12 for '26: John Gleeson Family in South Dakota Timeline

We left off last time with John’s move to Ottawa, Carleton County, Ontario, Canada, where the youngest child, Francis, was born and baptized. No further records of the family in Canada have been found. They eventually emigrated to the United States. We’ll continue the timeline in the first record found for the family.

I will be starting with the documents I already have from census records, deeds, federal land records, directories, and in fill will newspaper articles that I found recently, as the newspaper database at NewspaperArchive has grown since the last time I searched. Newspapers add a lot to their story. However, some articles found had the spelling of Gleason, and one cannot be sure if they refer to our Gleeson family. Below are those that have been found at NewspaperArchive specifically for John or Margaret Gleeson. There are many articles about some of their children, though I did not include them unless John or Margaret were named, too.

Timeline in South Dakota
When the family arrived in the U.S., South Dakota was still a territory. It was admitted to the union along with North Dakota on 2 November 1889.

The family was enumerated in Dakota Territory in June 1880 in the town of Mitchell. John and Margaret are listed as hotelkeepers. All ten children are recorded along with some hotel guests.

Gleeson, John, w, m, 45, married, hotelkeeper, Canada, IR/IR
Margaret, w, f, 42, wife, married, hotel landlady, Canada, IR/IR
Martin, w, m, 21, son, single, hotel clerk, Canada, Can/Can
Annie, w, f, 14, dau, sing, Canada, Can/Can
Mary, w, f, 17, dau, sing, Canada, Can/Can
Lizzie, w, f, 14, dau, sing, Canada, Can/Can
Helena, w, f, 12, dau, sing, at school, Canada, Can/Can
Michael, w, m, 10, son, sing, at school, Canada, Can/Can
William, w, m, 8, son, sing, Canada, Can/Can
Maggie, w, f, 6, dau, sing, Canada, Can/Can
Francis. w, m, 3, son, sing, Canada, Can/Can
Abbott, Hubbard H, w, m, 34, boarder, physician, chancre, Mo, Ohio/Penn
Runball, Fred J, w, m, 25, boarder, bank cashier, Vt, Can/Can
Triff, Bashaw, w, m, 33, boarder, Bor Tender, Mich, NY/NY[1]

A photograph was found of the likely building, located at the southwest corner of Lawler Street and Second Avenue.[2] It was used as a hotel with various names, including Gleason House. John purchased lot 1 in block 12 in the town of Mitchell from John Lawler on 15 April 1880.[3]

Courtesy of the Carnegie Resource Center of Mitchell

1884 Sanborn map, Mitchell, SD, Library of Congress
See Central Hotel location

Later that year, John appeared in the Second Judicial District court on 2 November 1880 to make an oath to declare his intention to become a naturalized citizen. He said he was born about 1834 and had entered the United States at Port Huron about April 1879.[4] His son, Martin, and daughter, Ann, also took out first papers on 7 October. They swore they arrived through the same port in February 1880.[5]

COMMENT: This is the earliest date of the family in the United States. Did John arrive earlier than the rest of the family?

The filing of the intent to naturalize was likely a precursor to filing for federal land, as an entryman had to be a U.S. citizen or had filed for citizenship.[6] On 14 December 1880, John made an entry for homestead land in Section 9 in Township 104 North of Range 60 West. It was described as the West half of the Northeast quarter and the East half of the Northwest quarter, for a total of 160 acres.[7]

The next day, John sold the lot 1 in block 12 in the town of Mitchell to his wife, Margaret Gleeson for $115 and for love and affection.[8]

His son, Martin, filed for preemption land on 7 October 1880 for the Southeast quarter of the Northeast quarter of Section 9 and the South half of the Southwest quarter and the Southwest quarter of the Northeast quarter of Section 10, in the same township and range as his father. He paid $1.25 per acre for a total of $200.[9] He made his final proof on 26 May 1881.[10]

His daughter, Ann, also filed for preemption land on 7 October 1880 for the Northeast quarter of the Northeast Quarter of Section 9 and the North half of the Northwest quarter and Northwest quarter of the Northeast quarter of Section 10, in the same township and range as her father and brother. She paid the same amount as Martin.[11] She was not quite twenty-one yet, but perhaps she lied about her age. She made her final proof on 26 May 1881.[12]

These three properties were congruent to each other. Likely, but there is no proof, they built their houses on the area closest to each other, so they could help each other out.

Hand drawn map showing relationship of land to each other in Sections 9 and 10.

The pin shows the land today north of Mitchell. RandyMajors.org.

