pages 890-905

      Congressional township 2 north, range 6 east, comprises what is organized as the civil town of Jordan. On the north, it adjoins the town of Adams, on the east, Monroe; on the south, Cadiz; and on the west, the county of Lafayette. The surface of this town, as well as its soil, is varied; and the scenery is diversified by interspersed prairie and timber land, sufficient to make it picturesque, and, in certain localities, romantic. There is an inclination, visible in the surface, toward being bluffy, yet in but very few places are the hills so abrupt as to be detrimental to the cultivation of the land. The soil is generally a dark, rich loam, yet this is not uniform, as there are many localities in the town where it is quite light, and mixed with stone. There are some fine farms in Jordan, and there are a number of substantial and comfortable farm buildings.
     The principal farm products grown in the town of Jordan during the year 1882, were as follows: 3,737 bushels of wheat; 49,320 bushels of corn; 35,453 bushels of oats; 291 bushels of barley; 5,212 bushels of rye; 6,723 bushels of potatoes; 200 bushels of root crops; 952 bushels of apples; 77 bushels of clover seed; 25 bushels of timothy seed; 2,198 tons of hay; 53,100 pounds of butter; and 46,700 pounds of cheese.
     The principal farm products growing in the town, at the time of making the assessment, in 1883, were as follows: 392 acres wheat; 2,090 acres corn; l,455 1/2 acres oats; 3 acres barley; 392 1/2 acres rye; l00 1/2 acres potatoes; 30 3/4 acres apple orchard; 1,409 bearing apple trees; 1,982 acres grasses; 5,850 acres growing timber,
     The live stock of the town was assessed as follows: 1,008 milch cows, valued at $20,310; 481 horses, average value $38.55, total $26,660; 2,003 cattle, average value $16, total $32,049; 19 mules, average value $50.73, total $964; 2,000 sheep, average value $1.93, total, $3,872; 1,591 swine, average value $4.47, total $7,122.
     There are 23,034 acres of farming land in the town; average value per acre $7.57, total value of real estate $174,547. Total value of real and personal property $263,035. The population of the town, in 1875, was 1,027; in 1880, 1,094.

