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DUNCAN McKENZIE. Among the younger members of the farming community of Gill township, Cass county, the gentleman above named is deserving of a foremost rank. He is an early settler of that region, and his life work has been devoted to the up building and strengthening of the better interests of the community in which he was reared and has since lived. He is proprietor of a fine farm of two sections near Wheatland, and has prospered in his calling, and is one of the highly esteemed young men of Cass county.
Our subject was born in Bruce county, Ontario, Canada, November 2, 1868, and was one of a family of six children, two sons and four daughters, born to John and Jane (McIntyre) McKenzie, both of whom were natives of Canada. His father was a farmer by occupation, and followed the same in Canada until 1878, when he located in North Dakota, and entered claim to land in Gill township, Cass county, as a homestead, and became one of the pioneers of that region. He cleared the land and resided there during the balance of his career. His death occurred in North Dakota in 1892. He was a prominent citizen of his township, and assisted in the organization of the same, and served in various official positions. He was a consistent member of the Presbyterian church, and was held in high respect and esteem wherever he was known. Politically he was a Republican and strong in his convictions. The mother survives and still makes her home in the old homestead farm.
Our subject's brother' resides in Cass county. Mr. McKenzie was reared and educated in Cass county. North Dakota, and has spent his career there, and now operates a well-developed farm of two sections. He has become thoroughly acquainted with the most approved methods of conducting an estate, and has prospered in his chosen calling, and is regarded as one of the substantial men of that locality.
Our subject was married, in 1892, to Jennie Collins, a native of Canada. Three children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. McKenzie, named as follows: Myra, Margie and Trava B. Mr. McKenzie is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and Modern Woodmen of America. He has been called upon to serve in various offices in his township, and is at present a member of the board of supervisors.
CHARLES McKINNON, a pioneer farmer of Webster township, and one of the enterprising citizens of Cass county, resides on section 26, where he has surrounded himself with the conveniences and comforts of modern country life.
Mr. McKinnon was born in Ontario, Canada, near London, August 3, 1858. His parents were Gregor and Isabella (Mclntyre) McKinnon, both natives of Scotland. The father was born in Glasgow, Scotland, in 1818, was reared to manhood in his native land, and followed farming and fishing for a livelihood. He came to America and settled in Canada, where our subject was subsequently born. He came to Dakota in 1878 and filed a homestead claim to a quarter of section 24, in Webster township. Cass county, where he has since resided. He now owns three quarter-sections in the county. His wife died in 1897. They had a family of four daughters and three sons, three of the children now living in Cass county. The family was among the first settlers of Webster township, did a great deal of hard work, had great success, and is now living in retirement. Charles McKinnon was reared in Canada and farmed there until coming to North Dakota in 1878. He then filed claim to a quarter-section of section 26, Webster township, on which he now resides. He developed his property and is now the owner of a half-section of valuable lands.
Mr. McKinnon was married, in 1894, to Mary Slingsby. Mrs. McKinnon is a native of Wisconsin. Her parents, John and Fannie (Bachus) Slingsby, were born in England. They came to Dakota and settled in Cass county in 1878. Mr. and Mrs. McKinnon have two children, John G. and Isabelle. They have a pleasant home and are respected and esteemed by all.
JAMES M. McKISSICK. Among the young men who are rapidly rising to important stations as citizens and business men the gentleman above named deserves special mention. He is interested in a general merchandise business in Mayville. and also operates a farm in Cass county, his home being located on section 15, in Casselton township.
Our subject was born in Onondaga county, New York, December 20, 1875, and was a son of Charles and Lizzie M. (Koster) McKissick, both of whom were natives of New York. his father was born in 1846, and was reared and educated in New York and followed farming there until 1881, when he went to North Dakota and began work on the DeWight farm, in company with Governor J. M. Miller, near Wahpeton. He continued there for some years and then went to Casselton and assumed the management of the Hinkle Smith farm of Cass county, which he continued for some time. He later assumed the management of the Grandon farm, near Mayville, North Dakota, on which he is now located. He also owns two sections of land in Casselton township, which our subject operates. He is also interested in general merchandising in Mayville, and also another farm in Cass county, and also land in New York state. He has accumulated his property since taking up his residence in North Dakota, entering the state without means. He has been married twice, and has two sons, our subject and Charles, now residing at home.
James M. McKissick went to North Dakota in 1883, and was educated at Minneapolis and Fargo. He has acquired a comfortable competence by his earnest efforts, and is rapidly attaining an assured position among the well-to-do men of his community.
Our subject was married, December 14, 1898, to Clara M. Trammell, a daughter of James Trammell, a sketch of whom appears elsewhere in this volume.
 DANIEL A. McLAREN, widely known as a public-spirited citizen, and a progressive member of the farming community of Raymond township, Cass county, is a young man of ability, and is rapidly gaining an assured position in North Dakota. He has a fine farm of five quarter-sections of land, and makes his home in section 32.
Mr. McLaren was born in the village of Lanark, Lanark county, Ontario, Canada, June 30, 1865, and was a son of Duncan and Susan (Rice) McLaren. His mother died in Canada. The father of our subject was born near Perth, Scotland, in November, 1832, and resided in Lanark county, Ontario, till the spring of 1883, when he removed to Cass county. North Dakota, and purchased land in section 32, in Raymond township, where he resided most of the time until his death He was elected sheriff of Cass county in the fall of 1890, and assumed the duties of that office the following January, and served one term. He was one of the county commissioners of Cass county for six years, and was a prominent citizen. His death occurred February 19, 1894, at the age of sixty-two years, in DeLand, Florida, whither he had gone on account of ill-health. Three children were born to this worthy couple, as follows: Elizabeth, Jeanette and Daniel A.
