PAST AND PRESENT OF SAUNDERS COUNTY, VOL II          551

author of a great number of poems, many of which have been published. His life has been one of intense activity, and though people differ from him, they never doubt the honesty of his opinions or his loyalty to his convictions. He has fearlessly fought for what he has believed to be right and his course has commanded the respect of even those who have opposed him most strongly in politics.

   Upon the bench and at the bar Hon. Peter P. White, of Wahoo, has made a most creditable record marked by close conformity to high professional standards and by a full recognition of the obligations that devolve upon him as a representative of a profession to which life and liberty, right and property, must ever look for protection. He was born upon a farm in Iowa county, Iowa, April 20, 1868. His father, Peter White, a native of County Galway, Ireland, was born in 1820 and in early manhood came to America, devoting his life to farming and stock-raising. He became a resident of La Salle county, Illinois, and there in 1851 married Sarah Conroy, after which he removed in 1859 to Iowa county, Iowa, where for many years he was closely and actively identified with general agricultural pursuits. He died in February, 1905, but was survived by his widow until October 21, 1915, when she, too, was called to her final rest. All of their seven children, four sons and three daughters, are still alive.

   Peter P. White, the youngest son, began his education in the country schools of his native county and afterward continued his studies in the high school at Marengo, Iowa, while later he entered the law department of Notre Dame University of Indiana, from which he was graduated in 1895. He entered upon the active practice of his profession at Schaller, Iowa, in 1896 and there remained until 1904, after which he went to Holstein, Iowa, where he continued until he came to Wahoo in 1906. He came here to accept the position of manager of the Golden Rod Telephone Company and acted in that capacity for about four years. In 1909, however, he resigned his position and resumed the active practice of law. In the fall of 1909 he was elected county judge of Saunders county and took his place upon the bench, where his record was in harmony with his record as a man and citizen — distinguished by the utmost loyalty to duty and by a masterful grasp of every problem presented for solution. The excellent record which he made during his first term led to his re-election and he remained upon the bench for two terms. He is now giving his attention to private practice and the court records bear testimony to his ability, showing the many important cases with which he is connected either as attorney for the defense or prosecution. His success in a professional way affords the best evidence of his capabilities. He is a strong advocate with the jury and concise in his appeals before the court, while his pleas have been characterized by decisive logic and a lucid presentation. His power is the greater before court or jury from the fact that it is recognized that it is his aim to secure justice and not to enshroud the cause in a sentimental garb of illusion which will thwart the principles of right and equity involved.

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   On the 22d of December, 1897, in Holstein, Iowa, Mr. White was married to Miss Philomena Ennis, a daughter of Edward T. Ennis, a native of Canada, now deceased. Their home is a model of the American Christian home. Judge White holds membership with the Modern Woodmen of America and is also connected with the Wahoo Commercial Club and is interested in all those projects put forth by the organization for the business benefit or civic interests of the city. In politics he is a democrat, prominent in the local ranks of the party, and served as chairman of the democratic county central committee during the year in which Hitchcock was elected to the United States senate. In every relation he is alert to opportunities, readily utilizes every chance for legitimate advancement and has won a creditable and enviable position as a citizen and as a lawyer.

   James Schulz, a retail merchant of Yutan, has long been actively identified with business interests in Saunders county, where for a long period he engaged in the importation of horses and in general agricultural pursuits. He was born in Germany in 1851 and there attended the common schools until he reached the age of fifteen years. He came with his parents to America in 1867, the family home being established near Joliet, Illinois, where he secured employment at farm labor. In 1869 the family removed to Iowa, settling near Booneville, and the father rented a farm, after which James Schulz assisted him in the development and cultivation of that place. He spent two years in Iowa and in 1871 came to Saunders county, Nebraska, settling on railroad land purchased by his father. He continued to work with his father until 1875, when he married and began farming on his own account.

   Mr. Schulz chose for a companion in life Miss Frankie Sievers, by whom he has seven children: Ettie, who was born in 1876 and is now the wife of Peter Jurgenson, by whom she has two children; John, who was born in 1878 and wedded Emma Karloff, by whom he has two children; George, who was born in 1880 and who wedded Miss Mary Paso, by whom he has two children; Annie, who was born in 1882 and is the wife of Tom Owens, by whom she has five children; Henry, who was born in 1884, and who wedded Miss Elizabeth Paso, by whom he has one child; Chris, who was born in 1886 and who departed this life in 1906; and Ben H., who was born in 1891 and who wedded Miss Florence Wilson.

   With his marriage Mr. Schulz took up his abode upon a farm and there in addition to the cultivation of the soil he engaged in the importation of horses until 1890. For twelve years thereafter he devoted his attention exclusively to general agricultural pursuits, carefully, persistently and successfully carrying on farm work. He then came to Yutan and is now well known in its business circles as a retail merchant.

   Mr. Schulz has twice served as president of the County Fair Association and has been active in all lines that stimulate ambition and bring about improved methods in all departments of farm labor and kindred industries. He attends

PAST AND PRESENT OF SAUNDERS COUNTY, VOL II          553

the Lutheran church and gives his political allegiance to the republican party. His has been an active life and he has won success by earnest effort, good judgment and unfaltering diligence.

   John J. Wachal, of Prague, owns and conducts a harness shop and has gained a gratifying degree of prosperity, as he understands the business thoroughly and is reliable and straightforward in all his dealings. He was born in Bohemia on the 12th of January, 1869, a son of Matthew and Kathrena Wachal, was educated in his native land, and there learned the harness maker's trade, to which he has continued to devote his time and attention. In 1889, when twenty years of age, he came to the United States and made his way to Nebraska. After residing in Prague for a short time he went to Lincoln, where for two years he followed his trade, but in 1891 he returned to Prague and established a harness shop. He has built up a good patronage and has gained an enviable reputation as an expert workman and as a man of unquestioned integrity.

   Mr. Wachal was married on the 11th of November, 1890, to Miss Annie Hynek, a daughter of Adam and Anna Hynek, and to this union five children have been born: John F., who is living in Omaha; Frank J., a resident of Waverly, Nebraska; and Stanley W., Agnes M. and Joseph, all of whom are yet at home.

   Mr. Wachal supports the democratic party at the polls, believing firmly in the wisdom of its policies, and he has taken quite an active part in public affairs. For four years he served as mayor, giving the town an efficient administration, and he has also been a member of the town board and of the school board. During the years that he has resided in Prague he has not only made a creditable place for himself in business circles but has also gained the esteem and the warm regard of those who have been associated with him.

   George G. Clark, who is gaining a gratifying success as a farmer, is operating one hundred and sixty acres of excellent land on section 4, Ashland township. His birth occurred in Cass county, Iowa, November 27, 1871, and he is a son of J. W. and Josie (Hall) Clark, both of whom were born in Indiana. The father removed to Cass county, Iowa, in the early days of the history of that section and purchased land there which he operated until 1885, when he came to Saunders county, Nebraska, and bought a farm in Marble township. He followed agricultural pursuits there until his death, which took place on the 11th of February, 1914. He is survived by his widow, who still lives on the home place.

   George G. Clark was reared at home and attended the common schools of

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Iowa and Saunders county in the acquirement of an education. On becoming of age he joined the regular army and was stationed in Wyoming, but after remaining in the service for a year lost an eye and was honorably discharged. He returned home and bought eighty acres of good land near Mead which he cultivated until 1913. He made a number of improvements upon the place and in the year mentioned traded it in on his present farm which comprises one hundred and sixty acres on section 4, Ashland township. The farm is in a high state of development and as the land is naturally fertile he harvests good crops, from the sale of which he derives a substantial income.

   In September, 1895, Mr. Clark was united in marriage to Miss Emma Burmeister, who was born in Germany, May 29, 1875, a daughter of Christopher and Minnie Burmeister, both also natives of that country. When Mrs. Clark was twelve years of age the family emigrated to America and settled in Canada, where they remained for a year, after which a removal was made to Saunders county, Nebraska. The father cultivated rented land near Mead until his death on the 19th of March, 1914. He is survived by his widow, who lives with her children. Mr. and Mrs. Clark have six children, namely: Marie, who was born on the 7th of July, 1896; Naomi, who was born August 28, 1897, and is now the wife of Ernest Hendricks, a farmer of Cass county; Earl, born March 2, 1899; Doris, May 14, 1902; Elmo, born September 15, 1904; and Bernice, born March 7, 1908.

   Mr. Clark casts an independent ballot, voting as his judgment dictates. He is affiliated with the Christian church and the sincerity of his religious faith is indicated in the uprightness of his life. He is a public-spirited citizen as well as an efficient farmer and is always willing to aid in the furtherance of projects seeking the community advancement.

   John Brecka owns and operates a well developed and improved farm of one hundred and fifty-five acres in Chester precinct and ranks among the successful and progressive agriculturists of the county. He was born in that precinct on the 28th of October, 1877, and is a son of John Brecka, who took up a homestead of eighty acres in Chester precinct in 1877, in which year he came to the United States from Bohemia.

   Mr. Brecka of this review received a common-school education in this county and through assisting his father gained valuable training in agricultural work. He continued to aid in operating the home farm until 1899, when he took up his residence on his present place of one hundred and fifty-five acres on section 26, Chester precinct. The land is all in a high state of cultivation and as its fertility has been carefully conserved it yields excellent crops. He also raises considerable stock, specializing in Red Polled cattle and Duroc-Jersey hogs.

   Mr. Brecka was married October 17, 1899, to Miss Julia Vrana, by whom he has seven children, Frank, Mary, Cralra, Joe, Sylvia, Ula and Hedreka. Mr. Brecka is a democrat in his political belief and takes an interest in the

PAST AND PRESENT OF SAUNDERS COUNTY, VOL II          555

PAST AND PRESENT OF SAUNDERS COUNTY, VOL II          557

success of the party at the polls but has never been very active in public affairs as the operation of his farm has taken up practically his entire time. Fraternally he belongs to the Modern Woodmen of America at Prague, and he holds membership in St. John's Catholic church of Prague. He keeps in touch with the advancement in agricultural methods and studies the markets carefully, thus securing good prices for his farm products. He has not only gained a large measure of prosperity for himself but has also had a part in the agricultural development of his precinct and has thus contributed to the general welfare.

   John H. Clauson, who was one of those early settlers whose labors made possible the present prosperity and advanced civilization of Saunders county, was born in Denmark but on taking up his residence in this county thoroughly identified his interests with those of his community. He was born in 1834 and attended school in his native land until he began working in a store there, but in 1852, when about eighteen years of age, he emigrated to the United States and took up his residence in Fremont, Nebraska, where he lived until the Civil war broke out. He then enlisted in Company D, Second Nebraska Cavalry, and went to the front with his command, making an excellent record as a soldier. After the war he went to Colorado, where he prospected for gold. While in that state he nearly lost his life, for his feet were frozen in the vicinity of Denver and if he had not been found and cared for by Indians he would undoubtedly have perished from the cold. He returned to Fremont, Nebraska, and after a short time moved to Saunders county and became the owner of one hundred and sixty acres of land on section 4, Wahoo precinct, which he brought to a high state of development. He engaged in general farming and his sound judgment and enterprise resulted in his accumulating a competence. He was a self-made man, for he was practically penniless when he came to this country, but he worked hard and unremittingly and as the years passed his capital steadily increased.

