A Little Montana History

NATHANIEL H. WOOD, Dillon - born June 23, 1828 at Halifax, Va., where his youth was spent on the farm in the common schools and in his father's extensive tobacco factory. In 1850 Mr. Wood went to California and mined two years, ranging up and down the Yubas with success. He then went into the stock business until 1859, when he returned to Missouri. In the winter of 1860 went into the army as captain and remained over two years. He bras paroled in the spring of 1863 and came to Montana, where he has since resided. On first coming to the territory he stopped at Bannack two weeks, then went on to Alder Gulch and mined six months, after which he started a store and kept the stage station at the old crossing of the Stinkingwater. known as the Old Bob Dempsey Ranch . In 1865 he had charge of a train going to Ft. Benton. When about twenty miles from Benton was met by a runner saying the Indians had killed 15 men the day before at the mouth of the Marias river. Another train being camped near by, they traveled to Benton in two wings, so as to meet in a few moments. Arriving there safely, he proceeded to the Teton river to turn his stock out to graze. When the horses went to water the Indians approached and cut at the loose ones and ran them off. Next day, borrowing arms, Mr. Wood, with his men, drove the Indians off and recovered his horses. On returning stacked the arms in his wagon, next morning, while handing them out, a pistol was discharged accidentally and the ball passed through Mr. Wood's right lung, coming out at his back From this injury he has never fully recovered. In 1866 Mr. Wood went to Cala and purchased five hundred head of cattle. The markets appreciated and he sold his cattle, realizing a handsome profit. He then bought 260 head of horses and brought them to Montana. He disposed of 109 head to the Indian militia, and has ever since been engaged in the stock business; handling, at various times, horses, sheep and cattle in Beaverhead valley. He located his present ranch in 1866 Mr. Wood was married October 26, 1868, to Miss Carrie Kreamer. They have had six children, Henry Lee, born October 16, 1869: Wm. J. . born September 26 1870, James Franklin May 4, 1872, Mary E. August 13, 1873 Marv Magdaline, July 22, 1878, and Eddie, July 5 l879. Wm. J. died April 2,1871, .Jas. Franklin died September 16, 1872; Mary M. died July 21, 1878.

J. C. ADAMS ranchman, P. O., Fort Benton- was born December 11. 1844, in Morgan Co., Ky. and at seven years of age he moved to Bates county, Missouri. In 1863 he began farming and stock raising. Then drove team on the South Platte river until 1864, in which year he left for Virginia City, where he prospected and freighted. In 1866 our subject came to Fort Benton and had charge of E. G. McClay & Co's wagon train, freighting for them through the different territories until 1874. He then came to Sun River and located a ranch where he makes a specialty of raising horses and cattle. In winter of 1874 Mr. Adams married Miss Eva Strong, of Illinois, by whom he has three children: Edward, Richard E. and Calvin E.

Joseph Allen, P. O. Ulidia, was born in Kentucky in 1830- was brought by his parents to Missouri in 1884 and there resided until 1860, when he went to California. After spending several years on the Pacific slope, he returned to Missouri, where he was engaged in mercantile business until 1864, in which year he left for Montana. From 1864 to 1866 he was engaged at mining in several gulches here. In the latter year he returned to Missouri, where he followed agriculture until 1868, was then elected County assessor, an office he filled for ten years, then established a grocery store which he carried on for one year, when he came with his family to Montana and established his farm and sheep ranch in the Sand Coulee Valley. Mr. Allen is a member of the Christian Church, Mr. Allen of the Methodist Episcopal Church South.

James W. Armstrong, Teton, P. O. Fort Benton, was born at Minneapolis, Minn., July, 1859. In 1865 he came to Fort Benton and afterward located a ranch at Prickly Pear, where he remained until 1869 then located a ranch at Sun River and carried on a dairy and stage business until 1876. In 1877 Mr. Armstrong went to Oregon, but came to Fort Benton in 1878. In 1880 he located another ranch at Teton and is now engaged in raising cattle. January 1, 1882, he married Miss Smith.

James M. Arnoux farmer and stock-raiser, was born in New York City, in 1841 and at ten years of age went to Cincinnati. Ohio; thence via Cairo, to St. Louis, Mo., and until 1853 served as clerk on steamboats and railroad lines. In that year he went up the Missouri river to where old Fort Randall now stands, but soon returned to St. Louis, where he resumed the occupation of clerk, and remained until 1862. He then came to Ft. Benton, and spent the time until 1862 in roaming through various parts of the territory, engaged in various occupations. In 1867 he settled down, and securing a position as clerk at Ft. Benton, so continued until 1872. He then opened the first farm on the south side of the Missouri river, where he raises fine crops of grain and vegetables. In 1872 he also engaged in raising horses and cattle, which he has continued to the present time. He is also interested in mines in the Barker district. In 1868 he was elected clerk of Choteau county for three years, and in 1871 was elected county commissioner, and served two years, being again elected to that office in 1875 for a period of two years more. In 1882 he was again elected for a term of six years, and has also served as United States commissioner eleven years. Mr. Arnoux was married in 1867 to Miss Susan Ammell, of Dakota, by whom he has four children.

D. M. C. BELL, ranchman for Mr. Weatherwax, P. O. Fort Benton, was born in Cawdor parish, Scotland, March 31, 1854. His parents, John and Ann (McCaffer) Bell, owned a farm in Cawdor parish, and there young Bell resided until 1883, when he emigrated, shipping from Glasgow, in charge of a band of blood-horses consigned to Montreal. He moved to Benton, Montana territory, in charge of stock-horses, where he was engaged by Mr. Weatherwax as ranchman.

PETER BEROU, farmer of Teton Valley, P. O. Fort Benton, son of Frederick and Selina (St. Antoine) Berou, was born in Canada in 1851, where he was raised. In 1869-71 he was employed in the Michigan lumber trade then returned to Canada, where he was engaged in farming until 1873, When he moved to Bismarck, Dak. There he was employed as teamster by the government for one year; then he moved to Butte, M.T., and was there employed in mining and prospecting for some months. He passed three years in the Upper Missouri timber country, and next located his ranch on the Teton, where he is now engaged in agriculture. Mr. Berou was married at Fort Benton, November 1, 1882, to Miss Minnie Mareotte.

JAMES H. BERRY (deceased) came from Nevada to Virginia City in 1867, his wife accompanying him, and here engaged in mining until 1869, when he and his family left for Missouri by way of Fort Benton. Here he followed agriculture until his death, which occurred October 17, 1877. He was married in Nevada September 26, 1865 Mrs. M. E. Berry was born in Callaway Co., that State, January 18, 1845, and was educated in the Fulton Female Seminary. In 1862 she visited Nevada In 1879, two years after the death of her husband, Mrs. Berry returned to Montana, and lived one year on the Chestnut. In 1880 she located her farm of 240 acres on Highwood Creek, where she now resides with her family.

P. BERTBANG, Old Agency, P. O., Choteau, was born in Minnesota, May 11 1859. When 16 years old he went to Dakota, where he worked at blacksmithing. In 1880 he came to Bozeman, M.T., where he remained until l883, in which year he came to Choteau, where he opened a blacksmith shop, in which business he still continues

 C. W. BLACK, P. O. Fort Benton, was born in Bradford Co., Pa., January 1, 1831, moved to Iowa in 1855, and to California in 1860, where he was engaged in the mines for six years. In 1866 he visited Helena, M.T., and in 1867 proceeded to Oregon, again Visiting California. In 1869 he left San Francisco for New York, visited his home in Pennsylvania, and returned to Montana the same year. He is the owner of a fertile farm of three hundred and twenty acres on Belt creek.

JOHN A. BLACKABY, P.O. Fort Benton. son of Henry and Mary E. Blackaby, was born in Missouri, September 10, 1859, and was there raised and educated. He came to Montana in 1880, was engaged in various industrial pursuits until 1882, and then located his present ranch on the Teton. Mr. Blackaby was married at Falmouth, Mo., January 17, 1876, to Miss Eliza Holly.

C. H. BOYLE, P. O. Fort Benton: This gentleman was born in the state of Alabama, in September, 1846 and received a fair business education. In 1866 he went to Kansas City, Mo., and in 1867 became interested in the gas works of that place, in which business he continued four years. He then moved to Fort Scott, Kan., where he became interested in similar business, and after remaining there a year. went to Jefferson City, Mo., and was interested in the gas works of the city one year. From there he went to Springfield, where he remained a short time, and thence to Lexington, Mo., remaining one year. He subsequently engaged in the gas business at Hot Springs, Ark., for a year, thence returning to Fort Scott and engaging in the lime and cement business until 1879, at which time he came to Montana and settled on a ranch in the vicinity of Highwood, Choteau county, where he has since followed the pursuit of a farmer and stock-raiser, having imported some very valuable stock for breeding purposes. In 1882 recommenced the dairy business, which he still continues. While in Fort Scott Kan., Mr. Boyle officiated as a member of the city council, and since coming to Montana has served as road supervisor, trustee of school district, and was one of the organizers of the school district in which he now resides. In 1868 Mr. Boyle was married to Miss Caroline Hicks of Missouri, by whom he has one child.

HERMAN BRENKMAN, Fort Benton, was born April 8 1836, in Bremen, Germany. He learned the trade of ship carpenter, at which he worked until 1858, when he came to the United States and located at New Orleans. There he worked at his trade for nine months; thence removed to St. Paul, Minn., where he worked on the steamboats and thence to La Crosse, Wis., remaining until 1866. In that year he came overland with Colonel Holman's expedition to Fort Benton, was located at Helena engaged in mining for two years; returned to Fort Benton and worked as a carpenter in summer, and hunted, sold furs and traded with the Indians in winter, continuing this business four years. He finally opened a butcher shop, but sold it after two years and went to Barker, where he was again engaged in mining four years. Mr. Brenkman married Marie Kirchhoff, April 18, 1860, at St. Paul, and has six children-William Eda, Henry, Charles, John and Maggie. Mr. Brenkman is interested in various ranches and mines, also in stock raising. He owns the addition to Benton known as the Brenkman Addition He has been elected three terms as road supervisor; was school trustee for six years; public administrator for three years; also held the office of deputy sheriff for a short time.

D. G. BROWNE, Fort Benton, was born in Ireland January 16, 1859, and at an early age came to the United States, locating in Utah in 1866 where he clerked for Wells. Fargo & Co. for one winter. In 1877 he went to Deer Lodge, Mont., and engaged in the freighting business. Leaving that, he took charge of W. S. Wetzel's books for two years, and in 1882 purchased an interest in the Upper Ferry at Benton. After one and one half years he sold out, and obtained the government contract for hay at Fort Assiniboine. He married Miss Wright in April, 1883. Mr. Browne is engaged in freighting, and December 13, 1883, he was appointed the assignee of W. S. Wetzel. Mrs. Browne was formerly a teacher in the public schools.

W. J . BROWN, Teton Valley, P.O. Fort Benton, son of Robert and Sarah Brown, was born in St. Lawrence Co., N. Y., February 3, 1838. In 1861 he accompanied his father to California, settling in Contra Costa county, where they were engaged in farming eight years. In 1872 he visited Utah, returned to California, and thence started out on a round of travel through the West, settling in Montana in 1876. For some years he was engaged in freighting between Helena, Benton, Fort MeLeod, Fort Shaw and many other points. He is now engaged in the wood business on the Teton for the Benton market.

H. R. Buck, of firm Buck & Hunt, attorneys, Fort Benton, was born at Vicksburg, Miss., 9ptermber 17, 1853. He came to Montana in the fall of 1879, and formed a partnership with Mr. Hunt in the practicing of law, the firm still continuing under same name, enjoying an excellent business and influential connection.

ROLAND W. BUCKLAND, Fort Benton, was born November 21, 1840, at Springfield, Mass. In 1856 he went to California, where he remained three years, then lived with Senator Phelps two years. In 1861 he visited the Frazer river country, thence went to the Caribou mines, and in 1863 came to Walla Walla; in 1864 he was engaged driving pack trains to Idaho City; left for Lewiston during the stampede, and in 1866 came to Bears Gulch, M. T. In 1867 he went to Fort Shaw; in 1868 made A stay at Helena; in 1869 came to Fort Benton; in 1870 he visited Carson, Nev., thence moved to Corrine and Deer Lodge, thence to Whoop-up trading post, where he traded with the Indians until 1874. Mr. Buckland is now engaged in farming and cattle raising at Highwood, and has an interest in the Barker mines.

F. W. BUCKSEN, Fort Benton, was born in Cumberland, Md., October 27, 1860, and came to Fort Benton in 1878, and clerked in the Overland Hotel for six months, then took charge of a restaurant, where he remained eighteen months. He then opened a notion store, which he carried on for two years. In l883 Mr. Bucksen moved to his present quarters in the Odd Fellows Hall, and has a full line of boots shoes, fancy goods cigars and tobacco, and a general fine of everything found in a notion store.

SAMUEL BURD P. O., Choteau, was born in the State of New York, February 15, 1815, a son of Samuel and Elizabeth Burd. When nine years of age, our subject removed with his parents to the State of Michigan, where he remained working upon their farm and attending school until 1864, when he came to Montana and followed mining at Alder Gulch about one year. The ensuing five years were spent in freighting between the important towns of the Territory. After quitting that occupation he became interested in stock raising and farming, which he has continued to the present time. He is now located in the valley of the Teton near the Old Agency.