Daniel A. McLaren was reared in his native place, and went to Cass county. North Dakota, with his parents. He received a common school education, and also attended the National Business College at Ottawa, Ontario. He has followed farming throughout his career, and has a well-improved estate comprising one and a quarter-sections of land. He operates one thousand eight hundred acres annually, and has met with unbounded success in his calling.
Our subject was married, February 1, 1897, in Moorehead, Minnesota, to Miss Emily Jane Rice, a daughter of the late William Rice, of Ontario. Mrs. McLaren is a native of Lanark, Lanark county, Ontario. One child has been born to bless the home of Mr. and Mrs. McLaren, upon whom they have bestowed the name of Daniel Duncan. Mr. McLaren has held various local offices of trust, including township treasurer, member of the township board of supervisors, and justice of the peace, and has labored to promote the general welfare of the people among whom he has resided. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and has taken the thirty-second degree, and the degrees of the Order of the Mystic Shrine, at Fargo. It is to such men as he that the community owes a debt of gratitude.
JOHN B. MEACHAM. The mature years of this gentleman have been devoted almost exclusively to the duties of farming, and he has acquired a knowledge of his calling that enables him to give valuable information to others less favored by nature or less observing. He is a man of ability and push, and for many years he was engaged in mercantile pursuits in Ripon, Cass county. North Dakota, but of late years has resided on his farm in Wheatland township, which he conducts with much success.
Our subject was born in Monmouth, Warren county, Illinois, June 7, 1847. His parents, Jeremiah and Elizabeth (Cox) Meacham, were natives respectively of Kentucky and Illinois. His father was a miller by trade, and went to Illinois about 1834 and lived there until 1858, when he moved to Red Wing, Minnesota, and remained there until his death in 1884, excepting two years spent in Kansas. The mother died in St. Paul, Minnesota, in 1886. Our subject has four brothers and one sister living, who reside in Minnesota. Mr. Meacham was reared in Minnesota and received his education in Hamline University of Red Wing, Minnesota. He enlisted July 25, 1863, in Company A, Hatch's Independent Battalion, and served three years in the Northwest, fighting Indians and guarding wagon trains. He participated in several small engagements, and was discharged from the service in 1866, when he returned to Minnesota and worked at his trade, that of a printer. He worked on several of the leading papers of Minneapolis and St. Paul, and in 1882 came to Cass county, North Dakota, and in company with William Staples established a general merchandise store at Ripon, and continued in business there eight years. He has since devoted his entire attention to the improvement of his farm in Wheatland township, and has met with marked success.
Our subject was married, in 1870, to Martha Staples, a sister of William Staples, a sketch of whose life appears elsewhere in this volume. Mr. and Mrs. Meacham are the parents of one son, named Fred L. Mr. Meacham is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and is steward of the church of Absaraka. He holds membership in the Brotherhood of American Yeomen. In local affairs he takes an active and prominent part and has served as supervisor of Wheatland township for the past four years. He has been a lifelong Republican in political faith, and is a man who works earnestly for the better interests of his country. His success is well merited.
CHARLES L. MEDBERRY, proprietor of one of the finest farms of Cass county, is an early settler of Addison township, and his name is closely connected with the advancement and development of the agricultural interests of his community. He entered Dakota with a firm determination to succeed, and is now one of the substantial men of his calling, and is highly respected by his fellow men.
Our subject was born at Saratoga Springs, New York, August 1, 1841. His parents, Abner H. and Alma C. (Bartlett) Medberry, were natives of New York, and the father was a farmer. He removed to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in 1852, and from there to Dodge county, Wisconsin. where he died in 1877, the mother passing away the same year.
Our subject was one of four sons and is the only one in North Dakota. He was reared and educated in Wisconsin and there engaged in farming and followed the same there, and was also an engineer at Oshkosh, Wisconsin, until 1878. In that year he went to Cass county. North Dakota, and purchased railroad land in section 7 of Addison township, where he has since resided. He owns a section of land, on which he has placed modern improvements, and he enjoys the comforts of rural life.
Mr. and Mrs. Medberry are the parents of two sons and one daughter, named as follows: Lynn C, Bertrand and Maude R. Mr. Medberry is a man who keeps pace with the times and is interested in the welfare of his community, but has never sought nor filled public office. pre{erring to lend his influence in other directions for the up building of the public good. He cast his first presidential vote for Lincoln, and has advocated the principles of the Republican party since that date.
EDWARD MEILICKE, one of the most progressive and influential citizens of Cass county, is pioneer settler of Everest township and has varied financial interests in that locality. He is the owner of eleven hundred and sixty acres of land, all of which is fully improved and under cultivation, and he has prospered in every enterprise in which he has embarked. He now resides near Wheatland and enjoys well-earned prosperity.
Our subject was born in Brandenburg, Germany, May 31, 1844, and was a son of Christian F. and Wilhelmina (Schmidt) Meilicke, both natives of Germany. His parents came to America in 1866 and settled in Minnesota, in Winona county, where the father died soon after their arrival. The family purchased land and the mother still lives in Minnesota, aged eighty-two years. Four sons were born, all of whom reside in Minnesota, with the exception of our subject.
Edward Meilicke was reared and educated in his native land and then learned the miller's trade, which he followed until he entered the German army. He served three years in the Prussian and Austrian war and participated in two important battles. He emigrated to America in 1867 and went direct to Minnesota and there assisted on the home farm and later purchased land and engaged in farming there until 1882, when he went to Cass county. North Dakota, and settled in Everest township, where he purchased a farm. He was also engaged in the mercantile business in Everest for some time. He has added to his acreage from time to time and now owns eleven hundred and sixty acres of Cass county land. He is president of the Mutual Insurance Company and is accounted a substantial man.
