to Quebec; his brothers and one sister had preceded him. He was employed
in the copper mines in the vicinity of Georgian bay and later went to Michigan
and continued in the mines on the peninsula until coming to Minnesota in 1857.
He had previously visited Duluth in 1855 and made a claim which he abandoned and
settled in Green Isle township two years later, but in 1863 he sold and bought
his present farm in Dryden. During the rebellion he was drafted and assigned to
Company D, Fourth Minnesota and was honorably discharged from service at the
close of the war. For many years Mr. O'Neill has served as justice of the peace
and is at present chairman of the town board. Married Mary O'Reilly in 1855. Of
the eleven children born to them eight are living.

   John Paulman was born in Germany in 1820 and came to America in 1853. For
twelve years he lived in Illinois then came to Sibley county, Minnesota, and
bought 160 acres of land on section 12. In his native land he was united in
marriage with Miss Fredrica Hogan, who has borne 
him three children: Minnie, the wife of William Collaghan, Bertha, the wife of
August Huckenpaler, and John who resides at home.

   Fredrick Rose, a son of Adam Rose, who was one of the early settlers and
pioneers of Scott county, was born in Hesse-Darmstadt, Germany, in 1843.
Immigrated to America with his parents in the fall of 1850 and with them located
in Elkhart county, Indiana, on a farm. On the 4th of July, 1855 they settled in
Sand Greek township, Scott county. During the Indian outbreak he was pressed
into service as a teamster, and received a shot in the left leg at Birch Cooley.
In 1869 he moved to Sibley county and located on a farm of 160 acres in Dryden
township. Mr. Rose has been chairman of the board and town clerk. Married Hannah
Hahn in 1869 who has borne him three children: Emma, Mary and Anna.

   Jacob Rose, second son of Adam Rose, was born in Hesse-Darmstadt, Germany, in
1848. While in infancy he came with his parents to America, landing in New York
in 1850 and locating in Goshen, Indiana. In 1855 he accompanied his parents to
Sand Creek township, Scott county, but in 1873 his father bought a farm in
Dryden township which is now owned and managed by him; he has 240 acres on
section 7 and his parents reside near him. For the past thirteen years Mr. Rose
has given considerable attention to operating threshing machines. Was elected
town treasurer in the spring of 1881. Married in 1874 to Mary Nieland. Fred and
Anna are their children.

   Henry Weimier, a native of Germany, was born in 1822. His life was passed in
that country until 1854, the date of his immigration to America. He spent three
years in Illinois, then came to Sibley county, Minnesota. He made a claim, also
purchased land, and now has a farm of 300 acres in section 11. The marriage of
Mr. Weimier took place in his native land, in 1850; his wife's maiden name was
Dorotha Horst. Henry, William, Hannah, Dorotha, and Mary are their children.

NEW AUBURN.

   New Auburn is located in the northern part of the county, bounded on the west
and north by McLeod county, on the east by Green Isle, and on the south by
Dryden. The western part, including about one-fourth of the town, is a beautiful
rolling prairie, while the remaining three-fourths is a heavily wooded tract.
High Island lake, so named for a beautiful island, several acres in extent, and
remarkable for being so high above the surface of the lake, extends between the
prairie and wooded tracts. Its outlet is High Island creek.

   Settlement began in 1855; in the fall came Charles Duncan and son Robert,
William Williams, and Uriah Wilson. Charles Duncan located on the east side of
High Island lake, where he lived a few years, then moved into the village of New
Auburn. A number of settlers came in the next year. Of the earlier ones, those
now remaining in the town are William Arnold and F. N. Gibbs. Mr. Arnold located
on the south end of the lake, in section 33, where he has a fine farm of about
200 acres. Mr. Gibbs located where he now lives, just west of the town site of
New Auburn, in section 18.

   The town site of New Auburn was entered by Bell & Chapman in 1856. They laid
it out in lots and called their town High Island. They had a man pretend to keep
a store, but his customers were far apart, and he soon closed up. The
proprietors, failing to make the improvements required by law, lost their claims
by the jumping process, well known to all pioneers. Another village was
inaugurated and called New Auburn, from Auburn, New York, from whence some of
the settlers came. The first store was built by J. U. Green and Edward Wright in
1857. A log building bad been partly finished by Bell & Chapman. William
Williams took possession of this and finished it off for a hotel.

   There are two general stores and one boot and shoe shop and store, and two
hotels. The postoffice was established in 1857. The first stamp used was
whittled out by Thomas Scantleburg with a jack-knife, and was a wonder of
typographical art. He acted as postmaster by authority from the postmaster at
Henderson. The office was an unlocked box fastened to a pole, where any one
coming from Henderson with mail for parties in the neighborhood would drop it.
The postmaster, from his mill in the distance, used to keep his eye on the
office, and mail dropped into it was taken care of by him. The present
postmaster is C. P. Gardner, and the office is kept at his store in the village.

   The first marriage in the town was that of J. U. Green and Miss Martha A.
Arnold, May 13, 1858, at the residence of the bride's parents, William and Ruth
Arnold, in section 33. The ceremony was performed by Esquire J. B. Scantleburg.
The first birth was that of Louisa, a daughter of James and Margaret Jenks. She
was born November 15, 1856, and is now married and living in the town of Penn,
McLeod county. The first death was that of Fred. Charles, who burned to death
late in the fall of 1858, in his brother Ernest's house, whose wife was also
badly burned in trying to save herself and children.

   The first school was taught by Miss Abby Ramsdell, during the summer of 1858,
in a log building erected for the purpose in section 33, near the south town
line. The town now has five school-houses.

   The first religious services were conducted at private houses by a Mr.
Shepard, who came from Wisconsin in 1856. Rev. A. McWright, of Glencoe, a
Methodist, began preaching at an early date in a room over the store of J. U.
Green, in the village. A church was built about ten years since in connection
with the Baptists. The latter have at present no regular pastor. The Advent
denomination also have an organization, which has existed for a number of years.
The Seventh Day Baptists have a fine church, which was built in the village in
1880.

   The first mill was built by Samuel Scantleburg & Sons in the summer of 1856.
It was a small steam saw and grist-mill, and located on the bank of the lake and
on the village site. In 1863 they sold to C. Pigler; not long after, the mill
was burned, and Mr. Pigler erected in its place a fine steam-power flouring mill
with three run of stone. The Charles brothers built a steam-power saw and
grist-mill nearer the north end of the lake in 1857. They operated it a few
years, sold the machinery and abandoned the enterprise.

   The meeting for organizing the town was held at William's hotel in the
village, May 11, 1858. George Hotchkiss was chosen moderator and Edward
Scantleburg, clerk. The following town officers were elected for the ensuing
year: J. H. Mayall, chairman; P. M. Weaver and William Arnold, supervisors;
Edward Scantleburg, clerk; N. Pedrick, assessor; J. U. Green, collector; Robert
Duncan, overseer of the poor; R. Wilkinson and J. B. Scantleburg, justices; F.
N. Gibbs and J. N. Arnold, constables. There were forty-eight votes cast. The
highest number ever cast was in 1879 when 145 votes were polled. Mr. Scantleburg
resigned as clerk in August and E. F. Wright was appointed in his place. The
chairmen of the town board since have been Edward Scantleburg, five terms,
Thomas Harris two terms, William Arnold nine terms, and a member of the board
since organization until 1879, E. L. Smith, two terms, J. T. Richardson two
terms, and Fred Streich, three terms.

   William Arnold was born in 1810, in Rhode Island and lived there until the
age of nineteen years. He then went to Pennsylvania and was engaged in farming
until 1856; coming at that time to Minnesota he settled on a farm in New Auburn
where he has since resided. On arriving in the township he found but two
families in advance of him. Mr. Arnold was one of the first board of supervisors
and continued in the office for about twenty consecutive years; was also justice
of the town for five years. He was united in marriage in 1835 with Miss Ruth
Wilber, who was born in Dutchess county, New York. Of the seven children born to
them, four are living: Job N., James W., Martha A. and Alice G.

   James W. Arnold, son of William Arnold, was born in Pennsylvania in 1838.
When eighteen years of age he came with his parents to Minnesota and settled on
a farm in New Auburn, where the father still lives. February 1862 he enlisted in
Company H, Fourth Minnesota infantry and served until the close of the war in
1865. He participated in many hard fought battles and on the 22nd of May, 1863,
was wounded. After the war he remained at home until 1867, then purchased a farm
for himself on which he lived until 1879; in that year he removed to the village
of New Auburn and opened a hotel of which he is still proprietor. Married Miss
Mariah Missensal in 1868. Louis J., Martha and Thomas are their children.

   Henry Bailey was born in St. Lawrence county, New York in 1835. There he grew
to manhood and remained until 1864, then came to Minnesota and settled on a farm
in Transit township, Sibley county. In 1872 he settled in the village of New
Auburn and has since resided here. In 1879 he built a sugar-cane mill which he
still runs; it is the only one in the locality. Was elected town assessor in
March, 1880. Married in 1862, Miss Abigail Powers, a native of New York. Two
daughters have been born to them. Minnie R. is a teacher. Edith lives at home.

   Ezra Bailey was born in 1826, in St. Lawrence county, New York and there
resided until 1855. He then migrated to Wisconsin and four years later came to
Minnesota, locating in Henderson. Soon after he moved to Faxon township thence
to Transit, remaining there until 1875. Since locating in New Auburn, in 1875,
he has led a retired life. Married in 1851, Miss Emily Aldem, a native of New
York. Seven children have been born .to them: Clarisa, the wife of Abram Fadden;
Polly A., wife of A. B. Tapin; Henry B., Thurman, Cornelia and Eva live at home;
Charles resides in Dodge county.

