Trails-to-the-Past-Minnesota-Olmsted-biographies

Biographies

History of Olmstead County Minnesota

Written by Joseph A. Leonard 1910

VAN CAMPEN, CHARLES -----local agent at Rochester for the Chicago & Northwestern Railway Company, was born in Warren county, New Jersey, October 30, 1843, a son of Abraham and Mary (Depue) Van Campen, and a grandson of James Van Campen. This family is of old Dutch stock, and was among the early ones to settle in this country. The great-grandfather of Abraham Van Campen served the colonies in their struggle for independence. The Depues were also among the pioneers of America, Judge Nicholas Depue being one-of the first of that name in this country. Abraham Van Campen, the father of our subject, remained in New Jersey until 1856, then until 1872 resided in Lee county, Illinois, after which he went to Ames, Iowa, and engaged in agricultural pursuits until his death.

His son Charles was reared and educated in Illinois and remained with his parents until August, 1862. He then enlisted in the Union cause in Company I, Eighty ninth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, under Colonel Hodgkiss, was mustered into the service at Chicago, was ordered to Louisville and assigned to the Army of the Cumberland, and served with that command to the close of the struggle. Mr. Van Campen participated in the following named battles: Perryville, Stone River, Tullahoma, Chickamauga, Missionary Ridge, with Sherman from Chattanooga to and including Atlanta. His command then was detached to go in pursuit of General Hood’s army and he participated in the Franklin and Nashville engagements. At the battle of New Hope Church, Georgia, he was wounded, and for three weeks lay on the battlefield before being taken to a hospital. June 23, 1865, at Chicago, he was honorably discharged by the war department of the United States government, and immediately returned to the old homestead in Illinois, where he remained a short time recuperating from his wound.

After attending school for a while, he taught one term, and in 1867 went to Chicago in the employ of the Chicago & Northwestern Railway, with which corporation he has been connected ever since. In March, 1874, he came to Rochester, Minnesota, and, with the exception of three years spent in Winona, has made this city his home ever since.

In October, 1868, Mr. Van Campen was united in marriage with Miss Mary Elkins, daughter of William Elkins, of New York city, and to them have been born the following children: Cora, now Mrs. H. S. Adams, of Rochester; C. H., of Minneapolis; Elsie, now Mrs. Dr. Crewe; Mabel, now Mrs. John H. Kaler; Homer, with Chicago & Northwestern railway, at Rochester. In politics Mr. Van Campen is in principle a Democrat, but non-partisan in practice, and he has served as a member of the city council of Rochester. Socially he is a member of the Grand Army of the Republic and the Masonic fraternity, of the latter organization being a Knight Templar Mason and a member of the Ancient Arabic Order Nobles of the Mystic Shrine.

VAN DUSEN, FRANK R. -----well-known farmer and stock-raiser of this county, who resides near the southern limits of the city of Rochester, was born in Marcellon, Columbia county, Wisconsin, December 4, 1853, a son of George W. Van Dusen, and grandson of Lawrence and Susan (Van Camp) Van Dusen. The progenitor of this family in America was Abraham Pieterson Van Duersen, who was born about 1605, probably in West Brabant, the Netherlands, and married, about 1628, Tryntje Melchoir. They were known to have a family of at least six children, and the eldest son, Teuwis Van Duersen, settled, in Albany, New York, at a very early date, as did several other members of the family, and there dropped the letter “r” from the name, making it Van Deusen. Various members of the family have been prominent in the affairs of this country, and one, Jacob Van Deusen, who died in 1797, served in the Colonies in their struggle for independence, enlisting April 19, 1775, and continuing until April 11, 1783. In later years the name has still further been changed.

In 1864 George W. Van Dusen and family came to Rochester, Olmsted county, and his name and those of his children have since become well known throughout this portion of Minnesota. He became deeply interested in the administration of local public affairs, served Rochester as mayor and as a member of the city council, and was highly esteemed and regarded by his many friends and business associates for his square dealings and many excellent qualities. For years he was success fully engaged in the grain business, and the Van Dusen grain elevators may be found at many points along the Chicago & North western Railroad Company’s line. He was thrice married, and his children have grown, as they were reared, to honorable and useful lives.

His son, Frank R. Van Dusen, was the second child born to his first marriage, and after attending the public schools, took a three years’ course in Shattuck College, Faribault, Minnesota. For a time succeeding his education he clerked in a bank, then spent four years in Colorado, after which he went to Chicago and remained there about eighteen months. After four years then spent in South Dakota, he went South to Louisville, Kentucky, and entered the employ of the gas company, continuing thus for a period of five years. In 1889 he came to Rochester, engaged in the ice business and farming, and has since made this city his home. He has a time home and tract of 200 acres adjoining the southern limits of the city.

On April 4, 1895, he was united in marriage with Miss Drucilla S. Wade, a native of the State of Wisconsin, and these children have been born to them: Mary Gertrude, Ione and Richard B. Socially Mr. Van Dusen is identified with the Masonic fraternity, the Knights of Pythias and the Elks. Like his father before him, he takes an active interest in any movement that tends toward the betterment of the community, and contributes both time and financial support to all laudable enterprises.

VERMILYA, JAMES I. -----was born November 30, 1849, at Owego, Tioga county, New York, which was also the birthplace of United States Senator Thomas C. Platt, whom Mr. Vermilya well recollects as Mr. Platt. His father, Avery Vermilya, was born at Roxbury, Delaware county, New York, September 20, 1820 ; his mother whose maiden name was Fannie Mead, was born March 20, 1821.

