South Dakota Genealogy - South Dakota Genealogy

History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

Biography of Henry B. Farren

Henry B. Farren is a leading member of the bar in Buffalo County, known for his prominent role in the state legislature. Born in Philadelphia in 1848, he hails from a respected Pennsylvania family. After moving to Iowa and Missouri, Farren settled in South Dakota in 1882, where he acquired and cultivated land. A devoted Republican, he served as state’s attorney and was elected to the state legislature in 1902. Farren’s successful legal career and active involvement in his community have made him a valued figure in Buffalo County. He is married to Mary E. Mather and is a dedicated member of the First Congregational Church.

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Biography of Hemming Anderson

Clay County, Charles Mix County / History of South Dakota

Hemming Anderson, a Swedish native, embarked on a journey to America in 1882, seeking better opportunities. After landing in New York, he made his way to South Dakota and settled in Vermillion. With determination, he improved his land, starting from a humble tent and later upgrading to a sod house. Anderson’s hard work paid off as he transformed his farm into a prosperous enterprise, cultivating acres of land and raising livestock. He actively supported education and the Republican Party, while he and his wife remained dedicated members of the Lutheran Church. Despite the loss of two sons, their daughter thrived and became a respected member of the community.

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Biography of Harry A. Holmes

Lyman County, Aurora County / History of South Dakota

Harry A. Holmes, an influential citizen of Oacoma, South Dakota, has played a vital role in the growth and development of Lyman County. Born in Wisconsin in 1860, Holmes became a skilled blacksmith and ventured to Dakota in 1883. Settling in Oacoma, he established the town’s first blacksmith shop, which flourished over the years. Holmes actively participated in public affairs, serving as deputy sheriff and making significant contributions to the town’s prosperity. He was a dedicated Republican and a respected member of various secret and benevolent organizations. Holmes, a cherished family man, married Lizzie E. Elliott, and together they raised their children in a loving home.

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Biography of Hans C. Olson

Yankton County, Clay County / History of South Dakota

Hans C. Olson, a farmer in Yankton County, South Dakota, has played a significant role in the region’s growth and development. Born in Norway in 1854, he immigrated to the United States as a teenager with his parents. Settling in South Dakota, Hans worked diligently on the family farm and eventually became a successful farmer himself, owning 320 acres of land, primarily dedicated to raising Hereford cattle. He was actively involved in his community, serving as a deputy assessor and advocating for education. With a strong sense of integrity and deep religious faith, Hans earned the respect of all who knew him.

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Biography of Henry M. Davison

Bon Homme County / History of South Dakota

Henry M. Davison, a prominent businessman and influential citizen of Springfield, South Dakota, was born and raised in Bon Homme County. After excelling in education, he joined the Springfield Bank and later co-founded the highly successful Springfield Hardware Company. A dedicated Republican, Davison served as treasurer of Springfield for five years and is currently in his second term as mayor, leading the city with exceptional management. His integrity and contributions to the community have earned him a stellar reputation. Davison’s personal life is equally fulfilling, with a loving marriage to Eva G. Stevens, and he actively participates in various fraternal organizations and supports the Episcopal Church.

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Biography of George H. Grace

Buffalo County / History of South Dakota

George H. Grace, the incumbent superintendent of schools in Hand County, was born in Green County, Wisconsin, on August 8, 1871. His father, John Grace, served as a courageous soldier in the Union army during the Civil War. George received his early education in Wisconsin before his family relocated to South Dakota. After completing his studies, he served as clerk of the courts and later became the county superintendent of schools. Known for revitalizing and systematizing education in his jurisdiction, Grace is highly regarded by both teachers and the community. He is a dedicated advocate of the Republican Party and has made significant contributions to education in South Dakota.

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Biography of George H. Pinckney

Grant County / History of South Dakota

George H. Pinckney, an esteemed auditor of Grant County, South Dakota, has been a resident since 1887, achieving success through his dedicated efforts. Born in New York in 1867, he was raised in Minnesota and educated in its public schools. After a brief period of teaching, Pinckney moved to South Dakota and engaged in farming before acquiring his own property in Grant County. A committed Republican, he garnered support for his election as County Auditor. Pinckney remains an influential figure, maintaining his farm and actively participating in organizations such as the Modern Woodmen of America. He and his wife, Helen Allen, have four children: Hazel, Nada, Gladys, and Francis.