The requirement of proofing the property was to build a house and cultivate some portion of the land. To satisfy the homestead requirement, they must live continuously on the land for five years.[13] John had his framed house build by 14 June 1881. It was 12 by 12 feet. In 1883, he built a larger and better house, 18 by 24 feet and one and a half stories tall. He also built a barn and granary, cow shed, and horse barn. He cultivated 156 acres with 5 acres in fruit trees and 40 acres fenced. He thought the value was $2600 in February 1886. He claimed he lived continuously in the house but his family remained in Mitchell until about 1883 so children could attend school.[14]  

In the meantime, John’s wife, Margaret, purchased some lots in the town of Mitchell. She bought lot 10 in block 10 for $500 from James A. and Samson A. Scott on 14 July 1883.[15] On 15 April 1884, she purchased lot 9 in block 10 from Robert Scott and Margarett Scott.[16] Both of these were in the original town of Mitchell and were not far from her first lot. Then two days later, she bought lots 11 and 12 in Block 7 in D.A. Scotts Addition from Delos A. and Martha A. Scott for $200.[17] These lots were further north on 10th Avenue.[18]

City of Mitchell Detail Map Showing Addition Neighborhoods
https://www.cityofmitchellsd.gov/DocumentCenter/View/232/Detailed-City-Map-PDF

“Changed Hands,” Mr. Samuel Colegrove, who came here from Estelline to buy a meat market, decided to engage in other business and on yesterday leased the Arlington, (old Gleason) House. He will return to the city in about ten days to refit and refurnish the house and contend for his share of public patronage.[19]  

COMMENT: This supports that the Gleeson family no longer is running this hotel and that the hotel was later named Arlington. I do not have a deed of Margaret selling this property. The deeds are only available in Mitchell. I visited the office in 2017.

Right before John proved his homestead, he finalized his naturalization in Aurora County on 16 February 1886, with S. A. Mizener and W.A. Robey as his witnesses.[20] 

COMMENT: Perhaps, it was closer to Plankinton in Aurora County than to travel to Mitchell, or that was where his witnesses were.

A listing of slates for township elections, has a John Gleason, Sr., for assessor on the Peoples Ticket.[21]

COMMENT: This suggests that he was not registered as a Democrat or a Republican. No other article was found, so he likely did not win.

John Gleason received $4.00 for jury certificate on 5 Apr 1886. John Gleason, along with W.N. Perry and James Lester, were put on committee to assess damages on a proposed highway through the northwest quarter section of 15-103-60.[22] John Gleason was later paid $4.00 as road reviewer on 5 July 1886.[23]

On 13 November 1887, a fire broke out at the Arlington House, starting at the kitchen. The newly organized fire department the fire was “kept in that part of the building where it started.” The Arlington House is owned by John Gleason and was insured for $1300 in the Springfield and Germania companies, represented by W.A. Rogers. The damage will probably reach $500 or $600. The house was occupied by George Lowell. Cause of fire may be defective flue in the rear addition.[24]

COMMENT: here we have a connection with the Arlington House and it was still owned by John Gleason, or rather his wife?

In February 1888, John Gleason puts an ad in the paper: “For Rent. The Hotel known as the Arlington house newly rebuilt. Inquire of John Gleason.”[25]

At the county commissioners meeting in July 1890, Mrs. John Gleason received $12.00 for boarding county pauper.[26]

COMMENT: She is the one running the boarding house/hotel.

John Gleason got fifty-three bushels of oats from half an acre yesterday.”[27]

COMMENT: this could be the son, who had also had a farm. It is not clear whether John is living on his farm or in town and rents out his farm.

“The new Elevator Company held a meeting last night [9 Nov 1891], effected a permanent organization, and elected officers as follows: President, R.R. Saul, Secretary, R.T. Robinson, Treasurer, I.W. Lewis, Board of Directors, Jas Lyons, M.H. Ward, L.W. Lewis, R.T. Robinson, John Berry, John Gleason, J. Harry Green, Sperry Dwight and R.R. Saul.”[28]

“The regular meeting of the Davison Co. Elevator Co. was held Monday night [3 November]. A list of resolutions and bylaws were adopted and the following named gentlemen elected as a permanent board of directors: Jas Lyons, John Gleason, H.B. Rogers, S. Dwight, J.G. Helwig, D.W. Collins, M.H. Wood, L.W. Lewis, R.T. Robinson. A site was sejected [selected] at the Omaha just west of the Thompson warehouse and a fine elevator will at once be erected, of no less than 15,000 bushels capacity. The new company starts out with brilliant prospects, consisting as it does of representative, hustling business men and farmers of Mitchell and Davison county.”[29]

COMMENT: These two article refer to a grain elevator. Again, it could be either John Gleeson. The younger John Gleeson was 30 years old with a family.

