See other formats

Full text of "History of Dakota Territory"

■» • > • 



HISTORY OF 

DAKOTA TERRITORY 

BY 

GEORGE W. KINGSBURY 



SOUTH DAKOTA 

ITS HISTORY AND ITS PEOPLE 

EDITED BY 

GEORGE MARTIN SMITH, B.A., A.M. 



BIOGRAPHICAL 



ILLUSTRATED 



VOLUME IV 



CHICAGO 

THE S. J. CLARKE PUBLISHING COMPANY 
1915 






TO NEW TO 

23470SA 

>X AND 
TILDEN FOUNDATIONS 






then;: 
[ p uenc LIBRARY! 







li \i: I I.I. I I TUN' 



BIOGRAPHICAL 



BARTLETT TRIPP. 



Bartlett Tripp, a native of the state of Maine, was -born July 15, 1830, at Harmony, 
Somerset county. His early education was obtained at the country schools and at intervals 
he engaged in teaching. In 1857 he entered Colby College at YVaterville and in the early 
spring of 1861, while en route to California, he visited a brother living in Sioux City, Iowa, 
and at that time came to southeastern Dakota and was then much impressed by the pos- 
sibilities of the country and the opportunities which it offered to young men with little 
capital. Continuing his journey westward to Omaha, he joined a train of about sixty wagons 
just leaving to cross the great plains, reaching Salt Lake City late in the season. There he 
taught school during the winter and in the spring went to Sacramento, California, where he 
assisted in the survey of what afterward became a part of the great Central Pacific line. 
His health becoming impaired, he returned to Maine and later entered the law course at 
Albany, New York, graduating in the class of 1867. Among his classmates graduating at 
the same time was William McKinley, afterward president of the United States. Even 
earlier they had formed a friendship that continued throughout life. 

From 1867 until 1869 Mr. Tripp practiced law in Augusta, Maine, as a member of the 
linn of Pillsbury & Tripp, but the call of the west was insistent and drew him to the land 
of promise. In 1869 he returned to Dakota, settling in Yankton, where he resumed the prac- 
tice of law, forming a partnership with his elder brother, General William Tripp, then sur- 
veyor general. The bar at Yankton was at that time a very able one, among its members 
being George 11. Hand, Colonel G. C. Moody, General William Tripp, Asa Bartlett, S. L. Spink, 
Warren Cowels and James 1). Boyer. Bartiett Tripp soon gave evidence of liis ability as a 
lawyer and rose rapidly to prominence as an authority upon legal problems. His power as 
a counselor and advocate won him a liberal clientage and he became recognized as one of the 
foremost representatives of the South Dakota bar. In 1S73 Mr. Tripp, the junior member 
of the bar, was one of the attorneys for the defense in the Wintermute case, the most, cele- 
brated criminal trial of its time. Some years later he was associated witli Colonel Moody 
in the revision of the code of 1903, and his name figured conspicuously upon the legal history 
of the state. 

ill'. Tripp was twice married. In 1863, at Garlapd, Maine, lie married Ellen M. Jennings, 
who died in 1SS4. On the 0th of November, 1887, in St. Paul, Minnesota, at the home of her 
brother, United States Senator Cushman K. Davis. Mi. Tripp married Janet (Davisj Wash- 
burn, who survives him. Mrs. Tripp comes of ancestry honorable ami distinguished, being a 
lineal descendant of Thomas Cushman and Mary Allerton, the latter the last survivor of 
the one hundred passengers who came to America in the Mayflower. Mis. Tripp organized 
and was appointed regent of the Daniel Newcomb chapter of the Daughters of the American 
Revolution. 

In 1S83 Bartlett Trip], was elected president of the first territorial constitutional con- 
vention. As moie than four-fifths of the members of that convention were republicans and 
Mi Tripp was a democrat, it showed a remarkable confidence in his ability. His knowl- 
edge of the law well qualified him for the onerous and responsible duties which devolved upon 
him on this occasion and his work was at all times actuated by a public-spirited devotion to 
the general good. In 1885 lie was appointed by President Cleveland as chief justice of the 
supreme court of Dakota and he proved himself the peer of the ablest men who have ever 

graced the court of last resort. His powers had gai 1 him recogniti i- oi E the most 

eminent lawyers of the northwest and his service on the bench placed him with the foremost, 
jurists of his section of the country. From L893 until Is 1 .)? he was initial States minister 
to Austria-Hungary and in 1899 President McKinley appointed him chairman of the Samoan 
commission to settle difficulties growing out of the Berlin treaty, involving England, Ger- 



6 IIIST( >UY OF S( > L 111 DAKOTA 

many and America. Judge Tripp was well equipped to deal with international problems and 
hi^ diplomac} secured for the United States the island of Tutuila with absolute and inde- 
pendent control ni the harbor of Pango-Pango, where our coaling station, the largest in 
the world, is situated 1 •; 1 1 1 way between Hawaii and Australia. Of this harbor Judge Tripp 
says in lii- book, My Trip to Samoa, "The harbor can be as easily defended as the approach 
in Gibraltar without the expenditure ol money for fortifications which nature lias already 
built. All that is required is to mount and man the guns." Mr. Tripp was identified with 
the di velopmenf of Dakota and up to the time o) his death, which occurred December 8, 1911, 
took an active intrust in its progress, marking with pride its evolution from early pioneer 
-mi. lit inns through its territorial struggle, the attainment of statehood, the growth of min- 
ing, agricultural and educational interests and finally its marvelous prosperity, for Smith 
Dakota is today the richest state per capita in the Union. 

Dr. F. B. Gault, president of the state University of South Dakota, in his memorial ad- 
dress, said: "Judge Tripp was the highest type of manhood at his own hearthstone, upon the 
bench, as a diplomatic representative of his country ami as he stood, full-orbed in scholarship 
and experience, in the lecture room before his class of young attorneys. As chairman of the 

Sai in commission lie was called upon to meet unusual international complications. The 

result is that he added one of the most luminous pages to the brilliant history of American 
diplomacy. The stirring scenes of the Spanish-American war and the war in the Philippines 
with all the dramatic incidents relating thereto filled those years so largely that the public 
mind did not. fully grasp the national and international significance of his statesmanship. 

"For over forty years . lodge Tripp has been connected with the judicial system of our 
commonwealth, The cases he has tried, the decisions he has rendered, the opinions he has 

delivered and his public addresses upon vi us occasions will be cited in years to conic. His 

influence as a gnat lawyer and as a distinguished jurist can never be forgotten. The history 
nl the twn score years and more of Ins active life as a citizen and public official arc an 
imperishable part oi the history of this commonwealth. . . . Verily a great man dwell 
in our midst, Ills life work, so monumental, is a part of the enduring renown of our state. 
His influence, extending to generations yet to be, will constitute his perpetual memorial." 

Bon. II. < '. Preston, state senator, u] the sam fcasion, said in part: "While Judge 

Tripp's loyalty and devotion were manifested in your community, the home id' his choice, 
yef withal In- did not belong to you alone, lie was a part and parcel of the state and the 
nation as well, for every community through the length and breadth of our commonwealth 
claim- him as a benefactor, The history of the territory and state, yet to be written, will 
he nplete with his acts. They form a part of the foundation upon which the superstructure 
of our government stands. Our cnustitutinu.il and legislative acts constitute no small part 
■ if hi-- master mind; our judicial system ami the correct interpretation of our laws will for- 
ever mark with distinction his wisdom and Bound judgment." 

Mrs. Tripp still retains her residence in "lanktnn ami is a leading figure in the social 
cireh "I 1 1"' city. When her husband was minister to Australia she contributed not a little 
in bi- sun-ess in a social way through her courteous manner to all, her uniform tact and her 
high ideals. Said one win. knew her: "Always elegantly and tastefully gowned, with a 
gracious manner, she was a prominent figure in the social life of the diplomatic circle and 

mad.' tin ini.il iiiinli..ii- given by the A in. in minister most, attractive and popular." 

Shi i a l. ...I. 'i in Hi,' snnal circles oi South Dakota and largely, but quietly and unostenta 

i I;, promotes the charitable and benevolent work of the city. Ber high character and 

advanced ideals air appreciated on every hand. Thus it, is that the lines of her life have 
been en i in liarmonj with those of a distinguished and honored ancestry. 



I I H iKSI i;N T. THOMPSON. 



It is ability that has gained I'm- Professor Thorsten T. Thompson the high position 

which he now occupies i lucational circles of South Dakota as superintendent, of schools 

of \li haha county, lie wa> born on a faun in Freeborn county, Minnesota, May 13, 1*74, 

and i- a -mi of Thorsten and Anna (Opadhl) Thompson, wlm were pioneers of Minnehaha 
county, having ved there in 1874. lie acquired hi- early education in the district schools 



HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 7 

of his native county and later entered Augustana College at Canton, South Dakota, leaving 
that institution in 1S97. He was also a student in the Sioux Kails Business College. 

Following the completion of his studies Mr. Thompson turned his attention to teaching 
in Minnehaha county and afterward fanned and taught school until 19(17. In that year he 
was made principal of a school at Baltic. Minnehaha county, and his excellent work in that 
rapacity won him the election on January 1. 1911, to the office of county superintendent of 
schools. He was re-elected without opposition in 1912 and has since discharged the duties 
of his responsible position in a capable and progressive way. Since attaining his majority 
he has given his entire life to educational work and has become a recognized leader in this 
field. He is also greatly interested in the development of the science of agriculture in this 
part of the country and is doing capable and farsighted work along this line as president 
of the Farmers Development Association of Minnehaha county, secretary of the Minnehaha 
County Farmers Institute and Stock Growers Association, and chairman of the Farmers 
Institute Board of Sioux Falls, which is a department of the Commercial Club. 

On the 28th of May, 1902, Mr. Thompson was married to Miss Thora Nyhus, and they 
have four children, namely: Alma, Clara, Mildred and Richard. 

Mr. Thompson gives his political allegiance to the republican party and while at all 
times he takes an active interest in public affairs, he has never been a politician in the 
usually accepted sense of the term. He is never neglectful of the duties of citizenship and 
his influence has been a tangible force for good in the community. 



ROBERT F. CAMPBELL, M. D. 

Dr. Robert F. Campbell is a prominent physician of Watertown, South Dakota, and is 
also one of the leaders in all aggressive movements having as their purpose the upbuilding 
of the city. He was born in Aylmer, Ontario, Canada, on the 23d of March. 1857, a son of 
William and Jane (Van Wagganer) Campbell, both natives of Canada and of Scotch extraction. 
The father was a business man and for many years was postmaster of Aylmer, Ontario, 
but after his retirement from business cares and responsibilities hi' and his wife came to 
Watertown, South Dakota, where their son Robert F. had preceded them. Botli passed 
away in that city about 1905. 

Dr. Campbell was reared at home and acquired his early education in the public schools 
of his native town. He was later a student at McGill University of Montreal and at the 
Bellevue Medical Hospital of New York, being graduated from the latter institution with 
tin' class of lss:_>. In the spring following his graduation he located in Watertown. Smith 
Dakota, where he has been in active practice tor thirty-two years. For more than thirty 
years I"' has occupied his present suite of offices in the Millett block. Dr. Campbell real- 
izes thoroughly the fact that new discoveries an- being constantly made by investigators 
and thai the physician and surgeon must remain constantly a student if he would not he 
hit in the rear of his profession. Through his membership in medical societies and through 
reading professional journals he has done much to keep abreast of the times, hut lie has 
also felt that further study in the medical centers of the world would be of great benefit. 
In 1900 he took special courses in surgery in Berlin and London, and again in the fall of 
1913 he took a special course in Berlin and Vienna, spending eight months on the last trip. 
His study of the methods used in the great foreign hospitals and his observation of the 
work of the most famous surgeons of Europe have lifted him for the exacting duties of the 
surgeon and he is known as one of the best in South Dakota. In 1901, in connection with 
Drs. If. M. Finnerud and H. A. Tarbell, he established a private hospital known as the 
Watertown Hospital. Later he bought out the interests of his partners and is now the sole 
owner of the institution, which accommodates fifteen patients and is one of the best equipped 
small hospitals in the middle west. Everything possible is done to secure absolute cleanli- 
ness and the care given the patients compares favorably with that of the great metropolitan 
institutions. Dr. Campbell has : , wide and growing reputation as a surgeon and his per- 
centage of successful operations is unusuallj high. 

The Doctor was married in 1>M to \li-- Kate A. Williams, a daughter of Hon. C. G. 



8 HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 

Williams, of Janesville, Wisconsin, vv] presented his district in congress for a number of 

years and subsequently was appointed registrar of the land office at Watertown. 

I)i. Campbell is a republican in his political belief and has served repeatedly as coroner 
and city physician, holding the latter position at the present time. He is surgesn for the 
Chicago & Northwestern, the Rock Island, the Great Northern and the Minneapolis & St. 
Louis Railroads. He is connected with the business interests of Watertown as a stock- 
holder and member of the hoard of directors of the First National Bank of Watertown. lie 
is a man of high principles, his record as a private citizen and as a physician being above 
reproach, and he is accorded that respect which true worth alone can command. Although 
In' has prospered beyond the average in his profession and has a reputation which extends 
over Hi' state "i South Dakota, he has yet found time to make his life of great value to 
the public welfare and has taken the initiative in many movements that have proven of 
lasting benefit to his city and county. 



GENERAL MARK WENTWORTH SHEAFE. 

A distinguished and honored citizen of South Dakota is General Mark Wentworth 
Sheafe, of Watertown, who was identified with the pioneer development of the territory 
and has a- well been a factoi in the upbuilding of the state. He was born May IS, lst-1, 
in Brooklyn, New York, and in the paternal line is descended from one of the oldest Eng- 
lish families, the name of Wentworth being not unknown in English history and at the same 

i appearing frequently on the pages of America's annals. The lineage can be traced back 

hi llu yeai 1066, Inline tin' time of the Norman conquest. The records have been carefully 
preserved and proven ami many men of distinction, in England have borne the name of 
Wentworth, which is still known there. The name of Sheafe originated in Cranebroke, Kent, 
iCngland, in 1520, and tin family history has been preserved from that time to the present. 
John Wentworth, an ancestor of General Sheafe, was the last royal governor of New Hamp- 
shire oi L775. His father, Governor Benning Wentworth, was mentioned by Longfellow in 
his poem entitled "Tales of a Wayside Inn." The son of Governor Wentworth was one of 
the signers of the original Articles of Confederation in 1778, representing the colony of 
\i h I [ampsliirc. 

In the maternal line General Sheafe is also descended from good old colonial stock, hav- 
ing emigrated from England to Massachusetts in L646. The family during the Revolutionary 
war owned Bunker Mill at ( harlestown, when-, but for a mistake, the battle of that name 
would have been fought. In that battle were two great-grandfathers of General sheafe and 
tlir records show that the family have participated in •■very war waged by this country 
from the first Indian war King Philip's down to the Spanish-American war. 

General Sheafe passed his boyl d and youth in Boston, acquiring a liberal educat 

in! those days, and at the age of seventei n was examined tor and prepared to enter Harvard 
However, tin I ivil wai had just begun and. fired with enthusiasm, he. with a mini 
her of his fellow students and friends, enlisted in the Forty-fourth Regiment of Massa 

lini in- Volunteers, becoming n hers of C puny II. with which he went to the front. 

i in Hi,' expiration of his term of service he aci panied his father to Janesville, Wisconsin, 

where he entered the First National Bank. While there residing he was married in L866 
in di i i- a \. Hall, by wl i In- had three children. 

In 1871 General Sheafe was desirous of going to the frontier and Dakota territory 

seemed In a promising field for endeavor and energy, Accordingly in the fall of that. 

yeai he removed lo I'.ll- Point, I ni lounty, where he became extensively engaged in a 

lumber business and also in milling. It is a strange coincidence that he should have I u 

tin' lii I In ship height, by rail into (lie territory, and in connection with his large flouring 
mill In wa the first in lie territory to adopt the roller process, discarding the old-time 

millstones. While c lucting private business interests he was always more or less promi- 

i.'iiilv connected with public interests and activities and thus aided in shaping the history 

ol - ty and state along various lines. In L877 he was selected by Governor Pennington 

my Colonel, lain General, F, D. Grant on a trip into the Indian country with a 
abli hing a hail between the Missouri river at fort Pierre ami the Black Hills. 




GENERAL MARK W. SIIEAFE 



THE NEW 1 
\PVBLIC , 



"LBENFOU 



HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 11 

The Indians were restive and somewhat hostile but the trip was made in company with 
lour other parties and its object successfully accomplished, the old Black Hills trail being 
adopted. In 1881 General Sheafe witnessed the great flood of the Missouri river bottom 
when the city of Vermillion was completely wiped out and the fertile river valley was ten 
feet under water. At that time he lent his endeavors to saving the lives of settlers and 
was himself reported drowned. In fact he had the doubtful pleasure of reading his own 
obituary as printed in the Sioux City Journal, but apologies were duly made to the public. 
In 1882 General Sheafe married Miss Agnes Spark, a native of Edinburgh, Scotland, 
and to them two children were born, Mark Wentworth and Mary Agnes. The former is a 
prominent lawyer of Codington county and has been twice elected as state's attorney. 

In 1885 General Sheafe was appointed register of the United States land office at 
Watertown under President Cleveland and removed to the city which is now his home. In 
that year he also received at the hands of Governor G. A. Pierce the commission as colonel 
of the Second Regiment, Dakota National Guard, with instructions to perfect the organiza- 
tion of the regiment, which he did, serving as colonel commanding for fifteen years with 
great success. In 1893 lie was again appointed register of the United States land office 
nt Watertown, which position he filled until April, 1897. 

In the meantime he continued the successful management of his business affairs and 
broadened the scope of his activities. In 1890 he was elected president of the Dakota 
Loan & Trust Company, a financial institution for making loans on real estate, the stock 
of which was owned in New England. Crop failures and a low ebb in financial matters 
throughout the west compelled the liquidation of this corporation, with but slight loss, how- 
ever, to its stockholders and clients. 

In 1898, at the time the war was declared against Spain by the United States, Colonel 
Sheafe prepared his regiment for active service and it was one of the first ready for the 
front. The first South Dakota Regiment made a record second to none. At this time 
Colonel Sheafe was appointed brigadier general of the United States volunteers by Presi 
dent McKinley and was ordered to report for duty with his brigade, which consisted of the 
Third New \ oik. Twenty-second Kansas and One Hundred and Fifty-ninth Indiana Regi- 
ments. In command of his brigade he gained great, credit and the love of his officers ami 
in, ii. The war ending, lie asked to be relieved of his command and returned to civil life, 
assuming again the management of his business affairs. He was for many years largely 
engaged in handling range cattle on the then uninhabited plains west of the Missouri river 
and looks bark upon the free life with the cowboys, among the wild Texas steer and the 
bronchos with great pleasure, especially so from the fact that they have both been legislated 
i. ut of existence in the northwest. 

General Sheafe was six times elected mayor of Elk Point and was also elected to the 
territorial senate in 1874, being today almost the only survivor of that. body. In 1890 lie 
was elected to the second state legislative assembly as senator from Codington county and 
served with credit to himself and honor to his constituents. In 1876 he was selected as 
territorial delegate to the democratic national convention at St. Louis. In 1897 General 
Sheafe represented the state of South Dakota at the inauguration of William McKinley to 
the presidencj and was assigned for duty with a mounted troop, acting as bodyguard to 
the president. In 191.'! he was selected I present the state at the inauguration of Presi- 
dent Wilson and on that occasion acted as aid to the grand marshal. 

In politics General Sheafe is an old ti Jeffersonian-Jacksonian democrat, with all the 

honor that the name implies. His religious creed is that of the Protestant Episcopal church, 
of which his forefathers had been adherents for over four hundred years. He is connected 
with the Masonic fraternity, having had the higher degrees conferred upon him. lie is also 
a member of the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks and regards that organization as one 
doing much good in the world, lie likewise holds membership with the Sons of the Ameri- 
can Revolution and the Military order of Foreign Wars of the United states. General 
Sheafe has had a varied experience. Descended from an old distinguished Eamilj of Massa- 
chusetts and New Hampshire, distinguished both in civil and military connections, he yearned 

for the freedom and simple In the fat west. As a soldier in the Civil and Spanish- 

American wars he received praise and a, a ;overnmen! official he has done his full duly; 
as a lawmaker Ins record is good and as a business man he has evei been known for his 
probity. lie his seen the territory which he loved and which contained a total of twenty 



12 HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 

thousand white inhabitants in 1871, blossom ami bring forth two noble states. He lias wit- 
nessed the passing of the buffalo, the antelope and the cowboy. He lias seen his own beloved 
state, South Dakota, spring up from a few organized counties on the Missouri river and 
become a grand sovereign commonwealth, rich in soil and resources and equally rich in its 
acquired advantages. He has lent the best endeavors of his best days to helping bring 
about this result, and when the la-i call is made ami "taps" are sounded over his body, 
In- wish i- ili.it it may rest in the bosom of this stati — his home. 



i ; i : 1 1 : s. danforth. 



As owner and editor of tin Republican, an excellent newspaper published at Vermillion, 
Erie S. Danforth is a man of influence in his part of the state. He was born in Wisconsin 
on the <ith of January, is?.;, a son of William and Annis (Ormsbee) Danforth, natives of 
Vermont and New York respectively. The father, who was a farmer, passed away in Decem- 
ber, 1880, in Wisconsin. To him and his wife were born, three children, of whom our subject 
is the youngest, the others being: Halbert, who died when five years old; and Nettie, who 
passi d away in 1912. 

Erie S. Danforth was reared in his native state and was graduated from the high school 
at Waldo in 1888. In June of that year he removed to Vermillion, Smith Dakota, coming 
with an aunt and her husband, E. II. Willey. Mr. Danforth lost his father when about 
seven years of age and was largely reared by his aunt. Mr. Willey purchased the Repub- 
lican at Vermillion and our subject learned the printer's trade in the office of that paper. 
In is 1 .).", he purchased a half interest in the publication and has since retained his connection 

therewith. The Republican was started in L860 by Bedell & (lark and has always g 

under that name. The circulation of the paper is large and its subscribers are the repre- 
sentative people of Vermillion and its vicinity, as they arc assured of reliable news, clearly 
written, and as the editorial policy of the paper is one to win commendation. The extensive 
circulation of the paper makes it valuable as an advertising medium and the local mer- 
chants patronize it as such. 

Mr. Danforth i- a republican and for lour years, or two terms, has 1 n a membei oi 

the city council. He served as police judge for more than a year and then resigned that 
position in order to take up a homestead. 1 1 1 ^ social nature finds expression in his mem- 
p in the Masonic order and he has attained high rank in that organization, belong- 
ing In all of the bodies thereof with the exception of the consistory. He litis held all 
ol lie .hairs in the blue lode,, and chapter. He is a member of the Independent Order ot 

Odd fellow^ and was secretary for term, and his Fraternal connections also extend to 

the Knights ot Pythias, in which he has held all of the chairs, the Benevolent Protective 
Order of Elks and the Modern W linen of America. 



MAJOR JOSEPH R. HANSON. 

Major Joseph I!. Hanson, of Yankton, is oi f South Dakota's earliest pioneers and 

I in. |. Il.l, inscribed upon the pages of its history, lie aided in shaping events 

which figure prominently in it- annals alone both military and legislative lines, ami for an 
extended period of about lime decades ha- been a factor in the agricultural progress of 
nty and state lie was born in Lancaster. \ew Hampshire, a son of Joseph Hanson, 

who was likewise born in that state, anil a grandson of Isaac Hanson, who came from 
England and was one of the first settlers of the White .Mountain district. lb- is also a 
descendant of John Hanson, who was a delegate to congress under the Articles of Confedera- 
tion from lis] i,, i;-;. and serve, I as president of thai congress in ITsl-:;. The father, 
Joseph Hanson, was united in marriage I" Ann I'inkhain. a ilaughtei ol Daniel I'mkham. 
builder ill the Mount Washington turnpike, lor which he received a grant of land, and a 
pari ot that urant I,, ,. the homestead property upon which Major Hanson was born. 



HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 13 

The last named attended the grammar and high schools of his native city and also 
pursued a short course of study in the academy at Salem, Massachusetts. In 1856, think- 
ing to find better business opportunities in the middle west, he made his way to Illinois, 
settling for a time in Chicago, where he was in the employ of his brother, who was engaged 
in the furniture business. In 1857 he removed to Winona. Minnesota, where he continued 
in active connection with the furniture trade, but the following year he and three com- 
panions started with ox teams for the territory of Dakota. They arrived at the present 
site of Sioux City, Iowa, and there crossed the Missouri river into Nebraska, finally reaching 
a point in the .Missouri directly opposite Yankton, where they prepared their camp for the 
winter. During that season Major Hanson crossed the river and located a piece of land 
adjoining the present corporate limits of the city and that tract is still in his possession. 
He located permanently in Yankton in 185S, and at that time there were but tour white 
people in the settlement, all employed at the trailing post of Frost Todd & Company. The 
following year, however, emigration having begun, Mr. Hanson embarked in the real- 
estate business and has been so engaged from that date to the present. Of the actual 
settlers of Yankton, Mr. Hanson was the second, having been preceded only by John >C. 
Holman, who had built his cabin about a month prior to Major Hanson's arrival. 

From the time that Yankton numbered him among its citizens to the present, Mr. 
Sanson has borne an active and helpful part in the work of general improvement and 
development and his name is indelibly inscribed upon the pages of Yankton's history. 
In 1 8(32 he became chief clerk of the territorial legislature and served for two years. He 
was then chosen to represent his county in the fourth session of the territorial council and 
was also appointed territorial auditor and judge advocate. In military circles his name 
became well known, for in the Home Guards, organized for protection against the Indian 
raids, he served with the rank of colonel. He was also made a member of the commission 
formed to adjust claims for Indian depredations and took charge of building of fortifications 
known as the Yankton stockade in 18f>2. The survey of the government road from the 
Minnesota state line to Old Fort Pierre was made under his direction in 1865 and the same 
year he was appointed by President Lincoln as Indian agent for the upper Missouri region, 
and as such had supervision over all the various branches of the Sioux nation, there 
being more than twenty thousand Indians under his charge. Before his appointment was 
confirmed by the senate President Lincoln was assassinated and lie was reappointed by 
President Johnson, continuing to till that important position until 1870, with headquar- 
ters at Crow Creek Agency and with sub-agencies at Fort Sully and Fort Rice. His 
administration covered a period when the Indians were in constant revolt against the army 
and the white settlers and it was members of these same tribes who later perpetrated the 
historic Custer massacre. 

Mr. Hanson was a member of the first constitutional convention held at Sioux Falls 
in 1885 and the code, with slight modifications, as ratified by the second convention, was 
adopted by t lie people and is the present organic law of South Dakota. Important ami 
numerous as have been the connections of Mr. Hanson already mentioned, he has figured 
actively in other pursuits. He was secretary and member of the board of directors of the 
first railway, known as the Dakota Southern, built within Dakota territory. He has lived 
to see the state covered by a great net work of railway lines, bringing it into close connec- 
tion with north, south, east and west. 

In October, 1S72, Mr. Hanson was united in marriage to Miss Annie M. (1. Mills, a 
daughter of Abraham Mills, a member of the Long Island family of that name, and they 
had one son. Joseph Mills Hanson, who is widely known as a writer and magazine con- 
tributor. Soon after coming to this territory Major Hanson secured a farm of two hundred 
acres two miles from Yankton and thereon later established the homestead upon which 
he has lived fur more than thirty year-, heim_' now most comfortably situated in life. 

In polities Mr. Hanson has 1 n consistently a republican from the birth of the party. 

and in 1S59 organized the first republican ramus held in Dakota territory. Few men among 
Dakota's pioneers are more widely ami favorably known and there are few chapters of 
Yankton county'-, early annals but contain his name as one of the active participants in 
events recorded. He is able, genial and kindly, is prosperous and is rightly numbered 
among the sterling characters who have shaped the destinies of the vast country embraced 
in Dakota territory. His has been an active life and his is the satisfaction of having done 



14 HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 

a man's work in the transformation of the wilderness as he found it into one of the fairest 
11 the ' nion. Hanson county is named in his honor. Fraternally he is connected 
with the Ma-.. n~ and in his life has exemplified the beneficent spirit of the craft, which is 
based upon mutual helpfulness and brotherly kindness. His memory forms a connecting 
link between the primitive past and the progressive present and he relates many interesting 
m dents concerning the early days when only here and there had the seeds of civilization 
been plant.-. I and the work oi development begun. He has lived to see this become a 
prosperous state, enjoying all oi the opportunities and equipped with all of the con- 
veniences oi the oldei east and his influence and his labors have been potent elements in 
bi inging it to it- present condition. 



CYRUS C. I'l CKETT. 



. Cyrus C. Puckett is one ol the representative men oi Tyndall, South Dakota, when, he 
i- engaged in the practice of law and is also editor of an up-to-date and reliable weekly 
newspaper. His great-grandfather, Daniel Puckett, was a Quaker, who, hating slavery, 
removed from South Carolina to southeastern Indiana about 1800. Hia son, the grand- 
father ol subject, was Cyrus Puckett, who married Bettie Thomas, and thej tme 

1 parents of < yrus J. Puckett, who was born in Fountain county, Indiana, December 26, 
;m " ln IMS the last named was taken by Ins parents from Indiana to Jo Daviess county, 
Illinois, the trip being made bj team, as there were then no railroads in that part ol the 

country. Although lie was but eight year- old at the time, he rei ibers a deer which 

" :l running about the yard of the hotel in Chicago at winch they stopped, and he also 
remembers that a guesl of the hotel placed him upon the deer's back and that the deer 
allowed him to ride there. An uncle of C. J. Puckett, Levi Coffin by name, kept one of the 

station ol the underground railway in Indiana, thus helping many escaping slaves t ach 

1 anada and freed Ii was he who gave -belter to the original of the character of Eliza 

in Mrs. Stowe's "Uncle Tom's Cabin." The young woman in question actually made her 
' ca P« across the Ohio river much as described in the famous novel and Mr. Coffin assisted 
her on her way north, 

Cyrus I Pucketl manic, I Elizabeth Deetz, a daughter of William and Mary (Kleesci 
"' ■ ' " mI :l native oi Sullivan i nty, Pennsylvania. The Deetz family was early estab- 
lished in this countrj and all ol its men proved their patriotism by active participation in 
the war of the Revolution. C. J. Puckett removed from Jo Daviess county, Illinois, to Hutch- 
inson county. South Dakota, in L884, buying three hundred and twenty acres of land 

1111,1,1 two miles north of Scotland, lie at once became recognized as a leader in 
p ogn ivc farming in the stale an. I was the first to demonstrate that com could be profit 
ably grown here. He also set OUl the first orchar.l in the region and sowed the tii-st meadow 

ol timothy and cl..\er. He was likewise interested i lucational advancement and was 

"'"' ol ,l "' founders of Scotland Academy, serving also as trust f the institution. In 

1901 lie took up hi- abode in Vermillion and there still makes Ins home. (' ..I. Puckett was 

twice married and l>\ his first wife bad three sons, namely: Frank, a banker of Hosmer, 

South Dakota; Walter, an agriculturist ol Roundup, Montana; and Willard, who follows 

"S at i llwater, North Dakota. To Mr. Pucketl and lus second wife were born 

on C'yru C, of tin- review; and Owen, a civil engineer of Edmonton, Alberta, 

' I ! ft. 

1 : .'tt was born in Jo Daviess county, Illinois, January :.'.",. 1882, and was 
igi when brought by In- parent- to Hutchinson cunty. this state. He 

' ementan education in the c ion schools of the neighbor! I and was later 

''"'' tv n(] i,i in eotland icademj and for one year in Warren Academy, Jo 

' ' illinoi His collegiate I professional work was done at the State 

outh Dakota, located at Vermillion, where he stu.be. I for i years, being 

th tin Bachelor oi Vrts degree in 1905. While still a student in the university 
I"' spcnl the summers from 1903 to 1905 on a claim in Edmunds county. South Dakota. 

thus i ible ex] nee and making enough money to partially pay his college 

expensi Iftei 905 In entered the postal service al Vermillion and was identified there- 



HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 15 

with until L909. He took up the study of law after 1907 and received the LL. 1!. degree 

U] the completion of his course in L910. Upon his admission to the bar in that year 

he opened an office in Tyndall, where he has since been building up a growing law prac- 
tice. In 1911 he formed a partnership with Dr. Klima and W. W. French in purchasing 
the Tyndall Tribune, which paper they have since published together. Mr. Puckett has charge 
of the editorial work. Dr. Klima the operating department and Mr. French the business 
management of the paper. It is a well edited and well conducted country weekly, giving 
to its subscribers not only a full account of local happenings but also keeping them informed 
as to the great events occurring in the world at large. Its editorials are potent forces in 
promoting many worthy enterprises and always seek the advancement of Bon Homme 
county and the state of South Dakota. As it has a wide circulation and is recog 
nized as one of the best advertising mediums of the county, it is accorded a liberal 
patronage by local merchants. 

Mr. Pucketf is a republican in politics ami his religious allegiance is given to the Con 
gregational church. Fraternally he belongs to tin' Masonic order, being a member and 
master of Tyndall Lodge, A. F. & A. M., ami likewise a member of the chapter at Ver- 
million, lie also belongs to the well known college fraternity, Beta Theta Pi. He recalls 
the fearful blizzard which occurred January 12, 1888. He ami his mother and twa brothers 
were :\t home and were not exposed to danger, but a girl living with the family, who was 
at school, was obliged to remain there throughout the night, as it would have been 
tempting death to endeavor to return home. The stock was left unfed that night, a- it 
was altogether unsafe to go out into the stoun even to the barn. Mr. Puckett has proved 
himself worthy of his pioneer ancestors, and as a lawyer and editor is doing much to 
further the welfare of his county and state. 



JUDGE .1D11X R. RUSSELL. 



Judge John R. Russell, of Deadwood, has served three terms as county judge of Law- 
rence county, South Dakota, and is an attorney of recognized ability. He was born in 
Lindsay, Ontario, Canada, on the 15th of October, 1870, a son of Michael ami Johanna C 
(Raymond) Russell. The mother was bom in Dresden, Germany, September 13, 1849, and 
emigrated to the United States, being married in Chicago. The father's birth occurred in 
April, 1847, in Limerick, Ireland, and in L849 he accompanied his parents to Canada, his 
father having been evicted from his estate in Ireland. While still a boy Michael Russell 
went t" Kansas and resided in Leavenworth in 1864 and 1865, being employed by railroad 
contractors, ami while there he met Buffalo Bill, who became his fast friend. In 1SG."> he 
went to Salina, Kansas, and thence to ( herry (nek, Colorado, the site of the present city 
of Denver, and later went east. Later he returned to the west, staying for a time in 
Colorado and Nebraska, but in 1877 he came I" Deadwood by stage. In March of that 

year he embarked in business at Deadw 1 and continued in that connection for a 

number of years. He also was interested in mining and at the present time holds patents 
tn a number of valuable mining properties, lie also own- considerable real estate. 

The subject of this review was the second in order of birth in a family of three 

children, tin- others being: Mary Harriet, who died in Deadw 1 in 1888; and .lames 

Emmett, of that city, who is a mining engineer ami a graduate of the University oi 
Michigan in the class of mot. The mother passed away on the 11th of September, 1907. 

Judge Russell attended the common and high schools of Deadwood and after graduating 
from the latter was a student in the Spearfish State Norma] School. He also attended 
the University of Notre Dame at Notre Dame, Indiana, for a number of years. In 1892 
he began the study of law in the office of Edwin Van Cise, acting at the same time a 
law clerk for about eight year-, lie has In- degree from the Chicago Law School and was 
admitted to the bar in 1899. In l he began the practice of his profession in Dead- 
wood and has continued independently until the present time. In 1902 he was nominated 
as states attornej bul was defeated and in 1904 was again offered the nomination, which 
he declined. In L902 he was made citj attorney and in 1908 was elected to the office 
of county judge, in which position he -.'Med three terms, lie was an admirable judge a- 



1G HISTORY OE SOUTH DAKOTA 

he lias that impartiality thai is essentia] to the administration of justice, allowing no per- 
sonal predilections to influence his decisions, which are based upon the law and equity. He 
continues the private practice of his profession and has appeared as counsel in some of 
the most important litigation of the district. He lias other business interests, being a 
director in tin- Black Hills Trust i Saving Bank ami a stockholder in the Gold Mountain 
Mining A Milling ' ompany. He also is connected with a number of other companies in 

the vicinitj "i Deadwood ami has recently sold s e valuable mining lands, though he 

-till owns a number oi patented mining properties. 

Judge Russell was married on the 7th oi May. L905, to Miss Anne Calvin, who was 
bom in Grand Rapids, Michigan, a daughter of John and Mary Galvin, both of whom are 
now deceased. Mrs. Russell was reared by an aunt and at one time lived in the west, 
hut met her Future husband while visiting relatives at Deadwood. They have one child, 
Dorothj Anne, who was hi, in dune 29, L906, and is now attending school. 

The Judge is a member of the Roman Catholic church, of which he is a truster, and 

i- also ; mber of tin- Knights of Columbus. Fraternally lie belongs to Lodge. No. 1906, 

i: I'. n. i:.. ol which he is exalted ruler and of which he was treasurer for six years, and 
also district deputy hi the order in 1913. In 1904 he was president of the Deadwood 

Business Men's Club and under his administration tl rganization was able to do much 

f,u- the good of the city. lie has used his ability not only to gain personal success hut to 

secure tin- g I of the community and those who know him honor him for his integrity 

and public spirit. 



THOMAS JOHNSTON GRIER. 

Thomas Johnston Grier, whom the Daily Call characterized as "Lead's best friend and 

I,, i people's," was the superintendent of the Homestake Mining C pany for thirty years, or 

until death called I i the 22d ,,f September, rail. In the famous Black Hills district 

of South Dakota the Homestake .Mining Company developed its interests with such signal 

success that the region is today second to i ther mining district in the world. The busi- 

ness managi nt of the c pany. which has for more than a generation never failed to 

dei hue a liberal dividend annually, creates admiration among miners and mining experts of 
the world as well as aiming the captains of industry ami finance. Wide experience and 
sound practical judg nt are evident in every feature of the control of this colossal enter- 
prise. The man who was responsible for tin- uniform advancement and to whom more than 
to any other is due the high reputation and wide prestige which the Homestake mines enjoy 
is Th.. ma- Johnston Grier, the late efficient superintendent, a man nut only familiar with 
everj detail of tic mining industry, but also the possessot of business tact ami executive 
ability of high order, as his thirty years of successful management attest. The manner in 
which tin- gigantic enterprise is conducted led someone i" remark, "It is a huge ami highly 
efficient manufacturing plant with gold as it- product." Hack of every such mammoth con- 
cern is a strong personality ami in this instance it was that of Th as Johnston Grier, a 

man who e business ability and executive force wen- equalled by his keen sagacity ami his 
I a i. ad humanitarian ism. 

Mi, i. rai w.i- born at Pakenham, Ontario, Canada, May is, 1850, and was the fourth 
in ;i family of ten children, six suns ami four daughters the others being: ,1. R, II., who did 
in Montreal in 1911; George E., now a resident "i [roquois; Annie M.. the wife of Gil- 
bert I i ii ol Ogdcn i tah; William John, who died at San Francisco in 1909; Elizabeth V., 
the wife nt Arthur Williams, of Montreal; .Margaret A., who died at Annheini. California, in 
lss:; ; Albert E., who died In Denver, Colorado, in 1907; Charles Allen, who died in Iroquois 
in lss;; ; and Georgetta i lara, now the wife of Charles Withycomb, of Montreal. 

Thomas Johnston Grier spent his youth largely in [roquois, Ontario, Canada, where, in 

tin acquircmenl ol his education, he passed through consecutive grades to the high scl I. 

Hi- fn-t practical business training ami experience ci to him as a clerk under his father 

in the postoflice ami while tlui- engaged he devoted his leisure moments to the study of 
telegraphy. Vt thi age ol seventeen he went to Montreal and became an employe in the 
main office "i the Montreal Telegraph C pany, with which he was connected until 1871. He 




I ||< (MAS J. ORIER 



THE NEW YORK 
PUBLIC LIBRARY, 






HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 19 

then crossed the border into the United States and made his way to Corinne, Utah, where he 
was employed as an operator by the Western Union Telegraph Company for about two and 
a half years. He was then placed in charge of the operating room at Salt Lake City, where 
he continued for four years. 

The year 1878 witnessed Mr. Grier's arrival in the Black Hills, at which time he entered 
the employ of tlie Homestake Company as bookkeeper. Six years later, or in 1884, following 
the demise of Samuel MeMaster, he was appointed to the vacant position of superintendent 
of the company and so remained for three decades, honored and respected alike by stock- 
holders and employes. Under his direction was developed the largest gold mine in the world, 
but Mr. Grier, although he had every opportunity to do so, never became a stockholder, feel- 
ing that he could serve the interests of both employers and employes with greater fairness 
and justice if he was not financially connected with the corporation. He was, however, presi- 
dent of the First National Bank of Lead. Working his own way upward, Mr. Grier never 
forgot the fact that he won his advancement and was therefore in sympathy with the humblest 
employe. Any man with a just grievance was sure to obtain an audience and recognized tin- 
fact that fairness would be meted out to him. It is probable that no other superintendent of 
a like corporation in the United States ever enjoyed so fully the respect of the employes — 
respect which he won by reason of his great consideration and fairness to the man who 
earns his bread by honest toil. As manager and superintendent he was also ever looking out 
for the welfare of the corporation which he represented. He was given carte blanche in regard 
to the control of affairs and he continually studied out methods to promote efficiency and 
produce more substantial results. Under his direction many millions of dollars were expended 
in improvements which have added to the value of the plant and promoted its efficiency. In 
this connection the Daily Call wrote: 

"Under his regime was built the great water system which supplies the company's works, 
the city of Lead and other towns. The Spearlish hydro-electric plant was completed during 
his term of office, the great Ellison hoist, the viaduct connecting the mills with the railway 
system of the company, the Star and Amicus mills, adding to the capacity of the company'.-* 
milling plants, and other works which, while adding to the efficiency and the output of the 
company, have given employment to hundreds of people. Under him the work of building the 
new B. & M. hoist, the power plant and boiler plant, which is now under way. was started. 
The Recreation building was conceived by Mr. Grier, and the plans for its completion carried 
out by Chief Engineer and Assistant Superintendent Richard Blackstone. It is one thing that 
will stand as a monument to Mr. Grier, and a reminder of the thought and care which he gave 
to the interests of those who worked under him." As manager for the Homestake Company 
Mr. Crier superintended the efforts of twenty-live hundred people with a payroll of two 
hundred and twenty-live thousand dollars per month, the mines turning out over six million 
dollars in gold and owning over sixteen million dollars worth of property. The business was 
largely developed through the efforts of Mr. Grier. Labor troubles in 1908, when the com- 
pany was obliged to take issue with the Western Federation of Labor, were finally settled 
after Mr. Crier had put into effect a card system, by which all employes declared they would 
not become affiliated with the union. This has since been in effect and the soundness of his 
judgment in the matter is indicated in the fact that neither riot nor murder accompanied the 
labor trouble and there were tew arrests for disturbances, so perfectly were his orders executed 
by his subordinates. 

Perhaps one of the greatest public testimonials of the business worth and ability of Mr. 
Grier was given at the time when the United States Industrial Commission made its recent 
investigation of the Homestake Company, going carefully into all details with tin' result that 
the commission made the public statement that they had never found any corporation SO 
equitably managed or so perfectly systematized as the Homestake under what they termed, 
"Mr. Grier's benevolent despotism." 

On the 8th of August, 1896, Mr. Crier wedded Mary .lane Palethorpe, of Glasgow, 
Scotland, and they became parents of lour children. Thomas Johnston, Evangeline Victoria, 
Lisgai Patterson and Ormonde Palethorpe. Mr. Grier also had two stepchildren, whom he 
regarded with the same love and affection that he entertained for his own. These are .lames 
anil Madge Ferric. His home was his recreation. 

A little more than two weeks prior to his death Mr. Grier, accompanied by his wife and 
two sons, went to California and at Los Angeles, on the 22d of September, 1914, he passe. I 



20 HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 

away. He was a life member of the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks, a member of sev- 
eral of the Masonic bodies and also oi the organization known as the Homestake Veterans. 
His religious faith was evidenced by his membership in and regular attendance at the services 
ui the Episcopal church. When the news of his death was received in the city in which lie 
had bo long lived it was said that old men that had been in the employ of the company for 
over thirty years could be seen on the street crying like children over the loss which they 
regarded as personal. Everj form of public amusement or entertainment was cancelled or 
postponed from the time the news was received until after the funeral, and not only in Lead 
l„n i„ every portion of the country public tribute was paid to the memory of the man who 
was so highlj revered where he was best known. Perhaps something of the nature of Mr. 
Grier's splendid life work can best be gleaned from the remarks made by 1'rofcssor Com- 
mons, "i the industrial commission, after his investigation of the Homestake properties and 
their management. He said: 

••I would like on this question of the underlying causes that you have brought out, I 
wool. I like for my personal use, not as stating any idea of my colleagues, to state to you 
what seems to mi' to he our purpose and line of suggestions which, from my standpoint, would 
he of use in the work that we have to do. As 1 stated at the beginning, we are required 
by congress to investigate the underlying causes of industrial unrest, and to make recom- 
mendations for legislation to congress ami. naturally, to the states. If we find unrest, what 
.,,, its causes and what legislation we should recommend as a remedy. 

"Now, I might state what seems to me to be the summing up of this testimony, that is, 
the way it strikes mi' from my own point of view, not representing either the employer or 
tie- employes, but simply as a looker-on. you might say: You have here the most remark- 
able business organization that I have come across in the country. You have developed wel- 
fare features which aie beyond anything that 1 know of. ami they are given with a liberal hand, 
'l.ni have a high scale of wages, reasonable hours — very fair hours. There has been evidently 
ereal progress made in taking care oi the employe- in the hospital service, and you have 
taken .are of the cost of living, have kept it down below what employes m other commu- 
nities have been forced to pay. You have practically been able by your great strength here 
,i- ,i huge corporation, dominating the whole community, to look out for the welfare .,( your 
employes, and to bring iii an admirable class of citizens. It seems also that you are influential 
m politics, that you secure a g I class of officials, and that you have secured the enforce- 
ment of law, the reduction of immorality. It seems also that you make an effort to build up 
the religious life of (he community and that your policy is broad ami liberal in all respects. 
I take it also that this policy depends solely upon your personality. Such inquiries as I 

|, av , made here indicate that in all ease- the stockholders leave all these matters tn you per- 

sonally and that this l.n.ad policy has bee,, carried out by y< i your own initiative; and 

thai you have nit that it was necessary, for the good of the c munity, the securing a line 

I, ol labor here, which you have undoubtedly done, that you should hold the reins pretty 

l I- lil ,,11 ! In- , nininiinil J ." 

aiding that he ha, I visited business men and talked with individuals in the camp, the 

chairman stated that from all he could see or hear the Homestake management had wielded 

,,,,■ with the utmosl fairness, had encouraged the religious life and educational hie of 

the com nitv. ami asked suggestions from Mr. Crier as to reco ndations lo he made 

a a ba i i'ir legislation, pointing out in the course of his remarks the fact thai, 
another man in Mi Grier's place might not exercise his power with the same fairness, justiee 
,,,i generositj that have characterized Mr. Grier's administration. 

Splendid and well merited tribute t,, Mr. Grier was paid by one of the local papers which 

said : 

"It was not his great, executive genius alone, his ability lor the management ol a 
,,,,ai propertj involving countless details and unlimited capacity for work, that Mr. Grier 
i~„ his superintendencj el the Homestake Mine made Lead unique in the industrial world. 
I, was bj the high character .a the man tin' honor, courage, justice and generosity. It was 
not merely a working policj thai gave to Homestake employes and to Lead people in 

,al whatevei ol < I it lay in his great power in besto-w it was the big, fatherly heart 

I hat made it possible for every man to look to Mr. (bier lor justice and generous treatment 
a„d never to look in vain. In I he management of Homestake affairs Mr. drier was given 
all power, ll re-ted with him lo institute and carry 0u1 policies and plans lor the control of 



HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 21 

an industry upon whose successful working Lead and her people depend absolutely while all 
the Hills is to a great degree dependent upon it. How many men would have been able to lay 
aside every consideration of personal aggrandizement or personal ambition and think only 
of the interests of the employes of the company and the rights of the stockholders? There 
was no reason why Mr. Grier should not have been a heavy stockholder. No reason why 
he should not have been a millionaire many times over without in any way breaking the 
requirements of law and of honesty. There was no reason, that is, except the fine sense of 
honor that prompted him, feeling that not being a stockholder would place him in better 
attitude toward the company and its operatives, to refuse to profit himself by the increase 
in values brought about largely through him. That unselfishness showed itself in many ways. 
Mr. Grier ould have spared himself much of anxiety and of effort had he been less concerned 
for the welfare of others and more for his own. But in all things the well-being and happiness 
of those under him and the interests of the company whose property he controlled came 
before any personal consideration." 

A modern statesman and philosopher has said: "In all this world the thing supremely 
worth having is the opportunity, coupled with the capacity, to do well and worthily a piece 
of work, the doing of which shall be of vital significance to mankind." Such an opportunity 
came to Mr. Grier and well did he improve it and his career illustrates the saying of another 

eminent American statesman, "There is something better than making a living making a 

life." 



rATKK'K M. MAGNEIi. 



Patrick M. Magner, who is engaged in fanning on section 5. in Yankton precinct of 
Yankton county, is a son of David and .Alary (Creighton) -Magner. The father was born 
in Cork, Ireland, and brought by his parents to the state of New York. His wife was born 
in Dublin. Ireland, and with a brother and a friend came to the United States and settled 

at W Istock, Illinois, where she was married to David Magner, having previously removed 

westward to the locality. In 1ST4 the parents of our subject came to South Dakota. The 
father, who was a shoemaker, worked at bis trade in Woodstock and also in Yankton up 
to the time of his death, which occurred in 1876. IDs widow survived him and reared their 
two sons, Michael and Patrick, the former now a business man of Yankton. The mother 
parsed away in Council Bluffs, Iowa, in 1908. 

Patrick M. Magner grew to manhood in Yankton and in early life became interested in 
athletics, especially in boxing. He became a professional and in about thirty matches in 

the featherweight class lost but i Since retiring from the ring he has been engaged 

in fanning. He first purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land in 1002 and since that 
time lias added to his holdings until his borne ranch comprises five hundred and twenty 
acres, on which he has one oi the finest sets ot farm buildings in Yankton county or in 
South Dakota. lie is continually adding to bis buildings and to his property as the increase 
of his business demands. He is exclusively a stockman, sidling no grain, and often buying 
some to Iced upon the home ranch. He also has a farm of more than ten hundred and 
twenty acres ten miles west of Yankton, on which he raises large quantities of grain. Mis 

fanning operations ar inducted on an extensive scale. A large farm traction engine is 

used in the heavy plowing and hauling and in the threshing and other operations on the 
farm. Seventy-five horses are necessary on the two farms. The annual output includes 
three or foui- bundled cattle and one thousand hogs, and is equalled by but few producers 
in the state. Mr. Magner follows advanced scientific methods and seems to have dis- 
covered the secret of preventing disease among hogs by feeding them while tiny are 
growing on oats, giving them no corn except for the finish a month or two before sending 
them to flic market. His herds line been :it nil times free from the usual ravages of 
disease. He is also a believer in alfalfa, having out about one hundred and seventy-five 
acres id' it. Since becoming well established in his others lines he has added dairying to 
his business. He started by selling milk and now supplii s a large part of the milk and cream 
used in Yankton. 

Mr. Magner was married October 21, 1905, to Miss Maude A. Paul, who was born near 
Iowa City, Iowa. November 21, 1871, a daughter of William L. and Alice (Carney) Paul, 



22 HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 

who in L878 removed westward to Buffalo county, Nebraska, settling half way between 
Kearney and Orleans. Mr. Paul, having served as a soldier throughout the Civil war, was 

c pelled to live on his claim for only about a year, when he received title to it. The 

family resided on the claim while Mr. Paul followed hi> vocation of contracting and build- 
ing in Kearney and Orleans and as soon as he received a patent to the land he moved 
In- iamil\ in Kearney, where the children were educated. While upon the claim the family 
lived in a sod house and the school which the children attended during that period was also 
a sod structure. The mother died a lew years alter the removal to Kearney and the 
family afterward scattered. Mrs. Magner came to Yankton and made her home with old 
family friends Until her marriage. She became interested in farming before her marriage 
and for several years after had charge of the place before Mr. Magner took an active part 
in running the business. Her knowledge of agriculture and stock-raising is equal to that 
of her husband's and theirs are among the most, important and extensive interests of 
Yankton county ami that section of the state. They have four big silos bidding over one 
thousand tons and furnishing ensilage for the large number of cattle and hogs annually 
led and marketed on the Magner farm. 

Mr. Magner is a republican in his political \ic\vs but does not seek nor desire office, 
preferring to concentrate his energies upon his agricultural and stock-raising interests, which 
have brought him to a prominent position among the successful farmers of his part of 
the stale. 



M. D. THOMPSON. 



No mattei' in how much fantastic theorizing one may indulge as to the cause of success, 
it is invariably found on careful analysis that the successful men owe their position to 
industry, enterprise and persistency of purpose. Such is the record of M. D. Thompson, who 
has been continuously connected witli business affairs for a longer period than any other 
resident of North or South Dakota. Residing at Vermillion, he is engaged in banking, in the 

grain business I in dealing in farm machinery. He was born in Saratoga county. New York, 

in L847, a son of Orville Thompson, who followed fanning in Washington county. New York, 
until his death. 

The sou acquired his early education in the public schools anil afterward attended the 
hurt Edward Institute of New York, from which he was graduated with the class of 1st;:; 
Subsequently lie made his way westward to Wisconsin, where he engaged in clerking for 
about two years, and in .lime, 1869, he went to (lay county, Dakota territory, where he 
purchased an interest in the general store of .lames McIIenry. At the same time Martin .1. 

