Codington County

Biography of Cincinatus C. Wiley

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History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

Cincinnatus C. Wiley, born October 8, 1842, in Franklin County, Massachusetts, was a successful businessman and Civil War veteran. The son of Dr. Hazare Wiley and Mary Pierce, he enlisted in the Tenth Massachusetts Infantry in 1861, participating in key battles such as Gettysburg and Spotsylvania. Post-war, Wiley pursued the lumber business in Vermont before moving to South Dakota in 1876. He engaged in mining and real estate, co-founding the successful firm Wiley, Allen & Company in Watertown. Wiley also served as county and municipal treasurer. Married to Harriett P. Sprague in 1865, he had five children. Wiley was active in the Grand Army of the Republic, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and the Ancient Order of United Workmen. Harriett passed away on December 4, 1902.

Biography of Charles Frederick Halbkat

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History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

Charles F. Halbkat, born June 20, 1870, in Fillmore County, Minnesota, is a prominent jewelry businessman in Watertown, South Dakota. He acquired the oldest jewelry business in Watertown from W.T. Keating in 1898, succeeding the establishment originally founded by pioneer W.R. Arnold. Halbkat’s store, located in the Granite block, offers a wide range of jewelry, watches, silverware, and features a well-equipped optical department. An official watch inspector for three railroads, Halbkat is esteemed in both commercial and social circles. Married to Georgia Wert in 1899, they have one son, Charles Angus.

Biography of Roy J. Sweet

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History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

Roy J. Sweet, the esteemed cashier of the First State Bank of South Shore, is a native of Glencoe County, Minnesota. Born in 1875, he hails from a family deeply rooted in Minnesota, with his father, William H. Sweet, having survived the tragic Indian outbreak of 1862. Roy J. Sweet’s remarkable career in banking began as an assistant cashier in Iowa, eventually leading him to his current position. Highly regarded for his expertise and careful approach to finance, he has played a pivotal role in the enduring success of the First State Bank. A respected figure in both professional and community spheres, Sweet’s dedication to the growth and well-being of his town has garnered him widespread admiration.

Biography of John T. Belk

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History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

John T. Belk, a prominent and successful businessman in Codington County, South Dakota, was born in Illinois in 1860. After gaining a practical education, he worked in various industries before settling in South Dakota and acquiring land. Belk’s diligent management of a grain business earned him the trust of the G.W. Van Dusen Company. Alongside his business pursuits, he actively participated in politics, supporting the Republican party and serving as a respected legislator. Belk was also involved in fraternal organizations and held a high position in the Pythian fraternity. He married Jennie Hazlett in 1893, and they had three children.

Biography of Hollace Lincoln Hopkins

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History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

Hollace Lincoln Hopkins, a prominent figure in South Dakota’s business and political history, has left an indelible mark on the state. As the manager of the Sioux Valley Land Company and the founder of The Independent newspaper, Hopkins achieved widespread recognition and influence. He played an instrumental role in the expansion of the land company and actively participated in local and state politics. With a deep commitment to the welfare of his town, Hopkins tirelessly worked to advance its social, moral, and material progress. Beyond his professional pursuits, he was actively involved in the Pythian Order and cherished family life with his wife, Encie Plank, and their four children.

Biography of George H. Baxter

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History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

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.

Biography of David F. Jones

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History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

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.