^4 Continued Story of Walsh County And Its Pioneers And Their Descendants U.S./CAM
VOL 3 v.3
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DEDICATION
Walsh Heritage volumes three and four are dedicated to the good will and tireless efforts of the Walsh County 100 year anniversary book committee and their staff of 57 people representing every area of the county, donating their time and efforts, to bring into memory, the hardships, the struggles, the enchantments and happiness of family life for both the pioneers and the younger generaton of today, to be preserved in writing, so that it will be searched, for its valuable information, in years to come and it is further dedicated to the 7 OO year anniversary of the birth of Walsh County.
R. F. "Pete" Matejcek
i
IV
Foreword These biographies of Walsh County people from both the past and the present were collected for the sole purpose of putting into print the histories of families that have had an important part in the formation of an area of land within the boundaries of the State of North Dakota, designated to be called a county, celebrating its 100th anniversary in 1 9 8 1 . This area of land, which was created by subdividing the southern part of Pembina County and the northern part of Grand Forks County was called Walsh County after George H. Walsh who was the President of the Dakota Territorial Council and had sponsored a bill that created the new County.
LAND
OFFICE —OF-
I GEORGE H. WALSIX GRAND FORKS, D. T. 1881 Will locate Settlers npon Vacant Govern tnent Lands nnder the Homestead Timber Culture or Pre-emption Acts. Several Choice Pieces of Good Farm Lands and
4,000acres of good Timber Lands For Sale upon Easy Terms, IN DAKOTA, TOWN 193, IUHGE 51. Lots 1 aod 2 3 E qr. of N E qr. aud N E qr. of S B qr. Sec 28. Lots 1 and 2 and 8 hf. of B W qr and N hf of S W qri Seo fl5i V
PUBLISHED BY WALSH COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY EDITED BY MRS. MYRTLE BALKEE, GRAFTON, N. DAK. PRINTED BY ASSOCIATED PRINTERS, GRAFTON, N. DAK. 58237
©COPYRIGHT 1981 WALSH COUNTY, NORTH DAKOTA by WALSH COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY
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Walsh County Historical Society
The Founder
And First President "PRECEPTS" 1. To obtain members. 2. To establish one or more museums in the county to preserve the things used by pioneers, farmers, housewives, businessmen, craftsmen, Indians, etc. 3. To obtain a country school, log cabin, a sod house and other buildings of historical value. 4. To erect historical markers at places of historical importance to the county.
"Precepts Continued" 5. To preserve important papers and documents of important people of Walsh County. 6. To work with libraries in the county developing good sections of books and sources of history.
Father Joseph Hylden
7. To write a history of Walsh County and its people, primarily Ethnic groups and their cultures.
1967-1968-1969 Father Hylden's greatest desire was to establish a Pioneer Village.
BORN
DIED
1913
1972 VII
History of Father Joseph Hylden Father Joseph Hylden was born at Park River on Dec. 17, 1913, the son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Lars Hylden. When he was five years old the family moved to East Grand Forks where he attended the public schools and graduated from East Grand Forks Central High School in 1932.
The church is recognized as one of the most beautiful structures in the Upper Midwest and has attracted persons from all over the United States who have come to view it. One of Father Hylden's proudest moments came when the All Faiths Chapel at the Grafton State School was dedicated. For him it was a dream come true. Long concerned with the lack of spiritual life at the school, Father Hylden organized a committee which began the program which later was adopted as a project by Post 41 of the American Legion in Grafton and its Auxiliary. Father Hylden assisted the committee during its fund-raising years and was instrumental in arranging for the dedication ceremonies.
He attended the University of North Dakota in 1932-33 and St. John's University at Collegeville, Minn., from 1933 to 1941 where he received his bachelors of arts degree in philosophy in 1937. He was ordained June 7, 1941, at St. Mary's Cathedral in Fargo. He celebrated his first mass at St. Mary's Church at Park River. He was assigned as assistant pastor at St. Mary's Cathedral in Fargo from 1941 to 1944. While serving at Fargo he attended North Dakota State University from 1941 to 1943 and received a bachelor of science degree in agriculture. He then attended the University of Wisconsin in 1945 where he received his master of science degree in rural sociology.
While in Grafton, Father Hylden was active in the organization of the Walsh County Historical Society and had dreams of a Pioneer Village being located in Grafton. He served as a member of the governor's committee for migrant laborers and a member of the governor's committee for rural areas development. He was vitally interested in securing better housing for the Spanish-speaking transients who came to the area for beet work during the summer months.
He was a teacher, coach and athletic director at St. James High School in Grand Forks from 1944 to 1948. Hylden Field at St. James was named in his honor.
He was also active in numerous civic projects and was often called upon as a speaker not only at local functions but at various events throughout the state.
He then served as pastor at Hope, N. D., from 1948 to 1950 and was pastor at Edgeley, N. D., from 1950 to 1960 when he came to Grafton to become pastor of St. John's Church.
Father Hylden was a member of the Knights of Columbus in the third and fourth degrees.
Father Hylden was active in local, state and national affairs. He was a member of 20 years and a director for 15 years of the National Catholic Rural Conference and held offices as secretary, third vice president, second vice president, and first vice president in that order.
He served as pastor at Grafton for nine years. While visiting in Peru he was stricken with a heart attack in 1969. Upon recovering he asked to be assigned to a smaller parish and was made pastor of St. Timothy's Church at Manvel. Father Hylden, 58, died on Good Friday evening, in 1 972, shortly after admission to a Grand Forks hospital. He had suffered from a heart condition for several years, but was assigned to St. Timothy's Church, Manvel, at the time of his death.
As a part of his work on the national level, he was twice called for emergency meetings with foreign refugees, once at Camp Kilmer, N.J., to meet and aid in relocation of Hungarian freedom fighters and once to Miami when he was one of a hundred consultants called to help the Cuban refugees.
He is survived by three brothers, Maurice of Kettle Falls, Wash., Harold of Dallas, Texas, and Larry of Minneapolis, and six sisters, Mrs. J. C. (Margaret) Hayes of St. Paul, Minn., Mrs. T. V. (Mary) Lineman of Cambridge, Minn., Mrs. Frances Madira of Annandale, Minn., Mrs. John (Delores) Aas of Rugby, N. D., Mrs. Raymond (Loretta) Ludowese of Stewart, Minn., and Mrs. Donald (Audrey) Corcaran of Fall Brook, Calif.
During the years following World War II, Father Hylden was in charge of the program that located nearly 500 displaced persons in homes and jobs within the Diocese of Fargo. It was during Father Hylden's tenure as pastor in Graftor that the beautiful new church was erected by St. John's Parish.
VIII
Walsh County Historical Society
Presidents
Joseph Hylden
Henry Lundene
President 1967 - 1968 - 1969
President-1970-1971 - 1 9 7 2 1975-1976-1980-1981 Vice President - 1 969 - 1974 Director -1967 - 1968 - 1973 1977-1978-1979
R. F. "Pete" Matejcek 1980-1981 Centennial Book Committee Chairman
Charles Stewart President - 1973 Vice President - 1970 - 1971 - 1 972 Director - 1968 - 1974 - 1976 1977-1978-1979 Museum Chairman - 1970 - 1971 - 1 9 7 2
President - 1977 - 1 9 7 8 - 1979 Vice President - 1975 - 1 9 7 6 Treasurer - 1 9 7 3 Director -1969 - 1 9 7 2 - 1974 Museum Committees Building - 1969 Building - 1972 Museum Chairman - 1 9 7 4 - 1 9 7 3 Ex-Officio - 1977 Ex-Officio - 1 9 7 8 Ex-Officio - 1979 Heritage Village Board Ex-Officio - 1 978 Ex-Officio - 1 9 7 9 Director - 1 9 8 0 - 1 9 8 1 IX
Ed Gudajtes President - 1974 Vice President - 1973 -1977 1978-1979-1980-1981 Director - 1975 - 1976 - 1980 - 1981
Officers and Directors
Left to right: R. F. "Pete" Matejcek, Lankin, Centennial Book Chairman, Director and Immediate Past President, WCHS; Jean Bodmer, Secretary, WCHS, Hoople; Henry Lundene, President, Adams; Leonard Jensen, Treasurer, WCHS and Centennial Book Committee, Edinburg; Lorraine Paulson, Recording Secretary, Hoople. Back row: Stephanie Prepiora, Curator Minto Museum, Minto; Dennis Monson, Director, Edinburg; James Johnson, Director, Adams; Harold Harris, Director, Park River; Frank Schiller, Minto Museum Chairman; Mary Rose Rodriguez, Director, Grafton; Gladys Lewis, Director, Park River. Not pictured, Ed Gudajtes, Vice President of WCHS, Minto.
Centennial Book Committee
Back row, left to right: Ella Matejcek, Lankin; Gladys Huseby, Fordville; Alida Goodman, Grafton; Blanche Babinski, Warsaw, and Ambrose Wysocki, Minto. Front row: Lorraine Paulson, Hoople; R F "Pete" Matejcek, Chairman, Lankin; Otella Johnson, Vice Chairman, Adams; Bertha Jensen, Secretary! Edinburg; and Leonard Jensen, Treasurer, Edinburg. Another member, Leona Walstad, Park River not pictured. (Pictures Courtesy of Jay's Studio) X
Walsh County Centennial History Solicitors
Front row, left to right: R. F. "Pete" Matejcek, chm.; Jean Bodmer, Irene Lee, Lillian Clemens, Mabel Haug, Ella Matejcek, Agnes Jelinek, Henry Lundene; second row, Florence Linstad, James Johnson, Otella Johnson, Lillian Bakke, Bertha Grove, Alice Lykken, Elaine Haroldson, and John Jelinek; back row, John Morgan, Clifford Grove, George Chyle, Margaret Hove, Raymond Setness, Marian Sandvig, Barbara Bina and Doris Sukstorf. Co-workers not pictured: Leona Walstad, Gabe Dusek, Ann Praska, Cora Shimek, Gertrude Hewitt, Stella Shereck, Ed Gudajtes, Alice Carlson, Glenna Tallackson and Loretta McLaughlin. It is with regret if someones name is missing.
Front row, left to right: Lorraine Paulson, Eileen Langerud, Bertha Jensen, Joseph Holm, Harold Harris, Gladys Lewis and R. F. "Pete" Matejcek, chm.; second row, Mary Hove, Irene Mozinski, Leonard Jensen, Gladys Huseby, Alida Goodman, Edith Harris, Eva Nottestad. and Marjorie Almen; back row, Willard Hove, Steve Mozinski, Effie Rolzinski, Blanche Babinski. Bennie Langerud, Annette Riski and Ambrose Wysocki. Co-workers not pictured: Walter Yon, Gene Schanilec. Dorothy Gaarder, Jeannen McMillan, Kenneth Colter, Ruth Holt, Verna Gabbert, Cecelia Sass, Albert Gourde, Elizabeth Grzadzielewski, Eleanor Grzadzielewski, and Mrs. Joann Slominski. XI
Business Session in Progress
Facing camera, left to right: Bertha Jensen, Leonard Jensen, Pete Matejcek, Henry Lundene, John Morgan and Harold Harris.
BOOK COMMITTEE CO-WORKERS ATTEND PLANNING SESSION Standing in the back, left to right: Leonard Jensen, Henry Lundene, Pete Matejcek, John Morgan and Steve Mozinski.
Xll
BOOK COMMITTEE CO-WORKERS LISTENING TO INSTRUCTIONS
Xlll
Editing Staff of the Centennial Book
Seated in front, left to right: Marie Hove, Grafton, and Alida Goodman, Grafton; back row, R. F. "Pete" Matejcek, Lankin, chairman; Otella Johnson, Adams, vice chairman; Steve Mozinski, Ardoch; Irene Mozinski, Ardoch; Ed Gudajtes, Minto; Blanche Babinski, Minto; and Ella Matejcek, Lankin.
XIV
Past Officers and Directors 1967-1968 President, Father Joseph Hylden. Grafton Committee Members Museum, Winnie Flaten, Edinburg Historical Sites, Henry Lundene. Adams Publicity, Jean Archer, Auburn Ways and Means, Chas. Zahradka. Lawton Membership. Jack Bannerman. Crafton
1969 President, Father Joseph Hylden, Grafton Vice President, Henry Lundene, Adams Secretary, James O'Keefe, Grafton Treasurer, Jack Bannerman, Grafton DIRECTORS (went to 9 persons) Charles Stewart, (to replace John Otto) Grafton Louis Machart, Lankin Sig Bakke, Adams Walter Gerzewski, Minto Mrs. M. C. Flaten, Edinburg R. F. "Pete" Matejcek, Lankin Lena Koehmstedt, Minto Nels Midgarden, Hoople Gloria Thompson Group moved a Board of Consultants be named to act as advisors to the Board of Directors and thereby create a more active participation by more people and keep them actively involved. First Museum Committee Appointed R. F. "Pete" Matejcek, Lankin George Berg, Edinburg Walter Gerszewski, Warsaw William Skjerven, Park River Woodrow Hultstrand, Fairdale Mrs. Robert (Jean) Dahl, Grafton
1970 President, Henry Lundene, Adams Vice President, Charles Stewart, Grafton Secretary, Jean Archer, Auburn Treasurer, Jack Bannerman. Grafton Board of Directors Gloria Thompson, Grafton Mrs. Charles Stewart, (replaced Charles as he moved to vice president) Grafton Nels Midgarden, Hoople Louis Machart, Lankin Sig Bakke, Adams Walter Gerszewski, Warsaw Anna Mclntyre, Park River George Berg, Edinburg Howard Johnson, Adams Museum Committee appointed by Henry Lundene R. F. "Pete" Matejcek, Lankin George Berg, Edinburg Walter Gerszewski, Warsaw William Skjveren, Park River Mrs. Jean Dahl, Grafton Woodrow Hultstrand, Fairdale Winnie Flaten ordering and selling spoons.
1971 President, Henry Lundene, Adams Vice President, Charles Stewart, Grafton Recording Secretary, Jean Dahl, Grafton Corresponding Secretary, Mrs. Hazel Sutterlin, Grafton
Treasurer. Jack Bannerman. Grafton Additional members named to Museum Board John J. Wysocki. Minto Percy Dowling. Minto Dorothy Spellhaug, Minto Helen Lizakowski. Minto
1972 President, Henry Lundene. Adams Vice President. Charles Stewart. Grafton Recording Secretary, Jean Bodmer. Hoople Corresponding Secretary. Nora Gryde. Hoople Treasurer, Jack Bannerman. Grafton Board of Directors Mrs. Richard Lee. Hoople Louis Machart. Lankin Mrs. Paul Chally. Fairdale Howard Johnson, Adams Anna Mclntyre, Park River William Skjveren, Park River Mrs. Charles Stewart. Grafton R. F. "Pete" Matejcek. Lankin Building Committee established (to inspect buildings that have been donated to the society and are in need of repair, etc.) Elvin Gryde, Hoople R. F. "Pete" Matejcek. Lankin Ted Torgerson, Park River
1973 President, Charles Stewart, Grafton Vice President, Ed Gudajtes. Minto Corresponding Secretary, Nora Gryde. Hoople Recording Secretary. Jean Bodmer. Hoople Treasurer, R. F. "Pete" Matejcek. Lankin Board of Directors William Skjveren, Park River Anna Mclntyre, Park River Henry Lundene, Adams Sylvia Wick, (replaces Matejcek as he goes to treasurer) Park River Louis Machart, Lankin Mrs. Richard Lee, Hoople Tom Walker, Hoople Mrs. Paul Chally, Fairdale Mrs. Charles Stewart, Grafton
Museum Committee R. F. "Pete" Matejcek. Chairman. Lankin Hilary Reszka. Co-chairman, Minto Carol Tiber). Secretary, Voss Ellen Misialek. Treasurer. Minto Museum Board of Directors Helen Lizakowski Frank Schiller Herman Schanilec Ed Gudajtes
1975 President. Henry Lundene, Adams Vice President, R. F. "Pete" Matejcek, Lankin Recording Secretary, Jean Bodmer. Hoople Corresponding Secretary, Lorraine Paulson. Hoople Treasurer, L. S. Jensen, Edinburg Directors Lennart Almen Tom Walker Gladys Huseby Ed Gudajtes Anna Mclntyre William Skjveren Charles Stewart Thelma Wick Walter Gerszewski Museum Committee Frank Schiller. Chairman, Minto Herman Schanilec, Vice Chairman, Minto Steffie Prepiora. Curator. Minto Helen Lizakowski, Vice Curator, Minto Elizabeth Rolzinski, News Reporter, Minto Carol Tiber), Secretary, Minto Ellen Misialek, Treasurer, Minto Museum Directors Helen Lizakowski, Minto Hilary Reszka, Minto R. F. "Pete" Matejcek, Lankin Building Committee Ted Torgerson, Park River Hilary Reszka, Minto (Gryde deceased — replaced by Charles Stewart Gryde from Hoople and Stewart from Grafton)
Walter Gerszewski will replace Matejcek on building committee as Pete is treasurer. Museum Chairman, R. F. "Pete" Matejcek
1974 President, Ed Gudajtes, Minto Vice President, Henry Lundene, Adams Recording Secretary, Jean Bodmer, Hoople Corresponding Secretary, Lorraine Paulson. Hoople Treasurer, L. S. Jensen, Edinburg Directors Charles Stewart Thelma Wick R. F. "Pete" Matejcek Walter Gerszewski Mrs. Richard Lee Louis Machart Mrs. Paul Chally Anna Mclntyre William Skjveren
1976 President, Henry Lundene, Adams Vice President, R. F. "Pete" Matejcek, Lankin Recordingjsecretary, Jean Bodmer, Hoople Corresponding Secretary, Lorraine Paulson, Hoople Treasurer, L. S. Jensen, Edinburg Directors Charles Stewart, Grafton Thelma Wick, Park River Walter Gerszewski. Warsaw Tom Walker, Hoople Lennart Almen, Edinburg Gladys Huseby. Fordville Ed Gudajtes. Minto Leona Walstad. Park River James Johnson, Adams Building Committee Charles Stewart, Grafton Ted Torgerson, Park River Hilary Reszka, Minto
XV
Pres. Henry Lundene, absent four months January. February, March and April. (Three months - Legislature and one month health.) Vice President R. F. "Pete" Matejcek, Acting Chairman.
1977
Museum Officers Frank Schiller, Minto Herman Schanilec, Minto Carol Tibert, Minto Ellen Misialek, Minto
President, R. F. "Pete" Matejcek Vice President, Ed Gudajtes Recording Secretary, Jean Bodmer Corresponding Secretary, Lorraine Paulson Treasurer, L. S. Jensen
Museum Directors Tony Osowski, Minto John Gudjates, Minto Theofil Kilchowski, Minto Bill Tibert, Minto Jim Schanilec. Minto
Directors
R. F. "Pete" Matejcek, Ex. Officio, Lankin
Charles Stewart, Grafton Walter Gerszewski, Warsaw Henry Lundene, Adams John Paulson, Hoople Win nie Flaten, Edinburg Lennart Almen, Edinburg Gladys Huseby, Fordville Leona Walstad, Park River James Johnson, Adams Museum
Jim Lienhart, Grafton John Paulson, Hoople Henry Lundene, Adams Charles Matcha, Grafton Wally DeSautel, Grafton Robert Burke, Grafton R. F. "Pete" Matejcek, Ex. Officio, Lankin
1979 President, R. F. "Pete" Matejcek, Lankin Vice President, Ed Gudajtes, Minto Recording Secretary, Jean Bodmer, Hoople Corresponding Secretary, Lorraine Paulson, Hoople Treasurer, L. S. Jensen, Edinburg
Tony Osowski, Minto John Gudajtes, Minto Theofil Kilchowski, Minto Jim Schanilec, Minto Bill Tibert, Minto
Directors
P
„
9
7
John Paulson, Hoople Jim Lienhart, (replaced by Gene Gourde) Grafton Charles Matcha, Grafton Wally DeSautel. Grafton Robert Burke, Grafton (Bill Mclntyre), Grafton R. F. "Pete" Matejcek, Ex. Officio. Lankin
Heritage Village Officers Ralph Adamsen, Chairman, Grafton Jean Bodmer, Treasurer, Hoople Kay Vang, Secretary, Grafton
Frank Schiller, Chairman, Minto Herman Schanilec, Vice Chairman, Minto Carol Tibert, Secretary, Minto Ellen Misialek, Treasurer, Minto Stephanie Prepiora, Curator & Publicity, Minto Museum Directors
1
Village Officers Ralph Adamsen. Chairman. Grafton Henry Lundene, Vice Chairman. Adams Kay Vang, Secretary, Grafton Jean Bodmer, Treasurer. Hoople Directors
»
President, R. F. "Pete" Matejcek Vice President, Ed Gudjates Recording Secretary, Jean Bodmer Corresponding Secretary, Lorraine Paulson Treasurer, L. S. Jensen Directors Charles Stewart, Grafton Henry Lundene, Adams Walter Gerszewski, Warsaw John Paulson. Hoople Francis Chromy, Forest River Ted Gillham, Forest River Mrs. M. C. Flaten, Edinburg Leona Walstad, Park River James Johnson, Adams Ella Gillham replaced Ted Gillham to sep,e out his term Ted Torgerson replaced Winnie Flaten to serve out her term
Charles Stewart, Grafton Henry Lundene, Adams Walter Gerszewski, Warsaw John Paulson, Hoople Francis Chromy, Forest River Ella Gillham, Forest River Kay Vang, Grafton Stephanie Prepiora, Minto James Johnson, Adams Museum Officers Frank Schiller, Chairman, Minto Carol Tibert, Secretary, Minto Jim Schanilec, Treasurer, Minto Directors Bill Tibert, Minto Mary Mach, Minto John Gudajtes, Minto Tony Osowski, Minto Don Rudnik, Minto Stephanie Prepiora, Curator & Publicity, Minto R. F. "Pete" Matejcek, Ex. Officio, Lankin
Officers 1980 President. Henry Lundene, Adams Vice President, Ed Gudajtes, Minto Recording Secretary, Jean Bodmer, Hoople Corresponding Secretary, Lorraine Paulson, Hoople Treasurer, Leonard Jensen, Edinburg Directors John Paulson, Hoople Francis Chromy, Forest River Ella Matejcek, Lankin Kay Vang, Grafton James Johnson, Adams R. F. "Pete" Matejcek, Lankin Gladys Lewis, Park River John Gudajtes, Minto Steffie Prepiora, Minto Museum Board same as for 1979 except Henry Lundene, Ex. Officio. Adams. Heritage Village Board same as for 1979 except Henry Lundene, Ex. Officio, Adams; and R. F "Pete" Matejcek, Director, Lankin
Officers 1981 President, Henry Lundene, Adams Vice President, Ed Gudajtes, Minto Recording Secretary, Jean Bodmer. Hoople Corresponding Secretary, Lorraine Paulson, Hoople Treasurer. Leonard Jensen. Edinburg Directors R. F. "Pete" Matejcek, Lankin John Gudajtes, Minto Gladys Lewis. Park River James Johnson, Adams Kay Vang, Grafton Stephanie Prepiora, Minto Dennis Monson, Edinburg Harold Harris, Park River Mary Rodriguez, Grafton Museum Board same as for 1 980 Museum Board Chairman. Frank Schiller. Minto Village Board same as for 1980 Village Board Chairman, Ralph Adamsen, Grafton
XVI
TOWNSHIP Scale 1% inches to 1 mile
Uowntship 1S7 SZorth, flanges SO and S1 West of the Sth S'.SfC.
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ANDREWS
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TOWNSHIP: I57 N ST
CODE : AC (WEST) CODE : AX (EAST)
ANDREWS
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Map With Permission of Midwest Atlas, Midland, S.D.
RANGE : 51 W RANGE : 5 0 W
ACTON TOWNSHIP FAMILY HISTORIES MIKE AND THEODOSIA ALTENDORF FAMILY Mike Altendorf, oldest son of Hubert Altendorf and Julia Duray, was born on January 13, 1896. A Mrs. George Seeba, mother of George A. Seeba, assisted at this birth as she was the midwife in the area. She and her husband were always willing to help the family when they needed assistance. Mike Altendorf attended school at Acton District No. 1 5 and remembers Vilhjalmur Stefansson teaching there when he visited the school. Stefansson is now remembered as being a famous arctic explorer and anthropologist. He also remembers boarding the steamboats many times at the town of Acton located on the Red River and also hauled grain there to be loaded on the boats for shipping. He married Theodosia Bishop on November 19, 1924, at St. Stanislaus Church at Warsaw. They lived on the George Seeba farm (now Cyril Seeba farm) for one year. They then moved to a farm a half mile south, formerly occupied by the Jake Welter family. It was on this farm that their children were born and raised. They are Leona Grzadzieleski, Florence Stancyk, Florian, Alfred (who died in infancy), and Geraldine LaHaise. They also attended school at Acton District No. 15. Grandchildren of the couple are Marie (Stancyk) Halda, Joann (Stancyk) Kittelson, Theresa (Stancyk) Wasylow, Ray Stancyk, John Stancyk, Jr., Carol Stancyk, Joseph, Jr. and Michael Grzadzieleski, Barbara, Tim, Connie and Christine LaHaise. Altendorf served as treasurer of Acton District No. 15 from 1931 until 1964 when the district was annexed to the Grafton district. He served as Acton township assessor from 1930 to 1958. He also served many years on the Walsh County A. S. C. S. committee. He is a life member of the Grafton Knights of Columbus. He is presently living in Drayton and is a member of St. Edwards Church after having been a member of St. Stanislaus Church at Warsaw until November of 1978.
The Hubert Altendorf family, 1954. Hubert married Julia Duray on August 7, 1893, at the St. Stanislaus Church in Warsaw, N. Dak. Nicholas Altendorf, a brother, and Reginia Ebertowski were witnesses for this wedding. Hubert and Julia had a family of nine children. Frank (died in infancy), Michael, Margaret, (Mrs. Joe Gornowicz), Celia (Mrs. Frank D. Wysocki), William, Frances (deceased 1975), Rose (deceased 1963, Mrs. Roman Lein), Anna (Mrs. Leonard Wysocki), Paul (deceased 1977), and Thomas.
THOMAS ALTENDORF FAMILY Thomas Altendorf owns and lives on the land his father, Hubert Altendorf, obtained through homestead rights. Hubert emigrated to the United States from Germany, where he was born on or about 1850. He came to the United States in May, 1882, and became a citizen on May 12, 1890. Hubert came to Acton Township in 1885 where he built a one-room house and was presented his homestead rights on July 20, 1891, by President Benjamin Harrison. Hubert built a home and a barn here from boards and 4 by 4 studdings cut from trees. He paid 18 percent interest on the money he borrowed to build.
Drilling a water well was the occasion for a picture at the Hubert A Itendorf farm. Thomas lived all of his life on this land. He married Evelyn Ososki Altendorf on May 24, 1980, in Saints Peter and Paul's church in Warren, Minn. Thomas and Evelyn now live on this
land. GEORGE BECKER FAMILY
The Hubert Altendorf family, taken in 1914.
It was the year 1880 when George and Wilhemina "Menia" Becker came to the Red River Valley of the North and settled along the river on the west side, which was then a part of North Dakota Territory, later to be known as Acton Township. They came with the four children born to them up until that time; John Henry, Louise, Carl Dietrich, and Amelia "Millie". Soon after their arrival another son was born, Levi, who lived just a few years and was buried north of the trees which still remain on the property where they built their first home; the first structure was
and married Wilhemina Schumacher near Dubuque where they farmed before moving to the Dakota Territory. Wilhemina died at their farm southwest of Grand Rapids, Minn., where they had moved in 1901. George lived there until 1939. John Henry and Amelia "Mill ie" remained at the farm in North Dakota until 1 903 when the last of their father's property was sold; then they, too, went to Minnesota. Carl Dietrich Becker and Amelia were in the first class of confirmands at the Zion Lutheran Church, located in Acton Township. This was the year 1893, Carl was 16, having been born in 1877. His father, George, Sr., was one of the founders of the church. In October, 1901, Carl Dietrich married Mattie Paul of Grafton. They first farmed at Inkster, later in the Walhalla area.
George Becker taken in 1879. partially lost by fire back in the 1890's and they rebuilt and added on, and the building which was home still stands along 1-29, the first house as you travel north after leaving the junction of Highway 17 and I-29. The property is now owned by Kittelsons. Back when George and Menia first came to the Valley, they purchased considerable land in the Acton Township, including SE'/4-Sec. 3-Twp. 157-Rge. 5 1 , paying $200.00 for 160 acres and during following years acquired: NW!4-14-157-51, SWV414-157-51, SEV4-11-157-51 and SEJ*-15-157-51, a total of 800 acres, and two (2) lots in the Town of Acton (Acton Twp). They disposed of all the land acquired sometime before they moved in 1901, and all by 1903. After settling in the Valley they were blessed with other children. Born to them were George, Adeline, Richard, Charlotte and Ralph. Altogether, there was a total of 13 children born to George and Wilhemina; nine grew to adulthood and four died at birth or shortly after. George originally came from near Bremen, Germany. He and a brother stowed away on a ship at Hamburg to avoid conscription into the German army at age 16. They came to the USA and first settled in Ohio, later going to Iowa. George met
Mr. and Mrs. Carl Becker taken in 1901. then moved to near Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, Canada, where they homesteaded. Several years later they returned to the USA, and lived in the Grand Rapids, Minn., area. Carl's health was not the best and they travelled to warmer climates, but returned to Grand Rapids, where Carl died in 1923. Their marriage was blessed with three children — James Richard, Lois Wilhemina, and Randalla Marion. Over the years after Carl's death, Mattie and her children moved to California where some of Mattie's family lived. In 1959 Randalla returned to the Grafton - Drayton area after marrying Gordon W. Schumacher. Gordon is the son of Fred Schumacher, youngest brother of Wilhemina Schumacher Becker; thus the descendants are back to the region their folks lived in or departed from, and the circle is unbroken. 1
WILLIAM COLLETTE FAMILY
An 1893 confirmation picture: back row, left to right, John H. Feldman, Carl Wolfgram, Ferdinard Heinkle, William Schultz, Ida Wolfgram, Lydia Heinbockel; middle row, Carl Becker, Edward Ebbinghauser, Pastor Brauer, Wilhelmenia Hein, Katherine Heinbockel; front row, Carl Ebenhouser, August Hein, Amelia Becker, and Louise Schultz.
William Collette was born in Minneapolis, Minn., in 1869. His parents came from Quebec, Canada. In 1886 William came to the Grafton and Oakwood area where he had five brothers and three sisters living in the vicinity. The brothers were: Ovide, Octave, Odule, Arcadus and Phillip. The three sisters were: Mrs. Alex (Obelin) Gagnier, Mrs. Joseph (Emma) French and Mrs. Etienne (Sophronie) Lessard. The brothers all farmed in the Oakwood area. In 1889 he married Naomi Patnaude, who was also born in
James married Mary Kearney and had four children: Robert (Grafton), Darlene (Mrs. Alex Narloch, Minneapolis), Marlene (Mrs. Robert LaHaise, Grafton), and William (Grafton). William Collette lived on his farm in Acton Township until 1931. When he retired, he moved to Minneapolis, until 1934, when he returned to Grafton where he died at the age of 94, days short of 95. He's was the first funeral in the new St. John the Evangelist Church in Grafton; Father Joseph Hylden was then pastor.
FRANK C. EBERTOWSKI FAMILY
William Collette Family, left to right, Anna, Homer, Mrs. Naomi, Paul, James, Delphine, Angeline, Almond, Mr. William, Elzear, and Bertha. Minnesota, in a suburb of Minneapolis called Cochran. They acquired land in St. Andrews Township, near the Salt Lake. They lived there till 1903, when they sold the land to Joseph Sabourin and bought land in Acton Township from Baptiste Trudeau. This land is still owned today by a Collette grandson. Twelve children were born but three boys died as infants in the early years of their marriage; a 14-year-old girl, Bertha, died in 1919 from the flu epidemic. Napoleon (Paul), the eldest, never married, served in World War I for two years; he is now 89 years of age and is a resident at the Lutheran Sunset Home in Grafton. Delphine married Emay Pilon in 1920 and lived in St. Andrews Township. They had four children: Jerome (St. Andrews), Regina (Mrs. Marvin Pederson, Grafton), Oliver (St. Andrews), and Frankie (Minneapolis). Elzear married Aurore Demers in 1926 and had eight children: Adelaine (Mrs. Ray Schuster, Bellflower, Calif.); Wilmer (Grafton); Bertha (Mrs. Raymond Campbell, Oakwood); Helen Jane (Mrs. Marvin Pilon, Yakima); Lucille (Mrs. Edgar Lafreniere, Oakwood); Gladys (Mrs. Harry Misialek, Grafton); Edgar (Bellflower, Calif.); Alice (Mrs. Jerome LaHaise, Grand Forks). Elzear's first wife Aurore died in 1940; he married a second time to Leona Groutte of Winnipeg, Man. He died in Almond married Diana Primeau of St. John, N. Dak., in 1926. They farmed in Acton Township and had nine children: Doris (Mrs. Benson, Detroit Lakes); Merlyn (Warsaw); Ronald (Longview); Leroy (Cloverdale, Oreg.); Diane (Mrs. William Hanson, Denver); Alan (Oakwood); Iris Ann (Mrs. Curtis Holten, Longview); Mary (Mrs. Rich Mcool, Longview); Philip, who was killed in a truck accident in Longview in 1978.
Frank C. Ebertowski was born June 5, 1879 and died Oct. 14, 1966. He was married to Valeria Stoltman at Warsaw, N. Dak., Nov. 26, 1906. Valeria Stoltman was born Dec. 12, 1889 and died March 20, 1970. Frank and Valeria made their home by the Red River on a farm bought from Frank McGuire. A son, Frank F., and his son, Alan, and family now live on the farm. As most farms along the Red River, Frank and Valeria raised grain. Large gardens from which she canned hundreds of quarts of vegetables, fruits and pickles. Also raised were large flocks of chickens, turkeys, ducks and geese. Some of these were sold. Many hogs and cattle were raised for meat, to supply their family of eight children. They suffered the loss of two homes from fire, but no lives were lost. They started over to build a home. Also they had many spring floods to clean up after and to repair the damage. Frank and Valeria enjoyed home family parties. As they and their friends and relatives would gather at each other's homes for evenings of visiting, card games and good food. Everyone with musical instruments played them and dancing was enjoyed by all age groups. Valeria especially enjoyed sewing and embroidery. She crocheted, knitted and made many fancy patterns into quilts for the family and gifts. In 1921 the family moved into Grafton to be close to medical treatment for Valeria. This lasted 2 years. In 1923 the family moved back to the farm and lived there until retirement in 1946 when they moved to Argyle, Minn. The eight children of Frank and Valeria Ebertowski are as follows: Emily, married to Edward Kulas, Grafton, N. Dak. They have three children; Donna, (Mrs. Ray Bratland), Imogene, (Mrs. Don Robb) and Leonard Kulas.
Anna married Danial Plaisance of Minneapolis in 1931. After farming in Acton Township, they retired in Minneapolis. They have two children: one son, Vernon, Florida, and one daughter, Shirley (Mrs. Larrie Nettum), Minneapolis. Homer married Annette Sampson in 1931, and had one daughter, Marlys, now living in Phoenix, Ariz. Homer died in 1967.
•
Angeline married Victor A. Lessard in 1929. They farmed in 1Q7Q P > after retirement, moved to Grafton in 1978. They have two children: Raymond, Bishop of the Diocese of Savannah, Georgia, and Evelyn Jean (Mrs. Charles Smith), of Longview, Wash. T o w n s h i
a n d
Frank and Valeria Ebertowski — 50th anniversary.
Frank C. Ebertowski family, left to right, Leonard, Gehard, Edward, Frank; front row, left to right, Mrs. Douglas Tingley, Mrs. John Yutrzenka, Mrs. John Tandeski, Mrs. Edward Kulas. Florence, married John Tandeski, Davenport, Iowa. They have 3 sons, Raymond, Earl and Duwayne. Josephine, married to John Yutrzenka, Argyle, Minn. Their two children are James and JoAnne. Frank, married Irene Ebertowski. They have four children, Carol, Alan, Gail and Faye. Irene is deceased. Edward married Ruth Kline, Grafton, N. Dak. Their children are Rosemary, Shirley, Joyce, Dean and Dennis. Dennis is deceased. Gehard married Charlotte Longsworth, Davenport, Iowa. They have one daughter, Margaret. Leonard married Lila Parker, Rock Island, 111. Lila is deceased. Eleanor married Douglas Tingley, Oakland, Ca. They have three daughters, Marilyn, Dianne, and Janice. MRS. VERNA GABBERT FAMILY Mrs. Verna Gabbert, nee Feldmann, daughter of the late Henry and Margafethe (Ehlers) Feldmann, was born on Nov. 7, 1911, weighing three pounds. She was so small that she fit in a shoe box and was placed on the oven door to keep warm. She was born and reared in Acton township, section 1 1 , on a farm her grandfather, Henrich Feldmann, homesteaded 100 years ago in 1881. She received her elementary education in District 30, Acton Township. Her parents spoke German at home, so she couldn't speak English when she started school. Her second grade teacher, Mary Dahl, helped her speak English. Mrs. Alfred Hoenke, Frances Rath, Margaret Wagner and Mrs. Hans Rasmussen were her other rural school teachers, and Mr. Hoover was County Superintendent. In 1930 she graduated from the Walsh County Agricultural School, Park River, N. Dak., with the intentions of becoming a home economics instructor. The idea was changed when her father suddenly passed away before graduation and the family was faced with a depression. She decided to attend college at Mayville for 11 weeks and become an elementary teacher. The first school she taught was in Acton, District 30, with 2 4 students, nine of whom were seventh and eighth graders, up to the age of 16.
Henry and Margarethe Feldmann and daughter, Verna. She taught 7'/2 years in Walsh and Richland counties before she was married. After bringing up a family she went back to college after 20 years, finding it not an easy task. One day while sitting in the library, she heard a tractor in a nearby field; at that moment she thought she could do better on it than applying herself to books again. She graduated and taught 16 years, three in rural schools in Pembina county, four years in Adams and nine years in Grafton. She enjoyed teaching very much, even in the country school where she had to be her own janitor. Many a morning at 30 degrees below zero, she walked a mile through deep snow to a cold school house. She carried out ashes, then built a fire which took about two hours to warm up the building. The parents said "If the teacher can get there walking, the children will get there too," so there was always good attendance, even in the coldest winter. Everyone had to help on the farm, including the girls. Verna helped plow, cultivate, haul bundles and also hauled grain to the elevator with horses. She helped her husband with farming too, such as cultivating, plowing with a tractor, combining grain, digging beets and baling hay. During grain and beet harvest she drove the truck in the field and to the elevator and beet plant. This was enjoyed very much! In 1936 she became very ill and had to have a serious kidney surgery in the Miller Hospital in St. Paul, Minn., by a specialist, Dr. Foley. She was the first patient that had had this type of kidney surgery, which made Dr. Foley a famous urologist. He gave a report, of Verna's surgery, at a medical convention and later this was published in a medical journal. She was also interviewed by a doctor from Switzerland. On December 22, 1938, Lawrence W. Gabbert and Verna were married at Hankinson, N. Dak. They farmed a few years in
Verna with children in grade school, high school and college and also a farm to work and manage while whe was teaching. Lawrence was a kind and devoted husband and father; he had done much custom work besides his farming and was always busy. The good Lord and many kind neighbors, who were all willing to lend a hand and give advice, saw us through. Lawrence liked to hunt and fish. In the winter of 1948 and 49 Henry Laboda and he hunted fox and coyotes by air in the Hankinson area. Henry piloted the plane while Lawrence shot the animals. They were the champion hunters of North Dakota, with 550 foxes and 49 coyotes to their credit. The fox pelts were only worth $3.00 bounty, each, so it was done mostly for the sport and to thin out the fox population. He loved to hunt deer too. Lawrence owned and piloted his own plane for a number of years. He had an airplane hangar on the farm and used an alfalfa field for his runway. Bill Peoples, Dr. Countryman, Hod Hutson, Rudolph Johnson and many others that flew, used the strip! Many times they would come in to visit and have coffee with us. Wedding picture of Lawrence and Verna Gabbert Dec 22 1938. Richland County, but decided to come back to Acton Township in 1950 to live on a farm that her grandfather and father had farmed.
Without hobbies Verna says her life would be very lonely and the interesting ones she pursues are crocheting, oil painting, quilting, macrame, ceramics, sewing garments, making quilts! growing flowers and gardening.
To this union five children were born. Gordon Gabbert born in 1940 and married to Janice Polo of Floodwood, Minn., and who have four girls and two boys and live nearby on a farm; Gordon owns and drives his own semi-truck. Yvonne born in 1941 and married to Lloyd Myster of Drayton, N. Dak.; they have two daughters. He is an attorney in Fairmont, Minn., where they make their home. Yvonne is a medical technologist. Valeda, born 1942, lives in Grand Forks where she is working asa licensed practical nurse. Harvey, born in 1945, married Nancy Johnson at Virginia, Minn; lives in Grand Forks, where he is employed by Minnkota Power Co. Joyce, born in 1952, married to Tom Helland of Egeland; they have one son. She is a registered nurse at the Devils Lake Hospital and Tom does construction work. The Lawrence Gabberts had a very happy family life, but were saddened on Nov. 13, 1959, when Lawrence was stricken by a heart attack, at the age of 47, while hunting deer. This left
Family of Verna and the late Lawrence Gabbert: Gordon and Janice Gabbert, Lloyd and Yvonne Myster, Jennifer Myster, Verna Gabbert, Thomas and Joyce Helland, Valeda Gabbert, Sandra Johnson, Angela Myster, Harvey Gabbert, Michael Johnson and Dana Gabbert. Kneeling: Nancy Gabbert Amy Gabbert, Sarah Gabbert, Wayne Gabbert, Lawrence Gabbert Lisa Gabbert, Christopher Helland. She belongs to the Zion English Lutheran Church in Grafton and the Women's League, the Retired Teachers Association and the Acton Homemakers Club. She was sponsored by her Homemakers Club as a candidate for queen contest at the Osnabrock Barley Show and of the 12 selected was selected the second runner-up. At one time she served on the school board in Acton Township and was the church organist, at an early age, playing a reed organ for both German and English services. In 1964 she had a much-needed new house built.
Family of Verna and the late Lawrence Gabbert: left to right, Gordon, Yvonne Myster, Verna, Joyce Helland, Valeda and Harvey.
Her grandfather, Henrich Feldmann, homesteaded the northwest quarter of section 10 in 1880. In 1887 he deeded a plot of land for a church and cemetery. It is on this plot that her relatives are buried. Henrich died April 15, 1898, and grandmother Margaret Feldmann died Feb. 5, 1914. Her father, Henry Feldmann, died March 27, 1930, and mother, Margarethe, died Oct. 8, 1937. Her brother, Henry, died March, 1953,
and sister, Louise Knudson, in Dec, 1967, and her sister, Emma, and a brother, William, died at the age of 10 months, as well as several aunts and an uncle. Her husband, Lawrence, was buried in this cemetery in Nov., 1959. Brothers still living are Benjamin F. Feldmann of Kindred, N. Dak., who is married to Elsie Gabbert and has one daughter and two grandchildren, and Walter Feldmann, who resides at the Good Samaritan Home in Park River.
ALFRED AND LOUISE HOENKE Alfred G. Hoenke, son of Emil and Bertha Hoenke, was born April 18, 1898, in Acton Township, across the road from the town of Acton. He attended school in the Acton schoolhouse, built by his grandfather Carl Wolfgram in 1882, aided by his mother. This building still stands on the original site and is owned by Alfred. This one-room school, that had as many as forty pupils enrolled, had Viljalmer Stephenson as one of its early teachers. The steamboats made regular trips on the Red River and often when the steamboat whistle blew for the ferry man to drop the cable, the teacher permited the children to go to the landing, a short distance away. Later 160 acres of this farm became Alfred's, which he still owns. On December 13, 1922, Alfred married Louise Horn at St. John's Lutheran Church near Ada, Minn. Louise was born May 1, 1899, in Pleasant View Township near Ada, Minn. She attended Christian Day school, public rural school, and Ada High School, and graduated from the Northwest School of Agriculture and the Normal Department in Crookston, Minn. She taught school in Minnesota and Acton Township District No. 30 in N.
Dak. After their marriage Alfred and Louise lived in his mother's home for several years. They became parents of two children — Grace, born December, 1923, and Charles, born January, 1926. Grace is married to Earl Schultz and Charles is married to Ardella Holt. In April 1927 the family moved to their own home, which was in the town of Acton. Later they bought 40 acres, which is almost the entire platted town of Acton from F. T. Kieley. Here they lived until 1979 when they moved into Grafton. They still return to the farm to reside part-time and enjoy their flower beds and garden. Alfred was an elder in Zion Lutheran Church and was clerk of School Dist. 15. Louise taught Sunday School for 44 years, starting when the congregation was in the country and continued when it moved to Grafton and was renamed Zion English Lutheran Church. They, their children, grandchildren and great grandchildren are all members of Zion English Lutheran Church.
Wood sawing at Hoenkes' — left to right, Fred Hoenke, Jim McCann, Carl Hoenke, Arnold Schumacher, Alfred Hoenke, and Clarence Schumacher. had to have their meals — no lunches. Most of the hired crew came from Minnesota so did not go home. Besides their own crops the Hoenkes threshed for neighbors. All this ended when the combines came into use, and trucks were used for hauling. Wood was the main fuel for heating and cooking. During the winter the men would go across the Red River into Minnesota, where they owned timber land and cut wood, haul it home on sleighs, later to be sawed into blocks. Each home needed about twenty loads. The sawing was done with help of the neighbors. Many farmers west of us owned timber land in Minnesota and many days twenty loads of wood would pass through our yard and by our house. Later in the winter there was the job of cutting ice on the Red River. This was a neighborhood project for about seven or eight families. First the ice was cut into blocks, not the entire depth of an ice plow drawn by a team of horses. The sawing was finished by hand and pulled out by two men with ice tongs. The blocks measured about two feet square, were between two and three feet deep, and were loaded and hauled and packed in ice houses with saw dust. This kept it all summer. Every home had a water barrel in the house, which was filled with ice. The water from the ice was used for all purposes in the home. The meat supply — hogs and beef — was taken care of at butchering time. Then came the sausage making and lard rendering. Meat and lard were ground in a large meat grinder fastened on a board. The meat was made into four or five different kinds of sausage and put into casings. Some was cooked and then frozen and some was smoked. The hams and bacon were
Farming was done with horses, until tractors came into use. Most of the hay was stacked loose, using a sweeprake and stacker. Grain was cut with a binder into bundles and set up in shocks, a job Louise did a lot of. When shocks were dry, threshing began. Corn was raised for fodder and put up in shocks to be hauled in later. The shocks were often snowed in to the top, it taking a half day to shovel out a load., Alfred and his brothers, Carl and Fred, owned their own threshing machine, an Illinois separator and Oil Pull Rumley. A cook car went along with the outfit in which the cooking was done and the crew, about 15 men, ate. Breakfast was served between five and six a.m., next a forenoon lunch, dinner at about 12 noon, then an afternoon lunch and supper any time from 7:30 on. The lunches had to be sent out to the machine. We still have the cook car with tin coffee pot and cups. When it rained,' sometimes there was no threshing for two weeks, but the men
Part of threshing crew on the Hoenke farm — the cook car, the cooks and helpers.
In 1979 the real flood came and everything that was loose floated away — even the wooden porch from the house. All our buildings had high water in them and the house, which had never had water on the main floor, had six inches on it. As far as one could see there was water. All people along the river lost large amounts of property. It took a long time for the water to go back into the river and the land to dry, so spring work was late. We returned to our home May 24th.
cured and smoked. In between times there were chickens and turkeys and, some years, ducks to butcher. The cattle and horses were watered at the river. The water holes had to be chopped open every morning and, if it was very cold, again in the afternoon. After a big storm it was often difficult to get stock to the river, because of deep snow. It was a good thing there was no TV! About prime time we would be going out with the kerosene lantern and milk pails. The milk was run through a separator, some of the cream churned into butter and the rest taken to the creamery in five- or ten-gallon cans. The skim milk was fed to little calves and hogs. Once a week or so a gallon crock full was set on the back of the kitchen range and when ready made into cottage cheese.
When larger tractors and trucks began to be used farm work was made somewhat easier, but more hours in a day were spent in the fields. One of the greatest things coming to the farms was electricity. We had a Delco light plant before, but that was nothing compared to R.E.A.
When spring came, besides the field work there was the garden planting, raising chickens and turkeys. Some days most of the forenoon was spent trailling an old turkey hen, who, decided to hide her nest in the woods. When the children grew older this became one of their jobs, too.
MARGARET HAMPER FAMILY
Along with hard work there was relaxation and entertainment. In the winter there was skating on the river, skiing and sleigh rides. Neighbors would meet for card playing and visiting in the evening. In summer time there were picnics and ball games. A large community dance hall was another building, located at the north end of our yard. It had been built by local people who were the shareholders, and took care of it. Many orchestras played for public dances and the ladies cooked coffee and served lunches. Parties, school programs and other activities took place in it. At times Louise would "baby-sit" small.children in the house for parents that came to the dances. Alfred was kept busy all evening and after all the dancers had left, he checked the yard and all buildings to see that no fires would be started from matches or cigarettes. On June 12, 1934, the hall was put on skids and moved to land owned by Altendorfs. To move it Nick Welter put his Rumley tractor on it, but was unable to pull it and so Fred Hoenke also used his and the two Rumleys pulled the hall straight north from our yard to a road (now a drainage ditch) and then west to where it still stands along Interstate No. 29, no longer in use. The first dance held in it after it was moved was in July, 1934.
Margaret Kamper, taken about 1955. See Vol. 1, p. 37, "Kamper Family."
March 15, 1 9 4 1 , will always be remembered. The day was calm and mild, snow was melting and there were puddles of water. Then in the evening, the storm came with a bang. There had been no warning. The strong winds and snow made driving impossible. Over seventy people lost their lives, having been on the road and leaving their cars. The next day everything was blocked and covered with snow. In 1948 the Red River gave us some trouble. As the water kept creeping into the yard it gave me a frightening feeling as I hadn't had any experience with high water before. Water was all over the yard and fields, but didn't get into any buildings. The hogs had to be moved, but the livestock was kept at home. In 1950 it was worse; all the buildings except the house had water in them. All livestock had to be moved. We moved to Fred and Emma's home and took some of the livestock there too, but soon they were surrounded by water. There was no way of getting to any town. All roads were covered by water. Groceries were getting low in some homes and a Red Cross helicopter from Oslo, Minn., brought supplies. The water subsided and we moved home. In two days it was higher than before so we moved out again and did not return for six weeks.
Margaret Kamper and parents, Henry and Katherine Kamper. See Vol. 1, p. 37, "Kamper Family. "
MR. AND MRS. PETER KUTA AND FAMILY Peter Kuta born to immigrant parents, the late Peter Kuta, Sr., and Helen Krasva. 9
Peter Kuta, Jr., was born July 18, in the Minto area. As a young boy he worked for the farmers in the neighborhood and attended the one-room country school. He met Gertrude Schuster at a barn dance. After several years of courting the couple were married Sept. 8, 1936, and moved to a farm in Acton Township where they still reside. Peter served on the school board for many years, was assessor for 14 years, was a supervisor on the township board for many years, worked for the A.S.C.S. for 20 years and is now first alternate with the A.S.C.S. He is a member of the Knights of Columbus. His wife Gertrude was born to the late Edward Schuster, Sr., and Mary Ann Plutowski, immigrants from Germany, on Feb. 21st, 1907, in Pulaski Township. She attended the country school there and helped her parents on the family farm until the couple were married. They are members of the St. Stanislaus Church. They have three children, Edward Alan, LeRoy Armin and Robert James.
Engineering. He married his High School sweetheart, Donna Babi nski, and moved to Hartford, Conn., where he was employed with the Boeing Company for several years before moving to White Bear Lake, Minn., where he was employed with the Regal Company in the Twin Cities for some time. He is presently with the 3M Company. They now live in Mahtomedi, Minn., and have four children — Jacqueline, Deborah, Cindy and David, at home and in school. Robert was born July 2 1 , 1943, in the Grafton hospital. Like his brothers he, too, went to country school in Acton Township and graduated from Grafton Central High School. He attended U.N.D., Grand Forks, graduating with a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration. He received a Master's Degree in Business Administration from Central Missouri State University. He entered the armed services in September, 1 966. He served in the Vietnam War, was wounded, and received the Purple Heart. He met his wife Linda in Denver. After a short courtship they were married and lived in Denver for a year then moved to Kansas City, Mo., where he is an accountant with Remington Arms. They have two children — Sarah Marie and Robert Jaedon.
Edward was born July 14, 1937, in Grafton, N. Dak., attended the one-room country school in Acton Township and graduated from Grafton Central High School in 1955. He attended U.N.D. for one year, later graduated from North Dakota School of Science, Wahpeton, N. Dak., in electronics. He enlisted and served in the U.S. Air Force for four years. He was stationed in Tulle, Greenland, for one year and at Biloxie, Miss., California, and Forbes Air Force Base in Topeka, Kansas, where he met his wife, the former Carolyn Metzger. Edward is an electronics technician and while in the Air Force was assigned to
EDWARD AND BRIDGET (SABOURIN) LAFRENIERE Edward Lafreniere and Bridget Sabourin were married in Oakwood on July 24, 1889. They lived in the Cashel vicinity for a few years, then moved to Michigan where they lived for the next five years. They then returned to the Cashel vicinity and settled on a farm in Acton Township where they lived until they retired and moved to Grafton in the fall of 1938. Edward died on February 15, 1939. Bridget died on May 24, 1945. They had a family of ten.
Peter Kuta Family: left to right, standing, Robert and Edward; seated, LeRoy, Peter and Gertrude. maintain the very secret, reconnaissance planes of which there were only two such planes in the world. The couple lived in Topeka, Kansas, for a time, then moved to White Bear Lake, Minneapolis, Minn. He was employed at Control Data for two years. While in Minneapolis their five-month-old son James John died after heart surgery. Edward was then transferred by the company to San Francisco. They lived in Sunnyvale for two years from there again were transferred to Los Angeles where they still reside. They have three other children — Steve, Christopher, and Jason, at home.
The Edward Lafreniere Family: left to right, front row, Bridget, Jeanette, and Edward; back row, left to right, Mary, Alma, Albert, Eugene, Sister Mary Edward, Amanda, and Alphonsine. Two little boys died while young. Sister Mary Edward, now 90 years old, is in Maryvale, Valley City. Father Albert Lafreniere died in Enderlin in August, 1978; Eugene died in Escondido, Calif., in August, 1978; Mrs. Ovide (Phonsine) Sevigny lives in Richmond, Calif.; Mrs. Pete (Mary) Lacoste died in 1957; Mrs. Gerard (Amanda) Martineau lives in Escondido, Calif.; Mrs. Joe (Alma) French died in 1963 and Mrs. Victor (Jeanette) Gourde lives in Grafton.
LeRoy was born October 23, 1941, in the Grafton hospital. Like his older brother he attended the country school in Acton Township, which by the way still stands, and he's a graduate of Grafton Central High School. He attended U.N.D., Grand Forks, N. Dak., and graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical 10
Edward and Anna have eight children who are all married. Richard married Mary Raye Johnson and lives in Mankato, Minnesota: Mrs. Richard Bonlie (Lucille) East Grand Forks, Minnesota: Mrs. Myron DeMers (Shirley) Valley City, North Dakota: Dianne, Mrs. John Monroe, Eureka, California; Doris, Mrs. John Brown, Grand Forks, North Dakota: Dennis married Kim Desautel and lives in Acton Township: Mrs. Wally Hapip (Marian) Williston, North Dakota: Brian married Betty Schnellbach and also lives in Acton Township. Most of the children graduated from St. Aloysius Academy where Ed coached hockey for several years. Edward and Anna have 14 grandchildren.
EUGENE LAFRENIERE FAMILY Eugene Lafreniere was born in 1896, at Sault St. Marie, Michigan. In the spring of 1898 he moved, with his parents, to Acton Township, near Oakwood, where they settled on a farm. Eugene married Angeline French on Nov. 24, 1925, at Sacred Heart Church of Oakwood. Angeline is the daughter of Alcide
Edward and Anna belong to Sacred Heart Church of Oakwood. Anna belongs to Oakwood Altar Society, Eagles Auxiliary No. 2803 and Acton Homemakers. Edward served as church trustee, Acton school district 30, Grafton Rural fire department for Acton Township, Board of Director of Drayton Sugar Beet Factory. At present belongs to Red Red River Valley Sugar Beet Growers Association, Knights of Columbus and Eagles 2803. At the present Ed is farming with his two sons, Dennis and Brian. They grow wheat, barley, beans, sugar beets and sunflowers.
The family of Eugene Lafreniere. French, of Oakwood. The following children were born here: Edmond 1927; Edgar 1929; Arlene 1931; Theresa 1933; Joyce 1935; Mary 1937; Albert 1940; Leo 1943, and George 1946. Eugene moved to Escondido, Calif, in 1947 where another daughter was born (Anita), in 1950. Eugene traveled back and forth from California until he retired from farming in 1960. He operated a garage and service station in San Diego, Calif., and apartments in Escondido until his death on Aug. 2, 1978.
FAMILY OF EDWARD LECLERC Edward Leclerc, born 1917, attended school at St. Aloysius Academy of Oakwood, North Dakota, Acton School District 30, and studied French for four years at St. Boniface College, Manitoba, Canada. In 1938, he married Anna Lussier born 1915 to Stanislas Lussier and Tharsile Morin of Mariapolis, Manitoba and farmed for his dad in Acton Township. In 1940, he purchased the farm from his folks. Ed also custom combined from Oklahoma to North Dakota from 1948 to 1962.
Oakwood Flyers Hockey team about 1956, left to right, Father Richards, assistant coach, David Demers, Eldon Anderson, Donald Sevigny, Richard Leclerc, Maynard Barta, Jerome LaHaise, Jim Byzewski, Coach Ed Leclerc; front row, Myron Demers, Jim Schanelec, Donald Dolan, Alan Collette, Joe French. (These boys were all high school students).
FRED (ALFRED) LeCLERC FAMILY Fred, or Alfred Leclerc was born in 1868 at Ste. Anne Des Plaine, Cote' Terrebonne, Province de Quebec, 20 miles out of Montreal. He came to North Dakota in 1887 and worked in lumber camps and later worked around Oakwood, N. Dak. In 1901, Alfred married Marie Louise Trudeau, a daughter of Narcise Trudeau and Denise Brisson of Oakwood. She was born in 1880. They moved to a farm at Prattford, N. Dak., Post Office, Joliette, N. Dak., where he had farmed before. Their four children were Alfred, Jr., died in Oakwood in 1912 at the age of 10; Lawrence who married Clara Hoss and now lives in Fargo, N. Dak.; Alexander, also known as Alex, who married Mae Schumacher and farmed east of Garske, N. Dak., and lived in Devils Lake, N. Dak.; and Marie, Mrs. Henry Deprost, who lives in Grafton, N. Dak. Alex Leclerc later bought a farm at Drayton
Family of Ed Leclerc: left to right, back row, Dennis, Brian, Richard; middle row, Marian, Dianne, Shirley, Lucille; front row, Anna (mother), Doris, Edward (father). 11
JOSEPH LESSARD FAMILY Joseph was born in 1873 in Quebec, Canada, the son of Etien ne and Sophronie Lessard. Joseph was six years old when he came to North Dakota and settled in Oakwood with his parents, brothers and sisters. In 1895 he married Bertha Campbell, the daughter of Joseph Campbell and Alphonsine Harel. They farmed in Acton Township, a mile east of Oakwood. There were eleven children born to the family, but one died in infancy. Willia m married Alma Samson in 1922; they had four sons: Robert (died in Longview, Wash.); Emery (Phoenix, Ariz.); Rene (Longview, Wash.) and Leonard (Longview, Wash ) William died in 1959. Philomena married Patrick Sullivan and lived in Acton Township; they had no children. Pat died in 1931 and Philomena (Minnie) remarried George Vondal of Walhalla. Victor married Angeline Collette in 1929 and farmed in Acton Township. They have two children: Raymond (Bishop of the Diocese of Savannah, Georgia) and Evelyn Jean (Mrs. Charles Smith, Longview, Wash.). Alfred Leclerc and first wife Marie Louise Trudeau —1901 Shediedin 1907,age27. and sold it to Crystal Sugar Company. He also farmed in Acton Township. He died in 1964 at his home in Drayton at the age of 59 years and 11 months. Alfred Sr.'s wife died in 1907 at the age of 27. After her death he farmed near Auburn, N. Dak. In 1909 he married Amanda Paquette, born in 1879 at St. Eustache, Province of Quebec, 15 miles out of Montreal, and puchased a farm in Acton Township from Arthur Corriveau. He later purchased an adjacent
Blanche entered the Sisters of the Presentation in 1926, professing her vows in 1928. She served as a nurse in North Dakota for many years and as a missionary nurse in the Camerouns (Africa) for fifteen years. She is now working as a nurse in Harvey, N. Dak. Ernestine married Henry French in 1928 and lives in St. Andrews Township. They have fifteen children: Marie Blanche (Mrs. Donald Snyder, Crookston, Minn.); Doris Mae (Mrs. Stanley Langowski, Grafton); Lorraine (Mrs. James McCoy, Hastings, Minn.); Wilmer (Phoenix, Ariz.); Rose (Mrs. Julian Kostecki, Devils Lake); Marcel (Amery, Wise); Marcella (Grand Forks); Annabelle (St. Andrews Township); Clarabelle (Grafton); Germaine (Mrs. Aime Pokrzywinski, Oslo, Minn.); Helen Jane (Mrs. Donald Osowski, Oslo, Minn.); Estelle (Mrs. Daniel Vanyo, Minneapolis, Minn.); Georgette (Mrs. Raymond, Crookston, Minn.); Larry and Henry, Jr. (western North Dakota); Geraldine (Mrs. William Di Rocco, Great Falls, Mont.). Roland married Rosalie Sevigny and farmed in Acton Township. Rosalie died in 1947. Roland then married Arbella Durand. He died in 1968. Theresa entered the Sisters of the Presentation in 1931. She
Amanda Paguette, second wife of Alfred Leclerc about 1925. Alfred Leclerc about 1925. Exact date not certain. farm from Thomas Conlon. They had four children — Elizabeth (Mrs. Steve Silewski, Sr.) who lives at Grafton, N. Dak.; Edward, who married Anna Lussier and lives in Acton Township; and Theresa and Adrien who died in infancy. Amanda Leclerc died in 1941 at the age of 62. In 1942, Alfred Sr. retired from the farm and bought an apartment home at 1113 Western Avenue in Grafton, N. Dak. He died in 1949 at the age of 81 and was buried in the Sacred Heart Cemetery, Oakwood, North Dakota
77?t? Joseph Lessard Family: left to right, Arsene, Philomena, Roland, Sr., Theresa, Mr. Joseph, Victor Marcel Mrs. Bertha, Sr., Bertha (Blanche), William, Ernestine, and Francis.
taught in Catholic schools in Valley City and Olga. She now resides at Maryvale, Valley City.
are the parents of a son born August 3, 1980, named Nicolas Ryan.
Arsene married Rita Patnaude in 1 9 4 1 . Living in Grafton, he was employed at the Peavey Elevator until his retirement. They have two sons: Arthur (Woodland, Wash.) and Dr. James (San Antonio, Tex.).
Mark Edmond Osowski married Carol Hoenke, daughter of Charles and Ardella Hoenke, on June 1, 1979.
Francis married Bernadette (Tiny) Trudeau and lives in Longview, Wash. They have two sons: Jack and Timothy, both of Longview, Wash.
THE LOUIS W. AND HATTIE PENNO FAMILY
Marcel married Lucy Sevigny and lives in Longview, Wash. They have two children: Susan (died in 1977) and Dwight (Longview, Wash.).
BRUCE MARYNIK FAMILY Bruce Marynik was born in Pulaski Township, May 9, 1918, a son of Michael and Pauline (Lizakowski) Marynik. He married Iretta Mae Schucter, daughter of Leon and Margaret (Stoltman) Schuster, November 16, 1948, in St. Edward's Church, Drayton, N. Dak. He farms in Pulaski and Acton Townships. Craig Black, a nephew, makes his home with the Bruce Marynik family. Bruce has 10 sisters, Julia (Mrs. Richard Duray), Ann (deceased), Stephie, Minnie (Mrs. Syl Rogalla), Helen, Albina (Mrs. Alfred Ellison), Isabelle, Loretta, Regina (Mrs. Bob Warsing), and Louise (Mrs. Frank Yutrzenka), and one brother, Dominick. Iretta Mae has one sister, Maryann (Mrs. Ralph Thiel), and two brothers, Charles and Harold. Mr. and Mrs. Marynik are members of St. Stanislaus Church, Warsaw, N. Dak.
Louis W. Penno was born June 9, 1875, in Posen, Germany. He came to America at the age of 16 years and went to Normal, III., where he joined his cousin who had come earlier. Louis worked in a brick factory and earned enough money to help his parents, three brothers and two sisters come to the United States. He kept working in the factory, and on February 4, 1897, he married Hattie Bomgardner. Hattie's parents were Simon and Sarah (Daubert) Bomgardner. Simon was born May 12, 1833, in Harrisburg, Pa., and Sarah was born Sept. 4, 1842, also in Harrisburg. Mr. Bomgardner was a Civil War veteran and was wounded in the war. In 1868 they moved to Normal, III. Hattie was born Aug. 11,1879. While Hattie was a small girl they moved to Nebraska in a covered wagon and homesteaded. In 1896 Hattie went back to Normal to visit a brother and
THE HILARY OSOWSKI FAMILY Hilary Osowski, son of Frank (deceased) and Helen Osowski, married Jeanette Dolan, daughter of Edmond (deceased) and Mary Dolan, on October 18, 1950. The couple live on the previous Helen Osowski farm home place. Hilary Osowski served in the armed service from October 1951 till October 1953, seventeen months of which were spent in Korea.
Simon and Sarah Bomgardner, parents of Mrs. Louis W. Penno, and Hattie Bomgardner Penno.
Hilary and Jeanette are the proud parents of six sons, Alan, David, Mark, Lee, Tim, and Jon all of whom reside in the rural Grafton area. Alan Osowski married Gail Prondzinski duaghter of Chester and Bernice Prondzinski on December 13, 1975. Alan and Gail
Hilary Osowski Family — Back row, left to right, Lee, Tim, Jon, Dave A.; front row, left to right, Alan, Gail, Nicolas, Hilary, Jeanette, Carol, and Mark.
Louis Penno and sister Pauline and a cousin.
sisters. She then married Louis and they started farming. They farmed until 1908. One day some land agents from North Dakota visited their home and the Pennos became interested in coming to North Dakota. Louis came to Grafton and visited the J. J. O'Brien Land Office. Mr. O'Brien showed him the country around Grafton and Louis bought a farm in Acton Township. Louis went back to Illinois to harvest his crop and in the spring of 1909 he held a sale and sold what he could not load in two railroad cars and came to North Dakota. He farmed his farm all his life and the farm is still in the family. Hattie Penno died June 2 1 , 1923, and Louis Penno died Dec. 25, 1932. Both are buried in the Grafton Lutheran Cemetery. Louis and Hattie had seven children. One son, Louis, Jr., died in 1904 at the age of four years. The other Penno children are Martha Seeba, who lives on and owns the family farm; Edith Brewer, who lives in California; Russell, who lives in Florida; Florence Cole and Charlotte Vick, who live in Minnesota; and Margaret Dietrich, who lives in Cavalier, N. Dak.
ALBERT AND KATHERINE ROCKSVOLD AND FAMILY Shortly after the turn of the century, Albert Rocksvold and his cousin, Carl Rocksvold, immigrated from Decorah, Iowa, to a farm along the Red River in Eastern Walsh County. After batching it together for a number of years, Albert married Katherine Brosius on February 2, 1915. Carl remained a bachelor all his life. After retiring from farming he made his home in Grafton. He died in 1945. Albert and Katherine raised a family of eight children, four boys and four girls. One son, Bernard, died in 1934 during an epidemic of scarlet fever. A daughter, Marie (Mrs. Cecil Bayne), passed away in 1966 while living in New Jersey. She and her husband had a family of seven. Of the remaining children, Arlene is Mrs. Edwin Rogalla and lives in Grand Forks. They had a family of four boys and three girls. One daughter lost her life in a car accident in 1977. Alvin married Eileen Kirby in Grafton. They now live in Woodland, Calif., where Alvin has been connected with the Marvin Landplahe Company since 19.40. They raised a family of five sons and four daughters. Peter married Helen Lilke from Grafton, and now lives in_ Denver, Colo. They have two sons and one daughter. Leona married Robert Holub, a native of Grand Island, Neb. At present they live in Longmont, Colo., and have a family of three daughters. Raymond married.Blanche Osowski of rural Stephen, Minn., and they have one son, Kenneth. Ray lives on the original homestead and farms with his son who lives a half mile away. Ruth married Gilbert Buzalsky from Amidon, N. Dak., and they reside in New England, N. Dak., and have a family of three daughters and two sons. Threshing time was always the most exciting time of the year. During the 1920's and 1930's, Rocksvolds operated a threshing outfit. They recall a big old Russel tractor, a Rumley separator and a cook car, and the fifteen or more hired threshers that slept in a big tent or in the hayloft of the barn. It was a great treat for the children when they could eat dinner in the cook car. The one-room school known as District 30, School No. 2, played a big part in their lives. Their mother attended school
there, as well as all eight of the children. Later in 1943, Arlene taught in the same school for two years. Many of the social activities were connected with the school. Albert Rocksvold died in June of 1955 and his wife, Katherine, passed away in December, 1 969.
THE EMIL SCHRANK FAMILY Emil F. Schrank was born in Acton Township June 12, 1894, the son of William F. and Mary (Zinke) Schrank. He was baptized and confirmed in the Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church. Emil was educated in School District No. 57, often referred to as the "Schrank School" since there was always a member of one of the Schrank families in the area enrolled there as long as the school was in operation. During World War I Emil served in the armed forces, leaving Grafton July 22, 1918, for basic training at Camp Custer, Michigan, and was honorably discharged at Camp Dodge, Iowa, in February, 1919. He returned home to farm the land he bought two miles west of the "home place" (SW!4 section 30-157-51). A home and set of farm buildings were built on the recently purchased land. Emil was united in marriage to Alma C. Jensen November 16,1921. Alma was born September 24, 1897, at Grafton to Iver and Pearl (Olson) Jensen. The family later moved to St. Andrews Township where she grew up. She was baptized and confirmed in the United Lutheran Church at Grafton. Her mother immigrated to this country from Christiana (Oslo), Norway, with her parents as a child. Her father was of Norwegian descent, but was born at Northfield, Minn. The family had moved to this area when he was a young man. EmiPs brother, Albert, made his home with Emil and Alma for several years until a lingering illness caused his death in 1927. At that time Emil acquired the land adjoining his that had belonged to Albert (NW'4 section 30). The couple became the parents of three sons. Wesley, the eldest, resides in Acton Township. Dwain was born November 23, 1929, was educated in District No. 57, and graduated from Grafton Central High School in 1948. He enlisted in United States Air Force during the Korean War and served there twenty years. He was married to Mary Ann Osowski of Grafton July 14, 1952. They have two sons and the family has resided in Yakima, Wash., since Dwain's retirement from the service. Dwain is now engaged in fruit farming and works as a real estate agent. Elvin Ray was born June 10, 1933. He was also educated in School District No. 57, and graduated from Grafton Central High School in 1951. He enlisted in the United States Army in 1953 where he spent three years, most of that time in Europe. He married Catherine Markel of Perham, Minn., November 2 1 , 1956. They were the parents of one daughter and the family made their home in Grand Forks where Elvin was a student at UND until a drowning accident claimed his life May 24, 1959. Burial was in the Grafton City Cemetery. Retirement from farming for Emil and Alma began in 1965, at which time the land was rented to their son, Wesley, who still farms it. For many years Emil served on the council of Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church (now Zion English Lutheran) of
which he is a lifelong member, and was clerk of School District No. 57 for twenty-seven years. Alma was a member of the Cheerio Homemakers Club in the area until the club was dissolved. She is also a member of Zion English Lutheran Church and its Women's Missionary League; Emil is a member of the American Legion and World War I Veterans and Alma, an American Legion Auxiliary member. Both are members of the Senior Citizens Club in Grafton. The couple has spent their fifty-nine years of married life in their farm home. They are still active. Much of Alma's time is occupied with her art of embroidering and crocheting. Emil's favorite pastime is reading.