JULIAN F. BURD, dealer in general merchandise, was born January 18, 1853, at Grand Rapids, Mich., and at sixteen years of age moved to Virginia City and began mining, and subsequently freighted between Benton and Helena. In 1867 our subject returned to Grand Rapids, Mich., attended school, and then kept books for one year. In 1872 he went to Sun river, located ranch, where he remained one year, again returning to Michigan. After a short time he moved to Kansas City, Mo., where he was engaged in a photograph gallery, which he carried on for four years, when he came to Dupuyer, M. T., and located a ranch. Mr. Burd is engaged in general merchandise business, which he commenced October 1, at that point, and operates two ranches. May 3, 1882, he married Miss Tillie Kahn, of Independence, Mo.

JOSEPH COPALL, P. O. Fort Benton, a native of Italy, came to the United States in 1849, landing at New York, moving in same year to New Orleans, where he was engaged in steamboating until 1850. in which year he moved to St. Louis, Mo., thence to St. Paul, Minn. Returning to St. Louis, he, in 1851. went up the river to Fort Benton for the American Fur Company. In 1853 he again moved to St. Louis, returning the year following to Fort Benton with a Mr. Ivrey. On entering the service of the American Fur Company he was made a hunter and trapper. He built the first house at Silver City in 1865, and ten years later he established the first white settlement on the Shonkin Creek, where he now owns 160 acres, 125 of which are now under fence and 100 cultivated, which produced in 1883 forty barrels of oats, 15,000 pounds of potatoes per acre, and 18,000 of onions per acre. Mr. Copall s first wife, to whom he was married in 1857, died in 1865, and a few years later he married his present wife.

JOHN M. CHEATHAM, farmer, P. O. Fort Benton, was born in Wisconsin, February 19, 1852; moved with his parents to Minnesota in 1857, thence to Pike Co. Mo., in 1865, and again to Illinois, where he was engaged in agriculture until 1870, in which year he moved to Omaha, Neb. He subsequently resided a short time at Blair, and was engaged-in farming at Green Island until 1876, when he visited the Black Hills. Here he remained mining three years; then located at Bismarck, teaming in winter and working on the Missouri in summer. From this point Mr. Cheatham moved to Helena and thence to his present ranch.

CHAS CHOUQUETTE, P. O. Choteau, was born in St. Louis, Mo., February 9, 1823 son of Henry and Rosalia (Piquette) Chouquette. Having learnt the blacksmith trade our subject left St. Louis at the age of nineteen and hiring to the American Fur Co. arrived at Fort Benton, Mont., in 1844, since when he has passed the principal part of his time in the territory, having worked for the Fur Company some twenty-eight years. Mr. Chouquette is a man of remarkable energy for one of his age, and has been of great service in the settling up of the country. In numerous treaties with the indians he has acted as interpreter performing the duties of such office with great satisfaction to all concerned. He is now very pleasantly located with his family on the Teton river near Choteau City. CHOTEAU & CO. -In 1765 Pierre Laclede Siquest (called Laclede) with August and Pierre Choteau emigrated from France, and settled in the Mississippi valley, having a charter from the French government giving them exclusive right to trade with the Indians of Louisiana as far north as St. Peters river. In 1799, a post was established near St. Joseph s, and in 1800 another at Randolph Bluffs, three miles below the mouth of the Raw, the whole Choteau family being fur traders when Louisiana was ceded to the American government in 1803. Before that time, the trade with the Indians was carried on by a system of monopoly, any person desiring to engage in the business obtaining of the governor the exclusive privilege of trading with a particular tribe, or upon a certain river. The only permanent establishment founded on the waters of the Missouri, under this system was that of Pierre Choteau, who enjoyed a monopoly of the trade of the Osage nation for nearly twenty years, his fort or trading house being on the river below the great Osage villages. Manuel de Lisa was his successor, obtaining the privilege only a short time before the territory passed from the hands of Spain. Other enterprising individuals traded in a small way with the different tribes, but as no forts were established by the Spanish government, and no companies for mutual co-operation and protection were sanctioned, the business was too hazardous to encourage many adventurers. After the change of government the establishment of United States trading posts, and the abolition of the monopoly system, the trading with the western Indians rapidly increased. The Missouri Fur Company was organized in 1808, with Manuel de Lisa at its head, and Pierre and August Choteau and nine other members, among whom was said to be Hugh Glenn. Expeditions were sent out, and posts founded among the Indians of Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska and some in Arkansas. The company was unfortunate; their trading posts were abandoned, and it was dissolved in 1812, the members establishing independent houses to prosecute the trade, and also to furnish outfits for hunters and trappers. The most advanced United States trading post on the Missouri river and the western limit of white settlement in 1811, was Fort Osage 34 miles below the mouth of the Kansas. In 1813 the American Fur Company was formed. and the Choteaus formerly connected with the Missouri Company, and also Pierre, Jr., and his brother Francis became members. This company occupied the posts of the Missouri Trading Company, of which it was an outgrowth, and made great efforts to monopolize the trade in the Southwest by rooting out independent traders. Francis Choteau was sent to Kansas, and was employed for several years in this work. The post known as the "Four Houses," so called from its being built on the four sides of an open square, was established on the north bank of the Kaw, twenty miles above its mouth, and in 1821 a general agency for furnishing supplies was established at the mouth of the river; from which men were sent to the Neosho and Osage. In 1825 Francis was joined by Cyprian, his brother, and a house was built about opposite the present site of Muncie, on the south side of the Kaw, and in 1830 another trading post was established by Frederick on Mission, then American Chief's creek, in what is now Shawnee county. A few years later. posts were established through the country from the Platte to the Arkansas, and northward to the upper Missouri, while trappers, traders and hunters were sent throughout the entire mountain region by the arch traders known as Choteau & Co. ( Vide History of Trading Posts and of Fort Benton.)

ROBERT COATSWORTH, ranchman on the Teton, P. O. Fort Benton, son of Robert and Bettie Coatsworth, was born in England; came to the United States in 1853, and was employed in the mines of Schuylkill Co., Pa., for nine months, when he moved to Shellsburg Win.. where he worked in the lead mines until 1860, and from that year to 1863 he was in the gold mines of Colorado. In 1863 he returned to Wisconsin, where he labored in the lead mines until 1876, in which year he came to Montana. Mr. Coatsworth was engaged in mining until 1880, then located his ranch on the Teton. He was married in England to Miss Fannie Swingbank.

JERRY COLLINS, Editor River Press, Fort Benton, was born in Cork County, Ireland, in December, 1850. His parents on coming to the United States located at Wabash, Indiana. There Mr. Collins received his education and afterward edited the Wabaslt Courier. In 1878 he moved to Logansport, where he edited the Loqansport Phero for eighteen months, and in the spring of 1880 he came to Fort Benton, where, with J. E. Stevens, he established what is known as the River Press Publishing Co., of which firm he is manager. Mr. Collins was married in June, 1878, to Miss Lettie Fitzgerald, of Logansport Ind. (Vide History of Press.)

TIMOTHY E. COLLINS, banker, was born in Cork County, Ireland, in 1843, and a few years later came to the United States. He was educated at Wabash, Indiana and in 1864 pushed westward and located at Virginia City, Mont., engaging for a number of months in mining. He subsequently passed one year in the mines of Grizzly Gulch and six years in Confederate Gulch and elsewhere. He was elected county clerk and served nine years; was also probate judge for one term. Removing to Fort Benton in 1880 he established the Bank of Northern Montana, which is now the leading banking house of Choteau and Meagher counties. In 1878 Mr. Collins and others established large sheep ranges. During 1872-73 Mr. C. studied law, and was admitted by the supreme court to practice in the courts of Montana For several years he was the only attorney in Meagher county, and served four years as deputy district attorney. In 1870 he was chosen to the legislature from Meagber county, and in 1872 was elected legislative councilor by Meagher and Gallatin counties. His whole life in the territory has been full of energy and enterprise. Politically Mr. Collins is a democrat. In 1874 he married Miss V. A. Higgins, of Diamond City. They are the parents of three children.

C. E. CONRAD is one of the firm of I. G. Baker &; Co., of Fort Benton, Mont., wholesale and retail dealers in general merchandise, Mr. C. E. Conrad and W. G. Conrad being the resident members of the firm at that place. Mr. a. F. Conrad was born in Virginia in 1850, and received a fair business education. After his school-days were over he removed to Stirling Valley, Cayuga Co., Va.; where he was employed as clerk some 18 months; then came to Fort Benton, Mont. ,and served in the capacity of clerk for I. G. Baker & Bro. until 1873, becoming in that year a member of the Firm of I. G. Baker, Bro.& Co., and so continued one year. Mr. Conrad and his brother, W. G. Conrad, at that time purchased the interest held by Geo. A Baker, since when the business has been conducted under the firm name of I. G. Baker & Co. In 1874 this firm, in company with T. C. Power & Co., built the steamer Benton, and in 1875 I. G. Baker & Co. bought the steamer Red Cloud. In 1876 they built the steamer Colonel McLeoud. These boats run for a number of years between Fort Benton and St. Louis, Mo., and Fort Benton and Bismarck. The steamer Col. McCloud sunk in 1879 and the Red Cloud went down in 1882, while the Benton was sold in 1882 to T. C. Power & Bro. From 1865 to 1874 this firm did an immense business with the Indians, having trading-posts at fourteen different points, at one time, and collecting annually some 30,000 buffalo robes and $100,000 worth of fine furs. In 1874 the Canadian government sent into the country 500 mounted police, which I. G. Baker & Co. supplied with everything except guns, horses and clothing, and were the financial agents for the Canadian Government in the Territory of the Northwest. This trade they held for ten years, obtaining it by contract from the Canadian government. They have now two branch houses in the British Possessions, one at Fort McLeoud and the other at Fort Galgary, established in 1874 and 1875, respectively Their supplies are received over the Canadian Pacific. The company are also largely interested in freighting by wagons, and have freighting outfits with a carrying capacity of 500 tons, plying between various points in Montana and the Northwest Territory. This firm is also interested in the hardware business of Wackerlin & Co, of Fort Benton. as also in the wholesale liquor business of T. J. Todd & Co., also of Fort Benton. Mr. Conrad is one of the founders of the First National Bank of Benton, established in 1880. In 1878, in company with several others, embarked in the cattle business, which in 1882 they organized under the title of the Benton and St. Louis Cattle Co., and as such are still known and doing business. In company with Messrs. Harris & Co. they bought the Morrow Bros.' band of cattle, making a paid up capital of $500,000. Their band at present numbers about 15,000 head. Mr. Conrad was married to Miss Nettie D. Standford, of Halifax, Nova Scotia, in 1880, by whom he has one child, Charles D. Conrad.

O. G. COOPER, Home Ranch, Dupuyer, was born in Washington Co., Pa., December 4, 1846. His parents came west to Iowa in 1850, and with them he remained until 1857. He removed to Memphis, Mo., and remained there until 1868. In 1871 he visited to Texas, where he resided until 1874, when he came to Wyoming with a herd of cattle, thence to Montana where he engaged in teaching school, and afterward engaged in freighting. His train was attacked during the Nez Perces war by the Indians, this they captured, destroyed it and killed Fred Barker. Mr. Cooper continued freighting until 1881, when he engaged in the cattle business. He was previously interested in sheep raising with his brother. In January, 1883, he disposed of his cattle and now his stock interests are confined to sheep, of which he owns a large band. He has three ranches and owns about five hundred acres at the old agency. He is president of the Montana Wool Growers' Association. His marriage with Miss A. M. Downing, of Memphis, Mo., was celebrated in January, 1882.

GEORGE W. CRANE, proprietor Novelty Store, Fort Benton, was born November 27, 1843, at Middlebury, Vt. and at 13 years of age he moved to Champaign Co., Ill. attending school at Springfield. From there he went to Meghanicsburg, where he learned telegraphy, and when 17 years old moved to St. Louis, where he enlisted in the army in company known as Independent Rifle Co, acting as Lyon's Guards until latter's death. he then returned to Illinois and raised a company there for the 26th I. V. I., served three years, and was then appointed chief clerk in the quartermaster's department, where he remained until the close of the war. After leaving the army our subject began railroading at Lafayette, Ind., then kept books at Helena, Mo., until July, 1866 Leaving here for Montana, after a short time, he went to Nebraska and hauled ties and wood for the railroad one year. Then went to Gallatin Valley, working as carpenter and mining six months, and on a ranch. June, 1868, he came to Fort Benton and drove mules to Helena. Arriving there he went on a stampede to Basin Gulch and was engaged in harvesting on a ranch in Gallatin Valley; afterward mined in vicinity of Lop Ear Gulch In 1871 Mr. Crane arrived at Helena, where he clerked in A. M. Holters & Co.'s store for three months, then rented what was known as Farmers' Corral, which he kept until 1872, and in July of that year he prospected at Clancy, afterward working on a ranch until October, 1873; then engaged in general merchandise business, which he carried on until 1879 in March of which year he came to Fort Benton, and opened what is know as the News and Novelty Store February 14, 1877, Mr. Crane married Miss Julia I. Payne of Helena, and by her has three children-Edgar R., Oliver B. and Ezra L. Our subject held the position of postmaster five years and a half at Clancy, besides being Justice of the Peace. Mr. Crane also pays special attention to raising fine stock.