Our subject was married, in 1868, to Wilhelmina Dittmer, a native of Germany. Five children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Meilicke. as follows: Martha, Arthur, Lydia, Edward, and Emma. Mr. Meilicke assisted in the organization of the township in which he resides and has served as chairman of the board of supervisors for fifteen years. He is a Republican in political sentiment and strong in his convictions and earnest in his efforts for the welfare of his community. He is a member and secretary of the United Moravian church and is highly esteemed as an exemplary citizen.
JOHN G. MESSNER. Persistency and honesty are not without reward. With no previous experience in agricultural pursuits this gentleman went to Dakota in the early days of the settlement of Cass county and he is now the fortunate possessor of one of the finest pieces of property in the Red river valley. He has a fully equipped and well developed farm in Durbin township and is regarded as one of the solid men of his community. The land was wild at the time he began operations upon it, but good management and faithful efforts have brought it to a high state of cultivation and Mr. Messner enjoys the comforts of country life, laying aside a competence for his declining years.
Our subject was born in Wurtemberg, Germany, August 9. 1840, and was a son of Christian and Anna A. (Birk) Messner, who were natives of the same province and passed their lives there. The father was a farmer by occupation and was a soldier in the German army in the war with Russia. Four sons and two daughters constituted the family, three sons and one daughter now residing in America.
Our subject was reared and educated in his native land and there learned the weaver's trade. He came to the United States in 1863 and went direct to the copper mines of Michigan, where he lived fifteen years, engaged in mining. He went to Cass county. North Dakota, in 1878 and purchased the land on which he now resides. He is the possessor of one half-section of land and has devoted himself entirely to the improvement and cultivation of his farm.
Mr. Messner was married, in Germany, in 1859, to Barbara Kohler, a native of the same province as himself. Ten children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Messner. named as follows: Barbara, John, Mary, Christ, Jacob, Rosa, George, Bertha, William and Andrew. The family are members of the German Lutheran church and are highly respected in the community in which they have resided so many years. Mr. Messner has filled various local offices in the school and town boards and is actively interested in the welfare of his locality. He is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. Politically, he is a Republican.
JOSEPH MILLER. Among the foreign-born citizens of Clifton township, Cass county, who have acquired a comfortable home and an enviable reputation by dint of their earnest industry and strict honesty, the gentleman above named is entitled to foremost mention. He has a fine estate and his home is in section 22, where he has resided for many years and has followed farming.
Our subject is a native of Austria, and was born June 24, 1851. His parents, Anton and Theresia (Vaith) Miller, were natives of Austria and spent their lives in their native land. Two sons and two daughters were born to them, and our subject is the only member of the family in the United States.
Mr. Miller was reared to the age of sixteen years in Austria and in 1867 came to the United States and remained in Chicago, Illinois, three years and then spent some years in various places in the west. He went to Steele county. Minnesota, and later to Wabasha county, where he followed farming until 1880 and then went to Cass county. North
Dakota, and entered land as a homestead in Howes township. He resided there about two years and then removed to his present location in Clifton township, where he has held continuous residence since first locating there. He now owns a section of good land and is one of the well-to-do men of his community.
Our subject was married in Minnesota, in January, 1874, to Rosa Langer, a sister of Frank and Joe Langer, a sketch of whom appears elsewhere in this work. Nine children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Miller, as follows: Rosa, now Mrs. H. Shaw of Barnes county; Emma, Lottie, Hubert, Elizabeth, Bertha, Alice , Joseph and Edna. Mr. Miller takes an active part in local affairs of a public nature, and has filled various local offices, as assessor, member of the school board, town board, and minor offices. He is a member of the Modern Wood men of America. Politically he is a Republican and is firm in his convictions.
WILLIAM H. MILLER. As an old settler and representative citizen of Howes township. Cass county, this gentleman is widely known. He was among the first to enter that locality and begin the development of a farm, and has prospered in his calling, and is now proprietor of an excellent property. He was the pioneer blacksmith of that region. and is skilled in his trade, which he successfully conducted many years.
Our subject was born in Dundas county, Canada. March 4, 1855. and was a son of James and Isabella (Hunter) Miller, natives respectively of Pennsylvania and Aberdeen, Scotland. His father was a blacksmith by trade, and moved to Canada when a young man and married and spent his life there. He was the father of three sons and five daughters, and two sons and one daughter now reside in North Dakota.
Our subject was raised in Canada and educated there, and learned the blacksmith's trade. He went to Wisconsin in 1876, and remained until 1879, and then went to Cass county, where he took a homestead of one quarter-section, on which he now resides in Howes township, in section 18. He was among the earliest settlers of that region, and now owns and operates a half-section of excellent land which he has fitted with good improvements.
Our subject was married, in 1886, to Miss Nicoline Schmidt, a native of Germany. Mrs. Miller's parents, Frederick and Christina Schmidt, were natives of Germany, and her father died in his native land, and the mother emigrated to the United States in 1883 with her family. Mr. and Mrs. Miller are the parents of three children, Harvey J., Frank L. and Estella F., all of whom are living. Mr. Miller assisted in the organization of his township in 1884, and has served as township clerk since that time. He is a member of the Ancient Order of United Workmen, Modern Woodmen of America and Brotherhood of American Yeomen. In political sentiment Mr. Miller is a Democrat, and stands firm for the principles of his party.
