Trails-to-the-Past-Minnesota-Olmsted-bioghaphies

Biographies

History of Olmstead County Minnesota

Written by Joseph A. Leonard 1910

KALB, EDWARD L. -----for years a well known veterinary surgeon at Rochester, was born November 13, 1872, in this city, a son of Henry and Frederica (Roediger) Kalb, natives of Germany, and of whom appropriate mention is made elsewhere in this publication. Edward L. Kalb was educated in the Rochester public schools and his first employment was in the drug establishment of his brother, Henry E. Kalb, who had previously learned that business under Mr. Gustave Hargesheimer, of Rochester. There Edward remained until his brother’s death in 1891.

He had always been passionately fond of horses, and finally decided that he would be most successful in the field of veterinary surgery. Accordingly, at Toronto, he entered the Ontario Veterinary College, province of Ontario, Canada, and was duly graduated therefrom with honors in the class of 1893. October 12, same year, he was passed by the Minnesota state board of veterinary medical examiners, and also took an advanced post graduate course under the private instruction of Prof. Mole, M. R. C. V. S., of Toronto. Immediately there after he returned to Rochester and began the active practice of his profession. He has been more than ordinarily successful, and, through a natural aptitude and liking for the work, has acquired a large and lucrative practice. He was made a member of the American Veterinary Association in 1904. In 1905 the doctor was elected to the city council as alderman from the second ward, and has always taken a keen interest in the administration of public affairs. Socially he is identified with the Knights of Pythias, the Independent Order of Redmen and the Elks fraternity.

On January 5, 1898, he was united in marriage with Miss Lucy Knusel, daughter of John Knusel, a deceased pioneer of Salem township, and to them have been born these children: Bruce Munro, Henry M., Jr., and Ethel Frederica.

KALB, HENRY ----- clerk of the city of Rochester for many years, was born February 2, 1836, in the Prussian province of Saxony, Germany a son of Lawrence and Margaret (Schneegass) Kalb, and a grandson of John Edward Kalb. Lawrence Kalb was a farmer, as was his father before him, and was a soldier under the great Napoleon on his invasion of Russia, and was one of the comparatively few who survived the disastrous retreat from Moscow. He served in the army from 1811 to 1815 and died in 1870 at the age of eighty-one years.

Henry Kalb was the youngest and the only one now living in a family of three children. He was reared and educated in his native country and served two years in the German army as a volunteer. In 1854 he immigrated to the United States and after one year spent at Dixon, Illinois, came to Rochester the spring of 1856. For a time he was engaged in the boot and shoe business, having learned the shoemaker’s trade in the old country. Owing to an accidental gun-shot wound received in 1860 while on a hunting expedition, Mr. Kalb was practically idle two years. He was engaged in farming, clerking and merchandising until 1877, when he was elected city marshal, a position he so satisfactorily filled for a period of twenty-two years that he was presented a valuable gold watch, suitably inscribed, by the citizens of Rochester. For many years the county was more or less subject to visits from bad men and tramps, but during Mr. Kalb’s incumbency of the city marshal’s office few depredations or burglaries were committed in the neighborhood of Rochester. After retiring from the service he for two years engaged in the fire insurance business and then was appointed city clerk, which position he creditably filled for years.

In 1854, in his native country, he was married to Miss Frederica Roediger, who died January 21, 1890, and to them the following named children have been born: Amelia, deceased; Louis, deceased; Henry, deceased; Amanda, deceased; Karl, deceased; Edward L., a veterinary surgeon of Rochester, who is appropriately mentioned elsewhere in this work, and George W., at home. Mr. Kalb has always taken great delight in his associations with his fellow men, and in this connection is identified with the Masonic fraternity, the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the Knights of Pythias. He has done much in the service of his county and is greatly liked and respected by the citizens thereof.

KAMNETZ, AUGUST -----is a prominent and progressive farmer residing on a place of 208 acres on Sections 20 and 21, Orion township. He is the son of Frederick and Susanna Kamnetz, who came from Germany and settled in Wisconsin in 1853 and became prominent farmers in that state. It was there that they finally died.

Their son August, the subject of this sketch, was born in Wisconsin on October 12, 1860. His youth was spent in getting his education and in assisting his father on the farm. Also before he attained his majority he worked away from home for several seasons and gave his father his earnings. Upon reaching the age of 21 years he began working for Sidney Burnap and so continued until he had accumulated sufficient means to purchase the farm he now owns in 1890. But he did not occupy the place for two years, renting it to Mr. S. Fox for cash rent. He then took charge of the farm, which at first consisted of 127 acres, to which he has since added until he now owns 208 acres. Nearly all the present improvements on the place were made by Mr. Kamnetz. He is now considered one of the most successful farmers of the county and has the respect of all his acquaintances. He is a Republican and has served as school director for three years.

His wife was formerly Miss Ella Tira Burnap, daughter of Alvares and Diana Burnap. They have six children: Cecile. Ethel, Dorothy, Lois, Helen and Tira. Mr. Kamnetz carries on general farming and stock raising and at the present time has on hand about 30 head of cattle, 5 horses, 75 sheep and 70 hogs, and he raises annually about 90 acres of small grain.

KEEFE, AMBROSE -----who is now residing on a farm of 140 acres on section 21, Elmira township, is one of the successful and prominent farmers of this portion of the county. He is a son of John and Mary Keefe, the father coming from Ireland to America with his parents when a boy.

Ambrose was born February 22, 1854, and in youth was educated in the district schools of his native county, and later in the district schools of Olmsted county. He continued to attend the local school until he reached the age of twenty-one years, and in the meantime assisted his father on the farm and continued with him until he was twenty-seven years old. He then bought his present farm, which was then almost wholly in a wild state, and began to clear and grub and put it under cultivation. He has from time to time made all the improvements in buildings, fences and cultivation. This required many years of steady industry, but all obstacles were overcome as time passed. He first lived in a small shanty and suffered many hardships and inconveniences, but now is in comfortable circumstances and is well known and highly respected. He is a Democrat and is at present constable of Elmira township. He has also served as road master for two years. He is a member of the Roman Catholic church at Chatfield.