   Mr. Clauson was married in Omaha on the 8th of August, 1868, to Miss Nellie Berggren, a sister of Martin Berggren. She was born in Sweden in 1838 but in 1868 became a resident of Saunders county, Nebraska, at which time the town of Wahoo had not been founded. Before her marriage she was housekeeper for N. B. Berggren and had the distinction of being one of the first white women in Saunders county. To Mr. and Mrs. Clauson six children were born: Anna, deceased; Anna, second of the name, who is keeping house for her brother George; Julia, the wife of John Hanson; George E.; Emma, the wife of Magnus Hanson; and Lilly, who is living in Omaha.

   Mr. Clauson gave his political allegiance to the republican party and served acceptably as county commissioner. He was a Swedish Lutheran in religious faith and aided in organizing the church whose house of worship formerly stood on his farm. He donated the land for the church and also for the graveyard, in which both he and his wife are buried. He was much interested in all move-

558          PAST AND PRESENT OF SAUNDERS COUNTY, VOL II

ments that tended to advance the moral welfare of his community and his life was guided by the highest moral principles. He passed away on the 1st of August, 1883, but was survived by his wife until the 12th of July, 1914.

   George E. Clauson was born in Saunders county and received the greater part of his education in the common schools here. However, he also took a commercial course in the International Correspondence Schools. He has always lived upon the homestead and for many years has operated it on his own account and is now the owner of the same. He uses improved machinery and is constantly seeking to increase his efficiency as an agriculturist and his labors are rewarded with good crops. He also raises high grade stock, from the sale of which he receives a substantial addition to his income. He helped to organize and is also vice president of the Farmers Union Elevator at Mead, was one of the organizers of and is a member of the board of directors of the Farmers Union Cooperative Creamery at Fremont, Nebraska, and is a charter member and president of the Farmers Union, Local No. 207. His political belief is that of the democratic party and he takes the interest of a good citizen in public affairs. He attends the Swedish Lutheran church, of which he has been a trustee since 1903. He is widely known throughout the county and his genuine worth is attested by the fact that those who have been closely associated with him since boyhood are his stanchest friends.

   Andrew Johnson engaged in farming in Stocking precinct after his removal to Saunders county and was well known among the pioneer settlers of his locality. A native of Norway, he was born at Christiania on the 3d of April, 1820, of the marriage of John and Gunda (Hansen) Anderson. The former was a sea captain and in the course of his life met with many interesting experiences. He was in good circumstances and educated his son, Andrew Johnson, for the ministry at Christiania. There were three sons and a daughter in the family, the latter of whom died when rather young. In fact, none of the family reached an advanced age.

   Mr. Johnson was reared at home and received an excellent education but decided to devote his time to another field of labor than that of the ministry. In July, 1867, —the year following his marriage,— he and his wife emigrated to America. They came to this country by way of Canada and as they stopped at Toronto and Chicago it was late in the fall before they reached Omaha. Subsequently they went to Fremont, where they spent their first winter in America, and in February their first son was born. In May they left Fremont and took up their residence upon a farm near Sand Creek, about a mile east of the present site of Wahoo, living in a dugout of two rooms. At that time

PAST AND PRESENT OF SAUNDERS COUNTY, VOL II          559

there was no white settlement there but the locality was inhabited by Indians, who, however, moved farther west as the white men began to take up the surrounding country. As Mr. and Mrs. Johnson were ignorant of the Indians and their customs, knowing only that they were sometimes hostile, they were very uneasy as long as the red men remained in the neighborhood. Mr. Johnson gave his time and attention to developing his farm and raised the usual crops until ill health compelled him to give up his agricultural operations. He passed away on the 19th of January, 1874, after an illness of several years. Although he lived in this county a comparatively short time, his many admirable traits of character gained him a high place in the esteem of those who were brought in contact with him, and there were many who held him in warm personal regard.

   On the 2d of August, 1866, at Christiania, Norway, Mr. Johnson was united in marriage to Miss Maria Bergerson, further mention of whom is made else-where in this work. They became the parents of three sons, of whom two are living: Anton J., who married Miss Elizabeth Schmidt, of Wahoo; and William G., who wedded Miss Pearl Stiver, of Valparaiso. Mr. Johnson was a member of the Norwegian Lutheran church in Christiania, Norway, and sought to conform his life to high standards of morality. He was efficient as an agriculturist and manifested a commendable interest in the development and advancement of his community.

   George W. Feuerstein owns and operates two hundred and twenty acres of fine land on sections 17, 19 and 28, Pohocco precinct, and also holds title to a quarter section of land in South Dakota. He gives especial attention to the raising of shorthorn cattle and has the best dairy herd of that breed in Saunders county. He was born in Dearborn county, Indiana, on the 25th of September, 1855, a son of John and Adaline (Kemp) Feuerstein, who were both born in Alsace, Germany, where they grew to maturity and were married. On coming to the United States they located in Dearborn county, Indiana, where they passed their remaining days. To them were born the following children: Adaline, who died in 1914; Jacob, deceased; Caspar, a resident of Lowell, Michigan; Barbara, who lives in Lakeview, Michigan; John N., a resident of Saunders county; Marcus, of Chesley, Michigan; George W.; Mrs. Mary Feist, a resident of Saunders county; Lizzie, who lives in Yorkville, Indiana; Fanny, of Indianapolis; Paul, of Milwaukee, Wisconsin; and Ruth, also living in Yorkville, Indiana.

   George W. Feuerstein was reared under the parental roof and received his education in the common schools. When twenty years of age he went to Cincinnati, Ohio, where he was employed in a chemical works for three years, after which for a considerable time he followed various pursuits in a number of states, but since 1883 he has made his home continuously in Saunders county, Nebraska. He has a fine farm on sections 17, 19 and 28, Pohocco precinct, for which he paid but ten dollars an acre as the county was yet some-

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thing of a frontier region when he settled here. He has conserved the fertility of the soil and has erected fine buildings and his place is one of the best improved in the precinct. It comprises two hundred and twenty acres and he also owns a quarter section of land in South Dakota. Although he raises grain to some extent he gives the greater part of his attention to stock-raising and his herd of shorthorns is recognized as the best in the county.

   In 1890 Mr. Feuerstein was united in marriage to Miss Maggie Steinbach, by whom he has three children: Mabel, the wife of J. C. Moore, of Craig, Colorado; Maud, who married Ambrose Feist, who is farming the place adjoining our subject's homestead; and Warren, at home.

   Mr. Feuerstein is independent in politics and votes for the man rather than the party. He has taken a considerable interest in public affairs and for twenty years has served as a member of the school board, doing much in that time to promote educational advancement in his district. His fraternal affiliation is with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows of Valley, Nebraska, and he has belonged to the order since becoming of age, having joined the lodge at Hunt City, Illinois, at that time. He attends the local church and supports all worthy causes. He has thoroughly identified his interests with those of Saunders county and is recognized as one of its most valued citizens.

   Joseph Hobza, who gains a gratifying income from his good farm of one hundred and twenty acres on section 25, Chester precinct, is one of the representative and progressive agriculturists of the county. A native of Bohemia, his birth occurred on the 6th of January, 1865, and he is a son of Frank and Antonio Hobza. They continued to reside in Bohemia until 1883, when, wishing to take advantage of the opportunities of the new world, they emigrated to the United States. They came to Saunders county, Nebraska, and settled in Douglas precinct, where the father worked as a farm hand for about five years, but at the end of that time he was able to purchase a quarter section of land in Douglas precinct, which he farmed for about fifteen years. He then purchased the one hundred and twenty acres in Chester precinct on which our subject now resides. The father's demise occurred in July, 1911, but the mother is still living and resides in Wahoo.

   Joseph Hobza received his education in the schools of Bohemia and of Chester precinct, this county, and after putting aside his textbooks began working for others. During that time he became thoroughly familiar with the best methods of farming and when his father gave him his present farm of one hundred and twenty acres he was thoroughly fitted to operate it successfully. He has brought the place to a high state of development and keeps everything in excellent repair. He raises grain and also breeds a good grade of cattle and hogs, from the sale of which he receives a gratifying addition to his income.

   Mr. Hobza was united in marriage, on the 16th of January, 1900, to Miss Mary Burda, whose parents were Joseph and Mary Burda. To this union

PAST AND PRESENT OF SAUNDERS COUNTY, VOL II          563

were born six children: Agnes, Sophia, Joseph, Mary, Burney, and Helen, who died in infancy. The wife and mother passed away in 1911 and her demise was deeply regretted not only by her family but by her many friends. On the 8th of October, 1912, Mr. Hobza was again married. Miss Frances Belovic becoming his wife. She is a daughter of Frank and Anna Belovic, and has become the mother of two children, Rosa and Peter.

   Mr. Hobza votes the democratic ticket but has confined his political activity to the exercise of the franchise. His membership in the Roman Catholic church indicates the principles which govern his conduct, and his salient qualities are such that he has gained both the respect and the warm regard of those who have been associated with him.

   Jurgen Mumm, now living retired in Yutan, remains, however, as one of the extensive landowners of Saunders county, having an entire section. For many years he was actively and successfully engaged in general farming, bringing his fields to a high state of cultivation and adding to his place many modern improvements, rendering it one of the attractive farms of the district. Mr. Mumm is a native of Germany. He was born October 11, 1841, a son of Kersten and Elsabe Mumm, both of whom died in the fatherland. He attended school in his native land until about fourteen years of age, after which he worked at farm labor there until he reached the age of twenty-three, when he came to America, crossing the Atlantic in 1865 as a passenger on the sailing vessel Oder, which was forty-two days in completing the voyage. He landed in New York and thence made his way to Illinois, where he devoted two years to farming. In 1867 he arrived in Omaha, where he remained for a year, employed as a teamster. He afterward went to Wyoming, where he engaged in railroad work for three years and eight months and in 1872 he arrived in Saunders county, casting in his lot with its pioneer settlers. He took up his abode in Union township and purchased a homestead claim of eighty acres. With resolute purpose he began to till the soil, converting the raw prairie into productive fields and as the years passed on prosperity rewarded his labors and enabled him to purchase more land until, extending the boundaries of his farm at various times, he is now the owner of an entire section.

   In 1872 Mr. Mumm was married to Miss Wiebke Sievers, and they have become the parents of twelve children: Charley, who wedded Miss Katie Ohm, by whom he has five children: Lena, the wife of Joe Schlesiger, and the mother of three children; Elsie, the wife of Henry Speck, by whom she has four children; John, who wedded Annie Heldt, and has two children; George, who wedded Miss Mary Ohm and has a family of five children; Katie, the wife of Henry Storm and the mother of three children; Emma, the wife of Willie Ohm and the mother of one child; Lizzie, who is the wife of Louis Matzon, by whom she has four children; Bertha, the wife of Chris Kolb and the mother of six children; Hattie, who married William Thomas and has three children;

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William, who wedded Miss Jennie Jensen and has one child; and Herman, who is still under the parental roof.