CHARLES CRAWFORD, livery, Fort Benton, was born September, 8, 1848, in Chester Co., Pa. At the age of 10 years he removed with his father to Fort Wayne Ind., and two years later pushed for the Great West. He spent one year as teamster with a mule train at Leavenworth, Kan., and nine years as a cow boy, subsequently learning the machinist's trade at Cheyenne. For six years he was engaged in mining and at his trade in Colorado, Wyoming, Utah Nevada, Idaho and Montana. From 1877-79 he followed the fortunes of a stock raiser in Judith Basin, and after disposing of his interests located at Fort Benton and opened a livery stable in company with C. W. Trailkill, whose share he soon after purchased. After two years spent at the business Mr. Crawford sold out and bought a ranch on the Teton, resided one year upon it, and finally returned to Benton and again established himself as a liveryman. In 1880 he married Miss Mary Hewitt, of Fort Benton who has borne him one child, Charles H. Mr. Crawford owns an interest in some very productive coal mines in Meagher Co. He was once elected city marshal of Benton, but resigned in order to give his whole attention to his livery business.

THOMAS A. CUMMINGS, Fort Benton; born in Kilkenny County, Ireland, August 3,1845; settled with his parents in 1849 at Evans' Mills, Jefferson Co., N. Y. where he attended school until 1861. He then enlisted in Battery C. First New York Artillery, and served with the Fifth Army Corps, Army of the Potomac, until the close of the war. In July, 1867, he arrived at Helena, Mon. where he entered John Kinna's hardware store. In 1868 he took charge, at Blackfoot City, Deer Lodge county, of the Montana Hide and Fur Company's business, which closed in 1869. Our subject opened a general merchandise store at Washington Gulch, Deer Lodge county, in 1870; was appointed United States Collector of Customs for Montana and Idaho in 1873, with office at Helena, until 1877, and at Fort Benton until 1881. Since that time he has been engaged in the insurance business, representing all the leading companies both American and foreign. He is also largely interested in real estate and loans. Mr. Cummings was married in September, 1880, to Miss Mary Gallagher, of Carthage, N. Y.

T. J. DAVIDSON was born March 19, 1856, at St. Louise Mo., and was engaged in farming in the vicinity until 1880. He attended the commercial college in that city one year, and after leaving college came to Benton and took charge of the branch house of A. J. Davidson, of Helena This position he still occupies.

SAMUEL DEAN, ranchman, P. O. Fort Benton, was born in March, 1845, in Huntingdon Co, Pa Here he was engaged in farming until 21 years of age, when he went to Jackson Co., Iowa, where he farmed three years. From here, accompanied by his brother, I. N., our subject went to Blakeley, Scott Co, Minn., and opened a general merchandise store, which he carried on for three years, and. then sold out his interest. In 1871 he went to Pembina, Red river, Dak., with a surveying party, which was engaged for three years surveying the boundary line between the United States and British possessions. In 1873 Mr. Dean went to Helena and mined one year, and for two years longer was employed in different portions of the territory in the same line. He then purchased a farm in Prickly Pear valley. Selling out in the spring of 1881, he located a ranch on Sand Coulee, where he is engaged in the stock business.

EDWARD DENNIS. rancher, P. O. Choteau, was born August 1, 1845, at Knoxville Tenn. In I864 his Parents moved to Sullivan Co., Mo. Here our subject farmed until 19 years old; then went to Utah, where he wintered, arriving at Virginia City in July, 1865. From there he moved to Helena, where he teamed for three years; then engaged in mining for three years in the vicinity, returning to teaming for two years more; then bought a ranch on Sun River, where he remained six years, raising cattle. In 1875 Mr. Dennis established a ranch at Old Agency, where he is at present engaged in stock raising. December 15, 1881, he married Miss Cealia Pambram, and by her has one child-Charles P. Mr. Dennis has held the position of school trustee for several years, but declined the last election.

CHAS. E. DUER, Banker.-Mr. Duer was born in the state of Maryland in 1830, where he received a fair business education, and at the age of 17 accepted a position as clerk, so continuing until 1853, at that time going to Galena, Ill., and engaging as bookkeeper. In l860 he opened a grocery store in that city, which business he conducted about two years. He then embarked in the grain trade, which business he closed out in 1865, and soon after landed in Helena, Montana, where he served in the capacity of bookkeeper about six sears. In 1872 he was appointed cashier of the Montana National Bank which important position he held eight months, afterward accepting the position of bookkeeper in the People's National Bank, and thus remaining until 1877. From that time until 1880 he loaned money on his own account. In June, 1880, he went to Fort Benton, and in company with Messrs. Collins & Herschfield established the Northern Bank of Montana, which they have continued to the present time. The banking company was largely interested in the building of the Grand Union Hotel at that place. Mr. Duer is a member of the Odd Fellows' Association, and during the year 1876 was grand master of that order for the Territory of Montana. In the year 1873 Mr. Duer was married to Miss C. Wilson. of Maryland, who departed this life in 1876. In 1878 he espoused his second wife, whose maiden name was Miss Olivia Orr, by whom he has one child.

JOHN H. EVANS, Fort Benton, was born in Washington Co., Ohio. February 21, 1846. At fourteen years of age he left home and went to Colorado, thence to Fort Union, where he was engaged in hunting, thence in 1861 to Fort Dodge, Iowa, his parents having moved to this point. In 1862 he acted as Indian scout for General Sully in Minnesota. In the summer of 1863- he enlisted in the Second Iowa Cavalry and served through the war. In 1865 he returned to Fort Dodge, and in the spring of 1866 came to Bozeman, M. T. Here he was engaged in the butcher and livery business for five years; at the same time he prospected and mined in the summer and traded with the Indians in winter. In 1871 he came to Fort Benton and engaged in Indian trading until 1875 when he purchased a wholesale liquor and grocery house, carried it on for five years, closed out the grocery, and has since carried on what is known as the Benton Brewery. Mr. Evans brews his own beer, having the only establishment of the kind in Benton. He married Miss Clar a Peters, September 19, 1876. She died in 1882, halving borne him two children-Clara A. and Harry (deceased). Mr. Evans is interested in ranches and horse raising. In l873 the Indians having stolen a number of horses, Mr. Evans, with a party, followed them into Canada. Here the Indians attempted to surprise them, but in doing so forty-three were killed. Only one of the party of whites, Edward Grace, was killed. In 1875 the Canadian authorities had the entire party arrested, accusing them of murder. The trial lasted twenty-two days and ended by setting them free.

M. A. FLANAGAN, drugs and notions, and postmaster, Fort Benton, was born January 6, 1847, at Dubuque, Ia., and attended school at Sinsinawa College, Wis. He was engaged in a general mercantile business at Dubuque, IA, for five years, and came to Virginia City, Mon., in 1866, bringing a stock of goods from the states, which he disposed of during the winter of 1866 and l867. He then engaged in merchandising in Highland district, M. T., for two years: also at Helena, M. T., for one year and a half. He sold out at Helena and removed to Fort Benton in 1869, taking charge of the books for T. C. Power & Co., and holding the position for seven years. He erected an adobe building on the corner of Baker and Front streets, where he is now carrying on the drug and notion business. In July l878, the post office was transferred to his charge and is in the rear of his store. Mr. Flanagan married Miss Elizabeth McKinley, of Dubuque, IA, in April, 1871, and has four children, Genevieve, Virginia, Gracie and Frank.

M. FURNELL, ranchman, Sun River, was born in .June 1841, at Woodstock, Canada. After leaving school he farmed until 18 years old; then went to Sierra Co., California, in 1860, and mined there for two years; thence to British Columbia at Cariboo, and mixed there until 1864. He then moved to Virginia City, where he mined one year, thence to Helena, where he mined two years. Subseqtlently he went to New York, purchased a stock of goods, and, bringing them to Montana engaged in merchandising. In 1868 he went to Sun River, located a ranch, and engaged in raising cattle and sheep. This he carries on at the present time. Mr. Furnell was married to Miss Della Peek, of Michigan, April 26, 1882 They are the parents of one boy, George R. Mr. Furnell has held the position of school trustee for two years. His attention is given almost exclusively to his extensive ranch

JOHN S. GALBRAITH, P. O. Fort Benton, was born in Washington Co., Oregon, in 1854 and there resided until 1867, at which time he went to the Idaho mines, in charge of a pack train, remaining in that territory until 1870, when he moved to Montana. In this Territory he has been engaged in teaming, and various pursuits until his settlement on the Teton, where he is now engaged in getting out and delivering wood for the Fort Benton market.

FRANK GEHRING, farmer and stock raiser, P.O. Fort Benton, came to the United States, with his parents, in 1847. He was engaged in various businesses in several scales up to 1870, when he came to Montana and engaged in mining. He established his present ranch in 1882, and is now the owner of four hundred acres, two hundred of, which are under fence. Mr. Gehring is engaged in agriculture as well as in stock-raising.

SOLOMON GENZBERGER Was born in Alexandria, Va.,

January 24, 1856, and at the age of seventeen years located in New York city, where for five and a half years he was engaged in the silk business. Emigrating to Virginia City, Mont., he entered the clothing business, and continued for three years. In 1881 he changed his location to Fort Benton, where he formed a partnership with Gans & Klein, and with them carries a full line of men's, youths' and children's clothing

JAMES GILLETT, Fort Benton, was born in London, England, in l853, and at eleven years of age he went to sea, worked six years, then came to the United States, and remained at Chicago three years; afterward traveled in various parts of the Union, and in 1876 came to Montana and located a ranch on Willow creek. He was appointed deputy sheriff of this county (Choteau), and also keeps a traveling station on the Barker road.

WILLIAM GLASSMANN, Fort Benton, was born at Davenport, Ia., November 12, 1858. When 16 years old he settled at Sioux, where he learned the harness and saddlery trade. After serving three years' apprenticeship there, he went to Cheyenne City, Wyo., and thence on a journey through the states and territories west of the Mississippi. In August, 1880, he came to Helena, where he located the Cheyenne Saddle Shop with B. R. Roberts. In 1883 he disposed of his interest and moved to Fort Benton, buying out the Rosencranz establishment His reputation as a saddle maker is testified to by certificates and premiums obtained in the several localities where he was engaged.

DAVID GRAWAM, P. O. Fort Benton, was born in Ireland in 1849; moved to Scotland with his parents, and remained there until 1860, when the family came to the United States, locating in New York City. Shortly after their temporary settlement Mr. Graham moved into Canada, of which country he was a resident until 1874. He was appointed on the mounted police force and served with that body for some short time, when he moved into Montana and located his home on Belt creek.

E. H. GUYNU, P. O. Fort Benton, was born in Anderson Co, Tenn., October 12, 1846; moved with his parents to Missouri in 1852, and resided in that state until 1882, when he came to Montana and established his ranch on Belt creek. Mr. and Mrs. Guynu are the parents of three children.

WlLLIAM HAGAN, P.O. Fort Benton, was born in Illinois December 22, l859. He was engaged as a molder at Galena for many years; traveled through the northwestern states in 1877 and 1878. and in 1879 came to Montana. In 1883 our subject and Mr. House, of Fort Benton, moved to their ranch on the Teton.

HOWELL HARIS, of the firm of Harris & Lewis, livery, was born in April. 1846, at St. Louis, Mo. His parents removed to White Oak Springs, California, where he was engaged in farming Until 1863. He subsequently followed mining for ten years in the different territories, and in August, 1869, came to Fort Benton, where he was engaged in freighting and trading with the Indians until 1877. He then purchased a ranch and was interested in the cattle business for three years, but sold out and went east, shipping horses to Benton. He formed a partnership with Mr. Strong and built the Park Livery Stables, soon after purchasing his partner's interest and subsequent]y disposing of an interest to Mr. Rowe. In July, 1883, Mr. Lewis bought out Rowe, and business is now carried on under the firm name of Harris & Lewis. Mr. Harris married Miss Emma Babbage, November 7, 1881. He is engaged with Mr. Rowe in various land, stock and mining interests. In July, 1883, he was elected city councilman.

THOMAS B. HARWOOD ranchman Benton and Bellings road, P. O. Fort Benton, was born in Scott Co., Ky., October 24, 1834. In 1840 his parents, Albert G. and Delilah Harwood, moved to Illinois, where our subject resided until 1857, when he went to the mines in Colorado. In 1859 he settled at Fort Bridges, Utah, where he worked on a farm, assisted in keeping store, and was interested in a toll bridge. He came to Bannack in 1862, engaged in mining, which occupation he followed throughout the territory for several years. He was also three years in the Canadian Northwest trading with the Indians. Mr. Harwood settled on his present ranch in 1882. He has charge there of the stage station.

ISAAC N. HAZLETT, of the firm of Hamilton & Hazlett, P. O. Choteau, was born at Toledo, Ohio, April 29, 1850; son of Isaac and Emma Hazlett. In 1861 he went to Chicago, where he served as office boy in Potter Palmer's immense store and also attended school until 1865. At that time he started on a tour through Illinois and Iowa, where he engaged in various pursuits until 1869, at which time he came to Montana, arriving at Sun River in August of that year. He at once assumed the occupation of herding. Abandoning that he followed trading with the Indians and bookkeeping for Indian traders until 1876, when he joined Mr. Hamilton in general merchandise business. He is interested in horse raising and lands; is notary public, having been appointed in 1882.