In December, 1880, at Chatfield, he married Miss Kate Williams, daughter of Patrick and Mary Williams, who are prominent pioneer settlers of Fillmore county. To this marriage have been born one son and one daughter: Cecilia. who is attending high school at Chatfield, and John James, who is assisting his father on the farm. Mr. Keefe deserves much credit for his industry, steadiness, honesty and good citizenship.

KEEFE, PATRICK -----is the son of John and Mary, and is now residing on a fine farm in Elmira township. His father, John, came to America in 1836 and for eight years remained in New York. He was born in County Clare, Ireland, June 18, 1820, and at the age of sixteen years came to this country. While in New York he married Miss Mary Carney, soon after which he came West to Michigan. In that state they lost three of their children. They finally moved to Appleton, Wisconsin, and resided there fourteen years. In 1865 they came to Olmsted county and located on a farm and were thus situated until the fall of 1889, when he moved to Chatfield and resided there until his death, July 11, 1899. His widow followed him to the grave February 11, 1901. Everybody who knew him liked him. He was a useful citizen, an industrious farmer, a kind husband and father and an agreeable neighbor. He and his good wife were devout Catholics. She was formerly Mary Kearney and was born in Cashel County Tipperary, Ireland, in 1819, and came to New York with her father, brothers and sisters when she was sixteen years old. To her marriage to John Keefe seven sons and one daughter were born. Patrick Keefe was born at Appleton, Wisconsin March 17, 1854, and was educated in the local schools where his parents resided. He finished by graduating at the high school in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

At the age of twenty-two years he married, at Ann Arbor, Miss Mary E. O’Hara, daughter of John and Mary, November 5, 1878, and at once brought his bride to his father’s residence in Elmira township. He had learned the carpenter trade, and followed the same and managed to save considerable money. With this and with the help of his father he finally bought a farm in Rock county, but a year later sold the same and in 1881 went to Bismarck, North Dakota, and there worked at his trade for nine years, and part of the time was in partnership with others, under the firm name of Keefe, Thomas & Hackett. In 1889 he came here and bought his present property, and since has been engaged in mixed farming and stock-raising. He is independent in politics, served as clerk of the board of education, and is a member of the Modern Woodmen and a member of the Catholic church. His children are: John A., a lieutenant of the Detroit fire department; George P., in college; Edward L.; Mary E.; Ellen Victoria, and Margaret Alice. John O’Hara was a well-known and prominent citizen of Ann Arbor.

KEEFE, PETER J. -----is a son of Michael and Catherine Keefe and at present is residing on a farm of 160 acres in Section 14, Elmira township, post office Chatfield, Route 5. The father came to this county from Wisconsin in 1865 and bought a tract in Elmira township, and here he passed the remainder of his days. He built up a large property and left an excellent reputation. He passed away April 25, 1910, but his widow is still living. She was formerly Miss Catherine Healy, and they were married in January, 1873. Michael was one of the leading farmers of this part of the county, and was prominent in local public affairs. He was a member of the Roman Catholic church and passed a life of merit and honor.

His son, Peter J., was born February 17, 1878, on the old farm, and when in his boyhood attended the district schools and assisted his parents on the farm. Here he has passed the years until the present time engaged in the duties of the farm. He is now well known and prominent in the community and a credit to the name he bears. His mother was born in Ireland and was brought to Canada when she was six years old by her parents. After a few years they came to this county. Michael and Catherine had eight children, as follows: Mary Agnes, who married Niel McGrand and died February 11, 1902; Catherine L., who died in 1901; Patrick, who died January 20, 1908; John F., a farmer at Lemmon, South Dakota; and Bridget Margaret, who married Jerry Creed a real estate broker of Rochester. Catherine is now rearing a little grandson, Francis Clifford McGrand. (See elsewhere for more about the Keefes.)

KELLY, JOHN M. ------is a son of John and Katherine Kelly and was born in April, 1837, in County Tipperary, Ireland. His father passed his entire life in Ireland, finally dying there at about the age of 50 years. The mother came to this country and resided with her son until her death in 1892. This branch of the Kelly family of Ireland were mostly farmers by occupation and were respectable and law-abiding citizens.

John M., while yet young, made up his mind to come to America, and accordingly, in 1852, took ship and after a long voyage landed in New York. He went to Blackstone, Massachusetts, and there found work for four years, and in the meantime saved considerable of his wages. He then came west to Wisconsin and located in Dane county, where he worked on farms for ten years and by that time had managed to acquire considerable of this world’s goods. He then came to the farm he now occupies and first bought eighty acres, to which was added eight years later another tract of eighty acres. This gave him a fine farm. He became prominent in local affairs. He is engaged in diversified farming, raising small grain and considerable livestock for market. He has served as road master and school director and is a member of the Roman Catholic Church.

In September, 1872, he was united in marriage with Miss Annie Gallagher, daughter of Michael and Katherine Gallagher, prominent farmers of this community. John M. and wife have had twelve children, of whom eight are now living: Katherine, who married Henry Wesline: John; Nellie, who married Sanford Johnson, and resides in North Dakota; Stephen, George, Mary, who married John Van Natta, and resides in Mon tana; Francis, and Agnes. The family now here are in comfortable circumstances. have a fine farm well stocked, with good buildings, and have the respect of all who know them.

KELLY, WILLIAM -----was born in Oswego, New York. July 1, 1837, and is one of two living children of Jeremiah and Bridget (Gilleren) Kelly. This branch of the Kelly family came from Roscommon county, Ireland, to the State of New York in 1835. Upon his arrival in this country, Jeremiah engaged in railroading in New York and the East.

William Kelly received a common school education and at an early age secured a position with the New York & Erie Railway Company as brakeman, which place he held until April, 1856, when he came West and located in High Forest township, Olmsted county, where he took up a home stead of 160 acres in Section 25, which property he still owns. He is thus one of the oldest settlers of the county. The country was very wild then, the nearest town of consequence being Winona. To that point, produce had to be hauled, and livestock driven or conveyed. The roads were poor and the bridges poorer. After many trials and hardships the Kelly family became comfortable. Gradually the place was improved with good buildings, fences, machinery and livestock, and additions were made to it until Mr. Kelly owned one of the largest farms of the county. He still owns the old homestead, but since 1903, when he retired, he has divided among his children 540 acres. The old place is conducted by his sons.