The ancestors of the Vermilya family were French Huguenots who, by reason of persecution, fled to Holland, thence to Harlem, New York. The mother of Avery Vermilya was a great niece of Gen. Ethan Allen, the Revolutionary war hero. Avery Vermilya and family came West to Olmsted county, Minnesota, in April, 1863, and made a home on Section 18, Quincy township. He and wife became the parents of eleven children: David M., born June 9, 1844, died in October, 1887; Abram. born December 2, 1846, residing in Dexter county, Minnesota; James I., subject of this sketch: John K., born September 12, 1851, residing in Kansas; Joseph and Josephine twins, born November 29, 1853, the former residing in Oregon, and the latter, now Mrs. Putnam, at Granite Falls, Minnesota; Samuel E., born May 28, 1858, whose home is at Los Angeles, California, one of the leading lawyers of the Pacific coast; Orville A., born April 14, 1861, residing at Verndale, Minnesota; Jesse C., born June 26, 1863: Eulila Frost, born November 17, 1866, living near Portland, Oregon; Reuben, born January 5, 1869, died April 14, 1904.

James I. Vermilya was a lad thirteen years old when brought to Olmsted county by his parents, and since then has always resided within its borders. October 12, 1875 he married Mary A., the daughter of George and Sarah (George) Hinton, who were among the early pioneers of this county. Mrs. Vermilya, whose birth occurred January 4, 1857, was the fourth white child born in Quincy township. Her parents were born reared and married in England, came to America in 1850, resided for a time in the State of New York, and came to Olmsted county, Minnesota, in 1856. Mrs. Vermilya had two brothers and one sister: James Hinton, born in England, October 19, 1849, died in this township December 12, 1876: Frank, born in Ohio, February 22, 1853; Elizabeth Odell born October 9, 1860, died October 2, 1883.

To the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Vermilya four children have been born as follows: Cora F. Stocker, February 22, 1877: J. Meade, February 17, 1884; R. Ervin, August 9, 1890; and George H., December 5, 1893. The last two named reside under the parental roof; the other two in the immediate neighborhood.

In his political views Mr. Vermilya is independent. He was nominated and defeated for the State Legislature, but has lived to see many of the measures advocated by him enacted into laws. He was also nominated for Congress by the People’s Party and made the canvass of the district by horse and cart; his opponent, Hon. J. A. Tawney, traveled in a palace car. Mr. Vermilya is essentially a man of the people. He owns 325 acres in Sections 9, 17 and 18, and in addition to farming has auctioneered sales for the past thirty years.

VIVYAN, THOMAS B. -----one of the old settlers and prominent men of Dover township. is a son of William and Catherine Vivyan, both of whom were of English descent. The family came from England about the year 1830, and at that time the subject of this sketch was about three years of age. They crossed the Atlantic ocean in a sailing vessel, and it required nine weeks to make the passage. They settled first in the state of New York, where the father worked as a miller, continuing thus until his death a few years later.

Thomas B. was born February 5, 1828, and in youth and early manhood received a good education for the times. He finished his education in the high school at Whitestone, New York, in his twentieth year of age. Thereafter, for a year, he assisted his father’s family, but after attaining his majority he began for himself. He continued to live in New York state until 1857, when he came west to Illinois. In 1861 he moved into Viola township, Olmsted county, Minnesota, where he helped to break up a farm for his brother-in-law, Irwin Whitmore. Succeeding this event he moved into Dover township and worked there by the month for a year, after which he rented a farm in the same township for three years. During this period he bought eighty acres of wild land, which he broke up by degrees and erected buildings thereon. This tract became the nucleus of his home. After a few years he bought another eighty acres, which he later sold, but he still holds the first eighty acres which he bought. He is also the owner of some town property.

He has from the start been prominently identified with public affairs in this portion of the county. He votes the Prohibition ticket, and was a member of the Methodist church from 1843 to 1908. He served as treasurer of the Quincy board of education, and has occupied other positions of trust with fidelity and credit.

On January 6, 1857, he married Miss Rocksa Root, of Deerfield, New York, daughter of Lawrence. They had three daughters: Ella, who married Charles Troupe, a mill owner; Mina, who married Walter J. Evans, a retired farmer; Lottie, married W. J. Evans. Ella has the following children: Nellie, Harry and Mabel, Mina, who died in 1897, left two daughters: Edna and Cecil.

VROMAN, ARTHUR E. -----residing on section 31 in Kalmar township, was born June 12, 1858, in Madison, Wisconsin. He is one of four children, two now living, born to the marriage of William Vroman and Elizabeth Pratt, and is a grandson of Abraham Vroman and great grandson of Barney Vroman, of Dutch descent.

When Arthur E. was 4 years old his father died, and he then went to live with Sim Dresbach, with whom he came to Olmsted county in 1863, and one year later Mr. Dresbach enlisted in the Union army. Then Arthur E., at the age of 6 years, went to live with A. J. Dibell who, in 1864, bought the farm where Byron now stands. In those days there was no Byron, and no railroads, nothing but log houses everywhere.

Mr. Vroman has lived near Byron ever since. While he lived with Mr. Dibell he was well treated and had a good home. He was reared to hard work on the farm and in youth secured only a common school education. For a period of twelve years he worked for one man, but for the last several years has rented land, and by industry and economy has acquired considerable property, and has earned the reputation of being an excellent farmer and an honest, upright citizen. While interested in all that pertains to the general good of the community, and a Republican in politics, he confines his attentions, largely. to carrying on his farm work. January 6, 1881, he married Miss Hattie Schnover, of this township, by whom he is the father of ten children, named Ethel, Myrtle, George, Harry, Frank, Stella, Annie, Cora, Arthur and Marjorie.

WABY, TIMOTHY -----is now residing on a farm of 240 acres in Elmira township. He is the son of Joseph, who passed his whole life in England, dying at the age of ninety years.

Timothy was born in Lincolnshire, England, December 12, 1841, and there grew up was educated and passed through the usual youthful experiences. In 1874 he immigrated to this country with his family, which consisted of his wife and three children. They came to this county and at first rented various farms in this and Fillmore county, continuing thus until he was enabled to buy his present farm. He is now in comfortable circumstances, having placed his farm in a fine state of cultivation and built many important improvements, such as houses, barns, fences, etc. He is engaged in general farming, raising all the small grains and considerable livestock for market.

