Madison County Biographies

Madison County

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Asmus,Carl	Carl Asmus, general merchandise, was born in Prussia; came to West Point, Neb., in 1867; the following year he went to the Rocky Mountains; in the fall of 1868, returned to West Point, took a homestead, engaged in farming, and, later, in the liquor business; in 1871, came to Norfolk, opened a small store. His business has rapidly increased. He now owns and occupies a very fine brick store 23×80 feet, built in 1880, cost about $8,000. By strict attention to business, Mr. Asmus has acquired this and other property since coming to Nebraska. Cutler, William G.Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska. Chicago, Illinois: Western Historical Publishing Company. 1882-1883.
Barnes, F. W	F. W. Barnes, firm of Barnes & Tyrrel, bankers, is a native of Dutchess County, N. Y. In 1866, the family came to Columbus, Neb. May 3, 1867, they removed to Madison County, where he has since resided. Mr. Barnes entered 160 acres, on which the town of Madison is now situated. He laid out this town in 1870. In 1872, he engaged in banking, also in real estate, has since been engaged in this business. He has held the offices of County Surveyor, County Judge, Town Treasurer, Town Clerk and other offices. Cutler, William G.Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska. Chicago, Illinois: Western Historical Publishing Company. 1882-1883.
Barnes, W. J.	W. J. Barnes, proprietor of Madison Hotel, is a native of Dutchess County, N. Y. In the spring of 1866, the family came to Columbus, Neb. The following year, they removed to Madison County, where he has since resided. The family are among the first 24 settlers of the county. His brother pre-empted this land and laid out this town. His father pre-empted a quarter section on the north. W. J. also pre-empted a quarter section, making about one section which the family entered. He has since been engaged in farming, and has recently opened this house. Cutler, William G.Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska. Chicago, Illinois: Western Historical Publishing Company. 1882-1883.
Bauch, Phil	Phil Bauch, Editor Madison Chronicle was born in Kankakee, Ill. Came, with his parents, to Madison in 1871. They engaged in merchandising, which they continued till 1878. This paper was established in 1877. Cutler, William G.Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska. Chicago, Illinois: Western Historical Publishing Company. 1882-1883.
Bear, Alex Dr.	Dr. Alex. Bear, physician and surgeon, is a native of Virginia. After completing a common course of studies, he attended the University of Virginia, in 8554, 1855-56; graduated from the University of Maryland in 1860; in 1865, came to Fremont, where he took up the practice of medicine; he also practiced in West Point from 1871 to 1873. He then came to Norfolk, where he has since been actively engaged in the practice of his profession. He is the oldest practicing physician on the Elkhorn Valley. He has been a member of the State Senate two terms, and member of the House of Representatives one term. He has also been Regent of the State University. Cutler, William G.Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska. Chicago, Illinois: Western Historical Publishing Company. 1882-1883.
Becker, H. E.	H. E. Becker, furniture and undertaking, is a native of Germany. In 1853, came to New York. Soon after, removed to Connecticut. There followed the carpenter trade. He enlisted, in 1861, in Company I, Tenth Regiment Connecticut Infantry; was discharged in 1864; returned to Connecticut; continued the carpenter trade. In 1874, came to Madison, Neb. Soon after, established this business. Mr. B. was one term County Commissioner. He is Chairman of the Board of Trustees; has been a member since 1876. He is also Secretary of the Madison Town Hall and Court House Association. Was also School Director for one term. Cutler, William G.Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska. Chicago, Illinois: Western Historical Publishing Company. 1882-1883.
Bridenstine, S. J. Dr.	Dr. S. J. Bridenstine, physician and surgeon, is a native of Pennsylvania. When a child, came to Johnson County, Iowa, with his parents. He attended the State University about six years; graduated from the medical department in 1875. He then came to Madison, where he has since actively engaged in his profession. He is one of the Commissioners of Insanity for Madison County. He is also surgeon for the Omaha, Niobrara & Black Hills Railroad. Cutler, William G.Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska. Chicago, Illinois: Western Historical Publishing Company. 1882-1883.
