Sibley County MN Archives History - Books .....Henderson, Jessenland, Faxon 1882
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Book Title: History Of The Minnesota Valley

CHAPTER LX.

 HENDERSON TOWNSHIP- JESSENLAND - FAXON- WASHINGTON LAKE- GREEN ISLE- ARLINGTON-
KELSO- SIBLEY.

   The township of Henderson, named in memory to the mother of Joseph R. Brown,
that being her maiden name, is a fractional township occupying the south-eastern
portion of the county, its eastern boundary following the Minnesota river.

   Along the valley of the Minnesota river are wide, fertile flats, some
portions under cultivation, others covered with heavy timber. All of this land
is subject to annual overflows, which in the fall of 1881 did much damage to com
and hay. The land is deep and rich. Between these lowlands and the bluffs is a
plain, varying in width from a few rods to half a mile. This land is more sandy.
Then comes the ever varying bluffs, some bold and steep, others with a gradual
slope; most of the surface covered with oak, maple and walnut timber. For
several miles back from the bluffs the land was originally covered with timber,
but the ax and grub hoe have made way for the plow, and an industrious class of
farmers occupy most of the territory. In the extreme western portion the prairie
makes its appearance. Rush river finds its way to the Minnesota very nearly
through the centre of the township. Containing as it does the oldest village,
and that having been the county seat since the creation of the county, all early
incidents have heretofore been given.

    At the present time there are, aside from the independent district of the
borough, four schools, all comfortably furnished.

    Aside from the churches in the borough there is a German Lutheran located on
section 9. It is a log structure, built several years ago. Services are,
conducted quite regularly by neighboring clergymen.

    A saw-mill was built in 1870 by Henry Theis, having a capacity of 8,000 feet
per day. It is located on section 6, and run by steam.

    In 1880 a total vote of 322 was cast. The census of 1880 showed a population
of 1,648; and the assessors returns a valuation of $249,614 real estate,
$174,496 personal property. These figures include the borough of Henderson.

    Joseph Barle, born October 4, 1823, is a native of Germany but since 1856
has been a resident of America. He lived near St. Paul for about eighteen
months, and in 1858 located in Henderson. His home is on section 13. Mr. Barle's
wife was Caroline Schaffer, a native of Germany. They have four children:
Christina, Annie, Joseph and George.

   Stephen Bock, a native of Germany, was born December 26, 1854 and in 1857
accompanied his parents to the United States. Mr. Bock owns a farm of 118 acres
on section 4, of Henderson. He was united in marriage with Teresa Schmidt who
was born in Sibley county. Joseph is their only child.

    August Dee was born February 15, 1830 in Prussia. Upon coming to America in
1855 he located in Jefferson county, Wisconsin, but in 1866 removed to
Henderson; about two years later he came to his farm on section 11. Fanny Palts,
a native of Germany, became his wife and they have seven children: Mary J.,
Fanny, Annie, August, Eva, Emma and Fred.

    Julius Furch, a native of Prussia, was born September 24, 1834. In 1862 he
immigrated to this country, and after living in Henderson about three years, he
came to his present home of 148 acres on section 4. Mr. Furch was united in
marriage with Christena Hansen who was born in Germany. Their children are
Bertha and Amelia.

   John Kirch was born January 29, 1824, in Germany, and upon coming to this
country in 1852 he settled in Ohio. Removed from that state to Chicago,
Illinois; then lived at New Ulm from 1855 until 1862 at which time he located
permanently in Henderson; his farm on section 22, consists of 160 acres. Mary
Zemah, a German by birth, was married to Mr. Kirch and is the mother of four
children: Susan, Nicholas, Mary and John.

   William Krueger was born in Germany in December 1837 and since 1843 has lived
in America. He lived in Wisconsin thirty-four years engaged in various lines of
business: Merchandising, carpentering and farming; in 1876 he removed to Blue
Earth county, Minnesota, and one year later came here; he owns, on section 3,
200 acres of land. Married Wilhelmena Nell who has borne him nine children:
Frank, William, Fred, Julius, Peter, Flora, Annie, Phillip and Albert.

   August Mohrenweiser, born April 15, 1825, is a native of Germany. In April
1853 he came to the United States and still resides where he first located on
section 3; he is the owner of 188 acres of land. Minnie Lukstad, who was also a
native of Germany, became the wife of Mr. Mohrenwieser and has four children:
August, Henry, Gustav and Elizabeth.

   Henry Theis is a native of Germany where he was born in the year 1824. He
immigrated to the state of Illinois in 1844 and in 1855 removed to his home of
160 acres on section 6, Henderson. Mr. Theis was united in marriage with
Catherine Schultz of Prussia. Henry, William and Edward are their children. Mrs.
Theis had two children by a former marriage: Louisa and Dora.

   Mathias Theissen was born April 22, 1831 in Prussia. In 1853 he came to the
United States and for some time was in the employ of different people; he now
owns a farm of eighty acres on section 3, this town. In 1858 he married Margaret
Pothen, a native of Prussia. They are the parents of eight children: Mary,
Susan, Katie, Joseph, Henry, John, William and Helena.

   John Theissen, born March 15, 1832, is a native of Prussia. Since coming to
America in 1855 he has been engaged in farming his place of eighty acres on
section 3, Henderson; for several years he has been a member of the town board.
Mr. Theissen's wife was Gertrude Manderfeld, a German by birth. They are the
parents of five children; Mary, John and Annie are living.

   Friedrich Wegge, a native of Prussia, was born September 25, 1830, and since
coming to America in 1858 has resided in this county. Mr. Wegge has a farm of
eighty acres on section 15. In 1862 he enlisted in Company H, Seventh Minnesota
infantry, and served until honorably discharged in 1865. His wife was Mary
Wigand, of Germany. Emma, Selma and Sophia are their children.

   Ferdinand Wigand was horn February 16, 1833, in Prussia, and upon coming to
the United States in 1846 located in Jefferson county, Wisconsin; in 1855 he
emigrated to this state, and one year later to his home on section 7, where he
has 160 acres of land. Mr. Wigand has been twice married; his first wife died in
1875, leaving six children: Elvina, Louisa, Emil, Charles, Amanda and Alma; his
second wife, Tekla Pelz, has one child, Arthur.

   Henry Wigand was born in 1834 in Prussia, and in 1846 came to the United
States. He located in Wisconsin, but in 1854 migrated to Minnesota, and since
1866 has lived at his present home on section 14. In 1865 he enlisted in the
First Minnesota heavy artillery, and served eight months. Mr. Wigand married
Elizabeth Wolltemann, of Dayton, Ohio. Edward, William, Henry, Benjamin, Ida and
an infant are their children.

   John Wiegand was born in Prussia, August 8, 1829. He immigrated to Jefferson
county, Wisconsin, in 1846, and since coming here in 1853 he has been engaged in
farming; owns 110 acres on section 14. Mr. Wiegand has served the town for
several years in the capacity of chairman of the board. Clara Schmid, a native
of Austria, became his wife, and has five children: Amos, Rosa, Sophia, Clara
and Albert.

   Theodor Wigand is a native of Germany, where he was born September 16, 1838,
and in 1846 came to the United States. After a residence of seven years in
Jefferson county, Wisconsin, he came in 1853 to his present home of 120 acres on
section 14. He enlisted in 1865 in the First Minnesota heavy artillery, and
served eight months. Married Amelia Bardon, whose native state was New York.
William, Emil and Adeline are their children.

   Nicholas Welter, born in 1825, is a native of Germany. In 1852 he came to
America and first settled in Washington county, but since 1869 has resided in
the town of Henderson, where he owns 160 acres of land. His wife, Annie Neuns,
was also a native of Germany; she has borne him twelve children: Henry, John,
Mathew, Annie, Charles, Katie, Nicholas, Michael, Louis, Joseph, Anton and Maggie.

    Joseph Witsoney, a native of Bohemia, was born July 9, 1854, and has been a
resident of America since one year of age. He was united in marriage with Hannah
Rettra. Their children are Mary, Lawrence, Louisa, Teressa and Joseph. Mr.
Witsoney's farm, consisting of eighty-six acres, is on section 21, Henderson.
His father, Jacob Witsoney, was born in 1811 in Bohemia, and in 1854 emigrated
to the United States.

JESSENLAND.

    Just north of Henderson is Jessenland, supposed to have received its name
from the fact that Jesse Cameron was the first to arrive; it was for some time
known as "Jesse's Land." It embraces all of township 113, range 26 west,
excepting a fraction cut off by the Minnesota river. The surface is quite
irregular. High bluffs along the river, intersected by deep ravines. Back from
the bluffs are found numerous marshes, and in the northwestern portion is Silver
lake, a large body of water well stocked with fish. High Island Creek runs
through the township a little below the center, emptying into the Minnesota
river. Originally the surface was covered with a thick growth of heavy timber, a
large portion of which has been cut for wood and to make room for agricultural
pursuits.

    Of the old settlers Thomas Doheny was one of the first, having first
explored the county in July, 1852; returned in 1853 and settled upon the claim
where he still resides. His first experience in farming was in having his potato
crop frozen in the fall of 1853, after having been to considerable expense to
raise them. About the same time Doheny settled Jephies Gondreau also took a
claim, making it his future home. In September, 1854, H. J. Seigneuret, M. D.,
settled upon section 26, afterward removing to Henderson. Then followed in 1854
Henry Young, and in '55 Luke Finnegan, Edward Grimes, Nelson Norman and several
more who soon after left. Anthony Weber and Alof Marmorin in 1856.

    The township previous to 1858 voted at Henderson, but on May 11 of that year
the first local election was held. Officers elected: Henry Young, chairman;
William Rotert and William Carroll, supervisors; Richard Frederick, clerk;
August Miller, assessor; Anton Weber, collector; P. Sheridan and B. Frederich,
justice of the peace.

   The first marriage in the county of which there is any record occurred in
this town, Michael D. Bray being married to Miss Mary Hayes, on September 16,
1855. The ceremony was performed by Father Somereisen in the new and first log
school-house on section 17, and made an occasion for quite a celebration. The
present county auditor, M. D. Seigneuret, born in October, 1855, was the first
birth. Louis Kuntz died in 1857; at the time of his death he was keeping a store
near Silver lake, having opened for business but a short time previous. This was
the first death.

   In 1870 the Catholics built a large frame church, now known as St. Thomas.
There were 100 families connected. In 1881 there were 130 families connected,
and the church in care of Rev. J. Ryan.

   Schools were taught at an early date, the first being in a log school-house
built in 1855 on section 17. There are now six districts.

   Ignatius Anderley was born in Pennsylvania in 1839, and while quite young
moved with his parents to Ohio. In 1856 he came to Sibley county, Minnesota, and
located in Jessenland; made a claim of 160 acres. The father died in 1863, and
mother in 1871. Married in 1874 to Mary Shaughnessy, who has borne him four
children, of whom three are living.

   Martin Bach was born in Germany in 1854 and came to America with his parents
when about two years of age. They then came to Minnesota and made a claim of 160
acres in Jessenland, where the son, Martin, now lives. Miss Mary Schaffer became
his wife in 1881.

   William Berger, a native of Germany, was born in 1842. The family came to
America when he was about six years of age, and landed in New Orleans; went to
Ohio and there remained six years. Came to Jessenland, Minnesota, where the
father purchased a farm of eighty acres. William remained at home until the age
of twenty-two years, then resided two years in Washington county. After spending
some time in the copper mines in Lake Superior regions, he returned to
Jessenland and purchased a farm of eighty acres, on which he still resides. Mr.
Berger is at present one of the town supervisors. Married in 1863 to Elizabeth
Zeiher and is the parent of six children.

   Thomas Brown, a native of Cork, Ireland, was born in 1809. When twenty-five
years of age be left his native country for America and landed in Quebec,
Canada. Thence he went to Philadelphia; made that city his home about twenty-two
years. In 1857 he came to St. Paul, Minnesota, and directly to Jessenland, where
he claimed 160 acres, and still resides on that farm. Married in 1837 Sarah
McMannis. Of the twelve children born to them, eleven are living.

   Thomas F. Brown was born on the 3d of May, 1847, in Philadelphia. His father
came to Minnesota in 1855, and made a claim near Mendota, which he subsequently
lost. He then claimed another farm in the north-eastern corner of Jessenland,
and in the spring of 1856 made a claim of 160 acres on section 3, where Thomas
now lives. His mother died in 1857, and his father in 1866. Mr. Brown was
married in 1871 to Alice Carey. Mary, Patrick, Hannah and John are their children.

   Richard Carroll, a native of Ireland, was born in 1818. He came to America in
1827, landing in Baltimore; located in Ohio and resided there until 1857. Coming
westward he visited St. Paul, then came to Jessenland township and made a claim
of 160 acres, on which he has since lived. Married in 1847 Mary Chester. Seven
children have been horn to them, of whom three are living.

   Michael Carroll was born in Jessenland, Minnesota, in 1860, and there
remained with his parents until their death. His father contracted a disease in
the army, from which he never recovered sufficiently to perform labor, and from
the effects of which he died in 1869, at the age of forty-six years. In 1877 the
mother died. The old home then became the property of Mr. Carroll, where he has
since lived. The farm contains 160 acres. Miss Ida Terrio became the wife of Mr.
Carroll in 1881.

   John Collins was born in Ireland in 1809. When forty-two years of age he came
to America, landing first in New Orleans; went to Pennsylvania and resided seven
years. Came to St. Paul, and soon after made a claim of eighty acres in
Jessenland township, where he has since resided. Married in 1850 Miss Sarah
Hazen. They have five living children.

   Daniel Connolly was born in New York in 1845. His father and family moved to
Pennsylvania about the year 1851, and there remained until 1858, then came to
Jessenland. He made a claim of 120 acres, where he still lives. His son Daniel,
at the age of nineteen, enlisted on the 24th of August in Company E, Hatch's
battalion, and was discharged on the 1st day of May, 1866. After engaging as a
drover to Fort Garry, he returned and purchased his present farm of eighty
acres. Married in 1874 Ann Corcoran. Joseptte, Anna D. and Sebina are their
children.