Lewis became a partner and later Mr. Tl ipson and Mr. Lewis purchased Mr. McIIenry 's 

interest. The nature of the business has been s ewhat changed, lor the Thompson-Lewis 

Company now deals in farm implements, grain and lumber, and its trade has grown to exten- 
sive and gratifying proportions. Mr. Lewis passed away in L896, continuing active in the 
until his demise, but tlie name of the Thompson Lew is Company has been retained. 
Mr. Thompson is an extensive owner of well improved farm lands in (lay county and also of 
valuable properties in Vermillion. He was one of the organizers of the private bank con- 
ducted under tin tn f D. M. Inman A Company at Vermillion in is":i. This was the 

sii mid bank of Vermillion and was conducted under the original plan of organization until 
1889, w in n it was converted into the hirst National Bank, which is capitalized for fifty thou- 
sand dollars and of which Mr. Thompson is one of the principal stockholders. For a consid- 
erable period he served as vice president ot the institution and in 1912 was elected to the 
presidency, in which position he has active voice in the management of the bank and in formu- 
lating its policy. 

(in January 6, L870, occurred the marriage of Mr. Thompson and Miss Anna 10. Lewis, 
a daughtei of William L. Lewis, of Columbus, Wisconsin, and to them have been born two 
son-, Orville \\ .. a graduate of the State University of South Dakota, was cashier of the 
I n I National Bank oi Vermillion for ten years and while living in Clay county was elected 
-tai' senator for a two years' term. lie is now a resident of Chicago, where he is secretary 
and treasure) oi (he .lame- I'. Marsh Manufacturing Company. Martin L., also a graduate 
of tin- siat. I niversity, i- a partner in the Thompson-Lewis Company of Vermillion. 




M. I). THOMPSON 



HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 25 

Mr. Thompson is a stalwart republican, but not an aspirant for office. He and his fam- 
ily hold membership in the Baptist church. Fraternally he is a Mason and an Odd Fellow 
and in the former has attained the Knight Templar degree and is also a member of the 
Mystic Shrine. For forty-six years he lias been continuously connected with business affairs 
in Clay county and has steadily advanced in the scope and importance of his interests and 
activities. His success is the direct outcome of earnest, persistent effort intelligently directed 
and he stands in the foremost rank among those who have been most active and efficient in 
furthering the upbuilding of his part of the state. 



COLONEL WHEELER S. BOWEN. 

During practically the entire period of his active life Colonel Wheeler S. Bowen has 
been identified with the newspaper business and since 1909 has been editor of the Huronite, 
published at Huron., As such he has exerted a great influence over the development of 
the city along many lines and his work has won him an important place among the men 
of ability and worth in the community. Colonel Bowen is a veteran of the Civil war, 
having served as a member of the Twelfth Wisconsin Battery. He was born in Ohio, April 
s. 1S43, and is a son of Hiram and Martha (Wheeler) Bowen, who moved to Wisconsin 
in 1849, settling at Janesvillc. The father conducted a newspaper there for many years, 
having previously been in the newspaper business at Akron, Ohio, as founder and editor 
of the Summit County Beacon. Hiram Bowen edited the Janesville Gazette and later 
the Milwaukee Sentinel. He came to South Dakota in 18T6 and moved from this state to 
California, where his death occurred. 

Colonel Wheeler S. Bowen acquired his education in the public schools of Janesville 
In 1862 lie enlisted in the Twelfth Wisconsin Battery and served in the army until the 
close of the Civil war. Following his honorable discharge he returned to Janesville. where 
he became connected with the newspaper business, editing the (lazotte until 1873. In that 
year he moved to Yankton, this state, and bought the Press and the Dakotan, starting 
the first daily in the Dakotas. Colonel Bowen moved to Sioux Falls in 1901 and edited 
the Press there until 1907. after which he spent one year in Boise City, Idaho. In 1909 he 
located in Huron and bought the Huronite and the State Spirit which he merged under one 
management with the former name. Since that time lie lias edited the paper, making it 
one of the leading influences for progress in the community. It has become an excellent 
news and advertising medium and its popularity is evident in a large and growing cir- 
culation. 

In 1874 Colonel Bowen was united in marriage to Miss Ella Davis of Janesville, 
Wisconsin, and they have become the parents of a son. George H., who is in business 
with his father. Colonel Bowen is well known in the local post of the Grand Army of 
the Republic and in this way keeps in touch with his comrades of fifty years ago. He 
is progressive and public-spirited in matters of citizenship and has held a number of offices 
of public trust and responsibility, serving as postmaster of Yankton under Presidents 
Arthur and Harrison and as clerk of the senate committee on Indian affairs in Washington 
under Ivttcjrew. Since taking up his residence in Huron his influence has been a tangible 
force for good in the community and he is held in high honor and esteem wherever he 
is known. 



HEXBY ADAM WAGNER. 



Henry Adam Wagner, the popular mayor .,i Watertown and proprietor of the Water- 
town Carbonating Company, was bom in Luxemburg, Germany, on the 11th of lime. 1871, 
his parents being John P. and Margarei (Suttor) Wagner. He spent the first thirteen 
years of his life in the land of his birth and then accompanied his parents on their emigra- 
tion to the new world, the family taking up their abode near Watertown, Codington county, 
South Dakota. Here the father engaged in farming until four years prior to his death, 

Vol. IV— 2 



I'd HISTORY OF Si H'TII DAKOTA 

when be removed to Watertown and li% ■<l retired. He became the owner of seven hundred 
jim twenty acres of verj valuable and productive land. His death occurred in the fall of 
■ .Hid that of his wife about a year and a ball previously. 

II.iii x \. Wagner began his education in the schools of his native land ami lain 
attended college at Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin, completing his education, however, at 
Conception, Missouri. After leaving school ho engaged in the lumber ami grain business 
in Goodwin, South Dakota, for two years and was subsequently interested in the grain 
and coal business at Palmer ami Kranzburg. lie also conducted a general store at the 
lattei place until his removal to Watertown in L905. Forming a partnership with Sylvester 
Dory, la- embarked in Ins present business as proprietor of the Watertown Carbonating 
Company. They began operations in a -mall frame building, but their trade steadily 
increased and today they have une of the must up-to-date establishments of the kind 
in the state. shipping their products all over South Dakota and into Minnesota. They 
employ on an average twelve nun. Mr. Wagner is also a stockholder in several local 
c - ami i- regarded as f tin' leading ami enterprising business men of the town. 

(in the null of June, 1896, Mr. Wagner was united in marriage to Miss Anna M. 
Kranz, a daughter of John Kranz, of Kranzburg, who is still living at the age of eighty- 
three years Her mother, however, is deceased. Mr. Kranz tame to this state in 1878 
ami as a fanner was prominently identified with its early development and prosperity. Mr. 
ami Mis. Wagner have three children. Blanche, Roxanna and Vernon. The family hold 
membership in the Catholic church and in politics Mr. Wagner is a democrat. He has taken 
quite an active and influential part in state affairs and has been called upon to till 

several offices of honor and trust, being (deeded mayor of Watertown, first under tl Id 

form oi government, but within a month was reelected when the commission form of 

government came into existence. He has now filled that Office lor three years, with credit 

to himself ami to the entire satisfaction of all concerned. During this time great icipal 

improvements have been started, including a great deal of paving work, the extension of 
sewer-, etc. He is a member of Council No. 859, Knights of Columbus, is a life member of 
the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks ami is also connected with the Eagles, the Owls, 

the r nieicial club, the United Travelers ami the Fraternal Reserve Association. He 

finds recreation in outdoor sports, being especially interested in hunting and fishing as 
well as motoring. During his residence in Watertown his inllueme has been widely felt 
and he is justly regarded as one of the leading citizens. 



PATRICK BRYAN McCARTHY. 

Patrick Bryan McCarthy, a capitalist of Rapid city, who has won notable si ss in 

mining operations ami is now the sole owner of the Tamarack Group in Pennington 
county, comprising over four hundred acres of land rich with gold-bearing ores, is a native 

of County Cork. Ireland, and a descendant of one of the s( illustrious families ot tic 

Emerald isle tracing Ins ancestry in direct line back to Cormae McCarthy, famous in Irish 
history in connection with his ownership of Blarney Castle and estates. Our subject's 
fathei wa- Cornelius McCarthy and his mothei Catherine (Bryan) McCarthy. The former 
died when hi- -on Patrick was a lad of nine years and a year later the mother with her six 
children came to the United states, settling at Albion. Orleans county. New York. 

Patrick Bryan McCarthy, the third ii lei of birth in the family, received but 

I ted educational privileges. Me attended the public scl 1- when opportunity offered 

ami in later years ha- supplemented the knowledge thus gained by extensive reading and 

observation, so that h,- i- todaj a well informed man. Being oi f tl lder members of 

imily, it wa- necessary for him to contribute to the support of his mother and his 

- ■ brothers and sisters. At the age of Bixteen years lie became a brakeman on the 

' iagarti c! • I the New York Central Railroad, receiving a wage of dollar and 

thirtj e en and a half emit- per day. lb- so continued from L867 until 1869 and then 
mad,- hi- way westward to Grand Island, Nebraska, where In- entered the Union Pacific 
Railwaj service as a locomotive fireman. Latei he removed to North Platte and in isti be 
was promoted to engineer, being the youngest engineer in the Union Pacific service and one 



HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 27 

of the youngest in the entire country. He soon developed into one of the expert engineers 
of tlic road n ml established records of efficiency and operating economy that stood for 
many years unexcelled. He had a number of narrow escapes from injuries or death and 
finally concluded that the hazards of the work were out of proportion to the remuneration 
so that he resigned in 1877. 

Early in the same year Mr. McCarthy arrived in the Black Hills and mined for a time 
at Rockerville. In the latter part of lsls he became a member of the firm of McGuire & 
McCarthy, engaged in the grain and hay business at Rapid City. He had in the meantime 
become interested in a hotel property and in 1879 assumed the management of the Inter- 
national Hotel there which for many years afterward was one of the landmarks of the city 
and was, as well, the headquarters of the Northwestern Stage & Transportation Company, 
operating between Pierre and Black Hills points. It was the principal means of passenger 
travel in those days. Mr. McCarthy conducted the hotel until 1911, when the old structure 
was moved and its place taken by the Elks building. 

Since first coming to South Dakota he lias been largely interested in mining properties 
and is the sole owner of the Tamarack Group in Pennington county, comprising over four 
hundred acres of rich gold-bearing ores. His faith in the ultimate future greatness of South 
Dakota has led him to invest extensively in farm and ranch lands and he is also the owner 
of much valuable city real estate. 

In politics Mr. McCarthy is a democrat and fur many years has been a leader in both 
local and state circles of his part}'. He served as a member of the city council for several 
years and a part of the time as acting mayor. He turned the first sod at the beginning 
of the construction of the Crouch Line Railway and on the completion of flic work drove 
the last spike. He has always been actuated by a public-spirited devotion to the general 
good and lias cooperated in many important public movements, bis efforts being at all times 
resultant. He is a member of the Pioneer Society of 1877 and his religious faith is that 
of the Catholic church. 

(in the 12th of October, 1886, Mr. McCarthy was united in marriage to Miss Margaret 
Horgan, a daughter of Joseph and Alice Horgan, of Custer county. South Dakota. Her 
father was a civil engineer by profession and before coming to America was a member of 
the British Royal Engineers. Mrs. .McCarthy passed away September 6, 1903, leaving 
three children, Grover Cleveland, Mary Alice and Catherine. The son is now in the United 
States revenue service with headquarters at Aberdeen, South Dakota. 

Mr. McCarthy has always been fond of outdoor life and is devoted to hunting and 
fishing. He is an enthusiast on everything that spells development ami improvement and 
his support of any project looking to the advancement of civic, business or educational 
development of his city and the Black Hills country may always be relied upon. Progress 
and patriotism might well be termed the keynote of lus character and have brought him to 
his present enviable position. 



.IOIIX ( PAWFOKD F.CCLES. 



John Crawford Eccles is well known t.. the hardware trade throughout the slate of 
South Dakota as he has one of the leading stores of Die hind in the state ami is the largest 
Shipper along that line in the Black Hills district, lie was bom in Pittsburgh, Pennsyl- 
vania, August 27, 1859, a -on of .lane- and Margaret (daffy) Eccles, both of whom were 
natives oi Pennsylvania. The father, who was a merchant tailor, emigrated with In- family 
from the Key-tone state I,, Michigan, where he continued in business, and both he and his 
wife passed away in the Wolverine state. 

Mr. Eccles of this review is the sixth in a family of eight children and was re I 

under the parental roof. He attended school first al Battle Creek, Michigan, ami later at 
Tecumaeh and Charlotte, that state. In 1881 he cairn- to South Dakota and located in 

Deadw I. where he was employed by the Starr >\ Bullock Company in their hardware 

department. After one year in their emploj ho was taken into the firm, which became 
Starr. Bullock & Eccles. They opened the first hardware store in Sturgis and Mr. Eccles 
continued in charge of Dial establishment until 1896 or 1897, when he sol, I his interest in 



28 1 1 1 S I ( )RY < »F S< >L i 1 1 DAKOTA 

the firm and went to Juneau, Alaska, when- In- lum^lit a stock of men's furnishings at a 
bankrupt sale and conducted business For about six months. On disposing of his interests 

there, he returned to Deadw I. South Dakota, and entered the employ of Ayers & Company, 

dealers in hardware, with whom he remained for seven years. At the expiration of that 
period he removed to Belle Fourehe and purchased the Mortimer & Cock Hardware Com- 
pany's stock. This was in L904 and in the intervening years he has been most successful 
in tin- conduct of liis business and now carries the largest stock of hardware in western 
Smith Dakota and the largest stock of wire in any state. His business occupies two lloors 
in the main store and he also uses three large warehouses. He is recognized as the largest 
hardware shipper in the hills. Ilis success is founded upon those unchanging principles of 
business which must be the basis of enduring prosperity, namely, knowledge of the stock 
carried, honesty in all transactions and never-failing courtesy. He carries a full line of 
paints, oils, shelf and heavy hardware 1 , farm implements, wagons, buggies and wire fencing 
of all kinds. In addition to his large retail trade he does an extensive jobbing business. 

Mr. Eccles was married January 5, 1887. to Miss Elizabeth Maria Ash, a native of 
Yankton, Smith Dakota, and a daughter of Henry Clay and Mary Culver (Reynolds) Ash, 
the former horn in Allegany county, Maryland, on Christmas Day. 1827, and the latter in 
Ohio in L830. The mother died January 2:;, 1905, in Yankton, and the father passed 
away in Sturgis, February 12, L909. He was a charter member of the first Masonic lodge 
established in Dakota territory, which was located at Yankton, and was well known in the 
Masonic fraternity, lie and his wife were the parents of five children: Benjamin Cowdin, 
who resides near Faith, Sooth Dakota, and operates an extensive stock ranch, while his family 
live in Minneapolis, Minnesota-, Julia, the wife ol Charles Bates, of Yankton; Harry Clay, 
who was born in 1858 and died July 25, 1904, in Colorado, where he had gone for his 
health, which had heroine impaired while lie was prospecting in Alaska; William Bartlett, 
a resident of San Diego, California, where he is engaged in the real-estate and loan business; 
and Mrs. Eccles. 

Mr. and Mrs. Eccles have four children. John Crawford, Jr., born May 25. 1889, is asso- 
ciated with his father in the hardware business, lie married Miss [Catherine Pearson, a 
native ol Missouri, who was brought to Belle Fouche by her parents when but an infant. 
A daughter, Anna Elizabeth, has been horn to this marriage, lier natal day being June 25, 
1914. The second son, Marston Ash, was hmn November 8, 1891, and married Miss Ethel 
Hall, a native of Belle Fourehe. He is also associated with Ilis lather in the hardware 
business. Charles Bates, whose birth occurred •lime 7. 1893, is operating a two thousand 
acn stock ranch iii Montana which is owned by Eccles & Sons. Although the ranch 
i- in Montana the postofftce is Boise, Idaho. Mary Margaret, the only daughter, was born 
June l. 1895, and is the wife of Lynn Chunning, cashier of the State Bank of linker. 
Molilalia. 

Mr. Eccles is a democrat but has been loo busy with his business affairs to hold 
office. He is identified with the Knights of Pythias and the Modem Woodmen of America 
and m thus,, organizations has made i y friends, while he holds tie- respect and esteem 

of his fellow citizens, who recognize the lact that Ills financial success has 1 n won by 

■ 1 1 1 1 ■ i m.i business ability and tireless energy and that it has not been gained by taking 
advantat f others. 



.MiSEPlI \V. PARMLEY. 



Joseph W. I'arniley i~ an exponent of the spirit of progress which is dominating the de- 
velopment "I South Dakota and the northwest. lie makes his home at Ipswich, Edmunds 
county, and has been closely associated with its development along educational, agricultural and 
commercial lines. Ilis ml ensts, however, have even wider significance and effect, for he is con- 

cerned in the lj I roads move nt and in various other plans and projects which have to do 

w it h I he de\ elopment and upbuilding of the state, not, only for the immediate present but also 
for the future. Mr. I'arniley is a native of Iowa county, Wisconsin, born January 12, L861, and 
is a -on of Joseph and .lane (Ashton) I'arniley. After completing a common school course he 




.MisKI'll W. PAEMLEY 



HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 31 

attended the State Normal School of Platteville and the Lawrence University at Appleton, 
Wisconsin. 

His residence in Dakota territory dates from 1883. After looking over the northwest he 
concluded that it would eventually be a great agricultural empire. The railroads had reached 
Aberdeen and already extensions were being considered. Mr. Parmley studied the map and 
said that some day the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Railway Company would build west 
to the Pacific and felt that there was no more feasible route than from Aberdeen straight to 
the coast. He started out on foot and when forty miles west stopped on the present town site 
of Roscoe and looked around him for miles, the meeting of sky and prairie constituting his 
horizon. He secured a part of the present town site of Roscoe as his preemption, then returned 
to Aberdeen, purchased lumber for a shanty and drove back to his claim. In connection with 
( harles 1'. Morgan of Chicago he named the "town" Roscoe, in honor of Roscoe Conklin, who 
was then at the zenith of his career. Other settlers soon came and in connection with Henry 
Huck, Mr. Parmley in September of that year began the publication of the Roscoe Herald, 
of which he afterward became sole owner. He continued to publish that paper until 1910, when 
he purchased the South Dakota Tribune and merged the two journals under the name of the 
Ipswich Tribune. .All this time he was working earnestly for the development of the district 
in which he had located and his efforts extended beneficially along many lines. 

When Edmunds county was organized in August, iss:(, Mr. Parmley was appointed super- 
intendent of schools and was elected to that office in the fall of 1884. He was instrumental 
in organizing the educational system of the county, and when he retired from the position of 
county superintendent the educational work had been placed upon an excellent basis, leading 
to its continued growth and development. When lie left the position of county superintendent 
he was elected register of deeds and county clerk. In 1887 he studied law and was admitted 
to the bar but has never engaged in active practice. Ilis knowledge of the law. however, has 
been of the utmost value to him in conducting his private business interests and in promoting 
public projects. Moreover, he served as county judge for a number of terms both by election 
and by appointment of the governor, and he has also been numbered among the lawmakers 
of the state, having for two terms been a member of the state legislature. He has been urged 
by a large constituency on several occasions to become a candidate for congress, for governor 
and for the United States senate but has always declined. He has ever regarded the pur- 
suits of private life as in themselves abundantly worthy of his best efforts and has preferred 
that his public service should be done as a private citizen. Those who know aught of his career 
recognize, too, that his efforts have been farreaching and effective ami that many public move- 
ments owe much to his indorsement and active support. 

Mr. Parmley is intensely interested in better farming methods and was a pioneer in 
introducing Durum wheat, better varieties of corn, alfalfa ami drought resistant forage crops. 
He lias also introduced and bred herds of registered cattle and at the present time has the 

largest herd of Shetland j ies in the northwest. Moreover, he is the owner of the business 

conducted under the name of the Edmunds I ounty Abstract I ompany and is half owner of the 
McPherson (ounty Abstract Company at Leola. His resourceful business ability has not been 
i xhausted even through these connections ami into other fields he has extended his efforts, being 
at the head of the Aberdeen Pressed Brick Company and active in developing an industry that 
promises much for the northwest. 

Moreover, Mr. Parmley is known as the father of the good roads movement in the state 
and is president of the South Dakota Good Roads Association. He was the originator of a 
plan to build an improved public highway from Aberdeen to Mobridge, which against his 
protest was named the Parmley Highway. Later he led the movement for the extension id' the 
road to the falls of St. Anthony east and to the falls of the Yellowstone west, thus making a 
great road from the Twin Cities to the Yellowstone National Park. This has developed into 
;i greal doss country road and is now extending cast ;is far as Chicago and west to Seattle, 
while the plan is to continue east to Plymouth Rock, making a great transcontinental high- 
way. Mr. Parmley has been at the head of this undertaking and for the past two years has 
been president of the organization known n- the Yellowstone Trail Association. The value 
of such a project cannot be overestimated and t he promoters of such an undertaking deserve the 
gratitude of their fellow men. 

Mr. Parmley is also intensely interested in the world peace movement and is in demand 
.,, ;l lecturer on the subject of the settlement of disputes between nations. by arl.it ration or a 



32 HIST( >RY ( )F SOUTH DAKOTA 

world court. He i> now president of the Soutb Dakota Peace Society. He has traveled 
extensively in the United States, ( anada and Mexico and his writings descriptive of his 
journeys, as well as of subjects oi general discussion, are in demand by many magazines. 
Beside the honorary positions above mentioned thai he lills, he is a trustee of the Dakota 
Wesleyan I niversitj and is a member oi the National Scientific and other societies. It would 
be tautological in this connection to enter into anj series of statements showing him to be a 
man oi broad culture, oi liberal knowledge and wide public spirit, for these have been shadowed 
Forth between the lines oi this review. He looks at life from a wide standpoint, recognizes 

tl pportunities for national and world progress and attacks everything with a contagious 

enthusiasm. Mr. Parmley is a member of a number of secret societies, including the -Modern 

W Imen oi America and the United Workmen. He is also a thirty-second degree .Mason 

and a member of the Mystic Shrine. 

In 1886 Mr. Parmley was united in marriage to Miss lassie E. Baker, of Dodgeville, Wis 

i sin, a daughter of Francis and Mary (Dony) Baker. Two children have been born of this 

union: l.oien, now twenty years of age, who is attending the State University of South 
Dakota; and Irene, who is attending high school in Ipswich. 



GEORGE W. ABBOTT. 



since ls'.u George W. Abbott has resided in Sioux Falls and throughout the entire 
period, covering almost a quarter of a century, has been prominently connected with its 
linancial interests. He is also a leading figure in Masonic circles, few members oi the 
order in the state being a- widely known. His efforts have indeed been a tangible asset in 
the advancement oi Masonry in South Dakota and his acquaintance among his brethren of 
i he era il elsew here is also extensive. 

Mr. \ldioii is a native oi New England. He was born at Tamworth, Carroll county, 

\'\\ Hampshire, October 10, 1858, a si i Lyman and Shuah \\\ (Rowe) Abbott. Upon 

the homestead farm he was reared and in his native town acquired his education bj attend- 
ing the public scl Is. lie also continued his studies in the high school and Phillips 

\ cadi ni\ at Exeter, New Hampshire, and thus liberally educated started out to make a place 
for himself in the world. At the age oi twentj years he went to Colorado as secretary to 
ii mining expert and continued in that slate until 1883, when he came to the territory 
nl Dakota, settling in what is now Mcintosh county, .North Dakota, which county he aided 
in organizing and which he also served as its first superintendent of schools. He engaged in 
general merchandising and also filled the position of postmaster of Hoskins, now Ashley. 

'i the same i I perated a cattle ranch and was thus closely associated with the 

r:'ii\ development of thai section of the state. In 1887 he removed to Minneapolis, where 
the furniture and hardware business claimed his attention until 1891, when he removed 
to siou\ Falls and accepted the position of general manager of the Cooperative Loan & 
i\ i; ■ \ iici.it filling the position until 1894, when he resigned. Immediately after- 
ward b gani/ed the I nion Savings Association and became general manager, secretary 

and treasurer. To hi- unfaltering exertion, Ins strong executive ability and keen insight is 

ie splendid ol what is todaj one of the city's most important financial institu- 

ln ism he wa elected vice president oi the Intel national Building & Loan League, 

ution repic enting over a half billion dollars of paid in capital, and he served 

until 1894 lie has also figured prominently in connection with other financial interests. 

In 1902 I "i lie ic.u_i.iiii/ei- ol the Colton stale Bank at Colton, South Dakota, 

and was chosen its first president, so remaining until he sold his interests in thai institution 

He re tied in mine connection with the Union Saving- Association until 1913, 

when he disposed of his interests therein. 

On the Isl oi June, 1885, Mr. Abbott was united in marriage to Miss Mary G. Quinlan, 

..i i leveland, Ohio, and thej have be ie the parents of lour children: George I... now 

n Dos Moines; Gladys, who attended and graduated I All Saints school of Sioux 

Falls I net education at Lake Forest, Illinois; Ann Josephine, who became 

in. lent iii Wellesle^ College of Wellesley, Massachusetts, and graduated therefrom in 
Marion, a studenl in the Shattuck Military Academy of Minnesota. 




GEORGE W. ABBOTT 



HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 33 

George \V. Abbott is prominent in club life. For many years he has been a member 
of the Minnehaha Country Club, a member of the Dacota Club and for several years its 
president, and lias served as director, vice president and president of the Commercial Club 
of the city. In .Masonry lie has attained high rank, belonging to Minnehaha Lodge, No. 5, 
A. F. & A. M.; Sioux Falls Chapter, No. 2, K. A. M.; Cyiene Commandery, No. 2, K. T., of 
which he is a past eminent commander; and El Kiad Temple, A. A. O. N. M. S., of which he 
is past potentate and past representative to the imperial council. He is likewise a member 
ot Occidental Consistory, No. 2, A. & A. S. R. lie may justly be proud of his .Masonic record, 
for lew, n any. in the state have had higher honors conferred upon them by that organiza- 
tion than lias .Mr. Abbott. He is now the representative in the grand lodge of the grand 
lodge oi Mississippi and also the representative of the gland commandery of the District 
of Columbia in South Dakota. He is also a member of the Elks and the Knights of Pythias 
organizations. His political allegiance has been given to the republican party where national 
issues and questions are involved but he lias neither sought nor desired political office. 
He lias served, however, as a member of the board of education for several years and is a 
stalwart champion of the cause of education, fn fact, his influence is always on the sale 
of progress and advancement. He is a member of the First Congregational church and he 
has served as a member of the board of trustees and as its chairman. He is a lover oi 
outdoor life, greatly enjoying hunting and other sports which take him into the forest and 
bring him close to the heart of nature. His friends, and they are many, find him a most 
congenial companion, pleasant to meet at all times, and his fellow townsmen know him 
as a reliable man, thoroughly trustworthy under all circumstances and on all occasions, and 
in his entire record there is an absence of anything sinister or anything to conceal. 



FRANK LESLIE I'.ITIXKTT. 



I miik Leslie Burnett is clerk of the court of Lake county and as such has made a 
creditable record since called to his present position in 1910. He is now serving for the 
third term and only words of commendation are heard concerning the manner in which 
he discharges the duties of his office. Mr. Burnett is a native of the neighboring state 
of Iowa. He was born on the 20th of September, 1871, and is the only child of Franklin 
J. ami Sophia E. Burnett, who in the year L878 left Iowa and removed to South Dakota. 
Tln> father secured a homestead claim in Buffalo township, Minnehaha county, and at once 
began t" till the s,,il and develop the fields. Year after year he carefully carried on general 
agricultural pursuits, but in 1898 put aside the more arduous labors of the farm and retired 
to Madison, after which he enjoyed a well merited and well earned rest to the time of 
Jus death in 1911, at Hot Springs, South Dakota. His widow survived him about two years 
am! died :it the Inane ot her son in Madison in 1913. They were worthy pioneer people 
of their part ot the state and took an active interest in everything that pertained to public 
progress. 

Frank Leslie Burnett was a student in Brookings College, also in the Sioux fall-, 
high school anil in the Madison Normal School, lie was graduated from the high school 
with the class of 1S93 and from the Madison Normal in 1896. Liberal educational training 
thus we'll qualified him for life's practical and responsible duties. Following his graduation 
Mr. Burnetl took up the profession of teaching, in which he continued for four years. He 

was an abl lucator, giving satisfaction in the schools with which he was connected, but. 

thinking to find a more profitable field "i labor, In- turned his attention to commercial 
pursuits inn! for ten years was engaged ill the clothing business. He then spent two years 
in the office "t deputy county treasurer and on the expiration of that period was elected, 

in the fall of 1910, to the position ot clerk ol the c t oi Lake county. He served for two 

years, was given the renomination and was again elected in 1912 and was reelected in 1014. 
He has made a most efficient public "Hirer and has mel his duties in a manner thai has 
brought credit to himself and has proven thoroughly satisfactory to his constituents. He 
has also served as alderman and has been citj assessor for three terms. No public trust 
reposed in him has ever been betrayed in the slightest degree and his record bus at all 
times be. ni commendable. 



34 IIISToRV OF SOUTH DAKOTA 

Pleasantlj situated in his Im.hu- life, Mr. Burnett was married on the 28th of December, 
I-''-, to Miss Marj E. Marquart, a daughter oi Peter and Mary Marquart, of Minnesota] 

"'"> '"•'• l earlj settlers of South Dakota. The children of this marriage are Frank] 

Donald, Graydon and Don, thy. The third in the family is now attending the normal 
Bchool. 

Mi Burnett seeks recreation I i arduous official labors in tennis, baseball, fishing and 

hunting. He finds pleasant social and fraternal relations in the Independent order of Odd 
Fellows and has passed through all the chairs in the subordinate lodge, the encampment 
and the canton. On January l. 1915, he was appointed by Colonel George H. Waskey, as 
assistant adjutant general of the department of South Dakota, which office be now fills, 
lie indicates his int. rest in the moral progress of the community through his membership 
oi the Presbyterian church. He has always voted with the republican party and in matters 
of citizenship has displayed public-spirited devotion to the general good. There have been 
no unusual or spectacular chapters in his life record, but those with whom he has come 
m contact recognize Ins sterling personal worth and see in him many of those characteristics 
which in every land and clime awaken confidence and regard. 



HON. R. F. PETTIGREW. 



Hon. R. F. Pettigrew, for two terms a representative of the state of Smith Dakota in 
the United States senate, for one term deb-gate in congress from the territory of Dakota, is 
today the foremost citizen ( ,| the state in intellectuality, in purpose, in capability. He is 
a product of the state of Vermont, having been born at Ludlow, on the 23d of July, 1848. 
Of remote Scotch ancestry, he has come down to the present through several generations 
"i ^ ankees, 

At six years of age, with his parents, he left Vermont and moved to Wisconsin during 

the rush of early immigration to that state. In tin urse of a year after their arrival, the 

family located upon a farm in tin- town of Union, Rock county. Mr. Pettigrew engaged 
m farm work until he was sixteen years of age. receiving such education as the rural 
schools afforded, when he entered the Beloit (Wis.) College. At this institution he remained 
two years and thru went to Iowa, where la- remained a year, teaching school and engaging 
in the study ol law. lb- then undertook a coins,- of law study at. the State Law School at 
Madison, Wisconsin, but was called home in December, 1867, by tin- death ,,l his father, the 
management ,,i tie- farm devolving upon him. 

1,1 1869 Mr. Pettigrew cam,- to Dakota as chainman on a land surveying party, and 
1,1,1 :l couple ,,f weeks of service th,- compass was intrusted to him. II,- remained in the 
field throughout the season, his work being in Moody and Brookings counties. At the .-lose 
of tin- surveying season, he returned to Madison and devoted the winter to studies in the 
\\ iseonsin I .-i w School, 

lii- next spring (1870), Mi. Pettigrew retinue, I (,, Dakota and made his home at Sioux 
fall,, where he ha-, since resided. lb- constructed a modest law office on Phillips avenue, 

teaming the fumbei himseli ii Sioux city, a hundred miles away, and entered upon the 

I" act ice of law-. 

Thus, twenty two years after life came to him in th,- rugged fastnesses of on,- ,,i the 
oldc I -late. In the Union, he found himself among the few who had east their fortunes in 
the solitude ,,i the far west region ,,i tin- plains. Ihs feet were on tin- threshold of a new 
empire, a wilderness to be subdued and developed and finally added to tin- crown of the 
republic a- one ,,i th,- richest jewels. Th,- new man and the new- west were face to face 

•""I Da- In, truggle "i one was east in the unknown future of tin- other. Raw maul 1 

and ra\l nature walked hand in hand, the mission of man to strive, of nature to respond. 

tnto the t.i I M, Pettigrew entered with the energy of youth, with unflinching courage, 
with a will before which all obstacles yielded, opposition vanished and healthy ambition 

lied. These were the characteristics that came out of tl ast along with this new 

man ,,i the new west and th, \ have attended his career as he has led continuously the 
march ,,i progress in his chosen field of labor. 




HON. R. I PETTIGREVV 



HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 37 

In this embryonic commonwealth there came to Mr. Pettigrew many of the honors to 
be gathered along the frontier of civilization, lie was three times elected to membership 
in the upper house of the legislature of Dakota territory, as ;i republican, and in 1880 that 
party sent him to congress as the delegate for the territory, in which capacity he served 
throughout the forty-seventh congress. He was a member of the constitutional convention 
of 1883, a convention composed of delegates from the south half of the territory. As chair- 
man of the committee on public indebtedness he framed the existing constitutional provision 
under that bead, the second constitutional convention under a congressional admission act 
incorporating the report of his committee into the constitution that finally became the 
organic law of the state of South Dakota. 

On February 27, 1879, Mr. Pettigrew was married to Bessie V. Pittar of Chicago, Illi- 
nois. Miss Pittar, at the time of her marriage, was a teacher in the public schools of Chi- 
cago. Her mother was the daughter of an English judge in Ireland, ami her father was of 
French descent, whose ancestors had lived in England since the Edict of Nance was revoked. 
He was a civil engineer by profession and for many years had resided in Chicago. They have 
two sons — Franklin S. Pettigrew and Arthur L. Pettigrew, thirty-four ami thirty-two 
years of age, respectively. They are both residing upon a large irrigated farm in Grant 
county, Washington. 

South Dakota, a state created from the south half of the territory of Dakota, was admit- 
ted to the Union in 1889, and under the provisions of the admission act Mr. Pettigrew was 
elected United States senator on the 16th of October, of that year, along with the late Gideon 
C. Moody, both of the republican party, taking bis seat in the senate on the 2nd of December 
following. Under the rules of the senate, the two South Dakota senators drew for the long 
and the short terms respectively and Mr. Pettigrew secured the long term. At the expiration 
of his term, Mr. Pettigrew was reelected to the United States senate as a republican for the 
term beginning March 4, 181)5. He served until March '■'., 1901. During the most of his last. 

term as senator he was chairman of the committee Indian affairs and a member of the 

committees on appropriations ami public lands, besides serving on several less important 
committees. 

Mr. Pettigrew was a delegate from his state to the republican national convention in 
1896 and was one of those who led in the stormy conflict in that body against the repudiation 
of bimetalism. The termination of that struggle was the practical defeat of the double 
monetary standard as a principle and a policy id' the republican party. With several other 
distinguished advocates of the cause of bimetalism, Senator 1'ettigrew withdrew from the 
convention and from tUe party and became one of the organizers of the silver republican 
party. During the presidential campaign of 1896 be was along with those who spoke and 
labored in South Dakota and other states in behalf of the fusion ticket and he was largely 
instrumental in carrying South Dakota for the fusion presidential candidate, William .1. 
Bryan, and the fusion candidate for governor of South Dakota, Andrew E. Lee. 

In the year 1900, Mr. Pettigrew was tl amlidate of the fusionists for the United States 

senate to succeed himself. The legislature was that year strongly republican and he was 

defeated. He retired fr the senate March :s, 1901, and lias since held no public position. 

He was fourteen years a member of the national legislative body, two years as territorial 
delegate ami twelve years as senator, representing the territory of Dakota and the state 
of South Dakota. 

Mr. Pettigrew's career as a member of the United States senate brought him prominently 
before the nation. He became one of the leaders in that distinguished body of statesmen. 
and it is well enough known among those versed in the affairs of the senate, tli.il it is led by 
a few, while the others follow. Mr. Pettigrew was at all times distinctively a leader. 
Throughout the formative period of his life, which covered his frontier experiences, bis train- 
ing gave to him those characteristics of sell reliance which admonished him to go first and 
say to the others "come." In the senate, as elsewhere, his place was in the van ami he 
quickly found it and then retained it. It was not bis nature to sit under the restraint ot 

silence or the directi others. His ever busy mentality must originate, plan, suggest and 

confer — must bring the friction of his reasoning in contact with the arguments of others and 
do his share in the formation of principles that sustain the fabric of government, lie was 
one of those who gave time and thought and toil of mind to the intricate questions that 
arise to perplex tic nation and array sentiment against sentiment. In this school them is 



38 HIST< >RY ( »F SOUTH DAK< I I'A 

do short road to recognition. It comes at the end of processes that transform the student 
iiitu the statesman, and because oi these requirements it is only the few that attain to posi- 
tions pf Leadership. 

Mr. Pettigrew «a> never through with an undertaking until he had mastered all its 
intricacies and had familiarized himself with every detail. This involved continuous applica- 
tion. Ili- most laborious hours were spent in his library and the time tints taken was not 
borrowed from the sessions of the senate, Ili> evenings, ul'trn lengthened tu tin- coining of 
another day, wen- devoted to study and research. Through his attention tu public questions 
lie became a counsellor among the thoughtful nan that direct the affairs of the highest legis- 
lative l«i'h Hi the nation and by them his wisdom was freely sought, his stock of general 
information being admittedly voluminous and accurate. This man was an achievement of 
industry, oi comprehensive mental grasp and of the wonderfully retentive memory with 

he is endowed. 

During his second term as a senatorial representative of South Dakota Mr. Pettigrew 
found himself alienated from the political party with which he had served from the begin- 
ning of his active career. It was not alone that he differed from his political associates on 
the monetary question. The republican party had made other departures from the faith in 

which lie had been scl led and had committed itself to wdiat seemed to him an abandonment 

of the doctrine that governments derive their just powers from the consent of the governed, 
and to an espousal of a policy laden with imperialistic possibilities. 

In combatting these tendencies of the republican party, Mr. Pettigrew delivered a 
speech in the senate on the 22d and 23d oi dune and the 2d and 6th of duly, 1898, against 
the annexation ol the Hawaiian islands. This extended presentation oi the case, covering 
one hundred and eighteen pamphlet pages, at once gave him his national prominence. In it 
he implicated representatives oi the I nited States government in the insurrection that over- 
threw the Hawaiian government, giving a complete history of the events leading to the sub- 
sequently achieved annexation of the islands to the domain oi the United States. In a visit 
to Honolulu he had obtained information that was made the basis oi his argument, which no 
public man undertook to refute His Facts were new to the public and their vigorous presenta- 
tion atl racted genet a I attent ion. 

Among In- other notable speeches in the senate were several in opposition to the acquisi- 

i i the Philip] islands, to which he applied exhaustive research. His defense of the 

South African republic was another painstaking and effective effort. Throughout his entire 
service in congress he contended for generous laws in behalf oi settlers on the public land- and 

for ho able treatment oi the Indians from whom the lands were taken. On the 24th oi 

February, 1899, lie addressed the senate in opposition to the Nicarag anal bill, advancing 

Panama should be selected as the site of an interoceanic canal. In this he 

i, , ed t he movement that has resulted in the substitution of the Panama for the Nicaragua 

route. 

Hmiiig the pe I "I his membership in the United States senate Mr. Pettigrew gave 

, i i attention to legislation affecting the public domain and th git his interest and knowl- 

inatter lie ultimately became author of all the legislati ireating and governing 

rations. This was probably his greatest work during his senatorial career. It 

u-inn the reat L890 that Mr. Pettigrew secured the passagi ol o measure authorizing 

the president ol the I nited States to set apart forest reservations, known as section 24 of 

The law containing this section is a comprehensive one, constructed with 

i i bi -en.iio i I'eii w, assisted bj Senatoi Walthall of Mississippi. 

Tl a oi the measure came to the senate from the house, having been put through 

iody by Repre entative Holman of Indiana. It consisted i te section, repealing the 

i ■.. Mr. Pettigrew was a membei oi the committee on public lands and the 

in. Senator Plum ol Kansas appointed Mr. Pettigrew and Mr. Walthall a sub-eon t- 

tee to construct around the house bill a revision of the land laws. When their work was 

letcd they had a una u 1 t w enl \ - 1 ,,u I sections, the In-t ol which authorized the 

nt to set apart foresl re set at ions. 

Ur. Pettigrew was more familiar with the subject than anj ether member of the senate 

tn d i-> that reason the task of creating radical change- in the meaning and effect of the land 

ntrusted to him and his work stands as a monument to his industry and integrity 

ol purpose, lie had been a close student of the forestry laws ,,f [•'ranee and Austria, at that 






HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 39 

time more advanced than any other nations in the specialty, recognizing the necessity for the 
preservation and the replacement of trees that had been wasted with almost criminal prodi- 
gality. His legislation was the opening of a new era in this country in the conservation of 
forest resources. 

When his bill came up for discussion and passage in the senate and the house, none of 
the members of those bodies gave attention to the importance of section 24, and the bill was 
enacted without any objection of importance. Afterwards, when the completed act came 
before the department for enforcement, it was found that nearly all the western senators 
objected to its provisions and entered upon an attempt to secure their repeal. 

After some of the forest reservations secured under the provisions of this act had been 
relieved from the provisions of the act through amendments to sundry civil appropriation 
bills, Mr. Pettigrew, with the assistance of Mr. Wolcott, head of the geological survey, 
drafted a measure in which was provided Hie means for administration of the national for- 
est law. This he offered as an amendment tip the sundry civil appropriation bill and it 
became a law. He prepared the rules and regulations for the government of the lilack Hills 
forest reservation provided for in his legislation and they were adopted and put into force 
by Secretary of the Interior Bliss. 

In 1898 Mr. Pettigrew introduced a bill to provide for the withdrawal from sale of all 
of the public domain, covering agricultural and mineral land, and the conveyance of the 
same to the states, with the provision that the states might lease it but could not sell it. 
This attempt at legislation tailed. The time was not ripe, and the public domain has since 
passed rapidly from public to private ownership. 

Along toward the close of his senatorial career, Mr. Pettigrew presented to the senate a 
bill that contemplated the ownership of the railroads of the country by the general govern- 
ment, it was discussed at length before the committee on interstate commerce and the 
discussion brought out a great deal of valuable testimony, which was printed as a senate 
document and is yet on file for reference. He further attempted, in his vigorous way, to 
install public ownership of street car and the electric lights of Washington city. 

Throughout his career as United States senator, Mr. Pettigrew was always in advance 
of his associates. What would now be of easy accomplishment was then difficult — impossible. 
Public sentiment is coming up to his views of a dozen years back, and he is forging ahead — 
keeping always in advance of the advanced thought of the nation. 

It was not alone in his public capacity that Mr. Pettigrew left the impress of his 

strong personality upon the undertakings with which lie has 1 n connected. The city of 

Sioux Falls, his home since 1870, the metropolis of South Dakota, wealthy, progressive and 
always growing, owes much of its success to his efforts in its behalf. Cities do not create 
themselves. They are the product of well directed intelligence and it was in part his intelli- 
gence that has covered the granite hills of the Sioux with beautiful homes and the facilities 
for creating homes. He has also had a prominent share in the constructive work of the 
territory of Dakota and the state of South Dakota. He gave to each a strong guiding hand, 
recognizing from the beginning the possibilities of :i realm almost unknown when lie came 
into its existence. 

Since Mr. Pettigrew returned from official life lie has devoted his talents and energies; to 
his personal affairs with the same success that always attended his labors in behalf of the 
public. He has engaged chiefly in mining enterprises, out of which he has accumulated a 

comfortable fortune in the few years in which he had I n free from the cares of a con 

gressional en i • i i 



JAMES HARRY CRAWFORD, M. I). 

Since 1901 Dr. -lames Harrj Crawford lias been successfully engaged iii the practice 
nf medicine and surgery at Castlewood, Hamlin county, South Dakota. His birth occurred 
in Birmingham. Illinois, on the 14th of April, 1st;, Ins parents being James Madison and 
Elizabeth (Carden) Crawford. The father, a farmei by occupation, has passed away. 

.lames II. Crawford supplemented his early education by a high-school course at 
Plymouth, [llinois, and snbsequentlj spent four years as a student in Rush Medical College 



40 HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 

of Chicago, which institution conferred upon him the degree of M. 1J. in 1901. In the same 
year he located for practice al Castlewood, South Dakota, and this lias since remained 

the scene of his professional labors, his pat age having steadily grown in volume and 

importance as he has demonstrated his skill and ability. II.- belongs to the Sioux Valley 
Medical Association and made a creditable record as health officer of Hamlin county from 
i-Hi. to L911 when lie was serving in that capacity. 

On tin- 1st ui January, 1905, Dr. Crawford was joined in wedlock to Miss .Alary E. 
Madden. Her father, William Madden, of Pennsylvania, was one of the pioneers of Brook- 
ings, South Dakota, locating there at the time the railroad was built. He is now in 
California, while Mrs. Madden is at Castlewood, South Dakota. Mrs. Crawford was the 
first female child horn in Brookings. The Doctor and his wile have one son, James 11., dr., 
who is two years old. 

Dr. Crawford ?ivvs his political allegiance to the republican party, while his religious 
faith is that id' the Catholic church, lie finds recreation in motoring and is highly 
esteemed in both professional and social circles of his community. 



JUIIX W. FREEMAN, M. D. 



Dr. John \V. Freeman, chief surgeon of the hospital department of the Homestake Mining 
Company of Lead, has achieved distinction in his profession and is very popular socially. He 
was born on his father's farm near Virden, Illinois, on the L3th of December, 1853, a son of 
Peter S. and Elizabeth Pierce (Warriner) Freeman. The father was born in New Jersey 
and was one of the pioneers of Illinois, where he followed farming for many years. He passed 
away in 1874 and his friends long cherished the memory of his well spent life. The mother 
of Dr. Freeman was born in Kentucky and died in 1S86, having survived her husband for 

J Weh e years. 

Dr. John \V. Freeman was the eighth in order of birth in a family of eleven children. 
At the usual age he entered the Virden public schools and passed from grade to grade until 
he was graduated from the high school at that place. He subsequently attended Blackburn 
University at Carlinville, Illinois, for one year, after which he took a course at the Quincy 
Business College of Quincy, Illinois. In 1875 he began the study of medicine under the 
instruction of Dr. David Prince, of Jacksonville, Illinois. During the summers he was thus 
occupied, and in the winters attended the medical school of tin' New York University, from 
ivhich he was graduated with the M. D. degree in 1879. lie was then lor two years the 
assistant of Dr. Prince, aider which he entered the United States government service in 1881, 
acting a- assistant surgeon in the regular army stationed at Fort Meade, South Dakota, with 
the rank of first lieutenant, lie remained at Port Meade for two years and in January. 1SS4, 
came to Lead as surgeon for the Homestake Mining Company. In 1903 he was made chief 
surgeon of the hospital department of this company and in Hie intervening eleven years has 
performed with marked ability the onerous duties devolving upon him in that capacity, lie 
has the hospital maintained by the company under his charge and has proven not only .an 
expert surgeon hut also an able executive and the affairs of the institution have run -monthly 

under hi- lagement J I ooperation of doctor-, nurses and all others connected with the 

veil, ol the hospital has been secured and the institution has a line record and ha- proved of 
rnable vain.- to the mining community whose needs it serves. Dr. Freeman is one of 

the eminent ui i the state and is widelj known in professional circles here, his skillful 

work commanding the n pet ol his colleagues, lie ha- successfully performed many difficult 
operations and hi- ..pinion upon any c lition requiring surgical treatment is highly valued. 

although he ha achieved much, he i- not content to rest upon his laurel-, but is constantly 

seek to increase hi- knowledge ami efficiency, attending clinics for a month every year, 

either in this country or abroad. He also maintains membership in a number of professional 
ieti. namely, the Black Hills Medical Society, the South Dakota State Medical Society, 

ili.. A rican Medical Association, the Chicago <S Northwestern Surgical Society, the Chicago, 

Burlington A Quincy Surgical Society, and the American Railway Surgeons Society, lie is 
al o .. Fellow of the \ rican College of Surgeons, which indicates his high standing in the 

. o i ion In ...hlil ion I., being chief surgeon for the hospital, he lias been health nllicer 




DR. .11 Mix w. FREEMAN 



HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 43 

for tbc city for the past four years. Although his duties as a surgeon and physician are 
many and make heavy demands upon his energy, he has also found time to devote to other 
interests, having been a member of the board of education for ten years and having served 
as president of that body for part of that period. For thirty years he has been connected 
with the First National Bank of Lead and is now second vice president. 

In 1SS5 Dr. Freeman was married in Lead to Miss Hattie V. Dickinson, of that city. To 
their union have been born four children: Ercel Dean; Marion E., the wife of S. (!. Price, of 
Rapid City; John B., who is attending the State Agricultural College at Brookings; and 
Howard. 

In politics Dr. Freeman is a republican and takes the interest of a good citizen in every- 
thing relating to the public welfare. Fraternally he belongs to Central City (S. D.) Lodge, 
No. 22. A. F. & A. M.; Golden Belt Chapter, No. 35, R. A. M., of Lead; Lead Commandery, 
No. 18. K. T.; Black Hills Consistory. No. 3, A. & A. S. R., of Deadwood; and Naja Temple. 

A. A. 0. N. M. S., of Deadwood. He has held the principal offices in all of the above mentioned 
bodies and is a prominent Mason of the state. He also belongs to Lead Lodge, No. 747, 

B. P. 0. E. Dr. Freeman is one of the foremost citizens of Lead and the city has benefited 
by his labors in her behalf. His character is such as wins friendship and there are many 
who feel for him a warm personal regard as well as a deep respect for his undoubted ability. 



CHARLES HENRY BARRETT. 

As president of the Vermillion National Hank. Charles Henry Barrett is a prominent 
figure in financial circles of that city. He was born in Saratoga Springs, New York, April 
5, 1859, a son of Artemus and Fidelia ]!. (Brown) Barrett. The father was a hatter 
and engaged in that business until lie retired from active lite, lie died at Saratoga Springs 
in 1904 lint his widow survives and makes her home in Bernardston, Massachusetts, with a 
daughter. Mr. Barrett was twice married, his first union being with Miss Lovisa Close, 
of New York, by whom he had three children: John I!., a retired business man residing in 
Los Angeles, California; Beebe l;.. deceased; and Lovisa A., the widow of E. 11. Potter, and 
a resident of Bayonne, New Jersey. To the second marriage four children were born: 
Addie I', who married lies. Eugene Frary, a Congregational minister of Bernardston, Massa- 
chusetts; Charles Henry; Orie L., who is at I ; and Frederic A., a linotype man of 

Newtonville, Massachusetts. 

Charles II. Barrett passed his boyhood days in Saratoga Springs and there attended 

school, being graduated from the high scl I in Is;.",. For the following three years he 

taught school and wanked in his father's hat slur,, but at the end of that time removed 
to Manchester, Iowa, lie arrived there in 1878 ami taught school there for two years. In 
1880 he took a position as bookkeeper with a large mercantile concern, with which he 
was connected for three years. He then entered the employ of Conger Brothers, hankers, 
as bookkeeper and teller, remaining in thai capacity for four years, and in 1ss~ removed 
to Vermillion, South Dakota, in company with 1.. T. Swezey. They purchased the (lay 
County Hank, which they reorganized and conducted under that name until 1904, when 
they took out a national charter anil changed the name to the Vermillion National Bank. 
Mr. Barrett was cashier of the institution until the death of Mr. Swezey in 1912, when 
he was elected president. He is thoroughly familiar with the practice and policies of the 
bank and is also well informed as to hanking conditions in the country at large. He is 
very efficient as president of the hank and under hi- direction its continued growth is 
insured. The safety of funds on deposit is the first consideration of the officers of the 
institution but they extend credit to individuals and business houses, thus promoting the 
commercial development of Vermillion. The hank pays good dividends ami enjoys the 
full confidence of the public. .Mr. Barrett is not only president and a director of this hank- 
but is also interested in the Bank of YVnkoiida. this state, he and his associates Inlying it 
in 1903 when it was in danger of collapse. They reorganized it ami placed it upon a 

sound financial basis and it has since I n a paying institution and has come to he 

regarded as i f the strong hanks of this section. Mr. Barrett was one of tl rganizers 

of the Vermillion Hotel Company and is an executive officer of that corporation. His stand 



44 HIST( >RY OF S( >UTH DAKOTA 

imong the bankers oi the state i- indicated by his election in 1910 as president of 
the s..iiiii Dakota State Bankers' Association. 

Mr. Barrett was married, September 17, 1889, to Miss Laura E. Dunham, a native of 
Manchester, Iowa, and a daughtei oi Francis and Mary A. (Stark) Dunham, both Datives 
oi Vermont. Tin- lather, who was an educator, passed away in 1880, but tin- mother 
survives .mil makes her borne in Manchester, Iowa. To .Mr. and Mrs. Barrett live children 
born: John F. ami Ruth, both oi whom died in infancy; George, who died in 1909, 
when fifteen years ol age; Charles S., now twelve years of age; ami Marjorie, who died 
in infancy. 

Mr. Barrett i- a progressive republican and for Beveral years ha- served a- city treasurer 
of Vermillion. For ten year- he was a member of the city council. He has always taken 
an interest in politics hut ha- not been a politician in the sense of office seeking. His 
connection with the Congregational church ami the Masonic order indicate the principles 
thai govern In- life. In tin- latter organization he ha- taken high rank, belonging to all of 
the bodies from the blue lodge to the commandery in the York Kite and also to the Shrine. 
lie has served a- worshipful master and ha- held other high offices in the lodge. He is now 
treasurer of the blue lodge and also of the chapter. His fraternal associations also include 
membership in the Modern Woodmen of America, lie lias done his full share in promoting 

1 levelopmenl oi In- city along all lines and takes great pride in its advancement and 

prospei ity. 



WILLIAM CE( IJ. M.oiWLI.L. 

Probably no man has done more to promote the advancement of poultry-raising interests 
in South Dakota than William Cecil McConnell, who since 1908 has been secretary of the 
South Dakota branch of the American Poultry Association. He has made a close and scien- 

tifii - 1 1 1 . i \ oi the work in which In' is mo-l interested and the vail I this study i- evident 

to tin mo-l casual visitor to the Sioux Valley Poultry Farm in Sioux Falls, of which he 
is the proprietor ami active manager. 