The Society of the Holy Family Church held a fair on 23 November 1891. John Gleeson was mentioned along with Larry Burns as possible candidates for the most popular farmer, which would win a lumber wagon.[30] However, no article was found to say who won.

COMMENT: Is this referring to the elder or younger John Gleeson?

“Sheriff Sale,” State of south Dakota, Fourth Judicial Circuit, ss. In the Circuit Court within and for Davison County. C.S. Armin vs. Margaret Gleeson, John Gleeson and Frances A. Foster. Notice is hereby give that by virtue of a judgment of foreclosure and sale in the above entitled action on tenth day of November, AD 1891, and an execution issued upon said judgment, the subscriber, Sperry Dwight, sheriff of Davison County, South Dakota, for that purpose appointed, will sell at public auction at the front door of the courthouse in the city of Mitchell, county of Davison, South Dakota, on Saturday, December twelfth, 12, 1891, at ten o’clock in the forenoon of that day, the real estate and mortgage premises situate in the county of Davison, state of South Dakota, and directed in said judgment and execution to be sold, and therein described as follows: Lot ten, 10, in block ten, 10, of the town, now city, of Mitchell, in Davison county, South Dakota, as known and designated upon the recorded plat of town, now city, or so much thereof as my be sufficient to satisfy said judgment and costs, amounting in all to five hundred forty-nine dollars and sixty-six cents, with interest thereon from the date of said judgment, and all accruing costs of sale.  Dated Mitchell, S.D., Nov. 10th, 1891. Sperry Dwight, Sheriff of Davison County, S.D. H.C. Preston, Plaintiff’s Attorney.[31]

COMMENT: this is one of the lots that Margaret Gleeson bought in 1883. No court records are available at FamilySearch. I need to locate this case from the Circuit Court to understand why the sheriff is selling the land. Who is C. S. Armin? Who is Frances A. Foster? One of them must have held the mortgage that was not paid. I asked about court records when I was in Mitchell but was told they are at Pierre. So I have send a request to the South Dakota State Historical Society asking if they know the location of older Davison County court records.

In December 1891, “Dan McDermaid and John Gleason shipped two cars of hogs to Sioux City last night, the latter going with them.”[32]

COMMENT: the big question here is, does John Gleeson still have his homestead and is he still farming, or is this his son, John J, who may still have his farm, or is this another John Gleason? I cannot determine this only from newspapers, but gathering all the newspaper articles that mention John Gleason will certainly help.

In January 1892, John Gleeson was listed as a juror for a case of Mr. and Mrs. Fred Widmann charged with illegal selling of whisky and beer.[33]

In January 1892, John Gleason was mentioned as a member of Hose No. 1 or the Hook and Ladder No. 1. They were holding a dance at the rink and the committee members were listed. John was on the invitation and the floor committee.[34]

COMMENT: Here is another question of whether this is the younger or elder John Gleeson. The elder is about 52 and the younger is 30. The younger is more likely to be a member of a fire department, but it is possible the elder John has been a member since they arrived when he was 39.

At the 4 January 1892 County Commissioner meeting, John Gleason was authorized $4.10 for jury at county court.[35]

“A sociable for the benefit of the Altar Society of the Holy Family church will be held at the Cottage Home, the residence of Mrs. Gleeson, on Wednesday evening the 24th [Feb 1892], inst. At seven o’clock. All friends and patrons are cordially invited.”[36]

COMMENT: It seems the Cottage House is another rooming house that Margaret Gleeson was running.

In June 1892, John Gleason, along with others, signed a petition to the board of directors of the public schools of the city of Mitchell, requesting a new superintendent of schools be hired.[37]

In July 1892, Mr. John Gleason, along with Misses Lena and Lizzie Gleason, attended a party of Mr. and Mrs. Geo. Evans.[38] COMMENT: These three Gleason could be the children of John Gleeson. John J did not marry until 1894. However, Helena and Elizabeth were living in Anaconda, Montana in 1892, though they could have come to visit their parents during the summer.

In August 1892, “The following board of directors of the Davison County Elevator Company were elected at the meeting held Saturday: J.G. Helwig, John Gleeson, Henry Parry, B.C. Weeks, J. Sykes Wilson, C.J. Johnson, L.W. Lewis, Sperry Dwight and J.P. Carlson. The directors will meet this week to organize.”[39]

“John Gleason, Sr. threshed 105 acres of wheat that averaged 20 bushels. His farm is 7 miles north of Mitchell.”[40]

COMMENT: This notation of Sr. adds to the possibility that this might be John Gleeson, the elder. It also shows that he is still farming his homestead.