He is a Republican and has served as a director of the board of education and in other positions of trust in this community. On October 18, 1866, in South Carlton, Lincolnshire, England, he married Miss Mary Coulson, the daughter of a neighbor, with whom he had grown up. She was the daughter of Henry and Mildred Coulson. To this marriage were born nine children: Charles Edward, a farmer in Dover township; Harriett, who married Dr. Eckles, of St. Charles; George Henry, who is a farmer at St. Charles; John William, a farmer of South Dakota; Rebecca, who married Thomas A. Barr, a retired farmer of St. Charles; Alice, who married George Barr, a farmer of South Dakota, the two sisters thus marrying brothers; Joseph S.; Robert F.: Mildred, who married Arthur Holm, a farmer at St. Charles. Joseph S. and Robert F. are still with their parents. This family is well known in this community and highly respected.

WAGONER, JOSEPH H.—The death of Joseph H. Wagoner on March 3, 1908, marked the passing of one of Olmsted county’s earliest and best citizens. He was born in Pennsylvania, July 31, 1844, and from the time he was twelve years old until reaching manhood resided with his parents on the farm pre-empted by them in Haverhill township in 1856. When civil war was declared between the North and South, Mr. Wagoner was yet in his teens, but nevertheless, in 1862, he enlisted with the boys in blue, in Company I, Fifth Minnesota Volunteer Infantry. Owing to disability, caused by a sunstroke at the battle of Corinth, his military career ended with nine months’ service, and he was honorably discharged by the United States War Department. He immediately returned to Rochester, and his first venture in the business world was in the pump and well-drilling line, which he continued until 1868. At that time he embarked in the handling of organs, pianos and sewing machines, a business since developed largely by his two sons. For years his establishment grew and prospered and their business extends many miles throughout the country.

Mr. Wagoner was active in politics and as a Republican served as alderman of Rochester, mayor of the city two terms, one on the State Board for the Insane during Governor Lind’s administration, and by appointment of President Arthur was postmaster of Rochester. He was an Odd Fellow and a man of sterling character.

To his marriage with Miss Emma G. Aldrich, three children were born: Myra N., Carl H. and Roy M. He passed away on March 3, 1908, leaving many friends to mourn the loss of so good a citizen and neighbor. His widow still survives him and lives in Rochester. Myra Wagoner married Frank R. Edwards and, like her two brothers, resides in Rochester. Carl Wagoner was educated in the public schools of this city and on June 28, 1899, married Miss Nina C. Cook, daughter of Horace Cook, and they have two sons: Carlton and Joseph. Mr. Wagoner is an Odd Fellow, an Elk, a Knight of Pythias and a Modern Woodman of America, and both he and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Roy Wagoner was born in Rochester, May 12, 1878, and on March 3, 1905, married Miss Hazel Porter, who died September 18, 1908. Since the death of the elder Wagoner the two sons have conducted the business, and under their able management it has grown and prospered. In 1909, at a cost of $10,000, they erected their present building, a two-story brick, at the corner of Fourth and Main streets, where they have commodious quarters and are conducting a large and successful business.

WALDRON, ROBERT GEORGE -----one of Olmsted county’s largest land owners, was born in Kalmar township, this county, June 14, 1864, a son of George W. and Anna (Bird) Waldron, natives of Michigan and Canada respectively. The grandparents of our subject, Robert and Nancy Waldron, accompanied by their son George W., came to Olmsted county, Minnesota, in 1856, and located in Cascade township, where the grandfather purchased a farm of 400 acres. He resided thereon with his family until his death in 1876. He was born in New York state, later removing to Michigan, and from there coming to Olmsted county. He was a very successful farmer, possessing at the time of his death 720 acres of fine land, and also was interested extensively in the breeding and raising of fine Durham cattle. He was regarded by all who knew him as an extraordinary man, and left many friends behind to grieve at the loss of so good a man and citizen.

George W. Waldron, the father of our subject, settled in section nineteen, Kalmar township, and remained there until 1883. He then retired from the active duties of life and made his home in the city of Rochester until his death in 1907. While a resident of that place he took an active interest in the administration of all local affairs, and as a Democrat in politics was chairman of the county central committee for several years. He also served as alderman two terms, and was a recognized leader of his party throughout the community. Socially Mr. Waldron was a member of the Ancient Order of United Workmen, being a master workman of that organization, and in his religious views was a member of the Episcopalian church. He was a stanch friend to the unfortunate, and when death halted his career he died a man respected and beloved by all who knew him.

Robert George Waldron, the immediate subject of this memoir, received his education in the grammar and high schools of Minnesota, and also took a course in Darling’s Business College at Rochester. He started out in life for himself by learning the carpenter’s trade, which has been his principal vocation through life. He spent twelve years in Louisiana as manager of some lumber concern, and also was engaged as timekeeper in the mining districts of Kansas and Missouri for two seasons. He then returned to Minnesota for two years and then spent two years in southern California; then returned to Minnesota and resumed his trade and was thus engaged until his father’s death in 1907. Since that time he has been actively engaged in the management of the family estate, which at present consists of 700 acres in Olmsted county and elsewhere.

On February 4, 1893, Mr. Waldron was united in marriage with Miss La Vira Van Kirk, and to them two sons have been born: George W., born June 21, 1904, and Robert G., Jr., born August 26, 1910. Mr. Waldron is prominently identified with several social organizations, being a member of the Ancient Order of United Workmen, the Knights of Pythias, the Modern Woodmen of America and the Royal Neighbor Society. Politically he is a Democrat and in his religious views an Episcopalian.

WALKER, S. J. ----- was born in Fillmore county, Minnesota, November 5, 1859, a son of Tobias Lee and Harriet (Laughrey) Walker, who were natives of Ohio and Kentucky, respectively. The parents came to Olmsted county in 1867 and engaged in farming in Elmira township. The father died in Centerville, South Dakota, about eleven years ago; the mother died at the home of a daughter in Missouri three years ago. They were the parents of O. P. Walker, who died sixteen years ago: J. V. Walker, now residing at Seattle, Washington; Mrs. Clara McGrew, of Mt. Idaho, Idaho; Mrs. Perna Gowdy, of Tarkio, Missouri, and the subject of this sketch.