THE WESLEY SCHRANK FAMILY Wesley E. Schrank was born in Grafton August 17, 1922, the son of Emil and Alma (Jensen) Schrank. He was baptized and confirmed at Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church and attended school at Acton district No. 57. As a young man, he farmed with his father and uncle, Herbert.
Zion English Lutheran Church (formerly Zion Evangelical) and is presently serving as a member of its council. He has held positions as Sunday School superintendent and head usher for many years. Johanna is also a member of Zion English Lutheran Church and its Women's Missionary League where she has held offices of secretary, president and Christian growth chairman. Both are members of the Icelandic Heritage Club in Grafton.
THE ARTHUR SCHULTZ FAMILY Arthur Schultz is the son of the late Henry and Hilda (Anderson) Schultz, and was born June 2 1 , 1911. Arthur married Gladys Seeba, born July 5, 1918, the daughter of William and Martha (Penno) Seeba. The wedding took place February 7, 1939, at the Grafton Lutheran Church with the Rev. H. Helsem officiating. Arthur and Gladys lived on and farmed the former August Schultz, Sr., farm and Arthur also did carpenter work. Arthur retired from farming in 1965.
Wesley was united in marriage to Johanna Bjarnason of Grafton October 27, 1946. Johanna was born at Hallson, N. Dak., (Pembina County) November 1 1 , 1925 to Sigurbjorn and Freda (Paulson) Bjarnason. She was baptized and confirmed at Vikur Lutheran Church at Mountain where she also attended school until moving to Grafton in 1939 with her family where she attended Grafton Central High School. She took a business course at Union Commercial College in Grand Forks and worked in that capacity in Grafton prior to her marriage. Following their marriage the couple settled on the farmstead that had been homesteaded by Wesley's grandfather, William F. Schrank, and more recently occupied by the Herbert Schrank family. They purchased the NW quarter of section 33 (157-51) from Herbert and Myrtle Schrank in 1952, but moved a house onto the farmstead occupied by Wesley's parents and have made their home there since. Wesley and Johanna are the parents of two sons. Dehlon was born February 7, 1949 and Keith on April 2, 1954. Both were baptized and confirmed at Zion English Lutheran Church in Grafton. They attended school at Acton district No. 57 and Grafton Central School. Dehlon enlisted in the United States Navy in 1969 during the Vietnam War. He received his basic training in California, then served aboard the USS Bon Homme Richard in the Gulf of Tonkin. Dehlon was married to Patricia Olmstead of Fargo January 3, 1974. The couple resides in Fargo where Dehlon is employed as a salesman. Keith joined his father in farming operations following completion of high school and entered into partnership with him in 1977. Keith was married to Sandra Slominski of Minto January 25, 1977. They are the parents of a three-year-old son, Shane Allan. The family makes their home on the farmstead where the Wesley and Emil Schranks live. Wesley was one of those initially responsible for the organization of the Valley Dusters 4-H Club in the area and served as its first leader, a position he held for two years. He was a member of the Acton school district No. 57 board for ten years until the time of its dissolution. Wesley is a lifelong member of the
Wedding picture of Arthur Schultz and Gladys Seeba, February 7, 1939. Gladys started working at the Grafton State School in October of 1966 and retired from there in July, 1980. She worked as a ward attendant. Her hobbies are crocheting and other fancywork. One exciting experience Gladys remembers was back in the 1930's when her sister Blanche slipped when they were pulling wafer for the cattle and Blanche fell into the well. Gladys didn't panic, but just waited for her to come up, and Gladys would grab at her hair. The third time she came up Gladys finally caught her by the hair and pulled her to safety! Arthur and Gladys both had education through the 7th grade in the country schools of Acton, Oakwood, and St. Andrew's Townships. Arthur and Gladys have the following five children: Mariene, who was educated in a country school in District 30, Acton, in schools one and two. She went through the 8th grade. She worked at various jobs before she married Mandus Monson of Grafton, in 1961. They farm in the Grafton area and have two sons, Dennis, now 1 7, and Lynn, 1 4.
On November 2 1 , 1952, he married Grace Hoenke, daughter of Alfred and Louise Hoenke. She was born Dec. 20, 1923, in the house of her grandmother, Mrs. Emil Hoenke, in Acton Township. Later her parents bought their own home in the town of Acton in 1 927 and it was always a thrill to learn and hear of the history of the town, of where the streets were and buildings stood and what the people did. In the winters we would shovel the snow off the ice on the Red River and skate and ski, and slide down the river banks. She attended grade school in Dist. 15, the school that her great grandfather, Carl Wolfgram, built. She graduated from Walsh County Agricultural School in Park River, and was employed with the War Department in Washington, D C , and at Newark, N.J., from June 1940 until Dec, 1 946.
Members of the Arthur Schultz Family — back row, left to right, Gary, Pearl, Karen, and LeRoy; front row, Arthur, Marlene, and Gladys. LeRoy, who attended country schools and joined the 957th unit of the National Guard in Grafton in 1962 and left for Fort Leonard Wood, Mo., in November, 1912. He was stationed there for three months and then transferred to Fort Benning, Ga. He was discharged from there May 9, 1963, and was discharged from the Guard Duty in 1967. LeRoy also did farm work and also mechanic work for Monson's Auto Service, quitting in 1974 and moving to Grand Junction, Colo., where he was a mechanic at the Chevrolet Garage until the summer of 1980, when he joined the City Market, freezer department, where he installs freezing units in new City Market Stores that are being built. LeRoy is married to Patricia Trijillo. They were married in Grand Junction in 1976 and have one son, Craig Robert, who is 2 V2-years-old. Gary attended country schools and graduated from Grafton High School in 1965. He then joined the National Guard 956th Engineering and Float Bridge Platoon in April, 1966. He served four months at Fort Leonard-Wood, Mo. He was discharged from the Guard April 17, 1972. He also worked for the Monson Brothers from 1965 until the fall of 1978 when he moved south of Minto on a farm where he now resides. Gary married Barbara Shelquist of Minto in 1971. They have no children. Karen attended country schools and graduated from Grafton High School in 1967. She worked at home before she married Dean Baier of Grafton in 1968. They have two children, Keith, 11, and Kelley, 6. Pearl attended school in Grafton and graduated from high school in June, 1973. In 1975 she started working as a receptionist and secretary, continuing that until July, 1978. In September, 1978, she enrolled at Aaker's Business College, Grand Forks, N. Dak., and graduated from there in August, 1979. She now works as a medical secretary at various clinics. Pearl was married to Robert Paschke in 1979 and they live in Grand Forks, N. Dak. Robert is a truck driver. They have no children.
EARL AND GRACE SCHULTZ FAMILY Earl Schultz was born in the home of his parents, Mary and August Schultz, February 10, 1920, in Acton Township. He attended school in District 30 and on November 27, 1942, enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served aboard a Landing Craft in the Pacific during World War II until his discharge December 19, 1945.
The couple farms in Acton Township and are the parents of five children. Dale, born 1953, died in infancy; Allan, born in 1954, and Loren, 1957, are both employed in farming and are the fourth generation to live on the Emil Hoenke farmstead; David, born 1959, is employed at Grafton Auto Electric; and Denise, born 1960, is a graduate of N.D. State School of Science, Wahpeton, and is employed at Northwestern Hospital, Thief River Falls, Minn. All are graduates of Grafton High
School.
Earl and Grace Schultz family, Denise, David, Loren and Allan. Earl served on the school board, was treasurer of Zion English Lutheran Church, and has been a member of the Acton Township Board since 1964. Grace is a member of Acton Homemakers Club and Zion English Lutheran Women's League and is a Sunday School teacher. The family are all members of the Zion English Lutheran Church in Grafton.
ELMER SCHULTZ Elmer Schultz was the son of August and Mary Seeba Schultz. He was born July 28, 1923, in Acton Township and resided on the family farm until his marriage to Lola Horn of Ada, Minn., on October 26, 1958. She was the daughter of William Horn and Bertha Ramstad Horn, born at Ada on November 13, 1928, and had worked as a payroll and personnel clerk at the Standard Oil office in Fargo, N. Dak. They bought a farm in Section 23 of Acton Township in 1960 and have resided there since. They have three children. Cathi, who was born May 25,
1961, is now a sophomore at Moorhead State University, majoring in accounting. Eileen, born Jan. 30, 1963, is a senior in Grafton High School and will be attending Concordia College in St. Paul next year. Mark, born Feb. 2 1 , 1964, is a junior in Grafton High School. The family are members of Zion English Lutheran Church where Elmer has served as elder and trustee. Lola is a member of Zion LWML, Acton Homemakers, and the Sunset Home Auxiliary.
The six children include Arthur, who is married to Gladys Seeba. They were married in 1939 and live in Acton Township on the August Schultz, Sr., farm. Elsie, who is married to Jimmie Stark, lives in El Monte, Calif. Merlin, who is married to Mary Lorenzen, lives in Gerhart, Ore. Melinda lives in Grafton. Caroline, who was married to Robert Lerud, is divorced and now lives in Santa Maria, Calif. Mildred died in May, 1938, from injuries she received in an auto accident. Henry Schultz died in March, 1963, and his wife died in March, 1969. They are both buried in the Grafton Lutheran Cemetery, along with their daughter.
THE HENRY SCHULTZ FAMILY Henry Schultz was born January 19th, 1887, in Acton Township. On June 30, 1910, he married Hilda (Anderson) Schultz. Hilda was born August 23, 1894, east of Drayton, N. Dak., on the Minnesota side of the Red River. They farmed until 1965 when he retired.
The wedding party of Otto and Amelia Schultz. Hilda Anderson was maid of honor for her sister, and Henry Schultz was best man for his brother. In the background is Mr. and Mrs. August Schultz, Sr., parents of Otto and Henry Schultz. To the right of the picture is the minister whose name is unknown. Henry Schultz and Hilda Anderson Schultz were married June 30, 1910. HOWARD SCHULTZ Howard Schultz was born in Acton Township, Grafton, N.Dak., the son of August and Mary Schultz. He has lived in Acton all his life except for the time spent in Texas and Germany while serving in the Army. On November 19, 1953, he married Joyce Nelson, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. I. E. Nelson, in Dallas, Texas. They are the parents of two children. A son, James Howard, was born March 9, 1957, and a daughter, Mary Joyce, was born May 2 1 , 1959. Both children attended the Grafton schools. James also graduated from UMC with an associate degree in applied science and from Southwest State University, Marshall, Minn., with a B.S. Degree in agricultural business. He was married June 26, 1980, to Michelle Ann Green, daughter of Nancy Green and the late Charles Green of Minneapolis, Minn. At present James is manager of Haukos, Brothers, Farm Implement, Inc., of Marshall, Minn. His wife is a senior at Southwest State University. Henry Schultz Family — left to right, back row, Arthur, Elsie, Melinda, Merlin; seated, Henry and Hilda; in front, Caroline.
Mary Joyce also attended UMC and the A.V.T.I. in East Grand Forks, Minn. She is currently employed in Fargo, N.Dak., as a physical therapy assistant.
ARTHUR ERNEST SCHUMACHER FAMILY Arthur is the youngest of seven children born to Fred J.Schumacher, Sr., and Louisa B. Loeslie Schumacher. He was born on the home farm April 27, 1910, and bought the family farm in 1948 from the family. The farm consists of two quarters of land on which he raised grain, potatoes, and livestock until 1964 when the American Crystal sugar beet plant was built at Drayton and farmers had the opportunity to raise sugar beets, a
1896." Russ accepted the job of township assessor in spring ot 1980. He is not married. Milton Ernest graduated with a B.A. degree in Electrical Engineering at UND. He received a scholarship to URI and received his masters degree from Kingston, R. I. He now buys and renovates old houses in Providence. He married Phyllis Pella, a math instructor at Bryant College. They have two sons, Kris, 5, and Erich, 2. Wanda Sue graduated from NDSU with a major in Home Economics and taught at Minot. She married Bruce Terpening of Maddock, N. Dak., a science instructor and principal. He now operates Maddock Reddi-Mix cement business and is mayor of Maddock. Wanda works at the Credit Union. They have three children, Travis, 11, and twin girls, Codi and Amber, 8. Valerie Ann, an Occupational Therapist, graduated from UND. She accepted a job at Hartford, Conn., married Chuck lacovangelo, a chemical engineer in research. He now has been transferred to G.E. at Schenectady, N. Y., and Val is now an O.T. supervisor. They have no children. Loretta Mae, graduate of UND majoring in secretarial work and Home Economics, worked as secretary at the missile base at Mountain, N. Dak. She married Army Capt. John Nicholas III and they live at Sierra Vista, Ariz., at the present time. They have two sons, John IV, 4, and Matthew, 2 Vi years old.
Fred J. Schumacher, Sr. Family: left to right, back row: Melvin (deceased 1975), Ervin (Drayton, N. Dak.), Cordon (rest home at Crookston, Minn.); center row: Fred J. Schumacher, Sr. (1867-1936), twins: Mae LeClerc (Calif.) and Fred, Jr. (rural Drayton, Pearl (deceased 1973); front row: Arthur (rural Drayton), LouisaB. Loeslie Schumacher (1872-1955). good Red River Valley crop. The farm is located one mile south of the beautiful Alexander Henry rest area. During Art's farming years, he was interested in Farmers Union work and in the Democratic Party. June 20, 1940, Arthur married Amy Nelson, daughter of John and Emma Nelson, Brocket, N. Dak. She was born March T, 1918, at rural Brocket, N. Dak. They were married in Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church, then located 1 mile west of highway 44 (now 1-19) along highway 17, with Pastor E. G. Runge officiating. The church was moved to Drayton, N. Dak., in 1947 and the name changed to Trinity Lutheran Church.
Loma Gail attended UND one year and married Bill Hildebrandt of Grafton, N. Dak. She resided at Ft. Worth, Tex., where Bill was an electrician with the Air Force. Lorna graduated from a court reporting college and is now a certified court reporter. They now live at Waco, Tex., and both are employed there. They have two sons, Jesse Scott, 7, and Sean Carl, 1. Since 1940, a few changes have taken place that affect our lives on the farm. I-29 was built about 1955 past our faim and we lost some acres of land to it but it improved transportation. About 1974 we received the Rural Water System with water piped in from an underground aquifer. Before this, each farm had a well and ours was pumped with a windmill. In 1947 the REA brought electricity to our farm. In the 1940's and 50's we raised our own
Seven children, Iwo boys and five girls, were born to them, all born at the Grafton Deaconess Hospital. Dr. C. J. Glaspel was our family doctor. The oldest five attended rural schools taught by Adeline Dipple and Luella Rath until redistricting occurred in 1955. Then they were taken by bus to the Drayton School District. All finished high school at Drayton except Russell, who attended Northwest School of Agriculture at Crookston, Minn., graduating there. Milton also attended there Iwo years but graduated from Drayton High School. All seven attended UND orNDSU. The oldest member of the family, Kathlyn Marie, graduated from NDSU with a major in Home Economics, taught five years and married Douglas Rath, a farmer at Drayton. They have two children, Lori, 13, and James, 1 1 . Kathlyn is now a dealer for kitchen equipment such as grain mills, mixers and dehydrators. Russell James, graduate of UND with a masters degree in Accounting and a CPA, worked with Peat, Marwick and Mitchell, a firm in San Francisco, until he came home to take over the family farm in 1973. The home sign reads "Schumachers-since
Arthur Schumacher Family: left to right, front row, Wanda (Mrs. Bruce Terpening), Lorna (Mrs. Bill Hildebrandt); back row: Russell, Valerie (Mrs. Chuck lacovangelo), Arthur and Amy, Loretta (Mrs. John Nicholas III), Kathlyn (Mrs. Douglas
Rath), Milton.
beef, pork and poultry and produced our own eggs, milk and cream and churned our own butter. Now it all comes from the store. Arthur is now semi-retired from farming but keeps busy. They enjoy their garden in summer and travel to visit the children and grandchildren in winter. They're beginning to enjoy being senior citizens in this great land. Art has taken up his hobby again of playing his violin which belonged to his father, and loves to attend fiddlers' contests and jamborees. Art and Amy have been life long members of Missouri Synod Lutheran Church and both served as Sunday School teachers when the children were growing up. The couple celebrated their 40th anniversary June 20th, 1 980.
LESLIE AND FRANCES SEEBA Leslie Seeba was born in Acton Township on June 12, 1919, to George Seeba and Barbara (Krier) Seeba who farmed and made their home in Acton Township. Leslie's grandparents were George Seeba, Sr. and Catherine (Hinke) Seeba, and John Krier and Katherine (Steichen) Krier, all of Acton and Pulaski Townships. They were of German and Luxembourg nationality.
Leslie and Frances Seeba on their wedding day, 1941. about two weeks later at St. Stanislaus Church. She was to be named Constance Adeline, but the godparents couldn't remember the name so decided to name the baby after the grandmother; so this is how Frances Margaret Mozinski received her name. Her grandparents were Joseph Slominski and Frances (Moga) Slominski and Lawrence Mozinski and Anna (Skrzeckowski) Mozinski, all of Walshville and Pulaski Townships. Her father Anton Mozinski, born December 14, 1892, is still living and resides in his own home at Grafton. Her mother Margaret (Slominski) Mozinski, born June 3, 1895, passed away on August 5, 1976.
John and Katherine Krier — Ancestors of Leslie Seeba. Leslie's father, George, was born on August 12, 1886, and passed away Jan. 3 1 , 1949. His mother, Barbara, was born on April 14, 1894, and passed away Dec. 17, 1974. They were married at Sacred Heart church in Oakwood on Feb. 16, 1919. Leslie had two brothers, Leonard, who died in infancy and Cyril who lives on the home farm. On November 15, 1939 Leslie met his Polish bride-to-be at an Acton dance and on September 9, 1941, Leslie Seeba and Frances Mozinski were married at St. Stanislaus Church in Warsaw. A very elegant wedding it was, with the bride's uncle Rev. F. J. Slominski, assisted by Rev. John Maluski and Rev. J. L. Bastien, officiating at the nuptial mass with a dinner reception at the bride's home. Leslie brought his bride to a new home he built in Acton Township on the former Frank Greskowiak farm, 8/2 miles east of Grafton. Frances (Mozinski) Seeba was the daughter of Anton Mozinski and Margaret (Slominski) Mozinski of Warsaw. She was brought into the world on December 27, 1920, by a midwife, Mrs. Adeline Wosick, who was also her godmother. A humorous incident happened when baptism took place
Joseph and Frances Slominski. Anton and Margaret were married at St. Stanislaus Church in Warsaw on November 3, 1913. Frances had four brothers and one sister; Florian, Steven, Frankie, Henry, and Sarah. Brother Frankie was killed in action at the age of 20 years on Okinawa, March 26, 1945, while serving in the U.S. Army. Leslie and Frances made their home and farmed in Acton Township like any other couple, with happiness and few hardships. They had three floods and in 1950 had to move out of their home to spend three weeks with the neighbors. In 1949, a barn burned down, losing a new combine and two calves. A twister or small tornado leveled the family garage and a porch attached to the house in 1948. There was no crop except two loads of wheat in 1950. Leslie was township chairman and supervisor for 20 years, telephone lineman for 10 years, a member of the Farmers Union,
Leslie and Frances Seeba were the parents of six children and grandparents of ten grandchildren. Their first child was Diane, born on September 8, 1942. She is a graduate of Oakwood Academy and The Bryman Dental Assistant School of Portland, Ore. On June 2, 1962, she married Terry Gallagher in Oakwood. What a coincidence! Terry is the son of Barney and Alma (Samson) Gallagher and Alma taught Diane's mother, Frances Mozinski, in School District No. 83 when Frances was in the 8th grade. Alma also boarded at the Mozinski home. Little did Alma and Frances know that some day they would be in-laws.
Anton and Margaret Mozinski Wedding Day, 1913. Eagles Club, K.C.'s, life member of the Grafton United Hospital, and Sacred Heart Church of Oakwood. Frances is a charter member of the Acton Homemakers club which was organized 38 years ago, is a member of the Sacred Heart Church of Oakwood, the Altar Society, Eagles Auxiliary, Minto Legion Auxiliary, N. Dak. Seniors United, and Walsh County Historical Society, and has served as an officer in these various organization. Frances was very active with the Walsh County Fair at Park River. Being a seamstress helped as an exhibitor, for which she won top Sweepstakes Honors for the Clothing and Crafts Category in October, 1950.
Marlys
Myron
Bradley
And then, at Oakwood Academy, Alma taught the Seeba children — Marlys, Myron, and Bradley. Terry and Diane Gallagher are the parents of four children — Shane, 17 years; Kristi, 16; Darcy, 14; and Ron, 12. They live in Portland, Ore. A son, Jerry, was born on December 1, 1943. He is a graduate of Oakwood Academy and Josef's Hair Styling College, Fargo. He married Margie Bjerke in Grand Forks, August 8, 1964, and they are parents of two sons, Shawn, 15 years, and Chad 10. They live in Grand Forks, N. Dak. Ronald was born on November 4, 1944. After graduating from Oakwood Academy he spent two years in the U.S. Armed Forces, and married Carol Slominski at Warsaw November 26, 1966. They were the parents of one son, Todd, who was six months old when his father Ronald passed away on May 25, 1968, at the age of 23 years at Grand Forks. On August 19, 1969, Carol married Tim Curtin in California and now Todd has a sister Tonia, and lives in Littleton, Colo. Marlys was born on August 1, 1950. She married David Jorde at Oakwood on June 17, 1972. On December 30, 1975, David passed away at Minot at the age of 26 years. Then on September 24, 1977, Marlys married Steve McDonald at Fargo where they make their home.
George and Barbara Seeba on their wedding day.
Myron (Happy) Seeba was born on October 8, 1953. A graduate of Grafton High School and Wahpeton State School of Science, Myron spent two years in the U.S. Army, stationed in Ansbach, Germany. He married Patricia Sackett at Grafton on November 16, 1974. They are the parents of two children —
Travis, 5 years, and Trina, 8 months old. They live on the Seeba farm near his mother. Bradley Seeba was born on October 2, 1958. He graduated from Grafton High School and Wahpeton State School of Science. A single man, he resides in Grand Forks and is employed as a parts specialist and manager at Rydell Chevrolet Co. Leslie Seeba passed away on January 3, 1978, at the age of 58 years. He is buried at the Oakwood cemetery. His wife Frances still lives on the family farm home, 8V2 miles east of Grafton, and is presently employed at Unity Hospital in Grafton.
WILLIAM H. AND MARTHA SEEBA William Seeba was born Feb. 13, 1892, in Acton Township. He attended the Acton School. He married Martha Penno on Feb. 7, 1917. Martha was born at Normal, III., Sept. 5, 1898, and came to N. Dak., March 11,1909. William farmed all his life in Acton Township. He had a lot of hardships. The 1950 flood damaged all the buildings as they stood in water for a whole month. A new house was built on the farm in 1964, and all the other buildings have been remodeled.
Wedding photo of William Seeba and Martha Penno. William and Martha had seven children. They all attended School District 57 and were all members of the Grafton Lutheran Church. The children are Gladys, born July 5, 1918, married to Arthur Schultz and living on a farm six miles from the Seeba farm. They have five children. Hattie Seeba was born July 30, 1919, was married to Adam Korczak, and they reside on the farm adjoining the Seeba farm. They have three children. Blanche, born Dec. 17, 1920, married Leonard Lembke and lives in Grand Forks. They have four children. Mabel, born May 27, 1924, is married to Charles Wyatt, and lives in Portland, Ore. They have four children. Floyd, born July 2 1 , 1925, married Marjorie Franklin. They have three children and Floyd farms the family farm. The twins, Lorraine and Kenneth, were born May 8, 1929. Kenneth died shortly after birth. Lorraine married Leonard Puppe and they farmed near St. Thomas. They have two children. Lorraine died May 1 1 , 1965. Lorraine's youngest daughter, Cindy, was the 1980 Homecoming Queen at St. Thomas High School. William Seeba died Dec. 2, 1959, and is buried in the Grafton Lutheran Cemetery. Martha still lives on and owns the family farm.
The George Seeba, Sr., Family: left to right, front row, Martha Seeba, William, George Seeba; back row, left to right, Mrs. August (Mary) Schultz, John, Mrs. George (Anna) Miller and George, Jr.
JOHN AND JOSEPHINE WESOLOWSKI FAMILY John Wesolowski, son of Anton and Scholastica (Skibicki) Wesolowski, was born May 17, 1884, in Conway, and lived there until he was seven years old, when his parents moved to Acton Township. On Nov. 10, 1903, he married Josephine Lizakowski, a daughter of Frank and Mariann (Pokrzywinski) Lizakowski. They were members of St. Stanislaus Church in Warsaw. Mr. Wesolowski served several years on the Acton school board. They moved into Minto in the late 1940's, where John died in 1961. Mrs. Wesolowski then lived with her son-in-law and daughter, Mr. and Mrs. Jack Grzadzieleski, for several years. She died at Warren, Minn., in 1 973. They were the parents of eight children: Dominic, Theodore, Isadore, Joseph (who died in infancy), Mrs. Joseph (Anna) Rudnik, Mrs. Steve (Nettie) Pokrzywinski, Mrs. Jack (Helen) Grzadzieleski, and Mrs. Valentine (Amelia) Rolczynski, who died in 1963.
Family picture of William and Martha Seeba, back row, left ight, are Mabel, Mrs. Seeba, William Seeba and Floyd; front Gladys, Blanche, Lorraine, and Hattie. 21
TRINITY LUTHERAN CHURCH (Refer to Vol. 1, p. 32 and 1 35-1 36 Zion English Lutheran Church built in 1925.) In the summer of 1947 under Pastor W. H. Michels, the Zion Evangelical Lutheran congregation decided to form two congregations. The church building, then located on section 1 5 bordering Highway 17, Acton Township, was sold to the Drayton congregation and moved to its present site in Drayton.
Trinity Lutheran Church at Drayton - the original building moved from A cton in 1947. June 15, 1947, a special organizational meeting was held by a group who chose to become members of the new Drayton congregation. The following members became officers: Henry Helm, president; Arnet Weinlaeder, secretary; Christ Helm, treasurer; Melvin Schumacher and Peter Helm, elders; and Ervin Schumacher and Harry Gonitzke, trustees. Here the name. Trinity Lutheran, was adopted. The congregation consisted of 17 voting members. Pastor W. H. Michels became the first resident pastor at Drayton. He resided at the Drayton parsonage, located north of the church. The dedication of the church property took place Aug. 8, 1948. In 1959 the congregations of Grafton and Drayton decided to amalgamate for the purpose of having one pastor serve both churches. This was necessary due to a shortage of pastors. The Drayton parsonage was sold and both congregations have been served jointly since 1959. Since then the pastors have been residing in Grafton. Pastors who have served Trinity at Drayton are: Rev. W. H. Michels (1947-48), Rev. Walter Gehrs (1949-51), Rev. Conrad Baumung (1951-58), Rev. Herbert Schmidt (vacancy pastor 1958-60), Rev. Richard Ebke (1960-69), Rev. Harry Hager (1969-76), Rev. H. J. Jording (vacancy pastor 1976-78), and our present pastor, Rev. Bernhard Seter (1978). June 24, 1973, Trinity celebrated its 25th anniversary, rejoicing over the growth in the Spirit and in membership. At this time plans were made to build an addition to the church building to better serve the needs of the members. Ervin Schumacher designed and built a small scale model of the church with the proposed additions. This included new Sunday School and Bible class rooms and an enlarged entry, new carpeting and a large, lighted cross at the top. Work was begun the summer of 1973 and completed the following March, 1974. The dedication of the new addition was held June 23rd, 1974. Pastor Ruppert preached the dedicatory sermon.
John and Josephine Wesolowski, November 10, 1903, parents of Anna Rudnik.
John Wesolowski's and children: back row, Dominic, Amelia, Anna, Isadore, Nettie; seated, Theodore, Mrs. Wesolowski, Mr. Wesolowski, and Helen.
The present officers of Trinity congregation (1981) are: 22
Willis Puppe, president; Lloyd Papenfuss, secretary; Jim Weinlaeder, treasurer; Russell Schumacher, financial secretary; Bob Heine and Herb Stegman, elders; and Douglas Rath and Roger Weinlaeder, trustees. Trinity Lutheran is a member of the Lutheran ChurchMissouri Synod with headquarters at St. Louis, Mo. It is a church of the Lutheran Hour now in its 50th year of radio broadcasting. The first speaker was Dr. Walter A. Maier and the present speaker is Dr. Oswald Hoffmann. The program "Bringing Christ to the Nations" is broadcast all over the world in dozens of languages, proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Trinity Lutheran Church at Drayton after remodeling.
History of Acton Township in Photos
Edward and Maggie Peters Schultz with horse and the 1920's.
The confirmation class, of June, 1926, in Zion Lutheran Church, Acton Township, was comprised of, left to right, seated, Viola Weinlaeder, Pastor August M. Bachanz, Elsie Schultz and Mary Stranski; standing, Walter Schumacher, Alfred Zinke, Arthur Schultz, and Marvin Miller.
The Schultz Brothers: left to right, William, Henry, Otto, Edward, August, Jr., and John.
This was the home of the August Schultz, Sr., family. The occasion was the wedding of Otto Schultz and Amelia Anderson, 1905.
Leclerc winter transportation in 1921.
Mrs. Martha Seeba's flock of turkeys in Nov., 1939.
Alfred Hoenke and Thomas Maxwell hauling wood.
This confirmation picture taken February 17, 1935 at Crafton Lutheran Church. Class members, left to right, front row are Orthan Mattson, Hattie Seeba, Elton Mattson, James Gilbertson, Arvid Honsvold, John Hopperstad, Blanche Seeba and Ralph Johnson; middle row, left to right, Thelma Gilleshammer, Lloyd Bergquam, Rev. H. A. R. Helsem Helen Wendelbo, Donald Johnson, Elaine Olson and Marvin Sorenson; back row, left to right, Everett Nelson, Lawrence Jensen, Margeret Penno, Lyle Nelson, Harald Helgason, Roy Sorenson and Gladys Seeba.
Small barn is the original barn built by Hubert Altendorf from his home sawed lumber.
Lawrence Leclerc seeding potatoes in 1925 in Acton Township.
The Family two-seated carriage — Left, Martha Seeba; Martha's grandmother, Sarah Bomgardner; Martha's mother, Mrs. Hattie Penno.
Acton District 30 — school No. 2 in Acton Township, taken early 1940's, with Ella Mohagen as teacher.
Acton Township, District 30 — school No. I. Taken in the
Iate20's. School Two in District 30, Acton Township, taken in spring of 1948. Left to right, back row, Mrs. Arthur Schumacher holding Wanda, Mrs. Arthur Schultz holding Gary, Mrs. Emil Rasmussen, Mrs. George Tanke, Lois Tanke and Ned Rasmussen; front row, LeRoy Schultz, with hat on, Milton, Russell and Kathlyn Schumacher, and Marlene Schultz.
/
Mother's Day, 1941, in school district 5 7. William Seeba children all attended this school. School has been moved to Heritage Village in Grafton.
Tom and Hubert Altendorf are shown threshing, 1920.
William Seeba helping saw wood at the neighbor's, 1942. School No. 1 in District 30, Acton. Adeline Dipple was teacher. From left to right, are back row, Judith Hass, Michael Kirkeby, Karen Schultz, Randy Miller and Gregory Kittelson, and Douglas Kirkeby; front row, Linda Miller, LeRoy Schultz, and Paul Kirkeby. Taken March, 1959.
Arthur Schultz by the Model A truck. Picture taken Aug. 19, 1940.
Alex Leclerc cutting potatoes, 1924.
Leslie and Frances Seeba family on their 25th anniversary.
Lawrence Gabbert and a friend fished these catfish, at the Grand Forks dam, on the Red River, in the winter of 1957 and 58. Daughter Joyce looking on.
Laying rural water line, in eastern Walsh County, on the eastern edge of the Gabbert farm. 26
Flood at Altendorf farm. Floyd Seeba and his dad, William Seeba. Taken in 1940.
10 grandchildren of Leslie and Frances Seeba.
Left to right, Keith Baier, Lynn Monson and Dennis Monson and in front Kelley Baier. Parents are Dean and Karen Baier of Hoople, N. Dak., and Mandus and Marlene Monson, Grafton, N. Dak. These are the grandchildren of Arthur and Gladys Schultz.
Craig Schultz, son of LeRoy and Pat Schultz of Grand Junction, Colo.
Lorraine Seeba, daughter of William and Martha (Penno) Seeba. Married Leonard Puppe of St. Thomas. They had two daughters, Gail, born March 13, 1959 and Cindy, born June 11, 1954. Lorraine died May 11, 1965.
Threshing was not all hard work.
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ADAMS TOWNSHIP FAMILY HISTORIES ELDOU AND CORA AUBOL
Dakota, Grand Forks, in 1960, magna cum laude. She was chosen to perform honors work in bio-chemistry during her senior year, performing research on "Liver Function in Chlorpropamide-Treated Diabetic Patients." She was selected for membership in Alpha Lambda Delta and Alpha Delta Theta, National Honor Societies. Following graduation, she joined the staff of the Santa Clara Valley Medical Center in San Jose, Calif., where she became a supervising medical technologist.
Cora, daughter of Thomas and Caroline Grove, was born June 2 1 , 1917, near Adams, N. Dak., and attended the Benas Memorial rural school and the Adams High School. Cora married Eldou M. Aubol on July 4, 1937, at Fairdale, N. Dak. Eldou, the son of Oscar and Hilda Aubol, was born May 15, 1914, in Berwick, N. Dak. He grew up in this area, graduating from the Berwick High School. They moved to Fairdale shortly after that, and Cora and Eldou lived in the Fairdale vicinity until Eldou went to work for Robertson Lumber Company in 1941. He continued to work for this company but in different places. They lived in Grafton, Webster, Calvin, Adams, Crookston, East Grand Forks, and Grand Forks.
Marlene married Jerry McMahan on Nov. 7, 1970, at Sunnyvale, Calif.
CLARENCE AND DELIA BAKER Delia, daughter of Lars and Martha Westberg Lundeen, was born July 10, 1903, on a farm near Adams, N. Dak. Nine children were born to Lars and Martha Lundeen, one of whom died in infancy; five are now deceased, namely, Axel, Selmer, Ellen, Edval, and Herman. Hjalmer lives in Mesa, Ariz.; and Victor I ives in Portland, Ore. Delia was baptized and confirmed in the Gustavus Adolphus Lutheran Church in west Adams Township. She received her early education in the Brynstad School, which later became known as the Benas Memorial. There are many childhood memories; Christmas programs at school were special times; the Christmas tree, so beautiful with candles and home made decorations; crepe paper costumes; and for every child, a brown paper sack filled with Christmas candy, nuts, peanuts, and a big red apple. The school socials were also very special gatherings; there would be pie socials, ice cream socials, shadow socials, necktie socials, basket socials, — there seemed to be no end to the articles that would be auctioned off for the benefit of the school.
Eldou and Cora Aubol Cora and Eldou had one daughter, Marlene Claire, born at Adams, N. Dak. Eldou passed away Nov. 29, 1975, at Fargo, N. Dak. Services were held at Our Savior's Lutheran Church, East Grand Forks, Minn., on Dec. 2, 1975, with interment at the West Adams Cemetery. Cora continues to live in their home in East Grand Forks. She has been a clerk in a store for twenty-one years. Marlene Claire, daughter of Cora and Eldou, was born Oct. 7, 1938. She attended school in Adams; is a graduate of the Crookston, Minnesota, Central High School; and received her degree in Medical Technology from the University of North
Clarence Baker
Mrs. Clarence Baker (Delia)
The celebrations on the Fourth of July were special. A place with a beautiful grove of trees would be selected as the ideal meeting place for people from miles around. It would be a patriotic affair with the American flags flying; both young and old had flags. There would be lots of food, lemonade, and ice cream cones. Delia attended the Walsh County Agricultural Training School, Park River, N. Dak. graduating with the class of 1925. She attended Mayville State Teacher's College for two summer terms and taught in rural schools for seven years.
Marlene Aubol McMahan 31
Delia married Clarence Henry Baker on Aug. 12, 1931, at Fargo. Clarence, son of Henry and Euphemia Baker, was born June 1 1 , 1901, at Osnabrock, N. Dak. They started their married life on a farm which was given to him by his parents. They continued farming until 1948, when they went into semiretirement because of Clarence's ill health. They moved into Osnabrock, where Delia worked as a telephone operator until the exchange converted to dial phones. Two daughters were born to this union, Betty Lou and Carol Diann. Betty Lou married Grant Nelson, son of Henry and Bertina Nelson, of Osnabrock. Grant and Betty are farming near Osnabrock, but spend the winter months at their home in Moorhead, Minn. They have three daughters: Julie Renae, secretary for Kuehn Pearson Rufu Company, a brokerage firm, Fargo; Gail Greer, a student at Valley City Teachers College; and Carrie Lynn, a senior at Moorhead High School. Carol Diann married Joel Sehrt, son of Frank and Esther Sehrt, Walhalla, N. Dak. Joel and Carol are engaged in farming near Walhalla. They have three children, Lori Lynn, attending the State School of Science, Whapeton; Kelly Joel, attending college in Bismarck, N. Dak.; and Lisa Ann, in grade school at Walhalla. Delia's husband, Clarence, passed away on Jan. 5, 1952, after a lingering illness. Their two daughters were very young at that time, Betty Lou 14 years, and Carol Diann 12. Delia was a charter member of the American Legion Auxiliary, Osnabrock. She is a member of the Dovre Lutheran Church, and has a life membership in the Dovre Ladies Aid.
education at Benas Memorial School, a country school located three miles from their home. She attended high school at Adams Public School and at the Walsh County Agricultural School, Park River graduating with the class of 1935. She furthered her education by attending the School of Hairdressing, Fargo, N. Dak. Prior to her marriage to Clayton Bjorg, she was employed as a beautician in a Park River beauty salon. Clayton and Alma were active in community affairs. Alma was a 4-H leader for almost thirty years. She was a vivacious member in every organization, whether it was a church or civic qroup Clayton served as township assessor for many years and was both a director and the treasurer of the Farmers Elevator Board for several years. Clayton and Alma enjoyed doing everything together, but this came to an abrupt ending on Jan. 25, 1979, when Alma passed away after a short illness. The following year, Clayton rented out the farm land to two nephews, Dennis and Donald Grove. He continues to live on the farm, and with his green thumb, carries on with gardening and cares for other foliage on the farmstead. Both he and Alma had been interested in floral, fruit and vegetable gardening, which influenced him into constructing a small greenhouse on their farm. He has been instrumental in starting the growth of plants that require a longer growing season than North Dakota offers, and comes out with fine products. Clayton finds great enjoyment in fishing, golfing, and bowling.
In December of 1959, Delia moved back to Adams to live. She worked at the Chuck Wagan Cafe for nine months. She felt she was too young to retire, so obtained employment at the Grafton State School, where she worked for eight years, retiring in 1967. She still lives in her home at Adams; is active in the Gustavus Adolphus Ladies Aid and the Young at Heart Senior Citizen Club. She enjoys craft work, crocheting, embroidery work, latch hook, and a little sewing.
ERIK BJORG AND ANNIE BJORG CONKLIN Erik, the oldest son of Jens and Gjertru Bjorg, was bom June 22 1879 in Goodhue County, Minn. At the age of two years, he moved with his parents to Larimore, N. Dak., where the family lived for five years, before moving to Adams Township, where his parents homesteaded. Erik attended a country school located about three miles from their home. Erik married Annie Justad in 1906. She was the daughter of Rasmus and Karen Justad. She was born Dec. 13, 1 8 9 1 . Erik and Annie farmed in the Adams community until his death in July, 1 9 4 1 .
CLAYTON AND ALMA BJORG Clayton Eugene, son of Erik and Annie Bjorg, was born in Adams Township on April 22, 1911. He received his education in the Stone Valley Rural School. Clayton married Alma Christina Grove on Nov. 9, 1941. Alma, daughter of Elmer and Anna Grove, was born Jan. 12, 1917, in Adams Township, and received her elementary
Mrs. Ann Bjorg Conklin
Clayton and Alma Bjorg 32
Erik and Annie were blessed with two boys — Juel Rudolph, born April 12, 1908, and Clayton Eugene, born April 22, 1911. Both boys attended the Stone Valley Rural School. Clayton took over the farming interests after his father's death. Juel, who married Ruth Jeglum on Nov. 4, 1934, had already left home and was employed elsewhere. Clayton married Alma Grove on Nov. 9, 1941. Annie, realizing that there wasn't room for two women in the same household, left her home for them, and went to seek employement elsewhere. With a few dollars in her pocket, she got a ride to western North Dakota, ending up at Williston, where she obtained employment for a time. In 1944, she went to the state of Oregon where she remained for eighteen years. She had different jobs, such as working in canneries, wineries, potato dehydrating plant, hotels, and the like. She was employed at an Indian Boarding School for nine years. Annie married Harry Conklin in 1954. He was a retired railroad man. He was killed in a car accident on Christmas Eve, Dec. 24, 1955. In 1 962, Annie moved back to Adams, N. Dak., to make her home. She is now nearing ninty years, but remains very active. She maintains her own household; takes part in many different organizations; enjoys life, and is always willing to help someone in need.
DONALD AND DOROTHY BOE Donald Boe was born at home in Adams Township June 20, 1933, the son of Ralph and Myrtle Boe. He attended Fairview grade school in Adams Township and the Walsh County Agricultural School in Park River, graduating in 1951. He attended North Dakota Agriculture College in Fargo, and served in the army for two years, of which 16 months were spent in Korea.
Three children were bom, Dawn, 1957; Gary, 1958; Jon 1965. Dawn married Tim Lundquist of Adams, Aug. 27, 1979; they have one daughter, Sadie. Donald is the third generation to own and operate the Boe farm.
PAULAND PAMELA BOE Paul, son of Palmer and Leona Boe, was born Dec. 8, 1952, at Grafton Deaconess Hospital. Paul remembers the family gatherings on Christmas Eve, when he had to wait until all those supper dishes were washed and put away, before he could open his gifts. The minutes seemed like hours to him. Then he also remembers how he wanted to drive the machinery on the farm, long before he was old enough to do so. Paul attended the Adams Public School graduating from high school in 1970. He graduated from the North Dakota State University, Fargo, in 1.974, and is now farming the home farm, three and a half miles west of Adams. Paul and Pamela Durham were married Oct. 1 1 , 1980, at the Mountain Lutheran Church, Adams, with Rev. L. Steen officiating. Pamela, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James L. Durham, Sr., was born Oct. 6, 1952. Her father died in 1973. Her mother remarried and is now Mrs. Ambrose Nowacki. Christmas was always a special time for Pamela, too, especially as a little girl. She recalls one Christmas in particular when her two brothers and she were in Duluth. She remembers all the snow and the beautiful decorations on the houses. She also remembers the steep hills. Getting her first bike and their first puppy were big events. Pamela graduated from Moorhead High School in 1970, and attended Moorhead Tech. and Moorhead Sate University. She was employed as a travel consultant with Four Seasons Travel in Fargo. Paul, Pamela, together with Lincoln, nine years old, enjoy their many hobbies together, such as snow-skiing, softball, swimming, tennis, hunting, gourmet cooking, and travelling.
RALPH AND MYRTLE BOE FAMILY Ralph, the son of Knute R. Boe and Ida (Qually) Boe, was born Mar. 30, 1 905, on the farm home near Adams, N. Dak. He received his early education at the Fairview School and graduated from the Walsh County Agricultural School in Park River. Ralph married Myrtle Foyen, daughter of Baard and Carrie (Lockrem) Foyen, Oct. 3, 1927, at Fargo. They were married at
Donald Boe Family: left to right, standing, Gary, Dawn (Mrs. Timothy Lundquist); bottom, Jon, Dorothy and Donald Boe. In 1957 Donald married Dorothy Ellingson in a ceremony at the Ralph Boe home. Dorothy, daughter of Olie and Clara Ellingson, was born at home in Aams Township on Nov. 29, 1936. She attended school in Adams, graduating in 1954; attended Mayville State Teachers College, and taught school at Benas Memorial School in Adams Township. Donald and Dorothy built their home on the Ralph Boe farm.
The Ralph Boe Family: left to right, back row, Marilyn, Myrtle, Ralph, K. Rodger: front, Donald.
the home of Myrtle's cousin, Mrs. H. I. Peterson, by Reverend Runsvold. Mabel Marifjeren, Mrs. Peterson's sister, and two Peterson children were the only guests. Mr. and Mrs. Peterson were their attendants. Myrtle and Ralph called the folks back home later that evening to tell them about the surprise wedding. After their marriage, Ralph and Myrtle lived with his folks until 1930 when Knute and Ida bought a house and moved to Aams. Ralph and Myrtle still live on the home farm.
Ingvald and Amelia Boman worked as the main cook in the cook cars of various threshing outfits for many, many falls, even after she was married. Ingvald and Amelia lived on the homestead of his uncle, Andrew Swenson, and built a house in the summer of 1933. They farmed for many years, both working together, be it outside or inside activities. Amelia was a 4-H leader for many years. The Willing Workers 4-H Club was organized at her home on November 4, 1946. She was active in the Happy Co-Workers Homemakers Club, which was also organized at her home on February 15, 1935. She was the first president of the homemakers club. Amelia was an active member of the Royal Neighbors Lodge and the T and C Sewing Club.
Children of Ralph and Myrtle Boe — Donald, Marilyn, and K. Rodger. There were four children born to Ralph and Myrtle. Marilyn Vaughn (Mrs. Merle Daley) was born in 1928, Keith Rodger (Roddy) in 1930, Donald Ordean in 1933, and Lona Ann (deceased) in 1937. Myrtle remembers one day when Roddy was about 3/2 years old he decided to go where his dad and the men were putting up hay about two miles from home. When he had gone one mile north and another mile east on highway seventeen, a car had stopped and asked him his name. He then proceded to what is now known as Palmer Boe's farm and asked the lady who was living there at that time for a cup of coffee and then took off for the hayfield. His dad probably felt like spanking him but sent him home with the hired man on the hay rake. Forenoon lunch was on Roddy's mind and he wanted to eat with the men in the field. All this time Ida (Myrtle's sister) and Myrtle were looking all over the farm for him. He was always disappearing.
Ingvald, Amelia, and her two sisters, Florence and Louise, were fortunate to be amongst those who survived the Maich 15, 1941, snow storm. It was a beautiful day, so the four rode in Ingvald's Chevrolet coupe to Park River, to visit their mother who was staying with her uncle, Henry Dencker. They spent an enjoyable afternoon and when they left for home, their mother sent along a bunch of old newspapers, which Amelia used in cutting patterns as she did a lot of sewing. They stopped in Adams, en route home, to pick up some groceries. It was around seven-twenly when they left town and it had started snowing. They got about a quarter of amile from Ingvald and Amelia's home, on hi-way 35, when the storm hit them. It was just as if someone had thrown a blanket over the car. They couldn't see a thing. Ingvald tried to walk ahead of the car while Amelia was to drive, but it was impossible for him to be out in the storm. He got back into the car, wondering what they should do. His clothes were wet with snow. They stayed in the car, trying to keep one
On October 3, 1977, Myrtle and Ralph were treated to a memorable party by their children in celebration of their 50th wedding anniversary with close family members in attendance. They have 10 grandchildren and two great grandchildren.
INGVALD AND AMELIA BOMAN Twins, Ingvald and Ann Boman, were born Sept. 10, 1907, in Adams Township, the children of John and Kristina Boman. They attended the Stone Valley Rural School. Ann married Fred Anderson. They had twin girls, Joan and Joyce, who now are married. Ingvald married Amelia Gehrke, the daughter of Carl and Wilhelmine Gehrke, on Dec. 2, 1933. Amelia was born July 26, 1901, in Adams Township. She attended the Fairview School District No. 102. As a young girl, Amelia was employed as the cook at the Bookwalter Hotel. During the threshing season, she
Ann Boman Anderson and Ingvald Boman 34
another warm. If they were to freeze to death, they at least would be together. They had bought two pounds of coffee, so emptied that into a paper sack, and began tearing newspaper bits into the can and burn to keep them warm. Luckily, the lighter worked on the car as the matches in Ingvald's pocket had gotten wet. The smoke from the newspapers, especially the colored printing, hurt their eyes but they were thankful they had that to keep them warm during the fourteen hours that they sat in this coupe. The motor got wet immediately and the west car window froze over so bad that it was too cold to sit near it. The temperature went down to eighteen below but the wind velocity made it so bitter cold. As daylight came, the storm subsided and Ingvald walked to the nearest neighbor, the Bjorgs, to get help. Clayton Bjorg and Ingvald came back to the car with horses hitched to a hay rack, to get the three still sitting in the car. When they got into the house, Annie had hot food waiting for them, which was heavenly after spending a night like they had done. How thankful they were. There were thirty-nine individuals in North Dakota that perished that night in the storm. This venture caused much anxiety to the folks at home but they were relieved when the news came that they had survived the storm, and were alive.
papers for The Crookston Times after school. He attended grade schools at Crookston, Minn., and high school at Hallock, Minn, where he participated in basketball, hockey, and football. During the summer of 1937, Robert worked in the Drayton State Bank, Drayton, N. Dak. In March of 1938, he was manager at the Walsh County State Bank office, Fordville, N. Dak. Beginning in Sept, 1940, he worked for Federal Land Bank at LaMoure, N. Dak., until entering service in February, 1942. After the service, in 1946, he started and operated an insurance agency at Grafton, N. Dak., until March, 1949, when Robert and his father, Howard, purchased controlling interest in the Security State Bank, Adams, N. Dak. Since then he has served as vice president and president of the bank.
Amelia was a dressmaker and did a lot of sewing for others. One of her many hobbies was that of collecting salt and pepper shakers. Ingvald built a new barn in 1963. Three years later, he had the misfortune of falling on this barn floor, breaking his leg. That fall he was forced to sell his cattle and rent out his land, and he and Amelia moved into Adams. They rented the John Setnes home, now owned by Jerome Howland. On Jan. 18, 1969, Amelia suffered a stroke and was hospitalized; then went to the Rehabilitation Center, Grand Forks. She was home for a short time when she entered the Deaconess Hospital for a leg amputation. She spent the month of July in the Rehabilitation Center again and then to Sunset Home, Grafton. She remained there until 1973, dying there on Jan. 29. All during Amelia's illness or recuperation, Ingvald was with her. Ingvald makes his home on his farm except during the winter months when he stays with his sister, Mrs. Ebba Geary. Ingvald is a member of the Mountain Lutheran Church, Adams. He is a member of the Young at Heart Senior Citizen Club at Adams.
ROBERT AND MARJORIE CLAPP Robert W. Clapp, son of Howard and Marguerite (Potts) Clapp, was born Feb. 6, 1919, at Crookston, Minn. During his childhood he delivered papers for Polk County Leader, three hundred each morning before going to school, and then sold
The Robert Clapp Family: left to right, back row, Marjorie, Robert, Jane; front row, Dale, Mary, Blair, Vicki, John, and Brent. Robert married Marjorie L. Lindblom at LaMoure, N. Dak., on Feb. 12, 1946. He met Marjorie while he was working at LaMoure. Marjorie's original home was Kulm, N. Dak., and in the early 1940's she moved with her folks to LaMoure. Marjorie worked at the County Court House and the First State Bank, LaMoure, prior to her marriage. Her father, Carl Lindblom, was sheriff at LaMoure for a good many years. Marge and Robert have lived in Grafton and Adams during their married life. Robert's hobbies have been golf and fishing, while Marge's are oil painting and craftwork. Robert belongs to the American Legion, Elks, and has served in several area banking organization posts. Both are members of the Mountain Lutheran Church, Adams. Robert and Marge have three children — Mary Clapp Thornton who lives in Moorhead, Minn., and whose husband, Dale, is financial aid director at Concordia College. Mary teaches business education part-time at Concordia College, along with mothering her two little boys, Brent and Blair. John H. Clapp, their only son, lives in Adams and works in the bank with his father. John married Vicki Stemmick from Munich, N. Dak. Jane Ann, the youngest child, is attending her third year at U.N.D., Grand Forks, majoring in business personnel. Marge and Bob Clapp consider the Adams community their home. Their children do also.
Mr. and Mrs. Howard Clapp
People most likely will remember Robert's father, Howard H. Clapp, as years ago he traveled for the Federal Land Bank, prior to being in the Security State Bank, Adams. He always liked to
see people raise corn; like livestock; and watching things grow. Marguerite, his wife, had love for music and taught piano lessons to a number of young folks.
DOUGLAS AND NANCY EIKEN Nancy Claire, daughter of Palmer and Leona Boe, was born Feb 15 1944, at Grafton, N. Dak. She attended the Adams Public School, graduating with the class of 1962. She graduated from the St. Lukes' Hospital School of Nursing, Fargo, in 1965. Nancy Claire and Douglas Kent Eiken were married Oct. 17, 1964, at the Adams Lutheran Church. Douglas Kent, son of Alice and Kenneth Eiken, Portland, N Dak., was born Nov. 4, 1942, at Mayville, N. Dak. He graduated from the Portland High School; Mayville State Teacher s College in 1964; received Masters Degree from Moorhead State; and Doctorate of Leisure Studies from University of Utah in 1978. At the present time, he is teaching recreation at the University ot Kansas Nancy, an R.N. is now working for three pediatricians in the office, at Lawrence, Kansas. Nancy and Doug have Iwo children: Stephanie Rae, born April 16, 1969; and Timothy Kent, born March 1 0 , 1 9 7 1 .
MAURICE T. AND MARTHA ELLINGSON Maurice T. Ellingson was born May 2 1 , 1922, on a farm near Adams to Olie and Clara Ellingson. He attended grade school at Stone Valley School in Adams Township and graduated from Adams High School. He enlisted in the Air Force during World War II, and spent four years of his military time in England.
Bonnie married Arden Espelien and they were divorced. The children are Tammy LeNae, born August 25, 1966; and Todd Wayne, born April 30, 1969. Bonnie and the children live in Grand Forks. Tammy attends Valley Junior High School and Todd attends Lake Agassiz Elementary School. While residing in Grafton, Bonnie was employed at Eddy's Super Valu; Associated Potato Growers; Grafton Curling Club; Marey's Dress Shop; E. R. Nyman, Public Accountant; and Phelan Potato Company. Since December, 1974, she has been employed at the UND Social Work Department, Grand Forks, and in part-time work at the J. C. Penney Store.
ALBERT AND ELDA GEHRKE Albert and Elda lived in Adams Township on the old Ole Elton home farm. Through the years Edwin Johnson, a carpenter from Adams, remodeled the home which became a very roomy, comfortable farm home. The old barn was torn down and a new barn was moved in from 10 miles south. The Ordways of Lawton helped with this project. Along with being a very helpful wife in the fields, barn or house, Elda taught in several of the township schools. Her last years of teaching were spent at Fairview School. She would drivethe team of horses on the stone boat to school, tie thereins to the, front, and the horses would walk home alone. By th# time Albert had the barn cleaned and was ready to use the horses. When Fairview School closed, Albert and Elda bought the barn from the district and had it moved to the farmstead to be used as a machinery garage.
I\ f f i l
Maurice married Martha Norby from Lankin, N. Dak., in 1947, and they resided in Fargo, N. Dak., where he was employed with Standard Oil Company for 30 years.
Albert and Elda Gehrke's 50th anniversary. Both Albert and Elda were very active in Farmers Union activities. Albert was a Walsh County director as well as a director of the Adams Co-op. Elda taught the youth classes for many years. Albert and Elda were active members of Vang Lutheran
The Maurice T. Ellingson Family: left to right, Duane, Jerry, Cary, Laurel, Patricia, Martha, and Maurice. Maurice and Martha have five children - Duane, Jerry and Patricia, all of Chino, Calif., and Gary and Laurel, Fargo. There are three grandchildren, all of Chino.
Church. Elda was the first woman jury member of Walsh County, and also was a member of the Counly Welfare Board. Lovetta was the couple's only child. She married Don Hammer in 1954. They reside in Bemidji, Minn., and have three daughters - Colette (Mrs. Robert Erickson), Larae and Darcee, who are college students at Bemidji State University.
BONNIE TROFTGRUBEN ESPELIEN Bonnie Louise, daughter of Halfdan and Margaret Troftgruben, was born July 9, 1947, at the Grafton Deaconess Hospital. She attended the Benas Memorial School for seven years, and due to redistricting, completed her elementary education at the Adams Public School, graduating with the class of 1965. She attended Aaker's Business College, Grand Forks, and graduated in 1968. Bonnie was confirmed at the Mountain Lutheran Church, Adams. She is now a member of Sharon Lutheran Church in Grand Forks.
Albert liked to sing bass with the men's chorus from the Fairdale Parish. Their practice sessions provided fine social gatherings for the men. Elda was well known for her readings, and often quoted Helen Steiner Rice. 36
BARNEY E. GEHRKE
the farm, and Martin's health began to fail, and they needed extra help every day, so it was decided that they move into Adams. They are very happy in their new location, and Louise continues with her garden and flowers. During the winter months, she does a lot of embroidery work. She enjoys music and plays the piano by ear.
Barney E. Gehrke, son of Carl and Wilhelmine (Minnie) Gehrke, was born Feb. 12, 1906, in Adams Township, and attended Fairview S. D. No. 102. Barney worked as a farm laborer for neighbors and others. He would be one of the Gehrke boys who would go with the threshing outfit, be it Hans Anderson's crew, John Gilbertson's, or some other threshing outfit. He started when he was quite young as he was with Wick's Steam Rig. He usually hauled bundles, using a rack and horses from home. Threshing days meant long days, hard work, so they sometimes welcomed a rain shower to get some rest.
Louise is a member of the Royal Neighbors Lodge, the Mountain Lutheran Church, Adams, ALCW, and Circles.
MARTIN H. GEHRKE Martin H. Gehrke was born Oct. 14, 1913, in Adams Township, son of Carl and Wilhelmine (Minnie) Gehrke. He attended Fairview School District 102, for seven years, passing the seventh and eighth grade in one year. Students in those two grades, attending rural schools, were required to write on state examinations and get a passing grade in order to complete the course and proceed to the next grade. These examinations were given in the months of December and the following May. Martin wrote on the seventh grade examinations (December, 1926) and passed the subjects; and in spring (May, 1927), he wrote on the eighth grade subjects and passed, thus making two grades in one year. He never went to high school but remained at home on the farm helping with the work. At the age of ten years, he drove four horses on the binder, during the harvest season. When Martin became older, he assisted his brother-in-law, Lloyd Johnson, with his farm work.
Barney liked to go hunting; trapped fur-bearing animals, skinned them, and sold the furs to various fur-buyers. He also liked to go on the rabbit drives. Fishing was another hobby. Barney could chord on the piano. Often after a program at the school, the people would end up at the Gehrke home. Furniture was cleared from the living room to make room for dancing. Barney or Albert would chord on the piano and others, usually Anton Levang, Alfred Qually, or Oliver Elton, would play the violin and mandolin. In 1964, Barney's health began to fail. He had Parkinson's Disease, and his condition worsened so in 1967, he was admitted into the Lutheran Sunset Home in Grafton. The first years, he was able to come home for a few days at a time but later this wasn't possible. His speech became impaired and it was hard to understand him. He died June 15, 1975, and is buried in West Adams Cemetery.
Barney E. Gehrke
In 1942, Martin was called into the service. He left home for Fort Snelling on Oct. 13, 1942. Before completing his induction, he received a telegram, telling of the death of his brother-in-law, Lloyd Johnson. He immediately received a
Louise Gehrke
LOUISE M. GEHRKE Louise M. Gehrke, daugher of Carl and Wilhelmine (Minnie) Gehrke, was born Oct. 10, 1916, in Adams Township. She had four brothers and three sisters.
Martin H. Gehrke furlough to go home for the funeral. His sister-in-law's father, John Overland, had passed away at the same time so he was able to attend both funerals. Upon his return to Fort Snelling, he was ordered to go to Camp Barclay, Texas, for basic training. Later he was sent to Camp Swift, Texas, for training in the Medical Corps. While there, he received another furlough to go home and put the crop in as his brother, Harvey, had just undergone surgery, and needed help on the farm. Upon his return to Texas, he was slated for overseas duty, arriving in New Guinea after thirteen days on the ship. Clearing the jungle was their first task, in order to make room for their tents. Larger tents were erected to serve as hospitals, each one having room for fifty patients. Martin's facility was the 119th Station Hospital. Wounded soldiers were brought
Louise was born with a cleft palate so required sugery by a specialist and was taken to Chicago. She returned for two summers to Chicago for more care. Louise attended Fairview S. D. 102. Her first teacher was Elda Overland who later became her sister-in-law by marrying Alber Gehrke. Louise was confirmed with the adult confirmation class at the Mountain Lutheran Church, Adams. Gardening and farm fowl were her specialties. Louise remained on the farm and helped as her mother advanced in years. Louise also helped care for for Barney until they moved him to Sunset Home in Grafton where he remained until his death. When only Louise and Martin were left alone on 37
in from the front lines. Some of his working days would last for seventy-two hours or more. While here, Martin received word that his brother-in-law, Ervin J. Fuhrman, Florence's husband, had been killed in the Philippines. Martin was also stationed on other islands where he carried on with the same type of work. He was a patient in the hospital at one time with "Jungle Rot. It was a great day for these army boys when they got orders to return to United States. They arrived in Los Angeles, Dec. 3 1 , 1 9 4 5 ; were sent to Fort Lewis, Wash., for separation; and from there, home. Martin returned to Adams Jan. 8, 1946. Martin returned to farming and continued in this work until in 1976 when he became disabled with Polymyositis, deterioration of the'muscles; he is now confined to the wheelchair. His sister, Louise and he left the farm home and moved into Adams in Dec 1977, and live in a mobile home close to neighbors and relatives. His sister, Florence, and her husband, Harvey Lykken, live close by and are a great help to Martin and Louise. Martin is a member of the Mountain Lutheran Church, Adams and was confirmed in an adult confirmation class. A tape of the Sunday Service is brought to him each Sunday. Martin is also a member of the Qually-Dvorak American Legion. Martin has two brothers, Harvey and Albert; two sisters, Louise, and Florence. A brother, Barney, and two sisters, Amelia and Tillie, are deceased. Both his parents are deceased.
ALVIN AND MARGARET GROVE Alvin Grove, son of Thomas and Caroline Grove, was born Feb 25, 1910, at Adams, N. Dak., and received his education at the Bryn'stad School until the Benas Memorial School was built. On Dec 2, 1933, Alvin married Kjirsten Margaret Ohnstad. They resided in Walsh County until early 1942 when Alvin was assigned to the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard at Bremerton, Wash When the war ended he was employed by the BremertonTacoma Stages, where he worked for 14 years. When they sold out he was fortuante to be hired immediately by the Washington Toll Bridge Authority where he also worked for 14 years. He retired in 1972 as did Margaret who had taught for 31 years. Terrance Jerome was born Nov. 9, 1937, at Grafton, N.
Terrance and Barbara Grove Dak His interest in music kept him very busy through high school and he graduated from W.S.C. at Bellingham, Wash., and W.S.U. at Pullman, Wash., with degrees in music and spent his first seven years teaching as band director at Oak Harbor (Wash.) High School. On June 9, 1962, he married Barbara Louise Logsdon (May 29 1939), who has a degree in music and taught in the Seattle schools They taught in the Seattle area for seven years, then moved back to Oak Harbor, Wash., where they are both teachinq. They have two children who are also interested in music - Kjirsten Marie (Nov. 25, 1967) and John Christian (May 25, 1970). As a family group they share camping, hiking, fishing, soccer, music and motorbike riding.
Rodney and Diana Grove
v
Rodney Neil was born on Oct. 8, 1940, Fordville, N. Dak. At an early age he decided he wanted to be a policeman. He attended W W.C. at Bellingham, then joined the United States Army where he was assigned to the Army Security Intelligence branch. On March 3, 1962, he married Diana Louise Diednch (Nov 10 1942) who worked in the business office of the telephone' company in Seattle, Wash. When Rodney was assigned duty in Panama they moved there. Shortly before their return date the Panamanian riots occurred and Diana was
Alvin and Margaret Grove 38
for many years, during which time Alan attended school at Lankin. His mother, Blanche, was employed in the telephone office there. A younger brother, Russell, spent part of his time with his grandparents, Thomas and Caroline Grove, of Adams.
Grandchildren of Alvin and Margaret Grove: left to right, John Christian, Andrea Lynn, Kjirsten Marie, and David Neil. evacuated. They lost most of their property, saving only what they could grab. After Rodney finished his tour of duty at Panama they moved to Bellingham, Wash., where he joined the police department. At the present time he is a detective and a polygraph operator there. They have two children — David Neil (Dec. 6, 1965) and Andrea Lynn (Nov. 1 1 , 1967). As a family group they share trailering, boating, fishing, camping and motorbike riding. Upon retirement Alvin and Margaret moved to Oak Harbor, Wash., to be nearer to their sons. They trailer and sight-see, spending most winters down south. Alvin uses his sparetime for carving and reading, while Margaret does hand work and reading.
CONRAD AND BLANCHE GROVE Conrad, the first child of Thomas and Caroline Grove, was born Feb. 18, 1901, and he attended the Brynstad rural school and a tractor school in Fargo. He was employed for some time in Bozeman, Mont., at the State College. He also farmed for some time in the Adams area.
Alan graduated from Central High School at Grand Forks in 1940, and the following year, graduated from Union Commercial College. He received a job in the Secret Service Division of the Treasury Department at Washington, as the result of a Civil Service examination. He went to work but in the meantime he took another Civil Service examination for a clerkstenographer job with another government agency. Competing with men twice his age, he scored highest in the examination. A week after starting the first job, he was ordered to resign it and prepare immediately to leave for Russia. Alan, then a young boy of 18, flew from Washington in early November, 1941, for San Francisco, caught a boat, stayed five days in Hawaii, and landed at Cairo, Egypt, where he was stationed for a time before being permitted to enter his assigned area in Russia. His visa was delayed as the papers sent to his mother to sign for the passport was destroyed in a Fargo plane crash. Before leaving on this voyage, Alan had an interview with an official from Russia who advised him to take plenty of hair oil, soap, and toothpaste along as these items were difficult to obtain in Russia. Alan had often thought of remaining in Russia after the war to obtain a position with an American commercial organization, but he never did go back. On May 10, 1944, Alan married Eva Extein, an Americanborn girl that he met in Russia. Her parents were also employed in Russia. Alan continued with his education, graduating from the University of California with a B.S. Degree; and from the Hastings Law School with an L.L.B. Degree. He practiced law for several years, and is currently a businessman residing in southern California. Four children were born to Alan and Eva.
Conrad married Blanche Payer, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Payer. They had two sons — Alan Conrad, and Russell Keith. Conrad contracted an illness that left him a cripple. His parents cared for him for fifteen years. He passed away March 12, 1949. Burial was held March 1 8 , 1 9 4 9 , at the West Adams Cemetery. Blanche spent the greater part of her life in California. She passed away Feb. 13, 1980. Alan Conrad, the oldest son of Conrad and Blanche Grove, was born April 2, 1923. When Alan was seven years old, his mother moved from Adams to Lankin and made her home there
Alan Grove
The Alan Grove Family: left to right, Alan, Eva, Michael, William, and Alan, Jr.
Alan Jr., the oldest child, was born Feb. 15, 1945; is a public accountant; and is also taking courses from a college in Santa Cruz, California, area. William Thor, their second child, was born Aug. 18, 1947. He is a self-employed building contractor. He married Bonnie Winston, and they have two children — Eland, born Feb. 15, 1970; and Severan, born June 3, 1973. They live in northern California. Bonnie is now deceased. Michael, the third child of Alan and Eva, was born Jan. 19, 1949. He is also in the construction business and resides in northern California. He married Ruth Ann Alee in 1 979.
Conrad Grove
Pamela, the youngest child, was born May 17, 1951. She is an attorney for a large law firm in San Francisco. In Aug. 1980, she married Gerald Nelson, who is an orthodontist in the Bay area.
Russell Keith, son of Conrad and Blanche, was born Nov. 18 1924. He attended school in Lankin, and graduated from Central High School in Grand Forks; graduated with a B.S. Deqree from the University of California. Russell served with the U S Army in World War II, from 1943 until 1945, and was stationed in the Pacific Theater. He has been an insurance agent for twenty-eight years, in Fresno, Calif.
child in the family of seven children. Having an older brother was a disadvantage at times, as he always had to wear hand-me-down clothes and rarely got new garments. To this day, he has little desire for new clothes. He received his education at the Benas Memorial School, a country school house located about three miles from his home. Ellsworth was a great help on the farm. He especially liked working in the field; milking cows wasn't his calling. He developed great interest in repairing machinery and the like, l o this very day, we find him fixing some article or thing that has been discarded or he is found doing some repair work for a friend or neighbor. He may well be named the 'Fix-it-Man'. During World War II, when his two brothers, Clifford and Palmer, were in the Armed Forces, he, along with his father, carried on the farm work at the home front.
Russell and Esther Grove Russell married Esther Alice Allen, born Jan. 4, 1927, in Deering, N. Dak. They had two children - Tara Lynn, born Dec. 29, 1954, and Bret Keith, born June 16, 1956. Tara is currently employed as a secretary for a State Farm Insurance Claims Office. Her hobbies include homecrafts, bowling, and softball.
Tara Grove
Mrs. Ellsworth Grove
Ellsworth Grove
On October 3 1 , 1942, he married Clara Amanda Nelson, daughter of the late Amanda and Knute Nelson. She was one of the twins born September 28, 1917, in Perth Township. Her twin brother, Clifford Arnold, was tragically killed in a tractortruck accident on Nov. 2, 1967. Clara and Clifford were two years old at the time of their mother's death. Clara received her elementary education in a nearly country school Perth School District 99, located one mile from their home She attended the Whitman High School, graduating with the class of 1935, and Mayville State Teacher's College, graduating in 1937. She taught in rural schools for four years, prior to their marriage. The first four years of their married life was spent on the Elmer Grove farm, with Ellsworth carrying on the farm work until his brother, Palmer, returned home from service. In 1945, Clara and Ellsworth moved into Adams where he worked for the county as a road maintainer, and also was the manager of two potato houses. They purchased a farm, located a half mile west of Adams in 1950. They lived there for eighteen years. In 1968, Ellsworth obtained the job of custodian, at the Adams Public School. They rented out their farm and moved to Adams. Four years later, August, 1972, Ellsworth took a job at the State School for the Blind, in Grand Forks, N. Dak. Basically, his job is custodian, maintenance, and driving in town to pick up students, but he also helps the student in every way possible, and answers the questions of visitors. Ellsworth was chosen Outstanding Employee of the year, and was presented a Braille Wrist Watch.
