Yankton County - South Dakota Genealogy

History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

Biography of Leonard C. Mead

Leonard C. Mead, a highly esteemed physician and superintendent of the State Hospital for the Insane in Yankton, South Dakota, has earned a prominent position in his profession. Born into a loving and supportive family, he overcame limited educational opportunities through hard work and determination. Dr. Mead’s exceptional abilities as a physician and executive shine through his transformative leadership at the State Insane Hospital. He has revolutionized the institution, elevating it above political influence and establishing it as a leading facility for the treatment of nervous diseases and mental health. His expertise is widely recognized, and he continues to contribute significantly to the medical field.

Biography of Leonard C. Mead Read More »

Biography of Edward F. Donovan

Yankton County / History of South Dakota

Edward F. Donovan, supervisor of the State Hospital for the Insane in Yankton, is a native of Michigan and the son of Jeremiah and Margaret Donovan, both born in Ireland. With a successful business career and remarkable management skills, he has earned recognition and trust in his community. Holding the position of supervisor since 1891, Donovan’s undimmed record and dedication to duty have made him an esteemed custodian of one of the people’s most important institutions. Beyond his political involvement and faithfulness to his responsibilities, he is a proud citizen who believes in the future growth and prosperity of his city and state.

Biography of Edward F. Donovan Read More »

Biography of George S. Adams, M.D.

Yankton County, Brown County / History of South Dakota

George S. Adams, M.D., is a highly regarded and accomplished member of the medical profession in Yankton, South Dakota. Born in Michigan, he grew up in South Dakota and pursued his education at State Agricultural College and Rush Medical College. Graduating with a degree in Medicine, Dr. Adams began his career as an assistant physician at the state hospital for the insane in Yankton, where he continues to serve with great dedication. He is esteemed for his abilities and discernment in his profession. As a Republican, Dr. Adams is also affiliated with St. John’s Lodge, No. 1, Free and Accepted Masons.

Biography of George S. Adams, M.D. Read More »

Biography of William H. Semple

Yankton County / History of South Dakota

William H. Semple, owner of a fine farm in Yankton County, represents the intelligent and progressive class of American agriculturists. Born in Brooklyn, New York, in 1858, he overcame hardships and embraced pioneer life. With perseverance and dedication, Semple and his uncle developed their land, facing challenges such as floods and grasshoppers. Despite setbacks, they achieved remarkable success, acquiring extensive acreage. Semple’s strong work ethic and honorable business practices earned him respect and friendship within the community. He married Augusta D. Fisher, and together they raised two children while actively participating in their Lutheran church and local organizations. Semple’s story exemplifies the rewards of hard work, determination, and integrity.

Biography of William H. Semple Read More »

Biography of Lonson Seeley

Yankton County / History of South Dakota

Lonson Seeley, an industrious and successful farmer, was born in Monroe County, New York, in 1844. After serving in the Union army during the Civil War, he returned to Wisconsin where he pursued a career in agriculture. In 1868, he settled in South Dakota and focused on raising hogs and cattle, which proved more profitable than cultivating crops. Known for his diligence and perseverance, Seeley also contributed to the progress of his community, serving on the school board for over two decades. A devoted Republican and esteemed member of the Grand Army of the Republic, he and his family were valued members of the Methodist church.

Biography of Lonson Seeley Read More »

Biography of Patrick J. Dinneen

Yankton County / History of South Dakota

Patrick J. Dinneen was born in County Cork, Ireland, in 1834. After spending fifteen years in England, he emigrated to America in 1866. Settling in Yankton County, South Dakota, he homesteaded 160 acres of government land, transforming it into a prosperous farm through his hard work and dedication. Despite setbacks such as crop losses and river floods, Dinneen thrived in his new home and became a respected member of his community. Known for his industry, economy, and civic engagement, he is considered one of the self-made men who achieved success and prosperity in their adopted country.

Biography of Patrick J. Dinneen Read More »

Biography of Ole Anderson

Charles Mix County, Yankton County / History of South Dakota

Ole Anderson, born in Norway in 1850, migrated to the United States in 1880, joining the influx of Scandinavian immigrants to the Northwest. Settling in South Dakota, he established himself as a respected farmer in Charles Mix County. Through diligent cultivation and the application of modern farming methods, Anderson transformed his raw land into a thriving estate. He raised livestock, including Poland China hogs and Durham cattle, and cultivated various crops. Anderson’s success exemplified the contribution of hardworking immigrants from northern Europe to the rapid development of the Northwest. He was regarded as a model farmer and a commendable citizen in his community.

Biography of Ole Anderson Read More »

Biography of Joseph J. Volin

Yankton County, Clay County / History of South Dakota

Joseph J. Volin, a pioneer in South Dakota, played a crucial role in the development of Yankton County. Born in Canada in 1838, he moved to Iowa with his family before settling in South Dakota. Overcoming hardships, including crop destruction and floods, Volin became a prosperous farmer, eventually owning a 400-acre cultivated farm. He actively participated in community affairs, helping to establish the first school in his district and serving as a school trustee for two decades. Volin, a Democrat who prioritized merit over party, was also a respected member of the Congregational Church.

Biography of Joseph J. Volin Read More »

Biography of Iver Bagstad

Yankton County / History of South Dakota

Iver Bagstad, a representative business figure in Yankton County, exemplifies the potential of determined youth. Born in Norway in 1843, he immigrated to the United States at a young age and grew up in Wisconsin. In 1869, he ventured to South Dakota, then a frontier region, and settled near Volin. After years of farming, Bagstad established himself as a successful merchant in Gayville, facing and overcoming numerous challenges. His business grew under his capable leadership, eventually expanding into the livestock industry. A respected Republican, Bagstad held public positions and earned the trust of his community. He married Elena Aaseth, and together they raised six children.

Biography of Iver Bagstad Read More »

Biography of Hugh S. Gamble

Yankton County / History of South Dakota

Hugh S. Gamble, a prominent citizen and successful business man from Yankton, South Dakota, is an honorable representative of an old and respected family. Born in Ireland, he inherited remarkable qualities of intelligence, keenness, and optimism. Despite facing serious impairment of his eyesight, he persevered and achieved remarkable success in business. Alongside his thriving career in real estate, insurance, and money lending, Gamble actively contributes to the development of his community. He serves on the board of trustees of Yankton College, is a dedicated member of the Congregational church, and has rendered valuable service to the Republican Party. With a loving family and an enduring spirit, Gamble’s life is a testament to resilience and dedication.

Biography of Hugh S. Gamble Read More »

Biography of Hans C. Olson

Yankton County, Clay County / History of South Dakota

Hans C. Olson, a farmer in Yankton County, South Dakota, has played a significant role in the region’s growth and development. Born in Norway in 1854, he immigrated to the United States as a teenager with his parents. Settling in South Dakota, Hans worked diligently on the family farm and eventually became a successful farmer himself, owning 320 acres of land, primarily dedicated to raising Hereford cattle. He was actively involved in his community, serving as a deputy assessor and advocating for education. With a strong sense of integrity and deep religious faith, Hans earned the respect of all who knew him.

Biography of Hans C. Olson Read More »

Biography of Biography of George Williston Nash

Yankton County, Lincoln County / History of South Dakota

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.

Biography of Biography of George Williston Nash Read More »