Lawrence County

Biography of Frank Abt

History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

Frank Abt was born in Bavaria, Germany, in 1838, the son of Francis and Mary (Schneider) Abt. He immigrated to the United States in 1861, settling in Iowa and later enlisting in the Second Iowa Volunteer Cavalry during the Civil War. After his service, he moved west, engaging in gold prospecting and mining in Montana and the Black Hills. Abt eventually settled in Lead, South Dakota, where he became a successful businessman, hotelier, and local political figure, serving as mayor and postmaster. He married Mary Distel in 1867, with whom he had several children.

Biography of James P. Wilson

History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

James P. Wilson (b. 1855, Caledonia, Wisconsin) was a prominent lawyer in Lead City, South Dakota. After studying law in Wisconsin and being admitted to the bar in 1881, he built a successful practice before relocating to Lead in 1891. Wilson became known for his involvement in significant legal cases, most notably a decade-long battle over the Lead town site, in which he successfully represented the community against the powerful Homestake Mining Company. A skilled advocate, Wilson served as city attorney and on the local board of education. He married Julia Frances Howe in 1881, and they had two children, James H. and Oliver Chester. A dedicated Republican, Wilson was also active in the Elks Lodge, serving as exalted ruler of the Lead chapter.

Biography of Henry Frawley

History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

Henry Frawley, a prominent lawyer and pioneer in Deadwood, South Dakota, was born on March 13, 1851, in Washington County, New York. He relocated to the Dakota Territory in 1877, establishing a successful legal practice. Frawley was a significant landowner and had interests in valuable mining properties. He practiced law with several partners, including his brother, forming Frawley & Frawley. Politically, he was a Democrat but supported McKinley. Frawley owned the expansive Centennial Home Farm in Lawrence County, known for its thoroughbred livestock. He married Christine Anderson in 1890, and they had three children: Henry J., William G., and Honora C.