Bret Grove
Bret graduated from the University of Santa Barbara, Calif., with a B.S. Degree. He is currently employed as a claims adjuster for Industrial Indemnity Insurance Company. He settles Workmen's Compensation claims. His hobbies include tennis and frisbee and he enjoys traveling. Russell's wife, Esther, passed away Sept. 25, 1976.
ELLSWORTH GROVE Ellsworth Arnold Grove, son of the late Anna and Elmer Grove was born March 10, 1913, at the farm home, which was the homestead of his grandfather, Erick Grove. He was the third
Clara and Ellsworth purchased a new home in Grand Forks and are very happy in their new surroundings. Ellsworth finds his 40
work at the School for the Blind very interesting and rewarding. He is in retirement age but is not ready to enter that stage yet. Clara is involved in both church and community activities. She plays a home organ, enjoys doing ceramics, and oil painting, besides having her house full of green plants. Clara and Ellsworth were blessed with four children — Carole Elaine, born Oct. 1 1 , 1 9 4 3 ; Dennis Elwood, born Dec. 27, 1946; Donald Eugene, born July 7, 1948; and Marshall Allen, born Mar. 30, 1962.
truck which lay at the bottom. Just how the pick-up landed in the bottom of the river is unknown but they may have tried driving on the ice and it didn't hold. Steve was rather reluctant in diving down an ice-covered river, but when he saw the anxiety in the young boys' eyes, he consented to do it. All went well and they got their pick-up truck out of the river. Steve teaches scuba classes and both he and Carole lead diving trips to the Carribean in the summer months. Carole and Steve are parents of two children — Paul Daniel, born June 20, 1975; and Rebecca Joy, born June 27, 1979.
CAROLE ELAINE GROVE HALLIN Carole Elaine, daughter of Ellsworth and Clara Grove, was born Oct. 1 1 , 1 9 4 3 , and attended the Adams Public School, graduating in 1961 as valedictorian of her class. She attended Concordia College, Moorhead, Minn., for two years. In the fall of 1963, she began nurses' training at the Fairview Hospital School of Nursing, Minneapolis, graduating in May, 1966.
DENNIS GROVE Dennis Elwood, the oldest son of Clara and Ellsworth Grove, was born on Dec. 27, 1946. He attended Public School at Adams, N. Dak., and graduated from high school in May, 1964. In September of that year, he enrolled at the Mayville State Teacher's College, Mayville. He graduated with a double major in science and math, in May, 1968. He did his student teaching at the high school in Park River, N. Dak., and stayed on to finish the term of his supervisor, who left the teaching field. He remained in Park River for eleven years as their science and math instructor. He received his Master's Degree in science from the University of North Dakota, in August, 19.74. At the present time, Dennis is Science Instructor at the Adams Public School. Besides being a teacher, Dennis is a farmer. He and his brother, Donald, have purchased the Clifford Grove farmstead, and taken over the farming interests by renting land as well. Both boys are interested in gardening.
DONALD GROVE
The Steve Hallin Family: left to right, Carole. Steve, Rebecca, Paul. On Feb. 26, 1966, Carole married Stephen Daniel Hallin of Minneapolis. They lived in Minneapolis for awhile, Carole employed as a nurse at Methodist Hospital and Steve at the Sport and Health Club. Steve became salesman for the Johnson & Johnson, Health Division, and they moved to Lexington, Ky. In 1970, Steve decided to finish his college education, and they moved back to Minneapolis. Carole began work at the Fairview Hospital in Edina and Steve enrolled at Stout University in Menomonie, Wise, to study industrial arts, graduating in December, 1973. Carole and Steve lived at Neilsville, Wisconsin, for a short time while he was manager of the Nelson Filter Company. They now live in Forest Lake, Minn., where he is in the teaching profession and she is employed as surgical nurse at a St. Paul hospital. Steve is a scuba diver and the year of 1980 found Carole taking lessons in scuba diving. They have taken an active part in several scuba diving expeditions. One cold winter day, three teenage boys stopped at the Hallin home. They wanted Steve to dive down an ice-covered river to hook a cable to their pick-up
Donald Eugene, son of Clara and Ellsworth Grove, was born July 7, 1948, and attended the Adams Public School, graduating with the class of 1966. The following fall, he enrolled at North Dakota State University, Fargo. He attended school there for two years. In Dec, 1968, he enlisted in the Navy for four years. He took his basic training at San Diego. He became a Hospital Corpsman and was stationed at Long Beach, Calif.; Guam; and Okinawa. When he received his discharge, November, 1972, he enrolled at the N. D. State University, Fargo, for the winter quarter. He continued to go every winter quarter, each year, until he graduated with a Bachelors Degree in Agriculture in March, 1978, and a major in Agriculture Economics. The winter of 1978-1979 finds him doing graduate work at NDSU, Fargo. Donald is a farmer at heart. He has bought some land from his parents and rents the rest. He, along with his brother, Dennis, purchased the Clifford Grove farmstead, where they make their home. Together, they farm fifteen hundred acres.
Dennis Grove
Donald Grove
Marshall Grove
MARSHALL GROVE Marshall Alan, son of Ellsworth and Clara Grove, was born Mar. 30, 1962, and attended the Adams Public School for four years. In August, 1972, he moved, with his parents, to Grand Forks, N. Dak., where he continued with his education, graduating from Central High School on May 28, 1980. He is now employed at Miller's Grocery Store, Grand Forks. Marshall is interested in farming and is often found on the farm, helping his brothers, Dennis and Donald.
RICHARD GROVE Richard Allen Grove, bom April 2, 1946, married Linda Troftgruben, born July 30, 1947, daughter of Earl Troftgruben and Anna Samdahl Troftgruben, June 22, 1969 at Odalen Lutheran Church, rural Edinburg. They have one son, Scot Allen, born Dec. 10, 1972 at Liberal, Kan. Richard attended grade school at Benas Memorial School for eight years; graduated from Adams High School; and attended Concordia College, Moorhead, Minn., graduating in 1968 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration. He worked
PALMER AND BEATRICE GROVE Palmer Tilfred Grove, son of Elmer Grove and Anna Linstad Grove, was born June 2, 1919, in Adams Township. Palmer attended grade school at Benas Memorial School. He served in the army during World War II in the North African Campaign. He was married to Beatrice Aune, born Aug. 3 1 , 1920, to Bennie (Bernt) Aune and Tilda (Matilda) Bakken Aune, on May 6, 1945, at Adams. Palmer and Beatrice farmed the E. T. Grove homestead and the original site of Sarles-Adams from 1945 until they moved to Adams in 1976. The couple have spent the winter months in Apache Junction and Mesa, Ariz., and their summers in Adams. They bought the farm in 1958 and the Bernhard and Emil Johnson quarter in 1967. Richard and Linda Grove with Lutheran Hospitals and Homes Society of America, Fargo, N. Dak., for 10 years. During those 10 years he was a hospital and nursing home administrator at Seymour, Ind.; Syracuse, Neb.; Santanta, Kan.; and business manager at Los Alamos, N. Mex. In April, 1979, Richard began working for Robertson Companies, Inc., Grand Forks, as an assistant manager at Lakota, N. Dak., and was appointed manager of the Adams, N. Dak., yard Dec. 17, 1979. Linda attended grade and high school at Edinburg, N. Dak., and graduated from Mayville State Teacher's College, Mayville, N. Dak., in 1969. Linda taught school at Edinburg; Seymour, Ind., and Syracuse, Neb. Richard remembers going to Benas during the winter months with horses and the open bob sleigh or enclosed cutter.
NEIL AND PATRICIA (GROVE) HOVE
Palmer and Beatrice Grove Palmer served on the West Adams Cemetery Board for many years; was a life member of the Qually-Dvorak American Legion Post of Adams; and served as treasurer of the Benas Memorial School for a few years. Palmer and Beatrice have two children — Richard Allen born April 2, 1946; and Patricia Ann, born June 29, 1947. There are five grandchildren. Palmer died July 6, 1980, at the age of 61 years and is buried at the West Adams Cemetery, a part of the original E. T. Grove homestead.
Patricia Ann Grove, born June 29, 1947, married Neil Hove, born Dec. 30, 1942, June 4, 1966, at Mountain Lutheran Church, Adams, N. Dak. They have four children — Kristi Beth, born March 15, 1967; Ann Marie, born April 8, 1969; Eric Charles, born April 14, 1972, and Paul David, born Aug. 1 1 , 1976. Patricia attended seven years of grade school at Benas Memorial School and eighth grade and high school at Adams Public School. Patricia worked at the Edmore rest home for seven months from May to November, 1974, then finished the school year as cook at Fairdale. She was also cook there the next year, leaving in 1976. In 1978 Patricia started cooking at the Adams School and is still the cook there. Patricia and Neil lived in the Edmore community for ten years until moving to Adams in 1 976 to farm and live on the E. T. Grove homestead.
In December of 1935, Roy and Ida Foyen were married at the home of Ralph and Myrtle Boe with Pastor B. J. Hatlem officiating. Lillian (Hanson) Johnson played the wedding march and Sylvia Wolseth sang a solo. For their honeymoon they took the old Soo Line train from Adams to Fairdale to spend a few days with Mr. and Mrs. Alvin Grove, who had a restaurant at that time. Roy and Ida moved to the family farm and Roy's parents moved into Adams.
Roy and Ida Grove Ida was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Baard Foyen and was born at her grandparents' home in Dundee Township, north of Park River. Her father went to Keene, N. Dak., in McKenzie County in 1906, and built a sod house and barn. The family came out in 1907, and lived in this sod house until 1911, when their father finished a new house of lumber on the farm. Ida started school in McKenzie County, west of the Missouri River. Her father died in 1919 when she was quite young. Ida's mother and the younger children came back to Park River in 1920, but Ida and her sister, Myrtle, stayed until that fall when they, too, came to Park River. They all lived there until 1921. Ida and her brother, Ervin, were confirmed in Park River that spring.
Eric Hove
Paul Hove
Scot Grove
Neil attended Highland School for eight years of grade school and graduated from Edmore High School in 1960. He has lived in the Edmore community, farming the Gertie and Joe Myrvik land since graduating from high school. Neil worked on theA.B.M.site atNekomain 1970.
ROY AND IDA FOYEN GROVE FAMILY HISTORY Roy Grove, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Grove, was born and reared on the family farm, three miles west of Adams. He attended the Benas MemoVial School and was confirmed in the Mountain Lutheran Church at Adams. He worked with his father on the farm and also worked with Ted Dchl of Park River as a carpenter.
In the fall of 1921, her mother and the four younger girls went back to Keene, where the younger girls started school but Ida had to stay home and help with the chores and take the girls to school with horses and a wagon. One day she had to take a load of grain, 18 miles to Sanish by horses and wagon. On the way the bottom endgate fell off, so she was losing grain. She had to stop the horses and get that fixed — she put the top endgate to the bottom and fastened some sacks up to hold the grain from running over. She got to the Missouri River just as the ferry was making its last trip back to Sanish for the night. Ida's mother passed away in February, 1922, so some of the family came back to Park River. Ida finished grade school there, working for her board and room. After graduation she entered nurses' training at St. Lukes in Fargo. Rev. Strandjord helped her get into the Nurses' Training Program. After she completed her training, she went back to Park River and Adams where she met Roy Grove.
Roy and Ida were blessed with three children — Darlene, Ronald and Thomas. Darlene is married to Eugene Eastland and lives at White Bear Lake, Minn. She received her education at Adams, and attended two years at the Lutheran Bible School at Minneapolis. She was a parish worker at White Bear Lake for two years and is now a teacher's aide. Eugene teaches the eighth grade at White Bear Lake. Their address is Stillwater, Minn. They have three children — Greg, who is a first year college student; Kari, who is in high school; and Lori, in seventh grade.
Roy's father, Thomas Grove, passed away in 1952 and his mother in 1955. A brother, Conrad, and sister, Inez (Mrs. Clarence Lien), are also deceased. Roy and Ida Grove are still living on the home place where they have made their home except for one winter ( the year Darlene was a baby) when they lived in Adams and Roy hauled mail on the Star Route for Ted Rundhaug, with horses and sleigh.
Mrs. Thomas Grove (Roy's mother), about 1915.
Mrs. Roy (Ida) Grove Ronald, after finishing the Adams High School and graduating from Mayville State Teacher's College, is a music teacher in Grey Eagle, Minn. He married Virginia Peterson from Binford, N. Dak., a kindergaren teacher. The Groves have six boys — Paul, Peter, Christopher, Timothy, Aaron, Nathan; and one girl, Bethany. All are going to school except Aaron and Nathan.
Roy Grove and his field horses.
Thomas went to barber school and was a barber for a few years in Grand Forks. He married Diane Gilderhus and they have two children — Steven, in the eighth grade, and Kirsten, in the fifth grade. Tom also worked for the Robertson Lumber Company. Diane is secretary at the Calvary Lutheran Church in Grand Forks.
The home of Thomas Grove where Roy grew up.
Top, left to right, Mrs. Thomas Grove, Thomas, Ronald, Mrs. Ronald Grove; bottom, Eugene Eastlund, Mrs. Eugene Eastlund, Mrs. Roy Grove, Roy Grove.
PETER HELLE Peter Helle was born in Vange Valder, Norway, on Dec. 17, 1858. He came to America at the age of 15, and married Annie Rice at Greenbush, Minn., in 1879. She was born in Norway, Oct. 4, 1859, coming to North Dakota as a small child. They lived north of Park River, before moving to the Adams Community in 1907. They lived on land close to the John Boman farm.
There nine children and some married others of the community: Malina (Mrs. Andrew Anderson). Oscar (Thea Lundin), Gustav (Clara Bjorlien), Edwin (Daisy Knutson). Laura (Elif K. Moe), Ole, Alma, Pauline (Tom Meadows), and Arven.
Ambulance. Chamber of Commerce in Bottineau, and is the president of N. Dak. Financial Aid Association for the 1980-81 term. Ordean married Linda Bosch, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Simon Bosch of Towner. N. Dak. Linda was born November 5, 1941, and graduated from Towner High School in 1959 and Mayville College in 1962. Linda is employed at Bottineau Hospital Emergency Room. She is department head of Central Supply and is an active member of St. Mark Church. Ordean and Linda have four sons — Michael, Steven, Brad and David.
Mr. Helle left the Adams community in 1909 to file a homestead, thirty miles northeast of Watford City, near the landmark called Chimney and Table Buttes. Mrs. Helle and the three youngest children came to White Earth in the fall of 1910. Two immigrant cars were used to carry their belongings which included five cows, five horses, chickens, a dog, a cat, farm machinery, and household furniture. It took them two days to reach their homestead, and it rained. The children — Pauline, Edwin and Arven — took turns chasing the cattle.
Alice Hosna was born Oct. 2, 1945, to Mr. and Mrs. Frank Hosna at Grafton, N. Dak., and attended school in Adams, graduating from high school in 1963. During school she was a cheerleader and active in track, and a member of church and Sunday School. She attended Joseph's School of Hair Design in Fargo, N. Dak., and after completing the course worked in several beauty salons in the area.
Due to the ill health of Mrs. Helle, a sale was held and they moved to Lankin to live with their daughter, Laura (Mrs. Elif Moe), until Mrs. Helle's death in 1930. Mr. Helle moved back to McKenzie County and made his home with his son, Arven, who as still living on the homestead. Mr. Helle passed away in 1 937. They are both buried at the Sarepta Cemetery. Only survivor of this family is Pauline, (Mrs. Tom Meadows) Buffalo Grove. III.
Alice married Orlan Troftgruben at Adams on Sept. 26, 1964, and is presently living in Adams. She has been employed at the Johnson Store and the Chuck Wagon Cafe for several years. They have three daughters. Shelly, Brenda and Teresa, and one son, Joey. A tragedy to this family was the sudden death of their son, Shawn, at age of 14 months.
FRANK HOSNA CHILDREN - ALICE AND ORDEAN Ordean Hosna was born June 24, 1938, to Mr. and Mrs. Frank Hosna of Adams, N. Dak. He attended grade school at Gilby, N. Dak., Wilder School at Grand Forks, N. Dak., and the Adams Public Schools, graduating from Adams High School in 1956. He was active in band and basketball. Ordean enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1956 and was discharged in 1958. He served in the United States, Japan, Okinawa and Philippines. He graduated from Mayville State College in 1962, and taught high school English at Neche, N. Dak., for two years; was principal and English teacher at Westhope, N. Dak., from 1964-1969; then attended graduate school at N.D.S.U., Fargo, from 19671968 in Secondary Educational Administration. In 1969 he went to the Bottineau School of Forestry and was employed by the English Department. In 1970 he was named Division Head of Arts, Humanities and Science. In 1972 he became director of Student Service Financial Division until the present time.
Orlan Troftgruben was born Jan. 1 7, 1939, to Mr. and Mrs. Halfdan Troftgruben, Adams. He attended Benas Memorial School and the high school at Adams, N. Dak., graduating in 1957 where he was active in basketball and other sports. Orlan served in the United States Army for two years, spending time in Germany. Alice and Orlan are members of Mountain Lutheran Church in Adams, where Orlan was treasurer for a number of years. They are engaged in farming.
EARL AND AMELIA KJELAAS Earl, son of Esther and Tom Kjelaas, was born March 30, 1920, in Adams Township and attended school at Benas Memorial District No. 131. He has been active in farming and, being fond of wild animals, began raising mink in 1944. It started merely as a hobby but it grew into a bigger business, and in 1973 he had over 1200 pelts. On June 5, 1970, Earl was married to Amelia Joshua Littlewind, at the Fairdale parsonage by Pastor Emil Griener. Amelia, the daughter of George and Margaret Ross Joshua, was born at Fort Totten, N. Dak. She attended a Catholic grade school and high school in Fort Totten. They made their home on the J. Midtlyng farm. Both Earl and Amelia worked at the Missile Base near Nekoma, N. Dak., and the Par Site, Concrete, N. Dak. They also worked at Borden Potato Plant in Grafton, besides tending the mink. In 1 973, when Hazel and Oscar Nygard moved to Fairdale, Earl and Amelia moved to Nygards' home farm, which is the homestead of Earl's grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. John Lund. Here, Earl helps his sister, Hazel, take care of the farming interests.
Olga (Ellingson) Hosna and Frank Hosna, seated; Ordean and Mrs. Orlan (Alice) Troftgruben.
Earl and Amelia took lessons in taxidermy in Grand Forks. They mount deer heads, other animals and birds. They also collect rocks and various things from nature.
Ordean was named the Outstanding Young Man of America in 1974; named to Who's Who in Education in 1975, and Outstanding Soldier in N. Dak. National Guard in 1976.
Earl loves to read poetry. He has written many poems; also had one poem composed into music. He likes to dress like a clown and entertain people at various celebrations or parades.
He is a member of American Legion, V.F.W., Volunteer 45
hez married Clarence E. Lien on Sept. 13, 1941, in Adams Clarence, son of Estene and Clarence Lien, was born May 27 1917, in Edinburg, N. Dak., and graduated from the Edinburg High School. Clarence was in the Armed Forces during World War II. He was with the forces that invaded Africa and saw action in Sicily where he was wounded Aug. 9, 1943, and received the Purple Heart. Upon his return from service Clarence and his father operated the Lien Service Station in Park River N. Dak. Later they lived in Grand Forks and Jamestown before moving to Wisconsin where they managed the Dairy Queens at Oshkosh and Milwaukee. Clarence suffered a stroke in 1971, and they moved to
Earl and Amelia Kjelaas Amelia is interested in all kinds of craftwork and does considerable sewing as well as making quilts. Amelia is the only child in their family; both her parents are deceased. She has one living uncle, George Ross. Earl has one sister, Hazel Nygard, and a brother, Vincent; his mother, Esther, is a very active eighty-two-year-old individual. His father, Tom, passed away Feb. 16, 1958.
Fargo. Clarence and Inez had one son, Clarion Dennis, born Feb. 3, 1943, at Grafton. Two years after returning to Fargo from Wisconsin, Inez passed away, July 1, 1973. Services were held at the Hope Lutheran Church, Fargo, on July 3, 1973, with interment at the West Adams Cemetery. Clarence moved to Fresno, Calif., and was confined to a nursing home until his death, July 3 1 , 1980. He is buried at the West Adams Cemetery. Clarion Dennis, son of Inez and Clarence Lein, was born Feb 3 1943. He graduated from high school in Grand Forks, N. Dak., and attended Brown's Institute, Minneapolis, and worked for radio stations in Grand Forks and Minneapolis. Clarion married Diana Miller Rovge, daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Wallace Miller, on April 17, 1970, at Milwaukee, Wis.,, and moved to Fresno, Calif., the same year. Diana, wife of Clarion, was born Jan. 22, 1944. She had a duaghter, Renee, born Jan. 20 1962 by a previous marriage. Clarion and Diana have a daughter, Heather, born Jan. 23, 1971. They had a boy, Price Clarion, born Dec. 5, 1972, who passed away Dec. 27, 1972, from sudden death syndrome. Clarion is sales representative for a television station in Fresno, Calif.
INEZ AND CLARENCE LIEN Inez, daughter of Thomas and Caroline Grove, was born Dec. 16', 1920, in Adams Township. She attended the Benas Memorial School, located about two miles from her home; graduated from the Fairdale High School; and attended Mayville State Teacher's College. She taught schools in Calvin, Park River and Grand Forks, and in rural schools. She was the last teacher to teach in Stone Valley District 96, year 1942, as the school closed its door and became a part of the Adams School District 128, in 1960. This schoolhouse was sold and moved away. Inez enjoyed music; she played both organ and piano. She had a great talent for playing these instruments by ear.
HARVEY D.LYKKEN Harvey D. Lykken, son of Joseph and Ragna (Rose) Thompson Lykken, was born Dec. 20, 1917, at Edinburg, N. Dak He attended the Silvesta School District No. 82, a distance of one and a half miles from his home. Their means of getting to school would be by walking; cutter and horses during the winter, otherwise a buggy was used; and early spring, when the snow was melting, and the water frozen over, they would skate all the way to school. When Harvey was about eight or nine years old, he had inflammatory rheumatism. He was a very sick boy and his parents were worried and afraid that they might lose him. Harvey was a 4-H member for many years, and raised Mindum durum, kept record books, and competed for prizes. His high school days were spent at the Walsh County Agricultural and Training School at Park River, graduating in 1938. While in high school, he was chosen to be a delegate to the Little International, held in Fargo, and to the National 4-H Club and Congress held in Chicago. He had his sample ot durum in both shows and did receive a prize at each place. After high school, he worked on the farm with his father. Some of the social events that Harvey recalls are the school programs and the basket socials that often followed; the pie socials; the Luther League Programs held in each of the three country churches in the area; the church pricnics in the Axvig Coulee on the Myrvik Coulee, and their yearly family shopping
Clarence, Inez, and Clarion Lien 46
continued in that capacity until 1970, when he relinquished that position and became front end aligment specialist, retaining that position until his retirement Dec. 31,1 979, with over thirty years of service with the Farmers Union Oil Company of Adams. On Dec. 13, 1953, Harvey married Florence Gehrke Fuhrmann. They were married in Edinburg, N. Dak., by Pastor Robert W. Bergeson. Florence was employed as a clerk at the Adams post office at that time. They are both retired now but keep busy with all their social and community activities.
DONALD AND LEAH RAE MCINTYRE Leah Rae, daughter of Palmer and Leona Boe, was born Sept. 5, 1939, at Grafton, N. Dak. Memories of her childhood go back to their Christmas family gatherings when the smaller children would put on a program, saying the recitations, and singing the songs that they learned for their school or church programs. This was a big event. Then, those unforgettable sleigh rides, in a covered rig or open sleigh drawn by horses, when the highway would be blocked with snow and impossible for cars to get through. Then, during the fall of the year, she would help with a variety of the farm work such as hauling grain, picking potatoes, and the like.
Harvey and Florence Lykken He remembers the first time he hauled bundles with the threshing rig; getting up at five in the morning; sleeping in the barn with all the men; and being almost worn out when the day's work was done. Harvey entered the Armed Forces on Nov. 5, 1942, at Fort Snelling. He went to Wisconsin for Basic Training and then to Mississippi for B-24 Engineering School. He went to Texas for Aerial Gunnery School and trained in Colorado, Idaho, and Nevada. After this training, he boarded a ship from New York to England, experiencing a rough voyage over, arriving in Norwich, England, where he was attached to the 458th Bomb Squadron of the Eighth Air Force. All his overseas duties consisted of being an engine mechanic on B-24 bombers, better known as Flying Boxcars. In February, 1944, the Chaplain informed Harvey of his mother's death but he was not able to go home for the funeral. When the time came for Harvey to return to the United States, they flew in one of their bombers but were forced to land on a small air strip in Massachusetts because of fuel shortage and dense fog. They remained there overnight, took a bus to a larger Air Field, where the pilot, co-pilot, engineer and navigator picked them up and flew on to Wisconsin. Harvey had a thirty-day furlough; went back to New Mexico and worked on B-29 bombers until his discharge on Oct. 9, 1945, from Sioux Falls,
Leah Rae attended the Adams Public School, graduating from high school in 1957; she received her Bachelors Degree from Mayville State Teacher's College in 1961; and her Masters Degree from California Polytechnic Institute, San Luis Obispo, Calif., in 1967. Leah Rae married Donald Melvin Mclntyre, son of Sam and Ivis Mclntyre, Cavalier, N. Dak., on June 14, 1961, at the Mountain Lutheran Church, Adams. They live at Lompoc, Calif., where both are high school instructors. Leah Rae is both teacher and counselor at Cabrillo High School, Lompoc, Calif. Donald and Leah Rae are the parents of two sons —- James Scott, born June 24, 1967, and Corey Donald, born Aug. 16, 1971. Hobbies enjoyed by the entire family are jogging, swimming, collecting copper and bells.
HENRY MORDICK Henry Simon Mordick was born Aug. 2 1 , 1884, in Elmshorn, Germany, and when a young man, he trained in the German Army. He had a half-sister, Mrs. Carl (Wilhelmine) Gehrke, living in America, so left his homeland for United States to visit her and other relatives. He spent the first years here in the States, with his Uncle Henry Dencker, his mother's brother. He
S.Dak. In the fall of 1979, Harvey received a telephone call from Albuquerque, New Mexico, informing him that his name was on a B-24 bomer in New Mexico. It was one of the bomers that Harvey had worked on in England. The party making the call, wanted pictures and stories of the ground crew and flight crew. A short story was published later in the National Legion Magazine. After his discharge from the Air Force, Harvey remained on the farm with his father for a year; worked at a service station in Fargo; and at Roy's Market in Adams. In late 1947, he went to work for the Farmers Union Oil Co. of Adams as tank truck salesman; in the fall of 1956, he was hired as manager and
Henry Mordick
became a citizen of the United States and received his naturalization papers. When in the Adams area, visiting the Gehrke family, he worked as a farm laborer for different farmers. He had a Model T Ford, and in that kept most of his belongings. He left for South Dakota and bought a farm in the Chamberlain-Kimball area. He farmed here for several years. He never married. One day he returned to the Adams area. His home in South Dakota had burned up and he lost all his possessions except what he kept in the car, which was his pride and joy. He purchased a Model A car later. Henry continued to work for farmers. His last years were spent with relatives, members of the Gehrke family. His health failed, and he passed away at the North Dakota State Hospital, Jamestown, on June 4, 1969. He is buried at West Adams Cemetery.
1947, but grew up in the Minneapolis area. They live on a farmstead, two miles west of Adams, that was homesteaded in the 1880's by Jens Olson Bjorg. They lived in Adams after their marriage and then moved to Fordville, N. Dak., for three years, and have also lived in Hazen and Zap during the construction season, in a 8x42 trailer home. Brenda has worked part-time and now full-time at the Grafton State School since 1973. He has taken up bowling at the new Bowling Alley in Adams this year, and is a member of the Rural Fire Department and the American Legion. The family belongs to the Mountain Lutheran Church. Some of Clifton's hobbies have been photography, collecting antiques and old bottles, plus buying and fixing up old cars.
CLIFTON AND BRENDA NELSON Clifton Kenneth Nelson was born to Clifford A. and Martha Rebecca Nelson at Williston, N. Dak., on Jan. 30, 1945. He received twelve years of education in the Adams Public Schools, graduating with the class of 1963. He also had some training while in the U. S. Navy at Machinists Mate " A " School at Great Lakes Naval Training Center, Waukegan, III. He spent four years in the U. S. Navy from January, 1966, until December, 1969; traveled extensively throughout the Far East and Islands in the Pacific during the Vietnam War. One of his most memorable experiences was being on the U.S.S. Hamet as recovery ship for Apollo 11 and 12 when the first man walked on the moon in 1969. He worked in road construction after high school until going into the Navy, and returned to road construction in 1970, continuing at this trade until 1980. During the winter months, he operated a Scorpion Brand Snowmobile Shop in Adams, from 1971 through 1976. When the fad had faded to make business less profitable, it was dropped. This consisted of selling and servicing new and used snowmobiles and accessories. While in road construction, he worked for Joe Mayo and Sons Construction at Cavalier, N. Dak., until they went out of business in November, 1977. Then he went to work for Border States Paving, out of Fargo, N. Dak., working in the coal boom area of Beulah', N. Dak., for two years. He is how employed by the Walsh County Highway Department as highway maintenance blade operator out of the Adams area.
Tara Nelson
Heather Nelson
Janelle Nelson
Three children have been born to the couple: Tara Rebecca, born Jan. 28, 1973, in Park River, now attending school in Adams; Heather Jo, born Dec. 3, 1974, in Grafton; and Janelle Marie, born Oct. 1 1 , 1 9 7 6 , in Grafton.
OSCAR AND HAZEL NYGARD Oscar Nygard, son of the late Jens and Kristine Nygard, was born March 8, 1904, in Tiber Township. He attended the Tiber rural school. He was confirmed in the Odahlen Lutheran Church in the Norwegian language. Oscar married Hazel Kjelaas on March 3, 1937, in Grafton, N. Dak. She was a daughter of Esther and Tom Kjelaas, born
He was married to Brenda Mondor Parent on July 15, 1972. at Adams. She was born at Cavalier, N. Dak., on Apr. 14,
if Hazel and Oscar Nygard
Clifton and Brenda Nelson 48
March 8, 1917, in Adams Township, and attended the Benas Memorial School. After their marriage, they moved a house into Adams and located it just west of the school. Oscar continued working as a farm laborer. They operated the Fairdale Cafe from the spring of 1942 until the fall of 1943. That fall, Hazel's parents, Esther and Tom Kjelaas, moved into Adams, so Hazel and Oscar moved to the farm, taking over the farming interests; this farm is the homestead of Hazel's grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. John Lund. Hazel still manages the farm with the help of her brother, Earl. Both Oscar and Hazel have been active in community and church activities; have held several office positions. Oscar was custodian and treasurer of the Gustavus Adolphus Church for many years. The couple purchased a home in Fairdale, N. Dak., in the fall of 1973, but continued farming. Hazel has been employed at the Fairdale Cafe for several years. Oscar passed away on May 19, 1977, with interment in the Gustavus Adolphus Cemetery. Hazel has two brothers, Earl and Vincent. Earl lives on the homestead of their grandparents and assists with the farming. Vincent lives in Adams and is employed by the North Dakota Highway Department. Hazel's mother, Esther, is very active at the age of eighty-two years. She does considerable baking for others and takes part in all community affairs. Hazel's father, Tom Kjelaas, passed away Feb. 16, 1958.
OBERTAND ELSIE OLSON Elsie, daughter of Thomas and Caroline Grove, was born July 1 1 , 1905, in Adams Township, Walsh County. She received her education in a nearby country school, known as the Brynstad School, and when that was replaced by a new school building, it became known as the Benas Memorial. As a young girl, Elsie worked for their neighbors, caring for their small children besides doing their housework. During the harvest season, she would often be found in one of the local cook cars along with another lady, cooking for many men, which would mean long days and heavy work. But, she didn't stop there; after her marriage to Obert Olson, on Dec. 16, 1926, she continued working but this was at the telephone switchboard for Mrs. P. M.
Anderson and Mrs. L. Haroldson. Obert Olson was born March 15, 1900, son of Charlie and Julia Elton Olson. Obert and Elsie lived in Adams for some time. He was employed as a mailcarrier and also as a gas station manager. Later they moved to Roseau, Minn., where he operated a gas station and she managed a lunch room. Elsie has been a hard worker all her life. She thrives best when she can keep busy. Obert and Elsie had two boys — Orvis Wayne and Floyd Eugene. Obert passed away Dec. 30, 1973. Burial service was held Jan. 3, 1974, at Moe Lutheran Church, Roseau, Minn., with interment at Malung Cemetery. Elsie continues to live in Roseau and keeps busy with her hobbies, gradening, and helping others. Orvis Wayne, the oldest son of Elsie and Obert Olson, was born Sept. 7, 1934, and attended schools in Adams and Roseau, graduating from the Roseau High School. He married Beverly Lanes Dec. 3 1 , 1957. They had three children — RaNae Lynn, Terri Lee, and Heidi Ann. Orvis is production manager for Polaris Textron Company, Roseau, Minn. Orvis enjoys all outdoor activity, be it hunting, fishing, or hobby farming. RaNae Lynn, daughter of Orvis and Beverly, was born Aug. 14, 1957, at Roseau, Minn., and graduated from the Roseau High School. She married Don Omdahl, an employer at Polaris Textron. They had one child, Jamie Omdahl. ReNae and Don were divorced. She married Carson Erickson on Sept. 1980. Terri Lee, daughter of Orvis and Beverly, was born Sept. 15, 1959, at Roseau, Minn., and graduated from the Roseau High School. She married Scott Baroas on July 1, 1978, and works at the Polaris Textron, Roseau. Terri enjoys gardening, homemaking, especially baking. Heidi Ann, daughter of Orvis and Beverly, was born Oct. 1 1 , 1965, and attends Roseau High School. Heidi enjoys the outdoors. Orvis and Beverly were divorced. Floyd Eugene, son of Elsie and Obert, was born Dec. 29, 1936, at Adams, N. Dak. He attended the Adams and Roseau Schools and also the Don Du Lac Service School in Wisconsin. Floyd married Delores Kjeari. They had a son, Kyle Eugene, born Sept. 14, 1958, at Roseau, Minn. He is a graduate of Bemidji High School and is a service man at the Floyd Olson Marine. Floyd and Delores were divorced. He married Joanne Berg on Dec. 29, 1971. Floyd is the owner of the Floyd Olson Marine.
INGA AND ORVILLE OLSON Inga Selvina Grove, daughter of Anna and Elmer Grove, was born Dec. 4, 1914, in Adams Township and received her elementary education at the Benas Memorial Rural School and graduated from the Walsh County Agricultural School in May, 1934. She was employed as a sales clerk at local business stores prior to her marriage to Orville Olson, on January 7, 1951. They were married at the Adams Lutheran Parsonage by Pastor O. T. Haugen. Orville Olson, the son of Manuel and Helga Olson, was born Aug. 1 1 , 1915, near Stanley, N. Dak., on his father's homestead where Inga and Orville make their home. Obert and Elsie Olson
Diversified farming was the beginning for Orville and Inga but these later years, it has been mainly grain farming. The oil
1946, and one son, Gary, was born to the couple. They lived in Edmore where they owned and operated the Club Cafe. In 1 949 they sold the business and moved to Grand Forks where Arnold was employed by Nash Finch Grocery Company. May of 1951, they left North Dakota and moved to California, settled in the Los Angeles area until 1958, then bought a home in Whittier, Calif., and have resided there since.
Orville and Inga Olson drillers are in the area at present but so far no oil wells are found on their land but the prospects are there. Inga and Orville enjoy bowling. Inga especially finds enjoyment in reading and working crossword puzzles. One son, David Orville, was born Feb. 2 1 , 1952, and received his education in a nearby country school; attended Stanley Public Schools, graduating with the class of 1970; attended Mayville State Teacher's College, receiving his Degree in 1975. In 1976, he was a graduate assistant with the Speech Department at the North Dakota State University, Fargo. When working towards his Master's Degree in Speech and Communication at the university, he concentrated on the Unification Church of the Rev. Sun Myung Moon. In 1978, when the mass suicide of members of the Peoples Temple in Guyana, South America, occurred, David, along with other Americans, was frightened to think about the influence these cults have on our young people. This conviction led David to speak publicly against the Unification Church a* various parishes and religious gatherings in his local area. David was active in debating while in college. Prior to his college career, he was active in 4-H and FFA. David married Susan Olson Shimek on July 3 1 , 1976, in the Fordville City Park with Pastor Ervin Overlund officiating. Her two children, Kevin and Robyn, by a previous marriage, were ring bearer and flower girl. Susan is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Behrle Olson, formerly of Fordville, N. Dak. Susan was a 1975 graduate of Mayville State Teacher's College.
Ann and Arnold Ramberg In October of 1968 they opened their own business known as Advance Fire Protection Company. The company is located in LaHabra, Calif., and installs automatic fire sprinklers throughout California and Arizona. Their son, Gary, is married and has three daughters — Jordana, Susan and Katherine.
NORMAN AND MAE SKALICKY Norman Clarence Skalicky was born Apr. 1, 1934, on a farm in Sauter Township to Ethel and Clarence Skalicky. He
Kevin Shimek, son of Susan by a previous marriage, was born Sept. 2 1 , 1967. He plays in the school band and enjoys sports — baseball, football and basketball. His sister, Robyn, was born June 10, 1969. She is in the school band and enjoys softball. Mandy Dawn, daughter of Susan and David, was born Aug. 3,1979. ARNOLD C. AND ANN (ELLINGSON) RAMBERG Ann Ellingson was born Sept. 13, 1926, on a farm near Adams to Olie and Clara Ellingson. She attended grade school at Stone Valley School in Adams Township and graduated from Adams High School. She went to Mayville State Teacher's College and taught two years. Ann married Arnold C. Ramberg of Edmore, N. Dak., in
The Norman Skalicky Family: left to right, back row, Jan, Cheryl, Jeffrey; front row, Kelly, Mae, and Norman.
attended grade school at Sauter school; high school at Lankin, N. Dak., and college at the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks. He served as a Second Lieutenant for two years in the United States Army. lone Mae Ellingson was born June 26, 1934, on a farm near Adams to Olie and Clara Ellingson. She attended grade school for three years at Stone Valley School and graduated from Adams High School. Norman and Mae were married Nov. 2 1 , 1 9 5 3 . They have four children — Cheryl (Mrs. Chuck Ryan); Jan (Mrs. Dennis Hanson); Jeffrey and Kelly. They have three granddaughters, Naarah, Jada, and Lasha Hanson. Norman and Mae reside in Avon, Minn. Norman is in the banking business and has banks n Albany, St. Cloud, Holdingford, and Upsala, Minn.
ROYSTRELOW
Fred and Marie Sukstorf
Roy Strelow, son of Robert and Annie Strelow, was born May 30, 1916, and he was educated at Benas Memorial School.
large boat. The neighbors would also get together for picnics at Minnehaha Falls and tour a nearby zoo called Longfellow's Gardens. They would have circus acts and seals performing.
On November 6, 1946, he married Agnes Chyle. They lived on the Strelow homestead. Agnes and Roy had two children — Sharon, born July 20, 1948, and Sidney, born October 23, 1952.
Marie attended Miles Standish grade school and Roosevelt and Central high school. She was told some time before her foster mother died and that she was adopted, but I didn't want to believe it. She maintained, "You are my mother and I love you." Her foster mother died Oct. 16, 1925, when Marie was ten years old. For awhile an Aunt Ellen and other relatives, who were employed in Minneapolis, stayed with Marie and her dad. Times got hard so Marie worked for others for board and room, and her dad was employed at a downtown hotel which was much less strenuous than his former cement work. Her dad saw to it that Marie was confirmed and that she attended church. They got together for visits when they could. Some places, where Marie worked, they were not very kind, although she worked hard to please them, so she would change jobs. The best place was with the Olaf Stone family. She worked for them for almost two years. Then she went to visit relatives in North Dakota and stayed too long, so lost her job as they had to get someone in her place.
Sharon attended the Berias Memorial School until the doors closed due to re-districting and she continued her education at the Adams Public School, graduating from high school. She attended Lake Region Junior College at Devils Lake, N. Dak., and is a licensed pratical nurse. Sidney also attended the Benas Memorial School and continued his education at the Adams Public School. He lived on the home farm for several years but is presently living in Cavalier, N. Dak. Sidney married Joan Lil in December, 1978. They have one daughter, Rosemary Marie, born Jan. 10, 1979. He also has two step-children, Karrie and Donald. Roy is semi-retired and makes his home in Grand Forks.
Marie loved North Dakota so quit school after learning that her grandmother Westberg had died, and returned to North Dakota and stayed with her Aunt Ellen and helped with the children, household and farm work. The Tom Grove and Elmer Grove families really made her feel welcome in the Adams community. She also worked for Bookwalters who had a cafe and hotel and for Helmer Hagen who operated a cafe.
FRED AND MARIE LARSON SUKSTORF AND FAMILY It was a sad day, the fifth of July 1915, in rural Park River, when a baby girl was born to Christina Westberg Lovaasen and Albert Lovaasen. This was their second child but because of complications, Christina died. Christina's sister, Ida, and her husband, Louis Larson, had lost their only child, a son, years before, when he was four years old, and now were anxious to adopt this baby. The real father consented as he still had a small son, Alfred, to care for.
The fall of 1934, she was encouraged to finish school. She actually had only a half a year left. Having been out of school and older, she hesitated, but finally did go and graduated in May 1935 at Park River.
Albert Lovaasen remarried and had seven children with his second wife. They were Elmer, Ernest, Bennie, Kenneth, Vern, Robert and Doris.
Marie met Fred in September of 1934 and after dating over a year, they were married Oct. 19, 1935, in Adams by Pastor B. J. Hatlem. Fred was born in rural Park River, Aug. 22, 1912. Fred's mother told Marie that she often wondered what had happened to that baby in "the Valley" whose mother had died, and now this baby is married to her son, Fred.
The Louis Larsons baptized their baby Christine Marie but called her Marie. They lived in Adams. Mr. Larson operated a dray line and Mrs. Larson ran a boarding house. When the baby was two years old, they moved to Minneapolis. Marie's special memories are of South Minneapolis, the neighborhood was like a small town with humble, kind people. The mothers would pack lunches and they would walk to Lake Nokomis and go swimming. Some Sundays in the summer, they would go by streetcar to Lake Harriet and listen to the band concert, buy delicious taffy, and have a tour around the lake in a 51
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Fred's parents moved to a farm southwest of Adams in the spring of 1916. Fred went to the Stone Valley rural school and completed eighth grade. Schooling was interrupted and delayed for many because of flu and other problems. Fred did attend the short course at the Park River Agricultural School but did not continue his education because he was needed on tf m. CM
Cr iL
:AL DEPARlMfc
. ESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS
Fred's folks were conservative German people and very good farmers. Marie soon understood their language as it was so similar to the Scandinavian. She learned a lot from Fred's mother, including bread-baking and canning meat. They had their own smoke-house and would cure hams, bacons, and sausages. Fred and Marie's first child, Joanne, was born Oct. 6, 1936. Fred worked his folk's farm and rented a nearby farm where he and his family lived. Times were not good, dry weather, and not very good crops, so they took a recess from farming, and Fred did some trucking, working for Anderson Bros. Road Construction, and some airport jobs running a LeTurneau or similar machinery. The couple saved their money and returned to farming. Although sometimes unpredictable, they thought farming was a challenging, good way of life. There were many difficulties. Bad snow storms made it hard to get to the barn and do chores. Marie recalls Fred hauling hay with horses by sleigh and the load sliding off the sleigh, having to be pitched off and then on again. Fred worked hard. There are endless experiences that could be related.
Danielle Baumann
Marie Sukstorf, Daughters, and Families: left to right, back row: Kristi Samuelson, David Baumann, Tim Samuelson, Janet Seim Samuelson, Loren Samuelson, Lori Samuelson; front row, Jana Baumann, Jenean Sukstorf Baumann, Jared Baumann, Marie Sukstorf, Joan Sukstorf Samuelson, and Kari Samuelson. Much joy was brought into their lives when their children were born. A second daughter, Jenean, was bom Apr. 10, 1945. The daughters got to know what "family farming" was — they all helped in the field and barn, when or wherever needed. During the winter months, before R.E.A. came, they would pop corn, make fudge, and listen to "The Lone Ranger" and Lux radio theatre on their battery radio. Marie did lots of patching and sewing by the Aladdin kerosene lamp. They were happy. The girls graduated from Adams High School and both are now registered nurses. Joanne is married to Loren Samuelson and they live in rural Adams. Loren is employed at Concrete and Joanne is employed at the Good Samaritan Nursing Home in Osnabrock. They have four children — Lori, who is a scretary in the Park River School, graduating from Adams and Aaker's Business College; Tim, who graduated from Adams High School and also attended A.V.T.I., and was just recently married to Janet Seim, Oct. 18, 1980, and are both employed at Kildeer, N. Dak., and reside there; Kristi and Kari, still in school, who have an enjoyable family hobby with their horses. The girls are in 4-H and all have excelled in horse shows and have many trophies to show for it.
Jenean is married to David Baumann and they live in West Fargo. David is an architectural draftsman and recently rectived the North Dakota "Man of the Year" Award for outstanding draftsman. Jenean is employed at St. Luke's Hospital, Fargo, in Neuro-lntensive Care. They have three children — Jana, born July 10, 1972; Jared, born Aug. 15, 1976; and Danielle, born Oct. 24, 1979. They lead full, busy, happy lives. The most traumatic and saddest day of Marie's life was Sept. 2 1 , 1976, the day her husband passed away. They had been married almost forty-one years. The year before, they had such a wonderful time on a great trip through many states. They had survived illnesses and difficulties and life now seemed so good with excellent crops and good income. They had such great plans, but God took Fred home to retire. Much as she missed him, Marie knows Fred would not want her to grieve endlessly so with God's help, she has learned to smile again; to enjoy her children, and the pleasures and joys of grandchildren. Fred is buried in the Gustavus Adolphus Church Cemetery where Marie's foster parents are buried. Her natural parents are buried at Golden Valley Cemetery near Park River.
HALFDAN AND MARGARET TROFTGRUBEN Halfdan, son of Ludvig and Mary Sondreson Troftgruben, was born Nov. 23, 1907, at the farm home in Tiber Township, and was baptized and confirmed at the Odalen Lutheran Church by Rev. Langemo. He received his education in a rural school in Tiber Township, District No. 92. Margaret Windingland, daughter of Ole Windingland and Louise Odegaard Windingland, was born Oct. 9, 1907, in a log house on the farm in Lampton Township. She was baptized at St. Paul Church in Edinburg, and confirmed at Garfield Church by Rev. Bretheim. She attended a rural school, the Lampton School
they did, and Halfdan and Margaret were amazed at the number of farmers that came to help. They came from far and wide. They worked both in wet and cold weather. By the end of October, they had a barn for their stock. Several years later, a wind storm took the real old barn and the machine shed. This was replaced by a quonset in 1958. Halfdan wasn't too well at this time. He had recently had surgery for gallstones. LeRoy and Duane remained at home and helped their father with the farming. Myrlin worked in the Johnson Store after completing high school, but was soon called into the army. Orlan enlisted in the army upon his graduation from high school in Adams. Six months after Myrlin left for service, Duane left, so they had three boys serving their country, but there was no war so they were thankful for that. The Halfdan Troftgruben Family: left to right, back row, Duane, Orlan, LeRoy, and Myrlin; front row, Halfdan, Bonnie, Mavis and Margaret.
When they all came home, Myrlin began working for the Hagen Implement Company. He later purchased the Rosendahl Garage and started a business of his own, known as Myrlin's Standard Station. He married Carol Hanson in 1959. They have three daughters and one son, Eileen, Barbara, Rhonda, and
District No. 37. She also spent one year of high school at Oak Grove Seminary, Fargo.
Rodney.
Halfdan and Margaret were married at the Windingland farm home on Nov. 25, 1931, by Rev. Laurhammer. Their attendants were Thelma Windingland, her sister, and Edwin Troftgruben, his brother. There was lots of snow and it was difficult to get around even with horses and sleigh so they had no honeymoon. Two weeks later, they moved to a farm, known as the Helium farm, up in the coulee in Vesta Township. They started farming in the spring of 1932, with four horses and not too much machinery. It was a dry season so the crops were poor. They had a few cows and some chickens. Margaret churned butter that was sold for nine cents a pound. The few eggs that she gathered, she sold for seven cents a dozen. They kept and boarded the country school teacher for fifteen dollars a month.
Halfdan and LeRoy Troftgruben Farm
In 1933, their first child, LeRoy, was born at their home in Vesta Township. Two years later, Myrlin, another son, was born in Vesta.
LeRoy remained on the farm and is still farming. He married Mayvis Bina in 1961. They have two daughters, Doreen and Mardi.
In the fall of 1936, they rented a farm west of Adams called the Lars Lundin farm. It was still terribly dry, poor crops, and not much of a price for farm products. Four more children were born to this family — Duane was born in 1937, on the farm in Adams Township; Orlan was born in Edinburg in 1939; Mavis was also born in Edinburg, in 1943; and Bonnie was born in 1947, at Grafton Hospital.
In 1962 Duane married Marian Axvig. He worked for Myrlin for a time; later at Cenex; and now is manager of the D and M Bowling Lanes in Adams. They have a daughter and three boys — Darla, Troy, Tony, and Darin.
Then during the years of 1947 and 1949, REA was coming into the area. This made the whole community happy. When the power was turned on, every farm home was lit, and yard lights could be seen for many miles around. It was an asset to the farming community. Halfdan and Margaret bought the farm in 1946. On Aug. 4, 1949, they had recently completed haying and were getting ready for harvest, when their barn caught fire. It was shortly before the noon hour, so many farmers were still in the field; seeing the fire, all neighbors left their machinery and came rushing to help, riding their tractors or whatever they were working with. The Fire Department was called and soon arrived but they could not save the barn, nor a chicken coop and hog house nearby. They lost two of their best horses. The Troftgrubens felt that if it hadn't been for the good neighbors, every building would have burned. A couple weeks later, a neighbor, Clifford Grove, who was a carpenter as well as a farmer, told Halfdan to get the necessary material and he would get the neighbors together and build his barn up again, which
Orlan married Alice Hosna in 1964. They live in Adams. He farms along with his father and LeRoy. They have five children — Shelly, Brenda, Theressa, Shawn (deceased), and Joey. In 1961, Mavis married James Boura and resides in Grafton where he is a carpenter. She works at the State School and is also a painter. They have three children — Scott, Dean and Brenda. Bonnie married Arden Expelien in 1966. They are divorced. Bonnie lives in Grand Forks and is employed as a social worker at the University. She has two children, Tammy and Todd. LEROY AND MAYVIS TROFTGRUBEN LeRoy Troftgruben, son of Halfdan and Margaret Troftgruben, was born Apr. 14, 1933, in Vesta Township, Walsh County. When he was three years old, he along with his parents and brother Myrlin moved to Adams Township, where he still makes his home. LeRoy attended the Benas Memorial School and the Adams Public School. While in high school, he was active in athletics. Since his school days, he has remained at home and farmed. On July 5, 1977, LeRoy had open heart surgery at the St. Luke's Hospital, Fargo. LeRoy married Mayvis Bina, daughter of Mr. and Mrs.
Lawrence Bina, Lawton, N. Dak., on June 28, 1961, at the Mountain Lutheran Church, Adams. Currently, Mayvis is employed at the Gullickson Department Store, Adams. LeRoy and Mayvis live on his father's farm, but maintain seperate dwellings. LeRoy is an avid hunter and enjoys hunting deer during the bow and arrow season. Two children were born to LeRoy and Mayvis: Doreen, born April 27, 1962, at the Grafton Hospital, who attended the Adams Public Schools, graduated from high school with the class of 1980 and is attending college; Mardi, the second daughter, who was born July 5, 1966, at the Grafton Hospital, and is attending the Adams Public School.
LIVY AND OLGA LJUNGGREN VEUM Livy Veum and Olga Ljunggren were married on June 29, 1931, in Grafton, N. Dak., and lived at Hoople, N. Dak., until the fall of 1935 when they bought a farm in Walshville Township. Livy took sick during the winter of 1940. In May, he entered the TB Sanitarium in San Haven, N. Dak., and died there on Dec. 27, 1940. He is buried in the Lutheran Cemetery at Oslo, Minn. Olga farmed alone with help from the neighbors for six years. She had cattle, pigs, chickens, a garden, did canning, sewing, besides caring for her four small children — so she worked hard. The children are Opal, Lowell, Allen, and Raymond.
The children of Livy and Olga Veum: left to right, Allen, Lowel, Opal; seated in front is Raymond. In 1947, she moved to Hoople, N. Dak. She married Lesley Hurt. They had one daughter, Nancy Jo, who was born May 22, 1952, in Grafton. She is now Mrs. Daniel Salwei, and lives in Crystal, N.Dak. Olga passed away Jan. 23, 1960, from cancer, and is buried in the Hoople Cemetery.
She was married in Oct., 1957, to Allen T. Myrvik, son of Alfred and Alma Myrvik, Edmore, N. Dak. Allen was born March 23, 1934, at Grafton; attended Highland Grade School; and graduated from the Fairdale High School, Fairdale, N. Dak. Allen and Opal are the parents of three children — Terri, who was born Nov. 13, 1958, in Edmore, attended school in Edmore and graduated from Aaker's Business College in Grand Forks, and now lives in Grafton where she is employed by K mart stores. Dale, who was born Jan. 29, 1960, in Langdon, N. Dak., attended school in Edmore, and graduated from the North Dakota State School of Science, Wahpeton, N. Dak. He now lives in Drayton, N. Dak., where he is employed by D & S Chevrolet Oldsmobile. Darin, who was born January 22, 1966, is a high school student in Edmore. Allen and Opal live in Edmore where he is manager of the Farmers Union Oil Company and she works as bookkeeper.
LOWELL AND MAVIS VEUM Lowell Veum, son of Livy and Olga Ljunggren Veum, was born Oct. 29, 1933, in Grafton, N. Dak. He attended grade school at Pulaski School District 86, and graduated from the Hoople High School, Hoople, N. Dak. Lowell served with the U. S. Army from Dec, 1954, to Dec, 1956, being stationed at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo.; Fort Knox, Ky.; and Fort Bragg, N. C. He was a member of the 101 Airborne Division. He was married in September, 1958, to Mavis Sebens, daughter of Herman and Mayme Sebens, Milnor, N. Dak. Mavis was born April 30, 1939, at Milnor, and attended grade and high school in Milnor. She also graduated from the North Dakota State School of Science at Wahpeton, as a licensed practical nurse. Lowell and Mavis are the parents of three daughters — Deaun was born Jan. 16, 1960, in Thief River Falls, Minn., and is married to Daniel Brinkman, son of Dewain and Arlene Brinkman. He was born June 4, 1958, in Fosston, Minn. Deaun and Daniel are the parents of a son, Nathan Robert, born Mar. 6, 1978, at Grand Rapids, Minn. Deaun graduated from the AVTI in Moorhead, Minn., where they are now living. Dan is attending college and Deaun is employed. Gayle, born March 3 1 , 1 9 6 1 , at Thief River Falls, Minn., is attending NDSU at Fargo, N. Dak. Kim, born May 6, 1962, at Thief River Falls, Minn., is attending AVTI in Moorhead, Minn. Lowell and Mavis live in Fosston, Minn., where he is a line supervisor for Minnkota Power Company. Mavis is employed at the Fosston Hospital.
ALLEN AND RUTH VEUM Allen Veum, son of Livy and Olga Ljunggren Veum, was born Apr. 30, 1935, at home in Hoople, N. Dak., and attended Pulaski School District 86 through the sixth grade and completed his elementary and high school education in the Hoople Public Schools. He was married in June 1954, to Ruth Gunderson, daughter of Clarence and Alvina Gunderson. Ruth was born August 20, 1936, in Grafton, N. Dak., and graduated from the Hoople High School. Allen served with the U. S. Army from December, 1954
ALLEN AND OPAL VEUM MYRVIK Opal Veum, daughter of Livy and Olga Ljunggren Veum, was born May 2 0 , 1 9 3 2 , at Grafton, N. Dak., and attended grade school in Pulaski School District 86; one year of high school in Oslo, Minn.; and graduated from high school at Hoople, N. Dak. She also attended Union Commercial College in Grand Forks,
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to December, 1957. He was stationed at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo.; Fort Carson, Colo., and in France. His wife, Ruth, and oldest child, Gregory, accompanied him to France. Allen and Ruth have three children — Gregory, who was born May 18, 1955, at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo., and is married to Donna Dupont, daughter of Cliff and Ada Dupont of Minneapolis; Donna was born Nov. 30, 1954, in Minneapolis. Greg and Donna are the parents of a son, Scott Allen, who was born December 17, 1979, in Minneapolis. Gregory graduated from the University of Minnesota and is an insurance agent in Minneapolis. Randy, who was born Feb. 27, 1959, in Park River, N. Dak., attended schools in Minneapolis. He is employed by the Coca Cola Company in Minneapolis. Cathy, who was born Nov. 13, 1963, in Minneapolis, is a high school student. Allen and Ruth live in Minneapolis, where he is a supervisor for Hostess Bakery in St. Paul and she is a cashier at a food store.
RAYMOND AND CAROL VEUM Raymond, son of Livy and Olga Ljunggren Veum, was born Jan. 26, 1937, at the home of Mrs. Barto, Oslo, Minn., and attended three years of grade school at Pulaski School, District 86, completing his education at Hoople, N. Dak. He was married in May, 1957, to Carol J. Johnson, daughter of Sophie and Arthur J. Johnson of Park River, N. Dak. Carol was born August 8, 1940, at Park River, and attended the schools there. Ray and Carol lived near Hoople for a year, and then moved to Edinburg, N. Dak., where they lived until they bought their farm near Adams in 1971, where they now reside. Besides farming, Ray does carpenter work. Ray and Carol are parents of four children. Douglas, born Sept. 13, 1957, at Grafton, N. Dak., attended school at Edinburg, N. Dak., for eight years; graduated from the Adams High School. He joined the Navy in May of 1975, and served four years aboard the U.S.S. Coral Sea. He is now living at Alexander, N. Dak., where he is employed as a pipe fitter for R. L. Frailey Construction Company. Lorrie, was born March 5, 1959, at Park River, and attended school at Edinburg, and Adams. She graduated from Lakeland Medical School at Minneapolis, and now resides at East Grand Forks, Minn., where she is employed as a dental assistant to Dr. 0. J. Osmundson. Michael was born July 5, 1965, at Park River and is currently attending school at the Adams Public School. Daniel, the youngest, was born Sept. 26, 1973, at Park River, and is attending the Adams Public School.
ARTHUR AND CLARA WALLGREN Clara, daughter of Thomas and Caroline Grove, was born April 5, 1903, at Adams, N. Dak. She attended the Brynstad Rural School, later known as the Benas Memorial. Being the oldest girl in a family of nine children, it became her lot to help her mother to care for the younger ones. As she became older, she worked at other homes, caring for their children, and doing the general housework; at some places, she had the cows to milk too. Threshing season often found Clara working in a cook car along with another lady. This meant long days, by a hot coal range, serving five meals a day and fighting
Clara and Arthur Wallgren, 1930. flies. Somehow, the cook car was bait for the flies. Clara married Arthur Wallgren on Oct. 16, 1930. He was born May 2 1 , 1899, the son of Peter and Anna Wallgren. He grew up on his parents' farm near Fairdale, N. Dak., and attended a nearby country school and the Hanson Tractor School in Fargo. He took over his father's farm in 1930, the year that he and Clara were married. His mother, Anna, had passed away two years before but his father, Peter, was still living and continued to live with them until his death in 1937. Two of Arthur's brothers, Edwin and John, also lived with them for a few years. Clara has several humorous incidents to tell about that took place during their married life. The one that is being referred to now took place on a Sunday afternoon. Roy, Clara's brother, had been staying with them for some time, helping with the farm work. The three of them, Clara, Arthur, and Roy decided to hitch the horses onto the bobsleigh and go and visit their neighbors, the Lofgrens. Clara sat on the spring seat in the sleigh box, all tucked in with quilts and robes so she shouldn't get cold. Both Roy and Arthur, who were used to this cold wintry weather, were dressed to keep warm. Arthur decided to take his shotgun along in case he saw a rabbit along the way. After driving along the sleigh road for a time, up leapt a rabbit. Arthur grabbed his gun and shot! This frightened the horses, they gave a jump, jarring the box, and the spring seat with Clara wrapped tightly to it, slid out of the box. By this time, Arthur and Roy got the horses quietened down, they looked back, only to see Clara sitting on top of a snowbank thoroughly disgusted. But Roy and Arthur just laughed at her. They got her back into the sleigh and rode on to the neighbors for an enjoyable afternoon. Arthur and Clara lived on the Wallgren homestead and farmed until in 1949, when they moved into Adams, building a new home just east of the city. Arthur worked with the Walsh County Highway Department. Five years later, 1954, Arthur suffered a stroke and passed away. He is buried in the Gustavus Adolphus Cemetery. Clara continues to make her home here. Her brother, Christian, lives with her. Clara enjoys crocheting and she does a lot of letter writing.
ELMER CHASE - CATHERINE WARD Elmer Dennis Chase was born Aug. 10, 1879, nearMontevideo, Minn. As a child, he moved with his family to North Dakota, settling near Adams. As a young man he tried his hand at teaching but found pay so poor, he went to Fargo to a trade school and earned a certificate in steam-fitting and engineering which he found useful during the threshing season of his time. He enjoyed baseball and together with several local youths mostly his wife's brothers - he formed a team that successfully played teams of neighboring towns. On Dec 22, 1902, he married Catherine (Kate) Ward. She was born March 2, 1883, at Rice Lake, Wise, and when a small child her parents moved westward to Walsh County.
Elmer Chase Family: left to right, front row, Edna, Alice, Inez, and Edith; back row, Everett, Kate, Elmer, and William.
40*
In 1905 with their young son, Everett, they left North Dakota and took a homestead west of what is now Duval, Sask. This was indeed a pioneer life. Their first home was a sod shack built near Last Mountain Lake. They fished and lived off the land until they could get the farm into operation and later build a house. ln 1914 they decided to return to the United States to again homestead north of Glasgow, Mont. They raised a family of six children - Everett was born in 1903, William Ward in 1906, Inez 1909, Edna 1912, Edith 1914, and Alice 1922. James, born in 1917, died in infancy. During the 1930's, they moved to Southern California where they lived until their deaths - Catherine in March, 1960, and Elmer in March, 1964.
William and Thorine Westberg E d i n
u r
short periods of time in Minneapolis; Grand Forks, and b 9N. Dak.; and Erskine, Minn., where he ran a store at the Maple Lake Resort following his retirement from farming. Willie served as church secretary, school treasurer, and on various township and telephone boards. Thorine was a charter member of the Gustavus Adolphus Ladies Aid and the Happy Co-Workers Homemakers Club. They were also busy raising a family of two boys and one girl. Since their home was a very short distance from the Benas Memorial School, they provided board and room for several of the teachers there, some of them being Delia Lundeen, Alice Berg, Leslie Ormiston, Helen Iverson, and Clara Nelson. Willie and Thorine weren't pioneers as we think of the original homesteaders, but they experienced the pioneering of mechanical farming as horses soon gave way to tractors, thefirst Willie owned being a Fordson; they were part of the Dirty Thirties" when it was a challenge to keep food on the table and clothes on your back. It was customary to haul wheat to Grand Forks for grinding in exchange for the winter's supply of cereal and flour. The roving bands of gypsies which were prevalent at that time, frightened the family. Grasshoppers threatened the crops and were destroyed with arsenic-treated sawdust spread by wagon around the field's perimeter. What a joy to see rural electrification in the forties and, finally, water from a faucet with the turn of a handle! William Westberg passed away on Nov. 22, 1965 at Crookston, Minn., from cancer. Thorine moved to Grand Forks, later marrying Alfred Underdahl of Erskine, Minn., on Feb. 9, 1972 He died a year later following major surgery and Thorine is presently living in Grand Forks, N. Dak., and at the spry age of eighty is maintaining herself in her own apartment.
WILLIAM WESTBERG Vilhelm Westberg, as he was baptized, was born March 2, 1893, the youngest son of Lars O. and Mary Westberg, pioneers in Adams Township. He spent his youth on the farm with his widowed mother and her family of eight other children. His early education was at the Byrnstead grade school which was about a mile from his home and he was confirmed at the Gustavus Adolphus Church on Nov. 8, 1908. The family of ten lived in a very small frame house, the first one built in Adams Township and the property today of Homer Midtlyng, a nephew. In 1922, on June 7, he was united in marriage to Thorine Holum at Alvarado, Minn., by Pastor Joseph Mattson. The trip was made on roads which were very muddy and hard on tires, so they never got any further than Alvarado that day. Their witnesses were Willie's sister, Ellen, and Thorine's uncle, Sam Fladeland. Thorine was of Norwegian descent and was raised at Oklee, Minn. She was born in Americus Township, south of Grand Forks, N. Dak., to Ole and Julia Fladeland Holum, on Nov. 26, 1900, and was baptized in the St. Olaf Church near Reynolds, N. Dak. ' Thorine and Willie or " B i l l , " as he was also known, lived in Adams Township and farmed for thirty-eight years. He lived for
Their eldest child, Mildred, was born March 22, 1923. She 56
married the former Blanch Bolstad of Fairdale, N. Dak. on Nov. 12, 1949. They are living in Eugene, Oregon. Orrin is the manager of the Payless Drug Store in Springfield, a neighboring city to Eugene.
Murton and Mildred Cilderhus attended the rural Benas Memorial grade school and Adams High School where she graduated in 1940. Following a period of schooling and employment in Grand Forks, N. Dak., she married Murton Gilderhus of Larimore, N. Dak., on Nov. 19, 1944. They were the parents of a daughter, Diane (Mrs. Tom Grove) and a son, Rodney, who is married to the former Millicent Mercer of Forth Worth, Texas. Diane and Tom are the parents of one son, Steven, born Dec. 1, 1966, and a daughter, Kirsten, born Jan. 14, 1970. Their home is in Grand Forks, N. Dak. Rodney and his wife are the parents of a daughter, Jennifer, born Oct. 26, 1977, and they are farming near Petersburg, N. Dak. Murton Gilderhus passed away unexpectedly on Aug. 10, 1970. Mildred remarried Hans Wangen of Petersburg, N. Dak., where
Orrin and Blanche Westberg Orrin and Blanche have four children living, two children deceased and they have three grandchildren. Cynthia Ann, married to Thomas McCartney of McKinleyville, Calif., live in Scappose, Ore. They have two daughters — Rebecca Ann, born May 26, 1976, and Shelby Lynn, born June 9, 1980. Steven Allen, married to Gayle Carter of Yuma, Ariz., live in San Bernadino. They have one daughter, Candice Kristell, born Jan. 4, 1979. Susan Thorine, married to Benjamin Giller of Hillsboro, Ore., live in Hillsboro, Ore. Stephanie Rae lives in Eugene, Ore., after recently graduating from the University of Louisville with a graduate degree in Social Work.
Schools BENAS MEMORIAL SCHOOL As histories are read throughout this volume, it will be noted that many attended the Benas Memorial School. A brief history of this rural school will be found in Volume II of the Walsh Heritage books. This building along with furnishings were obtained Kenneth and Melva Rae Westberg, 1947. they are presently farming. Kenneth, the eldest son, was born Oct. 25, 1924. He graduated from the University of North Dakota with a Degree in Civil Engineering; married the former Melva Rae Olson, of Adams, on Sept. 14, 1947; and was employed by U.S. Steel until the time of his death on Nov. 6, 1979, from cancer. Melva and Kenneth lived in Los Angeles for a time and then in Naperville, III. They were parents of one son, Michael, living at home, and a daughter, Nancy (Mrs. Gary Dvoschak), Hudson, Wise. Their youngest child, Orrin, was born Nov. 27, 1928. He graduated from Central High School in Grand Forks where his parents were living for a short time from 1942 to 1946. Orrin
Benas Memorial School
their December meeting, the lucky number for this quilt was drawn. Since it was the 13th of December, they chose number 13 to be the lucky winner, which happened to be Christ Alfie. Quilts were made and raffled off in 1 942, and again in 1 943.
through a bequeath of David Benas, an early treasurer of twenty years service, who passed away in 1915. The doors of Benas Memorial School opened in September of 1916, and were closed in May of 1960, due to re-districting. This District 131 became a part of the Adams School District 128.
At their first December meeting, members decided to give handkerchiefs as birthday gifts. Exchanging of birthday gifts has continued through the years, with gifts varying from time to time.
The building remained the property of Adams Township until 1978, when it was sold to Ray Veum. He has dismantled the building, stored the lumber, with the intention of erecting another building in the near future. The land goes back to the owner, who is now Elmer Nelson, but at the beginning of the school district, this land was donated by Simon Brynstad, the homesteader of this land.
At the November meeting of the first year, the idea of a contest was started, with the winner bringing the contest to the next meeting. This is still being done. The punctuality prize was started in November, 1946, to encourage members to come to the meetings on time. This is furnished by the hostess.
An historical site marker will be erected as a tribute to David Benas and as a memorial to the many students who attended this school.
To help increase the treasury, the Mystery Box was started in November, 1959. A name is drawn for the winner of the box, who in turn brings the Mystery Box to the next meeting.
Organizations
To begin with, the club members presented a program besides their project lessons. The programs usually consisted of piano solos, vocal numbers, and readings. Often visitors were asked to come and be on the program. These programs were discontinued during the club year of 1942-1943, as there were only nine members. At that time, there was some discussion on disbanding the club, as they had difficulty in securing new lessons, but the remaining faithful members decided to continue with their organization.
HAPPY CO-WORKERS HOMEMAKERS CLUB The Happy Cp-Workers Homemakers Club was organized Feb. 15, 1935, at the home of Amelia Boman. Mr. E. J. Taintor and Mrs. Grace Johanson were in charge. Those attending their first meeting were Ebba Geary, Amelia Boman, Annie Conklin, Marie Halberg, Annie Strelow, Lottie Krause, Thorine Westberg, Clara Wallgren, and Minnie Gehrke. Officers elected for this club, which was given the name, Happy Co-Workers, were Amelia Boman, president; Ebba Geary, vice-president; Annie Conklin, secretary; Marie Halberg, treasurer; Thorine Westberg and Charlotte Krause, project leaders; and Clara Wallgren, chairman of reports.
Christmas parties for members and their families were held annually for seveal years. The first Christmas party was held on Dec. 30, 1935, at the home of Mrs. Annie Strelow. These parties were usually held at the homes but it was also held in Benas School and the Adams Legion Hall. Family picnics were held every summer, either in the month of July or June. Sites, where this event has taken place, have been Fordville Park, Mitchell Woods, Grovum Woods, Park River Golden Park and Adams Park.