   Arthur Boylan, was born in Ireland in 1829 and came to America with his
parents when a small child. They settled on Prince Edward Island and there
remained fifteen years, then resided in Boston about twenty-five years. After
engaging in a sea faring life a short time, Mr. Boylan in 1872 came to Minnesota
and settled in New Auburn, where he has since resided. In 1858 he married Ellen
Mohan who has borne him eight children: Thomas E., Arthur S., Ellen E.,
Catherine J., James S. and Mary B. are living. Catherine died in infancy and
Francis at the age of eight years.

   L. R. Beebe is a native of Vermont, born in Franklin county, 1840. There he
lived until 1867 learning and working at the trade of blacksmith. In 1867 came
to Minnesota and settled in Faribault, remaining only a brief time, however.
Locating in New Auburn he built a shop and has since pursued his trade. Mr.
Beebe also owns two fine farms to which he gives considerable attention. He
served as town treasurer one term. Was married in 1866 to Miss N. Beagle, who is
also a native of Vermont. Mabel, Herman, Abbv, Herbert, Ira and Axie are their
children.

   W. W. Bigelow was born in Vermont in 1850 and when quite young accompanied
his parents to St. Lawrence county, New York. In 1866 he migrated to Minnesota
and after a residence of about two years in Fillmore county, removed to St.
Croix county, Wisconsin. There he engaged in farming for six years then moved to
New Auburn and has followed farming since. Married in 1871 Miss Flora A. Hall,
who died in 1879. His second marriage was in 1880 with Mrs. Euphemia Coon,
relict of the late Gordon Coon.

   John Bischof, a native of Germany, was born in 1846. When twenty-six years of
age he came to America and settled in New Jersey; resided there six years,
employed in a foundry. In 1879 he settled in New Auburn on a farm in section 1,
where he still lives. Miss Maggie Hadley became his wife in 1873. Barbary,
Charles and Maggie are their children.

   George Blake was born in Cumberland in 1827. Removed with his parents to Nova
Scotia when a child, and remained seventeen years, then lived in Illinois until
coming to Minnesota in 1857. Mr. Blake settled on a farm in New Auburn, on which
he has since lived. In 1864 he went into the army in Company M, First Minnesota
heavy artillery, and while in service lost his sight, and has since been totally
blind. Miss Margaret Barry became his wife in 1848. Patrick, Ellen, John, Jane,
James, George, Annie, William and Louis are their children.

   Aaron W. Burdick, deceased, was born in the state of New York in 1836, and on
attaining majority he removed to Wisconsin., Enlisted in Company E, Fifth
Wisconsin infantry, and served eighteen months; was then discharged on account
of declining health. Returning to his native state he remained until 1871, then
came to Minnesota, locating first in Grafton township, Sibley county. Here he
engaged in farming for seven years, and in 1878 came to New Auburn. He gave his
attention to dealing in stock. In 1879 was appointed mail agent on the Hastings
& Dakota railway. This position he was compelled to vacate on account of ill
health. Was nominated for sheriff of Sibley county as a choice of the people,
but withdrew his name from the political field. On the 13th of March, 1881, he
died, leaving a widow and five children. He was married in 1859 to Miss Hannah
M. Green, also a native of New York. The children are Leslie A., Mary C., S. H.,
E. T., and D. H.

   J. C. Chapin was born in Tompkins county, New York, in 1840. When eighteen
years of age he came to Minnesota and settled in Shakopee; remained one year,
then went to the vicinity of Fort Snelling. Soon after he removed to Sibley
county and engaged in farming in Dryden township until the Indian outbreak, when
he moved his family to Fort Snelling for safety, and went out against the
Indians. After the excitement had subsided he returned to Sibley county, and has
since been a resident of New Auburn. For eight years he kept a hotel in the
place; has since been a dealer in stock. In 1879 he married Miss L. Balinger, a
native of Indiana. One daughter, Daisy.

   George G. Coon was born in Madison county, New York, in 1837. After leaving
school he taught five years in Wisconsin and Illinois. Came to Minnesota in
1861, and after a brief stay in Freeborn county removed to St. Peter, where he
taught one term, then came to New Auburn. One season was spent on a farm, after
which he taught one and one-half years in Glencoe village. Returning to New
Auburn he bought his present farm, which he cultivates summers and teaches
school during the winter months. For the past three years he has served as
justice of the peace. Married in Wisconsin in 1863 Miss M. C. Calegrove. They
are the parents of two children: Durwood and Nellie V.

   Eli Drew is a native of Bangor, Maine, born in 1848. When about six years old
he came with his parents to Minnesota, and settled in Hennepin county, near
Minneapolis; there his parents still live. In 1876 Mr. Drew purchased the farm
on which he now lives. Miss Hattie McDougall became his wife in 1876. Celia B.
is their only child.

   Bernard Eickshen was born in Prussia in 1838; lived there until the age of
twenty-three years. Came to America in 1861 and settled in Carver county,
Minnesota, where he remained a short time, then removed to New Ulm; shortly
after he went South and remained on9 year. Returning to Minnesota he located in
Young America; during his seven years' stay there was engaged as engineer. Upon
returning from a visit to Europe he settled in New Auburn township, on section
25, where he now resides. Was married in 1871 to Miss Anna Butts. They have four
children: Mary, Frederick, Godfrey and Lena.

   Abraham Fadden was born in Stockton, Vermont, in 1838. When a small boy his
parents removed to Canada and resided there until 1855, when he came to
Minnesota and settled at Henderson, Sibley county; six years later he went to
California, returning to Henderson after an absence of one year and a half; came
to New Auburn where he has remained since with the exception of the time spent
in the army. Enlisted in 1862 in Company I, 10th Minnesota under General Baker.
After serving about one year returned to New Auburn and in 1871 purchased his
present place. His first marriage was in 1856 with Miss Margaret Wheeler, who
died at New Auburn in 1873. Two sons were born to them; Herbert is living. Mr.
Fadden was married in 1874 to Miss Clarisa Bailey. Walter and Warren are their
children.

   George Faddon was born in Canada in 1835. Came to Minnesota in 1859 and
settled first in Henderson, where he remained seven years. In 1862 he joined
company I, 10th Minnesota; served three years. Returning to Minnesota he settled
on a farm in New Auburn. For several years he served as town supervisor, and has
also held other offices of trust. Bliss Anna Richardson became his wife in 1854.
Sybil, Charles, Horatio, Seward and Addie are their children.

   James Fadden was born in Grand Isle county, Vermont, in 1818. When a child
accompanied his parents to Canada, remaining there until the age of fifteen
years. He then until 1858 lived in his native state, also in Massachusetts and
Wisconsin. During that year he came to Minnesota and after a residence of five
years in Henderson, settled in New Auburn on a farm. Was united in marriage in
1841 with Miss Margaret Thompson, who died in 1872. Oscar, Algina, Eugene,
Annie, Ellen, Eliza, Willie, Ida, Melvin and Jasper are their children.

   Daniel Francis was born in the state of New York, in 1848. When nine years
old he moved with his parents to Wisconsin where he lived until 1863. Enlisted
in Company B, Fifth Wisconsin and served until the close of the war. Returning
to his former home in Wisconsin, he attended school some time then in 1868 came
to Minnesota and settled first in Redwood Falls. After a residence there of nine
years he came to his present farm in New Auburn. Married Miss Ellen Saunders in
1869. Edward F., Mabel and Irene are their children.

   David Freeman was born in Jefferson county, Ohio, in 1819 and resided in his
native state until 1855. Came to Minnesota and remained a short time in St. Paul
then located in Washington Lake township where for seven years he did carpenter
and farm work, then came to New Auburn. His first marriage was in 1840 with Miss
Elizabeth Allen who died on the 6th of March, 1875. Three children: John
enlisted in Company G, 10th Minnesota and died while in service in 1865; Lydia
is the wife of Peter Smith; Benjamin J. lives in New Auburn. In 1875 Mr. Freeman
was married to Mrs. Rose A. O'Connell, widow of Thomas O'Connell who come to his
death by freezing on New Auburn lake. John, David M. and Ellen are the children
by this marriage.

   E. P. Gardner was born in Monson, Hampden county, Massachusetts, in 1817. He
was educated in music at the old Boston Musical Academy and taught music for
several years. He was also station agent at West Brookfield, Massachusetts four
years and in 1854 went to Akron, Ohio. There he dealt in agricultural implements
four years then went to Wisconsin and engaged in farming until 1873. Coming
thence to Minnesota he settled on a farm in New Auburn township but in 1878
moved into the village and embarked in the drug business; received the
appointment of postmaster the same year, which office he still holds. He was
town clerk for two years and for the past three years has served as justice of
the peace. In 1842 he married Miss Lydia Crocker. They have had eight children;
seven are living: Charles H., Mary E., Luella, Etta A. Henry E., Allett G. and
Bertram F.

   F. N. Gibbs was born in the state of New York in 1827. In 1854 he came to
Minnesota and settled on a farm in Richfield, Hennepin county, and there resided
two years; came in 1856 to New Auburn and settled on his farm adjoining the
present village site. Was chosen assessor, in which office he served twelve
years; was also treasurer of the town one term, and has been connected with the
school board for about twelve years. During the Indian outbreak in 1862, after
removing his family to Minneapolis as a place of safety, he went out as a scout,
but served only a short time. Miss Mary L. Hathaway became his wife in January,
1857. Seven children have been born to them.

   D. D. Graves was born in 1842 in Hatfield, Hampshire county, Massachusetts.
Enlisted in 1861 in Company B, 32d Massachusetts infantry; was promoted to
lieutenant, which rank he held until the close of the war. Served in twenty-six
engagements, and was slightly wounded once. In 1871 he came to New Auburn, where
he is successfully engaged in the cabinet business. Served three years as town
treasurer, and has been town clerk for the past three years. In 1874 he married
Miss Clara Smith, of Franklin county, Massachusetts. Their only child, Winford
E., died at the age of four years and ten months on the 10th of December, 1880.