Bugelow, A.	A. Bigelow, wines and liquors, born in Wyoming County, N. Y. There he was raised. He enlisted in 1862, in Company A, First New York Dragoons; served three years. In 1866, he came to Clayton County, Iowa, and engaged in the liquor business. In 1870, he came to Madison County, took a homestead of 160 acres, located six miles north of Norfolk; this farm he has improved, and now rented. In 1875, he came to Norfolk, and has since been engaged in this business. He is also agent for Krug’s Omaha Beer. Cutler, William G.Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska. Chicago, Illinois: Western Historical Publishing Company. 1882-1883.
Clark, P. A.	P. A. Clark, coal and farm machinery was born in Otsego County, N. Y. Came to Decatur, Ill. In 1861, attended the State Normal School of Bloomington; also engaged in teaching. Graduated from that institution in 1866. He continued teaching till 1868, when he came to Fremont, Neb. Was engaged in insurance and implement business about two years. In the spring of 1870, returned to Bureau County. Taught school there about two years. He then went to Chicago, and sold school furniture about three years. He then removed to Peoria; was traveling partner in a wholesale drug and spice house three years. In 1878, came to Omaha; was engaged in the same business one year. In 1879, came to Madison, where he has since been engaged in his present business. He has been County Surveyor of Madison County. Is now Assessor of Union Creek Precinct. He owns the most of an eighty in the midst of the thriving town of Madison, and was a prime mover in acquiring the present railroad, to enhance his possessions. Cutler, William G.Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska. Chicago, Illinois: Western Historical Publishing Company. 1882-1883.
Daniel, D. R. Dr.	Dr. D. R. Daniel, druggist and physician, is a native of Independence, Va. In 1869, he commenced the study of medicine; came to Omaha March 17, 1872. In the fall of this year, he attended the State University of Iowa, and graduated from the Washington University, of Baltimore, February 24, 1876. He has practiced medicine in Norfolk and vicinity since 1873. In the fall of 1876, he was appointed United States Examining Surgeon of Pensions He has also been Examining Surgeon for the Union Pacific Railroad. November, 1878, he opened this drug store, which he has since continued. Cutler, William G.Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska. Chicago, Illinois: Western Historical Publishing Company. 1882-1883.
Donaldson, I. B.	I. B. Donaldson, of the firm of I. B. Donaldson & Co., Norfolk City Bank, is a native of Morrison, Whiteside Co., Ill. In 1869, he was employed in book-keeping at the First National Bank, Morrison, Ill. Has since been engaged at this business. February, 1882, came to Norfolk, and established this bank. Cutler, William G.Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska. Chicago, Illinois: Western Historical Publishing Company. 1882-1883.
Findeisen, L. W.	L. W. Findeisen, firm of Horst & Findeisen, hardware, stoves and tinware, is a native of New Franken, Brown Co., Wis. Assisted on their farm. In 1871, he began to learn the tinner’s trade at Green Bay, Wis. September 1, 1875, went to the Northern Indiana Normal School. Afterward taught school for two years in Brown and Kewanee Counties. June, 1878, came to Columbus, Neb. There clerked in a tin and hardware store. In February, 1880, came to Silver Creek, Neb. The same year came to Madison, and established this business. Cutler, William G.Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska. Chicago, Illinois: Western Historical Publishing Company. 1882-1883.
Fletcher, George B.	George B. Fletcher, attorney at law, was born February 20, 1845, in Lowell, Ohio; raised in Anamosa, Iowa. After finishing his preparatory course of studies, he attended the Sinsinawa Mound College about two and one-half years. About the close of the war, he went south, and was connected with the Government service. In 1867, returned to Jones County. The following year, he removed to Dubuque, Iowa, and commenced reading law with Barker & Shields; returned to Anamosa, and continued the study of law with George W. Field; was admitted to the bar at Council Bluffs, July, 1870. He then went to West Point; taught school about six months. March, 1873, came to Norfolk, where he has since resided. He is the oldest admitted attorney in the county. In 1875, he was a candidate for District Attorney on the Democratic ticket; was defeated by J. B. Barnes. In 1879, he was a candidate for District Attorney on the Democratic ticket; was defeated by C. C. McNish, by a majority of 355, the nearest approach to a Democratic victory ever made in this district He was appointed, in 1876, County Judge, to fill an unexpired term; served about six months; was one term a member of the State Democratic Central Committee. He has always taken an active part in organizing and nominating members to the Legislature and other offices. Cutler, William G.Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska. Chicago, Illinois: Western Historical Publishing Company. 1882-1883.