   The parents are members of the German Lutheran church and in politics Mr. Mumm is independent, supporting the candidate whom he thinks best qualified for office without regard to party affiliation. He has been officially connected with the schools of his district and at all times he is interested in affairs pertaining to the general welfare. In 1901 he retired from active farm life and removed to Yutan, where he has since made his home, enjoying a rest which he has truly earned and richly deserves, his success coming to him as the result of persistent, earnest labor and good management. His life record proves what may be accomplished when an individual exercises the qualities of industry and perseverance and the most envious cannot grudge him his success so honorably has it been won and so worthily used.

   Through the greater part of his active business career, Peter Jacobs, now deceased, was engaged in general farming and his interests were wisely directed, bringing him substantial success. He was born in Schleswig-Holstein, Germany, November 23, 1844, and attended the common schools until he reached the age of sixteen years, after which his time was devoted to assisting his father in mason work until he reached the age of twenty. He then served with the German army for a year and on attaining his majority came to America with his brother, hoping to find better business conditions and opportunities in the new world that would lead him more directly to success.

   Mr. Jacobs first made his way to St. Louis and there followed the mason's trade for a year. He afterward went to Texas, where he rented land and raised cotton for a year. In the fall of 1870 he disposed of the cotton stock and removed to Chicago, where he spent three years, again working at the mason's trade. In 1873 he removed to Grant Park, Illinois, where he continued for five years in mason work and in 1878 he arrived in Saunders county, Nebraska, where he turned his attention to general agricultural pursuits. His first purchase made him owner of eighty acres, to which he afterward added an additional tract of eighty acres in 1880, thus becoming the owner of an entire quarter section. Year after year he carefully and diligently carried on the work of the farm, bringing his fields to a high state of cultivation as the result of the practical and progressive methods which he followed. He based his success upon industry and close application and at length, possessed of a handsome competence, he retired, turning over the management of the farm to his sons.

   On the 22d of June, 1873, in Chicago, Mr. Jacobs was united in marriage to Miss Emilie Giessel, who was born in Germany in 1853 and there attended the common schools. Her parents came to America in 1868, the family home being established in Chicago. Her father died August 28, 1873, but her mother is still living in that city, enjoying good health at the age of eighty-five years, her birth having occurred on the 26th of November, 1830. To Mr. and Mrs.

PAST AND PRESENT OF SAUNDERS COUNTY, VOL II          565

Jacobs were born six children who are yet living, and one who has passed away. Fred, who was born in Grant Park, Illinois, wedded Miss Anna Miller and has a family of six children. He follows farming four miles south of Yutan, Nebraska. Bernard, who was born in Grant Park in 1877, wedded Miss Huldah Kranthamer, by whom he has two children. His home is in Chicago. Mamie, who was born in 1879, in Saunders county, became the wife of George Sipken. She passed away March 8, 1913, leaving three children, who with their father live in Yutan. Emil, whose birth occurred in 1881, makes his home in Sheridan, Wyoming. Peter, who was born in 1885 in Saunders county, wedded Miss Anna Matzen and has two children. They reside on the old homestead. Albert, who was born in 1887 in Saunders county, wedded Miss Bertha Jacobs who, though of the same name, was not a relative. She died in 1911 leaving one child and Mr. Jacobs resides on the homestead farm. Henry, who was born in Saunders county in 1892, makes his home in Sheridan, Wyoming.

   The death of Mr. Jacobs occurred on the 15th of October, 1901, and Mrs. Jacobs now makes her home in Yutan, where she has many warm friends. At one time Mr. Jacobs served as school director and he was ever helpfully interested in the welfare of the community, giving his aid and support to many measures for the public good. His political allegiance was given to the democratic party and his religious faith was that of the German Lutheran church. He continued to live upon his farm until December, 1900, when leaving his sons Albert and Peter in charge of the place, he removed to Yutan, where he enjoyed well earned rest until death called him in October of the following year. He had a wide and favorable acquaintance throughout the county, his many good qualities having gained for him warm regard.

   Orville A. Keetle, a progressive and successful farmer and stock-raiser, is farming two hundred acres of excellent land on section 5, Ashland township. He was born on a farm three miles from Ashland, Saunders county, on the 4th of November, 1882, a son of Christopher and Mahala (Fisher) Keetle, natives respectively of Germany and Ohio. The father was brought by his parents to the United States when he was but seven years of age and the family home was established in northeastern Illinois. That whole district was open prairie and he and his mother picked blackberries on the present site of Chicago. His father devoted the remainder of his life to farming and both parents died in the Prairie state, where Christopher Keetle was reared and educated. In 1879 he removed to Saunders county, Nebraska, and purchased one hundred and sixty acres on section 5, Ashland township. He at once began improving his farm and as the years passed he became one of the substantial men of his county, owning at one time five hundred and seventy-six acres of good land. He also retained title to land in Ohio which he had farmed before removing to this county. In 1900 he retired from active life and took up his residence in Ash-

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land, where he is still living. His wife also survives. Both are well known and have many warm friends.

   Orville A. Keetle grew to manhood in this county and attended the district schools in the pursuit of an education. He remained with his parents until they removed to town and then took charge of the home farm, boarding with a married brother until his marriage. Following that event he removed to another place belonging to his father, which he farmed for five years, and then he returned to the homestead, buying forty acres thereof and receiving forty acres from his father as a gift. He operates the eighty acres which he owns and also about one hundred and twenty acres of rented land and gains a substantial return from his labor. He feeds about forty head of hogs per year and also raises high grade cattle and seldom fails to receive a good price for his stock. His farm was in a high state of development when it came into his possession but he has made additional improvements and keeps everything in good repair, thus adding to the attractiveness of the place.

   On the 26th of February, 1902, Mr. Keetle was united in marriage to Miss Goldie Russell, who was born in Cass county, Nebraska, in February, 1884, and is a daughter of Curtis and Mary (Robbins) Russell, both natives of Iowa. They removed to Cass county, Nebraska, in pioneer days and the father filed on a homestead which he operated until 1901. In that year he removed to Ashland, buying fourteen acres of land which he still cultivates. His wife died in 1898. Mr. and Mrs. Keetle have a daughter, Gladys B., whose birth occurred on the 4th of March, 1906.

   Mr. Keetle is convinced that the policies of the republican party are based upon sound political principles and supports its candidates at the polls. He holds membership in the Methodist Episcopal church and furthers its work in every way possible, and his genuine worth is acknowledged by all who have been brought into contact with him.

   Edward A. Keetle, who is successfully operating one hundred and eighty-seven acres of good land in Ashland township, was born in Ashland, Ohio, on the 25th of September, 1875, a son of Christopher and Mahala (Fisher) Keetle, further mention of whom appears in the sketch of O. A. Keetle which appears elsewhere in this work. Our subject was about five years of age when the family removed to this county and therefore received his education here, attending the district schools. He remained with his parents until he reached the age of twenty-five years and through assisting his father with the work of the farm became thoroughly familiar with practical methods of agriculture. He operated rented land for about twelve years, after which he purchased forty acres which he is now farming, together with an adjoining forty acres which his father gave him. His land is located on section 8, Ashland township, and although it was well improved when it came into our subject's possession, he has still further developed it. He has followed agricultural pursuits since starting out in life on his own account, with the exception of five

PAST AND PRESENT OF SAUNDERS COUNTY, VOL II          567

years, when he worked as a watchmaker in Omaha and Lincoln. In addition to the eighty acres which he owns he farms one hundred and seven acres of rented land and gives particular attention to the raising of high grade stock.

   On the 16th of January, 1901, Mr. Keetle was united in marriage to Miss Etta Russell, who was born in Cass county, this state, on the 17th of March, 1882, and is a daughter of Lycurgus and Mary (Robbins) Russell, natives of Iowa. They were pioneer settlers of Cass county, Nebraska, and the father homesteaded land which he cultivated until 1901, when he retired and removed to Ashland, where he purchased a few acres of land and a good residence. He is still living there and has many friends in the town and its vicinity. His wife died in 1898. Mr. and Mrs. Keetle have two children, namely: Genevieve I., born September 26, 1908; and Russell E., born October 19, 1912.

   The republican party has in Mr. Keetle a stanch adherent, but he has confined his political activities to the exercise of his right of franchise, as his farm work has demanded his entire time and attention. The principles which govern his life are found in the teachings of the Methodist Episcopal church, and his sterling worth has won him a high place in the regard of his fellowmen. As a farmer he is aggressive and systematic and the success which he has gained is the natural result of his well directed labor.

   William W. Wenstrand, one of the younger members of the Saunders county bar, is at present filling the office of county attorney of Saunders county. He was born in Colon, this county, January 8, 1891, and comes of Swedish ancestry. His paternal grandfather, Peter Wenstrand, was a native of Sweden and came to America in 1869. He followed the occupation of farming as a life work, his labors being terminated in death in 1894. Our subject's father, Charles A. Wenstrand, who was born in Sweden in 1860, accompanied his parents to America in 1869, at which time the family home was established at Red Oak, Iowa. There he was married in 1887 to Miss Emily Falk, a native of Sweden, and in 1888 they removed to this county, settling at Colon, where they resided until 1894, when they removed to Wahoo, where they now make their home. The father has been prominent in the public life of the community and served as county clerk of Saunders county from 1894 until 1896.

   William W. Wenstrand was but three years of age at the time the family came to Wahoo, so that he attended the public schools of this city, passing through consecutive grades until graduated from the high school with the class of 1907. In 1913 he was graduated from the law department of the University of Nebraska at Lincoln. He then opened an office at Alma, Harlan county, where he began practice, and in May, 1914, he returned to Wahoo, where in the month of November, he was elected to the office of county attorney of Saunders county for a term of two years. He had previously served as deputy county attorney of Harlan county for a year and this gave him experience in the work and duties of the position which he is now filling.

   On the 19th of November, 1913, at Alma, Mr. Wenstrand was married to

568          PAST AND PRESENT OF SAUNDERS COUNTY, VOL II

Miss Mary Roberts, who passed away October 17, 1915. She was a daughter of Samuel L. Roberts, who was a soldier of the Civil war and is now chairman of the county board of supervisors of Harlan county. In his political views Mr. Wenstrand is a republican, having supported the party since age secured for him the right of franchise. He was captain of cadets at Lincoln, Nebraska, which has been his only military experience. He belongs to the Congregational church, and is a member of Wahoo Lodge, No. 59, A. F. & A. M.

   Frank Dolezal, whose home is on section 28, Center township, is one of the extensive farmers of the county and is also active in public affairs, having represented his district in the state legislature for two terms. A native of Moravia, Bohemia, he was born on the 2d of March, 1867, and is a son of Jacob and Josephine (Dohual) Dolezal, both of whom were also born in that country. They lived there until 1877, when, with their family, they crossed the Atlantic to the United States and, making their way westward, located on the farm in Center township, Saunders county, where our subject now lives. The father operated that place until 1891, when he removed to a farm a mile south, where he lived for eighteen years. He then removed to Wahoo, where he passed away in 1912, and was buried in the cemetery there. While living in Bohemia he served in the army during the revolution of 1848 and 1849 and saw a great deal of hard fighting. His widow is still living and resides at Wahoo. To them were born three children: John, whose birth occurred in 1862 and who is in the grain business in Wahoo; Josephine, the wife of Joseph Caha, of Touhy, Nebraska; and Frank.