ALEXANDER M. MITCHELL. One of the pleasantly situated and highly-improved farms of Walburg township, Cass county, is owned and operated by the subject of this review. He is a pioneer settler of Cass county and has transformed his place from a raw prairie to a thriving farm, which is enhanced in value and appearance by one of the finest groves in that region. He is a gentleman of excellent characteristics and highly respected by his associates.
Our subject was born in Ontario, Canada, February 4, 1847, and was a son of Alexander and Mary (McClellen) Mitchell. His father was a native of Scotland and was born near Glasgow. He was a school teacher in his younger days and came to Canada when a young man and passed his life there. The mother of our subject was a native of Canada. The father was married twice but our subject was the only child of the first union.
Mr. Mitchell was reared in Canada and received his education there and in 1867 went to Wisconsin and from there to Minnesota and spent some years in Wabasha and Goodhue counties. He went to Cass county. North Dakota, in 1881 and entered a tree claim to land in section 6, of Walburg township, which he later proved on and is now the fortunate possessor of one of the finest tracts in that section of the country.
Our subject was married, in 1878, to Miss Ada Farnham, a sister of George Farnham, a sketch of whom appears elsewhere in this work. Mrs. Mitchell died in 1888, leaving one child, who bears the name of Shirley. Mr. Mitchell is a member of the Brotherhood of American Yeomen and in political sentiment is a Republican. He has served as supervisor in his township for the past three years and is a man of active public spirit.
CHARLES H. MITCHELL, one of the brave defenders of the Union during the Civil war and the present popular city treasurer of Fargo, North Dakota, was born in Norwich, New York, June 8, 1842, and is the only son of Charles H, and Mary (Ryder) Mitchell, also natives of the Empire state, where the father was engaged in practice as a physician and surgeon throughout his active business life. He died in 1842. The grandfather, Henry Mitchell, was also a physician and surgeon of New York state and was a very prominent and influential citizen of his community. He was of English descent.
The subject of this sketch was reared and educated at Norwich and Oxford, New York, and after leaving school commenced the study of medicine, but in 1861, on the opening of the Rebellion, he laid aside all personal interests and enlisted in Company G, Sixty-first New York Volunteer Infantry, of which regiment General Miles was then lieutenant-colonel. Mr. Mitchell was in active service with that command for fourteen months, participating in the battles of Yorktown, Fair Oakes, the seven days' fight the battles of Malvern Hill, White Oaks and a number of smaller engagements, and was then discharged on account of disability in 1863, but subsequently he re-enlisted in Company I, One Hundred and Fourteenth New York Infantry, which was assigned to the Army of the Southwest. He was captured at Cain River Crossing, Louisiana, and held prisoner for six months, being exchanged in 1864. He was then in active service until the winter of 1865, when he was placed on duty in the reconstruction of the south. Fortunately he escaped unwounded, and when finally mustered out returned to his home in New York.
In 1867 Mr. Mitchell went to Chicago, where he remained three years, being engaged in the grocery trade a part of the time and the remainder as an employee in the post office. The following two years were passed at Minneapolis, and for seven years he conducted a hotel at Duluth, Minnesota. In 1878 he came to Fargo, North Dakota, and here he has since made his home, conducting a livery, sale and feed stable and also engaging in farming to some extent.
In 1874 was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Mitchell and Miss Eleanore A. Bennett, also a native of New York. He has always been identified with the Republican party, and is now a prominent member of the Grand Army post of Fargo. As one of its leading, progressive and public-spirited citizens, he has been called upon to serve as alderman of Fargo and in 1898 was elected city treasurer, which office he is now filling in a most commendable manner.
JOHN W. MITCHELL, the pioneer merchant of Wheatland and Cass county, is a man of sound judgment and this characteristic, together with close observation and integrity of word and deed, has placed him among the well-to-do and highly esteemed citizens of that region. He enjoys an extensive patronage and conducts one of the best general merchandise establishments in the county. He is also proprietor of a fine farm near there in Mapleton township, and operates two thousand acres of land annually, and also deals extensively in stock and grain.
Our subject was born in Simco county, Ontario, Canada, January 1, 1853, and is a son of John and Jane (Lee) Mitchell, both natives of Ireland. His parents emigrated to Canada about 1829, when they were children, and were married in Canada, where the mother died and the father now lives engaged in farming. Three sons and two daughters were born to them, and our subject and his brothers are the only ones of the family in the United States.
John W. Mitchell was reared and educated in Canada on a farm, and in 1875 began general merchandise business, which he continued there until 1879, and then removed to Manitoba and engaged in business there for a short time, and in August of the same year went to Mapleton, Cass county. North Dakota, and erected a small store and followed mercantile business, becoming the first merchant of the county. He continued at Mapleton until fire destroyed the town in 1887, and then went to Wheatland in March, 1888, and purchased a business in a general store which he still conducts. He erected a fine brick block in 1891, and does a business amounting to seventy-five thousand dollars yearly. In every enterprise which he has undertaken he has prospered, and is today one of the substantial business men of Cass county.
Our subject was married, in Ontario, Canada, in February, 1884, to Susie Johnston, a native of Canada . Mr. and Mrs. Mitchell are the parents of five children, as follows: Maggie J., Arthur G., George W., Harmoure and Alice. Mr. Mitchell has been called upon to serve his community in various ways, and has served four years on the board of trustees of the state hospital for insane. He assisted in the organization of Mapleton township, and has aided in the development of Cass county and well merits success.