S. J. Walker received his education in the public schools of Elmira township, this county, and at Chatfield. He remained with his parents until twenty-three years old and the ensuing eleven years was in the employ of the Chicago & Northwestern Railway Company, stationed at different points in South Dakota. He was then in business at Stewartville, Minnesota. six years, succeeding which, for a number of years, he continued operations at Rochester. From the latter place he came to Lake Oronoco. where he has since resided.

In 1893 he married Miss Cora, daughter of C. W. and Dorcas (Smalley) Brooks, and to them have been born these children: Jay, on January 18, 1884; Ray, December 2, 1887; Eugene February 18, 1894; Beatrice, October 15, 1898, and Oscar, November 27, 1904. Mr. Walker is a Democrat in politics and a member of the Order of Redmen.

WARD, CHARLES MICHAEL -----is a son of William and Mary and a grandson of Michael and Nellie. The grandparents passed their lives in Ireland, but the father, William, came to America and lived for ten years in Dutchess county, New York. He then came to this county and bought a farm. in Orion township, built a log house and lived for eight years. He then built a better residence and continued to add to his farm and put up new and needed buildings until he is today one of the prosperous and well-to-do farmers of the county. He is a Roman Catholic, and has occupied various positions of trust in the township. On October 19. 1872, he married Miss Mary Luce, daughter of Charles and Bridget who lived and died in Ireland. Their children were: Belinda, who married Lawrence Twohey and died in 1907; William P.; Susie, who married Frank Twohey; Ella, yet living with her father; Charles M.; and James S.

Charles M. was born on the home farm, and in youth attended the district schools and finished his education by graduating from the Chatfield high school. He was born March 3, 1879, and after his graduation returned to the farm. Here he has remained ever since. He is now working the farm in partnership with his brother, James Stephen Ward. The brothers are carrying on operations on a large and profitable scale. They have on hand about fifty head of cattle. eleven head of horses, about 115 swine, and other small stock. The brothers cultivate about 300 acres and have about 100 acres in pasture. On January 5, 1909, Charles M., at Stewartville, married Miss Ellen McCarthy, daughter of Jeremiah P. and Annie, old settlers of this county. Charles and Ellen have one child, named Paul Jeremiah, born July 29, 1910.

James S. was born on this farm December 5, 1884, and is a son of William and Mary, named above. He was educated in the local schools up to his twentieth year, and in the meantime assisted his - father on the farm. Here he has been occupied ever since. He is associated with his brother in general farm work and the brothers are very active and prosperous. Much of their lives is still before them, and, as they are young and ambitious, the final result need not be in doubt.

WATERS, JOHN -----is a son of Thomas and Mary Waters, who emigrated from Tipperary, Ireland, to the United States in 1865. The father at first worked out by the month and so continued until 1875, when he came to Minnesota and bought a farm of 160 acres east of Chatfield. He finally sold this place to Ed. Halloran, and in the fall of 1882 bought the farm upon which John is now residing. Though not among the earliest settlers, he has been here a long time and has seen the country changed from a wilderness to one filled with happy homes. He is a Democrat and a Roman Catholic and is well known and universally esteemed.

His son John, the subject of this sketch. was born November 8, 1862, and received his schooling at the local district schools. During his youth and early man hood he was occupied at hard work on his father’s farm. He remained with his father after attaining his majority until he was able to buy 120 acres of the old home farm, and was deeded forty acres by his father, thus giving him a total of 160 acres, all of which he has put under a fine state of cultivation along modern lines and improved with good houses, barns, fences, etc. He now grows the small grains and also raises annually many livestock for market. In addition to his own farm he rents eighty additional acres, which he also farms. He is industrious and prosperous.

He is a Democrat and has been a director of the school board for five years. In religion he is a Roman Catholic. On January 7, 1896 he married Miss Mary C. Sharpe daughter of Philip and Mathilda Sharpe, prominent people of this community. His sister Mary married Peter Forestall; his brother Frank is a carpenter and lives in Montana; his brother Edward is a farmer: his brother Augustin James is an agent of the Deering Harvester Company; and his brother Patrick Henry is a farmer in Eyota township.

WATTS, C. H. -----was born September 3, 1853, and is a child of James H. and Mary A. Watts, residents of the state of Illinois, who came to Olmsted county in 1867 and bought a tract of 133 acres in Marion township and there farmed and worked at his trade of blacksmithing. He became well and favorably known in this portion of the county and occupied various official positions of trust with fidelity and credit. He passed away in 1907 at the ripe age of seventy-six years and was laid to rest in Zumbrota Cemetery. He was preceded to the grave by his wife, who died in 1903; she sleeps in the same cemetery.

C. H. spent his youth assisting his father at blacksmithing and on the farm and attending the district schools in winters. In 1875 he married Miss Mary Allen, who was born in Ohio in 18 52, and to this union the following children were born: George Luther, Harry E., Howard H., Ralph A., and Ross C. When he first married he rented a farm and occupied it for a year.

In 1878 he bought 120 acres in Marion township, running in debt for every dollar of the purchase price. He went to work in earnest and was warmly and enthusiastically seconded by his wife, and after eighteen years they had not only paid for it all with interest. but had reared their children well and lived in comfort the whole time. At the end of that time he was situated better than ever to make money on a large scale. Accordingly he began to buy other tracts, until in 1894 he owned a total of 376 acres. This big farm he finally sold, and, going to Salem township, bought 320 acres in sections 3, 4, 9 and 10. He has since continued to prosper until he now owns a total of 690 acres, all provided with good substantial buildings, and under a high state of tilth. A considerable portion of this land is farmed by his sons. Mr. Watts owns bank, telephone and cheese stock, also a section of land in Alberta District, Canada. He is a Republican and is chairman of the town board. He and family are members of the Methodist church at Byron. He is one of the most successful farmers of the county. He is up to date in his farm work and is highly regarded by this entire community.