At the Oct 11, 1892 proceedings of the City Council meeting, a payment of $2.00 was authorized to John Gleason for being special policeman.[41]

COMMENT: This seems more geared to the younger Gleeson.

An article in November 1892 made note of women who run businesses. “Mrs. John Gleason devotes her attention to the Cottage hotel and makes the place a homelike resort.”[42]

COMMENT: another article connection Mrs. Gleason to the Cottage Hotel.

Board of County Commissioners meeting 2 January 1894, “voted to issue a refunding order for $1.00 in favor of John Gleeson to correct error in double assessment.”[43]

In April 1894, their daughter, Mrs. W. E. Gilbert of Spokane, Washington, “is visiting with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Gleeson.”[44]

COMMENT: Their daughter, Mary Martha, married Warren E. Gilbert 9 September 1886.[45]

On 30 May 1894, John Gleason married Susie Smith at Holy Family church and following the ceremony performed by Rev. Father Maher, the bridal party and guests “repaired to the home of the groom six miles northwest of town.”[46]

COMMENT: This is John J. Gleeson, the younger son.

In June 1894, the Independent County Convention was held. John Gleason was listed as a delegate.[47]

COMMENT: Again, he is of a non-traditional political party.

In January 1895, John Gleeson was paid $.50 for “board co chg” by the County Commissioners.[48] COMMENT: Have no idea what that is abbreviated for.

In December 1896, a long article was written about a case brought before Judge Abbey, Michael Gleason vs. Joseph Caapski, about a quarter section of land. Abbey decided he had no jurisdiction in the case and it will be presented to Judge Smith. “John Gleason made a lease of his farm to Czapski for a period of three years with the provision that he was to give up the land in case Gleason sold it. The tenant was notified that a deed of the land had been made to Michael Gleason and that he demanded possession of the same. At two different times Czapski was notified to give possession but he stolidly refused to do so, and alleged in his answer to the complaint that it was his belief that John Gleason was now and always had been the owner of the land.”[49]

COMMENT: If this is our John Gleeson, he did have a son named Michael. I have in notes that Michael lived in San Francisco at this time, though it is possible he wanted to try farming. To know for sure, we need to know the land description and locate a deed. Checking my notes from looking at the deed indexes, Margaret and John Gleeson did sell land to Michael Gleeson (v. 76, p. 178) and then he sold the land to Margaret (v. 76, p. 233). I don’t seem to have these deeds. An email has been sent to the recorder’s office about online records or how to get copies.

In April 1897, “The ladies of the Holy Family church will hold a sociable at the residence of Mrs. J. Gleeson on Easter Monday evening, April 19th, to which all are kindly invited.”[50]

COMMENT: too bad it doesn’t give a concrete location.

In April 1897, John Gleason Sr was selected as petit juror.[51]

In June 1897, John Gleason of Mitchell, put in a notice “the Cottage hotel, situated at Mitchell, S.D., has been established 18 years. On account of old age must dispose of property. Apply on premises or address the proprietor.”[52]

COMMENT: this is the same Cottage hotel that has been run by Mrs. Gleeson. The ad ran until at least the end of August.

In June 1897, “Mrs. Warren Gilbert and little daughter arrived from Los Angeles, Cal., to spend the summer with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. J. Gleeson of the Cottage hotel.”[53]

COMMENT: This is Martha Mary and her daughter, Muriel. Muriel was born in 1895, so she would be about 2.

In September 1897, Mr. and Mrs. John Gleason will move into Mr. Krom’s residence next week. The Salvation Army officers will move out of Chas. Krom’s house and take up their quarters in the office building across from the corn palace.[54]

COMMENT: The deed index indicates that Margaret bought a lot from Krome. I do not have the deed.

In September 1897, John Gleason was elected as delegate for Second ward at the populist caucus.[55]

COMMENT: Junior or Senior Gleeson?

In September 1897, “Sam’l Webber has completed a trade for the Cottage hotel, owned and operated by Mr. and Mrs. John Gleason. Mr. Webber will run the hotel in connection with his restaurant business.”[56]

COMMENT: The deed index indicates that Margaret sold to Webber, and the following deed is back to Margaret, so it might be she held a mortgage. I don’t have these deeds.

July 1898, John Gleason is listed twice in the meeting of the city council news: John Gleason receiving $19.25 for street work, and $2.00 for special police.[57]

COMMENT: these are likely for the younger John Gleason.