   Patrick Connolly was horn in 1809 in Irelaud; learned the trade of shoemaker.
Went to Canada in 1839, and for two years lived in Montreal; then in New York
for three years. After living nine years in Pennsylvania he came to Jessenland
and claimed 120 acres, on which he still resides. Mr. Connolly is treasurer of
school district No. 43. Married in 1841 Josetta Norman. Of the fifteen children
born to them, twelve are living.

   Dennis Doheney, a native of Ireland, was born in 1831. At the age of nine
years he was left an orphan, and with a brother and sister came to America. They
went to Pennsylvania and remained until 1854, then came west and made a claim of
160 acres in Jessenland. Ten years later he purchased 450 acres, on which he now
lives. Married in 1848 to Alice Cunningham, who died in 1860, having borne him
five children. His second marriage was in 1861 with Mary A. Miller, who has
borne him two children.

   John H. Doheney was born in Pennsylvania in 1853. When nine years old came
with his parents to Jessenland and made a claim of 160 acres. John remained on
the farm and assisted his father until the age of twenty-two years, then removed
to Brown county and rented a farm. Two years later he returned to Jessenland and
bought 120 acres, where he still lives. Married in 1875, Amelia Reel who has
borne him four children.

   Thomas Doheny was born in Ireland in 1819; learned the trade of carpentering
and in 1840 he came to America; lived in Pennsylvania eleven years. Came to St.
Paul in June, 1851 and on the 19th of July, 1852, arrived in Jessenland. He
located on a farm of 160 acres, which has since been his home. In 1838 Miss
Honorah Morrisey became the wife of Mr. Doheny. They are the parents of nine
children; six are living.

   James Donovan was born in King's county, Ireland, in 1849. At the age of
eighteen years he came to America and the first three years made his home in New
York. Removed to Scott county, Illinois, and remained four years, then spent a
few months in Canada. On the 27th of April, 1857 Thomas Madden, deceased husband
of the present Mrs. Donovan, made a claim of 80 acres in Jessenland. He died in
April, 1871 and in August, 1873, his widow was united in marriage with Mr.
Donovan. They now reside on the old farm. One child has been born by this
marriage. Mrs. Donovan had ten children by her first marriage.

   Luke Finnagen was born in Ireland in 1820 and there spent his time until
eighteen years of age, learning in the meantime the trade of tanner, at which he
worked eleven years. In 1838 he landed in New York and there remained six years.
He then removed to Philadelphia and after a residence there of six years came to
Jessenland. In 1855 he made a claim of 120 acres. Married in 1849 Mary Menton
and is the parent of six children, of whom five are living.

   Michael Flinn was born in Dublin, Ireland, in 1814. When a young man he
learned coach making and in 1844 went to England, where he pursued his trade
four years. Came to America and landed in New York in 1848; after a brief stay
in the city removed to Wisconsin and seven years later came to Jessenland. Here
he, in company with a brother, bought a section of land and started a dairy,
having a stock of seventy-five cows. In 1872 they sold this enterprise and
divided the property, Michael taking the farm. It is situated on section 26 and
comprises 200 acres.

   John Flinn was born in Wisconsin in 1854 and moved with his parents to
Jessenland when only one year old. His father bought 160 acres in the township
and in 1868 added by purchase 240 acres. Subsequently he sold and again bought a
farm which consisted of 120 acres and on which his son, John, and family now
live. In 1880 he married Miss Katie Maher. One son, James, born on the 15th of
March, 1881, gladdens their home.

   John Flynn was born in Ireland in 1831 and in 1849 came to America. After
remaining about six years in the state of Pennsylvania, he came on the 12th of
May, 1856, to Jessenland and claimed 160 acres of land, where he yet lives. His
parents died in this town, his father at the age of seventy-five years and
mother at the age of seventy. In 1865 he was chosen county commissioner and in
1878 and '79 was elected chairman of the board. Married in 1856 Bridget Coffe
who died in 1870 leaving eight children, all of whom are living. His eldest
daughter, Mary, has since the death of her mother cared for the family and
household affairs.

   William Furch, a native of Germany, was born in 1853 and came to America with
his parents in 1861. While crossing the ocean his father died of small pox. The
remainder of the family came directly to Minnesota and settled on a farm of 120
acres in Jessenland township. In 1867 Mrs. Furch was married to Frederick Young.
William remained at home with them until 1876. During that year he was united in
marriage with Mary Young. He bought a farm of forty acres on which he still
lives. Mr. and Mrs. Furch have three children, William, Edward and Laura.

   William Gabbert was born in Germany in 1840, and when twenty-five years of
age moved to Canada, landing in Quebec. After visiting in Milwaukee, Wisconsin,
he went to St. Paul thence directly to Henderson and purchased fifty acres of
land. Five years later he sold and settled in Arlington on a farm of 160 acres.
After residing on it two years he again disposed of his property and bought his
present farm in Jessenland township. Married Miss Mary Schaur in 1872. They have
five living children.

   Lewis H. Gadlow was born in St. Lawrence county, New York, in 1852. There he
lived until 1869, then migrated to St. Paul and remained three years. During
that time he acquired the trade of carpenter, then removed to Jessenland, where
he now resides. Miss Agnes Lefto became his wife in 1876. They are the parents
of two children.

   S. Gondreau, a native of lower Canada, was born in 1833, When twenty years of
age he removed to St. Paul and made his home in that city one year. After a
brief stay at Henderson, Sibley county, he in 1856 claimed 150 acres in
Jessenland township. On the 13th of August, 1862 he enlisted in Company H,
Seventh Minnesota and was discharged on the 17th of August 1865. Married in 1856
C. Dongal, who has borne him six children, of whom five are living.

   Michael Graham was born in Ireland in 1836, and remained in his native
country until attaining the age of nineteen years. In 1855 he started for
America, landing in New York on the 7th of July. Soon after removed to Ohio and
lived in that state fourteen years. While there he met and in October, 1859,
married Miss Elizabeth Driscoll. They came to Jessenland in 1869 and bought 80
acres of land on which he still resides. Of the eight children born to them,
seven are living.

   Edward Grimes was born in Pennsylvania in 1834. He acquired the trade of
shoemaker in his native state and when seventeen years of age went to St. Paul,
remaining four years. Came to Jessenland in 1855 and made a claim of 160 acres,
to which he subsequently added by purchase 140 acres. He volunteered during the
Indian troubles and for some time was in the service. Married in 1856 Margaret
McGowern and has three living children.

   James Hartigan was born in Ireland, in 1835, and in 1852 came to America. The
first six years his home was in Pennsylvania, he having landed in Philadelphia.
Came to Minnesota and directly to Jessenland in 1858, and here claimed eighty
acres on which he still lives. In 1857 he married Miss Margaret Cottor. They
have eleven children.

   Michael Higgins was born in Ireland in 1842. His mother died when he was five
years old which caused the separation of the children. All but the eldest were
taken by relatives. The father and eldest daughter came to America in 1849.
After living seven years in Vermont they came to Jessenland, and took a claim of
160 acres. Michael came to America in 1858, and spent five years in Vermont,
then came to Arlington, Sibley county. Returned to his former home for a visit
of one year, but again came to Minnesota; then spent six months in the south in
the employ of the government. In 1868 he settled in Jessenland township, and
bought eighty acres. Married in 1867, Mary McNamara, and has a family of seven
children.

   August Jache, a native of Germany, was born in 1848. He learned the trade of
miller in his fatherland, and when twenty years of age came to America. From New
York he proceeded to Wisconsin and remained there three years, then came to
Henderson; has since been a resident of this county and now lives on section 19,
Jessenland. In April, 1879, he, in company with August Dee, bought a grist and
saw-mill which they still own. Married in 1872 to Mary Hinch, who has borne him
four children.

   Peter Kampp was born in Germany, in 1832, and in 1855 came to America.
Enlisted in company H, Fourth Minnesota infantry, and was discharged with the
regiment in 1865; participated in many battles in which the company engaged. He
is now residing on section 32, of Jessenland township. Married in 1860 to M.
Fabel, and has five children: Henry, John, Mary, Sophia and Emma.

   Casper Kimmet, a native of Germany, was born in 1818. In 1841 he came with
his father to America. His father died in 1844, and he remained with his mother
in Baltimore about sixteen years. During the time he learned the carpenters'
trade; then removed to Indiana and remained four years. Came to Sibley county in
1861, and bought 160 acres in Arlington township, on which he lived until 1875,
then sold and afterwards settled in Jessenland. His present farm consists of
eighty acres. Married in 1847 to Dorotha Petsinger. They are the parents of
eight children, of whom seven are living.

   Joseph Lawrence was born in Ohio, in 1838, and at the age of twenty years
came to Jessenland, Sibley county, and in 1863 bought his present farm of ninety
acres. Mr. Lawrence is serving as clerk of school district number 42. His father
died in 1873, at the age of seventy-three years; his mother is still living.
Married in 1864 to Catherine Trimbo, who has borne eight children of whom six
are living.

   Henry Lorence was born in Ohio in 1848, and when eleven years old came with
his father to Jessenland. His father purchased 160 acres in section 2 and eighty
acres in section 11. Here Henry lives; his father died in 1871 at the age of
sixty-seven years. His parents were married in 1833, and his mother still lives.
Mr. Lorence was married in 1876 to Carrie Whoerley. Two children have been born
to them; Mary is the only one living.

   Peter Manuel was born in Paris, France, in 1798. When ten years old he came
with his father's family to Canada and settled in the vicinity of Three Rivers,
where the father bought 100 acres of land. He remained with his father until
forty-two years of age, then went to Quebec and lived there several years, after
which he was on the sea five years. Came to Minnesota in 1856, and from St. Paul
removed to Kelso, Sibley county, and made a claim of 160 acres, and purchased
the same amount. After living there eighteen years he sold and settled on his
farm of 240 acres which he bought in Jessenland. His first marriage was in 1841,
by which he had five children; four are living. In 1856 he was married to Amelia
Gonyon, who has borne seven children, of whom six are living.

   Olof Marmorin, a native of Sweden, was born in 1824. During youth he learned
the trade of shoemaker, then spent about five years in travel through Europe.
Came to America in 1849, and after a short stay in New York spent nearly seven
years in different parts of the United States. In April, 1856, he settled in
Jessenland and made a claim of 160 acres, on which he still lives. Mr. Marmorin
is town treasurer. Married in 1858 Maria Johnson. Of the nine children born to
them, eight are living.

   Owen McKeon, a native of Ireland, was born in 1826. Came to America in 1851,
landed in New Orleans and remained there until the 9th of March, 1853, at which
time he started for Ohio. His home was in that state until 1855, when he came to
Jessenland and took his present farm of 160 acres, which is said to be the first
farm in the county that was paid for. In 1866 Mr. McKeon was appointed county
superintendent of schools. On the 9th of October, 1858, he was united in
marriage with Bridget Fox. Of the nine children born to them, six are living.

   Hugh McManus was horn in Ireland in 1829. When seventeen years of age he came
to America, landing in Philadelphia. He remained in Pennsylvania ten years, then
came to Jessenland, Sibley county, and made a claim of 160 acres, which he owned
eight years, then sold and bought his present farm of 150 acres. Married in
1860, Elizabeth Donovan, who has borne him eleven children, of whom only one is
living, Mary A., born October 25, 1861.

   Honora McNamara, relict of the late Michael McNamara, a native of Ireland,
was born in 1812. She was married in Ireland, and in 1850 came with her husband
to America, arriving in St. Johns, Canada. Went to Maine and remained until
1857, then removed to St. Paul. One year later they settled in Jessenland
township on a farm of eighty acres, on which Mrs. McNamara resides. Her husband
died in January, 1880. Timothy, the oldest of her three living children, resides
with her and has charge of the farm.

   Edmond McSweenev, a native of Ireland, was horn in 1823. Came to America in
1851, the year before Franklin Pierce was elected to the presidency of the
United States. He lived in Vermont seven years; after a residence of one year in
Wisconsin, he went to St. Paul and thence to Jessenland. In this township he
made a claim of 160 acres, and has since continued a resident of the town. In
1852 he was united in marriage with Mary McNamara, who has borne him nine children.

   Hector Morrell was born in Lower Canada in 1828, and went with his parents to
Illinois when nine years of age. After a residence there of four months his
father died; he remained until 1859 then came to Jessenland and bought forty
acres of land on which he now lives. Married in 1862 to Saline Golette. Mr. and
Mrs. Morrell have two adopted children.

   Nelson Norman was born in Lawrence county, Pennsylvania, in 1853. When a
child of only two years of age, he came with his parents to Jessenland. His
father made a claim of 160 acres and lived on it until 1880 then sold and
removed to Dakota. Nelson remained at home until twenty-two years of age, then
in 1876 purchased a farm of 80 acres, which is his present property. In 1879 he
married Anna Ford, who has had two children; one is living.

   Joseph O'Keefe, pastor of St. Thomas Catholic church, Jessenland. Indebted
for the freedom and citizenship of the great Republic, to the English and
landlord-made famine of 1846-'48.

   Joseph Scully was horn in King's county, Ireland, in 1826, where he lived
until twenty-five year of age. Game to America in 1852 landing in New Orleans,
from there went to Ohio and remained until 1857; coining at that time to
Jessenland, he soon after made a claim on which he still lives, and which
consists of 120 acres. He was drafted in 1865 and assigned to Company H, Second
Minnesota; was mustered out in 1866. Has served as supervisor seven years.
Married in 1854, Ann Quinn who has borne him nine children, of whom eight are
living.

   Patrick Shaughnessy was borne in Ireland in 1828. Came to America in 1849 and
first landed in New York and remained in the state until 1857 then removed to
Illinois. One year later he removed to Washington Lake, Sibley county and bought
a farm of 160 acres. In 1878 he purchased 200 acres in Jessenland and moved here
with his family. He was drafted in 1863 but sent a substitute. In 1854 his
marriage with Rose A. Donlan took place. They have ten children living. His
eldest daughter married John L. Gannon of Scott county.

   Catherine Spllacy was born in Cork, Ireland, in 1833 where she lived until
sixteen years of age. Coming to America in 1849 she proceeded from New York to
Philadelphia. While residing there she met Mr. Spllacy and on the 29th"of April,
1850 was married to him. They remained in the city until 1858 then moved to St.
Paul, thence to Jessenland. In July, 1858 they purchased 80 acres on section 10,
on which Mrs. Spllacy still lives. Her husband died on the 12th of December,
1875, leaving his widow with six children.

