The Wright County Herald

War is Over!

Our Boys Return Home Victorious

Special Correspondence

The long and terrible war that has divided our nation is at last concluded. Word has reached our county that the final Confederate forces have surrendered, and peace has been restored to our United States. Our brave boys from Wright County, who answered Lincoln's call to preserve the Union, are beginning their long journey home to Minnesota soil.

The Eleventh Minnesota Volunteer Infantry, which counted several of our county's finest sons among its ranks, was mustered out in Tennessee this month. We expect to see these heroes walking our streets again within the fortnight, bearing with them tales of courage and sacrifice that shall inspire generations to come. The men love recanting the tale of: "The Slave Across the River".

Homestead Lands Available

New Settlers Continue to Arrive

The Land Office in Monticello reports a steady stream of new settlers filing claims under the Homestead Act. Many are war veterans seeking to make a fresh start on Minnesota's rich prairie lands. Swedish and German families continue to arrive weekly, drawn by reports of fertile soil and abundant timber.

Commissioner Andersen notes that over 200 new claims have been filed in Wright County since the spring thaw. The western townships show particular promise for wheat cultivation, while the timbered eastern sections prove ideal for mixed farming. Former Teamster Peter Columbus and his wife Emma staked their homestead claim on Highway 152.

Railroad Survey Completed

St. Paul & Pacific to Connect Our County

Surveyors for the St. Paul & Pacific Railroad have completed their preliminary route through Wright County. The proposed line would connect our county seat of Monticello directly to the capital, reducing travel time from three days by wagon to mere hours by rail.

Local business leaders express confidence that railroad connection will bring prosperity to our agricultural communities. Farmers would no longer face the arduous journey to St. Paul markets, and manufactured goods could reach our stores with unprecedented speed.

Indian Affairs

Peace Maintained on Western Frontier

Recent reports from Fort Snelling indicate that relations with the Dakota remain peaceful following the troubles of 1862-63. Military authorities express confidence that the western settlements of our county may proceed without the fears that drove many families eastward during those dark days.

Settlers who abandoned their claims during the Indian uprising are beginning to return, finding their cabins intact and their fields ready for cultivation. The restoration of confidence has accelerated settlement throughout the county.

Agricultural News

Wheat Prospects Excellent

The spring wheat planted throughout Wright County shows exceptional promise this season. The mild winter and adequate spring moisture have produced stands that old-timers declare the finest they have witnessed.

Mr. Olsen of Buffalo Township reports his winter wheat averaging four feet in height, while the spring variety planted in May shows vigorous growth. Should favorable weather continue, Wright County may produce its largest grain harvest to date.

County Court News

Spring Term Concluded

Judge Patterson concluded the spring term of Wright County Court with the settlement of several land disputes arising from conflicting homestead claims. The court also addressed matters of debt collection and approved the incorporation of the Buffalo Creek Schoolhouse District.

Of particular note was the naturalization of twelve new citizens, primarily of Swedish and German birth, who took their oaths of allegiance to these United States with evident pride and solemnity.

Church & Social News

Community Gatherings Planned

The Swedish Lutheran congregation announces plans for a summer social on the Fourth of July, featuring traditional foods and music from the homeland. All county residents are welcome to attend the celebration at the church grounds near Buffalo.

The Methodist Episcopal Church of Monticello reports steady growth in membership, with Reverend Clarke baptizing six new members this month. Plans proceed for construction of a proper church building to replace the current log structure.

Weather & Conditions

The past week has brought alternating sunshine and gentle rains, conditions ideally suited to the growing crops. Temperatures have remained moderate, with pleasant evenings conducive to outdoor work.

Road conditions throughout the county remain fair to good, though the Minneapolis road shows some wear from increased traffic. The county commissioners have approved funds for road improvements to be undertaken following harvest.