July 1898, “Mr. and Mrs. John Gleason drove out from Mitchell last Thursday and spent the day at the home of their son, Martin.”[58]

COMMENT: These are clearly the elder John Gleeson.

July 1898. Mrs. John Gleason, Sr, Mrs. M.P. Gleason, Misses Elizabeth and Margaret Gleason, Mrs. John Gleason, Jr. were guests at the home of Mrs. Geo. Evans.[59]

COMMENT: Here we have names that match children of the Gleeson family: M.P (Michael Peter), Elizabeth, Margaret, and John. It is then possible that Michael was trying to farm his father’s or brother’s land.

In August 1898, “Sioux Falls Argus-Leader, 20: P.T. McGovern, James Lyon, John Gleeson of Mitchell and John Golze arrived in the city last evening on business before Bishop Thomas O’Gorman of the Catholic church. The visitors were closeted with the Bishop until a late hour last night.”[60]

COMMENT: This could be either John Gleeson.

November 1898. “Mr. and Mrs. John Gleason, sr., drove out from Mitchell Wednesday and called at the old homestead.”[61]

COMMENT: Did they call out at the homestead because they still owned it and were visiting the renters?

March 1899, John Gleason has purchased the Krom resident on east Third street, where he has resided for the past year.[62]

September 1899, “Mr. and Mrs. John Gleason left yesterday for Sioux City and Le Mars, Iowa, where they will visit for several weeks among their old friends.”[63]

COMMENT: John’s brother, Michael, moved to Iowa and his descendants live in Le Mars. A newspaper article from Le Mars also published about his visit visiting his nephews, Martin, John, and Thomas Gleason.[64]

At the 3 October 1899 meeting of the County Commissioners, John Gleeson was allowed payment of $2.00 for being special deputy on 14 September.[65]

May 1900, John Gleason fell from his roof while shingling and his wife, Mrs. Gleason, did not hear him or notice he had stopped hammering. He received “a bad cut across his forehead, several inches in length” from a large wheel that had been there for flowers. Dr. Bobb was called and rendered medical assistance.[66]

COMMENT: Not sure which John, but it could be the elder John, who may have been a bit unsteady on the roof because of age.

The 1899 city directory listed John Gleason as a farmer, living at 205 East Third Street.[67]

COMMENT: So, this explains it. He lived in town but still the land he owned was farmed. I don’t have a deed when he sold it.

In 1900, John was enumerated in the City of Mitchell with his wife, Margaret, and several of his children. No occupation was listed for either John nor Margaret, which supports their retirement from hotel business.

Gleeson, John, w, m, Jan 1834, 66, mar. 40 yrs, b. Can, parents IR, imm. 1880, 20 yrs in US, no nat., rents, house.
   Margaret, wife, w, f, Apr 1836, 64, mar, 10/10, Can, IR/IR, 1880, 20 yr
   Martin, w, m, 21, son, Jan 1861, mar, 7 yr, Can, Can/Can, 1880, 20 yr, farmer,
   Willie, son, w, m Jun 1874, 25, sing, Can, Can/Can, 1880, 20 yr, rr laborer
   Margaret T, w, f, dau, sing, Jul 1876, 23, sing, Can, Can/Can, 1880, 20 yr, school teacher
   Frank T, w, m, son, sing, Dec 1878, 21, sing, Can, Can/Can, 1880, 20 yr, baggageman rr
Frink, Mary, dau, w, f, Jan 1864, 36, mar 14 yr, 4/2, b. Can, parents in Canada, arrived in US 1880.
   May, gr dau, w, f, Feb 1890, 10, sing, b. SD, father in IA, mother in Can, at school.
   John, gr son, w, m, Jan 1895, 5, sing, b. SD, father IA, mother Can.

COMMENT: This census enumeration has puzzled me for years. There are lots of conflicts. 

• John’s tombstone gives his birth as 25 February 1835. If married 40 years, then would have married in 1859 or 1860, however, their first child was born 25 January 1859. They celebrated their 50th anniversary on 15 February 1908, making their marriage in 1858. The rest of the info about John matches what I know.
• Margaret’s birth month is correct but the year off by one—she was born in 1835.
• Martin’s birth is off by two years, but if married as stated in 1860, it makes sense to say he was born in 1861. He was enumerated twice. The other time is on his farm with his wife and children.
• And Mary Frink and children are likely not a daughter and grandchildren of John and Margaret. See “What are the Possibilities?” for the explanation, see this blog post: https://mytrailsintothepast.blogspot.com/2026/06/what-are-possibilities.html.

