longest without missing a word were the victors; and many times there would be three or four, perhaps half a dozen, who would not be spelled down at all. W. W. DeFrees, Milton Southwick, Esther A. Bishop and Lida P. DeFrees were almost invariably on the floor last and were considered the champion spellers. Lida P. DeFrees died March 11, 1869; W.W. DeFrees, Feb. 7, 1870. They both lie buried in the cemetery of Viroqua. Milton Southwick, I think, is still a resident of the county, and Esther A. Bishop, long since married, has for many years resided in Nebraska.

Michael Hinkst was an early settler. He located near the Liberty Pole, was remarkable for

being an original and eccentric character. He was for a time school superintendent, and taught one or two terms. Some amusing stories are told of his novel methods of governing.

Isaac Spencer was the first school superintendendent. That was when the town system prevailed. Rev. L. L. Radcliff was the first county superintendent. After him came Hartwell Allen, who is doubtless still a resident of Vernon county. He served a number of terms, was a popular and efficient officer. He is a man of much natural ability, a great reader and a deep thinker. I think he has long since retired to the shades of private life.