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Robert Byrne

Robert Byrne, who follows farming and stock-raising on section 6, Center Township, is a native of New York. He was born in the city of Buffalo in 1853, and is a son of Peter and Elizabeth (Anderson) Byrne. His father, a native of Ireland, crossed the Atlantic when a young man and in Buffalo, N. Y., formed the acquaintance of Miss Anderson, a lady of Scottish birth, who likewise had come to this country at an early day. They were married and for many years continued to reside in the Empire State. In 1865 we find them located in Fond du Lac County, Wis., where Mr. Byrne engaged in farming. However, he was not long permitted to enjoy his new home, his death occurring in 1869. He was killed by a horse and many friends mourned his loss. His wife survived him some years, dying in 1875. He was an inflexible adherent of Democratic principles and a consistent member of the Roman Catholic Church.

n the family of Peter and Elizabeth Byrne were three children but our subject is now the only one left to perpetuate their history. In the usual manner of farmer lads the days of his boyhood and youth were passed and at the age of twenty-two years, bidding good-by to his old home he started out in life for himself. The occupation to which he was reared he has since followed and whatever success he has met with is due to his own efforts. He was married in Fond du Lac County, Wis., in 1876 the lady of his choice being Miss Ella M. Ward, a native of that county, and a daughter of Michael and Mary (Curran) Ward. Her father was born in Ireland, came to this country during childhood and in Wisconsin met and married Miss Curran, a native of Providence, R. I. Both still reside in Fond du Lac County. Four children grace the union of Mr. and Mrs. Byrne, three sons and a daughter - Mary E., George P., John E., and William W.

Soon after his marriage Mr. Byrne brought his young bride to this county where he has since made his home, covering a period of fourteen years. In 1881, he purchased one hundred and eighty-six and a half acres of land which was then but partially improved. The entire amount is now under cultivation and Mr. Byrne is now the owner of a model farm. He has a pleasant home surrounded by good barns and other outbuildings which are situated in the midst of well-tilled fields. To public interests he devotes considerable attention, is an ardent Democrat in political sentiment and has served on the School Board, doing effective service for the cause of education. He may truly be called a self-made man for by his industry, frugality and good management he has acquired the property which now ranks him among the substantial citizens of the community. He is regarded as one of the enterprising young men of Center Township, and has always taken an active part in everything pertaining to the general good.