"The BIOGRAPHICAL History of Clark County, Wisconsin"

Compiled by Franklyn Curtiss-Wedge, Chicago and Winona, H. C. Cooper Jr., & Co. in 1918, page 480.

Archibald Yorkston, a pioneer of Clark County in 1857, but now deceased, was born in Scotland, where he learned and followed the carpenter's trade. He was there married to Ann Hamilton, and several years later, with two children- Margaret and John-set out for the United States. First they located at Green Bay, Wis., removing from that place to Chicago, where he resided eight years, following his trade. There six more children were born-William H., John, Archie, Ann and Elizabeth. In 1857, Mr. Yorkston and his family left Chicago for Clark County, Wis., after reaching La Crossee, driving from that place by team to Neillsville. He secured 160 acres of wild land in Section 5, Lynn Township, having to cut most of his way through the woods to take possession of it. On his arrival he built a log house of one room, which stood a few rods southwest of the present house, and also erected a log stable, though he had no team. His first crops were put in by hand, and Mr. Yorkston carried provisions on his back from Neillsville. The family bought their first cow from James O'Neill, founder of Neillsville. On this place Mr. Yorkston resided for the rest of his life, which, however, was not prolonged to old age, as he was only 51 when he died. He had made considerable progress on his farm, and had increased its size by the purchase of eighty acres more. His wife lived to the age of 70 years.

They were affiliated with the Presbyterian Church, and were people highly esteemed by their neighbors. Their son, John, previously mentioned, died in boyhood. The daughter, Margaret, now lives in Washington. William H. resides on the old homestead, of which he is the present proprietor. Ann also resides on the old homestead, which she has never left.