     The first settlement, within the limits now comprising the town of Jordan, was made by William Brazel. He came from the southern part of Illinois, in 1837, and first settled in the town of Adams. Later, he settled on section 4, in the town of Jordan, and erected the first house in the town. In 1846 he sold his farm to John Scott, from Ohio, at $6 per acre, and moved to the town of Adams, where he died a few years later.
     Within the next few years, the arrivals were: Robert Brazel, who located on section 5; Joshua Chilton, from Illinois, who located on section 9; John Trotter, Curtis Hard and Henry Crary, who came from Stephenson Co., Ill. The latter died here. Hard settled in Jockey Hollow; he afterward took to roaming; traveled to Iowa and California, and was in the latter State when last heard from.
     John Trotter came to Green county in 1839, and settled on the northwest quarter of section 8, in the town of Jordan. He was born in Kentucky in 1801, being reared on a farm. When he left home he went on the river as oarsman. He became very sick and had to quit work. He afterwards removed to Springfield, Sangamon Co., Ill.; thence to Stephenson county, where he remained between two and three years, thence to Apple River station, Wis., where he worked in the lead mines; thence to Wiota, Wis., and followed mining there. He then came to Green county and settled as stated above. His health began to fail, and he went to live with a brother in Stephenson Co., Ill., so as to be near a physician. He only lived about one year, when he died, and was buried in the forest near his brother's house. He was married to Isabelle Brazel, a native of Tennessee. The result of this union was four children — James H., Mary A., William and John. James and John live in Bonhomme Co., Dak. Mary A. married David Bell, and lives in this county. William lives in this county. After the death of her husband Mrs. Trotter gathered her children together and returned to Green county. She was poor in this world's goods, but kept her family together by knitting until they were big enough to work. She was an invalid for twenty years before her death, being just able to walk since the death of her husband. She lived on what is now known as the Daniel Clark place. She died July 21, 1869, and is buried in Jordan Center cemetery.
     William Trotter, son of John and Isabelle (Brazel) Trotter, was born at Apple River station, Polk Co., Wis., Oct. 5, 1827. He lived at home until the death of his mother, which occurred July 21, 1869. He bought 190 acres of land on section 17, and has since purchased ninety-five acres on section 21. He is engaged in farming and stock raising. On the 24th of November, 1862, he was united in marriage with Calista E. Sawin, daughter of Horace and Elvira (Burnett) Sawin, of this county. The result this union was eight children, six of whom are living — Alice B., Angie E., Ada M., Della A., William E. and Alta E. Mr. Trotter preaches to some little extent, having been engaged in the work for ten years. He is a staunch and earnest temperance worker, and a man whose advice is well worth listening to.
     Chester Stephens, a pioneer of 1839, was born in Missouri, near Jackson, Sept. 25, 1842. He is a son of John and Betsy (Jacobs) Stephens, both of whom are dead and buried in Argyle, Lafayette county. From Missouri the Stephens family moved direct to this county in 1839, and took a claim on section 6, town of Jordan, of 180 acres. Chester now owns 260 acres. He was married Nov. 6, 1870, to Rosa Hobbs. They have four children — John R., Lettie M., Marble C. and Clay I. Mr. Stephens politically is a republican, and a good citizen.
     Dr. Edward Church and sons came from Illinois, in 1840, and erected a saw mill on section 12, on Skinner creek. They finally went to Iowa.
     Lars Larson Bothan and Iver Iverson, the first Norwegians to settle in the town, came in 1842 and located on section 33, where Bothan still lives; Iverson still lives in the town. They were soon followed by Axiel Iverson Stortottle, Mr. Tollefson and other Norwegians.
     John and George Shelton came from Virginia as early as 1836, and engaged in mining at Wiota. In 1842 they settled on section 4. John was killed in Missouri during the war, having accumulated a fortune and become a sympathizer with "the lost cause." George went back to Virginia and has been lost trace of.
     John Soper came with his family, in 1844, and bought the claim of George Shelton, on section 4. He died Oct. 22, 1872, and his remains were buried in the Jordan Centre cemetery. He was born in the town of Brandon, Vt., Jan 26, 1798. He was a son of Prince and Elizabeth (Allen) Soper, the latter a grandniece of Ethan Allen. Prince Soper was a shoemaker by trade, and lived in Vermont until 1843, when he removed to Milwaukee, Wis., locating on a farm, three miles south of the city. He then removed to Sugar river. Remaining there but a short time, he came to the town of Jordan and settled on section 4, now owned by his son. He was married in Vermont to Eleanor Arnold, a native of Brandon, Vt. She was born April 9, 1803. She now lives on section 4, this town, with her son, William. Ten children were born to them — Warren S., deceased; Martha J., living in West Union, Iowa; William B. A., Samuel S., in the town of Wiota; Prince Edward, deceased; George W., deceased; Foster R., killed in the battle of Fairfax Court House, during the late war; Edward L., Eimice A., and John Q. A., living near his mother. He was born Dec. 23, 1844. He enlisted on the 1st of January, 1862, in company K., 18th Wisconsin Infantry. He participated in the battle of Shiloh, and many skirmishes. He was discharged in December, 1862, and again enlisted in December, 1863, in company K, 16th Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, in which be was corporal. He was discharged in March, 1865. Mr. Soper was married to Adeline Williams, a native of Dane Co., Wis., and a daughter of William and Esther (Warren) Williams. Three children blessed this union — William, Viva and Cecil. He owns a good farm on section 4.
    Edward L. Soper was born in the State of Vermont, Sept. 7, 1840. He is a son of John and Eleanor (Arnold) Soper, one of the oldest residents of Jordan. He was only four years old when he left his native place and with his parents emigrated to Milwaukee, where they remained one year, then came direct to this county, settling on section 4, town of Jordan, where Edward has since remained. His early life was spent on a farm among the timber and he was brought up to hard labor. He has cleared up a farm on section 4. He first bought the west half of the northeast quarter, to which he has since added until he now has a fine farm. He was married Jan. 1, 1867, to Julia Hanson, a native of Norway. Eight children have been born to them — George A., Mary E., Clarence E., Amison R., Almond A., Lena L., Juliet and Lodasca. Mrs. Soper is a member of the Lutheran Church. Mr. Soper served in the army, enlisting Jan. 5, 1864, in company K, 16th Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry; was mustered, in at Janesville and served until June, 1865, when he was mustered out at Madison. Politically he adheres to the principles of the republican party.
     During the same summer came Franklin Osgood, Noah Ellis, Nehemiah Ellis, Jason Morton, Levi Spaulding, Jabez Smith, Arfaxed Crain, Jonn McIntyre, Thomas White and a number of others. After this the settlement progressed rapidly, and the best government land soon was occupied by actual settlers.
     Lewis P. Osgood, a settler of 1847, is a native of New York, born Nov. 4, 1816, in Colchester, Delaware county. His father's ancestry were of English-Irish extraction, and his mother was of Welch descent. In the year 1822 the family emigrated to Ontario Co., N. Y., and again, in 1828, to the State of Pennsylvania, settling in Warren county, where Mr. Osgood's father was in the lumber business. There they remained until 1832, then emigrated to Stephenson Co., Ill., where the father died. The rest of the family continued in that county until August, 1846, when they came to this county and located on section 14, town of Jordan, where Mr. Osgood now owns 100 acres of good land. He was married Jan. 1, 1841, to Delilah Loomis, who died June 26, 1855. By this marriage seven children were born—Mary C., (deceased); Adeline E., now the wife of James Beade; Erepta M., the wife Hamilton Deal; John G., deceased; Elnora E., Tusmania G., the wife of Alexander Adair, living at Wayne; and Lydia A., of Chicago, the wife of George Tanberg., Mr. Osgood's second wife was Mary M. Smith, who died March 25, 1866. He was again married July 8, 1866, to Mrs. Lydia Bauffman. She had a family of seven children — Hannah L., Mahala F., Mathias 0., Minerva A., William H., Mary E. and Lydia T. Mr. Osgood was one of the earliest settlers of the town of Jordan, and has always taken an active part in its affairs, having been called upon to fill several different offices; among them, chairman of the board, collector, treasurer, constable etc. He is a practical wagon-maker, and has worked at that trade since coming here. He is a good mechanic, and an industrious, honest citizen.
     James Henderson, a native of Ohio, came from Stephenson Co., Ill., in 1845, and settled on section 23. He lived there for eight years, then removed to Iowa, where he died.
     William Van Horn, a native of New Jersey, also came from Stephenson Co., Ill., in 1845, and located on section 22. He lived on that place some years, then went to Cadiz, where he died. Two of his children still live in the county.
     John Blain came from Ohio, in 1848, and settled on Rust branch, where he improved a farm and lived for several years. He is still a resident of the county.
     Joseph Blain, a brother of John, came to Green county from Ohio, in the fall of 1846, and entered 160 acres on section 26, where he has since resided. He was born in Luzerne Co., Penn., July 14, 1822. His parents, Joseph and Mary A. (Shaffer) Blain, are both dead, and buried in Muskingum Co., Ohio. Mr. Blain was married in Ohio to Dorcas McCammant, daughter of Samuel and Rebecca (Coe) McCammant. Their marriage occurred Sept. 3, 1846. They have five children — Mary A., wife of Mordecai Kelly; Margaret, wife of Ehud Parriott, of Clarno; Charles, married to Lydia Bechtolt, and living on section 26, in the town of Jordan; James, married to Jessie Lake, of Monroe, also living on section 26, of Jordan, and Elam. Mr. Blain's farm contains 356 acres, and he is engaged in stock raising. Politically he is a democrat.
     Charles Wagner, a native of Pennsylvania: came in 1848 and settled on section 24, where he still lives.

     The first ground broken in the town was that done by William Brazel in 1836, on section 4. He sowed the first wheat in 1837, and planted the first corn in 1836.
     The first religious services in the town were held in the school house on section 5, by a Baptist clergyman. In 1848 services were held at the school house in district No. 5, by Elder White, a Christian minister.
     The first school house in the town was erected in 1845. The neighbors made a bee and drew the logs together and erected the building. It was covered with shakes. No nails were used, the shakes being kept in place by weight poles. This house was in use four or five years.
     The first term of school was taught by James Tennison.
     The first marriage in the town was that of Addison Wells to Paulena Jacobs. The ceremony was performed in 1841 by Warren Osgood, a justice of the peace. The bride died soon after.
     Addison P. Wells is a native of George Co., Ohio, born Dec. 9, 1819. He remained in his native county until thirteen years old, then removed to Stephenson Co. Ill., there remaining and working for his parents until twenty-three years old. He then came to this county and bought forty acres on section 35, from the government, where he built a small log house. He subsequently pre-empted the northwest quarter of section 35. He bought out a squatter by the name of Fowler Jacobs. In 1841 he built a brick house, in which he lived until 1850, when he went to California and engaged in mining. He was gone eighteen months, since which time he has lived in this county, excepting a visit to California in 1865. He now owns a farm of 220 acres. He has been three times married, first to Paulena Jacobs, in May, 1841; she died the following year. His second wife was Louisa Rickett, who bore him three children -— Laura L., Delos H. and Minerva. His second wife died in 1865. His third wife was Sarah E. Divan, from Ohio. They have seven children — Ida M., Dow A., Iva M., Ina M„ John E., Ira M. and Ila M.