Fricke, Herman	Herman Fricke, wines and liquors, is a native of Hanover. In 1861, came to McHenry County, Ill.; engaged in farming. In 1863, came to Richardson County, Neb.; also engaged in farming. In 1880, he removed to Madison, and engaged in his present business. Married, in 1866, Johannah Ruegge, of Hanover. They have eight children–three sons and five daughters. Cutler, William G.Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska. Chicago, Illinois: Western Historical Publishing Company. 1882-1883.
Fritz, F. W.	F. W. Fritz, County Treasurer and firm of Fritz & Wolf, Madison Mills, is a native of Prussia. In 1856, came to Dodge County, Wis., with his parents. There assisted on their farm. Enlisted, in February, 1864, in Company H, Thirty-sixth Wisconsin Infantry; served to the end of the war. In 1865, came to Hardin County, Iowa; engaged in farming. In 1870, removed to West Point; engaged in merchandising, grain and implement business; also ran a branch store at Wisner; continued this unti11873. He then came to Madison, and commenced the erection of this grist-mill, which was completed in the fall of 1873. He was also engaged in merchandising here about two years. In the fall of 1879, he was elected County Treasurer; was again elected in the fall of 1881. Cutler, William G.Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska. Chicago, Illinois: Western Historical Publishing Company. 1882-1883.
Gerecke, Herman	Herman Gerecke, of the firm of Pilger & Gerecke, lumber, is a native of Prussia; came with his parents to Dodge County, Wis. In 1854, there worked on a farm. December, 1861, he enlisted in Company C, Sixteenth Wisconsin Infantry; was discharged on account of a wound received in battle April 6, 1862. The following year he came to Decatur, Neb.; again enlisted in Company C, Seventh Iowa Cavalry; was mustered out May 26, 1866. In 1869, he came to Norfolk; followed the mill-wright trade until1878, when he, with Mr. Pilger, established that business. Cutler, William G.Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska. Chicago, Illinois: Western Historical Publishing Company. 1882-1883.
Gerecke, William	William Gerecke, County Clerk, is a native of Germany. In 1854, he came to Dodge County, Wis., where he remained until 1872, when he came to Norfolk and opened a harness shop. This business he still carries on–firm of Spaulding & Gerecke. He was elected County Treasurer in the fall of1877. In the fall of 1879, he was elected County Clerk. Cutler, William G.Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska. Chicago, Illinois: Western Historical Publishing Company. 1882-1883.
Hayes, C. S.	C. S. Hayes, jeweler and dealer in musical instruments, is a native of Orleans County, Vt. In 1871, he came to Cedar Rapids, Iowa, learned his trade with A. C. Taylor, where he worked four and one-half years. In 1876, he removed to Blairstown, Iowa; there opened a jewelry store, where he remained about five years. July, 1881, he came to Norfolk, where he has since carried on this business in all its branches. He carries the most complete stock of watches and jewelry, silver and plated ware, musical instruments and sewing machines of any house in Northern Nebraska. Mr. H. will take pleasure in having all call and examine his extensive stock before purchasing elsewhere. It should be remembered that all work is warranted. Cutler, William G.Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska. Chicago, Illinois: Western Historical Publishing Company. 1882-1883.
Hayes, Samuel W. Hon	Hon. Samuel W. Hayes, firm of McClary & Co., general merchandise and coal, is a native of Strafford County, N. H. In 1849, went to California, where he remained about three years. In 1852, came to Burlington, Iowa. Was employed in the construction of the Burlington & Missouri Railroad; continued with this company about eight years. Was commissioned Commissary Sergeant in the Thirty-sixth Iowa Infantry; remained with the regiment till the spring of 1866. He then came to Fremont; engaged in merchandising. In the fall of 1873, came to Norfolk, where he has since been engaged in merchandising. Was a member of the State Senate from Dodge County in 1872-73; also a member of the Senate from Madison County in 1877. For the past thirty-five years, he has been a member of the Masonic Order. Is now Senior Grand Warden of the state. Cutler, William G.Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska. Chicago, Illinois: Western Historical Publishing Company. 1882-1883.