STEPHEN HENAULT, P. O. Fort Benton, was born twenty miles above Quebec, Canada, in 1848. In 1859 he went to Missouri, remaining there until 1866, when he came to Montana, remaining at Virginia City several months. He then came to the Teton river, and has since spent the principal part of his time in that vicinity engaged in hunting, trapping and various other pursuits. Mr. Renault is married and has four children

JOHN HEZEKIAH was born February 3, 1844, at Harrison, O. His parents dying shortly after his birth, he was bound out as an apprentice at ten years of age in a wagon makers shop. At fifteen years he worked at the bench as journeyman. When twenty one years old he went to Cincinnati, O., and worked for J. C. Hollenshade four years, returning thence to his old home, where he remained two years. In 1866 he came to Helena, Mon., with the Fiske expedition, and worked as a journeyman for eight years; then opened a shop, which he carried on for two years. In 1876 he removed to Benton and opened a wagon shop, which he continues. Mr. Hezekiah is well known throughout the territory, and in his line always gives satisfaction.

JOSEPH HILL was born in New Mexico, where he was engaged in various pursuits. From New Mexico he went to Kansas, remaining some time at Leavenworth, and then moved to Salt Lake City. After spending a short time there he came into Montana in 1865, and has spent the intervening time at Deer Lodge, Missoula, Helena, Fort Benton, Sun River, Old Agency, and various other points, engaged in teaming, hunting and general work. He is now married, and has taken up a ranch in the valley of the Teton.

JOSEPH S. HILL, with T. C. Power & Bro., Fort Beaten, was born in Florida in 1848. In 1863 he came to Montana, and was located on the Missouri river where he established a post, and carried on trading. In 1875 he came to Fort Benton to take charge of T. C. Power & Bro's general merchandise house. This position he has held for eight years. Having entire charge of the house, by his close attention to business the house has reached its present prosperity, and is now one of the foremost in the territory.

GEORGE W. HOUK, deputy sheriff, was born January 20, 1846, and removed, with his parents, a few years after, to St. Louis. After leaving school, Mr. Houk attended bar on a Mississippi line of steamers, running between St. Louis and New Orleans, and gradually worked upward until he became pilot, which occupation he followed for three years. He went to Sacramento in 1858, and until 1864 was engaged in mining and prospecting in California, Nevada and Utah. He was afterward connected with the pony express one year; drove stage for Wells, Fargo & Co. two years, and in July, 1866, came to Fort Benton with a band of horses for Pease & Cullen. contractors for the United States also owners of the Northwestern Fur Co. He worked for them one year, and was then sent by the Northwestern Fur Co. to build Fort Browning, on the Milk river. - He afterward built the Black Foot agency, which was finished in March, 1866. Returning to Fort Benton he engaged in the corral and livery business, but at the expiration of a year closed out and engaged in teaming until 1872, when he was appointed sheriff for Choteau county, to fill unexpired term. He was reelected for two years; then engaged in the saloon business with J. S. Wells for one year; sold out and went to the northwest on the Whoop-up whisky trade; returned in one year to Fort Benton, and took charge of a mule train for T. C. Powers for two years, drove stage for the Helena & Fort Benton Stage Co. one year; had charge of the Cocoran Cattle Ranch Co. in the northwest for one year, and upon returning to Benton was appointed deputy sheriff under J. J. Healey, which appointment he still holds under James McDevitt. Mr. Houk married Miss Marie Simons, September 22, 1875, and has had two children-Francis (deceased) and George Presley. Mr. Houk owns the Fort Benton racing and driving park, the first opened in Choteau county, and is also interested in various mines and ranches in the territory.

JOSEPH HOWARD, P. O. Choteau, when a mere child left his home in St. Louis, and proceeded with a Captain Savory to Santa Fe, New Mexico, where he remained about eighteen months; then went to Fort Laramie, where he remained about one year, afterward coming up the Missouri river to near where Camp Randall is now situated, and in 1851 he arrived in Montana territory with the American Fur Co., with whom he engaged sixteen years After this he worked for John Grant at Deer Lodge seven years, and was with Carroll & Steele some eighteen months. In 1873 Mr. Howard moved to his present ranch.

EDWIN HUNT, P.-O. Fort Benton, was born in Orleans, N. Y., July 14, 1851. His parents moved to Lenawee county, Michigan, in 1855, thence to Eaton county, same state, in 1869 or 1870, and in 1874 he (our subject) went to Minnesota, thence to Wyoming, where he worked on the U. P. railroad, removing to Codnne, U. T., from which town he came to Montana. On his arrival here he was employed as ranchman in Beaverhead county, where he remained eighteen months; he next herded sheep in Deer Lodge county, and in 1877-8 he WAS cook at the stage station on the H. & D. L. road. Afterward he was connected with stage lines until 1883 when, with his partner, Mr. Richter, he opened a sheep ranch on the Teton river, fifty miles from Fort Benton.

WILLIAM H. HUNT, JR., member from Choteau Co. of the Constitutional Convention of 1884, was born in New Orleans in 1858, was educated at the German school and at Yale College- studied law at the Louisiana law school and in his fathers office, was admitted to the bar of Dakota in 1878, and has been practicing law at Fort Benton, M. T., since that year; was appointed collector of customs for Montana and Idaho by President Garfield, in l881; was a member of the Republican Convention at Helena in May, 1881; is the member from Choteau on the Territorial Republican Central Committee, and was a member of the judiciary committee of the convention of 1884. (Vide Pol. Pilot.)

A. C. JOHNSON, with T. C. Power & Bro., was born in Chicago, May 5,1859. After completing his education he left at the age of 19 for Benton, and in the winter of 1878 had charge of business at Fort Walsh, Northwest Territory. In the spring of 1879 he commenced keeping books for T. C. Powers & Bro. This position he held until 1882, when he was appointed assistant manager of the house under Mr. Jos. S. Hill.

WM. D. JONES, P. O. Dupuyer, was born near Kansas City, Mo., July 20, 1857; son of John R. & Mary Jones. Until 19 years of age he remained on the farm with his parents and then came to Montana, where he worked for four years in Lewis & Clarke Co. He then moved into Choteau Co., settling on Dupuyer Creek. Taking up a ranch he turned his attention to the raising of sheep, of which he now has a fine band.

JACOB A. KANOUSE (deceased) was born June 16, 1814 at Newark, N. J., graduated at Yale College, studied law, and was admitted to the New Jersey bar in 1839. lie engaged in practice at Paterson N. J., but in 1849 or 1850 removed to California, and for several years carried on freighting and mining business In 1868 he located at Helena, M. T., and two or three years later at Fort Benton, where he opened a law office and engaged in the practice of his profession. In 1842 he married Miss Hall, of New Jersey, who died, leaving him two children He subsequently married Miss Sarah A. Horder, of Peoria, Ill., who bore him three children. Mr. Kanouse was honored with numerous public offices, and for some years was a magistrate before whom a large amount of legal business was transacted, having been elected in 1879. He was to some extent interested in mines and ranches in the territory. His death occurred at Fort Benton, July 29, 1884, his widow and five children surviving him.

EDWARD KELLY, of firm Kennedy & Kelly, meat market, Fort Benton, was born January 24, 1847, at New London. After leaving school he was engaged in farming until 19 years of age, and June, 1866, came to Fort Benton. Here he formed a partnership with James Neibors and opened a hotel known as the Benton House. This they carried on for one year, then closed it up. Mr. Kelly next went into the employ of the Northwest Fur Co. going to the Northwest Territory, and working for them one and a half years. He then established the station known as Twenty-eight mile spring, keeping hotel and raising stock. This he continued for nine years. Then located a ranch on Teton, farming and raising stock for three years. In March, 1882, Mr. Kelly formed a partnership with J. J. Kennedy in the butcher business, Mr. Kelly giving especial attention to raising stock. He was married October 18, 1877 to Miss Rosa Medendorf, of Choteau Co., and by her had three children, John E., Myra, and George.

J J. KENNEDY, Fort Benton, was born March 17, 1840, in Richland Co, O., where he lived until the death of his mother, which occurred New Year's Day, 1860. After this loss he found a home in the family of James M. Morrison until the spring of 1851, when he obtained employment on the Pittsburgh & Fort Wayne R. R., then building. In the spring of 1852 he went to Cleveland, finally finding a home in the family of P. Smith, his employer, who still resides there, engaged in his old business pile driving. In 1854 he visited his birthplace and went to Ft. Wayne with some cattle, remaining in Wabash Co., Ind., till the following spring, when he went to Fort Atkinson with H. D. Lowerg. engaging in farming for the two years following. The great gold excitement known as the Cherry Creek Mines caused him and his employer to start toward Pikes Peak but meeting thousands of poor starving gold seekers returning, he also turned back as far as Nebraska City, where he joined the Cook survey party, and helped run the base line between Kansas and Nebraska to Fort Kearney, and laying the outlines for two counties and surveying the reservation. Upon his return he met Major Russel, who had the government freight contract for troop supplies in Utah, and engaged to drive a bull team to Camp Floyd, where he met his brother William. In the spring of 1860 he went to Dalls, W. T., miraculously escaping death from the Indians on this trip. In 1861 he started to Ori Fino Gulch, and meeting J. J. Healy at Walla Walla, they went into the mines together. During the summer Healy, having discovered the Florence, his brother William, who had joined them, went with Healey to the new mines, leaving him to oversee the claims at Ori Fino Late in the fall he sold their claims and conducted a pack train into the Florence mines, where he remained till 62, when he started to search for Healy, finding him at Big Hole Pass. The party, consisting of himself and brother, Healy, Harley McCune, John and Frank Schuber, proceeded to Gold Creek, known now as Pioneer Gulch, where they remained one day, then started to the States via Fort Benton. Mr. Kennedy, with some forty others, left the latter place in mackinaws and met the steamer Shreveport near the mouth of Milk River, Captain La Barge in charge. Deciding not to bring the boat farther up the river, they unloaded at a trading post there. The Sioux, driven from Minnesota by the troops, swarmed on both sides the river; having stolen the horses, and placed one just outside of the woods, one-half mile from the boat, as a coy, he and his brother, Healey and McCune, determined to secure it, which they did by watchfulness, cocked guns, and the great risk of their lives. By the vigilance of the Captain they arrived safely at Omaha and proceeded in company to Chicago, when he and Healey went on to New York and then to Philadelphia, where they had their gold dust coined. Our subject visited his sister near Mansfield, Ohio, where he met his brother William, and in 1863 the various members of the party met at St. Louis and proceeded to Virginia City via Benton. In the spring of 1864 he went to the Kootanai mines in British America via Missoula, returning by Crow's Nest Pass and Fort Benton to Virginia City, engaging in freighting, and in l865 built mackinaws at Fort Benton. In the fall of this year he located at the mouth of Prickly Pear Canyon; joined by his brother and wife, he remained here until 1868, when he again visited Kootanai mines. He built the stations on the popular stage line from Fort Benton to Helena for Wells, Fargo & Co., while living at the mouth of the canyon. Mr. Kennedy, after returning from the Kootanai mines, went to Cedar Creek mines, running a ferry boat there and spending the following winter in Missoula. Leaving there the spring of 1870, he came to Fort Benton, where he engaged in freighting until about 1876, then in buying and driving cattle, furnishing beef for the forts until October, 1879, when he opened a market in Fort Benton. He again visited his old home in 1881, and on his return built a large brick market on Main street. In the fall of this year he bought W. S. Stocking's and J. D. Weatherwaxs herds of cattle; the following spring Edward Kelly became a partner in his business. In 1883 he again visited the old home in the Buckeye State, and while there sought and obtained in marriage the hand of an estimable lady, daughter of the late Rev. B. M. Morrison, and granddaughter of the old gentleman who gave him a home after his mothers death. Early in 1884 Mr. Kennedy brought his bride to his home in Fort Benton, where he still resides, actively engaged in the cattle business.

HENRY A KINNELY ranchman, Teton Valley P. O., Fort Benton, was born at St. Louis, Mo., January 2, 1835- son of Geo H. and Alzierd Kinnerly. At St. Louis he received a good business education and in 1854 was engaged on the Iron Mountain railroad. In 1855 he accompanied Indian Commissioner Cummings into Montana and was with him at the time of making the treaty with the Blackfeet, Flathead and various other tribes whom they met at the mouth of the Judith Basin. He soon afterward returned to St. Louis and in the following spring came into the territory again. In the fall of 1856 he went into Dakota Territory, where he remained until 1861, when he went to Missouri and enlisted in the first Missouri regiment, where he was assigned to staff duty and remained in the service two and a half years and received a bullet wound below the knee. In 1863 he returned to Montana and was engaged at Benton as clerk and trader for several years. He has Served a couple of terms in the legislature of the territory, was county treasurer two years and is at present assessor of Choteau county. He is now residing on his ranch on the Teton river, some thirty-five miles from Fort Benton.

JOSEPH KIPP, P. O. Dupuyer, was born on Heart river, Dak., November 29, 1849. When some six years of age he removed, with his parents, to Fort Berthold, remaining there two years, and then to Fort Union, where he stayed about three years; then came into the northern part of Montana Territory with a man named Dawson, who promised to educate him. The Catholic priests had opened a school on the Teton and he was placed in their charge in October, 1859- in 1860 he was sent to their school at Sun river, and they opening an other school at St. Ignatius, he was sent there in March 1861. Returning in fall of same year to Fort Benton, he went to the states and remained at St. Joe, Mo., until 1862, when he returned to Fort Benton and worked for the American Fur Company until 1864. He then clerked for Carroll & Steele two years; and again visiting the states for the purpose of attending school, he entered Bryant & Stratton's college at Peoria, Ill., where he remained about nine months. Returning to Fort Benton in 1867, he again worked for Carroll & Steele, remaining with them eighteen months. He then went north prospecting, and was engaged by the government one year as guide and interpreter at Fort Shaw, and led the troops at the time of the massacre at Fort Baker. This so enraged the Indians that Mr. Kipp had to flee the country for a time, and he moved into the British possessions. Here he was engaged in trading, remaining until 1874, when he returned and worked for Baker & Co. but soon went down the Missouri trading again on his own account, having so continued to the present time. He is now located on the Marias river at old Fort Conrad, where he has a stock of merchandise in company with Mr. Upham. They are also engaged in ranching and ditching, stock-raising and lumber. Mr. Kipp has served as interpreter in the following treaties with the Indians: General Meagher, General Cullen and General Upton He speaks eight different Indian languages and has been of great service in the settling up of this vast · country.

