Grant County - South Dakota Genealogy

Biography of Guy L. Wood

History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

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.

Biography of Frank W. Meehan

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.

Biography of William W. Downie

William W. Downie, editor and publisher of the Herald Advance, was a prominent figure in the newspaper industry. Born in Hamilton, Ontario, in 1855, he moved to Michigan with his family before eventually settling in Big Stone City, South Dakota. Downie started the Herald, the first newspaper in Grant County, and later consolidated it with the Advance. Under his management, the Herald Advance became a leading Republican party organ and a reflection of current thought. Downie actively promoted the welfare of Milbank and Grant County, serving as mayor, justice of the peace, and postmaster. He was also influential in education and a respected member of various fraternal organizations.