   Charles Tierney, a native of Ireland, was born in 1823. He left his native
land for America and landed in New York in 1851. He remained in that state six
months then for six years made his home in Virginia. After a residence of two
years in Pennsylvania, he went to St. Paul where he remained four years; came to
Jessenland and purchased his present farm of 120 acres. Mr. Tierney is director
of school district number 43. Married Catharine Welch in 1848 and by her is the
parent of fourteen children, ten of whom are living.

   Anthony Weber, a native of Germany, was born in 1823. When a young man he
learned the trade of locksmith and worked at it eight years in his native
country. Came to America and landed in New York in 1853; continued there until
1856, then came to Jessenland and in 1858 made claim to his present farm which
consists of 145 acres. Mr. Weber is treasurer of school district number 10. In
1860 he was united in manage with Margaret Morsch, who has borne him ten
children, of whom six are living.

   Henry Young, one of the pioneers of Sibley county, was born in Ireland, in
1835. His father came to America in 1831 but returned again in 1834. Henry and
the remainder of the family came in 1840 and joined the father in Kentucky. In
1847 they removed to Ohio and there remained until 1854, thence to St. Paul,
Minnesota, for a brief stay. They settled in Jessenland on a claim of 160 acres.
His father died in 1872 at the age of seventy years and his mother in 1879 at
the age of seventy-three. Mr. Young was married in 1852, to Alice Doheny, who
died in 1864. His second marriage was with Mary A. Barger, in 1867. Of the five
children born to them, four are living.

FAXON.

   This is one of the oldest settled towns in the county. It is located in the
northeast comer, bordering on the Minnesota and contains about twenty square
miles. The first settlers were the Walkers, Joseph, Cornelius and Hartwell,
brothers and Levi a cousin. About the same time Calvin Lowry came. They were
from Maine, and came to Faxon in May, 1852. They claimed the site of the village
of Faxon and land adjoining. Hartwell's wife came out about a year later, and
was the first white woman in the town. She died in 1858.

   The first birth was that of Michael, a son of Thomas Nally, in May, 1854. He
is still living in the town with his parents. The first death was that of a
little daughter, aged about four years, of Hartwell Walker. She was buried at
Faxon.

   The place where the village of Faxon was laid out was known for a number of
years as Walker's Landing. A post-office was established about 1856, and called
Big Hill. Letters used to be addressed "Big Hill, Walker's Landing." Hartwell
Walker was postmaster; he kept it but a short time, when Robert Phillips was
appointed. The name was subsequently changed to Faxon. The present postmaster is
Daniel O'Flynn, who deputized Mrs. M. M. Sass, and she has the office at her
house on the site of the village.

   A town site company was formed in 1857, which gave to the Walkers certain
privileges for the use of the land for their purpose. The town was surveyed in
April of that year, and located partly in each of sections 4 and 5, and covered
nearly 600 acres. The name was given in honor of Mr. Faxon, one of the company.
The first store was started by the Phillips brothers, with a general stock of
goods; others came in until there were three general stores, a blacksmith shop
and two saloons. A steam saw-mill was put up by the company, which soon passed
into other hands, and ceased operations a few years since. A warehouse was also
built near the landing. A ferry was established at an early date, which soon
after became the property of Mr. Ferris, who operated it until about 1862. It
was then transferred to Blakely.

   The first school was taught by Mrs. Susan Thompson, during the summer of
1859, in a small log building erected for the purpose in the village. The town
now has four school-houses, all frame.

   About eighteen years ago St. John's parish, Catholic, erected a log building
in section 23. That building was used until a few years since, when a frame was
erected in its stead and located near the same site. The present pastor is Rev.
Father Kennedy, of Belle Plaine, and the membership is about sixty families.

   Anna post-office was established about five years ago, and the present
incumbent, Mrs. Johanna Bailey was appointed postmistress. The office is located
at her house near St. John's church.

   The first town-meeting was held at the house of Hartwell Walker, in the
village, May 11, 1858. The following officers were elected: P. C. Bray,
chairman, M. Miller and James Boland, supervisors; Nathan Worthing, clerk; John
Nolan, assessor; Hartwell Walker, collector; Patrick McCormick and Michael Egan,
justices; Isaac Thompson and Martin Morrison, constables. The chairmen of the
town board since have been: James Boland, three terms; Dennis McCormick, eight
terms; Michael Egan, one term; Edward Duggan, two terms; John O'Maley, six
terms, and Michael Shiely, two terms.

   Patrick Baily was born in county Kerry, Ireland, and there remained with his
parents until 1856, when he accompanied them to America. Going to St. Louis from
New York, he remained five years, employed on a railroad. Came to Minnesota in
1861 with his father who purchased a farm at St. Johns, Faxon township, Sibley
county. In 1865 Mr. Baily married Miss Julia Daly, who has borne him six
children, of whom three sons and one daughter are living. In 1866 he bought a
farm of eighty acres on section 29, on which he still lives.

   James Boland was born in county Tipperary, Ireland, in 1815. He commenced
learning the trade of carpenter at the age of sixteen and continued it until
coming to America in 1840. He settled in Susquehanna county, Pennsylvania and
worked at his trade in different parts of the state for fourteen years. In 1854
migrated to St. Paul, Minnesota, where he pursued his trade two years, then came
to Sibley county and made a claim of 160 acres on section 31 of Faxon township,
and has since added to it by purchase. He erected a log cabin on his claim in
1856, making the door and floor of boards, which he hewed from basswood logs;
the shingles were split from oaks. He was a member of the commission that served
in estimating the value of school lands throughout the county; has also served
several years as supervisor. On the 24th of October, 1843, in Pennsylvania, he
was married to Miss A. Dwyre. Of the eleven children born to them seven are living.

   Mark Cowly was born in Ireland, and came to America' in 1847. He located in
Sullivan county, New York, and worked for the Delaware & Hudson Canal Company
three years. Removed thence to Ohio and from there he came to Minnesota in the
spring of 1855. His means being quite limited he hired four or five acres which
he broke that year and planted corn, beans, potatoes, etc., thereby supplying
the immediate needs of his family. He pre-empted 160 acres in section 28, Faxon,
and now has 200 acres. Married in Ohio in 1853, Ann Sheridan. Six children have
been born to them.

   Walter E. Doheny is a son of Dennis Doheny, who came to Sibley county as one
of the first settlers, and was born in Pennsylvania in 1850. He came with his
parents to Faxon township when a small boy and has since remained here. In 1877,
at the Jessenland church, he was united in marriage with Miss Mary Flinn. The
year following his father presented him with a farm of 218 acres on section 7,
on which he now resides. Mr. and Mrs. Doheny are the parents of two sons.

   Felix Dolin is a native of Ireland, horn in 1812; he learned the trade of
weaver. Came to America in 1840 and located first in Perry county, Ohio; six
months later moved to Fayette county, and there engaged in farming about
fourteen years. In 1855 he migrated to Minnesota and made a pre-emption claim in
Inver Grove, Dakota county. He resided in the town about nine years; removed to
Sibley county in 1864 and purchased a farm of 250 acres on sections 6 and 7. Mr.
Dolin has served as county commissioner one year; also as town supervisor. His
wife was Elizabeth Clennin whom he married in Ohio.

   Michael Egan was born in county Clare, Ireland, and there grew to manhood on
a farm. Came to America in 1850 and remained about one year in Elmira and
Hornellsville, New York, then went to Massachusetts and worked on a railroad.
Six months later he returned and for six years was employed in a depot in New
York city. He came to Minnesota in 1857 and bought 80 acres on section 30 of
Faxon township; at present has 300 acres. His first house, like that of many
pioneers, was made of logs, without floor, and split oaks for a roof, it being
fourteen by fifteen feet in size. He had bought three very fine pigs which he
carefully penned near his house, supposing them to be safe from all intruders.
Hearing quite a commotion during one night, he ran out, and to his surprise,
discovered a large hear making his retreat, taking with him one of the well
cared for pigs. Mr. Egan was married in 1854 in New York city to Ellen Cary.
Seven children have been born to them; two sons and two daughters are living.

   E. Erickson, farmer on section 26 was born on the 20th of April, 1845, in
Sweden; came to America in 1865 and settled first in La Porte, Indiana, and in
1866 came to Minnesota, locating in Faxon township. Mr. Erickson has a farm of
142 acres; Has served as town treasurer three years. Married Hannah Nelson, of
Sweden. John J., Edward, Alben L., Emma J. and Esther L. are their children.

   M. Franziscus, born in Germany, accompanied his parents in 1861 to America
and located with them in Belle Plaine, Scott county, Minnesota. In August, 1862,
when a boy of only thirteen years of age he ran away from home to assist in
fighting the Indians. He followed the soldiers to the frontier and while they
were engaged in a battle, he attempted firing his gun, when a bullet from the
enemy cut off the forefinger from his right hand. He served five years as an
apprentice to a shoe maker in Belle Plaine. In 1869 settled in Faxon and opened
a shoe shop; in 1870 was appointed postmaster at Faxon. The office was made into
a money order office in 1880 and during the subsequent six months he issued 500
orders. In March, 1881, he resigned the position in favor of D. O'Flynn. The
same spring he bought a farm of eighty acres on section 7. At Faxon, in 1870, he
married Catherine McCarthy. Four children have been born to them.

   John Griffin is a native of Ireland and in 1851 left that country for
America. He settled first in Ohio but in 1861 came to Sibley county, Minnesota.
He has a farm of 80 acres on section 33. His wife was Hannah Burke, also a
native of Ireland, who died in 1875, leaving four children: Mary, Martin, Hannah
and Ellen.

   Peter Lynch was born on the 24th of April, 1815, in Ireland. He was raised as
a farmer and received the advantages of the common schools. Came to America in
1846, and located in New York city, remaining ten years, employed in the sugar
refining establishment of Booth & Edgar. He came to Sibley county, Minnesota, in
1856 and made a pre-emption claim of 80 acres on section 20, Faxon township. His
first house was a good comfortable log one in which he lived some time, then
erected a' commodious frame dwelling. He moved to section 23 of the same town in
1873 where he now resides. In Ireland, in 1845, Mary McFadden became the wife of
Mr. Lynch, and on the 27th of March, 1877 she died.

   Charles McCloskey was born in Grant county, Wisconsin, in 1858, and there
grew to manhood, receiving a good, common school education. In 1878 came to
Sibley county and settled with his uncle, Andrew McCormick who located here in
1856, and pre-empted 160 acres on sections 30 and 19, which he sold in 1878 to
Mr. McCloskey and his brothers, Thomas and Edward.

   D. O'Flynn was born in county Kerry, Ireland, in 1810. For two years, 1846
and '47, he was in the employ of the Irish government as clerk to the paymaster
of public works. In 1848 he landed in Boston, Massachusetts, and remained in the
state two years; in the fall of 1850 removed to Detroit, Michigan. In September,
1851 he went to St. Paul where for one and one-half years he worked in the
Pioneer office. Made a claim in Mendota in 1853 on which he lived until coming
to Faxon in 1863, having held during the entire time the office of assessor; was
elected one of the first three in Dakota county. Soon after arriving in Faxon
was elected one of the supervisors; is the present town clerk, having held the
office fifteen years; has served his district six years as county commissioner;
has also served as justice of the peace several years; in March, 1881 he was
appointed postmaster at Faxon. Mr. O'Flynn was married in'1851 to Miss Jane
O'Neill, a native of Canada. They have had nine children; eight are living.
Their eldest daughter, Mary, joined the sisterhood of the Catholic church at the
convent in East Minneapolis, where she died in February, 1879 at the age of
twenty-five years. She was known as "Sister Ursula."

WASHINGTON LAKE.

   This town is located in the north-eastern part of the county, and includes
all of congressional township 114-26. The name was chosen from the lake of the
same name in the central part of the town. This lake was so called from the fact
that two of the first settlers on its borders were from Washington, D. C. The
first settlers in the town were John Shaughnessy and Michael Griffin. They came
in the fall of 1854 and made their claims, returning in the spring for permanent
settlement. They located in the south-eastern part of the town. Mr.
Shaughnessy's brothers, Martin and Michael, came in May following. Martin
located in section 25, where he now lives. Michael located in section 26. Mr.
Griffin located also in section 25. John Eagan came also in 1855 and located in
section 26. His brother Patrick came in the summer of 1856 and located in
section 23. He married Miss Bridget Kelly late in the fall of 1857; they were
the first of the settlers to marry.

   The first birth in the town was that of Edward Carlin, in December, 1856. He
is a son of Hugh Carlin, and is still living at home with his parents.

The first death was that of Michael Sheily, Sr., one of the earlier settlers. He
died in the spring of 1857, and was buried in the Jessenland cemetery, his wife
following him soon after.

   The first school was taught by Mrs. Mathew Wilson in her own house in section
22, and on the south side of Washington lake, during the winter of 1857-8. She
taught there two winters, and one winter in the house of Patrick Eagan in
section 23. Schools were thus conducted in private houses several years before a
school-house was built. The town now has four school-houses, three log and one
frame. The Catholics have a large two-story frame building near their church at
Green Isle station in which they conduct a parochial school. School is conducted
three months during each summer, with an attendance of about fifty pupils.

   The Catholics built a church in the central part of section 18, under the
supervision of Father Venn. The parish is known as Green Isle parish, and is now
engaged upon the building of a fine brick church near the site of the present
one, which will cost about $15,000. The present pastor is Father Thomas Ryan,
and the membership about eighty families.

   About 1866 a steam saw-mill was built by William Cairncross in the north-west
corner of section 19; a grist and feed attachment were afterward added. A few
years ago the whole property was destroyed by fire. The saw-mill has been
rebuilt and the feed mill is in process of building. A similar mill was built
shortly afterward by the Smith Brothers, on the north shore of Washington lake.
This was also burned and rebuilt, and is now in operation.

   In February, 1878, Philip McGrann put a stock of goods into one room of his
house, where he has since conducted the business with success.

   Another store was opened by Patrick McCormick at his house in section 18, and
kept by him a few years. His son Patrick erected a store building near their
residence which was rented to the Downs Brothers two years ago, who put in a
stock of goods and are now doing a good business.

   There is a saloon also kept a short distance from the store.

