Surname: Weeks

Biography of David H. Weeks

History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

David H. Weeks, born on March 29, 1821, in Herkimer County, New York, was a pioneer settler of both Illinois and South Dakota. After marrying Eliza Shaul in 1851, he farmed in Herkimer County before moving to Ogle County, Illinois, in 1859. In 1883, he relocated to Hand County, South Dakota, securing homestead and pre-emption claims in Pearl Township, where he developed a 320-acre ranch. Known for his successful farming and stock raising, Weeks was respected in his community. He and his wife, Eliza, had seven children: John, Ida, Alma, Dayton, Albert, Henry, and George.

Biography of Charles J. Gunderson

History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

Charles J. Gunderson, born October 13, 1868, in Fillmore County, Minnesota, is a prominent lawyer in Vermillion, South Dakota. His parents, Harvey and Anna (Thompson) Gunderson, emigrated from Norway and settled in Clay County, South Dakota, in 1869. Charles grew up on the family homestead, attended local public schools, and graduated from the University of South Dakota with a Bachelor of Science in 1893. He earned his law degree from the University of Minnesota in 1896 and began practicing law in Vermillion. Originally a Republican, he switched to the Democratic Party in 1896. Charles is active in the Masonic order and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and he is a member of the Lutheran church. He married Mamie L. Weeks on August 27, 1902.