THOMAS MONILAWS, who has met with success in the pursuit of agriculture, is one of the early settlers of Empire township, and is widely and favorably known. He makes his home in section 34, and has surrounded himself with all the adjuncts of a model country home.
Our subject was born in Ontario, Canada, December 17, 1849, and was one of a family of six children, four sons and two daughters, born to George and Isabella (Taylor) Monilaws, both of whom were natives of Scotland. His father was a farmer and came to Canada in an early day and there spent the remainder of his career. Two brothers and one sister of our subject are now deceased, and the other children reside in Canada. Our subject was reared and educated in Canada and there learned the blacksmith's trade, which he followed in his native place until 1879, when he went to Cass county, North Dakota, and purchased land and also entered claim to one quarter-section as a homestead. The entire tract was wild land, and he has since converted it into a well-developed farm. He is now the fortunate possessor of three quarter-sections of land, all of which is tillable, and he has met with unbounded success in general farming.
Our subject was married, in 1873, to Miss Mary A. Moore, a native of Canada. Seven children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Monilaws, as follows: Albert E., Alice M., Isabella, Fannie, Eva, Mamie and Robert E. Mr. Monilaws is actively interested in the welfare of his community and has served in various local offices, and is the president of the school board at present. He has been useful in developing and extending the farming interests of Empire township, and his name is closely linked with the growth of his locality. Politically he is a Democrat, and stands stanchly for the principles of his party.
 ALFRED MOSHER. a pioneer settler of Erie township, and an ex-soldier, is well known as a man of industrious and enterprising character, and has a comfortable home and pleasant surroundings in section 18.
Our subject is a native of Vermont and was born March 20. 1834. His parents Alpheus A. and Susan (Willis) Mosher, were natives of New York. The father was a carpenter by trade and passed the greater part of his life in New
York, but died in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, where the mother of our subject also passed away. Six sons and two daughters, who grew to maturity, were born to them, and one sister of our subject now resides in North Dakota. The grandfather Mosher came from England about 1812 and the maternal grandparents were from Pennsylvania.
Our subject was reared and educated in Vermont until he attained his majority and in 1855 went to Putnam county, Illinois, and followed his trade, that of a carpenter, until April, 1861, when he enlisted in Company H, Sixteenth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, and served about sixty days when he was discharged and in 1862 he removed to Wisconsin, and in the fall of that year enlisted from that state in Company G, Thirty-second Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, and served until July, 1865. He was with the Army of the Tennessee, and participated in the following battles: Meridian, Mississippi, skirmishes around Vicksburg, Paducah, siege of Atlanta, and with Sherman to the sea. Fort McAllister, and numerous lesser engagements. He escaped without wounds and in 1865 was transferred to the Sixteenth Wisconsin Regiment a few months before being discharged from the service in 1865. He returned to Wisconsin and remained there until 1880 following his trade and then went to Cass county. North Dakota, where he entered a homestead claim and now resides thereon. He has followed his trade in addition to farming his land and has met with good success and has a well improved farm.
Our subject was married, in Bennington , Vermont , in 1854, to Persis Parker, a native of that state, and a daughter of Thomas and Fannie (Haines) Parker, both of Vermont . Twelve children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Mosher, six of whom are still living and are as follows: Hattie M., now Mrs. E. J. Stowers; Warren E., Luella, now Mrs. Nutting: Arthur A., Edgar L. and Harry W^ The family are members of the Methodist Episcopal church and are highly respected in the community in which they make their home. Mr. Mosher is a Republican in political sentiment. He has served as supervisor of his township and assisted in the organization of the same. He is a member of the G. A. R. and Independent Order of Odd Fellows.
FRED B. MORRILL, a leading attorney of Fargo, and senior member of the firm of Morrill & Engerud, of Fargo, was born in Kennebec county, Maine, July 6, 1858, and is a son of William H. and Angeline (Graves) Morrill, also natives of Maine, where they still make their home, the father being engaged in agricultural pursuits. The early education of our subject, acquired in the common schools, was supplemented by a course at the Elaine Wesleyan Seminary, and by a commercial course at a business college in Augusta, Maine. In 1879 he began reading law with his uncle in Showhegan, that state, and was admitted to the bar in 1882.
Immediately afterward Mr. Morrill came to Fargo, North Dakota, and entered the law office of John J. Skuse, where he remained for one year, and then began practice for himself. He was alone in business until 1897 when he formed his present partnership with Mr. Engerud. His fellow citizens recognizing his worth and ability have several times called him to office, and his public as well as his private duties have always been discharged in a most commendable and satisfactory manner. He was alderman of Fargo in 1889 and 1890; was city attorney in 1894 and 1895, and in 1896 was elected states attorney, to which position he was re-elected in 1898, being the present incumbent. The affairs of the county have never been better managed in this direction than under his prosecution, and he has proved a most efficient man for the place. Since casting his first ballot he has been a supporter of the Republican party and its principles, and has taken an active part in campaign work. Socially he is a thirty-second-degree Mason, a member of the Mystic Shrine, and also belongs to the Modern Woodmen of America.
In 1883 Mr. Morrill was united in marriage with Miss Carrie J. Works, also a native of the Pine Tree state, and they now have an interesting family of three children: Don O., Fay B. and Lynn W.
ROBERT B. MORROW is a representative farmer of Erie township, and has been identified with the farming interests of that locality for many years, being one of the pioneers. He has acquired a good estate and his farm furnishes a comfortable income and enables him to lay aside a competence to enjoy in his declining years.