     The Blackford saw and grist mill, on section 12, was established in 1843-4 by Dr. Church, who first erected a saw mill, and afterwards sold to his son, John Church. About 1860 machinery was put in for grinding grist, and the saw mill was no longer used. Ghormley & McCormack bought the property, and sold to Lewis W. P. Morton and Solomon Jones in about 1852. They ran it until 1855, when it was purchased by Taylor Wickersham. In 1860 he sold to Morton & Catherman, but it reverted to Mr. Wickersham, and he ran it two years longer, then (1864) sold to Samuel Dennis. About 1868 the property was purchased by Samuel Blackford and Erad White. They continued in partnership until 1881, when Mr. Blackford purchased his partner's interest, and has since conducted the business alone. In 1867 Dennis & Blackford erected and put in operation a saw mill in connection with the grist mill, which is still running, having changed hands with the grist mill.
     Samuel Blackford, son of William and Rachel (John) Blackford, is a native of Fayette Co., Penn., born Oct. 10, 1837. His father was a potter by trade. In 1845 he came to Green county, and located in the town of Jefferson, where he owned a small farm. In 1860 he and his son, Samuel, built a patent lime kiln, and engaged in lime burning until 1867, when Samuel sold out, and the father continued the business until the time of his death, which occurred in 1871. He is buried at Juda. In 1867 Samuel bought his present farm on section 12, town of Jordan. He has seventy-five acres, and is engaged in the mill and dairy business. He was married on the 21st of October, 1860, to Sarah A. Dennis, daughter of Samuel and Elizabeth (Bloom) Dennis. This union has been blessed with four children — Ted E., Belle, George G. and Musa C. Mrs. Blackford's father lives in Green county. Her mother is buried in Richland cemetery, Green county. Mr. Blackford has been chairman of the board of the town of Jordan eight terms. Politically he is a democrat.
     The grist mill on section 26, on Skinner's creek, originated in the erection of a small mill on the same site, in 1840, by John Baughman. Mr. Baughman ran it for a number of years, then sold to Philip Fawver. After running it a few years Mr. Fawver left, and the mill ceased to run. In 1868 John Abelman erected a new mill on the same site, and a few years later sold to Hiram Rust, the present proprietor. The creek furnishes a good power at this point, and the two run of buhrs with which the mill is equipped give it a capacity for grinding from 100 to 150 bushels of grain per day.
     The cheese factory on section 5, on the farm of Henry Poff, is controlled and owned by what is known as the Nulty, Soper, Poff & Lewis Cheese Company. The factory was established in the spring of 1883, buildings 36x18 feet, and 24xl6 feet being erected. It is run by Jacob Carlan, and makes Swiss cheese. There are 140 cows on the milk list.
     Peter Nulty was born in Ireland, in 1840. He is a son of Richard and Bridget (Hyland) Nulty, who now live in the town of Monroe. Mr. Nulty came from Ireland and settled in the State of Kentucky, where he remained a few years, then came to this county and located in the town of Monroe. The property there was disposed of and a removal made to the town of Jordan. In 1870 Mr. Nulty bought the place he now occupies on section 5, where he owns 156 1/2 acres of good land, and is one of the best farmers in the town, having neat and tidy buildings. He was married to Catharine Kemp, and by this union there are six children — Mary, Richard, Johanna, Bridget, Catharine and Ellen. They are members of the Catholic Church, and Mr. Nulty is chairman of the town board of supervisors. His main business is stock raising and the manufacture of cheese.
     Levi H. Poff is a native of Ashland Co., Ohio, born Feb. 4, 1852. He is a son of Jacob and Julia A. (Lawbogh) Poff, a native of Pennsylvania. When Levi was two years old he removed with his parents to this county, settling in the town of Adams, where he lived until 1877, when he removed to section 5, town of Jordan, where he now owns 125 acres of land, and is an enterprising and useful citizen. He was married Feb. 5, 1873, to Irene Adair, daughter of John and Martha (Simpkins) Adair. By this union there are eight children — Anna, born Aug. 25, 1874; Jacob, born Nov. 24, 1875; John, born June 25, 1877; Nellie A., born Sept. 7, 1878; Charles G., born July 5, 1880; Katie, born July 20, 1881, and a pair of twins, Dora Ellen and Cora Estella, born Dec. 25, 1883. Mr. Poff ls engaged in the stock and dairy business, and owns a share in a cheese factory on his farm.
     James Lewis is a native of North Ireland, born near Londondery, Aug. 20, 1831. He is a son of William and Elizabeth (Beatty) Lewis, both of whom are dead, and buried in Wales. In 1848 James emigrated to America and stopped two years in the city of Philadelphia, Penn. Being a morocco dresser, he easily secured a position. From there he removed to Chester county, of the same State. He was married in Philadelphia to Ann Hood, May 3, 1852. He remained in Chester county till 1859, when he came to this county, settling near Jordan Center, where he lived until 1866, when he moved to section 9. He now owns 360 acres of land. They have had eight children — Andrew, Elizabeth, who was married to Ernest Rankins, and died in California, where she was buried; Margaret, deceased, and buried at Argyle, Lafayette county. She was the wife of William Mitchell. John J., Marshall B., George B., Priscilla E. and Mary A. Mr. and Mrs. Lewis are members of the Baptist Church. Mr. Lewis has been a school officer most of the time since coming to this town. He is a member of the I. 0. 0. F., and a good substantial citizen.
     The cheese factory on section 16, owned by Voegley Bros., was built in 1876. It uses the milk of from ninety to 100 cows, manufacturing Swiss cheese.
     Jacob Voegley came to the town of Jordan in 1874, and located on section 16, where with his brother he purchased 286 acres of land. He is a native of Canton Glarus, Switzerland, born Oct. 3, 1848. He came to America in 1869, stopping in New Glarus, Green county. He remained there eighteen months, working on a farm. He then went to the pineries in northern Wisconsin, remaining there three years, after which he returned to New Glarus, where he staid one year, then removed to his present home in the town of Jordan. He was married on the 11th of May, 1873, to Barbary Kundert, a native of Switzerland. They have three children — Elizabeth, Catharine and Balthar. Mr. Voegley's brother, John, his associate on the farm, was born Jan. 1, 1852, and came to America in 1872. He stopped in Oshkosh, Winnebago Co., Wis., where he worked in a vinegar factory six months. He then worked on the railroad for about one year; then took position on an engine as fireman, which he followed for eight months. He came to the place he now lives and with his brother is joint owner of the farm. The brothers also ran a cheese factory. They are members of the Lutheran Church. Politically they are republicans.
     The cheese factory on section 24, was established by Daniel Bechtolt, in 1883. It occupies a building 18x60 feet in size. The milk of several hundred cows is used in the manufacture of Limberger cheese.
     Daniel B. Bechtolt was born in Licking Co., Ohio, Feb. 22, 1837. His parents, Mathias and Christena (Epler) Bechtolt, are both dead, and buried in Cadiz and Kelly cemetery. Daniel B., when fourteen years old, left Ohio and settled on section 25, town of Jordan, this county, where his father resided on forty acres entered from the government. He lived at home until 1860. He was married March 12, 1867, to Matilda Wagner, a daughter of Charles and Lydia Wagner. They have six children — Albert B., Lydia C., now married to Charles Blain; Samuel D., George, Erwin and Ida M. Mr. and Mrs. Bechtolt were members of the United Brethren Church. His wife died in June, 1880, of heart disease, and was buried in Kelly cemetery, town of Cadiz. She was a sincere Christian and a devoted mother.
     The cheese factory on section 3 was built by Andrew Meythaler, Jacob and Yoderick Kubli, Nicholas Dittman and Joseph Sharer, and is located on Mr. Meythaler's farm.
     Andrew Meythaler is a native of Germany, born in Baden, Oct. 26, 1836. He is a son of Christ and Eva (Bleiler) Meythaler, both of whom are dead, and buried on section 35, of the town of Adams. In 1855 Mr. Meythaler went to Pennsylvania, Blair county, where he lived two years, thence came to this county, settling on section 35, town of Adams, where he lived until 1863, then removed to section 34, thence in 1876 to section 3, town of Jordan, where he now resides, owning 197 acres of land. He also still owns 120 acres in Adams. He was married to Mary Hook, a native of Germany. They have seven children living — William G., Edward, Andrew, George J., Annie E., Charles T. and Frederick. Mr. and Mrs. Meythaler are members of the Evangelical Church. He is a good farmer and excellent citizen.
     Jacob Kubli is a native of canton Glarus, Switzerland, born Feb. 23, 1847. He is a son of Peter and Barbary (Martis) Kubli, both of whom are dead, and buried in his native country. When twenty-four years old, Jacob emigrated to America. His brother having come to New Glarus, this county, he concluded to settle there, and upon his arrival, went to his brother's house, living there and with a brother-in-law for one year. He then went to the village of Monroe, and remained two years, working at the trade of shoemaking, which he had learned in the old country, but by accident losing his fingers by a circular saw, he concluded to remove to a farm. He first went to Jordan Center and remained three years. He then sold out his little property and bought on section 3 eighty-four acres in April, 1870, where he has since continued to live. He was married while in Monroe, to Elizabeth Hefty, a native of Switzerland, March 24, 1870, where her parents now reside. They have seven children — Anna E., Barbaretta, Margaret, Catharine, John P., Samuel and Sophia.
     The cheese factory on section 13, was erected in 1882, at a cost of $1,200, by Joshua Klasey & Co., the present proprietors. The company is known as the Blackford Mill Cheese Company, and is composed of Joshua Klasey, George Hartwig, Samuel Blackford and David Knoble.
     John Klasey established a blacksmith shop a number of years ago on section 13. He sold the shop to Abraham Stauffacher, who moved it to Jordan Center, where he still carries on the business.
     Abraham Stauffacher, a native of canton Glarus, Switzerland, was born April 21, 1843. He is a son of Jacob and Catharine Stauffacher, both of whom are dead and buried in his native country. Abraham was the tenth child and the only one of the family who came to America. He was well educated in Switzerland, attending school until twelve years old. He then hired out on a farm. His father was a farmer, and at the same time mail carrier and postmaster. Abraham learned the trade of locksmith, serving an apprenticeship of seven years, and then learned the trade of blacksmith, which he followed in Switzerland, and for a time after coming to this county, first working for Constantine Haegla six months, and then went into partnership with G. Schindler two years and a half. He then went to Iowa with the intention of settling there, bought a shop and paid some money down, but failing to sell his property in New Glarus, he did not go, but built a shop and engaged in work for four years, then sold out to Michael Smith and went to Monroe, where he found employment with the Monroe Manufacturing company one year, then about 1874, he removed to the town of Jordan and bought a shop from J. Klasey, where he remained two years, then purchased thirteen acres of land on section 10, to which he removed his shop, and has since kept the same. He now owns 169 acres on that section. He was married in his native country to Elsbeth Baebler, Feb 13, 1866, and this union was blessed with ten children — Jacob, Albert H., John, Ernst A., Katharina, Edward, Rosa, Henry, David W. and Elsbeth. Mr. and Mrs. Stauffacher are members of the Evangelical Lutheran Church. He is politically a republican.