On February 7, 1867, Mr. Kelly married Miss Margaret Lawler, who after many years of residence here, passed away in 1898 and lies buried in St. Bridget’s Cemetery. Seven children were born to this union, three of whom are yet living. Mr. Kelly is one of the founders of St. Bridget’s Catholic Church and is a devout member. In 1873 he joined St. Mathew’s Temperance Society and is still a member. He is secretary and treasurer and a member of the board of trustees of St. Bridget’s parish. He is an independent Democrat and has held every office in the township, and was chairman of the board of supervisors four terms. He is a fine old Christian gentleman and a credit to the county. He is both popular and prominent.

KENDALL, HON. JOSEPH BROWN -----is one of the best known men in the western part of Olmsted county. He is one of five children that grew to maturity born to the marriage of Dr. Stanton B. Kendall and Fanny Fellows, and is a grandson of Ephraim and Lucinda (Brown) Kendall, who were natives of England. Ephraim Kendall came to the United States at an early date, settled in Vermont and served the United States in the War of 1812. He went to Bradford county, Pennsylvania, in 1830, at which time Stanton B. was about twenty years of age. He subsequently learned carriage making, but at the age of thirty abandoned that occupation owing to ill health and took up the study of medicine. From 1853 to 1856 he practiced his profession in Bureau county, Illinois, then moved to Ashland township. Dodge county, Minnesota, and preempted land from the government. This he sold in 1862, and the succeeding three years lived on a farm he had purchased in Kalmar township, Olmsted county. In 1865 he moved to Byron, where he practiced medicine and his face, name and fame were soon familiar to those living within a radius of fifty miles. He was exceedingly active, abstemious in his habits a Whig in early times and later a Republican, and was always honored and respected. His death occurred November 9, 1898.

Joseph B. Kendall was the third child born to his parents. his birth occurring April 13, 1838 in Bradford county, Pennsylvania. His business career began at fifteen years of age, when he was employed in the lumber mills of Pennsylvania and Wisconsin, and he was thus engaged until twenty-three years old.

May 13, 1861, he enlisted in Company K, Fifth Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, and participated in some of the most hotly contested campaigns and battles of the Civil war, among them being the engagements of Yorktown, Fair Oaks, Fredericksburg, Chickahominy, Antietam, Second Bull Run, siege of Fort Magruder and Chancellorsville. At the latter he received a severe gunshot wound in the right thigh from which he is yet a sufferer and which effectually put a stop to his further military career in the field. Succeeding his partial recovery he served four years in the office of the quartermaster general at Washington, and three years of this time he attended a commercial evening school and grammar school, thus fitting himself for a commercial career. He returned to Byron in 1868 and engaged in merchandising, continuing thus twenty-five years. He then engaged in brick manufacturing until 1909, when his plant burned entailing a loss upon him of $18,000.

In 1904 the State Bank of Byron was organized, of which he has been president since its inception, and which, under his able management, is one of the solid financial institutions of the country. He is a member of the Odd Fellows and the Grand Army of the Republic, and as a Republican in politics was twice elected to represent Olmsted county in the state legislature. in 1895 and 1897. For twenty five years he acted as a justice of the peace and also served as town clerk and postmaster of Byron. Mr. Kendall has been twice married and has five children.

KENNEDY, JOHN A. -----one of the farmers and stock raisers of Marion township, Olmsted county, was born in Cambria county, Pennsylvania, June 24, 1851, a son of Domnick and Elizabeth Kennedy. In April, 1855, he came to Minnesota.

John A. was the oldest son, and he was educated and reared to manhood in Marion township. Early in life he decided to follow farming, as had his father, and has thus been engaged all his life. He now owns and resides on a fine farm of 120 acres in Marion township, located four miles south of Rochester, called “Midway Farm,” fully equipped with all modern conveniences, and he is recognized as a most successful farmer in the community. Aside from his stock raising and farming, Mr. Kennedy is also interested in dairying.

On October 20, 1879, he was married at Albert Lea, Minnesota, to Marion Johanna Andersen. Three children, all living, were born to them, their names being Adelaide Marion, Genevieve Louise, and John Amos. In politics Mr. Kennedy is a Democrat; he is public spirited and progressive, and although he has always taken an active interest in the administration of local affairs, has never been an office seeker. Mr. Kennedy is a member of the fraternal order of A. O. U. W.

KENNEDY, THOMAS E. -----was born in Cambria county, Pennsylvania, October 3, 1845, and is a son of Michael and Mary Ann (Bender) Kennedy, who were prominent farmers of the Keystone state, the father being a native of Ireland and the mother of Germany.

Thomas E. spent his youth on his father’s farm assisting at the routine of work and in the meantime secured a fair education at the district schools. He left home at the age of 15 years, and began for himself. In 1861, when 15 years old, he worked for $4 per month, and at that time was obliged to pay $4 for a pair of boots. In 1862 he began work on a farm for $7 per month, and was thus occupied for seven months. He was the youngest of four brothers to serve in the Union army. His brother Charles volunteered under the first call for 75,000 men. His brother Dominick enlisted in September, 1861, in Company E, Fifty-fifth Pennsylvania regiment. He served two and a half years in South Carolina, at Port Royal and Fort Beaufort, and was in several sharp skirmishes. In April, 1864, the regiment was in the James River campaign, under Gen. B. F. Butler, and participated in the bloody battle of Cold Harbor. Later it participated in other battles and skirmishes. Dominick was finally taken prisoner at the battle of Fort Harrison, in October, 1864, while assisting to carry a wounded comrade from the field. He finally died in rebel prison February 18, 1865. His brother Augustine enlisted in September 1861, in Company K, Third Minnesota regiment, and served three years and eleven months, and was in numerous pitched battles, skirmishes and harassing campaigns. Thomas E. enlisted in September, 1862, in the Fourth regiment of Pennsylvania state troops, under the special call of Governor Curtin for men to assist in repelling General Lee from Maryland. This regiment was under General Reynolds in McClelland’s right wing at the battle of Antietam. On the night of the 19th of September, 1862, the regiment helped to guard the Potomac river at Williamsport, and while thus engaged were shelled by the Rebel batteries. On September 20 the regiment marched from Williamsport to Greencastle, sixteen miles, in the afternoon, to assist in heading off General Stuart’s cavalry. In this march the regiment were without tents, and were working for $11 per month, and were obliged to forage for most of their rations.