SAM KOHLBERG, Fort Benton, was born in Germany in January, 1859; came to New York in 1864; went to San Francisco in 1876; to Virginia City, Mon., in 1878, and became partner of S. Genzberger under the firm name of Genzberger & Kohlberg. In 1881 he bought in with Gans & Klein at Fort Benton. Mr. Kohlberg was married to Miss Davis in September, 1883.

JOHN LA MOTT, ranchman, P. O. Sun River; was born March 19, 1847, in New York State. His parents moved to Oswego while he was quite a child, and in 1861 he left for Chicago, Ill, where he worked in McCormick's reaping machine factory for five years, then in Graves pail and tub factory for one year and a half. Leaving this he went to Green Bay, Wis., and was fireman on a tug for one season . From there he moved to St. Louis, Mo., where he worked as fireman on the Missouri Railroad, in the winter of 1867. He then came to Fort Benton, Mon., and has been engaged since in driving cattle, mining, trading with Indians; also had a wood yard on the Missouri. In July, 1881, Mr. La Mott located a ranch on Arrow Creek, and in 1883 devoted some of his time to building the road connecting Fort Benton with Judith basin. In 1880 our subject married Miss Sarah Craskan at Fort Benton, by whom he has one child-Minnie M. Mr. La Mott has been elected road supervisor for the first district of Choteau county. He keeps a toll-house and hotel on the road

C. M. LANNING jeweler, was born at Pontiac, Oakland Co., Mich. Upon leaving school he entered the employ of the Detroit Refrigerating Company and served as their clerk for two and a half years. Leaving that city he proceeded westward and up the Missouri river to Fort Benton, Mon., where he arrived June 25, 1868. He worked one year on a ranch in Deer Lodge valley, prospected for a year in the neighborhood of Pioneer City, and was for one year employed as bookkeeper by the Rock Creek Ditch Company. Resigning the latter position, he located at Deer Lodge, and in company with Lee Smith opened a general repair shop. After two years the business was closed out, and Mr. Lanning came to Benton and engaged in the same occupation. He made a trip to Fort Kipp, in the British possessions, and on his return dissolved partnership and went back to that place and opened a shop. Four years later- he again returned to Benton and established himself in the same business, gradually increasing his stock and finally working into the jewelry line, which he has continued to the present time. He sold an interest in June, 1882, to G. F. Deltraz, and the firm is now C. M. Lanning &; Co. Mr. Lanning married Miss Nettie Fairfield, of Oakland Co., Rich., in July, 1889. In March of that year he published a grammar and vocabulary of the Blackfoot language, which interesting and valuable work he had been eight years in compiling, giving it his attention during leisure hours.

J. T. LEE,, proprietor of horse and sheep ranch, Sand Coulee, P. O. Ulidia, was born in Missouri in 1855, and was educated at Lewis College, that place. Our subject came to Montana in 1878 and worked four years for Mr. Perkins. He established his stock ranch in 1881. Mr. Lee owns 480 acres of land at this point, all under fence. EDWARD W. LEWIS, proprietor of livery, Fort Benton; was born in March, 1844, in Kankakee Co., Ill. and was occupied in farming until 21 years of age. In 1864 he went to Virginia City and there mined one year then teamed three years. During 1868 and l869 he freighted between Benton and Helena; then left for Corinne Utah, and here he freighted for one season. He located a ranch in Missouri valley, and was engaged in farming and stock raising for five years, but selling out he freighted with a mule train from Helena to Ft. McLeod one season; then from Fort Benton to Ft McLeod. This he carried on for six years. In July, 1883, Mr. Lewis bought out Mr. Row's interest in the Park stable and, in connection with that business, he runs a mule train to Helena.

WM. LILLARD, P. O. Choteau, was born in Tennessee, January 25,1840; son of Joseph and Mary Lillard. He remained in Tennessee, principally engaged upon a farm, with his parents until 1862, in which year he moved to Illinois, working upon the railway in that state until 1865: then went to Utah, but he soon moved from there to Dakota, where he devoted his time to herding some eight months, at the expiration of which time he came to Montana, where he has since been engaged in trapping, hunting, ranching, etc., having first opened a ranch on the Teton in 1874, where he remained until 1878, at that time going to his present ranch on the Black Leaf creek, a tributary of the Teton.

MlCHAEL LYNCH, ferryman, Fort Benton, was born February 16, 1856, in Longford County Ireland. At 12 years of age he came to the United States, locating in Iowa, and after leaving school went to Wyoming, where he drove teams from there to the Black Hills; then engaged in mining three years. In 1879 he came to Fort Benton and ran a flatboat, trading in wood. This he carried on for two years, and in 1881 built the ferryboat known as the Lower Ferry, to which he gives his time and attention. Mr. Lynch was married in January, 1882, to Miss Ida Keelhar, of Fort Benton.

H. O. LYNG, P. O. , Fort Benton, was born in Norway, September 10, 1842, and came to the United States in 1866. He followed the baker's trade for some time, and then moved to Wisconsin. He subsequently moved to Minnesota, where he worked in a foundry, and in the summer of 1867 left St. Paul for Fort Benton M. T. After spending two years at this city, Mr. Lyng moved to the Musselshell, where he kept a wood yard for three years. He revisited Fort Benton and Helena in 1872, purchased a band of cattle and ranched them near Fort Benton · then engaged in teaming for three years, when he moved to Fort Mcleod with his cattle, and there remained until 1880, when he purchased his present ranch of 160 acres. Mr. Lyng owns 175 head of cattle and 100 horses All his lands are under fence and many acres cultivated.

E. G. MACLAY cashier of the First National Bank of Fort Benton, was born in Pennsylvania in the year 1844. He received a high school education, and at 17 years of age went to St. Louis, Mo., where he served in the capacity of clerk during the years from 1852 to 1863. At the expiration of that time he came to Montana in company with Captain Wall, of the firm of John J. Roe & Co., and locating at Virginia City, engaged in general merchandise and freighting, in which business he continued until 1866. He then went to Helena, and embarking in the same line of business at that place continued some two years, when, in company with Messrs. M. Carroll, George Steele and C. A. Broadwater, he bought the old Diamond R. freighting outfit, with a carrying capacity of 600 tons, and engaged in delivering freight between Corin, Fort Logan, Carroll, Fort Benton, and the terminus of the Utah & Northern R. R., which business they conducted until 1880. Mr. Maclay's health failed him in 1879, and not recovering till 1882, rendered him during that period unfit for active business, but in 1882 he became interested in business with Messrs. John T. Murphy and W. W. Higgins, under the firm name of Murphy, Maclay & Co., wholesale and retail dealers in groceries, hardware, wines and liquors, agricultural implements, machinery, etc., at Fort Benton, Mont. During the year 1882 Mr. Maclay also accepted the position of cashier of the First National Bank of Benton which responsible duty he still holds to the perfect satisfaction of all concerned. In 1888 Mr. Maclay was united in marriage to Miss Blanche Murphy, of Missouri.

WILLLM J. MARTIN; P. O., Fort Benton, was born in Ohio, June 15, 1857, was educated in that state and there entered railroading life. In the fall of 1875 he moved to New Orleans, where he was engaged in steamboating six months; thence he proceeded up the river by boat, landing at Fort Benton, May 10, 1876. Early in 1877 he returned to the states and was engaged in railroading in the neighborhood of Cincinnati until 1878, when he returned to Fort Benton and took a position in H. J. Wolkerlin & Co.'s tin shop. The same year he went to the Barker mines, where he was engineer for the smelting company. In 1881 he located his present ranch on the Shonkin, where he owns 160 acres of land, twenty-five of which are under cultivation. Mr. Martin is a member of the I. O. O. F. 

ROBERT MILLER, ferryman, P. O., Fort Benton, was born July 17, 1857 in Prince Edwards Island, Can. After leaving school he engaged in farming until 22 years of age, and in 1879 came to Fort Benton. He was engaged in carrying the mail to Martinsville for one year; then in 1883 he bought an interest in the upper ferry at Fort Benton, from D. G. Brown, Mr. Malcomb owning the other share. Mr. Miller, with an assistant, has entire charge of the ferry. He is always at his post ready to carry over passengers from either side of the river.

JAMES McDEVITT, sheriff of Choteau county. Mr. McDevitt was born in Pennsylvania in the year 1849. He was reared on a farm, and at the early age of 11 years left home, and has since contrived to support himself. In 1863 he came to Montana and spent two years in the mines. after which he went to Fort Benton, where he was engaged in trading with the Indians some four or five years. At the expiration of that time, in 1874, he established his present livery business and also engaged in freighting from Fort Benton to various points in the territory, carrying some fifty four tons. Mr. McDevitt is largely interested in farm lands and town property, owning ten business houses and residences in the city of Benton several of which were built by himself. In 1882 he built the Odd Fellows' Hall at that place, and during the same year he was elected sheriff of Choteau county. Mr. McDevitt was married in 1877, at Winnipeg, to Miss Mary Vaugh, by whom he has two children.

McMASTER, BANNATYNE & ELLIOT, P. O., Fort Benton; natives of Scotland, emigrated to the United states only a few years since, and in May, 1881, came to Montana Territory, where they have secured a fine tract of sheep and agricultural lands; located on the North Fork of Muddy creek, in Choteau county, where they now reside. They have a large band of sheep, and devote their time to agriculture. Mr. Elliot is the only one of the party who is married, his wife being a most agreeable and interesting lady, by whom he has two remarkably pretty children.

W. J. MINOR, druggist, Fort Benton, was born September 4, 1853, in Jefferson Co., N. Y. After attending public school some years he went to Ann Arbor, Mich., to complete his education, taking a special course of pharmacy and chemistry. After leaving college he located at Taylorsville, ILL., and was engaged in the drug business for four years. Upon disposing of his store, he went to Helena, M. T., and was there engaged in different kinds of business for two years. For two years afterward he operated a ranch on Sun river, and then came to Fort Benton and opened a drug store in Carroll & Steele's building. Three years ago he moved to his present location on Front street. Mr. Minor has also various mining and cattle interests in the territory.

RAPHAEL MORGAN, mail carrier, Chatham City and Sun River, P. O. Choteau, was born in Maryland, December 13. 1852. He moved to Cottonwood Springs, Neb., where he remained four years, freighting and herding, and at the expiration of that time he went to Helena, M. T., where he passed three years-teaming; then he herded cattle for four years, and subsequently ranched on the Teton river for two years; then located his present ranch. During his travels Mr. Morgan experienced many adventures and hardships. DAVID MORROW, P. O. Fort Benton, was born in Canada, October 12, 1853, and was brought by his parents to Iowa in 1857; moving with them in 1860 to Denver, Colo. From there the family came to Montana, and our subject remained with his parents at Helena until 1871, when he engaged in stock raising on the ranges between Helena and Fort Benton. In 1880 he established his present ranch of 140 acres, where he owns 200 head of cattle and thirty horses. Mr. Morrow was married January 12, 1882, to Miss S. E. Travers, a native of Wales, born June 29, 1864. Our subject is a A. F. and A. M.; Mrs. Morrow is a member of the M. E;. church.

MALCOLM MORROW, P. O. Fort Benton, was horn in Canada, November 7, 1823, and was there educated. Here he carried on the manufacture of lumber and potash, in connection wish agriculture, until 1857, when he moved to Iowa. In 1860 he went to Colorado, where he was engaged in the dairy and stock business until the fall of 1863, in which year he moved to Blevin's Gulch mines M. T. In 1865 he established his dairy business at Helena, and continued at that point until 1879, when he moved to Fort Benton, where be is now engaged in stock-raising-his stock of cattle alone numbering between 500 and 600 head. Mr. Morrow owns 160 acres of land on the Shonkin, the upper ferry on the Missouri, and four buildings at Fort Benton. Mr. and Mrs. Morrow are members of the Presbyterian church.

MALCOLM MORROW, Jr., P. O. Fort Benton, was born in Canada, February 7, 1848, and moved to Iowa with his parents in 1857; thence to Colorado in 1860, and to Montana in 1863. In 1866 he engaged in stock-raising and in 1869 he established his quarters on Sun river then ranched in the Little Prickly Pear valley: thence moved to the Missouri, holding his stock on the range north of Sun river for years, until his removal to Fort Benton. His present ranch on the Shonkin contains 160 acres, 100 being under fence, and over forty in cultivation. He owns 100 head of cattle and 100 horses. His dairy produced, in 1883, over 1,800 pounds of butter. Mr. Morrow was married July 25, 1875, to Miss Mary Ann Travers; born in Wales, September 1, 1857, and who came to Pennsylvania in 1866, and to Montana in 1869.