Mr. McConnell was Loin in Walkerton, Ontario, Canada, May 31, 1879, ami i- a -on 

of Oliver and a grandson of William McConnell, the latter a native ol Scotland, vvho went 

to Canada a a young man locating in Ontario, lie there married and afterward engaged 
[cultural pursuits until his death. The paternal great-grandfather of our subject was a 
-ohlic under the Duke ,,f Wellington in the Napoleonic war and lought at Waterloo. 

William ('. McConnell attended scl 1 in Walkerton, Ontario, ami after laying aside Ins 

hook- in 1895, went to Manitoba, where he took charge of a faun belonging to a man who 

Mi nt to \la-ka during the rll-h ol gold seekers lo the Yukon territory. Mr. McConnell man- 

i i lerty until 1899 and then returned to Ontario, where he fanned for one year. 

i ime to sioux Falls, South Dakota, and entered the service ol the Chicago, St. 
Paul, Minneapolis .V Omaha Railroad Company, upon whose lines his uncle had her,, a con- 
ductor fo: imiin years. Mr. McConnell gamed rapid advancement in this field, rising from 

the position of brakeman to yardmaster at Sioux Falls and extri iductor. On the 28th 

of September, 1907, he lost his right leg in an accident in the railroad yards at Sioux Falls 
and alter his recovery was obliged to turn his attention to other pursuits. He proved up 
a home-tead claim of one hundred and sixtj acres in Pennington county, wesi ol the river, 

gaged in farming until the spring of 1908, when he returned to Sioux Falls to 

run for tl (lice ol clerk ol courts, lie was elected ami served three terms, oi six years. 

I pon the completion ol his third term a- clerk of the court-, he embarked in the automobile 
■ business on Main avenue. Sioux Fall-, and slill continue- in that enterprise. 

I ha- served a- secretarj of the South Dakota branch of the American 
I'ouli: twice reelected, and he is -till serving, hi- valuable work marking 

a distinct advance in methods ol scientific poultrj raising lie is the owner of the Siouj 

Valley Poultry Fi at Sioux tall- and ha- been very successful in the managemeni of 

this property, whereon he has ovei two thousand white and hull' Orpingion chicken- and a 
iml Whit.- Indian Runner ducks. Me is considered an authority upon every- 
thing relal i to the cari and breeding of poultry ami hi- wide experience in this field is 



HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 45 

one of the salient elements in his present success. His enterprise is carefully managed in 
every particular and bis farm is uiie of the most attractive and modern in this locality. 

Mr. McConnell was united in marriage to Miss Edna Blanche Miller, a daughter of 
Beecher Miller, a native of Canada, and they have two children: Oliver, who was born 
October 16. 1907; and Eleanor Isabelle, born November 16, 1910. 

Mr. McConnell is a member of the Episcopal church and gives his political allegiance 
to the republican party, lb- i- a thirty-second degree Mason and connected also with the 
Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the Knights of Pythias. He is a man of energy, 
resource and capacity, and through his own well directed and earnest efforts has won a 
success which places him among the substantial and representative citizens of Sioux Falls. 



REV. ARTHUR JOHN SCHNEIDER. 

Rev. Arthur John Schneider, pastor of St. Mary's of Perpetual Help at Marion, was 
born in Centerville, Wisconsin, on the 18th of June, 1882, a son of Louis and Augusta Schneider. 
The father was a merchant and both he and his wife survive. Rev. Arthur J. Schneider was 
educated in the parochial schools of Wisconsin, in St. Francis Seminary, where he pursued 
his study of the classics and in St. Paul's Seminary id" St. Paul, where he studied theology. 
He was ordained to the priesthood in 1908 by Archbishop Ireland and was first appointed 
as a missionary at Parker, South Dakota, where he remained for a year. In 190!) he 
removed to Marion, at which time there was but a small frame church in the town. In 
the years which have since intervened he has carried the work of the church steadily 
forward and he erected the present beautiful brick edifice at a cost of thirty thousand dollars. 
There are sixty families in the congregation at Marion and eighty children in the school, 
being taught by six sisters of St. Francis. The school is in a flourishing condition and the 
work of the church has been carefully organized and is bringing forth good results. In 
addition to ministering to the needs of his parish, Rev. Schneider also attends Monroe, an 
out mission with twenty-five families. 

Father Schneider holds membership with tin' Knights of Columbus at Mitchell. He 
is much interested in South Dakota and her welfare, especially in inducing good families to 
locate in this state. He is a broad-minded and progressive man, and studies the vital 
and significant problems of the age, as well as those which have to do directly with 
theology and the upbuilding of the church. 



EDWIN J. KAUFFMAN, M. D. 

Dr. Edwin J. Kaufl'man is a young practicing physician of Marion who baa there 
successfully followed his profession since 1906. 1 1 is birth occurred in Turner county. South 
Dakota, on the 22d of February. Iss4. his parent- being boo], p. and Katherine Kaufl'man. 
The father came to South Dakota as a young man. about forty years ago, and was married 
in this state. He took up a homestead claim in Turner county and has resided thereon con- 
tinuously since, being actively engaged in tin' work of tin- fields for : , period of thirty- 
five years. His wife i- also yet living and they are well known and highly esteemed 
throughout the community. 

Edwin J. Kaull'nian obtained hi-- early education in the district schools and subsequently 
attended Dakota Wesleyan University :it Mitchell and Drake University of lies Moines, 
Iowa. With tin- de-ire to qualify for a professional career he then entered the medical 
department of the University of Illinois at Chicago, which institution conferred upon him 
the degree of M. I), on the 6th of .lime. 1906. Returning to his native state, he opened 
an office at Marion, where he has remained continuously since and is accorded a liberal and 
gratifying practice. With the steady progress ol the profession lie keep- in touch through 
hi- membership in the Yankton District Medical Society, the South Dakota State Medical 
Society, the South Dakota Railroad Medical Academy and the American Medical \ 
ciation. He acts as local physician for the < hicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Railway, holds 



46 HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 

the office of vice president of the board of health of Turner county and is physician for 
Camp No, 1068, M. W. A. 

'in tlic 26th of June, 1907, Dr. Kauffman was united in marriage to Mis-. Caroline 
Graber, a daughter of Peter Graber, of Freeman, Hutchinson county. South Dakota. They 
have one adopted child, Esther. The Doctor gives his political allegiance to the repub- 
lican party and his religious faith is that of the Mennonite church. He is deeply interested 
in the development of South Dakota and is widely recognized as a rising young medical prac- 
titioner and one of the state's progressive and prosperous native sons. 



CHARLES E. PRENTIS. 



C. E. Prentis, one of the pioneer merchants of South Dakota, actively identified with the 
business interests of Vermillion, was born September 30, 1S47, in Dane county, Wisconsin, 
a s,,n oi John and Catherine P. (Williams) Prentis, who were natives of Massachusetts and 
Vermont respectively and descendants of early New England families. The father was a 
farmer by occupation and about 1830 made the overland trip to Wisconsin, where he engaged 
in general agricultural pursuits until his death. 

C. K Prentis attended the public schools of his native county to the age of eighteen 
years and then went east to Poughkeepsie, New York, where he pursued a course in East- 
mail's Commercial College. Later he returned to Madison, Wisconsin, where he secured a 
position as bookkeeper, acting in that capacity for about one and a half years. Considera- 
tion of the opportunities offered in the west led him to the belief that he would find it 
profitable to try his fortune in Dakota and in company with a friend and associate, A. E. 
Lee, he determined to engage in general merchandising at Vermillion. It was about the 
middle of the year 1SU9 that Mr. Lee reached that place and selected a site in what is now 
known as the bottoms. A small building was erected and a few months later Mr, Prentis 
iem,,\ed to Vermillion, arriving in September, 1869. Both then went to Chicago, where they 
purchased a stock of general merchandise and the firm of Lee & Prentis was thus formed and 
launched into business. From the beginning their enterprise prospered, reliable business meth- 
ods, unfaltering energy and perseverance winning for them a growing trade. Later a two- 
story brick building was erected, which they occupied until 1881, the year of the big flood. 

The little village gnu apace and with the increase in its population their trade 1 ame 

larger and larger, for straightforward business methods commended them to public support. 
With the growth of Vermillion the business center of the city was removed from the bottoms 
tn I lie present site of the town and in 1 ss l I.ee & Prentis erected their present building, in 
which they have continued successfully to the present time. Their house is not only widely 
known throughout Clay county but also over the greater part of South Dakota and is the 

I -I establishment of its kind in the county. Moreover, in point of continuous existence 

theirs is tl hlest business house in North or South Dakota and has become one of the 

most important. It meant much in pic er times when trade facilities were few in their 

eel i the state and it has ever kept abreast with modern progress. 

Mr. Prentis, however, has net confined his activities tn merchandising alone. He recog- 
nized tlie inline value cii farm lands throughout the 1 west and began making investments, 

being it lime tl wner of over seven thousand acres in Clay county. In 1914, when 

prices had greatlj advanced he sold practically all Ins holdings in (lay county, although be 
Still ha- property in other sections of the -tale Me and Ins partner, .Mr. Lee. own and oper- 
ate ;i i ranch of sixteen thousand acres in Nebraska and Mr, Prentis is a stockholder in 

and vice president of (be Citizens Hank & Trust Company of Vermillion. 

(hi the 7th of November, L872, Mr. Prentis was united in marriage to Miss Mary V. 
Stanley, who died September l I. L906, leaving a daughter, Kathryn, the wife of Robert Howe 
Mnnger, of si.nix ( ity. On the 2d of September, 1909, Mr. Prentis wedded Mrs. Belle (Stan- 
lej i Bell, a sister of his first w i(e. 

In his political news Mr. Prentis has long been a stalwart republican and has filled a 
number of local offices, to which he has been called by the vote of his fellow townsmen, serv- 
ing at the present time as mayor of Vermillion, lie also became the first charter member of 
the Congregational church, in the work of which he has ever taken an active and helpful 




CHARLES )■:. PRENTIS 



HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 49 

interest. He is likewise a member and vice president of the Vermillion Commercial Club and 
In- is a Mason, belonging to the blue lodge, chapter and cominandery of Vermillion, and to El 
Riad Temple of the Mystic Shrine at Sioux Falls. He is a lover of outdoor life and enjoys 
traveling. In nature he is quiet and unassuming but is most kind hearted and public spirited. 
His business life has not been void of the trials and tribulations that constitute the struggle 
of pioneer days and many residents of this part of the state are grateful for the credit and 
favors extended them in the period of financial depression caused by the grasshopper scourge 
and other incidents of pioneer life. The record of Mr. Prentis is a most creditable one. There 
have been no esoteric chapters in his life history but a manifestation of indefatigable industry 
and unswerving integrity in all his business dealings. 



MATHIAS BEHREND. 



Mathias Behrend is a member of the firm of Behrend & Oberembt, dealers in automobiles 
and supplies. Before embarking upon this line of business he was connected with other 
interests in l'arkston, all of which have contributed to the business enterprise and activity of 
the town and its consequent upbuilding. He was born in Madison. Wisconsin, December 
3, 1868, a son of Mathias and Mary Behrend. The family came to South Dakota in 1882, 
settling at Starr, Hutchinson count}'. The father secured a homestead and for twenty 
years devoted his time and energies to general farming, his business affairs being indus- 
triouslj' prosecuted. He died on the 18th of March, 1910, but is survived by his widow, who 
makes her home in l'arkston. 

Mathias Behrend was educated in the parochial schools of Madison, Wisconsin, assisted 
his father through the period of his boyhood and youth and afterward began earning his 
own living by working for others. He engaged in business on his own account in 1894 and for 
twenty vears was connected with the liquor trade. In 1911 lie engaged in the automobile 
business, to which he now devotes his energies. In 1902 he built the city exchange and 
country telephone lines. Of the company which was organized for the conduct of the business 
he was elected president and continued in that position until four years ago, when he disposed 
of his inteie-t- to Fred Sinkbeil, Jr. For eighteen years Mr. Oberembt has been a partner of 
Mr. Behrend in these different business ventures. In 1911 they erected their present building, 
which is fifty by eighty feet with an addition twenty-five by one hundred feet. They handle 
the Buick, Reo and Haines automobiles and they are conducting the principal business in 
their line in l'arkston and that part of the state. They have sold- many machines and they 
have a large trade in automobile supplies. 

i in the 3d of April, 1«94. Mr. Behrend was united in marriage to Miss Julia Puetz, a 
daughter "f Peter Puetz, and their children are Marie, Louisa. Francis, Esther, Helen and 
Joseph. In his political belief Mr. Behrend is a democrat. His religious faith is that of 
the Catholic church anil he was treasurer thereof for ten years. He served as chief of the 
fire department for a decade and for two years was a member of the city council, exercising 
his official prerogatives in support of various progressive measures which have benefited the 
city and advanced its growth. When leisure permits he enjoys a fishing and hunting trip 
and he also finds recreation . and pleasure in motoring. He has long been well known in 
connection with business activity in Parkston and is now at the bead of a profitable and 
growing commercial enterprise. 



GEORGE C. GRIFFIN. 



George ('. Griffin is cashier of the Ware & Griffin Bank at Clark and in his business 
career has made wise use of his time and his opportunities, lie was born in Chicago. Illi- 
nois, on the 5th of August. L861, and is a son of Stephen 11 ami Fanny A. (Brown) Griffin, 
both of whom are deceased. The father was for many years engaged in railroad work. 

At the usual age George I '. Griffin became a public-school pupil, passing through con- 
secutive grades until he was prepared i'" the high school. When he had completed his more 

Vol. IV— 3 



50 HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 

advanced studies lie secured employment in an insurance office and later in a bank at Morris, 
Illinois. The fall of L882 witnessed his arrival in South Dakota, at which time lie came to 
( lark, where he engaged in the loan and real estate business. He secured a lair clientage in 
thai connection an. I won a substantial measure of success. At length, however, In- entered 
the banking business, with which he first became connected in the '80s. Subsequently he 
again took up the real-estate business but in 1900 lie renewed his connection with banking 
1111,1 '" l9 °4 be organized (In- Ware ,V Griffin Bank, entering upon the duties of cashier, with 
Fred Ware as the president. The business ha,- doubled since (he opening of the hank, which 
'" """ "' :l prosperous condition. It follows a sale, conservative yet progressive policy and 
""' number of it- depositors and the amount of its business along general line- is constantly 
increasing. 

VIr. Griffin ha- been married twice. -In issd hi' wedded Adeline McSpadden of Clark, 

;llil1 "" l " them were I i three children: Emma, now the wife of R. J. Hart, oi Watertown;' 

Helen; and Elizabeth. In 1910 Mr. Griffin was again married, his second union being with 
Nina B. Brown of ( lark, and they have one son. George ('.. Jr. 

Mr. Griffin gives his political indorsement to the men and measures of the republican 
party, but has no aspiration for office. Fraternally he is connected with the Masons, having 
taken (he degrees of both the lodge and chapter. He also has membership with the Elks, the 
Knights of Pythias, the Woodmen, the Workmen ami the .Modem Brotherhood of America. 

He is now president of the council and of the Commercial Club and his efforts have I n a 

salient force in promoting public progress, in extending business connections ami in 
advancing the general welfare along many line-. Hi- religion.- faith is thai of the Congre- 
gational church ami his well spent life has won for him the high regard of all with whom 
'"' li:ls come in contact, gaining for him a circle of friends almost coextensive with the circle 
of Ins acquaintance. 



ELIJAH SAUNDERS BUZZELL. 

Elijah Saunders Buzzell, a retired agriculturist now living in Sioux kails, has been a. 
resident of South Dakota for more than tour decades ami was long ami actively identified 
"'"' farming interests, owning 1 operating a quarter section of land in Red Rock town- 
ship, Minnehaha county. Hi- birth occurred in Parsonsfield, Maine, on the 28th of June, 
1828, his parents being William and (Hue Buzzell, both of whom passed away in .Maine. 
The father was a paintei by trade. 

Elijah S. Buzzell acquired In- education in (he public schools id' .Maine ami after putting 
aside hi- textbooks learned the trade- of a painter ami paper-hanger, in which he was suc- 
ce fullj engaged for more (ban fifty years. In 1862 he enlisted for service in the Civil war 
:ls :l member of Company K. Twenty-seventh Regiment of Maine Volunteers, doing duly on 

the hospital staff for nine nths near Washington. 1). C. Ten years later, in L872, he came 

(o South Dakota, preempting one hundred and sixty acres of land in bed Rock township, 

Minnehaha county, lie experienced (I any hardships of life in a pioneer region and lost 

all during the grasshopper plague in 1874. lie persevered, however, ami In- efforts were 
eventually rewarded by the possession of a valuable and productive farming property which 

brought I a gratifying annual in. ... This farm is still in possession of (he family ami 

w »s bis I ie until 1913, when he re ved to Sioux balls. His is the only family of orig- 
inal pioneers who -till own land preempted in (he locality, all (he others Inning sold their 
property and moved elsevi here. 

In 1852 Mr. Buzzell wa- united in marriage to \ii-, Olive June Peary, a sister of Lieu- 
tenant Peary, who was the fathei ol tin- man win, discovered the North Pole. By this union 
were born Hi., following children: Frank W.; Royal l'. ; George, deceased; Sarah ]■:., (he wife 
of W. If. Riley, ol Valley Springs; Nellie A., deceased; Charles and Hortense E., both on (he 
'"•me farm; Mabel G., who ha- passed away; and John C, also on the home farm. The wife 
and mother, who was a consistent member of the tree Baptist chureh, died in 1902. 

1,11 the ml. of September, 1913, at Sioux Falls, Mr. Buzzell was married in the First 
Methodist Episcopal church by Rev. .1. W. Potter to Mr-. Charlotte E. Booth, the widow of 
Charles Vasser Booth and a daughter of Ezra I', and Louisa ('. (Clough) Kinney. She is a 



HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 51 

native of New York state and since coming to South Dakota in 1873 has been a resident of 
Sioux Falls, being one of the pioneer women of this section. She was first married October 
21, L875, becoming the wife of Charles V. Booth, who came to this locality in 1871. He was 
a carpenter and pioneer undertaker of Sioux Falls and was injured in an automobile acci- 
di 'iii. dying about two weeks later, on the 13th of April, 1911. Mrs. Buzzell is now the only 
original member of the Methodist Episcopal church still living in Sioux Falls and for many 
years was quite active in its work. Mr. Booth was also an ardent member of that denomina- 

t mid class leader for a number of years. Mr. and .Mrs. Buzzell now make their home 

at No. L513 South Duluth street. Sioux Falls, and have a host of friends there. 

In politics Mr. Buzzell has always supported the men and measures of the republican 
party. His religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Free Baptist church and 
he also belongs to the Knights of Pythias fraternity and Joe Hooker Post, No. 10, G. A. K., 
of Sioux Falls. He has now passed the eighty-seventh milestone on life's journey but is 
still active in mind and body and conversant with the questions and issues of the day. inter- 
esting himself in the wok of progress, improvement and upbuilding. The salient qualities 
oi his life have ever commended him to the confidence, goodwill and friendship of those with 
w hom he has come in contact. 



DANIEL .1. O'CONNELL. 



N.i history of Fake county would be complete and satisfactory were there failure to 
make reference to Daniel .1. O'Connell of Ramona, well known as a successful and enter- 
prising business man and also as a capable official, who has wisely directed public affairs 
in various positions of honor and trust. He is now owner of a grain elevator and also of 
an implement business in Ramona and lias ether commercial and industrial connections 
which have contributed in large measure to the substantial upbuilding of his part of the 
county 

Mr. O'Connell was bom in Fillmore county, Minnesota, on the 6th of September, 1857, 
a sun of .lames and Mary O'Connell. His education was acquired in the common schools 
and later lie assisted his father upon the home farm until he attained his majority, during 
which period he gained intimate knowledge of every branch of farm work, including the 
best methods of planting, plowing and harvesting. When he reached adult age he came to 
South Dakota in company with his father and on the 7th of May, 1878, homesteaded on sec- 
tion 10, township 107, range 53, in Lake county. Five years later he purchased the relin- 
quishment of a tic claim. II.' still owns the original homestead and in addition to the 
tree claim has purchased a half section, so that he now owns altogether six hundred and 
fortj acres of rich and valuable land, all of whirl, lie- in Lake county, and two hundred and 
forty acre- in Stanley county. Carefully and systematically he carried on the work of the 
farm year after year until 1894 and wrought a marked transformation in the appearance of 

hi- place, to which ho added many mo, leu I substantial improvements. After sixteen 

, s devoted to general agricultural pursuits lie became manager of the Fanners Elevator 

al l: ona and conducted it for twenty consecutive years. In 1897 he embarked in the 

implement lnisin.'ss. i n whirl, he' ha- -in.,' continued with growing success, and in 1899 he 

wa- j d by his brother. In 1910 ho engaged in the elevator business on his own account 

and is now < of the extensive dealers in grain and farm implements in Fake county, lie 

i- also the largest stockholder in the Fanners Elevator Company of Ramona, of which he 
i- the vice president, is president of the Electric Light Company and is secretary of the 
Woodmen Opera House Company. \\r i- a man of sound business judgment, who readily 

r ,._.„izes opportunities and utilizos them, not only to his personal advantage but also to 

the ben, tit of the community. 

On the 12th of duly. 1883, Mr. O'Connell wa- united in marriage to Miss Kate Mulvehill, 
a daughter of John and Margaret (Cox) Mulvehill. The children of this marriage are: 
James, who is now operating the home farm ; John, who is engaged in the grain business in 
Minnesota; Mary, the wife of Charles Feyder; Daniel, connected with the telephone husi- 
,„-,, Margaret, the wife of H. Davis, who is edit,,, of a paper at Ramona; Elmer, who was 
assistant postmaster at Ramona but is now a druggist at Humboldt; Bernadetta, at home; 



52 IIIs'K )RY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 

and Walter and William, who complete t In- family. Their religious faith is that of the 
i atholic church, to which the parents liave long adhered and in which they have reared their 
children. 

xh 0'( nil gives his political support to the republican party ami in I'.iin was 

appointed postmaster of Ramona by Presidenl McKinley. He has served as mayor of the 
city for six years, has been clerk of the school district I'm- thirty-one consecutive years and 
has been reelected for another tine., sears' term. The fact that he lias been so long con- 
tinued in the different offices which he has tilled is unmistakable evidence of his capability, 
(idelitj and | iptness in tin. discharge of his duties, lie holds membership with Mar- 
quette Council of the Knights oi Columbus at Sioux tills, with the .Modem Woodmen, the 
American Brotherhood and tin- Royal Neighbors. His life interests are broad, his purposes 
strong and his activities resultant and thus as the years have passed on he has become a 
mm.- and more prominent and influential factor in the community in which he makes his 
home. 



MKS. HKlDtiKT COCAX. 



It is nol the men of the country alone that make its greatness and that perform the 
arduous labor of developing a wild laud into a region of civilization and prosperity. Although 

« play a v.iy important part in the work of the world, it is hut seldom that we sto|i 

and consider the greatness of their contribution to civilization. Mrs. Bridget Cogan, of 

Tyndall, deserves equal honor with the hardy n who braved the wilderness, as she came 

t'> the territory when it was yet young and established a hotel known from Iowa to the 
Black Hills and even to the Rockies for its good cheer and comfort, she has known intimately 
nearly all of the territorial officials, the judges and military officers of the early days of 
Smith Dakota and also the chiefs and head men of the Indians. She likewise was well 
acquainted with many of the noted holder characters of pioneer times, sonic of them men 
who wen. the tenor of Nebraska and the Dakotas. 

Mis. Cogan is a native of Ireland, born near Castlereagh, County Roscommon, December 
19, 1840. 1 1 ii father, Bernard Cede, was an extensive farmer, employing four men to culti- 
vate liis one thousand acre leasehold and two maids to care for his dairy. Even alter being 
stripped of much of his holdings through losses incurred by going security for a friend. In- 
still had a large number of acres leased when he disposed of his property preparatory to 
coming to America, lie was not permitted, however, to carry out his plan of emigrating, 

as his demis icurred before the time to start. His widow, however, came to the new world 

with her children, Mrs. Cogan, being at that lime bu1 three or four years ..Id, They embarked 
at Liverpool on a sailing vessel and after a stormy voyage of thirteen weeks and three days 
reached New York. At one time the ship was in such danger that the passengers were con- 
lined In the ledd with the hatches flattened down for a period of one week, from Sunday to 
Sunday without food or drink and so weakened were they that hut few were aide to stand 
when the storm abated and they Were allowed to come on deck. The ship itself was in a 

had < lition, a, two masts had been broken and washed overboard, an. 1 several leaks made 

conditions worse. The length of the voyage had exhausted the food supply and provisions 
ran so h.w that they were obliged to ask assistance of another merchantman and a man of 

war, hut the i I given them by the latter was so badly spoiled and infected with vermin 

that only starving people ..mid have eaten it. 

The mother, with her four sons and laughter, settled on a farm a few miles from 

Newark, New Jersey, which is now. however, a part of the city itself. The children grew 

l aturitj upon this farm and there flic daughter, Bridget, married Michael Cogan, ami 

there lei only child. Andrew .lames Cogan, was horn. Her husband was a native of Sara- 
toga, New York, when- lii. ancestors had lived since early colonial days. lie died when Ins 

on \n.liew w.i- lull a i.w (lis old. In I s ,"> 7 Mrs. Cogan came to Portage, Wisconsin, 

where -he resided for a year, alter which she removed to Pike county, Missouri, making 

liei leanc in thai COUllty lor al t ten years. She lived there during I he trying period of 

the t ivil war and was open in her advocacy of the CJni ailse, although it was far IT a 

,.ie thing at thai tune to avow allegiance to the Union in Missouri, which was strongly in 




MRS. BRIDGET COGAM 



HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 55 

favor of slavery. Four of her brothers served in the Union army, one in Colorado, two in 
Alabama, where their regiment participated in many hard-fought battles, and one in the 
militia near his home. 

Alter the war her brother Barney came west and in 1868 w;is plying his trade of black- 
smith at the old town of Bon Homme, then a station on the stage route leading to the forts 
along the Missouri river. He sent for .Mrs. Cogan to make a home for him and she reached 

Xankton, dime 29, 1869. It so happened that her brother was then employed in Yankl in 

tlie new St. Charles Hotel. He did not believe that his sister had arrived when told that she 
was at the Merchants Hotel as she had not advised him that she was coming. On investigat- 
ing, however, he found her there and they immediately made their way to lion Homme, where 
they rented an old house constructed of cedar h>e.s. Mrs. Cogan had her furniture sen* from 
Sioux ( itv by boat and soon had a comfortable home for her brother. She then had a large 
house built for hotel purposes. Alter a short time, however, a prairie lire destroyed the 
house with everything in it, Mr. Cole and Mrs. Cogan barely escaping with their lives. They 
remained in the house until the roof fell in and when they were then driven into the open 
they encountered almost equal peril from the burning grass and weeds, which set I'm- to 
their clothing up to their knees and blistered their feet. I'Vom the time that she first settled 
in Bon Homme, Mrs. Cogan was almost compelled to keep travelers over night, as there was 
then no hotel in the locality. She had been permitted to occupy the courthouse while her 
house was being constructed and after the destruction id' her home by lire and the adjourn- 
ment of the United States district court, she was allowed to use the courtroom as a hostelry 
until lumber could be shipped from Sioux City to erect a new building for that purpose. 
Later she again occupied the courthouse so as to permit her house to be used as a store by 
Henry Davis and George Meade, who started the first store in Hon Homme. For many years 
the hotel which she ran was famous for hundreds of miles and was the stopping place of all 
men of consequence in the territory and later in the state, as well as the more humble 
traveler. Ministers of all denominations found a ready welcome and no charge was ever made 
for their accommodations. Some idea of the difficulties which Mrs. Cogan had to surmount 
in the conduct of her business may be gained when it is learned that it was at first neces- 
sary for her to carry water in buckets from the river, which was some little distance from 
the hotel. As this was a very slow and tiresome task, a team and wagon was later pur- 
chased and used to haul water and wood. After some time a well was due adjacent to the 

hotel but a sufficient Supply of water was not reached until the well hail I n sunk to the 

depth of eighty feet. At times, during sessions of the United States court, there were as 
main- as sixty people sleeping in their own blankets on her dining room floor ami often two 
hundred and fifty meals were served three times a day. As there were no bakeries, Mrs. 
Cogan was forced to bake all of the bread and pastry used in her own kitchen, in addition to 
preparing the other food consumed. As most of her quests were men of the frontier whose 
arduous work made it necessary that they have substantial food ami a great deal of it. it 

i- easy to see that the task of keeping a hotel was tar fr being an easy one. Mrs. Cogan, 

however, not only supplied an abundance of food of excellent quality, but also found lime to 
speak a friendly word to each of her ".ucsts. whether he be a man of influence in the terri- 
tory or a stranger without means. She was a stanch friend of the Indians and they Bome- 
tinies encamped on her field a thousand strong, while a party of them often held one of their 

ceremonial dames at her door, which h she usually repaid by giving them a sack of flour. 

Her Indian name was Tanka Waseche Utah Tepe, which is translated as -the big white 
woman who keeps tin eating house." do show his appreciation of favors shown him the 

famous chief. Sitting Hull, sent her a present of an mi use horns] i I a pair of moccasins 

trimmed with porcupine quills. The gallant General Custer was a daily guest at her hotel 
in the spriii" of lKll'i, when he was detained at I'.oii Homme by high water on the way to his 
last battle on the Little Big Horn river in Wyoming. Upon the removal of the county seal 
to Tyndall Mi-. Cogan dosed her hotel and took up her residence in the new town, where she 
ha- sinci lived retired. Her son. Andrew dames Cogan, established his newspaper plant at 
Set Ian. 1. 

Mrs. t ogan has been a lifelong member of the Catholic church and contributes freely to 

its varied work. Her exemplary • hristian character and her hearty el rfulness, even when 

bearing burdens which i.w of the present generation are called u] to sustain, may well 

serve a- an inspiration to all who learn of her life. She. was reared in an old settled country 



56 HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 

and was accustomed to the comforts and refinements of civilization and her influence in the 
territory and state of South Dakota was one oi the potent forces in softening and rendering 
more gracious the crude and sometimes rough life of the frontier. She had a sympathetic 
understanding of the conditions of the western country and realized that underneath the rude 
exterior there was a sincere and fine manhood, and this understanding enabled her to wield 
her great influence for good. Her personal interest in each of her guests and the excellent 
accommodations afforded by her hotel were rewarded bj the warm place which she held in 
the hearts of many throughout the northwestern region. There is no one in South Dakota 
">'" l,a - ll -" 1 ; < more eventful or more interesting life and her name deserves an honored place 
among those pioneers who, by their toil, laid the foundation upon which the present prosper- 
ous state of Smith Dakota has been builded. 



HON. LOEING ELLIS GAFFY. 

Hon. Loring Ellis Gaffy, lawyer, jurist and Dakota pioneer, new one of the leading 
citizens of Pierre, was born in Clinton county, New York, on the 12th of January, 1850, a 
son oi James Gaffy, whose birth occurred in County Westmeath, Ireland, and who in the 
year 1834 crossed the Atlantic to the United States, settling in New York, where he 
remained until Is;,;,. i„ that year in. removed westward to Wisconsin with in, family, 

settling near fond du Lac. where I ngaged in fanning until liis death, which occurred in 

1886 when he was on a visit to North Dakota, lie welded Nancy Hair, a native of Ver- 

1 "■ • ll " 1 "'' their family of three children, Judge Gaffy is the second in order of birth. 

His sisters arc Mrs. ('. A. Walker, of F I du Lac. Wisconsin; and Mrs. w. .1. Y.,u, f 

Seattle, \\ ashington. 

The public-school system of fond du Lac ail'orded .lud.ro Call'y his early educational 
privileges, which were supplemented by study in De Lands Commercial College. His review 

1,1 the '"'"•"I opporl nc, of Hi,, business world Id to his selection of the law as a life 

work and he began his preliminary reading in the office and under the direction of Judge 
l)n ". v '" Im - home city. In 1871 he went to Greelej county. Nebraska, where he remained 
" M,il l 873, when he became compass man on the United state, survey of western Nebraska. 

In 1874 he went to loan, I Island. Nebraska, where !,,■ continued his studies in the offic ' 

' ' H. Thummel, and in 1876 was admitted to the Nebraska bar. 'flic following peat 

'"• eame to Dakota territory, settling at Deadwood, where he continued in active practice 

" n,il l884 - Im 'he meantime he had bei te recognized as one of the leader, of the repub- 

l " :i " partj in that locality and was made 1 1,,. candidate for the territorial senate in his 
district in I- 0. 

lour year, afterward Judge Gaffy removed to Pierre, where he ha, since re, i, led. and 
throughout the intervening year, he has I, ecu almosl continuously in office, his official duties, 
however, always being in the strict path of his profession. He was elected states attorney 

oi Hugln county in 1888 and was the incumbent in that office for f ■ years, or until 1893. 

In 1894 he was appointed judge oi the sixth judicial district and was thereaftei elected and 
reelected to the bench until he had served continuously for twelve and a hall pears. Ilis 

!,i "■' '" trictly lair and impartial and were characterized In asterful grasp of 

' ■■■■ problem presented for solution. On his retirement from the bench he resumed the 
private practice of law as a member of the firm of Gaffy & Stephens and is now senior 
partner in the well known and leading law firm of Gaffy, Stephen, ,V fuller. He has always 
made lie- practice ol law hi, real life work and there i, no one who more fully recognizes 

lln nece ity for a most, ll gh preparation or prepares his cases with greater care. In 

lent lie i strong, logical and convincing and his utterances lead through the steps of 

orderly | res ion to the logical conclusion upon which the decision of every ease finally 

turns. Hi, interest tside of his profession an' those which have to do with genera] busi- 

"loni as well a- with individual success. In 1912 he wa, elected president of 
He I it Viiional Ian .J Accident Insurance Company ami now largelj devotes hi, time 
and energies to hi, important and responsible duties in that connection, lie i, also presi- 
dent of the Suburban Acreage C pany and through (hat medium is largely interested in 

it i iga led 1 Is. 



HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 57 

Judge Gaffy has been married twice. In March, 1878, he wedded Fannie B. Price, whose 
deatli occurred in Pierre in 1887. In February. 1900, he wedded Adelaide \Y. Warwick, of 
Mount Pleasant, Iowa, a daughter of Judge William I. Warwick, and again death entered 
his household on the 14th of February, 1913. 

Judge Gaffy is prominently known as one of the foremost leaders of the republican 
party in South Dakota. He was among those most active in the spirited contest which 
finally resulted in the choice of Pierre as the state capital and he lias always ben found in 
the van of every movement of a progressive nature affecting his city or the state at large. 
His fraternal relations are with the Masons and Huron Lodge, No. 444. II. 1". O. K.. and 
along professional lines he is known as a member of the South Dakota Bar Association and 
the American Bar Association. He has broad insight into the basic principles of the law, 
supplemented by an intellect keen, discriminating and analytical. Moreover, he is a pro- 
found student along many lines and an omnivorous reader of the best English literature. 
Outside the diverse activities of an especially busy life he has found time to devote to the 
many complex questions arising from the development of a new country from the condition 
when sod and claim shacks were prevailing features of the landscape to that of modern 
civilization. His influence has ever been a potent force for progress and development. For 
many years he has been deeply interested in prison labor reform and the general better- 
ment of prison conditions and is a member of the Prison Labor Reform Society. In fact, be 
has studied deeply the grave political, sociological and economic questions of the day ami 
at all times keeps abreast with the best thinking men of the age. He finds pleasure and 
recreation in hunting, fishing ami horseback riding and through these means has maintained 
that even balance in life which is lacking when business cares monopolize attention. The 
state accords him position as one of its foremost lawyers and Pierre places him among its 
most prominent citizens. 



OLE s. SWENSON. 



Ole S. Swenson, serving in a creditable manner as warden of the Smith Dakota state 
penitentiary at Sioux Falls, was born in Halingdal, Norway. November '.). 1845, ami i- a son 
of Swen ainl Julia (Sanderson) Swenson. also natives of that locality. The family is 
descended from a Scottish nobleman of the Clement clan, who lied from his native country 
in 1604 for political reasons and settled in Halingdal. In the course of years the name 
became changed to it> present form. 

Ole S. Swenson began 1 1 i — . education in the country schools of Nicollet county. Minne- 
sota, where liis parents had settled on a farm in 1857. He later attended public school at 
St. Peter, Minnesota, and. laying a^ide his books at the age oi eighteen, began clerking in a 
store in that city. In 18713 he established a hardware store there, hut busines> being poor 

on ai nt of the plague of grasshoppers he moved his stock to Grand Meadow, where he 

controlled an important patronage for four years. At the end of that time he came to Sioux 
Falls, where from 1880 until 1892 lie was a well known hardware merchant. In the latter 
year he disposed of his interest in that business and turned his attention to Hour milling, 
engaging in thai occupation until 1902. He is a director in the Queen City Fire Insur- 
ance Company oi South Dakota, also in the Albeit Fen Gas Company of Albert I. en. Min- 

ie ota; in the Tin. hi In- nee Association of Sioux Falls and a member of the executive 

committee of that company. He i- a man whose business ability is known and recognized. 

In 1872, at St. Peter, Minnesota, Mr. Swenson married Miss Celia Thompson, a daugh- 
ter of stone and Julia (Roan) Thompson. Mrs. Swenson passed away in 1879, leaving two 
children, Arthur W. and Josephine • :. In 1880, nt Grand Meadow. Minnesota, Mr. Swenson 
was again married, his second union being with Miss Eliza Susan Ranney, by whom he has 
three children, William I... Norma M. and Ernest S. 

Mr. Swenson was reared a Lutheran and holds membership in the Elks Club of Sioux 
Falls, lb- is a thirty-second degree Scottish Rite Mason and is affiliated also with the 
Woodmen of the World. He is a republican in his political beliefs mid stands high in die 
party's councils, taking an intelligent and active interest in public affairs. From L898 until 
1902 he was chairman of the republican central committee of Minnehaha county and he ha- been 



58 HISTORY OF SOUTE DAKOTA 

• ii 1 1 times a loyal supporter of the party's principles and candidates. His fellow citizens, 
recognizing ln^ worth and ability, have called upon him to fill positions of honor and trust. 
In L886 he was elected county treasurer and so acceptably did he fill that office that he was 
reelected in L888, serving in all four years. He then declined to become a candidate for 
reelection. In L901 he was first appointed warden of the South Dakota penitentiary and 
after serving two years was reappointed for a similar period of time. He was then out of 
office until L909, when he was again given that position, in which he has since served by 

reappoint nt. He has made many improvements in the institution. When he took charge 

in L901 there was no work for the prisoners except in the quarry and on the farm, which 
was not ci gh to give employment to all of them, but .Mr. Swcnsun went before the legis- 
lature and was instrumental in getting a bill passed to establish a shirt factory and twine 
plant. The former ha- now been in operation since 1905 and the latter since L909. There 
are now two hundred and twenty spindles in use in the twine factory, manufacturing about 
seven million pounds of twine annually, which is one hall of what the state uses. The 
prison is now up-to-date in all its appointments, having a good dining room, chapel, laundry, 

hospital, solitary apartments, deputies' offices, measurement r ns, music room, carpenter 

shops, hath rooms, etc. There are a total of two hundred and eleven prisoners and the honor 
system, which has recently been recommended or put in operation in different states, has 
been tried here lor some years. There is an evening school with studies up to the eighth 
grade and fifty-five prisoners in voluntary attendance. The teachers are also prisoners. 
There is also a moving-picture machine and exhibitions are given once or twice each week. 
Besides this, there is an orchestra ami a quartette to lead the singing, all composed of 
prisoners. In I'.MH the lockstep was abolished and the prisoners are now dressed in cadet 
gray, the stripes being used only temporarily as a punishment. The farm consists of five 
hundred ami eighty acres and all of the buildings thereon have been erected by prison labor, 
w it h no foreman. 

In S \ Falls Mr. Swenson is known as a refined and courteous gentleman, progressive 

in his views, and straightforward and honorable in all relations of life, and he holds the 
esteem and confidence of all who are in any way associated with him. 



FREDRICK TAI'T EVANS. 



The name of Fredrick Taft Evans has been indelibly inscribed upon the pages of the 
history of the Black Hills, lor he was connected with many events which promoted its 
progress and development and shaped its annals, lb' particularly contributed to the 
improvemenl of Hoi Springs and throughout that section of the state Ins name i- well 
known ami honored, He was bom at I'arkinan. Ohio, not far from Cleveland, on 1 he 38th 
of November, 1835, and his life record covered (be intervening period to the nth of October, 
L902, when death called him. 

Mr. Evans attended the public schools of bis native state and also studied for a 
time in Hiram College when .lames A. Garfield, afterward president of the United states, 
was one of the teachers there. He was eighteen years of age when be went to the 
pinerii "i northern Wisconsin, working for others at Big Mull falls. In 1856 he proceeded 
tn lie Soto Nebraska, from which point be made a trip across the plains with a party 
to Walla Walla, Washington. The trip was fraught with many interesting incidents such 

a- went to make up l! xperiences of the pioneer travelers to the coast, lb' remained 

in Washington foi three years and then returned to Nebraska, where be became t lie owner 

of a large stock rt h. The whole town of Grand Island. Nebraska, now stands upon 

that ranch, lie engaged extensively in the stock business, furnishing stock under eon 
trad to tin' United states government ami to the Union Pacific Railroad until the com- 
pletion ol the line across the continent. Because of the depredations of the Indians he 
removed to [owa, taking up his abode at Sioux city, where he built the fust street 
railroad, lie resided there until 1876, in which year he embarked in the transportation 
business, opening the trail from old fort Pierre (o the Hills. He continued actively in the 
freighting business until the Northwestern Railroad was completed, making Deadwood his 
freighting headquarters. For a tune he was in partnership with John Hornick under the 




[■'KKDKRICK T. ICVAXS 



HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 61 

firm stylo of Evans & Hornick. Terminal points were constantly changing as the country 
became settled. Freight was first carried by boat to Yankton, thence overland to Pierre and 
on to the Black Hills, Mr. Evans becoming the first settler of Pierre. As the different 
railroads were extended into the country routes were changed but new roads were opened 
up and the freighters pursued their interests. Mr. Evans hauled into the country much of 
the heavy machinery used in the early mines and in so doing overcame obstacles which 
would seem utterly insurmountable to men of less determination and resourcefulness. On 
the extension of the railroad from Rapid City to Whitewood he retired permanently from 
the freighting business. He related that at the time of his retirement there was owing 
him one hundred and twenty-one thousand dollars, part of which was protected by unin- 
dorsed notes ami some of it only by verbal promises, but such was the honor among the 
early settlers that eventually every cent was paid. At the time of his retirement Mr. 
Evans had in actual service fifteen hundred oxen, otic hundred and fifty mules and a 
force of from two to three hundred men, while in every town in the Black Hills warehouses 
had been established. In the meantime he purchased a number of mining properties, several 
of which he never developed. After closing out the transfer business about 1889 he became 
interested in Hot Springs and erected the first hotel and also the first bathing house at that 
place, lie believed that the village had natural advantages which would make it the largest 
city of the Black Hills country if properly handled. He erected the Minnekahta Hotel on 
the site where the Kvans now stands and he also built the .Minnekahta block. He built 
and sold to the county the edifice used as a courthouse in Deadwood and he gave to the 
county the ground tor the State Soldiers' Home, which he built under contract. He also 
donated the ground upon which all of the churches of Hot Springs have been built and 
he was connected with practically every enterprise of the city. He built the present water, 
light and power system and he was also connected with the first bank of Hot Springs and 
at the same time was the owner of the stock of a bank at Pierre- He embraced every 
opportunity for furthering the interests and promoting the upbuilding of Hot Springs 
and he recognized opportunities that others passed heedlessly by. 

(in the 25th of April, 1863, Mr. Evans was united in marriage to Miss Theresa Beall, 
who was born in Fremont, Steuben county, Indiana, in lsl4, a daughter of Enos and 
Hannah (Rowe) Beall, the former a native of Montgomery county. Maryland, and the latter 
of New York city. The father, who was a prominent attorney anil jurist, served on the 
supreme bench of Indiana for a number of years. He was a pioneer resident of that stab' 
and became one of the early settlers in Michigan, but after a brief period removed to 
Wisconsin and in 186] east in his lot with the early settlers of Nebraska, taking up his 
abode where Grand Island now stands. There he engaged in merchandising for a time but 
because of failing health retired and passed away there in 1873. His widow and her family 
afterward removed to Sioux City. Iowa, where her death occurred in 1889. Mr. Beall served in 
the Nebraska state legislature for a number of terms and left the impress of his individuality 
up. in I he laws enacted during that period. To him and his wife were born two children, 
of whom Mrs. Evans is the elder. Her brother. Rev. Byron Beall, is a Presbyterian minister 

now residing at Lincoln. Nebraska. Being in | ■ health he has been compelled to retire 

from the active work of the ministry. Mrs. Evans was educated at Hillsdale College 
in Hillsdale. Michigan. By her marriage she has become the mother of four children: 
Fredrick T.. who is a county official residing at Seattle. Washington: Frank, who resides 
on a fruit and chicken ranch near Seattle; Ella, the wife of If. I). Clark, who is developing 
a large fruit ranch at San Fernando, California; and John, who resides on a huge fruit 
ranch near Hot Springs. 

Mr. Evans was a member of the Masonic fraternity and took all of the degrees, from 
th«' blue lodge !.. the shrine, exemplifying ill his life the beneficent spirit of the craft, which 
is based upon a recognition of the brotherhood of mankind. Mrs. Kvans is a member of 
the order of the Eastern stai and is prominently known in club and literary circles of Hut 
Springs. She belongs to the Travelers (bib and the .Mothers Club and she organized the 
Society which erected the binary building at Hot Springs and is now a member of the 
library board. Her influence has ever been on the side of integrity and moral progress 
and along those lines -he fully sustained the efforts of her husband and. like him. held 
membership in the Methodist Episcopal church. In polities Mr. Evans was a republican 
and fin mie term represented Hall county. Nebraska, in the state legislature. After coming 



62 HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 

to ll"t Springs be was mayor oi the citj and did all in his power to further its interests 
and upbuilding, indorsing every plan and measure that tended to foster civic virtue and civic 
pride. He was always deeplj interested in the development of the northwest and did 
iverything in bis power to promote work along that line. His name was indeed well 
known in pioneer times and in later days and his upright life made him honored and esteemed 
b] all with « 1 i he came in contai t. 



• II DGE JOHN HAROLD ROGERS. 

Ji m Harold Rogers, a man of legal learning and sound practical wisdom and good 
judgment, was judge of the municipal court for four years until April, 1915. He was burn 
in Little York. Illinois, on the 39th of August, 1885, a sun of Charles and Margaret Ann 
(McXamara) Rogers. The father, who is a native of X™ York state, was a stockman 

during bis active business ei r but is now living retired at Alexis, Illinois. The mother 

also -mi \ n es. 

John H. Rogers was in due time graduated from the high school at Alexis, Illinois, 
and then studied for three years at Notre Dane- University at Notre Dame. Indiana, after 

which he entered the law scl 1 of the Northwestern University at Chicago and in 1908 

received the degree of 1. 1.. B. from that institution. He remained in Chicago for a short 
time and then removed to Deadwood, South Dakota, but soon after took up his residence 
in Lead, where he has since resided. On the 1st oi December, 1908, he began the independent 
practice of his profession and gained a large clientage. < >n the I8tb of April, L911, his 
ability was recognized i>.\ election to the bench of the municipal courl and he served as 
judge until April. L915. His understanding of human nature, his abilitj to .,•,■ all sides of 
a question and his exact knowledge of the law all qualified him for the duties of thai posi- 
tion and In- services were em ntly satisfactory. 

(in the Htli of February, 1912, Judge Rogers was married to Mis, Rieka Louise Steven- 
son, oi Alexis, Illinois, and to their union has hen horn a daughter, Mary .lane. The Judge 
'- a member of Lead Lodge, No. : IT. 1'.. I'. < >. !■:.. and in politics i~ a republican who is in 
favor "i progressive measures, since removing to Lead he has shown on all occasions a 
-i' 111 ! of ju-iii. - and a willingness to cooperate with all worthy movements thai has mole 
h ' i lie re peeled and popular residents of Hie city. 



I i.l MARTIN MOREHOUSE, M.D 

Dr. Eli Martin Morehouse, a physician mid surgeon of Yankton, actively and succi — 
fully engaged in practice in this city since 1902 and mm recognized a- cue ,,i the leading 
'.'i' 1 ..' 'U the profession in his section of the state, wis horn in Owatonna, Min- 
nesota, en the 30th of August, 1869. His lather. Eli Morehouse, was bom .March :.', 1S35, 
in Warren, Ohio, and he. too, took up the study of medicine and engaged in practice. In 

18.">G h I to \liiine-ota. where he followed his profe - luring his entire active 

urring on the 23d oi May. 1891 He was prominent both as a phy- 
sician and bu itn men and in every relation of life was esteemed for his I 10 oi gh reliability, 

hi ene end In- manj othei sterling trait He was a re gnized leader In political circles 

well meriti I I were conferred upon him, including election to the state 

i ci "i in 'ii;. ai the time of his death and his administration was 

i bj businesslike management of municipal affairs. He was for many year- the 
irty in his congressional district and at all times was actuated by 
a ptiblii -p h . ; < otion to the general good. He married Lorinda A. McRostie, who sur- 
vives and resides ai Owatonna, Minnesota. They had four children, of whom Eli Martin is 
the eldest, tin others being: Efiie, the wife of John W. Adsit, o) Owatonna, Minnesota; 
Dr. Guel C Mo chou le, a pee ticing physician and now the mayor of * Iwatonna ; and Timothy 
\\. deci i scd. 



HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 63 

Eli Martin Morehouse was a. pupil in the public schools of his native city and after- 
ward pursued a classical course in Pillsbury Academy there. Subsequently lie entered the 
Bennett Medical College of Chicago and was graduated therefrom with the class of 1901. 
The following year he located at Yankton, where he has since remained and in the inter- 
vening period he has become established as one of the leading physicians of the city, being 
accorded an extensive practice. He meets his duties in a most able and conscientious man- 
ner, possessing comprehensive knowledge of the principles of scientific medicine and surgery. 
He i- likewise prominent in civic and social affairs of the city and ranks with its prominent 
residents. He is a member of the State Medical Association, of the Eighth District Medical 
Association and the American Medical Association and he keeps in touch with the trend of 
progress along professional lines. 

Dr. Morehouse was married on the 28th of January. 1s:i7. to Miss Winnifred L. Hanna, 
a daughter of James Hanna. of New York. Dr. and Mrs. Morehouse occupy a prominent 
social position, the hospitality of the best homes being freely accorded them, while the 
good cheer of their own household is greatly enjoyed by their many friends. Dr. Morehouse 
has at tame. I high rank in Masonry, being a thirty-second degree Mason of the Yankton 
consistory ami belonging also to Yankton commandery, in which he served during 1912 and 
1913 as eminent commander. He is likewise a Knight of Pythias and an Odd Fellow. His 
political allegiance has always been given to the democratic party and while lie keeps well 
informed on the questions and issues of the day his political service has always been in the 
path of hi- profession. He has been superintendent of the county board of health, county 
physician of the poor and a member of the [pension examining board. He is widely known 
because of hi- professional activity and Ids publia spirit and his record has ever been such 
a- will bear close investigation and scrutiny, establishing him high in general regard. 



LUG1 ST GOETZ. 



August Goetz, a pioneer contractor ami builder of Yankton, has been a resident of 
Smith Dakota since 1882 and in the intervening years to the present has been prominently 
associated with the material progress and improvement of city and state. In fact through- 
out South Dakota are seen many evidences of his handiwork in the churches, public build- 
ings and line residences. He was born in Wiesbaden, (Jen y. August 10. 1855. His lather, 

Philip Goetz, came to America in issl but after a short residence in Milwaukee and Yank- 
ton relumed t.. Germany in 1SS4. where he devoted practically hi- entire life to the con- 
tracting business. His wife bore the maiden name of Katrina Seifert and both are now 
deceased. They were the parent- of -ix children, of whom three are yet living, a brother 
and sister ol our subjecl being -till residents oi Wiesbaden. 

August Goetz acquired his education in the public schools of the fatherland and after 
putting aside In- text-books entered upon a three years' apprenticeship at. the carpenter's 
trade, lie received no wages tor hi- services but on tin' contrary followed the German 
custom of paying one hundred dollar- per year lor the privilege of learning tin' business 
and at the same time provided tor his own support. Me continued to work at the carpen- 
ter's trade in Germany until reaching his twentj sixth year, when in 1881 he bade adieu to 

friends ami native 1 1 ami sailed for America, for a year thereafter he was employed at 

his trade in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and in 1882 he arrived in Yankton. Dakota Territory, 
where he began contracting ami building on Ins own account in a small way. lie soon 
proved that ability entitled him to a liberal share of the public patronage ami annually his 
business grew in volume ami importance. He is today one of the best known ami most 
extensive builder- in l he -fate, standing among the leaders in los profession in South Dakota, 
lb- hi- made a special feature of church construction ami there are scores of the finest church 
edifices in South Dakota that stand a- monuments to hi- -kill and his knowledge of the 
rules that govern architecture. To him have been awarded contracts for the erection ol 
many of the state's line bxisiness blocks, public institutions ami beautiful residences. He 
combines beauty with utility ami convenience ami never sacrifices qualitj of workmanship 
or material in the completion of a structure. Aside from his contract 'mil' business, which 



64 IIISTi )RY ( >F S( )UTE L>AK< )TA 

i- the largest in this section ol the Btate, Mr. Goetz is quite extensively interested in 
i ankton real estate and is the owner of considerable timber land in the Black Hills country. 
(in the 22d of May. L880, VIr. Goetz was united in marriage in Germany t ■ ■ Miss Elisa 
Blum and they became parents of -i\ children, four of whom are yet living. Two of the 
sons, Emil and Henry, aire associated with their father in business. The former married 

Stella Posl I the latter wedded [lene Brown and they have one son, Willard. Elizabeth 

is the wife of T. W. Sallet, editor of the Freie Presse of Aberdeen, South Dakota, by whom 
she has two children, Fritz and Han-. Helen, the youngest of the family, is at home. 

die religious faith oi the family is that of the Congregational church, in which Mr. 
and Mrs. Goetz hold membership. He belongs also to the Benevolent Protective Order of Llks 
and thr Independent Ordei of Odd Fellows. He exercises his right of franchise in support 
of tlic men and measures of the republican party and has served on the city commission as 
commissioner of streets for two years, in which connection he has done important work for 
the improvement of the public highways, a feature the value of which cannot be overesti- 
mated at the present day. when the good mads movement looms large on the public horizon. 
He has also taken an active interest in educational matters and has been one of the con- 
sistent supporters of Yankton College. He stands today as one of the foremost residents of 
Ins city by reason of his cooperation in public affairs which work for material development 
and civic progress and also by reason of his business enterprise, which has made him a leader 
in building circles, with an unassailable reputation for honor and reliability. 