Our subject is a native of Ontario, Canada, and was born October 20, 1847. His parents, John and Charlotte (Bosland) Morrow, were natives of Ireland, the former of Farmanah county and the latter of Tyrone county, but are not related to the parents of R. H. Morrow, although natives of the same county. They emigrated to America in the '30s and the father died in Canada and the mother now lives in Michigan. They were the parents of five sons and two daughters, of whom two of the sons now live in Canada and the others of the family are in the United States.
Our subject was reared and educated in Canada and followed lumbering and operating a saw-mill until 1880. when he went to North Dakota and entered claim to land in Cass county, whereon he has resided since with the exception of a short time spent in the hotel business in Casselton. He now owns and operates three quarter-sections of land, all of which is well improved and he is regarded as one of the substantial men of his community.
Our subject was married in Canada, in 1876. to Charlotte Morrow, a sister of William and Robert H. Morrow, sketches of whom are given in this volume. Five children have been born to bless the home of Mr. and Mrs. Morrow, as follows: Sarah, now Mrs. D. Irish; Margaret, now Mrs. A. Burge; Maude: Josephine and Florence. Mr. Morrow is a member of the Brotherhood of American Yeomen. He has devoted his entire career to the pursuit of farming and is well versed in his vocation and has made a success.
ROBERT H. MORROW is one of the leading farmers of Cass county, wherein he is a large land owner. His home is in Erie township, where he located during the early days of the settlement of that locality, and he has gained a good estate and the highest regard of his associates by earnest and honest industry.
Our subject was born in county Fermanagh, Ireland. May 24, 1863, and is a brother of William Morrow, a sketch of whose career appears elsewhere in this work. Mr. Morrow was reared in Ireland until nine years of age, and then emigrated with his parents to America in 1872, and settled in Canada, where the father followed farming, and our subject was also engaged in that occupation in Canada until the fall of 1880, and then removed to Cass county. He took a homestead claim in section 28, of Erie township, and has made his home thereon since. His farm is well improved and covers a section and a half of land, and furnishes a good income, while the buildings on the place are built with a view to comfort and economy in the conduct of the farm.
Our subject was married, in 1887, to Isabella McNerin, a native of Ireland, the same county as Mr. Morrow. Six children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Morrow, as follows: Susan, Christopher. Isabella, Robert H.. Jr., John W. and Ethel M. Mr. Morrow has served as chairman of the township board and assessor of his township, and is actively interested in matters of local import. He is a member of the Ancient Order of United Workmen, and in political sentiment is a Republican. He is a man of good characteristics, and his success and high standing have been attained as a result of a well-spent career.
WILLIAM M. MORROW. Among the men who are gaining a good support by tilling the soil of Erie township, Cass county, and incidentally laying aside something for a rainy day, there is no better representative than the gentleman whose name introduces this interview. He is one of the early settlers of that locality, and has devoted his career to agricultural pursuits, and has met with unbounded success, and has gained an enviable reputation by his push and energy.
Our subject was born in county Fermanagh, Ireland, December 23, 1861, and was a son of Christopher and Sarah (Gorrall) Morrow, who were also natives of Ireland. The father was a farmer and died in his native land, and the mother emigrated to Canada and later to the United States, and now resides in Cass county, North Dakota. Three sons and four daughters comprised the family of children, and all the family reside in the United States, with the exception of one daughter in Ireland and one in Manitoba.
Mr. Morrow was reared in Ireland, and in 1875 came to Canada with his mother and one brother, and resided there until 1881, when they went to Cass county. North Dakota, and entered a homestead claim on section 28, in Erie township, where our subject now resides. He possesses one section of good land, all of which is improved, and has surrounded himself with the comforts of country life and made a success of his vocation.
Our subject was married, in 1886, to Annie McNevin, a native of Ireland, who emigrated to America in 1885. Mr. and Mrs. Morrow are the parents of five children, named as follows: John C, Florence M., William C, Addie and Robert M., all of whom are living. Mr. Morrow is a member of the Ancient Order of United Workmen and Brotherhood of American Yeomen. He is independent in politics, and is a man who keeps pace with the times in public affairs, but has not sought or filled public office.
MONS MONSON. Many natives of the Scandinavian peninsula have been attracted to America by the story of its wonderful resources and the opportunities afforded honest industry to attain a position in business and society. They are following trades, opening up unsettled regions and bringing the farm lands into high cultivation. Cass county, North Dakota, is not without her share of these men. and one who occupies a foremost place in this number is Mr. Monson. He has a pleasant farm in section 4, of Raymond township, and is highly respected by his fellow men.
Our subject was born in Sweden April 22. 1851. He was reared in his native country and remained there till 1874, when he sought his fortunes in the new world. After a short stay in New York he proceeded to Morehead. Minnesota, in July. 1874, and was there employed about three and a half years and then entered claim to land as a homestead in Raymond township, Cass county. North Dakota. He has made his home there since that time and from his original farm of one hundred and thirty-seven acres he has increased his possessions to ten hundred and fifty-five acres. He has placed good improvements on his place and the entire estate evidences thrift and prosperity.
Our subject was married, in Raymond township, Cass county, August 6, 1882, to Miss Johanna Erickson, also a native of Sweden . Mrs. Monson died in Raymond township April 9. 1899. Six children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Monson, as follows. Clara D.: Herman C.; Alexander died at the age of one year; Esther D., Ellen M. and Beda C. Mr. Monson is prominent in local affairs and is an earnest supporter of every enterprise which tends to developing the locality in which he makes his home. He has served as justice of the peace for several years and is president of the school board. He has devoted his time and attention strictly to his work and is among the substantial men of his calling in Cass county
OLE MONSON. In the agricultural as well as the commercial world industry and natural ability are the leading powers, and men of every nation and clime have given up the home of their birth and sought a broader field for their labor in the new world. Among these foreign-born citizens who are laboring for the better interests of their adopted land, and are aiding in its advancement toward civilization, the subject of this review occupies a prominent place. He came to America as a young man and has made his home in Dakota since that time, and is now the owner of a fine tract of land in Berlin township, Cass county, and his residence is located there on section 23.