JOHN F. MURPHY county clerk, Fort Benton; was born October 81, 1843, at Cork, Ireland. His parents moved to the United States, and located at New York. Here our subject attended school until 1860, and then left for Indiana to attend Asbury University at Greencastle. The war of the rebellion breaking out, he enlisted in Company B. Forty-third Indiana Volunteer Infantry, and served through the war. He then re-enlisted in the regular service at Indianapolis; crossed the plains in 1866 to relieve prisoners captured during the war, and was stationed at Camp Douglass, Utah, thereby relieving General Patrick E. Conner. Afterward he was ordered to Fort Shaw. Here Mr. Murphy became Quartermaster Sergeant of the Seventh Regiment, and had entire charge of receiving all grain and provisions for the Fort. After his term of enlistment had expired he went to Fort Benton, where he was engaged in painting two years. He then took a position as salesman in W. S. Wetzel's store, with whom he remained five years, resigning his position to accept the office of county clerk, to which he had been elected in the fall of 1882. Mr. Murpbv was married in October, 1874, to Miss Ada Archer, of St. Louis, and by her has two children-Ada and Ellen. Our subject, during his career as a soldier was thanked repeatedly for his bravery, being mentioned publicly at one time in General Pope's Roll of Honor. Afterward, at Fort Shaw, by his fair dealing and good judgment in relieving those in want, be became very popular with all classes. When he came before the people in 1882 he was elected by a handsome majority.

IRA MYERS, P. O. Fort Benton, was born in Ohio December 18, 1839; son of John P. and Susan Myers. He remained with his parents at Mansfield until nineteen years of age, attending school and assisting in the store of his father, who was then dealing in general merchandise. Leaving Ohio, our subject went to Kansas City, Mo., and there continuing in commercial business until 1860. He then went to Colorado and became one of the original owners of Colorado City, being at the time, in company with ten other gentlemen, interested in various lands in the vicinity; he owned also the renowned " Garden of the Gods," which he disposed of for a mere song. He Was also interested in merchandise and mining in and about Denver city until about the year 1863 when he went to Bannack. Here he turned his attention to mining during the ensuing years until 1876, then moved to the Black Hills, and there constructed the huge ditches that supply the Homestake mines with water. In 1878 Mr. Myers left the Black Hills and made a trip to the states for the purpose of disposing of mining stocks. having several times before made similar trips to the East in the interest of various mining companies. Returning in 1878 to Montana, Mr. Myers invested in cattle. and in 1879 formed the co-partnership of Myers, Buck & Co. This firm continued in business until the fall of 1883, when they sold out their cattle interests, retaining their ranch, which is nicely situated in the fertile valley of the Teton river, in Choteau county.

JACOB ODENWALD butcher, Fort Benton, was born March 3, 1844, at Philippsburg, Baden, Germany. Here he learned the trade of butcher at sixteen, and at eighteen left Germany, coming to New York, where he engaged in the butcher business one year. Moving to Philadelphia he worked one year in same line, then opened a shop at Atchison, Kans., remaining two years; thence moved to Omaha, working there one year as butcher; then went to Sweetwater, where he engaged in mining; kept a butcher shop in Helena in summer, mining in the winter at Washington Gulch for two years- was then hired by Government to butcher at Fort Shaw for one year. Here he also opened and operated a dairy. One year later he went to Blackfoot city, carrying on butcher shop for four years. Next he kept a saloon in Helena for eight months; this he sold out and then moved to Tongue river, butchering for government one year. Returning to Helena he kept the Washington Brewery for one year and a half; sold out and engaged in butcher business for two years; left this to take charge of Kennedy & Kelly's meat market, where he has been butchering for three years. Mr. Odenwald married, December 19, 1878, Agnes McKittrick. of Helena. She died June 5, 1885, leaving one child-Eva Belle.

JOHN O'HERN, senior partner of the firm O'Hern & Smith, P.O. Fort Benton, was born in Ireland October 21, 1850. His parents, James and Hannah O'Hern, came to the United States in 1856, settling in Huron Co, O. His father died in Huron county shortly after settlement, and the family then moved to Minnesota. Here young O'Hern was engaged in various pursuits until-1877, When he came to Montana. He revisited Minnesota in the fall of that year, but returned in 1878, and in 1880 entered into partnership with D. L. Smith.

GEORGE D. PATTERSON, P. O. Fort Benton, was born in Harford Co., Md., November 27, 1852, at a place known as Sweet Drive, named by I Layette during the revolutionary war. He was educated at St. John's College. Up to 1877 he was engaged in agriculture, and that year he journeyed direct to Helena, thence to Smith river, where he remained at Cook's ranch a few months to obtain a knowledge of sheep farming. In 1878 he moved to Fort Benton, located his present ranch, and took charge of the herd of Greenleaf, Murphy &; Chipman, whose ranch contains 2,000 acres, 1,200 being under fence. On this ranch are 7,000 sheep, 600 head of cattle and 30 horses The clip of 1883 was about 32,000 pounds of wool. This is one of the leading ranches of the county, and has the reputation of being one of the best conducted. In 1879 he was made a partner of this firm, which partnership still continues. Mr. Patterson was married April 18, 1883, to Miss L. Pratt, who was born at Little Rock, Ill., August 3, 1865, and came to Montana in 1880, where she was married.

RUFUS PAYNE, proprietor Overland House, Fort Benton, was born February 18, 1831, in Richmond, Ky. His parents moved two years after his birth to Boone Co., Mo., and at the age of fifteen years he went to Pike Co., Miss. Here he farmed until 1850, then left for California and mined on Mormon Island until 1852. He then went to Galveston, also Houston, Tex., where he worked on farms. Returning to Missouri, he learned the trade of blacksmith. In 1859 Mr. Payne went to Denver, Colo., also into New Mexico, engaged in trading until 1861. In the spring of that year he returned to Denver and took charge of a blacksmith shop until September, 1863 · left for Virginia City, worked at his trade until 1865; came to Helena and opened a shop. carrying on business three years; sold out, and worked at Bolder for one season. Then went to Gallatin county, worked for the Legal Tender Mining Company eleven months In 1873 he returned to Helena and opened a blacksmith shop and feed stable, forming partnership with Wm. Corbett. Then Mr. Payne sold out his interest and worked for stage company three months. June, 1876 he came to Fort Benton and started shop on Power and Franklin-streets, carried on business until June, 1883. He has leased the Overland House, which he is keeping at present. Mr. Payne married Miss Mary E. Hall October, 1853, at Frankfurt, Mo., by whom be has five children, George W., Julia I., Ida May, Rufus, Jr., and Alta. Mr. Payne is at present school trustee, is an A. F. & A. M., one of the charter members, aiding in building present hall. Was elected justice of peace in Gallatin county. Besides the Overland House, Mr. Payne has town property, having built two brick dwelling houses.

JACOB PETERMAN, ranchman on Teton River, P. O. Fort Benton; son of Jacob and Nancy (Rose) Peterman was born in Crawford Co., O., February 1, 1840. When quite young he moved to Delaware Co., O., with his parents. In 1866 he moved to Grant Co., Wis., where he followed farming until 1862 then he moved to Colorado, and there engaged In mining and supplying the camps with hay. In 1863-4 he was in the mines of Oregon; in 1865 came to Montana, and followed mining and prospecting along the Blackfoot, at Elk creek and in the vicinity of Helena. At the latter place he dealt in horses for some months; was engaged in freighting, and subsequently opened a blacksmith shop at Jim Town, in the Gallatin valley, which he conducted for one year · then went to Grill's Bar, where he followed mining and teaming for two years, and thence moved to the Teton, where he established his present ranch. He is engaged in agriculture and stock raising.

B. L. POWERS, attorney at law, Fort Benton, and son of Philip Powers; was born at Pittsfield, Maine, July 26, 1857. When 17 years of age Reengaged in teaching school, and followed this profession for three years. Removing to Illinois he read law three years, afterward attended law school two years in Indiana, and graduated with the degree of LL.B. In 1882 he located at Fort Benton and took charge of the Helena and Benton stage office, and also practices law.

C. W. PRICE, of Fort Benton, was born July 23 1844, and worked on a farm and attended school until he was 16 years of age. Removing then to California he drove team for six months, and was afterward, for a number of years. engaged in mining at Gold Hill and Reese river, Nev.; Virginia City, M. T., and Helena, M. T. In the summer of 1867 he located at Fort Benton, where he was for a year in the employ of I. G. Baker & Co., running a train. For eight years subsequently was a trader among the Milk river Indians returning to Fort Benton at the expiration of that time and engaging in the cattle business with C. E. & W. G. Conrad and Joe A. Baker. Mr. Price sold his interest, and has since conducted a general trading and stock raising business. He has also considerable real estate in Fort Benton. October 22, 1880, he married Miss Mollie B., daughter of J. H. Conrad, of Benton, and they have two children, Conrad and Howard

EVAN J. PRICE, P. O. Fort Benton, was born in Wales; November 11, 1849. He came to New Orleans La., and moved thence to Council Bluffs, where he resided until the fall of 1862. He was educated at Council Bluffs, and there engaged in farming. In 1862 he moved to California, where he worked on toll roads. About 1863 he visited Missouri, and in 1864 came to Montana. Early in 1865 he engaged in mining at Virginia City, but in the fall started out on his return journey to Missouri by way of the Yellowstone, 'intending to make the trip in a Mackinaw boat. This idea was abandoned, so he returned to Virginia City. He visited Utah, and remained there some time. Returning to Montana he made a permanent settlement on Highwood creek, where he now owns 240 acres, of which 200 are under fence, 40 acres in cultivation.

DANIEL O'REILLY, rancher, P. O. Fort Benton, was born in County Leitrim, Ireland, and at the age of eighteen came to the United States and worked five years in the Architectural Iron Works, New York city. He then came west, traveling through various territories arriving in 1872 at Fort Benton. In 1875 Mr. O'Reilly commenced rafting wood down the Missouri river. A short time after this he located a ranch on the Shonkin river, and here he now devotes his attention to agriculture and stock-raising. Our subject was married, Feb. 18, 1879, to Miss Barbara Counelly, of Fort Benton, by whom he has two children-Mary E and Catherine A.

GEORGE RICHARDS, proprietor of hotel and saloon, Choteau City, was born in England, May 15, 1835, son of James and Jane Richards. In 1844 he came to the United States with his parents, and settled on a plantation in North Carolina. Here our subject remained until the breaking out of the civil war, when he joined the confederate army, in which he served three years and ten months he was taken prisoner at the battle of Gettysburg. In 1864 he went to Colorado, where he remained eight months, engaged in mining. In 1865 he came to Montana, settling at Helena, where he followed mining several months. He then went into Deer Lodge county where he remained until 1870, mining and dealing in merchandise. He next went to Radersburg, following mining five years; then moved into Meagher county, where he operated a quartz mill a couple of years, and from there he went to Beaverhead county, and there followed mining a year and a half. In 1878 Mr. Richards went to Belmont, and was there interested in merchandise until 1888, in which year he located at Choteau City and opened a hotel and bar. He is also interested in ranching and stock-raising. Mr. Richards was married at Belmont, M. T. August 28, 1878, to Miss Lena Countz, a most estimable and agreeable lady, by whom he has three children.

CHARLES RICHTER, stock-raiser, was born in May 1832, in Saxony, Germany. At fourteen years of age he was apprenticed to learn the wiremaker's trade, a which he worked until twenty-one years old, when he emigrated to the United States, landing at New York After a short time spent in Indiana and Missouri, he located near Springfield, Ill., where he was for nine years engaged in farming. He then went to Alder Gulch, M. T., and a year later to Silver Bow, mining four years. In 1873 he came to Benton, and located ranches on the Teton river. Here he formed a partner ship with Edward Hunt, and engaged in sheep-raising. This business they have carried on for ten years, making headquarters at Fort Benton.

JACKSON RIPLEY, P. O. Fort Benton, was born in Greene Co., Tenn., February 24,1824; moved to Missouri in 1844, and commenced farming there in 1845. In 1850 he visited California, where he was engaged in herding, farming and hunting until 1863. During this year he came to Virginia City, Nev., mined there and at Gold Hill until 1866, when he settled in Carson Valley as a farmer, blacksmith and shingle maker In 1868 he came to Montana, where he was engaged in mining and hunting until 1879, when he settled on the Teton,

H.P. ROLFE, of the law firm of Rolfe & Parker, Fort Benton, M. T., was born in Vermont, August 30, 1849, and graduated at Dartmouth College, New Hampshire, in 1874. From 1874 to 1876 he was assistant superintendent of the Ohio institution for the blind, and from 1876 to 1879, principal of the high school at Helena, M. T. Since 1879 he has been engaged in the practice of law at Fort Benton He was married in 1876, to Miss M. A. Edgerton, of Akron, O They have three children, Mary P., Harriet L. and Ione

CHARLES ROWE was born in Cornwall, Eng., August 2S, 1842. His parents emigrated to the United States shortly after his birth and located at Chicago, removing a few months later to Galena, Ill. Here Mr. Rowe remained until sixteen years of age, working in the lead mines. He then went to St. Paul, Minn., and drove stage four years for Burbank d5 Co. In 18B7 he came to Fort Benton, and drove stage for Wells, Fargo & Co. One year, then opened a saloon and billiard hall; which he carried on two years In the winter of 1870 he bought the Overland Hotel, and after running it seven years, leased it to Messrs. Tattan & Healev. He located a ranch on the Missouri, and occupied it two years. In 1880 he returned to Benton, where he now resides, but still operates the ranch. He married Miss Emma. daughter of Herman Brinkmann, February 26, 1876. She died in 1880, leaving two children, Charles H. and Leslie J.