DARWIN M. IXMAN. 

"He did not proclaim his c Iness but he lived it, which is the \ital thing," wrote a 

elose personal friend of Darwin M. tnman, and in this is summed up the strongest char- 
acteristic of his lite. He was ii believer in all those things which make I'm- upright manhood 
in every relation and his belief found embodiment in his daily conduct. He did not seek to 
he a teacher, hut the inllnenee of his life was as a radiating force. He was perhaps best 
known to the public as hanker, as legislator and as one of the founders and champions of 
the Stale University at Vermillion, and yet it was not Ins public career hut the innate 
nature of the man that so endeared him to all with whom he came in contact, causing his 

i y to he ie\eied and eherisheil h\ nil who knew him. lie was hoin March II, ls:;s. in 

Clarendon, Orleans county, New York, and it was in his native city that he passed away 
on the i ith oi January, I'.h:;, while visitine his brother. In the family of his parents, Phillip 
and Anna (Thompson) fnman, were seven children. His ancestors were among the colonial 
residents of America and one family with which he was connected was represented in the 
Revolutionary war by father and six sons. 

Alter attending the public schools of his native county, Darwin M. tnman continued hia 
education at Holley and Albion Academies and completed a classical course in Rochester 
I niversity, from which he was graduated with high honors. He took up the profession of 
teaching when hut fourteen years of age and followed it lor a number oi terms, ami his deep 
and helpful interest in educational affairs was ever one of the salient traits of liis character. 
That he was a man of influence even in early life is shown by the fact that Clarendon 

elected him i if its supervisors when he was yet a young man and lor I wo lei ins he filled 

that position. 

iii the 28th of December, 1874, Mr. tnman was united in marriagi to Miss Ail.de Lewis, 
oi Columbus, Wisconsin, she was born in New York, a daughter of William I., and Eliza A. 
Lewis, both natives oi Orleans county. New York, whence they removed to Wisconsin In 1856. 
They afterward came to South Dakota, settling in Vermillion, where Mr, Lewis lived retired 
until called to his final rest. In their family were five children, of whom tine,- daughters 
survive: Mrs. VI. D. Thompson, of Vermillion; Mrs. II. A. Morgan, also of Vermillion; and 
Mrs. Ionian. Those who have passed away are M. .1. Lewis and Jennie, who died at the age 
of twenty three years, Mrs. tnman acquired her literary education in Wisconsin and received 
musical instruction in Madison and Milwaukee. Wisconsin, and in Chicago, and in early 
womanhood she engaged in teaching music. The wedding journey of Mr. and Mrs. fnman con- 
sisted of a tup I.. Vermillion, where they arrived on the 30th of December, L874, thereafter 




DAISWIN M. IXMAX 



HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 67 

continuing residents of that city, where Mrs. Inman still makes her home. Early in the 
following year Mr. Inman was instrumental in organizing a bank in connection with M. .1. 

Lewis and M. 1). Thompson. This was operated fur some years as a private liank under the 
name of D. M. Inman it Company and was later converted into the First National Bank of 
Vermillion, Mr. Inman remaining at the head of that institution for thirty-eight years. This 
business brought him into close connection with many of his fellow townsmen and there are 
scores who attest his helpfulness in business relations and his ready assistance when financial 
aid was needed. Above all desire for success was ever found that broad spirit of humani- 
tarian ism which he continually expressed in a helping hand extended to one in need of 
assistance. 

It was but natural that a man of Mr. Ionian's well known ability and public spirit 
should have been called to office. In the fall of 1876 he was elected a member of the terri- 
torial legislature and was twice reelected, serving in all for three terms. He was also elected 
a member of the first state legislature and he left the impress of his individuality upon 
important laws enacted. He also served for four terms as a trustee of the State University, 
which institution he aided in founding and of which lie was ever a stalwart champion, doing 
everything ill his power to further its interests. While thus actively engaged in public affairs 
Mr. Inman continued iu business and his efforts in that direction were attended with growing 
success. He was associated with M. J. Lewis and M. 1). Thompson in the grain anil elevator 
trade, in the lumber business and in other enterprises, all of which were carried forward to 
successful completion. In business affairs Mr. Inman's judgment was sound, his enterprise 
keen and his energy unfaltering. 

In his political views Mr. Inman was ever a stalwart democrat. He kept well informed 
on the questions and issues of the day and was ever ready to support his position by intelligent 
argument. Fraternally lie was a very active and prominent Mason. He held membership in 
Incense Lodge, No. 2. A. F. & A. M.; Vermillion Chapter, No. 21, R. A. if., both of Vermillion; 
and also became a member of DeMolay Commandery, K. T., of Yankton. Later he demitted 
therefrom when Vermillion Commandery, No. Hi. was organized. He was also a member of 
El Riad Temple, A. A. 0. X. M. S., of Sioux Falls. He affiliated with the Baptist church, to 
which Mrs. Inman still belongs, and he was most active and helpful in church work. The 
Dakota liepiiblican. in speaking of his religious life, said: "Mr. Inman affiliated with the 
Baptist church. Be was a Bible student, and we doubt if there was another layman that 
could quote Scripture as readily as he. He was always a liberal supporter of the church, lie 
lived a practical Christian life. His motto was the golden rule. His charities were boundless, 
helping where help was needed, and in all this he fulfilled the scriptural injunction of never 
letting Ins left hand know what his light hand was doing. Many were his acts of kindness, 
and many were the homes helped by his generosity that the world at large knew nothing of." 

The same paper, writing of him in other connections, said: "As a citizen of the com- 
munity in which he lived. Mr. Inman was held in high esteem by all with whom he came 
in contact. In the early days when the country was new, and the trials ami hardships of 
pioneering were the experiences of our people, he gained a hold on their esteem by bis counsel 
in urging them to persevere despite adverse conditions, and by aiding them in a substantial 
manner. Down through the years his good counsel has not been forgotten, and the younger 
generation has looked to him in the same manner as did the former. In all matters where 
the interests of the community were involved, when, public improvements and the welfare 
of the city were under consideration, he always showed his public-spiritedness by standing 
behind any proposition whereby conditions might be bettered, and whereby better civic 

circumstances might be promoted. The same c litions prevailed in his relations to the 

county, and his best efforts wire directed to the end that this county might not be behind 

am ,,t tl ther counties ot the state. Over the state he was regarded as oni of its fore st 

citizens, not only along lines of business, but in matters of public policy and public welfare. 
. . . Mi. Inman was preeminently an educational enthusiast. In the early struggles ,,i 
the State University he was one of its strongest supporters, and was untiring in his efforts 
to firmly establish that institution. As a member of the board of trustees he took advantage 
of every opportunity to advance its interests. Not only did he give liis attention to the 
university as an institution, but he took a deep interest in the students, and a-sis|e,| them 
,,, their careers. Scattered throughout the length and breadth of the land todaj are many 
young men win. would have been unable to continue their studies had it not been for his timely 



68 HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 

financial assistance. While a member of the territorial and state legislatures he kept the 
theme of public education constantly in mind, and never missed an opportunity where any act 
hi his would advance the educational cause. Politically, Mr. Inman affiliated with the demo- 
cratic party. He was a conscientious and consistent democrat and always >.t uck to his 
colors; lie never had anj use for the political flopper who was after office only, and who 
declared allegiance to anj political party simply for office-seeking purposes. Being thus 
affiliated, he did not become the political figure in this republican commonwealth that other- 
wise I"' might have been. He served in the councils oi the party as state chairman and mem- 
be] ol the advisor] board. His close contact with prominent democrats in New York was 
"it'ii helpful to his party in the Dakotas. But he never let party polities interfere with 

the interest he always manifested in the material development of this young i imonwealth. 

He was eminently a most zealous advocate for South Dakota, and never let pass an oppor- 
tunity for saying a 1 and effective word, or performing a proper and judicious act in be- 

half ol tin- young and growing state." 

F'or thirty-eight years Mr. Ionian lived in Vermillion and when he passed away it seemed 
that his fellow townsmen could not find words adequate to express the high regard in which 
In- had ever been held, livery man who knew him was his friend. One writing for the Plain 
Talk said: "We recall that on the occasion of the laying of the corner stone of our new 
courthouse on dune sti, last, Mr. Inman said that he had seen many points in the development 
of the county, and that the new courthouse was hut another step in the onward march of 
improvement, lie spoke of the application of the golden rule in controversies between indi- 
viduals, and said that if the golden rule were more closely followed, there would be less need 
.u courts ami court officials, and much of the expense of t he litigation of the present day might 
he avoided. This sentiment was typical of the man. and characteristic of his business career. 
In city ami county affairs he was active from the first day that he arrived in 
Vermillion, and there isn't a home in the county today that does not know the name of Inman. 
Xii one could he more public-spirited, lie was always looking out for the welfare of others, 
whether it was the student of the university who needed financial assistance, a member of 
his church, or a citizen of the city or county, lie was liberal in his views and with his 
money, lie did things in a quiet way. He was not officious. There was mi display of his 
philanthropy. He did not seek notoriety, hut such a man could not help hut gain publicity. 
II,. w dl be sorely missed by all our people. A good friend ami neighbor has been called home. 
In the days and years to come the haul, which he established in Vermillion will continue to 
prosper; city and county affairs will go on as usual; the stale University will advance; hut 
it will seem strange for a long time In he without the aid and counsel of Darwin M. Inman." 

Al the i uncial services Dean I.. E. Akeley said: "1 regard it as one of the good fortunes 
of my life that. 1 personally knew some ..f the men who conquered the wilderness of western 

New- York, and that later i( was my privilege to beci acquainted with the pioneers who 

made possible l his great young commonwealth in the west. The experience is not at all 

peculiar t yself, I'm' it will hi' readily duplicated by any n f middle age present. Never 

Pel in the world's history could one short life span such a reach of historic movement. 

From thai group "i pioneers in tl Ider state came Mr. Inman in the early days of South 

Dakota history, ami In- was destined to play iii the develo] nt of lie new state the same 

conspicuous part his father had acted in New York. Of Mr. lnman's activity in financial and 
political hues in ihi.se days I on t speak with any authority. I first knew him as presi- 
dent of the I". aid "i trustees of tin- university during the administration ol Dr. Olson. Dr. 
Olson's administration raised the university from a condition of obscuritj In a position which 

c Iliaudi'l the interest and lespect ol Hie Whole slate. The state's COnSCiOUSneSS of (he lllll- 

versity's interests thus secured has never been lost. II is difficult to see hovi tin- institution 
could have withstood the storms of the succeeding years had not tlm work ol the Olson 
administration been so well done. That work was Mr. lnman's. It was he who selected Dr. 

lie knew his man. Our friend knew men. II was in. easy matter in those days to 

hold i he fai nil ; together, and t.. give them confidence in l he stability of the institution. The 
..re -m.iI personality who made us feel that we were building no mere castle in the air was 
Mr. Inman. During those years faculty, president, and -Indents had freest access to Mr. 
Inman'- advice and counsel, lie gave freely of his tune, his thoughts, and Ills sleepless nights. 

He gave the best a man .an e\,-r give t" a eau-e -himself. In contemplating Mr. lnman's 
character there i~ .me quality conspicuous above all others — expressed by one of the noblest 



HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA G9 

words in our language — loyalty. In Mr. Inman's loyalty there was a peculiar quality that 
gave it power. No one waa for a moment ever in doubt regarding the object of that loyalty. 
All over the state were nun who looked to Mr. Inman for leadership in matter-, financial and 
political. Those men knew beyond any shade of doubt that the one way of reaching his 
heart was through a recognition of the university. This certainty in the character of his 
loyalty gave his support of a cause an effectiveness which few men ever acquire. This was 
beautifully illustrated by a letter from the Hon. Frank P. Phillips, read by President Gault 
on the University Charter day of last year. February 3, 1912. He said: 'Whenever 1 am 
called back to Watertown 1 can look about among the young business men and can note a 
great main' of them who are graduates of the University of South Dakota, and the more I 
see of the results of the work this institution has done, the prouder it makes me feel of the 
vote 1 gave to help it get started away back in iss:;. My wish is that it will never have 
another struggle to get maintenance as it had then to get its beginning, and I can truthfully 
say that only tor the great efforts of that patriarch, 1). M. Inman of Vermillion, its success 
could not have been attained at that time. My prayer is that the university may ever grow 
greater and stronger each year as long as time lasts.' Loyalty of this character, in the wider 
circles of human activities, constitutes the moral force that builds states and social institu- 
tion.^, and in the narrower circles of personal relationships it gives to friendship its supreme 
worth. If Mr. Inman gave you his friendship you knew you had something that, would 
weather the storms of life." 

A merited tribute was paid to Mr. Inman by the Rev. Craig S. Thorns: "Doubtless most 
of us think of Mr. Inman preeminently as a business man; and in his business career three 
things command attention. First, his ability. That he was an able business man is attested 
by the business he built up, and by the fact that men in every walk of life sought him for 
counsel and guidance in their own business affairs. Hut a bigger and better thing than abil- 
ity is character. Mr. Inman's character was the prominent and dominant fact in all his 
business dealings. lie was ,i man of -telling integrity, of unsullied honor, and was trusted 
implicitly by all who knew him. I have heard man after man speak of Mr. Inman's honesty. 
His word was even better than his bond, for he not only did the just thing by men, but, going 
beyond strict justice, he was constantly doing what was helpful and needed. He loved to 
see his fellow citizens succeed, and that it was his privilege to help many of them to succeed, 
was his joy. But better even than sterling character, was Mr. Inman's large heartedness. He 
did business with his heart as few men do. Not a few of our citizens are on their feet, in 
business today because back in the grasshopper days .Mr. Inman stood by them and saw them 
through. Not a few men now in middle life have him to thank for giving them a start when 
their only security was his confidence in them. 'Phis may not have been good business as 
business goes, but it is noble in any man, ami it was one of the beauties of Mr. Inman's life. 
His heart could not be held within the bono- oi strict business practice, and in that fact we 
rejoice today even more than we rejoice in his splendid business success. During the past 
thirteen year- I have known personally many students who were working their way through 
our university. Often these students have conic to that place where, unless they could secure 
help, thej inii-i leave school. Many times during these years 1 have sent these men to Mr. 
Inman, sometimes with a personal note, more often with no message whatever except I heir 
own statement of need. Not one such man have I known him to turn away without help. It. 
was Mr. Inman's constant practice to help young men it they were worthy ami in need. lie 
loved worthy young men. He was deeply interested in their education, and delighted I.. help 

them. Mr. Inman was a g 1 church man. How I shall miss him! He was always in the 

morning congregation when he was in town, and well enough to attend, and lie was an earnest 
and appreciative listener. He was a great reader of the Bible. He was intensely interested 
in building up the kingdom of Jesus Christ. He gave largely to missions, both at home and 
abroad. Evangelistic work deeply interested him. ami lie -aw regularlj and largelj to the 
work in the state. There are two other things about Mr. Inman that were very beautiful to 
me: He had a tender heart, ami he thought in world terms. Two simple incidents will illus- 
trate these traits of character. When speaking at. the graduating exercises of the university 
a few years ago, Dr. Herbert Johnson of New York city told the story of a little girl who 
was musically gifted, but. who had happened with an accident which endangered her musical 
future. While he was telling us about her heroism in helping herself, her Buffering, ami her 
possibilities, she was lying in the hospital. Dr. Johnson told me that before he left town, 



70 IIIST< IRY ' IF S< il'Tll DAKOTA 

Mr. 1 1 1 in :■ ■■ sought him out and gave him a sum of m y to help the child. This incident 

was typical in the life of this tender-hearted man. The large terms in which he thought are 
illustrated in this fact: Bight or ten years ago there was held in New York city :i meeting 
of Baptists which contemplated a closer union of the churches north and south, which had been 
divided by the war. At that time Mr. I an called me into his office and gave me a hun- 
dred dollars, saying, '1 want you to go to that meeting in New York; that is an important 
meeting, and will make history.' He had a mind for large things. An earthquake in Cali- 
fornia, or a famine in China at once elicited his interest and secured his help." 

Another said: "His individuality, independence, generosity, epigrams; his mixing of 
the best classic expressions found in the hooks, with the current vernacular of the west; his 
own language, neither local, eastern, nor western, all combined in so unexpected, apt and 
original a way, will always linger in my memory. He was a manager of men. He had a 
faculty of divining a man's purposes; and seemed to know intuitively what was in the 
mind of the man hi- dealt with. Whether dealing with political, business or social problems, 
he could manage the men who had them in charge. I wish some writer with a gift for delinea- 
tion of character like Thackeray or Dickens might give us a pen picture of Mr. Ininan. 1 am 
sine that it, would require more than an ordinary person to convey any adequate impression 
of him. I cared for this man in a way I cannot explain, and if I had formed such an attach- 
ment for anyoi Ise I know it would have been unnatural. He befriended me in so many 

unexpected ways. He was so interested in my success. He affected my business and pro- 
fessional life at so many angles. I have always been his debtor. To him whose friendships, 
benefactions, kindnesses were myriad, and of which not one-hundredth part will ever lie known, 
I pay my tribute." 

Edward !•'. Jorden, president of Sioux Kails College, wrote of Mr. Inman as follows: 
"Hut the thine which brought him near to the heart of those with whom he mingled was the 
deep interest which he always manifested for the personal welfare of the man who was 
fighting a battle iii the interest of humanity. He both remembered the cause and the one 
engaged in it. and so expressed himself to the man iii the struggle as to leave no doubt in 
his mind of his real friendship to him. In short, he was a humanitarian. He loved to see 
humanity uplifted, and he loved the man who was seeking to perform this task when he saw 
in him a spirit in keeping with the mission of his life. Neither was he a man who loved in 

word and tong inly, but • who loved rather in deed and in truth. 11 is words were not 

empty, but filled with substantial blessing and often the same letter which brought congratula- 
tions and cheer for the worker contained a gift of no small proportion for his own personal 

Use." 



ROBERT 11. DRISCOLL 



The first National Hank of Lead is one of the leading m veil institutions of that city 

and much of the credit for its steady growth is due to Robert II. Driscoll, its cashier, who was 

I Lowell, Massachusetts, on the 1st of duly, 1857, a son of ( '. and Catharine (Costello) 

Driscoll, natives of Ireland and Boston respectively. The father was a manufacturer of hats 
and was well known in the trade. Both he and his wile have passed away. 

Robert II. Driscoll was reared in Salem and was graduated from the high school of that 
city in is:;. Four years later he received the Bachelor oi Aits degree fr Harvard. After 

lonv :ollege he I I ■ an instructor in Creek and Latin in an academy at I'ittslield, 

»!., ,i, husetts. where he remained for year. In L882 he came west and taught school 

at Spencer. Iowa. In 1883 he came to South Dakota as principal of the public schools of 

Lead, in which capacity hi served for three years, making a most commendable record. In 

L88" he was elected Hie lii-t auditor of Lawrence county, and two years later became clerk 
Oi cunts of the county, which office he held foi live years. At the tune of his las) reelection 

he was a candidal! three tickets, democrat, republican and populist. In the antinie he 

had studied law and in 1893 was admitted to the bar of South Dakota. In 1894 he resigned 

as clerk of the i Is and I.e. a cashier of the first National Hank of Lead and in the 

intervening twenty year- ha- capably man iced the affairs of that institution. Iii 1893 the 

total I in" ol the hank were two hundred and thirty thousand live hundred dollars and 

m 1915 they wen- two million two hundred and twenty-four thousand six hundred and 




ROBERT II. DRISCOLL 



1 

\ 












HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 73 

aeventy-eight dollars, which remarkable growth is the best proof of the wise management of 
Mr. Driscoll and the other administrative officers. He is justly considered one of the leaders 
in financial circles of Lead and his long experience has made his knowledge of banking 
authoritative. He is a director and vice president of the Wasp No. 2 Mining Company of 
Deadwood, South Dakota, and is also interested in ;i number of other companies. 

In September, 1880, Mr. Driscoll was married in Houghton, South Dakota, to Miss 
Catharine Barry and to this union were" born four children. Robert E., whose birth occurred 
in 1888, is an employe of the First National Bank of Lead. He was graduated from the 
University of Michigan and studied the problems of business in its larger aspects at Harvard 
University, from which he took the degree of Master of Business Administration. Thomas 
Allan and Catharine are both deceased. James Lowell is a student in the University of 
Michigan. 

Mr. Driscoll is a republican and for many years has been active and influential in local 
politics. In 1896 he was assistant sergeant at arms in the republican convention at St. Louis, 
which nominated William McKinley for president, and was a delegate to the Chicago conven- 
tion in 1904, which nominated Roosevelt as the party's standard bearer. He has been vice 
president of the South Dakota Bankers Association and at present is a member of the 
executive committee of that body, which recognition from his colleagues attests the esteem 
in which he is held by the banking fraternity of the state. He is a member of a number of 
secret societies and also belongs to the Rocky Mountain Club of New York, known as the 
"Eastern Home of Western .Men." His New England training and education developed in 
him habits of accuracy and thoroughness, and these qualities have been large factors in his 
success in life. He combines strict integrity in all of his dealings with unusual astuteness 
and soundness of judgment and has become one of the representative men of the Black Hills 
district. He is a close reader and student, continually broadening his general knowledge and 
gaining a deeper insight into the problems that most closely affect him as a banker. He 
realizes the fact that the nerve vigor and energy so essential to worthy achievement depend 
primarily upon the physical condition, and through hygienic living and regular exercise 
maintains his physical efficiency at par. 



W. R. CLELAND. 



W. I!. Cleland, engaged in law practice at Vermillion, was born in Clay county in 1882, 
a son of John M. and Pamelia (Hixson) Cleland. The father was a native of Scotland and 
when but three years of age was brought by his parents to the new world, the family home 
being established in Wisconsin. The mother, a native of Iowa, was a daughter of Nathan 
and Sophia (Hunter) llixson and was but thirteen years of age when brought by her 
parents to South Dakota. John M. Cleland spent his early days upon the home farm 
near Whitewater. Wisconsin, and in 1868 came to Dakota territory, settling in Clay 
county where lie homesteaded and proved up a farm of one hundred and sixty acres, which 
he continued to develop and cultivate until his death in 1898. In the meantime he had 
added to his property at intervals until he was the owner of six hundred and forty acres 
of rich, arable and productive land. On attaining his majority he gave his political 

allegiance to the republican party, hut afterward 1 ame a populist, lie held a number of 

county offices ami in 1875-1876 represented his district in the territorial legislature. His 
official record was at all times creditable to himself and highly satisfactory to his con- 
stituents and In- worth made him one of the valued citizens of his community. His widow 
survives. In their family were nine children, eight of whom are yet living: Herbert V. 

who makes his ] on a farm in Clay county; Kllier L., n jeweler at Parker, South 

Dakota; Mae < [eland Grange, whose husband is a veterinary surgeon of Vermillion; \\ . |;. ; 
Walter I,., who is living upon a farm in Clay county; Orvilla M., at home; l.alilla Cleland 
Lownian. a twin of Orvilla and now a resident of Madison, Nebraska : Ethel I... who is 
one of the primary teachers in the city schools of Mobridge, South Dakota; and Mirtle J., 
who died in 1906. 

W. R. Cleland acquired his early education in the schools of ( lay county and after- 
Ward attended the University of South Dakota. In fact, he completed his entire education 

Vol. IV— 4 



74 HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 

in the schools of South Dakota. He received the degree oi A. B. in L907 and the degree 
of LL. 15. in 1912, from tie- State I niversity. Mr. ( leland congratulates himself on having 

spent his rutin- scl 1 life in South Dakota, where he has located in his chosen profession 

because he values the friendships gain d in his college days as oi his greatesl assets. 

He opened a law office in \ illion in L913 and has since engaged in general practice. 

In early manhood he taught in the country scl Is for a yeair and in 1908 he became prin- 
cipal of the Wesf Side graded scl I in Vermillion. The money thus acquired enabled 

him i" continue his university course and when he had graduated in law he entered 
upon lii- chosen life work, in which he is meeting with a substantial measure of success. 
His devotion to his clients' interests is proverbial, yet he never for a moment forgets that 
he owes a still higher allegiance to the majesty of the law. 

Mr. Cleland was reared in the Methodist faith, his parents being mbers of that 

church He belongs to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and in Ins political views is 
a republican. I pon the party ticket he has been elected to various local offices. For two 
terms he served as register of deeds of Clay county, entering upon the duties of the position 
in 1909 and remaining as the incumbent for four years. He serve,! as secretary of the 
Clay eountj republican committee for two years, and in 1914 he was appointed to the 
office "i police justice of the citj of Vermillion, his decisions being strictly fair and im- 
partial. His entire life has been spent in South Dakota and among his fellow townsmen 
of Clay county who have been witnesses of his career from early boyhood he is held 
in the highest esteem, a fact which indicates that his lias been a well spent life. 



JOHN T. AVER. 



John T. Ayer is a well known representative of the republican party in Lawrence county. 
South Dakota, and is in the employ of the Homestake Mining Company at Lead, being an 
operative in one of their big stamp mills. He was born in Haverhill, New Hampshire, 
August 81, 185:;, a son of John L. and Melissa (Pike) Aver. His great-grandfather upon 
C paternal side was born in Edinburgh, Scotland, and emigrated to America in 1742, 
locating in Maine, since which time the Ayer family has been identified with New Eng- 
land. John L. Ayer was an operator in a paper mill at Wells River, Vermont, during 
his active life but retired to Plymouth, Massachusetts, in 1896, passing awaj there in 1902. 
The Pike family, to which his wife belonged, has been traced back to England. It was 
tablished in Massachusetts in 1680 by a representative who emigrated to that col, my 
from Cornwall among the earliest settlers. Members of the family participated in the 
colonial war-, the Bevolutionary struggle and the War of 1812. Isaac I'ike, the maternal 
grandfather of our subject, was a manufacturer of scythe and oil stones at Pike, Xev> 
Hampshire, and the business has to the present time been continuously conducted by his 
so,,, and grandsons and is now carried on unde, the name of the Pike Manuia, tin in- Com- 
pany, it is the largesl concern of its kind in the world and sends its products to all 
civilized countries. Senator A. F. Pike, of New Hampshire, was an uncle of John T. Ayer. 
The Pike Family Association is the largesl association of the kind in the United States 
and meets annually in the American Hotel at Boston. Three children were bom to John 
L. a „d Melissa (Pike) Iyer, namely: John T.. of this review; Charles J., a resident of 
l'lv. nil. New Hampshre, where he conducts the largest real-estate and insurance busi- 
ness in northern New Hampshire and Vermont; and Lillian, the wife of V. M. Bittinger, 
proprietor of the famous Memorial Press, the oldest newspaper in northern Massachusetts, 
pub ,d at Plymouth. It was established by the Puritans on the site of an old Puritan 

"'-'■ . . 
M,,, T. Ayer was reared in Haverhill, New Hampshire, and in the acquiremenl oi Ins 
education attended Haverhill Academy and Newberry Seminary, the latter locaf it New- 
berry, Ven t. lie then wen! to Biddeford, Maine, and was connected with a retail 

drug tore there for three years, after which he was employed by the wholesale drug firm 
oj Weeks i Pottet oi Boston Massachusetts, for a year. In 1876 he went to Lara,,,,,. 

\Vv,„ and worked for the I n Pacific Railroad Company for two years. In 1878 

he removed to the Black Hills, where he was variously employ,.,! for a time until he became 



HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 75 

connected with the firm of Starr & Bullock, hardware dealers, as inside and outside sales- 
man. He was so engaged for several years and then entered the employ of the J. L. Denman 
Hardware Company at Whitewood, South Dakota, remaining with them for some time. In 
1>94 lie found employment with the HomestaKe Mining Company of Lead and is at present 
one of their mill operatives. 

In 1882, in Central City, this state, Mr. Aver was married to Miss Lillian L. Clark, a 
daughter of Judge Henry Clark, and to their union eight children have been born, Clay L., 
Darrell P., Mildred C, Kathryn M., Alta A., Edwin P.., Dorothy M. and Eleanor L. 

In political affairs Mr. Ayer supports tin republican party and has taken a prominent 
part in his part}' councils since 189G although he has not sought office for himself. He 
is efficient and conscientious in his work and those who have been brought in contact with 
him find him courteous, energetic and upright, qualities that invariably win respect and 
liking. 



A. E. HOFER, M.D. 



Dr. A. E. Hofer has been engaged in the practice of medicine at Marion since 1900 and 
has become widely recognized as an able and successful representative of the profession. 
His birth occurred in Germany on the ISth of October, 1S77. his parents being Michael and 
Louisa Hofer, the former a minister of the German Reformed church. In 1884 the family 
crossed the Atlantic to the LTnited States, coming direct to South Dakota and locating at 
Scotland, where the father preached the gospel as one of the pioneer ministers of his denom- 
ination. The mother of our subject has passed away, but Rev. Michael Hofer is still an 
active representative of the ministry, now preaching in Nebraska. 

A. E. Hofer, who was but seven years of age when he accompanied his parents on their 
emigration to the new world, acquired his education in the public schools of Scotland, a 
private academy in Wisconsin and the Mission House College at Sheboygan, Wisconsin. 
Desiring to prepare for a professional career, he spent one year as a student in the North- 
western University Medical School of Chicago and then entered Barnes Medical College at 
St. Louis, Missouri, from which institution he was graduated in 1900. He at once located' 
in Marion, Smith Dakota, and throughout the intervening years to the present time lias 
there been actively and successfully engaged in the practice of medicine and surgery, his 
patronage constantly increasing as he has demonstrated his ability in the field of his chosen 
calling. At different times he has pursued post-graduate work in Chicago and has kept in 
touch with the progress of the profession. He has extensive real-estate holdings and is 
also heavily interested in the local telephone company, of which he has served as president, 
secretary and treasurer. 

On the 24th of August, 1903, Dr. Hofer was joined in wedlock to Miss Margaret Knorr, 
a daughter of Herman Knorr. He gives his political allegiance to the republican party, has 
served as coroner and again holds the position at the present time. His religious faith is 
that of the German Reformed church, the teachings of which he exemplifies in his daily life. 
His professional activity lias brought him prosperity, while his personal characteristics have 
established him high in the regard of his many friends. 



CARL ANDREW LOOK. 



Carl A. Look is proprietor of two well established and profit-earning meat markets in 
Sioux Falls. He lias built up the business entirely through his own energy and determina- 
tion and his methods have been such as neither seek nor require disguise. Moreover, he has 
displayed his faith in tin' city and its future by various investments in property. 

ilr. Look was born on the 25th of August. 1861, in Brunswick, Germany, a son ot 
Henry and Minnie Look, the former a farmer and stock-raiser by occupation. In a family 
of thirteen children Carl A. Look is the youngest and after acquiring a public-school educa- 
tion he entered upon a three years' apprenticeship to the butcher's trade, paying ten dollars 



76 IIIS'K )RY OF S( >UTH DAKOTA 

per year and all of his own expenses for the privilege of being instructed in thai work. 
He gained a thorough familiarity with the business that was evidenced in his growing 

.skill and thus he laid the foundation for Ins later success. In 1883, when in his twenty- 
second year, he came to America, thinking to find broader and better business opportunities 
in the new world. After Bpending a brief period in Wisconsin with an older brother he 
removed to Sioux Falls, where he worked at his trade through the succeeding live years 
.ii an average wage of twenty-two dollars per month. He was ambitious and energetic, 
however, and resolved to one day engage in business on his own account. When he had 
saved a little capital he opened a small market at Seventh street and .Main avenue. His 
courteous and obliging manner and evident desire to please his patrons, combined with his 
fair dealing, soon won him an increasing trade. The business outgrew its original quarters 
and a removal »;is made. A branch market was established and in time Mr. Look found 
himself at the head of one of the largest and must profitable business undertakings of 
tln^ character in South Dakota. His confidence in the city's future prompted him to invest 
in real estate and he is now the owner of several valuable business and residence properties. 
In 1890 Mr. Look was united in marriage to Miss Minnie Tepps, and they became 
parents ol three children. The wife and mother passed away in 1901 and in 1905 Mr. Look 
wedded .Miss .Minnie Uehren, who died March 18, 1913. The children of the first mar- 
riage are: Leroy, who is associated with bis father in business, and Hazel and Helen. Mr. 
Look makes motoring his chief source of recreation. He confines his attention closely to 
business affairs and an analyzation of his life work and his character indicate that thrift, 
industry and integrity have been the moving forces in the attainment of his present 
success. 



.11 Im;K AKTHUR LICK W HKKLOCK. 

No history ill public interests in Sioux Falls would be complete were there failure to 
make prominent reference to Judge Arthur Buck Wheelock, who for twenty years was city 
and police justice, retiring in 1913, since which time he has enjoyed the rest to which he is 
justly entitled. He was born in Royalton, Vermont, April 19, 1832, a son of Peter and 
(best ina Eliza Smith ( Luck I Wheelock. The father was also a native of Royalton, while 
the grandfather, Peter Wheelock, Sr., was born in Swansea, .Massachusetts. He was one "f 
the minutemen of the Revolutionary war. The ancestral line can be traced back to Ralph 
Wheelock, who came from Shropshire. England, in 1630, and whose son, Eleazer Wheelock, 
was the founder of Dartmouth College. 

Jn taking up the personal history of Judge Wheelock we present t r readers the life 

record of one who is most widely and favorably known in Sioux Falls and throughout this 
section of the state. He has now passed the eighty-second milestone on life's journey, but 
in spirii and interests seems yet in his prime. In 1833 his parents removed from Royalton 

In Newbury, Ver t, where he was reared and educated. lie remained at home until 

October, is:.::, ami then lefl New England with Milwaukee, Wisconsin, as his destination, 
Inning an uncle, .1. S. Buck, and his maternal grandmother, Polly Buck living in that city 
al the time, which fact influenced him in his removal, lie was afterward in .Missouri and 

lain wenl lo li.it Bridger with a freight outfit. Subsequently he returned to Miss i, 

where I perated a sawmill lor two years, and then again went lo Milwaukee, whither bis 

parents had re ved in 1853. On the twenty ninth anniversary of his birth the L9th of 

April, 1861 Judge Wheelock enlisted as i mber ol the old Milwaukee Light Guards, which 

command became Company A, Mist Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry. They responded to the 

president's call for three months' t ps ami on tie- expirati f thai period Judge Wheelock 

reenlisted a- a private ol He- Seventh Wisconsin Light Artillery for three years, or during 
ih,. war, Me was detailed lor recruiting service and in September, 1861, was commissioned 
second lieutenant of the battery. Further promotion came to him in the spring of 1865, 
when he was made captain ol tic Seventh Battery, with which he served until mustered out 
in Milwaukee on the 20th of duly. 1865. lb- «n- raptured at Memphis, Tennessee, and 
taken to Cahaba, Alabama, August. 21, isr.l, by Genera] Forrest's command and was held 
lor two months at that place, after which he was exchanged ami again engaged in active 




JUDGE ARTHUR B. WHEELOCK 






AS 



HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 1'J 

duty with his regiment. When mustered out of service he was thirty-three years of age, was 
six feet, two and a half inches in height and had almost Herculean strength. He 1s still a 
splendid specimen of physical manhood, bearing his eighty-two years lightly, and while he 
has retired from office and business life, he is still active and is keenly interested in affairs 
of the day. 

After the war Judge Wheelock engaged in railroad building in the west from LSlili until 
February, L868, when he came to the territory of Dakota and homesteaded land in Lincoln 
county, on which the town of Hudson is now located. The village of Hudson was first called 
Eden, being so named by Judge Wheelock, who donated the land for the town site. Subse- 
quently, however, owing to the fact that its similarity to Egan caused considerable confusion, 
the name of the place was changed to Hudson. Judge Wheelock devoted about two decades 
to general agricultural pursuits and in 1«S8 came to Sioux Falls. He was city ami police 
justice for twenty years, in which connection he rendered decisions strictly fair and impartial, 
his capable service being indicated by his long retention in office. It was not until 1912 
that In- retired, being then eighty years of age. He was also at one time a member of the 
territorial legislature and he has ever been deeply interested in matters affecting the welfare, 
development and upbuilding of the commonwealth. His political allegiance has ever been 
given to the republican party since its organization. 

On the 21st of October, 1869, at Hudson, South Dakota. Judge Wheelock was united in 
marriage to .Miss Cynthia E. Mundy, a (laughter of James Martin Mundy, who was a non- 
commissioned officer of a Minnesota regiment and died at La Orange, Tennessee, in Isiil, 
while defending tin' Union, being there buried. Judge and Mis. Wheelock are tin' parents of 
two daughters. Mary Elsie, a graduate of All Saints School of Sioux Falls, is the wile of 
Maurice Blair Mayne, of Sioux City, Iowa, by whom she has two children, Kenneth Wheelock 
and Mary Wheelock Mayne. Alice Muriel was graduated from All Saint;- School and is a 
graduate of the Art Institute of Chicago. She resides with her parents. 

The religious faith of the family is that of the Episcopal church, of which Judge 
Wheelock has been a member for many years. He likewise holds membership with the 
Dacotah Club and with the Masonic fraternity, being a Knight Templar and a member "i 
the Mystic Shrine. Sterling qualities id' manhood and citizenship have ever characterized his 
life and won for him the respect, confidence and goodwill of all concerned. Throughout his 
entire life he has been as true and loyal to his public duties as hi was when he followed the 
old flag on the battlefields of the south, making a most creditable record as a soldier. His 
loyalty to the Hag has ever been one of his strong characteristics and patriotism ami progress 
might well be termed the keynote of his character. 



JOHN A. McGILLIVEAY. 



John A. McGillivray is the present able cashier of the Security Bank of Clark, South 
Dakota, and has fully demonstrated his fitness for the responsible position which lie holds. 
He was born in Moody county, this state, on the 8th of January, 1888, a son of Duncan 
A. and Phena (Seaton) McGillivray, natives of Canada and Pennsylvania respectively. 
Their marriage occurred in South Dakota, tin- father coming to this state in ls;!i M early 

nianh I. while the mother accompanied her parents here when a girl. She passed away about 

1895, ami Mr. McGillivray was again married, his second union being with Miss Mai. el 
Phelps, of Madison, South Dakota, lie took up a homestead in Lake county upon his 
arrival in this state and resided there for a number of years, engaging in fanning, lie 
subsequently became prominent in local |uditics ami was elected sheriff of Lake county, 
residing in Madison during the four years that he served in office. In 1902 he located in 
Hartford, where lie has since been prominently identified with the milling business. He 
nas served for a number of years as postmaster ol that city and is influential in local 
republican circles. 

John A. McGillivray was reared at Inline ami acquired his general education in the 
Madison ami Hartford public schools, supplementing the knowledge there gained by a 

commercial course at the Sioux Falls Business College. After leaving the last nai 1 

institution he secured a position in tin- Garden ' ity state Bank, where was laid the founda- 



80 HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 

tion of his banking career. He was first employed as a bookkeeper but his ability and 
fidelity to the interests of the bank won him promotion and he became cashier. On the 
i i "i May. 1913, he severed his connection with that bank and went to Clark, where 

he i pted the eashiership of the Security Bank, which position he has since held. Under 

his guidance the prosperity that has in the past characterized the bank has continued and 
its financial condition is excellent. 

In 1910 Mr. McGillivray married Miss Maud Scott, of Hartford, this state. lie is a 
member of Clark Lodge, No. 13, A. 1 '. a A. M., and of the Brotherhood of American Yeomen 
of Garden City, lie likewise belongs to the Clark Commercial Club and is thoroughly in 
sympathy with the work of that organization in promoting the business expansion of the 
city, lie is well known in the banking fraternity of northeastern South Dakota and is 
highly respected by all who are brought in contact with him. 



JOHN D. DEETS. 



John D. Deets, who since 1911 has been commissioner of immigration with office in 
Pierre, South Dakota, was born in Oil City, Pennsylvania, on the 9th of March. 1S65, a son 
of Joseph and Margaret (Hayes) Deets, both representatives of old families noted for their 
loyalty to everything American. The mother belonged to the well known Hayes family 
of western Pennsylvania. Her father, who came from County Antrim, Ireland, was of 
Scotch-Irish descent and was the first of the family to settle in the western part of the 
Keystone state. He was soon followed, however, by his brothers, some of whom settled 
in western Pennsylvania and others in eastern Ohio. The Deets family comes of German 
ancestry. Joseph Deets died in 1871, while Mrs. Deets, lung surviving him. passed away 
in 1906. 

Pursuing his education in the public schools at Parker. Pennsylvania, John D. Deets 
there mastered the common branches of learning and afterward entered Allegheny College 
at Meadville, Pennsylvania, being graduated from that institution on the completion of the 
classical course in 1888 with the Bachelor of Arts degree. Following his graduation from 
the high school he engaged in teaching and also worked in shops as a machinist until he had 
acquired a sum sufficient to enable him to defray the expenses of his college training. 
After leaving college he entered the ministry of the Methodist Episcopal church and devoted 
sixteen years of his life to that work, lie has been continuously in the government service 
since 1906 in which year he became a United States special agent in charge of allotment 
work for the Indians. Five years later he was made commissioner of immigration and' 
has filled the office continuously ami acceptably since 1911. 

tin the 16th of April. 1896, at Jackson, Minnesota, Mr. Deets was united in marriage 
to Mis. Villa Belle Bochl, a. .laughter of Joseph and Esther Dunham. The father was an 
extensive fanner and stock-raiser and was very successful. Mrs. Deets was horn in 

Illinois and by her marriage has I ne the mother of five children: Margaret, Kather- 

iii . I inula, June and I leaver. 

The. parents hold membership in the Methodist Episcopal church and Mr. Deets is 

i i member of the Masonic fraternity and the Knights oi Pythias. In polities he is a 

ive republican and he is ever loyal to any cause which he espouses. It is well 

known that he Btands fearless in defense of hia honest convictions and neither fear nor 

favor can swerve him from a course which he believes to be right, lie is therefore a very 

acceptable public officer and his record through the past sexe,, years i Bee is an untarnished 

one. 



ABBAIIAM II. KIIIKS. 



Abraham II. Dirks, a representative and substantial citizen of Turner county and 
South Dakota, has served as postmaster of Marion since I'.Hl and has made a most 
commendable record in that connection, lie was horn in South Russia, of German parentage, 
on the 32th of May. 1868, a -on of Henry and Agnes Dirks, who emigrated to the United 
State3 in 1872 and located in Pennsylvania. Eight years later, in the spring of 1881, the 



HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA SI 

family came to South Dakota, taking up a homestead claim in Turner county, where the 
lather devoted his attention to agricultural pursuits throughout the remainder of his life. 
The mother of our subject is also decease. 1. 

Abraham II. Dirks, who was a youth of twelve years when he came to this state with 
his parents, attended the public schools in the acquirement of an education and remained 

at h until he had attained his majority. He then removed to Marion and was here 

employed by Mr. Heib from the spring of 1889 until 1895. Subsequently he was engaged 
in the implement business until 1898 and then devoted his attention to banking and real- 
estate interests until 1911. In that year he was appointed postmaster of Marion by 
President Taft for the term expiring in 1915 so that he is now the incumbent, discharging 
the duties devolving upon him in a most competent and satisfactory manner. He is like- 
wise treasurer and director of the Hurley Telephone Company and widely recognized as 
a prosperous and enterprising citizen of the community. 

On the 28th of September, 1895, Mr. Dirks was united in marriage to Miss Lucy 
Kolbe, a daughter of Albert Kolbe. They have three children, namely: Elma, Arthur 
and Lloyd. 

Mr. Dirks is a democrat in politics and serves as chairman of the board of education, 
having ever been a helpful worker in the interests of the schools. His religious faith is that 
of the Presbyterian church, while fraternally he is identified with the Independent Order 
of Odd Fellows and the Woodmen. The period of his residence in South Dakota covers 
more than a third of a century and during that time he has been not only an interested 
witness of its development but also an active participant in the work of progress and up- 
building. The circle of his friends is an extensive one, and his record well deserves a place 
in the annals of this state as he is one of its -public-spirited, progressive and esteemed 
citizens. 



FRANK E. DUBA. 



As cashier of the Belle Fourche State Bank. Frank E. Duba occupies an important 
position for one of his years. He has just completed his third decade, his birth occurring 
in Brule county, South Dakota, December 1G, 1884. His parents, John A. and Annie 
(Vasicek) Duba, were both natives of Bohemia, where they were reared and married. 
The father in early manhood followed general fanning but after removing to Sioux City, 
Iowa, was in the employ of the street railway company for about six years. In the winter 
of 1896 he returned to his farm, where he still remains, although he leaves its operation to 
others. He has three hundred and twenty acres in the home place and is also the owner 
of other valuable land in South Dakota. 

Frank E. Duba is the fourth in order of birth in a family of five children and attended 
both the Sioux City schools and the country schools near the homestead, walking five miles 
each way. He did not think that a hardship, however, and maintains that he received 
more benefit from the district schools than from any other. He also attended the Kimball 
high school. When not yet sixteen years of age he found employment as messenger boy 
in a bank conducted by A. C. Whitbeck. He soon demonstrated his ability to do more 
important work and was given a chance to help in the bookkeeping. As his knowledge 
increased he was given more and more responsibility and in a comparatively short time had 
charge of the books of (lie batik. Later he was made bookkeeper in another bank opened 
by Mr. Whitbeck, with which institution ho remained for about four years. In that time 
he had won still further promotion anil by the time that he left the bank he held the posi- 
tion of assistant cashier. He next entered the Chamberlain State Bank as assistant cashier 
and a year later purchased stock in the Bank of Bijou Hills and became its cashier. When 
he assumed charge of its affairs the deposits were thirty-eight hundred dollars and in 1910, 
when he severed his connection with the institution, the deposits had grown to the sum of 
sixty tour thousand dollars, which increase is the best proof of his capability as cashier 
and manager. He had also bought more stock until :it the time of leaving he owned a 
controlling interest which, however, he sold. His next removal was to Belle Fourche and in 
connection with his brother-in-law. C. A. Quarnberg, he established the Belle Fourche State 



82 HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 

Bank, oi which he became cashier. Mr. Duba still holds that position and the solidity ol 
the institution unci the confidence that the people ol ill" surrounding country have in it is 
largely to I" 1 ascribed to his knowledge of banking and his wise management. He is also 
a stockholder in the Alfalfa Mill and owns one hundred and sixty acres of well improved 
irrigated land mar Vale, South Dakota, which he rents. His own time is completely taken 
up as cashier and be allows nothing to interfere with the discharge of his duties. 

Mr. Duba w .is married on the 1st of May. 1907, to Miss Lillian Quarnberg, who was 
horn at Centerville, South Dakota, a daughter of Hans and -Minnie Quarnberg, both of 
whom were natives oi Sweden, where their marriage occurred. .Mr. (.Hiarnbcrg is engaged 
ai present in the milling business at Belle Fourche, to which place he removed in 1913. 
Mr. and Mrs. Duba have four children: Maurice, who was born in February. L908; Dorothy, 
whose birth occurred in December, 1909; Rex, born in September, 1911; and John, born 
in April, 1914. 

Mr. Duba is a democrat and has been content to perform his citizens' duties in a private 
capacity, leaving t < > others the holding of office. 1 1 < ■ is a loyal member of the .Masonic order 
and belongs to the blue lodge, chapter and consistory and to the Eastern Star, lie is 
also affiliated with the Knights of Pythias. He is a young man of marked ability and is 
distinguished by scrupulous honesty and a willingness to subordinate private interests to 
community welfare. 



HON. SAMUEL HARRISON ELROD. 



Hon, Samuel Harrison Elrod is one of the most modest but most popular men of South 
Dakota. If he has opponents, it is those who do not share bis political opinions and who 
believe in machine rule rather than in the voice of the people. Those who know him, and 
he has a wide acquaintance throughout the state, usually call him Sam. It is an indication 
of his democratic spirit and manner and it is well known that there is no one more appre- 
ciative oi individual worth in another. Business classification places him with the leading 
lawyers not only of Clark county but of the stale, for he lias comprehensive knowledge oi the 
principles of jurisprudence and is accurate in bis application of these principles to the points 
in litigation. 

A native of Indiana, he was bom near Coatesville on the 1st of May. 1856, and is a son 
of Jesse !•'. and l.ydia ll'nrseli Elrod. The father was a farmer by occupation, following that 
pursuit until Ins death. The mother has also passed away. Samuel II. Elrod pursued his 
early education m the public schools ami afterward attended He Pauw University oi Green; 
castle, Indiana, being graduated on the :;:.'d oi June. 1882. Eight days later he arrived in 
Da kola territory, coming to (lark county on a construction train on the 3d of July. The same 
day he was admitted to the bar by Judge Kiddei at Watertown and In- opened a little office 
in i lark. He has since been actively engaged in the practice of his profession save when busj 
with He duties of political office. There was not a dwelling in Clark at the time of bis 
arrival and be built a little house or shanty before he could really enter actively upon his 

chosen life work. II'- life has been an extremelj busy and useful ■• His work in the' 

fields in boyhood days »ns followed by close application to bis studies. 

Through (be period of his college course ami suae c ing to Dakota be has never known 

an nib- day. The Daily Tribune of Salt Lake City, Utah, said ol him: "A few .lays after 
arriving in Clark, where he opened a law office and located a preemption, Mr. Elrod made a 
Fourth oi July speech to a crowd of settlers on II pen prairies (there were no public build- 
ings mi the town then), and he has been getting acquainted with the people of the state ever 
Mnr ,.." Today there an- lew residents of South Dakota belter known and it would be diffi- 
culi to bud one who has the confidence and regard of the people in general to a greater degree. 
As tin- population increased his law business grew and for ten years he filled the office of 
stale- all ■>. lie was also called to the city council and aided in shaping the policy of 

the municipality, lie became a recognized leader in republican circles and advanced contin- 

uouslj iii that nection until he was made a standard bearer of bis party in 1904. He 

received a g I majority which pul him in l he gubernatorial chair, where be remained through 




HON. SAMUEL II. KLROD 



HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 85 

1905 and 1906. During his term as governor he was chairman of the Hist capito] building 
committee and dictated the contract for plans for the capitol. 

While lie was a candidate a leading paper of South Dakota said: "S. H. Elrod, of Clark 
county, is a plain, unassuming South Dakotan. He is absolutely without pretense. There is 
a tinge of the Lincoln character in him, that free mingling with the common people and that 
everyday plainness that so endeared Lincoln to the masses. Elrod possesses a great deal of 
that same quality. One immediately feels a friendly feeling for him. He is warm-hearted, 
yet conservative; plain and unassuming, yet possessing quiet dignity; a man of clean, whole- 
some character, yet a man wise in the ways of the political world; and he is honest and 
sincere." His administration was characterized by various needed reforms and improve- 
ments and many tangible evidences of his public spirit and devotion to the best interests 
of the commonwealth can be cited. The legislature of North Carolina passed a resolution 
formally thanking him for the position he took in his message declaring in favor of return- 
ing to North Carolina the money forced out of that state on some repudiated bonds which 
were a gift to South Dakota. From the .standpoint of fairness and decency Ins position was 
certainly right. 

The Dakota Farmer paid the following tribute to Governor Elrod for his efforts in 
behalf of the agricultural interests of South Dakota. "From the moment Governor S. II. 
Elrod was sworn in as the chief executive of South Dakota up to the present time, in season 
and out of season, he has stood by every measure that would possibly benefit the agricultural 
interests of his state. Before in these columns we enumerated not less than half a dozen 
distinctly agricultural and live-stock measures that had his constant support during tin' 
last session of the legislature, a number of which, we believe, could never have become laws 
without it. and now we must record one more and in our estimation among his crowning 
achievements in this line. We refer to the securing of what wan known as the 'Fishback 
quarter' of one hundred and sixty acres of splendid land for the agricultural college and 
experiment station at Brookings. This splendid piece of land, as many know, was literally 
loeated in the very heart of the farm school grounds. It came up to the very doors of the 
college buildings on two sides, and was not only in every way perfectly adapted to the 

work and needs of the school but was fast advancing in price and being cla red lor by 

many farsighted investors to be laid out in building lots. .Much more than the price given 
could have been had for it for this purpose. The troubles relating to getting title to I Ins 
land are too complicated to explain. It is enough to say that repeatedly, during the long 
drawn out time this title was in jeopardy, the timely and personal interference of the 
governor saved it from going from the state forever." 

• in hi- retirement from the position of governor, Mr. Elrod returned to his home in 
Clark ami resumed the private practice of law, in which he has since continued. The position 
which he occupies in the opinion of his fellow townsmen of (lark county is indicated in die 
I. nt that the township and village of Elrod were named m his honor. Fraternally he is a 
Mason and has attained the Knights Templar degree of the York Rite. Be also has member- 
ship with the Modern Woodmen, the Workmen and the Knights of Pythias. 

On the 11th of November, 1884, Mr. Elrod was united in marriage to Miss Mary E. 
Masten. a daughter of Matthias and Eliza Masten. They have become parents of two 
Children: Barbara, at home; and Arthur, who is attending the high school. 

Such in brief is the life history of one whom South Dakota has honored with the highest 
office within the gift of the state. He has ever worn his honors with most becoming modestj 
and at all times he has regarded a public office as a public trust — and no trust reposed in 
Samuel Harrison Elrod has ever been betrayed. 



FRANK CONGEE SMITH, M. IV. F. A. C. S. 

