Ainsworth, the county seat of Brown County, is situated on the Elkhorn Valley Railroad, 260 miles from Omaha. The town was platted and the station built in 1882. In 1883 the town was organized and a city charter obtained. Since then its growth has been steady and healthy, keeping pace with the growth of the surrounding country. Never having suffered from a "boom" it has never had a "set back," but as the pre-eminent natural advantages of a rich soil and genial climate have attracted permanent settlement of the surrounding country, the town has grown to meet their requirements The large brick schoolhouse was built in 1885. It is a union school of four grades. The high school course prepares for admission into college. There are two churches, the Congregationalist and Methodist. Secret societies are represented by lodges of the Masons, Odd Fellows, Knights of Pythias, Good Templars and Modern Woodmen. There are two grain elevators, with a capacity of 30,000 bushels and a seventy-five-barrel steam flouring mill. Our water works were put in last year and furnish an abundance of the best and purest water for domestic and fire purposes, and electric lights are to come in the near future. Our creamery furnishes a market for the farmers' milk, and the people with gilt edge butter. For the year ending June 30, 1892, there have been shipped from this station 544 car loads of small grains, mostly wheat. 197 car loads of hogs and cattle. Besides this there has been shipped from here a large quantity of hay, flax seed, flour and onions. The total freight, "in" and "out," averages about 2,250,000 pounds monthly. These figures are the growth in ten years, from nothing.

REPRESENTATIVE BUSINESS FIRMS AND MEN OF AINSWORTH.

     AINSWORTH STATE BANK.--This bank was organized August. 1889, and from the start has done a large and substantial business, which is drawn from the best city and suburban custom. The capital is $50,000. F. B. Tiffany, president, resides at Omaha, Nebraska. J. B. Finney, vice president, is well-known here in the milling and lumber business. C. G. Alton, cashier, the gentleman upon whose shoulders devolves the management, was born in New York. He has been six years banking and is prominently identified with the Masons and K. of P. He has shown much skill as cashier. F. A. Pennell is assistant cashier. The bank is committed to a wise and conservative policy, and unquestionably ranks among the financial institutions of the western States.

     THE OSBORNE has been established three years and does a highly flourishing business. The sleeping apartments are well ventilated, lighted and heated for the easy accommodation of numerous guests. The spacious dining hall will seat 150 persons. The cuisine is strictly first-class. Mrs. Nannie J. Osborne, the enterprising proprietress, was the first lady settler in this city and section. She makes a model hotel proprietress and is replete with tact and fine qualifications. Commercial trade a specialty, for whom are provided good sample rooms.

     W. F. CLEVENGER, County Clerk, Ex-officio Register of Deeds and Clerk of the District Court. The popular county clerk, Mr. W. F. Clevenger, is a native of Indiana and is serving his first term, which he has done with satisfaction to the people. He was formerly county treasurer for two terms. Mr. Clevenger has lived in the county nine years. He is a Master Mason, an I. O. O. F. and a G. A. R. man, having served in the 48th Iowa Infantry. He is very worthy of the success he has attained in life and of the esteem in which he is held by the entire community.

     W. H. MAGILL Sheriff, Brown County.--In writing the descriptive accounts of Ainsworth, we must not omit mention of W. H. Magill, the county sheriff. He is a native of New York and is serving his second term as sheriff. He has lived ten years in the county and formerly served sixteen years in the army. Mr. Magill as county sheriff has shown great ability. Quick, active and fearless, he has at the same time a pleasant and affable manner and is ever prompt in attending to his duties.

     WILLIAM B. ELY, M. D.--Was born in Connecticut and was raised in New York State, where he lived twenty years, twelve of which he practiced. He graduated in medicine from Ann Arbor in 1878, and has lived at Ainsworth four years. He is a Mason and K. P. He is a member of the Rochester Pathological. Society. He is a gentleman of thorough reliability and is considered the best physician in this county.

     C. F. BARNES, P. M.--Among the useful and well-known men in Ainsworth is C. F. Barnes, the city postmaster. He has been two years postmaster and has filled the position in a thoroughly conscientious manner. He was born in Wisconsin and served during the war in the 5th Wisconsin Infantry. He belongs to the G. A. R. He is a Mason and has lived eight years in Brown County. Mr. Barnes, as postmaster, has eminently shown himself to be the right man in the right place. He is the
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choice of the government and the choice of the people.