PRESLEY H. ROWLES, ranchman, P. O. Sun River, was born in December, 1849, in Williams Co O. His parents removed to Plymouth, Ind, and from there to New Lisbon, O. Here our subject was engaged in farming and in factories at that place until 1870. In May of that year he came to Fort Benton and began freighting between there and Helena. In 1878 he located a ranch on Sun River. M. Rowles married Miss Ellen McDonald, by whom he has one child-Matilda. Mr. Rowles devotes most of his time and attention to stock raising, and his ranch is acknowledged to be one of the best in Sun River valley.

DANIEL SAMPLES, stock breeder, was born in June, 1847, at Maysville, lay. In 1856 he went to the Platte country, where he engaged in farming and in the spring of 1867 he came to Fort Benton, where he kept a saloon afterward he hunted wolves until 1870. He then left with Elmore for the Northwest Territory, and here he was engaged until 1877 trading with the Indians. Mr. Samples commenced driving horses from Idaho to Washington Territory. Then drove them to the Northwest Territory. In 1878 he located a ranch on the Teton, and commenced raising cattle and horses. In January, 1883, he sold off all his horses and now devotes his entire attention to raising cattle. Mr. Samples was married in March, 1879, to Miss Elvira Hatfield, of Fort Benton, by whom he has two children, Alice and Maud.

J. H. SEIFRIED, farmer, P. O. Fort Benton, was born in Ohio in 1835, and resided in that State until 1854, when he moved to Iowa, where he was engaged in farming until 1862. In that year he enlisted in the Thirty-ninth Iowa Volunteer Infantry, serving in that command until 1865. During Sherman's March to the sea, Mr. Seifried was made prisoner, and remained in the hands of the rebels until the spring of 1865. On his return trip to Iowa he was taken sick, so that he did not reach home for some time after his release and recovery. In 1880 he came to Montana and established his present ranch of 320 acres.

GUSTAVE SIEGLING, farmer, P. O. Fort Benton, was born in Germany January 25, 1847; emigrated to the United States in i867, settling in Iowa the same year. In 1874 he moved to Wisconsin, and thence to several other parts of the Northwest, being engaged in farming until 1882, When he came to Montana and located his farm on Belt Creek.

GUS SENIEUR, contractor and builder, Fort Benton, was born February 14, 1841, at Maysville, Ky. After leaving school he learned the trade of carpenter; also engaged in farming in Mason county until 1865. He then went to Nashville, Tenn., and worked at his trade for nine months- moved to New Orleans, remaining there a short time, then started for Montana, arriving at Helena in July, 1866. Here he mined five years in the vicinity; then contracted for buildings in the town proper, a business he carried on for eight years. In 1879 he came to Fort Benton and commenced his present vocation of builder and contractor. Mr. Senieur married Miss Matilda Barker in December, 1870, by whom he has three children: May L., John M. and Flora A. Since Mr. Senieur's arrival in Fort Benton he has erected some of the most prominent buildings in town, such as T. C Power's store, W. S. Wetzel's building, Odd Fellows' Hall, and numerous others.

W. B. SETTLE, of the firm Settle & Settle, attorneys, Fort Benton, was born September 18, 1854, in Rappahannock Co., Va. After graduating at Bethel Military Academy he went to Olivet, Robertson Co., Ky., and there practiced law, as well as in Maysville, Ky. He was elected commonwealth attorney, probate judge superintendent of public instruction and county examiner. Coming to Fort Benton in 1881, our subject began practicing law, and in 1883 formed a partnership with his brother, G. W. Settle. Mr. Settle, September 26 1877, married Miss Lillie B. Wood, of Kentucky, by whom he has two children-Alma and Slator. In the fall of 1882 Mr. Settle was elected member of the legislature; is also secretary and attorney for the Pittsburgh Mining Company. Mr. Settle is interested in coal and quartz mines, and in various town lots.

D. L. SMITH, of the firm of O'Hern & Smith, P.O. Fort Benton, son of Thomas and Lucy Smith, was born in Michigan in 1851. In 1870 he moved to Dakota, and there was employed by the government for seven years; then he proceeded to Fort Ellis with a government train. After a few months at that post, he moved to Helena, and was there engaged in freighting until 1880; in which year he joined Mr. O'Hern in the management of the Teton river ranch.

HERBERT SMITH M. D., P. O. Choteau a graduate of the University of Edinburgh, Scotland, came to the United States, in 1872, and during the intervening years until 1879 he practiced medicine, and carried on the drug business in North and South Carolina and in Tennessee. In later years he came to Montana and established himself in the drug business and the practice of medicine at Fort Shaw, and also at Fort Benton until 1882, when he went to the Old Agency, where he discharged the several duties of doctor, lawyer justice of the peace and school teacher. Dr. Smith is owner of the noted Hot Springs, situated on the North Fork of Sun river. He is also interested in the raising of horses and in ranching.

JARED SMITH, ranchman, P. O. Fort Benton, was born at New London, Conn., in 1830. After leaving school he began railroading, which he followed until twenty-two years of age. In 1850 he went to Hangtown- mined here, Eldorado and Trinity until 1864. He then went to Wallula and opened a hotel, which he kept for one year- sold out and came to Montana in the fall of 1865. Here he had charge of pack trains running through from Helena to Opher Blackwood City, Fort Maginnis, Elk city and Bear Gulch. This occupation he followed until the summer of 1866; then went to Helena, where he wintered. Here he was engaged in building bridges in Prickly Pear canyon- he hunted wolves, for every hide of which he obtained $2.50 in gold. From here Mr. Smith went to the coal banks, mining one summer; was engaged in the wood business for four years and made twenty thousand dollars out of it. In 1870 he went to Manitoba, trading with Indians and hunting wolves, for five years; then moved to Highwood and located a ranch, where he is now engaged in farming. Mr. Smith built the first ferry at Fort Benton. lie was elected justice of the peace in 1874. Mr. Smith is interested in mines in the Barker district.

SAMUEL SPENCER, ranchman, was born March 6 1836, in Middlesex Co., Can., where he was engaged in farming until twenty years old; then removing to the United States. he located near Lockport, Ill. After six months spent in farm work, he went to Arkansas and was employed one winter in a saw mill. He sub sequentially resided in Illinois and Minnesota, but finally returned to the south. Upon the breaking out of the war of the rebellion he went back to Canada. In 1871 he went to Manitoba and engaged in driving cattle to the United States, purchasing them at Winnipeg and driving them to Chestnut valley. In 1879 he came to Montana and began to drive cattle from Oregon to Sun river, and has also engaged in driving cattle in Upper Montana and stationing them on the Marias. Here he located a ranch in July, 1881, and has since carried on stock-raising. He married Miss Maria Koeh, of Canada, in March, 1879. Mr. Spencer owns considerable property in Manitoba.

W. S. STOCKING, was born March 15, l837, at Grand Rapids, Mich., and spent his early years in that state. In 1860, after having resided three years at Grand Traverse, Mich., he emigrated to California and for two years was engaged in mining. In 1866 he located at Fort Benton, Mont., and opened a meat market, which he managed five years. He brought his family to this place from Camp Cook, in the spring of 1867 traveling over eighty miles on the ice and suffering greatly from intense cold. Mr. Stocking located a ranch on Teton, where for over seventeen years he has been engaged in farming and stock-raising. In January, 1865, he married Miss Margaret Uhle. of Louisville, Ky., and they have two children, Lulu and John J. Mrs. Stocking is the only survivor of the women who came to Benton In 1867. Mr. Stocking was one of the first commissioners appointed for Choteau county, and was also a member of the first grand jury in Benton. In 1872 he planted the first fruit trees in Choteau, and had in 1868 threshed the first grain on the Teton. He built a public hall in 1883. He is principally engaged in farming and the management of his real estate in town, which consists of numerous stores and residences.

JERE SULLIVAN, proprietor of the Choteau House at Fort Benton, Mont., was born at Mill Street, County Cork, Ireland, March 4 1842, and emigrated with his parents to Dunville, Canada, in 1849. In 1860 he engaged in the grain trade at Buffalo, N. Y., and Chicago, Ill., and in 1864 visited St. Louis, where he engaged with his brother-in-law, building contractor Chapman. In 1866 he proceeded up the river to Cow Island, and went through with a bull train to Helena, M. T. After spending the fall of that year in mining in Nelson's Gulch, he went to Sterling and assisted in building the ,first quartz, mill in the county. During the winter of 1866 he was at Helena, but left for Grizzly Gulch and the next autumn joined the Wind river expedition. Returning to Grizzly Gulch he worked two years for the M. M. & E. Co., and in 1868 prospected in the Silver creek district. He carried on mining at various points until the fall of 1874, when he established a restaurant at Fort Shaw. This he conducted until 1879, and in that year opened the Choteau House at Fort Benton, of which he has since been sole proprietor except in 1880-81, when Mr. Hill was associated with him. Mr. Sullivan is a member of the council, and is interested in real estate, ranches and mines. His marriage with Miss Mary Savage, of Benton, occurred November 29, 1880.

JOSEPH SULLIVAN, saddlery and harness, was born in 1857; at the age of fifteen learned the trade of saddlery and harness making with Wm. Davis, working for him five years. He traveled through various states, working at Bridgeport, Conn., one year; Stanford, Conn., four months; Rochester, N. Y., one year; Providence, R. I., one year; Boston, Mass., six months; New York city, two months. he then came west to Eau Claire, Wis., where he wintered. Then came to Bozeman, M. T., and worked at his trade six months- formed partnership with Mr. Goss and opened a shop at Deer Lodge, carrying on business one year. Firm then sold out and came to Fort Benton, August, 1881, and opened a saddlery and harness store. One year later Mr. Sullivan purchased Mr. Goss' interest. Since then has carried on the business alone and is doing well. Mr. Sullivan is interested in real estate, mines and stock.

JOHN W TANNAN, probate judge, Fort Benton, was born May 27, 1847, at Middleton, County Cork, Ireland and at the age of sixteen left for the United States. After landing in New York, he remained for some years in the northeastern states. Then came west, following various occupations in the territory. In 1870 he arrived at Fort Benton; in 1875 he practiced law in the local courts, and was elected probate judge in the fall of same year. This office he held until December, 1878. Declining renomination Mr. Tattan resumed his law practice, and in December, 1880, he was again elected probate judge; was also appointed clerk of district court and clerk and recorder of Choteau county. The last two offices he resigned in 1882. Judge Tattan was married in 1876, at Fort Benton, to Miss Alice Seifried, by whom he has two children, John J and Mary.

CHAS. THOMAS, Fort Conrad, was born in Cleveland Ohio, in 1843, but was reared in Louisville, Ky. In 1862 he came to Montana and spent the first winter at Fort Benton, subsequently visiting the northern coast of the country and returning by way of Idaho. He settled at Fort Monrad in 1881, where he is now engaged in ranching and lumbering.

R. S. TINGLEY was born at Marshall City, Illinois, December 25, 1841, and in 1846 located at Monroe, Wis. While in the Badger State he became more or less acquainted with Indian life and customs. In 1853 he removed to Iowa, and the six years following were spent among the numerous Indian tribes roaming along the Mississippi and Missouri rivers. His time was variously occupied, generally at hunting and trapping. Going up the Missouri river and crossing the mountains, he met with nearly all the Indian tribes ranging the adjacent country, and became familiar with them while hunting over the same territory. The winter of 1862 was spent mostly at Bannack, then the only mining camp of any particular note in this region. Gold had previously been discovered, however, on Gold creek, and Mr. Tingley assisted in opening the first gold mine in the territory, subsequently known as Pioneer Gulch. He was appointed deputy under the first sheriff elected in the territory, and at the mouth of the Rattlesnake arrested Henry Plummer, Buck Stinson and Charley Reeves, the first road agents captured in Montana. He took them to Bannack City, where they were tried and acquitted, but they were afterward recaptured and condemned. Plummer and Stinson were hung, and Reeves departed for a less dangerous locality. In 1863 Mr. Tingley went to Virginia City (Alder Glulch), and was for a short time engaged in mining. Leaving that place, he again resumed his old occupation as a hunter, and passed a portion of the succeeding winter on the waters of the Yellowstone. He discovered gold on a creek now called Emigrant gulch, returned to Bevin's Gulch and thence to Silver Creek, a newly-discovered mining camp. Not meeting with success at that point, he entered the first ranch ever taken up in Prickly Pear valley, and for a number of years made hay for the Helena market. He was also, at the same time, engaged in freighting on the Benton and Helena road. He discontinued the latter business in 1869. and entered into the occupation of raising cattle and horses. He had, in 1867, built the " Twenty-eight Mile Ranch," where he had at various times considerable trouble with hostile Indians. January 23, 1870, the savages made the finishing stroke by setting fire to his entire premises, which were destroyed and himself and wife left destitute. They, indeed barely escaped with their lives, and proceeded on foot to Benton. The loss by this disaster, including buildings goods, etc., was $22,000. After remaining for some time at Benton, Mr. Tingley moved upon a ranch on Smith's river, where he again engaged in the live-stock business, and has continued it to the present time. He has had, during his residence in this region, several battles with the Indians which are not particularized. The United States government has received from him on contract large quantities of hay, wood, beef, cattle, etc. and has paid him for more or less transportation. In his engagements he has been uniformly successful. He has visited all the principal cities in the United States, and become acquainted with all classes of people, high and low. During the four years next preceding the time at which these notes were given he traveled over the Pacific states and territories, from the Aleutian Islands, Alaska, to San Blas, Mexico, and the islands in the Central Pacific ocean. During all the years he has been among the mountains he has considered Fort Benton as his head quarters, although he is largely interested in property in other states, and has journeyed to the far northern portions of inland North America. He has experienced as much of hardship and privation as falls to the lot of one man, and the detailed story of his life, with its exciting adventures among savage men and beasts, would be material for volumes. On the 22d of June, 1868, he married Miss Campbell, daughter of Major John Campbell, the founder of Fort Campbell, which was the first adobe fort built in this locality Their wedded life has been happy, and five children have been given them-viz: John J. now fifteen years of age; Oliver C., thirteen; Robert S. eleven; Ida Eloise, eight; and M. C., the youngest son, aged five Mr. Tingley's family are all church members. but he makes no profession of religion himself. He has a literary turn of mind, and has furnished various newspaper and magazine articles. For a man whose years are comparatively few, his life has had crowded into it so much of romance and adventure that it requires but a slight stretch of imagination to add double to the length of his days, and associate his experiences with those of the famous bordermen whose names were household words " years and years ago."