In March, 1864, Thomas E. came to Rochester, Olmsted county, Minnesota, and worked on a farm the first summer for $14 per month. He enlisted April 6. 1865. in Company H, First Minne sota regiment, was mustered in at Fort Snelling, and sent to Chicago, where his company did guard duty during the obsequies of President Lincoln. Company H then went to Washington, D. C., and Alexandria, Virginia, and soon afterward at Munson Hill became a part of the First Brigade, Second division, Second army corps. After the grand review at Washington, Company H saw service in West Virginia and Kentucky, and were finally discharged a Fort Snelling July 28, 1865. Subject was mustered out as a corporal. He is now Past Commander of the G. A. R. at Stewartville.

He returned home and rented a farm, which he worked until 1870, when he bought 80 acres in section 12, High Forest township, and here his home has been ever since. He gradually added to the place until now he owns 300 acres of excellent land, with good buildings, etc. He is up-to-date in all his business operations, and is prominent and public spirited. He is a charter member of Father Mathew’s Total Abstinence Society, of which he was the first vice president, and afterward president and treasurer. He was chairman of the building committee which erected the hall at a cost of $2,500. He helped to organize the Farmers’ Co-operative Creamery Company in 1897 at Simpson. He raises Norman horses, Durham cattle, Poland China hogs, Shropshire sheep, Toulon geese, Bronze turkeys, Pekin ducks and Brown Leghorn poultry. He is a Republican, and has served as school treasurer and supervisor. He is both popular and prominent.

In 1871 he married Miss Mary Twohey, whose parents were pioneers of this township. Her father is dead, but her mother is yet living at the age of 93 years, and resides with her. This old lady is clear-headed and quite strong, and takes much interest in the advancement of her grandchildren. To Mr. and Mrs. Kennedy the following children were born: Mary E., born July 10, 1872, married J. P. Griffin and has two children; Timothy F., born September 6, 1874, married, is assistant postmaster of Rochester; William B., born September, 1876, died in infancy; Anna, born August 3, 1879, has taught school, but is now at home with her parents; Gertrude K., born July 11, 1881, married C. Enright, has one child; Clara, born February 7, 1883, with her parents; Celia R., born December 23, 1886, with her parents; Walter J., born August 4, 1888, now a student at the State Agricultural College. Mr. Kennedy served as school clerk for fifteen years, and until he resigned, and was the first farmer to take his children to school by team in the winter. He has always advocated good and better schools.

KETCHUM, CLIFTON LEROY -----is the son of Cornelius Benjamin and Clara Ketchum and is now residing on a farm of 120 acres on sections three and ten, Dover township. His father originally came from Massachusetts, where for many years his parents followed the occupation of farming. There were five brothers, all of whom came to Minnesota in the fall of 1855. In 1861 Cornelius B. enlisted in the Union army and for eighteen months saw active service. He participated in a number of hard engagements and was honorably mustered out at the close of the war. He then went to Missouri and dealt profitably in horses and cattle for several years. In 1875 he purchased a farm of 160 acres in Quincy township Olmsted county, Minnesota, which was partly improved and there lived for about twenty years, making money and acquiring a good name and reputation. His health gradually failing he finally sold out this property and retired from the hard physical work to which he had so long been accustomed. He then began to speculate extensively in land in different parts of the Union, and was here long the owner of large tracts in many states, much of which is yet held by his descendants. He finally passed away on April 26, 1906, while in Arkansas. His widow is now living in Seattle, Washington.

His son Clifton L., the subject of this review, was born on his father’s farm in this county on March 5, 1877, and was educated in the neighboring district schools and finished by attending the high school at Winona. During 1897 and 1898 he worked on various farms and managed to save some money. He then, until 1901, worked as a teamster for a contractor on the Milwaukee railroad, but at the latter date went to Oregon and took up a timber claim, proved it up, and took out his patent therefor in 1903. During this time he was busily at work in the forests, continuing until 1904. He then returned to this county and worked out on various farms by the month, saving his money and finally buying his present property. Here he has carried on farming extensively and has made a number of valuable improvements. In addition to his present place he owns a third interest in 1,280 acres in the states of Arkansas and North Dakota. His life thus far has been busy, active and clean. He is a Republican, but is independent when he deems it necessary for the public good. On September 8, 1909 he married at Rochester Miss Alma, daughter of John and Fredericka Fender, who are well known residents and early settlers of Little Valley, Minnesota.

KETCHUM, MRS. ELLEN widow of the prominent pioneer, Jerome C. Ketchum, is now residing on a farm of 160 acres with her son Harry in Dover township. Her husband before his death was the largest land taxpayer in the county and one of its best known and highest minded citizens. The acquirement of this large landed estate was largely due to the assistance furnished him by his good and faithful wife, the subject of this review. She is a native of Akron, Ohio, where her birth occurred on July 27, 1844. She is the daughter of Albert and Lucretia Sames, prominent farmers of that portion of Ohio. She received her primary education in the public schools of Akron, and when about ten years of age was taken by her parents to a farm near Davenport, Iowa, where they all remained for about four years. They then came to Viola township, Olmsted county, and located on a farm, where the subject of this review completed her education and grew to womanhood.