Hoffman, F.	F. Hoffmann, jeweler and watchmaker, is a native of France. In 1874, came to New York City; worked at the Marion, N. J., watch factory about two years. In 1876, came to Elgin, Ill.; worked at the Elgin Watch factory about two and a half years. March, 1880, came to Madison, where he has since carried on this business. Married, in 1855, Anna Champion, of Switzerland. They have three sons–Louis P. (now Deputy County Treasurer), Charles and Julius. Cutler, William G.Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska. Chicago, Illinois: Western Historical Publishing Company. 1882-1883.
Jones, B. W.	B. W. Jones, groceries and crockery, was born in Mecklenburg, Germany; learned the tailor’s trade; worked at it there about seven years. In 1872, came to La Porte, Ind. There he followed this trade. In 1875, came to Adams County, Iowa; continued at this trade. In 1879, came to Wisner; was clerk for August Dorrman about six months; also at Oakdale. He, with Mr. Dworak, bought out Mr. Dorrman; continued this business about three months. He then sold out his interest, and came to Norfolk; opened a restaurant, with a capital of $85. Six months later, he opened a crockery and grocery store, the first of the kind in town. He is now doing a very good business, carrying a stock of about $1,800. Cutler, William G.Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska. Chicago, Illinois: Western Historical Publishing Company. 1882-1883.
Kelly, H. D.	H. D. Kelly, firm of Searles & Kelly, attorney at law. Mr. K. commenced the study of law in Ohio; in the spring of 1877 came to Belle Plaine, Benton Co., Iowa, also continued his studies; he attended the State University, graduated from the Law Department in 1880; he then commenced the practice of law in Cedar Rapids; May, 1881, came to Madison; has since been a member of this firm. Cutler, William G.Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska. Chicago, Illinois: Western Historical Publishing Company. 1882-1883.
Kimball, William E. Rev.	Rev. William E. Kimball, pastor of the Presbyterian Church. Is a native of Frankfort, Herkimer Co., N. Y. Enlisted in Company H, Fifteenth New York Cavalry, August 3,1863; promoted to the office of Corporal, and served until August 21, 1865, Prepared for college at Cazenovia Seminary, New York; entered Hamilton College, New York, in 1872, and graduated in June 1876: entered Princeton Theological Seminary, New Jersey, the same year, and graduated from that institution April 29, 1879. Took charge of the Madison Presbyterian Church July 4, 1879; was ordained September 17, 1879, by the Presbytery of Omaha; served the Creston and Humphrey churches in connection with the Madison Church for three years, and now (July, 1882), gives his whole time and service to Madison. Was married, May 10, 1881, to Miss Linda E. Brown, of Sturbridge, Mass. Cutler, William G.Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska. Chicago, Illinois: Western Historical Publishing Company. 1882-1883.
Koenigstein, J.	J. Koenigstein, druggist, is a native of Bavaria, Rhine. In 1854, came to Cincinnati, Ohio. In 1855, went to Monroe County, Ill, and worked on their farm. In 1859, came to St. Louis, and learned the drug trade. In the fall of 1861, he enlisted in Company F, Forty-third Illinois Volunteer Infantry; served three years and eight months, was wounded, and taken prisoner at the battle of Jenkins’ Ferry, Ark. April 30, 1864, was confined in Camp Fort, Tex.; released February 15, 1865, and returned to Monroe County, Ill. In 1871, came to Watertown, Wis. There opened a drug store; continued two years. February 15, 1873, came to Norfolk, Neb., and established the drug business. He now owns and occupies one of the best arranged drug stores in the State of Nebraska, which was built in 1880. He also owns the store adjoining west of it, and cost about $15,000. Mr. K. is Treasurer of the School Board, and member of the Town Board. He is now building a hotel, 93×90 feet, two stories high, adjoining his drug store and general store, which, when completed, will be one of the best hotels in the State. Cutler, William G.Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska. Chicago, Illinois: Western Historical Publishing Company. 1882-1883.