     J. F. WYVEL, Hardware --Among the leading enterprises to be found in Ainsworth is J. F. Wyvel's, founded seven years. The premises are commodious, 24x40 feet in extent, with numerous additions. He deals in shelf and heavy hardware, stoves, tinware, ammunition and guns. He is also agent for the Domestic and Wheeler & Wilson sewing machines and Glidden barb wire. The assortment of goods is varied and complete; best in quality and moderate in price. Mr. Wyvel was born in Pennsylvania and is chairman of the city council. He has long been prominent in local trade circles, where he is regarded as a representative and deservedly successful merchant.

     L. K. ALDER, Lawyer. Office in Henarie Building.--L. K. Alder is a native of Ohio and came here from Iowa, where he was admitted in the year 1875, in which he graduated from the law department of the State University of Iowa. He does an exclusive law business, and, with the extended experience and abilities he possesses, the many cases placed in his hands have received the best care and attention.

     Z. T. FUNK. General Merchandise.--A prosperous mercantile establishment here is Z. T. Funk's, founded eight years. The premises occupied are large and commodious and well suited for the transaction of the large business. A heavy assortment of general merchandise is carried, all goods sold being of superior quality and moderate prices. Mr. Funk has also another establishment at Norden, Neb. He was born in Pennsylvania and belongs to the G. A. R. By his courtesy and fair dealing, he has come to control a lucrative trade and stands high in the estimation of the community.

     H. O. PAINE, Real Estate, Loans and Insurance.--One of the leading businesses in Ainsworth is that of H. O. Paine, established six years, which from the start has had a rapid and substantial growth. All descriptions of city and suburban realty are bought, sold and rented, and a general collection business is done. Money to any desired amount is loaned on real estate or personal property. In the insurance department numerous standard companies are represented, the combined assets of which aggregate many millions. Mr. Paine was born in Wisconsin. He is a member of the G. A. R. and served in the 41st Wisconsin Infantry. He is full of push and enterprise and is foremost for everything tending to help the city or county.

     J. M. KINGERY, Real Estate and Loan Agent --A prominent city enterprise in its branch of activity is J. M. Kingery's, established seven years, successor to Kingery & Haller. City and suburban property is handled and rented, and Mr. Kingery has constantly very fine bargains to offer. Money is loaned on real estate or personal property, at long or short time. Mr. Kingery also is an abstracter of titles. He was born in Illinois and is a Mason.

     W. M. DAVISON, Central Meat Market. The Central Meat Market has been founded seven years. The premises are 22x40 feet in extent, and are well suited to the business. Mr. Davison is an extensive dealer in fresh and salt meats, game, poultry, fish, hides and fur. He is also a stock dealer and feeder. He was born in New Jersey and is an I. O. O. F. He is well worthy of his success as also is he of the confidence reposed in him.

     B. C. BEAUMONT, Pharmacist.--This popular drug store was established in 1884 by A. B. Lathrop, Mr. Beaumont succeeding to the business in 1891. The premises are 24x60 feet, and amply suited for the transaction of the large business. The varied and complete stock carried consists of drugs, proprietary medicines, toilet and fancy articles, sponges, etc., all of which are sold at prices consistent with fair dealing. Mr. Beaumont came here from Indiana and is an I. O. O. F. He is popular in social and business circles and is full of push and enterprise.

     G. A. FARMAN. Drugs.--A popular Ainsworth drug establishment is that of G. A. Farman. The spacious premises are 25x50 feet in extent. The stock carried consists of pure and fresh drugs and chemicals, reputable proprietary medicines, toilet articles, sponges, brushes, soaps, etc. Mr. Farman is a native of Iowa and has had ten years' experience in the business. He has been the architect of his own fortune and is fully worthy of the esteem in which he is held by all.

     AINSWORTH HOUSE, W. H. Orcutt, Proprietor.--This well conducted and liberally patronized hotel has been founded nine years and it is one of the best hotels in the West. Runners attend all trains; good sample rooms. It is entirely new and furnished throughout in first-class style. The rooms are large and the appointments are first-class in every particular. The tables are supplied with every delicacy and substantial the market affords. Mr. W. H. Orcutt, proprietor, was born in Wyoming County, Pennsylvania, and is a fine sample of the great West's earliest pioneers. He belongs to the G. A. R. and served in the 2d Colorado Infantry, He is an extensive dealer in hard and soft coal. He is a Mason (Scottish rite 33d degree); also belongs to the Oriental Order of the Palm and Shell. He is justly popular in the capacity of "mine host" of the Ainsworth House.