   The last named was about ten years of age when he accompanied his parents to the United States and previous to that time had attended school for about four years in Bohemia. After the family home was established in this county he attended the rural schools and the schools at Wahoo, thus receiving a good education. He remained at home until his marriage and then purchased the home place, his father removing to another farm. He has added many improvements to the homestead, which is one of the well developed farms of his locality. It comprises one hundred and sixty acres on section 28, Center township, and he also owns a quarter section on section 22; two hundred acres on section 27; eighty acres on section 36; and a half section of land in Tripp and Gregory counties, South Dakota. He carries on general farming, raising a great deal of high grade stock in addition to growing the usual crops. All of his interests are well managed and in carrying on his farm work he follows the latest methods and uses improved machinery, thus increasing his efficiency.

   In 1891 Mr. Dolezal was married to Miss Catherine Zimola, who was born in Bohemia on the 12th of October, 1867, and by whom he has had six children: Agnes, now the wife of John Vlach, a jeweler living in Wahoo; Carrie and Frank Jr., both at home; Edward, who died in infancy; and Edward and Lewis, both at home.

   Mr. Dolezal has supported the democratic party since he gained the right

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PAST AND PRESENT OF SAUNDERS COUNTY, VOL II          571

of franchise and for many years has been a leader in political circles in this part of the state. In 1909 and again in 1911 he served in the state legislature and made a most commendable record as a lawmaker, supporting those measures which he deemed for the benefit of the commonwealth and strongly opposing those which he thought inimical to the public good. At all times he stands for that which he believes to be right regardless of any other considerations. He and his wife are both devout members of the Catholic church at Wahoo, and fraternally he is connected with the Modern Woodmen of America. In May, 1912, he and his wife went to Europe and traveled over the continent for a number of months, returning in October. They visited Bohemia, Austria, Germany, Holland, France, Switzerland and Italy, and he expects to take another trip abroad some time in the future. He is one of those who have contributed in a large measure to the agricultural development of his county and is a man of independent means. He has not only gained financial success but has also won the sincere respect and the warm personal regard of those who have come in contact with him, as his dominant qualities are such as invariably win esteem.

   Valuable farm property comprising six hundred and fifty acres yields an income to John Stamp, long numbered among the progressive agriculturists of Saunders county and now making his home in Yutan, where he is enjoying well earned rest from the active work of the fields. He is truly a self-made. man who deserves much credit for what he has accomplished. He was born in Germany, September 14, 1848, a son of John and Mary Stamp, and until fourteen years of age he attended the common schools of his native country. Afterward his attention was given to farm work as the assistant of his father until he reached the age of twenty-four, when he sailed for the new world, hoping to find better business conditions and opportunities in the United States. He made the voyage on the Cymbrio of the Hamburg-American line, reaching New York after a pleasant voyage of fifteen days. In 1872 he became a resident of Illinois and for two years worked upon a farm in that state, after which he came to Nebraska; arriving in Saunders county on the 28th of August, 1874. Desirous that his labors should directly benefit himself he rented eighty acres of land from Jergen C. Heldt for three years and during that time carefully saved his earnings until he was enabled to purchase school land on section 16, Marble precinct, becoming owner of one hundred and twenty acres. In order to gain needed cash with which to carry on his work he engaged in railroad grading work for a time and then returned to the farm to take up the task of developing the fields. He afterward purchased forty acres more and since then has added to his holdings whenever possible until today he owns an entire section of land and a ten acre tract additional.

   On the 20th of February, 1878, Mr. Stamp was married to Miss Minnie Krusemark, a daughter of Frederick Krusemark, and their seven children are as follows: Mary, the wife of John Brumm, by whom she has four children,

572          PAST AND PRESENT OF SAUNDERS COUNTY, VOL II

Herman, Otto, Herbert and Ida; Lizzie, who married Hank Wittey, by whom she has two children, Elmer and Laura; Etta, who is the wife of Frank Deerson, by whom she has a son and daughter, Edward and Margaret; Minnie, the wife of Louis Kuehl; Freda, who is the wife of Harry Sievers and the mother of one son, John; and Catherine and Emma, who are deceased, their remains being interred in the German Lutheran cemetery.

   In politics Mr. Stamp is not allied with any party but votes according to the capability of the candidate. He has served as road overseer and for one term was commissioner in Cuming county. He has also been a member of the school board and believes in affording good educational privileges to the young. He holds membership in the German Lutheran church and his religious faith has characterized his life and made him in every relation a man worthy the confidence and goodwill of those with whom he has come in contact. His business record, too, should serve to inspire and encourage others, for he started in life in America empty handed and by hard work and capable management has gained a very substantial and gratifying measure of success, being now one of the well-to-do citizens of Yutan.

   Herman Baltz, who has engaged in farming for many years, now owns three hundred and twenty acres of fine land on section 16, Pohocco precinct. He was born in Ferdinandshof, Germany, on the 22d of February, 1856. His father, Fred Baltz, was a farmer by occupation and passed his entire life in his native land, as did the mother, who was in her maidenhood Miss Carolina Hahn. They were the parents of seven children: Fred and Carl, both of whom are living in Germany; Herman; Gustave, also a resident of Germany; Albert, deceased; William, who is still living in the fatherland; and Matilda, the wife of William Richard, also a native of Germany.

   Herman Baltz received his education in the common schools of his native land and remained at home until he was nineteen years of age. He then entered the army, in which he served for three years, and he was subsequently employed on a dray line until 1881. In that year he came to the United States and on the 16th of July reached Chicago, where he worked in a lumberyard until Christmas. He then came to Saunders county, Nebraska, and for two years was employed as a farm hand, but following his marriage in 1884 he rented land in Pohocco precinct. After operating leased land for eighteen years he spent two years in Oklahoma, where he purchased land. However, he lost everything because of drought and returned to Saunders county, where he rented land for six years. During that time he worked hard and lived economically and was able to save sufficient capital to purchase his present farm of three hundred and twenty acres on section 16, Pohocco precinct. He formerly specialized in breeding Poland China hogs but is now engaged in general farming and is meeting with gratifying success. His place is well improved and as everything is kept in excellent condition it is one of the attractive and valuable properties of the precinct.

PAST AND PRESENT OF SAUNDERS COUNTY, VOL II          573

   In 1884 Mr. Baltz was united in marriage to Miss Catherine Backhous, likewise a native of Germany, and they have become the parents of five children, namely: Anna, who married Ernest Schmidt and resides in Dodge county, Nebraska; and Harry, Otto, Emma and Rosa, all of whom are still at home.

   Mr. Baltz has given his political allegiance to the republican party since becoming a naturalized citizen of the United States and both he and his wife are members of the German Baptist church. They have a wide acquaintance throughout the county and their many sterling qualities of character have gained them the respect and goodwill of all who have been brought into contact with them.

   Frank L. Anderson is engaged in stock-raising on his fine farm on section 8, Ashland township, Saunders county, Nebraska, and also on his ranch in Loup county, this state. A native of Denmark, his birth occurred on the 22d of February, 1854, and he is a son of Jens and Mary Anderson, who were also born in that country and in 1865 came with their family to the United States. For several years they lived in Illinois but at length removed to Cass county, Nebraska, where the father purchased eighty acres of land, to the operation of which he devoted his time and attention until 1887, when he retired and spent the remainder of his life with our subject. He passed away on the 12th of March, 1899, after surviving his wife for about thirty-one years, as she died in 1868.

   Frank L. Anderson attended school both in Denmark and in Illinois and remained at home until 1873, when he removed to Cass county, Nebraska, and bought land. After operating this place for two years he went to Leadville, Colorado, and engaged in mining for thirteen years. At the end of that time, or in 1887, he returned to Saunders county, Nebraska, and bought three hundred and sixty acres on section 8, Ashland township, which he began to improve and which is now one of the valuable and attractive farm properties of his locality. He also holds title to a section of land in Loup county, Nebraska, of which his son is in charge. He raises high grade stock, feeding about one hundred head of cattle and about two carloads of hogs per year upon his Saunders county farm and feeding about three hundred head of cattle upon his ranch. He understands stock-raising thoroughly and as he watches the market carefully he seldom fails to receive good prices for his stock.

   On June 22, 1886, Mr. Anderson married Miss Agnes Knox, a daughter of James and Margaret (Goundrey) Knox, natives of Canada. The father farmed until 1880 and in that year removed to Colorado and operated a hotel there until 1887, when he came to Saunders county and took up his residence with our subject. He passed away in March, 1888, but was survived by his wife until June, 1900. Mr. and Mrs. Anderson have two children: Hartley K., born February 7, 1891, who is operating his father's ranch in Loup county; and Dora E., born June 28, 1901, who is now attending school in Ashland.

   Mr. Anderson is a republican in his political allegiance and takes the interest

574          PAST AND PRESENT OF SAUNDERS COUNTY, VOL II

of a good citizen in everything relating to the public welfare. His religious faith is that of the Congregational church and fraternally he is identified with the Ancient Order of United Workmen. He has gained more than a competence and has thoroughly identified his interests with those of his adopted country, which has given him opportunity to win success.

   Frank Brabec is a well known lumber merchant of Yutan, where he has successfully carried on business for a number of years. He was born at Pleasant Hill, Nebraska, October 12, 1871, and in his early boyhood accompanied his parents on their removal to Crete, Nebraska, where he attended the public schools until fifteen years of age. He then secured employment in a mercantile establishment and also worked at the printer's trade until he reached the age of twenty-seven. In that year he arrived in Saunders county and for six years was engaged in merchandising in Yutan. Disposing of his interests in that connection, he turned his attention to the lumber trade, in which he has since been engaged, and his business has been conducted along well defined lines of labor leading to substantial and merited success.

   In 1901 Mr. Brabec was united in marriage to Miss Anna Karloff, her father being William Karloff, an early settler of Saunders county. Fraternally Mr. Brabec is connected with the Modern Woodmen of America and with the Bankers Association of Des Moines. He is accounted one of the wide-awake, progressive and enterprising business men of his community and enjoys the merited regard of those with whom he has been associated.

   Mrs. William Karloff is a resident of Yutan, making her home with her relatives, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Brabec. She was born in Germany in 1854 and bore the maiden name of Sophia Stamp. She attended the common schools of her native country until she reached the age of fourteen and in 1873 when a young lady of nineteen years, came with her parents to America, the family home being established at Mokena, Illinois. In 1873 she became the wife of William Karloff, and when they removed to Saunders county in 1875 they were accompanied by her parents.

   William Karloff was born in Germany, January 20, 1847, and in accordance with the educational laws of his native land attended the common schools until he reached the age of fourteen years. He arrived in America in 1867, when a young man of twenty years, and worked upon a farm near Mokena, Illinois, for eight years. Two years following his marriage he came to Saunders county and secured a homestead claim, taking possession of a tract of wild land which he converted into rich and productive fields. Year after year he carefully tilled the soil until he brought his land to a high state of cultivation. His farming

PAST AND PRESENT OF SAUNDERS COUNTY, VOL II          575

interests were wisely and successfully conducted until 1903, when he removed to Yutan and put aside the active work of tilling the soil. He continued to make his home in Yutan until his death, which occurred April 15, 1915. To Mr. and Mrs. Karloff were born five children. Mary, who was born in Illinois, December 16, 1874, and now resides six miles south of Yutan, is the wife of Charles Burmeister, by whom she has four children. John F., who was born March 4, 1878, and resides five miles southwest of Yutan, wedded Miss Emma Nissen, by whom he has four children. Anna, whose birth occurred January 16, 1880, wedded Frank Brabec, a lumber merchant of Yutan. Sophia, who was born March 14, 1883, gave her hand in marriage to Herman Peters, an implement dealer of Yutan, by whom she has two children. Dora, born August 5, 1885, is the wife of John Lindercamp, a harness maker of David City.