   William Hahn, a native of Prussia, was horn in 1849, and came to America with
his parents at the age of five years. He lived in Wisconsin until 1862, then
came to Minnesota and located in Hutchinson, McLeod county. About one year later
he removed to Dryden, Sibley county, and in 1879 came to New Auburn and bought
his present fine farm. In 1873 he was wedded to Miss Catharine Rose. Fred, John,
August and Emma are their children.

   B. F. Hall, whose native state is Vermont, was born in 1843. When nineteen
years of age he went to New York; remained in that state until 1871, then came
to Minnesota. Soon after he located in New Auburn, and in 1877 purchased the
place on which he now lives. On coming to Minnesota he had no means whatever,
but by hard work and close economy has acquired a nice property. In February,
1865, Miss Melvina Cleveland became his wife, and has borne him four children:
Frederick, Etta, Robert and Flora.

   Willard L. Harris was born in New Jersey in 1845, and the next year
accompanied his parents to Pennsylvania. When he was five years old they went to
Delaware, and in March, 1856, started for Minnesota, arriving at St. Paul in
April. After spending one year in Minneapolis they came to New Auburn, where his
father, Thomas Harris, pre-empted a farm adjoining the place where Willard now
lives, and there remained until his death, which occurred in September, 1873. In
1861 Mr. Harris enlisted in Company B, Fourth Minnesota volunteers, and served
until being mustered out as orderly sergeant at the close of the war. In 1871 he
married Miss Josephine McDougall, a native of Canada. Clara, Marshall, Wesley
and Maud are their children.

   James Higgins was born in Scotland in 1832. Came to America when twenty-three
years of age and settled in Toronto, Canada, remaining there three years. In
1858 he came to Minnesota, and has since lived on his farm in New Auburn. Miss
Mary A. Green became his wife in 1853. John, George, Sarah S., Mary E., James,
Elizabeth, Cora B. and Anna M. are their children.

   G. W. Holmes was born in Lowell, Massachusetts, in 1843, and at the age of
eight years removed to Maine. After a residence of three years in that state he
went to Wisconsin. In 1861 joined Company A, First Wisconsin infantry, and
served three years. After returning to civil life he came to Minnesota, locating
soon after on his present farm in New Auburn. His marriage to Miss Rosalie
Benjamin took place in Wisconsin in 1865. Four children have been born to them,
of whom three are living: Cora A., George M. and Leroy H. Clara died in 1867.

   R. A. Kerr, M. D., was born in Belmont county, Ohio, in 1857. When two years
of age he accompanied his parents to Wisconsin and received
his literary education at Elroy Academy. He commenced his medical studies under
Senior Booth and with him remained one year then entered the Bush Medical
College of Chicago, taking two regular courses of one year each. He practiced
his profession in Kendall, Wisconsin, one year, then returned to Bush College to
complete his studies. He graduated on the 22d of February, 1881, and came
directly to New Auburn.

   William Kipp was born in Delaware county, New York, in 1831. He remained in
that state until 1877, then came to Minnesota and settled on the farm in New
Auburn where he now resides. He is a brother to Orrin and Sylvester Kipp,
practicing attorneys at Henderson. He was united in marriage in 1860 with Miss
Ellen Squares, also a native of New York. Their children are, Jefferson D., Etta
J., Alice W., Hattie E., Orrin E. and Minnie B.

   Jacob Koons, formerly a resident of New Auburn, but now a resident of Penn,
McLeod county, was born in Wayne county, Ohio in January, 1836. Until attaining
man's estate his time was spent attending school in winter and farming in
summer. In 1857 he came to Minnesota and pre-empted the farm on which he now
lives but until 1866 made a home with his brother Joseph in New Auburn. In 1861
joined Company B, Fourth Minnesota, in which he served three years; was sergeant
of his company one year. He soon after settled on his present farm; has held all
the town offices and in 1879 was elected to represent his district in the
legislature. Miss Harriet A. Harris became his wife in 1861. Anna, W. Dennett,
C. L. and a little girl are their children.

   Joseph Koons was born 1833 in Ohio and there remained until twenty-one years
of age; he was educated at Heidelberg college in Tiffin, Ohio, completing his
studies in 1852. After teaching school five years he came to Minnesota and
located on the farm where he now resides. Much time and pains have been brought
to bear in ornamenting and beautifying his country home. During early life Mr.
Koons developed considerable inventive genius. In 1873 he invented the threshing
machine which is so widely known and highly recommended, "Minnesota Chief."
After bringing it to perfection in detail, he sold his entire interest to the
firm of Seymour, Sabin & Company, of Stillwater. He is familiarly called by his
many acquaintances, "Threshing Machine Koons." His marriage with Miss Matilda
Stomen took place in 1859. They have only one son, Elmer E., who resides at home.

   Thompson Laraway was born in Oneida county, New York, in 1831. There his life
was spent until 1856. After a residence of one year in Illinois, he in 1857 came
to Minnesota, locating soon after on his present farm in New Auburn. In 1861 he
enlisted in Company B, Fourth Minnesota and served three years. Mr. Laraway was
united in matrimony with Isabella McCartney in 1850 and by this marriage has
four children: Hattie, Warren, Eugene and Edith M.

   Edward T. Lawton, a native of Michigan, was born in 1841, and when a child
accompanied his parents to New York. At the age of eighteen he moved to
Wisconsin and there remained until attaining majority. Enlisted in 1862 in
Company G, 20th Wisconsin in which be served until the close of the war, then
returned to Wisconsin and in 1868 came to New Auburn. He has a farm on section
7. In 1866 he married Bliss Teressa Calegrove, who was born in the state of New
York. Liniel E., Wellington P. and Wyman A. are their children.

   H. H. Litchfield was born in 1840, in Virginia, when sixteen years of age he
began the trade of miller, which he continued in that state until 1861; he then
went into the confederate army, not from choice but from compulsion; remained
until the close of the war, then went to Maryland. There he engaged in milling
two years and in 1867 came to Minnesota and settled in Henderson. Until 1873 he
was engaged in milling in that place then was clerking in a store one year. Went
to Cottonwood county and remained one year, then dealt in wheat at Sioux City
three years. Since then he has had charge of the New Auburn mills. Married in
1868 Miss Catharine Boland. Mary, Ellen and Emma are their children.

   F. J. Lynde was born in Guilford, Vermont, in 1841. In 1862 he joined company
E, 11th Vermont volunteers in which he served until the close of the war. He
removed to Minnesota, stopping a short time on the way in Wisconsin. His first
home was in Blue Earth county, but in 1866 be located in New Auburn, and here
learned the trade of carpenter, which he followed chiefly until 1879. He then
purchased the general merchandise business of Steicklin and Baker. For three
years he served as town clerk and one term as justice of the peace. Mr. Lynde
was married in 1868 to Miss Elizabeth Bonniwell, a native of Wisconsin.

   William Mansfield, a native of Maine, was born in 1841. In 1861 enlisted in
company H, 15th Maine infantry; served four years and eight months, and was
honorably discharged. He returned to his native state after the war, but soon
after migrated to Iowa, thence to Wisconsin. Subsequently he came to Minnesota
with a view to locate which he did in New Auburn. For the past five years he has
been engaged in stock buying.

   Daniel Munro, a native of Scotland, was born in 1833, and during early life
learned the trade of blacksmith. After working at it three years he went to
Australia, and spent five years there in the gold mines. In 1860 came to America
and settled in Wabasha county, Minnesota, which was his home thirteen years.
Came to New Auburn in 1873 and purchased the beautiful place known as The Grove,
which is located on the banks of New Auburn lake, and which commands a most
picturesque view of the lake and surroundings. Miss Johanna Riddock became his
wife in 1867. Robert, Noble and Alonzo are their living children. Maggie died at
the age of two years in 1872. Mr. Munro has served several years as town
treasurer. Enlisted in 1862 in company G, Eighth Minnesota, and served until the
close of the war.

   John O'Connell, a native of Ireland, was born in 1823. Remained in his native
country until 1850, then came to America and settled in Washington county,
Maryland, where for three years he was employed in a foundry. Removing thence to
Jefferson county, Wisconsin, he engaged in farming until 1865, then came to
Minnesota, and settled on a farm in New Auburn where he has since lived. In 1878
was elected to the office of town supervisor, which office he still holds.
Married in 1850 to Miss Catherine Walsh who has borne him ten children, seven of
whom are living: James E., Mary A., Catherine, P. J., Teresa B., Ellen E. and
Daniel.

   Aaron Oxendale is a native of England, born in 1824. Came to America in 1851
and spent the first year in Wisconsin; then made a trip through the southern
states, thence to California where he engaged in mining for three years.
Returning to Wisconsin he remained until 1857, at which time he came to
Minnesota and settled on a farm in New Auburn. Was united in marriage with Miss
Selina Fletcher, in 1850. Six sons and two daughters have been born to them:
George H., Charles, Jane, John, Annie E., Walter, David P. and William W. 

   H. F. Palmer was born in Oneida county, New York, in November, 1820. He
resided in his native state until migrating to Wisconsin in 1863. His residence
was in that state until 1872, when he removed to Minnesota and located in New
Auburn where he has since been interested in the manufacture of wagons. He has
served his town as justice of the peace and as town clerk. In 1862 he joined the
146th New York regiment, and was mustered out after a service of one year. His
wife was Miss Anna M. Maxson, married in 1844. Francis M., Effie S., James L.,
Zuletta E., Idella G. and Eliza E. are their children.

