Brown County

Biography of Andrew Melgaard

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History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

Andrew Melgaard, born in Norway on September 15, 1842, was a significant figure in Brown County, South Dakota. Educated in Norway, he served five years as a sergeant in the Norwegian army before emigrating to the United States in 1869. Settling first in Litchfield, Minnesota, Melgaard worked for the Minneapolis Harvester Works before moving to Brown County in 1880. There, he homesteaded a half section of land near Aberdeen, transforming it into a prosperous farm and modern residence. He was instrumental in establishing the Northern Normal and Industrial School on his property. Active in community and church affairs, Melgaard was known for his public spirit and commitment to education. He and his wife, G. Marie Hoel, whom he married in 1867, raised six children.

Biography of William W. Rounds

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History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

William W. Rounds, born on June 1, 1857, in Monkton, Addison County, Vermont, was the youngest of six children. Leaving home at age twelve, he worked various jobs before moving to Chicago in 1877 and then to Spink County, South Dakota, in 1882. There, he initially took up a pre-emption claim, later establishing a homestead … Read more

Biography of William C. Lampson

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History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

William C. Lampson, born July 17, 1831, in Medina County, Ohio, was a pioneering farmer in Moody County, South Dakota. He was the son of Riley and Betsy (Gilford) Lampson, both of New England descent. After teaching and farming in Illinois, Lampson moved to South Dakota in 1884, transforming 320 acres of wild land in Fremont Township into a productive 690-acre ranch known for its Galloway cattle and Shropshire sheep. A dedicated Republican and community servant, he was deeply involved in local education and Masonic activities. Lampson married Harriet A. Dean in 1855, and they had five children, with three surviving to adulthood: George R., Albert, and Frank E.

Biography of George P. Winston

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History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

George P. Winston, born June 29, 1857, in Evansville, Rock County, Wisconsin, is a prominent rancher and stock grower in Brown County, South Dakota. Son of Nelson and Eliza A. Winston, he moved to Frederick, South Dakota, in 1881, establishing a significant farming and livestock business. In 1900, he acquired a 1,560-acre ranch known for its high-quality Aberdeen Angus cattle. Winston married Florence E. Yager in 1877, and they have three sons: Roy, Earl, and Paul. He is also active in the Masonic fraternity, attaining the thirtieth degree of the Scottish Rite.

Biography of George S. Adams, M.D.

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History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

George S. Adams, M.D., is a highly regarded and accomplished member of the medical profession in Yankton, South Dakota. Born in Michigan, he grew up in South Dakota and pursued his education at State Agricultural College and Rush Medical College. Graduating with a degree in Medicine, Dr. Adams began his career as an assistant physician at the state hospital for the insane in Yankton, where he continues to serve with great dedication. He is esteemed for his abilities and discernment in his profession. As a Republican, Dr. Adams is also affiliated with St. John’s Lodge, No. 1, Free and Accepted Masons.

Biography of Martin V. Redding

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History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

Martin V. Redding, a native of Luxembourg, Germany, served as a devoted soldier in the Union Army during the American Civil War. Wounded in battle, he displayed unwavering loyalty to his regiment and maintained strong ties with his fellow veterans through the Grand Army of the Republic. After the war, he settled in Verona, Wisconsin, before becoming a pioneer in Brown County, South Dakota. Engaged in farming and community development, Redding contributed significantly to the region’s progress. He also served as a respected member of the state legislature, advocating for the state militia and championing educational initiatives. His family, deeply rooted in education and community service, added to his esteemed reputation.

Biography of James D. Reeves

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History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

JAMES D. REEVES, a native of Minnesota, made a significant impact on South Dakota’s public affairs. As a newspaperman and former state auditor, Reeves earned public confidence and esteem. Beginning his career as a printer, he founded several newspapers, including the Groton Mirror and the Groton Independent. With unwavering dedication to Republican principles, Reeves served as mayor, school board member, and state auditor. He proved to be a skilled administrator during his tenure and was recognized as a progressive thinker in the newspaper industry. Reeves was also an active member of various fraternal organizations.

Biography of J. C. Hall

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History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

J. C. Hall, a prominent agriculturist, merchant, and grain dealer in Brown County, South Dakota, has achieved remarkable success in various ventures, including his breeding of full-blooded Shropshire sheep. With an exceptional farm and a flock of one hundred and seventy-five prized sheep, he has gained a reputation for excellence in the industry. Alongside his agricultural pursuits, Hall manages a large elevator and actively participates in politics as a leader of the Republican Party. His contributions to legislation and organizational skills have been highly regarded. Hall’s dedication to the development of South Dakota as a flourishing state underscores his visionary outlook and commitment to the well-being of his community.

Biography of Henry Wilber

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History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

Henry Wilber is a remarkable pioneer who has demonstrated the immense potential of agricultural development in South Dakota. Born in Michigan in 1845, Wilber embarked on a successful career in the lumber industry before venturing to Dakota in 1880. There, he settled in Brown County, where he established a thriving farm through sheer hard work and dedication. Wilber’s farm boasted substantial improvements, including a commodious residence and extensive land holdings. He excelled in grain production and Hereford cattle breeding, achieving great success. With his enterprising spirit, Wilber became a model farmer in the region, earning respect and admiration. Alongside his wife, he embraced his Republican politics and Methodist Episcopal faith, creating a rich and fulfilling life in his chosen community.

Biography of Edward C. Payne

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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.