Minnehaha County

Biography of William R. Borst

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History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

William R. Borst, born on January 15, 1860, in Marquette County, Wisconsin, was a prominent rancher and businessman in South Dakota. Son of Daniel and Emma (Kelly) Borst, he moved to South Dakota in 1869. William engaged in freighting to the Black Hills and later established a successful cattle ranch. In 1903, he expanded into the hardware business in Pierre, where he resided from 1896. Active in the Republican Party, Borst was also a member of the Knights of Pythias and the Ancient Order of United Workmen. He married Matilda A. Mason in 1889, and they had three children: Olney H., Margaret, and Jessie.

Biography of James Alfred Copeland

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History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

James Alfred Copeland was born on September 21, 1852, in Fountaindale, Illinois. He was the son of Alfred Williams Copeland, born June 18, 1809, in Massachusetts, and Hannah Brewster, a Pennsylvania native and descendant of Elder Brewster from the Mayflower. James received his education in Illinois and attended Wheaton College. In 1879, he began studying law in Nebraska and was admitted to the South Dakota bar in 1890. He served as clerk of courts, justice of the peace, and county judge in Vermillion, South Dakota. Copeland was active in the Republican Party and various fraternal organizations. He married Estella E. Hayes in 1880, and they had eight children, though three died young.

Biography of Ole H. Smith

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History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

Ole H. Smith, born on May 11, 1846, near Christiania, Norway, moved to America in 1869. Initially settling in Rushford, Minnesota, he later moved to Dell Rapids, South Dakota, in 1876, where he became a pioneer merchant and eventually president of the Granite City Bank. Smith also excelled in the livestock industry, raising Hereford cattle and Poland-China hogs on a 900-acre farm. A staunch Republican, he served as mayor of Dell Rapids from 1896 to 1898. Smith was married three times, first to Albertha Olson, then to her sister Jacobina Olson, and finally to Anna Strom, with whom he had a child, Bergliot M.

Biography of Gustaf A. Uline

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History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

Gustaf A. Uline, born on October 12, 1849, in Wermland, Sweden, emigrated to America at nearly eighteen. After stints in Michigan, Wisconsin, Iowa, and Minnesota, he settled in Dell Rapids, South Dakota, in 1874. Uline opened one of the first general stores in the town, eventually establishing the Dell Rapids State Bank in 1892, where … Read more

Biography of George W. Abbott

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History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

George W. Abbott, born on October 10, 1858, in Sandwich, Carroll County, New Hampshire, was the son of Lyman and Sarah W. Abbott. He pursued his education at Phillips Academy in Exeter, New Hampshire. At twenty, Abbott moved to Colorado as a secretary for a mining expert before relocating to McIntosh County, North Dakota, in 1882, where he was the first superintendent of schools and postmaster. In 1887, he moved to Minneapolis and later to Sioux Falls, South Dakota, where he became general manager of the Union Savings Association. Abbott married Mary G. Quinlan in 1896, and they had four children.

Biography of Leroy D. Miller

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History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

Leroy D. Miller, a native of St. Joseph, Missouri, was born on February 24, 1869. After his father’s passing, his mother remarried and the family relocated to South Dakota. Miller received his education in the local public schools before embarking on a career in the grain industry. Eventually, he ventured into the livery business and established a successful enterprise in Sioux Falls. With top-notch equipment and a dedicated work ethic, Miller built a thriving business with a wide range of services, including livery, hack and transfer, and even an undertaking department. He is a staunch supporter of the Republican Party and actively involved in the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks.

Biography of John W. Tuthill

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History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

John W. Tuthill, a leading businessman and president of the John W. Tuthill Lumber Company, has achieved remarkable success through his own efforts. Born in Greene, New York, in 1846, he established a lumber yard in State Center, Iowa, which served as the foundation for his thriving business. In 1884, he incorporated the John W. Tuthill Lumber Company, which now controls numerous yards across South Dakota, Minnesota, and Iowa. Tuthill’s dedication to his business has made him a respected figure in Sioux Falls. Despite his focus on entrepreneurship, he has shown civic-mindedness, contributing to the public library and engaging in community affairs.

Biography of John F. Strass

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History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

John F. Strass, a Norwegian-born journalist, editor, and publisher, established the influential Fremad newspaper in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. With its extensive readership and support, the Fremad became one of the most prominent and influential Scandinavian papers in the region. Strass also operated a successful printing establishment and dealt in Norwegian literature. He was highly respected as a business leader, a political influencer, and a public-spirited citizen. His integrity, forward-thinking approach, and dedication to the welfare of his community earned him esteem among his fellow countrymen and the general public alike.

Biography of Mark D. Scott

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History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

Mark D. Scott, a highly skilled and astute newspaper man, has made his mark in South Dakota as the editor and publisher of the influential Sioux Falls Journal. Born in Wisconsin in 1866, Scott’s early immersion in the printing industry set the stage for his successful career. From humble beginnings as a newspaper carrier in Deadwood, he steadily rose through the ranks, eventually founding and managing several newspapers across different states. His journalistic prowess and dedication to delivering timely and relevant news have earned him a respected reputation. Scott’s commitment to the newspaper business and his advocacy for fiscal responsibility in public affairs are notable aspects of his professional endeavors.

