Twin Brooks - South Dakota Genealogy

Biography of Frederick Camp

History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

Frederick Camp (b. 1845, Waukesha County, Wisconsin) was a prominent farmer, businessman, and community leader in Twin Brooks, Grant County, South Dakota. After starting his career in railroad work as a brakeman and later a conductor, Camp moved to South Dakota in 1882. He played a key role in establishing Twin Brooks, overseeing the construction of the town’s first grain elevator and acquiring the land on which the town was built. A staunch Republican, Camp was active in local politics but avoided official positions. He married twice, first to Mary A. Wildish in 1867, with whom he had two children, Hattie and Elmer, and later to Mary Barker in 1878.

Biography of William E. Raymond

William E. Raymond, born on August 19, 1857, near Ripon, Wisconsin, is a descendant of the fourth count of Toulouse, France. His parents, Ezra and Armine (Monette) Raymond were early Wisconsin pioneers. Educated in public schools and Ripon College, William initially pursued law but turned to teaching and carpentry due to financial constraints. In 1886, he moved to South Dakota, founding the village of Twin Brooks and its first general store. Later, he shifted to farming, amassing a substantial property and raising high-quality livestock. A dedicated Republican and justice of the peace for 12 years, he contributed to the Northwestern Agriculturist and married Mina B. Stymiest in 1880, with whom he had nine children.

Biography of William F. Rabbitt

William F. Rabbitt, the incumbent clerk of the county and circuit courts for Grant County, is widely regarded as an able executive and a popular figure in the community. Born in County Galway, Ireland, in 1872, Rabbitt emigrated to America at the age of twelve. After residing in Chicago and Philadelphia, he settled in South Dakota, where he acquired a substantial farm. Engaged in farming and stock raising, Rabbitt’s commendable work led to his election as clerk of the courts in 1900, a position he was re-elected to in 1902. Beyond his public service, Rabbitt is known for his business acumen and dedication to agricultural development.

Biography of George G. Lasell

George G. Lasell, a highly honored and influential citizen, is the cashier of the State Bank of Twin Brooks and a representative member of the Grant County bar. Born in Spring Valley, Minnesota, in 1867, he comes from a distinguished lineage, with French ancestry tracing back to the famous explorer Sieur de La Salle. After successful years as a teacher, Lasell pursued law studies and was admitted to the South Dakota bar in 1900. He established himself as a prominent businessman, with interests in banking, coal, and lumbering. A Democrat and active in fraternal organizations, Lasell’s accomplishments are a testament to his well-directed efforts and dedication.