     The United Brethren denomination organized a class at what is known as Jefferson school house, in 1860. Rev. Crowder presided. They held services there for seven or eight years, when it was removed to the Jordan school house. The organization was discontinued in 1882. The first members were as follows: William Ault, Albert Smith and wife, Mathias Bechtolt and wife, William Witham. Mrs. Joselyn, Lydia Baughman, now Lydia Osgood, Frank Miller and wife, Daniel Bechtolt and wife, Levi Wagner, Susan Wagner, Nellie Baughman, Christian Ault, Ella Wells, William Ableman and wife, Joseph Ableman and wife, William Campbell and wife, Mary Blain, Francis Ward, Malvina, Einora and Geraldine Osgood, Francis Wagner, T. W. Ault and a number of others.
     The Norwegian Lutheran church, in the southern portion of section 29, was erected in 1859. Its cost was $1,000, the amount being raised by subscription and donation of work by members. Formerly the congregation worshipped at Wiota, in Lafayette county. The first preacher was Rev. Clausen. At present they have no regular minister. When the class was organized it consisted of twenty-one families; it now numbers thirty-two. There is a cemetery in connection with this Church, which is also located on section 29. It was laid out in 1859, the land (one acre) being donated by Knudt Thorstan. Additions have been made since that time. The first burial here was of the remains of John Johnson, who died in 1860.
     Banner Lodge, No. 113, Good Templars, was organized on the 5th of December, 1882. The charter members were as follows: Rev. Ira Lebarron, Mr. and Mrs. Sawin, Mr. and Mrs. Dwight Chester, Newton and Matilda E. Deetz, Walter, John and Laura Deetz, Mrs. John Squires, Richard, Elmer, Emma, Marshall and Ella Lewis, William Trotter, Richard Rowley, Ezra and Thomas Treister. The first officers were as follows: Jacob Deetz, W. C.; Mrs. Squires, M. V.; Mr. Squires, P. U.; Newton Sawin, W. M.; Marshall Lewis, W. S.; Walter Deetz, F. S.; Mrs. Deetz, T.; Matilda Sawin, I. G., Thomas Treister, O. G., Dwight Sawin, W. C.; Laura Deetz, A. S.; Mary Deetz, D. M.; S. Treister, L. H.; Emma Squires, W. R. H. S. The lodge meets every Saturday night. There are now twenty-two members.