   James L. Palmer was born in 1848, in Oneida county, New York, and there
remained until sixteen years of age; then went to Wisconsin. While in that state
learned the wagon making trade and followed it for six years. In February, 1878,
he came to Minnesota and has since followed the trade of a carpenter in New
Auburn. Married, in 1869, Miss Sarah J. Palmer, who has had four children: Emily
D., Henry F., Effie S. and Mary A.

   Charles Pigler, a native of Hungary, was born in 1829. When a young man he
learned the cabinet trade, and followed it there until coming to America in
1854. He worked at his trade a few months in Philadelphia, then went to Racine,
Wisconsin, and for two years was employed by J. I. Case & Company. In April,
1857, he came to Minnesota; settled in Henderson, Sibley county, where in
company with others he ran a shingle and sawmill for seven years. In this
enterprise he experienced considerable loss. Coming to New Auburn he purchased a
small saw-mill which stood on the site of his present large mill. After running
it one year, in 1865 it was destroyed by fire. He immediately rebuilt, and in
1871 also erected the flouring mill adjoining. This he started on a small scale,
his business being only custom work; but three years ago it was remodeled,
furnished with the best improved machinery, and now can produce about sixty
barrels of flour per day. He was wedded in 1856 to Miss Christine Jenson.

   Joseph Plieseis is a native of Austria, born in 1841. When twenty-four years
of age he left his native country for America, and settled in Missouri, where he
lived four years, then came to Minnesota. Locating in Arlington township he
engaged in farming there until about 1878, then bought his present farm in New
Auburn. In March, 1873, he married Miss Eustina Sealonski, who has borne him
five children: Augusta, Charles, Minnie and Amy are the living.

   Fred. Podratz is a native of Prussia, born in 1844. When a lad of ten years
of age he came with his parents to America, and with them settled in Wisconsin.
There he remained until 1871, then came to New Auburn and entered the employ of
Mr. Pigler in his mill; subsequently was placed in charge of the engine, which
position he still retains. In 1864 enlisted in Company H, 42d Wisconsin, and
served until the close of the war. Married in 1866 Miss Mary Lester, who was
born in Illinois. Charlie and Ella are their children.

   N. A. Ranney was born in Cattaraugus county, New York, in 1854. When twelve
years old he accompanied his parents to Iowa, and there remained until 1878. At
that time he went to the Black Hills, but soon after returned to Iowa, and the
next year came to Minnesota; settled in New Auburn, and has since been doing a
thriving business in the general merchandise trade. Mr. Ranney is a nephew to J.
W. Ranney, of La Crosse county, Wisconsin, who for several years was the leading
attorney of the state of New York, and who in 1853 went to Wisconsin, and has
since been interested in hop culture. For many years past has been judge of the
district court of La Crosse county, also a member of the state senate of Wisconsin.

   John Rose was born in Scott county, Minnesota, in 1856. His father, John A.
Rose, was one of the first settlers of the county, having located there as early
as 1854. There the son lived until 1879, then came to New Auburn and purchased
the place where he now resides. In 1877 he was united in marriage with Miss
Minnie Piara. They have one son and one daughter: John and Minnie.

   Howard Shadinger was born in Pennsylvania in 1825, and when quite young
removed with his parents to Ohio, thence to Indiana. There they resided until
1855, then came to Minnesota; his home was in Eureka, Dakota county, excepting
three years spent in Northfield, until 1877, when he located on his present
farm. From 1863 until the close of the war he served in the Second Minnesota
cavalry. Married in 1850 Miss Mary A. Cox. They have six children: Louisa M.,
wife of William Pryor, of Clay county; Sarah E., wife of Louis Nelson, of New
Auburn; John H., Minnie G., wife of Seymour Richardson; Celia M. and Guy H.

   B. F. Stocking was born in Oneida county, New York, in 1831. After passing
three years as apprentice to the trade of painter, he went to Norwich, New York,
where he was employed in a piano factory until 1850. Went to Wisconsin during
that year, and after engaging at his trade a short time, opened a saloon in La
Crosse; also ran a brick yard. In 1857 came to Minnesota, and until 1867 made
his home in Olmsted county. After disposing of his property he came to where the
village of Brownton now stands, and in 1870 moved into New Auburn and bought his
present farm, which is adjoining the village; also purchased a fine home in the
vjllage. He is now one of the most extensive bee-growers in the state. Mr.
Stocking was one of the town board for several years, and at the last election
was chosen chairman of the board of county commissioners. Married in 1855 Miss
Mary F. Buley. Eva L. and Harriet are their children.

   Fred Streich, a native of Prussia, was born in 1837. Came to America in 1854,
settled in Wisconsin and worked on a farm until 1856, then went south where he
engaged in steamboating on the Red river about three years. Returned to
Wisconsin and in 1863 came to Minnesota. On arriving at New Auburn he located on
his present farm. He has taught school in New Auburn for three years; in 1871
was elected county commissioner; in 1877 was nominated for county treasurer and
in 1878 received the nomination for county auditor. Miss Christina Rickert
became the wife of Mr. Streich in 1861. Of the fourteen children born to them
only seven survive. Albert A., Henry A., Emil J., Martha, Theodore, Hulda and
August.

   Ezekiel Willson was born in Windham county, Vermont, in 1812. On attaining
majority he came to the state of New York where he resided until 1858 then came
to New Auburn and settled on the farm on which he now lives. During the Indian
outbreak he moved his family to Minneapolis where they remained two years; he,
however, carried on his farm the entire time. In 1866 when the Baptist church of
New Auburn was organized Mr. Willson was elected a deacon, which position he
still retains; he has about his house one of the finest groves to be found in
the state; about four acres of large beautiful trees which he has set out and
cared for. His wife was Miss Cornelia Cofrin to whom he was married in 1831.
They are the parents of six children: Dennison L. is a resident of New York;
Abel died in 1858; Ellen is the wife of Edwin Baker, of New York; Harriet and
Adison live at home; Harrison resides at Glencoe.

   John Wisdorf is a native of Prussia, born in 1850. Came to America with his
parents when about two years old and for nine years lived in Wisconsin; he then
came to Minnesota and settled in Green Isle, Sibley county, remaining there
until 1878, when he removed to New Auburn and settled on his farm on section 26.
Mr. Wisdorf married in 1875 Miss Eva Plenkers. Jacob, Lizzie and Anna are their
children.

   Peter Wilkins was born in 1819 in Germany. After leaving school he was
engaged in teaching in Germany, his native country, until the age of eighteen
years when he came to America. He learned engineering in the state of Ohio and
for six years run an engine after which he entered a mill where for three years
he was in charge. In 1859-60 he served in the state legislature for Sibley
county; served for one term. From 1873 until 1877 he dealt in general
merchandise in New Auburn; he has held various town offices and for five years
was postmaster. Mr. Wilkins married Anna Otten in 1840. Their children are,
Mary, the wife of John Oliver; John W., Charles H., William S., Ellen E., now
Mrs. C. H. Gardner, and Joseph P.

TRANSIT

   Transit, one of the central of Sibley county, was the first of the prairie
towns to attract settlers to its borders. There is one large lake situated near
the center of the town, known as Indian lake, followed in the west by a chain of
smaller lakes and marshes. About the shores of these bodies of water a few very
early pioneers located, but soon abandoned their huts for other parts. The first
permanent settler, Frederick Muchow, located in 1858 and still makes the
original claim on section 1 his home. For a long time he was the only one in the
place, but was joined in 1860 and '62 by a large number, among the most
prominent being Ezra Bailey, who located on section 10; Fredrick Thuneman, on
section 10; F. Warnka, section 3; and Ralph Wilkins, August Grumvaldt and N.
Rhyner in other portions of the town. Several of those mentioned and many others
after a short sojourn left for other parts, finding too many difficulties to
contend with, the main trouble being the want of wood. As the surrounding
country became more opened by roads and improvements, one by one new and
permanent settlements were made, so that in 1866 the town contained a sufficient
number of voters to permit an official organization. Accordingly an election was
held and officers elected as follows: A. G. Coon, chairman, and John Boumaster
board of supervisors; L. S. Crandall, clerk; C. Strasman, assessor; Frederick
Muchow, treasurer; and C. Strasman justices.

   Settlers in the eastern portion of the town united with the Dryden people and
constructed a church just over the township line. Some years later the Catholics
built a small edifice at the village of Mountville, which in 1881 was in charge
of Rev. A. Stecher of Henderson.

   A German school in the Lutheran church was taught for some years. In 1881
there were four school districts, each supplied with a comfortable school building.

   Transit now has three post-offices. The first, named after the town, was
established in 1867, and L. S. Crandall appointed postmaster; in 1881 W. F.
Babcock held the office. Eagle City post-office, located, on section 29, was
formerly established in Alfsborg, the first postmaster having been Ole Oleson;
in 1881 E. A. Campbell was postmaster. The third post-office was established at
a point near the township line of Dryden, in the north-eastern part, called
Mountville. Louis Uber first held the office. The postmaster in 1881 was Thomas
Whalan.

   The village of Mountville was surveyed in 1872 by Adam Buck, on land owned by
F. Thuneman, L. and W. Uber. A few lots were sold, but no improvements of
importance were ever made.

   The valuation in 1880 stood: $162,789 worth of real estate, and $27,638 in
personal property. Population, 527. A total of 112 votes were polled at the fall
election the same year.

   M. F. Babcock was born on the 10th of July, 1857, in Wisconsin. He is a son
of Hiram Babcock, who was born in Madison county, New York, in 1819, and moved
to Wisconsin in 1856. When ten years of age Morton came with his father to
Transit township, Sibley county, and is now residing on section 17. His mother
was Catherine Wells, also of New York. There are six children: Edward, Emmagene,
Morton, Eloise, Stella and Della.

