Bio of Sparrell, John Henry (b.1828) Wabasha Co., MN
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This bio comes from "HISTORY OF WABASHA COUNTY" 1884.
Check out Barbara's site for more great information on this book:
http://www.rootsweb.com/~mnwabbio/wab1.htm
There are also some pictures and information from descendents for some 
of the bios on her pages.

Sparrell, John Henry (deceased), was born in Bedford, Massachusetts,
September 26, 1828. After reaching school age, he attended the common
schools and subsequently became a student of Bridgewater Academy in the
same state. But at the early age of eighteen he quit school and engaged in
the manufacture of furniture in his native town. His parents, John and
Sylvia (Turner) Sparrell, were natives of Situate, Mass., and the parents
of ten children the only surviving one being Emeline A. Sparrell of
Boston. The subject of our sketch came to this country in 18858 and
preempted land in Gillford township. In the spring of 1862 he opened up
the farm and subsequently purchased adjoining lands until he became known
as one of the largest land-holders in that section of the country.
Although Mr. Sparrell has no military record, he was very active in
securing substitutes for his neighbors who did not wish to serve their
country in the capacity of soldier during the civil war. Our subject took
an active part in politics, and was often elected state delegate to county
or state republican conventions. In short, he was always interested in any
bublic work, or anything for the benefit and advancement of the community
in which he lived. In 1865 he moved to Lake City, where he became a member
of the firm known as Sparrell & Bates, dealers in and manufacturers of
furniture. Soon after, they established a branch store at Red Wing, which
was conducted by his brother, E. K. Sparrell, the firm being Sparrell,
Bates & Co. They did an extensive business until his failing health made
it necessary for him to retire from active life. But his brother dying
(July 29, 1874), he resumed business for the purpose of settling up his
brother's estate. At length, his health again failed and on September 20,
1877, departed this life.
Our subject was a member of Red Wing Lodge No. 8, A.F. and A.M., the
Masonic Aid Association, and the Knight Templars, each of which offered
resolutions at the time of his death. At a stated conclave of Red Wing
Commandery No. 10, K. T., held September 24, 1877, the following preamble
and resolutions were adopted:
"WHEREAS, It has pleased Almighty God to remove from our midst our well
beloved brother, Sir Knight John Henry Sparrell; therefore
"Resolved, 1st, That in his death the Commandery has sustained a loss
which every member sincerely mourns.
"Resolved, 2d., That we will ever respect and cherish in our memory the
manly virtues, the sterling integrity and sincere friendship of our
deceased brother.
"Resolved, 3d., That to the bereaved family of the deceased we tender our
heartfelt sympathy in this their hour of affliction.
"Resolved, 4th., That a copy of these resolutions be presented to the
family of our deceased brother, and spread upon the records of this
Commandery."
Fred. Joss, Dwight M. Baldwin, Ira J. Kellogg, Committee
On November 20, 1862, Mr. Sparrell wedded Mazie A. Horr, of Bloomington,
Ill. This union was blest with the birth of one child, Daisy S. As it had
always been the intention of our subject to have his daughter educated at
the Normal School at Bridgewater, Mass., his wishes were carried out by
her graduating from that institution in 1882, with high honors.