Arrived in Brainerd in 1882.
•Served two terms in the House of Representatives—Minnesota State Legislature—Represented Benton, Crow Wing, Mille Lacs, Morrison and Todd Counties
•Attorney
•County Superintendent of Schools—5 years
•Brainerd Municipal Judge—4 years
•Crow Wing County Attorney—2 years
•Brainerd City Attorney—1 year
•See Joseph Midgley.
•See Mary Jane Meekins Reilly.
•See Catherine McMahan Cullen.
•See Fred S. Parker.
•See Daniel D. Smith.
•See Charlotte Grandelmeyer.
•See Lee Chung.
•See Hattie May Emerson Parker.
•See Ethel Maud Small Farrar.
•See James McCabe.
•See Newton H. Ingersoll.
•See Henry Spalding.
•See Newton McFadden.
•See Dennis B. Mahoney.
•See Frances Elizabeth Robinson Smith.
•See Albert A. Hagadorn.
•See George W. Holland.
•See Caroline Morrison Grandelmyer.
Their Biography.
The Motley Register writes up the following in regard to the legislative candidates:
W. A. Fleming was born in Franklin county, New York, in 1848. He attended school until he was 17 years of age, after which he taught the village school at home several terms. When 21 years of age he was made postmaster under President Grant, and the following year was elected a justice of the peace. He continued to reside at home, clerking in his father's store and teaching until the death of his parents in 1876. He then entered Union University, from which he graduated in 1878. He was clerk of the judiciary committee of the New York assembly one session. Practiced law at Malone, N. Y., two years. Came west and located at Brainerd in 1882. The following year he was elected superintendent of schools of Crow Wing county and was re-elected in 1886. He was city attorney one year, and in the spring of 1887 he was elected municipal judge, which office he now holds. In all these several positions he has performed the duties pertaining to them acceptably. He is not an office seeker, and would ask for no man's support. He believes in the office seeking the man. His nomination for the legislature was against his wishes, and he yielded only when it became apparent that it would displease his friends if he did not accept. The Judge has many friends in the district. He will receive the full vote of Crow Wing county. (Brainerd Dispatch, 12 October 1888, p. 1, c. 5)
Some Social Gatherings.
_____
On Friday evening of last week Judge W. A. Fleming entertained a party of gentlemen friends at his residence on Fifth street north, and the evening was spent at cards and social converse. The dinner which was served during the evening was a very unique and elaborate affair consisting of possum and other toothsome dainties. Among those who attended were D. D. Smith, Dr. H. Ribbel, James Dewar, J. R. Westfall, F. A. Farrar, Geo. D. LaBar, A. P. Farrar, L. E. Lum, H. Spalding, W. S. McClenahan, C. D. Johnson, W. E. Seelye, Dr. J. L. Camp, W. A. M. Johnstone and W. W. Craig, of Deerwood. (Brainerd Dispatch, 11 December 1896, p. 4, c. 6)
Judge W. A. Fleming has sold his residence on Fifth street to D. M. Clark, who will take possession on May 1st. Mr. Fleming expects to leave Brainerd in a few days for a trip through Idaho and other western states with a view of finding a place to locate. The judge's object is to locate in a milder climate. Mr. And Mrs. Fleming have been located here for several years, and have made hosts of warm friends who will see them leave Brainerd with great regret, and it is is hoped that they may change their minds and still continue to reside here. (Brainerd Dispatch, 10 March 1899, p. 10, c. 2)
NOTE: D. M. Clark bought this house from W. A. Fleming in March of 1899
515 North Fifth Street
1892--on Sanborn Map--only house on the block
1898--on Mississippi River Commission Map--only house on the block
1903--D. M Clark--only house listed on the block
1905--D. M. Clark--only house listed on the block
1907--D. M. Clark--only house listed on the block
1920--M. D. Clark (D. M. Clark’s son)
Hon. W. A. Fleming left Brainerd Tuesday for the west, where he will locate. He will first go to Missoula, Mont., and if the place suits him he will make his home there and send for Mrs. Fleming and daughter, who are still in the city. (Brainerd Dispatch, 14 April 1899, p. 8, c. 1)
Letter from W. A. Fleming.
MISSOULA, Mont., April 22, '99.