Dr. Frank Conger Smith, whose ability in his chosen profession is attested by the 
liberal practice accorded him in Yankton, was bom in the Yankton agency, now Green- 
wood, Charles Mix county. South Dakota, on the llth of May, 1869, a s if Harvey H. 

and .lane C. (Ridall) Smith, of whom extended mention is made elsewhere in this volume. 
The father was serving a- farm superintendent at the Yankton agency at the lime of the 



86 HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 

birtb oi In- ~mii Frank, who in the pursuil of his education attended the public schools of 
Yankton and afterward became a student in the Yankton College. Determining upon the 
practice oi medicine as a life work, he entered the Harvard Medical School and afterward 
matriculated in the I niversity of New York City, from which he was graduated with the 

cla of 1894. He is the firsl male gradual the vocal department of the School ot 

Mn ic of Yankton College and went east with the intention oi continuing the study of 
music, I ■ 1 1 1 latei abandoned thai plan and entered Harvard, from which time he bent his 
energies toward equipping himself for medical practice. He became connected with the 
New York Post Graduate Medical School, receiving an appointment as instructor in tlia£ 
school, and following his graduation he served an Lnterneship at St. Mark's Hospital for 
eighteen months. For two years he remained in the post-graduate college and next began 
the special study "i diseases of the eye, car. nose and throat. He became an instructor 
in that branch in the medical department of Columbia University and at one time was 

assistanf surg i in the New York Eye and Ear Infirmary, while in the New York Nose, 

Throat and Lung Hospital he became surgeon and held clinics. For three years, from 
1011 until 1913 inclusive; he conducted his own clinics in New York city. 

On the 17th of November, 1913, Dr. Smith returned to Yankton, where he now enjoys 
an extensive practice as a specialist on the eye, car, nose and throat. He has carried his 
investigations and researches far and wide and his knowledge is comprehensive and exact, 
his ability placing him among the eminent representatives of this branch of the profession 
in the northwest. He holds membership in the District .Medical Society, the South Dakota 
State Medical Society, in the American Medical Association, in the American Academy of 
Ophthalmology and Oto-Laryngology, and is a fellow of the American College of Surgeons. 

On the 10th of September, 1901, Dr. Smith was married to Miss Kate Maud Com- 
stock, a daughter of Walter H. and Amine (Seoville) Comstock, of Topeka, Kansas. They 
have five children, Catherine Ruth, Helen Esther, Mary Eleanor, Homer Comstock and 
Rebecca Lucile. Mrs. Smith possesses notable vocal powers, which have been well trained, 
and during her residence in New York she was soprano soloist in the Manhattan Con- 
gregational church. Dr. and Mrs. Smith arc members of the Congregational church choir 
and he also was prominent as a choir singer in the eastern metropolis. He enjoys tennis 
and motoring when professional duties and obligations permit him leisure. He was in 
college days a well trained athlete, playing baseball on the college team, and he has always 
recognized and urged the value and worth of manly athletic and outdoor sports, lie stands 
as an eminent representative of his calling, fully recognizing his obligations in that 
direction, and. while admired socially by many friends, his prominence as a practitioner 
has gained him a wide acquaintance over several states. 



RT. REV. MGR T. A. FLYNN. 

Catholicism has a distinguished representative in the Rt. Rev. Mgr. T. A. Flynn, pastor 
of St. Thomas' church al Madison and vicar general of the Sioux Falls diocese, who at 

the age of eighteen entered upon preparation for the priesth I. consecrating his life to 

that holy calling. He was born May 16, 1854, in Milwaukee county, Wisconsin, a son of 
.John and Sarah Flynn, who were natives of Ireland, whence in early life they came to the 
new world, settling in the Badger state. Wisconsin was then under territorial organization 
and they became pioneers of Milwaukee county, where the father passed away in 1856. 
The mother, wh,, lime i he maiden name of Sarah Caveny, resided with her son in Madison 
until her death in 1907. The two daughters of the family have passed away and Father 
Flynn is the ; iger of the two sons who survive. 

Alter attending school in Milwaukee he was enrolled as a student in the Seminary 
of St. Francis de Sales when eighteen years of age. He also continued ins studies for 

the priestl d in Milwaukee and alter several years spent in preparation was ordained at 

Yankton, South Dakota, on the 89th of dune. L881, by the late Bishop Marty. His first 
pastoral assignment was al Madison and there has been no change in his church connections 
since that time save that his ecclesiastical power has been augmented with his growth in 
the various lines of church work. At fust he was in charge of (he churches in Lake, Moody 



HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 87 

and Miner counties but with the increase in population his duties became too arduous and 
he was relieved of attendance at all of the churches save those in Lake county. St. Thomas 
church at Madison was built in 1883 and at that time the parish numbered about forty 
families, while today there are one hundred and fifty. At Badus there are about one 
hundred families but in other parts of the county the Catholic population is more scattered. 
It was due to the efforts of Father Flynn that the churches were built at both places. 
The congregations have grown, the work of the church has been thoroughly systematized 
and promoted and two fine church edifices have been erected, while the business affairs of 
the church have been established upon a sound financial basis. This is due almost entirely 
to the efforts of Father Flynn, who has never lost courage even in the days when the Cath- 
olic families were widely scattered and to minister to them entailed great personal hard- 
ships. His zeal and interest have never diminished and his work has continually grown 
in volume and importance. 

A contemporary biographer has said: "Father Flynn is an interesting conversationalist 
and a man of wide reading. He possesses a singular refinement of pose and manner and 
that he is popular in Madison is attested not only by his parishioners but by hundreds 
of other residents of the city. He has done much for Madison and Lake county and that 
he should be looked upon as the friend and counselor of all is no surprise to those who have 
had the pleasure of his acquaintance.'' Because of the increase in the parish at Madison 
Father Flynn has relinquished all work outside and has given his entire attention to St. 
Thomas' parish since 1898. As a monument to his zeal and untiring efforts there stands 
the great church at Madison, the cornerstone of which was laid in 1904. The building was 
consecrated and the first mass said on the 19th of March, 1905. The parish at Madison now 
numbers one hundred and fifty families and Father Flynn is preparing to build a parochial 
school and otherwise to extend the church work. He was made vicar general to the diocese 
in 1900 and was created a monseigneur in 1902 by Pope Leo. , 



ROYAL C. JOHNSON. 



Prominently connected with the profession which has important bearing upon the 
progress and stable prosperity of every community. Royal C. Johnson has gained for himself 
a creditable position as a member of the bar of Aberdeen, where he has practiced con- 
tinuously for about nine years. He was born October 3, 1882, in Cherokee, Iowa, a son of 
Eli and Philena (Everett) Johnson. The father settled in Calliope, South Dakota, in 1869, 
and removed to Highmore, South Dakota, in 1S83. after which he began the publication of 
the Highmore Herald. His ability led to his selection for public office and he filled the 
position of county judge of Hyde county in 1895 and 1896. Again he was called to that 
office in 1901 and remained upon the bench continuously through 1904. The following 
year he became states attorney of Hyde county and occupied that position for four 
years. He was one of the strong and able lawyers practicing at the South Dakota bar. 
His force ami learning made him a power before a jury and he was seldom if ever at 
fault in the application of a legal principle, lie married Philena Everett, who was a 
successful teacher ami one of the first women of the west to receive a thorough education. 
She served on the woman's board of charities and corrections for the state of South Dakota 
from 1890 until 1S93, inclusive, and her four years' work resulted beneficially to the organ- 
izations with which she was thus connected. The death of Mr. Johnson occurred October 
20, 1909. 

Royal C. Johnson has practically spent his entire life in South Dakota and the western 
spirit of enterprise and progress finds exemplification in his life. He attended the public 
schools of Highmore and afterward became a student in Yankton Academy and College, 
where he remained from 1901 until 1903. In preparation for a professional career he 
matriculated in the South Dakota University Law School at Vermillion, in 1903, and there 
completed a three years' course by graduation with the .lass of 1906. lie was then admitted 
to the bar and has since practiced in Highmore and Aberdeen, where he has made a 
creditable record, advancing steadily and surely until he now occupies a prominent position 
among the eminent lawyers of the state. His advancement is indicated by his official 



88 HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 

preferment along the line of professional duty. He served as deputy states attorney of 
Hyde countj from L906 until L908, and in the latter year was elected states attorney for 
;i two year term. At the end of that time he was elected attorney general of South Dakota 
and filled that important position for four consecutive years, his record being one must 
creditable to the state and one which reflected honor upon its legal history. < in the 24th 
of March, r.H4. he was nominated to represent the second congressional district of South 
Dakota in the sixty-fourth congress and won the election cm the 3d of November, mi that 
he is now sitting in the national halls of legislature as one of South Dakota's representatives. 
lie has always given unfaltering allegiance to the republican party, is thoroughly versed 
on the questions and issues oi the day and is able to support his position by intelligent 
argument, which shows that he has delved deep into vital problems. 

It was on the 5th ol October, L907, in Dexter. New .Mexico, that Mr. Johnson's marriage 
to Florence Thode, a daughter of II. J. Thode, was celebrated. They have two sons, Everett 
R. and Harlan T. 

Such in brief is the history of Royal C. Johnson and it seems to stand in contradis- 
tinction to the old adage that a prophet is never without honor save in his own country, lor 
in the state where he has practically always lived, public opinion accords him prominence 
and distinction, and added to the friendship which his life time associates entertain for 
him, their regard for his ability, which lias brought him to the front as a lawyer and 
law maker. 



MARTIN J. LLW IS 



If is not difficult to speak of Martin .1. Lewis, of Vermillion, for his life and his character 
were as clear as the .sunlight. Xo man came in contact with him but speedily appreciated him 
at his true worth and knew he was a man who not only cherished a high ideal of duty but 
who lived up to it. lie constantly labored for the right and from his early youth devoted 
a large portion of his tune to the service of others, lie was not an idle sentimentalist, hut 
an earnest, effective winker, lie was at the head of large business interests which he managed 
Successfully, yet it was his rule to set apart sonic time each day for the labors of love to 
which he was devoted. While his friends missed him greatly, the memory of his beautiful 
life, ol his sincerity and simplicity remains as a blessed benediction to those who knew him. 
There was none who came within the circle of his acquaintance hut who fell uplifted and 
benefit ed by the associat ion. 

Martin .1. Lewis was a native of Bergen, Genesee county. New York, born Lehman L3, 
1st;;, at which time his lather, William Lewis, was a prominent merchant ol licit place. 
Subsequently the family removed to llollev. Orleans county, New York, where the father 

became interested in trade and in milling, and while the family there resided Martin .1. Lewis 

ittended the Hollej Academy. He was a youth of thirteen when his parents went to Colum- 
bus, Wisconsin, where the father became identified with various business enterprises, 
including licit of banking, and it. was under his direction that Martin .1. Lewis made his 
initial step in banking circles, acting as paying teller in a bank when hut sixteen years of 
age and often handling tens of thousands oi dollars in a single day. A successive step in the 
business world was made when In' entered the office of his unci.', lion. .1. T. Lewis, who at 

licit li was secretary of state id' Wisconsin and who during Hie early '60s became war 

governor there. 

Iii furthei picpaiai or life', practical and responsible duties Martin J. Lewis 

attended the Milwaukee C nieivial College, fr which he was graduated on the completion 

of the regular course ol study. Da kid a was still i in. lei territorial rule w hen in 1869 he arrived 
m Vermillion and with the interests and upbuilding oi the city he was thereafter closely 

associated to the time ol his demise, lie stalled in business life there as "li the partners 

in the firm ot M. II. my. Thompson & Lewis. There were changes in partnership fr time 

I,, t until al t Is,:,, when the firm of Ionian. Thompson & Company was formed and 

-,, continued i-i more than two decades. In this Mr. Lewis was a partner, as he was in the 
in,, i ,,i Thompson & Lewis, lie won lor himself a prominent position in commercial circles 
ami an equally creditable place among the financiers oi the slate Upon the organization of 




\l \i;T!N J. LEWIS 



THE NEW York" 
'PUBLIC L/RRarJ 



AST 



HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 91 

the First National Bank of Vermillion he was chosen its cashier and his ability, enterprise 
and well defined and carefully executed plans were among the most salient factors in its 
success. He aided in establishing and conducting the bank upon a safe basis, in which pro- 
gressiveness was tempered by a wise conservatism that brought protection to the depositors 
yet did not impede the growth of the institution. The business integrity of Mr. Lewis was 
ever above question. All recognized the honesty of his methods and knew that he would 
far rather sutler loss than cause another to lose a cent through any act of his. Moreover, 
he was always willing to extend a helping hand to those who were attempting to gain a 
foothold in the business world and lie aided many another by substantial assistance and by 
wise counsel. 

One of the most pleasing chapters in tin 1 life history of Mr. Lewis was his devotion to 
his parents. Thirteen years prior to his death he erected an attractive residence in Ver- 
million and sent lor his father and mother to join him in his South Dakota home. They did 
so and he put forth every possible effort to promote their comfort and happiness up to the 
time when he was called from this life. He also had three sisters, Mrs. D. M. Inman, Mrs. 
M. D. Thompson and Mrs. R. A. Morgan, to whom he was equally devoted and loyal. 

The root of his conduct and of his relations with all of his fellowmen was found in his 
religious faith. When twenty years of age he made public profession of his belief in Chris- 
tianity, but waited for three years to be baptized in the church in order that his sisters 
might receive the ordinance with him. He remained thereafter a most earnest, upright, 
conscientious Christian, who ever felt that he was but a steward into whose charge was given 
the things of this life, and he rendered a just account for all that came to him. He gave 
freely, generously and liberally of his means to the support of the First Baptist church of 
Vermillion ami it was largely due to his efforts that the line house of worship was erected. 
He long served as one of the deacons in the church and as superintendent of the Sunday 
school, taking a most active part in the organization of the school and < 1 ■ p i 1 1 u everything in 
his power to make it a potent influence for good in the lives of the young, believing firmly 
in the proverb of King Solomon: "Train a child up in the way he should go and when he is 
old he will not depart therefrom." He was especially interested in oig-ani/ing the Young 
People's Union and the Junior Society of the church, and he loved to aid and encourage tin.' 
young people in their work. To them lie was constantly extending a helping hand or 
speaking an encouraging word, and he assisted many in their efforts to discriminate between 
that which is worth while in life and that which is nonessential. He believed in and sup- 
ported all those agencies which work for the betterment of tin- individual and lor the 
advancement of civilization, and as a citizen of the community in which he lived he did 
much to further public progress. He was especially interested in the University of South 
Dakota and his generous gifts aided in its establishment and in its later rebuilding. He 
manifested the same spirit toward Sioux Falls College, and one of the practical phases of 
his interest in education was the entertainment which he extended in his own home to young 
men eager for an education but with limited means, lie helped them not only to enjoy the 
pleasures of home life in this way, but also shielded them from many temptations. In large 

measure he regarded the | r as his especial charge and to him might be properly applied 

the stanza which Oliver Wendell Holmes wrote on one of his classmates, who fifty years after 
their graduation was a noted philanthropist: 

"You see that boy laughing, yon think he's all fun; 
Hut the angels laugh, too. at the good he has done. 
The children laugh loud as they troop to his call, 
But the poor man that knows him laughs loudest of all." 

"n tin- 8th of June, 1895, Mr. Lewis, accompanied by his nephew. Captain Orville \V. 
Thompson, and Edward A. Qfford, left Vermillion for a torn- of the old world. They yisited 
many points of modern and historic interest ami after about thirteen months of travel sailed 
again for America. At New York, where Mr. kiwis paused lor a few days to visit relatives. 
he became ill ami death called him on the 20th of June, 1896. His remains were taken back 
to Vermillion for interment. On that occasion one of the local papers wrote: "Martin .1. 
Lewis died a- he had lived — peacefully, blissfully, triumphantly. And as he wished, expressed 
across the w id run, he has been laid at rest by tender hands in the hoi ■emctery. The 



92 HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 

horae-c bag came at last, friend and brother, and a royal tribute it was to thy virtues." 

The funeral was made a memorial service and was probably attended by the largest con- 
course of people thai has evei gathered on such an occasion in Vermillion. We again quote 
from a local paper, which said 

"And so the strong man, the good man, the true and tender and pure-hearted citizen, 
the < hristian gentleman, lias gone out from our midst. He went as one who had fought the 
good tight and kept the laiili. a \ietor, one who could look up and beyond the hills of earth 
into heaven's windows and see and hear the reception there awaiting him. Long will he be 
missed and mourned and the memory of his life will be a better tribute than any pen can 
portray. .Martin J. law is lived a life of irreproachable character; he was sincere, devoted, 
public-spirited, generous; he builded for others' benefit; he was the firm friend of education 
and religion, and contributed greatly for the advance of each; he was honest in purpose. 
I haracters like his will ever stand the test of time and circumstance." 

There was no one held in higher esteem, more sincerely honored or deeply loved in 
Vermillion than Martin J. Lewis. He had enjoyed the success that brings intellectual liberty, 
making him a citizen of the wider world of thought and knowledge, and as he studied and 
considered the conditions, questions and problems of the day, be came to know and realize 
that character building is worth more than all else, and he not only strove that his own life 
should measure up to high standards, but put forth most earnest efforts to encourage and 
aid others, especially the young, to see and do the right. Such careers are too near us now 
for their significance to be appraised at its true value, but the future will be able to trace 
the tremendous effect of their labors upon society and the institutions of their times. Such 
a spirit can never be lost to the world and must have stepped into a greater, more beautiful 
life when the door closed upon him and shut him from mortal vision, but such a friend, so 
deal', so loyal, so great-hearted, can never be replaced to those who were his associates. 



MARWOOD R. BASKERVILLE. 

Marwood R. Baskerville, residing in Watertown, has gained for himself an enviable posi- 
tion in business circles through the possession of the qualities of industry, initiative and 
integrity. He has been identified with various enterprises and business concerns which have 
contributed largely to the upbuilding of the city and he is now the president of the Water- 
town (!as & Light Company. His birth occurred in Delaware county, Iowa, on the 16th of 
duly. L861, his parents being the Lev. dub and Grace (Caldwell) Baskerville, both of whom 
were natives of Devonshire, England, where they were reared and married. About 1848 
they came to America, making their way at once to Delaware county. Iowa, where they 
settled upon a farm, the father there engaging in agricultural pursuits for a long period. 

He was als 'darned minister of the United Brethren church and occasionally filled the 

pulpit for other ministers, but never held any regular pastorate alter coming to this country. 
Mi- died in Delaware count} at the advanced age of eighty-four years, while his wife passed 
away at the age of eighty-two years. 

Marwood R, Baskerville was reared under the parental roof, with the usual experiences 

of the farm lad. His early education was obtained in the public and high scl Is of Earl- 

ville, Iowa, and later he attended the Western College of Cedar Rapids and Epworth Sem- 
inary at Epworth, Iowa. He also pursued a commercial course in Bayless Business College 
at Dubuque and following the completion of his student days he Secured a position as book- 
Keeper in the Chamberlain Plow Works at Dubuque, in which capacity he continued for 

three years or n lie next went tn Winona, Minnesota, as business manager of the 

Winona Plow Company I acted in thai capacity For three years. On the 1st of May, 

Iss.s. he arrived in Watertown and has since been closely and prominently connected with 

the con anal and industrial development and upbuilding of the city. He established an 

implement business soon alter his ani\al and has since been prominently identified with 
that line, building up a trade of large and gratifying proportions. His business methods 
arc thoroughly reliable, his energy unfaltering and his initiative lias carried him beyond a 
po:nl where a less venturesome man would go. In all things, however, his actions have 
been guided by sound judgment and a keen sagacity that lias permitted no false steps. 



HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 93 

In 1907 In' was the principal Eactor in the organization of the Baskerville & Rowe Wholesale 

Grocery Company, which opened its d a for business on the 1st of January, 1908. For five 

years Mr. Baskerville remained as president of the company, which in 1913 sold out to the 
Winston & Griffin Company, Mr. Baskerville then severing Ins connection with the business. 
In 1906 lie "as one of four who organized the Watertown Gas & Light Company, which 
was incorporated and which owns and controls the gas system of the city. He is president 

of thai i pany and is also a stockholder and director of the Citizens National Bank. In 

connection with his sale of farm implements he does an extensive business in the sale of 
automobiles. He is today one of the prosperous residents of Watertown and what he has 

ace plished represents the fit utilization of the innate powers and business talents which 

are his. In addition to his other interests he is a heavy investor in farm lands in Codington 
county. 

In his political views Mr. Baskerville lias long been a stalwart republican and for a 
number of years he has been recognized as one of the dominant factors in slurping the policy 
of the party in this locality. While never Beeking public office, he has worked untiringly 
for Ins friends and for the adoption of party principles and he has served as a member of 
the republican state central committee and as chairman of the county central committee at 
different times. In fact, his opinions carry great weight in the councils of his party and he 
enjoys a state wide reputation in connection with his political activity. While he has never 
been an aspirant for office, his fellow townsmen have urged upon him the duty of serving 
them in public positions and for two terms, beginning in 1904, he was mayor of Watertown. 
His administration was most businesslike and utility and progress were the dominant fea- 
tures of his official record. 

On the 28th of November, 1895, Mr. Baskerville wedded Miss Harriett Lord Fahnestock, 
of Watertown, a native of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, who in 1887 came to this state with 
her lather. Henry Fahnestock, who is now deceased but for some years was widely and 
favorably known among the business men of the city. To Mr. and Mrs. Baskerville have 
been born two children, Henry Marwood and Walter Gregory. 

In fraternal circles Mr. Baskerville is well known, holding membership in Watertown 
Lodge, No. 838. B. P. O. E., of which he has served as exalted ruler. He was the principal 
factor in bringing about the erection of the lodge building in 1908, Watertown now having 
one of the finest Elks homes of the state. In recognition of his part in this undertaking 
Mr. Baskerville was elected a life member of the lodge and presented with a beautiful gold 
card of life membership. In Masonry he is equally prominent, belonging to Kampeska Lodge, 
No. 13. A. F. & A. M. ; Watertown Chapter, No. 12, R. A. M. ; Watertown Commandery, 
No. 7, K. T.; Watertown Consistory. A. & A. S. P..; and Yelduz Temple, A. A. O. N. M. S., 
of Aberdeen. He also has membership in Trishocotyn Lodge, No. 17, K. P., in the Min- 
neapolis Athletic Club and the Watertown Country Club — connections which indicate his 
social nature, while his geniality and cordiality have made him popular in those organiza- 
tions. In the midst of a most active and busy life Mr. Baskerville has never neglected his 
religious duties and he and his wife are valued and zealous members of the Episcopal church. 
For the past three years he has served as superintendent of its Sunday school. His posi- 
tion is established by the consensus of public opinion, which places him in the foremost 
rank among the business men and citizens of Watertown. 



JOHN T. HEFFRON. 



John T. Heffron, of Deadwood, is a native son of that city, bom on the 28th of August, 
1882. His parents were Michael and Mary J. (Manning) Heffron, natives of Ireland and 
Highland, Iowa county, Wisconsin, respectively. The father came to this country when 
but thirteen years of age and lived in ninny parts of the west, being a pioneer of Utah, 
California, Montana and Colorado as well as of South Dakota. He arrived in Deadwood 
in 1876, making his way thither from Montana and driving an ox team. He prospected in 
the Black Hills and was one of the discoverers of the < aledonia mine, now a part of the 
famous Homestake mine. He also discovered other valuable mines in the vicinity of Dead- 
wood and engaged iii mining for ninny year-- after his arrival in the Black Hills, but 



94 HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 

i> now living retired. Ili> marriage occurred in Deadwood in 1878 and be has four chil- 
dren, all born there, oi \\ I the Bubjecf of this review is the oldest. The others are in 

order oi birth: .1 s, who resides in liis native city and is engaged in the abstract business; 

William i. , likewise a resident oi Deadwood and connected with the Deadwood Opera House; 
and David I'., an operator in the Deadwood Theater. 

John T. Hellion attended St. Martin's Academy for four years and later was a student 

iii the Deadw I public schools, graduating in 1901 from the high school. In L902 he 

attended the law depart nl of the University of Wisconsin and in 1905 entered the law 

school at Vermillion, finishing a three years' course in 1907. Before taking the law course 
he had been lor a number of years engaged in the newspaper business, his connection 
therewith beginning when he was but a hoy of thirteen, at which time he was employed 
in the office of \\ . II. Bonham as printer's devil, lie continued in that office on the paper 
route for four and one half years and displayed such business ability that lie was for part 
of the time circulation manager on the Independent. He remained with that paper until 
it went out of existence and during the latter part of his connection therewith was city 
editor lie later became city editor of the Evening News, which was established about that 
time, ami remained with it until it, too, ceased to exist, after which he became city editor 

of the Pioneer Ti -. and for a time held the same position on the Rapid Journal and the 

Lead (all. lie completed his law course in 1!)(1T and in .Inly of that year was admitted 
to the bar, since which time he lias engaged in the practice of his profession, lie was 
elected states attorney in L909 and was reelected in 1911, thus serving two terms in that 
Office. lie holds the record of states attorneys of South Dakota for convictions, having in 
the last two years secured conviction in seventy-live out of seventy-six eases tried in the 
circuit court. The first two years his record was twenty-six convictions out of thirty-three 
cases tried in the circuit court. During the strike his mettle was Beverely tested as he was 
at the time states attorney, but he discharged the duties of his office without fear or 
favor, lie is in partnership in private practice with Robert C. Hayes, in whose office he 
studied law before attending law school. Air. Hellion devotes his entire time to his 
profession mid has made lor himself an enviable reputation as an attorney of integrity, 
industry and ability. His clientage is already important and is growing rapidly and 

altl gh lie has ace plished much his friends prophesy for him a still more successful 

future. 

Mr. Ib-Hron was married on the 6th of February, 1909, to Miss Mabel A. Swanson, who 
was born at Sergeant Bluff. Iowa, a daughter of Charles A. and Mary Swanson. The lather 

was an engineer and was killed whil hit v. The mother still resides at Sergeant 

Bluff. Mr. and Mis. Hellion have two children, Mary Florence and Eleanor Ann, both at 
home. 

Mr. Ileilron is a member of the Roman Catholic church and in politics is a democrat. 
Fraternally he belongs to the local lodge of Elks, in which he is chaplain, to the Owls, the 
Red Men. the Knights of Columbus and the Society of Black Hills Pioneers. He also 

belongs to the Deadw I tire department. Mr. Eeffron has lived in Deadwood his entire 

hie and his fellow citizens, who have had such an excellent opportunity to accurately judge 

him. consider him a young n of more than ordinary ability and also of unquestioned 

integi ii j and oi great public spii it . 



FREDERICK A. SPAFFORD, M. D. 
Dr. I-'. A. Spafford, active as a representative of (In- medical profession in Flandreau, is 

today the oldest physician of that City, inasmuch as others who wen' located there at, the 

time of hi- arrival have all passed away or gone to other scenes of activity. His success 
from the beginning was assured because of the thoroughness of his preparatory work and 

because of his wide reading in later years, keeping him in touch with the advai 1 thought 

of tie- profession, lb- was born in Ludlow, Vermont, on the 13th of October, 1855, and is 
a son of Aha M. ami Mary (Angier) Spall'ord. the former a contractor and builder, but both 
now deceased. 




1)1;. FREDERN K A. SPAFFORD 



THE 

\ryI 



• 



HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 97 

Dr. Stafford supplemented his public-school and academic education by a medical course 
at Dartmouth College and was graduated with the class of 1S7U. He has since taken post- 
graduate courses in New York, Berlin and Edinburgh. Before his graduation from Dart- 
mouth, however, he went to Raleigh, North Carolina, in 1S77 and there spent three years 
teaching Latin and Greek in Shaw University. He then resumed the study of medicine but 
was later made lecturer in the medical department of Shaw University, serving in that 
capacity for one year. For a time he was also professor of anatomy and chemistry in the 
Leonard Medical College at Raleigh, North Carolina. 

Dr. Spatl'ord arrived in South Dakota in 1884 and opened an office for practice in 
Flandreau, where he has since remained, covering a period of three decades. He is most 
widely and favorably known throughout the state, ranking very high in his profession. 
His wide study and broad experience have gained him knowledge that makes his opinions 
largely accepted as standard by other representatives of the profession here. His standing 
is furthermore attested in the fact that he was twice honored with election to the presidency 
of the state medical society in 1898 and 1914. He is a fellow of the American College of 
Surgeons; is likewise a member of the Sioux Valley Medical Association, the Sioux Falls 
District Medical Association; and is a fellow of the American Medical Association and the 
Anglo-America n .Medical Society, of Berlin. 

In 1881 Dr. Spafford was married to Miss Hattie E. A. Davis, of Boston, Massachusetts, 
a daughter of Thomas P. Davis, and they have one daughter, Lillian W, now Mrs. W. L. 
Rolfe. Dr. Spafford is of the Baptist faith, while his wife holds membership in the Episcopal 
church. He indorses the democratic principles in exercising his right of franchise and his 
fraternal relations are with the Masons, the Elks and the Odd Fellows. He is now past grand 
commander of the state in Masonry and holds high rank in that order. 

Many public projects have benefited by his cooperation and public spirit. He has been 
president of the board of regents of the State University and has been a member of that 
board for twelve years. At present he is lecturer on medical jurisprudence at the South Dakota 
State University College of Law. He has probably the finest library, both medical and other- 
wise, in the state. He has acted as president of the Flandreau school board for twenty-seven 
years and the present excellent school system of the city is attributable- in no small measure to 
his efforts. He has also been a member of the local board of health for a number of years 
and he stands for advancement and progress along all lines. He finds rest and recreation in 
travel and in fishing. He is a man of high purpose and lofty ideals, who has used liis talents 
wisely and well and improved his opportunities to the benefit and betterment of his- fellow- 
men and of his city and state. 



JUDGE JAMES ALFRED COl'ELAND. 

Judge James Alfred Copeland, of Clay county, was born in Winnebago count}', Illinois, 
September 21, 1852, a son of Alfred William and Hannah (Brewster) Copeland, the latter a 
descendant of Elder Brewster, who came over in the Mayflower. The father \\:i^ of Scotch- 
Irish descent, although members of the family have lived in this country for many genera- 
tion^ lb- was a farmer by occupation and was well known in his locality, his demise, 

which occurred in L876, being th :casion of sincere regret. His widow survived for only 

a ('■» years. They were the parents of three children. George, who when last heard from 
was living in the mountains of California and was a great hunter, was for several years 
United States commissioner at Tobacco, .Montana. Caroline, the only daughter, is deceased. 
The subject of tins review is the youngest of the family. 

Judge Copeland grew to manhood upon his father's farm and attended the district school 
until lie was sixteen years of age. He then entered U'heaton College at Wheaton, Illinois, 
and remained a student in that institution for I wo years. He then returned to the home- 
stead and following his father's death engaged in buying stock for one season. He then 
went to Fairmont, Nebraska, and for two yeai - farmed there, cultivating land which he hail 
purchased with money that he had earned. From Nebraska he returned to Iowa and engaged 
in the stock business for two years, after which he removed to Dakota territory and entered 
the real-estate field in Vermillion, dealing in realty for three years. He then entered the 

Vol. i\ 



98 HISTORY OF ffi DAKOTA 

employ of a machine company, maintaining his connection with that concern for seven yeai 
During thai time lie studied law and in 1890 was admitted to the bar of South Da - 
M' '..!•. he held his position with the machine company for some time after his admission 
tn the practice of law. After following 1 1 1 — profession for a time he was elected clerk of the 
court "i i laj countj and faithfully discharged the duties of thai office during a term of 
lour years. At the end of thai time he resumed the practice of law and two years later 
wa elected countj judge, which office he lias held ever since, with the exception of two 
yeai . during which time lie svas engaged in private practice. The county judge has probate 
and limited civil and criminal jurisdiction. Judge Copeland is well fitted for the bench as 
In- adds to the necessary legal training and experience an openness of mind and fine sense 
of justice thai enables him to make the impartiality of the bench a fact and not merely a 
theory. 

Judge Copeland married Miss Estella E. Hays, a native of Illinois, who, however, was 
taken by her parents t < > Sioux Falls, Smith Dakota, when that region was just being opened 
up by white settlers. The marriage of Judge and Mrs. Copeland was celebrated at Rock- 
ford, Illinois, on the 27th of December, 1880, and they have had eight children: day \V., 
whii died in infancy; Flora K.. the wife of LeRoy Cowles, a farmer of Hamburg, Iowa; 
\\ infield 0., a painter residing in Vermillion, South Dakota: Nettie and Jamie, both deceased; 
Laurel If., an expert produce man. who is --till living at home; and Doris and Susan, who 
are high-school students. 

Judge Copeland is a republican and his religious affiliation is with the Baptist church. 
He is widely known in local Masonic circles, being a member of the blue lodge, chapter, com- 
mandery and the Eastern Star. He has held offices in the bodies of which he is a member 
and in twenty out of the last twenty-one years lias been in office. His connection with the 
Masonic fraternity extends over three decades, as he was taken into the older in 1SS4. He is 
the author of an authoritative and excellently written history of Incense Lodge. No. 2, A. F. & 
A. M., and in many ways has done much for the good of the order. He is also a member 
of the .Modern Woodmen of America and has been clerk of the local lodge for seven or eight 
years. The record of Judge Copeland as a man and jurist is one that will bear the closest 
investigation and scrutiny, as he has in all of life's relations been guided by high ethical 
principles. 



FRANK RISLlXi;. 



The story of pioneer life in South Dakota and the west is familiar to Frank Risling, 
lor he lias experienced the hardships and privations incident to life on the frontier and also 
know- the pleasures of close comradeship which is fostered when men are isolated from the 
greal majority of their fellows. The tales of fiction present no more thrilling stories than 
the experiences of the frontiersman. , 

frank Risling was born on the old homestead "n section 8, Yankton precinct, in Yank- 
ton county, June 5, 1869. His father, Philip Henry Risling, had come to South Dakota in 

.lime. 1862, and found work in Bon II me county, where he was employed through the 

sun r. hi (lie fall he went to Yankton, where had been budded a stockade for protection 

of the settlers from Indian attack, tor the red men were frequently quite hostile, resenting 

tl ncroachmenl of the white race upon their hunting grounds, In the fall of 1862 Philip 

II. Risling secured the farm upon which his son now resides, lie purchased a relinquishment 
and filed under the homestead law and afterwards took a preemption claim near Volin. 

1.1 1 ' ■ i he i rased his holdings by securing another place north of Mission Hill lie was 

horn in Bedford county, Pennsylvania, and there learned the weaver's trade. When his 
father purchased woolen mill- he look charge of them and remained in thai section of the 
country until -mne years aftei lie had attained hi- majority. Removing to the west, he 
mill- In- w .i i to tmt Dodge, fowa. and there made his hrailipia iters while seeking a place 
to locale. lie afterward went with a party to Spirit Lake, where he secured land that is 
nov within the city limit-, lie built on low ground and suffered severely with lever and 
ague Hi- health became so impaired that he decided to join his family in Fori Dodge and. 
a- he could nol secure a team to drive, In- had to walk two hundred miles. A friend by the 



HISTORY OF SOUTH .DAKOTA 99 

name of Matherson remarked, "I'll never see you again." Mr. Risling replied, however, "I 
will see you," which lie did, for on his return he helped to bury his friend. The little colony 
i.i Spirit Lake was wiped out by the Indians, and hail nut -Mr. Risling gone back to Fort 
Dodge, lie too would have been a victim of the massacre. Continuing to sutler from malaria, 
he at length abandoned his farm and, as previously stated, eame to Dakota territory in 
June, L862. Here the family experienced all of the hardships and privations incident to 
set I lenient upon the frontier and bore a helpful part in the work of general development 
and improvement leading to the present-day progress and prosperity of the county. Philip 
II. Risling was united in marriage to .Miss Elmira Oldham, also a native of Pennsylvania. 
He died in the year 1893, at the age of sixty-eight, while his wife survived until March 1:;, 
1913. Of their ten children the live eldest -Truman, Loretta, Mary, Florence and Juliette, 
are all now deceased. Those living are: George, who resides upon a farm near Mission Hill; 
Frank, living upon the old homestead; Nellie, who makes her home with her brother Frank; 
Dan. who also occupies a part of the old homestead: and Lueinda. the wife of William 
Halt-, of St. Helena. Nebraska. 

Horn upon the old homestead farm. Frank Risling there remained until 1892, when lie 
tiled on a claim in Lyman county, where he resided for about thirteen years. He then 
returned home ami has since had charge oi the farm, caring lor his mother until her demise. 
He was born in a log house such as was common in those early days, for the family lived 
near enough the timber to obtain the necessary logs with which to build. The family has 

underg very experience of pioneer life in the west. At Spirit Lake they were at times 

compelled to grind wheat and corn in a coffee mill in order to secure breadstuff's. After 
coining to Dakota the grasshoppers destroyed their crops for two or three years during the 
'Tils, and during the flood of March and April. 1881, the water covered their farm and stood 
five feet deep above the floor in their dwelling. They had to vacate the house and to live 
for two weeks with the Heller family, near-by neighbors, whose home stood on higher 
ground. The memorable blizzard of January. 1S88, found most of the men of the family 
away from home, the father and his son. Frank Risling, working in the timber, while another 
son was in town when the storm broke, but all made their way home through the blinding 
snow in safety. Deer and antelope wen- plentiful when the family arrived in Dakota in 
1862. Timber wolves were also numerous and destructive and a few are still trapped in 
the timber along the river. "Within the remembrance of Frank Risling a buffalo was killed 
in the Bohemian settlement. Indians passed up and down the river during his boyhood days 
and at times begged bread but never stole. His father always fed them, never turning 
anyone away from his door hungry. As the years passed on. all these conditions changed, 
giving way before an advancing civilization until today the county bears semblance to any 
peaceful farming community and its well cultivated fields are equal to those found in other 

sections of the country, while the improve nts upon the farms are monuments to the 

progressive spirit ami prosperity of the owners. Frank Risling is a member of the Odd 
Fellows society ami in politics is independent, preferring to cast his ballot as his judgment 
dictate-, without regard to party affiliation. He i- today one of the well known agriculturists 
of Yankton county and can speak with authority upon many phases of its pioneer history. 



WILLIAM FRANKLIN KELLER, M. D. 

Dr. William Franklin Keller, a leading ami successful representative of the medical 
fraternity of South Dakota, has practiced continuously lor many years in Sioux Falls, and 
has also acted in the capacity of city health officer since 1908. His birth occurred in 
Reimersburg, Pennsylvania, in 1866, his parents being William and Catharine Keller. In 
the acquire nt of an education, he attended the public schools of his native town and also 

Ileilllel SDUrg College. 

After completing his education in Pennsylvania, he came west, locating in Nebraska, where 

he followed the drug business until L891 when I ame' to South Dakota, making his I le 

in Sioux Falls. In 1893 he entered the University of Illinois ami received the degree oi 
M. H. from the University of Nashville. Tennessee, in 1897. Since that time he has fol- 
lowed the practice of general medicine in Minnehaha county, South Dakota, his practice 



UVo^ 



100 HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 

Laving become extrusive ami highly successful. He has served two sears, 1912-1914, as 
physician oi Minnehaha enmity and for a similar period lias been physician of the state 
penal and ileal' mute institutions. In 1908 lie was made city health officer of Sioux Falls, 
which position lie still holds, ami in which connection his labors have been of far- 
reaching benefit ami recognized value. Dr. Keller is a member of the Missouri Valley 
Medical Association, also the South Dakota Medical Association and the Seventh District, 
represents Beveral of the old line insurance companies, and is also United States pension 
examiner at Sioux Falls. 

In 1906, at Sioux Kails. Dr. Keller was united in marriage to Miss Bertha Stringham, 
a daughter of \. C. Stringham. His political allegiance has always been given to the 
democratic party, ami his religious faith is that of the Episcopal church. Fraternally he is 
"identified with the Masons, having attained the thirty -second degree of the Scottish Rite 
and also belonging to the Mystic Shrine. He is popular in fraternal, social ami profes- 
sional circles of his adopted city ami has gained recognition as one of its leading and 
representative residents. 



HON. ANDREW .1. LOCKHART. 

On the pages of South Dakota's history the name of the Hon. Andrew J. Lockhart is 
written large, because of his close and prominent connection with the upbuilding and develop- 
ment of his locality, lie has also figured prominently in political circles as a leader in 
republican politics and has been a member of the state senate. He makes his home in 
(lear Lake, but his business activities cover a wide territory, as he is the president of the 
Eastern Investment Company and president of the Bank of Clear Lake, the Farmers Exchange 
Bank of Toronto, the Exchange Bank of Gary, the Altamont State Bank of Altamont and 
t he State Bank of Bemis. 

Mr. Lockhart has always been a resilient of the middle west, bis birth having occurred 
upon a farm in Columbia county, Wisconsin, on the 28th of March, 1863, his parents being 
John ami Agnes (Gray) Lockhart. They were born, reared and married in Ayrshire, Scotland, 
and came to America in 1849. After spending eighteen months in New York, they removed 
to Wisconsin, where their remaining days were passed. The father devoted his life to 
agricultural pursuits. 

While spending his youthful days under the parental roof Andrew J. Lockhart attended 
the public schools and also a high school in Wisconsin. When his school days were over he 
entered the employ id' a sewing machine company, spending a short time in thai way at 
Baraboo, alter which he went to Stevens Point, Wisconsin, where he was engaged in the 
same business. (In the 1st of April. 1884, he removed to Brookings, South Dakota, where he 
was employed in a lumberyard, ami in L884, when (dear Lake was founded, he removed to 
this place and became manager of a lumberyard in the new town, so continuing until the 
following May, when the yard of which he had charge was consolidated with another business 
ami thus he was left without, a position. The recognition of his energy and ability, however^ 

did no! leave him long in that condition, for he entered tin iploy of an elevator company 

at Watertown, of which he was made manager. After nine months then- spent he returned to 
(dear Lake, where he was manager of an elevator for a year and then entered the "lain and 

agricultural imp! cut business on his own account. In order to do this he burrowed 

capital ;il n rate of thirty si\ per cent interest, payable in advance. In 1889 he took up the 
real-estate business hut remained in the grain ami implement business until 1894, when he 
became manager of the Eastern Investment Company, with offices at clear Lake although 
the business was owned by people of Toronto, Canada. In 1898 Mr. Lockhart purchased 
Hun -ck in the business ami has built it. up to its present proportions, making it finan- 
cially the largesl and strongest real-estate concern in South Dakota. Its present condition 
is attributable entirely to the efforts ami energy of Mr. Lockhart, who is a man of keen 
agacity, sound judgment and indefatigable diligence. Each step in his career has been a 

,.[ bringing him a broader outlook and wider opportunities, ami from time to time 

I,,, | laa been connected with other interests which in their extent, and importance place him 
among the leading financiers of the state, of six different financial concerns he is the presi- 




HON. ANDREW J. L< >i KHART 



ORK 






HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 103 

dent and the banking interests of his section of the state have largely 1 n promoted ami 

extended through his efforts. 

On the 31st of May, 1893, Mr. Loekhart was united in marriage to Miss Clara M. God- 
dard, a daughter of Joseph C. and Agnes (Hunter) Goddard. Hers was an old-time family 
that arrived in Deuel county in 18T6, settling at Goddard's Lake, where the father secured 
sixty acres of heavy timber, surrounded by water. This is one of the prettiest spots in all 
South Dakota. Both the parents have now passed away and Mrs. Loekhart recently pur- 
chased the old estate. By her marriage she has become the mother of four children: 
Edith M., Beatrice Gray, Fern Irene and Florence May. 

Mr. and Mrs. Loekhart hold membership in the Congregational church and are inter- 
ested in upholding and promoting the moral standards of the community. Mr. Loekhart is 
a prominent Mason, having taken the degrees of the York Bite and of the Mystic Shrine. He 
also has membership with the Elks and the Modern Woodmen of America. His political 
allegiance is given the republican party and in early days he served as county commissioner 
to fill a vacancy and he was mayor of Clear Lake as long as he would consent to accept 
the oflice. He has thus left the impress of his individuality upon the history of the city, its 
upbuilding and development. In 1909 he was elected a member of the state senate and 
made such an excellent record during his first term that in 1911 he was reelected. During 
the second term he was chosen president pro tcm without opposition, a fact which indicates 
the confidence reposed in his integrity as a citizen and his public spirit, even by those who 
do not hold similar political views. It is well known that he is fair and just on all occasions, 
that he never takes advantage of another and that he seeks with singleness of purpose the 
best interests of the community at large. 



RICHARD BLACKSTONE. 



Richard Blackstone, of Lead, occupies a position of commanding importance in mining 
circles of the state as the superintendent of the Homestake Mining Company, which is the 
lament wealth producing concern. in the commonwealth and operates the largest mine of its 
kind in the world. Mr. Blackstone was born in Connellsville, Pennsylvania, on the 16th of 
October. 1843, a son of James and Nancy Campbell (Johnston) Blackstone. The father was 
a farmer and prominent citizen of that locality, which was also his birthplace. Henrj 
Blackstone, an uncle of our subject, was a well known railroad man in Pennsylvania and 
Maryland. The family was early established in those states, four generations being buried 
in the same locality in western Pennsylvania. James Blackstone passed away in IN'.U alter 
having reached the advanced age of eighty-one, and his widow survived for nine years, 
dying in L903. They were parents of fourteen children, Richard being the sixth in order of 
birth. 

Richard Blackstone attended the common schools and a select school of Connellsville 
and when a youth of seventeen years enlisted in Company ( '. Thirty-second Ohio Volunteer 
Infantry, at .Mount Vernon, Ohio, on the 20th of July, 1861. As soon as the organization 
of the company was completed it was sent to the front and was in action throughout the 
West Virginia campaign. It was under General Milroj at Camp Cheat Mountain and took 
part in the battle of Bull Mountain. Thence it went into the Shenandoah Valley and joined 
General Fremont's forces, following Stonewall Jackson on his retreat up the valley to Har- 
risonburg. Returning to Winchester, the command assisted in the fortification of that city 
and later, upon Lee's crossing into Maryland, the Union army abandoned the city and 
retreated to Harper'- Ferry and engaged in the battle of Maryland Heights. Most of the men 
of the Thirty-second Volunteer Infantry were taken prisoners and later paroled. They could 
hear the tiring during the battle of Antietam, but were not allowed to particulate in it as 
they were on parole. The regiment subsequently went to Baltimore, thence to (amp Dou- 
glas, Chicago, and later to Columbus, Ohio, where their exchange was effected. In the 
spring of 1863 the command was again ready tor duty and proceeded by way of the Mis- 
sissippi to Memphis, where it became ;> pari of the \nn\ of tin- Tennessee under General 
Grant, being assigned to the Third Division of the Se\cnteenth \iinv Corps. Alter lying in 
camp at Milliken's Bend for a time the regiment crossed the Mississippi below Vicksburg 



Hit lllSTi )RY < >F S< )UTH DAKOTA 

and took part in the march to the rear oi thai Confederate stronghold, engaging in the 
battle "i Raymond on the 8th of May. after which it proceeded .1- far as Jackson, Missi 
sippi, from which point it returned and was in action in the battle of Champion's Hill on 
the Hi tii oi May. In the charge oi thai daj the Dhirty-second Ohio captured two entire 
regiments from Alabama. It then advanced and took part in the siege of Vicksburg until 

the 4th of July, or until the - nder of the city. The regiment was then engaged in 

provost duty throughout the - mer. In the fall Mr. Blackstone was made first sergeant 

of In- company and reenlisted as a veteran volunteer, although his term oi original enlist- 
ment did not expire until a year later. He received a thirty day furlough, which he spent 
at lii- old home, alter which he was detailed on recruiting service. In the meantime Ins 
regiment had been moved northward and he rejoined it at Cairo, Illinois, whence they pro- 
ceeded up the Tennessee river to Athens, Georgia, where Mr. Blackstone was given his com- 
mission as second lieutenant. The Thirty-second Ohio marched onward and joined Sherman's 

army at Big Shanty, I gia, and participated in the Atlanta campaign, advancing against 

General Johnston. Alter numerous skirmishes ami the battle of Kenesaw Mountain the 
army reached Atlanta, participating in the siege of that place ami tin' battle of Jonesboro 
ami was with Sherman on his march to the sea. The regiment to which Mr. Blackstone 
belonged was in the thickest oi the tray. He was sent to the hospital at Wilmington, North 
Carolina, owing to a stubborn ease oi malaria an. I upon In- recovery was ordered to join 
his regiment at Raleigh, South Carolina, a- they were then with Sherman on his march to 
the sea. Mr. Blackstone proceeded northward with his command through the Carolinas 
ami was with Sherman's army when Johnston surrendered. The Union forces marched on to 
Washington ami alter participating in tin- grand reviev. he was sent to Louisville, Ken- 
tucky, where he was assigned to provost duty ami where he received his honorable dis- 
charge in July, 1865. On the :.'7th of that month he was mustered out as captain of his 
company. 

Mr. Blackstone returned to his home in Pennsylvania ami for s e months wa- a 

-1, 1. lent in the Pennsylvania Military College at Chester-, Pennsylvania, ami subsequently 
attended the Rennselaer Polytechnic Institute at Troy, New York, fur two years, studying 
engineering. Obeying a desire to see something of the great west, he went to Cheyenne, 
Wyoming, in L868 ami thence to Colorado, locating in Breckenridge, that state, where he 

engaged extensively in placer ing for two su ters. He then removed to Denver and 

I ,11 work as a draftsman 11. the Tinted States surveyor general's office, lie was soon 

afterward transferred to Cheyenne, Wyoming, and remained there, being employed as a 

,| -man. until ls;s. In March ol that year he removed to the Black Hills and took 

charge oi a placet mining company near Deadw I. A- this proved unsuccessful, he was 

compelled to seek other work and again became a draftsman. He served in that capacity 
and as engineer for Hie linn of Rohleder & Smith oi Deadwood for a year. In 1880 h" 
entered the employ of the Home-take Mining Company, doing odd jobs for them, and in 
issi was engineer in charge oi the Black Hill- and Fort Pierre Railroad. In 1882 he was 
made chief engineer of the Homestake Mining Company and ha- continued with them 
throughout the intervening thirty-two years. At no tune ha- he .•cased to study the 
conditions and t.. endeavor to find a way of solving more satisfactorily some vexing prob- 
lem, and his initiative and knowledge gained him promotion to the position of ;.ssistant 

superintendent m April, ran:;, lie proved equal to the added 1,-] sibility placed upon 

him and hi- executive ability developed will, the heavier demands upon it. Alter the 
death 01 Mi. Grier, who wa- For three decades superintendent of the company, Mr. Black- 
stone was mad 'iieral superintendent, assuming that important position on the i-t o! 

October, Tail, lie took up the task of the general direction of all of the operations of 

the FTomostakc Mining pany with I he confidence of the owners and directors of the 

corporation and with the re-pert and good «ill oi those ha him. His hme connect 

with the mine and his moie than ten years 1 experience a- assistant superintendent form 
Hi,. i„--i possible preparation for the work ot superintendent and his experience, keen 
intelligence, autlioi tative I nowledge of mining and undoubted ability t.. secure Hie coopera- 
tion oi the men under hi- direction all make certain hi- sin re— in hi- new position of 
authority. In 1912, while assistant superintendent, he designed ami .-reeled the Spear- 
fish Hydro Electric plant, which i- a model of its kind and which has been of great value 
I,, ii,,- Homestake mine. The new hoist and pumping plant to he installed at the B. ,v M. 



HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 10.3 

hoist is also one of the finest achievements of mining engineering in existence and Mr. 
Blackstone had much to do in securing it for the Homestake, which excels all .oilier mines 
in the world in foundations and permanent work. Mr. Blackstone gives his entire time 
and attention to his business and takes the greatest pride in working out some improve- 
ment that will increase the efficiency of the mine and give it another claim to leadership. 
He is constantly reading and studying along lines connected with his work and is a 
member of th<- American Institute of Mining Engineers. 

On the 2Sth of December, 1871, Mr. Blackstone was united in marriage at Pittsburgh, 
Pennsylvania, to Miss Mabel R. Noble, of that city, and to them have been born three 
children: Alexander J., assistant engineer of the Homestake Mining Company; and Mary 
Louise and Flora W., twins, both of whom are married, the former being now Mrs. I). C. 
Regan, of Lead, and the latter the wife of C. L. Williams, an operator in the Hydro 
Elecl i ic at Spearfish. 

Mr. Blackstone has supported the principles and candidates of the republican party 
at the polls since attaining his majority and manifests a citizen's interest in good govern- 
ment. His home is his club and he spends there the greater part of his leisure time. He 
is a member of the Ohio Commandery of the Loyal Legion and also belongs to the Home- 
stake Veterans Association, of which he has served as president since its organization. The 
society is c posed of those who have been in the service of the Homestake Mining Com- 
pany for twenty-one years or more and docs much to foster a spirit of loyalty and 
cooperation. The record of the achievement of Mr. Blackstone testifies to his marked ability 
and is an earnest of still greater accomplishment in the coming years. 



WILLIAM E. ROBINSON, M. 1). 

Dr. William E. Robinson, a successful medical practitioner and the mayor of Rapid 
City, his efforts along various lines constituting a source of the city's upbuilding and 
progress, was born in South Bend, Indiana, October 28. 1872, a son of John and Mary 
(Shipley) Robinson, the former a native of the state of New York and the latter of Indiana 
The father is deceased but the mother still makes her home in South Bend. 

In the public schools of his native city William E. Robinson pursued bis studies until 
graduated from the high school and then entered the College of Physicians and Surgeons 
at Chicago, where he spent one year. He afterward became a student in the Louisville 
Medi.al College of Louisville. Kentucky, from which he was graduated with the class of 
1894, winning the M. 1). degree. He served during the years 1893 and 1894 as interne in 
the Louisville City Hospital and also received the M. D. degree from the Kentucky School of 
Medicine. He spent three years in active practice in Louisville and in 1S!)7 came to South 
Dakota, settling at Big Stone, where he remained until 1900 and then returned to Louis- 
ville, where he did one year's post-graduate work. In 1901 he returned to South Dakota, 
settling at Spearfish, where he remained until 1907, when he removed to Rapid I ity, where 
:i mtv extensive practice has been accorded him. Outside his private practice he is surgeon 
for the Chicago, Milwaukee Si St. Paul Railroad. He has ever kept in close touch with the 
advanced though! of the profession, its latest discoveries and researches and his ability has 
i:d him distinction in his chosen professional field. His energies have also found con- 
siderable scope outside strid professional paths, for he is one of the owners and vice 
lent of tin' Warren Lumber Company and owns a valuable ranch near Farmingdale. 

Dr. Robinson lias always been a republican, active in local councils of the party and in 
-lite affairs. In May. 1914, he was chosen mayor of Rapid City and is serving as the 
city's first mayor under the three commissioner plan, being elected for a live years' term. 

ILs policie E the ,l thoroughly progressive type and his administration promises 

to be oi !' unusual advancement and benefit for the city, [f he has a hobby in this 

connection it is good streets and loads and he has worked tirelessly to further the 
improvemenl of both. Probably, however, his most notable achievement has been the 
harmonizing of discordant interests and tin- development of the "pull together" spirit 
essential to real municipal progress. 



