History of South Dakota - South Dakota Genealogy

Biography of Edward C. Payne

History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

Edward C. Payne, a prominent member of the board of commissioners in Brown County, is a respected farmer and stock grower in South Dakota. Born in New York in 1853, he moved to Minnesota before settling in South Dakota in 1880. Payne transformed his half section of land into a thriving farm, renowned for its wheat production and high-grade shorthorn cattle. He is known for his resourcefulness and dedication to progress. Active in local politics and various fraternal organizations, Payne has made significant contributions to his community. He has been married twice and has five children from his first marriage and a daughter from his second marriage.

Biography of Edgar B. Northrup

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 David F. Jones

David F. Jones, a prominent figure in the drug business in Watertown, is renowned as one of the leading representatives in the state. Born in Wisconsin in 1869, he pursued a career in pharmacy, graduating from Northwestern University in 1894. Jones established his own drug store in Watertown and gained recognition for his expertise and dedication to the field. Not only has he served as the president of the State Pharmaceutical Association and the state board of pharmacy, but he is also highly regarded as one of the most knowledgeable pharmacists and chemists in the region. In addition, Jones actively participates in local public affairs and holds a position on the board of aldermen.

Biography of Edward V. Miles

Edward V. Miles, a renowned and prosperous farmer, is considered a pioneer of Jerauld County, South Dakota. Born in Wessington, Hand County, Virginia in 1838, he displayed unwavering loyalty during the Civil War, serving in the Second Illinois Volunteer Cavalry. After the war, he returned to Illinois, engaging in farming, mercantile pursuits, and grain trading. In 1882, he settled in Jerauld County, developing a valuable farm and becoming a respected figure in the community. Eventually, he sold his farm, moved to Wessington Springs, and enjoyed a well-deserved retirement. A prominent citizen, Miles actively participated in local affairs, and his contributions to South Dakota’s history are commendable.

Biography of Conrad Eymer

Conrad Eymer, a highly esteemed citizen of Bon Homme County, South Dakota, has been closely involved in its history and development since his arrival in 1869. Born in Germany in 1842, he emigrated to the United States at the age of eleven. Settling in South Dakota, he transformed wild land into a thriving farm through hard work and determination. Eymer became a successful farmer and stock raiser, owning two hundred and forty tillable acres. A dedicated and respected member of the community, he also served in the Union Army during the Civil War. Eymer’s contributions as a citizen and soldier have left a lasting impact.

Biography of Andrew J. Noble

Andrew J. Noble is a well-known farmer and stock-raiser in Bon Homme County, South Dakota. Born in Mineral Point, Wisconsin, in 1846, he has dedicated his life to agricultural pursuits. Noble’s farm is considered one of the best in the area, showcasing his energy and dedication. He has planted nearly fifteen hundred fully matured evergreen trees and maintains extensive orchards. Besides cultivating his own land, Noble also rents additional acres for pasturage and engages in livestock trading. Known for his Hereford cattle and thoroughbred Poland-China hogs, he has achieved notable success in his business endeavors. Noble’s influence extends beyond farming, as he actively contributes to the growth and development of his community, earning the respect of his fellow citizens.

Biography of Alfred Goldin

Alfred Goldin, a prominent figure in Spink County’s agricultural community, has achieved great success through his own efforts in developing the region’s resources. Born in North Carolina in 1866, he overcame family hardships caused by the Civil War and limited educational opportunities. In 1886, he arrived in South Dakota with no capital, but his determination and hard work paid off. As a farmer, he thrived, eventually purchasing an 800-acre farm. With his land well-improved and cultivated, Goldin’s prosperity grew over the years. Known as a practical and progressive businessperson, he enjoys the respect and admiration of his community.

Biography of Albert N. Quale

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.

Biography of David E. Ward

David E. Ward is a prominent figure in Dell Rapids, known for his role as the efficient and popular postmaster, as well as the editor and publisher of the Dell Rapids Times. Born in Darlington, Wisconsin, in 1864, Ward embarked on a successful career in the printing industry after completing his education. In 1892, he became the sole owner of the Dell Rapids Times, transforming it into a respected local publication that also exerted influence in political affairs. Ward’s unwavering allegiance to the Republican Party and his active involvement in various conventions have furthered its cause. His contributions to his hometown have earned him the respect and esteem of those who know him.

Biography of Charles L. Loffler, M.D.

Charles L. Loffler, M.D., born on July 4, 1871, in Hampton County, Iowa, was a highly accomplished physician. After receiving his early education in Yankton, South Dakota, he graduated from Barnes Medical College in St. Louis, Missouri, in 1901. Dr. Loffler practiced medicine in various locations in Iowa and South Dakota before settling in Sioux Falls in November 1902. He achieved great success in his specialized branches of medicine and held state certificates to practice in several states. Additionally, he was involved in numerous fraternal organizations. Dr. Loffler married Marie M. Dresselhuys in 1895, and they had no children.

Biography of Charles H. Bartelt

Charles H. Bartelt, a distinguished member of the legal profession, has earned the respect and trust of both his colleagues and clients. Born in Hamburg, Germany, in 1876, Bartelt immigrated to the United States with his family in 1882. After completing his education, including a law degree from Nebraska State University, he joined the bar in 1899. Settling in Sioux Falls, Bartelt established a successful law practice in partnership with J. E. McMahon. A dedicated Republican, he actively engaged in politics and remained well-informed about public affairs. Bartelt’s accomplishments, combined with his affiliations with fraternal organizations, underscore his prominent standing in the community.