BRAINERD DISPATCH:—I have been in Missoula nearly a week and have formed something of an idea of this country. Of course it would be presumptuous on my part to undertake to give an accurate description of this great region. My impressions are rather mixed, Missoula itself is a fine town, and I have a firm belief that it is bound to be a great city. One must be hard to please who could find fault with it. It is all and more than I had thought it to be. But all kinds of business are, I think, fully represented, although the growth which is sure to come, will make room for others. The professions particularly are overrun with representatives. Except in the valleys there is no farming, and even in the valleys, I do not apprehend there is very much money to be made by farming alone. Stock raising is, of course, a profitable business wherever you find a country suited to the business, and there are no doubt many rich ranches hereabout. Mining is a good business to the lucky. Mr. Searles told me one of two men, forty miles south of here, who, four years ago, were getting out railroad ties and chopping cord wood, and who are now taking out four hundred dollars a day of gold from a placer mine they luckily run onto. That's luck. But I think I can name men in Brainerd who could go out here in the mountains and find the precious metal in abundance, for as Judge Alderman sings: "There's gold in the mountains, There's silver in the mines," and it only needs the right kind of men to find it. But is is not for such as your humble servant. The man who succeeds out here is the plunger, the man who can go ahead and take the rough with the smooth. I am not cut out for this country. It is no place for a poor man. I am happy to be able to say that all the Brainerd boys here are doing well and seem to be enjoying themselves very much. On the whole my advice to all who are thinking of going west to to think it over, you are just as likely to be disappointed as you are to be pleased with this country. There are certain reasons personal and peculiar to myself why I do not locate out here. One thing that has a great deal of meaning to it is "It is a good ways from home." And I am no booby either. For all that I have seen or heard of give me the east yet. Yours,
W. A. FLEMING.
W. A. Fleming returned on Monday from his trip west, and has decided that Brainerd is a pretty good place to live in. He met many former Brainerd residents on his trip, and reports a delightful time, but thinks this section presents as many opportunities as the country which he visited and has decided to remain here. (Brainerd Dispatch, 05 May 1899, p. 10, c. 2)
Judge W. A. Fleming on Wednesday purchased six lots of L. E. Lum just north of the W. E. Seelye residence at the corner of Third street and Bluff avenue and will commence the erection of a handsome residence on the property at once. (Brainerd Dispatch, 14 July 1899, p. 8, c. 1)
PARDONED AFTER SIX YEARS.
_____
Robert Fitzgerald, Sentenced from
This County for Indecent As-
sault, Granted a
Pardon.
_____
The state board of pardons has granted a pardon to Robert Fitzgerald, sentenced by Judge Holland to 20 years imprisonment, after having been found guilty of indecent assault at the March 1895 term of court in this city. The complaining witness was Tillie Haglund, who has since died. Concerning the matter the Pioneer Press says:
Robert Fitzgerald, sentenced from Crow Wing county, March 22, 1895, to prison for twenty years for indecent assault, was granted a pardon pursuant to the recommendation of the trial judge and the prosecuting attorney upon the grounds that subsequent facts raised doubts as to the applicant's guilt.
While the judge and county attorney recommended the pardon and signed the petition to that effect, Fitzgerald's pardon is undoubtedly due to Hon. W. A. Fleming, who defended Fitzgerald, and thoroughly believes in his innocence. Mr. Fleming drew up the petition, secured the signers, procured new and important evidence, and by these efforts secured Fitzgerald's pardon. (Brainerd Dispatch, 26 April 1901, p. 1, c. 3)
JUDGE W. A. FLEMING
CALLED TO REWARD
________
Well Known Lawyer, Judge, Former
Representative of County, County
Attorney Died at Home
________
LEAVES WIFE AND DAUGHTER
________
Was Loyal Member of Elks Lodge, In
Later Years Joined the Catholic Church
Judge W. A. Fleming, age 71, well known pioneer of Crow Wing County and Brainerd, of 514 North Seventh street, was found dead in bed near the noon hour at his home Friday when his wife returned from a visit at the home of her daughter in Crosby. Death is believed to have been due to heart failure.
To Judge Fleming goes the distinction of having been Crow Wing county's first county superintendent of schools. Shortly after he was admitted to practice law in the state, having received his education at a New York law school, and having practiced in New York state[; he] was later elected municipal judge of Brainerd, then served two terms in the legislature representing Crow Wing county, was elected county attorney several terms and at the time [of his death he was a member of the] Elks lodge in which he had held membership for many years. He had belonged to other fraternal orders. It was last Elks memorial day that he delivered the eulogy for Judge W. H. Mantor and very eloquently paid a tribute to his legal brother.
In politics he was a republican and an earnest worker for the party. He believed in that true Americanism which upholds the institutions that have brought honor, prosperity, peace and happiness to the country.
