Surname: Wells

Biography of Rollin J. Wells

History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

Rollin J. Wells, born June 24, 1848, in Moline, Illinois, was a distinguished lawyer and literary figure in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. After studying at the University of Michigan and teaching in Illinois, he pursued law, being admitted to the bar in 1878. Moving to Sioux Falls, Wells established a successful legal practice, eventually partnering with George T. Blackman. Wells was also known for his literary work, notably the dramatic poem “Hagar.” Married to Susan L. Little in 1870, Wells had five children. He was a respected public figure, noted for his contributions to law, literature, and civic life.

Biography of James E. Wells

History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

James E. Wells, born May 23, 1858, in Cambria, Wisconsin, was a prominent alderman representing the fourth ward in Mitchell, South Dakota. He was the son of Ora B. and Sarah T. (Campbell) Wells and moved to South Dakota in 1873. After working various jobs in Wisconsin and Minnesota, he settled in Mitchell in 1880. Wells built a career in the lumber industry and later served as Davison County’s register of deeds for six years. He then established a successful business in abstracts, insurance, and real estate. A dedicated Republican, he also held multiple public offices, including clerk of the board of education and alderman. Wells was an active member of the Masonic order and other fraternal organizations. He married Fanny Wedehase in 1883, and they had three children: Ora B., Frederick A., and James Earl.

South Dakota Biographies

The Picturesque Story of South Dakota

Marthy Jane Cannary Biographies from the Memorial and Biographical Record These biographies are from “Memorial and biographical record; an illustrated compendium of biography, containing a compendium of local biography, including biographical sketches of prominent old settlers and representative citizens of South Dakota…” W. G. Ackerman Ell Nathan Aldrich Irwin D. Aldrich M. D. Alexander Andrew A. Anderson G. W. Anderson Oliver E. Anderson William Anderson James Oliver Andrews James J. Aplin Giles A. Baker Thomas Bandy Julian Bennett Dr. William S. Bentley Dr. S. N. Blair Joseph F. Bockler H. A. Booth George C. Bradley Christopher Brakke George Nelson Breed … Read more