L06 HIST* >K\ l IF S* >l III DAKOTA 

i in the nth of September, 1905, Dr. Robinson was united in marriage to Miss Creta G. 
Daggett, a daughter of David and Julia (Lepla) Daggett and a representative of one of 
the pioneer families of Spearfish. Her father was the first druggist of that place, where 
he settled in 1885. Dr. and Mrs. Robinson have one son, True William. 

Fraternally Dr. Robinson is a Mason, an Elk and a Modern Woodman. He lias served 
for several terms as county coroner and lie is a member of the county, state and national 
medical societies. He is widely recognized as among the most prominently successful young 
physicians of South Dakota and at the same time his public service has been of the utmost 
value and benefll to the community in which lie makes his home and in which his fellow 
citizens entertain for him the highesi respect and regard. 



GEORGE ATWOOD PETTIGREW, M. D. 

Among the residents of Sioux Falls to whom the state pays a merited tribute of respect 
and honor is Dr. George Atwood Pettigrew, who for a long period was a successful physician 
and surgeon and attained high rank in that field of labor. Later he became a prominent 
figure in banking circles of the state. It is not alone his professional and business career, 
however, that entitle him to mention in this volume, for he is one of the leading Masons of 
Smith Dakota, upon whom the craft has bestowed high honors. He has held some of the most 
importanl offices within the gift of the fraternity and is now most worthy grand patron of 
the Eastern Star, thus filling the position of highest distinction in that branch of Masonry 
in t lie world. 

Dr. Pettigrew is one of New England's native sons, his birth having occurred in Ludlow. 

Ver nt. April G, 1858, his parents being Josiah Walker and Susan Ann (Atwood i Pettigrew, 

the former a native of Ludlow and the latter of Londonderry, Vermont. He spent his youthful 
days under the parental roof and supplemented his early public-school education by a course 
of study in the Black Liver Academy of Ludlow and in the Colby Academy of New London, 
New Hampshire. Upon the foundation of a broad classical course he built the superstructure 
oi his professional knowledge. Entering Dartmouth College at Hanover, New Hampshire, 
he was graduated from the medical department with the class of 18S2 and then sought the 
opportunities for professional advancement offered by the west, making his way to South 
Dakota, then a part of the territory of Dakota. He entered upon active practice at Flandreau 
on the 2d of February, 18S3, and in June, L884, formed a partnership with l>r. K A, Spafford, 
which continued until February, 1891. He then retired from active practice and turned Ids 
attention to the real-estate, loan and banking business. He was surgeon of the Chicago, 
Milwaukee A St. Paul Railroad Company for eight years, was government physician to the 
Indians for a similar period and was surgeon of the Second Regiment of Territorial Guards 
and their successors from 1885 until 1898. He al.-.o acted as surgeon general of South Dakota 
for lour years under Governor Sheldon and in 1884 was made a member of the United Slates 
pension examining board, in which position he continued until 1901 with the exception of 
on, yeai lie also acted as surgeon of the Firs! and Second Regiments of the South Dakota 
National Guard from their organization until their departure for the Philippines. He won 
professional prominence ami honor and bad the high regard and esteem of his fellow members 
oi the medical fraternity. 

Ai length, however, Dr. Pettigrew determined to retire from the practice of medicine 

ami in May, L891, became - of the organizers of the Flandreau State Bank, of which he 

was chosen president, ami so continued for twelve years, or until .Inly. 1903. At thai date 
he reined and on the 3d of September following removed to Sioux Falls, lb' has since been 

prominently identified with financial interests oi this city. In L896 he became i fficei o1 

lie' i 'i. hi Savings Assoi iation of si mix Falls ami so continued until 1913. His opinions have 
carried weighl in financial as well as professional circles, ami his enterprise, sound judgmenl 
ami determination have been important factors in the successful eonducl of two of South 
I lakol a'- ~l rong banking in titul ions, 

(in the Pith oi October, 1887, Dr. Pettigrew was > Tied, in Troy, New York, to Miss 

Eudora Zulette Stearn , w ho was bom at Felchville, Vermont, duly 28, is.vs. To them was 
bom a dauglltei i.ddie Steams, whose birth occurred September ", , 1890. In duly. L912, they 




DR. GEORGE A. PETTIGREW 



I 




HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 109 

adopted a two and a half year old girl, Madeleine. The family are prominent socially and 
have an extensive circle of warm friends, not only in Sioux Falls, but also in other sections 
of the state. 

As previously stated, Dr. Pettigrew is one of the prominent Masons of South Dakota, 
having attained the thirty-third degree of the Scottish Rite and the Royal Order of Scotland. 
Many Masonic honors have been conferred upon him. He was called to the office of grand 
secretary of the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of South Dakota in 1889 and still 
continues in that position, covering a period of a quarter of a century. In 1895 he was 
elected grand s >retary of the Grand Lodge of Masons and in 1894 was chosen grand recorder 
of the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar, while in 1896 he was made grand recorder 
of the Grand High Priesthood. He was also grand commander of the Knights Templar in 
1907. He became a member of the Eastern Star, was grand patron in the local chapter in 
1891, 1892 and 1893, and on the 30th of September, 1913, at the fourteenth triennial meeting 
of the General Grand Chapter of the World at Chicago, he was elected most worthy grand 
patron over a constituency of over seven hundred thousand members, thus receiving the 
highest office within the gift of that organization in the entire world. He is a member of 
the Order of Red Cross of Constantine, to which none but thirty-third degree Masons can 
belong, and he is a past potentate of El Riad Temple of the Mystic Shrine. He likewise holds 
membership with the Odd Fellows, the Modern Woodmen of America and the Knights of 
Pythias, and while in active practice was a member of the Association of Military Surgeons 
of America, but is not now connected with that organization. His entire life has been an 
exemplification of the basic principles of brotherhood and mutual helpfulness upon which 
Masonry is founded, and thus he has reached out along constantly broadening lines of 
usefulness. He possesses the executive ability necessary for leadership, the social qualities 
which are equally essential and the high moral purpose without which honors and admiration 
are never won. He was a member and president of the school board of Sioux Falls for three 
years and in April, 1913, was reelected for a term of five years. 



AMBROSE B. ROBINSON. 



Ambrose B. Robinson, proprietor of a hardware store in Redfield since 1911, has care- 
fully systematized the business, studies the demands of the trade and through forethought 
and capable management has built up a business of gratifying proportions. Twenty-nine 
years have come and gone since he arrived in South Dakota, removing from Lake Benton, 
Minnesota. He was born at Deposit, New York. July 18, 1857, and is a son of Edward and 
Eunice (Burrows) Robinson. The family is of Scotch lineage, but was founded in America 
prior to the Revolutionary war, the first settlement being made at Binghamton, New York. 
Removing to the west, Edward Robinson became a pioneer of Minnesota, being the first 
farmer to build a house west of Lake Benton. He had previously served as a soldier in the 
Civil war. He took an active part in the early development of Minnesota and liis last 
days were spent in Oregon, where lie was laid to rest. For some time he had survived 
Ins wile, who passed away at Lake Benton. 

Ambrose P.. Robinson completed his education n( Black River Falls, Wisconsin, when 
eighteen years of age. In the meantime lie bad assisted his father in the lumber business, 
continuing active therein from his twelfth to liis twenty-third year with opportunity to 
attend school only for a short term during each year. After severing liis business connec- 
tion with his father lie uns engaged in various lines of business. Fur twenty-seven years 
he was a grain buyer and for ten years he conducted a lumberyard on his own account. 
He had not a cent when he started out in life independently but energy and determination 
proved the foundation upon which lie buildcd lii, filer siireess. Gradually he advanced step 

by step and today, as proprietor of a hardware store in 1,'edfield. is a sin ssful merchant, 

having the largest business of its kind in Spink county. He draws his patronage from 
all parts of the county and his trade is well merited, for his business methods are thor- 
oughly reliable and the line of goods which In- carries represents the output of Some of 
the best iron foundries of the country. 



110 HISTi »RY ( >F SOI I II D \K» ITA 

Mi. Robinson was married in Whitehall, Wisconsin, March '.';. 1881, to Miss Elma Lilis, 
a daughter of William and Amanda Ellis, who were pioneers of Wisconsin. The father, 
who lias made farming 1 » i — . life work, nom resides al Hood River, Oregon, where his wife 
passed away. Mr. and Mrs. Robinson are the parents oi one son and four daughter*: Clark, 
who i- assisting his father; Bessie, the wife of John Kelly, residing at Crandon, South 
Dakota; Grace, the wife of Edward Peavey, of Minneapolis; Clare, the wife of Leo Evans, of 
Townsend, Montana; and Zedna, who married R. W. Cook, of Pierre, South Dakota. 

The hoi i Mr. and Mrs. Robinson is a beautiful residence which lie erected at a cosl 

of ten thousand dollar*. He has also built several other residences and various other 
buildings, including the largest lumber shed in the state. Mi* efforts have been a vital 
force in the upbuilding and improvement of Redfield and other districts. What he has 
accomplished is the direct and merited reward of persistent and earnest labor. He stands 

a* one "I the prosperous citizen- ol hi* section of the state and III* example may well serve 
to in*pire and encourage others, showing what may be accomplished when there is the will 
to dare and to do. Industry has unlocked for him the portals to success and hi* record 
proves that prosperity and an honored name may be won simultaneously. 



JOSEPH JANOUSEK. 



Joseph Janousek, an attorney practicing at the bar of Yankton, was born at New Prague, 
Minnesota, on the 4th of July, 1882. His lather. John Janousek, a native of Bohemia, was 
one of the pioneers of North Dakota of L881. He was a mason and brick contractor, con- 
ducting business alone those lines until his death. His wife, Mrs. Mary Janousek, is also a 
native of Bohemia and is still living, her home being in Walsh county. North Dakota. 

In their family were eight children, of whom Joseph Janousek is the fifth In order of 
birth. In the public schools of Walsh county, North Dakota, he pursued his education and 
afterward entered St. John's University near St. Cloud, Minnesota, from which he was 

graduated on tl mpletion of a classical coir-,, in L902, winning the Bachelor of Arts 

degree. The 1 1 . • •_• i t Master of Arts wa* conferred upon him five years later by his alma 

mater. In I'.io:: he began the study of law in the University of Minnesota and was grad- 
uated therefrom in 1905. Immediately afterward he opened an office in Lesterville, Yank- 
ton county, where lie remained for three years, ami then, seeking the broader field of labor 
offered by the larger city, removed to Yankton in 1908 ami has been continuously engaged 
in practice in this city since that time. 

iin the 23d of May, L910, Mr. Janousek was married to Miss Emma Chladek, a daughter 

"I Frank and Mary Chladek. who were among tl arly settlers of Yankton county, and 

they have one child. Joseph. The political allegiance ,,i Mr. .lanoiisek i- given the republican 

party and on i • year*, beginning in 1909, he filled the office of state's attorney, lie holds 

membership with the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks ami the Knights of Columbus and 
in. is also a communicant of the ( liurch "i the Sacred Heart, 



WILLIAM HENRY SHAW. 



William Henry Shaw, living al Hazel, who recently completed a term of twelve years' 
service on the I id of county commissi 's of I l.i 1 1 1 1 iii county, i- a citizen in whom 

his fellow townsmen feel thai they can safely place the interests of town and county 
lie was In -I elected to the position in the fall of 1902 and the record which he ha* made 
in office i- an irreproachable one. lie was born in the province of Ontario, Canada, -Inly :.'. 

I860 a -on oi Willian 1 \-nc- nameioiii Shaw, the former a native of England and 

the latter of Scotland During their childhood they accompt I their respective parents 

to Canada, where in early life the father learned the carpenter's trade, which he followed for 
many years. Crossing the border into the United states, he lived for some years in 
Watertown, New York, and thence came westward to South Dakota in the early ''.ids. 
lie remai I. however, i<>i onh t! year- and spent his last days in eastern Canada; 



HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 111 

where he passed away about L903. He had long survived his wife, who died in Watertown, 
New York, in L866, when in comparatively early womanhood. 

W. li. Shaw was only about si\ years of ago at the time of the death of his mothei 
and from that period forward he scarcely knew what a home was until he was able to 
make one for himself. He lived for a time with relatives but when quite young started out 
to rain his own living among strangers. His educational opportunities were necessarily 
limited 1 >t 1 1 in the school of experience he has learned many valuable lessons. In early 

life he gave his time to farm work and in L882 he ea to South Dakota, where he might 

find it possible to become the owner of a farm. He homesteaded a quarter section of land 
in Hamlin county, five and a half miles south of the present townsite of Hazel, and subse- 
quently acquired two other quarter sections adjoining his home place, so that his holdings 
comprise four hundred and eighty acres in one farm. He resided thereon for man} - years, 
carefully, persistently and successfully carrying on agricultural pursuits until he had' 
acquired a handsome competence sufficient to supply him with all of the comforts and some 
ill the luxuries of life. Therefore in the fall of l'.IU) he removed into the town of Hazel, 
where lie has since made his home and. as far as business affairs go, is enjoying a well 
earned and well merited rest. 

Mr. Shaw, however, still remains active in the affairs of the county and is a recognized 
leader in republican ranks, having always supported the party since age conferred upon 
him the right of franchise. For twelve consecutive years he served as a member of the 
board of county commissioners, having first been elected to that office in the fall of 1903 
and being chairman when retiring from the position in 11114. No higher evidence of his 
capability and fidelity could be given than the fait that he was so many times reelected to 
the position. 

In 1S92 Mr. Shaw was united in marriage to Miss Lulu Dealing, of New York, by whom 
he has two children: Eva Grace, aged twenty-one years: and Robert Clayton, aged seventeen 
year-. Mr. Shaw belongs to Hazel Lodge, K. 1'.. and to the Modern Woodmen camp. Coming' 
to this section of the state when it was a pioneer district, he has lived to witness many 
changes and his memory forms a connecting link between the primitive past and the pro- 
gressive present. His work has been beneficial to the county as well as to himself in 
advancing the agricultural conditions of the state, and his service as chairman of the board 
"i county commissioners is one which has been of the greatest value to the district. 



THOMAS T. SKOGEN, M. D. 

Dr. Thomas T. Skogen, physician and surgeon of Flandreau, Moody county, where he 
has maintained an office for the past fifteen years, is one of the well known and successful 
medical practitioners of eastern South Dakota. His birth occurred in a log cabin in Goodhue 
county. Minnesota, on the 12th of July. 1864, his parents being Tollef T. and Helga (Strand) 
Skogen, natives of Norway. They emigrated to the United States in young manhood and 
young womanhood, in 1858, and were married shortly alter. their arrival in this country. 
They took up their al>nde .in a farm in Goodhue enmity. Minnesota, and were aiming the 
early pioneer resident- of that section. There they spent the remainder of their lives, both 
passing away in the yeai )'.)09. 

Thomas T. Skogen was reared on the home farm and acquired his early education by 

attendance at the district scl Is, continuing his studies in Led Wing Seminary and at 

Concordia College of Moorhead, Minnesota. Subsequently he took up the profession of 
teaching and was thus engaged for about five years, on the expiration of which period, 
in L896, he entered the Minneapolis College of Physicians and Surgeons, of Hamline Uni- 
versity, being graduated from that institution with the class of 1900. In L903 he pursued 
a post-graduate course in the Chicago Posl Graduate Medical School and in 1913 spent; 
some time in the clinics in the hospitals of San Francisco and Los Angeles. In the spring 
of 1900 he had located for practice in Flandreau, Smith Dakota, where he has continued 

througl t the intervening fifteen years, enjoying a liberal and gratifying patronage thai 

has come in n gnition of his professional skill and ability. He keep- in touch with the 



112 HISTt >RY < IF S< >UTH DAKOTA 

progress of the fraternity through his membership in the Seventh District Medical Society, 
the South Dakota State Medical Society and the American Medical Association. 

In the public life of his community Dr. Skogen has likewise taken an active part, having 
twice been honored by election t" the office of mayor of Flandreau and giving the munici- 
pality a progressive, aide and businesslike administration. He has a wide acquaintance and 

l lie eirele c > I his friend, is an extensive one, owing not only to his profess al ability but 

also In his personal worth, which inspires admiration and warm regard. 



i:i:V. C1IARLKS ("'. HOLEY. 



Rev. I harles C. Boley, pastor of St. Mary's parish at Dell Hapids. was bom in Loretto, 
Pennsylvania, on the :.'7th of February. lsT4, and pursued his education at St. Francis 
College in his native town until he entered St. Mary's Seminary at Baltimore. Maryland. 
Still later he attended Niagara University at Niagara Falls. New York, and completed his 
preparation for the priesthood at St. Bonaventures Seminary at Allegany, New York, where 
lie was ordained to the priesthood on the 21st of December, 1901. 

Following his ordination Father Boley came at once to South Dakota and was assigned 
to duty as assistant to Father James McNalley, now deceased, at Beresford, this state. 

Nine I iths later 1 pened a mission at Lennox. Smith Dakota, over which he had charge 

for about five years, and in the fall of 1906 he was placed in charge of St. Mary's parish at 

Dell Rapids, where he has since remained. The work of the church has 1 n vigorously and 

carefully prosecuted dining this time. Since his arrival at Dell Rapids he has enlarged the 
church edifice and has erected the school building and otherwise improved the church prop- 
erty. The parish school, which is conducted in connection with the church, now has an 
enrollment ol one hundred and twenty pupils. The. various branches of the church work 
have been carefully organized and under the guidance and direction of Father Boley the 
interests of Catholicism have been greatly promoted in eastern Smith Dakota, where he is 
one ol the well known representatives of the priesthood. 



JOSEPH J. DAVENPORT. 



Joseph J. Davenport is the president of the waterworks company of Sturgis and formerly 
was actively and successfully engaged in the banking business. His efforts have ever been 
of a character that have contributed to public progress as well as to individual sueeess and 
his spirit of enterprise has constituted a factor in the upbuilding and development of the 
city in which he makes his home. To such men the northwest owes much, for they have been 
the real builders of the state's progress and prosperity Mr. Davenport was born in Woodford 

e ty, Illinois, January :.':), L850, a son of John J. and Lucy A. (Bullock) Davenport, both 

natives of Woodford county, Kentucky, the former born in 1814 and the latter in September, 
1835. They were married in Illinois, where John J. Davenport settled in pioneer times, becom- 
ing one of the early residents of \\ (ford county. In fact, both the paternal and maternal 

grandparents of Joseph J. Davenport took up their abode in that district in an early day and 

n.ii I thee ii \ in I of the old home county in Kentucky, John J. Davenport devoted 

his life to farming until he passed away in 1852 during the cholera epidemic, his father, who 

v. a a nil in ti I . In in:' the disease II oil I I' ill. w here he had been plea eh 'nig. Ml- 1 la \ I'll- 

pm t long survived her husband, departing this life in Danville, Illinois, in October, 1914, 
niter re iding there with her daughter for thirty years. In the familj were sis children, of 

whom Joseph .1. and a twin sister were ne\t to the youngest and are the only ones now 
l in i Li. Maria M.. is the wife of Benjamin F. Siner, a retired molder, living in 
I lanville. 

in eph J. Davenport attended scl 1 at Minonk, Illinois, after having previously spent 

three months at a private school in Metamora. He was eighteen years of age before he 
entered Bchool but he has made up for his lack of early opportunities in that direction and 
in the school of experience has learned many valuable lessons of life. In the fall of 1871) 




JOSEPH I l)A\ K\l'"l:'l 



HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 115 

when twenty-one years of age, he entered the State University of Illinois at Champaign, when. 
he continued his studies for three years. His life has been one of earnest and unremitting 
toil and at the time when most boys are in school and surrounded by parental care he was 
forced to earn his own living, being but eight years of age when he was employed at herd- 
ing sheep and similar work. He spent five years in the service of Isaac Boys, three miles 
north of Metamora, Illinois, and for two years he was a light weight rider for William Bradj . 
of Peoria, the owner of tine racing stock. He then accepted a position under the station agent 
at Eureka, Illinois, for a year, during which time he studied telegraphy, and afterward was 
employed as a newsboy on trains fur three years. He next accepted the position of brake- 
man, running between Peoria and Chenoa for about two years and during part of that time 
was in charge of a freight train. I'p to that time he had never attended school and when 
he sustained an injury to his hand hi- went to the road superintendent to show him his 
condition. The superintendent advised him, because of the injury, which would compel him 
to lay off for a time, to go back to his home and attend school. 

-Mr. Davenport followed the advice, walking from Peoria to Metamora. After a year 
spent in school at Minonk he obtained a certificate and engaged in teaching school for a year. 
In is; i. as previously stated, he entered the University of Illinois at Champaign, where he 
remained until 1S74, when his money was exhausted and he opened a news stand in Urbana. 
In ISTo he went to New York in the employ of the Chicago Feather Duster Company, opening 
a branch office in the eastern metropolis. He sold the first split feather turkey duster ever 
sold in New York city and continued in that business for three years. He then obtained a 
position in the Marine National Hank at No. 84 Wall street, New York, and continued there 
until the failure of the bank in 1884. He remained with the receiver for one month, at the 
end of which time he started lor the northwest with Sturgis as his destination, arriving there 
in June, 1884. He then accepted the position of cashier in the Lawrence County Bank, which 
he organized with a capital of twenty-five thousand dollars. Subsequently this was con- 
solidated with tlie Fox & Stebbins Bank and .Mr. Davenport organized the First National 
I:. ink of Sturgis, with which he was connected until he disposed of his banking interests in 
1896. Four years before he had established the Sturgis water plant, turning on the water 
on the 9th of March, 1893, having obtained a twenty years' franchise. In 1896 he disposed 
of his banking interests to the organizers of the Meade County Bank and since that time hi' 
has concentrated his efforts upon the management of the waterworks, being president of the 
company, which is a close corporation, the family owning the entire stock, worth one hundred 
thousand dollars. Mr. Davenport has also engaged in the real-estate business continuously 
through the period of his residence in Sluigis and is still an extensive landowner in South 
Dakota. 

On the 14th of October, 1885, was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Davenport and Miss 
Sara E. Jarvis, who was born in Brooklyn, New York, a daughter of Daniel and Amelia 
(Robinson) Jarvis, natives of the Empire state, born in is:;."j and 1840 respectively. They 
were married in ls.j.">. The father was reared on Long Island and became a sea captain, fol- 
lowing the sea tin thirty year- or more. In 1892 he removed to the west, settling in Sturgis, 
where he engaged in ranching until his death, in February, 1908. For about thirteen years 
he had survived his wife, who died March '.). 1895. Mrs. Davenport was their only child. Bv 

her marriage she has bee. the mother of four children. Alice J., the eldest, is the wile of 

Albert L. Bodley, of the Security Land & Abstract Company of Sturgis, and they have c 

child, Virginia Jarvis. Florence Agnes, who is a graduate of Columbia University of New- 
York, where she specialized in physical education, is now in charge of that work in a scl 1 

foi girls at Highland Hall, Ilollidaysburg, Pennsylvania. She is also a graduate of All Saints 
school at Sioux Falls. South Dakota, spent one year in the Cumnock school at Los Angeles, 
California, and for two years was a teacher in .Ml Saints at Sioux Falls. John J., the third 
oi the family, died in February, 1909, at the age ol fifteen years. Jarvis Daniel, the fourth 
of the family, i-. now attending the Shattuck Military Academy at Faribault, Minnesota, 
where he is preparing to take up the study of mechanical engineering ami expects to enter 
Throop i ollege, a technical school of California. 

Me family attend the Presbyterian church, of which Mr. and Mrs. Davenport are mem- 
bers, and he belongs also to the Masonic fraternity, holding membership in Olive Branch 
Lodge.No. 47. A. F. & A. M.. of Sturgis; Black Hills Chapter, No. 25, R. A. M., of Rapid City; 
Dakota Commandery, No. 1, K. T.. of Deadwood; Deadwood Consistory, No. :;. S. I'. I;. s. ; 



116 HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 

and Naja Temple oi the Mystic Shrine oi Deadwood. lie- is very prominent in the organiza- 
tion, has passed through all oi the chairs in the blue lodge, i> a past potentate of the shrine 
and was grand master oi South Dakota in L908 and L909. Mr. Davenport is a member oi 
the Masonic Veterans Association and was its president during 1904 and 1905. He is grand 
representative of the grain! lodge of Australia, and he was one oi the distinguished grand 
masters specially invited t" attend the unusual ceremonies when ex-President Tait was 
made "a Master Mason at sight" in Cincinnati in February, 1909. He laid the corner stone 
hi the new state capitol at Pierre in June, 1908, when the grand lodge assembled their espe- 
cially for that purpose, and in October, L908, he laid the corner stone of the new Masonic 
Temple at Redfield, South Dakota. He is known everywhere as a most eloquent speaker and 
his different addresses in the Masonic lodges as well as elsewhere are masterpieces of logic 
and shuw a remarkable fund of knowledge on all subjects. His political allegiance has always 
been given to the republican party, which was the defense of the Union during the dark 
iiw \ - of the i nil war. when he served as drummer boy tor Company E, One Hundred and 
Eighth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, lie was refused enlistment three times on account of his 
youth and size but remained with his company for over a year or until sent home with 
typhoid fever. Mr. Davenport i^ truly a self-made man and his life indicates that no mat- 
ter how much may lie done for the individual in the way of giving him the advantages which 
are sought in the schools and in other connections, he must essentially formulate, determine 
and give shape to his own character. He has persevered in the pursuit of a, persistent purpose 
and has gained a most satisfactory reward. A man of great natural ability, his success in 
business from the beginning of his residence in Sturgis has been uniform and rapid. lie thor- 
oughly enjoys home life, lakes great pleasure in tin 1 society of his family and friends, is 
always courteous, kindly and affable, and his life in many respects is most exemplary. He 
has ever supported those interests which are calculated to uplift and benefit humanity, while 
his own high moral worth is deserving of the warmest commendation. 



BURT ROGERS. 



Hurt Rogers holds an important position in financial circles in Deadwood as treasurer 
of the Black Hills Trust & Savings Bank, one of the leading institutions of its kind in 
southwestern South Dakota. He understands banking thoroughly not only in its broader 
aspects but also in the small matters of detail and he directs its affairs so wisely that itg 
assets are steadily increasing. 

Mi. Rogers was born in Watertown, New York, on the 12th of May. 1870, a son of 
Orlo and Louisa (Walts) linger--, both of whom were also born in that town. The father 

,va .i farmer and followed that occupatioi til Ins death, which occurred in 1807. The 

ther survived until June, 1912, when she. too. was railed to her final rest. They were 

the parents ol five children, of whom the subject of this review is the thud in order of birth. 

He received his education in the scl Is of Waterloo and Oswego, New York, and in L889, 

when nineteen years of age, he left h ■ and arrived in Sioux Falls. South Dakota, iii June 

of thai year, lie was employed a- court reporter then' until 1895 and in the meantime 
engaged in the real-estate business for several years, la L895 he went to Pactola, a town 
in the southern hills, and there engaged m mining for two years, lie then removed to 

De 'I I and I or five years did assaying independently. At tl ml of that time he assisted 

hi organizing the Black Hills Trust A Savings Bank and for two years was a director in 
that institution, lie was then for a time vice president and he subsequently became cashier 
.,i thi bank, being the present incumbent of that position. The Black Hills Trust & 
Saving Bank is one ., the largest and most reliable financial institutions in Deadwood 

and the i itical management of its affairs is no small task. Mr. Rogers devotes the greater 

part oi his lime to hi- work at the bank and is demonstrating thai he is a financier of 
no mean ability, as the affairs ol the bank are in excellent, condition and as its prosperity 
increases from year to year. He i- also interested in a number of mines in the locality 
of Deadw 1 1 hie invest nts therein add appreciably to his income. 

Mr. Rogers was nulled in marriage on the :.M of dune, 1913, io Miss Lulu Shraver, a 



UlSTukY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 117 

native of Norwalk, Connecticut, and a daughter of R. Shrayer. Her father was foreman 
ami manager in a lame cotton mill in Norwalk. where he -till resides. 

Mr. Rogers is a member oi the Methodist Episcopal church ami give- his political support 
to tin' republican party. Fraternally he belongs to the .Masonic order ami is a member of 
tlic Mystic Shrine. Mo likewise holds membership in the Elks, in the local lodge of which 
he is past exalted ruler. Since coming to Deadwood lie lias identified himself thoroughly 
with the welfare of tic community and lias not only won for himself a prominent place 
in financial circles but lias done much in an unostentatious way to advance the public good. 



REV. NICHOLAS -1. DAHLMANNS. 

Key. Nicholas J. Dahliiianns is pastor of Sacred Hear< church at Parkston ami has 
been well known In connection with the work of the Catholic church in this section for a 
number of years, his influence being farreaching ami resultant. He was born in Germany 
on the 12th of April, 1870, a -on ol Joseph ami Catherine Dahlmanns. The father is still 
living but the mother has passed away. 

Tin' Rev. Nicholas J. Dahlmanns pursued his early literary education in the sel Is of 

Bavaria ami in 1S!)4 came to the United States, after which he entered St. Francis' Seminary 

at Milwaukee in preparation for the priest] d, to which he had determined to devote 

his life. When he had completed his studies he was ordained in 1895 at St. Cloud, Minne- 
sota, ami was first assigned to duty at the mission at Jefferson, South Dakota, where lie 
remained for eight months. He was then transferred to the Catholic church at Ipswich, 
where he remained for so\cn years, after which he spent, eight years as pastor of St. Mary's 
church in Aberdeen. He has vigorously prosecuted the work of the church, extending its 
influence and upholding its standards. His devotion to his chosen calling is indicated in the 
fact that he was instrumental in building St. Joseph's church at Hillsview, St. Mary's 
church, school ami parish house at Aberdeen and the Sacred Heart school and parish house 
at Parkston. lie had charge of four counties where there were no railroads, necessitating 
his riiling from one parish to another and visiting the isolated Catholic families. Since 
June, 1912, he ha- had charge of the parish at Parkston. There are two hundred children 
in the school, under the care of eight Sisters of St. Francis, and the other branches of 
church work are making substantial progress under his guidance. 

Father Dahliiianns is a Knight of Columbus and also has membership with the 
Mutual Benefit Association of Minnesota. In politics he is independent, voting for men 
and measures rather than party. A spirit of progress guides him in all of his church work 
ami he has the confidence, goodwill and hearty cooperation of his people. 



JUDGE OLIVER H. AMES. 



Judge Oliver H. Aim-,, who is now serving for the fifth consecutive term on the 
bench ol the county court of (lark county and make- hi- home in the city of Clark, was' 
continuously engaged in the practice of law from 1898 until called to his present position, 
and comprehensive knowledge oi the principles of jurisprudence i- the basis of his success 
both a- an attorney and a jurist. He was born m St Paul, Minnesota. November :.' 1 . 1875, 
ti on of Oliver and Emma B. (Benson) Ames, the former a farmer by occupation. Both 

parents ai'e HOW deceased. 

Spending hi- youthful days under the parental roof. Judge Ames attended the public 
school- ol St. Paul and afterward entered the University of Minnesota, in which he prepared 

For thi' legal profession, and was graduated with 11 lass of 1898. The same year he 

wa- admitted to the bar and entered upon practice in connection with .1. 11. anil E. 1'. 
Sanborn at St. Paul, with whom he remained for -i\ years. In 1904 he came to South 
Dakota, settling in (lark, where he won a liberal -hale of the public patronage in (he 
field oi law practice. While hi- attention to hi- client-' interests was proverbial, he never 
forgot licit he owed a still higher allegiance to the majesty of the law. In the fall of 1906 



118 HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 

lie was elected county judge of (lark county, entering upon the duties of the position the 
following year, and he is n™ serving for the fifth consecutive term, his reelectiona coming 
to him in evidence of the- confidence reposed in him by the public. 

Judge Ames holds membership in the Episcopal church. His political allegiance is 
given tu the republican party and he is a prominent figure in fraternal circles, holding 
membership with the Shriners, the Masons, the Odd Fellows, the Knights of Pythias, the 
Klks. the Modern Woodmen and the United Workmen. In Masonry he has taken the degrees 
ut the royal arch chapter and has also attained the thirty-second degree of the Scottish 
Kite. He has social qualities and personal characteristics which render him popular and 
which have gained for him the high and enduring regard of all with whom he has been 
brought in contact. He never allows outside interests, however, to interfere with the 
faithful performance of his professional duties and his course upon the bench has been 
marked by a masterful grasp of every problem presented for solution. 



JOHN L. JOLLEY. 



John L. Jolley, of Vermillion, has given much thought to public questions and has taken 
a part in the making of the laws not only of the state but also of the nation. He has served 
in both houses of the state legislature and was a member of congress, filling out an unexpired 
term. He is by profession an attorney and has gained high rank at the bar of the state. 
He was born in .Montreal, Canada, duly 14, 1S40, a son of James and Frances (Lawlor) 
Jolley, both of whom were natives of Ireland. The father passed away at Hamilton, Ontario, 
in 1892, and the mother's death occurred in 1850. They were the parents of five children, as 
follows: Thomas, who died in infancy: John L.; .lames, whose death occurred in 1874; 
Joseph, who passed away in ISO.'!; and Lottie, who died in 1869. 

John L. Jolley resided in Montreal until he was live years of age and lived in the 
Dominion until he was a youth of seventeen. He attended the district schools of Canada, 
but when twelve years of age put aside his text-books and began learning the harness making 
trade, becoming a journeyman when he was only sixteen. Alter leaving the Dominion he 
went to Wisconsin, where he resided for nine years. While living there the Civil war broke 
out and he enlisted in Company C, Twenty-third Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, seeing active 
service with the Union army for three years. His ability to command and his gallantry 
gained him successive promotion until he became second lieutenant, lie saw much hard 
fighting and took part in the siege of Vicksburg and that of Jackson, .Mississippi. 

Alter being discharged from the army Mr. Jolley attended a commercial school in Chicago 
for three mi. nilis. utter which he removed to Vermillion, South Dakota, arriving there on the 
loth ,,i .Inly, 1866. He taught school in a In" schoolhouse there, which was the first perma- 
nent sell,, ol building in the state, and from -Inly, L866, until April, is;:;, was employed in 
ti,e I nite.l States land office at Vermillion as a clerk. While living in Wisconsin from Sep- 
tember, ls.">s. until October, 1861, he studied law in the office of an attorney at Portage and 
when, ,n is;:;, the land office was removed from Vermillion he began the practice of his 
profession in that city, being for four decades a member of the hat of Smith Dakota. At 
lute. Mil, Mr. Jolley has been associated with partners, hut for the greater part of the time 
he has praci iced alone. 

Iii 1867 and again in 1868 .Mr. Jolley was elected to the house of representatives of 
Dak,, i;, territorj ; in lsn was elected to the upper branch of the legislature of the territorial 

council and was further I ed by being made its president. Again, in 1881, he was a 

member of the , ncil, ami in 1889, after the admission of the state tu the Union, he was 

elected l,, the tate senate, winning reelection in 1890. In 1889 he was a member of the 
constitutional mention held at Sioux fall-, Smith Dakota, lie was a mber of the fifty- 
second congre . filling out. John Gamble's unexpired term. In 1912 he was a candidate for 

the -tat, , in ale I I,, n, l l.u e. unity hut was defeated. 

(in the 20th ol April, ls;t, Mr. Jolley was united in marriage to Miss Harriet .1. Grange, 

win, was I, mn upon the 1 stead near Diihinpie. Iowa. Her father was a fanner throughout 

I,,- active life, but spent his last years in retirement at Vermillion, Smith Dakota, lie died 
in is'.il and his widow passed away in 1907. To .Mr. and Mrs. Jolley have been horn the 




.mux L. JOLLEY 



HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 121 

following children: Frances, the wife of C. H. Dillon, of Yankton, this state; and Charles 
\V. and .Mary P., twins. The former is a farmer of Clay county and the latter resides at 
home. 

Mr. Jolloy is a stanch republican and has been quite prominent in state politics. In 
addition to the offices mentioned he has held that of mayor of Vermillion, being the first chief 
executive of the city. He was first elected in 1877 and was again chosen as mayor in 1885. 
He has also served for several terms on the school board. He owns two farms in Clay county, 
one comprising three hundred and twenty acres and the other two hundred and forty. Both 
are under cultivation. He wears the bronze button that indicates his membership in the 
Grand Army of the Republic and for five terms he served as commander of the local post. 
In 1913 he was elected department commander of the Grand Army of the Republic of South 
Dakota. He is popularly known as Colonel, which title was given him when he first began 
to practice law in Vermillion, where he is well known. 



HARRY BERNHARD BENSON. 

Harry Bernhard Benson, of Sioux Falls, is a native of this part of South Dakota, 
born August 13. 1874, his parents being Lars and Hannah (Johnson) Benson. In the 
acquirement of an education he attended district school in Minnehaha county and in 1894 
was graduated from the Sioux Falls Business College. After the completion of his studies 
he farmed for a few years and then removed to Hartford, Minnehaha county, where he 
served as bookkeeper for a number of merchants. In 1901 he came to Sioux Falls and was 
appointed deputy clerk of court, holding this position for four years. He was afterward 
for two years deputy United States clerk of court and in 1907 was made deputy county 
treasurer. So efficient and discriminating was his work in this office that in 1910 he was 
elected county treasurer, and reelected in 1912 without any opposition. He discharged the 
duties of his responsible position in a farsighted and able way. and his record is a credit 
to his business ability and his public spirit. On retiring from that position in January, 1915, 
he entiled upon the duties of assistant cashier of the Scandinavian American National Bank 
of Sioux falls, to which position he had been chosen on its organization in June. 1914, and 
he is now serving in that capacity. 

On the 4th of February, 1003. Mr. Benson was united in marriage to Miss [rma E. 
Waffle, a daughter of William H. Waffle, a veteran of the Civil war. The father enlisted 
■ hi the 33d of August. 1862, in Company E, tine hundred and twenty-first New York Volunteer 
Infantry, and rose from the ranks to corporal and then to sergeant, receiving his discharge 
June 25, ]*<;.">, as first sergeant. He participated in all of the most important engagements 
mi the Civil war. Mr. and Mrs. Benson have a daughter, [rene Dolores, born March 16, 1905. 

Mr. Benson is a member of the Lutheran church, belongs to the Elks and the Knights 
of Pythias, and gives his political allegiance to the republican party. He is a man id' 
insight, ability and enterprise and has already accomplished some far-reaching work in the 
public service. 



FRANKLIN E. REXXETT. 



Aiming the prominent citizens of Belle Fourche is Franklin E. Bennett, who has many 
business interests in that part of the state and is engaged in breeding purr bred stuck on 
a large scale. He was born in La Salle. Illinois. January 20, 1865, the eldest of live 
children whose parents were William C. and Florence (De Merritt) Bennett. The father 
was born in Brownsville, Pennsylvania. August 10, 1836, and the mother in Portland, 
Maine, in 1845. William ('. Bennett engaged in steamboating in early life ami in the '."ills 
emigrated from eastern Pennsylvania to Illinois, where he was employed on the river din nig 
the Civil war ami afterward until lsds. In that year he entered the employ of Deere & 
Company at Moline, with whom he remained until isti. lie then became connected with 
the Barnard & Las Manufacturing Company of thai city, and is still president of that 



122 I HST< >WY ( >F SOUTH DAKOTA 

company and an important factor in the industrial interests of his locality. Be served as 
mayor oi Moline for one term and the affairs oi the city were managed in an efficient, 
businesslike manner during his administration. Mis wife passed away in L881. 

Franklin E. Bennett attended high school at Moline and for a short time was a student 
in a business college at Davenport, Iowa. When fifteen years of age lie went wesl and 
worked for others, herding cattle in central Nebraska for a time, after which lie returned 
liuine. When twentj years <>r age lie entered the employ of the Deere & Mansure Company 
.it VIoline a- stenographer and paymaster and was connected with that concern until issr. 
In Aiejn-t of that \ear lie went to Minneapolis. Minnesota, and was employed as office man 
h\ the Wilford & North-way Manufacturing Company until the spring oi 1891, when he 

,•; to ladle Fourche and in association with a Mr. Teal] erected a flour null, lie was 

engaged in the milling Imsiness until L903 or L904 and from 1893 to 1906 also dealt in 
lumber. These connections were not his only interests as lie was identified with tin 1 water- 
works and also with the Belle Fourche Electric Light & Power Company, which is now 
il„. Belle Fourche Consolidated Power A Light Company, lie is now president of the com- 
pany which pnhlishos the Belle Fouche Bee, a wide-awake and enterprising weekly news- 
paper. His attention at present, however, is mamly given to tin- breeding and raising of 
pure bred Rambouillets as a member of the linn oi Cock & Bennett, which owns extensive 
grazing lands in Butte county. 

Mr. Bennett was married on the 15th of October, L890, to Miss Gertrude Teall. She was 

born in Kan Claire, Wisconsin, of the marriag Benjamin F. and Julia (Van Cleef) Teall, 

both oi whom were born in the vicinity of Seneca, New York. Mr. Teall engaged in mercan- 
tile Imsiness and in TS'ji eame with his family to Belle Fouche. lie formed a partnership 
will, Mr. Bennett and the firm built a mill with which he was connected until his death in 
1902. His widow is still living in Belle Fourche. To their union were horn three children, 
of whom Mis. Bennett is the eldest. Mr. and Mis. Bennett have two children: Franklin 
IVall. whose birth occurred .Inly :.•:,. L892; and Sara I... horn June 3, 1894. Both are attend- 
ing the University of Minnesota. 

Mr. Bennett i- a republican and was county auditor of Butte county from March l. 
mi:: to March l, 1915. For two terms he was count} treasurer and that his record in that 
connection «n^ satisfactory to Ins constituents is proven by his being chosen county 
auditor. He likewise served for two terms as trustee of the township board, lie is a 
member ol the Masonic blue lodge and chapter and served as master for two terms and is 
at present secretary. He likewise holds membership in the Ancient Order of I nited Work- 

nicn. Strict attention to business, conformity to high standards of morality and the 
exercise of sound judgment have brought him to his present position as one of the well-to-do 
men of his county, and he possesses the goodwill and esteem of those who have been brought 
ill contact with him. 



EDWIN T. RAMSEY, M. l» 



Id. Edwin T. Ramsey is one of the most widely known and successful physicians of 
('lark county and is thoroughly progressive and up I.. dale in all matters pertaining to his 
profession, lie was horn in London, Ontario, on the 39th of April, 1877, a son of Edwin and 

Isabella (Henderson) Ramsey. The father was a native of Hull, England, and the t her 

of Count} Durham, that country. The former went to Canada with his parents as a child 
and (he latter emigrated to the Dominion as a young woman. They were married in London, 
Ontario, where Mr. Ramsey, Sr., was for many years prominently identified with contracting 
and building, lie died ill 1912, having for almost a quarter of a century survived hi- wile, 
w |io passed away in 1 888. 

In Edwin T. Ramsc} was reared under the parental roof and attended the public scl Is 

-a London, Ontario, in lie- acquriement of his early education, lie completed his high-school 

work in 1896 and I hen began his professional study, entering the medical department of the 
We tern I nivei it} of London, from which In- was graduated with the class of 1900. Me 
-pent a short time in practice in Loomis. Nebraska, and (hen came lo South Dakota ill the 
fall of mill, locating in Clark, where he has since: remained. lie is one of the foremost 



HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 123 

practitioners of northeastern South Dakota and his position of leadership in his profession 
is due to a large extent to his constant study. For some years past he has spent a month 
or more in Chicago or Philadelphia every fall, attending the clinics of those medical centers 
and familiarizing himself with the most approved methods oi procedure and the latest dis- 
coveries in the held of medical science, lie is a member of the Watertown District Medical 
Society, of which he was the first president; and also holds membership in the Sioux Valley 
Medical Society; the South Dakota State .Medical Society, of which he served as president 
in 1905; and the American Medical Association. For the past eight years he has 
been superintendent of the county board of health and for the same length of time has been 
county coroner. His practice is large and representative, and lie has the unqualified respect 
of his colleagues, who often call him in consultation. 

Dr. Ramsey was married in 1910 to Miss Harriett Bennett, of Clark, who is a daughter 
of Eugene and Emma L. Bennett and a granddaughter of Judge John Bennett, one of the 
first supreme court judges of South Dakota. Her father is deceased, having been buried on 
New Year's day, 1906, but her mother is still living and continues to make her home in Clark. 

The Doctor gives his political support to the men and measures of the republican party. 
Fraternally he belongs to Clark Lodge, No. 46. A. F. & A. M., of which he is now" worthy 
master, and is also connected with Olivet Chapter, No. 28, R. A. M., at Clark, of which he is 
high priest ; Watertown Commandery, No. 7. K. T.; Aberdeen Consistory, No. 4, A. & A. S. R.; 
and Veldnz Temple, A. A. O. X. M. S., of Aberdeen. Dr. Ramsey is as highly esteemed as a 
man and citizen as he is as a physician and surgeon and his many admirable qualities have 
gained him a host of warm personal friends. 



i ALL GUSTAVUS LAWRENCE. 

Carl Gustavus Lawrence has devoted his entire life to the profession of teaching in 
which connection he has gained a high and well merited reputation. He was born in Madison, 
Wisconsin, January 12, 1871. His father. Ole II. Lawrence, was a native of Telemarken, 
Norway, and on coining to the United States settled in Dane county, Wisconsin, in 1N4:;. He 
qualified to teach in the public schools of that county in 1846. He had received academic 
training in Norway, developing the strong intellectual powers with which nature hail endowed 
him and thus he was well prepared for the profession to which he turned his attention. He 
passed away in L893, at the venerable age of eighty-six years, his birth having occurred in 
1807. Hi- wife, who bore the name oi Bertha Marie Ellertson, was a native of Krageroe, 
Norway, born in is:;;, and her death occurred in 1913. (hi coming to the United States in 
1852 she located in Dane county, Wisconsin, and there gave her hand in marriage to Ole II. 
Lawrence in 1857. 

The high educational standards maintained by tie- family led the parents to give their 
son excellent educational opportunities and in 1894 he was graduated Bachelor of Letters 
from the University of Wisconsin. He had previously entered upon the profession of teach- 
ing in connection with the rural scl Is of Dane county in iv.cV He was professor of Latin 

and history in Augu-tana ( olhge at Canton, South Dakota, from 1894 until 1S9S and in the 

latter yeai was chosen superintendent of city scl Is which position he filled until 1907. In 

that year further advancement came to him in his selection for the position of county super- 
intendent oi scl Is oi Lincoln county. He remained in that capacity for four years, or 

until 1911, when he was elected superintendent of public instruction for the state and his 
capability in the office has been demonstrated in the fact oi his reelection. However, he 

resigned m September, L914, to again accept the position of superintendent of city sel Is 

ol i niton, this state. His ability as an educator i- widely acknowledged and his efforts have 
I n of farreaching influence in holding high the standards of public instruction in the state. 

(in the 22d ol August, 1900, at Moe, South Dakota. Professor Lawrence was married to 
Mis- i.und.i Regina Jacobson, a (laughter of Erick lacobson, of Moe. Lincoln county. Her 

parents settled upon a farm in thai county in the earh '70s and there developed a I 

Btead. Their daughter is a graduate of Madison (S. D-> state Normal Sel l o) the class 

of 1898 and was assistani principal of the ( anion high school in the years 1898-9. I' i 



124 IIIST< )RY < >F S( )L I'll DAK( )TA 

and Mrs. Lawrence are parents oi two sons: Ernest Orlando, born August 8, 1901; and John 
Hundale, boi n January ;. 1904. 

The parents are members of the Norwegian Lutheran church and Professor Lawrence is 
in politics a progressive republican. II'- bas been a member of the Athenian Literary Society 
oi Canton, South Dakota, since L899 and a member of the Grieg Singing Society of Canton 
since 1907. Il«' has thus been an active Eactor in advancing the musical art as well as in 
promoting the cause of general education. He holds to high standards in all that he does 
and is recognized as our of those men association with whom moans expansion and elevation. 



GEORGE V. AYRES. 



When the good roads movement commenced in western South Dakota about five years 
ago, George V. Ayres, then chairman of the board of county commissioners of Lawrence 
county, took an active part as a pioneer in modern highway progress. His activity and his 
well known ability soon made him a leader in a movement, that grew rapidly, and today 
Lawrence county lias mountain highways that are the admiration of the west, while others 
are j n course of construction throughout western South Dakota that are destined to mean 
the greatest prosperity for this legion; and to George V. Ayres, more than to any other one 
man. is due the credit for this progress. He is justly proud of his achievement as a con- 
structive designer and builder of good roads; probably more so than of any other success he 
lias attained during his long and useful career. 

Mr. Ayres lias labored long and earnestly in behalf of the movement, recognizing clearly 

the relation between commercial development and g 1 roads. He was a delegate to and 

chairman of the first and second good roads conventions which started the work west of 
the river on the Black and Yellow Trail (Chicago, lilark Hills and Yellowstone Park high 

way. extending f I Yellowstone Park to Chicago), and the Deadwood and Denver highway, 

from Deadw I, South Dakota, to Denver, Colorado. 

h, political belief, Mr. Ayres is a republican and has taken a prominent part in the 
affairs of the party in South Dakota, lie was i.u- four years chairman oi He- board of 
county commissioners and is still serving as a member of the hoard. Under President Har- 
rison he served as receiver of public i ys at the United States land office at Rapid City 

for three and a half years, proving himself to he a capable and conscientious official. He 

was a member of the Deadw 1 city council for two years, and for six years served as 

rhairnia the republican county committee. For four consecutive years the republican 

state commit! njoyed his services as vice chairman. 

Mr, Amos lias lor years been recognized as oi f the very active members of the 

Sonet v of Black Hills Bioneers of '76, lie served as president of that body in L900 and 
again in 1914 and 1915. He is a member of Deadwood Lodge, No, 508, B. I'. < >. E. 

II,, | s a stockholder and director in the franklin Hotel; stockholdei in the fust National 
Bank; and an active member of the Deadwood Ihismess Club, having serve, l on the hoard 

of directors ami as its president foi several years. He is president of the Deadw i-Headel- 

i„ .,.. fining C pany and is c icted with a number of other local mining enterprises. 

II,, j a i so ,, member of the Smith Dakota Retail Hardware Association and one of the 
hoard of directors of the South Dakota children's Home Society. 

I, has utilized wisely tl pportunities that have presented themselves, and his busy 

life has not o,,lv won li ndividual Buccess but has been decidedly instri mtal in pro- 

motinp the pid.hr welfare along many lines of endeavor, and all who know him give him 

the respect which true worth alone can c land. 

For forty • year- Mr. Ayres has I n a Mason, and if he had done nothing else in 

hi life than the service he has rendered to Masonry in unselfish loyalty and good hard 

work he could well be remembered for this alone, lie joined II der in 1874 and has hern 

the lew men who has been prominent in Masonic circles of the state for many years. 

II,. served In- lodge as master for three years being firs! elected to that office in L884. <>n 

June 13, 1888, lie was elected deputy grand master of the Grand Lodg ' Dakota, and on 

June !'.'. 1889, gi I master ol the Grand Lodge ol South Dakota, serving our year. He 

was elected Irgh priest Ji ary 10, L894, and served for two years. On dune 13, 1895, he 




GEORGE V A\ RES 



HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 127 

was elected deputj grand high priest of the Grand Chapter of Smith Dakota, and grand 
liigli priest June 12, 1896, serving for one year. He has served as deputy master of Lakota 
Council U. IX. Royal and Select Masters. Alter serving in minor offices of his commandery 
he was elected eminent commander in 1888 and later served as grand commander of South 
Dakota and in various other offices in the Grand Commandery. 

Mr. Ayres has 1 n a member of the Scottish Kite since 189:5 and is now an honorary 

thirty-third degree and deputy of the S. G. Inspector General for South Dakota. He is 
registrar and secretary of the four bodies in the Wack Hills Consistory, lie crossed the 
burning sands of Xaja Temple, A. A. 0. X. M. S., at Deadwood in 1M93 and served as poten- 
tate in 1 s ; i r . He represented Xaja Temple at the Imperial Council in 1898. He is also past 
worthy patron of Deadwood Chapter, No. 23, < >. E. S. During the term of his office as grand 
master of the State Grand Lodge. Mr. Ayres was very rigid in inforcing a resolution which 
had been adopted by the Grand Lodge and drove the so-called "Cerneau Rite" out of the 
state. He also established the "Grand Charity Fund." 

I, ge Vincent Ayres was born in Monroe township, Wyoming county, Pennsylvania, 

November 1, 1S52, a son of James L. and Patience M. (Vincent) Ayres. both of whom were 
native- nf tin' Empire state, the mother born in Beakman township, Dutchess county on the 
9th of October, 1819, and the father in Xew York city on the 11th of May, 1H10. In -early 
life the latter engaged in the logging business but later turned his attention to farming. 

James Leonard Ayres and Patience .Maria Vincent were married November 11. 1S37. at 

Kintrsf Luzerne county, Pennsylvania, by the Lev. Benjamin Bidlack. In ls.",7 the family 

emigrated from Pennsylvania to De Kalb county, Illinois, and resided in Illinois for over a 
year, moving from there to Buchanan county, Missouri, in the fall of 1858, and from there 
to Nemaha county, Kansas, in the spring of 1859, and thence to Gage county, Nebraska, in 
the spring ot I860 and located on a farm five miles east of Blue Springs, where the family 
resided until the spring of 1800, when they moved into Beatrice, Nebraska, in order to give 
the children school advantages. There the father engaged in the hotel business for a num- 
ber of years but sold out and lived retired dulling the later years of his life. Loth he and 
his wife passed away in that city, the father on the 11th of December. 1892, and the mother 
on the 12th of December, 1905. 

George V. Ayres is the fifth in order of birth in the family of seven children born to 
his parents and received his schooling in Beatrice. Nebraska. When seventeen years of age 
lie accepted a position as clerk in a drug store in Beatrice in order to learn the business and 
was so engaged until 1S70. when he resigned and went to the Black Hills. 