To the sorrowing wife and daughter are extended the sincere sympathy of the community. (Brainerd Dispatch, Friday, 02 April, 1920, p. 5, c. 1) [Contributed by John Van Essen]
•Served two terms in the House of Representatives—Minnesota State Legislature—Represented Benton, Crow Wing, Mille Lacs, Morrison and Todd Counties
•Attorney
•County Superintendent of Schools—5 years
•Brainerd Municipal Judge—4 years
•Crow Wing County Attorney—2 years
•Brainerd City Attorney—1 year
•See Joseph Midgley.
•See Mary Jane Meekins Reilly.
•See Catherine McMahan Cullen.
•See Fred S. Parker.
•See Daniel D. Smith.
•See Charlotte Grandelmeyer.
•See Lee Chung.
•See Hattie May Emerson Parker.
•See Ethel Maud Small Farrar.
•See James McCabe.
•See Newton H. Ingersoll.
•See Henry Spalding.
•See Newton McFadden.
•See Dennis B. Mahoney.
•See Frances Elizabeth Robinson Smith.
•See Albert A. Hagadorn.
•See George W. Holland.
•See Caroline Morrison Grandelmyer.
Their Biography.
The Motley Register writes up the following in regard to the legislative candidates:
W. A. Fleming was born in Franklin county, New York, in 1848. He attended school until he was 17 years of age, after which he taught the village school at home several terms. When 21 years of age he was made postmaster under President Grant, and the following year was elected a justice of the peace. He continued to reside at home, clerking in his father's store and teaching until the death of his parents in 1876. He then entered Union University, from which he graduated in 1878. He was clerk of the judiciary committee of the New York assembly one session. Practiced law at Malone, N. Y., two years. Came west and located at Brainerd in 1882. The following year he was elected superintendent of schools of Crow Wing county and was re-elected in 1886. He was city attorney one year, and in the spring of 1887 he was elected municipal judge, which office he now holds. In all these several positions he has performed the duties pertaining to them acceptably. He is not an office seeker, and would ask for no man's support. He believes in the office seeking the man. His nomination for the legislature was against his wishes, and he yielded only when it became apparent that it would displease his friends if he did not accept. The Judge has many friends in the district. He will receive the full vote of Crow Wing county. (Brainerd Dispatch, 12 October 1888, p. 1, c. 5)
Some Social Gatherings.
_____
On Friday evening of last week Judge W. A. Fleming entertained a party of gentlemen friends at his residence on Fifth street north, and the evening was spent at cards and social converse. The dinner which was served during the evening was a very unique and elaborate affair consisting of possum and other toothsome dainties. Among those who attended were D. D. Smith, Dr. H. Ribbel, James Dewar, J. R. Westfall, F. A. Farrar, Geo. D. LaBar, A. P. Farrar, L. E. Lum, H. Spalding, W. S. McClenahan, C. D. Johnson, W. E. Seelye, Dr. J. L. Camp, W. A. M. Johnstone and W. W. Craig, of Deerwood. (Brainerd Dispatch, 11 December 1896, p. 4, c. 6)
Judge W. A. Fleming has sold his residence on Fifth street to D. M. Clark, who will take possession on May 1st. Mr. Fleming expects to leave Brainerd in a few days for a trip through Idaho and other western states with a view of finding a place to locate. The judge's object is to locate in a milder climate. Mr. And Mrs. Fleming have been located here for several years, and have made hosts of warm friends who will see them leave Brainerd with great regret, and it is is hoped that they may change their minds and still continue to reside here. (Brainerd Dispatch, 10 March 1899, p. 10, c. 2)
NOTE: D. M. Clark bought this house from W. A. Fleming in March of 1899
515 North Fifth Street
1892--on Sanborn Map--only house on the block
1898--on Mississippi River Commission Map--only house on the block
1903--D. M Clark--only house listed on the block
1905--D. M. Clark--only house listed on the block
1907--D. M. Clark--only house listed on the block
1920--M. D. Clark (D. M. Clark’s son)
Hon. W. A. Fleming left Brainerd Tuesday for the west, where he will locate. He will first go to Missoula, Mont., and if the place suits him he will make his home there and send for Mrs. Fleming and daughter, who are still in the city. (Brainerd Dispatch, 14 April 1899, p. 8, c. 1)
Letter from W. A. Fleming.
MISSOULA, Mont., April 22, '99.