WEBSTER, WILLIAM BOYD -----was one of the earliest settlers of Olmsted county; Minnesota, coming here at a time when the county had scarcely felt the civilizing influence of axe, plough or spade. He was born July 6, 1809, in Maine, a son of Daniel Webster, a cousin of the celebrated statesman of that name, and Elizabeth Boyd. He was brought up to farming and lumbering, and on December 14, 1836, was united in marriage with Miss Hannah Hobbes, who was also a native of Maine. In 1842 he emigrated west to Will county, Illinois, and from there, in June, 1855, he came to Olmsted county, Minnesota, and pre-émpted a claim on Greenwood Prairie, in Oronoco township. He here, with his wife and children, participated in the transition of Olmsted county from a frontier settlement to well tilled farms, comfortable homes, with good school and church privileges. Mr. Webster served as a member of the town board for several years after its organization, and also in subsequent years. He and wife were devout members of the Baptist church, and were the parents of six children: Mary E., Daniel D., William Henry, John E., Martha J. and Andrew. Mr. Webster died in 1892, preceded by his wife in 1882.

John E. Webster, son of William B. and Hannah (Hobbes) Webster, was born ten miles from Joliet, in Will county, Illinois, December 3, 1847, and was but a lad eight years old when he was brought to this county by his parents. His education was such as was afforded by the district schools of that early period, and when old enough he assisted in the work of the home farm. During the Civil war he enlisted his services as a member of Company G, First Minnesota Infantry, in the roster known as First Battalion, and was stationed at Washington at the time of the assassination of President Lincoln. He was on police duty below Richmond, Virginia, and participated in the Grand Review at Washington, then was sent to Louisville, Kentucky, and Jeffersonville, Indiana, where he was mustered out. Returning to Olmsted county, he was engaged in farming and operating a threshing machine several years, then bought his present place, on which he has since resided. In 1882 he married Miss Clara Fisher, who was born in Minnesota November 1, 1865, a daughter of Albert and Caroline Fisher, old residents of Wabasha county, Minnesota, and to them seven children have been born, two dying in infancy, the remaining ones as follows: Frank E., November 9, 1885; Clarence A., August 24, 1888; Mabel M., February 17, 1890; Mary C., March 5, 1899; Glenn E., January 5, 1902. Mr. Webster owns a 280-acre farm which he devotes to the cultivation of grain, the raising of livestock and dairying. He is a Republican, has served as assessor and supervisor a number of terms, attends Wesleyan Methodist Church and is a member of the Custer Post, Grand Army of the Republic, at Rochester.

WELCH, AMOS ----- for forty-six years a resident of Olmsted county, and one of its most respected citizens, was born in Jefferson county, New York, August 27, 1832. His parents, Aaron and Rebecca Welch, came West and for a time resided in Rock county, Wisconsin, then removed to Olmsted county, Minnesota, where they passed the remainder of their days. They were the parents of eight children, as follows: Louise, deceased; Nancy, deceased; Edwin F., died in 1909; William H., a farmer in Brookings county, South Dakota; Charles P., of Brookings, South Dakota; George R., of Occidental, California; Sidney, at New Salem, Ohio; and Amos.

Amos Welch was reared on a farm and has always made farming and stock raising his occupation. He came first to Olmsted county in 1863 and at that time purchased his present farm. In 1864 he moved here permanently. He is the owner of 240 acres in section twenty-seven, Farmington township, and for many years has been a leader in the community where he resides.

In 1860 he married Katherine Greenman, who died in 1898, a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. To Mr. and Mrs. Welch four children were born, named, Frances L., a resident of Cascade township; Elmer A., who farms the old homestead; Arthur E., a merchant at Devil’s Lake, North Dakota, and Cora May, whose untimely death when a young married woman grievously saddened the lives of her husband, parents, bothers and sister. Mr. Welch is a Republican, and while he has never sought public office, he believes it the duty of all men to aid in the good government of the country. He served on the school board for years and as road commissioner, assessor and supervisor.

WELCH, ELMER A. -----who resides with his father, Amos Welch, and operates the home farm, married Miss Belle Boynton, daughter of Wilbur J. and Emma (Ellis) Boynton, and they are the parents of these children: Josephine, born November 26, 1895; Cora May, born December 19, 1897; Lelia Belle, born October 19, 1898; and Howard Boynton, born June 1 7, 1900.

The Boynton family were among the earliest settlers of Olmsted county and have always been highly regarded by all who know them. Frances Louise Welch, a former teacher in the schools of the county. married James A. Clason, of Cascade township, county commissioner of the Fifth district; they are the parents of two children: Cecil Amos, born October 1, 1898, and Verla Katherine, born October 12, 1903. With them also resides Maurice C., born November 10, 1891, son of Mr. Clason and his first wife, Cora May, the second daughter of Amos Welch. Arthur E. Welch married Inez Georgia Hallenbeck, daughter of George and Wealthy (Evens) Hallenbeck, old and highly respected residents of Quincy township, Olmsted county.

WHEELER, REUBEN BRUCE -----is now residing on a farm of 160 acres on section 24, Dover township, and is one of the progressive and successful farmers of the county. He is the son of James and Mary Wheeler, the family originally coming to this country from England and settling in Jefferson county, New York, where James followed the occupation of farming. He died there in the prime of life, but his widow lived many years, finally passing away in 1904 at the age of eighty-three years.

Reuben B. was born at Lima, Jefferson county, New York, December 9, 1847, and was educated at the Lima schools and in those of Clayton, same State. After his father’s death he assisted his mother on the farm for some time, but finally, in 1868, went to Argyle and worked in the woods for some time during the winter seasons and in the mills during the summer seasons. Two years later he came to Winona county, Minnesota, and there worked as a hired man for two years. He then went to Jackson county, Minnesota, and took up a homestead of 160 acres and lived thereon for four years, but after he was eaten out by grasshoppers returned to Winona county. He then rented and worked out for three years, after which he bought a forty-acre tract of wild school land, which he cleared and grubbed and made his home. Gradually he added to this tract until he owned 170 acres and was well off financially. At a later date he bought a farm of 160 acres, whereupon he sold the old farm and moved to St. Charles and remained there one winter. He then bought his present property, which was then in a dilapidated condition and very much run down and in need of repair. All has been put in excellent condition by him—new buildings, fences, barns, sheds, machinery, etc. He is now carrying on mixed farming. He owns 160 acres in Tennessee. He is a school director and a member of the Royal Arch Masons at St. Charles.