After a few years she was sought in marriage by Jerome C. Ketchum and they were married in Marion on March 22, 1864. After her marriage she first resided in the house which later became the property of her son Merton, but later resided on the farm which passed to her son Orville. For a number of years she has resided with her son Harry on a different portion of the old homestead. Her life has been a busy one, full of hard work, denials, but also filled with love and sunshine. That she has not lived in vain is shown by her fine family, by the broad acres they possess, and by the good record and respect that goes everywhere with the family name. She can now view with pride and complacency in her old age a life well and happily spent. To herself and husband were born five sons and two daughters: Della May, who married Matthew Carver, a successful fruit grower; Frank, a sketch of whom appears elsewhere herein: Orville, a retired farmer; Merton, residing in Dover township; Hollis, a farmer in Dakota; Ida Belle, who married Howard Amos, a farmer of Dover township; and Harry, also a farmer, with whom Mrs. Ketchum now resides. She is now gradually retiring from the active duties of life with a consciousness of work well done.

KETCHUM, JEROME C. -----who died March 17, 1910, was one of Olmsted county’s most prosperous farmers and one of its oldest pioneers. He was born May 13, 1834, in Clarksburg, Berkshire county, Massachusetts, and when he started out in life for himself his total capital consisted of thirty-five cents, the clothes he had on his back and an abundance of courage and energy. The spring of 1855 he came to Olmsted county, Minnesota, and pre-émpted a quarter-section of land from the government on Section 5, Dover town ship. He built a cabin and grubbed, cleared and improved the place. The fall of 1861, in his native state, he married Mary E. Chesbro, and, bringing his bride back to the home he had prepared, they lived happily together until the fall of 1862, when, through an unfortunate accident, Mrs. Ketchum died. A son, Willis J., since deceased, was born to them. March 22, 1866, Mr. Ketchum married Ellen Sames, of Viola, and seven children were born to this union: Della May, Frank E., Orville M., Merton A., Holly E., Ida and Harry. Mr. Ketchum was of the heroic type of which pioneers are made. He met misfortune with fortitude and never faltered in his onward march. In early years it was nothing but work, the pleasurable portions of his life being in the domestic influences of home and the companionship of neighbors with whom he had ploughed the rugged fields of life. He confronted adversities with courage and wrested success from seemingly unsurmountable obstacles. To his original purchase of land he made additions from time to time until he became the owner of 1,000 acres and other valuable holdings. He was a member of the Masonic fraternity at Eyota, was at one time county commissioner, and was a man who will long linger in the minds and hearts of his many friends and neighbors. His widow survives him at the age of sixty-six years.

Frank E. Ketchum is the oldest living son of the old pioneer, Jerome C. Ketchum. He was born in this township on December 9, 1867, and until seventeen years of age helped with the work of the home farm and attended the district schools. Farming has always been his occupation and he is the owner of 240 acres located on Sections 4 and 5. This property, since his removal to Dover, has been rented. In politics Mr. Ketchum is a Republican, and for many years he has been a clerk and a director of the board of education. He also belongs to the Modern Woodmen of America. March 8, 1888, he married Miss Alvina Siegel, daughter of Fred and Wilhelmine Siegel, early and well known settlers of the county, and to them two children have been born, named Verna and Rex, both attending the Dover schools.

KIEFER, MARTIN -----long a resident of Olmsted county, was born in Baden, Germany, January 3, 1836, the son of Frederick and Caroline Kiefer, who were also natives of that country. In March, 1846, the family immigrated to America, and landed in Milwaukee May 1, 1846, near where the father bought a farm and engaged in farming and stock-raising many years.

Martin Kiefer’s schooling was limited to about three months in the public schools, but he has since read widely on the various topics of the day and has entirely mastered the English tongue. In 1866 he came to Olmsted county and purchased the Alex Holladay farm of eighty acres in Marion township, where he continued to reside until his removal to the city of Rochester nineteen years ago. This original tract was subsequently increased to 240 acres, but in comparatively recent years he has disposed of all. On February 3, 1862, Mr. Kiefer enlisted for the preservation of the Union in Company K, Fourth Minnesota Volunteer Infantry, and participated in the fighting at Iuka, Corinth, Siege of Vicksburg, Missionary Ridge, etc., and, owing to a wound sustained in the arm at the first named battle, was disabled for duty a short time. He subsequently, on March 21, 1864, re-énlisted in his own command and served until honorably discharged, on August 3, 1865, after which he returned home and resumed farming.

He is an independent Republican in his political views, was school treasurer of Marion township eight years, supervisor one term, and is a devout member of the Catholic Church. For two years he was engaged in the machinery business at Rochester with Swenson & Company, but later retired. He is a member of the G. A. R., the Ancient Order of United Workmen. the Degree of Honor and St. Joseph’s Society.

May 23, 1859, at Winona, Minnesota, he was married to Miss Dorathea Bach, born November 18, 1841, the daughter of Frederick and Catherine , Bach, and to them these children were born: Joseph Charles, July 27, 1860, resides in the town of Wilson, Winona county; Adaline Matilda, July 8, 1865, at Indianapolis, since died, September 10, 1910, the wife of William Landers, of Spokane, Washington. buried St. John’s cemetery, Rochester, leaving two sons, Harold and Martin; Bertha, Mrs. Archie Fitch, June 24, 1868, died September 23, 1905, buried in St. John’s cemetery, Rochester, had two daughters, Adaline and Grace; Frank William, October 9, 1869, farming in Olmsted county ; George Henry, October 9, 1871, farmer of Burlington, Colorado; Edith Maria, July 8, 1873, now Mrs. Frank Fakler, of Rochester. Mr. and Mrs. Kiefer also adopted one child, Albert Quick (Kiefer), whose parents were killed in the cyclone of 1883. Mrs. Kiefer contracted a cancer the latter days of her life, and after an operation passed away on July 20, 1893, and was buried in St. John’s cemetery, Rochester. Mr. Kiefer subsequently married, October 11, 1905, Miss Nellie M. Fletcher, daughter of W. H. and Louisa J. Fletcher, who was born in Wisconsin June 1, 1860. Her father died when she was but three years old, and the mother later married Robert Quinn, of Winnebago, Minnesota, and died May 19, 1906, in Hoquiam, Washington.