   George K. Chapin was born in Herkimer county, New York, in 1828. He removed
to Allegany county, thence to Dane county, Wisconsin. Enlisted in Company D,
Seventh regiment Wisconsin infantry, and was discharged from service in 1864. 
Came to Minnesota in 1866, and soon after settled on section 28, Transit
township. Married Emma D. Truman, who was also born in Herkimer county, New
York. Rosalia, Damon D. and Marshie A. are their children. Mr. Chapin has served
his town as clerk.

   O. B. Coon was born on the 8th of October, 1852, in Rhode Island. He came to
Minnesota in August, 1862, and settled in New Auburn, Sibley county, but one
year later located a farm on section 17, Transit township, and has since resided
here. His farm comprises 160 acres. He is a son of A. G. Coon, who was born in
Rhode Island on the 23d of February, 1820. Phoebe A. Crandall became the wife of
Mr. Coon; also was a native of Rhode Island.

   Erick Erickson, a native of Sweden, was born in 1831. Came to America in
1868; soon after proceeded to Minnesota and located on a farm of 160 acres on
section 26, Transit township. His wife was Caroline Olson, of Sweden, who has
borne him seven children: Annie, Ellen, Caroline, Amelia, Hilda, Louis and
Sarah. Mr. and Mrs. Erickson are identified with the Lutheran church.

   Patrick Gallagher was born in county Galway, Ireland, in 1854. Came to
America in 1865 and located in Kentucky. Coming to St. Paul he remained one and
one-half years, then located in Transit, Sibley county. He received a good
practical education, and has since taught school in this county.

   Robert J. Hall was born in Washington county, Vermont, in 1852, and came to
Minnesota in 1868, and located on section 20, Transit township. He is a son of
Almon Hall, a native of Vermont, who was married to Esther Carroll of that
state. Their children are Benjamin F., Ellen J., A. E., and Robert J.

   August Hass is a native of Prussia, born in 1841. Came to America in 1868 and
settled in Sibley county, Minnesota. He owns 160 acres of fine laud, situated on
section 22. Married Minnie Schader, a native of Germany, who has borne him four
children: Albert, Mary, Charles and Annie.

   Peter Keenan was born in New York city on the 24th of August, 1832. When
twenty years of age removed to Sheboygan county, Wisconsin, thence in 1859 to
Dane county. He settled in Olmsted county, near Rochester, Minnesota, in 1864,
and remained four years; then located on his present farm in Transit township,
situated on section 29. Alice Griffin, a native of Ireland, became his wife, and
has borne him six children: John, George, Frank, Katie, William and Frederick.
Mr. and Mrs. Keenan are members of the Roman Catholic church.

   George Kruger was born on the 8th of January, 1846, in New York. He lived in
Milwaukee twenty-nine years, and in 1874 came to Transit, Sibley county. Mr.
Kruger is by trade a millwright, also a carpenter. He is the present town clerk
of Transit, and resides on section 22. His wife was Caroline Laubs, of Germany.
Louis, Louisa, John, Paulina and Robert are their children.

   Charles Maxson was born in Madison county, New York, in 1840, and in 1863
came to Wisconsin. Two years later he came to Minnesota, and has since resided
in Transit township; he owns a farm of 320 acres on section 8. He has been
supervisor of the town for three years. Was married to Emmagene Babcock, of New
York. Nellie May is their only child.

   August Muchow was born in Transit, Sibley county, Minnesota, in 1858. He is a
son of Fred. Muchow, who was born in Prussia in 1830; came to America in 1853,
and located in Jefferson county, Wisconsin. Coming thence to Transit, he settled
in the town, and has since resided here. He married Wilhelmina Lindamann, who
has borne him five children; August is the eldest; the others are Herman, Franz,
Minnie and Albert.

   Charles Rathke was born in Prussia in 1834, and came to this country in 1857.
Proceeding directly to Minnesota he located in Dryden township, Sibley county,
and in 1866 settled in Transit. For seven years he has served as chairman of the
town hoard. His marriage was with Amelia Koehler, also a native of Prussia, born
in 1842. Bertha, Ida, Ellen, Herman, Ferdinand, Martha, Annie and Charles are
their children.

   German Soper was born in Chenango county, New York, on the 4th of August,
1818. From there he removed to Jones county, Iowa, and in 1865 came to Transit,
Sibley county. He owns a large farm of 480 acres on section 16. For two terms
has served as one of the supervisors. His wife was Phoebe Rogers, a native of
the same place; she has borne him four children: Horace, Caroline, Ida and John G.

   John C. Whelan, a native of Ireland, was born on the 25th of June, 1849. Came
to America in 1862 and settled in Olmsted county, Minnesota. In 1868 located his
home on section 22 of Transit township. He has held the office of chairman of
the town board four years; has also served as clerk and justice of the peace.
Mr. Whelan is a son of Daniel and Annie (Champion) Whelan, both natives of
Ireland. They have six children: Keeran F., Thomas, John C., Elizabeth, Annie
and Mary.

   K. F. Whelan was born in Queen's county Ireland, in 1847. He was raised as a
farmer, and in 1862 emigrated to Quebec, Canada, thence to Olmsted county,
Minnesota. In 1867 he located in Transit township, Sibley county. Since residing
here he has been town clerk and assessor. Was married in 1876 to Honora Leonard,
daughter of Pat. Leonard, who was an early settler of Sibley county, having
located here in 1855. Daniel, Mary and Honora are their children.

ALFSBORG.

   Alfsborg, a rolling prairie town, lies in the southern and central part of
the county, and embraces the whole of congressional township 112 north, range 29
west. As originally set off it embraced the two towns, Cornish and Severance. In
the western part are two lakes, Cummings and Sandy, which are the source of the
two branches of Rush river, both of which run east across the town. The soil is
a trifle more sandy than in other sections of the county, and in very dry
seasons not so reliable for raising wheat.

   A majority of the first who made this town their home were Scandinavians,
unaccustomed to keeping any kind of records, unable to read, write or speak the
English language, and as a consequence but few of the early incidents can be
procured. One of the first signs of civilization was a hotel built by A.
Cummings in the northern part, .on the old Fort Ridgely road, and supported by
travelers crossing the country from Henderson to the West. That, however, has
long since become a thing of the past, and even the names of the few who located
in the vicinity can only be guessed at.

   The first names to be had are those of the first officers elected at a town
meeting held January 26, 1869, at the house of Andrew Gustofson, as follows:
Andrew Swanson, chairman; Peter Oleson and Andrew Gustofson, supervisors; Herman
Anderson, clerk; John Haed, treasurer; Ole Ingdal, assessor; S. and H. Anderson,
justices; John Ostberg and Gustop Larson, constables.

   Not until quite a late date was there much attention given to school matters.
In 1881 there were two school districts, numbers 46 and 54, the former having
two school-houses and the latter one.

   In 1880 the valuation as returned by the assessor was $132,179 real estate,
and $26,038 personal property. There were 477 inhabitants the same year. At the
fall election eighty-six ballots were cast.

   Charley Anderson, a native of Sweden, was born in 1838. Came to America in
1868 and settled in St. Peter, Minnesota. He worked in different places until
1869, then located on section 7, Alfsborg township. In 1870 he was united in
marriage with Engie Johnson, a native of Sweden. They are the parents of three
children: Harry, Ennis and Emil.

   Carl W. Anderson was born in Sweden in 1830 and grew to manhood on his
father's farm. On arriving in America in 1865 he settled in Illinois and
remained two years, then moved to Minnesota. After spending one year in Mankato
and St. Peter, he settled on his farm on section 4 of Alfsborg township. Mr.
Anderson has held the office of town supervisor several years. Was married in
New York in 1867 to Anna Hanson; his first wife died in Illinois. Lotta, Alfred,
Edith, and Annie are their children.

   Johan Anderson was born in Sweden in 1841. Came to America in 1869 and
proceeded directly to Minnesota, remaining in Mankato until 1872. He then moved
to section 11, Alfsborg township where he still resides. Miss Lotta Johnson
became his wife in 1870. They are the parents of five children.

   Peter Anderson, a native of Sweden was born in 1855 and came to America in
1862. He lived in Carver County, Minnesota three years and in 1869 moved to his
present farm on section 34, Alfsborg township. His father died in Sweden in 1860.

   Swan W. Anderson was born in Sweden in 1848. When nineteen years of age he
came to America and to Minnesota. His home was in Red Wing three years, then
spent six years in Illinois. Game to Alfsborg, Sibley county, in 1877 and now
resides on section 10. In 1881 his marriage with Miss Emma Gustofson took place.

   Swen Anderson, a native of Sweden, was born in 1815. His life was spent in
his native land until 1862 when he came to the United States and until 1866
remained in Chicago. Since that time he has been a resident of Alfsborg. Has
served as justice six years. Married in 1834 to Christine Bengt who has borne
him twelve children, of whom five are living.

   Andrew Bengstrom, a native of Sweden was born in 1824 and came to America in
1856. For twenty years he resided in Faxon township, Sibley county, then moved
to Alfsborg where he still lives. During his residence in Faxon, he enlisted in
1862 in Company H, ninth Minnesota and was honorably discharged in 1865; was
wounded in the battle of Guntown. Married Mary Johnson in 1847; have had twelve
sons and three daughters, of whom nine are living.

   Andrew Boren, whose native country is Sweden, was born in 1857. Until ten
years of age he remained on the farm then in 1867 came to America and soon after
located on section 22, Alfsborg township, where he still remains. Married in
1880 Louisa Peterson, a native of Norway.