   Green Isle post-office was established about 1866. Christopher Dolan was
appointed postmaster and the office located at his house in section 13, Green
Isle; kept the office a few years when Patrick McCormick was appointed and the
office moved to his store in Washington Lake. In April, 1877, Owen McGrann was
appointed; he deputized Mrs. Philip McGrann, and the office is now kept at their
store in section 18.

   Assumption post-office was established the past summer; Thomas Haley is the
postmaster, and the office is located at his house in the eastern part of town.
The Pacific extension of the Minneapolis & St. Louis railway was built in 1881.

   The village of Green Isle was laid out in the central part of section 18, in
August, covering about fifteen acres; an addition covering about nine acres,
known as McGrann's addition to Green Isle, has been platted. The village now
contains a station house, an elevator, one store and a saloon.

   The first town meeting was held at the house of Hugh Mullen, May 11, 1858.
Owing to the loss of the earlier records, we are unable to give an account of
the proceedings. The chairmen of the town board since 1858, with one exception,
have been John Murphy, Mathew Wilson (about twelve years in succession), Thomas
Bowser, Patrick Eagan and Mathew Wilson.

   William Cairncross, a native of Scotland, was born in 1830. At fifteen years
of age he went to Quebec, and soon after to Montreal, but remained only a short
time, then worked his passage to Kingston on the boat. For about two years he
worked on a farm, and in 1847 went to New York to meet his parents, whom he
expected to arrive from his native land. He engaged as driver on the Erie canal
a short time, then went to Memphis, Tennessee, and remained until 1853. Removed
to Wisconsin and purchased a farm a short distance from Madison; this he sold in
the fall of 1861 and removed to Sibley county, locating in Arlington. Followed
teaming for several years from Henderson to the Indian reservation, also from
St. Paul to Big Stone lake. In 1866 settled in Washington Lake township and
purchased » mill-site, erected a saw-mill, and in 1874 built a small grist-mill;
both were destroyed by fire in 1877. He rebuilt the saw-mill the same year,
which he still runs. At Memphis, in 1853, he married Catherine MacLean, and has
a large family.

   John Cotter was born in Ireland in 1818. He remained at home until nineteen
years of age, although he was orphaned when only thirteen. In 1837 he came to
America and remained in New York a few months, then went to Maryland and to *
Pennsylvania. There he remained until 1854, then came to Sibley county,
Minnesota, and settled on a claim of 160 acres in Washington Lake. Married in
1846 to Margaret Rogan, who has borne him five children; one is dead. Two sons
were in the army.

   Martin Cunningham, a native of Ireland, was born in 1811. In 1830, at the age
of nineteen years, he married Honora Palday, and the next day with his bride
started for America. They landed first in Quebec, and from there moved to
Vermont, remaining there about nine years. He then resided in different parts of
the state of New York, and in 1855 came to Minnesota and bought eighty acres of
land in Washington Lake township, on which he still lives. Mr. and Mrs.
Cunningham are the parents of sixteen children, of whom eight are living.

   Dennis Downs, of the firm of Downs Brothers, was born in Washington Lake
township, Sibley county, in 1861, and has since lived here with the exception of
the five years he attended school in St. Paul. In April, 1880, he with his
brother Michael embarked in the mercantile trade, in which they are doing a
thriving business. Michael was born in Wisconsin in 1856, and when only two
years of age came to Minnesota with his father.

   Charles Duane was born in Ireland in 1826. Came to America in 1851 and with
his parents landed in New York, then lived in Ohio five years. Came to Hastings,
Minnesota; followed farming two years, and in the spring of 1859 came to
Washington Lake and made a claim of 160 acres, then added by purchase from the
government 160 more. When President Buchanan forced the sale of Minnesota lands,
he was obliged to dispose of all his personal property to pay for his farm. Mr.
Duane has been justice of the peace several years. Married in 1854 Honora Lynch,
who has borne him five children; three are living. Thomas, his son, was the
first white child born on the west side of Washington lake in this town.

   Daniel Healy was born in Ireland in 1822, and when twenty-six years of age
came to America. He landed in New York, and from there went to Connecticut and
remained five or six years engaged in farming. In 1854 came to Mendota,
Minnesota, and one year later made a claim of 160 acres in Washington Lake, his
present home. His marriage with Margaret Tuorney took place in 1846. They have
six living children.

   Thomas Healy, born in 1848, is a native of Ireland. When only three years old
he accompanied his parents to America; from New York went to Connecticut, and
after a residence of about five years removed to Illinois. In 1856 came to
Minnesota and settled in Washington Lake township with his father. In 1871 he
bought a farm of eighty acres which he still owns. He was appointed postmaster
in March, 1881; is also serving as justice of the peace. Jennie Bean, of
Minneapolis, became his wife in 1879. They have one child.

   John Hogan, a native of Ireland, was born in 1816. When twenty-six years of
age he came to America and landing in Quebec, Canada, remained there two years,
then removed to New York. Three years later he located in St. Louis and was
there employed on the railroad, remaining until 1856 at which time he came to
Minnesota and soon after settled in Washington Lake township. He purchased a
farm of 120 acres on which he still lives, although in very feeble health. His
marriage with Johannah Mohehar took place in 1841. She died in 1879. They had
fourteen children, of whom eight are living.

   Patrick McCormick is a native of Ireland, born in 1803. Came to the United
States at the age of twenty-four years, and remained in New York city about ten
years and followed teaming; in 1832 managed the Olympic Hotel on Broadway. In
1837 removed to Pennsylvania; lived on a farm two years then went to Brooklyn
where he worked in a glass factory two years. Returning to his former home he
engaged as a stone mason on railroad work. Came to St. Paul, Minnesota, in 1852
and after working at masonry about two years came up the Minnesota river to
Jessenland, Sibley county, and made a claim of 160 acres. He claims to be the
first man up the river who made a claim. During the war he was postmaster at
Paxon and continued as such for ten years. In 1869 bought twelve acres in Green
Isle township and built a fine frame store in which he engaged in general
merchandising. Mr. McCormick has held the office of justice of the peace for
more than thirty years. He married in 1836 Bridget Gallahar, who died the same
year. Jane McGuire became his wife is 1842; she died in 1852. His present wife
was Caroline Ryan. They have five children.

   Phillip McGrann was born in 1828 and is a native of Ireland. Came to America
in 1852 and settled in Pennsylvania where he remained until coming to Minnesota
in 1857. He settled in Green Isle village and is the proprietor of a hotel and
general store; is a contractor for the Minneapolis and St. Louis railroad now
being built. Married Miss Honora Doudy in 1861 and is the parent of four children.

   P. McGuinnis, a native of Ireland was born in 1821 and when a lad of fifteen
years moved to New York, thence to Louisville, Kentucky. In 1864 enlisted in
company P, Louisville legion and served until the close of the war; was mustered
out at New Orleans. In 1874 he came to Minnesota and became a resident of
Washington Lake township, making a claim on which he still lives.

   Thomas McMehan was born in 1830 in Ireland. On attaining majority he went to
Quebec, Canada, thence to Niagara Falls, where he remained a few months, then
spent two years in California, and while there enjoyed much success in mining.
Returning to New York he bought a farm of 100 acres, which he sold one year
later and came to Washington Lake, Minnesota. On arriving he purchased 160 acres
and in 1866 added 80 acres more. He has been town supervisor several terms and
was elected county commissioner in 1876 and re-elected in 1880. In 1852 he
married Miss Anna Bouzer who has borne him thirteen children; nine are living.

   Hugh Mullen was born in Ireland in 1803; he went to England and engaged in
mining business for fifteen years. Came to America in 1832; landed in New York
and proceeded directly to Pond du Lac, Wisconsin, where he bought a farm. In
1856 he sold the farm, came to Sibley county, Minnesota, and bought the 160
acres in Washington Lakh township on which he still lives. His marriage with
Mary McCory took place in 1834. They have six living children.

   Patrick Mullen was born in Ireland in 1820 and when about eight years old
came to America with his parents. Prom New York he went to Philadelphia and
there learned the trade of stone cutter, at which he worked about five years.
His father died in 1838 and his mother in 1843; he then returned to New York,
and three years later went to Washington, District of Columbia, remaining until
the spring of 1857. Came to Sibley county, Minnesota, and bought a farm of 160
acres in Washington Lake township. Mr. Mullen has been county commissioner one
term and is at present town treasurer. His wife was Julia Fitzpatrick, married
in 1845. Seven children have been born to them; five are living.

   Michael Mulligan was born in Ireland in 1815 and came to this country in
1847. He remained a short time in Cleveland, Ohio, then went to Maryland, thence
to Virginia, where he was employed on the Baltimore & Ohio railroad. In 1854 he
removed to Canada and was engaged in buying wheat three years; came to Minnesota
in 1857 and took a contract on the first railroad built in the state. After a
short visit to Wisconsin he finally settled in Washington Lake township on a
farm where he has since lived. During the Indian outbreak he was the last one to
leave and the first to venture back. His marriage with Miss Mary Dillon took
place in 1853. They have eight living children.

   Michael Naven was born in Greenfield, Illinois, in 1855, and when four years
old moved with his parents to Milwaukee. There they remained about eighteen
years engaged in farming. In 1875 he removed to Minneapolis, followed
railroading until 1881, and then bought a farm of 160 acres in Washington Lake
township, where he still lives with his aged mother. His father died in 1859 at
the age of twenty-nine years.

   Alfred Shaw, a native of England, was born in 1819. He learned the trade of
printing calico, and in 1844 immigrated to Philadelphia. Two years later he went
to Connecticut, but returned to his former home in Pennsylvania, after a
residence there of two years. In 1854 he went to Ottawa, Illinois. Enlisted in
1861 in Company H, 53d Illinois volunteer infantry as fifer, and served as such
six months; was transferred to regimental band, and in 1862 was discharged.
Re-enlisted in 1863 in the 20th brigade band, with which he remained until the
close of the war. In 1865 he came to Minneapolis and was employed as watchman at
the bridge and in a lumber yard twelve years. Married in 1844 Elizabeth Howarth.
Mr. Shaw resides on section 10 of Washington Lake township.

   James Smith, a native of England, was born in 1832, and left his native
country for America in 1849. He remained in Philadelphia until 1855, then
located in Jefferson county, Wisconsin, and followed farming one year. Came to
Sibley county and settled on a farm which he purchased in Washington Lake
township. Enlisted in Company G, 10th Minnesota, in 1862, and served until the
close of the war, when he received an honorable discharge. Married in 1874 Mary
Wilson, who has borne him three children.

   John Smith, a native of England, was born in 1827. When sixteen years of age
he accompanied his parents to America, and remained in Philadelphia until 1861,
then came to Minnesota for his health. While in Philadelphia he learned calico
printing, which business he followed about twenty years. In 1864 he returned to
his former home; hut four years subsequently came again to Minnesota and bought
eighty acres of land in Washington Lake township, section 10, on which he still
resides. His father, Peter Smith, died in December, 1879. In 1865 Miss Emily
Maxwell became the wife of Mr. Smith, and has borne him two children.

   William Smith was born in England in 1834, and when nine years old came to
America with his parents. Remained in Philadelphia about twelve years and worked
in a calico factory. In 1857 came to Minnesota, located in Washington Lake
township and bought a farm of 160 acres. Enlisted in 1862 in Company G, 10th
Minnesota; was wounded in the shoulder at Nashville in 1865 and was discharged
from Prairie du Chien hospital. He served two weeks at Fort Ridgely, under
General H. H. Sibley during the Indian trouble. Hannah Engleman became the wife
of Mr. Smith in 1870, and has borne him five children.

   Mathew Wilson, a native of Ireland, was born in 1824. He engaged in farming
in his native land until 1844, then came to America, remaining in New York three
years. While there he learned the trade of a stone cutter, then went to
Washington and worked at his trade until 1851. Came to Minnesota in 1856 and
settled in Washington Lake township on a farm of 160 acres. Married Catherine
McNare in 1855. They are the parents of ten living children.

GREEN ISLE.

   Green Isle is another version of "Emerald Isle." To Christopher Dolan, a
native of said isle, belongs the honor of suggesting the name. The town includes
thirty-six square miles, is located in the northern part of the county, and
joins Washington Lake on the west and New Auburn on the east.

   When first settled the town was almost entirely covered by a heavy growth of
timber, and to-day the wood business is an important industry among the people.
With the new facilities offered by railroad communication with distant markets,
it bids fair to be the most important for a time.

   No settlement occurred until 1857. Among the earlier ones of that year we
mention John McGrann, Patrick O'Mara, Patrick Dwyer, Bernard Gray, Patrick
Carroll, Thomas Shorter and Mathias Bertrang, who began the German settlement in
the south-west. He came in May, and located partly in each of sections 28 and
29; he put up a blacksmith shop soon after and had one also in Arlington. He
moved to Henderson in 1866, where he now lives. The others settled in the
eastern part.

   The first school was taught by John McGrann, the term was of three months
duration, and was taught a month each in the houses of Patrick O'Mara, Patrick
Dwyer and Edward Moore. The salary of the teacher was ten dollars per month and
board around. Schools were thus taught at private houses several terms, then a
log school-house was built in the north-west corner of section 23, and belonged
to district number 32; it is still in use. The town now has five school-houses,
all log. The Germans conduct a private school in their own language, in district
number 33, when the building is not occupied for public school.

   The German Lutheran church, located in section 26, is a nice frame building,
and was erected a few years since. Services were conducted some time previous in
the school-house. The present pastor is Rev. G. E. Ahner, who lives in the
parsonage near the church.

   The first town meeting was held May 11, 1858, at the house of Patrick O'Mara.
The records of the town previous to 1866 were lost, consequently we are unable
to give the earlier proceedings. Christopher Dolan was elected chairman of the
town board, and one of the other members was Bernard McGowan. The town clerk
elected was John McGrann, who served in that capacity about fifteen years,
continuously. The chairmen of the town board since have been Miles Slevan, ten
terms; Edward Connolly, three terms; Charles Smith, one term, and P. W. Esser,
two terms.

   Charles Brooks, a native of Germany, was born in 1825. Came to America in
1852 and located in Green Isle township in 1855. On arriving he bought 160 acres
of land from the railroad company, on which he has since made his home. During
the civil war he served in Company G, Fourth regiment Minnesota infantry.
Married in 1862 Caroline Monke. Five children have been born to them; four are
living. Mr. Brooks has served as town supervisor for several years.