The second meeting of this newly organized Homemakers Club was held at the home of Mrs. Annie Strelow with Marie Halberg as assisting hostess. Seven more members joined at the meeting, namely, Susie Bjorg, Greta Bjorg, Augusta Bjorg, Esther Kjelaas, Margaret Magnuson, Emma Eckdahl and Edith Samuelson. Scrap books were made by members at this meeting under the supervision of the project leaders, Thorine Westberg and Charlotte Krause, assisted by Amelia Boman. At this meeting, the members decided to meet the first Friday of every month, with a charge of ten cents for the lunch. In 1945, the lunch dues were raised to fifteen cents, and later to twenty-five cents. To begin with, two members were to serve at each meeting. About seven years later, 1942, the Cub had dwindled down to nine members. At that time there was only one hostess until in 1948, when they again had assistant servers. In January, 1967, the club decided to have one hostess, and serve one thing.
For several years, the project for National Home Demonstration Week was to display the year's accomplishments at the Swenson Store. In May, 1960, they displayed their crafts in the Adams post office. The club had a fireplace built in the Adams Park in 1949. The work was done by the husbands of the club members with Clifford Grove in charge. The fireplace served its purpose for many years. It was repaired in 1964, but later it was destroyed by vandalism. In 1964, a picnic table with the club's name on it, was built and donated to the Adams Park. It was built by Clifford Grove and painted by some of the Homemaker members. For three years, 1955-1957, the club was presented a U.S. Treasury Citation for bonds purchased by members. Beginning in March, 1965, the club has received a resident's name from the Grafton State School, one to be remembered on special occasions or almost any time.
During the first year in the month of July, the members decided to make a quilt with each member making two blocks. At
58
today, 75 years old.
Adams celebrated its 75th anniversary in June, 1980. Today the city of Adams cannot boast of as many businesses as Adams in its early days. However, new homes have been built, new businesses begun, and young families have moved in to replace the old, and give new life to a small town. The community and the city of Adams work together to make it a better town to live in. A municipal water and sewer system was added in the late fifties; the streets were restored, and a garbage collection was begun in 1971. In 1980 the Betterment Committee was instrumental in adding park rest rooms, picnic shelters, cleaned and beautified the town, and was instrumental in adding another business — the D & M Bowling Lanes.
59
ADAMS MOUNTAIN LUTHERAN CHURCH i
The trustees are Earl Axvig, chairman, Jerald Kurtz, Henry Lundene, Dennis Skorheim, Jr., and Levern Dahl. The deacons are Palmer Boe, Merle Daley, Duane Troftgruben, David Clemens and Arthur Borgeson. The Mountain congregation is a three-point parish with Sarepta and Hoff congregations as members. The Parish Board is Alfred Lindell, president, Donald Aune, vice-president, Mrs. Lloyd Slatten, secretary, and Mrs. Gerald Linstad, treasurer. Organizations of the Mountain Lutheran church are Hi League (known as Young Peoples Society in early days), Junior Lutherans (known as L.D.R.), Couples Club, Altar Guild, Men's Club, Mountain A.L.C.W.
Adams Mountain Lutheran Church The Mountain Lutheran Church was organized Nov. 13, 1886, at the Jens 0 . Bjorg farm when Rev. M. C. Holseth of South Park congregation met with several families. (The early history is in Vol. II). The Mountain congregation celebrated its 75th anniversary in 1 9 6 1 . The interior of the church was refinished in 1942 with fiber wood blocks. In 1953 major repairs were done to the exterior and the basement. A new electric organ was installed. In 1962 a basement fire damaged some pews, and water and smoke damage was sustained, making it necessary to rebuild the interior of the church. Furniture was replaced, a new organ, piano, carpeting, new wiring, etc., and a new heating system was installed. Dedication of the newly remodeled church was held Nov. 18, 1962, with Dr. Loyal Tallackson, Fargo, giving the dedication sermon. Rev. E. R. Leivestad was the pastor at this time.
MOUNTAIN AMERICAN LUTHERAN CHURCH WOMEN This organization began Oct. 25, 1906, when a meeting was held at the C. J. Arneson home to organize a Ladies Aid. Early meetings were held in the homes and the donation was ten cents. For quite a few years suppers were served at the close of their meetings; at present, coffee and a pastry or sandwiches are served. The Ladies Aid, then as now, is a strong arm of the congregation with donations given to missions, local projects, sending children to Bible camp and supporting charitable organizations. Picnics, bazaars, banquets, and serving for social events, including weddings, dinners, conventions, are among M.A.L.C.W. events. There are four circles which meet once a month, while Bible study is the main program. The 1980 officers are Mrs. Robert Lundquist, Sr., president; Mrs. Fred Nottestad, vice-president; Mrs. Glen Vigen, secretary; and Mrs. Vernon Drevecky, treasurer. The Mountain A.L.C.W. still meets once a month, the third Thursday. GULLIKSON DEPARTMENT STORE
The Trinity congregation joined the Mountain congregation May 16, 1965. Thirty-six new members from St. Peter's congregation was received May 1, 1966. In 1971 an addition was built to the church building which included, an entrance, library, pastor's study, educational center, and lavatories. Dedication was held Dec. 12, 1971. A new parsonage was built in 1974. In the summer of 1980 the beautiful stained glass windows,' were repaired and ceiling fans installed. The present pastor is Rev. Lawrence Steen. The president of the congregation is Harold Mindeman, vice-president, Ronald Setness, secretary, Grant Lindell, treasurer, Clarence Nygard.
The new parsonage located directly north of the church.
What has been known as the Johnson Store for 48 years was sold in 1979 to Loren Gullikson who now operates it. It began in 1906 as the Arneson Store, making it one of the oldest buildings still in use. It was one of a chain of 14 stores owned by M. A. Johnson with headquarters at Michigan, N. Dak. Among the managers were Oscar Hall, Sid Hauge and Kermit Moen. James Johnson began working there in 1947 and became manager and purchased the business. In 1975 he sold the business, and retired because of ill health, having built up a thriving hardware business. Jerry Englerth, of Park River bought the business. He died in 1977, ending a tragically short operation. Mrs. Jan Englerth sold the business, Feb. 1, 1979, to Loren Gullikson who is the present owner.
ADAMS FOUR-PLEX
CHUCK WAGON CAFE
The four-plex was constructed at Adams in 1977, by owners Rodney Olson and Luther Berntson, progressive Adams area farmers. This rental unit is an F.H.A. program for moderate income families.
ADAMS RURAL FIRE DEPARTMENT
This building has housed a jewelry store, drugs, restaurants, and bars until purchased by Carl and Stella Myrvik in 1906. They are still operating a cafe there. It also serves as a dry cleaning twice-a-week pick-up station.
MYRLIN'S STANDARD STATION
This 40 x 80 foot building was completed in 1968. It houses three fire trucks with storage tanks and pumps. The department also has MSA air masks and a respirator. It serves an area ten miles in each direction. The Fire Department is operated on a volunteer basis.
STENERSON PLUMBING SERVICE Ernest Stenerson took over the Credit Union building in 1979 for his plumbing service office and supplies. The Credit Union purchased it from Theodore Rundhaug, who operated a confectionary, drug and jewelry store until 1971 when he retired.
HENRIKSEN FUNERAL CHAPEL
Myrlin Troftgruben, Adams, Mayor Myrlin's Standard Station is owned by Myrlin and Carol Troftgruben who have been in business since 1962 when they purchased the business from Adolph Rosendahl. Besides selling gas, they sell automotive accessories, tires, maintain a repair shop, and own two wreckers for road service. In 1966 the Troftgrubens expanded business by purchasing the school buses from the Adams School District and now contracting with the Adams School to provide transportation for four bus routes. In 1976 they erected a new building to the south of the station to provide a bus building. One portion is a car wash. In addition to his business, Troftgruben serves as Mayor of Adams and Fire Chief.
Terrance Henriksen, owner of the Kamrowski-Nygard Funeral Home, Grafton, and Overbye-Henriksen Funeral Home, Park River, converted the former Adams Drive Inn into a funeral chapel. Plans are for a casket selection room so arrangements can be made at the Adams location.
FARMERS UNION OIL COMPANY
Roy's Market Born in the depression years of 1930's the present day Farmers Union Oil Company of Adams-Lankin-Milton can reflect on a history of steady growth since its beginning forty-six years ago. April 19, 1934, the Farmer's Union Oil Co., was incorporated by the Secretary of State. Space was rented in part of H. A. Anderson's Hardware Building, with Carl Bjorlien as manager. Bulk service was extended to the Lankin area in 1946, and a bulk plant built at Lankin in 1958, and a new station completed in 1975. In 1975 a new station was also built at Milton. A new station was built at Adams in 1960 after twenty-six years of operation. Services have been expanded into an LP gas operation, an anhydrous ammonia plant, full service repair facilities, and custom fertilizer blending, delivery, and spreading. Harold Mindeman is the present manager of the Adams Farmers Union Oil Company.
SECURITY STATE BANK
well as equipment for testing cream, such as Babcock tester, test bottles, scale, pressure washer etc. Testing and buying cream was a thriving business in former years, as was buying eggs. Roy and Alice Shultz, still serving the community, have no intention of retiring! ADMAS AUDITORIUM
The old Liberty Theatre was built in 1909 by Dan Bergsman. It burned to the ground in March 17, 1960. A corporation was formed to build and finance a new sturcture which was completed Nov. 1 1 , 1960, a monument to community effort. MIDWAY BARBER SHOP
This new bank building opened its door for business, June 25, 1976, with Robert Clapp as president. The Security State Bank was founded in 1905 at the site of the American Legion Club. Early Adams boasted three banks. The other two merged with the Security State Bank which was operated by Oscar H. Lundquist, who was cashier and later president. He operated the bank until his retirement when he sold it to Howard Clapp and son, Robert. Howard served as president from 1949 until his death in 1973, when his son Robert took over the duties as president of the bank.
ROY'S MARKET Roy's Market is a land mark in Adams. It has served the community for forty-five years and is still an active business. Roy and Alice Shultz, owners, have been residents of Adams over fifty years. A locker plant was housed in this building for many years as
Clarence Nygard has been the owner and operator of the Midway Barber Shop in Adams since 1952 when he bought it from Manne Westberg who served the Adams area for almost half a century. The north portion of this building was used as a municipal liquor store until 1955 when it was converted into an apartment. Glendora Nygard, Clarence's wife, operates a Beauty Shoppe in two back rooms of their residence. She has been owner-operator of her shop for twenty-seven years.
D and M LANES AND CAFE
ADAMS FARMERS ELEVATOR
A new recreation center was built in Adams in 1979 on the site of the former laundromat. Through the efforts of the Adams Community Development Corporation, Adams Community Club, and Adams Betterment Committee the project materialized. Ground breaking ceremonies were held June 11,1979, and four months later, Oct. 10, the opening night was held and bowling commenced. It consists of four lanes, recreation center and lunch room. The Grand Opening of the D & M Lanes and Cafe was held March 2 1 , 1 9 8 0 , with manager Duane Troftgruben and his wife, Marian, in charge. ADAMS POST OFFICE
In the early days of Adams there were five elevators — one has survived. In 1913 the McCune-Dougherty and West changed hands when it was sold to forty farmers. Thus began the present Farmers Elevator. A new structure was built in 1955 to supplement the old one with a 65,000 bushel capacity. In 1975 a remodeling project was done, including installing a heavy duty distributor which handles 5,100 bushels an hour. In 1978 a 25,000 bushel tank bin was added, and in 1979 another one of the same capacity. Bjarne Hjelmstad served from 1953 to 1979 when he retired. Then Dale Werner was manager. The present manager is Reuben Elshaug, with Gerald Severson, and Steven Johnson also employees. REYNARD AND RODNEY OLSON CERTIFIED SEED POTATOES
The new Adams Post Office was built in 1969. The first post office was established June 23, 1890, at the E. T. Grove farm. When Adams became established in 1905 this was moved into town where Mr. Grove had a new building erected to house the post office. Among the early postmasters were Mrs. R. B. Dougherty, Mabel Fletcher, Andrew Olson, "Happy" and Bertha Tressing, Frank Lovestrom, and Nels H. Koppang. In 1944 Mathilda Johnson Erickson became postmaster. She retired in 1971. Her clerk, Mrs. Harvey Lykken, became officer in charge until April 29, 1973, when she was appointed postmaster. She retired Dec. 31, 1975, and her clerk, Mrs. Harold Johnson, became officerin-charge until the present postmaster, Mrs. Richard Sellheim, took office Dec. 17, 1977. When the trucks took over the job of delivering mail instead of the trains, Robert Runyan, Star Route contractor, began as trucker and has served thirty-one years, beginning May 1, 1949 and is still delivering the mail to Adams today. The Adams post office is known as an intermediate office with Gene Lusty, as carrier, coming out of the Park River office, and Maynard Stoa, coming out of the Fairdale office. The Star Route is served by Emil Drevecky, contractor.
ADAMS CITY PARK When the City of Adams was mapped out, one block was allotted for a park. For several years, no improvements were made. The Local Chapter of the Women's Christian Temperance Union made the first improvement when they had the land plowed and worked up for tree planting. The one individual who was most responsible for the improvements at the park was Andrew Rosendahl, pioneer businessman. He took an active lead in the work there until his death in the spring of 1 955. During the Bicentennial year, a plaque on a rock was placed in the Adams Park as a tribute to Andrew Rosendahl, Mayor of
ADAMS SOO LINE DEPOT
The Adams Soo Line Depot Being Dismantled The hustle and bustle of the section crews, passenger trains, and freight trains of the early days of Adams are stilled and this once proud depot is gone. Now, seventy-five years later there are no passenger trains coming into Adams, and only one freight train makes its appearance. It hauls mostly grain and fertilizer.
The Drevecky Log Cabin. Adams. His dedication made this Park a reality in 1921. The Drevecky Log Cabin was moved into the park by the Adams Civic Club in 1970. The Civic Club appointed a committee to be in charge of restoring the cabin. This restored cabin is believed to have been built in 1884, by Knudt Salle Olson, and had been occupied by several families for 85 years.
The last occupants of the Adams depot were the John Dean family. He retired in 1978 after thirty-two years as Adams Soo Line Depot agent, and over forty years an employee of the railroad.
During the summer months, this cabin is open from two to five every Sunday afternoon.
ADAMS PUBLIC SCHOOL
mm
V:T
f~
The Adams Public School The present faculty members are superintendent, Charles Clute; principal, Steve Dick; science instructor, Dennis Grove; drama director, English, Joanne Peterson; mathematics and 7th grade, Laura Berg; business education, Kathy Engle; music, band, chorus, Byron Schon; 8th grade and library, Cheryl Hogfoss; 5th and 6th, Duane Nelson; 4th grade, Glenda Carlson; 3rd grade, Delores Clute; 2nd grade, Paula Langerud; 1st grade, Sheila O'Leary; Title I Basic Skills reading, Mrs. Arlene Larson; Title I Basic Skills Mathematics, Mrs. Delores Boe; Pre-schoolers, Mrs. Verna Dell Skorheim.
The Adams Special School District No. 128 was organized in 1905, comprising one square mile in Section 14 in Adams Township. Classes were held at first in the Pete Hanson garage. In 1906 the first brick structure was constructed. In 1956 a two-class room addition was built to this sturcture. This addition was saved when a fire destroyed the old brick building and almost all the equipment Nov. 4, 1961. Classes were held in church, the American Legion building, Farmers Union, and City Auditorium. The same school year, 1962, a fire broke out in the church basement where school was held, destroying much equipment of that classroom.
Alvin Soma is the custodian and Mrs. Neil Hove and Mrs. Richard Grove are the cooks.
The new building was ready for the 1963-1964 school term. 64
•
town is of advantage to patrons. A steel building was erected in 1965. The M & G Upholstery Shop is operated by Minnie Rostvet and Greta Nelson. They started their business in 1972 at the Rostvet home. They expanded into selling upholstery material,
OTHER BUSINESSES IN ADAMS Other businesses in Adams include the County Shed where road equipment is serviced. A State Highway Department maintenance yard just east of
MAP THE NEW "SOO" LINE Now Bein$ Constructed From Thief River Falls to Kervmare, N. D.
Fi^jQ*vision
.'.
Thief River Falls to Sarles
Sarles to Overly
Second Division
Overly to Kenmare
Third Division
65
There are three construction agencies located in Adams.
cloth and vinyl in 1974. Adams has two taverns, Glen's Tavern and the D & D Bar.
The James Drevecky Construction Company began in 1975. They have built several apartment building houses, done remodeling, etc. One of his projects was the Adams Senior Citizen Center.
Glen's Tavern is the site of the old Hotel Adams that was built in 1905 by O. F. Bookwalter. The hotel burned in 1913 and a potato house was moved in by Bill Geary in 1927. Charley Keillor owned the property and it served as a grocery store and as cafes. In 1945 Harry Geary purchased the building and operated a bar and a cafe in the building. He passed away in 1959 and Glenn and Doris Geary Erickson bojght the building and have continued to operate the bar.
John Landsem, Adams, began in 1976 after working at A.B.M. at Nekoma, P.A.R. site at concrete, and in Grand Forks. One of his projects was the D & M Bowling Lanes, built in Adams in 1979. Lester Jasmer operates an excavation business. He lives in Adams and has been in that business twenty years.
The D & D Bar was purchased from George Skagg by Don Vejtasa. The Robertson Lumber Co. in Adams has outlived two of its early rivals and is still in business. A fire destroyed the structure in 1940 but was replaced by a building from Lankin.
ADAMS YOUNG AT HEART SENIOR CITIZEN CLUB The Young at Heart Senior Citizen Club was organized at Adams in May of 1970, with only a few members, no resources and no definite place to meet.
Richard Grove, a native of Adams, is the present manager of the lumberyard.
Adams, being a small farm trading center, the membership was from the beginning a mixture of the elderly from the town and surrounding trade area. Regular meetings were held in various places in Adams during the first year. In April of 1971, a vacant store building of good solid construction became available at a reasonable price and on very good terms. The club voted to purchase the 24 x 100 two-story building, together with three 25-foot lots on the Main Street of Adams, for $2,000. The agreement was to make payments when finances made it possible.
The Standard Oil Bulk Station has served the community for many years. It was the first oil company to come into Adams. Delwin Owen operated this station for over twenty-five years. Mr. and Mrs. Delwin Owen moved to Park River where they took over the Onstad Oil Co. A son, Kim, operates the Adams Station. Wick's Apartments are located in the former Gamble Store building. The building was vacant for several years until the influx of missile workers when Ed Olson converted it into sleeping quarters. He sold it to Mr. and Mrs. Joe Wick who remodeled the interior into three apartments.
Ruby Olson under the Green Thumb Program is employed to keep the Senior Citizen Center clean. In addition, she creates a homey atmosphere with fresh pots of coffee. This is the Social Room of the Center. 66
In 1975, Young at Heart initiated a new chore program for the elderly. This consists of an eight horsepower snowblower, which is used during the winter months to clear snow from the sidewalks and driveways of all elderly.
Young at Heart Senior Citizen Center, Adams, North Dakota. Many of the male members being semiskilled workmen in remodeling and construction, the work began — no labor was hired but the hardwood floor was sanded, the walls paneled, a new lowered ceiling installed, wiring was extended and replaced and repaired, plumbing and rest rooms provided. Title III funds were applied for and granted on a matching basis of 75 percent federal - 25 percent local. These funds were carefully spent for furnishings for the refurbished new home, including drapes, curtains, tables, chairs, colored television, record player, and book shelves. Other purchases included electric range, refrigerator, sink, cabinets, kitchen utensils, dishes, and floor covering for the kitchen. During the first year of ownership, a farm cooperative donated the paint and the painter to do the entire exterior of the building and the club members made extensive repairs on the flat roof. In the second year of ownership, an additional adjoining 25' lot was acquired and operations were undertaken to clear away all rubbish and begin intense cultivation. Again with the help of Title III funds, on a 60 percent - 40 percent match basis, concrete park benches and patio blocks were made on the grounds, awaiting final completion of landscaping, planting fencing and sidewalks. In 1973, 18 big loads of well-rotted manure were trucked in by the farm members and worked into the well-cultivated soil. After the intensive cultivation and leveling, a chain link fence was erected, with the posts all set in concrete; a sturdy flag pole installed in a concrete base; concrete sidewalks, patio blocks and four concrete park benches were put in place. Trees, shrubs, and grass were planted, as well as several varieties of flowers. The interior of the building's first floor is equipped with two pool tables, a shuffle board, and numerous card tables. There is also bingo and ceramics for those who wish to take part. A 16mm sound projector is in the building at all times and films are shown at regular intervals. A social meeting is held every Friday unless the members have voted otherwise. On the first Monday of each month, a business meeting is held where suggestions of the Club Council, made up of seven members, are considered as well as suggestions from the floor. Every suggestion must be put in the form of a motion duly seconded and voted upon by all members present. It must be supported by a majority vote to become effective. At every membership meeting, refreshments are served and a free will collection taken, which goes to the local treasury. When Title III funds are handled, a separate treasurer is elected to be in charge of these funds so there is little chance for the misappropriation of club funds. No club coordinator is on the payroll. A regulation horseshoe court has been installed, the only one in the town, and a few tournaments have been held.
On September 16, 1977, the club members voted unanimously to remodel the Center by replacing the second story of the building with a new roof and also to provide facilities for the handicapped. Various money-making events were held throughout the year; donations were received; grants were approved; gifts from organizatons and individuals received as well as volunteer labor which helped to make this project a reality. During the winter of 1978-1979, the James Drevecky Construction Company of Adams was hired to remove the second story of the original building and replace it with a mansard roof. The kitchen area was enlarged; more cupboards added; two double sinks forming an island in the center of the working area was built; new light fixtures installed; a ramp to the east door entrance was constructed; rest room accommodations made for wheel chairs; outdoor carpets laid on steps at west and south entrances; and a new "Senior Citizen Center" sign installed. Many of the capable senior citizen members helped in various ways to complete this remodeling. Mrs. Bette Galloway, Park River, director of Quad County Community Action Program, met with the Young at Heart Senior Citizen Club on January 26, 1979, and again on November 5, 1979, explaining the proposed counrywide nutrition program. At this latter meeting, delegates were named to attend the countywide organizational meeting on a nutrition program, to be held at Park River, November 14th. The delegates chosen were Henry Lundene, Ted Rundhaug, Helga Nordby, Mrs. Magnus Bjerke, and the club secretary, Thelma Midbo. Federal funding through Title III of the Older Americans Act helps this project to keep going. The first meal served in Adams was at the Center on September 16, 1980. Alida Bjorg is the cook; Mrs. Kenneth Stensland is the site manager. Meals are being served every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday to an average of thirty-five people. In order to carry out this program at the Center, a second stove was added, also a large freezer, dishwasher, and cooking equipment. There are seven additional towns in Walsh County that are carrying on this nutrition program and funded under the same title. The Adams Senior Citizens Club, Young at Heart, are members of the Seniors United organization. The officers that served when the club was first organized are Walter Halberg, president; Bertha Berntson, vice-president; Delia Baker, secretary; Ted Rundhaug, treasurer; and Mrs. Henry Olson, Federal treasurer. The present officers are Walter Halberg, president; Henry Lundene, vice-president; Thelma Midbo, secretary; and Henry Nordby, treasurer. This Senior Citizen Center has done a great deal for the social life of the elderly.
SWENSON'S GENERAL MERCHANDISE H. Bellerud & Co. which had its origin at its present site back in 1919, was owned by the late Haaken and Ole Bellerud. In 1945 a half interest belonging to Ole's widow, Nellie Bellerud, was purchased by Melvin Swenson. Haaken sold him his share in 1950 and the name was then changed to Swenson's General Merchandise. The store continued on in the style of all small town stores of the early days, having an inventory of staple dry goods, gift items, household items, men's work clothes, shoes and overshoes for the entire family. The later years the store belonged
81 B| Clerks at Swenson General Merchandise Store: left to right, Hugo Erickson, Mel Swenson, and Bert Ovnand. Swenson Store to the organization of V-stores buying for small merchants. The grocery line had been and continued to be Fairway Foods, an organization owned by its members, and not until 1980 did Melvin dispose of his shares of stock. It was not unusual during the holidays for Melvin to sell a ton of lutefisk, which would come in big vats in a lye solution. He would carry cold water from the town well and resoak and salt all this fish and hang it on nails in the cold warehouse to freeze. Possibly the most common sight was Melvin with his endless rows of cream cans, especially on Saturday nites, when they lined up from the south door to the cream room. Back in the 30's he would open the store at 6 a.m. and close the doors on Saturday at 2 a.m. In those days Saturday was the night all families came to town. Besides cream, Melvin bought almost anything the farmer had to sell — eggs, hides, chickens, and rabbits. He had for helpers some young lads like Harold Alpha, Edward Hatlem,
Donald Hatlestad, and Silas Ellingson who later were stock boys and clerks. Maurice V. Ellingson was one of his clerks for a number of years, Lyle Johnson and James Lofthus were with him a short time and then he had Arnold Ferguson until Barber College enticed him. Not to be forgotten was his old standby, Hugo Erickson, who would farm for Haaken in the summer, then come in and work in the store evenings and all winter. Later he worked in the store full-time and stayed with Melvin until his death in 1964. Another landmark was Bert Ovnand. He was a second Dad to Melvin and Vivian. A carpenter by trade he kept everything in working order, and he and his partner, Edwin Johnson, often did some remodeling jobs. They put in a new store front, built a cream station adjoining the store, a new warehouse, and pushed out walls when expansion was needed. Bert lived above the store and they always felt he was their insurance policy, as no one ever tried breaking or entering like they did in so many business places.
Hugo Erickson, Mel Swenson and Marianne Midtlyng. 68
In later years it became more difficult to hire a man as business didn't warrant the wages a man needed, so women came to work for Melvin. Jennie Westberg was the faithful standby. She would come on a moment's notice or fill in for anybody. Doris Strommen soon married and left, followed by Ethel Grove who stayed a few years and then married Lloyd Slaten, followed by Marianne Midtlyng who married Rodger Gustafson, then followed Verna Olafson, Mayvis Bina, Marion Axvig, and Lila Slatten. It seemed Melvin couldn't keep clerks as other men came and claimed them. So he turned to married women, Esther Bjerke, Lois Johnson and Shirley Swenson stayed with him in the last years. During these years Vivian worked Saturdays and when needed, but she wasn't always his best clerk because if she didn't like some of his orders she would just pick up and go home. Melvin's three girls were all faithful workers from the time they were quite young until they left for
college. Sally was possibly the youngest to start as she was so many years younger than the other girls and was automatically taken to the store as she couldn't be left at home alone. Then about 1968 Melvin developed a hip problem, and it was difficult to spend so many hours on his feet. Small town store business wasn't what it once was and the town of Adams had three stores. The farming community that once supported Adams business had drastically dropped so he decided to sell out. That fall he sold out, with a public sale, the best of his stock. In Jan., 1969, he underwent surgery for a ball replacement in his hip. It wasn't successful as his body rejected metal. Following a second surgery in December, 1969, his doctor recommended he spend the winters in a warm climate because if he should slip on ice they didn't know how they would put him together again. A year or so later he sold the building to the Senior Citizens and they have since made an entirely new beautiful building from it.
Family Histories of the City of Adams HISTORY OF TRUDY C. JOHNSON ANDERSON Trudy Christine (Johnson) Anderson was born on August 9, 1946 at Bremerton, Wash., to James Edward and Otella Selma (Stensland) Johnson. She has one sister, Pamela Kaye (Johnson) Fuhrmann, and one brother, James Lewis.
Commodities Division) Administration for BN Transport, Inc., Bronco Division, a subsidiary of Burlington Northern Railroad. The Andersons make their home at Englewood, Colorado.
She received her elementary and high school education at Adans Public Schools, Adams, N. Dak. She attended Trinity Hospital School of Nursing at Minot, N. Dak. for one and a half years. She is a confirmed member of the Mountain Lutheran Church of Adams. Trudy spent from 1965 through 1967 working for the North Dakota Geological Survey in Grand Forks, the Grafton Clinic in Grafton, and The Trane Company in Des Moines, Iowa. On August 19, 1967, she was married to Richard Eugene Anderson, son of Arden and Hazeleva Marie Anderson, Cheyenne, Wy., at the Mountain Lutheran Church of Adams. Richard Anderson was born April 23, 1945, in Denver, Colo. He worked for Boeing Aircraft for eight years, and at the Minute Man Missile sites in North Dakota, Montana, South Dakota and Wyoming for approximately four years. After their marriage in 1967 they resided in Rapid City, S. Dak., where they remained for one year after which time they moved to Alamogordo, New Mexico. Richard was based at the White Sands Missile Range, Holloman Air Force Base, for approximately three years. Here their son, Richard Eugene, Jr., was born on November 17, 1968. In 1971 they moved to Denver, Colo., where Richard was employed with Stearns-Roger Corporation. In 1973 he became Administrative Assistant of the Petroleum/Petro Chemical Division of Stearns-Roger. Trudy was employed with Ringsby Truck Lines from 1971 through 1974 in the S.C.D. Settlement and Leasing Department. The Andersons opened their home to foster children from 1974 through 1978. Trudy returned to work for Ringsby Truck Lines, becoming the O.C.S. Supervisor of their Container (Import/Export) Division from 1976 through 1977. In 1978 another son, Jason James, was born on August 5th. In 1979 Trudy became the manager of the S.C.D. (Special
Richard E. Anderson Family: left to right, top row, Richard Sr., Richard Jr., bottom, Jason and Trudy.
CHRISTIAN AND CHRISTINE LEROHL BERGER My mother, Christine Lerohl Berger, was born in Olivia, Minn., Renville County, June 26, 1886, to Knute and Ingeborg Elton Lerohl, where my grandparents immigrated from Vang, Valderes, Norway, in 1883. There were two other children, Ragnild, born in Norway, and Ole born in Olivia, Minn. After living there for five years near grandfather's brother, they decided to move further west to Vesta Township in Walsh County where they lived with the Ole O. Elton family, my grandmother's brother. A short time later, grandfather filed claim on a homestead in Dewey Township, section 10, and moved his family into a sod house. Here a daughter, Minnie Nordbye, was born January 9, 1890. In 1892, grandfather bought a quit claim deed and moved his family into another sod house. This land was one mile south and three miles west of what is now Adams. Here a daughter, Hilda Nelson Demoray, was born September 27, 1897. On this farm my mother, her twin sister, Olene Aardahl, brother Ole and three sisters, Ragnild, Millie and Hilda, grew to adulthood. All obtained their elementary education at the Omdahlen School. Hilda continued into high school at Adams. All the children were confirmed in the Mountain Lutheran Church. Mother's oldest sister, Ragnild, was a member of the first confirmation class of 1896. Rev. Thorvald Larson was the pastor. In 1909, grandfather sold his farm to Andreas Hogi and moved into the town of Adams, N. Dak. Here he used his talent doing masonry work. In 1906, my mother married Christian Berger of Edmore, N. Dak., with Rev. M. O. Silseth performing the ceremony on the farm place. Her attendants were sister and brother, Bretta and Sherman Bjorg, and a sister, Minnie Lerohl. My mother and father moved into the new town of Adams where my father worked for the Soo Line railroad. Shortly after, he was sent to the terminal point, Thief River Falls, Minn., to be trained in a skilled trade as boilermaker so was then able to service steam locomotives when tied up at the roundhouse. He was promoted to roundhouse foreman and lived here for twenty years before being transferred to Overly, N. Dak., and Mahnomen, Minn., when he retired in 1947 after forty-three years of service. They moved to Grand Forks, N. Dak., and celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in 1956.
see our dads waiting to guide us home, or Mr. William Geary, with his two big horses adorned with sleigh bells. How fast we piled on that big flat sled and soon were safely home. Thank you, Mr. Geary. My father was born May 16, 1881, to Mr. and Mrs. Iver Berger in Bjonroa, Hadeland, Norway. He had two sisters, one moving to Canada and two brothers, Andrew immigrating to Edmore, N. Dak., and one to LaCrosse, Wis., later to Nash N. Dak. Their father, a carpenter, was killed in a building accident, so at an early age, my father had to fare for himself by working on fishing vessels. When he had saved enough money to pay his fare to the United States, he and his cousin, Ingvold Strand, immigrated to Grafton, N. Dak., about 1899, where they had relatives. My father returned to Norway for a visit in 1901. When he returned, he went to his brother Andrew's homestead near Edmore to work. Andrew Berger had married mother's oldest sister, Ragnild Lerohl, and that is how my mother met my father.
HERMAN AND MERNA BJERKE, AND HARLYNN Herman Ingvald, the fifth child of Olaf and Olivia Bjerke, was born March 7, 1909, in Silvesta Township, Walsh County. Herman had five brothers, Otto, Carl, Joseph, Magnus, and Knute; and four sisters, Anna, Amanda, Stella and Alice. Herman was about three years old when the family moved to a farm southwest of Edinburg, N. D. There he attended a country school. The family were members of the nearby Odalen Church, where Herman was confirmed. He had been baptized in Silvesta Township when the family lived there. In 1935, Herman married Merna Vigen. Merna Alvida, the oldest child of Nils and Gina Vigen, was born March 28, 1914. She had two sisters, Gilma, and Eunice; and four brothers, Glenn, Vernon, Albert, and Lloyd. Merna attended a country school, Silvesta District 100. She was confirmed at the Mountain Lutheran Church, Adams. Merna attended the New York Hairdressing Academy in 1934 and worked in a beauty salon in Grafton until her marriage to Herman on November 19, 1935. Herman and Merna purchased a farm from Annie Gunderson, located in Adams Township, two miles north of Adams. They farmed here until 1952, when Herman passed
My father passed away from a stroke Feb. 10, 1957, and is buried in the Mountain Lutheran Church West cemetery. At this write up, my mother is almost 95 years old and able to care for herself and is living in her home in Grand Forks. To this union were born three daughters and six sons in Adams and one son in Overly. Nine were baptized and two confirmed in the Mountain Lutheran church and eight began their elementary school education in Adams before the family moved to Overly where two completed high school. The rest attended in Mahnomen (Minn.) High School. I can readily recall my first grade teacher, Pearl Gemmil. Perhaps it is because of my vivid recollection of receiving a box of chocolate candy from her. Getting a nickel once in a while to buy candy from Mr. Bue at the Heen Mercantile was a big treat. So imagine the joy I felt getting a box of chocolate candy. I also remember my 8th grade teacher, Miss Burbidge. We really had to learn our lessons for her. Our high school principal, Jean Smith, inspired me to further my education. Many times winter blizzards would appear out of nowhere and how we dreaded opening the heavy double doors of the school house to venture out into the storm. What a relief it was to
Herman and Merna Bjerke
away from complications following ulcer surgery. Herman is buried in the West Adams Cemetery. Herman and Merna had one son, Harlynn Neil, born October 12, 1940, in Adams Township. At the time of his father's death, Harlynn was about twelve years old. He and his mother moved to Grafton, N. D., where she worked in Reyleck's Store. After a few years she was forced to retire because of ill health, and she moved back to Adams and lived with her mother, caring for her as long as she could. Her mother is in the Edmore Rest Home, but Merna continues to live in her house. After moving back to Adams, Merna worked at the Johnson Store for some time. Harlynn attended school in Adams for six years; continued his education at the Grafton Public School, graduating in 1959. He attended NDSU, Fargo, graduating with a Degree in Business Administration in 1963. He received the Loren J. Lorenz Outstanding Senior Award which is given to an individual for outstanding leadership and service to Sigma Chi, and NDSU. While at NDSU, he was a member of Sigma Chi, Rahjah's, Young Republicans Commissioner of Athletics, Student Senate, Commissioner of Finance, University Board of Control, and Intermural Athletic Board.
Knute and Dorothy Bjerke. Dorothy attended the Gryde rural school, District 125, in Vesta Township. Now a marker has been erected where the schoolhouse once stood. Dorothy also attended the Adams High School, graduating with the class of 1941. Prior to her marriage, Dorothy was employed at Roy's Market, Adams, and also helped neighbors with their housework and chores during their busy season.
Harlynn Bjerke Harlynn was accepted into the Naval Aviation Officers Training School in Pensacola, Fla., following his graduation from college. He received a medical discharge and upon his return, went to the Kresge Company Manager's Training Program. He remained with them for thirteen years, working in the Western Division. At the present time, he is living at Prior Lake, Minn., where he is manager of a shopping center.
Dorothy and Knute's farm buildings were secluded by trees and that may be reason this farm was selected. It took place on October 1, 1970, during the forenoon. Dorothy was alone in the house, when a car drove into the yard. A stranger came to the door, stated he was a deputy sheriff, and said he needed gasoline for the car. Dorothy told the man that he would have to contact her husband, who was working in a nearby field. The man said, however, that the car was just about out of gas and that it was impossible for him to drive to the field. When Dorothy asked him why, if his gas supply was low, he kept the motor of the car running, the man went to the door and called to a man in the vehicle to "shut off the motor." The stranger then followed Dorothy into the house, pointed a gun at her and forced her to lie down on the living room floor. He then handcuffed her hands behind her back, opened her purse and took her money. He apparently went into the basement of the home and then returned, tearing off a wire leading to the telephone. While this was going on the man in the car was apparently filling the gasoline tank.
KNUTE AND DOROTHY BJERKE Knute Bjerke, born to Olaf and Olivia Olsen Bjerke, lived on the Ovnand farm in the Edinburg area, now occupied by the Dale Gemmills. Knute had four sisters and five brothers. Later the family moved north of Adams. While here, Knute attended the Silvesta rural school. He helped his father on the farm and also worked for neighbors on their farms, which included a lot of trucking, such as hauling grain for farmers. Knute married Dorothy Elton on July 2, 1945, daughter of Henry and Anne Elton. They lived on the Bjerke farm for about a year and a half when Dorothy's father passed away suddenly. Then they moved to her home place, which was the fall of 1946.
When the stranger left the house, Dorothy went to an upstairs room where a second telephone was located. In spite of having her hands hancuffed behind her back, she managed to dial the number of the Bjorg home, located nearby. The sheriff's office in Grafton was then notified. The statewide alarm then asked for a roadblock to be thrown up in the area, as the car was identified as belonging to Deputy Sheriff Marlin Vander Maten of Sioux Falls. Authorities in South Dakota said that the deputy had been kidnapped at gunpoint by a man who commandeered his police car. The man was identified as Harold Halseth, 30, an escapee from a Washington State Mental Hospital who was being sought for other abductions.
While the search was underway in the Adams area, it was learned that Harold Wolfgram, a farmer in the Niagara area, had been abducted at about 9:30 that morning. Decals taken from the doors of the police car, were found at the Wolfgram farm. The search ended in Canada the next day. The deputy sheriff drove the car at least most of the way as the gunman kept his gun on him. Wolfgram rode most of the way in the trunk of the car although he was allowed to ride in the back seat a part of the time.
hand with some horse power. After the house was built, other buildings were erected on the farm as time went on. Being handy at carpenter work was an asset to Magnus while in this process of getting his farmstead built. It has been a great help to him as well as others throughout the years. In 1943, their daughter, Paulette, was born. She was baptized by Rev. Halmrast and confirmed by Rev. S. O. Qually. She graduated from the Adams High School and attended the University of North Dakota at Grand Forks. Later, she was employed as a nurse's aide and telephone operator at Grafton.
At Indian Head, Sask., they stopped at the Braithwaite home. Here the deputy sheriff and Wolfgram were handcuffed together to a table and Halseth took Charlotte Braithwaite, 52, as a hostage. They left the home in the Braithwaite car. Near Swift Current, Sask., in attempting to run a road block, Halseth sped off on a rural road and rolled into a ditch. Mrs. Braithwaite escaped with only minor injuries and Halseth was captured. The deputy sheriff and Wolfgram managed to free themselves a short time after Halseth left the Braithwaite home. But, the story doesn't end here. Dorothy received a letter from this deputy sheriff, Marlin Vander Maten, later that month, explaining some of the details to her, and wanting to hear from her about her experience with this man, Halseth. It was an escapade not so easily forgotten. Since that time, Knute and Dorothy have visited at the Vander Maten's home and they in turn have been at the Bjerke home. Thus a frightening episode ended in gaining new friends. Dorothy and Knute continued farming until 1980, when they sold the farmstead to Allen and Judy Sorbo, and built a new home in Adams.
MAGNUS AND PEARL BJERKE FAMILY Magnus, son of Olaf and Olivia Bjerke, was born in 1912, at Edinburg, N. D. He was baptized by Rev. Ulseth at the Syvert Sunderland house, and confirmed by Rev. Langemo. He attended the Troftgruben country school. Magnus married Pearl Rustan on Oct. 7, 1938, at Edinburg, with Pastor Halmrast officiating. Pearl, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Oluf Rustan, was born in 1911 at Edinburg. She was baptized and confirmed by Rev. Langemo; attended the McLean rural school, and graduated from the Milton High School.
Paulette married Jack Misialek, son of Mr. and Mrs. Walter Misialek, in 1968, at Minto, N. Dak. They lived at Karlstad, Minn., where he worked for the Otter Tail Power Company, and later transferred to Adams. They have two children, Kevin and Kristi.
Magnus and Pearl purchased land in Tiber Township. There were no buildings or trees on this land so they had to start planting trees and erecting buildings. They dug up trees from the farm of his brother, Carl, near Hoople, and planted them in their farmstead. This work was all done by hand. Likewise, when digging the basement for the house, much of that was done by
In 1975, Magnus and Pearl retired and moved into a new home in Adams. Paulette, Jack, and children moved out on the farm. In 1978, Magnus and Pearl celebrated their fortieth wedding anniversary. A surprise supper and program was held in their honor at the Langerud Cafe in Edinburg.
Jack Misialek Family
Kevin Misialek
Magnus and Pearl Bjerke 72
Kristi Misialek
FAMILY HISTORY OF MRS. ALIDA BJORG Mrs. Alida (Olson, Samuelson, Bjorg) was the fourth child in a family of eleven children to be born to Tom and Mathilda Olson. She was born Sept. 2, 1910, on a farm five miles east of Fairdale, in Silvesta Township. The oldest sister is Nora (Mrs. Emil Amundrud) and the others are Alma (Mrs. Bakken), Arthur, Ted, Reynard, Florence (Mrs. Melvin Wick), Viola (Mrs. Ray Skorheim), Wallace, and Dolores (Mrs. Willie Sandberg). Olive died at the age of two and a half years, during the flu epidemic of 1918. Alida attended the Byars and Vejtasa rural schools. She recalls in those days they sometimes had summer schools and they walked seven miles to school and remembered how warm and tired they were. Getting an education was not as important in those days and children had to help out at home or at the neighbors so missed a lot of school. Especially vivid in her mind was the scarlet fever epidemic. Her whole family, with the exception of Nora, came down with that contagious disease at one time and most of December, January, and February was spent in house quarantine. Dr. Dixon, the country doctor, faithfully and tirelessly attended them. She remembers the terribly sore throats and high fever. When Alida had recuperated, even though only 12 or 13 years old she was sent to the neighbors to help them through their seige of the sickness. Nora, a year later, also contracted scarlet fever while attending school in Park River. Alida at age 15, with her sister, Nora, worked for Selmer Amundrud for two years during the threshing season. They cooked for the threshing crew in a cook car, which was a kitchen on wheels. In 1929 she married Victor Samuelson, son of Mr. and Mrs. Gust Samuelson. He was born in 1904, the ninth often children. They farmed for two years on the Helium farm in Vesta Township where their son, Loren, was born in 1930. They then moved to a farm northwest in Silvesta Township where Ronald was born in 1936. They farmed here until 1943 when Victor died from cancer at age 38. Victor died Feb. 8, 1943, and his third son, Allen, was born ten days after his father's death, February 18. To add to the young widow's misfortune, a year later she contracted typhoid fever, another dreaded disease that took its toll in early days. Her case was unique in that she was the only one who contracted this disease in the state, at this time. State health officials did extensive investigation before locating the carrier of this disease in the community. It was carried through the milk supply.
At the present time the family resides at Shoreview, Minn., where he is director of Human Relations of the Ministers of Life Insurance Company of Minneapolis. They have two daughters, Heidi and Kelli. Alida still resides at Adams and is employed as a cook for the special meals that are served at the Senior Citizens Center. This is sponsored by the Nutrition Program that has been implemented in Adams.
JUEL AND RUTH BJORG Juel Rudolph Bjorg, son of Erik and Anna Justad Bjorg, was born April 12, 1908, af Adams. He lived on the family farm, three miles southwest of Adams, and attended Stone Valley school in that area. In 1 934, Juel Bjorg and Ruth Louise Jeglum were married at the Adams Lutheran Parsonage by the Reverend B. J. Hatlem. Ruth, daughter of Clarence and Winifred Jeglum, was born at Adams, N. Dak., Jan. 15, 1915. She attended school in Adams through her junior year in high school, and graduated from Long Beach Polytechnic High School at Long Beach, Calif., in 1933, completing her senior year there. Ruth attended Valley City State Teachers' College for a time in 1934, studying private piano under Dr. Lydell, as an additional subject. Ruth inherited her love for music from her mother, who served as church organist and choir accompanist for the Mountain Lutheran Church at Adams for 25 years. Childhood memories for Juel are the happy times visiting neighbors and relatives, and playing baseball with cousins and friends. He also worked at the age of 13, doing heavy man's work on the threshing crew of John Gilbertson, hauling bundles during the entire threshing run. Roller skating around the neighborhood on the cement sidewalks, as far as they went, are happy memories for Ruth. She also remembers the "plays" or "shows" improvised on the spot, which she and her sister Edith and other young friends put on for their playmates in the neighborhood who were the "audience."
Alida bought a house in Adams and moved in with her three sons. In 1945 she went to work at the Jens Bjorg farm where she worked until 1951 when she married Silas Bjorg, the son of Susie Bjorg. Ronald attended four years at U.N.D. and majored in' accounting. He enlisted in the Army and spent 19 months in Germany. Following his discharge he worked with the Revenue Service at Dickinson. He then moved to Jamestown where he became manager for the Melland Implement Company. He married Harriet Rustan from Osnabrock in 1968. At the present time he is still with the Melland Implement Company. Allen received a Bachelor of Science degree from U.N.D. He married Diane Ulberg in 1965. He taught science and physical education at Bismarck Junior College for 3/2 years, then moved to Watertown, South Dakota, where he became manager of the personnel department of the Midland Insurance Company.
Juel and Ruth Bjorg
The showhouse was the canvas covered playhouse, which had been given to the Jeglum children by their aunt and uncle, Tillie and Gilbert Williams, after they had used it to live in, on their return trip from Montana. It was a forerunner of the motor home. Later, we enjoyed the good times roller skating at the Legion Hall, which formerly had been the Dan Bergsman Hotel, later owned by Alice and Otto Dvorak. There are also good memories of skiing and sledding down the hills at Payer's coulee. Work was hard to get during the Depression and Juel worked at various jobs, including gravel hauling, threshing and carpentering, learning the trade under Theo. Dahl of Park River, N. Dak., who was a contractor-builder, the best in that area. Juel worked part-time at the Gamble Store at Adams for Clarence Jeglum, and at the Adams Farmers' Elevator, while Carl Hilde was manager. He also worked one winter in the potato house at Adams. Steady jobs were impossible to come by. During the Depression, wages were 25 cents per hour for a beginning carpenter, and 50 cents for a first-class carpenter!! Ruth clerked part-time at Roy's Market for several years, and worked for a while at the Adams Post Office under Nels Koppang; she was the bookkeeper for the Farmer's Union Oil Co. at Adams for five years. While living at Adams, Juel and Ruth purchased the Hans Nelson house and hired Bill Geary to move it to the lots where the Lindberg Creamery formerly stood. Juel, along with Clifford Grove, Clayton Bjorg and others, remodeled it completely, and built on two rooms and made a basement. Juel planted the trees which are still there. Mrs. Armand Vejtasa now owns the house and resides there. Early in 1942, Juel and Ruth left Adams for Bremerton, Wash., where he was employed in the Bremerton Navy Yard. World War II was in progress. Juel attended sheet metal school at the Navy Yard, studying lay-out, sketching, blue-print reading and planning. He became a First-Class Mechanic. Ruth was employed in the Kitsap County Treasurer's Office at Port Orchard, Wash., as the bookkeeper for three years. They lived at Port Orchard, where they purchased their home. Living conditions at Bremerton were almost primitive when they first came there, as the government housing was just beginning to be built. There were no houses to be rented; eventually, they bought their place. For most of the first year, home was an old trailer, with electricity as the only convenience. For some time, water had to be hauled by the pailful from quite a distance away, until it was piped nearby. It was a forest of trees where they and other Adams folks lived. Several Adams families built temporary housing at this location. It was quite an experience for all!! In 1946, Juel and Ruth moved from Port Orchard to Long Beach, Calif., selling the home in Washington. Juel was employed at the Long Beach Naval Shipyard from 1946 to 1964, when he retired. He was a mechanic and lead-off man while employed there. Ruth studied piano at Long Beach for 10 years with Ruth C. Miller, also studying the Art Publication Course of Progressive Series from St. Louis, Mo., with her. During this time, Ruth taught private lessons to students in her home. She completed several courses for credit at Long Beach Junior College, and a correspondence course through U.C. at Berkeley, Calif. She completed all courses under the State California Plan, becoming an active member of the Music Teachers' Association of California, receiving her Child-Specialist Degree and Colleague Degree. During the time that Ruth was a member of the Long Beach Women's Music Club, in the Creative Section, she
composed several compositions which she performed, one each year, at their yearly program at the Ebell Theater. The past few years, the organ has been a challenge and a great source of enjoyment, which she has taught herself, now playing on a larger three manual organ, theater type. In 1969, Juel and Ruth sold the Long Beach home, and moved to Magalia, Calif., up in the low Sierras, where they drew their own plans and Juel built a lovely home and garage-workshop. These last ten years have been fully occupied in the building and the many fund-raising projects to pay off the new De Sabla Grange Hall. Juel and other members put in many days of volunteer labor on the building to cut costs. He holds the office of Assistant Steward and Ruth has the office of Musician in the Grange. The latter office includes playing for regular meetings and the dedication and mortgage burning ceremonies held recently, and other special music. Both of Ruth's parents have died. Clarence Jeglum died June 19, 1967, and Winifred Jeglum died September 14, 1976; both died at Long Beach. Juel's mother lives at Adams, and was 89 years in December, 1980.
RUDOLPH AND JEAN BLOMQUIST Mrs. Jean Blomquist was born in Adams, N. Dak., in 1908 to Jacob and Hulda Lund Tonning. Jean grew up on a farm in Silvesta Township and in 1924 was married to Adolph Samuelson, son of Charley Samuelson. They farmed in Silvesta Township for over 20 years. They had five children; Adeline (Mrs. Ernest Samuelson), Reif (Bud), Neil, Audrey (Mrs. Fred Manthei) and Lynda (Mrs. Rick Boswell). Adolph passed away June, 1943. They remained on the farm one more year. Both Neil and Reif entered the service so Jean and the girls moved into Adams. Jean worked in a cafe for Vincent Kjelaas and also for Joe Bjerke. In November, 1950, she married Rudolph Blomquist at Adams. Rev. O. T. Haugen officiated at the wedding. Rudy was an electrician and did a lot of wiring in the community at the time when R.E.A. came into this area. He also farmed for a few years. Rudy was born in Kandiyoh, Minn., in 1902 to Alfred and Alma Blomquist. His mother died when he was three years old and his sister, Ann, was nine years. Ann had to take the role of being mother to four children. The Blomquists moved to Grafton in 1964 where Rudy and Jean worked at the Grafton State School for many years. Adeline married Ernest Erickson and lived for a time in Adams. She worked at the Adams Bank for Oscar Lundquist for a number of years. They then moved to Grafton where she was employed as director of Grandparents Program. Tragedy struck her life when Ernest was killed in a truck accident. Adeline passed away April, 1979, at Minneapolis at the age of 53. They had two children, Danny and Dawn, (Mrs. Pearson). Reif is a dairy farmer. He married Sandra Rustan and they have two daughters, Judith and Brenda. Neil is produce manager at Albertson's at Denver, Colo. He married Margy Rosendahl from Adams and they have four sons, Boyd, Jay, Jerry, and Scott. Audrey and Lynda attended Bethany Fellowship Mission School at Minneapolis and have both worked on the mission field. Audrey worked in Old Mexico under the direction of Danny Ost. She married Fred Manthei and they have two sons, Paul and
Chad.
Lynda married Rick Boswell. She served on the mission field in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. They now live in Boise, Idaho.
Kan., and have one daughter, Stephanie Rae and one son, Timothy Kent. Paul married Pamela Durham. They live on the home farm and have one son, Lincoln.
Rudy and Jean Blomquist retired in May, 1980, and they moved to Park River. FRED AND INGA BORCHGREVINK PALMER AND LEONA BOE Palmer Boe was born in Adams Township on June 8 , 1 9 1 1 , a son of Knute and Ida Boe, now both deceased. He attended grade school at Fairview Rural School, and then went to the Walsh County Agricultural School where he graduated from high school in 1930. Following graduation, he farmed with his father and brother on the home farm until his marriage to Leona Nordbye on March 23, 1935, at the Adams parsonage by Rev. B. J. Hatlem. Roy Grove and Ida Foyen were the attendants and in December of that same year, were married and became Mr.
Mr. and Mrs. Fred Borchgrevink came to North Dakota in the fall of 1937. In 1938 they bought a farm in Vesta Township and lived there until moving into Adams in the fall of 1 956. Fred was born January 22, 1892, in Norway. He was raised and educated there and had two years of high school in Germany before coming to the United States. He was a lumberjack in Minnesota for a while, worked in Grand Forks, and in Park River where he met Inga Johnson. Inga was born May 3 1 , 1 8 9 0 , in Norway and came to Park River with her uncle and aunt, Mr. and Mrs. Carl Johnson. She was educated in Park River and confirmed at Hoff.
Fred and Inga Borchgrevink, taken in 1913. Fred worked on the Great Northern Railroad building bridges from Park River to Plentywood, Mont. He liked it in Montana and heard he could file on a homestead there so came back and married Inga on January 17, 1913. They went to Glasgow, Mont., by train, and in 1 914 they took a lumber wagon to the Henry Shipstead ranch where Fred worked and Inga cooked.
Palmer and Leona Boe and Mrs. Roy Grove. Following Palmer and Leona's wedding, a reception dinner was served for the immediate family at the Knute Boe home. Palmer and Leona moved to a farm located three and a half miles west of Adams, where they lived for forty-one years, prior to retiring and moving to Adams in August, 1976. Leona Boe was born in Fairdale, N. D., on August 7, 1914. Her parents were Elina and Emil Nordbye. They moved to Adams while Leona was very young. She attended both grade school and high school in Adams, graduating in May, 1932. Leona and Palmer's hobbies are varied but still similar. They both love all sports and participate in some, and like watching bowling, golfing, baseball, basketball, and football. They love music, too. They belong to various organizations in the community. They are members of the Mountain Lutheran Church in Adams where the present pastor is Rev. L. N. Steen. Palmer and Leona have two daughters married. Leah Rae married Donald Mclntyre Lompoc, Calif. They have two sons, James Donald. Nancy married Douglas Eiken. They
and one son, all and are living in Scott and Corey live in Lawrence,
In 1915 Fred filed on the homestead, and in 1917 twins were born: Leonard and Lillian. They attended summer school as winters were too cold. Inga boarded the teacher the first couple years; after that they rode horseback three to four miles to school. They graduated from high school in Peerless. Lillian remembers going with her dad by horse and buggy for the mail and getting a 10-pound brick of cheese from Norway. Fred mined coal in the hills. Neighbors were few and far between. Inga unintentionally had the twins branded; Leonard was ready to fall from the high chair and Inga was peeling apples and grabbed for him and stuck the paring knife in his chin; Lillian ran under the pump handle when Inga was pumping water and sustained a wound and scar on her forehead. In 1928 Fred added two rooms upstairs and two downstairs to their shack, planted 9,000 trees, and built a sheep shed 42 feet square. He raised cattle and sheep and rented land from the Indians. He lived alongside the reservation. In the 30's, times were hard and dry. Fred slaughtered the young calves, sold his sheep and moved to North Dakota.
school and remain at home to help with the work. Her mother passed away May 1 5, 1939. Ten years later, September, 1 949, Robert Strelow married Ellen Nelson Jeneson, Annie's sister. The following fall, November 25, 1 950, Robert passed away. Leonard and Wanda lived on this farm (the former M. Johnson Estate) for thirteen years. Their four children were born while living here: Larry Wayne, Virginia Ann, Nancy Sue, and Marilou. Leonard's parents, Mr. and Mrs. Fred Borchgrevink, retired from farming and moved into Adams. Since their farm buildings were larger, Leonard, Wanda, and family moved to their farm. Here they resided for several years. In 1969, they rented out their land, built a new home in Adams, and are presently living there. Leonard is semi-retired. During the summer months, he works for implement companies and will also assist farmers who are in need of help, while Wanda may be found working at St. Ansgar's Hospital in Park River.
Lillian and Leonard Borchgrevink — two years old. Lillian attended business college at Havre, Mont., and one year at Mayville State Teachers College and worked at the AAA office in Park River for two years before her marriage to Glenn Vigen on October 10, 1940. She was bookkeeper at the Farmers Union in Adams for 12 years. The Vigens have two children: Nils and Irene. Leonard farmed with his dad until he married Wanda Strelow November 16, 1944, and lived in Vesta Township until moving into Adams in 1969. They have four children: Larry, Virginia, Nancy and Marilou. Fred passed away December 30, 1956, and is buried at Hoff. Inga passed away in August, 1964, and is also buried at Hoff. In Montana the post office was 14 miles away so Borchgrevinks didn't get their mail for two weeks at a time. The nearest doctor was 25 miles away.
Larry Wayne Borchgrevink, only son of Leonard and Wanda Borchgrevink, was born December 22, 1945, and received his elementary education at the Hoff rural school, located about three miles from his home. He attended the Adams High School, graduating with the class of 1963. He graduated from the State School of Science in Wahpeton in 1965, and entered the Armed Services in 1966 for three years of which eighteen months were spent in Vietnam. Upon his discharge in 1969, he attended the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, graduating as a Certified Public Accountant. Larry married Bonnie West, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Warren West, at St. Louis, Mo., on May 2 1 , 1973. At present, they are living in Panama, where Larry is employed as an accountant for the government, while Bonnie, who is also employed by the government, does office work. Virginia Ann, second child of Leonard and Wanda Borchgrevink, was born July 22, 1947. She attended the Hoff rural school until redistricting took place; then she went on to the Adams Public School, completing her elementary education there and graduating from the High School in 1965. She received her training as x-ray technician at the St. Ansgar's Hospital, Moorhead, Minn. Virginia was an active 4-H member and credits all her sewing ability to this experience. On June 2 1 , 1 9 6 9 , Virginia married Darrell Dvorak, son of Mr. and Mrs. George Dvorak, Lankin. Darrell is employed at a bank in Fosston, Minn., and Virginia is an x-ray technician. The couple has three children: Darin Joe, born December 2 1 , 1 9 7 2 ;
LEONARD C. BORCHGREVINK AND FAMILY Leonard C. Borchgrevink, son of Mr. and Mrs. Fred Borchgrevink, was born April 10, 1917, in Scobey, Montana. He attended the Peerless Public School, graduating from high school in 1935. In 1937, he along with his twin sister, Lillian, and their parents, moved to Walsh County, N. Dak. They lived on the Peter Levang homestead in southwestern Adams Township until he purchased the Dougherty farm in Vesta Township. In 1943, Leonard purchased a farm from the Magnus Johnson Estate. Several years earlier, this Magnus Johnson had been killed by lightning while in the field with his horses and binder, cutting grain. The following year, November 16, 1944, Leonard married Wanda Strelow at Adams. Wanda Mildred, the daughter of Robert and Annie Strelow, was born October 9, 1919. She attended the Bena's Memorial School, a rural school located about two miles from their home. She attended high school at the Adams Public School but due to her mother's illness, had to quit
The Leonard Borchgrevink Family: left to right, back row, Leonard and Larry; front row, left to right, Virginia, Marilou, Wanda and Nancy.
Denise Marie, born April 12, 1976; and Danelle Ann, born November 4, 1979. Nancy Sue, third child of Leonard and Wanda Borchgrevink, was bom September 16, 1950. Nancy attended the Hoff rural school until redisricting took place, then she went on to the Adams Public School, completing her elementary education there and graduated from the Adams High School in 1 968. She received her L.P.N, training at the State School of Science, Wahpeton, graduating in 1 969. She was employed at Rugby, N. Dak., and Crookston, Minn., before going to Rochester, Minn., where she is still employed as a nurse at St. Mary's Hospital, Mayo Clinic. Nancy married Fran Wheelock, Jr., son of Mr. and Mrs. Fran Wheelock, Sr., Rochester, Minn., on July 7, 1973. Fran works at a janitorial service in Rochester. Marilou Elaine, fourth child of Leonard and Wanda Borchgrevink, was born April 20, 1953. She received her elementary and high school education in the Adams Public School, graduating with the class of 1 968. Marilou was an active 4-H member and because of this interest, majored in home economics while attending the North Dakota State University, Fargo, graduating in 1972. She has continued to teach in this field and at present is teaching in Valley City, N.Dak. On December 28, 1974, she married Kent Green, son of Mr. and Mrs. Lloyd Green, Reno, Nev., formerly of Langdon, N. Dak. Kent is also a teacher and is principal at the public school in Marion, N. Dak. Marilou and Kent have one child, Nathan Charles, born March 7, 1979.
CHARLES AND DELORES CLUTE Charles and Delores Clute and sons, Steven and Michael, moved to Adams, N. Dak., in 1970, when Charles became superintendent of schools and Delores, teacher of third grade. Charles is the son of Stuart and Olga Clute of Hamar, N. Dak., where Charles was born. Stuart was mail carrier at Hamar for forty-two years until he retired, and then he and Olga moved to Tolna, N. Dak., where they lived until their deaths, one month apart, in 1970. Charles has one brother, Donald, who has a grocery store at Tolna; three sisters, Bette (Mrs. Monroe Tweed) whose husband farms south of Tolna; Dorothy (Mrs. Ralph Erickstad) of Starkweather whose husband farms; and Florence (Dr. Olga Myhre) of Minot, N. Dak., whose husband taught at
Steven Clute
Michael Clute
Minot State Teachers College and was head of the Placement Bureau. Charles played baseball as catcher for many years. He played with Hamar and McVille teams, and also at Mayville State Teachers College. His hobbies are drawing cartoons, designing houses, fishing, golfing, and carpenter work. He has had a summer painting business at Tolna for many years. He served in the Air Force during World War II for five years as a radar radio man. Four of those years were spent on islands in the Panama Canal Zone and off the coast of South America. Charles was married to Delores Omlie at Tolna, N. Dak., on June 10, 1950, where they were both teaching. Charles has been a classroom teacher for three years and superintendent for thirty-one years. Delores is the daughter of Ole and Mabel Omlie of Tolna. She was born and raised on a farm east of Tolna on the south shore of Stump Lake. Ole and Mabel still farm and have raised Registered Hereford cattle for many years. Delores has one brother, Duaine, who farms with their father at Tolna. Delores has been active in church work and was organist at Tolna and Egeland, N. Dak., for twenty years. She was also accompanist for the U.N.D. summer choirs. She also played in Valley City State Teachers College Band and sang in the choir while working on a degree in music, physical education, and home economics. Delores was also active in Cub Scouts and was Den Mother for eight years at Egeland. Her hobbies are music, sewing, skiing, golfing, and oil painting. After their marriage, Charles and Delores attended U.N.D. at Grand Forks. Both had previously received their B. S. Degrees from Mayville State Teachers College, and Valley City State Teachers College, respectively. Charles received his Master's Degree in 1953 and began working on his Doctorate. Delores took further courses in music and physical education. Charles and Delores had taught in Tolna, Hampden, Crary, Egeland, Devils Lake, N. Dak., before coming to Adams. Their oldest son, Steven, graduated from Adams High School in 1975. He attended Concordia College at Moorhead, Minn., graduating in 1979 with a Degree in Communications and English. Steven is now a second year law student at U.N.D. Law School at Grand Forks. Steven's hobbies are baseball, softball, basketball, golfing, sailing, traveling, and his 1965 Mustang.
Charles Clute
Delores Clute
Steven was head of the Intermural Physical Education Program for two years and assistant for one year at Concordia College. He was also assistant student track coach one year. He sang in the Freshman Choir and also with the Concert Choir for one year. He has farmed each summer for years with his grandpa and uncle at Tolna.
Michael, the youngest son of Charles and Delores, graduated from Adams High School in 1977. Michael is attending State University at Fargo, N. Dak., where he is a senior with a major in psychology. Michael's hobbies were science and engineering. He won state awards at the State Science Fairs from National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Marine Technology Institute, and Junior Engineering Technical Society. He also received first in the Junior Science District Division and first in the Senior District Division. Michael's other hobbies are music, swimming, and baseball. He has a rock group which plays in a five-state area and has a recording business at Moorhead, Minn. He sang in the State University Men's Chorus for three years. In the summers, Michael works with his father in the painting business.
IONE KAY DREVECKY AND WILLIAM RILEY COLEMAN lone was born March 13, 1939, to Theodore and Emily (Hendrickson) Drevecky of Adams. She attended school in Latona and graduated from Adams High School in 1957. She worked for Northwestern Bell Telephone Company in Grafton as a telephone operator until 1959 when she moved to Glendale, Calif., and went to work for Pacific Telephone Company until 1964.
Association and is on the Board of Directors for the Crescenta Valley Homeowner's Association. The family has been active in the Boy Scouts of America since 1 974. THE JOHN H. DEAN FAMILY John Henry Dean was bom Dec. 19, 1916, at Pittsfield, III., the son of Harvey E. Dean and Ethel May (Creech) Dean. His grandparents were John Amos Dean and Sarah Lervina (Conkright) Dean, and John and Nettie Creech. John's parents and family moved from Illinois to Iowa in 1919 and then to McGregor, Minn., in 1920 where John grew up, graduating from high school in 1934. He learned Morse telegraphy and station work in the local railroad depot and began railroading with the Soo Line Railroad July 25, 1 937, at the age of 20 years as an extra telegraph operator, working various places in Wisconsin, Minnesota, and North Dakota. June 14, 1942, he married Miss Rose Louise Lundby and continued his railroad career taking time out from April, 1944, to January, 1946, for duty with the United States Marine Corps as a radio operator in the South Pacific Area in World War Two.
William Riley Coleman was born December 8, 1929, in Grants Pass, Ore., the son of Frank Lewis Coleman and Valeska Truax Coleman. The Coleman family moved to Portland in 1931 and then to California in 1936. He graduated from Glendale High School in 1947 and served in the U. S. Air Force from 1951-53 during the Korean War. He has been employed by the Pacific Telephone Company since 1955, where he presently is a network operations manager. William and lone were married July 15, 1960. They now live in LaCrescenta, Calif., moving there from Glendale in 1961. They have one son, William Riley Coleman, Jr., born January 4, 1965, who is currently a student at Crescenta Valley High School. lone is a member of the Crescenta Valley Republican Women's Club. William is a member of the National Rifle John Dean Family — left to right, back row, Janet (Mrs. Donald Novak), Roger, Donna; front row, John Dean, Sandra, Mrs. John (Rose) Dean. Returning to the railroad they moved to Adams, N. Dak., in March, 1946, where they lived 33 years in the apartment over the Soo depot until retirement June 2, 1979. John served as agent for the Adams depot for 26 years, then seven years as traveling agent for several towns in the area. He recalls lugging 45 to 65 tons of lignite each winter to four stoves for 16 years before they changed to oil. On retirement they moved to Edinburg, N. Dak.
William and lone Coleman and son, William, Jr.
John's wife, Rose, was born Oct. 1 2 , 1 9 1 8 , in Grand Forks, N. Dak. She attended Roosevelt and Belmont Grade Schools and South Junior High. Rose's father, Olaf Lauritz Lundby, was born in Meckinock, N. Dak., the son of Lauritz and Catherine Lundby who came to the United States from Norway. Her mother, Marie Margaretha (Watts) Lundby, was born in Rochester, Minn., and weighed two pounds at birth. She was the daughter of George Washington and Katie (Pringle) Watts. Rose's parents were deafmutes, losing their hearing at a very early age due to illness. Her father graduated from the deaf school in Devils Lake, was a carpenter by trade and a talented craftsman. Her mother attended the deaf school at Faribault, Minn., is now 86 years old, and resides at Hospitality Manor in Kenosha, Wis.
Rose and her four sisters, all with normal hearing, learned the deaf sign language from the cradle up. Rose's sister, Dorothy, now teaches the manual alphabet and sign language, a special challenge in her life today. Rose and other family members are all very proud of their parents and how they coped with deafness; they taught the children to have more compassion and awareness for people who are different and have special needs. Tracing back in the lives of Rose's family finds talent in the music and art fields. As a young girl Rose loved music and liked to sing; in later years and because the Lord has changed her life she now enjoys a ministry in song, playing piano, guitar, and accordion, by ear, which she claims is God given. The Deans are thankful for their four children and five grandchildren who are talented in music and art. The children are Roger, a commercial artist at Palm Desert, Calif.; Donna, a supervisor of customer relations for Advanced Micro Devices at Santa Clara, Calif.; Mrs. Donald (Janet) Novak, Veseleyville, N. Dak., presently studying vocal music at the University of North Dakota; and Sandra, Mountain View, Calif., employed by Lockheed Corp., San Jose, Calif., and continuing further studies in voice and piano. Janet's children are Jennifer and Bonita Novak, and Roger's are Mrs. Phil (Amanda) Garcia, Roger, Jr., and Leslie. Roger, Jr., promises to be an artist like his father, and is now pursuing studies along that line at the College of the Desert.
FRANK AND MINNIE DREVECKY FAMILY Frank Drevecky, son of John and Eleanora Drevecky, was born October 26, 1896, in Eden Township along the Forest River in a log house on the original homestead of his grandparents, the Mike Blaskys. He received his early schooling in Vemon Township and then graduated from the Walsh County Agricultural School in Park River in 1915. As a young man he earned part of his livelihood by shearing sheep for farmers in the Fordville, Inkster, and Larimore areas. Frank and his brother, Charley, then rented the Joe Helt farm, west of Lankin, where they began their farming careers.
Frank Drevecky on his 80th birthday. On March 4, 1920, Frank was united in marriage to Minnie Berg, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Halvor Berg of Vesta Township. Soon after their marriage, they farmed the land owned by Mrs. Halvorson in Norton Township. It was here their first child, Vernon, was born on November 2, 1921. In the fall of 1926 Frank and Minnie decided to move from Norton Township to a farm owned by O. H. Lundquist, a mile and one-half west of Adams. On June 2 1 , 1 9 2 7 , their daughter, Florence, was born. It was in the early 1930's when Frank and Minnie began to sell milk to residents of Adams. In these early days the milk was delivered from door to door by a team of horses and sleigh during the winter months and by car only when the weather was nice. They continued selling milk in Adams for over 15 years. Vernon and Florence attended school in Adams and on November 18, 1945, Vernon was married to Orine Rustan. They reside in Adams and are engaged in farming. They have one daughter, Bonnie, married to Rick Elofson of Grand Forks. Frank has one great grandchild, Robin Beth, daughter of Rick and Bonnie Elofson. Florence was married to Gerald Linstad on April 27, 1963. They have one son, David, who is a student in Adams High School. After living for 27 years on the Lundquist farm west of Adams, Frank and Minnie moved into Adams in November, 1953; however Frank was still actively engaged in farming for about twenty more years. Frank's wife, Minnie, passed away July 26, 1965, and Frank lives in their same home in Adams.