On March 17, 1871, he married, at La Crosse, Wisconsin, Miss Judith, daughter of John and Martha Tait. They have three sons and three daughters: Bert Eugene, a farmer in South Dakota; Eva, who married William Vroman, superintendent of the State Farm; Alfred B., in the railroad business; Hazel Isabelle, at school; Russell Merl, with his parents; and Gladys E., at school.

WHITCOMB, WILLIAM F. -----one of Kalmar township’s successful farmers and highly respected citizens, was born in Vermilion county, Illinois, December 25, 1848, a son of Ira S. and Cynthia A. (Woodin) Whitcomb, both of whom were natives of the state of Illinois. By occupation the father was a carpenter and miller, and when war was declared between the North and South he enlisted with the boys in blue in Company H, Eleventh Minnesota Volunteer Infantry, which regiment was transferred to the Army of the Tennessee. After participating in the memorable battles and campaigns of the struggle he was honorably discharged in 1865 and immediately returned to home and family in Minnesota. In 1855 he came to Olmsted county, located in Kalmar township, and resided there until his death, in 1900. He left an estate of 120 acres to his wife and family, which is now under the able management of William F. The elder Whitcomb was a man greatly loved and respected wherever known, and when death halted his career in 1900 many friends and relatives mourned the loss of so good a friend. He was a staunch Republican in his political views, and for forty years was a member of the Methodist Church. To him and wife ten children, five sons and five daughters, were born.

William F., our subject, being the oldest of the family. Up to his seventeenth year the latter attended the common schools, and then he took an active part in the work of the home place. He early acquired eighty acres on section 29, Kalmar township, but continued to reside under the paternal roof. He and mother, a kind hearted old lady, who was born November 24, 1827, are now conducting the affairs of the estate, and under their able management it has become one of the finest in the community. November 9, 1889, Mr. Whitcomb was married to Miss Anna Paulson of Rochester, and four children were born to them, as follows: Mable, born April 21, 1890; Clifford T., born June 8, 1892; William Ira, born May 30, 1894; and Albert Henry, born January 14, 1900. Mr. Whitcomb is a member of Byron Lodge No. 135, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the Modern Woodmen of the World, the Yeomen of America and is highly respected in the community.

WHITE, HON. MILO ------has lived at his present beautiful home in Chatfield since 1883. He is one of the oldest settlers and residents of the county, and, by reason of his long, industrious and useful life here, deserves more than a passing notice. He is the son of Josiah and Polly (Bailey) White, both of whom passed their entire lives in New England, the father dying in 1880 at the age of eighty years and the mother in 1847 at the age of forty-nine years. Both parents lie at rest in the cemetery at Fletcher, Franklin county, Vermont.

There is good reason to believe that Mr. White is a descendant of Peregrine White, the first white child born in New England after the first passage of the Mayflower across the Atlantic to the shores of Massachusetts. In any event the family came originally from England and settled in Massachusetts, where they multiplied and scattered over the country with the passage of time.

Milo White was born August 17, 1830, and in youth was given a fair education in the schools of his native town. He finished his education in the Bakersfield Academy, at which time he was fifteen years old. He then took a position as clerk in a general store, remained thus employed for two years and then went to Burlington and for several years clerked in another similar establishment. About nine years, altogether, were passed in this sort of work. In the spring of 1855 he came to Minnesota, located at Chatfield, where he has been permanently located ever since, and in the fall of 1856 opened a general store which he conducted for fifty years. When he first came here the town had only a few houses and they were mostly built of logs. He is the oldest living settler here today. For all these years his store was the place of business of farmers for miles around. When he first started out he had to take in trade anything and everything the farmers had to offer, and often parted with his goods for the products of the farm. As time passed he steadily prospered and added to his worldly possessions until he was in comfortable circumstances. He has seen the town grow, has assisted materially in its development and for years has been one of its landmarks. As time passed he acquired interests in other localities and other local industries and institutions. He is now one of the directors of the First National Bank of Chatfield.

At an early date Mr. White began to take an active interest in politics. Being an old line Whig, he of course espoused the cause of the Republican party. His ability soon won him recognition in his party ranks and he was placed in nomination for the State Senate and easily elected. He filled this position with great credit and was returned three times, serving in all four terms. He did so well in this important trust confided to him that his party nominated him for Congress and he was elected and served in the National Legislature with ability and distinction two terms. Perhaps the most important part taken by him in his legislative career was in preparing the first bill to pass Congress on the manufacture and sale of oleomargarine. For this he was heartily commended by press and public. During all his official career no breath of suspicion rested against his good name. For many years he was trustee and treasurer of the local Methodist church, and at all times has been the friend and helper of progress.

On June 26, 1858, at Chatfield, he married Miss Hannah, daughter of Joseph P. and Rachel (Ingram) Ellis, and they had five children, two, Clifton and Carolus, dying in infancy. Charles H. is the owner of the largest store at Chatfield; Milo, Jr., is a traveling salesman, and J. C., a lawyer and vice-president of the First National Bank of Mabel, resides at Mabel.

Mr. White is now nearing the end of a long, industrious, honorable and useful life. It is a pleasure to write the above concerning a man who has done so much for the community and for progress and humanity generally. In closing this all too brief sketch of one of Minnesota’s leading men, a letter from Senator Knute Nelson to Mr. White, dated August 14, 1910, is here appended;

“Dear Friend: Upon looking through an old Congressional Directory I find that within three days you will have reached your eightieth birthday, and therefore take this occasion and method to congratulate you on the event. You have had a long, prominent and noted career in our State. You came here among, and was one of, our early pioneers and State builders. You have seen Minnesota grow from a mere frontier settlement into a great State of two million prosperous and happy people. And in this great work of developing and building up our State you have been one of the leaders, one of those great men to whom the State owes so much. I have served with you in our State Senate and in Congress, and in both places you took a prominent part and were always faithful and loyal to the best interests of the people. Your manly, fearless and independent course was always approved by the most of our best people. The State owes you much, and our people will always hold you and your noble work in kind and lasting remembrance.