Mathewson,CharlesHon.	Hon. Charles Mathewson. A brief sketch of the life and character of the Hon. Charles Mathewson, may appropriately be introduced in connection with the history of the town, which owes its present prosperity more to his energy and business ability than to any other cause. Col. Mathewson, as he is most frequently called, was born in Brooklyn, Conn., March 24, 1812. His worth and abilities were recognized by his fellow citizens of Connecticut, by their electing him twice to the State Legislature, and three times to the State Senate. During the war of the rebellion, he evinced his patriotism by serving in the Union Army as Colonel of the Eleventh Connecticut Regiment, which regiment he commanded at the battle of Newbern, N. C. In 1865, he was appointed agent for the Winnebago Indians, succeeding Maj. Balcombe, of Omaha. At the expiration of the term for which he was appointed, he removed with his family to Madison County, and founded the now thriving town of Norfolk. In April, 1870, he completed the building of the Norfolk Mills, the first in the Elkhorn Valley above West Point. Late in the year 1879, Col. Mathewson was for a long time severely ill. His wife rendered him constant and devoted attention, which so shattered her constitution, already enfeebled by age, that she rapidly sank away and died. The shock of her death, added to the result of his long illness, proved too much for his enfeebled constitution to survive, and, on May 10, 1880, he died. Col. Mathewson was a man of high moral character, and a devout and steadfast friend of the church and of religion. He left two sons and two daughters, all of whom are highly respected and valuable, members of society. Cutler, William G.Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska. Chicago, Illinois: Western Historical Publishing Company. 1882-1883.
McClary, J. S.	J. S. McClary, of the firm of McClary & Co., dealers in general merchandise and coal, is a native of Onondaga County, N. Y.; raised in Madison County. N. Y. At the age of seventeen, he came to Boone County, Ill.; was employed as Civil Engineer for the Old Galena & Chicago Union Railroad, now the N. W. R. R; continued in the employ of this company about five years, afterward employed as conductor on the I. C. R R. about three years, running from Centralia to Dubuque; also employed with the B. & M. R R. about one year; enlisted in 1861, in Company B, Thirteenth Illinois Infantry as Quartermaster Sergeant. Later, he was commissioned First Lieutenant and Acting Quartermaster; remained in the service till the summer of 1864, when he went to Minnesota; was appointed Road Master of the W. & St. P. R. R; remained there three years. In 1867, he removed to Fremont and engaged in merchandising; in 1871, came to Norfolk, where he has since resided; was Receiver of the United States Land Office from 1875 to 1881. Cutler, William G.Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska. Chicago, Illinois: Western Historical Publishing Company. 1882-1883.
Neidig, C.	C. Neidig, general merchandise. Is a native of Germany; in 1846 came to New York City with his parents; in 1852, they removed to Delaware County, N. Y.; in 1856, came to Kankakee County, Ill.; engaged in farming in 1868; came to Madison County, Neb.; followed farming three years, then removed to Madison, and has since been engaged in merchandising; is one of the oldest merchants in the county. He has been Justice of the Peace two years. He owns 320 acres of improved land, also property in Madison. Cutler, William G.Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska. Chicago, Illinois: Western Historical Publishing Company. 1882-1883.
Olney, John E.	John E. Olney, dealer in general merchandise, was born in Windham County, Conn. At about the age of eighteen, he removed to New York City; there employed as clerk. In 1861, he came to Decatur, Ill., and there carried on the grocery business. In 1869, came to Norfolk, when he, with Col. Mathewson, now deceased, engaged in general merchandising and milling. This partnership continued until January, 1881, when he withdrew from the mill and became sole owner of this store. He owns and occupies one of the finest, if not the finest, retail store in the State. This structure is of brick, two stories and basement, completed December, 1880, at a cost of about $16,000. This store is 32×128 feet. Cutler, William G.Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska. Chicago, Illinois: Western Historical Publishing Company. 1882-1883.
Pilger, A. P.	A. P. Pilger, dealer in stoves, tinware, hardware, etc., was born tn Washington County, Wis. In 1871, he came to Norfolk and opened the tin shop; soon after added hardware and stoves to his business, which he has been constantly increasing; now doing a business of about $20,000 a year. Mr. Pilger is a member of the Town Board, School Board and other local offices Cutler, William G.Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska. Chicago, Illinois: Western Historical Publishing Company. 1882-1883.