BRAINERD DISPATCH:—I have been in Missoula nearly a week and have formed something of an idea of this country. Of course it would be presumptuous on my part to undertake to give an accurate description of this great region. My impressions are rather mixed, Missoula itself is a fine town, and I have a firm belief that it is bound to be a great city. One must be hard to please who could find fault with it. It is all and more than I had thought it to be. But all kinds of business are, I think, fully represented, although the growth which is sure to come, will make room for others. The professions particularly are overrun with representatives. Except in the valleys there is no farming, and even in the valleys, I do not apprehend there is very much money to be made by farming alone. Stock raising is, of course, a profitable business wherever you find a country suited to the business, and there are no doubt many rich ranches hereabout. Mining is a good business to the lucky. Mr. Searles told me one of two men, forty miles south of here, who, four years ago, were getting out railroad ties and chopping cord wood, and who are now taking out four hundred dollars a day of gold from a placer mine they luckily run onto. That's luck. But I think I can name men in Brainerd who could go out here in the mountains and find the precious metal in abundance, for as Judge Alderman sings: "There's gold in the mountains, There's silver in the mines," and it only needs the right kind of men to find it. But is is not for such as your humble servant. The man who succeeds out here is the plunger, the man who can go ahead and take the rough with the smooth. I am not cut out for this country. It is no place for a poor man. I am happy to be able to say that all the Brainerd boys here are doing well and seem to be enjoying themselves very much. On the whole my advice to all who are thinking of going west to to think it over, you are just as likely to be disappointed as you are to be pleased with this country. There are certain reasons personal and peculiar to myself why I do not locate out here. One thing that has a great deal of meaning to it is "It is a good ways from home." And I am no booby either. For all that I have seen or heard of give me the east yet. Yours,
W. A. FLEMING.
W. A. Fleming returned on Monday from his trip west, and has decided that Brainerd is a pretty good place to live in. He met many former Brainerd residents on his trip, and reports a delightful time, but thinks this section presents as many opportunities as the country which he visited and has decided to remain here. (Brainerd Dispatch, 05 May 1899, p. 10, c. 2)
Judge W. A. Fleming on Wednesday purchased six lots of L. E. Lum just north of the W. E. Seelye residence at the corner of Third street and Bluff avenue and will commence the erection of a handsome residence on the property at once. (Brainerd Dispatch, 14 July 1899, p. 8, c. 1)
PARDONED AFTER SIX YEARS.
_____
Robert Fitzgerald, Sentenced from
This County for Indecent As-
sault, Granted a
Pardon.
_____
The state board of pardons has granted a pardon to Robert Fitzgerald, sentenced by Judge Holland to 20 years imprisonment, after having been found guilty of indecent assault at the March 1895 term of court in this city. The complaining witness was Tillie Haglund, who has since died. Concerning the matter the Pioneer Press says:
Robert Fitzgerald, sentenced from Crow Wing county, March 22, 1895, to prison for twenty years for indecent assault, was granted a pardon pursuant to the recommendation of the trial judge and the prosecuting attorney upon the grounds that subsequent facts raised doubts as to the applicant's guilt.
While the judge and county attorney recommended the pardon and signed the petition to that effect, Fitzgerald's pardon is undoubtedly due to Hon. W. A. Fleming, who defended Fitzgerald, and thoroughly believes in his innocence. Mr. Fleming drew up the petition, secured the signers, procured new and important evidence, and by these efforts secured Fitzgerald's pardon. (Brainerd Dispatch, 26 April 1901, p. 1, c. 3)
JUDGE W. A. FLEMING
CALLED TO REWARD
________
Well Known Lawyer, Judge, Former
Representative of County, County
Attorney Died at Home
________
LEAVES WIFE AND DAUGHTER
________
Was Loyal Member of Elks Lodge, In
Later Years Joined the Catholic Church
Judge W. A. Fleming, age 71, well known pioneer of Crow Wing County and Brainerd, of 514 North Seventh street, was found dead in bed near the noon hour at his home Friday when his wife returned from a visit at the home of her daughter in Crosby. Death is believed to have been due to heart failure.
To Judge Fleming goes the distinction of having been Crow Wing county's first county superintendent of schools. Shortly after he was admitted to practice law in the state, having received his education at a New York law school, and having practiced in New York state[; he] was later elected municipal judge of Brainerd, then served two terms in the legislature representing Crow Wing county, was elected county attorney several terms and at the time [of his death he was a member of the] Elks lodge in which he had held membership for many years. He had belonged to other fraternal orders. It was last Elks memorial day that he delivered the eulogy for Judge W. H. Mantor and very eloquently paid a tribute to his legal brother.
In politics he was a republican and an earnest worker for the party. He believed in that true Americanism which upholds the institutions that have brought honor, prosperity, peace and happiness to the country.
To the sorrowing wife and daughter are extended the sincere sympathy of the community. (Brainerd Dispatch, Friday, 02 April, 1920, p. 5, c. 1) [Contributed by John Van Essen]
Arrived in Brainerd in 1882.
