Youso, Severyn (1910-1996)

Biographical information: Severyn Youso was born December. 28, 1910, in Willmar, Minnesota, to Frank and Martha (Henry) Youso. He married Irene Henry on February 3, 1936, in Rockville, Minnesota. He lived in Foley most of his life and founded the Benton County News in 1932. He served on the Foley school board for 22 years. He was Benton County DFL chairman for 25 years. Youso died on December 22, 1996 in St. Cloud, Minnesota.

Transcript summary: In an oral history recorded on January 15, 1971, Severyn Youso discussed his role as long-time Benton County DFL chairman and his work on Fred Marshall’s 1948 campaign for the U.S. House of Representatives. Youso met Marshall in 1948 when Marshall entered the race for Congress from Minnesota’s Sixth District. Marshall received the support of farmers and veterans. Youso suspected widespread support for the Marshall Plan may have helped Fred Marshall, who was not related to the general. One of the campaign posters featured Marshall holding big bundles of wheat under each arm. When Marshall visited Foley, the two discussed who to appointment to office and Marshall reminded Youso that a person’s qualification was the most important factor.