Mr. Monson was born in Sweden, July 2, 1855, and was reared in his native place and emigrated to America in 1881, when in the spring of that year he went direct to Cass county. North Dakota. He purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land in section 23, in Berlin township, on which he began farming, and has held continuous residence there. He is now the owner of four hundred acres of land, and on his home farm has erected such improvements as entitle it to rank among the finest pieces of property in that vicinity.
Our subject was married in Sweden , March 6, 1881, to Miss Ingra Johnson. Mrs. Monson was born in Sweden , September 17, 1859, and was reared in her native place. Nine children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Monson, named as follows: Gerda C, Lillia A., Gill E., Axel W., Victor G., Hednig L., Martha K., Ida M. and Viola G. Mr. and Mrs. Monson are members of the Swedish Lutheran church. Mr. Monson takes an active interest in local affairs of a public nature and is a member of the township board of supervisors.
MICHAEL MOTSCHENBACHER, one of the earliest pioneers of Pontiac township, Cass county, resides on section 28, and is the owner of a most excellent farm on the Maple river, comprising five quarter-sections of land. He is a man of much ability and although he went to Dakota during the early times when discouragements met the settler on every hand, he did not waver from his purpose, and is now possessed of a good income and wide reputation as a farmer of excellent characteristics.
Our subject was born in Washington county, Wisconsin. His father, George Motschenbacher, was a native of Germany and served in the German army. He was a shoemaker by trade, and for a time engaged in the hotel business in Arcadia, Wisconsin, and his latter years were spent on a farm. Our subject's parents were married in Wisconsin, and his mother, whose maiden name was Kunigunda Raphan, was a native of the German empire. Fourteen children were born to this worthy couple, seven sons and seven daughters, our subject being the fourth in order of birth. At the age of nine years he removed with his parents to Trempealeau county, Wisconsin, and settled in the village of Arcadia, where he remained and attended school until the late '70s, when he removed with his parents to a farm in the same county. He went west in 1880 and filed on the northeast quarter of section 28, in Pontiac township, Cass county, in 1881, since which time he has held the land, and now resides on the same quarter-section. During the first two years of his life in Dakota he worked on the great Dalrymple farm near Casselton, during the summer season, and in 1882 he began breaking his own land on his .homestead, and the following year took up permanent residence there. He is now regarded as one of the most successful farmers of southwest Cass county.
Our subject was married in Pontiac township, in 1886, to Miss Emilie Petrich, a native of Germany, who was born in 1870, and came to America when twelve years of age. Seven children, all sons, have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Motschenbacher, named as follows: Fred, Werner, Clarence, Rhinehart, Phillip, Lawrence and George. Mr. Motschenbacher has been called upon to serve his township in various offices of trust, and is the present township clerk, justice of the peace and district school treasurer. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity and Modern Woodmen of America. He votes the independent ticket in political affairs, and is a man who is earnest in his convictions for right and justice.
ALEXANDER MOUG, one of the well-to-do and enterprising farmers of Cass county, resides in Rich township, where he located in the early days of its settlement. He has succeeded in accumulating a good property and is highly esteemed by his associates.
Our subject was born in Scotland, June 11, 1835, and was the only child born to James and Ann (Smart) Moug, both of whom were natives of Scotland. His father was a farmer and was married a second time, our subject being the son of the first marriage.
Mr. Moug was reared and educated in his native land and there followed farming and the dairy business until 1882. when he came to America and settled at East Saginaw. Michigan. He remained there eight months and then went to Cass county, North Dakota, and the same year entered a homestead claim to land in Rich township, on which he has since resided. He now owns a section and a quarter of good land and has fully improved the place and enjoys the comforts of farm life. His career has been devoted to that calling and he is well versed in all lines of agriculture and is one of the solid men of his community.
Our subject was married in Scotland, in 1855, to Catherine Christie, a native of Scotland. Seven sons and two daughters have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Moug, as follows: James, John, David, Alexander, William, Stewart, George, Mary, now Mrs. J. Rutherford, of Cass county, and Margaret P., now Mrs. Farley. Mr. Moug is a member of the Presbyterian church and an exemplary citizen. Politically, he is independent and is a man who keeps pace with the times in public affairs and lends his influence for good local government.
INGEBREGT MOUM. Among the foreign-born citizens of Cass county who are thoroughly identified with American progress, may be noted Mr. Moum. He owns an excellent farm comprising one section of land, in Ayr township, where the usual improvements have been made, and such arrangements completed as to make it a comfortable home.
Our subject was born in Norway, June 11, 1849, and was a son of Bertel and Ane (Kjelmoen) Moum, who were natives of Norway. His father was a farmer by occupation and died in his native land. Five sons and three daughters constituted the family of children of which our subject was a member, and he and one sister, Mrs. Thompson, reside in Cass county, and are the only ones of the family in the United States.
Mr. Moum was reared in Norway and received his education there, and in 1866 came to America, locating in St. Croix county, Wisconsin, where he remained until 1874 and then spent one year in Duluth, Minnesota, and then went to New Mexico. He was employed there three years herding sheep, and during his stay there visited the neighboring town but once. He went to Cass county, North Dakota, in 1879, and entered a homestead claim to land in section 34, of Ayr township, where he has since resided, and now owns a pleasant home. He broke forty acres of land and built a house the first fall and now has a well-improved estate and cultivates one section of land with remarkable success.