     The civil town of Jordan was organized in April, 1849. The first town meetings were held in the Ostrander school house. Among the officers elected at the first town meeting, in April, 1849, were: Warren Osgood, chairman; T. N. Ellis, clerk, and John Blain, chairman. Among others who have been prominent in town affairs are the following: Warren Osgood, Thomas White, William Munson, Levi Spaulding, James Y. Cleveland, Taylor Wickersham, H. C. Cleveland, Iver Iverson, William Biggs, J. K. Bloom, N. T. Hanson, George R. King, Samuel Blackford, T. N. Ellis, M. Satterlee, Isaac Trembley, H. G. Cleveland, M. Devareaux, D. H. Morgan, James M. Cook, W. H. Allen, Jacob Deetz and Nelson Rust.
     The present town officers are as follows: Supervisors, Peter Nulty, chairman, A. P. Wells and Joseph Staley; assessor, Rolen Olsen; clerk, John Lewis; treasurer, Joshua Klasey.

     This is the name of a small village located on section 10. The land here was laid into lots and blocks in 1855 by Levi Spaulding, Manless and Oria Satterlee, Levi Wiggins and Nehemiah Ellis. A store was started by Amos Holmes and a blacksmith shop by A. J. Smith. Holmes carried a stock of general merchandise and was in business about two years when he sold to Manless Satterlee, who, after about two year's experience closed out. After this Jordan Center was without a store until 1882, when Hibbard Rankins erected a building and put in a stock of goods. In the spring of 1883 he sold to Jacob Deetz, the present proprietor.
     Jacob Deetz was born in Columbia Co., Penn., June 4, 1831; and is a son of Jacob and Susanna Deetz, natives of Northampton county. From Pennsylvania the family removed to Wayne, Lafayette county. Jacob Deetz, Jr., came one year later. The father is now buried in Wayne and the mother in Cadiz, this county. In 1860 Jacob returned to Pennsylvania and remained one and one-half years. He has taught school in Pennsylvania and in this county, both before and after marriage. He was married October 13, 1861, to Fanny B. Meachim, a daughter of Hosea and Mary (Nichols) Meachim. Her father lives in Cadiz, where her mother was buried. They have seven children — Walter W., John A., Laura L., Mollie I., Charles H., Nettie L. and Jacob S. Mr. Deetz enlisted Aug. 30, 1864, in battery D, 1st Wisconsin Heavy Artillery and served ten months. He was mustered in at Janesville and out at New Orleans. He then returned home to Jordan Center, and bought eighty acres of land on section 8 in 1865, where he lived until 1883, then he removed to Jordan Center and engaged in running a small store. He has held the office of town clerk eight years, and assessed the town a number of times. He was justice of the peace six years, and is the present postmaster of Jordan Center.
     A. J. Smith, the blacksmith, remained here about three years, when he sold to the McConnell Bros., who closed a short time later.
     Abram Stauffacher, the present blacksmith, has been here since 1881. He does general repair work but no shoeing.
     Jordan Center Cemetery, on section 9, was laid out in 1846, the land being donated by Elisha Stevens. A half acre has since been added by donation from James Lewis. The first burial here was of the remains of a child of Manless Satterlee.
     The German M. E. Church —Christ's Church, Evangelical Association of North America— was erected in 1876, at a cost of $700. The first officers of the Church were: Andrew Meythaler, president; Jacob Kubli and August Wemen, board; Henry Zimmerman, clerk. The first members were: John D. Fritsch, August Wemen, Jacob Kubli, Jacob Zimmerman, August Schlim, August Shultz. Yoderick Kubli, Andrew Meythaler, August Kreuger, John Knoble, August Wagner and their families. Henry Uphoff was the first minister, after the church was built, superintending its erection. This Church grew from the organization of a class in 1862, consisting of John D. Fritsch and family, Mrs. Chris. Meythaler and family, Jacob Meythaler and family and John D. Fraiser and family. Services were held at private houses and school houses until the church was built. Among the ministers who have served the class and Church are: Revs Peter Messuger, John M. Hammeter, Nicholas Shoup, William Hilster, Chris. Brendel, John M. Hammeter, Leonard Buehier, Chris. Brendell, Henry Uphoff, Peter Hild, C. Green and Chris. Lahr. The latter is the present pastor.

The town of Jordan was settled up by a class of wide-awake, go-a-head people, as follows:

     William Ableman, is a native of Albany, N. Y., born May 6, 1800. He is a son of Christian and Regina (Kaner) Ableman. His father was a native of Germany, and one of Burgoyne's soldiers, in the War of the Revolution. He was taken prisoner at the battle of Bunker Hill, and when paroled, would not return to his old home, but remained in the United States. He and his wife have long since been laid to rest, at their old home, near Albany. The subject of our sketch remained in New York until 1835, when he removed to Rock Prairie, Walworth Co., Wis. He followed farming in that place, eleven years, then removed to this county, locating on section 22, in the town of Jordan, where he first bought forty acres of land. He now owns 280 acres. He was married in November, 1820, to Ellen Vanderberg, of New York. This union was blessed with ten children — Gilbert, John, Stephen, Reuben, James, Christian, Regina, Rachel, Joseph and Elizabeth. Mrs. Ableman died in 1850, in Johnstown, Wis. Mr. Ableman married the second time, Oct. 25, 1860. His wife is Martha, a daughter of Jonathan Thompson, of New York. They have had three children — Emma L., Ephraim A. and Samuel.

     George W. Phillips came to Green county in 1847. He purchased a farm on Sugar river, in the town of Mount Pleasant. He was a native of Brunswick, Medina Co., Ohio, born April 8, 1837. He removed from Ohio to Rock Co., Wis., locating on Jefferson prairie, where he remained one year. He then removed to the town of Mount Pleasant, this county, where he lived until 1847, when he removed to section 9, town of Jordan. He lived there until 1863, when he enlisted in the army. He served until the close of the war. His wife died on the 13th of May, 1861, and lies buried in the cemetery at Jordan Center. He was again married, and removed to his wife's property, in Rock Co., Wis. He died at Clinton Junction. His life was short after coming home from the war, for he only lived three or four weeks. He was a hard working man, and in Ohio, had been a minister of the gospel in the M. E. Church. By his first marriage he had thirteen children, and by his second wife, two children. He sent six sons and five son-in-laws to the war, besides going himself.

     Levi D. Phillips, well known in Green county, was born in the State of New York, Dec. 9, 1833. He came to Wisconsin at an early day, with his parents. He remained at home until 1852, when he went to California in search of gold, following mining eighteen years, and then engaging in various other things, for about eleven years. In April, 1863, he enlisted in company M, 1st California Cavalry, serving three years. He was mustered in at Camp Stanford, Stockton, Cal., and out at Fort Sheldon, N. M., and returned to California. He then went into business at Chico. His next move was for Montana, where he remained two years; then he returned to Green county, in July, 1883, having been absent from the county just thirty-two years.

