1891 History of Clark Jackson Co., WI
pg. 331-332

EPHRIAM A. BOARDMAN, proprietor of a saw-mill and lumberyard at Thorp, Clark County, was born in Tioga County, Pennsylvania, March 17, 1837, the son of Benoni Boardman, deceased, a native of Cattaraugus County, New York. The latter removed with his parents to Pennsylvania, when a boy, later to Olmsted County, Minnesota, and in the spring of 1853 settled on a farm among Indians and wild animals. Ephraim remained on this place until 1872, when he came to this county, and entered 160 acres of land on the east side of the road, on sections 30 to 29, Withee Township, which now constitutes a part of the village of Thorp. He built the first house in this place, which was a round-log cabin, 16 x 24 feet, all in one room. This also served as a dry-goods and grocery store, and he was therefore the first merchant of Thorp. The next store was built by L. O. Garrison in 1881, and the same year Thomas O. Mosher built and conducted a hardware store. The place now contains eight stores, three blacksmith shops, harness shop, two art galleries, eight saloons, three physicians and one attorney.

Mr. Boardman was married February 13, 1860, to Savilla L. Fults, who was born in New York State, the daughter of Joseph Fults. They have had eight children, three of whom survive: Anson, Grace and Melvin,--all at home. The deceased are: Owen, Frankie and Laura, and two died in infancy. Mr. Boardman was chairman of the Town Board two years, Town Treasurer one year, and is now Vice Grand of the I. O. O. F. lodge. Politically he affiliates with the Democratic party.