•Served two terms in the House of Representatives—Minnesota State Legislature—Represented Benton, Crow Wing, Mille Lacs, Morrison and Todd Counties
•Attorney
•County Superintendent of Schools—5 years
•Brainerd Municipal Judge—4 years
•Crow Wing County Attorney—2 years
•Brainerd City Attorney—1 year
•See Joseph Midgley.
•See Mary Jane Meekins Reilly.
•See Catherine McMahan Cullen.
•See Fred S. Parker.
•See Daniel D. Smith.
•See Charlotte Grandelmeyer.
•See Lee Chung.
•See Hattie May Emerson Parker.
•See Ethel Maud Small Farrar.
•See James McCabe.
•See Newton H. Ingersoll.
•See Henry Spalding.
•See Newton McFadden.
•See Dennis B. Mahoney.
•See Frances Elizabeth Robinson Smith.
•See Albert A. Hagadorn.
•See George W. Holland.
•See Caroline Morrison Grandelmyer.
Their Biography.
The Motley Register writes up the following in regard to the legislative candidates:
W. A. Fleming was born in Franklin county, New York, in 1848. He attended school until he was 17 years of age, after which he taught the village school at home several terms. When 21 years of age he was made postmaster under President Grant, and the following year was elected a justice of the peace. He continued to reside at home, clerking in his father's store and teaching until the death of his parents in 1876. He then entered Union University, from which he graduated in 1878. He was clerk of the judiciary committee of the New York assembly one session. Practiced law at Malone, N. Y., two years. Came west and located at Brainerd in 1882. The following year he was elected superintendent of schools of Crow Wing county and was re-elected in 1886. He was city attorney one year, and in the spring of 1887 he was elected municipal judge, which office he now holds. In all these several positions he has performed the duties pertaining to them acceptably. He is not an office seeker, and would ask for no man's support. He believes in the office seeking the man. His nomination for the legislature was against his wishes, and he yielded only when it became apparent that it would displease his friends if he did not accept. The Judge has many friends in the district. He will receive the full vote of Crow Wing county. (Brainerd Dispatch, 12 October 1888, p. 1, c. 5)
Some Social Gatherings.
_____
On Friday evening of last week Judge W. A. Fleming entertained a party of gentlemen friends at his residence on Fifth street north, and the evening was spent at cards and social converse. The dinner which was served during the evening was a very unique and elaborate affair consisting of possum and other toothsome dainties. Among those who attended were D. D. Smith, Dr. H. Ribbel, James Dewar, J. R. Westfall, F. A. Farrar, Geo. D. LaBar, A. P. Farrar, L. E. Lum, H. Spalding, W. S. McClenahan, C. D. Johnson, W. E. Seelye, Dr. J. L. Camp, W. A. M. Johnstone and W. W. Craig, of Deerwood. (Brainerd Dispatch, 11 December 1896, p. 4, c. 6)
Judge W. A. Fleming has sold his residence on Fifth street to D. M. Clark, who will take possession on May 1st. Mr. Fleming expects to leave Brainerd in a few days for a trip through Idaho and other western states with a view of finding a place to locate. The judge's object is to locate in a milder climate. Mr. And Mrs. Fleming have been located here for several years, and have made hosts of warm friends who will see them leave Brainerd with great regret, and it is is hoped that they may change their minds and still continue to reside here. (Brainerd Dispatch, 10 March 1899, p. 10, c. 2)
NOTE: D. M. Clark bought this house from W. A. Fleming in March of 1899
515 North Fifth Street
1892--on Sanborn Map--only house on the block
1898--on Mississippi River Commission Map--only house on the block
1903--D. M Clark--only house listed on the block
1905--D. M. Clark--only house listed on the block
1907--D. M. Clark--only house listed on the block
1920--M. D. Clark (D. M. Clark’s son)
Hon. W. A. Fleming left Brainerd Tuesday for the west, where he will locate. He will first go to Missoula, Mont., and if the place suits him he will make his home there and send for Mrs. Fleming and daughter, who are still in the city. (Brainerd Dispatch, 14 April 1899, p. 8, c. 1)
Letter from W. A. Fleming.
MISSOULA, Mont., April 22, '99.
