LONSON SEELEY, who is extensively engaged in the raising of hogs and cattle and whose well conducted business interests have brought to him success, was born in Monroe county, New York, in 1844, his parents being Justice and Sarah (Sheldon) Seeley. The father was a farmer by occupation and the parents had a family of eight children, four of whom are yet living. In the common schools Lonson Seeley obtained his education up to the time he was eleven years of age, when he went to Wisconsin, where he resided until 1861. He then, prompted by patriotic spirit, enlisted in the Union army, becoming a member of Company B, Thirteenth Wisconsin Infantry. He served for four years and was a valiant soldier, never failing in the performance of any duty, whether it called him into the thickest of the fight or stationed him on the lonely picket line. In July, 1865, he received an honorable discharge, having participated in many important battles which led to the preservation of the Union.

After being mustered out Mr. Seeley returned to his home in Wisconsin and throughout his entire business career he has carried on agricultural pursuits. He was married on the 15th of October, 1871, to Miss Annie Faulk, a native of Wilmington, Delaware, and unto them have been born four children: Edward L., Mrs. Mary E. Price, Justice Burton and Della. They also lost one daughter, Hattie. The eldest son married Florence Rankin.

It was in the year 1868 that Mr. Seeley arrived in South Dakota and settled upon the land where he now resides. He has been extensively engaged in the raising of hogs and cattle, finding that much more profitable than the cultivation of cereals. In his work he has ever been energetic and industrious and what he now possesses has come to him as the just reward of his diligence and perseverance. He also engaged in hauling freight between Sioux City and the army posts for thirteen years. In public affairs he has been public-spirited and active, assisting materially in the work of progress and improvement along many lines. He has been a member of the school board since its organization about twenty five years ago and the cause of education finds in him a warm friend. In politics he has ever been a staunch Republican and he is a valued member of Philip Kearney Post, No. 7, Grand Army of the Republic. He and his family hold membership in the Methodist church and they are worthy people held in high esteem throughout the community.

Page 623, “History of South Dakota” by Doane Robinson, Vol. I , Published 1904, page 623