Pollock, J. G	J. G. Pollock, agent of the U. P. R. R., was born in Washington County, Iowa. In 1862, then being eleven years of age, he enlisted in Company E, Thirtieth Iowa Infantry, as drummer boy; remained in the service about one year; was discharged on account of physical disability; returned to Washington County; soon after went to La Grange, Mo.; there learned telegraphing; was employed with the M. & W. R. R., and later with the C., R. 1. & P. R. R. as agent at Plattsburg and other stations; continued with the company three years. He then was appointed Train Dispatcher of the T. P. & W. R. R., at Peoria and Warsaw; held this position about one year; was then employed by the C. B. & Q. R. R.; was operator at about all the principal stations in Iowa; was appointed Assistant Ticket Agent at the Grand Central Hotel Ticket Office at Omaha, from 1873 to 1876; in 1877, he was appointed operator at Valley Station, on the U. P. R. R, and was soon after made agent at Valparaiso, for the U. P. From there, he opened all the stations to Stormsburg–the terminus of the O. & R. V. Division. On July 28, 1880, he came to Norfolk, where he has since been agent of this company. He is also agent of the C., St. P., M. & O. R. R., and Pacific and American Express Companies. Cutler, William G.Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska. Chicago, Illinois: Western Historical Publishing Company. 1882-1883.
Prince, E. F.	E. F. Prince proprietor of Prince Hotel, and dealer in general merchandise. Was born in Berkshire County, Mass., in 1827; came to Columbia County. Wis., engaged in farming; in 1876, came to Madison, built this hotel, which is the largest in the county; he also built this store, and in the fall of 1881, opened a general stock, and has since carried on this business. Mr. P. was appointed Town Trustee when the town was first incorporated; held the office four years, and held other local offices. Cutler, William G.Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska. Chicago, Illinois: Western Historical Publishing Company. 1882-1883.
Robertson, W. M.	W. M. Robertson, firm of Robertson & Campbell, attorneys at law. Is a native of Delaware County, N. Y.; at about the age of ten, came with his parents to Forreston, Ill.; in 1867, he commenced the study of law; was admitted to the bar in 1869, at Ottawa, Ill.; has since been actively engaged in the practice of his profession, first practiced in Ogle County. In 1874, came to Norfolk, Neb.; soon after removed to Madison, where he has since resided; was a member of the Constitutional Convention of 1875, which framed the Constitution of Nebraska. He enlisted in 1864, in Company D, One Hundred and Forty-second Illinois Volunteer Infantry; served about six months. Cutler, William G.Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska. Chicago, Illinois: Western Historical Publishing Company. 1882-1883.
Scott, M. C.	M. C. Scott, Postmaster, is a native of Jefferson County, N. Y.; in 1849, came to Jefferson County, Wis.; followed the carpenter trade and farming; in the fall of 1865, came to Missouri; carried on the carpenter trade; in 1874, came to Madison, engaged in farming; was appointed Postmaster April, 1880. Cutler, William G.Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska. Chicago, Illinois: Western Historical Publishing Company. 1882-1883.
Searles, William T.	William T. Searles, County judge, was born in Jefferson County, N. Y.; there he took up the study of law; he took a classical course at the Union Academy, Belleville, Jefferson Co., N. Y.; in 1872, he came to Madison County, took a homestead of 160 acres, which he has improved; he was admitted to the bar in 1876; the following year he came to Madison, and has since been actively engaged in the practice of his profession; in the fall of 1877, he was elected County Judge; now serving on his third term. May, 1881, he formed a partnership with Mr. Kelly, firm of Searles & Kelly. Cutler, William G.Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska. Chicago, Illinois: Western Historical Publishing Company. 1882-1883.
Seidel, H. G.	H. G. Seidel, firm of J. E. North & Co., lumber, lime, etc., is a native of Germany; in 1867, came to Butler County, Penn.; worked at millwright business there about eight months, then came to Benton County, Iowa; also followed the millwright trade; in 1870, came to West Point, followed this business, rebuilt the Papillion Mills, the Lyons Mills, also the Madison Mills; in the fall of 1873, he went to Oakland, built the Oakland Mills; he then returned to Madison County, engaged in farming; in 1877, he removed to Columbus, there engaged in lumber; in 1879, came to Madison, has since been a member of the above firm. Cutler, William G.Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska. Chicago, Illinois: Western Historical Publishing Company. 1882-1883.