     George W. Phillips, living on section 18, town of Jordan, is another son. His early life was spent with his parents. In September, 1861, he was married to Cynthia Clark, daughter of D. W. and Elizabeth Clark. On the 4th of January, 1862, he enlisted in company B, 18th Wisconsin Volunteers, and was mustered in at Milwaukee. He was in the western division, and participated in the battles of Shiloh, Corinth, and in many skirmishes. He was discharged from the 5th street hospital, just one year from date of enlistment, and returned home. He now draws a pension. His farm contains sixty acres. Mr. and Mrs. Phillips have had seven children born to them — Lucius, deceased; Sarah Ada, married to William Powley, resides in Dakota; Walter D., William C., deceased; Sylvia M., Cora B. and Charles W. Mr. Phillips is a republican, politically.

     Nehemiah Ellis, a native of Maine, was born near Bangor, Aug. 4, 1804. In 1819, he, with his parents emigrated to Chautauqua Co., N. Y., at which place he married to Rachael Osgood, in 1828. In 1838, he emigrated to Stephenson Co., Ill., where he purchased a farm near Orangeville, where he remained until 1847. Then on account of ill health he sold out and came to Green Co., Wis., settling near Jordan Centre. He owned a farm on section 3, where he lived, till 1875. In that year he removed to Buena Vista Co., Iowa, where he owned a farm. Mr. Ellis took an active part in the organization of the town of Jordan. He was the first town clerk, also was justice of the peace and held other important offices. His reputation for honesty and integrity was unquestionable. There was born to Mr. and Mrs. Ellis eleven children, six of whom are living — Mary E., now Mrs. Kinnison; Eliza A., wife of Samuel Shook, of Buena Vista county; Richard F., of Jordan; Lewis N., Laban B., and Samuel A., of Buena Vista Co., Iowa.

     Richard F. Ellis was born in Chautauqua Co., N. Y., July 12, 1837. He remained with his parents until 1864. August 21 of that year he enlisted in company D, of the 1st Wisconsin Heavy Artillery, and served till June 17, 1865. On his return from the army he bought a farm on section 11, which he sold in 1870 and bought his present farm, which contains 180 acres, on sections 13, 14, 23 and 24. His residence is on section 24. He was married Aug. 29, 1864, to Emma Bowden, a native of Knox Co., Ill., but at the time of marriage, a resident of Monroe. They have six children — William O., Flora M., Edward S., Franklin N., Robert L. and Lewis B. Mr. Ellis has held the office of town treasurer three terms, and has been school director for twenty years. Mr. and Mrs. Ellis are members of the Church of Christ.

     Harney Benson, son of David and Sarah (Lamd) Benson, was born in the town of Warren, Worcester Co., Mass., Feb. 8, 1848. His parent now live in Monroe. When Harney was two years of age his parents came to this county, and located in the town of Decatur, where they lived for eight years. They then removed to the town of Sylvester, remaining there six years; thence to the town of Jefferson. In 1866 they moved to Missouri. Harney traveled through Indian Territory, Arkansas and Texas, and returned to Green county in 1867. He lived on a farm in the town of Jefferson until his father returned in 1868. His father purchased 140 acres on sections 18 and 19, in the town of Jordan. Harney rented land in the town of Sylvester, of Amaziah A. Sutherland and lived there for seven years, when he removed to the farm on sections 18 and 19, in the town of Jordan, which he had purchased some time before, of his father. He had also added twenty acres to the original farm, making him a comfortable home of 160 acres. He deals some extent in horses and cattle, buying and selling. He was married Feb. 24, 1874, to Julia A. Sutherland, daughter of George A. and Eliza J. (Brown) Sutherland. This union has been blessed with five children — George A., born Jan. 17, 1875; Guy A., born April 18, 1876; Burt, born Nov. 11, 1877; Fannie May, born July 30, 1879; and Leroy, born Jan. 15, 1883.

     Charles Theodore Bayrhoffer was born in Marburg, Hesse Cassel, Germany, Oct. 14, 1812. He studied philosophy at the University of Marburg, and became doctor and professor of philosophy. From the beginning he was a free thinker and a radical, and took part in free religious associations. After the revolution in France, in 1848, he was a republican and democrat. He was twice elected to the representative body of Hesse Electoral, of which body he was president (speaker) during its last week, and later, one of the five members who were elected during one session of that body to hold over to the next session. Afterwards, when Hesse Electoral was overwhelmed by the Bavarian troops, he was criminally impeached, but escaped to Switzerland, and in 1852 to the United States with his family, consisting of his wife and six children. He purchased a farm in the town of Jordan, Green county, from Gortz Wrisberg. His wife died in February of the year 1853. He was married the second time to Charlotte Draz in 1854. She died in 1864, leaving one daughter and one son. For about ten years he did all the work on the farm, then his sons, who by this time were grown, took charge of the farm, and this gave him leisure time for mental work. He wrote articles for liberal, German and English papers. He also wrote a small book entitled, "The Laws of the Universe and of Humanism." He has lately generally lived with his eldest son, Charles Leonard Bayrhoffer, or his son-in-law, Alexander Riesselbach. During the past year he lived in Nebraska, where he had three married daughters and one son. One of his sons was killed in Wisconsin, being accidentally shot; and another died in Nebraska from apoplexy. During the past fourteen years Mr. Bayrhoffer has been suffering from chronic dyspepsia, but is yet vigorous mentally.

     Charles L. Bayrhoffer, son of Charles Theodore and Julia Creuzer Bayrhoffer, was born in Hesse, Germany, March 25, 1843. When he was eight years of age his parents emigrated to America, locating on section 25, in the town of Jordan, this county, where they purchased 140 acres of land. He lived at home until February, 1865, when he enlisted in company A, 46th Wisconsin regiment, being mustered in at Madison. He did guard duty at Athens, Ala., and was mustered out at Nashville, Tenn., in 1865, returning to his home in Wisconsin in the fall of the same year. On the 15th of November, 1869, he was married to Agnes Maehle, a native of Wurtemburg, Germany. They have had five children, four of whom are living — William, Edward, Ida and Theodore. The eldest a daughter, died in infancy, his mother died 1853, and is buried on the farm. His father was a fugitive from Hesse, on account of politics. He now makes his home with his children. He was well known in Hesse as one of the revolutionists. Mr. Bayrhoffer bought his father's farm of 140 acres in 1870 and in 1875 purchased eighty acres joining him on section 25.

     Jacob Kundert, Jr., was born in the town of New Glarus, Green Co., Wis., July 5, 1864, and is a son of Jacob and Barbary Kundert, who reside in the town of Monroe. He lived at home until he was married, working with his father on the farm. On the 14th of March, 1878, he was united in marriage with Rosa, daughter of Baltz Hoesly, of New Glarus. He then rented his father's farm, working it for five years. In the spring of 1883 he purchased 200 acres on section 21, and now has a good, comfortable farm. Mr. and Mrs. Kundert have had five children born to them, two of whom are living — Catharine and Edward. The family are members of the Evangelical Lutheran Church. He is a democrat, politically.