Our subject was married, in 1879, to Miss Josephine Peterson, a native of Norway, who came to America in 1875. Two children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Moum, named as follows: Annie J. and Philip B. Mr. Moum is a member of the Ancient Order of United Workmen and Brotherhood of American Yeomen. Politically he is a Republican, but does not seek public preferment. He is well-to-do and highly respected in the community in which he has resided for many years.
JAMES MUIR. This gentleman has met with success in North Dakota as a tradesman and farmer and has gained many friends by his push and energy. He is a man of excellent character and is widely known as an old settler of Cass county. He has followed the carpenter trade and also engaged in farming in Cornell township since taking up his residence in that locality, and is proprietor of a fine farm in section 34, and was among the first settlers of Cornell township.
Our subject was born in Edinburg. Scotland, August 26, 1844. His parents. James and Elizabeth (Brown) Muir, were also natives of Scotland, and his father was a farmer and died in his native land in 1897. Our subject had one brother and two sisters, but is the only member of the family in the United States.
Mr. Muir was reared in Scotland and received his education there and then learned the carpenter's trade which he followed in his native place until 1875. He then went to Ontario, Canada, where he remained four years working at his trade. He went to Fargo, North Dakota, in 1879. and remained one year and then entered claim to the northeast quarter of section 34 in Cornell township, as a homestead, and removed thereon in 1880. where he has since continued his residence. He has followed farming and also followed his trade and is one of the prosperous men of his community.
Our subject was married to Isabella Smith, a native of Scotland. Three children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Muir, as follows: Annie D., now Mrs. Victor H. Beckman of Seattle, Washington; William, and Marion, now Mrs. L. Jones, of Cass county. North Dakota. Mr. Muir was one of the organizers of Cornell township and has filled many of the offices of the same. He is a member of the Modern Woodmen of America and Brotherhood of American Yeomen. In political sentiment he is a Democrat and stands firmly for the principles of his party. His career in North Dakota has been that of an upright, honorable man and his success is well merited.
HON. WALTER MUIR. Among the better class of agriculturists whose homes evidence refinement and social culture, the gentleman above named stands in a foremost place. He is one of the pioneer settlers of Cass county, and has been identified with the growth and advancement in a financial as well as in a social way, and his own fortune has been acquired by diligent work and strict integrity. He resides near Hunter and has surrounded himself with all the comforts of a model country home, and engages extensively in farming.
Our subject was born on the Clyde, in Scotland, April 22, 1836, and was a son of William and Agnes (Strong) Muir, both of whom were natives of Scotland. His father was a ship-builder by trade, and came to America in 1847, locating at New York, and in 1852 removed to Chicago, where he followed his trade for some years. He died in Fremont, Lake county, Illinois. Our subject had one brother and one sister, and his brother now resides in Iowa and the sister is deceased.
Mr. Muir was reared and educated in Illinois. having come to the United States in 1848, and he attended the Academy at Wauconda and later learned the ship carpenter's trade, which he followed some in New York, and afterward became foreman of the dry-docks of Chicago. He was preparing for the practice of law, studying at night and being occupied with his trade during the day, when the Civil war broke out, and he enlisted from Lake county, Illinois, in Company I, Fifteenth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, for ninety days, as a corporal. At the expiration of three months he volunteered, for the three years' service and was made sergeant and served in Missouri. He was transferred to the Mississippi squadron by General Halleck in February, 1862, and was assigned duty at Cairo, Illinois. He was then promoted to master mate and assigned to the gunboat Chillicothe, and was soon afterward made fourth master. The gunboat flotilla was transferred from the army to the navy, and Mr. Muir was made an ensign and first lieutenant and executive officer, and served as such on board that boat three years, and was then transferred to the Cincinnati and given charge of her forward battery. He was in the battle of Island No. 10, Vicksburg, and Fort Pemberton, and in the last engagement half the crew were killed or wounded. He served in the lower Mississippi and in Mobile bay, and assisted in the taking of Spanish Fort and Fort Blakely, and resigned in 1865 with the rank of ensign, after a long and brave service. He received a slight wound at Pembernow, but otherwise lost no time from the service and can review his career as a soldier with justifiable pride.
Returning from the war, Mr. Muir went to Steele county, Minnesota, and there engaged in farming until 1879, when he went to Cass county. North Dakota and entered a homestead claim on section 8 in Hunter township, and at once began improving the farm. His family joined him there the following year, and he has made his home there continuously since. He is now the possessor of about eight hundred acres of choice land and has prospered in his chosen calling.
Our subject was married in Illinois, in 1863, to Louvisa L. Wheelock, a native of Vermont. Seven children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Muir. Those living are as follows: Marion, now Mrs. William Simmons; William C.; Edward S. and Robert W. Louis, Walter W. and Grace are deceased. Mr. Muir served in the legislature in Minnesota in 1876, '77, '78 and '79. and has taken an active part in public affairs since taking up his residence in North Dakota. He was nominated by the Prohibitionist and Independent parties for governor of North Dakota, and was the candidate of the Independent and Democratic parties for congress, and three times was a candidate for United States senator and the third time lacked four votes only of being elected. He is popular with everyone regardless of party affiliations. He is a member of the G. A. R. and served as president of the State Farmers' Alliance. For some years he was editor of the "Independent" of Grand Forks, and is a gentleman of intelligence and true worth. He affiliated with the Republican party many years, but is now a member of the Populist party and is a stanch advocate of reform principles.
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