An
early example of the dedicated and adventurous settlers of Sherburne County is
the namesake of Haven Township, John Ormsbee Haven. A local public servant, John O. Haven
established himself as an early leader in Sherburne County. Although his life
history is sparse in detail, it is worth noting and acknowledging.
Born
in Addison County, Vermont on October 3, 1824.
He graduated from Middlebury College and began teaching. In 1854 he migrated to St. Paul, then to
Wright County, Minnesota. During his time
in the county to the south, he surveyed both Monticello and Big Lake. In 1866 he relocated north of the Mississippi
River to Big Lake. There he took up the
many duties of public servant. The next
few years he served as: Sherburne County auditor, Register of Deeds, Surveyor,
Superintendent of Schools, Clerk of the District Court, and County
Commissioner. In 1872, he also had time
to represent Sherburne County in the State Senate.
In
addition to his public service, Haven also had time for family and friends. He married Vienna McAllister in Vermont in
1852 and had two children. He belonged
to the Union Church of Big Lake. And
after his retirement from public service he owned a general merchandise store
in Big Lake.
He
died in 1906 just one month short of his 82nd birthday.
There
is no definitive explanation as to why Haven was recognized with the naming of
the township. Yet, his life history
suggests the honor was well earned by his hard work and dedication to his
family and his community.
Photo
courtesy of: Middlebury College Special Collections and Archives, Middlebury,
Vermont
ed.
note: For many months I have had the
opportunity to work with a great research volunteer. Ms. Phyllis Scroggins has provided me with
information, has offered story ideas and advice on how to write articles. I am sorry I am so late acknowledging her
contributions to this blog. Phyllis, the
work wouldn’t get done without your help.
Thank you for so many contributions.
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