   Nels Boren was born in Sweden in 1848 and came to America with his parents
when he was but two years of age. They settled first in Glencoe, and there
remained until coming to Alfsborg township in 1860. He is located on section 23.

   Peter S. Brown was born in Sweden in 1829 and was raised on a farm in his
native land. On arriving in America in 1864 he settled in Carver county,
Minnesota, and subsequently moved to section 10, Alfsborg township. Was married
in 1853 to Betsey Anderson, a native of Sweden, who has borne him five children:
Frank S., Mary, Tilley, August and John.

   Martin Curren was born in Galway county, Ireland, in 1831. Came to America in
1849 and for several years resided in the New England states. In 1856 came to
Minnesota and after a brief stay in Hastings, settled in Green Isle, Sibley
county, where he remained until 1878. He then located a home on section 12, of
Alfsborg township. In 1856 he married Bridget Mangen, who has borne him seven
children.

   John Englebert, a native of Sweden, was born in 1833, and while living in
that country learned the millers' trade. Immigrated to New York in 1863 and
proceeded thence to St. Paul. His first two years were spent at work for Mr.
Erickson on a government contract. He then went to Scott county where for one
year he engaged in farming, then came to Alfsborg township and located
permanently on section 26. Mr. Englebert has served as town treasurer for ten
years and since 1869 has been school treasurer. Married in 1858 to Mary Larson
who was born in Sweden in 1837. One son, Magnus, who was born in Sweden, is
their only child.

   M. Gartner, a native of Germany, was born in 1831. In 1854 he came to America
and for ten years lived in Indiana, then moved to Rice county, Minnesota. His
home was there for sixteen years, when, in 1880, he located on section 12,
Alfsborg township. Mr. Gartner is chairman of the town board of supervisors.
Married in 1859 to Phoebe Bernstein, who was born in Ohio. They have had seven
children: Delia, wife of C. Bugbee; Louisa, the wife of Henry Benson; George,
John, Mary, Frank and Charles.

   Andrew Gustofson was born in Sweden in 1818 and came to America in 1861. He
settled in Dakota county, Minnesota and remained three years, then came to
Alfsborg; he was the first settler in the town. In 1841 he married Miss Emma K.
Hanson who has borne him nine children.

   Gustof Gustofson, a native of Sweden, was born in 1846 and when nine years of
age came to America. After a residence of one year in Wisconsin, he removed to
Goodhue county, Minnesota, remaining thirteen years. Came to Sibley township,
Sibley county, in 1870 and located soon after in Alfsborg, where he has since
lived. Has been constable four years and in 1875 was assessor. Charles
Gustofson, his brother, was a soldier in Company D, Third Minnesota and died at
Duvall's Bluff, Arkansas.

   August Johnson, farmer on section 34, is a native of Sweden, born in 1849.
His childhood was passed in his native land, which he left in 1867 for America.
Soon after arriving in the United States he came to Minnesota and settled in
Alfsborg township, Sibley county. He is an unmarried man and makes his home with
a brother.

   Gustof Larson was born in 1842, in Sweden. After reaching man's estate he
spent two years in Norway, and in 1867 came to America and settled in Wisconsin.
In 1868 he located a farm in Alfsborg, where his home has since been. Mr. Larson
has served as supervisor and constable. Was married in 1873 to Miss Mary
Anderson who has borne him five children; all are living.

   John Lundborg, a native of Sweden, was born in 1846. Came to America in 1861,
locating first in Carver county, Minnesota. In 1867 he came to Alfsborg and now
resides on section 34. Miss Mary Swanson became the wife of Mr. Lundborg in
1867. Amanda, George and Charles are their children.

   Andrew Mahn was born in Sweden in 1848. He grew to manhood on a farm. In 1865
came to America and to Illinois, thence to Minnesota and settled on section 2,
Alfsborg township. Was married in 1871 to Johannah Johnson. John A., Edith A.,
Charles and Anna are their children.

   Phillip Mee was born in Ireland in 1846. His youth was spent on the farm and
at school. Immigrated to America in 1866 and engaged in various pursuits until
1870, then came to Sibley county and located on section 2, Alfsborg township.
Married in 1873 Kate Hamil, also a native of Ireland. Patrick and Mary J. are
their children. Mr. Mee has two brothers located on farms adjoining his. Michael
was born in county Monohan, Ireland, in 1861 and was principally engaged as a
dealer in stock in his native land. Came to America in 1877 and remained in St.
Paul, Minnesota until 1880 then located on section 1, Alfsborg township.

   August Morshan was born in Sweden in 1850. He came to this country and
settled in Belle Plaine, Minnesota, in 1867. After re siding there one year he
came to his present home in Alfsborg. His father, John Morshan, who was born in
Sweden in 1817, came to America in 1865.

   Erick Oleson was born in Sweden in 1836. In 1866 he came to America, and soon
after arriving located on his present farm in Alfsborg, on section 6. In 1862 he
was united in marriage with Betsey Anderson. Two sons have been born to them,
August and Charles; both were born in Sweden.

   Swan Rydeen, a farmer on section 9, Alfsborg township, was born in 1845 in
Sweden. He left his native land for America in 1869, and located in Alfsborg in
1870. Was married in 1869 to Anna Peterson, a native of Sweden. Frank, John,
Herman, Edward, Lemot and Whichart are their children. Mr. Rydeen has held the
office of school director three years.

   J. Shoberg, a native of Sweden, was born in 1821, and came to this country in
1868. Settling first in St. Peter he remained there two years, then came to
Alfsborg, and has since made this town his home. In 1842 he married Catherine
Jonas, who has borne him thirteen children, of whom ten are living.

   John M. Sisler was born in Preston county, Virginia, in 1837. He left bis
native state when a young man, and after a residence of nine years in Winona,
Minnesota, settled in Sibley county, Kelso township. In 1878 he moved to section
12 of Alfsborg township, which has since been his home. While living at Winona
he enlisted in the Second Minnesota light artillery; participated in the battles
of Stone River, Chickamauga and Kenesaw Mountain. He was married in 1863 to Anna
Peterson, who was born in Ohio in 1845. Ella, their only child, was born in
February, 1868.

   Charles A. Swanson was born in Sweden in 1835. He came to America in 1866,
and located at Red Wing, Minnesota. Removing to Sibley county in 1868 he settled
on a farm on section 6, Alfsborg township. For seven years, he officiated as
postmaster at Eagle City. Married in 1871, and has two sons and two daughters:
Prank, John, Annette and Annie.

   Andrew Wass, born in 1824 in Sweden, remained there until thirty-two years of
age. Game to Carver county, Minnesota, in 1866, and lived there seven years.
Removed to Nicollet county in 1873, and in 1876 came to Alfsborg township, where
he has since resided. Mr. Wass has been assessor seven years, justice of the
peace three years in Nicollet county and one year since coming to Sibley county.
His first marriage took place in 1849, by which he had one child. In 1850 he
remarried, and by his second wife had ten children, of whom seven are living.
His last marriage occurred in 1878.

CORNISH.

   Cornish lies between Alfsborg and Severance townships, bounded on the north
by Bismark and on the south by Nicollet county. With the exception of a strip of
light timber surrounding Cottonwood lake, in the western part, the township is
prairie, small lakes and marshes abounding in some localities. The soil is
remarkably productive and has been extensively cultivated for the past ten
years, there having been but few settlers previous to 1871, when the town was
organized. A few claims were located in 1868, one of the first by William James,
followed by Alonzo and Joshua Wakefield, and E. P. Kimball. G. H. Gaylord also
located the same year. The Wakefield brothers settled upon section 22, and were
joined by their father, J. B., early the next spring. G. H. Gaylord also located
upon section 22, where he still resides.

   In 1871 there were a sufficient number of voters to form a township
organization; accordingly an election was held on the 25th of January, with the
following result: G. H. Gaylord, chairman, K. B. Bennett and Josiah Wakefield,
supervisors; William Wakefield, clerk; A. C. Wakefield, treasurer; W. and J. B.
Wakefield, justices; A. Anderson, constable.

   In 1869 the first white child was born, Dora, daughter of E. F. and Mary
Kimball. During July of the same year the first marriage occurred, Miss Mahala
Wright becoming Mrs. Josiah Wakefield, the newly married couple remaining and
making Cornish their home. To this couple a child was born in 1870, which lived
but a short time, and was buried on the farm of G. H. Gaylord.

   A school-house was built early in 1871, and school opened in the fall by Miss
Lydia Truman, having a fair attendance. On section 22 is where the building was
located, supplanted later by a commodious frame structure, with patent seats.
There is a second school-house located in the northern part of the township.

   Occasional religions services were held during the first ten years after
settlement. In 1877 a Swede Evangelical Lutheran society was organized and a
church building erected and placed in charge of Rev. Mr. Rydin. The officiating
pastor in 1881 was Rev. Mr. Soderman.

   A Methodist Episcopal society was formed in 1879, and a church edifice
erected on section 34; services have been irregularly held since by mission
clergymen.

   Alonzo C. Wakefield was appointed first postmaster in 1869, succeeded soon
after by J. B. Wakefield, who still holds the office.

   The town received its name through J. B. Wakefield, in memory of his native
town in New Hampshire.

   The valuation for 1880 stood $102,770 real estate, and $13,417 personal
property. Population for same year, 274 persons, casting forty-one votes.

   Gabriel Anderson, a native of Sweden, was born in 1828. Until 1867 he lived
in his fatherland, then came to America and proceeded soon after to Minnesota.
On arriving in this state he settled on section 26, Cornish township, Sibley
county, where he still resides. His marriage with Mary Suamines took place in
1859. One son and one daughter have been born to them: Andrew and Betsey.