ALBION.

     Albion is located on the Albion line of the Fremont, Elkhorn & Missouri Valley Railroad, which is a part of the great Chicago & Northwestern system. It is also the terminus of the Albion branch of the Union Pacific, being the only competing point in Boone County. It is only twenty-two hours from Chicago, and has rapid and direct communication with the coal fields of Wyoming, the lumber regions of Wisconsin and Minnesota, and the grain markets of Omaha, St. Louis, Denver and Chicago. Albion is the county seat of Boone County, Nebraska, and is centrally located in the county, in the fertile valley of Beaver Creek, about twenty-five miles above its junction with the Loup River. This thriving little city, with a population of 1,500 souls, has within its borders, doing a good business, three banks, with an aggregate capital of $125,000 and deposits of $175,000, five general stores with stocks from $10 000 to $50,000, several grocery, hardware, clothing and fancy stores, three drug houses, four grain and stock dealers, four dealers in agricultural implements, two large stocks of lumber, two jewelry stores, four hotels, one furniture store, and various minor business houses, harness, millinery. etc.
      Albion has three newspapers, representing different politics, all of them ably edited, well managed and well patronized, by both advertiser 3 and subscribers.
     The various professions are numerously and ably represented. Five churches are well supported, and cared for by zealous and successful ministers. The Albion bar takes high rook for integrity and ability. Two physicians, both of the allopathic school, are all that Albion can boast: and it would seem as though there was already room for more without discounting the increased population which is sure to come soon to this comparatively sparsely settled county. A well qualified homeopathic physician can certainly find a good practice here, although the purity of the water, the excellent drainage, the entire absence of malaria, and freedom from epidemic diseases are productive of such general health as to constitute a great discouragement to physicians.
     Albion has an excellent system of water works which affords ample fire protection to the business portion and more than half the residence portion of the town, and is to be extended in the near future to include the remainder.
     The town has an excellent system of public schools, including a high school which fits students for the State University. The school building is built according to the latest designs, combining beauty. convenience and sanitary objects, and would be a credit to a town of much greater wealth. Its cost was $22,500.
     Among the fraternities represented by flourshing lodges are the Free Masons, United Workmen, Women's Relief Corps, Good Templars and Modern Woodmen. Albion has also one of the best silver cornet bands in the State and a fine orchestra, and all the churches have excellent choirs. All in all, the social advantages of the town are equal to those of many eastern towns of twice its population and four times its age.

BEAVER CREEK.

     The Beaver Creek is really a small river. It furnishes reliable water power, capable of development at a moderate cost. There is an excellent opening for another roller mill, a paper mill, a beet sugar plant, oatmeal mill, canning factory. starch factory and for various other industries that could use the water privileges.

AS A BUSINESS LOCATION

Albion offers the inducement that if any business becomes too crowded, the natural growth of the county, from the settlement of vacant lands, soon affords relief. As a residence location it offers the inducements of cheap properties, economical living, friendly, enterprising and intelligent neighbors, in a town and county whose best days are in the future.

BOONE COUNTY.

ALBION, THE COUNTY SEAT.

     Boone County is located just one hundred miles west of the Missouri River in that matchless section of Nebraska known as the North Platte region. The soil of this county is of unquestioned fertility, and when the B. & M. Railroad Company entered it, for the purpose of selecting land to complete their government grant. they found it a country of surpassing beauty and wondrous possibilities.
     It was not in the line of travel of the old "Pathfinder," on his way to the Pacific Slope, nor on the emigrant's trail to the mountains of the West. Neither has any coast-bound railroad passed through its borders, and for these reasons it was not so soon or speedily developed as some of the other counties. Its resources however are not surpassed by any of the older or more densely populated sections of the State, as will be seen by the statistics given in these pages.
     The county contains nineteen townships of land, equal to about 685 square miles of territory, or 437,000 acres in round numbers. Fully four-fifths of this vast area has never been broken by the plow, and not more than one-third is occupied by actual settlers. More than 300,000 acres of as fertile land as ever the sun shone on is yet virgin prairie sod, and only waits the coming of the sturdy farmer to yield its wealth in golden grain The surface is a black alluvial soil, possessed of wondrous productive capabilities, underlaid with a porous clayey subsoil. This subsoil is of that peculiar formation which absorbs a large amount of moisture in wet weather only to yield it forth again in the drier season.