He left Beatrice. Nebraska, March 1. 1876, and proceeded to Cheyenne, Wyoming, by 
rail and there he and five others hired a team and driver to haul their provisions and outfit 
to Custer City, Black Hills, while they themselves walked. The party left Cheyenne, March 
8, and arrived at Custer City March 25, 1870. having been on the road seventeen days, ami 
although it snowed ten of those days and the weather was severe, they slept out of doors 
without even a tent to protect them from the weather. After prospecting in the vicinity 
of Custer City for a time, Mr. Ayres pushed on to Deadwood. arriving there May 20, and 
shortly after engaged in cutting saw logs near Deadwood for the firm of Thompson &. Street. 
Rev. Henry Weston Smith, the "Pioneer Preacher of the Black Hills," who was killed by 
Indians on Sunday, August 20, 1S70, was employed there at the same time, firing the boiler 
in the sawmill. 

Air. Ayres remained there until July s. 1876, when he returned to Custer City and 
worked for a year in the general store id' Harlow & Company, and the Cheyenne & Black 
Hills stage Company's office. At the end of that time be prospected for a few months on 
Spring creek, and in September, 1877, returned to Deadwood and secured employment in 
Richard C. Lake's hardware -lore, thoroughly familiarizing himself with all the aspects of 
that business. II,- saved his .money and in lss2 purchased an .interest in the business and 
is now its -oh' owner, lie has a full stock of shelf and heavy hardware and specializes in 
mining supplies, carrying the largest stork in that line of any store in the Black Hills. He 
conforms his business methods t,, the highest standard of commercial ethics, ami his fair 

dealing and reasonable prices have been hugely res] sible lor the increased patronage of 

hi- -tore. 

Mr. Ayres was married on th<- 23d of April, 1885, to Miss Kate Tow le. a native of 
Beatrice, Nebraska. She was born August I.",. 1859, and was the first white child whose 



1-Js HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 

birth occurred in Gage c ity, Nebraska. Her parents were Albert and Catherine (Holt) 

Towle, the former a native of Russellville, Logan county, Kentucky, born .May 13, is:;:;, and 
the latter oi Warren county, New VTork, born January 6, L817. The father was one of the 
founders ol Beatrice and engaged in the hotel business there for a number of years. For 
nineteen years he served efficiently and conscientiously as postmaster of that city. IDs 
death occurred on the Sth of March, 1879, and his widow survived him for ten years, her 
death occurring on the 10th of March, L889. Mrs Ayres passed away at Rapid City on the 
28th of March, 1892. She was the mother oi two children: James Albert, who was burn in 
Deadwood, March 29, L886, and is now a Presbyterian minister at Lead, South Dakota; and 
Helen, who was born Januarj l. L888, and died June L3th oi the same year. Mr. Ayres was 
married at Omaha, Nebraska, on the 21st of December, 1898, to Miss Myrtle Coon, a native 
of Hebron, Nebraska, and a daughter of .Mr. and .Mis. Charles I!. Coon, who were early resi- 
dents ol Nebraska, the father serving as county treasurer for a number of years, also as 
membei oi tin' state legislature and i- now government gauger, and -till living in Omaha. 
Five children were born to the second marriage of Mr. Ayres, namely: George Vincent, Jr., 
born August is. L899; Frances Glenn, born August 11. 1900; Alice, born December L9, L902; 
Albro Charles, 1 l July l. L907; and Lloyd Richard, 1 December 7, L909. 



RICHARD OLSEN RI( HARDS. 

The political history oi South Dakota has been influenced in a vital and beneficial way 

th gh the activities of Richard Olsen Richards, whose public spirit, energy and initiative 

ability have made him a powerful factor in state development. Almost continuously 
since 1883, Mr. Richards has lived in South Dakota and in addition to his prominence in 
politics has had an enviable business success. 

Mr. Richards was born in Sandefjorde, Norway, in 1866, and is a descendant oi several 
prominenf Norwegian and Danish families, among them the well known Ahlefeldt family. 
Hi, ancestors wen- numbered among the foremosl men in Norway and Denmark in the 

eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, lie was educated in a private bcI 1. At an early 

■ In- love ioi liberty and progress and his fellowmen prompted in- coming to America 

which afforded greater opportunities tor development, lie landed in America at the age of 

fifteen ami immediately began to carve his own way. Having a good coi 1 of English 

and German, as will as ol his native tongue, lie secured a position as interpreter at < astle 
Garden, where lie remained for two years. He next engaged in the ship brokerage business 
in New i'ork foi one year. Then, following the footsteps oi thousands of other Scandi- 
navian emigrants, lie came to the northwest, locating first at Luverne, Minnesota, then 

Mitchell, South Dakota, and lastly at Huron, where lie built up an extensive investment 
business. He prospered and soon became known both as a successful business man ami 
an influential citizen. 

Since 1898 Mr. Richards has devoted almost In- entire time and spent a large fortune 
in forwarding public welfare, ami was the instigator ol the progressive movement in this 

late, A ng many measures foi the public interest which Mr. Richards championed to 

are the divorce law, anti-pass law and in a general way the abolition of spoils which 

coi -iculi/, vernment. Everything that South Dakota has had in way of primary laws 

have been builded around and upon his efforts. 

I" Mr. Richards has keen given the initiative to evolve an organization law whereby 
iaic government can he made responsive ami responsible to the will of the people in order 
io forward equity and progress foi the interests of all the people. The so-called Richards 
primary law is a masterpiece of construction tor organization of public welfare, through the 
-talc, its principles are eternalli right and it i- -ate to say that it will ultimately 3erve 
a- a pattern for political organization law in I nited States. 

Ilie Richards primary law tiist eliminates the spoils system and provides for an intelli- 
gent initiatory. If lay- the foundation lor conservative progress by making a legal division 
of minority and majority proposals within the party for principles, instead of division 

on pci onalitie between c lidates for office. The people elect committeemen by a direct 

vote to meet at the -late capitol. These committee n act in committee of the whole and 



HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 129 

select the paramount issue and principles for public policies, together with candidates guar- 
anteed as to character and ability, as standardbearers, by majority vote, the committeemen 
at all times casting their vote by "unit representation." 

Following the state proposal meeting, copies of the proposals, with arguments in their 
behalf and short biographies of the candidates are tiled with the secretary of state, whose 
duly it i- t.> compile the same into the State Publicity Pamphlet, a copy of which is mailed, 
at the expense of the state, to every elector. In addition to this means of publicity, the 
law provides for public joint debates between the candidates for governor and for president, 
to discuss the paramount issue. In this way the people are given state-wide information 
as to the issues and are furnished a uniform ballot throughout the state which enables them 
to cast an intelligent vote at the primary election and obtain majority rule. In this manner 

a liar nious ticket is nominated as a result of the primary election. And the candidates 

nominated, when continued at the general election, are in a position to properly cany out 
the policies indorsed by a majority of the [people. 

The law also provides for meritorious distribution of the' official patronage. The post- 
master indorsements are made through postmastet primaries, held in the municipality where 
the candidate for postmaster -eeks appointment. The candidates for postmaster are nom- 
inated by the electors affiliated with the national party in power; but when the post- 
master [primary takes place, all the electors living in the municipality, who are patrons of 
the office, may vote, regardless of party affiliation. 

Other essential features of the law are the provisions for registration of electors, unit 
representation, state publicity pamphlet, the corrupt [practice act and the party recall by 
jury trial. Checks and balances are [provided throughout the law, so that equilibrium is 
the result, making the state government the people's automaton. 

Mr. Richards went to the legislature with his primary law twice. The politicians per- 
suaded the legislature to turn down the law on both occasions; but the people adopted 
ami sustained it at the elections of 1912 and 1914. Immediately after it- adoption, by an 
overwhelming vote in 1912, the politician- sought t.p repeal the law by submitting another 
primary law. known as the Coffey law. under the initiative and referendum, to a vote of the 
people in 1914. The people rejected the Coffey law 1 > \ a large majority. Thus the people 
have twice declared in favor of the Richards primary law — once by directly voting it in and 

i time by refusing to accept a substitute. Yet. when the legislature convened in 

L915, a lew weeks after the people had emphatically approved the Richards law for the 
second time, the politicians again sought its repeal, hut this time by a legislative enactment 
in direct violation of the constitution governing direct legislation. Meanwhile over eight 

thousand electors petitioned for the re-enaetment of the law. with certain ne n> 

amendments, ami it is now submitted for the third time to a direct vote of the people in 
November, 1916. 

The Richards primary law has never been given a fair trial and those in charge of the 
State government have blocked its practical workings in every conceivable manner. All in all 
the Richards primary law, like everything else of merit, has had a hard mail to travel. 
Nevertheless the real [progressives (thinkersi in the state have always come forward to its 
rescue and now anxiously await an opportunity to re-enact and put the law in favorable 
hands lor administration. Then only can its practical workings be properly demonstrate. 1 to 
perfect sta€e government, by consideration of the paramount issue of one public [policy at a 
time, and thus make pood the motto of the great seal of South Dakota- "ruder God the 
Peopl ■ Rule." 



LOUIS in >\\ MAX AI.BFJGHT. 

Louis Bowman Albright, a prominent pioneer citizen and merchant of Pierre, was horn 
in Mount Vernon, Iowa, February 26, ]s.-,;. His father, Henry D. Albright, was engaged in 
general merchandising mid was among the early arrivals in Dakota territory. He did not 
remain, however, hut returned to Mount Vernon, Iowa, where he passed away in 1896 at 
seventy-four years. He was a native of Pennsylvania, whence he removed in 
Is.",-; to Iowa, being among Mount Vernon's oldest and most respected business men. In 



130 IIISTt >RY ( )]•• Si )UTH DAK( >TA 

Hanover, Pennsylvania, he wedded Julia W. Wirt/, a native bf Balti re, and they became 

the parents of seven children, of wh Louis B. was the sixth in order oi birth. Five of the 

number sun ive. 

Pursuing his education in the public and high schools of Mount Vernon, Louis 11. Albright 
afterward attended Cornell College al thai place and won his Bachelor of Arts degree upon 
graduation with the class of 1877, He taught school and read taw during the following three 
years, thus providing for liis own support while preparing for a professional career. In L880 
lie was admitted t" the towa bar and in September of the same year arrived in Pierre, where 

he found employment in c ction with the survey work of the Chicago & Northwestern 

Railr I < pany. As soon as the railway was able to handle shipments he ordered the 

necessary stock and engaged in the lumber and building supply business, continuing therein 
until 1886, when he disposed of his interests and with his associates in the former line pur- 
chased the wholesale grocery business of Ward & Frick, continuing the conduct of the trade 
under the firm atyle oi Albright & West. In L89] the title was changed to I.. I'.. Albright & 
Companj and in mm, mi the incorporation of the business, Mr. Albright was chosen presi- 
dent, which position he still tills and as the head of the house bends his energies to adminis- 
trative direction and executive control, his well formulated plans finding expression in the 

continued success of the husiuess, which is today oi t' the foremost commercial enterprises 

of the capital city, lie is also a director of the Pierre National Hank and the secretary and 
one of the directors of the llild Canning Company, a most important productive industry. 
He i- likewise largely interested in city real estate and his judicious investments brine, him 
a gratifying annual return. 

It has not Ipccii business interests alone that have gained for .Mr. Albright the prominence 
which is today his. In other connections hi' has served the city's interests and promoted her 
welfare, lie was mayor of Pierre for three terms ami eave to the capital a businesslike 
administration, in which he safeguarded municipal interests with the same care ami thorough- 
ness that he has ever displayed iii the management of his individual business concerns. He 
was also clerk of the court- for two and a half years. He is fond of outdoor sports of all 
kinds, particularly huntine,. lishiii",, jrolf ami baseball. There is another side of bis nature 
of which he speaks but little ami yet which is largely recognized— frequent and generous 
contributions to various charitable institutions and causes. As success has come to him be 
has leached out a helping hand to those less fortunate and ill this way has shed around him 
much of life's sunshine. 






lll'CII S t.AMIll.K. 



There are few men who do not. have some (lose connection with public affairs and yet 

exercise a i c extended and beneficial influence upon the public welfare than did Hugh S. 

I iambic. He became a leading liusiiK — man and capitalist of Yankton, but more than that, 
he stood lor progress and improvement along all those lines which uplift the individual and 
further the welfare of a community. 

A representative of oni oi South Dakota's most prominent families, be was bom in 
Countj Down. Ireland, on the 26th of dun.'. 1843, a son of Robert and Jennie (Abernathy) 
Gamble. The father, also a native of County Down, was born July 5, 1812, ami in his native 

land grew to manhood, there following tl icupation of farming until 1846 when be came to 

Dm I nited state,, settling first in Genesee county. New York, where he carried on general 
agricultural pur-nit- until his removal to Dodge county, Wisconsin, where he lived until his 

demise, w lei curred on Hie 1-t of dune. L893. He was a man of unusual mental capacity 

and superior business ability and by reason of bis consecutive and intelligently directed 
efforts accumulated a comfortable competence, lie was also a zealous churchman and a 
lifelong Congregationalist. His daily conduct was an exemplification of his faith, for his 
career was thai ol honorable < hristian manhood. His wife, who was born in County Down. 
Ireland, July 21, 1809, passed away in Wisconsin, Novembei 16, 1880. They were the parents 
,,, e ven children: William, deceased, who was a farmer o1 Dodge county, Wisconsin; .lames. 
a i. ident of box Lake. Wisconsin; Hugh S.-. Isabella, who became the wife of I.. B. Bridge 
man. ol Vermillion. South Dakola; Robert J., at one lime United Slate- Benator from this 




Iin.ll s GAMBJJ 



HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 133 

state, mentioned elsewhere in tliis volume: Margaret, the wife of S. C. McDowell, of Fox 
Lake. Wisconsin; and John, deceased, who was prominent in public affairs of South Dakota, 
where he was recognized as one of the state's most eminent lawyers and, at the time of his 
death, a representative in congress. The mother of this family was a lady of superior educa- 
tion, with all the sterling qualities of Christian womanhood, and she left the impress of her 
personality and nobility of character upon her children in a marked degree. 

Hugh S. Gamble came to the United States with his parents when in his third year 
and spent his boyhood upon the home farm in New York, acquiring his early education in the 

schools near his I ie. Owing to impaired eyesight, however, much to his regret he was 

compelled to forego a college training. In fact his affliction compelled him to live in a sub- 
dued light for a period of eleven years. In his nineteenth year he removed with the family 
to Wisconsin and in 1ST2 engaged in the lumber business with his brother James, in which 
he continued until 1883, when the partnership was dissolved and he came to Yankton. Here 
he began devoting his energies to the real-estate, insurance and loan business, and by his 
enterprising methods, his thorough reliability and his indefatigable effort he reached a promi- 
nent place among the successful business men of the city. His investments were judiciously 
made and such was his success in his undertakings that he became one of the capitalists of 
Yankton. 

In 1880 Mr. Gamble was united in marriage to Miss Eva Weed, of Fox Lake, Wisconsin, 
and they became the parents of four children. Jennie, a graduate of the Elizabeth Seniors 
private school, is now the wife of William II. MeVay, a banker residing in Independence, 
Kansas, and they have two children. Chester and .lean. Hugh S., a graduate of the law 
department of the University of Michigan in the class of 1912, is now located at Sioux 
Falls, South Dakota. Edith is attending Downer College at Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and 
James W., i- a student at Yankton College. In his own household Mr. Gamble was a most 
devoted, loving and considerate husband and father. For more than twelve years In 
served as a trustee of the ( ongregational church of Yankton, gave generously to its support 
and loyally aided in its projects for its upbuilding and the extension of its influence. For 
many years he was one of the trustees of Yankton College and a member of its executive 
committee. He was a liberal donor to the work, always attended the sessions of the board 
and by advice, counsel and material assistance greatly promoted the welfare of the school. 
At his passing one of the local papers said: "His place is vacant, but the memory of his 
faithful services, his true nobility of soul and loyalty to those interests he loved and served 
so well, will not be forgotten." 

In his political views Mr. Gamble was a republican and his faith in his party was not 
of a superficial character. He studied the problems of the day and the principles enunciated 
by his party ami believed firmly that its position was the one that would most largely fur- 
ther the public welfare. He never sought nor desired office, but at all times he labored for 
those things which are a matter of civic virtue and civic pride. He left the impress of his 
individuality upon all things ami all people with whom he came in contact. He did not seek 
to pattern after others, but lie sought ever to learn and embody the principles which are the 
chief factors in honorable, upright manhood. 

Death called him on the 1-t of March, 1004, and a few days later the Wakonda Monitor 

wrote of him: "We pause this week to pay a tribute to Hugh Gamble of Yankt who 

died at his home last week after a short illness. For twenty years he had been identified with 
Yankton life and was always known as a Christian 'itizen of the highest type. Starting in 
life with no means, being compelled to give up education because of poor eyes, a weakness 
that followed him through life, he yet succeeded in business ami exercised a wide influence 
in the community in which he lived. Always a modest man, he avoided notoriety ami self- 
seeking, he gave generously to any worthy cause and without publicity. He was strong and 
unflinching for the light and did his duty as he saw it even if he stood alone. Yankton has 
lost in his death one of he,- noblest and I. est citizens and out of a sincere heart we pay this 
brief tribute to one whom an acquaintanceship of live years taught us to value at his true 
worth. Such men never die. for their examples live and inspire after they are gone." 

The Yankton Student, published by Yankton College, writing of his connection with the 
school said: "Mr. Cambh 's connection with the college extended beyond the field of the 
executive and the financial. Hi- kindly interest which prompted him to regird every -indent 
as a friend was one of his prominent characteristics. The little things that many people 



134 HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 

forget are after all the ones that count, and Mr. Gamble's invariable custom of speaking to 
everj one whom be knew to be a student will not soon be forgotten. His influence was 

strongly impressed uj the students and it will be a potent factor throughout the lives 

ui many, inspiring them to manlier lives and more earnest, disinterested service." 

(Mie ut the most beautiful ami well merited tributes to Mr. Gamble was written by \\ . J. 
McMurtry: "As we behold a stately building rising aloft in beauty and strength, we know, 
ii we but think, that underneath, perhaps totally unseen, but strong, substantial, unyielding, 
must lie the foundation. And though it be true that the foundation exists for the sake ol 
the superstructure, yet it is equally true that the utility and grace of the latter are made 

possible only tl igh the sustaining strength of the former. Somewhat such is the relation 

existing between institutions ol learning and the men constituting the boards oi control and 
financial management. Their work, though largely hidden from public view, and concerned 
in the main with material interests, i> nevertheless essential to the permanence ami effective- 
ness oi the institutions that serve a- centers ol spiritual light ami leading. Especially in 
the newer colleges oi the west, struggling with pressing problems oi immediate support ami 
future stability ami enlargement, does very much depend upon the unselfishness, the clear- 
sightedness, the steadfast loyalty of their trustees. A man who can successfully meet the 
searching test oi such demands must he largely endowed with the elements oi sturdy man- 
hood. Among tin- many great advantages that have contributed their aid to the growing life 
ol our young college, not the least, surely, must he reckoned the laet that even in our new 
state, so largely absorbed in what concerns the material interests of life, men have been 
found who are large-spirited enough to he willing to give of their time, money ami energy 
io the fostering ami upbuilding oi an institution the chief aim oi which is to establish ami 
nurture the larger, more ideal conceptions of lite and it- meaning. Among these men thus 
ut Mated by an unselfish and broad-minded public spirit, a prominent place must he assigned 
to Hugh S. Gamble. For a considerable number of years Mi. Gamble served as a member of 

the board of truster's of the college ami also a- a member ol the executive eon tee of the 

trustees, comprising those who are entrusted with the more continuous and detailed super- 
vision oi financial ami other practical interests. These years have meant much in the history 

of the institution. They have witnessed a large increase in it~ resources, equi] u! and 

efficiency. Hut this advance has not been the work of chance; it has resulted from wise 

planning, stre - effort and generous giving. In all these directions Mr. Gamble played a 

large and worthy part. Though not himsell a man of college training, he realized tin- impor- 
tance oi broad and thorough preparation foi the work ol hie. and was willing to spend and 
I,,- spent that young men and women might have the most suitable opportunities provided 
them tor receiving such a preparation. In all that related to the efficiency and success of 
the college he took a warm and unremitting interest. His sturdy good sense, his cautious 
judgment, the lessons taught by his long and successful business career, were all generously 
put at its seni.e. To Mr. Gamble and such friends and supporters oi Yankton College its 

students, past, present and future, owe a debt ol gratitudi a debl thai they ci st lit- 

tingly pay by themselves cultivating the s: • spirit of sell sacrificing devotion to the wider, 

larger interests of the community and the state." 



X. II. \\ EXDELL. 



X. II. Wendell, the period ..I whose residence in Aberdeen covers a quartet of a century, 
was ho, n in \lkiny. \.-u Vork. on the 6th ol November, 186S, his parents being X D 
and .lane A. (Mosher) Wendell. He acquired his education in the public schools and the 
military academy at Ubanv and subsequently secured employment on the Albany Morning 

Express. In 1888, when a > ma twenty years, he removed t.. Aberdeen, South 

Ii:, kola, and became identified with the real-estate linn of Fletcher & Fisher, while aftei 

ward In- spent a few years in the service ol other • lerns. lie held the position of 

eiedit man for Jewetl Brothers until 1904 ami then embarked in the insurance business on 
his own account, conducting the same until he disposed of his interests in February, 1907, 
when he was appointed postmaster oi Aberdeen. He ably discharged the duties of that 
office I'm lour and on.- hali years, king an excellent and praiseworthy rd. 



HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 135 

In February, 1896, Mr. Wendell was united in marriage to Miss Jessie Huff, of Aber- 
deen, by whom lie has four children. He gives his political allegiance to the republican party 
ami is identified fraternally with the Masons, being past master of the blue lodge, past high 
priest of the chapter, past eminent commander of the Knights of Templar commandery 
and a member of the Mystic Shrine. He also belongs t » > the Benevolent Protective Order 
of Elks. Mr. Wendell is numbered among the leading and representative citizens of his 
home town, being highly esteemed for his sterling worth and as a promoter of all that tends 
to advance the general welfare. 



jamls [•: \i \ i hi i: 



James E. Mather, a member of the well known law linn of Mather & Stover of Watertown, 
was born in Erazee, Minnesota, on the l-t oi December, L879, his parents being William II. 
and Lucy E. Mather. His elementary education was obtained in the public schools of 
Council Bluffs, Iowa, and later be was a student of Tabor College, Iowa. Deciding to enter 
tie' legal profession, he attended the Omaha School of Law. from which he was graduated in 
1902. He began the practice of his profession in Omaha, Nebraska, later becoming assistant 
general attorney of the Cudahy Packing Company, and lor two years practiced in that 
state and in Iowa. At the end of that period he went to ( hicago as general counsel lor the 
A. Booth Tacking Company and he made his home there until 1907, which year witnessed 
his arrival in Watertown. lie began practice their as a member of the firm of Louchs & 
Mather and subsequently Mr. Stover was admitted to partnership. (In the retirement oi 
.Mr. Louchs the name was changed to .Mather & Stover. The firm is meeting with good 
success, their clientage being of a representative character. 

In 1900 Mr. Slather was united in marriage to Mss Ruby Agnes Bryant, who .lied 
in 1909, and two of the three children born to them arc also deceased, the only one now 
living being Margaret, aged ten years. In 1910 Mr. Mather wedded Miss Maude I'. Robinson, 
of Omaha, by whom he has a son. George, aged three years. They are members of the 
Episcopal church ami arc quite prominent socially. Mr. Mather belongs to Kampeska Lodge, 
No. 13, \. L- A A. M. and is a Knight Templar Mason, being an officer oi the Grand Com- 
mandery of South Dakota. He is also connected with the Modern Woodmen of America 
and the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks. His political support is given to the republican 
party. There is a military chapter in his record as In 1 served for ten years in the National 
Guard. He was a member of the organization at the outbreak of tin' Spanish-American 
war and was for two years in the Philippines with tile Fifty-first Iowa Volunteer Infantry. 
When mustered out of the Guards he held the rank of brevet major, lie has always been 
found true to every trust reposed in him and commands the respect and confidence of all with 
whom lie is brought in contact. 



EDWARD GALVIN. 



Edward Calvin is the efficient manager of the Sturgis branch of the Bloom Shoe and 
Clothing Company. He is a native of LaSalle county. Illinois, born July 20, 1858, of the 
marriage of John and Mary Galvin. His parents were born, reared and married in Ireland, 
whence they came to the United States in is.",:.', making their way overland to LaSalle county, 
Illinois. T!i.' father was a bricklayer and continued to make his home in that county until 
his death in 1868. The mother died in Issi ; i t Council Bluffs, Iowa. Seven children were 
born to then union, of whom Edward is flu' fourth in order of birth. 

The last named acquired his primary education in the schools of Peru. Illinois, and at 
the age oi ten Mai- was employed as an errand boy in Des Moines. Iowa, later working and 
attending night schools in Council Bluffs, that state. While still under fourteen years of 
age he was employed as clerk in the S. Bloom Company's clothing store of that city. In 
1876 Mr. Bloom removed to the Black Hills hut Mr. Calvin remained with the new proprietor 
of the Council Bluffs establishment until 1881, when he went to Deadw 1 and again entered 



L36 IIISTi iRY ( IF S< )U I'M DAKOTA 

the employ oi Mr. Ill Two years later, when the branch store of the Bloom Shoe and 

1 lothing Company was opened at Sturgis, he went there in the capacity of manager oi the 
business. He is still directing the policy of that store, which carries a full line of shoes and 
clothing and is patronized bj the best citizens of Sturgis and vicinity. He is financially 
interested in the Bloom Shoe and ( lothing Company and is treasurer of that concern, which 

operates four stores besides the in Sturgis, one in Deadwood e in Red Lodge, Montana, 

one in Sheridan and one in Casper, Wyoming. Mr. Calvin is vice president of the Commercial 
National Hank oi Sturgis, which opened its doors for business in L902 and is president oi 
the Sturgis Improvement Company, which owns a cattle ranch smith of Tilford, South Dakota. 

The marriage of Mr. Galvin and Miss Hattie May Jewett was solemnized January 25, 
1889. Mrs. Galvin was hum in Lowell, Indiana, near Crown Point, that state, and is a 
daughter of Orin W. and Delilah (Drake) Jewett, natives of Portland, New York, and Lowell, 
Indiana, respectively. Her father, who was a practicing attorney, removed with his family 
to Illinois and still later, in 1879, came to the Black Hills, locating in Sturgis. He served 
as the first county judge of Meade county and maintained the dignity and impartiality of 
the bench. In 1903 he went to Sawtelle, California, where he engaged in the real-estate 
business until his death in 1908. In the spring of 1861 he answered President Lincoln's first 
call for troops and served in the Union Army until the close of the war. After the death of 
his first wife he was again married and his widow still lives in California. 

Mr. and Mrs. Calx in have one child, a daughter, Delilah Margaret, who gave her hand 
in marriage to Wallace A. Trumbull, a resident of Sturgis and chief clerk of the quarter- 
master's department, United States army, at Fort Meade. They have one child, Margaret 
Gah in. 

Mr. Calvin is a democrat and represented the fortieth senatorial district in the first state 
legislative body of South Dakota with honor to himself and to the satisfaction of his con- 
stituents. In 1889 and IS'.KI he was a member of the city council and in 1898 and 1899 was 
president of that body, lie is well known in Masonic circles throughout the state, belonging 
to all of the bodies in that order and having taken all of the degrees therein with the excep- 
tion of the last and ho ary degree. Lor ten years he was master of Olive Branch Lodge, 

No. 47, of Sturgis. His Other fraternal connections arc with the Elks and the Ancient Cider 

of United Workmen. His knowledge of the conditions I happenings of the early days of 

the statehood of South Dakota is valuable to the present generation, as the work of the 
pioneers is too apt to be forgotten by those who reap the benefit of their labor. 



CHARLES B. KENNEDY. 



Charles I:. Kennedy, capitalist of Madison, has left the impress of his individuality in 
large measure upon the history of his county and state. There is no feature of pioneer life 

in ili,> county with which he is not familiar and from the period of earl) settle nt he has 

borne an active and helpful part in the wmk of general progress and improvement. 

\ native ol Maine, Mr. Kennedy was bom March 28, 1850, a son of Bartholomew C. and 

Oliva S. Ke idy, both descended from old New England stock, their ancestors on both 

sides having participated in the Revolutionary war. Like all New England farmers of those 
■ lays, his parents were not possessed oi wealth but were honest, hard working people and 
their greatest desire was that their children should enjoy better advantages than had fallen 

to their lot. In early manhood Bartholomew C. Kei ly became a mber oi the Masonic 

fraternity, as had his father before him, and to the teachings of that organization he was 
greatlj devoted, His wife was a member of the Freewill Baptist church. 

Charles B. Kenned) acquired his early education in a log school house n ■ bis father's 

farm. The building was seated with lone w len benches, one row on either side with an 

aisle in the center. II, • was lift. .en years of age when his father sold tl Id home farm ill 

\,x V England ami purchased another five miles from Bangor, Maine. While living on the 

I. ,11, a pl.ee i I,,. , I, B. Kennedy walked foul mile- to attend high Scl I. doing the chores 

nighl and n urn' He afterward worked in a sawmill and earned sufficient monej to cable 

,,,,, I,, attend the Pittsfield (Me.) Institute for one term, lie afterward kept up his studies 
and at the -line I I taught -el 1 and later spent ■ term as a student in the Maine State 




t II \l:l.l> B. KENNEDY 



HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 139 

College at Orono, working on tin- college grounds to help defray expenses, but ill health pre- 
vented him from completing his course. Soon afterward he was elected district superintend- 
ent of schools and held that position until his removal to the west. 

On the 20th of May, 1ST."., Mr. Kennedy wedded Miss May Ella Williamson, a daughter 
of Judge Henry Williamson, of Maine. Coming to the Mississippi valley, several years were 
spent in Le Roy. Minnesota, where Mr. Kennedy taught high school for a year and was also 
deputy county superintendent of schools of Mower county, lie then established the first 
newspaper published at that point, calling it the Le Roy Independent. After editing and 
publishing that journal for four years he sold out and on the 18th of March, 1878, came 
to Dakota territory, ninety miles beyond an operating line of railway. He secured a home- 
stead and tree claim of three hundred and twenty acres, at which time there were but nine 
families in the county, located around tin- two lakes, Madison and Herman. There was not 
a white person west of them, save a few scattered settlers along the James and Missouri 
rivers, and those who had recently located in the Black Hills on the western border of the 
territory. They were indeed on the frontier. Not an acre of improved land nor a tree, build- 
ing or sign of human habitation was in sight from their locality, nothing but wild prairie 
as far as the eye could reach. Deep Indian and buffalo trails led from every direction to the 
permanent spring of water on the land in what is now Lake Park in Madison. It was this 
spring of water that led Mr. Kennedy to locate on that particular tract and also the fact that 
the claim was only a half mile from the center of the county at the junction of two valleys 
which would naturally be sought by any railroads penetrating the county. His prescience 
found fulfillment, for both valleys have sitae been occupied by railroads. 

Alter building a temporary sod house Mr. Kennedy began breaking prairie with a four-ox 
team and a little later built a small frame house and frame and straw stable, the lumber 
being drawn with ox teams from the nearest railway point about sixty miles distant. After 
two years a survey was made for an extension of tin' southern Minnesota division of the 
Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Railroad to near the center of Lake county, the survey cross- 
ing Mr. Kennedy's land. On the south shore of Lake Madison there hail sprung up a little 
village of about a dozen little buildings, which was called Madison, and which was the 
county seat. The railway survey passed nearly three miles north of the village of Madison, 
but passed through the village of Herman on the north shore of Lake Herman. Bitter rivalry 
sprung up between the two towns for the county seat ami also tin' village of Wentworth, 
Which had just been platted on the new railway survey, ten miles east of Herman, was bid- 
ding for the honor. It was then that Mr. Ken ly saw his opportunity. His three hundred 

and twenty acres of land was within a half mile of the center of the county, between two 
large lakes in a well drained valley with plenty of pure water— an ideal location for a 
town site. He had little difficulty in convincing the people of Madison that he bad tin' place 
to which they should move and negotiations were soon completed to that end. He imme- 
diately platted a town, which he named New Madison, and before the platting was com- 
pleted the first building to be moved from the old town was on its foundation in the new one. 
The rival town of Herman, however, did not give up the claim to the county seat without a 
struggle and the builders of the new town of Madison realized that two tow ns, only two 
and a half miles apart in a sparsely settled country, could not continue lone to exist. The 
New Madison people, therefore, made a proposition to the townspeople of Herman that they 
would give them in New Madison an equal number of lots and as well located as they possessed 
in Herman it they would move their buildings to New Madison. The Herman townspeople 
made a similar proposition to the residents of the other town and so little progress was 
made in that direction. At length a committee of six, three from each town, met to arbitrate. 
An all night session ensued, without result, and other meetings followed which were 
equally unresultant. Then two other members were added to the committee from each town, 
but still without result. About this time the people of New Madison learned that three 
different buildings at Herman could he bought, and in a quiet way Mr. Kennedy and two 

others purchased these buildings and proc led to move them, one at a time to New Madison, 

taking the smallest first. When the people of Herman -aw wdiat was being done they rose 
enmasse, many armed with weapons of warfare, but the foresight of Mr. Kennedy and his 
associates had provided for the situation and a sheriff and several deputies were on duty. 
Tlie people of the rival town saw that opposition would he useless and felt that this was only 
' building. What was their consternation when they saw the second and then the third 



1 in HISTi >RY ' "I S( lUTH DAKOTA 

building going to New Madison. They did not know what the end would be, nor how much 
property the \ew Madison forces had acquired and soon the two committees again met and 

Herman agreed t" move to New Vladisoi the original terms, since which ti the growth 

of the countj seal has been uninterrupted. 

In the winter of L880-81 Mr. Kenned; represented Lake and seven adjoining counties 
in the territorial legislature and at that session secured the passage of an act vacating the 
old -it' 1 of Madison and changing the m ■ oi the new town to New Madison and also desig- 
nating it a- the county seal of Lake county. Ee was likewise instrumental in securing the 
passage oi an act establishing the state Normal School at Madison and he donated a twenty 
acre sit.' for the school the site being nov occupied by four large stone buildings, while 
the campus is covered with fine shade trees. The winter of Mr. Kennedy's service in the 
legislature was a memorable one in the history of the state. The snow lay to such depths 
that no trains ran throughout the winter, and at the close of his service in the legislature it 
seemed impossible tor him to return to his home, a distance of seventy-five miles in direct 
line and about one hundred and fifty miles by rail. Mr. Kennedy and three other of the 
legislators, however determined to brave conditions and hired a team and sled, starting upon 
lie trip. There was not even a track through the drifted snow, which was three feet or 
more all over the ground and in some of the ravines was from fifteen to twenty feet deep, so 
that much of tin' way they had to sh..\rl a"hd tread a track to pet the team through. They 
could only make from live to ten miles in a clay ami night found the team jaded and the 
men practically exhausted. Tin- next day they would -end home the team ami driver of tne 
day before and hire a fresh team and after eleven days of most terrible hardships, much of 
tin' way through blinding snow storms, they readied Madison, two of the party stopping at 
Sioux Falls and one of them dying in a few days from exhaustion on this trip. 

In tin' spring of 1881 Mr. Kennedy opened a real-estate and private hanking business 
in Madison and in lssr became one of the organizers of the First National Bank and its first 
president. In 1885, in connection with his brother, William F. Kennedy, he organized the 
Kennedy Brothers hanking, farm loan ami real-estate business, which in 1889 they merged 
into the Northwestern Loan & Hanking Company, of which Charles II. Kennedy was president 
and his brother cashier and secretary. The increase in business demanded that the hanking 
department he conducted separate from t lie farm loan and real-estate departments and in 

L891 tlcy organized the Madison State Bank, with the s; officers a- the Northwestern 

Loan & Hanking Company, and both continued to do business in their several departments 
iii then- ..nice building at the northwest corner of Egan avenue and Sixth street. In 1909, 
desiring t.. retire from the banking business, a consolidation of the Madison State Hank with 
the h,-i National Hank was effected and the former merged int.. the latter. The North- 
western Loan & Banking Company, however, continue- 1.. conduct a general farm loan 
and real-estate business and a- president Mr. Kennedy direct- its interest-. 

IK- largest Imsiness concerns, however, are his farms, which he began to buy when 
the county wa- first settled, lie n..w owns forty farms and much of the land is improved. 
In this piece- he has .level.. pod law prairies, breaking the sod, fencing, tiling, constructing 
buildings, planting tic- and .hung other work that lias transformed the unsettled prairies 
i,, ., -tat.- ..i high cultivation. During the pa -t -i\ years In- ha- erected nothing hut solid 
concrete buildings, having manj of them on different farms throughout the county at the 
present tunc He derives hi- greatest pleasure from the development of his farms in 
a permanent manner and along scientific lines. He has always had the greatest faith in the 
future of farm lands in South Dakota and ha- utilized everj opportunity for the advantageous 

purchase h. All days in his career have not hen equally bright. In fact, he has seen 

the storm clouds gather, but he has managed to turn threatened defeat into victory and has 
lived to see the prevailing prices of live and ten dollars per acre, which existed during the 

1 panic from 1893 to 1897, advance until improved farms in the county today are 
worth usuallj one hundred and fifty dollars per acre. At the present time Mr. Ke ly 

ly turning over hi- business to his sons, I . Le Roj and Dean M., yet he still keeps 
supervision over hi- interests and. ts indolence and idleness are utterly foreign to his 

nature, c.ul.l not be content with. .id s • business interests. His notable success maj be 

attributed largely to his unfaltering diligence and his temperate habits, and now he has 
opportunitj to enjoj rest il he so desires. In fact, he -p. aid- the winter months and indeed 
about hah ..i his tunc at Los Angeles, California. He was for many years interested 



HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 141 

quite extensively in the raising of live stock and during that time was a member of the 
Dakota Fine Stock Breeders Association, of which lie served as president for one term. 
He has been the leader in the erection of concrete buildings in his section of the state, being 
the first to follow this plan in Lake county and thus setting an example for others. He 
recognized the value of such buildings, which are cool in summer and warm in winter. 
Improving fauns makes stronger appeal to him than anything else, and he rejoices in the 
change from crude nature to highly improved land. 

In politics Mr. Kennedy is a progressive republican and lias ever manifested a public- 
Bpirited interest in the vital questions and issues of the day. He has membership with 
the Masons and the Odd Fellows, being a member of Evergreen Lodge, No. 17, A. F. &. A. M.; 
Cyrus Chapter, Xo. 26, R. A. M.; Madison Chapter, Xo. 6, < >. E. S.; and Madison Commandery 
No. 20. K. T., all of Madison, and Oriental Consistory, Xo. 1, Yankton; and El Riad Shrine 
Temple of Sioux Falls. 

He has lived to witness notable changes throughout this section of the country. Then' 
were just nine families in Lake county at the time of his arrival and hi' went through the 
period of hardships and privations incident to settlement upon the frontier. At that period 
the nearest railroad was ninety miles I nun his home and all lumber for building purposes 
had to be hauled the entire distance with ox teams. Notable has been the change in methods 
of travel since that time; today Mr. Kennedy speeds over the country in a motor car and 

his progressive spirit is indicated in the fact that he was the owner of the first auto bile 

in his part of the state. -Mr. Kennedy may truly be called a self-made man. He started out 
in lite without a dollar and even earned the money to pay the expenses of his education 
after leaving the common schools. He has never received a dollar by gift or inheritance 
from any source whatever. While his early advantages were limited, he has learned many 
valuable lessons in the school of experience and is today a broad and liberal-minded man, 
in touch with the world's advancement and exemplifying in his own life the progressive 
spirit of the age. He has always taken an active part in the welfare of this city which 
he helped to build, serving for many years as a member of the city council and for two 
years as its mayor. He has also been active in territorial and state matters, having been 
one of twelve or more men from different parts of the territory to spend several months 
in Washington, I). C, in the interest of tin' fight to secure in congress an act dividing the 
territory and admitting the two states. North and South Dakota. He was for several years 
chairman of the republican central committee of Lake county and a member of the slate 
central committee, but in later years lias been too much engrossed in business to give 
political matters much attention. In both political and religious views he has been quite 
liberal, being strenuously opposed to blindly following bosses and self-constituted leaders in 
either line. He has never adopted a belief simply because some one else advocated if. or 
because his ancestors were devotees of it. but has always exercised his own judgment and 

rejected those ideas or tl ries which have not appealed to his reason. Such is the history 

of one of Lake county's foremost citizens and a man not unknown as a leader in the state. 
Great, indeed, an- the changes which have been wrought sine he came to Dakota. Advantages 
were tew at tin- time of his arrival, but opportunities were many for the ambitious, 
industrious and energetic man. and these he utilized until he stands today as one of the 
m..-t prosperous residents of South Dakota, strong in his ability to plan and to perform, 
- 'j in his honor and his good name. 



PETER DUHAMEL. 



In the period when Dakota was emerging from the wilderness and taking on evidences of 
territorial organization and of pioneer development Peter Duhamel became a resident of the 
state. He is now living in Rapid Citj and has passed the seventy-sixth milestone on life's 
journey. He was bom near Montreal, Canada, December :::'., ls::s. a son of Baptiste and 
Julia i La Motte) Duhamel, both of whom were native Canadians, of French ancestry. 

Peter Duhamel's education was limited to brief attendance at the public schools in his 
home district, 'the father died when the son was but nim- years of age and it was necessary 
that In- assi-t his brothers in the development and operation of the home farm. In 1857, at 



142 HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 

die age of nineteen years, he left Canada and made his way to Sioux City, Iowa, which was 
then a frontier trading post. There he worked at anything thai offered and afterward entered 
the employ of a hay contractor at Fori Randall, in Dakota territory, remaining at that point 
until September, L857, when he returned to Sioux City. Finding times then- especially liard 
and no work to be had, he journeyed to Fort Pierre, where he seemed employment with a 
fur-trading company and spent the winter in that country. In the spring of 1859 he started 
on horseback for Pike's Peak, Colorado, and soon after arrived at his destination. He engaged 
in the cattle business there, continuing on the ranges of Colorado and Wyoming with good 
success until 1879, when he removed to Rapid City and again engaged in cattle ranching, liis 
brand, "TN." becoming one of the best known in Dakota territory, liis herds of cattle number- 
ing at times in excess of ten thousand head, together with which he owned hundreds of 
horses. In 1899 liis cattle, horses and large tracts of land which he had acquired were sold 
and he retired permanently from ranching. Mr. Duhamel's experiences during his ranching 
days in the early '60s on the frontier, hundreds of miles from civilization with the hostile 
Indians as a constant menace, would alone furnish excellent material for a book. He remained 
on the frontier when very few white men had the coinage to do so. He managed to win 
and keep the friendship of the Indians and at the same time so controlled and directed his 
business affairs that he met with unqualified success in all of his ventures. 

In I •ii)7 the Duhamel Company, of which he is the president, was organized and the 
business has been developed into one of the largest hardware, house furnishing, saddlery and 
harness enterprises in the state. He likewise has banking and financial interests and at the 
present time is vice president of the Pennington County Bank of Rapid City; president of 
the Bank of Wasta Wasta, South Dakota: president of the Hank of New Underwood at New 

[Jnderv, I, South Dakota: and president of the Dank of Hermosa in the town of the same 

ii, lie i> also the holder of a large amount of stock in various other hanks and likewise 

has other stock and securities. His investments have been most judiciously made and have 
brought to him a gratifying success. 

In 1870, at Denver, Colorado, .Mr. Duhamel married Ixalrina Lappus, a native of Germany, 
who died in 1909, at the age of sixty-one years. In their family were eight children: Matilda, 
who is residing in Oregon; Alexander, who is secretary and treasurer of the Duhamel Com- 
pany; .Mary Louisa, the wile of Dr. 1'. .1. Waldron, of Rapid City; Josephine, who married 
C. .1. Ilorgan, of Rapid City; Adeline, the wife of C. M. Fallon, also residing in Rapid City; 
Joseph J., who is connected with the Pennington County Bank of Rapid City; and Annie 
and Agnes. 

The religious faith of the family is that of the Catholic church. Mr. Doha I is an Elk 

and in politics is an independent republican. Few men have been a witness of the state's 
development Foi so long a period, for he arrived here when the country was almost wholly 
occupied b\ the Indians and evidences oi modern civilization were practically unknown. His 

success was due to inherent honesty, hard work and ccoii y of his resources, qualities which 

enabled him to take advantage of the opportunities offered by a new and rapidly developing 
country. As the years passed he steadily advanced toward the goal of prosperity and is 
today one of the substantial residents of Rapid City, being connected with many important 
business enterprises which return to him a handsome inc ■ 



JUDGE DIGHTON CORSON. 



I,, the death of Judge Dighton Corson on the 7th of May, L915, South Dakota lost one 

who up to that ti had 1 n her oldest living lawyer and one whose life record constitutes 

an integral chapter In the history of the stale. Ill him it was -aid: "The town is better, 
the state l- bettet and tic world is better for hi- having lived, and that is all the monument 

that II iii. 1- I- leave when he is called to the great beyond. To know him was to love 

him." Ill- friends will mis- him. but the memory ><( hi- Bwee I beautiful hie, ,,f Ins sin- 

ceritj 1 simplicity, will not be forgotten. They will not mourn for him as they would for 

; , VM,,,, ,,n. cut oil in the flower and promise of his youth, but will rejoice in his memory 

as thai ol a man wle, laid down Ins ta-k in the twilight of the day, when all that he had to 

do had been noblj and fully complel ed. 




JUDGE DIGHTON CORSON 



HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 145 

Judge Corson was born upon a farm in Somerset county, Maine, October 31, 1827, a son 
of Isaac and Nancy (Tuttle) Corson, both of whom were natives of the Pine Tree state and 
members of old New England families. The father died during the early childhood of his son 
Dighton, who was the youngest of a large family. He attended the public schools of Water- 
ville, .Maine, and prepared for college but was denied the advantage of a college course. He 
entered upon the study of law in Waterville and later continued his preparation for the 
profession at Bangor, Maine, passing the examination which secured him admission to the 
bar in 1853, 

Coming west in the same year, he settled in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where he practiced 
until 1861, and during that period he was also connected with the work of lawmaking in 
Wisconsin, for he was a member of the state legislature there in 1857-8. While living in 
Milwaukee county he was also elected states attorney and served for two years. Ill health 
caused him to seek a change of climate and he went to California, where he remained for a 
short time and then removed to Nevada. On the organization of the territory he was chosen 
district attorney and served as states attorney at Virginia City, Nevada. Returning to 
California, he remained in that state until 1877, when he came to Dakota territory, settling 
at Deadwood. There he engaged in private practice and was one of the first attorneys for 
Hi,, llnmestake Mining ( ompany. He was identified with the bar of South Dakota through 
out the remainder of his life, long occupying a position of prominence and distinction among 
the representatives of the legal profession. He served in the volunteer constitutional con- 
vention of 1885 and in the permanent convention of 1889 and took a leading, active and help- 
ful part in forming the present state constitution. In the same year he was elected to the 
supreme bench of South Dakota, whereon he served continuously until 1913, or for a period 
of almost twenty-four years, when he retired, being one of two members of the original court 
to serve thus continuously from its organization. 

On the 22d of May, 1882. Judge Corson was united in marriage to Mrs. Elizabeth Hoff- 
man, who survives him. At the time of his death it was said of Mrs. Corson: ''Her unselfish 
devotion, especially during the closing years of his life, was more beautiful than any poem 
that was ever written, sweeter than any song that was ever sung. The home life of this good 
man and this good woman was infinitely more to each of them than all the honors this state 
has or ever will confer upon either of them. Its devotion, confidence and tenderness speak 
more eloquently in praise of Dighton Corson's character, of his pure ami blameless life, than 
any orator will ever speak." 

Perhaps no better characterization of Judge Corson can be given than by quoting from 
the local papers. The Capital-Journal said: "Dighton Corson had the respect of the bar 
of South Dakota to such a degree as no other member of the state legal fraternity ever 
enjoyed. His manner, his make-up anil his everyday life were such as made 1 1 i iti stand out 
preeminently as a distinguished gentleman, an able scholar and a citizen far above the aver- 
age. His cool, deliberate and unimpassioned demeanor marked him in every walk of life as 
one who would be respected by any and every class of citizens, and his presence in any 
body of men or social gathering always elicited respectful admiration. ... His ideals 
always reflected something for the betterment of mankind. His desires were constantly in 
the interest of humanity, the community and his family. His personal wants and wishes 
were not a burden imposed on others, and in all his eventful experience he looked upon lite 
and acted hi- part as a philosopher. In all his political and official life as well as his personal 
existence he enjoyed the distinction of being a man above reproach and with no one to 
charge him with dishonesty or suggest duplicity or failure to keep his word. In the recent 
years when political campaigns everywhere and in this state in particular were marked with 
so much bitterness, vindictiveness and animosity. Dighton Corson lived, moved and held posi- 
tions without once being referred to by anyone, to our knowledge, in even an uncomplimentary 
manner." 

A fitting and well merited eulogy was that pronounced by Judge Dick Haney, of Mitchell, 
formerly of the state supreme curt and the colleague of Judge Corson, when all that was 
mortal of the latter lav in state in the capitol, where the funeral services were held. "It 
certainly is altogether fitting," said Judge Haney, "that the state of South Dakota, at this 
time ami in this place, should render its highest civic honors to the memory of Dighton Cor- 
son, whose mortal remains lie before us, surrounded as they should be with the beautiful 
emblems of immortality. Its laws have been and will be so affected and influenced by his 
Vol. rv— 7 



U6 HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 

hi Imrs; its life and his life haw- been sd interwoven as that no historj oi the one will evei be 
complete without the history of the other. . . . Having assisted in creating a new com- 
monwealth, having contributed in large measure to the establishment of the organic laws 
oi a new state, having aided in adding another star to the American flag, he took his Beat 
on the supreme bench where, for full twenty-three years, he continually discharged the 
difficult duties of his high office with preeminent efficiency and fidelity. And this service, 
extending ovei twenty-three laborious years, was all performed by this remarkable man 
aftei having attained the age of sixty-two -an age when men usually regard life's labors 
finished and all its opportunities past. During the late,- years oi Judge Corson's service 
on the supreme bench, his labors were rendered additionally burdensome by the impairment 
of his sight, to remedy which he submitted to two serious surgical operations, tie was 
not required by financial necessity to continue in public office. His place among the distin- 
guished citizens of South Dakota was assured. Ambition, in it- ordinary sense, did not deter 
him from seeking the comforts and repose of a most congenial and happy home. He con- 

ti d to labor for the love of labor itself. He continued to serve for the sake of service. 

It was ll ssence of his philosophy, the controlling precept of his religion, that every man 

should do In- host in all circumstances and continuously until deprived of all power to labor 
bj the infirmities of his physical being. So he toiled on, lived on, calm and dignified and 
uncomplaining, until the final summons came, and then, 'sustained and soothed by an tinlallcr- 
ing trust.' he gently fell asleep. Such a life and such a death are not the common lot of 
man. They reveal the highest aspirations and the finest qualities of American manhood. They 
reveal the soul of American civilization; the courage, the industry and integrity required to 

subdue a continent In this magnificent constructive movement, this conquest of the 

west, this creation of commonwealths, it was Dighton Corson's good fortune to play a con- 
spicuous part— a part for which he was preeminently well qualified. . . . That lie was 
a man of more than ordinary ability is conclusively shown by I he recognition given him in 

Wisconsin and Nevada, as well as in South Dakota. During his residence in Wisi sin. he 

was a member of the legislature' and also held the offii f district attorney of Milwaukee 

county. While In Nevada he again held the ..nice of public prosecutor and witnessed the 
organization of Nevada territory. So for sixty years he was a trusted leader, in the fore- 
tront of the on-marching columns of empire builders, continuously engaged in establishing 
smaal oriler and enforcing or interpreting those self-imposed rules of conduct and of property 
without which the wonderful development of the western country would have been impos- 
sible. . Judge Corson responded to the rcc p 1 1 rcineii I s of every opportunity and so per? 
I led his part in this grand human drama as (o entitle his name and memory to lie cher- 
ished, loved and revered, so long as social order and civil "Lin nl shall endure in South 

I lakota. 

•'.Indue Corson was splendidly equipped for the important duties of his long and event- 
ful life. It would seem that nature, or Providence what you will does mil fail to provide 
adequate means for the accomplishment of beneficent purposes. Our distinguished friend was 
lavishly endowed with the qualities required in one who was allotted to perform the tasks 
assigned to him. lie was a man of commanding presence, courtly "race and faultless courage, 
lie possessed a clear, logical mind and, though deprived in youth of the' advantages of a 
college education, his diction was exceptionally accurate and elegant. In his early days of 

service on (he supreme bench I ccasionally delivered public addresses which wen- models 

oi fori ii' ic \ alue. 

"ll was, however, Ins uniform dignity I courtesy, his unwavering, chivalrous regard 

in, the rights and feelings of all with whom he came in contact, winch marked him always, 
in all places and m all circumstances, as (he perfect gentleman and which disclosed his 
true character. Though acutely sensitive to adverse criticism and intensely appreciative of 
deserved approval, neither praise nor blame ever deflected the course of his conduct on the 
bench, His gentleness, his consideration lor others, were not the result of weakness hut 

ratlcr the manifestation of his innate sense of justice, his c plete self-control, and his 

accurate- appreciation of the proprieties of life. When the occasion demanded firmness, noth- 
ing could move him. In politics a stalwart of the' stalwarts, the decisions of the supreme 
court conclusivelj prove thai he- judgment yielded to no influence other than a desire to 
properly interpret the applicable principle of law. 

"During all of his long service as a judge it is confidently asserted that he never uttered 



HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 147 

one discourteous word to any of his associates on the bench or to any member of the bar, nor 
can any opinion be found wherein the contentions of counsel were not treated with due cour- 
tesy and consideration. It truly may be said of him that in his life, his conduct and his 
conversation he always displayed the qualities of a cultured gentleman." 



HOX. ELLISON GRIFFITH SMITH. 

Hon. Ellison Griffith Smith, judge of the supreme court from the fourth district, lias been 
a member of the bar of South Dakota for over a third of a century and lias won distinction 
as a lawyer, legislator and jurist. His birth occurred in Cincinnati, Ohio, December 5, 1851, 
and he is a son of Amos G. and Mary (Ellison) Smith, the former born on the 14th of April. 
1813, in Bucks county. Pennsylvania, and the latter a native of Trenton. New Jersey. As a child 
the father was taken by his parents, George and Elizabeth (Thornton i Smith, to Noble 
county. Ohio. George Smith was a native of Cermany and accompanied hi> parents on their 
emigration to the United States, the family settling in Pennsylvania. There his marriage 
occurred and he continued to reside there until his removal to Ohio. Tiie American progenitor 
of the Thornton family removed from England to the new world many years ago and settled 
in New England. 