   Michael Davitt is a native of Ireland, born in 1815. On coming to America in
1846 he settled in Ohio and in 1857 came to Minnesota, and has since resided in
Green Isle township. He owns a farm of 160 acres which he purchased from the
railroad company. Mr. Davitt was married to his first wife, Bridget O'Donnel in
1838. His present wife was Bridget Regan. He is the parent of four sons and two
daughters. One son, Michael, was assessor of the town two years, and Martin,
another son, was elected to the office one year ago.

   Peter W. Esser is a native of Germany, born in 1832. For nine years he worked
at his trade, that of bricklaying, in his native land, and in 1854 left for
America. He settled first in Erie county, Pennsylvania, then went to Freeport,
Illinois, which place was his home four years. On arriving in Minnesota in 1858
he made a claim of 160 acres in Green Isle township; has been assessor of the
township for fifteen or sixteen years; chairman of supervisors five or six
years; and since 1865 has held the office of justice of the peace. In 1863 was
appointed by Governor Swift as captain of Company F, 26th regiment of the
Minnesota state militia. Married in 1853, to Mary A. Duesser, who has borne him
eleven children, of whom eight are living; Mary, Kate, Leonard, Elizabeth and
Maggie, twins, Gertrude, Peter and Anna. One son, Peter, was drowned in Lake
Severance on the 3d of May, 1868, at the age of fourteen years.

   Peter Kain was born in Ohio, in 1837. There he remained until 1857 when in
company with his father, Michael Kain, he came to Minnesota, settling in Green
Isle. Until 1871 he spent the winter months in the pineries, then located on the
farm which his father had pre-empted. His father died in 1879. Two sisters are
living in Minneapolis; one the wife of Michael Sullivan and the other the wife
of Dominick Toole.

   Owen McGrann, a native of Ireland, was born in 1840, and at the age of twelve
years moved to Pennsylvania. The next year he came with his father, John
McGrann, to Green Isle and settled on the farm where they still live. The father
was born in 1800, and is the oldest man in the township. Mr. McGrann enlisted in
1862 in Company K, 10th Minnesota, and served until the close of the war;
participated in many severe conflicts. His brother, John was also in the army
and died while in service. After returning to his farm in Green Isle he was
elected register of deeds for Sibley county, serving by re-election from 1869 to
1874, and was also town treasurer four years, and clerk at Henderson two years.
Was married in 1880 to Mary A. Dwyer. They have one child, born on the 4th of
April, 1881.

   Patrick O'Mara, a native of Ireland, was born in 1818, and when twenty-three
years of age came to America, landing in Quebec. Four years later be removed to
Vermont and remained in the state about fifteen years. Removed thence in 1857 to
Green Isle, Sibley county. He first made a claim of 160 acres, then purchased
160 acres more, and is now in independent circumstances. He was married in 1845
to Margaret Delaney. Six of the ten children born to them are living. Mr. O'Mara
has given his children a good education. He was school treasurer five years,
also served as road-master several terms.

   Charles G. Schmid was born in Germany in 1815 and there learned the trade of
upholsterer. Game to this continent in 1845 and to Minnesota in 1857. Made a
claim of 160 acres in Green Isle township; has since added to his original farm
200 acres. Was assessor of his township three years, and served as chairman of
the town board for two years. Mr. Schmid has been twice married. First to Ann
Hausmier who died in 1859, leaving one daughter, Caroline. His second wife was
Wilhelma Ohlmeir, who has borne him nine children, of whom five are living.

   Henry Voss, a native of Germany, was born in 1847. When a lad of ten years
old he came to America and directly to Minnesota. He located in Green Isle; was
one of the early settlers, and now has 240 acres of land on section 1. His
marriage with Miss Katie Kimplein took place in 1868. They are the parents of
three children. For the past three years Mr. Voss has been treasurer of the town.

   John Ziegler, a native of Germany, was born in 1829. He came to America in
1850 and for eight years made his home in Pennsylvania; in 1858 came to
Minnesota and bought a farm of 160 acres from Hans Hansen. He served his town
for three years as supervisor. During the Indian war on the frontier he enlisted
in company F, 27th regiment militia and went out in service against the Indians.
On the 4th of July, 1854, he was united in marriage with Mary Libness. William,
is their only child.

ARLINGTON.

   Arlington is located in the eastern part of the county, and contains
thirty-six square miles.

   Settlement began in 1855. During the fall of that year came Lathrop Farlin,
W. D. Torry, Diedrick Thole, Amasa Townsend, a Mr. Toll and a Mr. Brewster; also
about this time Patrick Sullivan. The following spring a large number came in.

   The village of Arlington was laid out in section 9, in 1856, and occupied the
south half. A Mr. Powell put up a small store and conducted the business about
two years when he left. John Palmer had a store just off from the town site,
having for a partner Mr. Hawkins, who remained but a short time. Mr. Palmer soon
after sold to Christ. Klinket, who in turn sold to his son-in-law, Theodore
Streissguth, who now conducts the business in much more commodious quarters. J.
S. Perry and John McKeever had a store just off the town-site which they
operated about two years, then failed. Haupt & Wolfe established a store just
west of the site in section 8. About four years ago Mr. Wolfe sold out and the
firm name changed to Haupt & Kill, under the management of Mr. Haupt, who also
keeps a hotel known as the West Arlington House.

   A blacksmith shop was started in 1858 by Mr. Mathias Bertrang. His son now
has a shop in West Arlington, and there is another in East Arlington.

   The opening of the Pacific extension of the Minneapolis & St. Louis railway
the past fall awakened anew the town site fever. The old one was vacated and a
new plat surveyed, covering about sixty acres. An elevator and a number of other
buildings were begun but left unfinished on account of the approach of winter.

   Arlington post-office was established about 1857 and J. S. Perry was
appointed postmaster. He was succeeded by S. R. Cone. In 1867 Capt. Christ.
Klinket was appointed and held the office until 1877, when the present
incumbent, Theodore Streissguth was appointed.

   The first birth was that of a daughter of J. S. Perry during the winter of
1856-'7, and the first death was that of Alfred Slough who died in June, 1858,
and was buried on the site of Arlington.

   The first school was taught by William Beatty during the winter of 1857-'8 in
a log building on the site of Arlington. The town now has four public school
buildings, all frame. The Lutheran and Catholic churches each have parochial
schools attached.

   The first religious services were conducted by the Rev. G. L. Teeple, an
Adventist, at the log school-house on the town site of Arlington, during the
winter of 1857-'58. No organization of this denomination was ever effected or
attempted. A union Sabbath-school was organized and maintained for a number of
years. As the years rolled on and settlement increased, new religious teachers
came from time to time, and organizations were effected, until now the town
contains five, three Lutheran, one German Methodist and one Catholic. With the
exception of the Lutheran church in the village, which is built of logs and
boarded over, they are fine, substantial buildings; the Catholic church, in the
northern part of the town, is brick and cost about $3,500.

   The first town meeting was held at the house of G. Dolz, in section 9, May
11, 1858. W. D. Torry was chosen chairman; D. A. Martin, moderator, and J. S.
Perry, clerk. The name was taken from the village which received its name from
Mr. Hurd, the proprietor of the site, who came from Arlington, Vermont. The
officers elected for the ensuing year were as follows: Thomas Vaughn, chairman;
Henry Rahler and George Wheaton, supervisors; G. L. Teeple, clerk; W. S. Beatty,
assessor; Julius Ritter, collector; W. D. Torry and Conrad Rahling, justices; A.
H. Townsend, overseer of poor; Elondus Hood and Ludwig Leskie, constables.
Overseers of highways—A. H. Townsend, district number 1; Thomas Vaughn, number
2; Thomas Thompson, number 3, and Francis Peltz, number 4. The chairmen of the
board since have been:  W. D. Torry, five terms; Stewart Cairncross, one term;
S. R. Cone, one term; Michael Engel, five terms; John Fadden, one term; Thomas
Young, one term; Casper Kuemmit, three terms; D. Workings, one term; G. C.
Rechenbach; five terms.

   H. Bade, whose native country is Germany, was born in 1816. He lived in the
land of his birth until 1859, then came to America, and soon after settled in
Arlington township, Sibley county, Minnesota. He is a prosperous farmer, and
owns one of the largest and finest farms in the county. His wife, whom he
married in Germany, was born in 1826. They are the parents of four children.

   Joseph Barry was born in county Cork, Ireland, in 1824. On the 9th of April,
1847, he left his native land for America and landed in Boston. He remained in
Boston and vicinity until 1856, then came to Minnesota and took a farm on
section 2 of Arlington. Subsequently he went to St. Paul, which place was his
home about three years, then returned to the farm, where he has since lived. Mr.
Barry was married in 1856 to Miss Hannah MoSweeny, who has borne him seven
children: Collins, Honora, Mary J., David, John, Margaret and Joseph.

   Henry Bening is a native of Germany, born in 1846. When about eleven years of
age he came to America, and soon after settled on section 33, Arlington
township, and this place has since been bis home. His wife was Miss Amelia,
Raummer, who is a native of Germany, born in 1858, and was united with him in
marriage in 1872. Rhoda, Henry, Emma and Waldo are their children.

   C. H. Bening, a German by birth, was born in 1841. Coming to this continent
in 1857 he settled first in Illinois; afterward came to Arlington, Minnesota,
and located on section 33 on a farm, which is now well cultivated and improved.
In 1868 Miss Annie Ramar became his wife; she was born in Germany in 1848, and
came to America with her parents. Mr. and Mrs. Bening have four children:
Minnie, Annie, Charles and Gusta.

   Frederick Blasing, deceased, was born in 1837, and was a native of Germany.
He was one of the first and oldest settlers of Sibley county. Mr. Blasing served
his adopted country during two terms of enlistment in the late war. He was
married in 1866 to Miss Caroline Mathias, who with seven children survives him.
He died in 1880.

   Henry Bloma was born in 1822 in Germany. He came to America in 1854, and
after a residence of four years in Chicago moved to Sibley county and is now
residing on section 32, Arlington township. He served during the Indian war in
1862, and was in the battle of Fort Ridgely. In 1856 he was united in marriage
with Dorotha Papeer.

   C. Dapper is a native of Germany, born in 1822. In 1854 he came to America
and made Chicago his home for three years, then moved to Green Isle, Sibley
county, remaining there three years. After a residence of five years in New
Auburn he located in Arlington on section 8. In the late war he served-in the
First Minnesota heavy artillery; enlisted in 1865, and was honorably discharged
at the close of the war. His marriage with Miss Mary Kemp took place in 1853.
They are the parents of seven children.

   Jonas Doere was born in Germany in 1823. He grew to manhood on a farm, and in
1854 left his native country for America. Mr. Doere located on section 23,
Arlington township, arid has here resided for twenty-six years. Was married in
1852 to Mary Soenfort, who has borne him eight children.

     James Egan was born in county Tipperary, Ireland in 1841. He came to New
York in 1854; removed to Milwaukee and remained two years; joined the company in
their expedition to Utah against the Mormons. After being on the frontier two
years he went to Natchez, Mississippi; three years later he enlisted in the 12th
Mississippi; was wounded at Cold Harbor and on the 27th of June, 1863, was taken
prisoner. After taking the oath of allegiance was offered transportation which
he declined to accept, as he preferred the south. After remaining in Natchez
about six months he returned to Milwaukee, but soon determined to run the
blockade and again reach the south; was at Washington the night President
Lincoln was assassinated. Soon after he returned again to the west and entered
the employ of the Milwaukee & ' St. Paul railway company; subsequently accepted
the position of baggage master on the Chicago & North-western railroad. He
continued as such until 1872 then began in business for himself in which he
engaged until 1875. During the year he came to Minnesota and located in
Arlington township. Mr. Egan was largely instrumental in securing the
Minneapolis & St. Louis railroad through the town. Miss Minnie Lynch became his
wife in 1868. Maggie, Joseph, Aggie, Matie, Herbert, and Mattie are their children.

     Michael Engel was born in Germany in 1826. His youth was spent on a farm
and as a sailor. After serving in the Prussian army three years he in 1854 came
to America and settled first in Wisconsin, remaining three years. Moved to
Minnesota, Sibley county in 1857, and located a farm on section 33 of Arlington
township. Enlisted in 1864 in Company G, Fourth Minnesota and served until July
3, 1865. He then returned to his farm and has since resided here. Married in
1859 to Miss W. Laske who has borne eight children: William, Hugo, Oswald,
Hermuth, Waldemeier, Herman, Bruno and Thersia.

     Johan F. Feldman was born in 1817 in Germany. He was raised to manhood on a
farm and in 1846 came to America. For fifteen years he resided in Missouri, then
came to Minnesota. Since that time he has lived on his farm on section 23 of
Arlington township; his wife was Mrs. Geske Olimar, who had two children by a
former marriage, John and Maggie; John served through the late war. Mr. Feldman
also has two children by a first marriage, Henry, who was in the war and
Catherine. By this marriage six children have been born to them: Diedrich,
Claus, Sophy, Geske and Fred are the living.

   J. C. Fisher is a native of Germany. He came to the United States in 1850 and
five years later came to Minnesota and located in Arlington on section 27. He
was married to Susan Hunston. They are the parents of two children: Mary and Henry.

   John Goebel whose native land is Germany, was born in 1812. Until 1857 his
life was spent in his own country, then he came to America and has made
Arlington township his home since; was married to Miss Hammer in 1835 in his
fatherland. One son, Charles, was born in 1844 and died while serving his
adopted country. His death occurred in the south in 1865. Another son, Fred,
contracted disease in the army, from which he died in 1875. The youngest son,
August, still lives on the farm with his father and in 1877 , was married to
Adeline Adolph. One daughter and one son have been 'born to them: Edith and
Charles.

   John Hunziker was born in Switzerland in 1840. He was educated in Europe for
the ministry; in 1865 came to America and for three years lived in Illinois.
Removing to Iowa he remained three years then located in Minneapolis. Three
years later he came to New Rome, Arlington township and assumed charge of the
Free Evangelical Lutheran church, where he still remains. In 1866 he was united
in marriage with Katie Bahe. They have seven children.