GLENN ALLEN DREVECKY Glenn A. Drevecky, son of Theodore and Emily Drevecky, was born June 19, 1940, at Adams, N. Dak. At the age of 21 he was drafted into the Army for two years. After his discharge he returned to carpentry work in Adams with Elmo Setness. In 1966 he moved to Bellevue, Wash., and got a job with
Frank Drevecky Family: left to right, Frank, Florence (Drevecky) Linstad, Vernon and Mrs. Frank (Minnie) Drevecky.
Glen and Cheryl Drevecky
it was sold out. Her father had worked there for several years. She cooked for nine falls in cook cars which fed the thresher crews. The days were long, sometimes starting at 3:30 a.m. if you were on a steam rig. She was thirteen years old the first time she and her mother worked for the Skavhaugs who owned a big steam rig. There were over thirty men for five meals a day. Of course that included grain haulers, the "water monkey," and all the different men who made the big outfit run. They were out there four falls. She worked for Hans Anderson's, Gustofson's and Sukstorfs. She also cooked and baked in the different Adams cafes. Potato picking, too, was one of their money-making jobs, with wages starting as low as three cents a bushel. She assisted her husband in the theater business and later in the laundromat.
Left to right — Laura, Keith and LeAnna Drevecky. the Boeing Co., in Seattle where he is still employed. In 1972 he met and married Cheryl Johnson Lawrence (married Oct. 20, 1972) and adopted her son, Keith Owen Lawrence, aged nine years. (Adoption finalized July, 1973). Keith was born in Canoga Park, Calif., on May 2 1 , 1 9 6 3 , and now is a senior at Interlake High School. They have two daughters: Le Anna Christine, born June 16, 1973, who is now in the second grade at Phantom Lake Elementary School, and Laura Renee, bom Sept. 3, 1976, who is in preschool at Neighborhood Assembly of God Church, which is also the church they attend. His wife, Cheryl, daughter of Owen L. and Patricia A. Johnson, was born in Astoria, Ore., July 23, 1944. Glenn and his family are still residing in Bellevue, Wash.
OTTO AND ALICE DVORAK Alice Leonora Olson Dvorak was the fourth child of Nels and Amelia Olson, born Sept. 20, 1912, in Adams, N. Dak., in a family of ten children. There were four boys and six girls. Four of the girls live in Chico, Calif. — Gladys, Edna, Eunice and Alice. Melva lives in Naperville, III., and Lavonne, in Edmonds, Wash. One boy, Niel, lives in the Bay area of Washington. Silas and Harold were killed in action in World War II and Raymond died in 1973. All served overseas in World War II. Their father died in 1936 and their mother, in 1975.
For seven years she cooked for the Adams School hot lunch program. Doris Erickson and she were the first two cooks to get the lunch started. There were no facilities the first year, such as hot water, sewer, etc. The water for all our cooking needs and dishes was heated on old kerosene stoves. They used two copper boilers and carried the hot water across the hall to the kitchen. Old ice cream coolers were used to keep the meat that was furnished in part by the government. Roy's Locker took care of much of the frozen goods. There was one refrigerator. But from that nucleus the hot lunch program progressed to a very fine program. Otto Albert Dvorak was born March 3, 1904, at what is now known as the Adams town site, the sixth child of Frank and Jessie Dvorak. Theirs was a family of seven children — William, Carl, and Emil served in World War II. (Emil died in the Navy in 1918); Carl in 1919; William in 1944; Frank in 1 9 7 1 ; and Arthur in 1972. The parents died in 1 948. A sister, Helen, lives in Chicago. He grew to manhood on the family's farm which was located in Adams Township. The children attended Stone Valley School. Helen went on to further her education. Otto was married to Alice Olson on November 5, 1933, at the Lutheran parsonage in Adams. Besides farming, in 1927 he went to work on a construction
Alice was baptized and confirmed in the Mountain Lutheran Church. Mr. and Mrs. Knute Lerhol were her sponsors. She is a member of Faith Lutheran Church in Chico, the ALCW and Dorcas Circle, transferring from Mountain in 1978. While in Adams she belonged to the M.L.C.W. and the Rebecca Circle and held offices in both. Alice has been a member of the Adams American Legion Auxiliary since 1946, and has served in all capacities from president down thru sergeant at arms. She was historian for 10 years. She is and always will be proud of having served in that organization.
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She served two years as president of the Adams P.T.A. and on many of the committees whose main goal was to raise money to better the school which included the library and the hot lunch programs. She attended school in Adams thru the grades and up to her sophomore year. She finished high school in Park River at the Walsh County Agricultural School. She married Otto Dvorak November 5, 1933. Before her marriage and for many years afterwards she worked at various jobs, doing house work, and clerking in the Mercantile at the time
Otto and Alice Dvorak
crew which was building lines in Adams and surrounding towns. The Otter Tail Power Company were getting ready to supply the towns with electricity. In the years following he worked at many things such as road construction, hauling gravel, potatoes and beets, and always in the fall working with the grain harvest. In 1933 he managed the Osborne-McMillan Elevator at Sardis, N. Dak. The following spring it closed because of the drouth. The Depression was now becoming very bad with drouth which resulted in no crops and very little work. He went to work as second man at the Adams Farmers Elevator and in 1942 managed the Osborne-McMillan Elevator in Adams. In 1943 he went to work for the Otter Tail Power Company and worked as local superintendent until he retired in 1 969. During all these years from 1936 and on, he and his wife operated the Adams Theater for Guy Ridgway who had leased the Legion and made it into a theater. After World War II the Legion did an extensive remodeling job on the theater, and Otto operated the machines for them. In 1950 the couple purchased the theater and owned and operated it until 1960. With the advance of television the movie business suffered and was not a profitable business to be in. They remodeled the building and put in the laundromat which they operated until 1975. In the summer of 1975 they sold their property in Adams and moved to Chico, Calif., and now reside in Almond Grove Park where he is semi-retired. At this writing he is still doing electrical work and many other jobs in the park and other mobile parks as well. Pool is one of his special hobbies and he also does some gardening. The park provides them with a nice plot where they can plant and enjoy watching vegetables grow. Alice and Otto have a daughter, Karin, who works in commercial insurance as rater in Chico. Two granddaughters live in Salt Lake City. Lynne works in the credit department for Sears; Lee is married and has two children, Lisa and Jill. Our grandson, Keith, lives in Chico and is working for High Rollers, a roller skating firm. Holly who is five, lives in Chico and her grandparents babysit for her. She at present is going to kindergarten. He is a member of Faith Lutheran Church in Chico, having transferred from Adams Mountain Lutheran Church in 1978.
Gilman Elton Family children, Daryl, Cindy, and Lori. Mrs. Daniel (Marjorie) Kouba of Lankin, who has three children — Lynn, Kristie, and Cory. Gilman served in World War I, in France. He farmed in Latona Township until he moved to Adams in 1942. He then worked for the Highway and County Departments until his retirement.
HENRY AND ANNE ELTON Anne Christine Hilde, daughter of Lars K. and Dorthe Monson Hilde, was born Jan. 3 1 , 1888, in Adams Township. She had seven sisters and three brothers, and was the oldest girl in the family. She attended the Omdalen rural school. Anne worked at Olson's Mercantile Store, the Beanery, and also at the first Bookwalter Hotel, which was later destroyed by fire, then rebuilt in another location, (fire took the second hotel in 1940). While Anne worked in this first Bookwalter Hotel, her coworker was Emma Karas, later known as Emma Shirek. In her declining years, when Anne entered the Rena Hansen Home in Park River, as one of the residents, who should be her roommate but her former helpmate, Emma Karas Shirek. Henry Elton, son of Ole O. and Ingrid Qually Elton, was born Sept. 30, 1889, in Vesta Township. He had six brothers and five sisters. Around 1900 or so, the family moved to Shepherd Township and farmed. Henry attended a rural school nearby. When Henry finished grade school, he worked at various farms in the Adams area and Drayton area. The latter place was
Mr. and Mrs. Otto Dvorak have a daughter, Karin and four grandchildren and two great grandchildren. They moved to Chico, Calif., in 1976 and live in Almond Grove Mobile Park where they are semi-retired.
GILMAN AND ALMA ELTON FAMILY Gilman Elton was born Feb. 14, 1896, in Vesta Township to Ole and Ingrid (Qually) Elton. He was baptized at St. Peter Lutheran Church in Vesta Township. Later he moved with his parents to Shephard Township, where he attended school, and was confirmed at the Vang Lutheran Church, rural Fairdale. He married Alma Berg on Nov. 2, 1921, at Adams. She was born May 27, 1898, to Halvor and Marie Berg, and was baptized and confirmed at the Hoff Lutheran Church, rural Adams. To this union four daughters were born: Mrs. Ellsworth (Gladys) Udby of Lankin — they have two children: Mrs. Kenneth (Gale) Beneda, and Wayne Udby. Mrs. Frank (Norma) Mitzel of Devils Lake, who has four children — Rodney Olson, Roger Olson, Mrs. Byron (Julie) Hasset, and Nancy Mitzel. Mrs. LeRoy (Betty) Stensland of Edmore — LeRoy and Betty have three
Henry Elton Family
his ideal location as he would often say that he should have settled in that Drayton area as there were no rocks to contend with there. Anne Hilde and Henry Elton were married Aug. 12, 1916, in the Mountain Lutheran Church, Adams. Their attendants were Louise Hilde, Minnie Elton Berg, Gilman Elton, and Melvin Hilde. After the wedding, a large meal was served at the bride's home, the farm now owned and occupied by Dennis Larson. Anne and Henry lived on the Morrisson-McKay farm, southwest of Adams, just east of the correction line on Highway 35, for a few years. Then they moved to a farm northeast of Adams, a place that had been homesteaded by her father, so they were the second generation to live on this farm. Years later, their daughter, Dorothy, and her husband, Knute, took over the place, making it the third generation. During their lifetime, both Anne and Henry worked hard to make a living; especially the Depression years with all the dust storms. Anne was a great helper; she shocked grain, shoveled grain in grain bins, milked cows, besides helping with other farm work. She would have a large garden and would willingly share her produce with friends and neighbors. Anne was a good cook as well as an excellent seamstress. Many of the garments which she sewed were made from used but good clothing. Besides his own farm work, Henry would help his neighbors, especially during the threshing season. He was usually with the Monson Threshing Outfit. Anne and Henry had one daughter, Dorothy Irene. She attended a country school and graduated from the Adams High School in 1941. She married Knute Bjerke July 2, 1945. The winter of 1942, Anne, Henry, and daughter Dorothy lived in Adams, occupying the Anderson house. Henry helped Pete Hanson at the Implement Shop. Henry bought his first John Deere combine in 1945, and used it that fall. The following winter, March 27, 1946, he passed away. Anne continued to make her home with Dorothy and Knute. Later she moved to the Rena Hansen Home, Park River. She was very happy there but when the doors were closed, Anne moved to the Good Samaritan Home in Park River. She was the second resident to move into this new building. Here she remained until her death, May 30, 1980, at the age of ninty-two years. Both Henry and Anne are buried in the West Adams Cemetery.
The B. A. Erickson Family: left to right, standing, Lillian, Ernest, Irene; seated, Bennett, Inga, Chester. Taken in 1950. south of Adams, the Carl Hilde farm. There Ernest and Lillian were born. In 1935, they quit farming and moved into Adams, living there one year. In 1936, Bennett purchased a farm northeast of Lankin, where they farmed for ten years. He sold that farm and bought a farm, southeast of Adams, from Haaken Bellerud. There they farmed until moving into Adams in the fall of 1955. They purchased a home that their son, Ernest, had owned. The place is now the residence of Stella Chally. Bennett continued farming until his death. Bennett and Inga raised four children. Their first child, Irene, was born June 26, 1913, in Latona Township. On June 29, 1932, she married Harold Gullikson, son of Christian and Hannah Halberg Swanson Gullikson. He was born Oct. 8, 1906. Irene and Harold have three children — Joyce (Mrs. Darrol Peterson), born Dec. 6, 1932, at Adams; Roger born Aug. 30, 1935, at Adams; and Curtis, born Feb. 24, 1951, at Fargo. Harold and Irene have nine grandchildren and five great grandchildren. They all live in the Christine, N. Dak., area. Chester was born Sept. 13, 1916, in Adams Township. On June 26, 1941, he married Adeline Mortenson. She was born Dec. 19, 1919, at Edinburg, N. Dak. They moved to Spokane, Wash. Chester is a veteran of World War II. Chester and Adeline have five children — Mrs. Michael Weinstein (Dorothy), born Aug. 28, 1946; Richard, born Feb. 9, 1943; Clifford, born Oct. 18, 1950; Gordon, born May 6, 1953; and Bruce, born Aug. 2, 1955. Chester and Adeline have eleven grandchildren. They all live in the Spokane area.
Bennett Albin Erickson, son of Charles and Kari Nilson Erickson, was born Oct. 2 1 , 1 8 8 9 , at Duluth, Minn. At an early age, he came to North Dakota with his parents, settling on a farm southwest of Adams, near the Vang Lutheran Church. Bennett had three sisters and two brothers, Elvie, Annie, Violet, Lloyd, and Arthur. For several years, Bennett along with his dad and brothers, ran a threshing machine company, threshing for farmers in the area.
Ernest was born Sept. 29, 1921, in Adams Township. On Oct. 19, 1947, he married Adeline Samuelson, daughter of Adolph and Jean Samuelson. She was born May 27, 1926. They had two children, Daniel, bom Jan. 2 1 , 1948; and Mrs. Kent Pearson (Dawn), born April 20, 1952. Tragedy struck the family on Oct. 22, 1970. Ernest, employed by the Simonson Lumber Company in Grafton, was returning home after delivering a load of material, lost control of his truck, and was instantly killed. After a lingering illness, Adeline passed away April 12, 1979. Ernest and Adeline are buried at the Vang Lutheran Cemetery.
On Dec. 10, 1912, Bennett married Inga Elton, daughter of Ole O. and Ingrid Qually Elton. She was born April 10, 1894. Her parents' first homestead was in Vesta Township. They moved to Shepherd Township around 1900 and homesteaded there. Her parents were active in the church and Inga was confirmed at the Vang Church. Bennett and Inga first farmed on the old Halberg homestead, Section 4, Latona Township, where Irene was born. Then they moved to the Root place in Adams Township, where Chester was born. Later they moved to a farm
Lillian was born March 3 1 , 1926, in Adams Township. She went to school for three years at Stone Valley; attended Adams Public School during her fourth grade; entered fifth grade at Lankin School District No. 39; and graduated from high school there in 1944. After graduation, she worked at the Citizens State Bank in Lankin, for a time. On Oct. 19, 1946, Lillian married Ludvig Gullikson. He was born June 13, 1916. They had three children — Mrs. Gary Hagen (Barbara), born June 2, 1947, at Grafton (Gary and Barbara live in Casper, Wyo.); Mrs. Richard
B. A. AND INGA ERICKSON FAMILY
Gehrke (Nancy), born Feb. 14, 1951, at Grafton, who live at Hebron, N. Dak.; Loren, born June 18, 1955, at Grafton, who lives in Adams. Lillian's husband, Ludvig, passed away in 1966. She married Albert Vigen on July 23, 1971. They live in Adams.
12, 1957, and John Harry, born Sept. 24, 1965. Jody is a graduate of U.N.D. and finished teaching half a term at Climax, Minn. He is presently employed by Walsh County and lives at home. Jody enjoys hunting.
Bennett and Inga Erickson had thirteen grandchildren in all. During the year of 1961, Inga became ill and she passed away on July 3, 1961. On March 1, 1965, Bennett had a heart attack and died. Both Bennett and Inga are buried at the Vang Lutheran Cemetery.
Lori will graduate in the spring of 1981 from U.N.D. with degrees in Business Administration and Library Science. She worked at the U.N.D. Library in the summer and continues to work a day a week. She also works at MacDonalds. Lori enjoys hand work, making afghans, wall hangings, etc. She has won sweepstakes at the Minot Fair with her handiwork. Her mother also enjoy that hobby.
GLENN AND DORIS (GEARY) ERICKSON
John is a sophomore in the Adams High School and his 1974 blue Ford, which he bought with his own money, is his pride and joy. He worked all summer for the city, doing odd jobs, and sanded the basement floors in the city auditorium.
Glenn Erickson was born May 19, 1916, to Carl and Tilda Erickson. Two of his brothers are deceased. Leonard passed away in a pickup-truck collision at Hazen, N. Dak., and Manford died May 5, 1963, at Mohall, N. Dak. Manford is buried in the city cemetery. His widow is in charge of Oppen's family Service in Minot. Glenn's father, Charley, passed away in 1948 and his mother Tilda, in 1978. The living brothers and sisters are Charlotte (Mrs. Vivian Levang), Adams; Mrs. Anna Rian, Hibbing Minn.; Violet (Mrs. Dallas Calvert), Virginia; Olai, Edwin, and Delayne (Mrs. Douglas King), all of Spokane, Wash. Doris Geary Erickson was born March 15, 1924, at Sioux Falls, S. Dak., to Harry Geary and Ebba Boman. She lived in Grand Forks, Minto, and Hamilton before coming to Adams in 1936 with her family. Doris has two brothers, Don and William, and one sister, Patricia Faye. Glenn and Doris were married Feb. 4, 1949, and have three children — Jody Carl born Aug. 8, 1956; Lori Kay, born Dec.
Glenn Erickson Family, left to right, Glenn, Lori, Jody, and Doris (holding John).
The Erickson men are avid sports fans on television or attending games. Glenn and Doris own Glenn's Bar on Main Street in Adams.
LLOYD AND TILLIE ERICKSON Mr. and Mrs. Lloyd G. Erickson, nee Tillie Gehrke, resided in Adams, N. Dak. Lloyd retired from farming and Tillie retired after serving the Adams community as postmistress for 27 years. Active in community affairs, Tillie was a member of the Mountain Lutheran Church ALCW and taught Bible School; for many years she was on the flower committee and would pick fresh flowers from her garden, or get them from a friend's garden, to place in the church each Sunday morning. She also was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary, the Royal Neighbors, and the Happy Co-Workers Homemakers Club. Lloyd was very active in helping to remodel the building for the Senior Citizens
Lloyd and Mathilda Erickson Center. He spent countless hours helping with carpenter work whenever there was something to be done. Both were members of the club. Tillie was in ill health for about four years, and spent 13 months as a resident of the Lake Region Nursing Home in Devils Lake, N. Dak., prior to her death on Aug. 2, 1980. Lloyd continues to reside in Adams.
Mrs. Charley Erickson, an Adams Pioneer.
Lyle Johnson, son of Tillie Erickson, and the late Lloyd Johnson, was born August 18, 1930. He graduated from Adams High School and attended Aaker's Business college in Grand Forks. He now resides in Grafton, N. Dak., where he is vicepresident of the First National Bank. Lyle is married to the former Janyce Bjorg, daughter of Syvert and Greta Bjorg. They were married June 4, 1955. Janyce teaches in the Grafton School system. Both Lyle and Janyce are active in church and
community affairs. Four children were born to the Johnsons. Gregory, born Nov. 28, 1957, is a student at the North Dakota State University. Jana Lynn was born Jan. 1 1 , 1 9 6 0 , and passed away at the age of 18 years from a rare heart ailment on April 3, 1978. Michelle was born January 3 1 , 1962 and is a student at the University of North Dakota. David was born October 24, 1964 and is a student at Grafton Central High School. Delores (Dorrie) Johnson, born Aug. 7, 1932, graduated from Adams High School and attended Interstate Business College in Fargo. She married Clinton Knutson, son of Clarence and Minnie Knutson, on Sept. 5, 1954. The Knutsons reside in Devils Lake, where Clinton is employed as an automobile salesman and Dorrie is employed as parish secretary at the St. Olaf Lutheran Church. Charles and Pamela Fuhrmann
Judd Fuhrmann Clinton Knutson Family Three children were born to the Knutsons. Laurel, born Sept. 16, 1956, is a graduate of the University of North Dakota and teaches the physically handicapped children at the Grand Forks Air Base. Tammy, born Oct. 3, 1958, is a graduate of U.N.D. and is married to William Campbell, son of Paul and Marietta Campbell. The Campbells farm in the Grafton area, and Tammy teaches kindergarten in the Grafton School system. Mark was born May 24, 1966, and is a student at the Devils Lake Central High School.
THE CHARLES E. AND PAMELA FUHRMANN FAMILY Charles Fuhrmann was born in Grafton, N. Dak., on Aug. 7, 1944, to Ervin J. and Florence Fuhrmann. His father was killed in action in 1945. Florence married Harvey Lykken, who reared him as a son. His grandmother Fuhrmann and late grandfather lived at Brainerd, Minn. Charles attended Adams public schools and graduated in 1962. In 1962 he married Pamela Kaye Johnson, a classmate. Pamela Kaye was born at the Roosevelt Hospital, Bremerton, Wash., Sept. 25, 1944, to James and Otella Johnson. After the war, the Johnsons moved back to Adams, in 1947, and here she received her elementary and high school education along with a younger sister Trudy and brother James. She was active in sports, being a cheerleader for six years, prominent in music, and appeared on a TV Teen Quiz program. In the fall of 1962 Charles enrolled at Wahpeton State School of Science in pre-engineering. On November 20, 1962, a son, Jeffrey Charles, was born at Breckenridge, Minn.
Jennifer Fuhrmann
Jeffrey Fuhrmann
Pamela enrolled in the Business School at the State School of Science in 1963. In 1964, both Charles and Pam graduated from the State School of Science as honor students. The family moved their trailer home to Grand Forks, where Charles enrolled at the University of North Dakota in chemical engineering. Pamela obtained a position at the University News Bureau in order to provide the means for the family's living while Charles attended school. In June, 1966, Charles graduated from the University with a B.S. Degree in chemical engineering. The trailer was sold, and the family moved to Minneapolis where Charles took a position with General Mills, Inc., asa food engineer. On Sept. 22, 1966, a daughter, Jennifer Kaye, was born at Methodist Hospital in Minneapolis. The young family now numbered four. The years from 1968 thru 1974 moved rapidly, with Charles continuing his product development work at General Mills, Pam working at a number of secretarial positions to augment the family income, Jeff involved in various young boy activities, such as Cub Scouts, Little League, hockey, fighting and particulaly fishing. On Jan. 7, 1974, another family member was born. Judd Aaron Fuhrmann was born at Methodist Hospital. Charles took a position with the Pillsbury Company in October of 1977. This position represented a major career step for him, since it involved more management than research. That same May, Charles received a Master's Degree in business administration from Mankato State University through a night school program. In 1978 the family moved into a new home in Chanhassen, Minn. This home was located on the fringes of the Metropolitan area, and in many ways, reminded Charles and Pam of the area
around Adams where they had both grown up. During this period of time all of the Fuhrmann children were growing in their own ways. Jeff was making his way through high school and getting his first taste of working at a job. Jeni was attending Chaska Middle School and babysitting. Judd, known to the family as Binky, was following Jeff's footsteps in sports and outdoor activities. In 1980, Pam started a nursing program at Normandale Community College. They are members of the Christ Lutheran Church at Chanhassen.
ERVIN AND FLORENCE FUHRMANN LYKKEN Florence E., daughter of Carl (Charley) and Wilhelmine (Minnie) Dencker Gehrke, was born April 6, 1918, in Adams Township. She was the youngest in a family of eight children, and all have lived in the Adams community even after marriage. Florence attended the Fairview rural school, located about a mile from their home. She had perfect attendance for seven of the eight years that she went to this school. Her first and second grade teacher was Elda Overland, who later became her sister-inlaw, wife of Albert Gehrke. Florence attended high school in Adams. The first year, she stayed with Adolph and Emma Rosendahl, working for her board and room; besides, her parents furnished butter, cream and eggs
Florence, her two sisters, Louise, and Amelia, along with Amelia's husband, Ingvald Boman, were among the survivors, after sitting in a 1934 Chevrolet coupe for fourteen hours. A more detailed story can be found in the history of Ingvald and Amelia Boman. In January, 1944, Florence married Ervin Fuhrmann, born November 7, 1919, at Brainerd, Minn. He came to the Adams area in 1943, during the harvest season. In July, 1944, he was called into the Army and was stationed at Camp Robinson, Little Rock, Ark. Their son, Charles Elwyn, was born Aug. 7, 1944. Ervin had a furlough the following January, the only time he saw his son. He left Feb. 8, 1945, for overseas duty in the South Pacific. He was killed in the line of duty by a bursting mortor shell on May 5, 1945, in northern Luzon in the Philippines. His body was returned to United States in October, 1948, and is buried in the West Adams Cemetery. In October, 1945, Florence began working in the Adams post office as clerk. Her mother took care of Charles while she was at work. They moved a house into town; dug a basement; and did some remodeling and this was her home in Adams. On December 13, 1953, Florence married Harvey Lykken. The following year they built onto the house, making extra bedrooms upstairs. These rooms were rented out to laboring men who worked in Adams during the time the municipal water and sewer system was added to the city and also during the influx of missile workers. Harvey and Florence still live in this house, having done some remodeling in 1979. Florence continued as clerk in the post office until in 1971, when the postmaster, Tillie Erickson, her sister, retired. Then Florence worked as Officer in Charge until April 29, 1973, when she was appointed Postmaster. She retired Dec. 3 1 , 1 9 7 5 , after over thirty years of service. Florence is an active member of several church and community organizations. She joined the Happy Co-workers Homemakers Club in 1935; the T and C Sewing Club in 1945; is a member of the American Legion Auxiliary; the Royal Neighbor Lodge; and Community Club. She is a member of the Mountain Lutheran Church, Adams; ALCW, and circle. She was confirmed May 15, 1932. She is famous for her photography; she takes pictures for the Community Betterment Program; for local weddings and other gatherings such as anniversaries and birthdays; takes pictures to record events at all celebrations in Adams. This is her greatest hobby but she enjoys all types of craft and crochet work. Their son, Charles, married Pamela Johnson, daughter of James and Otella Johnson, in June, 1962. They have three children — Jeffrey, born Nov. 20, 1962; Jennifer, born Sept. 22, 1966; and Judd Aaron, born Jan. 7, 1974.
Ervin and Florence Fuhrmann for her keep. The next three years, she stayed with Maggie Wade, mother of Frank, Lloyd, and Earle Wade. Then, too, she worked for her room and board, and her parents furnished farm products. Florence graduated with the class of 1935; five of the twelve members are now deceased. Florence had planned on a nursing career, but being only seventeen at the time of graduation, she had to stay home a year to reach the required age of eighteen. She never did get to nursing school but her duties as a nurse have been fulfilled many times, when caring for the family members as their health fails them. During the disastrous snow storm of March 15, 1941,
HARRY AND EBBA (BOMAN) GEARY Harry was the oldest son of William and Ella Geary, and Ebba was the daughter of John and Kristina Boman, early settlers in the Adams area. Harry received his elementary education in Adams, and Ebba, at the Stone Valley School. Harry became a confirmed member of the Adams Mountain Lutheran Church in 1919 and Ebba was confirmed in the Gustavus Adolphus Church in 1 919. Harry Geary and Ebba Boman were married April 30, 1923, in Sioux Falls, S. Dak., where Harry worked for the telephone company. Before their marriage Ebba was employed in the Adams post office. Their daughter Doris was born March 15,
Estate. This house was built when Adams was started and owned by a widow, Mrs. Schram, who had a millinery shop upstairs. In 1936 they purchased the house and Harry also purchased the Steen Cafe. Don was born July 6, 1937, and William Jon was born June 12, 1939. In the fall of 1939 their cafe, a hardware store, owned by Pete and May Hanson, and Bookwalter's Hotel all burned to the ground. The Gearys then rented a building next to the Farmers Union and had a cafe and bar in it. It was rented to Christ and Ann Ellingson in 1942 and the Gearys went to Bremerton, Wash., for a year. They came back in 1943 and purchased the Kozy Korner Bar from Charlie Keillor. It had a cafe also and they kept it in operation until 1945. In 1946, May 15, Patricia Faye was born. Harry purchased the bar owned by Robert Thorvilson in 1953. It was remodeled into a modern cafe. Doris managed it until it was sold to Joe and Esther Bjerke in 1958. Harry passed away March 19, 1959, and that year the bar was sold to Glenn and Doris Erickson, who are the present owners. After Harry's death Ebba worked at the Park River Bible Camp that summer and started work at the Chuck Wagon Cafe and remained there for 14 years. Ebba recalls some fond memories; that of staying overnight at the Ann Ellingson home, while attending Stone Valley School; also walking with her dad. as he hoed the potatoes; his teaching her the table prayer in Swedish; going out to the barn to see the new colt born in the night; and Sunday mornings sitting in the Swedish church, seeing the sun shining through the lovely colored windows; and also receiving a wooden rocker, at age three, from Mr. Ellingson on her birthday. He was a good friend of her father. This rocker is in the Glenn Erickson home, a cherished gift.
Harry and Ebba Geary with daughter, Doris (Geary) Erickson. 1924, in Sioux Falls, S. Dak. During the summer they both worked on a farm in Brookings, S. Dak., for a man named Joe Lutchen. He had a herd of 200 white-faced cattle and 100 hogs — an interesting place to be. The couple moved back to Adams the same fall and Harry worked at the Farmers Elevator and later at the Adams Creamery. In 1928 Harry started work for the state Highway Department. His job was to maintain Highway 17 east and west of Adams. He had a team of horses and a blade to keep the gravel road smooth. The wages were fifty cents an hour and with that they were able to buy a new 1929 Ford which was their pride and joy.
GERALD DON GEARY Gerald Don Geary was born July 6, 1937, and received his elementary and high school education at Adams, N. Dak. He was valedictorian of his graduating class. He earned a degree from the University of North Dakota and a Master's Degree from the University of Wisconsin. He worked four summers while in college with the Forest Service in California and Oregon.
In 1929 Harry was transferred to Grand Forks to take care of Highway 81 north of Grand Forks. Then he had a large machine. In the spring of 1929 they moved to Minto and then to Hamilton in 1931. There was no house to rent so Bert Ovnand built them a trailer for $90. This they lived in for two years.
March 12, 1961, he married Cozette Stretch from Harrisburg, Ore. She grew up on a farm south of Harrisburg. Cozette is a licensed beautician. They have two daughters, Leah Kathleen, born August 18, 1963, and Heather Colleen, fiom December 19, 1966.
In 1933 they moved back to Adams, as Ebba's mother had passed away, and they went to the Boman home where Ebba kept house for her father and three brothers. In 1935 they moved into Adams and rented a five-bedroom house from the Krause
Harry Geary Family: left to right, back, William, Don; front, Patricia, Ebba, Doris.
Don Geary, U.S. Air Force. 86
William Geary, U.S. Navy.
Don has been employed by the Bureau of Land Management since 1965 and has been stationed at Boise, Idaho; Santa Fe, N. M.; Denver, Colo.; and Dickinson, N. Dak., and is presently stationed at Portland, Ore. He also served for a number of years in the United States Air Force at Lackland, Texas, and Rapid City, S. Dak.
WILLIAM JON GEARY William Jon was born June 12, 1938. He graduated from the Adams High School in 1957 as co-valedictorian of his class, and was active in sports. He was confirmed in the Mountain Lutheran Church at Adams. In 1961 he graduated from the University of North Dakota with a degree in business administration. He performed two years with the ROTC drill team as drill captain. After completing Aviation Officers Candidate School, he was commissioned an ensign in the Navy. He was a commissioned officer during the Vietnam War where he flew 130 missions. He was shot down once and landed on a Marine Air strip. He was awarded the Navy Commendation Medal and twelve air medals and promoted to Lieutenant Commander in 1969, which rank he still holds after being in the service for eighteen years. On July 6, 1969, he married the former Faye Ruch of Thorpe, Mich. She is a graduate of North Florida with a major in art and history and is employed by the Ahmanan Music Center as coordinating assistant in Los Angeles, Calif. He has two stepdaughters, Suzanne and Ginger. They lost an infant daughter March 12, 1971, and she is buried in the family plot at Gustavus Adolphus Cemetery, west of Adams.
the popcorn machine downtown on Saturday evenings. Patricia and Gerald McCormack of Grand Forks were married in February, 1979, at Rapid City, S. Dak. Patricia is presently employed as a Contract Administrator at Lowery Air Force Base, Denver, Colo. Previously she was employed at various bases, including Wurtmoth AFB, Michigan; Madison, Wise, and Grand Forks Air Force Base, Grand Forks. Patricia and Gerald have purchased an old home that was built in 1891 and are restoring it. They enjoy remodeling and collecting antiques.
CLIFFORD 0 . GROVE Clifford Olie Grove, son of the late Anna and Elmer Grove, was born Nov. 4, 1910, in Adams Township, at the home of his parents which was his grandfather's homestead place. If was also the location of the first Adams post office. He received his education in a nearby rural school, known as the Benas Memorial School. This schoolhouse was new the year he started school, 1916, with Miss Nellie Wick as teacher. It was built with money bequeathed to the School District by David Benas, who had served as treasurer for many years. This school was in operation until the spring of 1960, when the districts in the surrounding area reorganized and became part of District No. 128, the Adams Consolidated School. Clifford was a great help to his parents on the farm, helping his mother with the housework as well as working with his father in the field and the daily farm chores. When he became older, a neighbor carpenter, Jens Flaten, asked to have Clifford along to help him with carpenter work, erecting several buildings in the
Bill's hobbies center around sports. He is a long-distance runner and has participated in many competitions. In March, 1980, he won first place in a 25-mile run at Pt. Mugu in the forty-year-old category. Lt. Commander William Geary is currently serving as Administrative Officer at the Naval Air Reserve Unit, Pt. Mugu,
Calif. PATRICIA GEARY McCORMACK Patricia Faye Geary was born May 15, 1946. She graduated from the Adams High School as valedictorian of her class in 1964, and from Aaker's Business College the following year. She was confirmed June 4, 1961, in the Mountain Lutheran Church at Adams. Her job as a youngster was to be in charge of Beatha and Clifford Grove community. He became interested in this work and later worked under Theo Dahl, a Park River contractor. We find that this type of work went with Clifford wherever he went. He was inducted into the Armed Forces in 1942, serving with the 25th Photo Reconnaissance Unit. His role in service was that of a specialized carpenter. He spent three and a half yeajs in the Air Force, with two of those years in the South Pacific. On June 14, 1941, Clifford was united in marriage to Beatha Ellen Nelson, daughter of the late Amanda and Knute Nelson. Her father, Knute, was one of the homesteaders in Perth Township.
Gerald McCormack home, Denver, Col.
Beatha received her elementary education in a nearby country school; graduated from the Michigan High School in 1929, and Mayville State Teachers College in 1934. She taught
in rural schools for eleven years and knows of the many hardships a country school teacher encounters during the cold winter months in North Dakota. Banking the stove each evening was a worry for her. Many were the nights that she dreamed the schoolhouse was on fire. On cold wintry mornings, she would be found putting paper and wood into the heater to rekindle the fire, and gradually adding coal; ashes had to be carried out; the flag hung up; and preparations made for the classes for the day. At times, the school house wouldn't be comfortable until ten or eleven o'clock. There were many delightful things about teaching in a country school, too. Beatha always felt that they outweightd the bad things many times. She thoroughly enjoyed teaching and was reluctant to give up that profession for housekeeping. During the time Clifford was in service, she was employed in the Voucher Section of the Supply Depot, Peterson Field, Colorado Springs, Colo. There she remained until he received his discharge, Nov. 11,1 945. Clifford and Beatha purchased the Krause farm in 1942 but it wasn't until the fall of 1945, that they moved on the place. Being a carpenter, it seemed quite natural that he should construct new buildings on the farm. This he did over a period of years. Now, the only original building on the farm is a granary. Clifford took great pride in evergreen trees and planted several in the shelter belts on the farm. He donated some over forty little evergreen trees to the West Cemetery, a plot of land that was at one time donated by his grandfather, Erick Grove, for a burial ground. Because of the shelter belts on the farm and other conservation practices, Clifford and Beatha were awarded the Walsh County Soil Conservation Award in 1975. They were presented a framed enlarged aerial photo of their farm, which they cherish. Being a carpenter, Clifford was kept busy building and doing repair work for others besides doing his own farm work. In 1965, he converted an old blacksmith shop, located in Adams, into an eating place known as the Adams Drive Inn. Two women rented the place for two months when they gave it up. Other women were contacted, in hopes of taking over the place, but with no success. Besides the farm work, Beatha and Clifford went into the cafe business with no knowledge of this undertaking, neither of them having ever worked in a cafe before, so had to learn it the hard way. Missile workers were coming in thick and fast. They wanted the place open for twenty-four hours to accommodate all the workers so Clifford and Beatha agreed to that. It meant many long hours for both of them. A few years later, the place was rented out. The last couple that had it, bought the equipment, but after two or three years had a sale. The building was vacant until the fall of 1979, when it was sold to Terrance Henriksen and is now known as the Henriksen Funeral Chapel. The past years have found Beatha and Clifford spending the winter months in Arizona, where they have purchased a home in an area near Mesa. They find that climate ideal compared to the cold, stormy days in North Dakota. Clifford and Beatha are parents of one child, Carmen Ellen. She was born Aug. 12, 1946. Carmen received her elementary education at the Benas Memorial Rural School. Her father had attended the same school. The year, 1960, when Carmen completed her eighth grade, the school was closed due to redistricting. She attended the Adams High School. During her first year in high school, on November 4, 1960, the school burned. Classes were held in the Adams Auditorium for the high school students, until the new school was built. Carmen attended Concordia College, Moorhead, Minn., graduating with the class of 1968. She majored in business education and religion. She
Carmen Suminski and Amanda received her Master's Degree from the University of Northern Colorado, Greeley, Colo., on June 1, 1974, majoring in special education — teaching the visually handicapped. She taught at the School for the Blind in Grand Forks, N. Dak.; worked with tne Colorado State Services for the Blind; worked with the Rehabilitation for the Blind and Visually Impaired, Phoenix, Ariz.; and since 1976, she has been a resource teacher for the visually impaired with Phoenix Union High School District. Carmen and Robert Suminski were married Aug. 11,1968. He was born at Detroit, Mich., on Nov. 23, 1947. They had one child, Amanda Ellen, bom Oct. 24, 1977. She is her grandparents' (Clifford and Beatha) greatest joy. Carmen and Robert were divorced Jan. 9, 1980. Dennis and Donald Grove, nephews of the Clifford Groves, purchased the Grove farmstead in the fall of 1977. Clifford and Beatha, now retired from farming, moved into their new home in Adams, which Clifford built. It is conveniently located, being a block from the Main Street and is just across the street from the Mountain Lutheran Church. Retirement years do not find them idle. Clifford is usually found with a saw or a hammer in his hand. Beatha has several hobbies but the one she is devoting most of her time to, now, is family history. She is working on the Grove Family History and also her father's family. She has completed the family history books for both her mother's and Clifford's mother. Her other great hobby is oil painting, which is visible in their new home in
Adams.
CHRISTIAN GROVE Christian, known as Christ, and son of Thomas and Caroline Grove, was born May 17, 1912 in Adams Township. He attended the Benas Memorial School, a nearby rural school. Christ excelled in spelling. Many were the times that he was left
1941, he went to Bremerton, Wash., and worked in the shipyards. During World War II, Tilfred served in the Signal Corps, spending two and a half years in the states at Camp Crowder, Mo., and a year and a half at Reims, France. He received his discharge in 1946, after four years in the army. Tilfred married Dela Korff, Sarcoxie, Mo., on Dec. 25, 1943, in the Chapel at Camp Crowder, Mo. She was employed in a garment factory in Carthage, Mo., prior to her marriage. Tilfred and Dela had one son, Douglas Gene, born on April 15, 1947, at Carthage, Mo. They all returned to Adams, in 1947, when Tilfred commenced with farming. He was in dairy business with his brother, Christ, for twenty-five years. Christian Grove standing alone in a "spell-down" at school. Christ spent two years with the CCC, at which time he was stationed in Langdon, N. Dak., Mountainburg, Arkansas, and Park River, N. Dak. In 1937, he moved to Adams with his parents. He has been engaged in farming with his brothers, Tilfred and Roy. For twenty-five years, Christ was in the dairy business in partnership with his brother, Tilfred. Christ served on the Farmers Elevator Board for many years and during the last terms, held the office as president of the board. Christ makes his home with his sister, Clara Wallgren. Douglas Grove TILFRED AND DELA GROVE Tilfred, son of Thomas and Caroline Grove, was born March 16, 1915, at Adams, N. Dak., and attended the Benas Memorial School. Tilfred was a big boy for his age. He could put his three brothers in their place most any time. He is definitely a comedian; wherever we see Tilfred, there is laughter. Tilfred worked on his parents' farm and was also employed with the Walsh County Highway Department for a short time. In
Douglas attended the Adams Public School, graduating with the class of 1965; attended Mayville State Teachers College, receiving a degree in education in 1969; received his Masters Degree in Administration from NDSU, Fargo, in 1977. He taught in several high schools throughout the state, Powers Lake, Leeds, Wimbledon, and also East Grand Forks, Minn. They are members of the Mountain Lutheran Church, Adams. Tilfred has served on the church council and has also been a deacon of the church. He was on the West Cemetery Board for many years. Besides these church activities, Tilfred has served on the Adams City Board.
THE CLIFFORD AND NORA GUSTAFSON FAMILY Clifford Gustafson was born Jan. 2, 1907, in Vesta Township, to Carl and Sofia Gustafson. He was baptized and confirmed in the St. Peter Church. He grew to manhood on the farm, helping with the work there, and received his education in a country school in Vesta Township. In the winter of 1925, he attended Moler Barber College in Fargo, N. Dak., receiving an apprentice license. He practiced barbering in Thief River Falls, Minn., under a licensed barber. His first experience as a salesman was selling Rev-ue-let canned fruit, while he was at home on the farm.
Tilfred and Dela Grove
In November of 1931 he married Nora Lofthus. Nora was bom April 16, 1910, in Adams, N. Dak., to Johannes and Maude Lofthus. She was baptized and confirmed in the Mountain Lutheran Church in Adams. Her education was received in the Adams Public School and she graduated from high school in 1928. Nora had lost both her parents by the time she was seventeen. She worked for her room and board the last two years
Deanna Rae was born April 19, 1938. She also graduated from Mayville State Teacher's College and is a first grade teacher. She married Duane Knudson on Aug. 16, 1959. They have three children — David, Daniel and Denise. They reside in Beulah, N. Dak., where she teaches and Duane operates a Montgomery Ward Catalog Store. Deanna is the organist at the Lutheran Church there. She also is active in community events. Chapin Eugene was born Jan. 16, 1940. He attended Mayville State Teacher's College for two years. He is employed by the First State Bank in Cavalier, N. Dak., and has worked there for eighteen years. He married Shirley Johnson on June 24, 1962. Shirley is a legal secretary for an attorney in Cavalier. They have one daughter, Sharyl Ann. Chapin is very active in community affairs and loves sports of all kinds. He has been secretary of his local church, secretary-treasurer of the curling club, and president of Jaycees. Clifford and Nora Gustafson of high school, and was very grateful to the John Sandstrom family that gave her the opportunity to complete her high school education. The first year of their married life, Nora and Cliff located on a farm between Adams and Park River. Cliff accepted a job as Standard Oil bulk agent in Adams in the spring of 1932, a job which he was to hold for the next sixteen years. During these years, Cliff and his brother, John, owned and operated a threshing rig and did custom threshing until 1942. In 1940 Cliff secured the Oldsmobile car dealership in addition to working for Standard Oil as their bulk agent. He added the International Harvester dealership in 1944. He then began building Lock Rib steel buildings. His two sons, Merle and Chapin, helped him erect the buildings. A fire destroyed his place of business in 1956. Cliff purchased another building and operated a garage and service station, still selling Oldsmobiles, but leaving the Harvester dealership. He sold Oldsmobiles until 1962, and closed the service station shortly afterwards. Since that time, Cliff has been self-employed as a salesman which he is still doing on a part-time basis. Cliff has been very active in community affairs and in his local church. He was a member of the school board, served on the city council, and was Mayor of the City of Adams for one year. He served as deacon of his church and was a member of the Senior Choir for a number of years. Both Nora and Cliff were active in Boy Scouts while their boys were young. During these years, Nora was busy with the family, teaching Sunday School and doing other community jobs. She enjoyed sewing, and when the children were all grown and on their own, she worked in the alterations department at Kelly's, a ladies'' ready-to-wear store, in Devils Lake, N. Dak., for five years. Both Cliff and Nora operated the Carnegie Bookmobile Library for a number of years. Three children were born to Cliff and Nora. Merle Wayne was born May 29, 1934. He graduated from Mayville State Teacher's College, and received his Master's Degree in Education at UND in Grand Forks, N. Dak. He taught and coached basketball for fourteen years. He married Marjorie Holien on Aug. 10, 1957. They have three children, Monica, Mark and Michelle, and at the present time, they live in Apple Valley, Minn., where Merle is a branch manager for World BookChildcraft International, and he and Marjorie operate a Shaklee business. ,
ROBERT AND JOAN HALBERG Robert Gordon Halberg was born Sept. 12, 1941, to Walter and Marie Halberg of Adams. He attended his first five years of school at Latona rural school, moved into Adams with his parents in 1952, and continued his education at the Adams Public School, graduating with the class of 1959. He attended Mayville State Teachers College for two years. Robert was confirmed in the Mountain Lutheran Church, Adams, in the spring of 1955. October, 1954, was the beginning of his working life, and he was employed by the Robertson Lumber Company, Adams, as yard help. This continued through the school years. During the summers of 1959, '60, and ' 6 1 , he worked as a relief manager for Robertson. In September of 1961, he became assistant manager of the Robertson Lumber Co., at Bemidji. Minn. In September of 1962, he was transferred to the Grand Forks yard as an assistant manager; on Sept. 12, 1963, he became manager of the Robertson yard at Fordville, N. Dak;'and on Dec. 9, 1964, he was named manager of the Robertson yard at New Rockford, N. Dak; from March of 1968 until May of 1972, he was employed with Pioneer Mutual Life and First State Bank of New Rockford; May 1, 1972, he was named manager of the Robertson Lumber Co., at Lakota, N. Dak.; on April 1, 1978, he moved to Bismarck and was employed by the Victor H. Leeby Company; and on July 1, 1979, he returned to Lakota to resume managership of the Lakota yard, where they now reside. On Sept. 15, 1962, he married Joan Elaine Boman, daughter of Emil and Gladys Boman, Adams. They were married at the Gustavus Adolphus Church, rural Adams. On Aug. 14, 1971, Robert and Joan adopted two children: Daniel Jon, born Jan. 3 1 , 1965; and his sister, Mary Elizabeth born April 26, 1969.
SVEN PETTER AND RAGNILD HALBERG Sven Petter Halberg, who was born June 20, 1841, to Johanes and Elizebeth Halberg, and Ragnild Gulbrandson, born to Guldbrand and Kari Larson, on March 13, 1844, were married in 1868, in Norway. They had eleven children. Johan Edward was born June 28, 1869, and died Nov 9 1892. ' ' Gulbrand was born April 29, 1871, and died Oct 1898.
29
Carl Ludvig was born August 14, 1873, on the boat coming to the United States. The family settled in Glenwood, Minn., where he died Sept. 14, 1873.
Carl Ludvig was born Sept. 22, 1874. He was married, had a daughter, Myrtle, and he was employed as a railroad detective at Superior, Wise. He died May 1 7, 1966. Petter George was born Aug. 12, 1876, and died in a saw mill accident on Feb. 10, 1898. Hannah Elizabeth was born March 25, 1878. She married Pete Swanson, and they had three children, Myrtle, Albin, and one who died at birth. Her husband died and she married Christian Gullikson. They had eight children: Gunder, Harold, Cecil, Victor, Alice, Laura, Ludvig, and Edgar. She died Oct. 1 1 , 1937. Gustav Lewis was born Aug. 3 1 , 1879. He served in the Army for eleven years and nine months. He was killed in the Philippines on Feb. 5, 1909. In 1881, Sven Petter and Ragnild Halberg homesteaded north of Lankin. Sven Olaf was born July 14, 1881. He became a dredge operator on Lake Superior. He died July 25, 1968. Richard was born Jan. 19, 1883. He married Johannah Monson and had one daughter, Ruby. They both lived in Bemidji, Minn. Richard died Jan. 18,1915. Julius was born March 4, 1885, and died April 11,1943. Oscar was born Aug. 23, 1887. He married Elve Erickson and had eight children, — Lenora, Norman, Grace, Beverly, Morris, Opal, Donna, and Judy. He died Oct. 14, 1961. Ragnild, first wife of Sven Petter Halberg, and mother of the above mentioned children, passed away Nov. 27, 1887. Oscar, the baby was three months old. Sven then married Anna Caroline Gullikson on June 16, 1889. They had five children. Schang Gullik Arvid was born Aug. 1, 1890. He married Alma Lundin. They had eight children, — Levina, Ruth, Schang Fredrick, Evelyn, Norma, Ester, Elsworth, and Arlien. Schang Gullik died Nov. 15, 1973. Johan (Jack) was born Feb. 18, 1893. He married Gudrun Torson. They had one son, John. Jack worked as a clerk at Finnested Store and as post master in Park River. He died Sept. 26, 1957. Agnes Sophia Caspara was born Sept. 24, 1896. She married Lloyd Reed of Denver, Colo., and they had two children, - Winnefred and Bill. She died June 17,1977. Sven, along with his wife Anna and the family, moved to Latona Township in 1897 and settled in Section 4, where Walter Leno was born Dec. 25, 1900. He married Marie Strelow. They had one son, Robert. He married Joan Boman and they have two children. Esther Bergleett was born June 27, 1904. She married Ralph Chapmen. They had three children — Ralph, Dana, and Sandy.
WALTER AND MARIE HALBERG Walter Halberg was born Dec. 25, 1900, to the late Sven and Anna Gullickson Halberg. He was born on the family farm in Latona Township. He was born a frail, tiny infant, weighing in at one and a half pounds. His crib was a shoe box. He was the youngest son born into a large family of sixteen children. He received his elementary education in Latona Township, Adams, and Park River. As a young man, he encountered a severe accident. He was to haul a load of hay to the family farm. He got the urge to hunt
The Walter Halberg Family: left to right, Walter, Robert, Joan, Daniel, Mary, and Marie. rabbits along the way to the haystack. In getting ready to leave, he slid the twelve gauge shotgun along the floor of the hayrack; the gun discharged hitting his left hand. This happened on Nov. 8, 1922. A neighbor and friend, Elmer Linstad, took him to the doctor in Adams. Later that afternoon, Walter and his mother boarded the train for Warren, Minn., where Walter entered the hospital and underwent surgery. The two damaged fingers were removed. He was hospitalized for thirty days. The loss of these fingers have never been a hindrance to him but at times have been an advantage. Walter spent his life in the Adams community except for a short time in Denver, Colo.; Anderson, Calif.; and Waukesha, Wise. He worked as a farm laborer and on road construction. On Nov. 10, 1934, Walter married Marie Strelow, daughter of Robert and Annie Nelson Strelow. Marie was born July 8, 1911, the oldest of four children. Alice Verna, the child next in line, was born Jan. 1, 1915, and died at the age of six weeks, Feb. 17, 1915; Roy, the only son, was born May 30, 1916; and Wanda, the youngest, was born Oct. 9, 1919. Marie attended the Benas Memorial School; the Adams High School for two years; and the Walsh County Agricultural School for two years, graduating in 1929. As a young girl, Marie's ambition was to go into nurse's training, but the family felt she was needed on the family farm to assist with the work. Marie and Walter farmed in the Adams area, moving into town in 1952. Walter then worked as a well driller; part-time employee for the city; and as a handy man, that answered many distress calls — usually some repair job. Marie and Walter moved four times in their life but always on the same Adams mail route so they feel they have definitely lived their life in the Adams community. One son, Robert Gordon, was born to the couple on Sept. 12, 1941. He married Joan Boman in 1962. They have two children, Daniel Jon, born Jan. 3 1 , 1965; and Mary Elizabeth, born April 26, 1969. They live at Lakota. Marie and Walter are members of the Mountain Lutheran Church in Adams. They have served as the church custodians for sixteen years. They are members of the Young at Heart Senior Citizen Club at Adams. They have served as reporters and business managers for the Journal-Times, a newspaper for the Adams, Fairdale, and Edmore area. WILLY AND JUDY HARDER I was born in Grafton Deaconess Hospital on Aug. 1, 1939. At that time my parents, Mr. and Mrs. Joe Fossholm lived in Fairdale, N. Dak. I had one sister, Bonnie. We lived in Fairdale
until I was eight years old and moved to Adams, N. Dak. I attended the Adams school and graduated from high school there. After high school I attended Bible School at Bethany Fellowship in Minneapolis, Minn., where I met Willy Harder, whom I married on July 3, 1960. We were going to be married on June 19, but five days before, Willy was helping his cousin fix his car and had a can with gas in his hand and when the car started it back-fired and the gas caught fire and Willy was burned on his face. After a week of being hospitalized he went home and our wedding had been postponed until July 3rd. It was a real miracle of God that he wasn't scarred in any way. A year and three months after our marriage we set sail for Brazil to work with a mission called Co-Labours do Brasil. We worked with them for a year and a half and then Bethany wanted to start a Bible School there in Brazil and so we helped clear land, build buildings, and develop products, to sell, to help support the Bible School. While in Brazil three children were born to us. On June 8, 1962, Bonnie Faith was born. On Nov. 24, 1963, Wayne John was born. Where we lived at that time the doctor was practicing in part of a hotel, as his hospital wasn't completely built yet, so Wayne was born in a hotel. Two and a half years later on April 28, 1966, another boy came to us, whom we named Stanley Mark. At the time of Stanley's birth the doctor had gone to be with his mother who was having surgery, and not having another doctor near, a midwife (a missionary on the campus) delivered the baby and I hemorrhaged and it was only the Lord that kept me alive. While in Brazil we had many interesting experiences. It was good experience to help develop the Bible School, church, and a hospital, where the Brazilians learned about God and trained to reach their own people with the Gospel. After almost 15 years in Brazil, we returned to the United States in 1976 and worked at Bethany Fellowship in Minneapolis. Willy worked with developing solar panels for heating water and homes and also in building camping trailers. I worked in tape duplication and the children attended the Bethany Academy School. Last June we moved away from Bethany and we are living in an apartment in Bloomington, Minn. Willy is plant manager at a business that makes Food Dehydration called Harvest Maid. The children are still in the Bethany Academy and Bonnie will graduate next spring, 1981.
DONALD AND VIRGINIA HATLESTAD FAMILY Donald Hatlestad was born May 12, 1926atAlsen, N. Dak., the youngest son of James and Annie Nelson Hatlestad. When he was six months old his family moved to Adams where his father was transferred as section foreman for the Soo Railroad. He had three brothers, Russell, Fird (Corky) and Edmund, and one sister Lillian. His father died July 8, 1936, and Donald helped out with family finances by working for Charley Keillor as gas station attendant and on the farm. He also worked at Haakan Bellerud's store packing eggs and stocking shelves. Donald attended school in Adams until he was sixteen when his mother moved to Park River where she was employed at the A. C. dormitory. Here Donald finished his junior year and also worked at the Landsborough Bowling Alley part-time. He enlisted in the Navy May 7, 1944, at seventeen and was
Donald and Virginia Hatlestad were married July 22, 1950. discharged as Seaman 1st Class Feb. 16, 1946. After his discharge he worked for Clifford Gustafson as bulk truck driver until 1953. He also worked for Roy's Market. Virginia Norma Schultz was born March 18, 1930, at Marion, S. Dak., to Julius and Sarah Wolf Schultz. In 1937, at age 7, she, her 6-year-old sister Betty, and their parents came to Minnesota in a Model T Ford, with all their belongings. They farmed in South Dakota but the crops dried up and the cattle were dying of starvation, so they came to the Lake Branson area where Mrs. Schultz had an uncle, Pete Wolf, and a cousin, Mrs. Joe Bjornberg. They helped the Schultzes obtain an 80-acre farm with a two-room house and a barn. Credit was not extended at that time but the neighbors gave them chickens and they gave Julius work so they could buy a cow. The girls attended a one-room rural school until it closed and they were bussed into Lake Branson. In 1944 the family bought a farm so the girls were transferred to Karlstad Public School where Virginia graduated in 1948. Virginia worked as a nurse's aid at the Grafton Hospital in 1949, when Donald Hatlestad came in for an emergency appendectomy. Thus she met her future husband. They were married July 22, 1950, at Jupiter Mission Church, rural Kennedy, Minn., by Pastor Roy Newlen. Donald and Virginia moved to Adams and lived in an apartment over the Adams Implement building until Oct. 7, 1956, when fire broke out and they lost all their belongings. The Frank Hosnas, another family tenant, also lost everyting. The Adams people had a household shower for the two families. In 1958 the couple bought the John Severson house in the St. Peter Coulee and moved it on an acre of pasture land, east of the Adams Park. Bill Geary supervised the moving. Don operated a cafe for a year and a half and also worked on the Soo Line for a time after his Navy discharge. He also served as a full time police officer for Adams after the retirement of Clarence Knutson. Later he served part-time. Don was always interested in roller skating and joined Walter Johnson of Edinburg in 1947. When Johnson died, Don bought the business and traveled to Hampden, Nekoma, Pisek, Park River, Adams, Edinburg, Edmore and Dahlen with their clamp-on roller skates. This was a highlight entertainment for young people at that time. His helpers were Dwight Myrvik, Skip Hjelmstad, Junior Dahl, and his son Marnell. He continued this extra business for 10 years. On October 28, 1957, Don went to work for the State Highway Department and is still working for the department. Don and Virginia are members of the Mountain Lutheran
Church where Don has been active in various offices and she belongs to A.L.C.W. and Sunday School, and American Legion Auxiliary. Don also served as a Cub Master. Virginia was employed at the Boeing quarters at Adams for three years; at the Missile Site at Nekoma, three years; worked at the cafe, five years, and at the Henry Haugen Hardware Store and the Grafton State School where she is still employed. Virginia has many hobbies, including gardening, sewing and painting. The Hatlestads are the parents of three children — Valerie, Marnell, and Laurel. Valerie Jean was born April 24, 1956, and attended school in Adams and U.N.D. at Grand Forks. She is employed in San Jose, Calif.
Annie Nelson Hatlestad and Clarence Nelson.
Marnell Don, born May 22, 1959, attended school in Adams and is employed by the Robertson Lumber Company in Adams.
In 1926 Sam was transferred back to Adams where they made their home until his death July 8, 1936.
Laurel Kaye was born September 26, 1961. After completing her education at Adams, she went west and is employed at San Jose, Calif.
Annie lived in Adams until 1943 when she moved to Park River and lived in Mrs. Bakke's house until 1979 when she moved into a HUD apartment. She cooked at the Walsh County Agricultural school dormitory for one year.
FAMILY OF JAMES (SAM) AND ANNIE HATLESTAD James (Sam) Hatlestad was born March 2 1 , 1 878, at Fertile, Minn. He had three brothers — Eddy, Crookston, Minn.; Ted, Oslo, Minn.; and Hans, Oslo, Minn., and one sister. All are deceased. He came to the Adams area in 1918 and worked on the Soo Railroad as section foreman on the West Section. At Adams he roomed at the Mclntyre home and boarded at Hans Nelson's. Here he met Annie Nelson and they were married Sept. 26, 1911, at the Grafton Lutheran parsonage.
Two foster children, Allan and Bette Halforson, came to live with her in 1944 and they remained with her until 1955. Annie is a member of Our Saviour's Lutheran church in Park River and is active in church groups and HUD social groups. Annie and her friend, Mrs. Hanson, can often be seen walking to church. She celebrated her 85th birthday Oct. 18, 1980.
Left to right, Fird, Russel, Annie (mother), Lillian, Donald, and Edmund Hatlestad. The oldest of the Hatlestad children, Russell, married Eliz Grahn of Roseau, Minn. They live at Willows, Calif. Eliz had two sons and two daughters from a former marriage. Russell was in the Medical Corp (1942-1946), and in CC Camps at S. Dak.; Arkansas, and California. They are now retired. Fird worked for Soo Railroad at Adams for a number of years until his death, Jan. 7, 1 967. He was unmarried.
James and Annie Hatlestad, 1911 Annie was born Oct. 18, 1895, in a log cabin at Mandt and came to this area with her folks, four brothers and four sisters, when she was 11 years old. She remembers helping out at the cafe in Adams when very young. Sam and Annie made their home in Adams until they were transferred to Alsen, then to Calio, to Fordville, and then back to Alsen. Sam had a big white dog named Bob that was with him everywhere. Russell was born June 1, 1912, at Baudette, Minn., while Annie was helping out her sister, Amanda Clemens. Fird was born at Calio, March 7, 1914; Lillian, Aug. 19, 1916, and Edmund, Dec. 3 1 , 1 9 1 9 , both at Forest River, and the last child, Donald, was born May 12, 1926, at Alsen.
Lillian married Richard Pengilly of Inkster, N. Dak., in October, 1962. They lived at Inkster several years before moving to Grafton where they are both employed at the Grafton State School. Edmund married Gina Thompson of Kloten, N. Dak. He met Gina at an auction sale and made a bet with Conrad Keilor that he would marry that girl. Conrad lost the bet. Edmund was in the U.S. Infantry for four years and was wounded in France. They have five children — Dennis, Roger, Marilee, James and Brian. Dennis is married, has two children and lives in Amorita, Okla.; Roger is married, has no children, and lives in Amorita, also; James lives in Tolna, N. Dak., and has two children; Marilee, single, is employed in Devils Lake; and Brian attends high school in Amorita, Okla.
CARL AND ELLEN (LONGREN) HILDE
EDNA HILDE OLSON
Carl and Ellen Longren Hilde were married Dec. 20, 1911, at Thief River Falls, Minn. Ellen was the daughter of John and Mary Longren. She was born in the Edinburg area but moved with her folks to Thief River Falls. As a young adult she came back to the Adams — Edinburg area to work. Her parents had immigrated from Sweden.
Edna graduated from Adams High School and New York Hairdressing Academy at Fargo, N. Dak. She owned and operated a beauty shop in Adams for several years. She married Louis Olson at Adams, Dec. 3 1 , 1939. They lived at Whitman. Adams, and Michigan where Louis worked for Johnson Stores. In 1942 they moved to Bremerton, Wash., where Louis worked for Puget Sound Navy Yard during the war. In 1944 they moved back to Northwood where Louis again worked for Johnson Stores. They moved to Grafton, N. Dak., in 1965 where Louis passed away July 28, 1975, and is buried in the East Cemetery at Adams, N. Dak. Edna still resides in Grafton. They had three children: Larry married Linda Larson June 9, 1974. They both teach in the Langdon school system. They have two boys, Christopher Louis and Adam Carl. Evelyn married Duane Rossett at Northwood June 11, 1967. Evelyn teaches kindergarten and Duane is band instructor at Barnesville, Minn. They have two girls — Stacey Michelle, and Stephanie Ann. Jane married Jeff Redl June 28, 1975. Jane has her dental assistant certificate from Wahpeton State School of Science. Jeff works for the Fargo Forum. They have one son, Jesse Matthew.
Carl and Ellen Hilde Carl was the oldest son of Lars and Dorothy Hilde, who were pioneer settlers of Adams that came from Norway. After their marriage they lived for about a year north of Adams and then bought a farm, four miles south of Adams. They farmed there until 1926 when they moved to town and Carl was manager of the Farmers Elevator. He retired in 1953. Carl passed away June 25, 1961. In November, 1968, Ellen moved to Benson, Minn., where she lived for six years. She moved to Grafton in February, 1974. Six children were born to the couple — Merna, Edna, Lillian, Clarice, Aida, and Clifford. Aida passed away at the age of three.
MERNA HILDE NATVIG Merna was born Oct. 7, 1912, at Adams, N. Dak., to Carl and Ellen Hilde. She graduated from the Adams High School and attended North Star College at Warren, Minn., for two years. She attended two years at Mayville State College where she received her B.A. Degree. She taught school five years in rural schools in the Adams area, and two years teaching in high school at Courtney, N. Dak.
LILLIAN HILDE ELLINGSON Lillian was born Jan. 29, 1918. She graduated from nurses' training at the Grafton Deaconess Hospital in 1936. She was working at the Bremerton, Washington, Hospital in 1943 where Calmer Ellingson was stationed in the Marine Corps. Then Lillian worked at the Old Swift County Hospital in 1947 and in December she married Calmer. They moved to a farm three miles north of Watson, Minn., and lived there for eight years where four children were born — Bruce, Karen, Bradley, and Janna. Karen lived only three months and is buried at the Zion Lutheran Church Cemetery. In 1955 they moved six miles north of Montevideo, Minn., where Lillian worked part time at the Chippewa County Hospital. In the fall of 1958 they bought a farm four miles northeast of Benson, Minn., and moved there where they are still residing. Lillian worked part-time at the Swift County Hospital, and became head nurse there for several years. Later she transferred to the Meadow Lane Nursing Home where she was also head nurse. She retired in 1977. Calmer retired in the spring of 1980 from farming and rented out his land. They continue to live on the farm, spending winters in Texas.
Merna was married May 17, 1941, to Clifford Natvig, Mahnomen, Minn. He was the manger of the Ada Elevator from 1951 to 1976. They have three children — Conley, born Nov. 2 1 , 1942; Carolyn (Miller), July 3 1 , 1946; and Sharyl (Ogard) Feb. 25, 1949.
Bruce graduated from Moorhead State University. He married Marjorie Krumm, from Glencoe, Minn., a beautician. They have two boys, Benjamin and Nathan. Bruce is presently photographer-reporter for the Monticello Times at Monticello, Minn.
Their grandchildren are Paula, 6 years, and Cory, 2 years, children of Conley and Cathy Natvig. They live in Swanville, Minn., where Conley is a physical education and guidance teacher and football coach.
Bradley graduated from Moorhead Technical School and is working as a salesman at the Sears Store in West Acres Shopping Center in Fargo. He received a degree from the Moorhead State University in 1980. He is married to Jean Manley of Murdock, Minn.
Carolyn Natvig Miller lives in Jacksonville, Fla., and is a business major and a secretary for the head lawyer in a law firm. Sharyl Natvig Ogard is married to Greg Ogard and lives at Frazee, Minn. Sharyl is a home ec. teacher and Greg teaches in the Frazee High School.
Janna graduated as an L.P.N, from the Wahpeton State School of Science in North Dakota. She is married to Kevin Johnson of Benson, Minn. He is a commercial artist. They have two children — Justin Carl and Karin Lyn. They reside at St. Cloud, Minn.
CLARICE HILDE KIESZLING
Stores in Adams.
Clarice graduated from Adams High School and Interstate Business College. She worked in Washington, D. C , in the War Department and in Fargo at the Triple A office, before going to Bremerton, Wash. She married Jerrold Kieszling on July 2 1 , 1945, in Bremerton, and have lived in Bremerton since then. They have three children, all living in Washington State. Jerianne — office manager for Pierce County, Tacoma, Washington; Stan — manager Sales and Repair Bike Shop in Bainbridge, Wash.; and Sue Ellen — occupational therapist.
They started farming on the place of his brother, Carl, located south of Adams. They remained here until 1947, when they moved to the Alfred Monson farm in Tiber Township. In 1949, they purchased the Arthur Wallgren farm, located southeast of Fairdale, N. Dak., in Dewey Township. With the help of their only child, Lynn, they continued to farm until 1 978, when Lloyd had to retire from farming due to health problems and Lynn's failing eyesight. The farm was then rented to Merle Larson, a grandnephew. In 1979, they purchased a home in Adams where they now reside.
Jerry is retired after 30 years of work in the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard. Clarice has worked more than 20 years for the Bremerton School District, first as a secretary in the Administration offices and presently as the payroll officer. She will be retiring in the near future. Mrs. Ellen Hilde was 90 years old Dec. 23, 1980. She is in good health, and still drives her car.
LLOYD AND HELEN HILDE Lloyd, the youngest son of Lars and Dorthe Hilde, was born Dec. 16, 1911, in Adams Township and grew up in the Adams area. He received his elementary education at the Adams Public School. He attended the Walsh County Agricultural School, Park River, for one year and then came back to the Adams Public School and completed his high school education. His parents, Lars and Dorthe Hilde, moved to Adams in 1930, and he continued to live with them. Lloyd spent his early life as a farm laborer. In the dirty thirties, he worked for a meager wage of five cents a bushel for picking potatoes and fifteen to twenty cents an hour for pitching bundles for a threshing outfit. In 1937, he started working for the Rosendahl Brothers in their garage in Adams, as a mechanic. In 1940, he married Helen Borstad. She moved into Adams in 1936, along with her parents. They had formerly lived in Loma, N. Dak. Here, Helen was employed as a telephone operator and she was also a clerk at the Bellerud and Johnson
Since the farm wasn't too large, Lloyd supplemented his income by working as a Field and Loan Inspector for the ASCS; as a Security Policeman for ABM at Nekoma and Fairdale sites which he did for two years; and is a driver for the Walsh County Senior Citizen Bus for two years. He is also a Dundee Insurance agent. They are members of the Mountain Lutheran Congregation, Adams; have been active in the church choir; and have taught Sunday School. Helen served as president of the ALCW for two years. Lloyd was secretary of the congregation for about twentyfive years. Because they love to sing, they have sung duets at many occasions. Lloyd was appointed to the Board of Sunset Corporation and served there for a period of nine years, the last six years as president of the Corporation. In 1951, Lloyd organized a 4-H Club in Dewey Township and was a 4-H leader for seven years. Helen and Lloyd are members of the Young at Heart Senior Citizen Club in Adams. Lloyd served as president of the club for three years. They are also members of the Sons of Norway where Lloyd has served both as a president and as a secretary, each for a term of two years. He is a charter member of the Fairdale-Adams Men's Chorus. In 1975, they, along with their son, Lynn, spent a month traveling to the West Coast, through Washington, California, and Oregon. In July of that year, Helen and Lloyd made the trip of their dreams to Norway, the birthplace and homeland of their parents. They visited numerous cousins and other relatives. This was one of the special highlights in their lives.
MELVIN AND OLGA HILDE Melvin Hilde, son of Lars and Dorothy Hilde, was born Aug. 20, 1897. He received his education in the Omdalen one-room country school which had a six-month term. He was a life member of the Mountain Lutheran Church, Adams, N. Dak. He and Olga Alida Bolstad of Fairdale were united in marriage on Nov. 1, 1927, in Grand Forks, by Rev. Orlando Ingvolstad. Olga was the daughter of Torger and Annie Bolstad, and was born June 18, 1904. She received her education in the Fairdale School. She was a member of the St. Olaf Lutheran Church, rural Fairdale, which no longer exists. Melvin went threshing for the first time in 1 914, driving team and hayrack. He spent his entire life on the farm except for a time, when he helped his brother, Carl, at the Farmers Elevator, and the first winter of their marriage which was spent in Seattle. Hefarmed fifty years.
The Lloyd Hilde Family: Lynn. Lloyd, and Helen Hilde.
In 1 908, his parents had a telephone installed in their home. Melvin purchased his first car, a Maxile, in 1916. Olga and Melvin farmed during the dirty thirties. They milked many cows so sold milk and cream, going from door to door,
Mayville State Teachers College and received her degree in 1973, after attending several summer sessions. She is an elementary teacher and taught in Poplar, Mont., for three years. On June 25, 1976, Sharon was united in marriage to Raymond Callaghan of Columbia Falls, Mont., at the Adams Mountain Lutheran Church. They both taught in Grand Forks after their marriage. Their daughter, Megan Alisa, was born Aug. 28, 1979. The family moved to Fargo that year, where Ray is head coach and math instructor at Fargo North. Sharon is an elementary teacher in Fargo. Ray is a sports enthusiast. Sharon enjoys crafts, handwork, and oil painting.
