Lincoln County - South Dakota Genealogy

Biography of Milo Emerson Nettleton

History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

Milo Emerson Nettleton, born in Butler County, Iowa, in 1869, became a successful farmer in Lincoln County, South Dakota. His parents, Amos and Louisa Nettleton, were Canadian-born pioneers who settled in Lincoln County in 1872. Raised in the challenges of frontier life, Milo contributed to farm work from a young age and later acquired his own land in Dayton Township in 1892. He married Clara Anna Lyon in 1897, and they raised four children. Active in community life, Milo was a charter member and officer of the local Brotherhood of American Yeomen chapter, aligning with Republican values.

Biography of Nils B. Nilson

Nils B. Nilson, born October 11, 1837, in Norway, became a pioneering farmer in Lincoln County, South Dakota. After emigrating to the U.S. in 1867, Nilson initially settled in Fayette County, Iowa, before moving to Canton Township in 1869, where he began farming with limited resources. Despite hardships like living in a wagon and enduring grasshopper plagues, he established a successful 210-acre farm. A dedicated Republican and Lutheran, Nilson married Carrie Anderson in 1863, and they raised nine children. His farm’s success, built from humble beginnings, stands as a testament to his perseverance and hard work.

Biography of Frank R. Aikens

Frank R. Aikens, born on December 14, 1855, in New York City, was a distinguished lawyer and judge in South Dakota. Educated initially in Rome, New York, Aikens began studying law at a young age and was admitted to the New York bar in January 1877. He moved to Canton, South Dakota, in 1880, where he quickly established a successful law practice and became deeply involved in politics. Aikens served in the territorial assemblies and was appointed associate justice of the territorial supreme court in 1889. Later, he relocated to Sioux Falls, where he formed prominent legal partnerships. Known for his sharp legal mind and effective trial skills, Aikens earned a reputation as a leading figure in South Dakota’s legal community.

Biography of Ed D. Lewis

Ed D. Lewis, born in 1856 in Virginia, was a successful businessman and prominent citizen of Worthing, South Dakota. Raised in Virginia, Ohio, and Wisconsin, Lewis moved to Dakota Territory in 1882, where he established a general merchandise business in Worthing before relocating to Sioux Falls to run a retail shoe business. Returning to Worthing in 1891, he became postmaster and later acquired the Farmers and Merchants’ Bank in 1894. He was married to Mary Morgan, with whom he had one son, Evan Elias Lewis, a West Point cadet. Lewis passed away on January 21, 1904.

Biography of Levi M. Wood

Levi M. Wood, a prominent pioneer of LaValley Township in Lincoln County, South Dakota, was born on January 27, 1842, in Ohio. The son of Morris and Abashaba (Sudnutt) Wood, he moved with his parents to Iowa, where he grew up. He served in the Civil War with the Second Iowa Cavalry. In 1866, he married Virbett (Bent) Lippincott and, in 1872, they settled in South Dakota, where Wood developed a successful 240-acre farm. He was active in local politics, held various township offices, and contributed to the community’s development. He passed away on August 27, 1901, leaving a legacy of public service and agricultural success.

Biography of James B. Bradley

James B. Bradley, a pioneer and captain of industry, made significant contributions to the development of Dakota territory and the state. Born in Indiana in 1849, he moved to Iowa with his family before embarking on his own journey to Dakota in 1868. Settling in Lincoln County, Bradley acquired a homestead and established himself as a prominent figure in the community. He ventured into various businesses, including general merchandise and retail drug trade, leaving a lasting impact. Known for his unwavering support for the Republican Party, Bradley also served as the mayor of Hudson, earning widespread respect and recognition.

Biography of John Quigley

John Quigley was born in County Tipperary, Ireland, in 1847. His parents immigrated to America in 1850, settling in Illinois. Growing up in a new and sparsely settled country, John’s education was limited, but he gained practical skills through hard work on the family farm. After assisting his father, he ventured to Iowa and later settled in South Dakota, where he acquired land and made improvements. He transitioned from farming to working for a railroad company before returning to his farm. In 1890, he moved to Worthing, engaging in the livery business and later becoming a successful dealer in agricultural implements. Known for his community involvement, John Quigley served as a supervisor and remained loyal to his Catholic faith.

Biography of John Cederstrum

John Cederstrum, a Swedish immigrant, is a prominent figure in Dayton township, Lincoln County, South Dakota. Born in 1847, he faced early hardships after the death of his parents, working as a farm laborer until the age of 22. In 1869, he embarked on a journey to America with twelve companions, eventually settling in South Dakota in 1871. Cederstrum worked in the railroad industry before purchasing land in Dayton township in 1881. A dedicated farmer, he cultivates his land, raises livestock, and actively participates in public affairs. Cederstrum is highly regarded for his integrity and contributions to his community.

Biography of George Williston Nash

George Williston Nash, the state superintendent of public instruction, is a native of Janesville, Wisconsin, born in 1868. Raised in Lincoln County, his early years were spent on his parents’ homestead near Canton. Nash’s educational journey led him to Yankton College, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1891. After teaching and studying abroad, he returned to Yankton and became a professor of mathematics and astronomy. In 1902, he resigned to assume the role of state superintendent, showcasing his dedication to advancing education. Nash’s leadership, characterized by persistence and fairness, promises a future of valuable contributions in the field.