     Two streams upon whose banks are numerous fine water powers course their way from the northwest to southeast; of these the Cedar River in the southwestern section of the county is the largest. The Beaver is a rapidly flowing stream of clear sparkling water, running the entire distance across the county from the northwest to southeast. Either of these streams is capable of furnishing power enough to run a number of mills and factories all the year round. Numerous tributaries flow down from the adjacent table lands where stock raising as well as farming constitute a notable element of the farmer's income.
     The valleys are rich and wide, and alternate with gentle rolling fertile table lands, and the whole is admirably adapted to the growth of all cereal products known to a temperate climate.
     The native grasses of this truly favored region, of which there are more than twenty varieties, grow luxuriantly and are exceedingly nutritious. Cattle herded on the plains during the summer months, without the aid of corn or other grain, thrive and fatten on these grasses, and are driven home in the fall sleek and fat. Domestic grasses. such as timothy, clover, bluegrass, etc., are grown with absolute certainty of success and yield even more abundantly than the native varieties.
     No country is better adapted to stock raising than this. There are several large ranches in Boone County where hundreds of cattle are fattened and sold each year. The farmer on his homestead finds no surer and remunerative way of increasing his capital than the raising of hogs and cattle for which there is always a ready market. In short, every thing that makes farming pay in this latitude can be raised in this one of the best counties of the State. Herewith is given the number of acres of the several crops raised in Boone County during the year 1891, and the average yield of each per acre, as follows:

     The foregoing can be relied upon as correct averages though numerous well attested instances are known where oats yielded 75 bushels per acre and wheat 30 bushels per acre.
     The prices paid for farm products will compare favorably with localities farther east, being but very little lower than in the older settled States.
     There are 65 miles of railroad within the county. made up of two branch lines of the Union Pacific system, and one of the Chicago and Northwestern Railroad, bringing within easy reach market and transportation facilities for the people of the whole county. There are in this county nine stations on these two lines of road, with stock and grain dealers at each one, who are always ready to pay the highest market prices for all the products of the farm.
     The following were the actual prices paid in the Albion markets on the 2nd day of October, 1891, for the articles named:

     A little computation from the foregoing tables will show that it is possible to pay for a farm costing from $10 to $12 per acre with this year's crop of wheat, rye, oats, corn or flax.
     Convenient mail facilities are afforded the people in all parts of Boone County by 17 different postoffices.
     There are in the county 69 organized school districts requiring the services of 82 teachers to maintain them. Boone County takes no second rank with any other county in the State in its educational facilities, the school houses are comfortable and commodious, and the people look to it that none but live, energetic, competent instructors are employed. The last school census shows that there are in these 69 districts more than 3,000 children of school age.

THE OMAHA MARKETS

     Furnish an outlet for Nebraska grown cattle and hogs, and is to the Nebraska farmer what Chicago is to Illinois and Indiana, and Pittsburg to western Pennsylvania and eastern Ohio.
     There are in the county six banks with an aggregate capital of $175,000. and deposits of twice that amount, a large share of which is held by the farmers, some of whom came here in the early history of the county. and by industry and prudent management have become independent.
     Boone County was organized in 1871 with only a few hundred people. In 1880 there were 4,000 inhabitants within her borders and the census of 1890 showed nearly 9,000, and there is abundant room for 20,000 more to find homes, and still be no more densely populated than the average county of the Eastern States. Neither the county nor the towns within it have ever been "boomed" by real estate owners or town site proprietors, and real estate values have never been inflated beyond their actual worth. The history of the county shows a steady and permanent development from its organization to the present time.

GOOD BUSINESS LOTS

     In any of the towns can be had at prices ranging from $200 to $600; while large residence lots are sold at from $100 to $250 each.

FARM LANDS

     Sell at from $5 to $15 per acre for wild land and at $15 to $35 per acre for cultivated and improved farms. Prices depend largely upon proximity to market and upon the amount and value of improvements.

