Charles F. Greening, one of the first settlers in Grand Meadow village, was born in Worchester, England. The Greenings are an old family, tracing their history back to the days of William the Conqueror. The parents of C. F. were trades people and came to America in 1847. After a tedious voyage of nine weeks they landed at New Orleans, La., and thence by steamer made their way to Galena, Illinois.

They finally settled in Wisconsin, where the aged parent celebrated their golden wedding last summer. Mr. Greening started out in the world with only twenty-five cents in his pocket, to learn the tinner's trade. The war had started, but he was only tall enough to join the Home Guard at first. But soon he reached the required height and with seven other boys enlisted. He fought in some of the hottest battles and marched in hard campaigns until the strain proved too much for his constitution and returned. He went back to his old employment and rose rapidly until the business was closed out and he came west.

Finally coming to Grand Meadow he commenced business for himself. In the year 1872 he was elected town treasurer and there being no safe in which to keep the funds he conceived the idea of starting an exchange bank, which now does an annual business of over a million dollars.

In 1874 the county convention was held in Grand Meadow and Mr. Greening, while blacking a stove with his sleeves rolled up, was nominated for the legislature and was twice elected. He has held numerous town and village offices and is an untiring worker for Temperance and all kinds of right going. Three sons and tow daughters bless his home, the oldest son, Elgar F. Greening, is now assistant cashier in his father's bank.

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Submitted to MnGenWeb by Darrel K. Waters