Melvin and Olga Hilde in the town of Adams. The milk was bottled in glass bottles and sold for five to seven cents a quart. There was no charge for the bottles that were broken and were not returned. The mode of transportation on the milk route changed with the weather and seasons; a cutter, an enclosed rig, drawn by horses in winter; a wagon drawn by horses, was used in the spring when roads were muddy and impassable; and a car was used when conditions were ideal. Gravel roads were not very common and oiled roads were unheard of. A five-gallon cream can would sell for two dollars and a dozen eggs for five cents.
Merle Orrin was bom July 28, 1954, at Cando. He received his education in Adams Public School, graduating in 1972. He worked for the State Highway Department; A.B.M. Missile Site at Nekoma; Great Plains of Milton, N. Dak., and Burbidge Seed Company of Park River. He is engaged in farming with his dad. Merle married Joan Cole on July 30, 1976, at St. Mary's Church in Park River. They have two duaghters — Amanda Marie, born Nov. 20, 1976, and Elizabeth Jo, born Oct. 6, 1980. They resided in Park River before moving to Adams. Joan is the daughter of Minnie and Dennis Cole. She received her education at the Park River Public Schools. She was employed at the Guest House and also at the Walsh County Press, Park River. She is now employed at the Security State Bank of Adams. She enjoys ceramics while Merle's hobby is mechanics.
The first frame house on this homestead, the house that Melvin was born in, is still intact on the farm. It is used as shelter for cattle. Melvin and Olga Hilde had a daughter, Arlene Delna, born Aug. 13, 1928, at Adams. Siamese twin daughters were stillborn on May 11, 1 936. Melvin and Olga retired from farming and built a new home in Adams. Their daughter Arlene, her husband Dennis, and family took over the farming interests. Melvin passed away Aoril 17, 1973.
DENNIS AND ARLINE LARSON Arline Delna, daugher of Olga and Melvin Hilde, was born Aug. 13, 1928. She received her grade and high school education in the Adams Public School, graduating with the class of 1946. She attended Moorhead State Teachers College and taught first and second grades in the Bisbee Public School for three years. Arline was united in marriage to Dennis Larson of Bisbee, N. Dak., on June 24, 1951, at the Mountain Lutheran Church in Adams. Dennis is the son of Olaf and Signe Larson. He received his education in Bisbee Public School and spent a year in the U.S. Navy and six years in the reserve. Dennis and Arline lived at Bisbee for five and a half years. They then moved to the Hilde farm, north of Adams, when her folks moved into a new home in Adams. Larsons are the fourth generation to live on this farm. They have recently purchased a home at Adams Gardens, near Harlingen, Texas, where they spend the winters. Larsons are members of the Mountain Lutheran Church, Adams. Arline teaches Basic Skills at the Adams Public School. She likes to read, crochet, do needlework and other crafts. Dennis enjoys working with wood and building. Dennis and Arline are the parents of four children — Sharon Olga, Merle Orrin, Lona Rae, and Avis Denise. Sharon Olga was born March 12, 1952, at Cando, N. Dak. Her grade and high school education was received at the Adams Public School, graduating with the class of 1970. She attended
Dennis Larson Family: back row, Merle, Joan, Sharon, Raymond; front row, Avis, Arline, Dennis, and Lona. Lona Rae was born April 28, 1957, at Cando Hospital. She received her elementary and high school education at the Adams Public School, graduating with the class of 1975. She attended the North Dakota State University, Fargo, for one year, and the remaining three years at Moorhead State, plus several summer sessions, graduating in 1978. She taught Learning Disabilities at Roseau, Minn., for two years. She always wanted to try a warmer climate, so now resides at Bartlesville, Okla., and teaches at Barnsdall, Okla. Lona enjoys outdoor activities, swimming, and horseback riding. Avis Denise was born April 17, 1960, Easter Sunday, at Cando, N. Dak. She attended grade and high school at the Adams Public School, graduating with the class of 1978. She is presently attending U.N.D. at Grand Forks, planning to become a special education teacher. She works part-time at Day Care Center there. Her interest may stem from her work at Park River Bible Camp, with the mentally retarded. Avis enjoys oil painting. She helped paint the scenes for the Adams Parish float in the Diamond Jubilee Celebration parade.
BJARNE AND INEZ HILDE HJELMSTAD FAMILY Bjarne was born in Shepherd Township April 27, 1916, to Peter L. and Bertha Silbrum Hjelmstad, and grew up on his father's farm. Inez M. Hjelmstad was born in Dewey Township to Peder and Ellen Bergstrom Hilde on Oct. 26, 1916. She grew up on a farm where herding cattle and milking cows was a way of life. She learned to enjoy horseback riding. Bjarne and Inez were married at the parsonage at Adams Sept. 10, 1936, with Valborg, Bjarne's sister, and Inez's cousin, Lawrence Dahlgren, as attendants and Pastor Hatlem officiating.
The Bjarne Hjelmstad family: left to right, top, Marlynn, Betty Lou, Mavis and Milton; Bjarne and Inez Hjelmstad. Beth, and Craig David. Kim was born at Cavalier, N. Dak., July 22, 1959. She graduated from Rugby High School and Wahpeton School of Science as an L.P.N, in 1977 and is presently enrolled at Bismarck School of Nursing to complete her R.N. training. Kelly was born at Minneapolis, Nov. 7, 1960, and graduated from Rugby High School in 1978 and is in her second year at Wapheton School of Science as a registered occupational therapy assistant. Craig was born in Minneapolis, Oct. 3 1 , 1963, and is a junior at the Rugby High School.
Bjarne Hjelmstad"s wedding picture. They lived at the Peder Hilde farm the first year and later moved to a farm a half mile away from the Peter Hjelmstad farm. Bjarne did farm labor until they moved to Oslo, Minn., in 1940, where he worked in the beet fields, moving to Adams in 1942.
Milton Peter Hjelmstad was born at Grafton, Oct. 7, 1941. He grew up in Adams and graduated from high school in 1959 and in October enlisted in the Navy where he was with the Medical Corps. He served four years and spent 18 months in Guam, and participated in the Cuban blockade, and other points of interest and danger. Milton married Cathy Grant, daughter of Amelia and the late
Bjarne worked at the Farmers Elevator, under Carl Hilde as manager, until 1954 when Carl retired and Bjarne assumed the job of manager. He retired on June 30, 1979. Five children were born to the Hjelmstads. Their first born passed away and is buried at the Vang rural church. Mr. and Mrs. Peter Hjelmstad are also buried there. Betty Lou Ellen was born Mar. 14, 1938, at Grafton and grew up in Adams and graduated from the Adams Public High School in 1956. She was employed at the Northwestern Bell Telephone Company at Grand Forks before transferring to the Grafton, N. Dak. office. She married Kenneth Paul Hillman of Mountain, N. Dak., son of John Hillman and the late Pauline Hillman. They lived on a farm for 1 Vt years and then moved to Minneapolis where Ken enrolled at Humbod Institute; after graduating he worked at Bishmann Manufacturing Company for six years. The next move was to Rugby where Ken purchased the Standard Oil Station and later bought the adjoining restaurant. Later they added a dining room-supper club, pub and motel known as the "Hub of America." It is noted as a good place to eat. Three children were born to them — Kim Rachel, Kelly
The Bjarne Hjelmstad family: left to right, bottom, Tressa Marie Hjelmstad, Karie Jo Troftgruben, Caryn Hjelmstad; center, Kelly Beth Hillman, Mavis Beth Troftgruben holding Mandy Beth Troftgruben, Inez Hjelmstad, Christy Hjelmstad, Bjarne Hjelmstad, Betty Lou Hillman, Kim Hillman; back, Cindy Hjelmstad, Gary Troftgruben. Milt Hjelmstad, Cathy Hjelmstad, Craig Hillman. Jean and Skip Hjelmstad, Ken Hillman and Cheri Hjelmstad.
Julius Grant of Adams. They moved to Minneapolis where they lived for five years before moving to Grand Forks where they resided three years. Milton graduated from Aaker's Business College in Grand Forks and then the family moved to Stephen, Minn., where he is employed at the Lundeen Motor Chevrolet Garage. Four children were born to the Hjelmsrads' — Christy, Cheri, Cindy, and Caryn. Christy was born at Grafton Apr. 25, 1960. She graduated from the Stephen High School and AVTI, East Grand Forks, Minn., and is employed with Century 21 real estate. Cindy was born at Grafton, Sept. 4, 1963, and is a senior at Stephen High School. Caryn was born in Minneapolis, July 27, 1965, and is a sophomore at Stephen High School.
James and Otella Johnson, taken in I970.
Marlynn Burnell Hjelmstad was born Jan. 2, 1952, at Grand Forks. He graduated from the Adams High School in 1970.
James worked with John Gilbertson and learned the trade of a painter.
He worked part-time for his father at the elevator during the school term and in 1968 worked full-time until 1978 when he got a job as a field man for the Kellogg Company, Minneapolis.
May 8, 1937, James married Otella Stensland, rural Adams. She was the daughter of Lewis and Thea Stensland.
He married Jean Holmen of Edmore, N. Dak. in 1973. They reside at Adams. Dec. 5, 1976, a daughter, Tressa Marie, was born to them at Langdon, N. Dak. Tragically she died suddenly Sept. 5, 1979. She is buried at the Adams West Cemetery. Mavis Beth was born May 30, 1955 at Grand Forks. She had the misfortune of having a dislocated hip and at 16 months was in a body cast and a saddle cast for two years, is completely recovered and entered school at six years, graduated from the Adams High School in 1973, and from the Lake Region College in 1975 as a L.P.N. She worked at St. Ansgar's Hospital in Park River until she married Gary Troftgruben in Adams, August 1, 1975. They have two girls, Kari Jo, born Jan. 3, 1977, at Grafton, and Mindy Beth born at Rugby April 4, 1979. They moved to Rugby in September, 1979, and were transferred to Harvey in 1980. Gary is employed by the Northwestern Bell Telephone Company and Mavis works at the Harvey Hospital.
Otella was born May 5, 1912, and received her elementary education at the Hedlund and Dahlgren rural schools. She attended high school at Kintyre N. Dak., and the Lutheran Bible School at Grand Forks for a short time, and graduated from Edmore High School in 1 9 3 1 . She taught rural schools in Dewey, Fancher, and Adams Townships before her marriage. They lived in Adams where James worked as a mechanic at the Grant Garage and also for the county on road construction. Otella continued to teach until their son, James, who was born July 28, 1939, was two years old when the family moved to Bremerton, Wash. Several Adams people came there to work, there were no living quarters available. Several Adams men lived in a tent until they rented some land and built their own small houses. James worked in the Navy Yard Foundry and took a course in welding, but was transferred to transportation because of his health. Here he drove heavy duty equipment, including large semis with ammunition to be loaded on ships and planes.
JAMES AND OTELLA JOHNSON FAMILY James Edward Johnson was born Oct. 4, 1913, at Alkabo, N. Dak., to Julius and Elvera Dahlgren Johnson. When he was five years old, his mother died in the 1918 flu epidemic and he went to live with his maternal grandmother, Christina Dahlgren, rural Adams. In 1920 they moved to Adams where he received his elementary education and a year of high school. He began as a laborer at age 13, to work on farms, in threshing time, picking potatoes, and doing chores in the winter time for board and room. He recalls while picking potatoes they slept in a tent and made their own meals which was usually bread and sardines. Sometimes there was snow on the ground. The wages were four cents a bushel. Later he joined the C.C.C.'s (Civilian Conservation Corps) and worked at projects such as planting trees, thinning trees in the Black Hills of South Dakota and building dams in the Minot area. He also joined the C.M.T.C. (Citizens Military Training Corps) for young men because so many were without work during the Depression.
James Johnson Family: back row, Gudrun Johnson, James Johnson, Jason Anderson, Richard Anderson, Trudy Anderson, Pamela Fuhrmann, Jeff Fuhrmann and Charles Fuhrmann. Middle, Kelli Johnson, Troy Johnson, Richard Anderson, Jr., Jennifer Fuhrmann. Front, Todd Johnson, James Johnson, Otella Johnson, Judd Fuhrmann.
After Otella finished her school term at the Gryde School, she, Jimmie, and her father, Lewis Stensland, drove to Bremerton to join James who had erected a three-room house for them. They felt a lot closer to the war there: the barrage balloons flying over Bremerton (to prevent dive bombers from bombing the ammunition depot which was very close to where they lived), the opening and closing of submarine nets in ferrying over from Seattle, placing identification chains on all children, the smoking smudge pots, and air raid sirens, made war very real to them, as did all the shortages. They used ground grain as a coffee stretcher, used ration books, had gas enough to go to the market once a week, and there were meat shortages, etc. Here James started school and two daughters were bom to them, Pamela Kay, born September 25, 1944, and Trudy Christine, August 9, 1946. After the war was over James went to work for Pacific Fruit Company at Seattle, having to ferry two hours every day. In 1947, they decided to return to Adams. There was an opening for a grocery man at the Johnson Stores so James went to work as a grocery man, manager, and then owned, until he retired in 1975 because of his health.
General Store in Adams. In November of 1962 he left Adams to attend Brown Radio Institute in Minneapolis, Minn., where he studied to become a radio announcer. May, 1963, he took his first job as a disc jockey in Roseau, Minn., where he met and married Gudrun Lund Dec. 28th, 1963. Gudrun was born April 2 1 , 1945, to Palmer and Ann Lund, farmers in the Roseau area. She has five brothers — Kenneth, Jack, Robert, Tom and Richard. Palmer Lund, retiring from farming, has been in the decorating business in partnership with his son. Mrs. Lund still operates a fabric shop in Roseau. In April of 1964 the couple left Roseau for his next radio assignment in Fargo at station KUTT where he was both on the air and in the field of sales. Six months later his radio career took them to KLMS radio in Lincoln, Neb., where he worked as a disc jockey until May of 1965. The 28th of May, 1965, they moved to Des Moines, Iowa, where he joined radio station KIOA as a night time D J . April 1, 1970, still with KIOA, he moved into sales and became sales manager in November, 1972. He is still currently employed by KIOA as sales manager at the time of this writing.
Otella returned to teaching in 1955, teaching at the Dewey Consolidated School, in Shepherd District, and Fairdale, before joining the Adams faculty for eight years, retiring in 1973. She taught 26 years. James and Otella have been active in church, school and civic affairs, serving in many offices. Currently James keeps busy in repairing and restoring antique clocks, and adds to his own collection of various kinds as well as gardening. He is still active as a member of the town board, attends auctions and is a general Mr. Fix-It. Otella is still enjoying children as a substitute teacher and considers herself lucky in having chosen a profession she loved. Pamela Johnson married Charles Fuhrmann in 1962 and they have three children — Jeffrey, Jennifer and Judd. Trudy married Richard E. Anderson in 1967 and they have two sons, Richard and Jason. James married Gudrun Lund, Roseau, Minnesota, in 1964 and they have three children — Troy, Kelli Ann, and Todd.
JAMES LEWIS JOHNSON James L. Johnson was born July 28th, 1939, in Grafton, N. Dak., and lived in Adams with his parents, James E. and Otella Johnson. In 1942 he moved with his family to Bremerton, Wash., where they resided until 1947 when they moved back to Adams, this time with two more additions to the Johnson family, Pamela and Trudy. He attended the Adams school system and graduated from high school in May of 1957. Immediately following graduation he entered military service and attended basic training in Ft. Polk, La. After completing basic training he was sent to radio operators school in Ft. Knox, Ky., for 12 weeks. In the spring of 1958 he was sent overseas to Thule, Greenland, where he spent the next 12 months, thus completing his active military duty. The next two years were spent attending college, first the University of North Dakota and then Mayville State Teachers College, Mayville, N. D. The winter and summer of 1962 was spent doing construction in Oklahoma and working with his father in his
Left to right, Troy, Todd, Kelli Ann Johnson. James and Gudrun, while in Des Moines, had three children - Troy, born Dec. 16, 1966; Kelli, born May 13, 1972; and Todd, born Oct. 15, 1974. Their two boys are active in sports, both playing hockey as a primary sport. Troy at the age of 13 attended a two-week hockey school in Leisen, Switzerland. Troy has hopes of continuing his hockey through the college level. Todd, their youngest, began in an organized program at the age of three. Kelli, the daughter, developed an interest in competive swimming and has competed in several state meets.
CONRAD AND DORIS (HAGEN) KEILLOR Conrad G. Keillor was born Nov. 2 1 , 1915, at Adams, N. Dak., to Charles A. Keillor and Gertie Lykken Keillor. They were long-time Adams business people, coming to Adams in 1919. Conrad was an only child. Doris Hagen Keillor was born Jan. 15, 1915, and was the daughter of Gilbert and Jennie Hagen, also Adams business people. Mrs. Jennie Hagen came to North Dakota before it became a state, in a covered wagon, at age 10. Doris was the youngest of the 15 children born to Gilbert Hagen's. Conrad and Doris were married in 1936 and they lived in Adams. Doris was a beautician and Conrad worked with his father.
The family moved to Los Angeles in 1942 where all the children graduated in school. They are all married and the Keillors have six grandchildren, and one great grandchild. Doris still works as a beauty operator and Conrad as a tuneup technician. Doris enjoys bowling and Conrad likes horseshoe playing. They both enjoy camping. Charles Keillor died in 1973; Jennie Hagen in 1943; Gilbert Hagen, 1917; and a sixteen-year-old granddaughter, Kathy Keillor, in 1978. Mrs. Gertie Keillor resides in her home at Paulsbo, Wash.
VINCENT AND IONE KJELAAS Vincent Howard, son of Tom and Esther Kjelaas, was born Feb. 2 1 , 1 9 2 4 . He attended the Benas Memorial School and the State School of Science, Wahpeton, N. Dak. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II, from May, 1944 until May, 1946. He was stationed in the South Pacific for two years. Upon his discharge from the service, he operated the Kjelaas Cafe in Adams, then located north of Glen's Bar. Vincent married lone Evelyn Rundhaug, daughter of Theo and Edith Rundhaug, Adams, on June 19, 1947. lone, the only child in the family, was bom Jan. 7, 1926. She attended the Adams Public School, graduating from high school in 1944. lone worked in her father's store, The Rundhaug Drug Store.
Bruce and Martha Kjelaas, married July 19, 1975.
Vincent and lone Kjelaas were married June 19, 1947. She was also employed at the Woolworth Store in Grand Forks for some time. She worked at the Nils Omdalen Cafe, Adams, which later became known as the Kjelaas Cafe, operated by Vincent Kjelaas. When Vincent and lone were married, they operated this cafe, then moved to the building across the street, now knows as the D & D Bar, but sold out in 1948. They went to California, returning the following year. Vincent was then employed at the Gustafson International Harvester until May, 1951, when he secured employment with the North Dakota State Highway Department. He is still with them after almost thirty years. Vincent and lone were blessed with two children — Vickie
Dianne and Bruce David. During the time their children were in school, Vincent and lone were PTA members. In 1954, members of the PTA were putting on a home-talent play. Vincent was playing a part that required a long beard. During rehearsal one evening, a match was lit and the head of the match ricocheted and fell in Vincent's false beard. Flames flared up on his face, and before the false beard could be removed, he was badly burned on the one side of his face. His hair, eyelashes and eyebrows were singed. It was a harrowing experience! The play was postponed until Vincent was better. By then, he was wearing his own beard, as he was unable to shave for a long time. Both Vincent and lone are members of the Mountain Lutheran Church, Adams; the Vaarliv Sons of Norway; American Legion and Auxiliary, respectively, both having served offices. Vincent is active in all community affairs, has served on the Adams School Board, Adams City Council, and the Adams Community Club. He is a volunteer of the Fire Department. Vickie Dianne, the oldest child of Vincent and lone, was born Aug. 2, 1949, at Grafton. She attended the Adams Public School, graduating from High School in 1967. She attended Aaker's Business College, Grand Forks, N. Dak. She was employed at the Community National Bank; Associates Finance Co.; and Halverson-Johnson Architects, Grand Forks.
Vicki married Goodwin Helseth on June 14, 1969, and they live in Grand Forks. They have two children — Karen Dianne, born Jan. 28, 1971, and Nancy Dianne, born Feb. 1 1 , 1974. Both girls attend the Ben Franklin School in Grand Forks. Vicki is now employed at the Severson Real Estate, Grand Forks. Bruce David, son of Vincent and lone, was born Dec. 14, 1951, at Grafton. He attended the Adams Public School, graduating from high school in 1969. Bruce has been employed at the ABM Site, Nekoma, N. Dak.; The Crystal Sugar Beet Plant, East Grand Forks, Minn.; and the Dahlgren Sunflower Plant, Crookston, Minn. Bruce married Martha Louise Bauer on July 19, 1975, in Grand Forks. They live in rural Erskine, Minn., where he is employed at the Al Bauer Farm. Martha works for Garden Valley Telephone Company in Erskine.
JERALD AND FRANCES KURTZ Jerald and Frances Kurtz and their daughters moved to Adams, N. Dak., Sept. 1976, from Enderlin, N. Dak., where they lived for two years. Before that they resided in Carrington, N. Dak., for six years. Their hometown is Jamestown, N. Dak. Their fathers are Harold Kurtz and Ervin Sahr of Jamestown. Jerald was born Nov. 2, 1945, and married Frances (Sahr) Kurtz May 22, 1965. Frances was born Sept. 2, 1945. Jerald and Frances have two daughters, Stacy, born Sept. 23, 1969, and Sheri, born Nov. 3, 1971.
Bertha, Kenneth and Harry Masson.
Jerald has worked for Otter Tail Power Company since July, 1967.
The Massons moved to Portland, Ore., where Ken graduated from Benson Polytechnic High School in 1956. On September 23, 1956, he joined the Marines and served four years. In November, 1961, he married Geraldine Grindstaff Bailey, a divorcee with two children — Susan, 1 Vi years old and Steven 2V2 years old. A year later, Sept. 15, 1962, Janet was born. Kenneth died July 28, 1980, from an aneurysm. Susan is married and has a 7-month-old baby girl named Angela, born March 20, 1980. Steven joined the U.S Navy and is now stationed at Saudia Arabia in the Persian Gulf. Harry Masson died April 29, 1973, at age 72. He had two children — Vernice and Robert by a previous marriage. Vernice was born Nov. 17, 1925, and Robert born Feb. 25, 1923. They both attended their dad's funeral at St. Paul and two months later, Robert, his wife Sylvia, and 14-year-old son Keith, and Sylvia's niece, were drowned while on a fishing trip in Northern Canada when a sudden storm came up, capsizing their boat while they were out fishing on the evening of June 27, 1973. Bertha resides at Portland, Ore.
ERIC AND EMMA LARSON FAMILY Eric Larson was born at Applebo, Sweden, Jan. 1, 1877. He emigrated from Sweden to Minnesota in 1892, at age 15. Emma Wickstrom Larson was born in Vega Township, Minn., Apr. 12, 1883. Eric and Emma were married June 2, 1907, at Warren, Minn., where Eric worked as section foreman for the Soo Line railroad. Through the years he was transferred to Loma, Ardoch, Alsen and to Adams in 1932, where he remained until retirement. Eric Larson died Oct. 3, 1945, and Emma died Apr. 9, 1967. They had three daughters — Bertha, Eleanore and Harriet. Bertha was born Dec. 22, 1909, at Warren, Minn. She married Harry Masson at Grafton, N. Dak., Aug. 11,1934. They had one son, Kenneth, born July 13, 1937, at Helena, Mont.
Emma Larson
Eleanore was born Oct. 12, 1915, at Loma, N. Dak. She received her nurses' training from the Grafton Hospital and has resided in Salem, Ore., for many years.
Myron, David, Gary and Harriet Spielvogel.
Eric Larson 1
Harriet Larson was born July 22, 1917, at Loma. She married Myron Spielvogel at Helena, Mont., Oct. 24, 1936. They had two sons — Gary and David. Gary was born at Missoula, Mont., Aug. 23, 1941. David was born Sept. 16, 1943, at Burlington, N. Dak. David married Linda Fugelso and they had two sons — Jeffrey born May 12, 1966, and Brian born Aug. 23, 1967. David and Linda were later divorced and on May 29, 1979, David married Beverly Fillipe Wendeschlag at Minot, N. Dak. Harriet died January 25, 1973. Myron married Lois Bahl and they all reside at Minot.
ALBERT C. LOFTHUS Albert was born to Johannes and Maude Lofthus, March 2 1 , 1901, on a farm, five miles east of Adams. The family moved to Adams when the town started in 1905. Albert grew to manhood in Adams and attended the Adams school. He was baptized in the Lutheran faith as a baby. In 1929 Albert and his brother, Melvin, left for California in a Model T Ford, their destination being McCloud, Calif., where their sister lived. Upon their arrival there, Albert and Melvin obtained work in the lumber mill. He later moved to Medford, Ore., to work in the lumber mill and was employed there until he retired. He was an alderman for the Medford Corporation.
Aldus and Mildred Lofthus Pacific Theatre with amphibious duty. He saw service in the Philippine Islands, Guam and Okinawa. He was discharged from the military on Jan. 10, 1946. With the assistance of the G.I. Bill, he returned to the University of North Dakota and received his Bachelors Degree in 1948. In 1 954 the Master of Science Degree was awarded. His entire profession has been spent in the field of education. One year was spent as a teacher in the Indian Reservation at Red Lake, Minn.; two years was spent as high school principal at Mentor, Minn.; and the remaining 20 years have been spent as Superintendent of Schools, all in Minnesota — at Mentor 3 years, Gonvick 6 years, Chisago City 5 years, and Olivia for 15 years, where they now reside. He was married on Nov. 12, 1949, to Mildred "Billie" Berg of Grand Forks. Their family consists of three children — Patty Lott, (deceased in 1966), Gary Lee in Duluth, Minn., and Alan Duane, in Houston, Tex.; there are three grandchildren — two granddaughters and one grandson — one by each of the three children.
Albert and Ethel Lofthus Albert married Ethel Westwong July 16, 1936. They have one son, Arling. Albert died Oct. 22, 1972, at the age of 71 and is buried in Siskeyau Memorial Park, Medford, Ore.
ALDUS DAYTON LOFTHUS Aldus Dayton Lofthus, a son of Johannes and Amelia Lofthus, was born in Walsh County, at Adams, N. Dak., on Feb. 25, 1920. He was the youngest child of nine children — four girls and five boys. His father's death, with his age less than one year, left the family under the care of his mother and older brothers and sisters. At the age of seven, following the death of his mother, his Uncle Ole and Aunt Johanna Lofthus were made legal guardians of him and his brother Juel. Under this care and guardianship the two brothers grew to manhood. Graduating from the Adams High School in 1938, with the aid of a limited amount of insurance and the National Youth Administration, he entered the University of North Dakota in 1938. After two years, and following the draft of 1941, he discontinued the University and spent one year in California working in a lumber mill. On Aug. 29, 1942, following the draft, he enlisted in the United States Navy at San Francisco. After basic service as a medical corpsman, he was assigned to the U.S.S. Tazewell in the
JUEL EDWARD AND RELLIA LOFTHUS Juel was born Sept. 22, 1917, to Johannes and Maude Lofthus, and was baptized and confirmed in the Adams Mountain Lutheran Church. When Juel and his younger brother, Aldus, were very young, both their parents died and they went to live with an uncle and aunt, Ole and Johanna Lofthus. Juel received his elementary education at the Adams Public School. He lived for a few years with his older brother on the family farm. When he reached age eighteen he moved to McCloud, Calif., to look for work and found work in a lumber mill in McCloud. This work was interrupted when he was inducted into the service during World War II. He served in the European Theater and was wounded in France shortly before the war ended. He was returned to the United States and received
Juel and Rellia Lofthus
medical attention in a hospital in San Francisco. On Feb. 7, 1945, after his discharge from the service, he married Rellia DeMarco. He then returned to work at the lumber mill in McCloud, Calif., where he worked until he retired in 1979. Juel and Rellia have no children. Early in 1979, Juel had open heart surgery. The surgery was very successful and Juel continues to do carpentry work and has remodeled his own home.
MELVIN AND HELEN LOFTHUS FAMILY Melvin Johannes was born to Johannes and Maude Lofthus on Dec. 2, 1906, in Adams, and was baptized and confirmed in the Mountain Lutheran Church in Adams. He graduated from the Adams school in 1924. In the fall of 1929 Melvin and his brother, Albert, left for McCloud, Calif., in a Model T Ford to obtain work. When they arrived in McCloud, they went to work in the lumber mill there. Melvin worked at the mill until he retired, due to poor health.
Vernon and sister, Vivian Lundberg.
Helen, Marlene, Melvin and Dennis Lofthus. Melvin married Helen Aakle, Feb. 24, 1934. They had two children — Marlene and Dennis. Melvin died Dec. 3, 1975, and was buried in Mount Shasta Memorial Gardens, Mt. Shasta, Calif. Vernon Lundberg SHIRLEY LOVESTROM Shirley Virginia, daughter of Frank and Minnie Gullickson Lovestrom, was born Jan. 16, 1921, at Adams, N. Dak. She attended the Adams Public School; graduated from Moorhead High School at Moorhead, Minn.; and graduated from Fairview Hospital in Minneapolis, as a nurse. She has done much graduate work and taken many various classes and courses. She worked in Hawaii during World War II as a nurse.
He taught high school one year, was drafted into the Armed Service and spent six months in France before being discharged. He continued his education at Iowa State University and the University of Washington and has spent his work life in architectural-engineering and construction work in Seattle and Honolulu and in work assignments ranging as widely as Alaska, Newfoundland, Vietnam, Japan, Australia, and Saudi Arabia. Since retiring in 1979 he has lived in Hollywood, Calif., and is presently devoting his energies to the writing of novels and TV and movie scripts.
Shirley lives in Glendale, Calif., where she is employed as the Industrial Nurse for the American Broadcasting Company in Los Angeles.
THELMA MIDBO
She has done considerable traveling, including the Holy Land, Europe, Far East, Alaska, plus many other interesting places.
Thelma Midbo, the only child of John and Bertha (Myra) Midbo, was born June 15, 1911, at their farm home in Adams Township.
VERNON F. LUNDBERG Vernon Lundberg, a son of O. V. Lundberg and Alma Wallgren, Adams, was born Feb. 1 1 , 1917, at Warren, Minn. A sister, Vivian (Mrs. Melvin Swenson), remains living in Adams and a brother, Duane, is deceased. Vernon attended the Adams Public Schools until the age of 16 when the family moved to Grand Forks where he finished high school and graduated from the University of North Dakota.
She attended country school in Silvesta District 100. From second through grade 12 she attended school in Adams. Her graduating class on May 30, 1930, included Lucille Lofthus, Elvira Sandstrom, Ida Michaelson, Merna Hilde, Thelma Midbo, Olai Erickson, Earl Norby, Andrew Alpho, Clifford Gilbertson, and Louis Olson. At that time parents had to transport their own children by horses and sleigh during the winter months. At other times the children would either walk home or ride with neighbors. It did happen often that her mother would bring her to school in a
Morning Coffee Bible Study Group, of which she is a member. There are three of these groups in town, which meet in the various homes, eight to ten members in each.
HAROLD AND KAREN MINDEMAN FAMILY Harold Mindeman was born at Breckenridge, Minn., to August and Anne Mindman, Aug. 6, 1937. He was reared on a farm north of Barney, N. Dak., and attended eight years of rural school at Garborg, No. 4; two years of high school at Galchutt; two years at the Antelope Public School; and a Business College in Fargo, N. Dak. On Oct. 1, 1957, he married Karen Rogers at Fargo. Karen was born at Williston, N. Dak., May 18, 1938, to Clayton and Bernice Rogers, and lived on a farm east of Williston; received six years of elementary education at Stony Creek School; and went to Williston for her junior high and high school education.
o
Harold worked as manager of the Bison Hotel and Restaurant at Fargo for a time and then they moved to Jamestown where he was bookkeeper for the Farmers Union Oil Company. The manager resigned and Harold was voted in as manager. He also was a manager at Velva, N. Dak., before coming to Adams in 1970 where he still serves as manager for the Cenex Station.
o Thelma Midbo
Model T Ford, and come and get her again. Thelma was confirmed by Reverend Alfred Brevik at the Mountain Lutheran Church in Adams, on May 3 1 , 1925; she was a member of the Trinity Lutheran Church, located three miles north and one mile west of Adams, for many years. Outstanding in Thelma's memory are meetings of the Young People's Society in which she took a turn serving in office. After the church was dismantled, most of the members joined Mountain Lutheran Church in Adams, including Thelma. Following graduation from high school, she remained on the farm, helping where needed. She was a boy for her dad, and a girl for her mother. Her mother became ill at that time and needed help continually from then on, until her death in July, 1952. Her dad was in good health until he suffered a stroke. He lived three weeks, passing away in January, 1955. In the fall of 1956, Thelma was asked by the Adams postmistress, Mrs. Mathilda Johnson, to be the temporary substitute clerk, a position she held for seven years. During the winters of 1957-59 and ' 6 1 , Thelma and her neighbor friend, Greta Bjorg, did some traveling by car. Their destination was Phoenix, Ariz., but they planned their routes so they were able to see much of the southern and western parts of United States.
The Harold Mindeman Family: left to right, back row, Joan, Harold, Ronn; middle, Karen, Renee, Barbara; front, Jay. Harold and Karen have five children: Ronn was born May 20, 1958, and received his education at Jamestown, Velva, and Adams. Currently he is attending the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, and is employed parttime at Perkins. He married Carla Dahl of rural Adams, at Adams, Dec. 22, 1979. She is a registered nurse at the United Hospital, Grand Forks. Joan was born Aug. 5, 1960, at Jamestown and is now attending U.N.D. in preparation for a degree in nursing. She was employed at the United Hospital as an L.P.N, for 1 Vz years. She received her elementary and high school education at Velva and Adams, and attended Lake Region Junior College.
In 1962, both Greta and Thelma decided to go to work. They began by going to Minneapolis and started in March to work at the Ebenezer Home as nurses aides. Ebenezer is the largest nursing home in United States. Thelma was employed there for nine winters, going there in October or November, and returning to the farm the following May. For four winters she was employed at a private home in South Minneapolis as a companion to a lady who had multiple sclerosis. In 1976 Thelma decided to retire, and came back to the farmstead which she had been caring for, continuing to keep up the yardwork and home. In 1978, because of unpredictable roads during the coldest part of winter, she decided to buy a mobile home in Adams, and to live there part-time.
Barbara, born April 30, 1962, at Jamestown, is a student at U.N.D. She too, received her elementary and high school education at Velva and Adams.
Thelma is an active member of the Young at Heart Senior Citizens Club and is filling the secretary's job, for the fourth year. She is also a charter member of the T. and C. Sewing Club since its organization in 1945. Another enjoyable pastime is the
Renee was born July 6, 1966, at Minot and attends the Adams Public School. Jay was born Sept. 2 1 , 1 9 7 0 , at Minot and also attends the 104
Adams Public School. The Mindemans are members of the Mountain Lutheran Church and are active in church and civic affairs. Harold is president of the Mountain Lutheran congregation and also of the Community Club. Karen is treasurer of the A.L.C.W.
LUCILLE M. (LOFTHUS) MONTEITH Lucille Lofthus Monteith was born Nov. 4, 1912, in Adams, N. D., to Johannes E. and Amelia Maude Lofthus. She was the seventh child in a family of nine and was baptized and confirmed in the Mountain Lutheran Church in Adams. She attended the Adams Public Schools and graduated from there in May, 1930. Her parents both passed away at an early age, so the home was broken up. She is ever so grateful to the two families who provided a home for her so she could finish high school. They were Mike and Edith Bateman and Jack and Nora Hosna. In August, 1931, she married Roland Monteith of Lakota, N. D. He came to Adams to be employed as a barber by Mr. Kuball. They began their married life in Hansboro, N. D. The four years there were during the Depression of 30's. But they were young, and life was full and happy! They made many life long friends there. Their first son, Gerald, was born in Hansboro.
Roland and Lucille Monteith In August of 1935 they moved to Egeland, N. D., where Roland was the Standard Oil Bulk Agent. Their next three children, Larry, Dean and Jeanne, were born there. They attended and were active in the Presbyterian Church; Lucille taught Sunday School, was a member of their Ladies' Aid and helped with other church activities. Roland and Gerald were active in Boy Scouts. All four of the children were baptized in the Presbyterian Church in Egeland. In July, 1947, the family moved to Fargo where Lucille Monteith is still living. Roland passed away Aug. 26th, 1977. Roland's first employment in Fargo was a dispatcher for Hvidsten Transport. Later he worked as a salesman on the road for Midwest Oil Co. and H. K. Stahl. The last eight years, until he retired in 1971, he worked as office manager for Star Oil Co., of
The Roland Monteith Family: left to right, Larry, Jeanne, Dean, Gerald; front, Lucille and Roland. Fargo. While the children were in school Lucille was active in their P.T.A.'s and was a Den Mother for Cub Scouts for several years. Later she was employed by the F-M Hotel in Moorhead for twelve years as a banquet waitress and also the banquet hostess. The following twelve years she worked as a secretary for Central Life Assurance Company, also in Moorhead. From 1972 to 1976, Roland and Lucille owned and operated Fountain Products of North Dakota. The family attended church at Olivet Lutheran. Lucille transferred her membership to Olivet. Roland was baptized at Olivet in March, 1954. Roland, Larry, Dean and Jeanne were all confirmed there. Lucille still attends church there, is a member of the OLCW and one of their circles. Both Roland and she were very active members of United Commercial Travelers of America. They both served as Grand Counselors of this organization. She still enjoys an active part in this fraternal organization. Their eldest son, Gerald, was born May 5th, 1933, and married Margaret Burr of Fargo. They have three children — Debra, 27, Kris Anne, 25, and Robert, 2 1 . Gerald attended school through the eighth grade in Egeland. He graduated from Fargo Central High School and North Dakota State University, later earning a Master of Science degree in Management from George Washington University in Washington, D.C. Upon graduating from NDSU, he entered, the military and has made this his career. His rank is now a Brigadier General. He is stationed in Kitzingen, Germany, as Commander of Kitzingen Military Sub-Community and Assistant Division CommanderSupport. This is his third tour of duty in Germany and he has been stationed in many posts in the United States. Larry, the second son, was born Nov. 6th, 1936. He married Gloria Albrecht of Fargo. They have three children Steven, 20, Teresa Lynn, 19, and Laura, 16. They live in Northbrook, 111. Larry graduated from Fargo Central High School and attended N.D.S.U. for two years. He then entered the military service. After two years in the service he returned to Fargo and operated a service station business for several years. He later went to work for the Ammco Tool Corp. of Chicago. He worked for them for twenty years, first as regional manger and resided in Denver, Colorado. He was transferred to the home office in Chicago and became one of their vice presidents. He is now president of his own company, L-M American, an automotive equipment business. Dean, the third son, was born Jan. 8, 1941, and married Gail Shamp of Fargo. They have two daughters, Jill, 15, and Jen-
nifer, 12. They live in Plymouth, Minn. Dean graduated from Fargo Central High School and NDSU. Upon graduating from NDSU he entered the Air Force where he served for five years. After his discharge from the Air Force they came back to live in Minneapolis. He went to work as a pilot for Northwest Orient. The strike came shortly after he started and he was laid off for a number of years. During this time he and Gail owned and operated a Tea and Coffee Shop in Ridgedale Shopping Center. They sold this business last January. Dean is now back working as a pilot for Northwest Orient Airlines.
Stella and Carl have two sons. Darrell Wayne was born May 15, 1944, in Grafton, graduated from Adams High School, and attended one year at Wahpeton School of Science. Ater that he spent two years in the army, one year with the Big Red One Infantry Unit in Vietnam. On July 1 2, 1 969, he married Judith E. Moen, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. George Moen, of Park River' Darrell is a carpenter and has worked for Bakke Homes at Union for six years. Before that he worked for Elmo Setness, another
Their only daughter, Jeanne, was born Sept. 20th, 1946. She married Bruce Lindsay of Fargo. They have two children — Brian, 12, and Jessica, 7. Jeanne graduated from Fargo Central High School and U.N.D., Grand Forks. Upon graduating from U.N.D., she and Bruce went to live in Georgia, as Bruce entered the military service as an Army Pilot. The year that Bruce was in Vietnam Jeanne came back to North Dakota and taugnt in West Fargo. When he returned to the states they were stationed in New Jersey, where Jeanne also taught school. After six years in the service they returned to Fargo. Jeanne continued her teaching here in Fargo at Clara Barton Elementary School for three years. On October 3rd, 1980, they moved to Dhahran, Saudi Arabia, where Bruce is employed as a pilot for the Aramco Oil Company. With Roland gone and the family widely scattered, Lucille keeps herself busy with outside activities and many dear friends. One remaining sister, Nora, and two brothers, Juel and Aldus, and their families are a source of great help too.
CARL AND STELLA MYRVIK FAMILY Carl Myrvik, son of Ole and Martha Myrvik, was born on the Myrvik farm June 30, 1910, in Montrose Township, rural Milton. Carl spent his early years going to school and helped with the farm work during the summer. During the winter months the neighborhood kids enjoyed skiing and toboggoning in the hills. Their farm was an enjoyable picnic area so different churches and organizations held their picnics there, in the woods. On June 11,1943, Carl married Stella Strommen of Adams at St. Stephen's Lutheran Church, rural Milton. Stella was the daughter of Ole and Olis Strommen, and was born in Crosby, N. Dak. She, along with her mother, sisters and brother, moved to Adams after their father passed away in 1927. Her mother passed away in 1977, at the age of 92.
Darrell and Judith Myrvik Family — left to right, Jason, Darrell, Judith and Christina. carpenter. Judith has been secretary at Polar Rural Telephone Company at Park River for twelve years. Darrell and Judith have two children — a son, Jason Wayne, born Oct. 1, 1973, and a daughter, Christina Elizabeth, born Jan. 4, 1977. They reside in Park River and belong to Our Saviour's Lutheran Church at Park River. Stella and Carl's youngest son, Dwight Eugene, was born Mar. 18, 1953, at Tacoma, Wash. Carl and Stella moved to Tacoma in 1953 and lived there two years, where Carl worked for Coast, Sash and Door Company, a plywood factory. Then
Stella attended school in Adams and after graduating from the Adams High School, taught two years in rural schools. After graduating from the Mayville State College, she taught one year at Calvin, N. Dak. After their marriage she taught five years at the Dewey School near Fairdale.
Dwight Myrvik Family — back, Dwight and Kathy; front, Anthony, Wendy and baby Matthew.
Carl and Stella Myrvik 106
they moved back to Adams. Dwight graduated from Adams High School and from Mayville State College with a degree in Business Administration. On Dec. 30, 1972, he married Kathryn Moen, sister of Judith Moen (Darrell's wife). Dwight has worked for Samson Electric at Park River for four years. They reside on a farm near Park River and have a hog operation with his brother-in-law, George M. Moen. Kathryn graduated from Mayville College and has taught the last five years in Pisek. They have three children — Anthony David born Aug. 9, 1973, at Mayville; Wendy Ann, bom on Oct. 18, 1975, at Pierre, S. Dak.; and Matthew Paul, born at Park River June 17, 1980. All belong to Our Saviour's Lutheran Church, Park River. In August, 1960, Carl and Stella bought the Chuck Wagon Cafe in Adams and have operated it since then. They belong to the Mountain Lutheran Church in Adams.
CLARENCE NELSON Clarence Henry Nelson was born Sept. 4, 1899, in the Mandt area, N. Dak., to Hans and Carrie (Johnson) Nelson. He was five years old when he came with his family to Adams, in a wagon box pulled by horses. His father worked on the railroad that was just being built and' Adams was becoming a town. They lived in Fordville for three years where his mother ran the cafe. Clarence went through seventh grade in the Adams School. When he was 16 years old, he went to work on the Soo line railroad with his father, laying ties. Even after working, stooped over all day, Clarence says he never had a backache.
Clarence and Tina Nelson
N. Dak. They made their home with Clarence's parents in Adams. Christine was a very kind person and took good care of Mrs. Nelson who was ill. Clarence and his wife had one daughter, Delores Ilene, bom Dec. 30, 1931. She was crippled and died at Grafton Hospital June 7, 1960. She is buried at West Adams Cemetery. Christine was born July 10, 1903, and died Sept. 28, 1967 at Grafton. She is buried at West Adams Cemetery. Clarence is a good housekeeper and keeps his house neat and clean. He says hard work never hurt anybody and, for himself, the harder he worked the better he felt. He has taken up bowling the last year and enjoys it.
CLIFFORD AND MARTHA NELSON Clifford Arnold was one of the twins born to Amanda and Knute Nelson on Sept. 28, 1917. The other twin was Clara Amanda, who later married Ellsworth Grove. The twins were a little over two years old when their mother died, but their father took over and served as both mother and father to them. Clara was dark, both in complexion and hair, while Clifford was light. She was ahead of him in both size and action but they were always together. Their father carved out little wooden horses that they would spend hours playing with. Wooden apple boxes would serve as the barn. One spring when Clifford and Clara were about four years old, they were with their father while he was working on the drill, getting it ready for the spring seeding. There was a big slough close to this machinery and, being early spring, it was full of water. Clifford and Clara were always with their father. If they weren't with him, they would be in the bedroom window where they could watch him and know his whereabouts. This time, their sisters, Alice and Beatha, were with them too. All of a sudden Beatha saw something bobbing up and down in the water. It was Clifford! Quick as a flash, Beatha ran into the slough to get him. He was so wet and heavy, and Beatha with her wet, heavy clothes, had a hard time to get him and herself back to shore but she managed. Both had to get into the house in a hurry to get clean, dry clothes. Neither one of them suffered a cold but it was a close call for Clifford. He had a knife in his hand at the time and had evidently dropped or thrown it into the water so had gone in there to get it. Later that year, when the water had sunk, the knife
Clarence Nelson
In 1922 he was a coal heaver, filling the great big coal buckets that held 1350 pounds each, using an ordinary shovel and wheelbarrow. He could fill a bucket in 2 minutes. Some days there were as many as seven or eight engines to "coal u p " and he had to work day and night to get the work done. He used a gas engine to power a derrick to hoist the buckets. One evening after supper, Clarence went back to work and by morning he had shoveled off the entire boxcar of coal. He was on the water pump crew, too, which meant walking 1 Smiles a day to the pump east of town and pumping water thru underground pipes into the tanks at the station for the steamers. In the winter he was often called on to shovel out a stalled train on the track. He thought it was fun when this happened. One time it took a whole week to get from Fordville to Adams. His wage: were $1.50 a day for a 10-hour day. When he retired in 1962, he was earning $400 a month and working only 5 days a week. Now employees get eight dollars an hour for laying ties. Clarence had worked 46 years for the Soo line. On October 13, 1928, Clarence and Christine (Nelson), daughter of Mary and Andrew Nelson, were married at Grafton,
Clifford and Martha Nelson
was found in the slough. Their elementary education was obtained in the one-room rural school, Perth District No. 99, located a mile from their home. Since Clifford was interested in farming, it wasn't necessary for him to go on to more school (such were the thoughts of the elders at that time). Clifford remained on the farm with his dad. During the haying-harvest season in 1941, Clifford contracted encephalitis, and spent several weeks in the Grafton Hospital. He was very, very ill. Clifford married Martha Nelson, daughter of Anton and Karen Nelson, Grenora, N. Dak., on Mar. 22, 1944, in Plentywood, Mont. Six children were born to this union — Clifton, Karen, Alan, Keith, Randy, and Kathleen. All the children attended the Adams Public School, graduating from high school. Clifton Kenneth, the eldest, was born at Williston, N. Dak., on Jan. 30, 1945. He served in the U. S. Navy from September, 1965, until December, 1969. He married Brenda Lucille Mondor Parent on July 15, 1972. She had two children by a previous marriage, Jon Albert, born Dec. 1 1 , 1967; and Sherri Ann, born Aug. 30, 1969. Brenda and Clifton have three girls — Tara Rebecca, born Jan. 28, 1973; Heather Joe, born Dec. 3, 1974; and Janelle Marie, born Oct. 1 1 , 1976. Clifton is employed by the Walsh County Highway Department as highway maintenance blade operator out of the Adams area. Brenda is employed at the Grafton State School. Karen Marie, the oldest girl, was born Apr. 7, 1946. She married Boyd Busse, in 1966. They operate a grain and beet farm near Hensel, N. Dak. They have two children — Shawn Allyn, born Feb. 2 1 , 1967; and Rochelle Dawn, born Oct. 1, 1977. Karen keeps busy with church activities and Homemakers, besides her general housework. Boyd enjoys being a ham radio operator in his spare time. Alan Harris was born July 28, 1948. He served in the U. S. Army from 1969 until 1971. While in service, he was assigned to the Army Hospital. He is presently living in Mesa, Ariz. Keith Leon was born Nov. 18, 1953. Keith served in the U. S. Navy for three years, 1972 through 1975. He married Maryetta Gandesberry, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Hodney. She was born Feb. 26, 1953. Keith and Maryetta have three children — Rebecca Lynn, born Mar. 12, 1973; Tamara Jean, born June 6, 1976; and Jason Allen, bom Sept 18, 1978. Keith, Maryetta, and family live on the homestead of his grandfather, the late Anton Nelson, near Grenora, N. Dak. Randy Lee was born Sept. 22, 1955. He is presently employed in western North Dakota. Kathleen Lorraine was born June 23, 1958. She attended the University of North Dakota but is presently employed in California. Clifford was tragically killed in a tractor-truck accident near Glasston, N. Dak., on Nov. 2, 1967. Interment was made in the West Forest Cemetery, near Whitman, N. Dak.
CLARENCE AND GLENDORA NYGARD Clarence Nygard, son of Jens and Kristine (Olson) Nygard, was born on a farm northwest of Edinburg; had six brothers and three sisters; attended grade school in Tiber District No. 77; and high school at the Park River Agricultural School. He worked on the home farm throughout the 1930's when everything was done the hard way — farming with horse-drawn machinery, milking cows by hand to sell enough cream to pay the grocery
Clarence and Glendora Nygard bill. He started to haul bundles at the age of 14 to help defray expenses during threshing and later in the fall picked potatoes for 2'/2 cents to 3 cents a bushel to purchase new clothes for winter. In 1937 he boarded the train from Edinburg to Grand Forks to seek employment. It was a trying time and he was fortunate to secure a job at the New Frederick Hotel on North 3rd Street as a night cook, for one dollar a night plus board. After working for eight months he heard of an opening in Fairdale for a cafe operator so in 1938 he went into partnership with Lucille Johnson of Fairdale. They rented the local cafe building from Alvin and Margaret Grove for $25 a month and started the "Home Cafe." That dissolved in 1940 and he purchased the former post office building when the post office was moved to the Amundrud Hardware. Business was on an upward trend by now and in April of 1942 Uncle Sam sent him greetings to come and join the Army. So Frank Robb from Fairdale and Clarence were off to Fort Snelling, but after a week of induction they were separated and each went his own way, Robb to California and Nygard to Little Rock, Ark., for thirteen weeks of basic training. Then Nygard went to Memphis, Tenn., for advanced training before going to Staten Island, N. Y., for overseas duty. He sailed from New York harbor Sept. 4, 1943, with 4800 troops aboard. After eleven days at sea they landed in Bizerti, North Africa, at 5 p.m. under heavy gun fire and air raids. They were taken by trucks to a wide open space to pitch their pup tents. After three months, and the troopes were advanced, they were sent by boat to Naples, Italy, where they were stationed for two years caring for sick and wounded patients in the 300 Gen. Hospital Unit. Clarence returned home in November, 1945, for Thanksgiving and started in the restaurant business Jan. 1, 1946, which had been kept intact by Hazel and Oscar Nygard and Emma and August Nygard during his absence. After eleven years, in 1949, he sold the restaurant to Anne and Bryan Verke of Fairdale. In 1950 Clarence enrolled at Malar Barber College in Fargo, graduated on Aug. 12, 1950, and returned to Adams, N. Dak., to work as an appentice barber for Manne Westberg, the local barber for 40 years. He purchased the barber shop from Westberg in 1952. His parents, Jens and Kristine Nygard, marked their 50th wedding anniversary Jan. 9, 1948. Jens passed away Oct. 3 1 , 1 9 4 8 , at the age of 77 and Kristine passed away Oct. 15, 1951, at the age of 73. Clarence Nygard was married to Glendora Larson, daughter of Ben and Hannah (Strande) Larson, at Park River Dec. 28, 1952. She came from a large family of four brothers and three sisters. She received her education in the Park River schools and enrolled at Webber's Beauty College in Grand Forks. Upon her
graduation she worked for Mr. Webber for 2'/2 years, then went to Mrs. Reed's shop for three years, followed by being an instructor at Mrs. Reed's Beauty School for two years. She returned to Park River to work for Ella Hanson at her shop for seven years. In 1948 she left Ella's shop to work at Juneau, Alaska, going there by air and returning by boat. She then worked for a time as beautician in Seattle before returning to Fargo. She then located at Fargo and worked for Jewel Skjansby for 13 months before returning to Park River to work for Ella Hanson again until she married Clarence Nygard. It seemed only natural that she should be "getting in someone's hair" so in March, 1953 she opened a shop in the basement of their house. She needed more room so in 1955 they built on to the house and she has had a ground floor location ever since. She has had three operators working with her, Donna Olafson of Edinburg, Vivian Setness of Park River for 16 years, and Kathy Drevecky of Adams at the present time.
smelled so good. Her mother was always glad for a day by herself with the children out of the way, and they really enjoyed it. In 1924 Ruby married Gilman Olson. Gilman was born in Sheyenne, N. Dak., Oct. 26, 1902, and came to Adams when very young. Gilman went to the Adams school and to a business school in Fargo. He also was confirmed at Mountain Lutheran Church in Adams. His parents were Lars and Waletta Olson. His father had a grocery store for many years in Adams. After their marriage Gilman worked for Standard Oil for several years, then for Paul Rutherford Service Station for a number of years. When World War II broke out they moved to Bremerton, Wash., where Gilman worked in the shipyards for several years. There were quite a few families from Adams there so they had what they called "Little Adams" right there. They were a close knit group. When the war was over Gilman was transferred to Long Beach, Calif., Naval Shipyards, and worked there for several years. Gilman died in Long Beach, of a heart attack March 29, 1 954, on his mother's birthday.
Mr. and Mrs. Nygard are members and active in the Mountain Lutheran Church at Adams. He has served as treasurer of the Church for 23 years; also served as mayor of Adams along with Orville Hagen, Del Owen, and Theo Hendrickson; served on the school board for twenty years; 16 years as treasurer and four years as clerk-treasurer; is a member of the fire department; a member of the Civic Club, Community Club, and is active in the American Legion, Men's Club and the Walsh County Barber's Association.
Gilman and Ruby had two children — a son, Donald, and a, daughter, Maureen. Donald was born April 17, 1925, in Adams, and attended Adams school until the family moved to Bremerton, Wash. He graduated from high school there. He attended the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, and Long Beach City College in California. He was in the Coast Guard during the war where he was a radio operator. Donald has worked for Southern California Edison Co. for 33 years, as a project planner.
During our 30 years of residence in Adams the couple has had a thriving business in meeting and serving the public.
GILMAN AND RUBY (GEARY) OLSON Ruby Olson was born in Edinburg, N. Dak., March 26, 1905, to W. H. Geary and Ella Pederson. Ruby came to Adams as a small baby and has lived here except for a very few years, and still lives in the old house she came to as a child. Ruby attended Adams school and was confirmed in Mountain Lutheran Church of Adams. One of her pleasant memories when little was going with her dad south of town for hay. Her mother would fix them a lunch and her older brother Harry and she would sit in the hay rack on blankets and, in those days, they drove with horses. Such a treat to eat our lunch outdoors! Her dad piled the hay high in the rack and they would climb to the top and their dad would settle them on the blankets and start for home. It was several miles there so it took hours and the children would fall asleep in the hay. It always Left to right, Donald Olson Family: Donald, Sally, Adam, Sue, Jim; standing, Don Jr., Ingrid. One of Donald's most pleasant memories as a young boy is having his little black pony and sleigh, and going to the depot to pick up Santa Claus, who was supposed to come in on the train, and bring him downtown to the city Christmas tree in the street. Santa gave bags of candy to the children. That year Santa Claus was played by Jessie Lundquist. Very few people guessed who Santa was. Donald was married Jan. 2 1 , 1950, to Sara Buchanan in Long Beach, Calif. Sara is a registered nurse. Her parents are Mr. and Mrs. Lyle Buchanan of Pennsylvania. Donald and Sara have two children — a daughter, Susan, and an adopted son, Donnie. Donnie came to live with them as a baby one Christmas, so their family was complete. He is 20 years old now and goes to college and works at Knott's Berry Farm. He lives at home. Their
Richard, Ruby (Olson) Geary and William (Bill) Geary. 1
Kevin is going to Columbia College, taking Fire Science to be a Forest Ranger. One of the happy memories of living in North Dakota was of the fall of the year when family and friends would gather at Jack and Nora Hosna's farm. Jack had saved a big straw pile and they would dress well and have a straw stack party. Children and grown-ups would climb to the top of the pile and jump or roll off. They kept on until they were tired out and it got dark. Then Jack would light a fire to the straw pile and they would sit in the light of the burning pile and roast wieners and marshmallows and have lunch. Ruby's father is 99 years old, and lives in the Good Samaritan Home in Park River. She worked at the Grafton State School for the Mentally Retarded for over 12 years, a job she enjoyed very much.
Donald Conant Family: left to right, top, Kevin, Jennifer, Kathy: sitting, Don, Maureen, and Michelle. daughter, Susan, is married to Jim Swick and they have two children — a daughter, Ingrid, and a son, Adam. They live in Cypress, Calif., where Jim is a lawyer. Maureen Olson was born June 4, 1927, in Adams. She attended school there and graduated from Bremerton High in Washington, and from Contometera School in Seattle. She then worked for several years for the telephone company in Palo Alto, Calif. A most pleasant memory from childhood is playing with Eugene and Dorothy Skarstad in the play house, with their dolls and dressup.clothes. Maureen was married to Don Conant Sept. 11, 1948, in Long Beach. Don also attended Bremerton High School. He was in the Merchant Marines during the war, serving as a radio operator on ships. Don worked for Farinon Electric. He has worked for them for 14 years. They live in Cupertino, Calif., and have four children — three girls and one boy. Michelle, the oldest, is married to Grover Sinsley. They live in Sunny Vale, Calif., and have two little girls, Alicia, 4, and Amber, 1 Vi. Grover graduated from San Jose State College and is a building contractor. Michelle is a graduate of Foot Hill College and is a dental hygienist. Jennifer is married to Brad Paulson and lives in Cupertino, Calif. She graduated from DeAnza College and works for a dentist. Brad graduated from San Jose College and is going to college to get his M.B.A. His is also working. Kathleen is married to Ron De Natale. They live in Healdsburg, Calif., where they both work for Healard Packard.
HENRY T.OLSON Henry T. Olson was born Sept. 4, 1904, in Adams Township to the late Ole and Nicoline (Sveen) Olson. There were eight sons and four daughters in the family. In 1907 the family moved to Hayti, S. Dak. Living there one year, they then moved back to the Adams area to the farm they bought from Mrs. Olson's parents (Nels Sveen) in Vesta Township. The children attended the rural school in District No. 72. In 1918 the farm was rented out and the family moved to Silverton, Ore., where Henry attended school and finished the eighth grade. In 1921 the family moved back to the farm in Vesta Township. Henry attended the W.C.A.S. at Park River and also took a commercial course at the A.C. in Fargo. He married Edna McLean in 1936, the daughter of the late James and Annie (Carlson) McLean. The couple bought the farm east of Adams, known as the Kenney farm, in Vesta Township. There a son, Mitchel Lloyd, was born, on Nov. 17, 1941. In 1947 they bought a home in Adams. Edna passed away in 1947 and was buried in the Odalen Cemetery. Mitchel attended the Adams elementary and high school. He attended the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks and earned, his Bachelor of Business Administration and a Juris Doctorate Degree. Mitchel married Elaine Hamre on July 10, and lives in Fargo where he is a partner in the CP.A. firm of Eide, Helmeke, Boelz, and Pasch at Fargo. They have two daughters, Julie, 8, and Jill, 4. Elaine is a registered nurse. On March 23, 1958, Henry married Gladys Overland, a widow with three daughters. Gladys was born November 3, 1911, to the late Nels and Emma (Johnson) Hove in Shepherd Township. In 1970 Henry retired from farming and rented out the farm. He is a real estate broker and sells some real estate. He and his wife are members of the Mountain Lutheran Church of Adams.
GLADYS HOVE OVERLAND OLSON Gladys Hove Overland was born Nov. 3, 1911, the second child of the late Nels and Emma (Johnson) Hove, in Shepherd Township. Her oldest brother died in infancy. She has two brothers, Chester and Hjalmer, living in the Adams area. They attended the Shepherd School No. 1. Bill Geary, 99 years old.
Ruby Olson
She married Arnold Overland on Nov. 15, 1937, a son of the late John and Alida (Alstad) Overland. He was born Aug. 17,
1912, in Lawton Township, and received his education in the Lawton school. The first two years of their marriage they farmed in Lawton Township. There their daughter Arlene was born on Mar. 17, 1939, but lived only a few days. She was buried in the Vang Lutheran Cemetery. On Feb. 20, 1940, the couple moved to a farm in Shepherd Township, known as the Erick M. Johnson farm. There their second daughter, Rita Marlene, was born on Oct. 27, 1941. On June 19, 1943, Donna Verlaine was born, and on May 22, 1946, Joan Rae was born. They are members of the Vang Lutheran Church, rural Fairdale. Arnold died very suddenly at home from a heart attack on Feb. 29, 1952, at the age of 39 years. He was buried in the Vang Lutheran Cemetery. In the fall of 1952 they rented the farm out and the girls and their widowed mother moved to Adams. On March 23, 1958, she married Henry T. Olson, a widower with one son, Mitchel who was born November 1 7, 1941. The children received their elementary and high school education in the Adams school. They are all members of the Mountain Lutheran Church of Adams. Rita and Donna attended Aaker's Business College in Grand Forks; Joan attended the Devils Lake Junior College for two years, the next two years at the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks, and earned her Degree of Bachelor of Science in Education. Mitchel attended the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks and earned his Bachelor of Business Administration and Juris Doctorate Degrees. Rita was married to Jerome Westby on June 10, 1962. They have two daughters — the oldest, RaNae, is 17 years and Rhonda is 13 years. They are living in Grand Forks. Jerome is employed with United Parcel Service, and Rita is employed at the Grand Forks Clinic. Donna was married to Donald Haraseth on April 10, 1965. They have four children; the oldest Cheryl, is 15 years, Daidre, is 13 years, Mark is 11 years, and Michael is 7 years. They are living in Grand Forks. Donald is employed at the Red River High School lunch program.
The Ole Olson Family before 1907. Left to right. Albert. Gilbert, Ole, Nels, Ida, Nicotine, Martha (McLean). one brother, John, who married Gladys Dura of Loma; a sister Irene, who died at 18 years; Grace (Mrs. Archie Lufkin) of Williston, N. Dak.; Beatrice (Mrs. Fred Bonneville), Mora, Minn, and Alberta, (Mrs. John Schmidt) Minneapolis. Nels Olson worked for the Walsh County Highway Department under Carl Stensland and later for Cavalier County under Vernon Sheratt and then was employed by the Great Northern Railroad Company. He was diesel watchman at the Sarles, N. Dak., roundhouse and was night watchman for 14'/2 years. He and his family had farmed during the 1930's and watched the hordes of grasshoppers destroy their crops for two years, and then suffered loss from hail storms the next two years, followed by a severe cyclone the next year. Their Vesta home burned down in 1 935. Nels returned to Adams in 1964. Nels and Irma Olson had eleven children. Lois, (Mrs. Orville Johnson) of Edinburg; Vernon, married Sandra Knutson at Oklee, Minn., and have one daughter, Gloria, and live at Delano, Minn; Dorothy, (Mrs. Norbert Behrenger) of North Branch, Minn, who has two daughters, Deanna (Mrs. Jack Anfinsen) of Mound and Sandra, (Mrs. Ron Nadeau) of St. Paul, Minn., and two grandchildren, Joshua Kilen Anfinson and Trish Nadeau.
Joan was married to Steven Schmoll on August 3 1 , 1 9 6 8 . They have two sons, Scott, the eldest, is 11 years and Paul is 7 years. Steven is employed at the Air Borne Express. They are living in Cleveland, Ohio. Joan is a substitute teacher.
Aldon is married to Gladys Schuler of Sarles and lives at Maple Grove, Minn., and they have five children — Cynthia, (Mrs. Dave Robb) and daughter, Michele, lives in St. Louis Park, Minn.; Debra, (Mrs. Segler) and son, Kenneth, Buffalo, Minn., and Terry, Douglas and Julie, at home.
NELS M.OLSON FAMILY
Robert lives at Baker, Ore.; Oscar (Chuck) is married to Rachal Priest and has one daughter, Angela Ray, and lives in Rufus, Ore.; James married Diana Monette and has four children
Nels M. Olson was born November 16, 1895, in Adams Township, Walsh County, the son of Mr, and Mrs. Ole A. Olson. In 1907 the family moved to Haiti, S. Dak., where Ole's parents, Ingrebrite and Jane Gjertud (Severson) Olson, had homesteaded. Later Ole Olsons returned to North Dakota to Vesta Township to the farm homesteaded by her father, Nels Sveen. In 1919 Ole's family went to Silverton, Ore., but returned to Vesta Township in 1922, where they lived until they retired and moved into Adams. The Olson children attended local schools. Nels attended the Walsh County Agricultural School when it was first built and later attended the Hanson Tractor Trade School in Fargo. Nels married Irma Gehrke March 6, 1924, in Grand Forks. Her parents lived southwest of Adams. She attended local school and the Walsh County Agricultural School in Park River. She had
Nels M. Olson Family: left to right, front — Nels, Dorothy. Larry, Paul, Eugene, Lois, Irma; back — James, Vernon, Aldon, Robert. Raymond, and Oscar.
at home in St. Thomas, N. Dak. — Tena, John, Kimberly and Sharon.
now owned and operated by Gullikson.
Raymond died November 30, 1978; Paul lives at Adams, N. Dak.; Eugene is married to Judith Lee of Adams, N. Dak., and has a girl, Michele, and a son, Michael; Larry is married to Kathy Fishum at Wadena and has two children — Jason and Kristine. They live at Litchfield, Minn. Nels and Irma Olson are residents of the Good Samaritan Center in Park River. N. Dak., at the present time.
NELS SVEEN Nels Sveen homesteaded in Vesta Township on the farm now operated by Robert Lundquist. Records at the Grafton Courthouse show Mr. Sveen emigrated in 1 885, arriving in New York in 1886. Applying for naturalization, he became a citizen of the USA November 1, 1894. The homestead patent document was signed by William McKinley and filed June 1, 1889. He was born in Osen, Norway in 1831 and died July 28, 1913. His wife Martha died June 29, 1921. Both are buried in the West Adams Cemetery.
Her parents moved to the Hoff farm where the Skorheim Brothers are now living. They attended the Hoff School, located just across the road, and here she completed eighth grade. The year they moved to the Hoff farm was a tragic year as they lost their beloved sister, Clara, nine years old. Later that spring, lightning struck the house, tearing up most of the rooms. It was just a miracle that no one was hurt. Carpenters were there all summer, repairing the house. Ida was confirmed in the Hoff Church. From then on, it was to go out and earn a living. It was while she was working in Grand Forks that she met Clarence Osen. He was born in Newfolden, Minn., and later came with his parents to the Emerado area. They were married Aug. 3 1 , 1935, at Grand Forks. They farmed for several years in the Emerado area, then purchased a small grocery store in Emerado, so we were "prune peddlers" until 1952, when they sold the store and left for California. Clarence was employed by the Northrop Aircraft Company as an A1 Mechanic. It was a drastic change in their lives; they were very lonely the first year, missing all their friends at Emerado, Many new friends entered their life. They resided in Inglewood, Calif., for eighteen years. When Clarence reached the age of sixty-five years, he retired. It was mandatory at the time and certainly not their choice. They returned to Adams in 1970, and Ida still resides there.
Their children were Nicoline, (Mrs. Ole A. Olson), Adams; Severena, (Mrs. John Landsem), Lawton; Olene, (Mrs. Ole Severson) Adams; Olava, (Mrs. Falk) LaCrosse, Wisconsin, and Tom Sveen who married Mary Grandby and lived in Alberta, Canada.
Clarence died two years ago, on June 1, 1968. He was a victim of lung cancer. He had many check ups but they didn't detect the tumor until three months before he passed away.
CLARENCE AND IDA HENDRICKSON OSEN Ida Hendrickson was born June 24, 1909, on a small farm in Latona Township, south of Adams, N. Dak., to Mr. and Mrs. Carl Hendrickson. There were seven children — Clarence, Emil who died in infancy, Emily, Ida, Clara, Theodore, and Irene. They attended Latona grade school and walked a mile across country to reach it. Their childhood was very ordinary; their biggest treat was when their dad came home from town with a box of Cracker Jack for each of them and then there would be a sack of candy from Mr. Heen, owner of the Mercantile Store, which is
CYRIL AND ANN PEACH Cyril M. Peach was born June 29, 1910, in Shepherd Township, Walsh County, the son of Frank Pic and Rosi Herda. He had three brothers — Frank, Norbert, and Charles, and two sisters — Georgia (Mrs. Gunder Gullikson) and Carolyn (Martin). He worked with his parents on the farm until 1929, and also did odd jobs, mostly carpentering, when time permitted. In 1930 he started farming on his own, but due to the Depression years he went broke, as did so many others, so he went back to carpentering.
Cyril and Ann Peach On October 3 1 , 1938, he married Anna Skare, rural Fairdale. She was born Jan. 13, 1918, to Andrew and Emma Skare. She had one brother, John, and two sisters, Edith (Mrs. Orrin Aubol) and Inga (Mrs. Goodwin Severson). She received her elementary education at the Hedlund School, a rural school. Clarence and Ida Osen
They were married at the parsonage in Grafton with Rev. H. 1
Township, on October 20, 1927, where they farmed. They had three sons — Churchill, Wallace, and Arnold. Churchill was born Feb. 15, 1929, attended a rural school in Latona Township and completed his education in the Adams Public School. In 1951, he was drafted into the Army and was stationed in Korea for two years. Upon his discharge from service in 1956, he married Joy Sellheim. To this union, two girls and three boys were born, all residing in Grafton, N. Dak. Wallace F., the second boy, was born Dec. 30, 1931. He attended the Adams Public School. In 1952, he enlisted in the Army and was sent to Frankfort, Germany, serving in the Medical Corps. After his discharge from the service, he married Leona Schultz. They have one son, Dean, born in 1975.
Cyril Peach at Hobak Sheet Metal Shop, Burbank, Calif. A. Helsem officiating. John Skare and Olga Melland were the attendants. The couple tried farming again but this time it was different. The crops were good and so were the prices. They lived on the Andrew Skare farm as John had entered the service. However, in 1945, they quit farming and moved into Fairdale. Their son, Chan, who was born Aug. 9, 1939, was ready to start school and the rural school had closed so they were forced to send him to town. There were no buses in those days and they would have had to transport him every day.