KIMBER, ALBERT L. -----born in Rock county near Janesville, Wisconsin, December 30, 1847, is a son of William Kimber, who was born in Orange county, New York, November 20, 1815. The father married Rosanna Brundage, who was born in New York October 3, 1820, and in 1845 they moved to Wisconsin, and from there, in 1854, to Amherst township, Fillmore county, Minnesota. In later years they moved to Burr Oak, Iowa, where Mr. Kimber died in 1904, and Mrs. Kimber in 1891.

Albert L. Kimber received his early education in Fillmore county, Minnesota, and when yet a boy, April 4, 1865, enlisted for the preservation of the Union at Rochester, in Company H. First Minnesota Battery. Owing to his youth his father came to Rochester to obtain his discharge, but found that his son, together with the company, had already gone to the front. Mr. Kimber was mustered out August 3, 1865, from the sick hospital.

For many years he followed his trade of mechanic, then engaged in farming in Viola township. In later years he has resided in Minneapolis and Rochester in order to give his children better schooling advantages than afforded by the country schools. Mr. Kimber is a Democrat and one of Olmsted county’s best citizens.

To his marriage with Miss Cordelia Pratt, which occurred October 30, 1873, three daughters have been born, as follows: Alberta Rose, born February 10, 1877, died March 21, 1877; Jennie Louise, born August 23, 1879, now Mrs. George Ray Turner, of Minneapolis; and Avis Lulu, born June 17, 1885, graduated from the Central high school of Minneapolis, 1904. Mr. and Mrs. Kimber are members of the Universalist church. Mrs. Kimber is active in church and social affairs, is a member of the Eastern Star of the Masonic fraternity, the Woman’s Relief Corps, Rochester Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution and the Royal Neighbors.

KINNEY, GEORGE V. -----retired farmer, who for many years engaged in agricultural pursuits in Marion township, Olmsted county, was born in Pike county, Illinois, January 3, 1837, the second in a family of eleven children born to the union of Alfred and Pamelia (Landrum) Kinney. The father, who was a carpenter and mill wright by occupation, was a native of Vermont, his birth occurring January 25, 1811, but shortly after attaining his majority he came west to Pike county, Illinois, and was there married. His wife was born in Kentucky, December 12, 1815. In April, 1854, Mr. Kinney and wife first came to Olmsted county. They were among the very first families to settle here and experienced all the trials and hardships incident to pioneer life, but they possessed courage and determination and little by little added to their first tract of land in section 36, Marion township, until they were one of the large land owners of the community. The father was a Democrat in politics and was the first county treasurer to be elected. He was also one of the founders of the Methodist Episcopal church at Marion, which was erected in 1859. Mr. and Mrs. Kinney were of that sturdy pioneer stock which have so materially assisted in making our country the premier country of the world, and lived happily together on the home place in Marion township till death beckoned them. The father passed away in 1879, aged sixty-eight years and three months, and the loss of so good a citizen and kind a friend was mourned generally throughout the county.

Early in life George V. Kinney attended the district schools and assisted his father in the work of the home farm. During the great Civil war he enlisted December 12, 1863, in Brackett’s Minnesota battalion of cavalry and was with that command until May 19, 1866. He served also in the Indian war under General Sibley.

Mr. Kinney was first married August 4, 1861, to Ede Parish, of New Haven township, who was born and reared in Wisconsin, and by her had two children, Nellie Whittlesey, of Minneapolis, and Ada Wilson, of Watertown, South Dakota. His wife died February 13, 1865, in Butler county, Iowa, and on February 18, 1867, Mr. Kinney was united in marriage with Lucinda (Beech) Bragg, the daughter of Milton and Mary (Chandler) Beech, and the widow of Wesley Bragg. Her father was a farmer in Marion township, having moved here from Indiana in 1863, and resided in that locality until his death. By Mrs. Kinney’s first marriage, solemnized June 12, 1856, three children were born: Louis, Milton and Mary, the latter two deceased, and by her marriage to Mr. Kinney four children were born: William, deceased; Nathan L., Elizabeth, the wife of Frank Browning, and Agnes, the wife of Charles A. Nelson, of Predmore, Olmsted county, Minnesota. Mr. Kinney has always been a Republican in his political views and is a member of Garfield Post. No. 44, of the Grand Army of the Republic.

KITZMAN, MICHAEL -----one of the progressive merchants of the city of Rochester, was born on a farm in Farmington township, Olmsted county, November 1, 1868, the fourth in a family of nine children born to the marriage of John and Caroline (Kuenke) Kitzman. Both parents were natives of Prussia, and were there married on December 26, 1835. The father’s birth occurred on December 12, 1814, and he received his education in the public schools of that country, but early in life decided to immigrate to America in search of home and fortune. Accordingly, in 1854, he came to this country and for a time engaged in farming in Marquette county, Wisconsin. In May of the year 1863 he first came to Olmsted county, Minnesota, and ever since has been active in the growth and development of this locality. The father has always followed the occupation of a farmer, and to him and wife nine children were born. The parents are communicants of the Lutheran church.

Of their children, Michael, the subject of this sketch, was reared and educated in Olmsted county. He assisted his father with the work on the home farm until about 1887, when he for a time engaged in clerical work and attended school. After three years spent in the employ of others, he embarked in the clothing business at Rochester on his own account and has thus been successfully engaged ever since. In 1900 he located at his present establishment, 121 South Broadway, carrying a full and complete line of clothing, hats, caps, fur coats, carpets, etc., and by honest business dealings with the people has built up a large and successful business.

In 1897 he was married to Miss Mary Hanson, daughter of George Hanson, of Salem township, and they have three children: Francis, Morry and Lester. Mr. Kitzman is active in all local affairs, having served three years in the city council, and aside from his mercantile interests has also considerable farm property here and elsewhere. Socially he is identified with the Elks, Modern Woodmen of America and the Ancient Order of United Workmen, and is regarded as one of Rochester’s progressive and up-to-date businessmen.

KNAPP, WILLIAM HENRY ------president and business manager of the Rochester Milling Company, has been a resident of Rochester, Minnesota, for the past thirty-five years, and is one of the well known businessmen of the county. Born, educated and reared to manhood in the state of Pennsylvania he is the second in birth of a family of five children, his father being William H. Knapp, after whom he was named.