THE WILD LAND

     Was originally railroad, land patented by the government direct to the B. & M. Railroad, and sold to purchaser at $2 to $3.50 per acre. These are among the best lands in the county and only need to be broken up and cultivated to yield as bountiful returns as any of the improved farms. A portion of these lands is owned by non-residents and can be purchased at the same price as other wild lands of equal value.
      Nearly 2,000 quarter sections of wild land need as many farmers to settle in Boone County, and convert the land into comfortable and happy homes, The land is here and is within reach of men with moderate capital. Persons having $1500 to *5 000 ready money cannot invest it more safely and be assured of a more paying income. We invite inspection, believing that an impartial examination of the advantages offered in Boone County will satisfy the man in search of a farm and a home that no better opportunities are offered anywhere in the West. To the over crowded sections of the East, and especially to the young and energetic farmer who has no hope of securing a farm home except as the result of years of toil and rigid economy, we say come to Boone County and secure a farm whose productive capabilities are not surpassed by the old homestead and whose cost will in many cases be less than half you would have to pay for the same quantity and quality of land where you now are. Of course if you buy wild land you will need a house, but a small one will do to begin with, and it can be enlarged and other improvements added as you make the money out of the land. It has been done by men now living here, and what they have done, you can do.
     In all the twenty years of its history Boone County has. never had a failure of crops. No rain and but little snow, as a rule, falls in the winter season, but from March to October there is an abundance of moisture to perfectly mature all products of the farm. Only come and see for yourselves and we have no fears of the result. Any of the real estate men whose names and residences are given in these pages will cheerfully show you the country free of charge upon your arrival in the county.
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      The above is taken from a book recently issued from the press of the NEWS, and we consider it as complete and correct a showing as could be published on the county and Albion.

REPRESENTATIVE BUSINESS FIRMS AND MEN OF ALBION.

     THE ALBION NATIONAL BANK--Dates back its inception to May, 1882, when it was started as Thompson & Baker's bank, being reorganized as a National bank, Nov. 1889. Capital $50,000. A highly prosperous general banking business is transacted and the yearly crinease (sic) in its volume shows the steady popularity of the bank. M. B. Thompson, president, is a native of New York. and has been a banker since 1876. He is one of the State's pioneer settlers, where he has lived twenty years. Loran Clark, vice president, is a native of Vermont, and is well-known in the grain business here. W. Baker, cashier, is a native of New York and has been in the bank ten years. D. V. Blatter, assistant cashier, is from Ohio.

     LORAN CLARK. Grain.--A prominent enterprise in its important branch of commercial activity is that of Mr. Loran Clark, who has been well-known here seventeen years. He does an extensive grain trade and is proprietor of the U. P. Steam Elevator. The facilities Mr. Clark has for successfully conducting the business are of an unusually complete character, whereby he is enabled to offer his numerous customers advantages difficult, if not impossible, to duplicate. He is a native of Vermont and is a Mason. Mr. Clark has resided here over twenty years. He started in general merchandise in 1872, when the county had been settled but one year. He is vice president of the Albion National Bank.

     F. J. MACK & CO., Retail Lumber Dealers.--The large lumber business of F. J. Mack & Co. affords our numerous readers one of the most gratifying examples of a successful and ably conducted concern. They are successors to Loran Clark & Co., who were for many years here in the lumber business. The firm enjoys direct transportation facilities, and can quote low prices for all kinds of hard and soft wood lumber. They are authorities in this branch of trade, Mr. F. J. Mack being a native of that section of Ohio where the lumbering interests are very extensive. He has lived in this county eight years, and is a K. P. This firm has ever retained the confidence of leading commercial circles, developing a solid trade upon a strictly legitimate basis of supply and demand.

     OBLINGER & HETZLER, Groceries, Crockery, Queensware. Glassware. Etc.--Among the most popular business men to be found in Albion are Messrs. Oblinger & Hetzler, who have been established since 1880. The premises occupied are large and commodious 24x80 feet. The stock of merchandise carried is large, embracing. as it does a full and complete assortment of staple and fancy groceries. teas, coffees, spices, canned goods, country produce, etc., and a full line of crockery, queensware, glassware. etc. The proprietors are natives of Ohio. They execute all orders in the promptest and most satisfactory manner. They are gentlemen whose careers bear evidence of their strict integrity and sterling personal worth.

     H. M. BRONSON, Agricultural Implements, Seeds, Etc.--In compiling an industrial review of this progressive and prosperous city, we specially note H. M. Bronson's, founded twelve years. The spacious and well-appointed premises are 44x72 feet in extent. Two to four hands are constantly employed. Mr. Bronson deals in agricultural implements, iron and wood pumps, windmills, wagons, buggies, garden and field seeds, sewing machines, etc. He also is manufacturer of Bronson's celebrated woven wire picket fence, which he is constantly

shipping in large quantities to all parts. Mr. Bronson is a native of New York, and is a Mason. He has lived here since the spring of 1880, when he left New York. He is an active man, long prominent and esteemed as among the foremost city merchants.