November 1900. Mrs. John Gleason of 205 East Third Street, put in an ad to sell “all household furniture, consisting of 2 bedroom sets, sewing machine, ice chest, bookcase, bureau, cupboard, stoves, chairs, tables, pictures, mirrors, lamps and several other articles too numerous to mention. All are new and in good order. Also, a good family horse, buggy and harness.”[68]

November 1900, Mrs. John Gleeson, sr., of Mitchell, called on old friends in West Perry.[69]

November 1900. John Gleeson and J.J. Gleeson’s names were drawn to secure a jury to try the McBride damage suit.[70]

COMMENT: Here we see both men mentioned. J.J. Gleeson is likely John J. Gleeson.

November 1900. “Mr. and Mrs. John Gleason have sold off all their household goods and disposed of their house and lot on east Third street with the expectation of leaving about the first of the month for Portland, Oregon, where they will reside in the future. They have several children out there and they have decided to accede to their many requests to move to that place.”[71]

November 1900. “Gilbert Johnston has purchased the Gleason residence on east Third street and moved in Monday.”[72]

COMMENT: I don’t see this deed in the index notes I have.

November 1900. “Mr. and Mrs. John Gleason departed this morning via the Omaha road for Anaconda, Mont., where they will visit until the first of the year with their children. After that date they will go on to Portland, Oregon, where they intend to make their future home. Mr. and Mrs.  Gleason are old residents of Mitchell and in the many years that they have resided here they have formed friendships and acquaintances which are dear on both sides. The Republican hopes they will do well in their new location. Mr. Gleason said, however, if they did not like it out there was no law compelling them to keep out of South Dakota.”[73] COMMENT: the two proceeding articles help pinpoint when the Gleeson family moved to Portland, first stopping in Anaconda.

All the remaining articles when searching “John Gleason” probably pertain to the son, John J. Gleason.

Summary
John obtained a homestead in Davison County, Dakota Territory. Margaret, his wife, ran a rooming house/hotel in town. They finished raising their children and were active at Holy Family Catholic Church. Margaret bought and sold land in town and operated rooming houses. John appeared to do his civic duty when called upon. Eventually, they got too old to work any longer and sold the business. They finally sold out in 1900 and moved to Portland, Oregon, where some of their children lived and urged them to join them.

Conclusion
Although FamilySearch does not have many digitized records for South Dakota, I was able to locate items from the Mitchell newspapers that help fill in the Gleeson family story while they lived in Dakota Territory and later the state of South Dakota from their arrival from Canada in 1879/80 to their departure to Portland, Oregon in 1900. Some of the documentation comes from the local Catholic church records, while others come from deed records. More deed records are needed to get a full picture, as well as searching in court records. If I cannot get these by email correspondence, I may have to make another trip to Mitchell and Pierre, South Dakota.

Next time: Portland Oregon

---

[1] 1880 U.S. census, Davison Co, Dakota Territory, Mitchell, ED 35, p 13, 474 (stamped), dwelling 109, family 112, John Gleeson.

[2] “Back in Time 2017,” Carnegie Resource Center (https://www.mitchellcarnegie.com/back-in-time-.html : accessed 6 June 2026), 14th photo. This photo was published in the 10 Apr 2017 issue of Daily Republic.

[3] Davison Co, Dakota Territory, Deeds, v. 1, p. 113, John Lawler to John Gleason, 1880; Register of Deeds, Mitchell.

[4] Davison Co, Dakota Territory, 2nd Judicial District, Declarations of Intentions 1880-1886, p 31, John Gleeson, 1880; imaged, FamilySearch (https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3QSQ-G9WY-Z9M3-F : accessed 5 Jun 2026), IGN 007191199, item 23, image 33 of 244; South Dakota State Archives, Pierre.

[5] Davison Co, Dakota Territory, 2nd Judicial District, Declarations of Intentions 1880-1886, p. 24, Martin Gleeson and Ann Gleeson, 1880, imaged, FamilySearch (https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3QSQ-G9WY-Z1TX : accessed 5 June 2026), IGN 007191199, item 23, image 30 of 244; South Dakota State Archives, Pierre.

[6] Homestead Act of 1862, ch. 75, 12 Stat. 392.

[7] Homestead application, 14941, John Gleeson, 14 Dec 1880; Land Entry Papers, 1800-1908; Record Group 49; Records of the Bureau of Land Management; National Archives, Washington, D.C., John Gleeson (Davison County) homestead file, final certificate no. 14497, Mitchell, South Dakota, Land Office.

[8] Davison Co, Dakota Territory, Warranty deed, v. 1, p. 114, John Gleason to Margaret Gleason, 1880; Register of Deeds, Mitchell.