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Biography of George H. Baxter

Codington County / History of South Dakota

George H. Baxter is a prominent business figure in Watertown, South Dakota. Born in Illinois in 1860, he grew up on a farm and later ventured into agriculture and livestock in South Dakota. In 1893, he shifted his focus to the milling industry and became the sole stockholder of the Kampeska Milling Company, which he expanded into a highly efficient and modern facility. Baxter’s astute business acumen, integrity, and involvement in various organizations earned him widespread respect. He married Hattie M. Stone in 1900, and both actively participated in the Methodist Church and held esteemed positions in the community.

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Biography of George G. Lasell

Grant County / History of South Dakota

George G. Lasell, a highly honored and influential citizen, is the cashier of the State Bank of Twin Brooks and a representative member of the Grant County bar. Born in Spring Valley, Minnesota, in 1867, he comes from a distinguished lineage, with French ancestry tracing back to the famous explorer Sieur de La Salle. After successful years as a teacher, Lasell pursued law studies and was admitted to the South Dakota bar in 1900. He established himself as a prominent businessman, with interests in banking, coal, and lumbering. A Democrat and active in fraternal organizations, Lasell’s accomplishments are a testament to his well-directed efforts and dedication.

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Biography of George R. Sagar

Moody County / History of South Dakota

George R. Sagar, a successful young businessman in Colman, Moody County, is engaged in the drug and jewelry business as a partner in Sagar & Stetzel. With a strong educational foundation and experience working in his brother’s drug store, he pursued further studies at the New York School of Pharmacy. After gaining valuable knowledge, he traveled as a salesman before settling in Colman, where he established a thriving drug business. In 1902, he formed a partnership with jeweler Roy L. Stetzel. A Republican and member of the Modern Woodmen of America, Sagar has been an active member of the Presbyterian church since 1891.

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Biography of Guy L. Wood

Grant County / History of South Dakota

Guy L. Wood, a prominent financier and successful business leader in Grant County, has made significant contributions to the commercial growth of Milbank. Born in Canada and raised in Minnesota, Wood pursued higher education at the University of Minnesota while working various jobs to support himself. He later ventured into the hardware trade with his brothers before establishing a thriving loan and trust business. As president of the Farmers’ Bank, Wood played a pivotal role in its transformation into a respected state bank. Additionally, he founded the G. L. Wood Farm & Mortgage Company, expanding its operations and land ownership across multiple counties. Wood’s remarkable achievements reflect his entrepreneurial spirit and unwavering dedication to his community’s progress.

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Biography of Fred S. Pew

Day County / History of South Dakota

Fred S. Pew, a prime example of progressive spirit and conservative business judgment, has played a significant role in the industrial and civic advancement of the West. As vice-president of the Citizens’ State Bank and president of the Day County Land Company and Andover Hotel Company, Pew’s influence extends across various capitalistic interests. Born in New York in 1861, he ventured to Dakota in 1881 and settled in Andover in 1883. With a successful background in livery and real estate, Pew became instrumental in organizing the Day County Land Company and played a key role in the establishment of the

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Biography of Frank W. Meehan

Grant County / History of South Dakota

Frank W. Meehan, a native of Wisconsin, is engaged in the abstract business in Milbank, South Dakota. Born in 1863, he grew up on a farm and received his education in Minnesota. In 1889, seeking a change of climate and occupation, he settled in Grant County, South Dakota, where he acquired land and dedicated summers to farming and winters to teaching. Frank’s involvement in local public affairs led to his election as register of deeds in 1896, and he subsequently became a prominent figure in the abstract business. He is known for his meticulously prepared abstracts of land titles and his active interest in education and community welfare.

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Biography of Floyd E. Swartout

Potter County / History of South Dakota

Floyd E. Swartout is a distinguished individual known for his executive ability and intellectual prowess. Serving as the superintendent of schools in Buffalo County, he has played a pivotal role in the educational domain. With a strong background in teaching, Swartout’s remarkable career began in South Dakota, where he excelled in his profession before assuming his current position. His unwavering commitment to the betterment of education has earned him re-election and widespread acclaim. Beyond his professional achievements, Swartout is an active member of the Congregational church, enjoys community involvement, and maintains a flourishing social life.