Frank and Stasia Peach
While in Fairdale, Cyril worked for the International Harvester Company as a mechanic and also owned a pub. Their son, Richard, was born July 19, 1945. In 1952 they moved to Burbank, Calif., where both Ann and he worked. By going to 40 months of night school he earned a diploma in Tool and Dye Making, and also a degree in mathematics from the American School of Technology.
Arnold, the youngest son, was born Feb. 5, 1933. He attended the Adams Public School, graduating with the class of 1951. That year, he joined the Navy for four years. He married JoAnn Sellheim in 1956. They had three children - Joleen, Jeffrey and Jacqueline. Joleen was born Aug. 19, 1958. She married Keith Bjorneby and they live on a farm. Keith and Joleen have one son, Christopher, born Nov. 1 1 , 1979. Jeffrey was born March 13, 1960; and Jacqueline was born Aug. 9, 1961. Both are attending college in Crookston, Minn. Arnold is a Barber in Grafton. Walter Ferguson passed away Jan. 2 1 , 1961. Two years later, Stasia married Frank Peach. They are both retired and make their home in Adams, N. Dak.
His wife, Ann, worked for Hydro Aire for 19 years, the las* nine years as supervisor in the Electronic Department, Burbank. They loved California and made many friends. Both of their boys are married and live there. Chan lives and works for Bermite, where military ammunition is manufactured for missiles and heavy artillery. He married Marith Ensely in 1960. They have two children - Brad, age 20, and Lisa, 19, who are college students at the present time. Richard and his wife Dali live in Oxnard, Calif., and work in Ventura, Calif. They have two children - Nicole, 1 1 , and Michael, 4. Richard is an inspector for a manufacturing firm. In 1973 Cyril and Ann retired and moved back to Adams to enjoy life for a while. Ann, passed away Oct. 28, 1978, at the age of 60, and is buried at the Gustavus Adolphus Cemetery.
ELSIE (LOFTHUS) AND PETE PEDERSON
FRANK AND STASIA PEACH Mrs. Stasia Antos Ferguson, now known as Mrs. Frank Peach, is the daughter of John and Julia Antos, early residents of Latona Township, where they farmed for 26 years. On Oct. 19, 1963, Stasia married Frank Peach, a son of Frank Sr., and Rose Herda Peach. His home was in Dewey Township, Walsh County. He had been married to Colesta Haugen of Osnabrock, who taught one of the schools in Dewey Township; she died in 1944, and is buried at Olga. Stasia's first marriage was to Walter Ferguson in Latona
Elsie and Pete Pederson 13
Elsie was born March 3rd, 1903, to Johannes and Maude Lofthus at home on her parents' farm, five miles east of Adams. The family moved to Adams when Adams started in 1905. Elsie was baptized at home and confirmed in the Mountain Lutheran Church in Adams. She attended Adams Public School and graduated in 1921. Elsie was employed by Northwestern Bell Telephone in Grafton for a number of years, before her marriage to Peter Pederson on May 2 1 , 1 9 2 8 . Elsie and Pete moved to McCloud, Calif., after their marriage, and lived there until they retired. They then moved to Mt. Shasta, Calif., where they built a home. Elsie and Pete had one son, Robert, and one grandson, Brian. Elsie died June 26th, 1977, and is buried in the Bay Area with her husband who is buried there in a military cemetery. Mrs. Annie Kilen Grilley CHARLES AND LILLIAN ROBBINS HISTORY Lillian Geneva (Grilley) Robbins was born Sept. 4, 1909, to Annie (Kilen) and Clarence Grilley, at their home in rural Plaza, N. Dak., where they lived a few years before moving to Deeringi N. Dak., northeast of Minot. She attended the Grilley Consolidated School, and was a member of the St. Olaf Lutheran Church where she was baptized and confirmed. When Lillian was eight years old her mother developed a heart condition which resulted in her death. Lillian lived with her grandparents, Lorinda and George Grilley, until her father remarried. In 1919, Clarence married his first wife's cousin, Signa Louise Midbo. They continued to farm in the Deering area. Lillian finished high school in Glenburn, N. Dak., then entered nurses' training at Trinity Hospital in Minot, graduating in 1932. After finishing her training, she accompanied her folks on a trip through N. Dak., Minn., Iowa, and Wisconsin, visiting relatives and other places of interest.
Mrs. Louise Grilley
Four children were born to Lillian and Charles: Carol Anne born Apr. 16, 1933, at St. Joseph's Hospital in Minot; Charles Albert, Jr., born May 28, 1934, in their home at 1022- 2nd St N.E. in Minot; David Joseph, born Dec. 10, 1942, at St. Joseph Hospital, Minot; Grace Mary, born Apr. 17, 1946, St. Joseph's Hospital, Minot. They have all been baptized and confirmed. Lillian and Charles spent their first eight years of married life living and working in Minot. In 1940 they decided to start farming on the homestead, and have resided there for 25 years raising their family there. In 1950, Carol married John Nightengale from Oklahoma. Their six children are: Sandra Ruth, born Oct., 1951, in Minot, N. Dak.; married Billy Gene Robinson June 8, 1973,'born May 13, 1951, at Madill, Okla. Their children are: Melissa Anne born Aug. 27, 1974, Shilo Dwayne and Christopher Shane'
Upon returning to Minot, she married Charles Albert Robbins whom she had learned to know several years earlier. His parents cared for several elderly people in their large home for many years, his mother being a nurse. Her name was Mary Elizabeth Koehler and married Clarence B. Robbins. Both have passed away.
Lorinda Grilley and sister — grandmother Robbins (seated) born In 1848.
of
Lillian
Lillian Robbins and her parents, Clarence, and Annie
Grilley. 114
grade in 1930. She was confirmed at the Hitterdahl Lutheran Church on Sept. 2 1 , 1930. Minnie married Olaus B. Rostvet on June 25, 1935. To this union, three girls and six boys were born, namely, Marilyn, Shirley, Amy, Bert, James, Marvin, Orlin, Roger, and Conrad. The family lived on a farm until the fall of 1950, when they moved to Adams for the winter months, and back to the farm during the busy season. This they continued until 1964, when
Lillian Robbins and her four children, left to right, David, Grace Denton, Lillian Robbins, Carol Anne Nightengale, and Charles, Jr. twins born in Frankfort, Germany, while Billy was stationed there. Laurel Ann was born Sept. 30, 1953, in Minot; married Richard Eugene Rich June 23, 1972, born Jan. 23, 1953. Their children are Jason Eugene, born July 30, 1974, and Travis Jay, born Mar. 26, 1979. John Justin was born Jan. 16, 1955, in Minot; married Pamela Lasitor. Their children are Jona Jean, born Dec. 14, 1974, and Justin Dean. They are both baptized. Kelly Gene was born Jan. 3 1 , 1957, in Claremore, Okla.; married Laurie Hamen, child is Brandon Gene, born Aug. 14, 1979. Leslie Kevin was born Mar. 26, 1959, Claremore, Okla.; married Sue Davis. Their child is Christina, born April 14, 1979. Wayne Tracy was born Feb. 24, 1961, at Kenmare, N. Dak. He is single.
The Olaus B. Rostvet Family: left to right, back row: Bert, James, Orlin, Marvin; middle row: Shirley, Marilyn, Amy; front row: Rodger, Minnie, Olaus, Conrad.
Lillian's second child, Charles Albert, was born May 28, 1934, at their home in Minot. A single man, he has lived in Williston and owned a business there. He is presently working on Alaska's North Slope, in the oilfields.
they remained in Adams. Minnie began with upholstery work and has worked up a great business. Olaus passed away June 20, 1972. He is buried at Trinity Cemetery, north of Adams. In January of 1980, Minnie went on a seven-day Caribbean Cruise, over a thousand miles on water in the Festivale Ship. She toured the Virgin Islands of St. Thomas and St. Martin. Minnie finds great enjoyment in visiting her children and families located in California, Nebraska, Minnesota and North Dakota.
David Joseph Robbins married Pamela Wilde, daughter of Mary and Lloyd Wilde of Henefer, Utah. At this time they have four sons: Russell David, Oct. 30, 1968; Ronald Lloyd, Aug. 10, 1970; Randee Charles, May 22, 1975; and Rodney, May 10, 1978. David works at the cement plant in Henefer, attends evening classes in Ogden, and repairs cars for others. Grace Mary Robbins married John Denton Aug. 26, 1967. Both lost their lives as the result of an auto accident in a construction area near Batavia, New York. They are buried in Sunset Memorial Garden, Minot. They used to spend the winters in Phoenix, Ariz. They were both employed at the Stafford Country Club, Batavia, in upstate New York, at the time of their death. Lillian's father became ill in 1965, so she and her husband came to her folks' home to help. Charles Robbins passed away Jan. 29, 1967, from an embolism caused by emphysema. Then on July 1 1 , 1 9 6 7 , her father passed away at the age of 87 years. That was a sad year for all of them.
FORREST AND MARILYN HELGESON Marilyn Joan Rostvet was born March 8, 1936, at the farm home to Olaus and Minnie Rostvet and attended all 8 years of grade school at Silvesta No. 82. The highlight of each school day was stopping at Grandma Lena Axvig's on the way home for her big fork cookies and a glass of milk. The Olaus Rostvet family moved to Adams in the fall of 1950, where she attended high school, graduating in 1954. She attended Interstate Business College at Fargo, and was employed at the Grafton National Bank for 3/2 years in the bookkeeping department. She has been employed for the past 21 years at Northwestern Bell Telephone Company, Fargo, in the accounting department.
After that they bought the Wasing home in Adams and moved in. All went well for a few years until Louise became ill and passed away at the age of 94. Lillian keeps in contact with family, friends and other relatives. She keeps quite well and participates in some of the activities of a good community.
She was married on Sept. 17, 1977, to Forrest Helgeson at Holy Spirit Church, Fargo. Forrest is employed by Steiger Tractor Company at Fargo. They live at 1609 North Broadway, Fargo. ALVIN AND SHIRLEY FRENCH Shirley May (Rostvet) French was born May 27, 1937, at the family farm home, Silvesta Township, Fairdale, N. Dak., to Mr. and Mrs. Olaus B. Rostvet. She remembers her elementary
OLAUS B. AND MINNIE ROSTVET Minnie Josephine Axvig Rostvet, daughter of John and Lena Axvig, was born Nov. 18, 1915, at the farm home and attended the Silvesta District No. 82 rural school, completing her eighth 15
school days at Silvesta School No. 82 when she rode three and a half miles to school in a cutter or walked on nice days. The homemade printed floursack dresses her mother made, and the baked potatoes fired in the coal ashes aren't forgotten either. The family moved to Adams in the fall of 1950, where they spent the winter months. She continued her schooling at the Adams Public School as a seventh grader, and graduated from the Adams High School. Fond times of her childhood were the Saturday night trips to town. She continued her education at Aaker's Business College at Grand Forks, N. Dak., and became employed by the International Harvester Company of Grand Forks. She was married to Alvin E. French on Sept. 27, 1958, at the Mountain Lutheran Church in Adams. They lived in Grand Forks until June, 1966. She was employed by Goodman's and her husband, by the Grand Forks Schools. They moved to the French farm in the Milton-Fairdale area, next to Walsh County, where the family now resides and raises small grains and Registered Polled Herefords. They have four daughters: Julie, Lori, Diana, and Karen. The Frenches are members of Our Redeemer's Lutheran Church in Fairdale, N. Dak. Julie Ann French was born May 2 1 , 1959, at Grand Forks, N. Dak., to Mr. and Mrs. Alvin E. French. She attended kindergarten at Winship School, Grand Forks, and attended Fairdale Elementary School. She graduated from the Edmore Public School in 1977. Her activities included FHA, class plays, being a majorette, pep and concert band, Girls State, annual staff, chorus, varsity cheerleader, and she received the Key Club Award as a Walsh County 4-H member. Julie is a senior at NDSU, Fargo, studying home economics education/extension and business. Her activities include: resident assistant at Weible Hall, Gold Star Band member, state AHEA parliamentarian and local secretary, and a senior Girls State counselor the past two summers. Lori Sue French was born Jan. 12, 1963, at Grand Forks, N. Dak., to Mr. and Mrs. Alvin E. French. She moved with her parents to the Milton-Fairdale area farm at the age of three and a half years. She attended the Fairdale Elementary School and attends the Edmore Public School where she is a senior. Her activities include: girls' varsity cheerleader, junior class play, stage band, chorus, pep and concert band, annual staff, varsity track, FHA, pompons, music contests, and named to Who's Who Among High School students. During the summer of 1979 Lori was selected and attended the FHA/HERO National convention at Washington, D.C, and also attended the Luther League convention in Kansas City, Missouri. Diana Marie French was born May 13, 1965, at Grand Forks, to Mr. and Mrs. Alvin E. French. She moved with her parents to a farm in the Milton-Fairdale area at the age of one year. She was a member of the last graduating class from the Fairdale Elementary School in 1979. Diana attends high school at Edmore, N. Dak., where she is a sophomore. She has been active in stage band, chorus, concert and pep band, FHA, pompon girls, annual staff, and varsity track. Karen Dee French was born April 10, 1969, at Park River, N. Dak., to Mr. and Mrs. Alvin E. French. She attended the first four years of school at the Fairdale Elementary School. She is a sixth grader at the Edmore Public School. Karen is an active Walsh County 4-H member. This summer she received a grand champion award in the 4-H Clover division at the Minot State Fair. She plays basketball, piano, trumpet in the school band, and enjoys swimming.
AMY AND ALLEN PAULSON Amy Orrine (Rostvet) Paulson, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Olaus Rostvet, was born in Silvesta Township on Nov. 30, 1938. She attended rural grade school at Silvesta Dist. No. 82 until her parents moved to Adams, where she enrolled as a fifth grader, and continued until graduation from Adams High School. She was active in choir, band, basketball, and track. She attended Sunday School and Luther League at the rural Trinity Lutheran Church of Adams and later Sunday School and LDR at the Mountain Lutheran Church where she was also confirmed. Amy attended Mayville State Teacher's College for three years. She began her teaching at Norton Dist. No. 70, near Adams, for one year (teaching all the grades). The next year she taught fourth grade at Neche, N. Dak. Memories of Amy's childhood are her mother's good homemade buns and she remembers her father as a neat ambitious farmer. Also, the good times had Juneberry picking. She was married to Allen L. Paulson June 1 6 , 1 9 6 2 , at the Mountain Lutheran Church in Adams. Allen is a native of Pelican Rapids, Minn. He is in the home business at the Trade Mark Home, Morris Minn., and the family resides at nearby Herman, Minn., where he is a booster club member, sports fan, sings in the church choir, and has been a Cub Scout leader for four years. Amy has been in band boosters, P.T.A., circle, ladies aid, taught Sunday School and been secretary-treasurer of Cub Scouts. Amy and Allen are the parents of five sons — Bruce, David, Kevin, Michael, and Brian. They are members of the Bethel Lutheran Church in Herman, Minn. The Paulson boys enjoy collecting coins and stamps like their grandmother, Minnie. Bruce Antony Paulson was born at Alexandria, Minn., on April 6, 1963, to Mr. and Mrs. Allen L. Paulson. He is an eleventh grader at the Herman High School. He has been active in pops group, band, basketball, football, track, Cub Scouts, and Boy Scouts. He is a confirmed member of the Bethel Lutheran Church in Herman, Minn., where he attended Sunday School and attends Luther League, and sings in the church choir. He has been the daily Fergus Falls Journal carrier for three years, winning himself a bike this July. David Allen Paulson was born at Pelican Rapids, Minn., on Dec. 9, 1966, to Mr. and Mrs. Allen L. Paulson. He is an eighth grader at the Herman Junior High School. He has been in choir, basketball, football, track, baseball, and Cub Scouts. He has attended Sunday School and Luther League at the Bethel Lutheran Church in Herman, Minn. He has been the morning and Sunday Tribune carrier for two years. Kevin Lee Paulson was born at Pelican Rapids, Minn., on March 22, 1968, to Mr. and Mrs. Allen L. Paulson. He is a seventh grader at the Herman Junior High School. He has been in choir, basketball, football, wrestling, Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, and is a junior high drummer. He has attended Sunday School at the Bethel Lutheran Church in Herman, Minn. Kevin has been the morning and Sunday carrier for the Minneapolis Tribune for one and a half years. Michael Robert Paulson was born at Pelican Rapids, Minn., on Oct. 25, 1969, to Mr. and Mrs. Allen L. Paulson. He is a fifth grader at the Herman School. He has been in music, track, wrestling, and Cub Scouts. He attended Sunday School at the Bethel Lutheran Church
in Herman, Minn. Michael has been carrier for Mid-West Shoppers once a week since the beginning of the year. Brian John Paulson was born at Sleepy Eye, Minn., on May 23, 1971, to Mr. and Mrs. Allen L. Paulson. He is a fourth grader at the Herman School. He has been in music, track, and Cub Scouts. He has attended Sunday School at the Bethel Lutheran Church in Herman, Minn. Brian helps his brother Michael as carrier of the Mid-West Shoppers.
BERT ALLEN ROSTVET Bert Allen Rostvet, son of Olaus and Minnie Rostvet, was born Jan. 27, 1940, at the family farm home, Silvesta Township. He attended the Silvesta District No. 82 rural school during his first four grades, continuing with his education at the Adams Public School and graduating with the class of 1958. He was confirmed at the Mountain Lutheran Church on May 22, 1955. Bert was interested in aviation. He learned to fly an airplane and did crop-spraying in North Dakota, and cotton-spraying in Louisiana. He married Jackie Freedland, a southern gal from Rayville, La. They were married New Year's Eve, 1963. They have a daughter Cindy, born October 1 6, 1964; and twin boys, Johnnie and Lonnie, bom May 2, 1968. Bert and his family now live on a farm near Ayr, Neb. He farms and erects steel buildings besides working with irrigation on farms. He plants a lot of corn and has livestock.
ORLIN STANLEY ROSTVET Orlin Stanley Rostvet, son of Olaus and Minnie Rostvet, was born Aug. 14, 1944, at the family farm home in Silvesta Township, Fairdale, N. Dak. He attended the Adams Public School, graduating with the class of 1962. He was confirmed at the Mountain Lutheran Church on May 3 1 , 1959. Orlin worked with heavy equipment on dams and roads. He married Sandy Swartz. They have six sons and one daughter: Brian Orlin, born August 3, 1967; Bradley, born March 15, 1969; Robert Allen, born Sept. 7, 1971; Rickey Lee, born Feb. 24, 1975; Twins — Roy and Joy, born Dec. 20, 1976; and Christopher Martin, born Apr. 5, 1978. Orlin farmed for a few years and now works with U.S. Soil, Inc., selling fertilizers, AMS oil and Redi Haul. ROGER WAYNE ROSTVET Roger Wayne Rostvet, son of Olaus and Minnie Rostvet, was born Nov. 25, 1952, at St. Ansgar's Hospital, Park River. He attended the Adams Public School, graduating with the class of 1970. He attended the School of Forestry, Bottineau, N. Dak., for two years, and the University of Montana, Missoula, for two years, graduating June 15, 1975. Roger married Catherine Lea Schnelbach of Bottineau on Sept. 3, 1977, at the Mountain Lutheran Church, Adams. Roger was employed with the North Dakota State Game and Fish Department. He is presently employed as a game warden and is living on a farm near Mott, N. Dak. He raises geese. This past year, he marketed around seventeen hundred geese.
JAMES LEROY ROSTVET James LeRoy Rostvet, son of Olaus and Minnie Rostvet, was born May 12, 1943, at the family farm home in Silvesta Township. He completed the first grade in Silvesta District No. 82, where he had an extra job of trapping mice in the school house. The teacher, Mrs. Hagen, paid him for every mouse he caught. He moved to Adams in 1950, along with his parents, brothers, and sisters. Here he continued his education graduating from the Adams High School in 1962. He attended the State School of Science at Wahpeton, North Dakota, where he studied mechanics. James married Ardith Foerster. They have two children — a son, Jerry, born May 28, 1966, and a daughter, Jina, born July 28, 1970. James spent ten years in the Navy. At present, he is working for Burroughs Corporation as a Senior Electronics Specialist, in San Diego. Their home is near Poway, Calif.
MARVIN HARTLEY ROSTVET Marvin Hartley Rostvet, son of Olaus and Minnie Rostvet, was born Aug. 14, 1944, at the family farm home in Silvesta Township, Fairdale, N. Dak. He attended the Adams Public School, graduating with the class of 1962. He was confirmed at the Mountain Lutheran Church, Adams, on May 3 1 , 1959. Marvin married Gloria Jean Bourbanis, in Walhalla, July 1 7, 1965. They have two daughters, Wannetta, born Apr. 22, 1966, and Sharon Rae, born June 23, 1967. Marvin has worked with heavy equipment building dams; doing road work and the like for many years. He also has a farm at Middle River, Minn., where the family resides. His wife, Gloria, has been employed at the turkey processing plant in Thief River Falls, Minn., for several years.
CONRAD KEITH ROSTVET Conrad Keith Rostvet, son of Olaus and Minnie Rostvet, was born August 28, 1954, at St. Ansgar's Hospital, Park River. He attended the Adams Public School and the Lake Region Junior College, Devils Lake. He was confirmed at the Mountain Lutheran Church. He worked with heavy equipment for a few years and also was a farm laborer. The last two years he has been farming. His hobbies are hunting, trapping, snowmobiling. He took part in several snowmobile cross-country races. Last year he bagged a large moose near Walhalla, N. Dak. Conrad makes his home with his mother in Adams.
TED AND EDITH RUNDHAUG Ted Rundhaug, son of Thorvald and Henrikke Hanson Rundhaug, was born Jan. 20, 1900, in Kinloss Township. He attended the Fairdale Public School, and the Barry's Institute of Telegraphy, Minneapolis. He worked at different depots on the Soo line in the Missouri Division. In 1921, Ted bought out Nicholai Olson's Confectionery, Jewelry and Watch Repairing. Later package drugs were added. He operated this business until 1945, when he sold to Bill Johnson who took over this vocation for a short time. Ted also was a rural route mailcarrier for four years, 1 9341937; worked at the State Mill in Grand Forks; Gustafson Implement in Adams; and in 1947, purchased the John Odden building in Adams, and set up a new drug store, which he operated until his retirement in 1 9 7 1 , at which time the business was dissolved.
John and Emma Schoenig
Ted and Edith Rundhaug were married Oct. 28,
I924.
On Oct. 28, 1924, Ted was united in marriage to Edith Pierson, daughter of Andrew and Anna Grandlund Pierson. Edith Emelia was born Nov. 7, 1906, in Delamere, N. Dak. She attended schools in Tioga and Adams, N. Dak., and Fertile, Minn. Edith worked along with Ted in the Rundhaug Drug Store.' Ted and Edith had one daughter, lone Evelyn, born Jan. 7, 1926. She married Vincent Kjelaas. Ted and Edith have two grandchildren - Vickie (Mrs. G. J. Helseth) and Bruce Kjelaas, and two great granddaughters, Karen and Nancy Helseth. Ted and Edith are members of the Mountain Lutheran church, where he has served as parish treasurer and in other offices. They are members of the Young at Heart Senior Citizen Club, where both have served as officers. Ted has served as Mayor on the City Council and also as City Clerk. Ted had one sister, Mrs. Herman (Lena) Ljunggren, and three brothers, Hans, Henry, and Fritz, all deceased. Edith has one sister, Mrs. Myrtle Johnson, Duluth, Minn.; two brothers, Adolph, deceased, and Elmer Pierson, Duluth. The Rundhaugs, now retired, are living in a mobile home, located across the street from their daughter and son-in-law, lone and Vincent Kjelaas.
JOHN L. SCHOENIG FAMILY John L. Schoenig was transferred from Grano, N. Dak., to Adams as the depot agent by the Soo Line (Minneapolis, St. Paul and Sault St. Marie Railroad Co.) on July 1, 1931. John had homesteaded in the Lansford area in 1905 and had been a depot agent in Grano, N. Dak., for twenty-four years since Nov. 6 1907. On April 6, 1903, John married Emma Glen Johnson at Bottineau, N. Dak., and they subsequently had four daughters — Marie Gulickson, Sunnyside, Wash.; Fern Alpha, Denver, Colo.; Frances Geary, deceased, and Rachel Davis, Emporia, Kan. Frances and Rachel graduated from the Adams High School in
Fern, Marie, Rachel Schoenig the early thirties. Frances married Richard Geary of Adams on Aug. 16, 1935. She, and her baby son, Michael, died by asphyxiation on Sept. 2 5 , 1 9 4 0 , at Forest River, N.Dak. John Schoenig retired after 14 years in Adams (Dec. 18, 1945). They moved to Mohall, N. Dak. After 17 years of "enjoying the fruits of their labors" they moved to the Minot Lutheran Home where John died Feb. 1 1 , 1965, at the aqe of 90. Emma Schoenig then moved to Emporia to be near Rachel. She died April 24, 1966, at the age of 83 — wanting to be with John! At this writing — July 1980 — John and Emma have as descendants three daughters living, seven grandchildren, ten great grandchildren, and four great great grandchildren.
JAMES O. SKYRUD AND RUTH M. (HANSON) SKYRUD Out of the marriage of Hans Skyrud and Dena Marie Elton (Vol. 11 of Walsh Heritage, page 983) James Oliver was the third child. He was born on his grandparents' homestead in Tiber Township, Walsh County, N. Dak., on Dec. 1, 1904. He was baptized at the Knut Boe residence which was then in the S.E. % of Section 30, Adams Township Walsh Co. N. Dak. It was a double baptismal service. Clemet Olson, son of Mr. and Mrs. Charley Olson, (Mrs. Olson, Julia, being his mother's sister), was also christened. His mother carried Clemet and Julia carried James. Rev. J. B. Byberg of Vang Congregation, near Linstad in Walsh County, N. Dak., conducted the service on Jan. 22, 1905. Among some of his first memories as a small child is awakening in a horse-drawn buggy to find himself bundled up to keep warm. It was dark and he could hear voices but he had no
River and was confirmed under Rev. S. J. Strandjord on Sept. 9, 1923. In June of 1924 he graduated from the Park River High School and was certified to teach elementary school, having taken his elementary teachers' training in the Park River Elementary School. His first teaching was at school No. 1 of Stone Valley School District No. 96, 3 miles S.S.W. of Adams, N. Dak., in Sec. 26 of Adams Township. He stayed with an uncle and aunt, Mr. and Mrs. Albin Erickson. He received $59.00 a month and paid $16.00 per month for room and board.
James and Ruth Skyrud fear and it wasn't long until his parents arrived to give him security. One day he must have strayed away from home, and came upon a huge machine pulling an implement. Two men operated the machinery. They stopped and asked if he wanted to ride with them. He was placed on a huge platform and the machinery began to move. One operator began moving each lever in succession. As recalled there were seven or eight levers. He now knows it was a plow drawn by a steam engine with each plow bottom controlled by its own lever. Another time the family was on a Sunday steam boat excursion on Long Lake. Late at night the boat returned and James was helped off on the gang plank, supposedly awake. In his sleep he walked straight ahead across the dock. His older sister spied him and ran to catch him by the coat collar just as he was taking the last step that would have dropped him into the deep. These incidents took place while the family homesteaded in Canada from 1905 to the fall of 1908. When the family returned to the United States in the winter of 1909 James recalls beginning school. He was 4 years, 9Vi months old. He supposes he didn't get too much out of school at that age. In 1910 the family moved to the Brown farm, six miles southeast of Park River, N. Dak. Section 1, of Rushford Township. Close by was the Rushford School District No. 1 school in Section 11 where James attended school and graduated on June 15, 1920. In 1912 the family moved to the Duncan R. Gillespie farm, 1 Vi miles further south in Section 13. Then the children had 1 Vi miles to walk to school each way. In the winter they were taken by horse-drawn sled. In the summer James worked on the farm. In the fall his dad fixed him up with a bundle-hauling rig and he hired out to help with threshing to make money to attend high school. He recalls one Christmas, while living there, money was scarce at Christmas time. There was not enough to buy a Christmas tree. Christmas eve day came and no tree. The older sister thought of an idea. She went out in the woods, with the help of her brother, and cut a suitable tree and trimmed it by cutting strips of green tissue paper and wrapping each branch. The candles and decorations were put on this tree. They had the usual family Christmas program around this tree and the mother and dad had not forgotten the gifts, candy and nuts. They enjoyed that tree just as much as a store-bought evergreen. James attended Park River High School, much of the time driving the 7/2 miles with horse and buggy. In his junior and senior year the family had moved to the Quill farm, six miles southwest of Park River, in Section 34 of Golden Township. It was quite an experience and challenge to be president of the junior class. James played football and earned letters in that sport. James took confirmation class in Our Saviour's Lutheran Church in Park
In the fall of 1925 he attended the University of North Dakota at Grand Forks. In the summer of 1926 he was approached by County Superintendent of Schools Benjamin Rinde and Julius Berg, president of the School Board of school No. 2 in District No. 63, urging him to consider teaching that school rather than going back to college. After some consideration he accepted and began teaching that school located along State Highway No. 17, 6V2 miles southeast of Adams, N. Dak., in Section 26, Vesta Township.
RUTH MARY (HANSON) SKYRUD Ruth M. Hanson began her life as the fourth child of Peter and Agnes (O'Brien) Hanson, on Dec. 4, 1909, in Adams. When she was four years old her baby sister, Catherine, who was nine months old, contracted spinal meningitis. Her mother who was worn out from caring for the baby and for Ruth, because Ruth was covered with eczema, succumbed to the disease also. They both passed away June 5, 1913, leaving a young father and five young children. Grandpa and Grandma O'Brien of Park River, N. Dak., took Lucille, the youngest, and raised her. Peter Hanson at first tried to keep his family together by hiring housekeepers. Then he took the children to a convent in Devils Lake, N. Dak. They were not there very long when their dad came to visit them. Perhaps because Ruth was the youngest one there and maybe cried the loudest, her dad took her home to Adams with him. The following week her two sisters and brother were taken to Park River to their aunt's place to be raised there. Peter Hanson had a room at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Oscar Lundquist and so that became Ruth's home, too. At the age of six years her dad decided she should make a trip with him to his folks in Iowa and so she didn't start school until the age of seven years. The trip to Iowa, stopping in Minneapolis, en route, amidst all the tall buildings, left her with one memory and that was her cousin, Tommy, hitching up his large St. Bernard to a sleigh and giving her rides over the snowy hills. Her special childhood friend, Ann (Gronvold) Overbye, lived next door to the Lundquists. Her dad was the druggist in Adams. Many a night Hans, Ann's brother, would carry Ruth home because she was so sleepy, staying with Ann until her dad or someone came home. Many a night Jessie (Mrs. Lundquist) would have to put toothache drops on a tooth because of eating all the good chocolates from the drug store. Ann spent much of her time at the Lundquists, too, eating Jessie's good home-made cooking. In later years both Ruth and Ann have marvelled at how Jessie put up with the two of them. There was a small congregational church on lots 11-12, Block 13, in the City of Adams. Ruth attended Sunday School and church there and was Sunday School Superintendent at the age of fourteen. She lived with her dad and the Lundquists until she was married.
MR. AND MRS. JAMES O. SKYRUD AND FAMILY On Feb. 17, 1927, James O. Skyrud and Ruth M. Hanson were married. They set up housekeeping in the upstairs rooms of the Melvin Gustafson home, one mile southwest of the school where James taught to the close of the 1927-28 term. During the summer of 1928, Rural Route No. 1, out of Adams, N. Dak., came up for a carrier appointment. On Sept. 24, 1928, James began a career as Rural Carrier which was to continue over forty-four years and three months, until retirement Jan. 1, 1973. For six years four horses were used to deliver mail when roads were blocked by snow. A day-rested team was used each day; except for one winter when one team was kept at the Nels Hove farm where a team change was made' but no stop to eat lunch. The other winters one stop was made at the Selmer Wiste farm to rest and feed the horses and have dinner with the Wiste family. James recalls weather such that if elaborated on, it would sound like boasting to get through it safely. Once it was his ingenuity that saved the life of horses and driver. Twice it was the horses that saved their lives. In 1934 he was no longer willing to see the horses suffer what they must to give service so he made ready to change to snowmobile. It consisted of a 1929 Model " A " Ford with an Arps Corporation snowmobile attachment. He had just as many close calls with this system and as he looks back now he takes no credit for getting out of the impossible situations he got himself into in storms and bad roads. All credit for safeguarding must go to God. James recalls delivering mail by horse-drawn cutter or buggy, automobile, snowmobile, on foot and by aeroplane.
Concordia College in Moorhead, Minn., for a year and up to the Christmas break on the second term when he enlisted in the United States Navy. On Jan. 1, 1949, he began training at Pensacola, Fla., to become an Aircraft Carrier-based fighter pilot. He saw action in the Korean War. His plane was once so badly crippled by anti-aircraft fire over North Korea that upon attempting to bail out the plane became so erratic that exit was impossible. After three unsuccessful attempts to bail out and each time being able to regain partial control permission was requested and granted to fly to Seoul, South Korea, and attempt a landing rather than to ditch in communist territory. Every precaution was taken by the Navy in readiness for what might happen. Because of the badly damaged controls a crash landing resulted and injuries were sustained by Jerome that kept him in the hospital for 90 days and several months of recovery and therapy before he was able to pass a flight test and be eligible for combat duty again.
James and son Jerome — The two flyers in the family.
James and Ruth Skyrud Family: left to right, standing, Mrs. Fred Bischke (Connie), Mrs. David Nordlie (Joy), Ruth, and Mrs. Maea Mafi (Marjorie); seated, Jerome and James. As owner of a snowmobile he was called upon many times for livery service. Many a dark, stormy night Dr. Oscar Dixon of Adams, and James, would take off to make a sick call or so the doctor might assist in the delivery of a child. Dr. Alfred N. Flaten of Edinburg would drive by car as far as Adams and James would take him to his patient that was snowbound. James and Ruth are parents of four children. They are, in succession of age, one son, Jerome Peter, and three daughters, Marjorie Ann, Joy Ardell and Connie Marie. All children graduated from the Adams High School. JEROME PETER SKYRUD Jerome,
born
July
29,
1928,
in Grafton, attended
Thereafter he saw over six years of combat duty in the Vietnam War. Three of his last years of service he was a test pilot for the Navy and approximately two years prior to retirement was consultant and advisor to a board making plans and specifications for a new Navy fighter plane. Among other honors he also received the "Purple Heart" award. He had the rank of Commander. Upon retirement from the Navy, Jerome has completed his college studies and has a degree from Baltimore College and Law school, took his bar exam in Phoenix, Ariz., and is now an attorney at Law. He has invested in real estate with rental improvements and lives at Queen Creek, Ariz. He is the father of four daughters — Susan, Katy, Lori and Mandy. Susan and Lori are married. Jerome has one grandson and one granddaughter.
MARJORIE ANN (SKYRUD) MAFI Marjorie, Mrs. Maea Mafi, was born April 15, 1930, and attended one year at Concordia College in Moorhead. A complication developed in her sinuses and the doctor advocated going to a dryer climate. This changed her plans. She was moved to Phoenix, Ariz., where she began nurses' training. This was terminated when she married.
then attended three years at the University of North Dakota, studying towards a degree in physical therapy. At the end of the three years at U.N.D. she was one of the students chosen to continue her studies for two years at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn. She returned to graduate at U.N.D. and has a B.S. degree in physical therapy. She was employed by Midway Hospital in St. Paul. In 1972, Connie and her husband took leave from their employment to spend several months in Asmara, Ethiopia, Africa, under the auspices of the World Brotherhood Exchange. Connie was head of the Cheshire Clinic for Crippled Children and Fred taught mathematics in the Asmara University. Before returning to the U.S.A. they toured the Holy Land, Austria, Bavaria (S. Germany), Switzerland, and Italy.
Ruth and James and four great grandsons.
Upon returning state-side Fred resumed his work at Control Data in Minneapolis and Connie returned to physical therapy at Midway Hospital. They live in Fridley, Minn., a Minneapolis suburb, and have one son, Jonathan, four years old, and are expecting an addition to their family around New Year of 1981. Connie does occasional work at a nursing home there.
Marjorie has five daughers — Linda Jane, born Oct. 25, 1951; Donna Ruth, born Jan. 25, 1953; Cynthia Maye, born Jan. 5, 1954; Barbara Ann, born April 19, 1955; and Sandra Lucille, born July 2, 1957. Marjorie has four grandsons. Linda, unmarried, works for American Express; Donna, Mrs. Bill Pickering, works for Best Western and has two adopted sons, Troy and Tremayne; Cynthia, Mrs. Danny Simpson, has two sons, Charles, four years and James one year; Barbara, unmarried, has a degree in home economics and is now employed in Denver, Colo.; Sandra, Mrs. Danny Krohn, has no children and works at Skaggs in Colorado Springs, Colo. When Marjorie's daughters neared adulthood she returned to college. She attended Phoenix College in 1965 and graduated in 1968. In 1969 she attended Arizona State University and in 1971 graduated from A.S.U. Medical Arts Department with a B.S.N, degree. Beginning in 1971 she worked many years as head nurse and as surgical nurse in the surgery department in the Phoenix Indian Medical Center. She has transferred to another department and is now head nurse in the Surgery Recovery Unit of that same medical center. Her hobbies are sewing and knitting. She is a member of the National Honor Society of Nursing. JOY ARDELL (SKYRUD) NORDLIE Joy, born Sept. 17, 1937, attended Lutheran Bible Institute at Minneapolis, during the 1955-56 term. While there she met David A. Nordlie and they were married Sept. 2, 1956. She worked at Northwestern Bank of Minneapolis, and later for a real estate firm while David attended Augsburg College. When her husband received an appointment as head of the Sociology Department of Bemidji State University they purchased a home on Big Turtle Lake, near Bemidji. A shorttime thereafter Joy was employed by the Beltrami County Public Welfare Service, judging and allocating services. She next was employed as a secretary in the Bemidji High School. Joy, too, planned to go back to college in the fall of 1980 but a challenging opportunity came up to study to become a realtor. She is now employed by a realty firm in Bagley, Minn. Joy has two children — Mark David, born Jan. 15, 1962, now a student at Bemidji State University; and Kristen Joy, born Sept. 2, 1966, an eighth grader in Bemidji. CONNIE MARIE (SKYRUD) BISCHKE Connie, Mrs. Fred Bischke, was born July 3 1 , 1945, and attended one year at Lutheran Bible Institute in Minneapolis. She
James and great grandson James on his baptism day.
1979. When the children of James and Ruth were almost thru college, James saw his way clear to fulfill a dream that began as early as 1939. The dream was to someday own and fly an aeroplane. On March 13, 1952 he had his first flight lesson under Ernest G. Hutson, Grafton, N. Dak. March 28, 1952 he had his solo flight and Student Pilot Certificate. December 28, 1953 he became a private pilot and on April 30, 1 959, became commercial pilot under Daniel Wakefield, Devils Lake, N. Dak. The next venture was to try for an aerial spraying license. This was attained June 27, 1959. and resulted in six years of aerial spraying, thru the 1964 season. In 1963, during spraying operation, the engine cut out on approach to a spray run. The only alternate place to land was a tall grain field. A good dead stick landing was made but the grain was to thick and the low place too soft so a gentle noseover took place just before coming to a stop. In public life James registered for military service on October 16, 1940. but was not called. He was director on the Adams
School Board for a term. On April 1, 1946 he was appointed Village Clerk and became City Auditor when Adams Village became a City July 1, 1967. He was involved in the advent and culmination of a water sewer project during the years 1955-56 and the instituting of a weekly garbage collection and disposal service beginning Aug. 1, 1971. He remained in office until the water-sewer bonds were paid and then retired Dec. 15, 1977, with thirty-one years eight and one half months of service. James enjoys flying, picture taking, both slides and movies, playing the autoharp and teaching Sunday School. He has held several offices in the Mountain Lutheran Church and is presently Sunday School Superintendent. He is elated at having a great grandson, James T. Simpson, named after him. Ruth keeps more than busy involving herself in the activities of the ch urch. She is still leader in the Junior Lutherans, an organization of approximately forty children. She team teaches with James the junior and senior Sunday School class and is busy in various ways in the church work. Now James and Ruth are back to just the two of them. They both enjoy good health and are able to spend their winters down south in their little "Home On Wheels," a twenty-three and one half foot Holiday Travel Trailer.
LLOYD AND ETHEL SLATTEN Ethel Grove Slatten was born to the late Elmer and Anna Linstad Grove on July 18, 1909, on the farm in Adams Township. At five years old, she developed eye trouble, and then glasses were fitted by eye doctors who traveled from home to home. One summer her mother took her to town with horse and buggy to get drops put into her eyes by the local doctor. Her eyes improved but she has worn glasses ever since. In 1979, she had a lens transplant which was a success. Childhood memories include the family's first car in 1917. It was a Ford Touring car with side curtains. It was used in the summertime. As soon as the snow came, it was put up on blocks until spring. They looked forward to Saturday nights, when all would go to town and their dad would buy each of them an ice cream cone before they went home. The cones were five cents each. There was usually a bag of candy in the grocery box for the children, a treat from the storekeeper.
Lloyd and Ethel Slatten started a month later. She graduated in May 1930 with a class of sixty-five students. That year, she and her sister were looking forward to going home for Thanksgiving. Instead, they got a letter and a box of food and some money from home because the roads were blocked. Then at Christmas, Inga and she had to take the train home from Park River. They had to take the train to Conway and stay overnight at Mrs. Weed's Hotel. Their room was very cold but they slept under a thick feather-tick which kept them warm. The next morning, they got a ride with the dray man to the depot which was about a half a mile from the Hotel, and got to Adams at noon. It took them two days to get home from Park River. Now it is a fifteen to twenty minute trip in a car. After graduation, Ethel was home for a week and then went to work for the Bjorgs. Quite a change for her, to get up at five in the morning and help milk thirteen cows both morning and evening. There were lots of dishes to do, with men working in the field, carpenters, and one sick in bed. Those were long days and the wage was a dollar a day. After her mother's death in January, 1931, she stayed home and helped keep the home going. Many tasks were not so easy to assume, such as baking bread, churning butter, canning meat, patching, many of which were new to her. There was not much money as prices were low. They got two dollars and fifty cents for a five-gallon can of cream which wasn't much for all the hard work. The girls continued serving for ladies aid as their mother had and with the same group of women, namely, Susie Bjorg, Mrs. Flaten, and Gustie Bjorg Bellamy. Then they served hot dishes, light buns and dark bread, Krum Kake or layer cake. There was a supper for twenty-five cents or fifty cents. On July 18, 1934, a hailstorm struck their farm after a very hot humid day. In ten minutes, all of the crop was gone. A tall cornfield looked like a cultivated field when it was over. Her dad never used his threshing outfit. That spring, they had a severe dust storm so one field had to be reseeded.
Another childhood memory, not so pleasant, was being scalded by coffee that she had cooked to serve to her mother in bed. One leg was burned badly. All the home remedies that were known were used on the burns. In the afternoon, Dad went to see Druggist Gronvold and he prepared a soothing ointment. She missed two weeks of school. Christmas time was a time for many feasts. There would be bob sleigh rides to the neighbor's for supper, and then they would be at our house. Exchanging visits were Flatens Arvid Samuelsons, and Bjorgs. There was so much food. There was the beautiful valentine her mother made for one of her teachers of white lawn, lace, and ribbon. They made valentines in school for their friends. Her mother could cut out horses and other desiqns free hand.
That fall, 1934, Inga stayed home and kept house for their dad while Ethel went to Mayville State Teacher's College. By attending college for a year, she would receive a teaching certificate good for three years that could be renewed by attending a summer term. She borrowed two hundred dollars from an aunt and uncle and she had fifty dollars so with two hundred and fifty dollars, she made it through the first year of college. She got a teaching job which paid forty-five dollars a month and paid twelve dollars a month for board and room. She taught rural schools for nine years. The last year, she received a
Ethel started school the first year that the Benas Memorial School was used. She and her brother, Clifford, spoke very little English so it was rather hard for them. Ethel started high school in Adams but during the fall had to help with the fall work so got started late. In 1928-1929 she went to the Walsh County Agricultural School at Park River for the short course. She liked it and went back for the next school term; one advantage was that it 122
hundred dollars a month. ln November, 1944, she started clerking at the Bellerud Store and continued working for Swenson's until 1949. Inga, her sister, worked at Roy's Store so they lived together until 1950, when Ethel got married. While living here, the T & C Sewing Club was organized and Ethel is still a member of the club. She enjoys sewing, embroidering, crocheting, craft work of many kinds, and scrap books. She was married to Lloyd Slatten on Nov. 3, 1950, at the home of her brother-in-law and sister, the Clayton Bjorgs. They lived on the farm where Lloyd was born on Feb. 5, 1910, to Henry and Eline (Iverson) Slatten. He attended Hoff School. He has farmed all his life with the help of his handicapped brother, Melvin, who had suffered from polio when a little boy. On beautiful winter days, Lloyd would pull his brother, Melvin, on a sled across the fields to his uncle's place where they enjoyed visiting their cousins. Some falls, Lloyd went picking potatoes in the Mandt area. Several falls he got two cents a bushel. On the farm, they raised pigs, cattle and small grains. Lloyd liked horses and drove them from the time he was a little boy. He got his first tractor, a IHF 12, in 1934. In 1942, Lloyd had bought a threshing machine east of Park River. He pulled it with a F-20 tractor. Just west of Park River, near the Middendorf farm, a car ran into the threshing machine, and the pole came right over the tractor and just missed hitting Lloyd. One man in the car was dead at the scene. The State's Attorney, Wallace Warner, told Lloyd that he was not at fault because he had red flags on the back of the threshing machine. Lloyd never did use the machine because it was damaged too much. Both Lloyd and Ethel are members of the Hoff Lutheran Church. Lloyd has been treasurer of the congregation since 1957, and she is a member of Hoff ALCW and has held several of the offices. Lloyd served on the Township Board for nine years. Lloyd is semi-retired. He still farms with the help of a nephew, Mark Drevecky. Lloyd and Ethel live in a mobile home in Adams. Mr. and Mrs. Lowell Bylin rented their farm home in 1980.
MELVIN AND VIVIAN SWENSON Melvin Swenson, the youngest child of Thorn and Clara Swenson, was born in Adams on April 6, 1909, in the house now owned by the Del Owen family. He is possibly the oldest resident in Adams that was born here and has lived here his entire life with the exception of winters spent away since his retirement. He attended elementary and high school in Adams until his junior year when he went to work for Haaken Bellerud in his general merchandise store. In 1945, when Haaken retired and moved to Washington, Melvin purchased the half interest belonging to Haaken's sister-in-law, Nellie Bellerud of Nekoma. In later years he purchased the remaining stock from Haaken. He continued in this endeavor until the fall of 1969 when he sold the stock, at a public sale, and the building to the Senior Citizens. During his years in business he held most of the "thankless" jobs that all small towns have, including president of the Civic Club, secretary-treasurer of the Fire Department, president of the Mountain Lutheran Church Board, president of the Adams Public School system during the years of re-districting, burning of the old school, and construction of the new school. Melvin has a sister, (Selma), Mrs. Henry Lundene, and a
Melvin and Vivian Swenson brother, Theodore (Ted), who both reside in the Adams Community. Melvin was married to Vivian Lundberg on Oct. 15, 1933, at the Mountain Lutheran parsonage with the late Rev. B. J. Hatlem officiating. Vivian Lundberg was born in Fairdale, N. Dak., on Apr. 24, 1915, the eldest child of Alma (Wallgren) and O. Victor Lundberg. As a child she lived at Edmore and Penn, N. Dak., as her father was a grain buyer. The family came to Adams in 1918. Vivian attended elementary and high school, graduating with the class of 1933. Following her marriage she was active in Royal Neighbors and all activities that involved her children, such as P.T .A., 4-H work, and girls' basketball. Vivian had two brothers, Vernon, now retired and living in Hollywood, Calif., and Duane, who died at the age of 15, from spinal meningitis in 1937. Vivian and Melvin have three daughters — Barbara Lane, born Mar. 1 1 , 1938, at Grafton, N. Dak. (Her write-up will be under Dennis Bina in Sauter Twp.) Melanie Shane, born at Grafton, Aug. 28, 1942, graduating with the class of 1960, and who along with her friends, Shirley Johnson and Joan Boman, shared the valedictorian honors. During her years in high school she was active in girls' basketball, Glee Club, class offices, paper staff, band, a delegate to Girls' State, and a queen candidate. Following high school she attended Mayville State Teacher's College and graduated from there in three years with a B. S. Degree in Business Administration with the honor of Magna Cum Laude. That fall she began teaching in the East Grand Forks, Minn., school system until in 1973. The school system set up an additional trade school at a high school level. She continued with the business education that included students from outlying towns in Minnesota. On June 7, 1966, she was married to Harvey Noteboom of Fairview, Mont. Harvey is a sales representative for the American Card Company. They make their home in East Grand Forks, Minn. Sally Jane was born in Grafton, N. Dak., on Oct. 16, 1951, she attended elementary and high school in Adams, graduating with the class of 1969 as co-salutatorian. She was a member of the school band and Glee Club all four years. She attended Girls' State in her junior year, was an editor of the school paper, and in
brother, Kenneth, arrived in 1 9 2 1 . Mr. Jeglum was cashier of the Scandia American Bank from 1914 until the fall of 1 927, when it was sold to the Security State Bank, which was across the street. The bank building is still located on the north side of what is now the Gullickson Store, but in early days it was known as Adams Mercantile or Heen's Store, and later the Johnson Store. Mrs. Jeglum was organist of Mountain Lutheran Church at the time of each of the following pastors: Rev. G. Kluxdal, Rev. 0 . T. Lovaas, Rev. Alfred Breivik and Rev. J. Eastvold. During the early years the organ had no pedals, but was equipped with a movable wood handle in the right side of the organ. It was hand operated, while the organ was being played. Ole Mysen Anderson, the church custodian, had that duty and he, no doubt, was pleased when it was replaced with an organ that had pedals. The choir, and other groups, met at the Jeglum home to practice their musical renditions for church services, weddings, funerals and other occasions. Winnifred Jeglum's piano pupils also met at the home for their lessons and the yearly piano recitals.
The Melvin Swenson Family: left to right, standing, Melanie (Mrs. Harvey Noteboom), Barbara (Mrs. Dennis Bina); front, Sally (Mrs. Tim Bosh), Mrs. Melvin (Vivian) Swenson. and Melvin Swenson.
It was, and still is, the Scandinavian custom to serve refreshments to any gathering, large or small. Following each choir practice, coffee and real angel food cake, or another del icacy, was served. Mrs. Jeglum also served lunch after the piano recitals. The children enjoyed eating and playing outside in the large yard.
1968-1969 she was named to Who's Who Among American High School Students. Sally attended four years at U.N.D., Grand Forks, graduating with the class of 1973 with a B. S. Degree in business administration and a major in accounting. Since graduation she hs been an accountant for Steiger Mfg. Company in Fargo.
This residence is pictured on page 788 in Vol. II. It is the first of the three houses. It was built by Jens Flaten for C. A. Jeglum about 1900. It was a modern house with a large bathroom and three bedrooms upstairs. The first floor had a small den, a large living room, dining room, and a small kitchen with a pantry. From the kitchen there was an attached utility room, about 10' x 20', and, added to that was a room about 10' x 14', that housed a well. This was quite a house, but some insulation would have been ideal, as Edith recalls. She also recalls the rail fences, the board sidewalks where snakes, lizards and toads hide; also, the thick planks that spanned the drainage ditches. These were necessary, as Adams was built in a slough.
Sally was married to Timothy L. Bosh of Lankin on Oct. 1 6, 1971. Following their graduation from the University they lived in West Fargo and in 1975 they moved to Kindred, N. Dak. Tim is employed as a truck inspector with the N. Dak. Highway Department. They have two children — Tiffany Lei, born Mar. 2, 1972, and Thayne Lynden, born June 11,1979. Besides these two grandchildren, Viviarj'arrd Melvin have two other grandchildren, Lane D. Bina, born Aug. 9, 1960, and Lisa Denise Bina, born July 7, 1965, and one great granddaughter, Desiree Sue Bina, born Sept. 1 1,1979. They all reside in SauterTwp., near Lawton, N. Dak.
Upon completing her elementary and high school education at Adams in May, 1931, Edith enrolled in the Valley State Teacher's College, and attended continuously until August, 1932. Edith began her first of thirty-six years of teaching in September at the Bylin School in Latona Township. The seven pupils were enrolled in the first four grades. This was an ideal situation for a beginning teacher. The families represented were:C. Arthur Bylin, Carl Hendrickson, Amund Nelson, and John Pich. Mrs. John Drevesky, Sr., found time and space to board and room the teacher. This first teching contract was for a term of seven months or 140 days for the sum of $45.00 per month, with the teacher to do all janitor work. There was a six-week Christmas vacation that lasted through January, which usually had very cold weather. During any rainy or cold and stormy weather, Drevesky's son, Johnny, would do the janitor work and be a chauffeur by car or horse-drawn cutter. Another son, Emil, was quite a trapper. One afternoon, as Edith was leaving the school and walking across the field toward the Drevesky farm, the wind from the east brought a strong skunk aroma, and there were the pelts fastened on the west wall of the granary near the edge of the roof. Edith was relieved they weren't alive, but was told that the aroma prevented one from catching a cold.
EDITH I. JEGLUM TANDE Edith I. Jeglum, eldest daughter of Clarence Jeglum and Winifred Fowler, was born 1913 at Edinburg. The family moved to Adams in 1914 where a sister, Ruth, was born in 1915 and a
The Clarence Jeglum Family: left to right, back row, Ruth, Edith; front row, Kenneth, Clarence, Winifred.
A seven-month term, or 140 days, was common with many of the rural schools, but the city or town schools operated on a 124
nine-month term. Each school had a teacher's guide called "The North Dakota Course of Study," which listed all the concepts to be taught in every subject, outlined for each of the grades one through eight for a period of nine months, or 180 days. A. G. Strand of Fairdale was elected to be County Superintendent of Schools, and he took office the fall of 1932. He visited every classroom once in the fall, and again in the spring. His interest in each class was expressed by this remark, " I can tell the tone of a classroom by listening before I enter." Upon entering, he wanted the teacher to continue teaching, and he would talk quietly to the pupils, who were not in class, or listen to the class recitation. Mr. Strand was aware that the rural school children had to accomplish nine month's work in seven months. The seventh and eighth grade pupils took final exams, that were made-up in Bismarck at the Department of Education. These exams arrived two days prior to the date, and were opened at the time of the examination. As no two localities use the same expressions, some old exam copies were available and used throughout the year to acquaint the pupils with vocabulary, types of questions, and 'tricky' words or statements. Mr. Strand was interested in the well-being of each pupil, and the 'Progress and Attendance Report' would be a record for reference. It was sent in to his office each month by the teacher. In 1933, Mr. Nelson, clerk of Latona School District, asked Edith to teach at the Kosobud School, where 10 pupils were enrolled in six grades. The terms of the contract remained the same. The place to room and board was at the John Brodina farm, which was near the school. And she considering the road to her home at Adams — there was a north-south county, gravelled road about one-half mile west of the Brodina farm. The roads of this type were built up much higher than the surrounding farmland, so that very little snow lodged to hinder transportation. The parents represented in the school were: Emil Kosobud, Charles Shirek, Joe Brodina, Ed. Soukup, parents of Bennie Shirek, Steven Shirek and Jim Ryba. This was another active, and enjoyable group. With the increased enrollment, there was greater participation in the classes, games and programs. The children enjoyed presenting the Christmas program, as no one was nervous. The rhythm band had a professional beat, because Steven Shirek was a "prize snare-drummer," and also a handsome little boy. On June 1 1 , 1 9 3 4 , Edith was married to Albert Lundene of Vesta Township at Edinburg by Rev. P. O. Laurhammer. On their wedding trip to the World's Fair in Chicago, they drove a 1929 Model A Ford Coupe, and stopped along the way to visit relatives and friends in Minnesota and Iowa. As the fair, or "Century of Progress Exposition," attracted so many people, they left the car at the hotel, and travelled to and from the fair on the " E L , " which was an elevated express train. The fair had opened the summer of 1933 on a strip of reclaimed land, about six miles long and 600 feet wide, along Lake Michigan. There were interesting displays, from various parts of the world, of beautiful tapestries, artistry, artifacts, pottery, cars, and inventions. A very impressive avenue of flags (one for each of the forty-eight states and the foreign countries represented) led to a large building, where each state and country had its science and industry display. A replica of Fort Dearborn was built, and contained many household articles and weapons of the early settlers. This was similar to the present day Heritage Centers. They drove on to Thorsby, Alabama, about halfway between Birmingham and Montgomery, and visited a lady, who knew the Lundene family when they lived there a few years. There were reminiscences of old times, family and school chums. She was still able to live alone, raise a garden and make dandelion wine.
Albert, Edith, and Joyce Lundene She served some wine saying, "This is strong," and it was potent. The Lundenes' daughter, Joyce Eileen (Kershaw, McLeod) was born March 22, 1935, in Grand Forks, and baptized by Rev. P. O. Laurhammer the same year. During that spring, Albert helped his cousin near Winger, Minn., in repairing buildings and farm machinery. In his spare time, he built a 14-foot house on wheels, and it was pulled by a 1929 Model A Ford. This was a very different way to live, but they had their home during their travels. There also was no housing problem when considering employment on farms or teaching in the rural communities. By 1936 teachers' salaries began to improve, and they continued through the ensuing years. As places to keep the teacher were becoming rare, the Lundenes' qualifications became very favorable. One rare instance was at the Stone Valley School, about two miles south of Adams near the Inga Larson farm. Since she would like to spend the winter in Minneapolis, and return to the farm in the spring, she needed someone to live on her farm, take care of the cow, and also have a place for a brother to room and board. The Lundenes accepted this offer, and Edith, the teaching contract. Most contracts of the rural schools required the teacher do the janitor work. Albert left early enough to build the fire at school, sweep the floor, and shovel snow when necessary. The school was always comfortable, when the teacher and pupils arrived. During the cold weather he would 'bank' the fire. This was done, by putting several chunks of lignite that burned slowly, and turned a draft almost off. The next morning the draft was opened, and the fire burned faster, and needed more coal. The parents represented at another nice school were: Bill Johnson, Sr.. Carl Stensland, and Olie Ellingson, Sr. By the fall of '37, the '29 Model A Ford was traded in on a Ford '38 V-8 Coupe. The V8 engine was to be more powerful to
pull the trailer. As a larger trailer house was needed, the Lundenes drove to Alma, Mich., and bought a streamlined 19foot insulated, factory-built Alma trailer house. Having signed a contract to teach in the modern, Lambert School in Perth Township, Edith was anxious to get the trailer parked at a far side of the school ground and prepare for the coming term of school. A six-week Christmas vacation was scheduled, and the Lundenes went to Brownsville, Texas, at that time. This modern school had a full basement, a furnace, fuel bins, a cistern, a cloak room and a rest room on the first floor on each side of the entry. A picture of a similar one is in Vol. II on page 1002. This was also a nice community. They liked programs and were willing to help with costumes, stage curtains, gasoline lanterns, and a generous lunch was served after the program. Edith recalls the time when the two Maixner girls drove their Shetland pony. Instead of coming to school, the pony went to the first corner, and turned around and ran home. The pony would rather be in a pasture on a sunny day than stand in the school barn all day. The parents represented in this school were, as Edith recalls, J. Hodney, Albert Strand, and Maixner. In the spring of '38, the Lundenes accepted another farmschool offer. It was known as the Helium farm in the Helium coulee, and the Gryde School in Vesta Township. Albert was well acquainted here, as this was the home school and the Lundene farm was, and is, across the coulee from the school. There is a picture and more history in Vol. II on pages 1026 and 1027 of the Walsh Heritage Book. With 15 enrolled, there was greater participation in classes and games. The game, "Fox in the Geese," in new-fallen snow, was very exciting, especially, when the "Fox" wore new, smooth-soled, leather boots. This was a nice active school. The programs and generous lunches were in the daytime. The parents represented in the school were: Louis Chally, Ruth Egar, Bill Jasmer, Joseph Gryde, and Calmer Frovarp. These families lived in the beautiful, winding ravine, and were well protected from stormy weather. After a light snowfall, and if the surroundings were quiet, the deer would mill around the buildings, and go down to the river near the bridge. Edith would also see them near the haystacks as she walked to school on some cool sunny mornings. Upon completing the '39-'40 term at the Gryde School, A. G. Strand, the County Superintendent of Schools, needed a teacher for a summer rural school (April-November) in Kensington Township. The trailer was parked to the side, and towards the back of the large schoolyard. This was, also, a nice school. The three years passed quickly, and it seemed strange to have very little snow, few fires to build in the heater, and many days ideal for baseball. Albert drove to Vesta Township, where he helped Johnny Gustafson and Louis Chally with their machinery. The next summer, he and Hans Bakken, from Edinburg, repaired granaries for the Federal Land Bank until harvest time. The Lundenes went to Texas during the winters. The parents represented at the school were: Arthur Brett, Floyd Wooldridge, Clifford Frovarp, and Gerald Svir. During the winter of '42-'43, Albert was a mechanic at the Mike Bateman Ford Garage in Park River. Lundenes parked the trailer house in the back yard of Martin Severson's residence at Park River. As Albert was accustomed to working in the fresh air, he couldn't work in an enclosed building and breathe the exhaust from idling engines. Albert was employed at the Walsh County Agricultural School, and also, custodian of the boys' dormitory. It was at this time, that Edith's parents sold the Gamble Store in Adams to Archie Knudson. They left for California via Devils Lake and
Edith Jeglum Tande Clarence Jeglum became ill with pneumonia. Upon his recovery, they still planned to go to California. As Edith's mother would have a considerable amount of responsibility on the trip, and do the driving, Edith and Albert decided to go with them and the house trailer came in handy. Anna and Caroline Hilde were contacted to take over as custodians of the boys' dormitory. They were hired, and the two couples — Jeglums and young Lundenes — had a successful trip to California. They lived in a modern trailer park at Dominguez until spring, then went north to MiltonFreewater, Ore., where there was a large fruit-growing area of strawberries, peaches, apricots, pears, prune-plums, and apples. One could keep picking fruit till fall, but people had their preferences. Albert befriended a man who was a carpenter, and he also picked fruit. The Federal Land Bank needed carpenters to repair granaries near Walla Walla, Wash., so, the two men drove to work. The couples lived in a modern trailer park, and Joyce and Edith would pick strawberries where the ground was covered with large pebbles for retaining heat for the plants. When the picking season opened for bing cherries, Joyce would pick from the lower branches, and Ruth used a 10' ladder. Albert stopped by from work and finished what Edith couldn't reach. When the wheat harvest began, both families picked pruneplums till it was time for them to leave for the potato fields at the Enoch Larson farm. Then on to Big Spring, Texas, where Albert worked in the lettuce and carrot packing sheds. In the spring, the families went to Oregon via California and visited relatives in Long Beach. During the summers of '47, and '48 Albert helped build the spillway at the Homme Dam. The trailer was parked in the park near the power plant. The Lundenes went to Otranto, Iowa, to the Pete Hanson farm, and helped them with the cabbage harvest during the winters o f ' 4 7 and'48. Their son, Gordon Albert, was born Spt. 10, 1949, at Grafton. He was baptized by Rev. P. O. Laurhammer three
weeks later. Their daughter, Joyce, was also confirmed that fall.
automatic doors for stores and institutions.
The Lundenes spent the winter with Mrs. Petra Reid, Albert's half-sister, at Granite Falls, Minn. In May, 1 950, the two children and Edith moved to Long Beach, Calif., where she attended the California State University of Long Beach to complete a four-year B. A. Degree with a Kindergarten-Primary Credential.
His dual Bachelor's Degree from CSF is in communications and political science with a minor in philosophy. His continuing education, though, is in accounting and finance. Other interests include fresh and salt water fishing, hunting, and house remodeling.
In September, 1 9 5 1 , she accepted a teaching position in the Alameda School District, which later was unified with the Downey City Schools. Her dream of being a kindergarten teacher came true. She taught 20 consecutive years in the kindergarten department, and seven in the first grade department, retiring in 1978.
JOYCE EILEEN LUNDENE Joyce Eileen Lundene (born March 22, 1935, at Grand Forks, N. Dak.) is the daughter of Edith Jeglum and Albert Lundene. She married Ronald Jerome Kershaw (born September 17, 1933, at Cadillas, Mich.) in 1953 at Long Beach, Calif. Joyce worked for the telephone company and Ronald was in industrial purchasing. They had two children; Jerome Randall (born June 23, 1954, at Lynwood, Calif.) and Brenda Carol (born Sept. 10, 1955, at Lynwood, Calif.). Joyce and Ronald were divorced in 1963. Each subsequently remarried; neither had any other children.
During this time Edith attended extension courses from U.C.L.A. and U.S.C., and obtained an M. A. in Education from Pepperdine University of Los Angeles and Malibu, Calif. Daughter, Joyce Eileen, completed high school and college education in Long Beach, Calif. Son, Gordon Albert, completed his elementary and junior high school education in Downey, and the high school and college education in Anaheim and Fullerton.
Joyce married Robert Howell McLeod (born July 27, 1930, at Blair, Okla.) in 1964. Robert had a daughter, Cynthia Lee (born December 18, 1954, at Altus, Okla.) from a previous marriage. Robert had farmed in Oklahoma, did carpenter work and is a fire department captain in Santa Ana, Calif. They make their home in Orange, Calif. After their marriage in 1964 Joyce continued her education, earning her B. A. and M. A. Degrees. She had taught at the college level and worked for the Social Security Administration.
In 1956, Edith married Albin J. Tande of Aneta, N. Dak. He died January, 1979.
GORDON ALBERT LUNDENE After graduation from the California State University at Fullerton in 1972, he was employed by the Los Angeles Goodwill Industries in its public relations program. Goodwill is a non-profit organization established to employ and train the handicapped. He is presently a purchasing agent with a manufacturer's representative of Dor-O-Matic in Chicago, a world-wide maker of
Robert and Joyce Lundene McLeod
Brenda Kershaw Barger and Corin Barger.
Jerome Randall (known as Randy by friends and family) worked part-time as a lather in residential construction to supplement his needs while he earned his B. S. and C. D. (Doctor of Chiropratic) degrees in 1979. He is practicing in Garden Grove, Calif., and resides in Orange, Calif. Brenda Carol attended Santa Ana College for two years after high school. At the age of nineteen she went to Kotzebue, Alaska, in the spring of 1975 in order to do missionary work for the Friends Church. She married Herman Barger, Jr., (born in 1949 at Kotzebue, Alaska) in 1976. He coordinates a vocational counseling program in the area. She worked for the telephone company, becoming the office manager. A daughter, Corin, was born May 23, 1977, in Kotzebue, Alaska. Brenda and Herman were divorced in 1979. Brenda and Corin moved to Anchorage, Alaska, in September, 1980. Gordon A. Lundene 127
THELMA THORVILSON Thelma Thorvilson was born in Vesta Township, Dec. 8, 1920, to Ole and Tilda (Torgerson) Thorvilson. She attended grade school at Vesta School District No. 72. The school was about a mile from home so when the weather was nice we would walk to school. Dad would take us to school in a caboose in the winter and in the spring, when the roads were muddy, we would go to school in a buggy. During the time she attended school, a new school was built. The old school was moved and used as a township hall. A community club met there on Saturday nights and had programs, would put on plays, and have old time dances.
Bicentennial Committee in 1 976; Diamond Jubilee committee in 1980; Walsh County Historical Society; Branch Chairman for Adams of the Walsh County Cancer Society; and member of Adams Community Betterment. She has three brothers, Oliver of Klammath Falls, Ore., Howard of Adams, and Robert of Minneapolis. Two sisters living are Mrs. Paul (Alta) Chally, Fairdale, and Alise of Minneapolis. One sister, Pearl, died in May, 1 980. HOWARD THORVILSON Howard Thorvilson was born Aug. 20, 1917, to Ole and Tilda (Torgerson) Thorvilson in Vesta Township. He attended grade school at Vesta School District No. 72 and attended high school in Park River and Adams, graduating from Adams in 1939. He worked on the family farm during World War II. He worked for the R.E.A. when they first started in this area, and on the section for the Soo Line Railroad until he retired in 1979. He is a member of the Mountain Lutheran Church. He likes sports such as baseball, football, basketball, and bowling. Howard has two brothers, Oliver of Klammath Falls, Ore., and Robert of Minneapolis. He has three sisters living. They are Mrs. Paul (Alta) Chally, Fairdale; Alise of Minneapolis; and Thelma of Adams. One sister, Pearl, passed away in 1980.
The Ole Thorvilson Family: left to right, back row, Howard, Alise, Thelma, and Robert; front row, Tilda, Pearl, Oliver, Alta, and Ole.
PEARL (THORVILSON) LANDRESSE Mrs. Pearl (Thorvilson) Landresse was born June 26, 1919, to Ole and Tilda (Torgerson) Thorvilson. She attended grade school at Vesta School District No. 72, and attended high school in Park River and Adams, graduating from Adams in 1 937. She went to the Deaconess Hospital Nursing School in Grand Forks and was employed as a registered nurse there for a short time. She worked at Eitel Hospital in Minneapolis, in the Intensive Care Unit and also did private duty in Minneapolis.
Thelma attended high school in Adams, graduating in 1 938. Then she attended Mayville State College for two years, getting a second grade professional certificate. Her first job as a teacher was at Stone Valley School near Adams. The next year she taught at Kensington School near Park River. During her second year of teaching, she enlisted in the Navy during World War II. She became a WAVE in June, 1942, and went to Boot Camp at Hunter College, in the Bronx, New York City. While she was there she saw Kate Smith and Madame Chan Ki Chek. Her first assignment in the Navy was at a Naval Air Station at Ottumwa, Iowa. Former President Richard Nixon was at the same base when she was stationed there. Her duties there were to keep track of flight time of the cadets and officers. She volunteered for overseas duty after a year and a half at Ottumwa, and was sent to Hawaii in January, 1945. She was stationed at an air base on the island of Maui for 10 months. She worked in the control tower most of the time while there. The last month in Hawaii was spent at N.A.S., Honolulu, where she worked in the library. In November, 1945, she went back to the United States and to the Great Lakes Naval Base where she received her discharge. She had a Sp. (Y) 2 / c rating at the time of her discharge.
Pearl Landresse returned to Adams in 1976 and made her home with her sister, Thelma, and her brother Howard. She died of cancer in May, 1980. She has a brother, Oliver, of Klammath Falls, Ore., and Robert of Minneapolis. Her sisters are Mrs. Paul (Alta) Chally, Fairdale, N. Dak., Alise Thorvilson, Minneapolis, and Thelma Thorvilson, Adams. Her son, Richard Grady, lives in St. Louis Park, Minn., and a granddaughter, Julie Ann Grady, lives in Minneapolis. Pearl Landresse was a member of the Mountain Lutheran Church and the Adams American Legion Auxiliary.
ALISE THORVILSON Alise Thorvilson was born Sept. 3, 1915, in Vesta Township to Ole and Tilda (Torgerson) Thorvilson. She attended grade school at Vesta School District No. 72, and went to high school in Park River and Kalispell, Mont. She moved to Minneapolis, Minn., in 1937, and worked for a telephone answering service for 18 years. She moved to San Diego, Calif., and worked at San Diego Medical and the University of California.