He was born November 23, 1854, at Troy, Pennsylvania, and received his education in the public and private schools of his native state. He began his business career at Aurora, New York, as bookkeeper for a carriage woodwork manufacturing establishment, and subsequently continued in a like capacity for a wholesale and retail crockery establishment at Rochester, New York. In 1875 he came to Rochester, Minnesota, and for a period of fourteen years was bookkeeper for the old established firm of J. D. Blake & Company. Following this he was connected with the firm of Leet & Knowlton for about a year, and the succeeding twelve years was business manager for the Rochester State Hospital for the Insane, at Rochester. Upon the organization of the John A. Cole Milling Company, in 1905, to succeed to the milling business carried on by John A. Cole, Mr. Knapp, by reason of his superior business qualifications, was called upon to accept the position of treasurer and business manager of the new corporation, which position he held until August 1, 1910, when the name of the corporation was changed to that of the Rochester Milling Company, Mr. Knapp being then elected president and manager. This mill is one of the pioneer land marks of Olmsted county, having been erected in 1855 as a water power mill. Numerous changes have since occurred in its physical make-up and ownership, but to the present management belongs the credit of its excellence today.

Mr. Knapp is a Republican in politics, a member of the Congregational Church, and is a Knight Templar Mason and also a member of the Ancient Arabic Order Nobles of Mystic Shrine. To his marriage with Mary Georgiana Kelley, solemnized January 20, 1887, two sons have been born—Harold Wadsworth and Spencer Moorehead, both of whom are now associated with their father in the milling business. Mrs. Knapp is the daughter of Dr. Lewis H. Kelley, an early physician of Rochester, who built the first brick building in the city.

KNOWLTON, ELLIOT A. -----for over thirty years one of the foremost businessmen of Rochester, was born September 10, 1844, at Wardsboro, Windham County Vermont. William Knowlton, his father, was also a native of the Green Mountain State, his birth occurring on September 26, 1814, and he there married Electa P. Ramsdell, who was born July 27, 1821, their marriage taking place August 13, 1840. Two children were born to this union, Elliot A. and Clara A., the latter afterwards becoming Mrs. Clara A. Dunn. The father was engaged in the manufacturing business in the East, but after moving to Northfield, Minnesota, in 1856, lived a retired life until his death January 28, 1901. His wife died April 27, 1874. Elliot A. Knowlton received his primary education in the public schools of his native state, subsequently attending Hamlin University when it was located at Red Wing, Minnesota.

September 9, 1862, he enlisted in Company A. Seventh Minnesota Volunteer Infantry and served two years and nine months. Owing to the outbreak of the Indians, who were then ravaging the Northwestern frontier his first service was with and under General Sibley, and he continued in active service until he was finally honorably discharged. Owing to a severe cold contracted while on duty, and its subsequent ill effects, he was unable to enter active business pursuits for several years.

In 1868 he came to Rochester as salesman for the old, well-remembered firm of J. D. Blake & Company, and in 1874 he was admitted a partner of the firm. September 30, 1881, associated with A. D. Leet, the firm of J. D. Blake & Company was purchased and the firm name changed to Leet & Knowlton. It thus continued until 1897. since which time the firm of E. A. Knowlton Company has occupied the foremost position among the mercantile establishments of Rochester. In many other ways Mr. Kowlton has been identified with the commercial prosperity of the county. He was one of the original stockholders of the Southern Minnesota Fair Association, of which he was treasurer nine years. In January, 1891, he became president of the Union National Bank, of Rochester, which, under his wise management, occupies an enviable position among the financial institutions of the state. He has continuously served as president of this bank from the time of his first election to the present. He is also vice-president of the Rochester Milling Company, which succeeded the J. A. Cole Milling Company; was the first man to sign the incorporation papers of the Rochester Building and Loan Association, of which he was elected president in 1897; served as president of the Rochester School Board five years and a director of same seven years; served as president of the Rochester Board of Trade five years; was vice-president and director of the Waseca Chautauqua Association four years and at the present is president of the A. E. Lucas Co. dry goods house of Pierre, South Dakota. It is thus seen that Mr. Knowlton has been one of the most active and progressive businessmen of Rochester for more than a quarter of a century. From practically nothing he has worked his way to a position of honor and wealth. The universal esteem by which he is regarded by business associates and all classes is probably his most cherished possession. During his business career he has made fifty-nine trips to New York City for the purpose of buying stock for his large mercantile establishment at Rochester.

On March 4, 1873, Mr. Knowlton married Miss Ella R. Blake, who was born in Windham County, Vermont the daughter of Benoni and Marilla (Dunklee) Blake. To their union have been born two sons, named George B., born June 16, 1877, and Clarence E., born April 29, 1879. Both sons were liberally educated, the elder graduating from the scientific department of the Northwestern University at Chicago, and the latter from the law department of the same institution. Both sons are members of the firm of E. A. Knowlton Company. George B. married Miss Madge Blethen August 6, 1910, and Clarence E. married Miss Mabel Williams November 6, 1908. Mr. Knowlton is a Republican in politics, and he and family are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, in which he has served as superintendent of the Sunday school for about fifteen years.

KOELSCH, JACOB -----was born in Germany, November 20, 1825, and is a son of Jacob and Maria Kathrine (Breckner) Koelsch, who came to the United States in 1852, and with them came Jacob, their son, the subject of this review. After landing in New York they came west to Washington county, Wisconsin, where they purchased a tract of land and resided thereon for a period of twelve years. The subject of this notice then came to Minnesota and bought 120 acres in section 12, Kalmar township, Olmsted County, and after a residence there of thirty-five years moved to the village of Douglass and there took up his permanent residence. At one time he owned 160 acres in Kalmar township. At the present date he is the owner of a house and several lots in Douglass and other good property there.