“Your most sincere friend and well wisher,

(Signed) “Knute Nelson.

WHITNEY, J. S. -----for many years prominent in agricultural and mercantile pursuits in Pleasant Grove township, is a native of Maine, born in Franklin county in 1844. His parents, John C. and Lucy C. (Soule) Whitney, were of Puritan ancestry, their advent in this country being at a time when the colonists were a dependency of Great Britain. In fact, George Soule was of the Pilgrim fathers, landing at Plymouth Rock from the Mayflower. Both the Whitney and Soule families became prominent in the affairs of New England and members participated in both wars against the mother country.

In boyhood J. S. Whitney attended the district schools in his native state, subsequently taking a special course in business and music at Downer College, Fox Lake, Wisconsin. He came with his parents to the Badger state in 1854, and upon attaining his majority started as a teacher of music and a dealer of musical instruments. This he continued until 1869, when he settled on a farm in Pleasant Grove township, this county. The property comprises 200 acres of finely improved land, on which his son now re sides. In 1895 he moved to the village of Simpson, where he has since resided. He was the first postmaster of Simpson and filled the requirements of that office several years, under both Republican and Democratic administrations. For years he was engaged in and operated a lumber yard, but since 1908 has conducted the hotel and livery stable. In addition to his farm, Mr. Whitney is the owner of considerable valuable property in Simpson.

He is a Republican, a member of the Ancient Order of United Workmen, and one of the wide-awake, progressive businessmen of the county. To his marriage with Miss Phoebe J. Harris, which occurred at Randolph, Wisconsin, on February 22, 1865, one son, Harleth H., was born. In July, 1879, his wife died, and in May, 1885, again he was married, at White, South Dakota, to Miss Mary Haden. To this union one daughter, Lucy K., was born, who now resides at home.

WILLIAMS, WILLIAM—The death of William Williams on February 18, 1910, marked the passing of the oldest resident of Rochester. Wales was the country of his nativity, his birth occurring at Ely, near Cardiff, March 9, 1838, but, when a boy eight years old, he left the old country, immigrated with his parents, brothers and sisters to America, and settled in New York State. In 1850 the family removed to Illinois and a few years later to Iowa. In the fall of 1853 the father died, and William, then fifteen years of age, came further West in search of home and fortune, and finally settled on the present site of the city of Rochester.

Here, where the fire department is now located, he helped to erect the old “Head’s Tavern,” one of the first structures in the county. For a time he worked for the old pioneer, George Head, but in the spring of 1855 pre-empted a homestead south of the State Hospital site, of which he was subsequently robbed by an unscrupulous claim-jumper, who, learning that Mr. Williams was a minor, filed claim in the land office for this particular tract. Nothing daunted, however, Mr. Williams acquired government land, now known as the C. H. Mayo farm, and in the spring of 1855 was joined by his mother, Hannah Williams, and his brothers and sisters. Here they resided for a short time, then disposed of the farm, and with the money thus secured purchased another tract south of Rochester, where Mr. Williams worked until the fall of 1862. Then, for the preservation of the Union, he enlisted with the “Boys in Blue,” in Company F Ninth Minnesota Volunteer Infantry, was mustered in at Fort Snelling and then ordered to Fort Ridgeley to participate in the campaigns against troublesome Indians. The next year his command was ordered South, and at the battle of Gun Town, in June, 1864, he, with twenty-seven other Union men, was captured and subsequently taken to Andersonville prison. It is unnecessary now to dwell at length on the awful atrocities committed by the officials of that institution; suffice it to say that Mr. Williams experienced the starving, kicking, cursing and other indignities heaped upon the hated “Yankees,” and, when he finally effected his escape, weighed but 103 pounds. On the 22nd of February, 1865, he re-entered the Union lines in North Carolina, after many harrowing escapes from rebel pickets and bloodhounds. For a time he was lodged in a hospital at Charleston, South Carolina, and after securing his discharge went to Baltimore. When he had joined the service his weight was officially announced as 226 pounds, and the sufferings endured by him reduced this by more than half.

He then returned to Rochester, and two years later (1867) was united in marriage with Miss Lucy A. Bassett. To them three children were born, as follows: Arthur B. and Will N ., residing south of Rochester, and Edwin A., of Tekoa, Washington. When summoned to the Great Unknown, Mr. Williams was the oldest inhabitant of the county, and his loss was mourned as only can be that of one who has done so much for home and country. He lived in and around Rochester for over half a century. He was an active worker in the Methodist church, of which he was a member, a kind friend and neighbor and was greatly beloved and respected for his many excellent qualities of mind and character. In the service of his country he attained the rank of lieutenant, and when death halted his career he was carried to the last resting place by five comrades of his old company, the Ninth Minnesota, and one of another regiment. His life was an unusually clean and well spent one—one well worthy of the emulation of the present generation of Young America.

WILSON, HUGH -----supervisor of New Haven township, was born in St. Lawrence county, New York, August 1, 1855, the son of James and Bridget (O’Day) Wilson. Both of his parents came to America from Ireland when quite young. James Wilson learned the tailoring trade at Belfast, but after coming to this country, owing to ill health occasioned by confinement, abandoned it and took up farming in New York. The family came to Olmsted county, Minnesota, in April, 1865, and passed through Chicago at the time President Lincoln’s funeral car was there on its way to Springfield. The scene witnessed and the words spoken at that time left an impression in the mind of Hugh Wilson, who was then but a lad 10 years old.

He attended the public schools of his native state and of Olmsted county during boyhood, and was reared to hard work on his father’s farm. In 1881 he began farming for himself, and is the present owner of 120 acres of what is considered a portion of the best improved farm land in Olmsted county.