   Joseph Haupt, dealer in general merchandise, was born in Prussia in 1841.
When only one year old he came with his parents to America and settled in Cook
county, Illinois. There he grew to manhood, remaining until 1871, then came to
Henderson, Sibley county. . Soon after, however, he settled in Arlington and
embarked in general merchandise. Married in 1873, to Miss Susan Bertrang. They
are the parents of five children: Sophia, Maggie, Katie, Lizzie, and Bertha.

   Peter Hilger was born in the state of New York in 1853. Came to Minnesota
with his parents in 1859 and settled on a farm on section 5 of Arlington
township. In 1866 he went to St. Paul and remained two years, then to Hudson and
New Richmond, Wisconsin, for two years. After visiting other places in this
state he settled permanently in Arlington and engaged in a general blacksmithing
trade. Mr. Hilger was married in 1876 to Eva Kill, who was born in Germany in
1855, and came with her parents to America in 1868, locating with them in Sibley
county. Edward and Emma are their children.

   Fritz Hofmister was born in March, 1850, near Buffalo, New York. Came to
Minnesota in 1857. On the 31st of August, 1864, he enlisted and served four
months; participated in the battles of Nashville and Mobile, and was honorably
discharged with the regiment at Fort Snelling in 1865. Returning home he resumed
farming, and is still located in Arlington on section 27.

   Christ. Klinket was born in 1827 in Germany. Came to this country in 1847,
landing in New York; went to Philadelphia, remained there until 1857, then moved
to Arlington, Minnesota. In 1863 he enlisted in Company D, Fourth Minnesota;
participated in the battle of Arlington Heights and various other engagements;
was discharged in Kansas in 1865. He returned to Arlington, and in 1866 started
in general merchandise, in which he is still engaged. In 1850, in Philadelphia,
he was united in marriage with Anna C. Klean, who was born in Germany in 1829.
They have two children; Thomas, who is in business with his father, and Katie,
who is married to Mr. Klinket's partner.

   F. Lindekugel is a German by birth, and was born in 1828. His life until 1860
was spent in his native land, when he came to this country and settled first in
Belle Plaine, Minnesota. After a residence there of two years he moved to Sibley
county, located on section 21, Arlington, in 1870, and has since made this town
his home. Was married in 1857 to Dorotha Beist, a native of Germany. Frederick,
August, William, Louisa and Annie are their children.

   Frederick Maeiss was born in Bavaria in 1826. His youth was spent in the
fatherland, and in 186.3 he left for America. Soon after arriving he settled on
a farm in Arlington township situated on section 21; here he has since lived. In
1852 he was married. Franz, Amelia, Willie, Augusta> Annie and August are his
children.

   Dan. McSweeny, a native of county Cork, Ireland, was born in 1813. He lived
on a farm until coming to America in 1848. After a brief stay in Troy, New York,
he located in Brattleboro, Vermont, for five years. Removed to Jessenland,
Sibley county, in 1855, and settled on section 3 in Arlington. Married in 1853
Abbie O'Neil, a native of Ireland. Thomas, Eugene, John, Daniel, Abbie, Kate and
Mary are their children. Kate is the wife of M. O'Brien, and has one child.

   Johann P. Meffert, farmer on section 27, was born in 1840, and is a native of
Germany. He grew to manhood on a farm in his own country, and 1863 came to
America. Until 1876 his home was in Illinois, but since then he has been a
resident of Arlington township. Married in 1867 Mary L. Breman, who has home him
three children: John, Henry and Herman.

   John Meier, a native of Prussia, was born in 1845. After learning brickmaking
he came to America in 1869. Reaching Henderson, Sibley county, in 1870, he began
contracting, which he continued until 1876, then started a brick yard, which
proved a success until the high water of 1881 destroyed all his machinery.
Removed to Arlington and again attempted brickmaking, which is the first
manufacturing enterprise begun in the township; his yard will produce about
one-half million of brick each season. Mr. Meier was married in 1870 to Katie
Henzelen, and has four children: Joseph, Regind, John and Annie.

   J. G. Mueller, a resident of Arlington since 1860, was born in 1837 in
Germany. On arriving in the United States in 1856 he settled in Missouri,
remaining until 1860. Since that time he has been a resident of Arlington,
residing on section 31. Having learned the trade of a stone mason in his native
land, he gives that some attention in addition to farming. He was one of the
construction corps in the army from 1863 to 1865. Miss M. T. Gruenhagen became
the wife of Mr. Mueller in 1865. Nine children have been born to them.

   Philip Nagel, farmer on section 27, was born in 1822 in Germany. Came to
America at the age of thirty years, and spent two years in Iowa, then moved to
Minnesota. He was a resident of Henderson one year, of Jessenland twelve years,
and has since lived in Arlington township. Mr. Nagel is the father of eleven
children, only four of whom are living: Charles, Martin, William and Henry.

   John Narr came from Germany where he was born in 1831, to America in 1854. He
came to Minnesota in 1856 and settled in the town of Arlington. In 1864 enlisted
in Company G, Fourth Minnesota, and engaged in all the battles in which the
company participated; was discharged in 1865. He was united in marriage with
Christine Klobenbach in 1860. They are the parents of ten children: Matilda,
Edward, John, Emma, Albert, Herman, Christ, August, Margaret and Charles.

   Christain Obenolte, whose native land is Germany, was born in 1826. Came to
the United States in 1856, and until 1862 resided in Cook county, Illinois. He
then settled on section 34 in Arlington, and has since been a resident of this
township. In 1856 his marriage with Miss Deran took place. They have five
children living.

   Jeremiah O'Connors was born in county Tipperary, Ireland, in 1823, and there
received a practical education. Came to America in 1840; remained in
Pennsylvania a few years, then came to Wisconsin, and in 1852, to St. Paul. The
next year he located in Sibley and continued there until about 1874. In that
year he purchased his present farm, which is situated on section 14, Arlington
township. Here he has since lived. In 1862 he enlisted in the Minnesota mounted
rangers; was in the battles of Birch Cooley and Devil's Lake during the Indian
troubles, was on the plains, and was discharged in 1865 at Fort Snelling.

   Johan Pomplan, a native of Germany, was born on the 9th of September, 1818.
He grew to manhood on a farm,-and continued in his native country until 1864,
then came to the United States. The same year he settled on section 31,
Arlington township. He was married before coming to this country and is the
parent of eight children: Almarlia, Amelia, Elvina, Otillia, Louisa, William,
Herman and Edward.

   August Quast is a native of Germany, born in 1841. He came to America in
1860; enlisted in Company G, Fourth Minnesota, and participated in several
engagements; was honorably discharged in August, 1865. His marriage with Miss
Bertha Bullard took place in 1867. They are the parents of five children: Fred,
Edith, Emil, Henry and Albert.

   Conrad Rahling was horn in 1813, in Germany. He came to the United States in
1847 and in the same year settled in Illinois, where he remained eight years. In
1856 he came to the Minnesota valley and located on a farm on section 17,
Arlington township. Married in 1851 to Mary Segar, who has borne him seven
children. One son, Henry, was in the Eighth Illinois cavalry, and died at
Washington. Ernest Hoffmeister, son of Mrs. Rahling by a former marriage, was in
the Fifth Minnesota cavalry and was killed by the Indians in Idaho.

   William Rahling was born in Illinois in 1852. When only six years of age he
came to Minnesota and has since resided here; his home is now on section 27,
Arlington township. In 1874 he was united in marriage with Miss Louisa Weihya,
and four children have been born to them, only two of whom are living.

   August Richmuller is a native of Germany, born in 1840. In 1852 he came to
America, and for four years lived in Illinois; came to Minnesota in 1856 and has
since made this his home. Soon after arriving he selected a home in Arlington
township, on section 22. During the war he served in Company D, Eighth Illinois.
Married in 1867 Mary Weilmener, who was born in Germany. Seven children have
been born to them; five are living.

   Christian Richmuller was born in Germany in 1816.  He acquired a knowledge of
the tailor's trade in his own country and worked at it until coming to America
in 1850. After a residence of four years in Illinois he moved to Sibley county,
Minnesota, which renders him a very early settler. He is located on section 23,
of Arlington township. In 1839 Mr. Richmuller was married and has three sons: 
August, Henry and John.

   Fred Sander was born in 1847 in Germany. Came to America with his parents in
1852 and lived in Illinois two years. Removed to the Minnesota valley in 1854.
After residing in Henderson, Sibley county until 1870 he moved to Arlington
township and settled on section 34. Enlisted in 1864 in Brackett's battalion and
served against the Indians in three engagements. In 1870 he was united in
marriage with Mary Straker, who was born in Illinois. Anna B., Herman J., George
W., Allen and Rutherford L. are their children.

   Paul Schauer, whose native country is Prussia, was born in 1821. His youth
was passed on a farm and in 1854 he came to America. After living in Toledo two
years he came in 1856 to Minnesota and for four years was employed in the
Pioneer office at St. Paul. Located on his present farm in Arlington township in
1860. His first marriage took place in Germany in 1849, and three children were
born to them. He was married again in 1878.

   Christian Schmidt was born in Germany in 1825. On arriving in America in 1859
he settled in Minnesota, Arlington township, where he has since resided except
the time spent in the army. Enlisted in 1862 in the Seventh Minnesota, and after
a service of one year was honorably discharged. In 1857 he was united in
marriage with Dora Sunker. They are the parents of six children: Dora, Louisa,
Augusta, Emma, Charles and Herman.

   Thomas W. Slough is an Englishman, born in 1837. He acquired the trade of a
mechanic and in 1851 went to Russia as an engineer; remained for several years,
then returned to London. Was employed by the London & North-western railroad
company two years and in 1856 came to America, soon after locating in Sibley
county, in Arlington. Mr. Slough is one of the pioneers of the county.

   William Slough was born in Bedfordshire, England in 1824. After learning the
trade of a baker, at the age of eighteen years began working in a machine shop
for the London & North-western railroad company. He was locomotive engineer for
fifteen years on the railroad and in 1856 accompanied his father, William Slough
to America. The father is now residing in Oregon. During the war Mr. Slough was
employed at Fort Snelling. In 1867 Hannah Langguth became his wife and has borne
him eight children: William, Minnie, Addie, Thomas, Henry, George, Charles and
Annie.

   F. Soeffken was born in 1827 and is a native of Germany. Came to America in
1854; spent two years in Illinois, then came to Arlington; he is settled on a
farm on section 28. In 1860 married Louisa Meirbarlat, a native of Germany.
Henry, Amelia, Louisa, Rosa, Emma, Ferdinand, Fred and Berta are their children.

   Franz Wegner was born in Germany in 1826. He came to America in 1854 and
remained in Wisconsin until the next year; came to Minnesota in 1855 and settled
in Le Sueur county and in 1873 located in Arlington. Enlisted in 1864 in company
G, Fourth Minnesota; participated in the battle of Altoona, and was with General
Sherman in his "march to the sea;" was honorably discharged in 1865. Married in
1859 to Bertha Wandrie, who has borne him three children: Matilda, Henry and
Christoph.

   C. Weike was born in the state of Minnesota, Sibley county, in 1857. He moved
with his parents to Illinois, continuing there five years. He then returned to
Sibley county and now resides on section 22 of Arlington township. While Mr.
Weike was quite young his father died.

   John Woelpern, a native of Germany, was born in 1851. Accompanied his parents
to America in 1858 and for three years lived in Missouri. Arriving in Minnesota
in 1861 he settled in Dryden, Sibley county, remaining there until 1879. During
youth his time was chiefly spent in farming, but on locating at Arlington in
1879, he started a wagon manufactory which was the first in the town. Married in
1873 to Miss Annie Meyer, who was born in Germany in 1851 and came with her
parents to America in 1871.

   August Wentzlerff was born in 1853 and is a German by birth. He came to
America on attaining majority and proceeded soon after to Minnesota where he
decided to make a home. He accordingly located on section 11 of Arlington
township. Married in 1878 to Rosa Schauer. They are the parents of two
daughters: Annie and Amelia.

   Thomas Young was born in county Cork, Ireland, in 1825, and in 1847 came to
America. The same year while in London he married Jane Young. After arriving in
this country Mr. Young settled in Illinois, remained there until 1856 tlien
moved to Hastings, Minnesota. Two years later he located in Washington Lake, but
finally settled on section 10, of Arlington township. Four children have been
born to them: Thomas and Edward are lawyers at Benson; W. H. is an enterprising
farmer of Arlington, and was married in 1880 to Hannah Walker; Clara is the wife
of Dennis Bray.

KELSO.

   Directly west of Henderson is Kelso, comprising township 112 north, range 27
west. The Rush river and its two branches affords an abundance of water. The
soil is deep, rich and slightly sandy, and the surface has just enough variation
to make it drain to good advantage. Kelso early attracted the attention of
pioneers and was one of the first of Sibley county towns to become settled,
although somewhat later in organizing. The name was originally applied by A. P.
Walker when on a surveying tour in 1854 or '5, and is of Scotch derivation.

   A few venturesome individuals undertook to open the country in 1853, hut gave
up in favor of a wooded country. In 1855 and '6 the first permanent settlers
arrived, among whom were Cyrus Colby, Morgan Lacy, Oliver, Moses and Cyrus
Peltier, all of whom located in the former year, and John and Patrick Geib,
Conrad Buesing, Alma Meskar and James Amoit in the latter. In 1857 Arnold Delger
with his two sons, August and C. H., settled on sections 18 and 19, followed
soon after by Freeman Colby, Charles Hennesy and others. Many of the old
pioneers still remain in the town.

   While the first township organization was probably effected in 1858 there are
no records or data to afford positive proof, nor from which to obtain the names
of subsequent officers for several years, and the memory of "the oldest settler"
is so diversified that no attempt at giving the first officers is made.

   A school was organized in the winter of 1857, taught by a Mr. Putnam at the
residence of Mr. Clark, in the south-east portion of the town. The following
year two districts, numbers 6 and 7, were created and log houses built. on
sections 16 and 34. Later district number 58 was established and a large frame1
building erected with patent seats, charts and modern improvements.

   The first marriage was that of Robert Wade to Miss Dorothy Bingham, in 1860
the ceremony being performed by Justice Freeman Colby, at the residence of a Mr.
Kilmer. The death of the father of Jonathan Mills in the winter of 1857 was the
first.