Selah, C.	C. Selah, editor of the Norfolk Journal, was born in Tazewell County, Ill.; came to West Point, Neb., in 1871, and there worked on the Republican. In 1876, he, with Mr. Bartlett, bought out and published the Neligh Journal. In November, 1877, he and Mr. Bartlett established the Norfolk Journal, which has since been ably conducted by Mr. Selah. Cutler, William G.Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska. Chicago, Illinois: Western Historical Publishing Company. 1882-1883.
Sherlock, J. J.	J. J. Sherlock, agent Union Pacific Railway, was born in Newport, Ky.; in 1869, came to Omaha; in 1873, he secured employment with this company, and has since been in their employ; December, 1879, he was appointed agent at Humphrey, remained there one year; he then removed to Lost Creek, was agent there about ten months; February 16, 1882, came to Madison, where he has since been agent of this company. Cutler, William G.Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska. Chicago, Illinois: Western Historical Publishing Company. 1882-1883.
Steele, A. H.	A. H. Steele, druggist. Is a native of Huron County, Ohio; when a boy, came with his parents to Albia, Monroe County, Iowa, his father being engaged in banking there several years, after engaged in the hotel business. The subject of this sketch held the office of ticket agent of the C., B. & Q. R. R. at Albia, about four years; in 1880, he came to Madison, where he has since carried on this business. Was married, in 1877, to Miss Anna Wassen, of Columbus, Ohio; she came with her parents to Marion County, Iowa, at the age of six years. Cutler, William G.Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska. Chicago, Illinois: Western Historical Publishing Company. 1882-1883.
Stuart, James	James Stuart, banker, is a native of Kent, Litchfield Co., Conn. In 1871, came to Chicago, was engaged there in the wholesale grocery trade about nine years. In the spring of 1880, came to Madison; has since been engaged in banking. Cutler, William G.Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska. Chicago, Illinois: Western Historical Publishing Company. 1882-1883.
Tyrrel, A. C.	A. C. Tyrrel, firm of Barnes & Tyrrel, bankers, was born in Berkshire County, Mass.; in 1863, came to Dodge County, Wis.; he attended the Northwestern Business College at Madison; after taught school in different counties in the State; in 1871, came to Madison, Neb.; the following year, he with Mr. Barnes established this business. Cutler, William G.Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska. Chicago, Illinois: Western Historical Publishing Company. 1882-1883.
Verges, F. Dr.	Dr. F. Verges, physician and surgeon, was born August 21, 1833 in Prussia. He commenced the study of medicine in 1854, in Cothen Homoeopathic Medical College; graduated in 1856; practiced in his native country till 1868, when he came to Chicago in the fall of 1868; came to Nebraska in 1869; came to Pierce County, and took a homestead of 160 acres, which he improved. He now owns 480 acres, which is one of the best improved farms in the county. In the spring of 1880, he came to Norfolk, and has since followed his profession; has been County Commissioner three years; one term Treasurer of School Board. He was married 20 in 1874, to Augusta Marquardt, of Prussia. They have three children– Louisa, Minna and Anna. Cutler, William G.Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska. Chicago, Illinois: Western Historical Publishing Company. 1882-1883.
Wegener, F.	F. Wegener, proprietor of the Norfolk House, is a native of Prussia. In 1851, he came to Jefferson County, Wis., and followed farming about three years; he then ran a saw-mill several years; sold this mill in 1859. He then opened a general store in Watertown, Wis., and continued this business about ten years. In 1870, he came to Norfolk, opened a boarding house and saloon, and three years later he built the Norfolk House, this being the first hotel built in Norfolk; has since carried on this business. He was married in 1854, to Amelia Hans, of Prussia. They have three children–Gustav, Edmund and Elizabeth, now Mrs. Widaman. Cutler, William G.Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska. Chicago, Illinois: Western Historical Publishing Company. 1882-1883.