BRAINERD DISPATCH:—I have been in Missoula nearly a week and have formed something of an idea of this country. Of course it would be presumptuous on my part to undertake to give an accurate description of this great region. My impressions are rather mixed, Missoula itself is a fine town, and I have a firm belief that it is bound to be a great city. One must be hard to please who could find fault with it. It is all and more than I had thought it to be. But all kinds of business are, I think, fully represented, although the growth which is sure to come, will make room for others. The professions particularly are overrun with representatives. Except in the valleys there is no farming, and even in the valleys, I do not apprehend there is very much money to be made by farming alone. Stock raising is, of course, a profitable business wherever you find a country suited to the business, and there are no doubt many rich ranches hereabout. Mining is a good business to the lucky. Mr. Searles told me one of two men, forty miles south of here, who, four years ago, were getting out railroad ties and chopping cord wood, and who are now taking out four hundred dollars a day of gold from a placer mine they luckily run onto. That's luck. But I think I can name men in Brainerd who could go out here in the mountains and find the precious metal in abundance, for as Judge Alderman sings: "There's gold in the mountains, There's silver in the mines," and it only needs the right kind of men to find it. But is is not for such as your humble servant. The man who succeeds out here is the plunger, the man who can go ahead and take the rough with the smooth. I am not cut out for this country. It is no place for a poor man. I am happy to be able to say that all the Brainerd boys here are doing well and seem to be enjoying themselves very much. On the whole my advice to all who are thinking of going west to to think it over, you are just as likely to be disappointed as you are to be pleased with this country. There are certain reasons personal and peculiar to myself why I do not locate out here. One thing that has a great deal of meaning to it is "It is a good ways from home." And I am no booby either. For all that I have seen or heard of give me the east yet. Yours,
W. A. FLEMING.
W. A. Fleming returned on Monday from his trip west, and has decided that Brainerd is a pretty good place to live in. He met many former Brainerd residents on his trip, and reports a delightful time, but thinks this section presents as many opportunities as the country which he visited and has decided to remain here. (Brainerd Dispatch, 05 May 1899, p. 10, c. 2)
Judge W. A. Fleming on Wednesday purchased six lots of L. E. Lum just north of the W. E. Seelye residence at the corner of Third street and Bluff avenue and will commence the erection of a handsome residence on the property at once. (Brainerd Dispatch, 14 July 1899, p. 8, c. 1)
PARDONED AFTER SIX YEARS.
_____
Robert Fitzgerald, Sentenced from
This County for Indecent As-
sault, Granted a
Pardon.
_____
The state board of pardons has granted a pardon to Robert Fitzgerald, sentenced by Judge Holland to 20 years imprisonment, after having been found guilty of indecent assault at the March 1895 term of court in this city. The complaining witness was Tillie Haglund, who has since died. Concerning the matter the Pioneer Press says:
Robert Fitzgerald, sentenced from Crow Wing county, March 22, 1895, to prison for twenty years for indecent assault, was granted a pardon pursuant to the recommendation of the trial judge and the prosecuting attorney upon the grounds that subsequent facts raised doubts as to the applicant's guilt.
While the judge and county attorney recommended the pardon and signed the petition to that effect, Fitzgerald's pardon is undoubtedly due to Hon. W. A. Fleming, who defended Fitzgerald, and thoroughly believes in his innocence. Mr. Fleming drew up the petition, secured the signers, procured new and important evidence, and by these efforts secured Fitzgerald's pardon. (Brainerd Dispatch, 26 April 1901, p. 1, c. 3)
JUDGE W. A. FLEMING
CALLED TO REWARD
________
Well Known Lawyer, Judge, Former
Representative of County, County
Attorney Died at Home
________
LEAVES WIFE AND DAUGHTER
________
Was Loyal Member of Elks Lodge, In
Later Years Joined the Catholic Church
Judge W. A. Fleming, age 71, well known pioneer of Crow Wing County and Brainerd, of 514 North Seventh street, was found dead in bed near the noon hour at his home Friday when his wife returned from a visit at the home of her daughter in Crosby. Death is believed to have been due to heart failure.
To Judge Fleming goes the distinction of having been Crow Wing county's first county superintendent of schools. Shortly after he was admitted to practice law in the state, having received his education at a New York law school, and having practiced in New York state[; he] was later elected municipal judge of Brainerd, then served two terms in the legislature representing Crow Wing county, was elected county attorney several terms and at the time [of his death he was a member of the] Elks lodge in which he had held membership for many years. He had belonged to other fraternal orders. It was last Elks memorial day that he delivered the eulogy for Judge W. H. Mantor and very eloquently paid a tribute to his legal brother.
In politics he was a republican and an earnest worker for the party. He believed in that true Americanism which upholds the institutions that have brought honor, prosperity, peace and happiness to the country.