  Ezra Bennitt was born in Vermont in 1812. When a small child he accompanied
his parents to New York, and there grew to manhood on a farm. Came to Minnesota
in 1854; located first in Goodhue county, and in 1870 settled on his present
farm of eighty acres on section 14, Cornish township. Mr. Bennitt's eldest son
joined Company F, Sixth Minnesota volunteers, and was subsequently discharged on
account of disability. Was married in 1842 to Louisa M. Phelps, who has borne
him four children.

   H. W. Dunwell, a native of Germany, was born in 1843. Came to America in
1858, and after spending one year in St. Paul, Minnesota, moved to Jordan, Scott
county. Enlisted in Company I, Eighth Minnesota; was mustered out at Charleston,
South Carolina, and discharged at Fort Snelling in July, 1865. On returning he
located in Cornish township, Sibley county, and has a farm of eighty acres on
section 8. Was married in 1869 to Mrs. Briard, who has borne him four children,
of whom three are living.

   S. C. Gregory was born in Ohio in 1837. When a lad of about twelve years he
removed to Iowa and remained in the state twelve years. Came to Minnesota in
1861, and in 1873 settled on his present farm of 160 acres on section 22, town
of Cornish. Married Miss Anna Taylor in 1869. Edith and Winnie are their children.

   Peter Hagbarg, a native of Sweden, was born in 1817. Came to America in 1854
and settled in Rockford, Illinois, where he remained fifteen years, then came to
Minnesota and bought a claim of 160 acres ou section 8 of Cornish township,
where he now resides. In Sweden, in 1841, he was united in marriage with Miss
Ingermary Nelson. Ten children have been born to them, of whom seven are living.

   Nils Johnson was born in Sweden in 1848. He lived in his native land until
the age of eighteen and in 1866 came to America; proceeding in 1871 to
Minnesota, he located soon after in Cornish township. Mr. Johnson is one of the
successful farmers of the township, and has a well cultivated farm on section
20. He has been town clerk and justice of the peace several years. Was married
in 1879 to Augusta Gunderson, who has borne him one son, Nimrod.

   Elias P. Kimball was born in 'New Hampshire in 1842 and came with his parents
to Minnesota in 1854 and with them settled in Goodhue county, but removed to
Nicollet county in 1862. Enlisted in 1864 in Company F, Sixth Minnesota and went
south; was discharged in 1865. Returning to Minnesota he settled in Sibley
county in 1867 and in the spring of that year married Mary L. Hennings. Mr. and
Mrs. Kimball reside on section 28, Cornish township, and have a farm of 160
acres. They have had three children, two of whom are living.

   Charles Swanson, a native of Sweden, was born in 1848. Came to America in
1869 and settled first in Goodhue county, Minnesota, remaining two years. He
then moved to Sibley county and claimed 120 acres of fine farming land on
section 8 of Cornish. Married Miss Elizabeth Williams in 1876. Their only child
died at the age of two years.

   William Taylor, a native of Scotland, was born in 1822 and came to America in
1845. He settled first in Canada, remaining there nine years; in 1855 came to
Minnesota and located in Winona. His home was there for thirteen years; since
then till about two years ago he was a resident of Mankato, but now owns a farm
of 160 acres on section 26, Cornish. On the 25th day of December, 1845, Miss
Sarah Rolph became the wife of Mr. Taylor. They are the parents of eight
children; the living are Ann, Mary, Jennie and John S. The youngest daughter,
Jennie, is a teacher.

BISMARK.

   Bismark is a rolling prairie and was one of the latest to organize. The
oldest settler now living here is J. A. Kruger, who located upon section 24 in
1869 and has since made it his home. In 1867 a Mr. Mason and Sanders had
located, Mr. Mason soon after removing to St. Peter and Mr. Sanders was removed
by death, probably the first in the town.

   The organization of the township took place in 1874, an election being held
July 24, with the following result: Michael King, chairman; L. Holz and J. L.
Maxon, supervisors; S. S. Clevenger, clerk; J. H. Houston, treasurer; Louis
Kiefer and E. H. Babcock justices and M. Burdick and William Schauer, constables.

   Two school districts have been formed, one in the eastern and one in the
western portion of the town, both having good buildings.

   Assessments for 1880 gave the town a valuation as follows: $107,687 in real
estate, and $9,532 personal property. There were twenty-nine votes cast at the
election of 1880, and a population, as given by the census returns, of 261
inhabitants.

   John A. Kruger was born in Prussia, in 1834. Came to America in 1864 and
settled near Mankato, Minnesota. In 1869 he came to Bismark, Sibley county, and
has since been a resident of this place; has a farm on section 24. He has served
as a member of the town board of supervisors. Married Augusta Rosanan, of
Prussia, who has borne him nine children: Otto, Herman, John A., William J.,
Alvena, Fred G., Amelia, Charles H., and Annie.

   Frank Thole was born in Quincy, Illinois, in 1855. When nine years of age he
went to Missouri and there remained until coming to Minnesota, in 1874. He
located on section 2 of Bismark township where he still resides with his family.
On the 3d of June, 1878, Miss Catherine Garmon became his wife. One son and one
daughter have been born to them.

GRAFTON.

   Away out in the northwestern corner of the county, Grafton is nearly isolated
from her motherland, by the jog made in giving township 114, ranges 29 and 30
west, to McLeod county. Like the rest of the western towns, this is prairie,
with its full quota of lakes and marshes. Buck's lake, in the northern portion,
is the largest, covering about 350 acres.

   The first settlers arrived in 1870. Among them were James Furlong, who
located in section 26; John Southard, on section 24; A. M. Burdick, on section
14, and Alfred Foss, on section 2. No additions were made to this settlement
until the spring of 1873, when D. A. Davis arrived, followed soon after by a
sufficient number to permit the organization of the town, which took place the
following September. Officers then elected: A. M. Burdick, chairman; George Asal
and Joseph Mingo, supervisors; George R. Gardner, clerk; George Asal, assessor;
William Knowles, treasurer; A. M. Burdick and L. M. Harrington, justices.

   A school was opened in 1874 by Miss Louisa Jenks, in a log house on section
14. The town is now divided into three districts, each having a substantial
school building, and an attendance of twenty scholars.

   The first death reported was a son of Charles Thime, in 1875, shortly after
his arrival.

   The valuation in 1880 was given as follows: $48,290 real estate and $14,887
personal property. The census gave 259 inhabitants. There were in the same year
fifty-four votes polled.

   Henry Ahlbrecht, a native of Germany, was born in 1834. Game to America in
1866 and settled in Shakopee, Minnesota, remaining there seven years. He then
removed to Glencoe, and in 1879 located in Grafton township on section 33. He
married Miss Caroline Icht, a native of Germany. Lena, Henry, Bertha, Eda,
Odelia, Theodore, Albert and Emil are their children. Mr. and Mrs. Ahlbreoht are
identified with the Lutheran church.

   William Baumgarten, farmer on section 20, was born in Germany in 1822. Came
to America in 1853 and first settled in Dodge county, Wisconsin, where he
remained four years. Coming thence to Henderson, Sibley county, be engaged in
the medical practice, also in the drug business, until 1874, then located on
section 20, Grafton township. He was united in marriage with Martha Mathwig, who
has borne him five children: Earnest, Ertman, William, Mary and Helen.

   August Burgstahler was born on the 20th of May, 1828, in Baden, Germany. Came
to America in 1852 and settled first in Buffalo, New York, and from there
removed to Chicago. He afterward went to La Porte, Indiana, and made that his
home for seventeen years. He enlisted in 1861 in Company B, 73d Indiana, and was
in service eight months. In 1869 came to Minnesota, and soon after settled on
section 30 of Grafton. His wife was Mary Huser, who has borne him seven
children: Mary, Rosa, John, Gusta, Phillip, Katie and Ella.

   D. A. Davis was born in Erie county, Pennsylvania, in 1834, and came to
Dakota county, Minnesota, in 1866. There he resided until 1872, when he located
in Grafton township on section 28. Enlisted in Company F, 169th Pennsylvania, in
1862, and served nine months; was honorably discharged, and re-enlisted in the
211th regiment, in which he served until the close of the war. Married to Emma
Drake, a native of Pennsylvania. Cassius and Dolphus are their children.

   R. S. Donaldson was born in Perry county, Ohio, in 1828, and came to
Minnesota in May, 1855, locating in Dakota county. In 1877 he removed to section
1 of Grafton township, where he is established as a dealer in agricultural
implements. Enlisted in the Fourth Minnesota as captain, and was subsequently
promoted to lieutenant-colonel of the 12th Louisiana, which was afterward the
50th United States colored volunteers. Mr. Donaldson married Eliza Curry, of
Ohio. Clarence, Mary J., Horace, Cora, Robert and Laura are their children.

   Louis Forcier was born in Canada in 1851. Came to the United States in 1860
and settled in Sibley county, and in 1871 moved to his present home on section
14, Grafton township. His wife was Salina Degree, a native of Canada, who has
borne him three children: Joseph, Mary, and an infant.

   Alfred Foss was born in Stratford, New Hampshire, on the 30th of September,
1812. From his native state he went to Maine, thence to Kenosha county,
Wisconsin. After engaging in the lumber trade in Green Bay county, he in 1864
came to Minnesota and settled in Scott county, and in 1872 came to his present
farm on section 1, Grafton. He has been a member of the town board since its
organization until last year. His wife was Harriet Dearborn, a native of Maine.
George T., Jane, Harriet and Nancy are their children.

   George R. Gardner, carpenter, was born in Rensellaer county, New York, in
1841, and coming to Minnesota in 1873, located in Grafton where he owns a farm
of 240 acres. He enlisted in the Second New York volunteers and served two years
then re-enlisted in New York heavy artillery and served two years longer; was
discharged at the close of the war. Since his location at Grafton he has served
as town clerk for five years. Married Mary F. Brundige, a native of New York.
Elliott B., George F., Mary I., Martha L. and Jessie B. are their children.