   A post-office was established near the center of the western part of the
town, and called Kelso. The present incumbent is B. Schnackenberg. A few years
later an office was established on the Rush river, in the eastern part, but
discontinued soon after.

   New Rome, on the northern boundary, adjoining Arlington township, was
established July 1, 1876, the present postmaster, John Groetsch, was appointed,
and has held the office since.

   A town site called Freemont was surveyed and platted in 1857 upon land owned
by a Mr. Yale, but has never developed further than farm land.

   Statistics for 1880 were: Valuation, $210,597, real estate; population, 716
inhabitants. There were in the same year 115 votes cast at the fall election.

   H. Becker was born in Germany in 1844, and lived in that country until
twenty-four years of age. On coming to America at that time he settled in
Baltimore, Maryland, but remained only one year, after which until 1876 he spent
his time in the cities of New Orleans, Cairo and Louisville. Came to Minnesota
in 1876, locating in the town of Kelso, where he was engaged at the trade of
wagon making. On the 24th of August, 1872 he married Miss Amelia Schubert. They
are the parents of four children, all living.

   Gustaff Bretch was born in 1853, in Germany. When a child of seven years he
came to America and for the subsequent years until 1869 made his home in Green
Lake county, Wisconsin. Came to Minnesota in 1869 and is now living on section
21. Married in 1874 Eliza Bredemar, who has borne him two children, both of whom
are living: Willie and Gustaff.

   H. Budke was born in Germany in 1829. He served in the German army, and in
1866 came to Minnesota; soon after he settled in Kelso township on section 22.
He now has a farm of 195 acres. In 1858 Miss Christine Hermeyer became the wife
of Mr. Budke. They have eight children, all of whom are living.

   G. Cormier was born in 1844 in Canada, and there lived until thirteen years
of age. In 1857 he came to St. Paul and worked at his trade, that of carpenter,
for the government. Subsequently he removed to Kelso township, and now resides
on section 21, where he is farming. Married in 1866 Miss Louisa Dougal. They are
the parents of eight living children.

   Arnold Delger, one of the oldest and earliest settlers of Kelso, was born on
the 2d of April, 1805, in Germany. Until 1844 he remained in his native country,
then came to America and subsequently settled in Kelso. He has served in nearly
all the town offices. Married in 1834 Miss Margaret Cordes. They are the parents
of three living children.

   C. A. B. Delger was born in Germany in 1838 and remained in his native land
until thirty years of age. Came to America and to Minnesota in 1868, and during
1872 and 1873 was in New York and New Jersey. He now lives on section 22, Kelso
township. Since living in this town he has been chairman of the board of
supervisors for three years. Married in 1862 Miss Helen M. Timmermann, who has
borne him nine children, all of whom are living.

   Conrad H. Delger was born in 1835, and is a native of Germany. When eleven
years of age he came to Ohio, where he remained ten years; after a residence of
a few years in Iowa, he came in 1858 to Minnesota and settled in Kelso township
on section 18. Mr. Delger has served his town in the offices of supervisor and
assessor. On the 9th of October, 1859, he was united in marriage with Miss
Dorothea Knopf. Pour children have been born to them; only two are living.

   Fred. Drever-Kracht was born in 1822 in Germany. At the age of thirty years
be left his native land for America, and in 1856 came to Minnesota. He now lives
on section 4 of Kelso township. Married in 1858 Bliss Louisa Becker, who has
borne him nine children, all of whom are living.

   Charles Frantz, a native of Germany, was born in 1840. For thirty years he
remained in his native country, and in 1870 came to the United States,
proceeding directly to Iowa; in 1871 he settled on section 28, Kelso township.
His wife was Miss Mary Plitioun, whom he married in 1871. They are the parents
of six children.

   F. Fuerstnow was born in 1849. When twenty-eight years of age he came to the
United States and settled in Dodge county, Wisconsin; after a residence there of
one and one-half years he removed to Le Sueur, Minnesota; remained, however,
only six months, and in 1880 became a resident of the village of New Rome.
During youth he learned the trade of shoemaker, and has established a good trade
at New Rome.

   Jacob Geib was born in 1839, and is a native of Germany. In 1842 he came with
his father to America and located in Ohio; he resided there until 1855, then
came to Minnesota, and for two years made his home in Yellow Medicine county.
Enlisted in October, 1861, in Company G, Fifth Iowa cavalry, being transferred
from Minnesota; he was afterward aide-de-camp for General Grant; was promoted to
the rank of sergeant, and was afterward transferred to Brackett's battalion, and
honorably discharged at the close of the war. His home is now on section 9 of
Kelso township. He has served as town supervisor for five years. Married in 1868
Mary Merehoff, who has borne him three children.

   John Geib, a native of Prussia, was born in 1834, and when eight years of age
immigrated to the state of Ohio, but removed thence in 1855 to Minnesota. He
located first at Henderson, and from 1874 to '78 he was engaged in milling.
Removing to Kelso township he settled on section 3; owns a farm of 400 acres. In
1862 he enlisted in Company H, Seventh Minnesota, and served against the Indians
until 1863, then went south as wagon-master of the 16th army corps; was in many
prominent engagements in the South, and while in the North was engaged in the
battles of Birch Cooley, Wood Lake, Big Hills and New Ulm; was honorably
discharged with his regiment at Port Snelling. He has been county commissioner,
and in 1878 represented his district in the legislature. Mr. Geib was married in
1857 to Miss Gusta Sander. Of the eight children born to them seven are living.

   Valentine Geib was born in 1851 in Ohio. When a lad of nine years he came to
Minnesota and has since made this state his home and has acquired a practical
education. He is now residing on section 16 of Kelso township. His marriage took
place in October, 1880.

   John Groetsch was 'born in 1826 in Wurtemburg, Germany. There he was educated
in his native language and in 1847 came to America. After traveling through
Upper and Lower Canada he went to Rochester, New York, and worked the first
year, in a mill, then carried on a shoe shop two years. He removed to Chicago,
thence to Racine, Wisconsin, where for five years he had a shoe shop: then a
grocery store. Game to Minnesota in the fall of 1854 and built the fifth house
in Mankato. In the spring of 1855 he in company with Fred Hecklin went to St.
Paul, purchased a stock of merchandise and started with it to Mankato; being
unable to get the goods through they landed at Chaska. After living there one
winter Mr. Groetsch made a claim. At the organization of Carver county he was
elected county commissioner. He taught schools there, both German and English.
Removing to Carver he purchased the Pioneer Hotel, of which he was proprietor
for some time, then sold and bought a farm on section 4, of Kelso. He has held
nearly all the offices in the town, and in 1874 represented his district in the
legislature. Mr. Groetsch was instrumental in securing the post-office at New
Rome, which village he named; since the establishment of the office he has been
postmaster. In 1862 he recruited Company D, Fifth Minnesota, and with it went
south as first lieutenant; was afterward promoted to captain; resigned August 3,
1863. Married in 1848, Miss Christine Meinzer, who has borne him ten children;
nine are living.

   Charles Hoecke was born in 1837, in Germany. When seventeen years old he came
to America and settled in Clayton county, Iowa. Came to Minnesota in 187)9 but
returned to Iowa in 1861, and enlisted in Company D, 27th regiment, and served
two years. Participated in many of the prominent battles, among which were
Nashville, Mobile, Vicksburg, Spanish Fort and others. He is now residing on
section 19, in Kelso. He has served his town as chairman of the board of
supervisors. Married in 1866, Miss Annie Meyer, and is the parent of eight
children.

   Casper Holzgrove was born in 1813, in Prussia, and came to this country at
the age of forty years. He remained in Iowa until 1857, then came to this state
and settled on section 31, Kelso township; has served as supervisor, town clerk
and county commissioner, and has discharged his duties faithfully. His marriage
with Anna Pothoff took place in 1852.

   Will. Kusche was born in 1837, in Prussia, and in 1856 came to America. After
a brief stay in Milwaukee he came to Kelso; settled on section 17, but has since
removed to 34. He enlisted in 1864 in Company A, 11th Minnesota, and was
discharged at Port Snelling in 1865. The same year he was united in marriage
with Miss Bertie Uecker. Eight children have been born to them, five of whom are
living.

   Carl S. Lund was born in 1834 in Sweden. He lived in his native place until
reaching man's estate, then moved to Norway and remained fourteen years. He came
to America, and in 1871 located at St. Peter, Minnesota, where he lived one and
one-half years, then removed to Kelso and settled on section 27. Married Miss
Annie Nelson in 1864. They are the parents of seven children. Mr. Lund served as
a soldier in his native land.

   A. Obernolte was born in Germany in 1832. When twenty-six years of age he
immigrated to Gook county, Illinois, and there lived five years, engaged in the
mason's trade three years, and as a farmer two years. He came to Minnesota in
1862, and is a farmer on section 5 of Kelso township. In June, 1854, he married
Miss Sophia Guse. Six children have been born to them.

   John A. Pfarr was born in 1827, and is a native of Bavaria. In 1854 he came
to the United States. After remaining in Ohio and Kentucky a short time, he came
in 1855 to Minnesota and settled first in Sharon, Le Sueur county, where he was
town clerk and supervisor, also was a member of the legislature from that
district in 1870. During the trouble with the Indians he joined the company of
volunteers who were stationed at New Ulm. Mr. Pfarr is now residing on section
25, Kelso township. Married in 1857 Miss Mary C. Kramer. Ten children have been
born to them; seven are living.

   Fred. Pioske was born in Prussia in 1820. There he grew to manhood, and in
1863 came to the United States and located in Minnesota. He is nowfarming on
section 32, Kelso township. In 1851 he was united in marriage with Miss Minnie
Kuske, who has borne him eight children, three of whom are living.

   Herm Prahl, a native of Germany, was born in 1840. Until the age of
twenty-six years he lived in his native land, and in 1866 came to America. He
settled in Milwaukee, "Wisconsin, where he remained two and one-half years, then
removed to ' Minnesota. Mr. Prahl is now located on section 29, Kelso township.
His first marriage was in 1868 with Miss W. Ebert, who died in 1879, leaving
three children. His present wife was Miss Dora Franke, married in 1880.

   Henry Prior is a German by birth. Previous to leaving that country he served
in the army six years. After coming to America he lived in Ohio two years and in
Iowa until 1857, then came to Minnesota. Mr. Prior now resides on section 30,
Kelso township. Married in 1856 Miss Katie Werges. Four children have been born
to them, of whom three are living.

   Luke Riley was born in 1818 in Ireland. He lived in his native country and in
England until 1852, then came to America. Until 1857 he remained in New York,
then came to Minnesota and settled on section 18, Kelso township. In 1876 he
married Miss Clara Woodbury. Mrs. Riley died one year after marriage, leaving an
infant child, who also died one day after the burial of its mother.

   Behrend Schnackenberg was born in 1835 in Germany. In 1851 be came to
America, and lived at New Orleans, Louisiana, three years; he then spent seven
years in Mississippi; coming to Minnesota in 1861 he located a home in Kelso
township, on section 24. On the 13th of August, 1864, lie enlisted in Company A,
11th Minnesota. Mr. Schnackenberg has been town supervisor three terms, and is
now chairman of the board; is also serving as postmaster at Kelso. In 1857 his
marriage with Miss Dorothaha Beckma took place. They have had a family of seven
children; six are living.

   A. B. Steinke was born on the 26th of November, 1849, in Prussia, and
remained in that country -until the age of fifteen years; he then came to
America; in 1865 came to Minnesota and settled in Kelso, Sibley county. Until
1875 be engaged in farming, then served as clerk for H. C. Smith & Company. In
1878 he started in the mercantile trade in Kelso, and carries a large stock of
general merchandise.

   Diedrich Thoele was born in 1800 and is a native of Germany. He came to
America and Ohio in 1833 where he remained until 1856 then came to Minnesota and
located in Arlington township on section 34. He has served as supervisor for
several years. Married in 1827 Miss Margaret Schlicter, who died in 1834,
leaving two children. He has remarried and has two children.

   Hermann Thoele was born in 1828 in Germany and when five years of age removed
with his father to Ohio. Came to Minnesota in 1879 and bought land on sections
20 and 21 in Kelso township. He has since lived on this farm. On the 21st of
April, 1853, he married Miss Sophia M. Kuhlman who has borne him nine children;
eight are living.

   F. Wendelschaefer, a native of Germany, was born in 1843. When a lad of nine
years he immigrated to Pennsylvania and remained one and one -half years; thence
he moved to Illinois and resided six years; in 1860 came to Minnesota. For four
years he was located in Le Sueur county, then spent six months in St. Louis.
After a residence of two years in St. Paul, he settled on section 31, Kelso
township. Married in 1868 to Miss Minnie Kuske. They are the parents of two
children.

   F. Werges was born in 1823 in Germany and there spent twenty-nine years.
Coming to America he worked at the trade of shoemaker in Ohio some time, then
moved to St. Louis and spent two years. Until 1857 he remained in Iowa then came
to Blinnesota and located on his farm in Kelso township on section 31; has
served his town as supervisor several terms. Miss Catherine Morten became his
wife in 1855. They have six children.

   Andrew Wiest was born in Ohio in 1855 and when five years old came to
Minnesota and settled in Chaska, Carver county. Came to Kelso township in 1881
and settled on section 27. Married in 1876 to Miss Louisa Denem who has borne
him three children; they are all living.

   Frederick Wiest was born in Germany in 1843; when three years of age came to
America and spent ten years in Pennsylvania. In 1856 he went to Ohio and four
years after came to Carver county, Minnesota. Enlisted in February, 1862 in
company E, Fifth Minnesota; participated in many prominent battles; was wounded
in the left knee and taken to St. Louis hospital, where be remained six months;
he was then honorably discharged but re-enlisted in Mississippi marine brigade;
was again honorably discharged at Vicksburg in 1865. Returning to Carver county
he continued there until 1869 then settled in Kelso. His first home was on
section 28, but is now located on section 27. Married in 1871 to Miss Charlotte
Benning who died two years after, leaving one child. Mr. Wiest's second wife was
Miss Augusta Bedlte who has borne him two children.