To the sorrowing wife and daughter are extended the sincere sympathy of the community. (Brainerd Dispatch, Friday, 02 April, 1920, p. 5, c. 1) [Contributed by John Van Essen]
•Served two terms in the House of Representatives—Minnesota State Legislature—Represented Benton, Crow Wing, Mille Lacs, Morrison and Todd Counties
•Attorney
•County Superintendent of Schools—5 years
•Brainerd Municipal Judge—4 years
•Crow Wing County Attorney—2 years
•Brainerd City Attorney—1 year
•See Joseph Midgley.
•See Mary Jane Meekins Reilly.
•See Catherine McMahan Cullen.
•See Fred S. Parker.
•See Daniel D. Smith.
•See Charlotte Grandelmeyer.
•See Lee Chung.
•See Hattie May Emerson Parker.
•See Ethel Maud Small Farrar.
•See James McCabe.
•See Newton H. Ingersoll.
•See Henry Spalding.
•See Newton McFadden.
•See Dennis B. Mahoney.
•See Frances Elizabeth Robinson Smith.
•See Albert A. Hagadorn.
•See George W. Holland.
•See Caroline Morrison Grandelmyer.
Their Biography.
The Motley Register writes up the following in regard to the legislative candidates:
W. A. Fleming was born in Franklin county, New York, in 1848. He attended school until he was 17 years of age, after which he taught the village school at home several terms. When 21 years of age he was made postmaster under President Grant, and the following year was elected a justice of the peace. He continued to reside at home, clerking in his father's store and teaching until the death of his parents in 1876. He then entered Union University, from which he graduated in 1878. He was clerk of the judiciary committee of the New York assembly one session. Practiced law at Malone, N. Y., two years. Came west and located at Brainerd in 1882. The following year he was elected superintendent of schools of Crow Wing county and was re-elected in 1886. He was city attorney one year, and in the spring of 1887 he was elected municipal judge, which office he now holds. In all these several positions he has performed the duties pertaining to them acceptably. He is not an office seeker, and would ask for no man's support. He believes in the office seeking the man. His nomination for the legislature was against his wishes, and he yielded only when it became apparent that it would displease his friends if he did not accept. The Judge has many friends in the district. He will receive the full vote of Crow Wing county. (Brainerd Dispatch, 12 October 1888, p. 1, c. 5)
Some Social Gatherings.
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On Friday evening of last week Judge W. A. Fleming entertained a party of gentlemen friends at his residence on Fifth street north, and the evening was spent at cards and social converse. The dinner which was served during the evening was a very unique and elaborate affair consisting of possum and other toothsome dainties. Among those who attended were D. D. Smith, Dr. H. Ribbel, James Dewar, J. R. Westfall, F. A. Farrar, Geo. D. LaBar, A. P. Farrar, L. E. Lum, H. Spalding, W. S. McClenahan, C. D. Johnson, W. E. Seelye, Dr. J. L. Camp, W. A. M. Johnstone and W. W. Craig, of Deerwood. (Brainerd Dispatch, 11 December 1896, p. 4, c. 6)
Judge W. A. Fleming has sold his residence on Fifth street to D. M. Clark, who will take possession on May 1st. Mr. Fleming expects to leave Brainerd in a few days for a trip through Idaho and other western states with a view of finding a place to locate. The judge's object is to locate in a milder climate. Mr. And Mrs. Fleming have been located here for several years, and have made hosts of warm friends who will see them leave Brainerd with great regret, and it is is hoped that they may change their minds and still continue to reside here. (Brainerd Dispatch, 10 March 1899, p. 10, c. 2)
NOTE: D. M. Clark bought this house from W. A. Fleming in March of 1899
515 North Fifth Street
1892--on Sanborn Map--only house on the block
1898--on Mississippi River Commission Map--only house on the block
1903--D. M Clark--only house listed on the block
1905--D. M. Clark--only house listed on the block
1907--D. M. Clark--only house listed on the block
1920--M. D. Clark (D. M. Clark’s son)
Hon. W. A. Fleming left Brainerd Tuesday for the west, where he will locate. He will first go to Missoula, Mont., and if the place suits him he will make his home there and send for Mrs. Fleming and daughter, who are still in the city. (Brainerd Dispatch, 14 April 1899, p. 8, c. 1)
Letter from W. A. Fleming.
MISSOULA, Mont., April 22, '99.
