Biography of James D. Elliott

History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

James D. Elliott, born on October 7, 1859, in Mount Sterling, Illinois, was a distinguished lawyer in South Dakota. The eldest of five surviving children, he relocated to Dakota Territory in 1872 with his family. Elliott studied law under Colonel John L. Jolley and was admitted to the bar in 1884. He practiced in Springfield and later in Tyndall, where he served as state’s attorney and, starting in 1897, as United States district attorney. A staunch Republican, Elliott was also active in banking and landholding. He married Agnes Stilwell in 1890, and they had four children: Marion, Douglas, Hiram, and Mary.

Biography of Louis Chladek

History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

Louis Chladek, born on February 22, 1852, in Bohemia, Germany, immigrated to the United States at fourteen. He initially settled in Chicago, working in a furniture factory, before moving westward. By 1869, he reached Dakota Territory, where he pre-empted land near Yankton. Overcoming numerous challenges, he established a successful farming and business career, partnering with his brother in agricultural implement sales. By 1900, Chladek had accumulated significant land holdings and retired in Tyndall, South Dakota. In 1882, he married Louisa Vyborny, and they had four children. Chladek was a dedicated Democrat, a prominent Mason, and a respected community member.

Biography of Vincent Kaberna

History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

Vincent Kaberna, a prominent figure in farming and stock-raising, has left a lasting impact in Wagner, Charles Mix County. Born in Bohemia, Austria, in 1849, he immigrated to the United States with his parents in 1856. After years of honing his skills as a tinner in Chicago, he settled in Tyndall, South Dakota, in 1883. Kaberna served as mayor, county treasurer, and held other positions of public trust. In 1895, he relocated to Charles Mix County, where he established a successful ranch and engaged in livestock trading. Highly regarded for his business acumen and community involvement, Kaberna’s story is one of personal achievement and dedication.

Biography of Conrad Eymer

History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

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.