Amos G. Smith grew to manhood in the Buckeye state and was married in 1851. For a 
number of years he followed merchandising in Noble county, Ohio, but in 185S abandoned that 
occupation on account of impaired health and removed to Delaware county, Iowa, where he 
engaged extensively in farming and stockraising for a number of years. He was prominent in 
his locality and was highly respected by all who knew him. He passed away in 1908. To 
him and his wife were born seven children, of whom our subject is the oldest. Another son, 
Jason T. Smith, is also a resident of South Dakota, for a time he practiced law in Yankton 
but is now director of agencies for the Fii>t National Life Insurance Company of South 
Dakota. 

Judge Ellison G. Smith, who was but a child when the family removed to Delaware 
county, Iowa, received his elementary education in the public schools there. Subsequently 
he attended Lenox College of Hopkinton, Delaware county, which institution conferred upon 
him the degree of Bachelor of Arts in 1871. He prepared for the legal profession in the 
College of Law of the Iowa State University and in 1874 received the degree of LL. B. In 
that year he was elected principal of the Mechanicsville high school and held that position 
for one year. He then reviewed his law course preparatory to engaging in the practice ol 
his profession and in 1STG he made his way to Yankton. South Dakota, when' he became a 
partner of Hon. G. C. Moody, who became successively judge of the territorial federal court 
and United States senator. Mr. Smith then took charge of the entire law business of the 
firm, which was extensive and important and which included that of the office of register in 

bankruptcy. He proved equal to the splendid opportunity thus afforded him and s i gained 

recognition a- an attornej of unusual ability. He practiced for a number of years in Yankton 
and appeared as counsel in t of the important litigation held in the courts of that district. 

From 1878 to 1882 he served as territorial district attorney and he was for some time 
the associate of the Hon. Hugh Campbell a- special assistant United States district attorney. 
For several years In- held the position of reporter for the territorial supreme court of Dakota 
and in 1889, while the incumbent in that office, was elected judge of the first judicial circuit. 
By reelection he served in that capacity lor twenty years, or until the 1st of April. L909, 
when he was appointed judge oi the supreme court of South Dakota from the fourth district. 
In the general election held in November. 1910, he was elected to that office for a term of 

six years. He p. es the faculty of going surelj and directly to the vital point of a 

matte- and has the poise and impartiality which are so essential to the judge. A- he also 
has .i thorough understanding of the basic principles of jurisprudence and a wide knowledge 

of statute and precedent his decisions are sound interpretations of the law. Altl gh the 

greater pan of his public service has been in *ion with the courts he was at on,, tin,.. 

identified with the legislative brand, of government, being from 1886 to 1889 the representa- 
tive of Yankton county in the territorial legislature He has always given his political 
allegiance to the republican party. 



148 HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 

Judge Smith was married, in Delaware county, [owa, in 1H77, to Miss Anna Kirkw 1. 

a native of the province of Ontario, Canada, who passed away in July, 1909, leaving three 
children: Ellison ('•., a graduate oi the Columbian University of Washington, D. C, who is 

now practicing in Sioux City, Iowa; Agnes G., at home; and Amos Campbell, a civil engineer 
connected with the Chicago, Milwaukee i St. Paul Railroad at Aberdeen, South Dakota. 

Judge Smith is a York Kite Mason, belonging to St. John's Lodge, No. 1, A. F. & A. M., 
at Yankton; the Royal Arch chapter at Yankton; and De Molay Commandery No. 1, K. T., 
at Yankton, lie likewise hold-, membership in the Modern Woodmen of America, the Ancient 
Order of United Workmen and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He is an honored 
member oi the South Dakota State Bar Association and the American Bar Association and 
cooperates in the efforts of those organizations to increase the efficiency of the courts. He 
was for many years a member of the Yankton school board and has always taken the deepest 
interest in the welfare of the public schools, recognizing their paramount importance. IK' 
belongs to the Congregational church and in all relations of life has measured up to high 
standards of manhood, lie is held in high esteem not only because of his ability but a No 
because of his broad-mindedness, fairness and integrity. 



HENRY W. H1XKK lis. 



Henry W. Hinrichs is a banker occupying an important place in the financial circles 
..I Rapid City, and is connected with a number of the leading enterprises in the Black Hills 
region. His birth occurred in Charles City, Iowa, May 19, 1874. His father, William Hinrichs, 
was a native of Germany and emigrated to the United States in 18G7. Although a miller 
by trade, he engaged in farming after coming to the United States, purchasing land near 
Rockford, Iowa. In 1884 he removed to Dakota territory with his family and settled upon 
a homestead near Kimball. He became one of the most prosperous men of his community 
and was particularly interested in the cattle business, doing much to demonstrate the 
adaptability of South Dakota lands to profitable stock-raising. In many ways he con- 
tributed to the advancement of agricultural interests in his locality, hut a number of years 
ago hi- retired from active life and now resides at Albany, Oregon. His wife was in her 
maidenhood .Miss Minnie Friesmann, was also burn in Germany and was a passenger on the 
same vessel in which Mr. Hinrichs crossed the Atlantic to America, their acquaintance 
beginning upon that voyage. 

Henry W. Hinrichs is the oldest in a family of eight children and received his education 
in the country Bchools ami in the State Agricultural College at Brookings. At the age of 

Beventeen veins he was placed in the Kimball State Bank, where he worked for a vein 1 

a hull lor his board. He next served lor a similar period as deputy postmaster at Chamber- 
lain, South Dakota, and then spent a year in special study at the State- Agricultural college 
:ii Brookings. A part of the following year was devoted to work upon the home farm, but 
in the spring of L897 he returned to the Kimball State- Bank, accepting a position as book- 
keeper at thirty dollars per month. IK- also bought an interest in the- instituti ind alter 

three years purchased the stuck of \Y. II. Wyant, win. had served as cashier, ami was himself 
appointed to that position. He remained with that bank until January. 1U04, and thin 
removed to Chamberlain, purchasing a hull interest in tie- Chamberlain Slate Bank and 
becoming its cashier. A short time afterward he organized the First National Bank of White 
Lake, South Dakota, and was chosen it- president. Subsequently he was made president of 

the Kimball State Hank. In addition to the concerns already mentioned 1 iganized the 

Chamberlain Wholesale Grocery Company and the Far is State Bank oi Puckwana, South 

Dakota, and beca nc oi the owners oi the Bank oi Bijou Hills, South Dakota. In l!i()7 

lie disposed oi his interests in Chamberlain and removed to Kapid City, where Boon afterward 
I,,- organized the Security Savings Bank and erected the Security Savings Hunk building, being 
ii,,' majority owner in both. Subsequently he sold pari of his holdings, but still retains the 
v \ ce presidencj "i i!"- bunk, lb- was one of tin- organizers of the Lamphere-Hinrichs Lumber 
Company, which was later known us the Warren-Lamb Lumber Company, but in 1918 he 
di I"' rd hi' his interests in that concern, lb- is at present one of the owners and treasurer 
el the Dakota Plaster Company, which has its works ai Black Hawk, South Dakota, and he 




iii:\i;y w. iiixkiciis 



HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 151 

was one of those who organized the Midwest Coal & Lumber Company, of which he is still 
one of the chief owners and also the president. He is responsible for the erection of the new 
buildings of the Kimball State Bank and the First National Bank of White Lake, two of the 
finest structures of the kind in the state. He has invested quite heavily in farm lands and 
is much interested in stock-raising, and particularly in the breeding of blooded shorthorn 
cattle. 

Mr. Hinrichs was married on the 25th of September, 1001, to Miss Kate M. Brchan, a 
daughter of Thomas Brchan, whose farm adjoins the Hinrichs homestead. Four children 
have been born to this union, namely: Floyd, Grace Anna, Frederick William and 
Ada Louise. 

Mr. Hinrichs is quite prominent in the counsels of the democratic party and lias been 
a candidate upon that ticket for county treasurer and also for state senator. He realizes 
the great importance of an adequate system of public schools and as a member of the Rapid 
City school board has for several years done much to maintain the schools of that city at 
a high standard. His religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Presbyterian 
church, of which he is a trustee. Fraternally he is a thirty-second degree Mason, belonging 
to Yankton Consistory, No. 1, and is also a Woodman. His initiative, executive ability and 
sound judgment as to financial matters have been of great value to the Black Hills country, 
as he has been instrumental in founding a number of hanks and industrial concerns that have 
aided materially in the development of that part of the state. He has also contributed to 
the general welfare along other lines, as he is a man of many interests and of broad-minded 
views and is ever ready to aid in the accomplishment of any worthy public work. 



REV. CARL E. CESANDER. 



Rev. Carl E. Cesander, pastor of the Swedish Lutheran church (if Sioux Falls, is a man 
of wide influence among the people of his locality and his efforts for moral progress have been 
far-reaching and beneficial. A native of Sweden, lie was born on the 27th of October, 1858, 
ami is a sun of Jonas P. and Lena Stina (Johnson) Peterson, who came with their family 
of eight children to the United States in 1869, when their son Carl was a lad of eleven years. 
They settled at Rockford, Illinois, where both the father and mother remained until called 
to their final rest. 

Rev. Cesander of this review was reared under the parental roof. He attended the public 
schools of his native country and of Illinois and also became a student in Augustana College 
and in the Theological Seminary at Rock Island, Illinois. In the meantime he had determined 
to devote his life to the ministry and was ordained by the Augustana synod in Rockford, 
Illinois, in June, 1S85. Having thus qualified for pastoral work, he was given charge of the 
church at .Marsha lltown, Iowa, and subsequently was placed in charge of the congregations 
at St. Charles and Geneva, Illinois, presiding over the two churches, which are situated about 
two miles apart. At a later period Mr. Cesander was made city missionary in Chicago and 
while serving in that capacity he organized two churches of his denomination, one in More- 
land anil one in Maywood — two of the suburbs of the city. 

In 1S08 Mr. Cesander was called to the pastorate of the churches at Wausau and Merrill, 
Wisconsin. In addition to presiding over those two churches he had under his direction 
several mission churches and in one year he traveled over ten thousand miles in covering the 
field of his duties. It was during that period that lie organized :i church at Madison, Wiscon- 
sin. On retiring from the Wisconsin field he removed in January, 1900, to Bridgeport, Con- 
necticut, where he had charge of a church for live years. He thence went to Buffalo, Minne- 
sota, where he was t;iven charge of the two churches in this field, one being situated at 
Buffalo and the other at Waverlv. He continued in those pastorates for almost five years 
and in the fall of 1009 removed to Sioux Falls, where he has since been ,in charge of the 
Swedish Lutheran church and also of a district church in Benton township of the same county. 
The country church was destroyed by an electrical storm in October, 1913, but is now rebuilt 
and is a handsome edifice, which has a seating capacity of four hundred and cost about 
twelve thousand dollars. Since coming to Sioux Falls Mr. Cesander has made several trips 
in the interest of the church to the Black Hills, that, being in the Sioux Falls district. Since 



152 HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 

his arrival in this state lie has also organized three churches in North Dakota and has done 
much to further religious work and extend moral influence among not only the people of his 
own denomination but the general public at large. He is an earnest, thoughtful, logical 
speaker and clear rcasomr and can at will employ the powers of eloquence in oratory. 

i in the 31s1 of -May, lsss, Rev. Cesander was married to Miss Eleanor L. Kugler, of 

\id re, Pennsylvania, and to them have been born five children: Paul, who is now a 

professor in the high school at Akely, Minnesota; Ruth, a kindergarten teacher at Mountain 
Lake, Minnesota; Frederick, professor of music and the organist of the Swedish Lutheran 
church at Dawson, .Minnesota; Anna, who is attending I lustavus Adolphus College at St. Peter, 
Minnesota; and Amy, who is now a junior in the high school at Sioux Falls. 

Rev. Cesander is a republican in his political views and keeps well informed on the vital 
questions and issues of the day but concentrates his efforts upon his ministerial duties, lie 
is an earnest and forceful speaker, whose words .any conviction to the minds of his hearers, 
and in his work he has not been denied the full harvest nor the aftermath of his labors, for 
his influence has been a potent element for good. 



FRANK L. < "i K. 



Frank 1!. Cock is a prominent rancher living at Belle Fourche and has made a most 
creditable record as a state official, serving as a member of the South Dakota livestock 
sanitary board. Perhaps no resident of the state is better qualified for this offiee and none 
could display greater loyalty in the discharge of duty, lie was born in Davenport, Iowa, 
April 30, LS67. His father, ( harles C. Cock, was a native of Ohio, and in ISO:: removed 
westward to Iowa, when' he turned his attention to the manufacture of farm implements 
for a time and later to the sale of implements, remaining actively and successfully in that 
business until In- death, which occurred in ( edar Rapids, Iowa, in 1899. He took an active 
and helpful interest in local affairs and was lor many years a member of the city council of 
Davenport during his residence there. He married Rebecca Raff, a native of Ohio, who still 
survives and makes her home in St. Joseph, Missouri. She is of Holland Dutch ancestry, 
tracm" her lineage back to the settlement of New Amsterdam. The ancestors of the Cork 

family were associates of William l'enn in II arly settlement of Pennsylvania and were 

devout adherents of the Quaker faith. 

Crank R. Cock was the second ill a family of four children and spending his youthful 
days in Davenport, Iowa, he pursued his education in its public schools, passing through 
consecutive grades to the high school. In lss-1 he went to Central City, Nebraska, and 
there had his first experience in the livestock business as an employe on his uncle's 

ranch. At II ml of a year he removed to Lincoln county, Nebraska, where he began 

ranching on his own account and in L889 he came to South Dakota, settling in Belle Fourche 
valley, where he has since been largely interested in the conduct of a ranch, meeting with 
excellent success in his ii 1 1 d e it a k 1 1 1 g 3. At the present lime he is operating a ranch of twelve 
hundred acres iii Butte county, employing the latest, improved and approved methods in 
the conduct of Ins business. He has been for many years a persisted and discriminating 
Student of the diseases of farm animals ami their eradication, or better still, their preven- 
tion, and his valuable work m thai directi uli- hi in' of the logical appointees when 

the state department of live-stock sanitation was created in 1909. He has served continu- 
ously sine. the live-stock sanitary b d. also acting as its secretary. In L913 wdien 

the depart ni was thoroughly reorganized he was II ly member reappointed, a fact 

which is highly complimentarj and indicates n no uncertain terms tl bility which he dis- 
played and the fidelitj with which he discharged the duties devolving upon him. The 

administrati f his duties has been marked by an intelligent, earnest zeal in behalf of 

the stock-growing interests of the slate and his activities have proven a distinct asset to 
the industry. Largely through his efforts the department has bee,, brought to a high 
working efficiencj and lias eliminated the hardship of frequent federal quarantines charae- 
tcrist ic oi the earlier days. 

Mr lock was m; d ipril 17, 1895, to Miss Louise C. Teall, a daughter of B. V. and 



HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 153 

.Julia Phelps (Van Cleef) Teall, of Eau Claire, Wisconsin. They have had two children 
but the son, Charles I'., is deceased. The only living child is Dorothy G. 

The family attend the Congregational church and Mr. Cock holds membership in the 
Masonic fraternity. In politics he has always been a stalwart republican but not an 
office seeker in the usually accepted sense of the term. He served for a number of years 
as a member of the Belle Fourche school board and- for several years was its president, wisely 
directing the interests of the schools along the lines of progress, making the system one of 
thorough preparation for life's practical and responsible duties. He finds his recreation 
in big game hunting and has secured various trophies of the chase. 



GEORGE JONATHAN DANFORTH. 

George Jonathan Danforth, a member of the well known firm of Wagner & Danforth, 
prominent and successful attorneys of Sioux Falls, was born near Meeme, Manitowoc county, 
Wisconsin, November 21, 1875. He is a son of Quincy Aimes and Gertrude (Silbernagel) 
Danforth, the former of whom served for three years and six months in Company C, 
Fourth Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, rising from private to the rank of sergeant. The 
tamil\ is an old American one having been founded in this country by Nicholas Danforth, 
who came from England in 1638. The grandfather of the subject of this review, Jonathan 
Danforth. was born in Vermont in 1803 and died in 1879, at the age of seventy-seven years. 

In the acquirement of an education George J. Danforth attended the public schools at 
Meeme and later was a student in the State Normal School at Oshkosh, Wisconsin. He 
afterward enrolled in the law department of the University of Wisconsin at Madison and 
was graduated with the degree of LL. B. in 1903. In the same year he came to Sioux 
Falls and began the practice of his profession, in which he has since made rapid and steady 
Advancement. In 1913 he became a member of the firm of Wagner & Danforth, which 
controls today a representative patronage connecting them with a great deal of important 
litigation and they occupy a prominent place among the leading representatives of the bar in 
the community. In 1909 Mr. Danforth was appointed state's attorney and served in 
that capacity for two years, discharging his duties in a capable ami conscientious manner. 
He i- a director in the Sioux Life and Casualty Company of Sioux Falls and acts also as 
attorney tor this corporation. In December. 1914. he was elected president of the Minne- 
haha County Bar Association, which indicates his high standing among his professional 
brethren. 

In Manitowoc. Wisconsin, August 21. 1907. Mr. Danforth was united in marriage to 
Miss Xoia Isabel Tollefson, a daughter of Iver Tollefson, a veteran of the Civil war. Mr. 
and ilr--. Danforth have become the parents of three children: George Jonathan, Jr., born 
■Inly 7. 1909: Edward Aimes, born June 7, 1912; and Marie Gertrude, born August 4. 1914. 

Mr. Danforth is a member of the Congregational church, in which he served as trustee, 
and is connected fraternally with the Masonic blue lodge. He gives his political allegiance 
to the republican party and served for two years as secretary and treasurer of the Sioux 
Falls binary board. His interests are, however, largely concentrated upon the duties of 
his profession, in which he has met with that success which always rewards unusual merit 
ami abilit \ - 



JAMES E. O'COXNELL. 



James E. O'Connell is serving tin- fifth term as mayor of Ramona, which is indicative of 
the fact that he is a popular citizen and one devoted to the welfare and besl interests 
of the city. He is also a leading business man. dealing in farm implements ami harness, 
and has other commercial and industrial connections. It, is characteristic of him that what 
he undertakes he accomplishes, brooking no obtacles that can be overcome by persistent and 
earnest effort. His birth occurred in Fillmore comity. Minnesota, on the 6th of ( letober, 
1864, his parents being .lames and Mary I Merrick i O'Connell. The father was a farmer 



154 HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 

bj occupation and followed thai pursuit for many years in Minnesota, but in l*7s estab- 
lished ln^ home upon the western frontier by a removal to Lake county, Smith Dakota, where 
m May he homesteaded the southwest quarter of section LO, township 107, range 53. With 
characteristic energy he began the development and improvement of his claim and thereon 
resided until his life's labors were ended in death cm the 7th of May, 1885. His wife died 
June l". L884. 

At the usual age James E. O'Connell became a pupil in the public schools of his 
native county and when he had mastered the lessons therein taught he concentrated his 
efforts upon farm work, which he performed under the guidance of his father. In 1S84 at 
the age oi twenty he came to South Dakota, where he worked by the mouth for several 
years. In ls'.cj he began farming on his own account on the old homestead and tree claim 
which his father had secured. The old homestead is now in possession of his brother 1). J; 
O'Connell. for seven years .lames E. O'Connell carried on general agricultural pursuits 
and removed to Ramona in the spring of 1899, at which time he joined his brother D. J. 
O'Connell in the farm implement business. They began in a modest way. but gradually 
developed their trade, winning a growing business through honorable methods, unfalter- 
ing enterprise and unabating energy. They have increased their stock to include the 1 sale of 
harness and thus they are able to meet many of the demands of the farmer for equipment 
for operating his place. Mr. O'Connell is also a stockholder in the Electric Light Company, 
the' VVoodmen Opera House Company and the Elevator Company. His life has been a busy 
one. lie lias never been afraid of work and the close application and indefatigable industry 
which are indispensable elements of success arc recognized as strong traits in his make-up. 

Mr. O'Connell lias been married twice. In 1HX(> he wedded Miss Maggie Lawless, who 
passed away in 1900, and in 1902 he chose for his second wife Miss Margaret Sheehan. All 
of his three children died in infancy. The religious faith of Mr. and Mrs. O'Connell is that 
of the Catholic church and he belongs to Sioux City Council of the Knights of Columbus. He 
is also a member of the Modern Woodmen and of the Modern Brotherhood of America. When 
leisure permits he enjoys an auto trip or a fishing trip, but he never allows recreation to 
interfere' with his business or official duties. He is a stalwart champion of the republican 
party and its principles and upon its ticket has been elected to a number of offices, lie 
served lor several years as city treasurer of Ramona and for the fifth time is directing the 
municipal interests as chief executive. He studies thoroughly the conditions that produce' 
modern city problems and no one cpiestions the fact that he is working intelligently and 
disinterestedly for the welfare and benefit of the city in which he makes his home. 



CHARLES C. MOODY. 



Charles C. Moody, throughout his active life, devoted his time and energies to newspaper 
work and for a number of years published the Sturgis Weekly Record. He was a native of 

Indiana, born November lis, lsas, and was a son of Oideon C. and Helen (Eliot) M ly. both 

born in the Empire state. The family is of Irish descent. Gideon C. M ly became a lawyer in 

early manhood and emigrated to Indiana when that state' was still largely a pioneer section. 
In L866 lie came to South Dakota, locating in Yankton, and was appointed to the supreme 
bench of Dakota territory. After the admission of South Dakota into the Union he was the 
first United States senator elected. He was for a number of years attorney for the Home- 
stake Mining < pany of 1 1 and in 1879 removed to Deadwood, where he remained until 

I'- ycal previous to his death. His last days were spent in Los Angeles, California, his 
demise occurring there March 17. 1!i0l. lie served throughout the entire Civil war and held 

tin lank of col I iii tic Indiana regular troops. His widow is still living in Los Angeles, 

California. To them wire born five children, of whom Charles C. was the second in order of 
birth. 

( hail.s C. \1 ly attended SCl I in Indiana and in Yankton, South Dakota, and thus 

prepared himself for the duties and responsibilities of life. When eleven years of age he was 
employed on the Press and Dakotan of Yankton and continued with that paper until the 
family re veil to Deadwood in L879. For a considerable period he was associated with his 

aiii. i in-law in newspaper work and then becai litor and publisher of the Evening Press 




( II MILKS ( . .MuuDV 



HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 157 

in Deadwood. He removed the plant to Sturgis in 1884 and began the publication of the 
Sturgis Weekly Record, continuing to issue that paper for over two decades, or until his 
death, which occurred on the 26th of June, 1906. He possessed the journalist's highly devel- 
oped news sense, had a command of clear, forceful English, understood thoroughly the typo- 
graphical part of newspaper publication and was as well an able business man. Under his 
direction the Sturgis Weekly Record built up a large circulation list and gained a reputation 
as an excellent weekly. Since his demise his widow has continued its publication and has 
maintained the high standard established by Mr. Moody. 

On the 29th of December, 1880, Mr. Moody was united in marriage to Miss Hattie L. 
Warner, who was born in Chicago, Illinois, a daughter of Forter and Ellen (Davis) Warner, 
the former born in Birmingham, Massachusetts, March 17, 1836, and the latter in Syracuse, 
New York, June 5, 1841. At first Mr. Warner engaged in the newspaper business in his native 
state but later removed to Chicago, where he continued in that line of work. From that 
city he went to Denver, Colorado, which remained his home for ten years, but in 1876 he 
came to South Dakota, locating at Deadwood, where he established the Times, which he con- 
tinued to publish until his death. The paper was eventually consolidated with the Pioneer, 
more detailed mention of which is made elsewhere in this work. He was the receiver at the 
land oflice in Rapid City at the time of his death and also owned land in this state. He 
served throughout the Civil war as captain in an Illinois regiment and was wounded in the 
battle of Gettysburg. His widow now makes her home at Pasadena, California. Mrs. Moody 
is the oldest of her parents' eleven children and has become the mother of five daughters: 
Nellie, the wife of M. M. Brown, a resident of Sturgis and cashier of the First National Bank, 
by whom she has two children, Warner Moody and Helen Frances; Charity, who makes her 
home with her mother; Hattie and Alice, who died in infancy; and Dorothy, who passed away 
when twenty-one years of age. 

Mrs. Moody is not only the owner of the Sturgis Weekly Record but is also a stockholder 
in the Commercial National Bank of Sturgis and the Sturgis Lumber & Grain Company. She 
owns considerable farm and city property in this state and in the management of her inter- 
ests has proved a woman of marked business ability and sound judgment. 

Mr. Moody was a republican but never sought public office. Fraternally he was con- 
nected with the Masonic order and the Eagles and was popular not only in those organiza- 
tions but throughout the community in which he lived. His friends still cherish his memory 
and the Sturgis Weekly Record is a monument to his life of well directed activity. 



WILLIAM JOEL FANTLE. 



William Joel Fantle scarcely needs an introduction to the readers of this volume beyond 
the statement that he is one of the partners in the firm of Fantle Brothers, dry goods 
merchants of Yankton, for this house in which lie is interested is one of the foremost mercan- 
tile enterprises of the state and its policy is largely accepted as the standard of activity 
in that field. He bends every energy to the further upbuilding and development of the 
business and he comes of a family of merchants, so that his inherited tendency is in the line 
of his chosen vocation. 

Mr. Fantle was born in Ann Arbor, Michigan, on the 1st of March, isro. and was educated 
in the schools of that city and of St. Paul, Minnesota, the family having removed to the 
latter place when lie was in his twelfth year. After leaving school he was employed in a 
wholesale millinery house for one year and then entered his father's store, in which he was 
employed through the succeeding nine years, thoroughly acquainting himself with every 
phase of the business and gaining intimate and accurate knowledge of modern commercial 
methods. He recognized the fact that close application and unremitting energy are necessary 
to meet the competition of the present day and he has always cultivated those qualities. 
In 1893 he located in Yankton and entered the dry-goods business in partnership with his 
brother. Hoses Fantle. of whom mention is made elsewhere in this work. The venture was 
immediately successful, for their business methods at once won for them the confidence and 
patronage of the general public. Soon afterward they purchased the store of John McElroy, 
which they conducted until February. 1902, when the building with it-^ contents was entirely 



158 HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 

destroyed by fire. The new Btore, however, rose Phoenix-like from the ashes, for they imme- 
diately began rebuilding and in February, L903, their present store was opened to the public. 
Their business today constitutes one of the finest mercantile establishments of the state and 
is a monument to the genius, enterprise and progressiveness of the owners. The brothers 
constitute a strong combination, the efforts and ability of one ably supplementing and 
rounding out the labors of the other. 

On the L2th of July, 1898, Mr. Fantle was united in marriage to Miss Carrie E. Eiseman, 
a daughter of Charles and Seba (Lehman) Eiseman, who were pioneer settlers of Yankton, 
and the lather was one of the city's earliest merchants, continuing active in business there 
for a number of years, lb' is deceased but his wile now resides in Sioux City, Iowa. .Mr. and 
Mrs. Fantle are the parents of tour children, namely: Larena May, Willard Eiseman, Karl S. 
and Marion Belle. 

Mr. Fantle holds membership in the Commercial Club and is in hearty sympathy with 
its purposes and its efforts to upbuild the city and extend its business connections. For live 
years he served as its president and under his administration the club accomplished substan- 
tial results. In politics he is independent. In Masonry he has attained the thirty-second 
degree of the Scottish Rite and he also has membership with the Benevolent Protective Order 
of JClks. lie indulges in bunting, fishing and motoring when business leaves him time for 
recreation ami he is a devotee of all healthful outdoor sports. He also greatly enjoys travel 
ami has made extensive trips both in America and abroad. Genial, generous, and with well 
earned and well deserved prosperity, lie is one of Yankton's solid citizens. 



RICHARD F. LYONS. Si; 



Richard F. Lyons, Si., of Vermillion, is one of the well known citizens of Clay county. 
He «as born in Poughkeepsie, New York, on the lath of August, 1848, a son of Jeremiah 
and Ellen (Wlialen) Lyons, both natives of Ireland. The parents emigrated to America in 
1846 and settled in the state of New York. In 1849 the family removed to Chicago ami the 
father was a teaming contractor in the little city upon Lake Michigan which was just 
emerging from villagehood. In 1867 a removal was made to Winneshiek county, Iowa, and 
there the lather engaged in farming until 1884, when he came to South Dakota and settled 
in Madison, where hi' died in 1894, having survived bis wife since L889. Their family num- 
bered ten children: Margaret, the deceased wile of T. M. King, of Chicago; Bridget, the 
wife of John l!ci, of Madison, South Dakota, who arrived in this state in ISTS; Richard F.; 
Dennis A., of disco, Iowa, who for thirty years was engaged in the implement business and 
for eight years was a member of the Iowa senate but who is now living retired; Ellen, the 
deceased wile of .lames Coughlin, who was associated with our subject in the grain and 
mercantile business at Carthage, South Dakota, but who is now living retired; Jeremiah J., 
deceased, w lii > ill 1878 removed to South Dakota and fanned in Lake' county until his death 
11 1893; Mary, who died in 1S7S; Elizabeth, the wile of 1'. S. Einley. a farmer residing near 

Carthage, South Dakota; William F., who ci to South Dakota in lss:J and for a number 

of years engaged in farming in Lake county but. is now a resident of Charles Mix county; 
and Catherine, the wile of Morris Herrington, of Lake county. 

Richard F. Lyons, Sr., grew to manhood in Chicago and attended public schools there 
until he was a youth of eighteen years, when be accompanied his parents to Iowa. He 
remained upon his lather's farm for three years ami then engaged in the grain and live stock 
business upon his own account after working for others for two years. He continued to deal 
in grain ami live stock in Iowa until May. IsiS. when he came to South Dakota, and eirtered 
a homestead and timber claim in Lake county, Later he took up a preemption claim, upon 
which he proved up, commuting the homestead He then returned to [owa and reentered the 

grain and live-stock business, in which he i tinned in thai slat. til 1883. On again 

coming to South Dakota he engaged in the general merchandise and grain business at 
Carthage in partnership with dames Coughlin. In 1903 Mr. Lyons retired from active life 
and removed to Vermillion, where he is now living. In addition to his store be had other 
interests, as he owned considerable farm land and raised high grade live stock, making a 



HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 159 

specialty of horses. He also dealt to some extent in real estate. He still owns land near 
Carthage and retains an interest in the grain business at that place. 

Mr. Lyons was married in June, 1874, to Miss Jennie Shea, a native of Wisconsin and 
a daughter of Jeremiah and Katherine (Donlan) Shea, who were born in Ireland. The father, 
who was a fanner by occupation, settled in the state of New York after emigrating to this 
country but subsequently removed to Eagle Grove, Wisconsin. In 1868 he went with his 
family to Iowa, where both he and his wife passed away. To Mr. and Mrs. Lyons were 
born three children: Nellie C, the wife of Frank Smith, who was for a time cashier of the 
Bank of Carthage but is now an implement dealer of Walla Walla, Washington; Mary L., 
a business woman of Los Angeles; and Jennie, the wife of Earl Maloney, of Madison, South 
Dakota. The wife and mother passed to her reward in October, 1879. 

(in the 26th of June, 1882, Mr. Lyons was again married. Miss Sarah A. Donlan becoming 
Mb wife. She is a daughter of Thomas and Catherine (Begley) Donlan, natives of Ireland 
and England respectively. To the second union the following children have been burn: 
Thomas I)., a graduate of Notre Dame University and also of the law department of the 
gfniversity of Smith Dakota, who is now an attorney of Tulsa. Oklahoma; Jeremiah J.. » 
grain merchant of Carthage, this state: Richard F., a graduate of both the academic and 
law departments <>t the University of South Dakota, who is engaged in the practice of his 
profession ami is a member of the state investigating committee; Sarah A., principal of the 
high school of Vermillion, and a graduate of the University of South Dakota; Alice, who 
died at the age of seventeen years while a student in the State University of Smith Dakota; 
James A., who was graduated from the law department of the State University and who is 
practicing law in Sioux Falls in connection with his brother Richard F., the firm being 
Lyons & Lyons; Josephine, an alumna of the State University and a teacher of commercial 
subjects in that institution; Margaret, now attending the State University; Robert D., also 
a student in tin' State University ; William, attending high school in Vermillion; and Dennis 
A., in the public schools. 

Mr. I. vmis is a democrat and was a member of the constitutional convention of 1889 
which framed the organic law of the state. From 1908 to 1912 he was chairman of tin' state 
democratic committee and labored efficiently to secure the success of his party at the polls. 
Although he has been a leader in political circles in the state, lie has never desired office for 
himself. He is a communicant of the Catholic church and fraternally is a member of the 
Knights of Columbus, belonging to the Sioux Falls Council. He was one of the first to buy 
stock in the First National Life Insurance Company of Pierre, South Dakota, and is at 
present upon its board of directors. In former years he labored earnestly not only for his 
own advancement but for the public welfare and is now entitled to a time of leisure and 
freedom from care. However, he still gives his support to all public measures of value and 
takes a keen interest in everything relating to the general welfare. 



JAMF.S ROANE, M. D 



Dr. .lames Roane, whose student habits of college days have remained with him in all 
the years of his practice, making him an able physician, with liberal patronage in Yankton. 
was bom in Washington, I ). ( '.. January 28, 1860, a son of Archibald and Ruth (Allen) 

ELoane, the former a | linent attorney of the capital city and a native of Tennessee, and 

a member of one of the most distinguished old Virginia families, the ancestry having been 
there established in colonial days. 

Dr. Roane had especially good educational advantages and after completing a prepara- 
tory course entered the Georgetown University, when' he devoted seven years to the 
mastery of classical branches. Me then began f he study of medicine in the medical 
department of the same university and won his professional degree a- a member of the 

class of lss\!. Inn liately after his graduation he was appointed acting assistant surgeon 

in the United stales army, department of the Rio Grande, with headquarters at Fort Ring 
gold, Texas, an. I after tillni". that position lor a year returned to Washington. 

In 1883 Dr. Roane arrived in Yankton, where he opened an office and began tic 
practice oi i licine, remaining here continuously since sine for several years spent in Euro- 



160 HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 

pean travel and the pursuit of post-graduate and research work in the famous clinics cm the 

continent and in Greal Britain. Study under and investigation of the methods of soi t 

the most eminent practitioners of the old world have greatly augmented liis knowledge and 
promoted Ids efficiency and today he is recognized in his section of South Dakota as a prac : 
titioner of broad learning capable, resourceful and conscientious in his practice. He is a 
mber of the South Dakota state Medical Association, the Eighth District Medical Asso- 
ciation and the American Medical Association. Since his college days he has remained a 
constant student, keeping in touch with the advanced thought and scientific researches of the 
day. and he has contributed numerous articles to the leading American medical journals. 

In April, 1894, was celebrated the marriage of Dr. Roane and Miss Maude Hay-den Hush, 
a daughter of William ( '. and Frances Josephine (Hayden) Bush, both of Rochester. New 
York. In his political views Dr. Roane is a democrat, but, while well versed on the ques- 
tions 'and issues of the day. has no political aspirations. He is prominent in Masonry, 
holding membership in Oriental Consistory. No. 1, and El Riad Temple, A. A. 0. X. M. S., and 
in 1914 lie was honored by election to the office of senior grand warden, grand lodge A. 1'. 
& A. M. of Smith Dakota, lie is also identified with the Elks and he has membership 
in the Episcopal church. Today, as the result of his laudable ambition, his close application 
and his earnest study, lie is prosperous and prominent both in the profession and socially. 



Hi )X. CHARLES HENRY BURKE. 

lion. Charles Henry Burke, who as a member of the fifty-sixth, fifty-seventh, fifty-eighth, 
fifty-ninth, sixty-first, sixty-second and sixty-third congresses represented South Dakota iu 
the national house of representatives for fourteen years, makes his home in Pierre, where he 
will later engage in active business. The Burke family of which he is a representative is of 
Norman origin and with the Butlers and Fitzgeralds is ranked with the most distinguished 
of the Norman Irish. The ancestor of the Irish Burkes was William Fitz-Aldelm-de-Burgo; 

who aci lpanied King Henry II to Ireland as his steward in 1171 A. D. The family was 

related by the ties of Id I to that of William (he Conqueror. Two of them, Robert de Burgd 

and his brother William, were with the Norman c [ueror at the invasion of England, and 

the former was afterward created Earl of Cornwall, hi the reign of King John the Burkes 
obtained large possessions in Connnught through rivalry and quarrels with the O'Connors. 
Becoming powerful, they subsequently renounced their allegiance to the kings of England 
and adopted the Irish language, dress and customs and compelled all other families of 
Norman origin in Connaught to do likewise. Two of them became Irish chiefs and settled 
in what is now embraced in the present County Mayo. Other branches settled iu Limerick, 
Clare and Tipperary. Many members id' the family attained distinction in military achieve- 
ments, while others won fame along literary lines. Edmund Burke, "one of the greatest sous 
of men," was of this family. John Burke, tic celebrated genealogist who established "Burke's 
Peerage," was also of this family. Thomas Burke, of Revolutionary war fame a- a writer 

and patriot, was a native of Galway, Ireland, and became governor of North Carolina. Robert 

OTIara Burke, the celebrated Australian explorer, was a native of Galway and also of this 
family. Joseph Burke, an uncle of Charles Henry Hurke. acquired renown both n Europe 
and America as an actor ami violinist and almost in his infancy was a histrionic and musical 
prodigy, lie played in Great Britain and the United Stales before immense audiences, his 
ability being ace. united the most, astounding instance of precocious talent the musical world 
has ever known. Constant study and practice i tinually developed his talent and his stand- 
ing as an artist is indicated in the fact that he was chosen to accompany Jenny land on her 
tout ei th.- United States in ls:,o in the role of violinist. Me afterward became her treas- 
urer and private secretary as wcdl as her musical director. He was born in Galway, Inland, 
in ISIT. ami died in liatavia, New York, in L90S. 

Dr. Mile- Burke, the grandfather of Charles H. Burke and a native of Galway, Ireland, 
was a physician ami surgeon of wide repute who was graduated from a famous school of 
surgery of London, England, in 1809 and afterward practiced in Ireland for a number of 
years, lie emigrated to America in 1830, taking up his abode iu New York city, where 







HON. ( ii \i:i.i> ii. r.i rke 



HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 163 

he resided for a number of years. Subsequently he removed to Troy, New York, and finally 
to Canada, near Niagara Falls, where his demise occurred in 1845. 

Walter Burke, his son and the father of Charles H. Burke, was also a native of County 
Galway, born November 10, 1820. He came to America in 1830 with his father. Following 
the death of his father he located, in 1846, in Genesee county, New York, purchasing and 
settling upon Summerville Farm, where he continued to live and carry on agricultural pursuits 
the remainder of his life, passing away in 1911 at the venerable age of ninety-one years. 
He was married in 1856 to Miss Sarah T. Beckwith, who was born in Connecticut, October 
17. L828. While Mr. Burke is a representative of an old and noted Irish family on the paternal 
side, his ancestral record in the maternal line is traced back through the history of one of 
the prominent old New England families. The maternal grandfather of Mrs. Burke was 
Nathan Tinker, a Revolutionary soldier and pensioner, and her father, Josiah Beckwith, was 
a soldier in the War of 1812. Mrs. Burke, the mother of Charles H. Burke, was a school 
teacher in her younger days, being a lady of liberal education and wide culture. She died 
in 1907. Mr. and Mis. Walter Burke became the parents of five children who lived to matur- 
ity, as follows: Catherine Elizabeth, who is the wife of C. J. Harris, of Genesee county, 
New York; Joseph W.. residing on Summerville Farm, the. old homestead in Genesee county, 
New York; Charles Henry, of this review; Lulu .]., who is the wife of John G. Torrance, of 
Batavia, New York; and Grace, a resident of Batavia, New York. 

Charles Henry Burke was born on Summerville Farm April 1, 1861, and there his boyhood 
days were passed, his early education being acquired in tin' rural schools of the neighbor- 
hood. At one period in his life he drove five miles to and from school each day while doing 
the ordinary farm chores morning and evening. During the summer seasons he worked as 
other farm boys usually do, assisting more and more largely in the labors of the Melds as his 
years increased until he was making a full "hand" upon the place. When he was still in 
his teens he secured a teacher's certificate and taught for four months in the year, covering 
the winter season, while the remainder of his time was devoted to active farm work. Imme- 
diately after attaining his majority, on the 6th of May, 1882, he started for the west witli 
capital nnly sufficient to take him to his destination — Moorhead, Minnesota. There he secured 
employment at the carpenter's trade in the midst of a building boom. He faced life with 
Courage and determination and each day saw him farther advanced because of the good use 
he made of his time and opportunities and the lessons which he. learned from experience. In 
the summer of the same year he joined a former New York friend of about his own age in a 
mercantile venture at Broadland, Beadle county, South Dakota, and at the same time home- 
steaded. Alter a year he removed to Blunt, Hughes county, and in 18S7 he became a resi- 
dent of Pierre, where he has since made his home. When he took up his abode at Blunt in 
the spring of 1883 he entered into partnership witli Caldwell & Smith, of Union, in the land 
and real-estate business, ami while negotiating property transfers he devoted the hours whieh 
arc usually termed leisure to the study of law and was admitted to the bar in 1886. He then 
entered upon active practice, which he followed in connection with the conduct of his real- 
Mate business at Blunt until September, is:*?, when he removed to Pierre and entered the 
employ of the Security Mortgage & Investment Company, in which connection advancement 
brought him to the position of manager. He continued in that capacity until he closed up 
the coin]. anv's business and subsequently he became a member of the law firm of Burke & 
Goodner of Pierre, which connection was dissolved when Mi. Burke was elected to congress. 

Previous to his congressional experience, however, he took an active part in local and 
st;it. affairs. In 181)0 he was secretary of the Pierre capital committee, in which capacity 
he devoted eight months almost exclusively to campaign work, his labors proving most effective 
and winning him high appreciation. From the beginning of his public service he lias been 
veiv forceful in political circles and in 1894 was elected on the republican ticket to the 
state legislature, in which hi' served for two terms. His ability as a lawmaker was quickly 
recognized, for his course showed that he readily grasped tic various phases of the different 
questions which came up for settlement and that in all of his Legislative work he was actuated 
by a desire to further the public good. 

Accordingly in L898, appreciative of his worth in the general assembly, Mr, Burke was 
nominated by the republicans as a candidate for one of two congressmen at large and 
elected in Sovembei of the same year. During his lirst term in congress his course met the 
highest expectations of his constituents so well that in the three succeeding nominating c- 



Ifil IIISTi )RY < >F SOUTH DAKOTA 

mentions, in 1900, 1902 and L904, he was nominated bj acclamation and elected in each suc- 
ceeding election. In 1906 he was defeated in convention but was again i linated in June, 

1908, in a statewide primarj and elected to the sixty-first congress, and reelected to the sixty- 
second and sixty-third congresses. Mr. Burke's congressional career is one which reflects 
honor and credit upon the state which honored him, his service being most useful to his dis- 
trict, to lii- commonwealth and to the nation. During the sixty-first congress he was chair- 
man of the important c< nittee on Indian affairs, succeeding Vice President Sherman in 

that capacity, and during the sixty-sec 1 and sixty-third congresses lie was the ranking 

minority member ot that committee. He was also a member of the committee on interstate 

and foreign co lerce in the fifty-eighth and fifty-ninth congresses, which committee had 

charge of the famous Hepburn rate bill. During the sixty-third congress he was the "repub- 
lican whip," an indication "i his standing among his colleagues. During the sixty-first con- 
gn ss he was chairman of the special committee that investigated the due charges in Okla- 
homa ami he was a member dining the sixty-third congress of the joint Indian commission 
from the house ami senate, of which Senator Robinson was chairman, this commission having 
mil investigating powers mi all general Indian affairs. At the same time he was a mem- 
ber of the special c mission to investigate and report on the Yakima Indian reservation 

irrigation project of Washington and the New Mexico Indian tubercular sanitarium, of 
which subject the commission made an exhaustive study ami reported fully to congress. In 
L913 -Mr. Burke announced his retirement to private life, owing to three severe surgical opera- 
tions which he had undergone. In January, 1!H4. in spite of Mr. Burke's linn opposition ami 
without In- sanction, his friends proposed him a- a republican nominee lor I'nitod Slates 
senatorial honors as the opponent o) Senator (raw lord, a representative of another faction 
of the republican party. Mr. Burke was nominated over Crawford in the primaries, carry- 
ing forty-one of the sixty-one counties, but was defeated at the general election of N'ovember, 
19] I. ii\ the de -rath- candidate. Ed S. Johnson of Yankton. 

i in the 14th of January, 1886, .Mr. Burke was united in marriage to Miss Caroline Schlos- 
ser, a native ot Lodi, Wisconsin, by whom hi' has foui children, a- follow-: Grace, who is the 
wile of Milton 1'. Goodner, of Seattle, Washington; Elizabeth, at home; Walter II., a resi- 
dent of Chicago; ami Josephine I-, who was horn in Washington. I). C. and i- also at home. 

Mr. Burke is now living retired temporarily save for tin' supervision which he gives to 
his personal property interest.- and investments. He is a director of the Pierre National 
Bank hut otherwise i- not before the public in nn\ business connection. During territorial 
day- he was a member of the militia of South Dakota. Fraternally he is identified with 
the following organizations: Pierre Lodge, No. 27, A. K & A. M.-. Pierre Chapter, No. 22, R. 
A. M.; Pierre Commandery, No. 21, K. T.; the Ancient Order of United Workmen; and the 
Benevolent Protective Order of Elks. The religious faith of Mr. Burke is that ol the Episcopal 
church, lie holds membership in Trinity church at Pierre, in which he is serving as vestry- 
man and treasurer. He is -t popular among his fellow town-men and the sterling traits 

of his character are indicated by the fact that he is most highly esteemed where best known. 

It would be an in iplete and unsatisfactory record of ( harles II. Burke if there was no 

mention made of the opinion- which have been expressed < lerning him by his colleagues in 

pub i li it has been through his congressional service that he has become best known 

to it at i \ When it was known thai he would retire from congress, in Mai eh. L907, Hpn. 

William P. Hepburn of Iowa, chairman of the committee on interstate and foreign commerce, 
appoint. d from thai committee a committee which made the following report: "That the 

coi ittee on interstate and foreign commerce, upon which the Honorable < harles II. I'.urke 

has served fot tvi tigresses, hereby express il- sincere regrets that our colleague will no 

be mbei oi the house aftei March 1th next, and that his mbershi] this com- 
mittee will end. It is the unanimous opinion of tins committee, made known in regular 

commit! iting, at which everj member was present, that bj the retirement of Mr. Burke 

i the house this committee loses an able and most efficient and faithful representative, 

one who at all times has devoted his time, ability and attention to the public business, and 
by his courtesy, kindness, and gentlemanly bearing, has endeared himself to all who knew 

him, but i particular]} to the members of this committee." On the same occasion Mr. 

Hepburn said: "Youi c les on II ommittee are not willing thai this connection should 

be terminated without mam an expression a.- to their regret-, and I hey have deputed me to 
strive to express to you in pail, their feelings. You have been a tuber of the committee 



HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 165 

for many years. Your industry, your punctuality, the interest you have always shown when 
on the duties with which it has been charged, and the high order of ability you have brought 
to hear upon all questions it has considered, have marked you as one of its most valued mem- 
bers. These qualities could not have been exhibited as they have without doing something 
more than winning our respect. They call for out admiration, in largest measure our con- 
fidence. As a slight mark of our high appreciation of your persona] and valued qualities, the 
committee have procured this service which I am directed to present to you as coming from 
all the members. It is an expression of affection and admiration for your splendid virtues 
of courage, fortitude, intelligence, and gentleness, which arc marked essentials in your char- 
acter, and in part the qualities that make us love you. In this parting our regrets are very 
many and lasting, but wherever you go you may be assured that you carry with you our 
best and kindliest wishes for your well-being—that the future may have in store lor you 
only the choicest of blessings." 

dames R. Mann, in his characteristic and vigorous way, spoke of Mr. Burke as follows: 
"We know him to be great. He has made good on this committee, he lias made good as a 
public servant. Men come and go in public life; they appear and disappear from the halls 
of congress. The world goes on much the same, but I venture to believe that few men have 
made so great an impression in the present house of representatives during his term of serv- 
ice as has Charles H. Burke. He has established himself in the absolute confidence of this 
committee, which, in my opinion, is the greatest committee in the house. Our committee 
deals with more subjects covering a greater variety in interests than any other committee of 
congress. It takes hard work and long experiei to become of the greatest value in this com- 
mittee. By his assiduous devotion to his public work, by his conscientious efforts to study 
the work coming before our committee, Mr. Burke has made himself so valuable to us that 
we who remain will miss him more than we can tell." 

"1 have had peculiar opportunity to learn of Congressman Burke's personal qualities," 
said Congressman Esch of Wisconsin. "[ have been impressed with his industry, his good 
judgment, his attention to duty and his high ideals." With genuine warmth. Congress- 
man Townsend, of Michigan, spoke in part as follows: "I have learned to respect and admire 
Mr. Burke for his modest, earnest and effectual work on this committee, lb' is differently 
constituted from myself, and I have profited by his example. 1 have known him outside "t 
tin- committee room. It is said that one must 'summer and winter with a man' in order to 
know him well. Since I came to Washington I have lived nt the same hotel with our col- 
league and in his modest, unassuming manner there, the same as here, he won his way into 
the hearts of all. I trust, and believe that the same qualities of heart ami head which have 
made his congressional life so great a success, will enable him to render even greater service 
1" his state and this during what I hope will be the many years to come." 

One of Mr. Burke's democratic colleagues in congress, Mr. Adamson of Georgia, said: 
"In my association with Charles II. Burke here as man, member of committee and con- 
gressman, I have admired in him the highest merit, exercised with the most beautiful i lesty. 

Patient, industrious and wise, polite and considerate of his opponents, vigilant with adver- 

-■ 9j I"' stands a splendid example of a great, useful congressman. His sincere and genial 

disposition, constantly doing kindnesses, make all love him. lie gives the most tiplete 

exhibition of generous unselfishness I have ever observed in I lie c luct of any man. lie never 

loses In- temper. He uses intellect in transacting business. He analyzes the issue with 
hi- mind and is convinced by his reason. He will rank with the greatesl and with the best 
ami brightest who have served mankind in these hall-." 

At Hi., conclusion ol the consideration of tin- Indian appropriation bill in the house ol 
representatives on January 9, 1915 (See Cong. Rec, p. l".(.i). the chairman of the committee, 
Mi. Stephens, yielded to tie- republican loader. .Mr. Mann of Illinois, who said: 

"Mr. Speaker, I think it i- quite appropriate for me to saj a word, under the circum- 
stances, conveying at least the best wishes ol the House to those members of the Committee 
on Indian Affairs who will not be with us in the next House. 

"There are eighl oi them who go oil' the committee. On this side of the House two ol 

11 Idest members in point of service upon the eo ittee will retire. Two of the ablest 

Members on this side of the House will g i of the Hon-,, and off the Committei Indian 

Affairs. The gentleman from South Dakota (MR. BURKE) has shown that he is one of the 
most capable men who ever sat in this Hall and our of the men who had the most intimal. 



166 HISTORY OF SOUTH DAKOTA 

knowledge of the intricacies of Indian affairs. While we on tins side of the House had hoped 
Btill to have his services in another body, we sineerelj regret that we are to part with his 
services. Mr. Burke, in my opinion, has at different times, both as chairman and as membei 
ol the i hi ittee on Indian Affairs, saved to this Government and to the Indians many mil- 
lions of dollars, and we could well have afforded, so far as money considerations are concerned, 
to have paid him a pension for life in order that he might give us his knowledge and his 
sound judgment of Indian affairs. 

"1 Bay the same kind words to the gentleman from Oklahoma (MR. McGUIRE), and 1 
extend the best wishes of this Bide of the House to the Members on the other side of the 
Souse who are going off this great Committee on Indian Affairs, where more sen ice is rendered 
that is not of a personal interest to Members, probably, than on any other committee of the 
House." (APPLAUSE.) 



SAMUEL AUGUSTINE BROWN, M. D. 

Samuel Augustine Brown, M. 1)., a graduate of Jefferson Medical College of Philadelphia, 
has since 187] devoted his attention to the practice of medicine and surgery and is regarded 
as erne of the ablest representatives of the profession in Sioux Falls. Moreover, lie is promi- 
nent in Masonic and church circles and his life along many lines has been one of beneficence to 
those with whom he has come in contact. 

lie was horn at North Cove, North Carolina, June 25, 1848, a son of John S. and Rebecca 
(Burnett) Brown. The family is of English lineage. The first representative of the name 
in America came from England with William Penn and the great-grandfather of Dr. Brown 
in the maternal line was killed at the battle of Kings Mountain. 

After attending the public schools to the age of thirteen years, Dr. Brown received 
private instruction for four years and in 1867 entered upon the study of medicine at Marion, 
North Carolina. Two years later, or in 1869, he matriculated in Jefferson Medical College at 
Philadelphia and was graduated therefrom with the class c ,t L871. In that summer he pursued 
several special courses, after which he applied to the navy department at Washington for 
permission to appear before the board of examiners fur the medical corps. This led to his 

appoint nt as assistant surgeon in the United States navy, with the relative rank of 

ensign. Alter a short service at the naval hospital in Norfolk, Virginia, he was detailed to 
the old sloop of war Marion. Congress had then decided to build no more war ships, being 
willing lo giant money only for repairs. Under the designation "repairs" it was decided to 
make ii new ship out of the Marion, which was notoriously iinscaworthy but which, accord- 
ing lo orders, must report at the navy yard at Kittery, Maine, which had been selected as Hie 
place where the new ship should he built. A crew of seasoned seamen ami experienced naval 
officers was detailed to take the Marion to Kittery, but the officers as far as possible obtained 
a leave of absence ami thus it was that Dr. Brown was detailed as surgeon. On the trip 
north the Marion encountered severe weather such as even a sailor seldom sees in the course 
oi .i lifetime, and it was only with the greatest difficulty thai the ship was finally lowed 

into Kittery. In the antime she had been given up as lost and Dr. liruwii I on ml his obituary 

with those oi other officers on board in the New York Herald. Later he returned to Norfolk, 
made a cruise to Elizabeth City by way of the Dismal Swamp and was then ordered to the 
I ii it i'il stale- steamship Powhata