[9] Cash Entry application, 14037, Martin Gleeson, 7 Oct 1880; Land Entry Papers, 1800-1908; Record Group 49; Records of the Bureau of Land Management; National Archives, Washington, D.C., Martin Gleeson (Davison County) cash entry file, final certificate no. 4680, Mitchell, South Dakota, Land Office.

[10] Final Proof Application, 14037, Martin Gleeson, 26 May 1881; Land Entry Papers, 1800-1908; Record Group 49; Records of the Bureau of Land Management; National Archives, Washington, D.C., Martin Gleeson (Davison County) cash entry file, final certificate no. 4680, Mitchell, South Dakota, Land Office.

[11] Cash Entry application, 14038, Ann Gleeson, 7 Oct 1880; Land Entry Papers, 1800-1908; Record Group 49; Records of the Bureau of Land Management; National Archives, Washington, D.C., Ann Gleeson (Davison County) cash entry file, final certificate no. 4681, Mitchell, South Dakota, Land Office.

[12] Final Proof Application, 14038, Ann Gleeson, 26 May 1881; Land Entry Papers, 1800-1908; Record Group 49; Records of the Bureau of Land Management; National Archives, Washington, D.C., Ann Gleeson (Davison County) cash entry file, final certificate no. 4681, Mitchell, South Dakota, Land Office.

[13] Homestead Act of 1862, ch. 75, 12 Stat. 392.

[14] Homestead proof, testimony of claimant, certificate no. 14941, John Gleeson, 20 Feb 1886; Land Entry Papers, 1800-1908; Record Group 49; Records of the Bureau of Land Management; National Archives, Washington, D.C., John Gleeson (Davison County) homestead file, final certificate no. 14497, Mitchell, South Dakota, Land Office.

[15] Davison Co, Dakota Territory, Deeds, v. 4, p. 177, James A & Samson A Scott to Margaret Gleason, 1883; Register of Deeds, Mitchell.

[16] Davison Co, Dakota Territory, Deeds, v. 45, p. 90, Robert & Margarett Scott to Margaret Gleeson, 1884; Register of Deeds, Mitchell.

[17] Davison Co, Dakota Territory, Deeds, v. 45, p. 125, Delos A & Martha A Scott to Margaret Gleeson, 1884; Register of Deeds, Mitchell.

[18] “Detailed [Mitchell] City Map,” City of Mitchell, South Dakota (https://www.cityofmitchellsd.gov/302/City-Maps : accessed 7 Jun 2026). The pdf must be opened to view.

[19] “Changed Hands,” Daily Republic (Mitchell, DT), 10 Jan 1886, p. 3, col. 3.

[20] U.S. District Court, Second Judicial District, Aurora County, Dakota Territory, v. 1, p. 212, final certificate, John Gleeson, 1886; imaged, FamilySearch (https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3Q9M-CSML-NSPN-T : accessed 7 Jun 2026), IGN 007779142, item 1, image 92 of 952.

[21] “Township Elections,” Mitchell Sunday Republican, 28 Feb 1886, p. 1, col. 3.

[22] “County Business,” Mitchell Daily Republican, 13 Apr 1886, p. 1, col. 2-3.

[23] “County Commissioners,” Mitchell Daily Republican, 14 Jul 1886, p. 3, col. 2.

[24] “Fire and Water,” Mitchell Daily Republican, 14 Nov 1887, p. 3, col. 3.

[25] “For Rent,” Mitchell Daily Republican, 23 Feb 1888, p. 3, col. 4.

[26] “Regular Session,” Mitchell Daily Republican, 16 July 1890, p. 2, col. 2-3.

[27] “Additional Local,” Mitchell Daily Republican, 9 Aug 1891, p. 4, col. 5.

[28] “The New Elevator Company,” Mitchell Daily Republican, 10 Nov 1891, p. 5, col. 4.

[29] “The New Elevator Company,” Mitchell Capital, 27 Nov 1891, p. 12, col. 1.

[30] “Catholic Fair,” Mitchell Daily Republican, 13 Nov 1891, p. 5, col. 5.

[31] “Sheriff Sale,” Mitchell (So. Dak.) Capital, 20 Nov 1891, p. 13, col. 1.

[32] “Local and Personal,” Mitchell Daily Republican, 16 Dec 1891, p. 2, col. 2.

[33] “Court Proceedings,” Mitchell Daily Republican, 6 Jan 1892, p. 8, col. 3.

[34] “Firemen’s Dance This Week,” Mitchell Sunday Republican, p. 8, col. 4.

