----Source: 1891 Bio. Hist. Of Clark Jackson, Co., Wis., pg. 218-219

MICHAEL BAKER, a self-made man and a prosperous farmer residing in Garden Valley Township, Jackson County, is a native of Germany. He was born January 17, 1820, and came to America in 1851, landing in New York, June 9. After remaining in Pennsylvania a little over four years, he came West and located in Waukesha County, Wisconsin. There he bought a small farm, which he improved, and which he sold in 1879. In that year he came to Jackson County, bought a farm consisting of 120 acres, located two miles from Alma Centre, and on it he still resides. Mr. Baker, like many of his countrymen, came here without means, and by industry and economy has worked his way up to a position of comfort and independence. When he landed in this country he had but 20, and so anxious was he to get a start that he worked for six shillings per day and boarded himself in Pennsylvania. He worked in a lumber yard in the day time, and then when he had an opportunity he would work helping to unload coal boats during the nights, to put in extra time.

Mr. Baker was accompanied to this country by his wife and babe, and after their arrival here other children were born to them. Two children are deceased. The others have received the benefit of a good education. Mr. Baker had a brother in Pennsylvania who had preceded them to the United States, and it was with no little difficulty that they succeeded in finding him. He offered them a home with him for awhile, but rendered Mr. Baker no assistance in finding employment so then it was they concluded to come West. The subject of our sketch is regarded as one of the substantial citizens of the community in which he resides, and is held in high esteem by all who know him. He is now serving's Roadmaster. The family are members of the Catholic Church.