   Charles Woehler was born in 1833 in Germany. When twenty-four years of age he
came to America and proceeded to Minnesota, locating first in Henderson.
Enlisted in a company known as the Renville rangers during the trouble with the
Indians; while taking a furlough of three days the Indians commenced
depredations which prevented him returning to the company. He however was
transferred to company H, Seventh regiment under General Sibley; went as far as
Yellow Medicine, was stationed at Camp Release and assisted in capturing, the
thirty-eight Indians who were executed at Mankato. After a service of three
years Mr. Woehler was discharged at Fort Snelling in 1865. Returning home he
soon after removed to Sibley county and located in Kelso township on section 16;
has served as county commissioner two years. Married in 1866 to Miss Dorothea
Briest who has borne him eight children.

   Ernst Youker was born in 1839 in Germany and when thirteen years of age
removed to New York; there he remained one year and in 1867 came to Minnesota.
Miss Annie Briest became his wife in 1871. They are the parents of four children
only one of whom is living.

SIBLEY.

   Sibley, named after the county, is one of the center of the most southern
tier of townships, embracing all of township 112 north, range number 28 west. It
is strictly a prairie town, crossed by two branches of Rush river, and having
several small lakes and numerous marshes.

   The soil is deep, rich and very productive, well adapted to agriculture and
grazing. A small strip of timber borders the southern boundary, and there is
where the first settlement was made, a number of Norwegians having taken
possession in 1856, of whose history but little can be ascertained.

   In 1857, C. H. Spellman, H. H. Schmidt, and Harmon Mollering took claims on
sections 12 and 13; Mollering and Schmidt remaining but one year. Mr. Spellman
still resides upon his original claim. Early in the spring of 1858, W. S. McEwen
took a claim in section 24, where he built, and was followed the next year by
his family.

   The first election, for the organization of the town was held July 9, 1864,
and resulted as follows: William S. McEwen, chairman; H. Otting, and Ole
Overson, board of supervisors; M. R. Parks, clerk; H. Koch, treasurer; F.
Kusske, overseer of poor; Benjamin Snachenberg, constable; C. W. Woodburry,
justice. The election was held at the residence of Henry Koch.

   The first birth in the town was in October, 1859, a daughter being born to
Mr. and Mrs. C. H. Spellman, on the second of the month.

   It was not until 1866 that cupid registered; Charles Wheeler, a non-resident,
and Miss Dorothy Briest were married by Arnold Delger, a justice of the peace.

   The first death was recorded on May 17, 1864, being that of Mrs. Anna Otting.

   In the summer of 1864 a new school-house was erected, and in the fall the
first school was taught by Miss Blanche French. There were but few scholars. In
1881 there were four districts, each having frame buildings.

   Trinity German Lutheran Church was organized in 1866, with Rev. Ferdinand
Copelke, pastor. The building which was then erected is of log, located upon the
eastern part of section 25. The pastor in 1881, was A. H. Merz, who had
fifty-four families under his charge. Adjoining the church is a parish cemetery
laid out soon after the church was built.

   A post-office was established in 1865, in section 25, Mr. French, postmaster.
Later it was removed to section 26, where in 1881 Henry Osterman acted as
postmaster, mails being received once each week.

   The valuation for 1880 was as follows: $177,768 real estate, and $31,949
personal property. There were eighty-five votes polled the same year. Census
returns gave a population of 499 inhabitants.

   A. Anderson, a native of Sweden, was born in 1845. Until reaching the age of
twenty-five years he lived in his native country, then came in 1870 to
Massachusetts. He had previously been a soldier two years. Came to Minnesota in
1877, and is now located on section 21, Sibley township. Married in 1880, Miss
Matilda Alm. They have one child.

   August Anderson was born in Sweden, in 1841, and when thirty-two years of age
moved to Massachusetts. After spending two years in that state be came to
Minnesota and settled on section 22, Sibley township. Married in 1877 to Mrs.
Ingri Fredenberg, who has home him two children; she also has two children by
her first marriage.

   Wilhelm Bierstadt, born in 1846, is a native of Germany. On attaining
majority he came to America and to Illinois; then removed to Iowa. Came to
Minnesota in 1867 and has since resided principally in Sibley township, on
section 16. His marriage with Miss Amelia Orpsa took place in 1872. They are the
parents of three children, all of whom are living.

   Henry Bremer, a native of Prussia, was born in 1843, and when fifteen years
of age moved to Missouri; remaining there only year, then resided in Iowa ten
years. In 1862 he enlisted in Company D, 27th Iowa; during the last year was
transferred to the veteran reserve corps; received an honorable discharge on the
9th of July, 1866. After spending one winter in Iowa he came to Minnesota in the
spring of 1867. He married in 1866, Mrs. Cook, who has borne him eight children.

   Frederick A. Briard was born on the 17th of September, 1847, on the Isle of
Jersey, and came with his parents to Minnesota in 1854. He enlisted in February,
1865, and served in the western army at Chattanooga, under Colonel Baxter. After
the war he settled in Sibley township, and now owns a farm of 120 acres on
section 30. On the 9th of January, 1869, he married Margaret E. Butler, also a
native of the Isle of Jersey. Ellen S., Susan A., Frederick W., William F., May
B. and James P. are their living children. Bose M. died in infancy. Mr. Briard's
parents were born on the Isle of Jersey, and came to this country in April, 1852.

   Samuel R. Buckley was born on the 23d of May, 1859, in Belle Plaine, Scott
county, Minnesota, and is of German descent. His parents were of German birth,
and came to this country and settled in Belle Plaine in 1851. From there they
came to Sibley county in 1868 and are at present living in Sibley township on
section 26, their son, Samuel, remaining with them.

   Friedrich Dietz was born in 1825, and is a native of Germany. He lived in his
native country until 1873, then came to America and settled in Minnesota, in
Sibley township. Married Miss Fredrica Snyder in 1859, who has borne him eleven
children, of whom six are living. Mr. Dietz and family reside on a farm in
section 20.

   John Goodham was born in Buckinghamshire, England, in October, 1826. In 1852
he moved to New York, and remained in Troy until coming to Minnesota in 1854. He
first settled in Jordan, and there made a claim of 160 acres; from Scott county
he came to Sibley in 1866, and the next year bought a farm of 320 acres; has
since added forty acres more. Was married on the 24th of June, 1855, to Susan
Briard, at Shakopee. William W., John, Charles, Elizabeth and Bebecca are their
children.

   Theo. Hedrich, a native of Germany, was born in 1844. When six years of age
became to America, and after a few months spent in Chicago, went to Galena. Soon
after removed to Henderson, Minnesota, and remained two years. In 1866 he
settled in Sibley township, and has since resided on section 15. He enlisted in
1864 and served nearly two years. On the 4th of June, 1869, he was united in
marriage with Miss Amelia Rotke.

   George Kuehner, a native of Prussia, was born in 1844. On reaching man's
estate he came to America and settled in Wisconsin; in 1876 he came to
Minnesota, and has since been a resident of Sibley; is now located on section
17. Mr. Kuehner has served his town two years as supervisor. In 1874 he was
united in marriage with Miss Mary Warnke, who has borne him three children.

   Gustave Kusske, a native of Germany, was born in 1842. At the age of twenty
years he emigrated from his native country in a ship called "Robert Pierce;" he
arrived at Winona, Minnesota, in 1862, and during the same year moved to Kelso,
Sibley county. Enlisted in 1863 in Company A, Fifth Iowa, afterward Brackett's
battalion; was under General Sully, and honorably discharged in 1865. On the
14th of April, 1873, Mr. Kusske was married.

   Adolph Kusske was born in 1838, in Prussia, and on the 17th of November,
1862, started for America. On arriving in Minnesota he enlisted in Company A,
11th Minnesota, and went into Tennessee; served at guarding the railroad between
Nashville and Louisville. On returning from the war he located in Sibley
township, and has since held nearly all the town offices. Miss Augusta Hahn, a
native of Germany, became the wife of Mr. Kusske in 1872. Pour children have
been born to them, of whom three are living.

   J. E. Kusske was born in 1854 in Germany, and when eight years old came to
this country and to Minnesota. After spending a short time in Winona and
Rochester he came to Kelso, Sibley county, in February, 1861; two years after he
moved into Sibley township. He attended the high schools at St. Peter and Le
Sueur, then went to Oshkosh, Wisconsin, and Rosendale, and studied two terms at
the Appleton University. After coming to this township he taught school several
terms; has been justice of the peace, and is now mail carrier. In 1881 Miss
Rachel Antonsen became his wife.

   Peter Larson, a native of Sweden, was born in 1845. He remained in his native
land until 1871, then came to America and soon after to Minnesota, locating on
section 25, Sibley township, where he still resides. His marriage with Miss
Annie Peterson took place in 1869. They are the parents of six children, all of
whom are living.

   Ernst Manthey, a native of Germany, was born in 1851. When sixteen years of
age came to America, and since 1871 his home has been in Sibley township,
Minnesota. He is a farmer on section 16.

   Fred. Manthey was born in 1832 in Germany. There he spent his childhood after
which three years were passed as a soldier in the German army. Game to America
and in 1870 settled on section 26 of Sibley township. He has since been a
resident of the town and has held the office of assessor and supervisor. Married
in 1862, Miss Annie S. Denmarchke, who died in 1880. Twelve children were born
to them, of whom seven are living.

   Michael Manthey was born in Germany in 1844 and remained in his native land
until the age of twenty-five years. In the meantime he served in the German war,
then came to America, and subsequently settled on his present farm on section
16, Sibley township, Minnesota. His marriage with Miss Eliza Kinke took place in
1873. Of the five children born to them, three are living.

   Stephen Manthey, a native of Germany, was born in 1840. When twenty-five
years old he came to this country and for five years remained in Wisconsin.
Coming to Sibley county, Minnesota in 1870 he settled on a farm in Sibley on
section 16, where he still lives. Was married in 1871 to Miss Augusta
Hilderbrandt, a native of Germany. They are the parents of seven children, two
of whom are living.

   H. F. Otting was born in 1849 in Germany and when six years old came to
America, to Clayton county, Iowa. In 1864 he removed to Sibley, Minnesota, and
located a farm on section 3. He has since served one term as supervisor. Married
in 1873 to Augustina Dettmann, who has home him six children; five are living.

   Julius Propp was born in Prussia, in 1835. After spending thirty years of his
life in that country, he came in 1865 to the United States. For six years his
home was in Wisconsin; then, in 1871, he went to St. Peter, Minnesota and came
to Sibley township in 1873. Mr. Propp is a farmer and resides on section 21. In
1860 he was united in marriage with Miss Amelia Blode and is by her the parent
of eight children, all living.

   Johan Rosenfeld was born in 1836 and is a German by birth. He remained in his
native land until 1872, serving in the meantime in the German war. Game to
America and resided in Illinois three and one-half years, then removed to his
present farm in Sibley. His marriage with Miss Fredrica Hasan took place in
1864. They have seven children.

   Andrew Rice, a native of Norway, was born in 1821, and there lived until
1851, spending two years, however, as a sailor. Coming to America in 1851 he
proceeded to Minnesota and in 1856 settled in St. Peter, and kept hotel until
moving to his farm in Sibley township in 1857. During the war he served one year
in Company A, Eleventh Minnesota. In 1847 his marriage with Miss Bertha Rice
occurred. Seven children have been born to them: John, Martha, Louis, Mary,
Pauline, Nils and Louise.

   John Rice, eldest son of Andrew Rice, was born in Iowa, in 1851 and when five
years of age moved with his parents to St. Peter, where his father kept hotel
one year. The next year they came to Sibley township and settled on the farm
which he now owns. He has served as justice of the peace, constable, and is now
acting as chairman of the town board of supervisors. By trade he is a carpenter.
Miss Sophia Peterson became his wife in 1881.

   Fred. H. Schriber was born in Syracuse, New York, in December, 1850. From
there he went to Detroit in 1854, and there engaged in the tobacco trade
fourteen years. Came to Sibley county, Minnesota, in 1879, and has since
followed farming. He has a large farm, 320 acres under cultivation, and has
leased 640 acres. Was married in September, 1875, to Anna Wheat, who was born in
Jackson, Michigan. One daughter, Mabel, is their only living child.

   August Severin, a native of Prussia, was born in 1849. He learned the trade
of making wooden shoes, and worked at that business until twenty-three years of
age, when he left his native land for America. Came to Sibley township,
Minnesota, in 1873, and has since resided here; has a farm in section 21. In
1873 he was united in marriage with Miss Amelia Kropp. Two children have been
born to them; one is living.

   Ferd. Sonnenburg, a native of Germany, was born in 1837, and when thirty
years of age came to America. For two years his home was in Wisconsin, and in
1869 he located in Sibley township, Minnesota. Was married in 1872, to Miss
Augusta Henke, who has borne him five children, three of whom are living.

   C. H. Spellman was born October 2, 1835, in Hanover, Germany, and in 1847
immigrated to New Orleans. Removed to Cincinnati, Ohio; finally located in
Scioto county and served an apprenticeship of two years at the baker's trade.
After this he farmed two years in Clayton county, Iowa; in 1854 went to Galena,
Illinois, and the same year came to Minnesota. Until 1857 he was steamboating on
the Mississippi and Minnesota rivers. He then made a claim of 160 acres on
section 13, Sibley township; has at present a fine farm of 240 acres. Enlisted
in the fall of 1864 in Company A, 11th Minnesota, under Captain Buck, At
Henderson he married Miss Wilhelmina Goebel. Caroline, John, Clara, Emma,
Minnie, Augusta and Charles are their children.

   Gunder Torgeson, farmer on section 23, was born in Sibley county, Minnesota,
in 1856, and was among the first white children born here. Mr. Torgeson's
marriage occurred in the year 1880; his wife's name was Miss Ella Johnson.

   Fred. Tutzloff, a native of Germany, was born in 1856, and when nineteen
years of age left his native country for America. After remaining in New York
two months he went to Chicago, and in 1876 came to Sibley township and settled
on section 16. He, with his family, is now living on section 23. Was married in
1877 to Miss Helena Manthey. They have one child living.

   Johan Von Reedon is a native of Germany, horn in 1860. There his childhood
was passed, and in 1872 he started for America. He is an enterprising young man,
and now resides on a farm on section 25 of Sibley township, Minnesota.


Additional Comments:
Extracted from 

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


File at: http://files.usgwarchives.net/mn/sibley/history/1882/historyo/henderso75gms.txt

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