     E. W. GUNTHER. General Merchant, Opera House Store.--This mammoth business was founded in 1880 by Gunther Bros.. E. W. Gunther succeeding to the business on the first of July, 1889. The premises occupied are 44x85 feet, two stories and basement, brick; and ten hands are employed. The immense stock is varied and complete, embracing everything usually found in a strictly first-class house of the kind, all the goods being guaranteed to be best in quality and sold at prices entirely consistent with fair dealing. Mr. Gunther was born in Germany and is a Master Mason, He also has branch stores at Newman Grove, Nebraska, and Petersburg, Nebraska. He is the owner of the Albion Opera House.

     FIRST NATIONAL BANK.--The First National Bank, of Albion, Nebraska was organized January 14, 1889; capital stock paid in $60,000; surplus fund $5,000. It is the oldest bank in the county, drawing its patronage from the best city and suburban custom. They give collections special attention. Chas. E. West, president, is from Pittsfield, Mass.; John Peters, vice president from Boone County. Ills., was formerly county clerk here several terms, and at present time is U. S. Internal Revenue Collector, at Omaha. Neb. F. S. Thompson, cashier, born in Iowa, has lived in the county since 1881, and has been with the bank since it was started. He has had a lifelong experience in business.

     ALBION HOUSE. J. E. Needham, Proprietor.--Mr. Needham has been proprietor of the Albion House thirteen years. There are numerous pleasant sleeping apartments in the house, also good sample rooms. The cuisine is first-class in every particular and no more desirable stopping place could be wished for. Mr. Needham is a native of Maine and is prominently identified with the I. O. O. F.'s and K. P.'s.

     H. RICE, Shelf and Heavy Hardware, Agricultural Implements, Etc.--Prominent among the mercantile enterprises in Albion, we note H. Rice's, founded five years. The premises consist of three buildings each 22x70 feet. and a warehouse 26x80, all of which are owned by Mr. Rice. Mr. Rice was born in Wisconsin and is an A. O. U. W. He has lived twenty years in the county, and twenty five in the State. Was formerly post master here twelve years; also in loan business. Under his capable management. an eminently prosperous city enterprise has been reared.

     F. M. SACKETT. Grain and Coal.--One of the most gratifying examples of successful and ably conducted business enterprises in Albion is F. M. Sackett's, founded fourteen years. He is an extensive dealer in all kinds of grain and coal. Mr. Sackett came here from Wisconsin, where for many years he was in the milling business. He built the Albion mills. Mr. Sackett is a K. T. Mason. He has long been a popular figure in city circles and is a representative exponent of the grain and coal trade.

     N. C. PRATT, Attorney at Law--An enterprising gentleman and talented lawyer, who has been practicing three years at Albion, is Mr. N. C. Pratt, who forms the immediate subject of our present sketch. He is a native of Virginia He graduated in 1883 from the Northern Illinois College, being admitted to the bar in this State in 1888. He is a Mason. Mr. Pratt is a well-read lawyer of a thoroughly practical turn, and has proven a just addition to our prosperous county seat

     HARRIS BROS., Real Estate, Loans and Insurance.--This business was started here in 1890, the firm having removed from Fullerton, Neb., where they were four years. From the start the business has had a rapid and substantial growth. All descriptions of city and farm property is bought, sold and exchanged. Money to any desired amount is loaned on real estate. In the insurance department numerous standard companies are represented. the combined assets of which aggregate many millions, and risks are placed on all insurable property, and losses promptly and satisfactorily adjusted. Harris Bros. are natives of Iowa and are K. P.'s. The senior brother was formerly in the business for five years in his native State.

     D. A. LEWIS, Druggist and Apothecary.--Representative among this city's enterprises is Doctor Lewis' drug store, founded in 1876. The premises are 24 x 55 feet and are ample and commodious. He employs two assistants in the store. The stock, which for quantity and quality is unsurpassed, comprises fresh drugs, chemicals, toilet and fancy articles, proprietary medicines and druggists' sundries. Doctor Lewis is a native of Wisconsin and is an I. O. O. F. and K. P. He graduated from the Col-

lege of Physicians and Surgeons, Keokuk, Ia. By able and popular management, he has reared a business, which places him among the representative men of Albion.