Biography of Holden D. Kinyon

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History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

Holden D. Kinyon, the popular postmaster of Valley Springs, South Dakota, was born in Lomira, Wisconsin, in 1854. After receiving his education, he moved to South Dakota and purchased land near Valley Springs. In 1890, he was appointed postmaster and has served in that position for four administrations. Mr. Kinyon’s business as a dealer in books, stationery, and school supplies has flourished, and he is known for his courteous and obliging nature. He is highly respected in the community, both for his public service and his dedication to the Republican Party. Married to Jennie F. Palmer, he and his wife are valued members of Valley Springs society.

Biography of Henry G. Solem

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History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

Henry G. Solem, a Norwegian immigrant, epitomizes the power of practical industry and perseverance. Arriving in the United States with minimal resources, he embarked on a remarkable journey of success. Starting at the bottom, Solem steadily climbed the ladder, acquiring land, becoming a prominent farmer and stock raiser, and venturing into business and finance. His influence extended beyond personal pursuits as he actively contributed to the community, holding township offices and spearheading public enterprises. From a poor laborer, Solem’s rise exemplifies extraordinary determination, mental acumen, and moral character, establishing him as a leading citizen in Minnehaha County, South Dakota.

Biography of Hans A. Ustrud

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History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

Hans A. Ustrud is a prominent figure in educational circles, serving as the incumbent county superintendent of schools in Minnehaha County, South Dakota. Born in Baltic in 1871, he hails from a Norwegian ancestry. Ustrud’s early education was received in the public schools of his native county, where he developed a deep understanding of the pioneer era. After graduating from the Lutheran Normal School in Sioux Falls, he became a respected teacher, dedicating himself to the educational interests of Minnehaha County. His exceptional work led to his election as county superintendent in 1902, where he successfully organized and unified the school system. Ustrud’s accomplishments have garnered widespread acclaim and trust from the community he serves.

Biography of George Cassady

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History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

George Cassady, born in Hamilton County, Ohio, in 1849, was a pioneer in horticulture and played a significant role in introducing fruit growing to South Dakota. After working as a telegrapher in the West, he settled in Valley Springs, South Dakota, where he established large orchards and co-founded Cassady & Bailey, one of the state’s … Read more

Biography of William G. Porter

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History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

William G. Porter, a distinguished member of the South Dakota bar, is the senior partner of the renowned law firm Porter & King in Sioux Falls. Born in Thetford Center, Vermont, in 1858, Porter’s lineage can be traced back to a Norman knight in the eleventh century. After an impressive academic journey, including graduating from Dartmouth College and obtaining a law degree from Drake University, he embarked on a successful legal career. Serving as state’s attorney and later as assistant United States attorney, Porter has excelled in his profession, earning a reputation for his expertise and commitment. Additionally, he has been actively involved in Republican politics and various fraternal organizations throughout his life.

Biography of Richard Franklin Pettigrew

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History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

Richard Franklin Pettigrew, a former United States senator from South Dakota, was a determined leader who played a significant role in shaping the nation. Born in Vermont in 1848, he ventured to the West and settled in Sioux Falls in 1870. Pettigrew served as a delegate, congressman, and senator, displaying unwavering commitment to his principles. He became renowned for his speeches opposing annexation and advocating for settlers’ rights and the honorable treatment of Native Americans. Pettigrew’s influential career extended beyond politics, as he contributed to the growth and development of Sioux Falls and engaged in successful mining ventures after leaving public office.

Biography of Richard H. Booth

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History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

Richard H. Booth, a respected pioneer of the northwest, has been a prominent contractor and builder in South Dakota for over thirty years. Born in Poughkeepsie, New York, in 1826, he honed his carpentry skills and established himself as a skilled artisan. Moving to Sioux Falls in 1870, Booth dedicated himself to constructing significant public and private buildings, including the first church in the county. He was known for his integrity, public spirit, and commitment to the Democratic Party. Despite nearing the age of eighty, Booth remained active in his profession and was revered as a highly esteemed citizen of Sioux Falls.

Biography of James Kirk

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History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

James Kirk, a native of Dumfriesshire, Scotland, embarked on a remarkable journey that shaped his life. From his early ventures in the dry goods business in England to engaging in sheep raising in Colorado, Kirk’s experiences were diverse. He devoted several years to missionary work in Sierra Leone, Africa, spreading Christianity and teaching the natives. Returning to Scotland and later settling in South Dakota, Kirk transformed his land into a thriving farm, excelling in livestock breeding and cultivation. A devoted Congregational church member, he actively participated in religious and community endeavors, embodying the qualities of a selfless philanthropist and progressive citizen.

Biography of Edgar B. Northrup

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History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

Edgar B. Northrup, a native of New York, has made a significant impact in South Dakota. Despite only being a resident for twelve years, he has achieved both local recognition in business circles and prominence in public affairs. With a background in education from prestigious institutions like Phillips Academy and Yale University, Northrup ventured into the real estate business. His sagacity and keen perception have led to remarkable success, establishing him as a leader in his field. Not only is he highly esteemed for his business acumen, but his integrity and gentlemanly demeanor have also earned him a wide circle of friends. Active in politics, Northrup has become an influential figure in the Republican Party, serving as a distinguished member of the general assembly.

Biography of Albert N. Quale

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History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

Albert N. Quale, a prominent figure in the real estate industry, owns the Quale Land Company based in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. With well-equipped offices in the Minnehaha building, he buys and sells farm lands, handles wild land and improved farms, and manages estates. Born in 1878, Quale comes from a family of pioneers who settled in Dakota Territory. He grew up on a homestead farm, received education in public schools, and embarked on a successful career in real estate after various entrepreneurial ventures. With his strong Republican Party affiliation and active involvement in social organizations like the Elks, Quale is considered a rising young leader in his native state.