     Moses Miller came to Green county in the spring of 1856, and went to work for Samuel Witmer, in Juda, by whom he was employed three years. He was born Sept 4, 1831, in Lebanon Co., Penn., and is a son of Jacob and Polly (Dobb) Miller, both of whom are dead, being buried in Pennsylvania. They had five children — Mary, Lavina, Elizabeth, Cyrus and Moses. Mary and Lavina are deceased. Moses, the subject of this sketch, was married in December, 1858, to Catharine Shultz, daughter of Henry and Catharine (Hutzel) Shultz. Her father died Dec. 26, 1883, aged seventy-seven years, and is buried, in Argyle, Lafayette Co., Wis. Her mother lives in the town of Jordan with her son, Peter Shultz. After his marriage Mr. Miller lived in Juda one year, then removed to the towns of Sylvester, Jefferson and Clarno, renting land in each of these towns. In 1869 he purchased his present farm, which is located on section 18, of the town of Jordan, and contains eighty acres. Mr. and Mrs. Miller have had nine children — Polly M., married to Lewis Cape, and living in Jordan; Henry H., Charles, Alice, married to John Mason, and living in Wiota, Lafayette Co., Wis.; Margaret A., Edward C., William A., George A. and Ida M. Mr. Miller is a member of the democratic party.

     Oren K. Eveleth came to this county in 1852, remaining the first time but a few days. He traveled back and forth from his native State a number of times, and visited many of the western States. He first bought some land where Jacob Deetz now lives, and afterwards sold it to J. Smath, and removed to section 15, where he remained two years, then, in 1862 he removed to section 10, and bought forty acres from H. G. Cleveland. He has since bought 108 acres more. He is a native of Chautauqua Co., N. Y., born April 20, 1832. His father died in 1865, and left his property to his wife, during her life. Mr. Eveleth was married in New York to Dorriella Kibby, Nov. 6,1853. They have had eleven children, of whom two are deceased — Harriet M., Leila A., Alira M., Ada E., deceased; Ida B., deceased; Emry I., Walter F., Charles E., Blanche, Leverna P. and Leverta J. Mr. Eveleth has been quite a noted character in an early day, and was noted for his many good qualities. He has been hard at work. He was town treasurer from 1866 to 1869. He has also held various offices in the township. He is a scientific violinist.

     John D. Fritsch was born in Bavaria, near the city of Rehau, Sept. 5, 1827. He is a son of George and Rosa (Beck) Fritsch, who emigrated to America June 29, 1852, settling in Schenectady, where they lived for six years. George Fritsch was by trade a shoemaker, and followed that business in this country. In 1858 he went to Monroe, and continued the same business until he concluded to try farming, and bought a quarter section on section 7. He also owns 220 acres on sections 21 and 22, and 100 acres on sections 18 and 19, and makes stock raising his business. He has a good farm, and is among the best class of Green county's citizens. While living in Schenectady he was married to Louisa Beck, Oct. 28, 1855. They have had five children, two of whom are living. Louisa, Jacob and Mary are dead. John, the subject of this sketch, is living on section 21, town of Jordan. Elizabeth is living with her father, but is married to William Blaseng. They are all members of the Lutheran Church.

     Richard Gibbons is a son of Michael and Anna (Joyce) Gibbons. He is a native of Ireland, born in county Galway, Joyce's country, in January, 1811. His parents are dead, being buried in Ireland. The subject of our sketch came to America in 1849, settling in Madison Co., N. Y. He lived there, near Syracuse, until 1856, when he removed with his family to Janesville, Wis., and, in February, 1857, removed to the town of Mount Pleasant, this county, rented a farm, and lived there until March, 1863, when he removed to the town of Adams. In February, 1864, he removed to the town of Jordan, where he had purchased a farm on section 1. He first owned 120 acres, but has since purchased 120 acres on section 12, town of Jordan, and eighty acres on section 7, town of Monroe. He makes stock raising a specialty. He leases his farm to his sons, Richard and Edward, and lives at his ease. He was married in 1838 to Ellen Joyce, a native of county Galway, Joyce's country, Ireland, and is a daughter of Martin and Kate (Sanders) Joyce, both of whom are deceased, and buried in Ireland. Ten children have blessed this union — Bridget, wife of Michael Clark, resides in the town of Exeter; Anna, who was married to George Ione, is now dead; John, living in the town of Monroe; Patrick and Stephen, buried in Ireland; Mary, wife of Michael Gibbons, of Chicago; Catharine E., buried in Ireland; Edward and Richard, at home; and William M., running a clothing store in Monroe. Mr. and Mrs. Gibbons are members of the Catholic Church

     Rollin Olson was born near Christiana, Norway, Nov. 10, 1831. He is a son of Ole and Carrie (Iverson) Olson, both of whom are buried in Norway. When fifteen years old he emigrated to America, locating in Dane Co., Wis. In 1849 he removed, to Lafayette county, where his brothers lived, remaining until 1865, when be removed to Green county, locating on section 31, town of Jordan, purchasing 120 acres of land. He was married Aug. 5, 1854, to Mary Peterson, daughter of Peter and Mary (Hanson) Peterson, of Norway. This union has been blessed with six children — Caroline, married to Lars O. Grove, living in the town of Jordan; Morgan P., married to Nellie Hanson, and living in Dakota; Clara A., Oscar R., William I. and Henry E. Mr. Olson enlisted Oct. 14, 1861, in company E, 15th regiment, Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, serving his country until 1864. He was mustered in at Madison, and mustered out at the same place. He was in the battles of Stone River, Perryville, Chickamauga, where he was taken prisoner. He was wounded at the battle of Stone River. He was commissioned 1st lieutenant under Capt. Torkill A. Rossing. He is now engaged in stock raising and is a member of the Lutheran Church. Politically he is a republican, and has served on the side board several terms; assessor three terms, being the present incumbent of that office. He is a member of the G. A. R, He took the town census in 1880.

     Henry Zimmerman was born in canton Glarus, Switzerland, Nov. 5, 1854, and is a son of Jacob and Rosena Zimmerman, who are now living in the city of Monroe. Before coming to this country his parents worked in factories in their native land, where Henry was educated. His father, upon coming to America in 1866; settled on section 13, of the town of Jordan, this county, where he bought fifty-five acres of land from Andrew Anderson. To that tract he afterward added thirty acres. This place was purchased by Henry, from his father, in the fall of 1883. He was married on the 23d of January, 1879, to Wilhelmine O. Schliem. She died on the 2d of February, 1880, leaving one child Wilhelmine C., who was born the 5th day of January. Mr. Zimmerman was again married Sept. 29, 1881, to Frederika W. Wagner, an old friend of his former wife, who together, when children, came across the sea, in 1864. Two sons have been born to them — Henry J., born Aug. 28, 1882, and Frederick D., born March 13, 1884. Mr. Zimmerman makes stock raising a specialty.