     CHARLES RILEY, Attorney.--One of Albion's intelligent lawyers is Mr. Charles Riley, who is a native of Illinois, and has been practising (sic) here four years. Mr. Riley attended the Illinois Soldiers' College, and is identified with the Masonic Order He belongs to the G. A. R. and served in the 112th Illinois Infantry. His practice as a lawyer has proven justly beneficial to himself, to a large clientage, and the entire community.

     CENTRAL HOTEL, John Kimmel. Proprietor.--Our pen sketches of the business interests of Albion would be incomplete without due reference to the Central Hotel. This house, for the reasonable charge of one dollar per day, is one of the very best in the State of Nebraska. Good-accommodations; stabling in connection. All parties who want a first-class, one dollar hotel in Albion, should not fail to pay Mr. Kimmel a visit. He has been established twelve years. He was born in Ohio and came here from Minnesota.

     L. P. JUDD, Treasurer--Is a native of New York, and is serving his second term as county treasurer. Mr. Judd has lived in Boone County twelve years, and has been in the drug business many years and still is at Cedar Rapids, Neb. He is a Mason, I. O. O. F. and Royal Arcanum. Mr. Judd ranks among the most reliable and trustworthy men that ever handled the county's finances.

     JOS. HAMILTON, County Judge.-- Is a native New Yorker, and is serving his fourth term as county judge. He formerly lived thirty years in Wisconsin, and has dwelt twelve years in our county. He is one of Boone County's most prominent Masons, having taken thirty-two degrees. His administration has been characterized by carefulness and a thorough knowledge of his duties.

     WM. J. FARRIS, Sheriff. --Conspicuous among the Boone County officials, is Mr. Wm. J. Farris. He is a native of Tennessee and is serving his first term as county sheriff. Mr. Farris has lived in our county ten years, where he formerly was an extensive farmer. He is a member of the G. A. R. He has amply shown to all his entire fitness for sheriff and attends to his duties correctly and promptly.

     MANLY B. BOARDMAN, Fire. Lightning and Tornado Insurance Agent, Notary Public and Conveyancer.--An Albion concern which has enjoyed a high reputation since its foundation twelve years ago is that of Manly B. Boardman, who for the same period has been justice of the peace. In insurance he represents numerous fire, lightning, and tornado reliable companies, and risks are taken on all kinds of property. He is also notary public and conveyancer. Mr. Boardman was born in New York and is a chapter Mason. He has been a resident of Boone County for twenty-two years.

PIERCE.

     It is with pride we point to Pierce, the county seat of Pierce County. It has a population of about nine hundred. It is a thrifty, prosperous and progressive little city, and has the reputation of being the best small city in the State, a reputation which it merits. It is on the Fremont, Elkhorn & Missouri Valley R. R., and on the north fork of the Elkhorn River. The finest flouring mill of the State is located at Pierce, owned and controlled by S. F. Gilman; their capacity is 150 barrels of flour per day. We have also a fine brick court house, school house and two beautiful banks (of stone and brick), the First National and Pierce State Bank, of which the citizens of Pierce are justly proud. Among the new improvements is an elevator, owned by Hamilton & Upton, of twelve thousand bushels capacity, and one of the finest brickyards in the State.
     The Yankton & Norfolk Railroad will be in operation by November 1, 1892, and the Pueblo & Duluth have surveyed a route through the county, both lines running through the city of Pierce.
     Pierce has never had a boom, but she has always had what is better, a steady and progressive growth, and is getting to the front. The largest beet field in the State is located at Pierce, being about one-quarter mile east of he business portion. It contains a tract of two hundred acres, all planted to sugar beets. Over two hundred men are at work, weeding and cultivating same. Plainview, a town of six hundred population, is situated twenty-two miles northwest of Pierce, and Osmond, a town of four hundred, about fourteen miles north, both healthy little towns and having a remarkable and healthy growth.

PIERCE COUNTY.

     The pride, the garden spot, the county of all counties, in the glorious State of Nebraska, is Pierce County, in the northeast portion of the State; too much cannot be said of this beautiful and good county. It is twenty-four miles square, all good, tillable land, rich soil and the home of 7,000 happy, prosperous and contented people. We have no failures or short crops; the soil produces and climate matures every kind of grain and vegetable. You have but to sow and the harvest is sure-no fear of drought as the county is well watered. Cyclones and tornadoes are unknown. The streams in Pierce County are among the happiest in the world, none sluggish; all clear, good, fast running water. Wells are dug and good water is found at the depth of from sixteen to thirty-five feet, the water being soft, clear and refreshing.