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Biography of George D. Stelle

Spink County / History of South Dakota

George D. Stelle, one of the prominent and popular farmers and pioneers of Spink County, is one of the brave “boys in blue” who went forth in defense of the Union when its integrity was in jeopardy through the armed rebellion of the Confederacy. He was born in New York City on the 8th of April, 1843, and is a son of Jeremiah D. Stelle, who was likewise born in that city. George enlisted in the Twenty-eighth New Jersey Volunteer Infantry in August 1862 and served in various battles, including Fredericksburg and Gettysburg. After the war, he pursued farming in different states before settling in South Dakota in 1881. He married Adelaide Calhoon, and they had eight children: Florence Lillian (deceased), William Earl, Jennie Weltha, Ruth Elizabeth, Agnes Opal, Vena E., Blanche, and Margaret E.

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Biography of Edward Charles Ericson

Union County / History of South Dakota

Edward Charles Ericson, a prominent figure in South Dakota, has dedicated three decades to the state’s growth and progress. As a respected member of the bar, he has served in positions of public trust and responsibility. Currently practicing law in Elk Point, Union County, and holding the esteemed position of president of the South Dakota Bar Association, Ericson’s professional peers highly regard him. Born in Sweden in 1856, he immigrated to the United States with his family at a young age. With a strong educational foundation and a thriving legal career, Ericson is known for his expertise, advocacy, and conservative counsel.

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Biography of Edward C. Payne

Brown County / History of South Dakota

Edward C. Payne, a prominent member of the board of commissioners in Brown County, is a respected farmer and stock grower in South Dakota. Born in New York in 1853, he moved to Minnesota before settling in South Dakota in 1880. Payne transformed his half section of land into a thriving farm, renowned for its wheat production and high-grade shorthorn cattle. He is known for his resourcefulness and dedication to progress. Active in local politics and various fraternal organizations, Payne has made significant contributions to his community. He has been married twice and has five children from his first marriage and a daughter from his second marriage.

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Biography of Edgar B. Northrup

Minnehaha County / History of South Dakota

Edgar B. Northrup, a native of New York, has made a significant impact in South Dakota. Despite only being a resident for twelve years, he has achieved both local recognition in business circles and prominence in public affairs. With a background in education from prestigious institutions like Phillips Academy and Yale University, Northrup ventured into the real estate business. His sagacity and keen perception have led to remarkable success, establishing him as a leader in his field. Not only is he highly esteemed for his business acumen, but his integrity and gentlemanly demeanor have also earned him a wide circle of friends. Active in politics, Northrup has become an influential figure in the Republican Party, serving as a distinguished member of the general assembly.

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Biography of David F. Jones

Codington County / History of South Dakota

David F. Jones, a prominent figure in the drug business in Watertown, is renowned as one of the leading representatives in the state. Born in Wisconsin in 1869, he pursued a career in pharmacy, graduating from Northwestern University in 1894. Jones established his own drug store in Watertown and gained recognition for his expertise and dedication to the field. Not only has he served as the president of the State Pharmaceutical Association and the state board of pharmacy, but he is also highly regarded as one of the most knowledgeable pharmacists and chemists in the region. In addition, Jones actively participates in local public affairs and holds a position on the board of aldermen.

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Biography of Edward V. Miles

Jerauld County / History of South Dakota

Edward V. Miles, a renowned and prosperous farmer, is considered a pioneer of Jerauld County, South Dakota. Born in Wessington, Hand County, Virginia in 1838, he displayed unwavering loyalty during the Civil War, serving in the Second Illinois Volunteer Cavalry. After the war, he returned to Illinois, engaging in farming, mercantile pursuits, and grain trading. In 1882, he settled in Jerauld County, developing a valuable farm and becoming a respected figure in the community. Eventually, he sold his farm, moved to Wessington Springs, and enjoyed a well-deserved retirement. A prominent citizen, Miles actively participated in local affairs, and his contributions to South Dakota’s history are commendable.

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