     Henry Wiederkehr was born in Switzerland, Aug. 2, 1835. He left his native country in 1855, and went to Brazil, where he remained ten years, occupied in various avocations. In 1866 he returned to Switzerland, remained three months and then started for the United States, and upon his arrival, settled in New Glarus. Two years subsequently he bought a farm in the town of Monroe. He moved on to this place in 1870. It is located on section 24, and contains ninety-six acres. He was married in February, 1861, in Brazil, to Mary Marty, who was a native of canton Glarus, Switzerland. They have five children — Jacob, born Nov. 16, 1861, in Reodeanelro; Felix, born April 15, 1866, in Switzerland; Rosa, born Aug. 14, 1868; Anna, born Sept. 15, 1870, and Mary, born Feb. 22, 1874. The three latter were born in Green county. They are members of the Lutheran Church.

     Seth Welton was born June 4, 1848, in the town of Brunswick, Medina Co., Ohio. His parents are Henry and Caroline (Spencer) Welton. In 1864 his parents removed to Sauk Co., Wis., remaining there until the fall of 1861, when they returned to Ohio. On the 10th of January, 1862, his mother died, and her remains were laid to rest in the town of Granger, Medina county. His father now lives in Nebraska. In 1867, Seth returned to Sauk county, remaining there until 1869, when he went to Sun Prairie, Dane county, his sister keeping house for him. In 1871 he removed to Green county. He now lives on section 21, on the farm known as the Widow White's farm. On the 4th of November, 1871, he was married to Rachael, daughter of Thomas and Rachael White. The natural result of this union was four children — Harvey T., Frank, Charley and Lester. Mrs. White's father is buried in Monroe, and her mother in Jordan Centre Cemetery. Mr. Welton has held the office of town treasurer for two years.

     Joseph Staley is a native of Ashland Co., Ohio, born Dec. 6, 1849. He is a son of Israel and Lucy A. (Heltman) Staley. He was reared on a farm. When twelve years of age, he went to work by the month, working ten years. He then rented land for three years. In 1874 he removed to Green county, locating in the town of Jordan, and purchasing eighty acres of land on the north half of the southeast quarter of section 31, where he has since resided. Mr. Staley was united in marriage Sept. 17, 1874, with Mary E., daughter of Peter Richard. This union has been blessed with four children — Ella R., James N., Nellie E. and Alta I. Mr. Staley is a member of the town board, and politically is a republican.

     Lemuel Taylor, a prominent citizen of the town of Jordan, was born in the State of New York, on the 26th of March, 1823. Shortly after his birth his parents moved to Oakland Co., Mich., where he remained till 1843, when he removed to Janesville. He remained at the latter place until he came to this county. He learned the trade of millwright in Michigan. He was a son of Elisha and Mary (Miner) Taylor, both of whom are buried in Michigan. He owns 365 acres on section 7, besides other lands in the county. He rents his land out, as his attention is kept on his inventions. He is an inventor, having invented many useful articles. He has on hand, at present, a portable automatic gate and portable fence. He commenced life with limited means, and has arose to affluence only by hard labor and economy. He was married Nov. 28, 1859, to Mary E. Stevens, of Franklin Co., Maine. They have seven children — Mary M., married to William Nelson; Lee, Jane, Ellen, Annie, Julia C. and Alice L., who is buried in the cemetery near Jordan Center. Mrs. Taylor is a member of the Free Will Baptist Church. Mr. Taylor is a republican politically.

     Calvin Hale, one of the earliest settlers of the town of Clarno, was born in Belvidere, Vt., and was a son of Hewett Hale, a native of the same place. In 1835 Calvin came to this county and settled on section 23, in the town of Clarno, which was his home until his removal to Twin Grove, in the town of Jefferson, where he died June 1, 1849. He was by trade a blacksmith, and in those early days work came to him from long distances. His wife was formerly Sarah Smith, who died in March, 1875.

     Alfred Hale was born in 1842, April 19, in the State of Tennessee, but was brought up in Ohio. He was married June 6, 1875, to Ellen L. Wieland, a native of Centre Co., Penn., born Dec. 25, 1847. After marriage he lived in the town of Jefferson four years, then bought a farm on section 5, town of Jordan, where he now owns 180 acres, also sixty acres on section 6. They have two children — Marion E., and Altha M. Mr. Hale is a member of the I. 0. 0. F., and a republican.

     John J. Figi is a native of Switzerland, born in canton Glarus, on the 12th of August, 1845. He is a son of George and Barbary Figi, both of whom are living in Switzerland. In 1867 Mr. Figi commenced work in a calico factory, which he followed for a number of years. Having friends in this county, he came to America, stopping in New Glarus, where he hired out to a farmer. In a few months he went to Freeport, Ill. Remaining there a short time, he returned to New Glarus. In about one and a half years he went to Pennsylvania, located near Pittsburg, where he remained about six months. He then went to Chicago, Ill., but only staid a short time, when he returned to this county and worked in Shueyville for the next two years. He purchased forty acres of land of William Bergen, upon which he lived for six years, then sold out and removed to Humboldt Co., Iowa. In about six months he returned to Green county, and rented a farm. Concluding to have a home of his own he found a location on section 21, town of Jordan, which he purchased. He now owns 220 acres, and is in a prosperous condition. He is engaged in farming and stock raising. He was married June 4, 1874, to Barbary Kundert, daughter of Jacob Kundert, of the town of Monroe. They have had six children born to them -- George, Barbary, Sarah, Emma, Jacob, deceased; and Jacob. The family are members of the Evangelical Church. Politically Mr. Figi is a republican.

     Henry Hafner was born Dec. 17, 1830, in canton of Solothurn Switzerland, and is a son of Urs J. and Mary A. (Bader) Hafner.  His parents are both buried in Switzerland.  In 1853, Mr. Hafner emigrated to America, locating in Stark Co., Ohio.  He remained there a short time, then went to Indiana, where he lived one year, then returned to Ohio.  He purchased land in Tuscarawas county and remained there some time, when he heard of the rich farming land in Wisconsin, and immediately came out, locating in the town of Jordan, this county, and purchasing a farm on section 2.  In about three years he sold out and bought on section 13.  In 1869, he again sold out and purchased 440 acres on the same section, where he now resides.  He owns 306 acres at the present time.  He followed cheese making for eight years. Then gave it up and engaged in stock raising.  In 1857, he was united in marriage with Fredericka Knoble.  This union has been blessed with seven children -- Mary, Joseph H., John V., Sarah E., George D., Frank and Anna.  The four eldest live in Kansas.  Mrs. Hafner died Sept. 26, 1870, and her remains are interred in Monroe cemetery.  He was again married Dec. 8, 1873, to Mary  Bader, a native of Switzerland.  Mr. Hafner is a member of the I.O.O.F. and A.O.U.W.