Biography of Charles E. Hill

Charles E. Hill, editor and proprietor of the Vidette, is a native of Greene County, Ohio. With a strong inclination towards the printer’s trade from a young age, he served his apprenticeship at the Cleveland Daily Herald, where he connected with influential Republican politicians. Hill’s ambition led him to work in various cities across the United States and Canada before settling in Valley Springs, South Dakota. There, he acquired the Vidette, transforming it into a highly regarded publication and a leading Republican voice in eastern Dakota. Hill’s dedication to his town’s growth, involvement in politics, and esteemed presence in social circles have earned him great prestige and influence.

Biography of William W. Downie

William W. Downie, editor and publisher of the Herald Advance, was a prominent figure in the newspaper industry. Born in Hamilton, Ontario, in 1855, he moved to Michigan with his family before eventually settling in Big Stone City, South Dakota. Downie started the Herald, the first newspaper in Grant County, and later consolidated it with the Advance. Under his management, the Herald Advance became a leading Republican party organ and a reflection of current thought. Downie actively promoted the welfare of Milbank and Grant County, serving as mayor, justice of the peace, and postmaster. He was also influential in education and a respected member of various fraternal organizations.

Biography of Cora W. Carpenter M.D.

Dr. Cora W. Carpenter, a dedicated physician and surgeon, has made significant contributions to the medical profession in Sioux Falls. Born in Des Moines, Iowa, she completed her education in Fargo, North Dakota, before pursuing her medical studies at the College of Physicians and Surgeons affiliated with the University of Illinois. With a strong professional enthusiasm and extensive technical knowledge, Dr. Carpenter established herself in Sioux Falls in 1902. Her exceptional skills and compassionate approach have earned her great success, evident in her well-equipped office located in the Minnehaha building. Dr. Carpenter’s commitment to her profession and unwavering dedication to her patients continue to inspire and uplift the community.

Biography of Hans H. Sandvig

Hans H. Sandvig, a renowned agriculturist and respected citizen of Minnehaha County, was born in Norway on October 18, 1848. After settling in the United States in 1870, he established himself as a successful farmer in Goodhue County, Minnesota, before relocating to Minnehaha County, South Dakota. Sandvig’s dedication to agriculture led him to own a valuable farm of four hundred and forty acres, known for its fertility and excellent livestock potential. Alongside his wife, Ida O. Brown, Sandvig raised two daughters and became actively involved in his community, holding important official positions and contributing to the development of education in the county. Throughout his life, Sandvig exemplified integrity, intelligence, and success in his endeavors, leaving a lasting legacy in Minnehaha County.

Biography of Hon. J. O. Langness

Hon. J. O. Langness is an enterprising citizen and public-spirited man of affairs. Born in Norway in 1839, he immigrated to America in 1866 and settled in Minnesota. Recognizing the potential for a Norwegian colony, he selected the county of Minnehaha in Dakota as the ideal location. Langness played a crucial role in the development of the region, establishing a thriving village called Baltic. He excelled as an agriculturist, expanding his farm to four hundred acres and deriving income from stock raising. Langness actively participated in public affairs, holding various positions and serving his community faithfully. Highly esteemed, he remains a loyal American citizen while cherishing his Norwegian heritage.

Biography of Hon. Erick J. Berdahl

Hon. Erick J. Berdahl, born in Norway in 1850, immigrated to the United States at a young age. He settled in South Dakota, where he developed a thriving farm under the homestead law. Over the years, Berdahl actively contributed to the development of Minnehaha County and became a respected Republican figure. He held various official positions, including justice of the peace and treasurer of the Farmers’ Mutual Insurance Company. Berdahl’s dedication to his community, combined with his success as an agriculturist, earned him recognition and admiration from both Democrats and Republicans alike. He is known for his firmness, honesty, and genuine concern for the welfare of others.

Biography of James Henderson Kyle

James Henderson Kyle, the late Senator from South Dakota, was a man of remarkable dedication and integrity. Born in Ohio in 1854, he overcame financial challenges to pursue his education, eventually becoming a pastor and entering politics. Elected to the United States Senate in 1891, he served with unwavering commitment and played a significant role in various committees. Notably, he chaired the United States Industrial Commission and advocated for the establishment of Labor Day as a national holiday. Senator Kyle’s tireless work ethic, genuine compassion, and unwavering faith left an indelible mark on those who knew him.

Biography of Charles Henry Sheldon

Charles Henry Sheldon, the second governor of South Dakota, was born in Lamoille County, Vermont, in 1840. Despite a difficult upbringing, he displayed a passion for oratory and a strong abolitionist stance. Sheldon’s military service during the Civil War was commendable, and he eventually settled in Dakota, engaging in farming and becoming a respected figure in local politics. As governor, he faced numerous challenges, including economic downturns and crop failures, yet he tirelessly worked to preserve the state’s credit. Sheldon’s legacy is honored in South Dakota, where he is remembered for his ability, principled nature, and enduring friendships.

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.