Knights of Pythias – North Dakota Genealogy

Biography of Herman Winterer of Valley City North Dakota

Herman Winterer, born on January 1, 1857, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, pursued a successful career as a lawyer despite humble beginnings. After completing his education at the University of Minnesota and the University of Iowa, he settled in Valley City, North Dakota, in 1883. Initially partnering with Judge Seth Mills, Winterer quickly established himself as a capable lawyer. He held the position of state’s attorney for Barnes County and declined several judicial positions. Besides his legal work, Winterer actively participated in various organizations and served as the president of the Game and Fish Board of Control for North Dakota. He married Emma A. Myrick in 1887, and they had four children.

Biography of Frank Squier Talcott of Buffalo Township ND

Frank Squire Talcott, a successful farmer in Buffalo Township, Cass County, North Dakota, has been actively involved in the community since his arrival in 1881. Born in New York City in 1863, Talcott came from English ancestry with connections to revolutionary figures and the development of Massachusetts. He received education from prestigious institutions and later engaged in various public roles, including chairman of the Board of Supervisors, member of the School Board, and State Senator. Talcott’s work focused on education, and he actively participated in numerous fraternal organizations. He married Agnes W. Thompson, and together they have four children. Talcott’s strong Republican beliefs align with his family heritage and personal convictions.

Biography of E. Y. Sarles of Hillsboro ND

E. Y. Sarles, the ninth governor of North Dakota, was born in Wonewoc, Wisconsin, on January 15, 1859. He received his education in Wisconsin and worked in the banking and lumber business with his brother. Sarles organized several banks and currently serves as vice president and director of the First National Bank of Northwood, North Dakota. He has a prominent role in various organizations and is a Mason, an Elks Lodge Exalted Ruler, and a Knight of Pythias. His family includes his wife Anna York Sarles and their children Earle R., Duane York, Doris York Sarles, and Eleanor.

Biography of James Arnold Canniff of Grand Forks, North Dakota

James Arnold Canniff, of Grand Forks, North Dakota, was born in Ontario, Canada, November 5, 1868. His parents were Thomas O. and Elizabeth J. Canniff. He was educated in the schools of Grand Forks, and commenced business in 1885, succeeding T. C. Canniff, in the wall paper, paint and oil business. He was elected alderman of Grand Forks, in 1896, and served nine years. He served as chairman of the Republican County Central Committee in 1904-5. He is a member of the Elks, Knights of Pythias, and Odd Fellows. On June 17, 1893, Mr. Canniff was married at Grand Forks, … Read more

Biography of Ole Bolstad of Northwood, North Dakota

Ole Bolstad, who is a successful dentist in active practice at Northwood, North Dakota, was born at Ringsaker, Norway, October 3, 1875, son of Ole L. and Thonethe Bolstad. They were farmers in their native country, being poor tenants till they immigrated to America in 1880. They arrived at Philadelphia, July 4, that year, and from there went to Richland county, North Dakota. Our subject lived on the farm with his parents, received the rudiments of his education at the district school, which was supplemented by a course at the Mayville Normal, and a two year scientific course at the … Read more

Biography of Hon. Alfred Blaisdell of Minot, North Dakota

Hon. Alfred Blaisdell, born October 29, 1875, in Fairmont, Minnesota, was the Secretary of State of North Dakota. He graduated from Fairmont High School in 1894 and the University of Minnesota in 1898 with a Bachelor of Science, later studying law at the same university. Blaisdell’s legal career began in Fargo and led to a partnership with ex-State’s Attorney Hanchett in Minot in 1900. Politically active, he served as U.S. Commissioner in Minot and held various committee roles. Blaisdell married Grace P. Emmons in 1908, and his administration was noted for efficient state department reforms. He was involved in multiple social organizations, including the Masonic Order and the Order of Elks.

Biography of William John Bailey of Inkster, North Dakota

William John Bailey, lumber dealer, of Inkster, North Dakota, was born December 11, 1854, at Toronto, Canada. His parents, Alexander and Susan Bailey, were both natives of County Monaghan, Ireland. They came to Toronto, in 1840. His father was a carpenter by trade. William J. was educated in the schools of Toronto, Canada, and came to Euclid, Minnesota, in 1881, and engaged in the lumber business; in 1883 and 1884, he operated a sash and door factory, at Crookston, Minnesota. In 1884, he removed to North Dakota, and began his present business at Inkster. He is a member of the … Read more