   Mr. Karloff attended the German Lutheran church and his life was an honorable and upright one. He had very little money when he came to this county but possessed unlimited capital in his industry and determination and by means of those qualities won his success, acquiring a comfortable competence which enabled him to leave his family in good financial circumstances. Since her husband's death Mrs. Karloff has made her home with Mr. and Mrs. Frank Brabec. Her residence in the county covers forty years, during which time she has witnessed the greater part of the growth and development of this portion of the state. She has seen it converted from a pioneer region into a populous and prosperous district and she can relate many interesting incidents of the early days.

   John Schulz is one of the large landowners of Saunders county, now living retired. For many years he was closely associated with agricultural interests, and the diligence and determination which he displayed in his business affairs brought to him the success which is now his and which enables him to rest from further business activities. Moreover, his life record proves what may be accomplished when determination and energy lead the way. A native of Germany, Mr. Schulz was born in Schleswig-Holstein, March 31, 1848, and attended the common schools until he reached the age of fifteen years. He came with his parents to America in 1867, the family home being established near Joliet, Illinois, after which he worked as a farm hand for two years. Later he removed to Iowa, settling near Adel in 1869, and there he worked upon a farm for his father, who rented land. In 1871 he came with his parents to Saunders county and the father purchased an eighty-acre homestead right and two hundred and forty acres of railroad land. John Schulz continued to work for his father until 1874, when he married and started in farming on his own account, establishing his home upon a quarter section of land to which he had assisted his father in gaining title. His parents continued residents of this county throughout their remaining days, the father passing away in 1895, while the mother's death occurred in 1903.

   John Schulz was united in marriage to Miss Margaret Sievers, a daughter

576          PAST AND PRESENT OF SAUNDERS COUNTY, VOL II

of Mrs. John Sievers, an early settler of Saunders county. By this union there are eight children. Etta, who was born January 1, 1877, and lives a mile and a half southwest of Yutan, wedded John Storm, by whom she has three children. John A., who was born in 1878 and lives a mile and a half southwest of Yutan, married Miss Sinna Schmidt, by whom he has five children. George W., who was born in 1880 and lives in Marble precinct, Saunders county, Nebraska, married Miss Louisa Nitcen and has four children. Lena, who was born in 1882 and lives a mile and a half south of Yutan, gave her hand in marriage to Henry Heldt, by whom she has three children. William, who was born in 1884 and resides on a farm near Crandon, South Dakota, married Miss Kate Schmidt, by whom he has one child. Louis, who was born in 1886 and lives northwest of Wahoo, wedded Miss Marie Schmidt, by whom he has three children. Kate, who was born in 1888 and makes her home two miles north of Yutan, is the wife of John G. Johnson and the mother of two children. Charles, who was born in 1893 and lives a mile and a quarter south of Yutan, wedded Miss Mary Draper.

   John Schulz may truly be called a self-made man and deserves all the praise which that term implies. His parents were in limited financial circumstances when they removed with their family to Saunders county. He worked very hard to assist his father in paying for his land and later worked equally hard to secure farm property of his own. As his financial resources increased he kept adding to his place and is now accounted one of the successful men of the county and his children all have farms of their own. His possessions ranked him the second largest landowner of the county, his holdings embracing at one time sixteen hundred acres of the best improved farms in the county. He has left the active work of tilling the fields to others while he is now enjoying well earned rest, his possessions supplying him with a handsome annual income that supplies him with all of the comforts and many of the luxuries of life. In his political views Mr. Schulz is a republican but has never been an office seeker. He attends the German Lutheran church and for a number of years he has been a member of the school board, interested in the cause of education. He has always stood for progress and improvement along all the lines leading to public benefit and his business career illustrates the possibilities of success that lie before the ambitious, energetic young business man.

   Lewis E. Lund, who is filling the office of police judge and justice of the peace of Mead, was born in Sweden on the 30th of September, 1846, a son of Peter and Katherine Lund. Until about fourteen years of age he devoted some of his time to attending school and then began working as a farm hand, so continuing until after he attained his majority, when he emigrated to the United States in 1868. For a year he worked in a sawmill in Wisconsin, after which he went to Moline, Illinois, where he was employed at various odd jobs until 1870, when he came to Saunders county, Nebraska. He homesteaded eighty acres of land in Union precinct and subsequently added to his holdings by

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PAST AND PRESENT OF SAUNDERS COUNTY, VOL II          579

purchase. For eighteen years he followed agricultural pursuits but in 1888 retired from the farm and took up his residence in Mead, where he has since lived. He has been employed in various lines since locating here but is now devoting the greater part of his time to his duties as police judge and as justice of the peace, in which office he is serving for the second term.

   Mr. Lund was married October 26, 1872, to Miss Anna Johnson, who passed away May 6, 1906, and June 4, 1913, he was again married, Mrs. Amanda Magley becoming his wife. Her maiden name was Amanda Carlson and she is also a native of Sweden.

   Mr. Lund votes independently, believing that the fitness of the candidate is of greater importance than his political belief. In addition to the offices which he now holds he has served as road overseer, and he has at all times regarded a public office as a public trust. He never sought an office in his life and has only consented to fill official positions after much urging by his friends and for the public good. He is a member of the Baptist church and casts his influence on the side of righteousness. His life has been an active and useful one, and although he began as a poor man he now has a competence which supplies him with all of the comforts and some of the luxuries of life.

   Louis Kavan, a native of Rock Creek precinct, has continued to reside in that precinct throughout his life and is now one of its prosperous farmers, owning the Grove Valley Stock Farm. His birth occurred on that place, September 25, 1888, and he is the youngest of three sons born to Phillip and Mary (Hrdlicka) Kavan, both natives of Moravia. The father was born on the 16th of April, 1854, and the mother's birth occurred August 17, 1854. She came to the United States with her parents in 1877 and Mr. Kavan emigrated to this country with his parents in 1873. He at once made his way to Saunders county, Nebraska, and took up a homestead in Bohemia precinct. Subsequently he sold that farm and purchased from the Union Pacific Railroad the southeast quarter of section 7, Rock Creek precinct, which is now in the possession of his son Louis. He named his place the Grove Valley Stock Farm and as his capital increased bought adjoining land until his farm comprised four hundred and eighty acres in Rock Creek precinct and two hundred and sixty acres in Mariposa precinct. He still owns three hundred and twenty acres of that tract but the original quarter section is now in the possession of our subject. Phillip Kavan was actively engaged in agricultural pursuits until 1912, when he retired and removed to Wahoo, where he is now enjoying a period of well earned leisure. He was married at Cedar Hill, Nebraska, in 1880 and he and his wife have become the parents of seven children, five of whom grew to maturity, namely: Wenceslaus, who was born September 23, 1884, and is now a practicing physician of Bee, Seward county, this state; Frank, born March 10, 1886, who is farming in this county; Louis; Blanche, who was born on the 1st of June, 1890, and who is now the wife of Joseph Bartek, of Loma, Butler county, this state; and Albina, who was born March 1, 1893, and is at home.

580          PAST AND PRESENT OF SAUNDERS COUNTY, VOL II

   Louis Kavan was reared in Rock Creek precinct and during his boyhood and youth obtained a common school education. Through assisting with the farm work he gained valuable training in agriculture and was thus able to begin cultivating land on his own account when he reached man's estate. His well directed labors have brought him an enviable measure of prosperity and his one hundred and sixty acre farm on section 7, Rock Creek precinct, is one of the valuable and attractive places of the locality. It is known as the Grove Valley Stock Farm and he derives a good return from the sale of his high grade cattle and hogs. He also raises grain to some extent and is successful in all that he does, as he is practical and also progressive.

   Mr. Kavan was married on the 21st of October, 1912, to Miss Anna Woita, who was born in Saunders county, on the 22d of February, 1890. They have a son, Phillip, whose birth occurred on the 31st of May, 1914.

   Mr. Kavan is a nonpartisan in politics but keeps well informed on the questions and issues of the day. Although he is a young man, he has gained a measure of success that many of his seniors might well envy, and his energy and good judgment insure his continued prosperity. Personally he is popular and all who have come in contact with him respect him highly.

   Abram B. Miller has one of the excellent farms in Ashland township, Saunders county, and also owns considerable land in Lincoln and Frontier counties, Nebraska. He was born in Pennsylvania February 4, 1847, and is a son of John S. and Maria (Brinton) Miller, both of whom were born in Newberry, York county, Pennsylvania. The father engaged in farming and also followed the miller's trade, being connected with those occupations in York county, Pennsylvania, until his demise on the 20th of May, 1891. His wife died many years previously, her demise occurring on the 14th of October, 1859.

   Abram B. Miller was reared and educated in his native county and remained at home until he attained his majority. He then began his independent career and after living in Ohio for a time went to Illinois, where he farmed until 1879. In that year he came to Saunders county, Nebraska, and rented land, which he operated until 1886. He then bought one hundred and sixty acres on section 6, Ashland township, which he had previously rented for two years, and at once began the improvement of his land. His farm is now well developed and equipped according to modern ideas and is beautified by fine trees, planted by Mr. Miller, who takes pride in keeping everything about the place in good condition. He also owns a half section in Lincoln county and four hundred acres in Frontier county, this state, and derives a good income from these investments.

   Mr. Miller was married January 10, 188?, to Miss Sarah Helmle, a daughter of Christian F. and Christina R. (Deiter) Helmle, further mention of whom occurs in the sketch of L. R. Vandeman. Mr. and Mrs. Miller have had three children. Raman A., who was born on the 29th of October, 1883, is a graduate of the state university with the class of 1904. He is farming with his father

PAST AND PRESENT OF SAUNDERS COUNTY, VOL II          581

and is giving much attention to raising thoroughbred Poland China hogs, of which he has about two hundred head. Ernest E., who was born in January, 1888, passed away on the 15th of October, 1889. Talmage E., born September 11, 1890, graduated from the forestry department of the state university in 1911 and is now in the government forestry service at Kalispell, Montana.

   Mr. Miller casts his ballot in support of the men and measures of the republican party but has never sought political preferment. His religious faith is that of the Congregational church and in all of his dealings with his fellows he has been straightforward and just. He has resided in the county for thirty-six years and for thirty-one years has lived upon his present farm and during that time he has had a part in the constant advancement of the interests of his community not only along material but also along moral and civic lines.

   Lineas R. Vandeman gained a gratifying measure of success as an agriculturist and won the respect and esteem of his fellow citizens as he was a man of ability and of fine qualities of character. His birth occurred in Adams county, Ohio, on the 15th of May, 1849, and his parents were William and Ellen (Doak) Vandeman, further mention of whom is made in the sketch of J. D. Vandeman elsewhere in this work.