WILLIAM H. TODD, merchandise and real estate dealer. Mr. Todd is a native of Kentucky, and was born in 1843. In 1847 he moved with his parents to Independence, Mo., where he received a high school education, and at 15 years of age accepted a position in a printing office in Kansas, where he remained three years, afterward serving as clerk in a dry goods house at Kansas City. In the latter capacity he continued until the breaking out of the great civil war, when he enlisted and served until the close of the war in the Confederate army, after which he spent one summer in a dry goods house at Memphis, Tenn., and during the winter of 1875-76 was engaged with a dry goods firm at St. Louis, Mo. On the 18th of June, 1866, he landed at Fort Benton, M. T., soon after going to Helena, where he secured a position in a mercantile house and continued until the following fall, and was then employed by James R. Vivion to take a stock of goods to Highland gulch, where he remained until 1868 He then returned to Helena and obtained a position on the Rocky Mountain Gazett, remaining in that occupation until fall, when he accepted a position with Tootle, Leash & Co, and continued with them until 1869. He then bought an interest in the Deer Lodge Independent, but retiring from that business in the winter of 1869 returned to Helena and went into business with P. H. Rea. In 1870 he bought Mr. Rea's interest, and forming a partnership with Green Ervin, continued in business until the big fire of 1874, when they were burned out. They, however, resumed operations at once, and in April of the same year he sold out to Mr. Ervin, and accepted a position with the firm of Murphy, Neal & Co. at Carroll. He remained there until 1876, when the goods were moved to Benton and a branch house opened at that place. Mr. Todd continued in their employ until 1879 when he became a partner in the business. In 1881 he became interested in Benton as a dealer in real estate, which he still continues. In 1876 Mr. Todd was married to Miss Agustus E. Walker, of Louisiana, by whom he has one child.

ELLIS TRANUM, ranchman, Teton valley, P. O., Fort Benton, was born in Shelby Co., Ky, September 20, 1831; moved with his parents to Illinois, when a child, where he was educated. In 1850 he crossed the plains to California and engaged in the stock business near Sacramento City. In 1863 he went to Boise City, Idaho, and followed freighting there until 1865, when he proceeded to Helena, M. T., in charge of a bull train loaded with merchandise. Shortly after this he engaged in the stock business in Missoula county and also ran a pack-mule train. In later years he brought his cattle to the Sun River range, and none has a fine ranch in the Teton valley.

M. C . TRAVERS, of the firm of Hunsberger & Travers, proprietors of the Grand Union Hotel, at Fort Benton, M. T. was born in Ireland in- 1847 and came to the United States when 20 years of age He received an appointment as clerk in the commissary department of the United States army, and was stationed at St. Paul, Sioux City, Bismarck and Helena. In 1883 he settled at Benton and formed a partnership with S. Spitzley in the hotel business. Mr. S. sold his interest to John Hunsberger, otherwise there has been no change in the conduct of the hotel above named since Mr. Travers became one of the proprietors

FRANK TRUCH0T, P. O. Choteau, was born in France, November 21, l833; son of Herbert and Ann Truchot He remained in his native country, where he worked in vineyards until 19 years of age. After coming to the United States he worked for a while in New York, soon going to Cincinnati and Louisville and through Arkansas, Florida and Kansas, arriving in Utah in 1857, where he was for some time engaged in herding mules for the government. In 1859 he came into Deer Lodge Co, M. T., and followed trapping, hunting and trading with the Indians, but soon after embarked in the freighting business, and was the first to commence farming in the vicinity of Deer Lodge. Here he remained from 1864 till 1868 and then went to California. After spending one winter there our subject returned to Utah, where he bought a band of cattle, which he brought into Deer Lodge county, where he opened another farm and where he remained until 1874. He then came to the Dearborn river, herding cattle and horses, remaining there until 1881, at which time he took up his present ranch on the Teton, where he is now residing with his family, consisting of his wife and six children.

HIRAM D. UPHAM, P. O. Conrad, was born in Madison Co . N. Y., February 22, 1839; son of Hiram and Delphia Upham Before coming to Montana our subject had been for several years located at Coldwater Mich., engaged as collector of back, pay, bounties, pensions, etc.. and came to the territory in 1865 as clerk under Maj. Upton, who located here as Indian agent and died the year after his arrival. Mr. Upham con tinged to work as clerk under other agents until 1871, after which he acted as Indian trader for T. C. Powers & Co., through Choteau county and in the British possessions in vicinity of Ft. McLeod, for several years. In 1878 he became interested with Joe. Kip in general merchandise on the Marias river at Fort Conrad, they being also engaged in ranching and trading with the Indians, and he is now interested in the Dupuyer Ditch Co.

A. J. VANCE, 28-Mile Spring, stage station, was born in Adams Co.. Ill., May 15,1837. In 1878 he removed to Montana In the spring of 1880, located at 28-Mile Spring, near Benton. After carrying on the station for a short time, he sold his interest, but in September, 1883, again took charge of the station. He married Lydia Burns, of Harrison Co., Ky., in 1858, and has four children -Eva, Adelbert, Jennie and Edward. Mr. Vance, as a station-keeper, has always given satisfaction to travelers. In connection with the station he makes a specialty of taking parties to the Missouri Falls. Anyone wishing to go thither could not do better than to give him a call.

ROBERT VAUGHAN, Sun River, Mt., son of Edward and Elizabeth Vaughan, was born in Montgomeryshire, Wales, January 5, 1837, and came to the United States when twenty years old. He worked on a farm with his uncle, David Evans, at Palmira, O; afterward worked in coal mines at Youngstown, and two years later was engaged in oil wells in Ohio, O. Subsequently he farmed and mined in McLean Co., Ill., until 1864, when he came to Virginia City, M. T., and mined in Alder Gulch. In the fall of the same year, Mr. Vaughan came to Last Chance (now Helena), mined and opened a meat market at Nelson Gulch. In 1869 he located his present Sun River ranch, the first in that district, and the first that proved up land claim in Choteau county. His attention is given to raising fine horses and cattle, his brand being very favorably known. He served as county commissioner for one term, and in 1882 was nominated by the republicans as a representative

MILFORD S. WEARLEY P. O. Fort Benton, was born in Stark Co., O., January 21, 1849; son of S. T. and Barbara A. Wearley. In 1858 he moved with his parents to Indiana, where he remained engaged in farming until 1866, when he went to Dakota territory, and was there employed by the government until 1869 as wagon master and master of transportation. He next engaged with Danforth & Johnson at their trading post as Indian interpreter, remaining there some eight months, after which he worked several months for James Webb, a government contractor. He next served Paxton & Morrow herding cattle about three months, after which he went to Fort Sully and again worked for Mr. Webb several months. He was next engaged as guide for Colonel Mayberry on his trip from the mouth of Medicine creek to Dirt Lodges, on the Jim river, in Dakota territory; from there he again went to Fort Sully. where he remained a short time, then going to Bismarck where he worked for three months for Papinau Duchon; then went on the expedition to the mouth of Powder river in 1872, and in 1873 went on expedition to Fort Rice; was also with the expedition to the Black Hills, and in 1875 came to Fort Benton, where he has since been engaged discharging faithfully the duties assigned to him, and gaining the confidence and respect of the various people whom he has served.

W. S. WETZEL, general merchant, was born in Perry Co., Pennsylvania, January 3, 1843. In 1853 he went to Girard, Ohio, where he resided with his parents two years. In 1855 he removed with his father and family to Burlington, Iowa, and remained with his parents until August 12, 1862, when he enlisted in the 25th Regiment of Iowa Infantry, and served through the war in the Army of the Tennessee He was mustered out by reason of expiration of term of service, having served as company clerk during the whole time, and took part in all the battles and skirmishes in which the regiment was engaged. He returned home to New London, Iowa, June 10, 1865, and in 1866 went to Helena, M. T. where he followed mining and other pursuits of labor until February 20, 1868, when he went to Fort Benton and entered into partnership with R. R. Mills in a restaurant. After two months he sold out to Mr. Mills. In September, 1868, he bought a bakery and grocery with Mr. H. E. Bond, and continued in that business until May, 1870, when he sold the business and visited his parents and relatives in Iowa. Returning to Benton in December, 1870 he bought a half interest with Mr. J. D. Weatherwax in bakery, grocery and liquors He (Wetzel) conducted the business in Benton, and Mr. Weatherwax opened a trading post with the Indians in the northwest territories. In 1873 Mr. Wetzel bought the liquor stock of I. G. Baker & Co., and T. C. Power &; Bro., and opened a wholesale liquor business, which he carried on successfully until 1875, when he established a general merchandise store with Mr. Weatherwax and continued in business with him until April, 1880, when he bought Mr. Weatherwax's interest in the stock, and has continued in business to the present. Mr. Wetzel served two terms as county commissioner and is now chairman of the board. He owns a large lot of the finest real estate in Fort Benton In 1875 he married Maggie Simons, who was born in Leavenworth, Kan., and has three children-Pearl, 7 years old; Daisy, 5 years, and William S. Jr, 3 years old He owns one fourth interest in the Grand Union hotel, in Fort Benton, the largest and finest hotel in Montana.

J. W. WHEELOCK, M.D., Fort Benton, born in Erie Co., N. Y., July 31, 1831; moved to Burlington, IA, in his youth With his parents, and there attended school for some years. Subsequently he moved to Keokuk, IA, where he made his home until 1851, when he made the overland journey to California, wintering at Fort Bridlger. On his return he studied medicine under Dr. Sanford, of Keokuk; next attended the medical school of the Iowa University for two years, when he received his diploma and entered on the duties of his profession at Iowaville. Subsequently be practiced at Sidney, IA, and in 1862 enlisted in the 29th Iowa Vol. Inf., with which command he served a short time when he was discharged for disability. On returning he attended lectures at Keokuk. In 1864 he reenlisted in the army and was commissioned assistant surgeon. He was mustered out in April, 1866, when he returned to Sidney; then practiced for one year at Nebraska City, when he crossed the plains to Helena, M. T., where he was engaged in mining for two years. Coming east he practiced for three and a half years at Yankton, Dak. In 1872 he returned to Helena and was engaged in farming and mining until 1876. From 1876 to 1878 he practiced medicine at Butte; came to Benton in the fall of 1878, in which city he has built up a lucrative practice. Dr. Wheelock was married to Miss Kttie Argyle, at Sidney, Ia.; April 18, 1859. This lady died March 25, 1861. On June 6, 1869, his marriage with Miss M. Vivion, of Helena, was solemnized.

A. H. WILKINS, ranchman on the Teton, P. O. Fort Benton, was born in Minnesota. In 1872 he went to the Canadian Northwest, and in 1873 came to Montana with his father, passing one year on the Marias river, and for some years afterward he assisted his father in keeping the stage station on the B. & H. road . This station his father traded for his present ranch on the Teton, where they have since been engaged in agriculture and stock raising.

GEORGE M. WOODS, ranchman, son of Patrick and Eliza Woods, was born at St. Joseph, Mo., December 25, 1854. His father came to Virginia City in 1864. Mr. George Woods, with his brother Allen, accompanied him. Their father engaged in mining at Last Chance Gulch and Prickly Pear Valley, and in the latter located a ranch and began farming, also having a dairy in connection. Here George and Allen assisted him for six years. At Last Chance Gulch provisions became very scarce. Flour was sold at $1 a sack; no grain was to be obtained; all the cattle died except one, this one being kept alive by eating bread. At Prickly Pear the elder Woods bought a wagon load of potatoes from Joe Wilson for sixteen cents a pound, and after cutting the eyes out sold them for fifty and sixty cents per pound. Mr. George Woods, after leaving Prickly Pear, bought a farm in the Missouri valley near Readersburg, and remained upon it six years, dividing his time between that place and Helena After this he took up the study of law with the firm of Wolfolk & Ballard. He removed to Butte in 1878, remaining two years- then with his father engaged in placer mining; sold out after a short time. Mr. Woods, accompanied by his brother Allen, came to Highwood, located a ranch, and is now engaged in agricultural pursuits. They also carry on a dairy, selling most of their products in Benton. Mr. Allen Woods married, December 6, 1880, Miss Alzory Woodswiss, of Ontario, and had two children, Harry and George.

JOHN WREN, P. O. Choteau, was born in Lancaster Co., Pa., December 27, 1824;