REPRESENTATIVE FIRMS AND BUSINESS MEN OF PIERCE.

     STAR AND CRESCENT ROLLER MILLS.--One of the important industries in northern Nebraska is the Star and Crescent Roller Mills, established six years. They are worked both by steam and water power and are equipped with the best machinery and appliances, all of which combine to make them the equal of any in the West. They are manufacturers of choice family flour, rye and graham flour, white and yellow corn meal, chop feed, etc.; also choice roller buckwheat, which they ship to all parts of Nebraska and the neighboring States. The capacity is 125 barrels every twelve hours. Thirteen hands are constantly required on the premises, Mr. L. R. Craig, manager, is a native of Illinois and is a prominent Mason. He served during the war in the 39th and 66th Illinois Infantry. For completeness of equipment and promptness in filling all contracts, these mills will bear comparison with any.

     A. STEINKRAUS, County-Treasurer.--Among the names which have acquired prominence on the wings of Pierce's prosperity is A. Steinkraus, the popular county treasurer. He is a native of Germany. He served formerly as county treasurer from '84, '85, '86. '87 and as county clerk from '88-'89; filling vacancy of county treasurer '9l-'92, all of which offices he has filled with the profoundest of satisfaction to the people. Mr. Steinkraus is well-known in the real estate business here He is one of the most trustworthy and reliable men that ever handled county finances.

     DOUGLAS CONES. County Attorney.--Among the names which are best known in Pierce County we find Mr. Douglas Cones, the popular county attorney. He was born in Iowa and studied his profession in Cincinnati and Columbus, Nebraska. Mr. Cones was admitted to the bar in Platte County, Nebraska, in 1888. He prosecutes his cases with an assiduity that deservedly commands for him the respect of the fraternity and the confidence of the people.

     R. A. TAWNEY, County Clerk, Clerk of District Court, Register of Deeds.--The above gentleman is one of the most useful and hardworking men to be found in Pierce County. He was born near Gettysburg. Penn., and is serving his first term. Mr. Tawney has ever performed his various duties with equal satisfaction to all parties. He has lived fourteen years in the State and eleven years in the county. He was formerly engaged in farming and stock raising. He is entirely worthy of his success in life, as also is he of the confidence reposed in him by all with whom he has dealings.

     W. B. CHILVERS, Title Abstracter, Lands Bought and Sold on Commission.--Our pen sketches of Pierce would be very incomplete without mention of W. B. Chilvers' abstract office. He has been known here for the last twenty years, having formerly served in the capacity of county clerk for eight years. His specialty is abstracts, the successful conduct for which business he possesses unusual advantages. Also buys and sells lands on commission. He is a native of England and is a Mason. During the late civil war he served in the 95th Illinois Infantry. He is acknowledged leader among the enterprising business men of Pierce.

     D. W. ELLIOTT, Hardware.--A representative mercantile concern in the city of Pierce is D. W. Elliott's, founded eighteen years. The premises occupied are 22x74 feet, two stories high. brick, which the proprietor owns. He does an extensive business in hardware, nails, cutlery, house furnishing goods, Universal stoves and ranges. Mr. Elliott was born in Ohio and is a Mason. Prompt, and always reliable in every particular, he has won a liberal patronage.

     CITY MEAT MARKET, Chas. Ulrich, Proprietor.--Was founded nine years ago. The premises are 20x48 feet in extent. He employs two hands. He does a heavy business in fresh and salt meats, and sausage of all kinds, and his market has become known. Mr. Ulrich pays cash for hides and tallow. He is a native of Germany, and is a K. P. He formerly was in Norfolk for six years in the business.

     THE HAMMOND, G. F. Hammond, Proprietor.--The above hotel has extended its good name all through this section of the State, since it was started three years ago. The proprietor built and owns the hotel, which is heated with steam. The dining room has a seating capacity of seventy-five. Mr. Hammond is a native New Yorker; he is a K. of P. and A. O. U. W. and has had thirteen years' experience in the hotel business.

     PIERCE COUNTY CALL--This paper is like the city and county to whom it supplies the local and State news, a live little sheet. It was established Sept. 1, 1877, and has a steady circulation of some 550. It is issued weekly, and is Republican in its political leanings. It has a fine job plant, and the advertising is well and carefully displayed. Mr. Brande, its progressive and popular editor, was born in Minnesota, and belongs to the Sons of Veterans and Good Templars.