   Lineas R. Vandeman attended the public schools of Ohio in the acquirement of an education and remained with his parents until he reached the age of twenty-eight years. As soon as old enough he began assisting his father with the farm work and when he began his independent career he was an experienced and efficient agriculturist. For a year he rented land and then purchased a farm, which he operated for a time, but in 1878 he left the Buckeye state and came westward to Saunders county, Nebraska. He bought one hundred and sixty acres of railroad land on section 7, Ashland township, and at once began improving his place, which was a tract of wild prairie. He erected excellent buildings, brought his land under cultivation and took great pride in keeping everything upon the farm in good repair. He raised both grain and stock and as the years passed his resources increased, for he managed his affairs well. He passed away on the 29th of June, 1908, after an illness of about four months, and his demise was deeply regretted by all who had been closely associated with him.

   Mr. Vandeman was married on the 23d of November, 1876, to Miss Pauline Helmle, a daughter of Christian and Christina (Deiter) Helmle, both natives of Germany. In the '40s the father came to America and located in Adams county, Ohio, where he purchased land which he operated during the remainder of his life. He owned two hundred acres and his well directed labors brought him a competence. He and his wife reared ten children to mature years, eight daughters and two sons, but only four are now living, namely: Pauline; Margaret, the wife of James Taylor, of Geneva, Nebraska; Sarah, who married A. B. Miller, a farmer of this county; and Emma, who is living in Olathe, Kansas. Both parents died in 1880, the father on the 11th of June and the

582          PAST AND PRESENT OF SAUNDERS COUNTY, VOL II

mother on the 16th of December. Mr. and Mrs. Vandeman had five children, namely: O. Frank, who is farming the home place; Claude H., a resident of Ashland; William C., who owns a ranch in Brown county, this state; Harry M., who is living in Lincoln; and Selma, the wife of Lester Rice, who is farming in Montana.

   Mr. Vandeman supported the republican party at the polls and served as school director but was never an office seeker. His religious faith was that of the Congregational church, to which he belonged, and all good causes received his hearty support. He quietly performed the tasks that lay nearest at hand and in so doing gained a comptence and also contributed to the agricultural development of his community and to the advancement of the general welfare along moral and civic lines.

   George Heldt, of Marble township, who is a representative of one of the pioneer families of Saunders county, has met with signal success as a farmer and now owns about one thousand acres of fine land in this county and also a half section in Colorado. He has taken an active part in public affairs and is now serving for the second term as a member of the board of county commissioners, of which he is chairman.

   Mr. Heldt was born in Kankakee county, Illinois, on the 14th of October, 1868, a son of Detlef and Elize (Speck) Heldt. Both parents were born in Germany and there grew to maturity and were married. In 1865, however, they emigrated to the United States and located in Illinois, whence, in 1869, they came to Saunders county, Nebraska, The father homesteaded land in Marble precinct, which he cultivated until 1890, when, following the marriage of his son George, he turned the management of the place over to him. Detlef Heldt then erected new buildings on another farm which he had purchased, and he and his wife took up their residence there, where they remained for several years, when they retired to Yutan, where they are now living. They are highly esteemed and richly deserve the period of rest and leisure which they are enjoying. More extended mention of them appears elsewhere in this work.

   George Heldt attended the common schools in the acquirement of his education and received valuable training in farm work through assisting his father. He was married in 1890 and in that year began farming the homestead on his own account and is still operating that farm. He has invested heavily in land and owns about one thousand acres in this county, five hundred and twenty of which he operates personally and the remainder of which he rents. He engages in general farming, raising the usual crops and also feeding a number of cattle and hogs, and he finds both branches of his business lucrative. In addition to his large holdings in Saunders county he owns a half section in Colorado and derives therefrom a substantial addition to his income. The prosperity which he has gained indicates that he is an efficient agriculturist and an excellent business man, and he justly ranks among the leading citizens of his precinct.

PAST AND PRESENT OF SAUNDERS COUNTY, VOL II          585

   On the 25th of January, 1890, occurred the marriage of Mr. Heldt and Miss Mary Plambeck, who was born in Douglas county, Nebraska, of the marriage of Joe and Anna (Wagerman) Plambeck, both of whom were born in Germany but were married in Douglas county, this state. The father has passed away, but the mother is living at Millard, Nebraska. Mr. and Mrs. Heldt are the parents of ten children: Lizzie, now the wife of Henry Jensen, who is farming at Bassett; Lena, who married Fred Miller, a farmer residing near Yutan, this county; and Annie, John, William, Laura, Herbert, Rosy, Doris and Erma, all of whom are at home.

   Mr. Heldt is a stanch republican and takes a keen interest in the public welfare. For twenty years he has been a member of the school board; is now serving his second term as county commissioner; and has been still further honored by election as chairman of the board of commissioners. The family attend the Lutheran church, which Mr. Heldt supports liberally, and his influence is cast on the side of right and justice. Practically his entire life has been passed in this county and the fact that those who have known him intimately since boyhood are his warmest friends indicates his genuine worth.

   On the list of honored dead in Saunders county appears the name of John Ohm, a man of German birth who had the vision to see that in America, the land of opportunity, he might win success and accordingly came to the new world. He always placed his dependence upon the substantial qualities of industry and perseverance and along well denned lines of labor gained the prosperity which enabled him in the evening of his days to live retired. He was born in Schleswig-Holstein, Germany, in 1887, and attended the common schools there until he reached the age of fifteen. He afterward devoted his attention to farming in Germany until at the age of thirty-seven years he came to the new world, crossing the Atlantic in 1874, at which time he took up his abode in Kankakee county, Illinois. He then purchased a small farm and rented more land, after which he concentrated his energies upon general agricultural pursuits, spending ten years in Illinois. In 1884 he arrived in Saunders county and for one year cultivated a rented tract of land of eighty acres. The following year he purchased an eighty-acre farm and to that added a tract of similar size the succeeding year. He then bent his energies to the development and improvement of the property and brought his fields under a high state of cultivation. Year by year he carefully and persistently tilled the soil and carried on his farm work according to modern methods, winning substantial success. His time was given to the development of the fields until 1905, when he removed to Yutan and retired from active business.

   On the 27th of June, 1866, Mr. Ohm was united in marriage to Miss Anna Ohm, who, though of the same name, belonged to a different family. She was born in Schleswig-Holstein, Germany, January 16, 1846, pursued her education in the public schools there until she reached the age of sixteen years and when a young woman of twenty was married. Mr. and Mrs. Ohm became

586          PAST AND PRESENT OF SAUNDERS COUNTY, VOL II

the parents of five children. Jacob, who was born in Germany, April 8, 1867, is now a hardware merchant of Rising City, Nebraska, and married Miss Kate Delphs. Kate, who was born in Germany in 1869, lives on a farm two and one-half miles south of Yutan and gave her hand in marriage to Hans Wecht, by whom she has three children. John, who was born in Germany in 1871 and is engaged in farming three and one-half miles south of Mead, wedded Miss Nannie Holm, by whom he has seven children. Fred, whose birth occurred in Kankakee county, Illinois, in 1875, became a lumber merchant of Yutan and passed away on the 11th of November, 1911. George, born in Kankakee county, in 1880, is engaged in farming five miles north of Yutan and wedded Miss Ella Ohm, by whom he has four children.

   Mr. and Mrs. Ohm were members of the German Lutheran church. They traveled life's journey happily together for forty-eight years but were separated by the hand of death on the 17th of April, 1914, when Mr. Ohm was called to his final rest. His had been an active, useful and well spent life. The laudable ambition which prompted him to seek his fortune in America also led him to success. He was never afraid of hard work and his close application and industry were the basis of his continued advancement that enabled him in his later years to live retired.

   Michael Golliglee, who has gained gratifying success as a farmer, now owns three hundred and twenty acres of finely improved land in Pohocco precinct. His birth occurred in Altoona, Pennsylvania, on the 20th of May, 1854, and he is a son of John and Rosanna (Keenan) Golliglee, both of whom were born in County Armagh, Ireland, but were married in Pennsylvania, the father having removed to that state in 1848 and the mother in 1846. John Golliglee was a miner by occupation but after settling in Pennsylvania his first work was on the construction of a tunnel through the Allegheny mountains. He first visited Nebraska in 1852, coming from Johnstown, Pennsylvania, by way of St. Louis, where he took a steamboat to Omaha. At that time Omaha was an insignificant hamlet of thirteen houses and a few wigwams, and four months later he returned to Pennsylvania, where his marriage occurred the following year. In 1870 he came with his family to Saunders county and purchased railroad land on section 13, township 16, range 8. As soon as possible he broke the sod and brought his land under cultivation and as the years passed he made many improvements upon the place. He accumulated more than a competence and became one of the substantial men of his precinct. Both he and his wife died in 1913. At that time they were aged respectively ninety-four and ninety-one years and were said to be the oldest couple living in Saunders county. Their marriage was solemnized on the 7th of August, 1853, and had they lived until the 7th of August, 1913, they would have celebrated the sixtieth anniversary of their wedding. They were widely known and were held in high honor by all who had been brought in close contact with them. Mrs. Golliglee was a young woman when she came to the United States in 1846

PAST AND PRESENT OF SAUNDERS COUNTY, VOL II          587

and for a period of seven years she was employed as head maid servant in the home of the president of the Pennsylvania Central Railroad. At the same time her brother was in the employ of that family as head hostler. While she was in the service of the railroad magnate the great cholera epidemic of the early '50s broke out and, securing her employer's consent, she became a volunteer nurse and as such aided in caring for the victims of the scourge. The mortality was so great that at times as many as seven or eight dead bodies were taken from the same house. Mr. and Mrs. Golliglee had eight children, of whom six grew to maturity, as follows: Michael, of this review; Bernard, who is operating a farm adjoining that of our subject; Rosa, the wife of Peter Anderson, of Beaumont, Texas; John, who is also engaged in farming; and Frank and Elizabeth, deceased.

   Michael Golliglee attended the public and parochial schools in the acquirement of an education and remained at home with his parents until they were called to their final rest. He has continued to follow the occupation to which he was reared and has gained a gratifying success as a farmer and stockman. He specializes in cattle and as he is an excellent judge of stock and watches the market carefully his activities along that line return him a good profit. His farm comprises three hundred and twenty acres, all of which is in a high state of development, and he has gained financial independence.

   In 1905 Mr. Golliglee was united in marriage to Miss Mary Hanlon, by whom he has four children, Frank, Elizabeth, Alice and Eleanor. Mr. Golliglee supports the republican party although his father was an adherent of the democratic party. His religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Estina Catholic church, to which his parents also belonged and which his father helped to build. He also belongs to the Knights of Columbus and to the Eagles of Fremont. The integrity which he manifests in all relations of life has won him the respect which is accorded only to genuine worth of character and personally he is popular.

   Jerry Dailey, Jr., sheriff of Saunders county, discharges his duties without fear or favor, so that his name has become a terror to evil-doers and is regarded as a bulwark of defense by those who hold themselves amenable to law. That the county believes that no more capable official could be chosen for the position has been indicated by the fact that he has been elected five times. He was born in Michigan on the 1st of February, 1869, and comes of a family of Irish lineage. His grandfather spent his entire life in Ireland but the father, Jerry Dailey, a native of County Cork, born in 1886, came to the new world with his widowed mother in 1854, when a youth of eighteen years. He was married in Michigan to Miss Johanna Lynch and in the year 1858 they removed westward to Saunders county, settling on a farm. There they resided until 1870, when they removed to Ames, Nebraska, but in 1884 returned to Saunders county, where their remaining days were passed, the mother dying July 19, 1908, while the father's death occurred in 1918.