On April 2, 1854, he married Miss Maria Elisabeth, daughter of Frank Martin, born October 28, 1837, who lived for many years in Wisconsin. To this union the following children were born: Mary (deceased), born May 18, 1855; Louisa (deceased), born January 7, 1857; Jacob (deceased), born October 10, 1858; Karl, born September 28, 1860; Henry (deceased), born August 17, 1862; Elisa (deceased), born August 12, 1864; Frank, born August 23, 1866; Carolina, born May 19, 1869; Rosa, born February 24, 1872; Franceska, born July 8, 1876; Mary, married Peter Rieckmann (deceased), September 2, 1876, and they have eight children; Karl married Agnes Schwanz, of Lake Benton, Minnesota, July 25, 1906, and resides at Douglass, Minnesota; Elisa married Frank E. Irvine, of St. Paul, Minnesota, October 21, 1901, and has one son; Frank married Ida Miller, of Douglass, December 2, 1896; and resides in Kalmar township, and has four children; Carolina married Arthur A. Sayles, of Rochester, March 25, 1896, and now resides in Otsego, Mich., and has six children; Rosa married Fred J. Postier, of Kalmar, December 15, 1902, has one child and resides at Salem Corners; Franceska, the youngest daughter, remains with her parents. Mr. Jacob Koelsch is one of the most prominent citizens of this part of the county. He is a Democrat and for several years was a member of the school board, and is a member of the German Evangelical Lutheran Church.

KOLBE, WILLIAM -----a farmer residing on section 27, Oronoco township, was born ten miles south of La Crosse, Wisconsin, August 2, 1859, and when 4 years old was left fatherless. His mother, whose maiden name was Matilda Stark was a native of Germany. Following the death of her first husband, the father of the subject of this sketch, she married a Mr. Kolbe, and the children born to her first marriage took the surname of her second husband. In 1864 the Kolbe family came to Olmsted county and bought the “Crofoot farm,” which is yet owned by them. The children are: Mrs. Mary Bogue, of Rochester: Sophia, living in Chicago, Illinois; John, deceased; Anna who lives in Rochester with her mother; Edward and Clara, who died of typhoid fever within a few days of each other; Henry, who died in 1907; Lillie Leonard, of Chicago, Illinois: Edith Bird, of Rochester; and the subject of this review. Mr. Kolbe died in 1887, and was a Methodist in his religious views.

William Kolbe was married December 20, 1882, to Mary Alice Pike, daughter of Emerson and Abigail (Woodward) Pike, of Pine Island, Minnesota. Emerson Pike was born in Vermont in 1814 and was of Colonial ancestry. Mrs. Pike was of an old Massachusetts family and died in March, 1884. They were the parents of Emerson, Alvin, Rosalie Larock, Rosina Brown and Mary Alice, all living in Olmsted county. Mrs. Kolbe was born February 28, 1854, and to her marriage with William Kolbe five children have been born, as follows: Vaughn L., November 29, 1883; Mrs. Helen O’Neill, November 18, 1887; Wesley William, January 26, 1889; Francis M., December 27, 1895; Cindie, April 22, 1898. Mr. Kolbe is a Republican and has served on the school board twelve years. He has never desired or sought public office, but prefers to devote his energies to the care of his fine farm of 540 acres, and to the raising of stock. Ever since 1884 he has operated a threshing machine the first one owned by him being the old, primitive, horse-power variety. Mr. and Mrs. Kolbe are of the best, most intelligent class comprising citizenship of Olmsted county.

KUTZKY, AUGUST WILLIAM -----now residing in Rochester, was born in Schloppe, Prussia, Germany, May 28, 1855, the son of Frederick William and Fredericka (Bast) Kutzky, and grandson of Louis Emanuel and Wilmina (Gaffke) Kutzky. The grandfather lived and died in that portion of the old country, but his wife came to America and passed away in Salem township, Olmsted county, Minnesota, on June 12, 1869. Frederick William Kutzky was also a native of Schloppe, his birth occurring September 19, 1829, and was there educated in the public schools and reared to manhood. After his schooling was completed he served two years in the German army, and then learned the butcher’s trade. May 28, 1854, at Schloppe, he married Miss Fredericka Bast, who was born in Schoenwerder, in Pomern, Germany, July 24, 1830, and the following year they immigrated to America and for one-half year resided at Geneva, Illinois. In 1856 they came to Olmsted county, secured government land in section two, Cascade township, and there engaged in farming for thirteen years. They then disposed of their interests and removed to Greenwood Prairie, Farmington township, and there made their home until 1898, when they retired from the active duties of life and came to Rochester. Mr. Kutzky is still living, but his wife passed away February 16, 1905, and now lies at rest in Oakwood cemetery, Rochester. Mr. Kutzky was one of the county’s pioneers and has seen it grow from a wild and unsettled part of the country to one of the best and most important divisions of the state. He makes his home with his son August, and in declining days can enjoy the blessings of a well spent and successful life.

His son, August W. Kutzky, the subject of this review, when but two months old was brought to America by his parents and was educated in the public schools of Olmsted county. He remained at home until 1887 and then came to the city of Rochester, where for several years he was local agent for the Davis Sewing Machine Company and engaged in the grocery business. He subsequently disposed of his interests and for four seasons engaged as salesman and machine expert for D. H. Williams. He then retired for a few years and in 1899 purchased ninety acres of land adjoining Rochester on the west, platted twenty-eight acres into 126 lots, and has since improved and disposed of sixty of them. He is now engaged in improving the remainder, and sells on the installment plan, with or without house. The remaining sixty-two acres is now in pasture, but will be platted when the market warrants.

Mr. Kutzky was married June 10, 1880. to Miss Bertha Stephan, who was born in Princeton, Wisconsin, October 13, 1860, the daughter of August and Carolina (Tetzlaff) Stephan, now of Potsdam, Olmsted county, Minnesota. To Mr. and Mrs. Kutzky two sons have been born, named, Louis William August Emanuel, November 25, 1881, died at Rochester, August 24, 1895, and Hugo Albert John Theodore, June 4, 1887, died of whooping cough July 2, 1888. In politics Mr. Kutzky is a Republican, and in religious views is identified with the German Lutheran church. Socially he is a member of the Rochester Game & Fish League, of which sport he is an enthusiast. He takes just pride in his family record and is one of the progressive businessmen of the county.

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