BRAINERD DISPATCH:—I have been in Missoula nearly a week and have formed something of an idea of this country. Of course it would be presumptuous on my part to undertake to give an accurate description of this great region. My impressions are rather mixed, Missoula itself is a fine town, and I have a firm belief that it is bound to be a great city. One must be hard to please who could find fault with it. It is all and more than I had thought it to be. But all kinds of business are, I think, fully represented, although the growth which is sure to come, will make room for others. The professions particularly are overrun with representatives. Except in the valleys there is no farming, and even in the valleys, I do not apprehend there is very much money to be made by farming alone. Stock raising is, of course, a profitable business wherever you find a country suited to the business, and there are no doubt many rich ranches hereabout. Mining is a good business to the lucky. Mr. Searles told me one of two men, forty miles south of here, who, four years ago, were getting out railroad ties and chopping cord wood, and who are now taking out four hundred dollars a day of gold from a placer mine they luckily run onto. That's luck. But I think I can name men in Brainerd who could go out here in the mountains and find the precious metal in abundance, for as Judge Alderman sings: "There's gold in the mountains, There's silver in the mines," and it only needs the right kind of men to find it. But is is not for such as your humble servant. The man who succeeds out here is the plunger, the man who can go ahead and take the rough with the smooth. I am not cut out for this country. It is no place for a poor man. I am happy to be able to say that all the Brainerd boys here are doing well and seem to be enjoying themselves very much. On the whole my advice to all who are thinking of going west to to think it over, you are just as likely to be disappointed as you are to be pleased with this country. There are certain reasons personal and peculiar to myself why I do not locate out here. One thing that has a great deal of meaning to it is "It is a good ways from home." And I am no booby either. For all that I have seen or heard of give me the east yet. Yours,
W. A. FLEMING.
W. A. Fleming returned on Monday from his trip west, and has decided that Brainerd is a pretty good place to live in. He met many former Brainerd residents on his trip, and reports a delightful time, but thinks this section presents as many opportunities as the country which he visited and has decided to remain here. (Brainerd Dispatch, 05 May 1899, p. 10, c. 2)
Judge W. A. Fleming on Wednesday purchased six lots of L. E. Lum just north of the W. E. Seelye residence at the corner of Third street and Bluff avenue and will commence the erection of a handsome residence on the property at once. (Brainerd Dispatch, 14 July 1899, p. 8, c. 1)
PARDONED AFTER SIX YEARS.
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Robert Fitzgerald, Sentenced from
This County for Indecent As-
sault, Granted a
Pardon.
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The state board of pardons has granted a pardon to Robert Fitzgerald, sentenced by Judge Holland to 20 years imprisonment, after having been found guilty of indecent assault at the March 1895 term of court in this city. The complaining witness was Tillie Haglund, who has since died. Concerning the matter the Pioneer Press says:
Robert Fitzgerald, sentenced from Crow Wing county, March 22, 1895, to prison for twenty years for indecent assault, was granted a pardon pursuant to the recommendation of the trial judge and the prosecuting attorney upon the grounds that subsequent facts raised doubts as to the applicant's guilt.
While the judge and county attorney recommended the pardon and signed the petition to that effect, Fitzgerald's pardon is undoubtedly due to Hon. W. A. Fleming, who defended Fitzgerald, and thoroughly believes in his innocence. Mr. Fleming drew up the petition, secured the signers, procured new and important evidence, and by these efforts secured Fitzgerald's pardon. (Brainerd Dispatch, 26 April 1901, p. 1, c. 3)
JUDGE W. A. FLEMING
CALLED TO REWARD
________
Well Known Lawyer, Judge, Former
Representative of County, County
Attorney Died at Home
________
LEAVES WIFE AND DAUGHTER
________
Was Loyal Member of Elks Lodge, In
Later Years Joined the Catholic Church
Judge W. A. Fleming, age 71, well known pioneer of Crow Wing County and Brainerd, of 514 North Seventh street, was found dead in bed near the noon hour at his home Friday when his wife returned from a visit at the home of her daughter in Crosby. Death is believed to have been due to heart failure.
To Judge Fleming goes the distinction of having been Crow Wing county's first county superintendent of schools. Shortly after he was admitted to practice law in the state, having received his education at a New York law school, and having practiced in New York state[; he] was later elected municipal judge of Brainerd, then served two terms in the legislature representing Crow Wing county, was elected county attorney several terms and at the time [of his death he was a member of the] Elks lodge in which he had held membership for many years. He had belonged to other fraternal orders. It was last Elks memorial day that he delivered the eulogy for Judge W. H. Mantor and very eloquently paid a tribute to his legal brother.
In politics he was a republican and an earnest worker for the party. He believed in that true Americanism which upholds the institutions that have brought honor, prosperity, peace and happiness to the country.
To the sorrowing wife and daughter are extended the sincere sympathy of the community. (Brainerd Dispatch, Friday, 02 April, 1920, p. 5, c. 1) [Contributed by John Van Essen]
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