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   Jerry Dailey, Jr., is indebted to the public-school system of Ames for the early educational privileges which he enjoyed and after mastering a public-school course he attended the normal school at Fremont, Nebraska, while in 1891 he was graduated from the Fremont Business College. He then went to Wyoming, where he was employed by the Union Pacific Railroad, also continuing in the employ of that road at Pocatello, Idaho, until 1895, in which year he returned to Saunders county and began farming, his attention being given to general agricultural pursuits until the spring of 1901. He then opened a blacksmith shop in Colon, where he remained for four years, continuing in that business. In November, 1905, however, he was elected sheriff of Saunders county and on the 4th of January, 1906, entered upon the duties of the position, to which he has been reelected four times. He never regards lightly the duties that devolve upon him and, prompt and faithful in executing the law, he has made a creditable record which has won him the trust and goodwill of all law-abiding citizens. He has always voted the democratic ticket and it is as a representative of that party that he has been called to his present office.

   In May, 1891, at Wahoo, Mr. Dailey was married to Miss Nellie Ryan, a daughter of Michael Ryan, now deceased, who was a native of Tipperary, Ireland. To Mr. and Mrs. Dailey the following children have been born: Edgar; Thomas; Joseph, who died in infancy; and Ruth and Ruby, twins.

   The parents hold membership in the Catholic church and Mr. Dailey is also identified with the Modern Woodmen of America and the Ancient Order of United Workmen. He has a wide acquaintance throughout the county and warm regard is entertained for him by reason of his geniality and other commendable and substantial qualities.

   John Forsberg, a well known carpenter of Mead, is an expert workman and has gained a gratifying measure of prosperity. He was born in Sweden on the 27th of March, 1884, and his parents were John and Cecelia Pearson, both of whom are deceased. He was reared at home and until fourteen years of age devoted much of his time to attending school. He then apprenticed himself to a carpenter and at the end of three years began following his trade independently. In 1902, at the age of eighteen, he emigrated to the United States and, making his way to Illinois, worked at La Salle for four months, after which he continued his journey westward and settled in Wahoo, Saunders county, Nebraska. For two years he was employed on a farm in that vicinity and then was similarly employed near Mead for a year and a half. He next worked in a carpenter shop in Mead owned by Nels Anderson and after three years he bought out his employer and has since conducted the business himself. He understands his trade thoroughly and has gained an enviable reputation for doing excellent work.

   Mr. Forsberg is independent in politics and keeps in touch with the events and issues of the day. He attends the Swedish Lutheran church and can be

PAST AND PRESENT OF SAUNDERS COUNTY, VOL II          589

depended upon to support all worthy causes. He came to this country a poor young man but through the exercise of enterprise and good judgment he has gained a competence. His prominent characteristics are such as never fail to win esteem and regard, and he has many loyal friends not only in Mead but throughout the county.

   Chris Buerstatte, one of the most aggressive and able business men of Mead, was born in Wathena, Kansas, on the 3d of May, 1877, a son of John H. and Lydia (Nahrung) Buerstatte, who were born respectively in Missouri and in Kansas. The mother has passed away but the father is still living and makes his home in Los Angeles, California. There are two sons and two daughters in the family, those besides our subject being: Albert, a resident of Pendleton, Oregon, who is married and has three children, Albert, Frances and a baby boy; Minnie, the wife of P. F. Larsen, of Omaha; and Emma, who married Victor Johnson; of Hamilton county, Nebraska, and has one child, a baby boy.

   Chris Buerstatte accompanied his parents on their removal to Walla Walla, Washington, in 1890. He continued his education there for eight years, being a student in both day and night schools. In 1898 he came to Nebraska and accepted a position in a store at Elk Creek, Johnson county, remaining there until the fall of 1905. At that time he went to Marquette, Hamilton county, and engaged in merchandising on his own account until 1910, when he went to California for his wife's health. In 1912 he returned to this state and entered business circles at Mead as a merchant. In 1914 he erected a garage, which he has since successfully conducted, and he is also agent for the Haynes and Briscoe motor cars. He is also engaged in the furniture and undertaking business and has gained an enviable reputation for excellent, unobtrusive service and reasonable prices. He is energetic and determined and carries through to successful completion any enterprise which he begins.

   In 1906 Mr. Buerstatte was united in marriage to Miss Mary Zelenka, who was born in Pawnee county, Nebraska. He is independent in politics, voting for the man rather than the party. While living in Clearwater, Idaho, he served for some time as coroner and proved capable and conscientious in the discharge of his duties. He attends the various churches in Mead and can be counted upon to support all agencies and movements seeking the moral advancement of his community. Fraternally he belongs to Wahoo Lodge, No. 59, A. F. & A.. M., Marquette Lodge, No. 288, I. O. O. F., at Marquette, Nebraska; and Orofino Lodge, No. 244, K. P., at Orofino, Idaho. He has held a number of offices in both the Odd Fellows and Knights of Pythias and exemplifies in his life the spirit of brotherhood upon which these organizations and the Masonic fraternity are based. He not only gives the closest attention to the management of his business interests but is also willing to give time and energy to public affairs. It was he who drew the plans of and promoted the electric light plant and waterworks in Mead. He has done a great deal toward the upbuilding of his town and is justly considered one of its foremost citizens. The success which

590          PAST AND PRESENT OF SAUNDERS COUNTY, VOL II

he has gained is due to his hard work, his careful planning and wise management and not to any fortunate circumstances. He began in debt and in addition to making his own way largely supported his two sisters during their girlhood.

   Abel B. Fuller is the oldest living settler in Saunders county and there is no phase of the county's growth and development with which he is not familiar. Here he has lived since 1863 or for a period of fifty-two years. He has passed the seventy-eighth milestone on life's journey, his birth having occurred in Jackson, Michigan, November 26, 1837. His parents were Andrew S. and Cornelia (Bunker) Fuller, the former a native of Vermont and the latter of New York. A farmer by occupation, Andrew S. Fuller went to Michigan in 1831 and there purchased government land, devoting his remaining days to general agricultural pursuits. He died in 1864, at the age of fifty-four years, while his wife passed away in 1869.

   Their son, Abel B., was reared and educated in Michigan, finishing his studies at Albion College in Albion, that state. He remained with his parents until he attained his majority and in 1862 came to Nebraska, spending a year in Cass county before removing to Ashland, Saunders county. This was then a frontier district and he took up the business of freighting, hauling freight across the plains for about seven years. In 1863 he made a trip across the country to Virginia City, Montana, and every phase of life upon the plains became to him as a well known book. After giving up the freighting business he turned his attention to real estate and handled the lands of the Burlington and Union Pacific Railroad Companies. He built the first frame building in Ashland in 1862 and from that time forward was identified through his business relations with the development and growth of the city until 1880, when he turned his attention to farming and stock-raising. He purchased five hundred acres of land in Ashland township and for ten years devoted his attention to the operation of his farm, but at the end of that time the work of the fields was put aside and he installed the first electric light plant at Ashland, operating it for twelve years. At the end of that time he retired from active business and is now enjoying well earned rest. In 1912 he sold his Saunders county farm but still owns a large tract of land in Perkins county and from the property derives a good annual income.

   On the 28th of September, 1870, Mr. Fuller was united in marriage to Miss Violette Laverty, a daughter of Wesley and Maria (Henderson) Laverty, both of whom were natives of New York. The father made his way to Michigan in pioneer times and became an extensive agriculturist of that state, where he passed away in 1861. His wife survived him until 1900, when she, too, was called to her final rest.

   Mr. Fuller has filled several public offices of honor and trust. He has served as deputy county clerk, was also county superintendent of schools for two years, has been a member of the city council and was a member of the school board for twenty years. He was a member of the territorial legislature

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PAST AND PRESENT OF SAUNDERS COUNTY, VOL II          593

during its last two sessions and also a member of the state legislature during its first two sessions, thus leaving the impress of his individuality upon the history of the state during its formative period. He was one of the first members of the normal school board of the state and one of the first regents of the State University. When serving in the general assembly he was made chairman of the committee on education and is the father of the present common-school law, having introduced the bill, which found its way to the statute books of the state. He was the father of Masonry in Ashland, promoting the work of the order and at all times exemplifying in his life the beneficent spirit of the craft. His political views are those of the republican party and his religious faith is that of the Episcopal church. His work has been of lasting benefit and value to the county in which he is now one of the most honored as well as the most venerable citizens. Moreover, his life work has been of great worth to the state, especially in advancing its educational interests and in promoting legislation the benefits of which are still enjoyed at the present time.

   Charles O. Johnson, who has lived retired in Wahoo for the past five years, has been a resident of Saunders county for more than three decades and won a comfortable competence through his undertakings as an agriculturist. His birth occurred in Sweden on the 5th of July, 1848, his parents being Olof and Christina (Larson) Johnson, who in 1851 emigrated to the United States, landing in Boston, Massachusetts. They resided in Burlington, Iowa, for three years and on the expiration of that period removed to Jefferson county, Iowa, but in 1861 they went to Henderson county, Illinois.

   In that county Charles O. Johnson remained until he enlisted in defense of the Union in 1865 as a member of the Twenty-eighth Illinois Infantry. He participated in the battle of Spanish Fort, near Mobile, Alabama, and thence went to Brownsville, Texas, where he remained until mustered out March 8, 1866. Returning to Illinois, he resided in that state until 1873 and then removed to southwestern Iowa, living on a farm near Red Oak for nine years. In 1883 he came to Saunders county, Nebraska, and bought a farm of one hundred and sixty acres southwest of Wahoo, which he operated successfully until 1910, when he put aside the active work of the fields and sold the property to his son-in-law, Edgar Ericson. He has since lived retired in Wahoo, enjoying the fruits of his former toil in well earned ease.

   On the 14th of September, 1878, Mr. Johnson was united in marriage to Miss Anna Peterson, whose parents were natives of Sweden and who passed away on the 2d of February, 1910. To them were born five children, as follows: Minnie, who gave her hand in marriage to Edgar Ericson, by whom she has two children, Paul and Marie; Clara Erne and Mabel, at home; Daniel Oliver, who is in the service of a bridge and concrete construction company with headquarters at Norfolk, Nebraska; and Russell Harold, who is pursuing an engineering course in the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute at Troy, New York.

   Mr. Johnson is a republican in his political views but except at national

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elections supports the best man regardless of party affiliation. He belongs to the Grand Army of the Republic, has served as commander therein and is at present the junior vice commander. His religious faith is that of the Swedish Lutheran church. He is numbered among the best known citizens of his section of Saunders county and is a man who is highly respected by all his friends and associates.

   Dentistry is unique among the professions in that it demands a threefold ability — mechanical ingenuity, broad scientific knowledge and the power to capably control the financial side. Dr. Henry, practicing in Ashland, is regarded as an able representative of the profession and is accorded a liberal and gratifying practice. He was born at Cuba, Fulton county, Illinois, April 29, 1864, a son of S. P. and C. B. (Davis) Henry, who were natives of Pennsylvania and New York respectively. The father was a cooper and carpenter by trade and, removing to the west, settled in Fulton county, Illinois, where he worked along those lines for many years or until 1880. He then came to Ashland, Saunders county, where he turned his attention to milling, following that business throughout his remaining days. At the time of the Civil war he served for three years in an Illinois regiment and was an honored veteran of the Union army. He met an accidental death, being killed by a train on the Burlington in 1892, while his wife passed away January 15, 1911.