   James Greig, farmer on section 12, was born in Wayne county, Michigan, in
1852. Came to Minnesota when only three years of age and lived in Dakota county
until 1874. He then came to Grafton, Sibley county, and has since resided here.
His marriage was with Miss Emma E. Forgason, of Illinois. They are the parents
of two sons, George A. and William D.

   John Greig, a native of Scotland, was born in 1847 and when only three years
old came to America. His home was in Wayne county, Michigan, until 1855, then
removed to Dakota county, Minnesota, and there resided until 1873, when he came
to section 24 of Grafton. He enlisted in Battery H, First Minnesota heavy
artillery in 1864 and was discharged in 1865. Married Ada Lockwood, of Michigan,
and has by her two daughters: Nettie A. and Effie G. Mr. Greig was a member of
the town board six years and its chairman two years.

   Robert Greig was born in 'Scotland in 1844, and came to America in 1850. He
removed to Dakota county, Minnesota, from Michigan in 1855, and in 1873 settled
in New Auburn, Sibley county. Two years subsequently be came to Grafton and has
since resided on section 32. Enlisted in Company E, Seventh Minnesota, in 1862,
and served until 1865. Married Helen G. Lockwood, of Michigan, and is the parent
of three children: Major L., Jean E. and Theodore W.


   Joseph Mautner is a native of Bavaria, born in 1836. Came to America in 1852
and settled first in Le Sueur county, Minnesota, where he remained until 1877,
then removed to Sibley caunty anud located a home on section 20, Grafton. His
wife was Katrina M. Reinhardt. Katrina, Henry, Carolina, Annie, Lydia, Arthur,
Ida, Ella, and John are their children. Mr. Mautner enlisted in Company K,
Fourth Minnesota, in 1864 and was discharged at the close of the war.

   Simon Moore, a native of Ireland, was born in 1838 and when five years old
immigrated to Philadelphia. Coming to Sibley county in 1853 he settled in Green
Isle township and in 1878 located in Grafton. He has served as town treasurer
four years and the same length of time as supervisor. Enlisted in 1862 in
Company F, Minnesota mounted rangers and was out with General Sibley against the
Indians; after serving one year was honorably discharged in 1863. His marriage
with Miss Johanna Minohan took place in 1870. Seven children have been born to
them.

   J. H. Mullen was born on the 16th of March, 1843, in Ireland. Came to America
when a small boy and lived in Massachusetts until the commencement of the war
then enlisted in company B, 12th Connecticut and was afterwards promoted to
captain. He came to Minnesota in 1865; settled in Wabasha county, but
subsequently became a resident of Grafton township, Sibley county. Married
Marion Downer, who was born in New York. They are the parents of two children.

   Ole Rector was born in Norway, in 1853. He came to the United States in 1861
and settled in Nicollet county. Remained until 1873, then located in Grafton
township on section 20, where he has a fine farm. His wife was Jane Dunn, who
was born in Pennsylvania and who has borne him three children. Martha M., Louis
W. and an infant.

   John E. Senescall, farmer on section 34, was born in 1856 in Dakota county,
Minnesota; his parents were among the early settlers of that county. In 1879 he
came to Grafton, Sibley county and located his home on section 34. His marriage
was with Mary E. Hubbard, who was born in Cattaraugus county, New York. Their
children are Gertrude B., Margaret A., and Spencer W.

MOLTKE.

   The last of Sibley county townships to officially organize was Moltke, which
received its name in honor to the Prussian general Count Moltke. Its position is
the most westernly of the middle tier of townships in the county.

   The surface is an undulating prairie, containing marshes and several small
lakes, the largest of which is called Alkali. This town contains six fractional
sections over the regular number assigned to townships. 

   Settlers arrived and took claims or purchased in the following order: W. M.
Hoefer, on section 24, in 1875; J. P. Blake, on section 6, in 1876; followed
soon after by John Atrops, on section 10. These three families still reside
where they located. In 1877, August Papke located upon section 29, there being
no more farms opened until 1878, during which year a colony of fifteen families
located at one time.

   On the 21st of August, 1878, an election was held and the township organized,
with the following officers: J. P. Blake, chairman; John Atrops and William
Hoefer, board of supervisors; F. W. Biermaun, clerk; William Hoefer, Jr.,
assessor; Christ Bueckle, treasurer; Louis Neukirch and F. W. Biermann, justices.

   On the 23d of December, 1879, the first marriage took place at the residence
of the bride's parents. Henry Seabrandt and Miss Margaret Atrops were united by
the Rev. Henry Albrecht.

   The first birth occurred in 1875, a child being born to Mr. and Mrs. W. M.
Hoefer.

   No death was recorded until March 9, 1880, when the daughter of F. W. and
Emma Biermann died, and was buried in a Lutheran cemetery which had previously
been laid out.

   On the 20th of May, 1878, Rev. Henry Albrecht preached the first sermon, at
the residence of Christ Bueckle, there being an attendance of twenty persons.
Services were continued quite regularly at Mr. Bueckle's residence until 1880,
when the St. Peter's Evangelical Lutheran society was organized with thirteen
families connected. A church edifice was erected at a cost of $600, and placed
under the charge of Bev. Henry Albrecht. The membership in 1881 was twenty-four
persons, and under the charge of Rev. John Grabarkerwitz. At the building of the
church an adjoining lot was laid out as a cemetery.

   The first school was held at the residence of Andrew Seabrandt, on section 9,
in the fall of 1879, and taught by Barbara Schaffer. In the fall of 1881, there
was but one district school; taught in the church building, and having an
attendance of sixty-five scholars; F. A. Schroeder teacher.

   John Atrops was born in Prussia in 1832. He came to America in 1853 and
settled in Carver county, Minnesota; removed in 1874 to his present farm on
section 10 of Moltke township, Sibley county. His wife was Elizabeth Hausmann, a
native of Prussia, who has borne him nine children: Caroline, Maggie, Annie,
Lena, Charlie, Belle, Lizzie, John and Henry. Mr. Atrops has served as town
supervisor.

   Fred. W. Biermann, a native of Prussia, was born in 1851, and came to this
country in 1869. He settled first in New York, and in 1876 removed to Minnesota,
locating in McLeod county; in 1878 he came to his present home on section 20 of
Moltke township. His marriage was with Emma Hoppenstedt, of Germany. Fred, and
Sophia are their children. Mr. Biermann is now serving as town clerk.

   J. P. Blake was born in Illinois in 1849, and in 1857 came with his parents
to Minnesota, locating with them in Hastings. In the spring of 1876 he settled
in Moltke township on section 26, where he still resides with his family. He has
been a member of the town board, also justice of the peace. Miss Catherine Reel,
who was born in Minnesota, became the wife of Mr. Blake, and has borne him three
children: Eva, James and in infant.

   C. W. Hoefer, farmer on section 24, was born in Germany in 1830. Left his
native land for America in 1861, and located in Philadelphia. Came to Minnesota
in 1868; made a home in New Auburn, Sibley county, until 1875, then settled on
his present farm. Married Christina Wolf, of Germany; their children are
William, John, Herman, Charles, August, Annie and Fred.

   John Hoefer, who owns a fine farm of 160 acres on section 14, was born in
Germany in 1858. Coming to America in 1862 he located in Philadelphia and
remained until 1875; he then came to Moltke township and settled on his present
farm. He is a son of C. W. Hoefer.

   Fred. Hoppenstedt was horn in Hanover, Germany, in 1847. When twenty years
old he came to America and proceeded to Chicago, where he engaged in the dairy
business until the spring of 1881; at that date he located in Moltke on section
29. Married Emma Hoeltge, of Chicago, who has borne him five children: Fred,
Adolph, William, Albert and Henry.

   Louis Neukirch was born in Prussia in 1835In 1862 he came to Carver county,
Minnesota; remained eight years, then moved to McLeod county. Came to his
present home in Moltke township, section 12, in 1878. His wife was Dorotha
Meyer, of Germany. Adolph is their only child. Mr. Neukirch has served as
justice of the peace three years, and is at present a member of the town board.

   August Papke, a native of Prussia, was born in 1847. In 1861 he immigrated to
Green Lake county, Wisconsin; came to Olmsted comity, Minnesota, in 1870, and
remained about eight years, then proceeded to his present home in Moltke in
1878. Mr. Papke is chairman of the town board of supervisors. Augusta Abraham, a
native of Prussia, became his wife; they have one son and one daughter: Pred.
and Emma.

   Fred. Ruschmeier, farmer on section 18, was born in Hanover, Germany, in
1839. There he lived until 1865, then came to America, settling soon after in
Chicago. After a short stay removed to McLeod county, Minnesota, and in 1878
located permanently in Moltke township, Sibley county. While a resident of
McLeod county he served as county commissioner one term; has also served as
chairman of town hoard of Moltke. Married Elizabeth Jones, of Manchester,
England. Henry F., John, Ellen, Sarah and Christina are their children.

SEVERANCE.

   Severance derives its name from one of the early pioneers of the county of
that name. As originally organized the town was called Clear Lake, the change
being necessary, owing to the fact of there being another town in the state of
that name. It occupies the south-east corner of the county, and embraces within
its limits six half sections more than the usual number, in consequence of the
land overrunning the government survey.

   No organization existed until 1870, although quite a number of settlers had
located several years before, among the earliest being Swan Lindstrom, John D.
Jacobson,and Peter Swedlund who came previous to 1868 and took claims in the
southern portion of the town. There are two school districts, both having
buildings and convenient furniture.


Additional Comments:
Extracted from 

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


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