Holley, H. W. (Henry Whitcomb), 1828-1897

Henry Whitcomb Holley was born in Jefferson County, New York, May 5, 1828, the son of David and Betsey (Randall) Holley. He graduated from Norwich University, Vermont in 1849. From 1849-1856, he was a contracting engineer for railroads in Ohio, Indiana, and Wisconsin.

Holley came to Minnesota in 1856 and settled in Chatfield. He was editor of the Chatfield Republican (1856-1861); a state senator (1859-1861); and receiver of the U.S. Land Office at Winnebago City (1861-1869). He began his engineering career with the Southern Minnesota Railroad in 1865, became chief engineer of construction, and was also the company's general manager and superintendent.

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