   Dr. Henry pursued his early education in the schools of Farmington, Illinois, and continued his studies at Galesburg, that state. In 1894 he matriculated in the State University at Iowa City, Iowa, and was graduated with the class of dentistry in 1896. He afterward pursued a special course in Kansas City and subsequently came to Ashland, where he opened an office. He has since practiced here, covering a period of nineteen years, and his patronage is now most extensive and gratifying. His office is well equipped with all of the latest appliances and accessories of the dental profession and he is regarded as one of the most prominent dentists in his part of the state.

   On the 29th of December, 1877, Dr. Henry passed through an accident which not one in a million would have survived. He was then just thirteen years and eight months of age and was employed in a flouring mill at Farmington, Illinois. On this certain day he was sent to put a belt onto a horizontal shaft for the purpose of propelling a grindstone so that the miller could grind the picks for sharpening the burrs, this being an old-fashioned burr mill. In discharging the task assigned him Dr. Henry's coat was caught in the shaft and he was sent whirling around with it at a high rate of speed — about four hundred revolutions to the minute. His brother, H. H. Henry, was the first to discover the accident and hastened to notify the engineer. It was fully four minutes before the engine was shut down, during which time the boy's limbs had been pounded to a jelly. He was also injured internally and his left arm was broken in seven places, but he did not lose consciousness and he says that the first thought that entered his mind was of his mother. He was at once

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taken home and surgeons were summoned who pronounced the case hopeless, saying that he could live but a few hours. He lay in that condition for two weeks, and as he did not die, the surgeons decided to amputate his limbs close to the body, and thus he has gone through life. Many a man thus handicapped would have regarded life as an utter failure, but while physically mangled, his spirit was not crushed and he felt that success lay before one even in his condition. It is remarkable how he manages to get around in his office on a high stool without any trouble. He is not unknown either as a sportsman with rod and gun and each summer takes a vacation in order to enjoy hunting and fishing, in both of which he has developed marked skill. He says that his experience in no way inconveniences him, for he gets around the streets with a tricycle built to order. Laboring under conditions that to most men would spell overwhelming helplessness and failure, he has made a success in life and has built up a lucrative business in the practice of his profession, a well equipped laboratory making it comparatively easy for him to do his work. He has a small electric motor which is used in his dental work and he has a thoroughly modern office. In addition to his profesional interests he is a stockholder in the Platte River Bridge Company of Ashland and is the owner of a farm near the town.

   On the 18th of November, 1903, Dr. Henry was united in marriage to Miss Tillie Zaar, a daughter of C. J. and Matta (Mortenson) Zaar, both of whom were natives of Stockholm, Sweden. Emigrating to the United States, they located in Saunders county, Nebraska, where Mr. Zaar operated a farm during the remainder of his life. He passed away in 1901, while the demise of his wife occurred the following year. Dr. and Mrs. Henry have two children: Iva Mae, who was born July 1, 1905; and Josephine M., whose natal day was October 8, 1910.

   Dr. Henry belongs to the Odd Fellows society and was a delegate to the meeting of the grand lodge which was held in the fall of 1915 at Omaha. Politically he is a republican, well versed on the questions and issues of the day as well as upon all modern topics of general interest. His religious faith is that of the Christian church. Along strictly professional lines he has for an extended period been connected with the District, State and National Dental Associations and thus keeps in close touch with the onward march of the profession.

   Carl William Bruce, now living retired in Malmo, was for many years actively identified with farming and in the development of his fields won the success that now enables him to rest from further labor. He was born November 18, 1861, at Nyahyttan, Falun Lan, Sweden, a son of L. P. and Margaretta Bruce. It was in the fall of 1868 that they crossed the Atlantic, making their way to Omaha, Nebraska, and in the spring of 1869 they located on a homestead at Malmo.

   Carl William Bruce was then a little lad of less than eight years. He spent

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his youthful days under the parental roof, attending district school No. 36, wherein he acquired his education, save that which he has learned in the school of experience. He afterward took up the occupation of farming and with persistency and thoroughness carried on the work of the fields, which he brought to a high state of cultivation. His farm work was conducted along modern progressive lines and his close application and indefatigable industry won for him a large and gratifying measure of success. He also extended his activities into the field of banking, becoming vice president of the Farmers & Merchants Bank at Malmo.

   In the year 1898 at Malmo, Mr. Bruce was united in marriage to Miss Emma C. Nordquist, a daughter of P. L. and Anna Nordquist, and they have become parents of four children, namely: Clifford, Mildred, Leila and Genevieve.

   In his political views Mr. Bruce has always been a republican but never a politician in the sense of office seeking, preferring to concentrate his energies upon his business affairs, which have been carefully directed and have brought substantial returns. His residence, in the county covers almost forty-seven years, during which he has steadily advanced. Through this period he has witnessed the greater part of the growth and development of Saunders county, which during this time has been converted from a pioneer district into one of the populous and prosperous counties of the state.

   Although many years have passed since J. H. Staats, familiarly known as Jack, was called to his reward, he is still remembered as one of the early pioneers of the county and the influence of his life is still felt. He gained material success and was also instrumental in promoting the development of the county along a number of varied lines of activity. His birth occurred in Plainfield, Somerset county, New Jersey, on the 6th of September, 1836, and he remained in that state until about nineteen years of age. He received a common-school education and after putting aside his textbooks was variously employed until 1855, when he removed to Chicago, Illinois, whence, after a short time, he went to Minnesota. In the spring of 1857 he went to Pike's Peak and later was for a time in Denver county, Colorado. In the spring of 1864 he took up his residence in Wood River, Buffalo county, Nebraska, and there worked at the carpenter's trade and also took contracts for furnishing wood and hay to old Fort Kearney. In 1868 he came to Saunders county and made his home on section 25, Cedar township, about three and a half miles northeast of the present site of Cedar Bluffs. He put up a blacksmith shop and store there and in addition to developing his business interests improved and cultivated his farm. He owned three hundred acres of excellent land, from which he derived a good income, and was recognized as one of the leading farmers of his township. In the spring of 1868 in partnership with W. H. Harmon he built a bridge across the Platte river just north of his farm and this was known as Staats & Harmon's bridge. The following year he mowed a road

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across the open prairie from his farm, direct to the small town of Eldred situated east of the present county poor farm. He was always willing to aid his neighbors and was equally generous to the traveler passing through his section, extending the hospitality of his home to those who desired food and lodging. On the 28th of August, 1877, while driving home from Fremont, he was killed by lightning and he was buried in the Maple Grove cemetery.

   Mr. Staats was married in Wood River, Buffalo county, on the 10th of March, 1864, to Miss Sophia L. Wilson, who was born near Chesterfield, New Hampshire, and is a daughter of Charles and Mehitable (Taylor) Wilson, who were born and married in the Granite state. In 1854 they removed to Rock Island, Illinois, where the father was employed as a bridge builder. While living in the east he owned a carriage shop and sold his product in Boston. From Illinois he removed with his family to Iowa and subsequently they became residents of Boscobel, Wisconsin, whence he started with an ox team for Pike's Peak. However, he met so many people returning that he went only as far as Fort Kearney and took up a squatter's claim in that neighborhood. He had to go to the fort to get necessary provisions and while making the trip to the fort was drowned in the Platte river. At the time his daughter Mrs. Staats was a girl of fifteen years. She received her education in the schools of New Hampshire, Illinois, Iowa and Wisconsin. She continued to live with her mother in Nebraska until about twenty years of age, when she was married to Mr. Staats. She is the second in order of birth in a family of five children, the others being: Henry C. and Ellen, both of whom are deceased; John, who lives in Cortez, Colorado; and Emma. To Mr. and Mrs. Staats were born five children: John W., deceased; Sophia, the wife of R. J. Fleming, of Cedar Bluffs; Nellie, who died when two years old; Henry K., who is operating the home farm; and Jack, who lives upon a farm in Cedar township a half mile from the homestead.

   Mr. Staats was a stanch republican in politics and was quite active in public affairs. He was not only an efficient agriculturist but believed firmly in the value of farmers' organizations and was one of the organizers of the local Grange, in the work of which both he and his wife were prominent. Fraternally he was a Mason and his religious faith was that of the Presbyterian church. His ability and his many admirable qualities gained him the respect and the warm personal regard of all who came into contact with him and his demise was felt as a great loss to his community.

   Following her husband's untimely death Mrs. Staats operated the home farm and in addition to paying off all the debts of the family purchased forty acres more land. She displayed a thorough knowledge of farming and excellent business judgment in directing the work of the farm and was not only successful in raising grain and stock but also developed the first good orchard in her locality. She gave her children good educational advantages and trained them in habits of industry and integrity. About 1898 she retired from active life and purchased a fine home in Cedar Bluffs, where she has since lived. She still owns one hundred and eighty acres of land, from which she derives a good income, and her many friends rejoice in her well deserved prosperity. She is a consistent member of the Presbyterian church and also belongs to the Order of the Eastern Star, although she does not now take an active part in

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lodge affairs. She has reached the age of seventy-one years but is still vigorous and is keenly interested in all that is taking place not only in her community but in the world at large. She is one of the pioneer women of the state, has done well her part in bringing about the development of her section and is highly honored by all who know her.

   Charles Anderson, who is successfully engaged in farming in Pohocco precinct, was born in Sweden on the 8th of December, 1860, of the marriage of Andrew and Sarah Johnson, who passed their entire lives in that country. To them were born five children, of whom Charles and Fanny live together in Pohocco precinct.

   Charles Anderson received his education in Sweden and after putting aside his textbooks worked as a farm hand and as a carpenter. In 1884, when twenty-four years of age, he came to the United States and was employed on a farm near Farragut, Iowa, until 1887, when he made his way still farther westward and settled in Saunders county, Nebraska. He rented land until 1902, when he purchased his present place on section ?4, Pohocco precinct, on which he has made many improvements, including the setting out of a fine orchard. He raises the usual crops and also gives considerable attention to stock-raising and finds both phases of his business lucrative.

   In Sweden, in 1883, Mr. Anderson was united in marriage to Miss Clara Nelson, who died in 1890 leaving two children: A boy, who died in infancy unnamed; and Agnes, who is also deceased;

   Mr. Anderson is a democrat in his political belief but has never been ambitious to hold office, his agricultural operations demanding his entire time. His religion is that of the universal brotherhood of man and in his daily life he exemplifies the spirit of fraternity. He holds membership in the Farmers Union and supports all projects which are calculated to improve the conditions of farm life in any way.

   George Hoffman, who in 1904 became a resident of Ashland, where he bought and now occupies a nice home, was previous to that time actively engaged in farming and to his original purchase of land added until he is now the owner of three hundred acres, which return to him a substantial annual income. He was born in Pickaway county, Ohio, November 13, 1842, a son of John and Mary (Sufferage) Hoffman, the former a native of Germany and the latter of Ohio. In his childhood days the father accompanied his parents to the new world, the family home being established in Ohio, where he became a farmer, following that occupation throughout his entire active business life.