Welch, Frank Hon.	Hon. Frank Welch, member of Congress from Nebraska, at the time of his death, which occurred at Neligh, Neb., September 4, 1878, had made his home at Norfolk for the preceding five years. In preserving a brief estimate of his character, we can do no better than to quote the following words from the address of Senator Paddock, of Nebraska, delivered in the United States Senate, February 25,1879 “I shall not delay the Senate by an extended memorabilia of our lamented colleague, Representative Welch. He was born on Bunker Hill, Charlestown, Mass., February 10, 18355; was graduated at the Boston High School, and afterward specially educated and trained as a civil engineer. Soon after embarking in his profession, the duties thereof called him into the West, and finally, while yet a very young man, in the year 1857, he established his home at Decatur, Neb. Mr. Welch was a gentleman in the highest and broadest sense of the term–kind, gentle, generous, manly. As might naturally have been expected for a young man possessing such qualities of mind and heart, he rapidly advanced to the front in society, and in affairs in his county and section. He was very soon chosen to represent his district in the Councilor Senate of the Territorial Legislature, and a little later was elected to the Senate of the first legislature chosen under the State organization, of which body he was made the presiding officer. He held other positions of honor and trust under both the Federal and State Governments, and in 1876, was elected a member of the Forty-fifth Congress. He represented the largest Congressional District in the Union, both as respects territorial extent and population. There was put upon him the labor of three men, and by day and by night unceasingly he struggled through the protracted and exciting session of last year to do it all. Mr. Welch was a man of great energy, industry and pertinacity of purpose. He would do all that was required of him although he should know the effort would cost him his life; he did all, and as many another before him in like circumstances had done, went prematurely to his grave. When the session closed, Mr. Welch returned to his constituency very much worn and broken in health. He needed rest, but he took it not. At once he entered upon an active and exceedingly laborious political canvass. His physical machinery could not endure the additional strain thus put upon it, and then the end came, soon and swift, but pangless. In the evening of the 4th of September, 1878, in a public meeting, in the midst of a numerous audience, composed largely of his political friends and admirers whom he was about to address, he was suddenly stricken and fell in instant death. His family, fond mother, a devoted wife and three loving children, were absent in a distant Eastern State, and no other of his kindred was present to close the eyes of him who thus in the prime of his manhood went down under a weight of his burdens too heavy to be longer borne.” Mr. Welch was Past Grand Master of Masons in Nebraska. The funeral services were conducted by the Masons, in Norfolk, and the body was conveyed to Boston, Mass., where it was buried September 13, 1878. Cutler, William G.Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska. Chicago, Illinois: Western Historical Publishing Company. 1882-1883.
Widaman, W. H.	W. H. Widaman, Postmaster, is a native of Montgomery County, Ohio. There he was raised. He enlisted, April 17, 1861, in Company C, First Ohio Infantry; served three months; he reenlisted in the Second Ohio Infantry and served to the end of the war. In 1866, he came to Madison County, Ill., and followed milling about four years; also engaged in milling in Henry County, about three years. In 1873, he came to Boone County, Neb., and followed farming about one year. In the fall of 1873, he came to Norfolk, and ran the Norfolk Mills about three years. He, in company with Dr. Daniel, engaged in the drug business; this partnership continued about four years. November 25, 1879, he was appointed Postmaster. This office is about being removed to a more desirable locality, and is being fitted up with the latest improved Yale lock boxes. Cutler, William G.Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska. Chicago, Illinois: Western Historical Publishing Company. 1882-1883.
Wolf, F. W.	F. W. Wolf, firm of Fritz & Wolf, proprietors of Madison Mills, was born in Germany; when a child came with his parents to Waukesha County, Wis.; assisted on their farm; in 1867, came to Franklin County, Iowa, there engaged in farming; April, 1881, came to Madison and became a member of this firm. Married, in 1876, to Carrie Stracke, of Waukesha County, Wis. They had two children, one living, Herbert Garfield. Cutler, William G.Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska. Chicago, Illinois: Western Historical Publishing Company. 1882-1883.
Yost, A. N.	A. N. Yost, proprietor Valley Hotel, is a native of Cincinnati, Ohio. When a child he came to Indiana. At about the age of nine, came to Lockport, Ill. In about 1852, came to Lucas County, Iowa. In 1855, came to Fontanelle, Neb. There followed farming. He owns a farm of 110 acres in Dodge County, improved. In the spring of 1880, he came to Norfolk, and has since been engaged in the livery and hotel business. He enlisted, in 1862, in Company A, Second Nebraska Cavalry, and served about one year. Cutler, William G.Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska. Chicago, Illinois: Western Historical Publishing Company. 1882-1883.