[35] “County Commissioners,” Mitchell Daily Republican, 19 Jan 1892, p. 3, col. 6.

[36] “Local Mention,” Mitchell Daily Republican, 23 Feb 1892, p. 3, col. 4.

[37] “Patrons Have Their Say,” Mitchell Daily Republican, 9 Jun 1892, p. 2, col. 3.

[38] “Sunday Evening Tea,” Mitchell Daily Republican, 18 Jul 1892, p. 3, col. 4.

[39] “Davison County Elevator Co,” Mitchell Sunday Republican, 7 Aug 1892, p. 4, c. 3.

[40] “Corn Belt Crops,” Mitchell Capital, 30 Sep 1892, p. 7, col. 3.

[41] “Proceedings of the City Council,” 21 Oct 1892, p. 8, col. 3.

[42] “Woamn [sic] in Business Affairs,” Mitchell Daily Republican, 20 Nov 1892, p. 4, col. 3.

[43] “Official Proceedings,” Mitchell Daily Republican, 3 Jan 1894, p. 6, col. 3.

[44] “Personal,” Mitchell Daily Republican, 3 Apr 1894, p. 2, col. 4.

[45] Holy Family Catholic Church, Mitchell, South Dakota, Sacramental Records, Marriage, 1886, Gleeson-Gilbert; transcribed by rectory secretary, Sheryle Prostrollo, 1997.

[46] “Smith-Gleason Nuptials,” Mitchell Daily Republican, 31 May 1894, p. 2, col. 4.

[47] “To Nominate Delegates,” Mitchell Daily Republican, 3 Jun 1894, p. 4, col. 3.

[48] “The County Commissioners,” Mitchell Daily Republican, 16 Jan 1895, p. 2, col. 3.

[49] “Wanted Possession of Land,” Mitchell Daily Republican, 20 Dec 1896, p. 3, col. 4.

[50] “An Easter Monday Social,” Mitchell Daily Republican, 18 Apr 1897, p. 2, c. 3.

[51] “The Petit Jury Drawn,” Mitchell Capital, 30 Apr 1897, p. 1, col. 6.

[52] “For Sale or Trade,” Mitchell Daily Republican, 17 Jun 1897, p. 2, col. 1.

[53] “Minor Mention,” Mitchell Capital, 11 Jun 1897, p. 10, col. 2.

[54] “Local and Personal,” Mitchell Daily Republican, 2 Sep 1897, p. 2, col. 3.

[55] “The Populist Caucuses,” Mitchell Daily Republican, 3 Sep 1897, p. 2, col. 3.

[56] “Minor Mention,” Mitchell Capital, 17 Sep 1897, p. 7, col. 1.

[57] “Meeting of the Council,” Mitchell Daily Republican, 6 Jul 1898, p. 2, col. 3.

[58] “West Perry,” Mitchell Capital, 8 Jul 1898, p. 11, col. 2.

[59] “Local News Matters,” Mitchell Capital, 29 Jul 1898, p. 10, col. 4.

[60] “Local and Personal,” Mitchell Daily Republican, 22 Aug 1898, p. 2, col. 3.

[61] “West Perry,” Mitchell Capital, 25 Nov 1898, p. 6, col. 1.

[62] “Local and Personal,” Mitchell Daily Republican, 7 Mar 1899, p. 2, col. 4.

[63] “Additional Local,” Mitchell Daily Republic, 27 Sep 1899, p. 4, col. 5.

[64] “Personals,” Le Mars Semi-Weekly Sentinel, 2 Oct 1899, p. 4, c. 2.

[65] “The Commissioners Meet,” Mitchell Daily Republican, 10 Oct 1899, p. 2, col. 3-4.

[66] “Local and Personal,” Mitchell Daily Republican, 23 May 1900, p. 2, col. 3.

[67] “Mitchell City Directory 1899 A thru G,” https://sites.rootsweb.com/~sddaviso/mitdir1899.htm, John Gleason.

[68] “For Sale,” Mitchell Daily Republican, 6 Nov 1900, p. 5, col. 7.

[69] “West Perry,” Mitchell Capital, 2 Nov 1900, p. 8, col. 1.

[70] “Drawn a Special Venire,” Mitchell Daily Republican, 14 Nov 1900, p. 3, col. 3.

[71] “Local News Matters,” Mitchell Capital, 16 Nov 1900, p. 10, col. 2.

[72] “Local News Matters,” Mitchell Capital, 16 Nov 1900, p. 11, col. 3.

[73] “Local and Personal,” Mitchell Daily Republican, 27 Nov 1900, p. 2, col. 3.

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