In 1887 he married Miss Catherine Kennedy, daughter of Patrick and Mary (Martin) Kennedy, who came from Illinois to Olmsted county in the early fifties. Mr. and Mrs. Wilson are the parents of two sons: Patrick, born December 13, 1875, now engaged in the dray business at Red Wing, and Joseph, born April 2, 1884, who is living at home with his parents and assisting his father in farming, stock raising and dairying. The Wilson family are communicants of St. Michael’s Roman Catholic church at Pine Island. Mr. Wilson is a man of genial disposition, and is highly regarded for his broad-minded public spirit. It has been said that wise men sometimes change their minds, but fools never. Mr. Wilson started his political career as a Democrat, but for many years past has been an independent Republican. For the last twenty eight years he has continuously served as supervisor of New Haven township.

WITHERSTINE, DR. HORACE H. -----is personally, perhaps. the most widely known man in Olmsted county, by reason of his many years of medical practice and his prominence in politics. He is a native of Herkimer, New York, born April 14, 1852, a son of David and Margaret (Petrie) Witherstine. He is of German ancestry on both sides of the family, but his paternal grandfather served the colonies in the seven years of war which resulted in independence, and his maternal grandfather was a surgeon during that conflict. David Witherstine passed his life as a farmer and a newspaper writer, and he and wife were the parents of five children: Charles, deceased; Horace H.; William, a lawyer at Herkimer, New York; Margaret and Martha.

The early life of Doctor Witherstine was passed on a farm in attendance at the district schools and in taking a preparatory collegiate course at Fairfield Academy. For ten years he taught school, but in 1882 began the study of medicine and after a course at Rush Medical College, Chicago, was graduated in 1886. Possibly Doctor Witherstine inherited a liking for the practice of medicine from his maternal grandfather; at any rate his career as a practitioner has been a most successful one, and thousands throughout Olmsted county have been benefitted by his ministrations. He is a member of the Olmsted County Medical Society, the Southern Minnesota Medical Association, the Minnesota State Medical Association and the American Medical Association. In many ways Doctor Witherstine has achieved distinction. In politics he is a Democrat, and for five terms was mayor of Rochester. He was a member of the school board when he was elected state senator in 1902, and upon the expiration of his term in this office four years later he was re-elected, serving continuously eight years. As a member of the state senate Doctor Witherstine took high rank among the many able men constituting the upper house of the state legislature. He is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows at Rochester, and also be longs to Rochester Lodge No. 21, A. F. and A. M., Halcyon Chapter No. 8, R. A. M., Home Commandery No. 5. K. T. and Osman Temple, A. A. O. N. M. S. at St. Paul.

To his marriage with Miss Amelia P. Hatfield, of Dover, Minnesota, solemnized in 1880. four children have been born, named William H., Clarence V., Glenn S. and Lela M. The family attend divine worship at the Congregational church.

WITHROW, JAMES P. ----one of the most successful of Oronoco township’s retired farmers, was born in Uniontown, Fayette county, Pennsylvania, December 11, 1839, a son of Daniel C. and Sarah (Devore) Withrow. The Withrow and Devore families are of old Pennsylvania stock locating in that state before the Revolutionary war, and were loyal defenders of the cause of independence. The father was originally a merchant of Uniontown, but when he came west to McGregor, Iowa, in 1852, he engaged in farming, which he continued until his death in November, 1876. His wife passed away in 1890.

James P. Withrow received his education in the public schools of Pennsylvania and Iowa, and until August 14, 1862, remained with his parents on the home farm in Iowa. When war was declared between the North and the South he enlisted for the preservation of the Union in Company G., Twenty-first Iowa Volunteer Infantry. He first saw active service at Hartsville, Missouri, and thereafter his regiment was “always at the front.” Mr. Withrow’s participation in that memorable struggle may be briefly outlined as follows: Siege of Vicksburg, Port Gibson, Grand Gulf, Jackson, Port Raymond, with Sherman in second battle at Jackson, New Orleans, Fort Spanish, Mobile, Red River Campaign. and through the states of Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana. After seeing the above active service he was honorably discharged at Clinton, Iowa, in July, 1865. He immediately returned to McGregor, Iowa, and engaged in farming, continuing until 1885, when he came to Oronoco Township, Olmsted County, and followed the same line of endeavor. Mr. Withrow was unusually successful in his business dealings and now owns 750 acres of Oronoco farmland, divided into seven tracts which he rents on the share plan. Although a good share of his time is spent in a general supervision over his farms, Mr. Withrow has really retired from the active duties of life, and is at present enjoying the fruits of his past years work. In his political views he has always been a Republican, but has been an “Insurgent” for the past few years. He has never sought public positions of any nature and has always refused to fill them. While residing at McGregor he was a member of the Grand Army of the Republic, but has not been active in its affairs since coming to Olmsted County owing to the distance to the Posts. In 1896 he was united in marriage with Miss Ada Schramm, daughter of Chauncey and Jerusha (Viall) Schramm. Mr. Withrow has spent some portions of his winters in travel, is a man of considerable ability and personal force and is genial and popular with all who know him.

ZIMMERMAN, ALBERT -----one of the progressive and enterprising farmers and stock-raisers of Cascade township, is a son of Louis and Louise Zimmerman, the former born July 24, 1841, at Syracuse, New York. Louis Zimmerman moved West to Wisconsin in 1863, and very shortly thereafter came to Olmsted county, Minnesota. For eighteen months he served the Union cause during the Civil war as a member of Company K, Third Minnesota Volunteer Infantry, and after peace was declared he returned to Olmsted county, Minnesota, and resumed farming.

Albert Zimmerman, the subject of this sketch was born in Salem township, this county, February 8, 1868. He was educated in the public schools and at Darling’s Business College, at Rochester, and has always made Olmsted county his home. His farm, consisting of 180 acres, is well improved and admirably adapted to the growing of cereals, the raising of stock and dairying.

June 10, 1896. he was united in marriage with Miss Frances B. Van Schaick, a daughter of M. R. and Frances Mary (Berry) Van Schaick. Ralph V., born December 10, 1898, is their only child. Politically Mr. Zimmerman is a Democrat; religiously he is a Universalist. and socially he belongs to the Ancient Order of United Workmen. For three terms he has been treasurer of Cascade township, has also served as school trustee and in various other ways has assisted in the progress and development of the community.

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