She worked in Minneapolis for a short time before returning to Adams. She taught school in Adams for two years in the lower grades. The next 11 years she taught in the Fairdale school, returning to Adams to teach, and continued her career until she retired in May, 1979. Two nephews, Robert and Terry, lived with Thorvilsons most of their high school years. A niece, Luann, was with Thelma one year while she taught in Fairdale. Thelma is a member of the Mountain Lutheran Church, A.L.C.W., Altar Guild, and Rebecca Circle, serving as Education Secretary; and of American Legion Auxiliary, serving as president; of Adams Community Club, serving as treasurer; Log Cabin Committee, serving as treasurer; was on the steering committee for the Adams School Reunion in 1972; the
Alise returned to Minneapolis in 1967 and worked for 3M until she retired in 1980. Since she retired she has traveled a lot.
ROBERT THORVILSON Robert Thorvilson was born Aug. 4, 1923, in Vesta Township to Ole and Tilda (Torgerson) Thorvilson. He attended grade school at Vesta School District No. 72, and graduated 28
from Adams High School. He was inducted in the Army Jan. 20, 1944. He was stationed at Camp Crowder, Mo., Camp Campbell, Ky., Camp Shelby, Miss., and Fort Jackson, Pa. He married Joy Sellheim while he was in the Army. They had four children. They are Robert, who is married to Eileen Vorachek; they have two children, Lynn and Leann. Robert is an electrician. Wayne lives on a farm near Gilby. He is married to Mardi Forestor and they have five children - Chad, Bradley, Michelle, Cory and Brandon. Wayne works for the Robertson Lumber Co. in Grand Forks. Luann (Suzie) is married to Roger Capouch and they live in Minneapolis, Minn. They have four children - Jennifer, Jason, Jessica and Jarolyn. Terry is married to LouAnn Clemens. They live near Fairdale where Terry farms. They had two sons, Travis and Luke. Luke passed away in July, 1980 Robert owned a bar in Adams for some time and also lived in Walhalla where he worked as a butcher. He lives in Minneapolis now. He worked for the city of Minneapolis for a number of years as a crane operator. Myrlin and Carol Troftgruben OLIVER THORVILSON Oliver Thorvilson was born May 22, 1914, in Vesta Township to Ole and Tilda (Torgerson) Thorvilson. He attended grade school at Vesta School District No. 72, and went to high school in Park River. He farmed with his father until entering the Army in July, 1942. He received his training at Camp McCoy, Wis Camp Shelby, Miss., Camp Coxcomb, Calif., and Fort SamHouston, Tex. He served in France, Holland and Germany. He was in the 3rd Army, Co. M 377th Infantry Regiment Oliver received the Bronze Medal for meritorius service during the ybth (Victory) Divison's drive through Metz into the Seigfried line. He also received two battle stars. Oliver returned to Adams and farming. He married Phyllis Johnson of Tioga. He has two stepsons, Eugene and Richard of Grand Forks. There are three other children - Mrs. Twyla Flory and Scott of Williston, and Roger, Larimore. He has four grandchildren. Oliver operated a grocery store in McVille before moving to Klammath Falls, Ore. He worked for Weyerhaeuser Lumber and later owned and operated a tavern and cafe. He has retired and lives with his wife, Wanda, in Klammath Falls, Ore.
MYRLIN AND CAROL TROFTGRUBEN Myrlin O. Troftgruben, son of Mr. and Mrs. Halfdan Troftgruben, and Carol Jean Hanson, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Hans A. Hanson, of Fairdale, were united in marriage on June 27, 1959. Four children were born to this union — Eileen Marie, Barbara Jean, Rhonda Kaye, and Rodney Merle. Eileen is a 1978 honor graduate of Adams High School. She attended UND at Grand Forks for one year, and is a member of Delta Zeta sorority. She worked at the Good Samaritan Home in East Grand Forks, Minn., for one year before being accepted at St. Luke's School of Nursing in Fargo, which she is attending at present Eileen's hobbies are sewing, macrame, and playing the piano. She was active in 4-H and served as a North Dakota State 4-H Ambassador. Barb is a 1979 honor graduate of Adams High School. She gave birth to Tracy Ann on Nov. 2 1 , 1 9 7 8 . Following graduation from high school, she attended AVTI in East Grand Forks, Minn., for four weeks, then was employed at the Good Samaritan Home in East Grand Forks for eight months. During the summer and fall of 1980, she was employed at the Good Samaritan Home in
Park River. On Oct. 17, 1980, she was united in marriage to James O. Gustafson, son of Mr. and Mrs. Rodger Gustafson. At present, they are living on the Robert Trenda farm near Lankin,
N.Dak.' Rhonda is a senior at Adams High School and will graduate with the class of 1981. She was united in marriage to Randy L. Pokrzywinski of Lankin, on Sept. 27, 1980. She is active in music and is also serving as secretary for the senior class. They live in Adams. Rodney is a seventh grade student in Adams Junior High. He is active in band, basketball, and bowling. He bowls on the Junior High Boys' Bowling Team. He enjoys riding his cycle and snowmobiling. Myrlin is a 1953 graduate of Adams High School. After graduation, he worked at the Johnson Store. During 19571959 he was in the U.S. Army, serving as a paratrooper. He was stationed at Fort Bragg, N. C. After his discharge, in March, 1959 he worked for the Hagen Implement Company, until he went into business of his own in August, 1961. He now owns and operates Myrlin*s Standard; does wrecker service; owns the school buses and provides service to the Adams School District. Park River Bible Camp leases one of the buses during the summer months.
The Myrlin Troftgruben Family — 1970. Left to right: Barbara, Myrlin, Rodney, Eileen, Carol, Rhonda. 129
Canada, and his wife, the former Elise Ledoux, who was born on June 2 1 , 1865, at Stokely, Quebec, Canada. In their younger days the two worked in cotton mills in Massachusetts, but lured by the homesteading opportunities on the prairies, came to Willow City in 1900, settling on land three miles south of town. They brought their three children — Nels, Dora and Rose with them. When the family arrived its assets totaled $14.00, so they started to build the family home out of sod. The family experienced great lonesomeness, and would have returned to the east if their capital had been sufficient. Then followed the discouragements of drought, depression, not to mention hail-outs and Joe decided it was necessary to supplement his farm income with a steady job. The Myrlin Troftgruben Family — 1980: left to right, Randy and Rhonda Pokrzywinski, Myrlin, Eileen Rodney, Carol Troftgruben, Barbara, James and Tracy Gustafson. Myrlin has been Mayor of Adams since 1966. He also holds the position of fire chief. He is a member of the Qually Dvorak American Legion Post, Adams Community Club, Adams Rescue Unit, Edmore Masonic Lodge, and Men's Bowling League. His hobbies include hunting, fishing, and camping.
Joe took employment as a section hand on the Great Northern Railway, starting out at 16 cents an hour. That temporary job with the railroad stretched out for 42 years, and in that period, Joe never missed a day's work because of ill health. Joe passed away unexpectedly in the hospital at Bottineau, N. Dak., just a week after he and his wife marked their Diamond Anniversary. Elise passed away in the same hospital four years later, after a lingering illness. They were survived by Dora and Rose, Nels, several grandchildren and one grandchild.
The Troftgrubens are members of the Mountain Lutheran Church, where Carol has been active in ALCW and Sunday School. She is currently serving as assistant organist. Other activities find Carol as the 1980-81 president of the Adams PTA; a member of the Eastern Star and the American Legion Auxiliary. Carol, a 1955 graduate of Fairdale High School, attended Valley City State College, and taught school in Tiber Township in Walsh County and Elgin Township in Cavalier County, prior to her marriage. Carol was a kidney donor for her brother, William O. Hanson, on Aug. 25, 1975. He passed away April 1, 1980, following a stroke. Carol is a great help to her husband, Myrlin, at the Standard Station, and when she isn't there she may be found doing one of her hobbies, which includes sewing, crocheting, knitting, playing the piano, and baking bread.
LEONARD AND LAURA VAUDRIN FAMILY A Willow City, N. Dak., couple has started the second 75 years of married life, marking their Diamond Anniversary at ages 93 and 92, respectively. They are Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Chabot, who were married at Fall River, Mass., on Nov. 7, 1882. Joseph Chabot was born April 2 1 , 1864, at St. Charles, Quebec,
Leonard's Section Crew in Adams, left to right: George Kosobud, Fird Hatlestad, Howard Thorvilson, Clarence Nelson, and Leonard Vaudrin seated in front. During the Joe Chabot's years in Willow City their children married and had families. Nels (Narcisse) met and married the former Emma Ruelle (daughter of Mr. and Mrs. E. Ruelle of Overly) on Nov. 23, 1908 at Willow City and set up housekeeping there. To this union were born seven children Fredrick, Beatrice, George, Laura, Vernon, Irene and Raymond. Nels worked at different jobs in North Dakota, Montana and Canada, finally settling in Gravelbourg, Sask., Canada, where the children grew up and went to school until the older ones graduated. Nels was then manager of a theater until it burned down in 1930, on Laura's birthday. As you know that was the Great Depression, or so called "dirty thirties." Everyone worked wherever they found work, like babysitting and cleaning ho lse for 25 cents and not by the hour either. Beatrice married Leon Charles of Radville, Sask., Canada on Oct. 15, 1935, and is still living there.
Leonard and Laura Vaudrin
Laura Olive was born April 28, 1916, at Willow City; came back to Willow City in 1937, at age 2 1 , and went to work for Leo Koehmstedt at Overly for three months, and then she and her dad, Nels, and brother, Ray, set up housekeeping in the same house Nels and Emma had first lived in when they married. While
The Leonard Vaudrin Family: left to right, back row, Shirley, Robert, and Judith; front row, Laura, Joyce, and Leonard. Laura was working in Overly, she went to church one Sunday morning and saw a stranger in front of her and asked her cousin who that stranger was. She was told that that was Leonard Vaudrin, just home from working on the railroad extra gangs all summer. Needless to say Leonard and Laura met. In 1937 a tall thin Frenchman named Fred Vaudrin and his wife, the former Eleanor Harfield, and their family of ten children were living in Overly, N. Dak. The children were Ralph, Leonard, William, Eleanor, Lyman, Elmer, Earl, Lyda, and Margarite. Fred and his family had lived in many towns because he was a section foreman for the Soo Line and had to go where he was needed. Leonard Alfred was born at White Earth, Minn., June 1, 1915. He worked for his father when needed, along with hauling timber from the Turtle Mountains near the Canadian border and sawing wood for sale and working for farmers during harvest. On October 15, 1940, Leonard and Laura were married in Notre Dame Catholic Church in Willow City where Laura had been baptized 24 years earlier. Her parents moved to Chicago, and George, Ray and Vernon joined the service - George and Vern in the Navy and Ray in the Army. Fred went in the Navy two years later. Leonard and Laura lived in Willow City until April 1, 1941, when they moved to Greene, N. Dak. Leonard worked as a section hand for Eric Larson, formerly of Adams, for 1 Vi years during which time Judith Laura was born Nov. 1, 1941. Leonard bid into Overly to work, so they came back and Shirley Olive was born May 28, 1943. About 3 /2 years later Robert Leonard was born on Dec. 1, 1946. Judith attended school in Overly. There were two boys and two girls in her class. She used to hop to and from school, eight blocks and their big Chesepeake Labrador hunting dog, Rex, used to go with her and go to meet her on her way home. Leonard hunted a lot of pheasants with that dog. When the Soo Line dropped the passenger trains the town started to dwindle, so eventually there was no restaurant, so Laura cooked for the railroad train crew for one winter. Leonard had a chance to bid into Adams, N. Dak., as section foreman in 1948, so the family moved into the Ole Myson place which they bought. They lived there until Leonard passed away unexpectedly on Feb. 17, 1973, at the age of 57.
School. Leonard and Laura celebrated their 25th anniversary on Oct. 15, 1965, with the help of their good friends of Adams and surrounding area. It was one of the happiest days of their lives, Laura can assure you. After graduating, Judith and Shirley worked in Bismarck for a while, then decided to try the west coast, Sacramento, Calif., where they both married. On June 25, 1966, Shirley married Ray Clevidence and they had two girls, Veronica and Danielle, and are now living in Medford, Ore. Judith left California with her sons, Steven and Kevin, and came back to North Dakota and is now married to Joe Rysavy of Lawton. They live on a farm with their sons, Steven, Kevin and Scott. Robert Vaudrin and Stephanie Tupa were married in Grafton on Sept. 30, 1967. They have four boys, Robert Leonard, Daniel, Michael and Philip. Robert is an area-wide engineering technician of Grand Forks S.C.S. Area Office. Robert's hobbies are drawing, his dance band the "Night Shades," and antique collecting, especially bottles with names and states. Joyce decided to go to Sacramento with a friend she had been sharing an apartment with while they both worked at the Deaconess Hospital. She worked as a shirt presser in a dry cleaning shop, until she set the date to marry. Joyce Marie Vaudrin and Stanley M. Cowan were married on Oct. 4, 1973, at Sacramento. They were not blessed with children so they adopted a little baby girl, born Feb. 24, 1980, and named Theresa Marie. Stanley is employed at the United Airlines and is also in real estate. Joyce is happy to be a homemaker and does a lot of knitting and crocheting. In 1974 Laura rented her house at Adams and went to Spring Lake Park, Minn., to help her sister, Irene, take care of their mother, Emma, and Irene's husband while Irene worked. Emma died of cancer Jan. 9, 1975, at Minneapolis, and is buried in the Vaudrin family plot in Park River, N. Dak. Irene's husband, Floyd Cunningham, passed away in July, 1976. Laura and Irene are now sharing an apartment. Irene works at Unity Hospital. They plan on moving to Medford, Ore. Laura sold her house to Albert Vigen in 1977. They tore it down and set up a mobile home.
GLENN AND LILLIAN VIGEN FAMILY Glenn Vigen, a son of Nils and Gina (Bolstad) Vigen, was born May 10, 1918, and educated in Silvesta schools. He has three sisters, Merna, Gilma and Eunice; and three brothers, Vernon, Albert and Lloyd. On Oct. 10, 1940, Glenn was married to Lillian Borchgrevink. They have two children — Nils bom Sept. 17,j 1941, and Irene born Sept. 30, 1944. Glenn has farmed all his life, in'Walsh County, until moving into Adams in 1964. He and Orville Hagen were in the machinery business until 1970 when Glenn managed it himself until Dec. 1, 1978. He now is selling machinery for Bob Lamb at Michigan, N. Dak.
1
Nils is married and lives on the farm. He graduated from Adams High School and attended a short course in Fargo one winter. He was in the Army for eighteen months, spending most of that time in Germany. He has two children — Glen Stewart and Lynell Christy. Irene was educated in Adams and finished high school. She married Richard Sellheim in 1960. She worked at several jobs in Grafton before getting a job at the post office there after taking a civil service exam. In December, 1977, she became postmaster at Adams. She has three children — Tammy Renae, a second-
Joyce Marie joined the family on July 26, 1951. Two years later, Theresa Mary was stillborn and Laura almost lost her life. Between 1948 and 1973 the Vaudrins were a part of the Adams community and the children graduated from Adams High 131
Jessie was baptized and confirmed in the Mountain Lutheran Church in Adams. She received her education in the Adams Public Schools, graduating from that high school. Jessie helped at home with the housework after graduating, since her mother was in poor health. She worked part-time at the telephone office in Adams while living at home with her parents. After her father and mother died, Jessie and her brothers and sisters were taken into the homes of several relatives and friends, and Jessie went to Hoople, N. Dak., where she found work in a confectionery store. It was there, in the Hoople community, that she met Leonard Wood whom she married in 1 9 3 1 . Jessie and Leonard had one daughter, Janice.
The Glenn Vigen Family: Glenn, Nils, Irene, and Lillian. year student at Crookston, Minn.; Dick, who is married and working in the oil fields in western North Dakota; and Phyllis, a high school student in Adams.
JESSIE LOFTHUS WOOD Jessie was born on her parents' farm, five miles east of Adams, on June 17, 1905. When she was a small baby, her parents, Johannes and Maude Lofthus, moved to Adams. It was during this period of time that the village of Adams was started.
Dr. and Mrs. LeRoy Olson, Tim and Gwen. Jessie and Leonard lived on his father's farm and farmed until his death in 1949. After Leonard's death, Jessie and her daughter left the farm and lived in Hoople for a short time with Leonard's mother. When Janice left for college, Jessie went to Fargo and stayed with her sister, Lucille, who lived there. Jessie enrolled in a business school and worked for a short ime in Fargo after completing her business training. In 1951 she was offered a job in the business office of the St. Andrew's Hospital in Minneapolis. She later worked in the Deaconess Hospital in Minneapolis, doing the same type of work. She held this job until she retired in 1971, at which time she moved to Columbia, Missouri, where her daughter lived. Jessie had two grandchildren, Timothy and Gwen Ellen. Jessie died on July 24, 1980.
CHILDREN OF CHRIST AND CHRISTINE BERGER Ruth Ida, born April 18, 1907. She married Frank DeVorak, Jr. of Adams in 1924 and to them one son, Charles, was born November 16, 1925. Charles is a traveling agent for the Burlington Northern Railroad out of Alexandria, Minn., and resides in Bertha, Minn., with his wife, Marge.
Jessie Lofthus Wood
Frank retired from the Soo Line Railroad at Federal Dam, Minn., in 1968. He died August 6, 1971 from a heart attack at the age of 73 and is buried in the Mountain Lutheran Church West Cemetery-
Ruth is living in Wadena, Minn., and enjoys playing her electric organ. She has one grandson, Charles, Jr., a musician in Hollywood, Calif., and four granddaughters, all with musical talents. Tammy is a secretary for the superintendent of schools in Wadena; Kim and Wendy are sophomores at Moorhead State College; and Stacy is at home, in 5th grade. Ila Bertha was born March 22, 1908. Her teaching career lasted 29 years, the last 15 of which were in Minneapolis from where she retired in 1972. She married Charles Hoffos of Gardena, N. Dak., in 1928. He retired from the Soo Line railroad in Minneapolis as trainmaster in 1974. They moved to Alexandria, Minn., and are "residing in their home on Lake LeHomme Dieu. They have one daughter, Charlyn Tesdahl, living with her husband Paul in Anoka, Minn. Both have master degrees and are employed in education. They have two sons, Neil 15 and Brad 1 1 . Chester Oliver was born July 3, 1911. He was stricken with muscular dystrophy as a young child. He spent most of his life in a wheel chair, cared for by his parents. He died at the age of 53 and is buried in the Mountain Lutheran Church West cemetery. Lloyd Maurice was born August 10, 1913. He retired in 1978, having served as a locomotive engineer for the Soo Line railroad in and out of Duluth, where he now lives with his wife Myrtle Iverson, whom he married at Mahnomen in 1938. They have one son, Lloyd, Jr., who is an ordained pastor of the Lutheran ALCA synod and is now serving at Clinton, Minn. He married Sandy Froiland at Thief River Falls, Minn., in June 1974. They have one son, five years old. Roy Harold was born Sept. 5, 1914. He was employed by the Soo Line, Great Northern and Santa Fe railroads in train service. He served four years in World War II in Europe in a railroad battalion. He passed away Aug. 20, 1978 from lung cancer and was buried with military honors by the Adams Legion Post in the Mountain Lutheran cemetery. Glen Edward was born October 23, 1916. He worked for the Soo Line railroad as an agent telegrapher and later as a plumber helper. He served four years in World War II in the South Pacific in the signal corps. He retired on a veteran's
pension and is living with his mother in Grand Forks, N. Dak. Wallace James was born March 16, 1917. He married Evelyn Klabunde at Martinez, Calif., Nov. 29, 1942. Her home was at Mahnomen, Minn. He worked in the shipyards in the state of California during World War II, returning to Fargo N. Dak., where they still reside and where he has worked as a mechanic for the city for 33 years. One son, Wayne, was born at Fargo April 12, 1947, lives in Minneapolis and is employed as an electrician journeyman 1st class. He also belongs to the National Guard at Fargo. Russell Gilman was born March 12, 1920. He trained as a telegrapher and has been employed by the Soo Line railroad for 40 years. At present he is a traveling agent working out of Detroit Lakes, Minn., where he resides with his wife Muriel Olson, whom he married at Mahnomen, Minn., January 3 1 , 1941. His hobby is short wave radio. He served three years in a railroad battalion in World War II in Europe. They have five children, Ronny, Dilworth, Minn.; Rosalyn Benesh, Moorhead, Minn.; Rhonda Hanson, Denver, Colo.; Randy, Mahnomen, Minn.; and Rickie, Detroit Lakes, Minn. All have had college training and are talented in art. There are seven grandchildren. Donna Marie Rose was born August 29, 1923. She graduated from St. Luke's Hospitals in Fargo, N. Dak., as a registered nurse in 1944. In 1945 she was married to Donald Thiel of Ada, Minn., and moved to Sacramento, Calif., where she is employed by the Kaiser Clinic. They have two sons and two daughters, all married. Donny lives in Sacramento, and Danny, Donese and Chrisie in Portland, Oregon. There are four grandchildren. Robert Kenneth was born April 23, 1925 at Overly, N. Dak. He joined the navy while in high school and served in the Pacific theater of war as a boatswain. On his return he worked for the Soo Line and Great Northern in train service and later for the Whirlpool Corp., in St. Paul where he still resides. He married Gladys Bouchette of Mahnomen, Minn., and they have two children — a son, Kenneth, a trained draftsman, and a daughter, Karen, a medical technician at St. Luke's Hospitals, Fargo, N. Dak. There are two grandsons.
History of Adams City in Photos
Mr. and Mrs. Carl Hilde
Ole Herseth and daughter, Roselea, eight months
Karen Helseth The Clifton Nelson home
Haney Helseth
DANCE Ole and Marie Herseth's wedding picture, Dec. 5, 1923, and their golden anniversary 50 years later.
The first real big dance of the season will be given : : : : E
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Adams Opera House, One of the four buses provided by Myrlin's Station.
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Music by the Adams Five Piece
ORCHESTRA Alois Knotek and MaryAnn Krile
One of the Biggest and Best Dancing Floors in the State : : :
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Alois Knotek Jr. and MaryAnn Krile
Admission $1.00 ADAMS STANDARD PRINT
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ARDOCH CITY FAMILY HISTORIES MARTIN AND ROSE EBERTOWSKI FAMILY Martin and Rose (Stoltman) Ebertowski were married at the St. Stanislaus Catholic Church in Warsaw, N. D., on Sept. 25, 1934, by Father John Maluski. Martin was bom on Nov. 1 1 , 1 9 0 4 , a son of A.ex and Agatha (Stencil) Ebertowski, and comes from a family of 14 children. Rose was born on March 14, 1911, and is a daughter of John B. and Frances (Watembach) Stoltman, and comes from a famiy of 12 children.
Martin Ebertowski and his "furs,"
John B. Stoltman came to the United States with his parents from Poznan, Poland, at the age of 14. He later homesteaded a farm three miles north of Warsaw, N. D., in Pulaski Township, where he made his home with his wife, Frances Watembach. John B. Stoltman died at the age of 55 in 1918.
193b.
Martin has enjoyed a lifelong hobby of trapping. When sending furs to Sears Roebuck's raw fur marketing company, he won many prizes for preparing the pelts and as a result won the national award of $1,000.00 for the best prepared pelt received in 1 954. In the late thirties his trapping in the winter months was more profitable than working for wages in the summer time.
The current owner of this homestead farm is Dennis Feltman.
Martin and Rose are currently members of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Ardoch, N. Dak. Martin, now retired, has worked for the Swingen Construction Co. of Grand Forks for 30 years and still enjoys his hobby of trapping.
Martin's father, Alex, also was born in Poland and came to the United States at a later time. Martin and Rose lived in Chicago during World War II and in 1945 they moved to Ardoch, N. D., and purchased a house from Anne Sweeney, where they still reside. The Ebertowski children include Mrs. Wade (Marilyn) Miller, born Sept. 18, 1935, currently from Broken Arrow, Okla.; Mrs. Dan (Rose Ellen) Dettloff, born April 14, 1939, Downers Grove, III.; Mrs. James (Betty) Walski, born April 10, 1942, Minto, N. D.; Mrs. Marlen (Diane) McLaughlin, born December 6, 1947, Lankin, N.D.; and Duane Ebertowski, born April 8, 1949, Tulsa, Okla. The couple also has 15 grandchildren and two great grandchildren.
LEO M. MONDRY Leo M. Mondry was born on Jan. 2, 1903, to John Mondry and Anna Reszka, pioneer Ardoch Township farmers. He graduated from Minto High School in June of 1923, and attended Valley City Teacher's College for two years and commenced teaching school in Ardoch Township in 1925. Thereafter, he commenced farming and on May 27th, 1933, married Marion Wosick, daughter of George and Mary Wosick, pioneer farmers from the Warsaw, N. Dak., area. To this union were born thirteen children, namely: James, Joan, John, Jay, Joel, Jared, Joyce, Jane, June, Judd, Jacqueline, Jill and Jeffrey. In 1934 Leo Mondry opened a small grocery store in the town of Ardoch and thereafter, in 1935, he commenced carrying mail for the United States Postal Service while operating the grocery store and expanding his farming interests. He continued the United States Mail carrier's job until his retirement in July of 1971. It was during this period of time, and, in particular, the spring of 1948 and the spring of 1950, that Leo Mondry gained notoriety for piloting his own private aircraft and using the same to deliver the mail to all of his patrons on the Ardoch route.
Rose had an exciting experience when she was chosen a finalist in the Pillsbury Bake Off contest in March, 1970. As a result she won an all expense paid trip to San Diego, Calif., to compete in the contest. Plus the trip, she was awarded a $100.00 cash prize and an electric range.
During this same period of time, he continued to expand his farming interests and during the mid 1960's, he was farming in excess of 3,500 acres of land. He was a pioneer in Walsh County in raising of certified seed potatoes, growing approximately 800 acres, annually. He was one of the first potato farmers in the area to introduce mechanical potato harvesters to the area, purchasing two of the then innovative machines in the year 1951. Leo Mondry was known as one of the first pilots in the Walsh County area and he earned his private license in 1939, and it was in the late 1940s that he pioneered the concept of aerial spraying and dusting within the Ardoch area. He continued his spraying activity until approximately four years prior to his death, and in the late 1960s he was one of the first persons in the entire area to own and operate his own private helicopter.
The Martin Ebertowski Family: seated, Rose and Martin; standing, left to right, Diane (McLaughlin), Duane, Betty (Walski), Rose Ellen (Dettloff) and Marilyn (Miller). 1 i
It was in the late 1940s that he purchased the grain elevator in Ardoch, N. Dak., and he maintained this business as a part of the community up until approximately five years prior to his death. In addition, he at one time served on the Board of Directors at the Bank of Minto, and he was on the original Board of Directors and was the first president of Northern National Life Insurance Company of Bismarck, North Dakota. It was during the early 1950s that he commenced a land development business in Grand Forks which later focused itself on the ownership and management of in excess of 250 apartments during the 1960s. He was active in many civic and charitable organizations in the Ardoch area and some of his activities included the Grand Forks Wing of the Civil Air Patrol and, in addition, he was a lifelong member of the Knights of Columbus of Grafton, N. Dak., and also served on the fund-raising committee for the construction of the (then new) St. Michael's Hospital in Grand Forks, N. Dak., in 1948. He was a life-long member of St. John's Catholic Church, Ardoch. Mr. Mondry passed away on March 19th, 1973, in Grand Forks.
MR. AND MRS. FLORIAN E. (SMOKY) SCHULTZ Florian E. (Smoky) Schultz was born in Ardoch, N. Dak., Jan. 23, 1918. He was educated in the Ardoch School and after graduating became self-employed in Smoky's Bar in the year 1937. Mrs. Schultz (Barbara Kennedy) was born at Hensel, N. Dak., Jan. 2 1 , 1920. She was educated in the Hensel School and after graduating became employed in Grafton at Northwestern Bell Telephone Co.
They were married Jan. 29th, 1944, making their home in Ardoch. They became the parents of six children: Rebecca (Mrs. Carl Rotter) Eatonville, Wash.; Althea, Houston, Texas; Barbara Jo, Grand Forks, N. Dak.; Kim (Mrs. Phillip Henry), Falls City, Wash.; Robert, Bellingham, Wash.; and Sheila, Chelan, Wash. During a period of several years, Smoky served as a member of the city council, a member of the school board and as president of the school board. In 1963 the family moved to Grand Forks. While still operating the business jn Ardoch, Smoky became employed by the Department of Agriculture on a part-time basis as a statistical crop reporter for about five years. Barbara was employed by The Diana Corporation as manager of a Grand Forks store for four years. In May, 1975, Smoky and Barbara moved back to Ardoch. In September of that year the Ardoch post office was declared a contract station, with Smoky being appointed as the postal clerk. He opened a grocery store in conjunction with the post office, and bar and lounge. All are in operation at this time. In the city election of April, 1980, Smoky was elected Mayor of Ardoch, for a term of four years. Smoky and Barbara have five grandchildren, all residing in the state of Washington. The children have only one great grandparent, Mr. John Kennedy, Barbara's father, a life long resident of the Hensel-Crystal area. In his 99th year, he is now a resident of the Good Samaritan Nursing Home in East Grand Forks, Minn. Active iff church affairs, Barbara is the organist, both are members of the choir, as well as members of church organizations, Eagles Club, and the Elks Club.
ARDOCH TOWNSHIP FAMILY HISTORIES KENNETH P. AND EVELYN COLLETTE FAMILY Kenneth P. Collette, son of Arthur Collette and Louisa Campbell, was born near Oakwood, N. Dak., on Dec. 29, 1926. He attended St. Aloysius Academy at Oakwood, and at age 18 was drafted during World War II. After basic training, he was sent to occupied Japan, where he spent two years.
She taught grades one to six at Ardoch Village School 19631968.
He returned to Oakwood and began farming and doing custom combining every summer, in Oklahoma, Kansas, Nebraska and South Dakota. On Nov. 5, 1951, at St. Stanislaus Church, Warsaw, he married Evelyn E. Wosick, daughter of Julian Wosick and Rose Ebertowski. Evelyn was born in Milwaukee, Wise, April 5, 1929. At age two, she came with her parents to a farm in Pulaski Township. She attended grade school at Pulaski, Dist. No. 43 and graduated from Grafton Central High in 1946. She later attended Mayville and Moorhead Teacher's College and the U.N.D. at Grand Forks. In 1946, after attending six weeks' summer school at Mayville, she received a teacher's certificate. Because of a teacher's shortage during World War II, she began teaching at the age of 17, in rural Pulaski No. 43, grades one to eight. After teaching in Pulaski No. 43 and 86 and Forest River Grade School, she returned and graduated from Mayville State in 1963.
Kenneth P. Collette and Evelyn £ Wosick were married Nov. 5, 1951, in Warsaw.
FRANK AND ELIZABETH GALEWSKI
The couple has three sons — John, born July 23, 1952; Mark, born April 5, 1955; and Paul, bom April 8, 1960.
He was born in 1 855 in the Pomorze (Pomerania) district of Poland where the family owned a thirty-acre farm. Because of the limited size of the family operation and because of required military service in the Prussian army, Frank and several brothers emigrated to the United States. In 1875 or 1876 Frank joined his Aunt Julia and Uncle John Valinski in Pine Creek, Wise. A year later he came to Ardoch Township where he homesteaded in section 22. In 1880 he married Elizabeth Ruzicka who had been born in 1860 in Oshawa, Ont., Canada, and had just arrived with her homesteading family from Spillville, Iowa. Twelve children were born to the union, but only six reached adulthood.
They have two granddaughters, Keely and Amanda. The Kenneth Collette family lives in Ardoch Township on the former Martin Riski farm, where they settled in April, 1952. They reside there and farm in the summer months. Since 1968, they have been spending their winters in Homestead, Fla., where Kenneth is employed by Algers Farms as a sweet corn planter and harvest operator. Evelyn has been employed at the Homestead Air Force Base, and as a kindergarten and substitute teacher in Dade County. They are members of St. Stanislaus Church of Warsaw and Sacred Heart Church of Homestead. Kenneth is a member of the Crafton American Legion. Evelyn was a member of the N.E.A. and the N.D.E.A., the Grafton Legion Auxiliary, the St. Stanislaus Altar Society, the Living Rosary, the Homestead Sacred Heart Society and the Country Gals Homemakers Club. At present she is the Arts and Crafts Director at Aquarius Park in Homestead, Fla.
From a beginning in a floorless shack with only a mixed team (one horse, one ox) as motive power, the family prospered. Through the years more land was acquired. A huge 5-bedroom home was completed in 1892. In 1906 the entire operation was sold, and the remaining family (Matilda, the oldest, having married Alex Wirkus of the area) moved to Grand Forks. During the year there, Frank bought C.P.R. land in Saskatchewan, broke it, and then sold it. In 1907 the family moved to Minneapolis. Between 1910 and 1923 all members drifted off to Los Angeles and settled in the same neighborhood. Frank died there in 1926; Elizabeth in 1938. Two daughters reached the age of 90. As of this writing, two daughters-in-law, thirteen grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren and great great grandchildren survive.
JOHN AND FRANCES (PASCHKE) CRYSTAL John Crystal was born Jan. 3, 1873, in Baruszynie, Germany, to the Andrew Crystals. He came to this country as a child. He first resided in northern Michigan, then moved to East Grand Forks, Minn., in 1895 where he was a resident for 44 years. He married Frances Paschke Feb. 1 1 , 1896, in Warsaw,
My father once remarked that every time an epidemic hit the countryside, most families lost a child. Once Uncle Stanley developed a swelling around the throat, and a doctor was called to the house. He ordered Grandma to prepare the kitchen table for an operation but she refused. Later, the swelling subsided. It was mumps. My father survived both typhoid fever and scarlet fever. He did not grow up as robust as the others.
N. Dak. Frances was born Oct. 4, 1878, to John and Julia Paschke, Sr., in Appleton, Minn. She came with her parents at the age of three to Ardoch, N. Dak., and lived on the farmstead until her marriage to John Crystal. John was employed as a stationary fireman for the Northern Pacific Railroad in East Grand Forks, Minn. He retired in 1938 and died April 8, 1939. Frances died Sept. 7, 1979. She had lived to the age of 100.
Grandpa always held one of the small children on his lap at mealtime. Once he walked to Ardoch with eggs to be traded for tea, but returned with a deck of cards. To an angry wife he explained that the tea would have been consumed quickly, while the whole family could enjoy the cards for years. They lived in the original, squalid, dirt-floor shack for over ten years before building a fine new house. The family was very
They were members of the Sacred Heart Church. They had five children who are all living at this writing— Mrs. George (Amelia) Fontaine of East Grand Forks; Walter of Superior, Wise; Mrs. Ballard (Gertrude) Fahey, Mrs. Howard (Marie) Maves of Grand Forks; and Joseph of East Grand Forks. Also in the family are 17 grandchildren, 32 great grandchildren and eigrjt great great grandchildren.
Frank and Elizabeth Galewski family, taken about 1903; from left to right, back row, Bertha, Georgianna, Stanley, Matilda; front row, Ben, Elizabeth, Ed, Stephanie, Frank and Adolph. The youngest two succumbed shortly after.
The Crystal Family: left to right, front, Marie Maves, Frances, Mrs. John Crystal, and Joseph; back row, Gertrude Fahey, Walter and Amelia Fontaine. Taken on the mother's 87th birthday, Oct. 4, 1965. 1
close When the two oldest reached their late teens, Grandpa, a progressive, sent them to agriculture school. They became homesick and returned in two weeks. In the late 1880's, three horsemen appeared from the east - Norwegian homesteaders from Minnesota. None could speak English but they and Grandpa were fluent enough in German to get by They had lost their crops and were unable to borrow seed or money for a new start. Grandpa gave them all the money he had - $300, stored under a bed. To Grandma s protests, he explained that they were honest men and would return. Later, the three horsemen returned, and paid back the $300. Grandpa had a binder to pull with his mixed team (ox/horse). He built a cradle on it behind the seat. Then, as he bound sheaves, Grandma walked behind shocking. Whenever the baby needed attention they would have to stop working.
WALTER R. AND JACQUELINE WRIGHT GERENZ Walter Robert Gerenz was born March 3 1 , 1940, in Passaic, N.J., a son of Otto Gerenz and Marie Korek Gerenz, Immigrants in the early 1900's from Germany and Hungary. Jacqueline Wright Gerenz was born June 17, 1942, at Edgemont, S. Dak., a daughter of John W. Wright and Elaine Erickson Wright. John Wright's family came from England in the 1600's and Elaine's parents were Swedish immigrants to this country in the 1890's. Both families settled in South Dakota in the late 1800's. Walter and Jacqueline arrived in Grand Forks, N. Dak., in 1973 where Walt attended UND to earn a second Bachelor's Degree, this in elementary education, after both had previously taught in secondary schools in Arizona, California and South Dakota. The couple had also previously spent time in Colorado and Europe, and the purchase of a farmstead in 1974 in eastern Walsh County was their first permanent "settling i n " with a home of their own. The years since then have been devoted to making the Slominski homestead of the late 1800's into a home representative of their taste yet also representative of a farmhouse of the late 1800's and early 1900's. To do so has taken imagination, money, hard work and the help of many friends and neighbors in the area, some of whom had abandoned their older farm homes for more contemporary quarters, but who allowed the Gerenzes to salvage from these older homes for use on their house. This has enabled them to restore their home with authentic architectural details of the homes in this area during the time that homesteading was first done. Doors and windows have come from the Norbert Korynta home, from the home of David and Sharie Narloch, and from Evelyn (Mrs. Bernard) Korynta. A bay window from an original homestead near Forest River was donated by Mrs. Alan Wood, and a porch and railing from one of the original houses in Grafton was given by Miss Mae Pich. In addition, a windmill from Jacqueline's grandparents' homestead in South Dakota will soon be erected, and a friend from Minnesota gave them an oak porch swing. In the house, original foundation bricks have been used for a hearth and will be on the floor of the bay window. No attempt has been made to glorify the house into some colonial wonder, but rather the Gerenzes have tried to keep it representative of the simple farm homes of the homesteading era. They respect what the Slominski family went through during the early days in North Dakota (at one point moving the house to avoid losing it; at another, storing grain in it, and want it always to represent to them and others a symbol of farm life in this part of North Dakota.
JULIA AND SYRAPION GERSZEWSKI Syrapion Gerszewski was bom Nov. 14, 1901, to Vincent and Frances (Riskie) Gerszewski in Walshville Township near Oslo, Minn. There were seven brothers, Augusl (deceased) Paul, Florentine, Julius (deceased) Peter, Alex (deceased) and Richard (deceased) and six sisters, Mrs. Joe Rolzenski (Victoria^ Mrs. Frank Michalski (Apolonia), Mrs. Frank Marcohvich (Helen), Mrs. Jacob Stick (Dorothy), Mrs. Alex Michalski (Sophie) and Mrs. Jerry Spale (Amilianna). He has at the present time (1980) all sisters living and three brothers living. Syrapion married Julia Byzewski, who was born on Dec. 4, 1904, to John and Polly (Stygar) Byzewski, on Nov. 16, 1926. They had four children - Mrs. Edwin (Evelyn) Plutowski, Mrs. Ray (Marie) Lizakowski, Mrs. Dan (Delores) Burianek, and one son, Daniel, of Minto. A native of Walshville Township, Gerszewski moved to Ardoch Township in 1916. It was in 1924 that he was appointed as clerk of an election and since that time he had put in forty years of serving the township board. He has served as clerk without missing a primary, general or township election. Gerszewski recalls that other members of the board in 1924 were John Mondry, Henry Croskry, Joe Stanislawski, Alex Halliday, Frank Duray, and Alex Glinske. All are now deceased At the first election at which he served as clerk, a total of ZUb votes were cast. At the last township election that he served on, only 11 voters turned out to cast their ballots. While he has served as an election official for 40 years, he has also been township clerk for the past 38 years, being elected 19 times for two year terms. On two occasions, he had oppositions at the polls. His public life, however, was not only devoted to township affairs. During those 40 years he also served either as clerk or treasurer of his school district. He also served as an usher at bt. Stanislaus Catholic Church of Warsaw for 24 years, giving up that post when he transferred to St. John's Catholic Church ot Grafton where they had moved after they retired from the farm in 1962. He also served as manager of the Warsaw Community Hall for ten years. Mrs. Gerszewski also came from a large family of five brothers and three sisters - Julian Byzewski of Grafton, August of Milwaukee, Wise, Frank of Grafton, and Joe and John now deceased; and sisters are Mrs. Polly Wosick, Mrs Charles Farmer (Sophie) of Grand Forks and Mrs. Stanley (Lorraine) Czapiewski, now deceased. She also had some brothers and sisters who died in infancy.
Julia and Syrapion Gerszewski 142
For 36 years they operated a grain and cattle farm in Ardoch Township. While it was considered a rarity on other farms in that area, it was never uncommon for twin calves to be born on the Gerszewski farm. In fact, during the 36 years he operated the farm, no less than eight sets of twins were born. Neighbors commented on the fact, with several farmers of the opinion that perhaps the artesian water was the cause. In 1962 the farm was sold to Jim Plutowski. The first year he had the farm two sets of twin calves arrived at the farm and the following year triplets arrived. Farmers in the area had a joke as to securing some of the water in order to increase the size of their herds in a hurry. Mr. Gerszewski has been employed as a Foster Grandparent at the Grafton State School for the past 11 years. He has also been employed by the Grafton Record for seven years when he first moved to Grafton. Their present address is 804 Eastern Ave., at Grafton. The couple celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in 1976.
ALACK GLINSKI FAMILY Alack Glinski, the son of Frank and Veronica Glinski, was born Oct. 9, 1886, in Ardoch Township, Walsh County, N. Dak. He married Frances Suidyla Feb. 12, 1917, in Virginia, Minn. They farmed the land his father homesteaded in Ardoch Township until 1939, when they moved to Minto, and then to Grand Forks, where he worked for the Armour's meat packing plant.
Cross Catholic Church in Minneapolis. They had six children, Amelia and Ignatz died in infancy, Stella, born 1906, Frank Jr. born 1909, Theodore born 1911, Frances born 1900, and passed away 1918. Frank Glinski farmed the land he homesteaded, and for many summers friendly Indians camped on this land, from spring till fall, but left when the weather got cold. They moved to Perham, Minn, in 1905 and Frank managed a tavern there for two years, then returned to the farm again. In year 1914, Frank and Victoria moved to Minto, and Alack took over farming. Frank was secretary of the St. Stanislaus Church in Warsaw for a number of years. Frank Sr. passed away in Mar., 1941, and Victoria passed away May 1, 1962. They are buried in the Sacred Heart Cemetery of Minto, N. Dak.
SYLVESTER AND ELEANOR GRZADZIELEWSKI Sylvester John Grzadzielewski was born at Minto, N. Dak., October 9, 1917, a son of John Grzadzielewski and Veronica Czapiewski Grzadzielewski, both of Polish descent. Eleanor Mondry Grzadzielewski, born in Ardoch Township, was a daughter of John A. Mondry, and Anna Reszka Mondry. Mother Anna was born in Pulaski Township, and Father John was born in Pine Creek, Wis. Father John was of Polish descent and mother Anna, of Polish and German descent. Sylvester and Eleanor lived near the Ardoch area most of their lives, both raised on neighboring farms, on the banks of Lake Ardoch. Eleanor received her education in a rural school taught by brother Leo and sister Amelia (Barclay) at different intervals, and graduated from the Grafton Central High School. Sylvester received his elementary education at Ardoch. Sylvester and Eleanor left North Dakota in November, 1941, for San Diego, Calif. Sylvester was employed at Consolidated Vultie Aircraft, where he helped assemble the B24 bombers, which were so significant in our bombing missions of World War II. Eleanor was employed at the Hammond Drug store. They got married in San Diego on Feb. 14, 1942, in St. Vincent De Paul Catholic Church.
Alex Glinski Family — John, Agnes, Florence, Veronica. Four children were born of this union — Florence, Agnes, Veronica and John. Alack passed away Sept. 4, 1953 and is buried in Calvary cemetery in Grand Forks, N. Dak. Frances married Frank Teske in Jan. 1957, and they farmed in Acton Township until Frank's death, Mar. 12, 1962. He is buried in the St. Stanislaus cemetery in Warsaw, N. Dak. Frances resides in Minto, N. Dak. THE FRANK GLINSKI, SR., FAMILY Frank Glinski, Sr., was born in Cersk, Poland, in 1852 and came to the Dakota Territory alone as a young man. He homesteaded 160 acres of land in Ardoch Township. He married Veronica Osowski in 1882. They had five children — Martha, born 1884 and died 1964; Alack, born 1886 died in 1953; Anna, born 1892 and died in 1973; Roman, born 1893 and died in 1968; Veronica, born 1897 and died 1916. His wife, Veronica, died in Aug., 1897. In July, 1898, he married Victoria Wozniak in the Holy
In January, 1943, Sylvester entered the Army Air Corps and Eleanor returned to North Dakota to live with her sister, Gert, and brother-in-law, Ed Ronkowski. Sylvester was in training at Amarillo, Texas, Airfield as crew chief and mechanic on B17 bombers. From there he went to Boeing Air field training as Flight Engineer on the B29s. Eleanor followed him to both bases and lived off base during his stay at these camps. On July 17, 1943, a daughter was born to them at Grafton, N. Dak. In February of 1944 Sylvester was put on an inactive status and sent back to San Diego to consolidated aircraft, where he worked again for another 18 months (offically in the Air Corps) but off base work. In June, 1945, he was recalled to active duty again. On July 7, 1945, a son Robert, was born to them at Grafton, N. Dak. Eleanor also lived in Boco Raton, Florida, for a while, before Sylvester was discharged from military service in June, 1946. After the military they returned to North Dakota and lived at Grafton where Sylvester was employed by the Bill Larson Company, but farming was to much in his blood to be happy living in a city, so they moved back to the Ardoch area. Sylvester went into the Ardoch Post Office as acting postmaster and grocery clerk for Mondry Grocery, where the post office was located. Once again farming beckoned him, so a great part of the next two years were spent working for his brother-in-law, Leo Mondry, on Leo's farms, so the responsibility of the post office
and store became Eleanor's. She would bundle her two little children, and take them along to work with her. In 1948 the post office was let to Margret Michalski and it was then Sylvester went to farming on his own, renting 120 acres from Richard Nagle on a share basis. At that time he was also appointed as substitute mail carrier until 1973, when the route was disbanded. In February 27, 1948, another son, Gary, was born to them, also in Grafton, N. Dak. As soon as Eleanor regained her health, she went back to clerk at the store, again with her family of three. At that time she was also hired as leave replacement for Mrs. Michalski in the post office, a position she held until 1973 at which time Mrs. Michalski retired as Postmaster. Eleanor then became Officer in Charge, a position she held until Aug., 1975, when at that time the Ardoch post office was discontinued and Ardoch lost its post office. It was then awarded a contract station which is as of now. In October of 1968 the couple purchased the Nagle quarter. Shortly afterwards they remodeled the house and attached a garage onto it. Eleanor and Sylvester were able to realize many of their dreams. They were able to acquire three more quarters of land, so in November, 1975, they moved into a new home they had built on part of a quarter of land they first purchased. That same year they built a potato warehouse in Ardoch, in partnership with the two sons. Their three children are all married. Judith is married to Gerald Gray and lives in the Minneapolis area; Robert is married to Jill Pertitt and lives in Grand Forks; and Gary is married to Liz Franklin. Both sons are engaged in farming with their father who is now semi-retired. Gary lives on what is regarded as the home place, and the farming operations now involve approximately 3,000 acres. Sylvester served on the Township Board for 20 years, is treasurer of the "Big O Foods" company at Oslo, Minn., director and treasurer of the Fire Department at Minto, a member of the Walsh County Crop Improvement Assn., has been a trustee of the St. John's Catholic Church at Ardoch for over 30 years, a member of the Grand Forks Elks Club, and the Legion at Minto. Sylvester and Eleanor have nine grandchildren.
Sylvester and Eleanor Grzadzielewski taken in Minneapolis, 1943.
ALBERT AND DELPHINE HELMOSKI FAMILY Albert Helmoski, Jr., was born on April 9, 1909, on a farm near Warsaw, N. Dak., a son of Albert and Mary (Kuta) Helmoski. At the age of four, he moved" to Minto, N. Dak., with his family. He worked at odd jobs for neighbors and surrounding farmers beginning at the age of twelve. On Jan. 2, 1937, Albert married Delphine Ginter, the daughter of Lutsin and Martha (Lizakowski) Ginter. Delphine was born May 20, 1919 and died Nov. 20, 1975. Albert and Delphine farmed in Walshville Township for nine years, and then moved to a farm in Ardoch Township where they farmed until their retirement. In 1977 Albert moved to Grand Forks, N. Dak. Albert and Delphine had five children. Effie was born Sept. 6, 1938, and married George Stupas Feb. 6, 1962; Hilary Paul was born Feb. 5, 1943, and married Martha Paschke Dec. 28, 1965; Marian was born Jan. 26, 1947 and died Dec. 8, 1947; Frank Martin was born Dec. 9, 1950; Kathy Dorothy was born Sept. 25, 1957, and married Rodney Schuster Aug. 1 6, 1975. There are three grandchildren in the Helmoski family.
HILARY PAUL HELMOSKI FAMILY Hilary Paul Helmoski was born Feb. 5, 1943, on a farm in Walsh County, N. Dak., the eldest son of five children born to Albert Helmoski (April 9, 1909) and Delphine Ginter (May 20, 1919-Nov. 20, 1975), who farmed near Ardoch, N. Dak. Hilary was educated in the local schools graduating from the Minto, N. Dak., High School. He spent four years, 1961-65, in the Air Force and served in France, Germany, and Turkey. He was assigned to the Air Police and used a trained German Shepherd dog in Security Patrol. On Dec. 28, 1965, he married Martha Mary Paschke at Warsaw, N. Dak. Hilary worked at several occupations including photo lab technician before joining the U.S. Post Office asa letter carrier in 1968. He has been the recepient of the Outstanding Carrier of the Year Award at the Grand Forks, N. Dak., Post Office. Hilary and Martha have resided in Grand Forks, most of their married lives. Their children are Paul Darin, born Nov. 14, 1966; Renae Dawn, born July 29, 1975; and Ryan Hilary, born July 30, 1979.
Hilary has one brother, Frank, and two sisters, Effie Helmoski Stupas and Kathy Helmoski Schuster, One sister, Mary Ann died in infancy. Martha Mary Paschke Helmoski was born in Grand Forks, on Julv 13 1943, the seventh and youngest child bom to John Paschkes (Oct 28, 1895-April 27, 1966) and Johanna Barbara Gerszewski (May 23, 1902 -) who lived and farmed near Ardoch. Martha received her education at the local grade school James High School in Grand Forks, and Mayville (N. Dak. State College. She taught in elementary schools for six years, including two years at Hope, N. Dak., one year at Minto, N, Dak. one year at St Mary's School in Grand Forks, and two years at Ardoch. Martha has two brothers, Walter and Max, and four sisters, Margaret Paschke Czapiewski, Dorothy Paschke Plutowski, Johanna Paschke Walski and Sister Lenore Paschke, O.S.B. SIMON LANGOWSK1 DESCENDANTS The Langowski family, headed by Simon Langowski (b. 1858) and Pauline Schiller (b. 1863) who marriled m Potend in 1882 emigrated to the United States in the late 1800 s settling ear Greenbush, Minn., with their four children. They next moved to the Minto, N. Dak area. Their ^ ^ J j and Aoolonia, victims of typhoid fever in 1907, John b. wno married Josephine Gerszewski; Joe who married Irene Chaplws ° ulian who married Marian Hemp; Poulel.Paul, Peter and Victor, who were unmarried; Stanley who died . Infancy 1907; Agnes who married Joseph Dauksavage; Lili an who married Paul Kosmatka; Frances who married Baza! Kulas, Mary who married John Kowaski. Mary and Julian are the only survivors. Pauline Langowski died in 1907 at the age of 44; Simon died in 1953, at 95. John S. Langowski married Josephine A. Gerszewski, b 1883 who can trace her lineage to 1700. She was a daughter of oseph Gerszewski, b. 1853; a granddaughter of Martin and Lucia (Kloskowski) Moga and of Thomas Gerszewski ( b J 807 and Regina (Zygmanski) Gerszewski; a great granddaughter o F r i S Gerszelski (b. 1750) and K - ^ P ^ J Gerszewski. Their eight children are Rose L (b. 9 ) died m infancy; Stephie B. (b. 1912), mamed ^ J - ^ ^ t Amelia" 1. (b. 1914), married Francs Koehmsted ^ 1915) married Loretta Lunski; Joseph P. (b. 1 9 l » h marriea EmeHne Kadlec; Richard J. (b. 1920), died at 5 years; Regina (b. S e r r i e d Walter Stygar; Stanley (b. 1924), married Dons French. All are of the Catholic faith. John (b 1887) came to the United States when he was four years old He remembers getting lost on the deck of the ship and opening up a porthole, causing a lot of excitement. Steohie Langowski married Julian J. Lizakowski in 193U. He is a son of Vincent and Annie (Rudnik) Lizakowski and a grandson o? Rudolph and Josephine JWrycza) Rudmk and Fran and Marian (Chyrek) Lizakowski. Their nine children were al bom in Hamlton Township. Rose R (b 1931 I j J ^ ^ Misialek; children are Mark W., Maria K Mitch ell P. Melaine R., Matthew J., Miles T., Merlin A., and Michael A., there are four grandchildren. Eleanore M (b 1934), married Armond Narloch; children are M Z e J. John A., Kathrine A., and Linda Marie who died in infancy. Julian R., Jr. (b. 1936), ^ ^ X Z^ed children/Jason J. and Jeremy J. Josephine A. (b 1938) married Fred Littreel; child, Michael A. Teresa F. b 1940 died ,n infancy. David C. (b. 1942), married Penny Lake; children, Lon L. 9
and Meribeth L. Daniel V. (b. 1944). married Diane Flem; Ahce K (b 1947) married Fred Evans, who died when young, is remarried to Frank Kaurin, has one child, Shayne H. Carol L (b. 1951), married Walter Nowling; children, Shawn T. and Lindsay N. All are of Catholic faith. Julian R Jr David and Daniel Lizakowski are farming the same land in'Harriston Township as their father, Julian J. and grandfather, Vincent Lizakowski, were farming in the Depression Years of the 30's. Rose R Lizakowski married Ernest W. Misialek, son of Walter and Christine (Marynik) Misialek, in 1951. Their children are Mark E who married Debbie Kozel, and have children Jason Lee and Shawna Marie; Maria K. who married Steve Deerly. and have a child Jeremy Allen; Mitchell P.. married to Cindy Johnson; Matthew J. who married Vickie Monroe, and have a son Curtiss John; Melaine R., Miles T., Merlin A. and Michael S at home. The families are of the Catholic faith. Rose and Ernest Misialek's grandchildren are the eighth generation of the Gerszewski family. BENEDICT AND CECELIA (PASCHKE) MASZK FAMILY Benedict was born to Andrzej and Ludovicka (Palubicki) Maszk the sixth of eight children, on December 20, 1897, in Pulaski Township, Walsh County, N, Dak. He grew up on the family farm, receiving his schooling in the area and when 22 years old, married Cecelia Paschke on Nov. 19, 1901, at St. Stanislaus Church, Warsaw, N. Dak. Cecelia was born to John and Julianne (Jezewski) Paschke on Nov 22 1882, in Ardoch Township and grew up on her parents' farm. She received her schooling in the area and at the age of 19 married Benedict. After their marriage the couple settled on a farm north of Warsaw. Leaving that one, they moved to a farm west of Minto, and then they moved into Minto where Benedict was part owner of a hardware store. He also worked as a po ice officer in Minto. Leaving Minto they tried farming in Canada for a short time. Returning to North Dakota, Benedict was employed as a salesman for the Singer Sewing Machine Co. and finally became associated with the International Harvester Co where he worked as a field service mechanic and a salesman. He stayed w,th this firm until he retired. Benedict and Cecilia had seven children: Eva (Gerszewski), Anastasia (Gerszewski), Angela (Valinski), Henry, Joseph Dorothy (Fontleroy), and Florence who died in infancy. (Eva and Anastasia married cousins.) EARL H. AND ANNA MARIE MONDRY Earl H Mondry was born on a farm southeast of Minto on February 2 1 , 1924, to Frances Zabinski Mondry and Harry Mondry. He lived there until he married. On November 14, 1950, he married Anna Marie Lessard, daughter of Alphonsine LeFebre Lessard and Joseph E. Lessard. They were married at Oakwood, N. Dak. Since the local pastor, Father Antonio Richard, was on vacation the marriage ceremony was performed by a Displaced (D. P.) Lithuanian Priest, R « Albin Martisunus, who was then assistant pastor at Grafton at that time. On November 20, Earl left for Fort Riley, Kansas, to be inducted into the army. He took his basic training thereandLin April of 1951, he was transferred to Fort Lewis, Wash He went overseas and was engaged in the Korean War. In the fall of 1952, 145
he was discharged from the Army and returned to farming. Earl and Anne Mondry are the parents of four children — Kenneth, Kathy, Kristine and Kevin who all attended school at Minto. The three older children graduated from high school at Minto and Kevin is presently attending high school there.
Bruno and Stella Osowski Family The seven living children are Sarah Nice, Ardoch; Esther Narlock, Forest River; Beatrice Houdek, Park River; Louise Sevigny, Oakwood; Joan Shambaugh, Minto; Maxine Wilkes, Park River and Earnest, Cando, N. Dak. Bruno and Stella left the farm in 1957 and moved to Grafton. Bruno died in 1957. Stella moved to Minto in 1969 and continues to reside there.
THE JOHN PASCHKE, JR., FAMILY John Paschke, Jr., was born on Oct. 28, 1895. He was one of 12 children born to John and Juliana (Jezewski) Paschke, Sr. He married Johanna Barbara Gerszewski on Nov. 15, 1921. Johanna was born May 23, 1902, to John and Justine (Rapacz) Gerszewski.
Mr. and Mrs. Earl Mondry Kenneth attended Cardinal Muench Seminary for two years. While there, he also attended North Dakota State University where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Agricultural Engineering. After graduation from college, he returned to farm with his father. He is single.
After John and Johanna married, they farmed the old Paschke farmstead in Ardoch Township, and his parents moved to Minto, N. Dak. John's youngest brother, Frank, lived with them for several years, and later married and farmed his own land. There were seven children born to John and Johanna.
Kathy is married to Duane Midboe and they reside in Northwood, N. Dak., he is employed at the Northwood State Bank. Kathy and Duane are the parents of two children, Jarrod and Karissa. Kristine became a registered nurse. She graduated from the University of North Dakota in 1980 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing. She is presently employed at the Unity Hospital of Grafton. She is single. Kevin is presently attending high school in Minto. Earl and Anne Mondry reside on their farm south of Minto.
BRUNO OSOWSKI FAMILY Bruno Osowski, son of Theofil and Anna Briski Osowski, born Nov. 3, 1904, and Stella Ebertowski, daughter of Frank and Stella Merhelewic Ebertowski, born April 1, 1904, were married Nov. 16, 1921, in St. Stanislaus Church in Warsaw, N.
Dak. They farmed in Ardoch Township, five miles south and west of Warsaw, where they raised 10 children, two sons and eight daughters. One son, Stanley, and two daughters died in infancy.
The John and Johanna Paschke Family: left to right, back row, Margaret, Dorothy, Johanna, Sister Lenore, O.S.B., and Martha; sitting, Walter, John, Johanna, and Max. Walter John was born Dec. 3 1 , 1925. He married Evelyn Edith Durkin, daughter of John and Martha (Lipinski) Durkin on Oct. 24, 1951. Max Justin was born Dec. 12, 1927. He married Juanita Powers, daughter of Clyde and Lois Powers on Nov. 24, 1956. Margaret Mary was born Nov. 8, 1931. She married Harry Czapiewski, son of Aloysious and Stella (Riski) Czapiewski on
Nov. 2 5 . 1 9 6 1 . Dorothy Dolores was bom Feb. 13, 1934 She married Robert Plutowski, son of Lee and Helen (Rogalla) Plutowsk, Oct. 11, 1955. Johanna Marie was born Dec. 20 1936. She married Clarence Walski, son of John and Helen (Czapiewski) Walski on June 6, 1956. Georgia Ann was born Sept. 20, 1938 She made her profession of vows July 2, 1956, and took the name of Sister Lenore Paschke, O.S.B. She took her perpetual vows at Mount St Benedict Convent in Crookston, Minn, in 1 960. Martha Mary was born July 13, 1943. She married Hilary Helmoski, son of Albert and Delphene (Ginter) Helmoski, on Dec. 28, 1965. The Paschke family has 33 grandchildren. Johanna Paschke continued to live on the farm for about four years after John's death on April 27, 1966. She then moved to Warsaw, N. Dak. One event which each of the family will remember is the fire which destroyed their house in 1944. It happened during harvest, and nothing was saved except the work clothes they were wearing and an armful of clothes grabbed in a furry John brother, Isidore, and his wife, Elizabeth, who was also Johanna s sister, took the family in for about two weeks until they got settled in new granary. It was during World War I and you had to get a permit to build, and many things were rationed. It rained all of SepTember so building a new house couldn't start till October. The frame was built by Nov. 1, and the family moved into the basement. John Paschke farmed most of his entire life, was on the school board, and lived where he was born all his life.
Georgia Ann was born in Oslo, Minn., grew up on a farm near Ardoch, N. Dak., and attended high school at Mount bt. Benedict Academy in Crookston, Minn. After high school she joined the Benedictine community of Sisters ^ Crookston, Minn in June, 1956. She took her first vows in 1957 and her perpetual vows in 1960. Sister Lenore served in a nunnber ot ways- 1958-1961 - teacher at Sacred Heart Grade School in East Grand Forks; 1961-1968 - teacher at St. Francis Xav.er School in Benson. Minn.; 1968-1974 - Campus Ministry at Bemidji State University. While at Bemidji Sister Lenore completed her Master's Degree in Education with a Major in Counseling. She was involved part-time as a Field Advisor in the Child Development Program, a program for training preschool teachers. In 1972 she was awarded the title Bemidji s Outstanding Woman of the Year" for her ministry with the youth and young adults there.
SISTER LENORE PASCHKE Sister Lenore Paschke (formerly Georgia Ann Paschke) was born on Sept. 20, 1938, a daughter of John and Johanna Paschke. (John Paschke, Jr. - bom Oct. 28, 11895 diecApril 27, 1966; Johanna B. Gerszewski - born May 23, i y u ^ , married to John Paschke Nov. 15,1921.)
Recent picture of Sister Lenore Paschke, O.S.B. In 1974 Sister Lenore moved to Mount St. Benedict in Crookston where she is presently serving as the Vocation Director and the Formation Director for the Sisters ot bt. Benedict. Sister's main work in this ministry is to help young women discern their vocation and to help prepare the women who join her community to live the Benedictine way of religious life. From grade school days on to the present Sister Lenore has always been a member of her church choir While attending college Sister studied voice. She is often called upon for singing, either in a small group or for a solo. Other involvement for her are retreat work for young adults, and helping with the Diocesan TEC (Teens Encounter Christ) program. Domestic arts sewing, crocheting, baking, and cooking, plus biking, hiking and cross-country skiing have always been enjoyment and recreation for her. MAX AND JUANITA PASCHKE Max Justin Paschke, second child of John Paschke Jr and Johanna (Gerszewski) Paschke, was born Dec. 12, 1 9 Z / . Me grew up on the family farm near Ardoch. He received h.s education at the local farm school, Warsaw Sisters Schoo, Oakwood High School, St. James Academy High School, Wahpeton (Auto Mechanics), Univ. of N. Dak. at Grand Forks
Sister Lenore Paschke, O.S.B., took her perpetual vows in I960.
147
(BSEE), and (JSC at Los Angeles (MSEE). Max served in the Navy for two year after high school. He started working at the Hughes Aircraft Co. in Los Angeles in 1955 and has worked there on computers and communication spacecraft for over twenty-five years. In Los Angeles Max met Juanita Rose Powers. They were married Nov. 24, 1956. Juanita grew up in Portland, Ore., and had moved to Los Angeles because of the warmer climate. Max and Juanita have visited his original homeplace many times, bringing their eight children to visit grandparents, and the many other relatives. Max and Juanita thank God for their Catholic heritage and feel they are part of Max's first parish in Warsaw, and of Walsh County, even though their home has been in California for over 24 years.
was born Oct. 29, 1 880, on his father's homestead near Ardoch. He is of Polish descent. His mother was born in German-occupied Poland. Julianna Gierzewski came to America with her brother to join her parents in Chicago. Her parents came two years earlier. Julianna experienced the great fire of 1881. Ted had 12 brothers and sisters, Joseph, Julia, Francis, Cecelia, Frank, Isidore, Mary, Barbara, Martha, John, Susie, and Leonard. He was educated in country school District 11 and went on to college. Ted and Julianna had eleven children — Theodore, Jr., who died in service of his country in World War II; Henry, Edwin, Dorothy, Louise, George, Arlie, David, Arlene, and Violet. Ted Paschke owned and operated a farm machinery and hardware store in Ardoch.
JOHN F. AND AMELIA RISKE FAMILY John F. Riske was born in Ardoch Township and farmed all his life. He was a great outdoor sportsman and loved to hunt and fish. He married Amelia Paschke, a daughterof Joseph and Mary (Schultz) Paschke, and the couple celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in 1 969. They left the farm in 1 970, and moved to Minto. Mr. Riske is deceased. Max Paschke Family: left to right, back row, Carolyn, Theresa, Martha, Stephen, and Veronica; front, Max, Elizabeth, Mary Grace, Tim and Juanita. Max's and Juanita's children are: Mrs. Mary Grace (Paschke) Noble, Oct. 15, 1957; Veronica Ann Paschke, Sept. 28, 1958; Mrs. Carolyn Delores (Paschke) Atchley, Nov. 8, 1959; Stephen Blaise Paschke, Dec. 14, 1960; Martha Johanna Paschke, Feb. 14, 1962; Theresa Rose Paschke, Oct. 28, 1963; Timothy Isidore Paschke, Oct. 3 1 , 1966; and Elizabeth Louise Paschke, Jan. 16, 1968.
THEODORE AND JULIANNE PASCHKE Theodore Paschke, a son of John and Julianna Paschke,
John F. and Amelia Riske Family
John F. and Amelia Riske
Nettie and Theo Paschke
They had eleven children — Adeline (deceased); Mrs. Art (Christine) Purser, Columbus, Ga.; David (deceased), who had two children, Pat and Michael; Donald, married E. Strausburg from Niagara, N. Dak., was a former locker plant operator, and now farming, and has three children, Linda, Todd and Michelle; Bette (Mrs. Al Alford), Santa Clara, Calif.; couple has three children, Tammy, March and Gregg; Margret (Mrs. Harold
Testush) Santa Clara, Calif.; couple has three children, Marcha. Kenny and Dee Dee; Adelph, married Faye Martin of Seattle, Wash ; Ann (Mrs. Durwood Gerlach), Lincoln, Neb., has three children - Paul, Margo and Michelle; James, Clarissa, Minn.; married Becky Rowe, have three children - Marcie, Shannon and Tracy; Pat (Mrs. Dale Wilson), three children - Jeffery, deceased Marie and Dean; Dennis, Anchorage, Alaska, couple has four children - Faith, Troy, Patrick and John D.; John, Jr.. lives on the old homestead, married Phyllis Kowalski, couple has two children, Jodie and Jack. Mrs. Amelia Riske's greatest memory is of when she fired the steam engine in World War I for 16 days during threshing season.
were Joseph and Mary (Maikowski) Stanislawski. (See page 266 of first edition of "Walsh Heritage.") When Stanley was only five months old, his mother died. For a few years he was cared for by relatives including Mrs. John Czapiewski and Mrs. Joe Riskey. As a toddler he returned to his father and brothers, Joe and Dick, and his sisters Genevieve. Stella, Florence, Henrietta, Amelia and Leona. Stan was educated at St. Anthony Convent and the "white school" in Warsaw. Stanley farmed with his father for many years and served with the U.S. Occupation Army in Japan from 1946 to 1948. After his father died in 1948, he spent one winter in Chicago as a machinist and then operated Friedman's Cleaners in Grand Forks with his sister Florence.
JAN ICNAC RUZICKA Born in 1824 in Czechoslovakia, Ignac emigrated to Canada in 1851. Shortly thereafter he married Marie Adams (born 1827) and settled in the Oshawa area of Ontario. Several children were born before the family migrated to Spillville, Wise, in 1865. More children were born there. In 1 880 they trekked to a homestead a haif-mile west of Warsaw. Two teams of horses rotated in pulling a wagon loaded with household goods. Family members walked. A milk cow was led along. In later years Ignac operated a candy store in Minto. Marie died in 1891, and she was buried in the Warsaw cemetary. Ignac lived on to 1916. He rests in the Minto Cemetery.
DOMINIC J. "DICK" STANISLAWSKI Dominic, son of Joseph and Mary (Maikowski) Stanislawski, (see Page 266 in the first edition of "Walsh Heritage") was born on the family farm in Ardoch Township on August 3, 19ZU He was educated at St. Anthony Convent and the "white school in
Stan Stanislowski Family, 1979: left to right, back row, Stan, Jr., Thomas, Eric; middle, Leah, Jim, Jerry, Mary Anne; front, Lois, Marci, Stan. In 1952 Stanley married Lois Metcalf of Valley City and thev moved back to the family farm south of Warsaw where they still reside. Lois is the daughter of Clarence and Tracy Lorenz) Metcalf. She attended St. Catherine High School in Valley City and is a graduate of the University of North Dakota with a degree in Social Work. Stanley has been engaged in farming all of his life raising small grains and cattle and hogs. He has worked off the farm occasionally for the Drayton sugar refinery and for Northern Potato Company of Minto. He was a trustee of St. Stanislaus Church in Warsaw for seven years and was a director of the Minto Farmers Union Oil Company for two terms. He was also on the County Farmers Union Board. After the arrival of the children, Lois returned to her profession of social work. She became a social worker for Walsh County Social Service Board for two years and then became County Director in that office. After 15 years as director in Walsh with seven of them as director in both Walsh County and Pembina County, she left Walsh County to become full time Social Service director in Pembina County, where is currently employed. During the years of her career outside of the home, Lois was also active with the Agassiz Health Systems Agency with the North Dakota State Health Coordinating Council with the Board of the Unity Hospital in Grafton, and with the North Dakota Social Service Directors Assocation. Lois and Stan were very fortunate over the years to be able to count Mrs. Minnie Knaus of Warsaw as part of their family. For fifteen years she came every day to take care of the children and the home. Stan and Lois are the parents of eight children: Foster daughter Mary Ann Demester Hewe is married to David Brandt, and they live in Grand Forks. David is a railroad engineer. They have two children, Denise and Jared.
Dominic J. ' 'Dick " Stanislawski Warsaw. From an early age he worked with his father and brothers, Stanley and Joe, on the family farm. He was married for a time to Marjorie Shaver of St. Thomas and they became the parents of three children, Vincent, Marie and Rene . During the prime of his life Dick was an active farmer and he also was one of the first farmers in the area to do extensive custom baling. In later years he moved to Ardoch where he worked in the potato industry. Dominic died Jan. 27, 1972, and is buried in the St. Stanislaus Cemetery at Warsaw. STANLEY R. STANISLOWSKI Stanley Richard Jerome Stanislowski was born on June 2, 1923, in the family farm home in Ardoch Township. His parents 149
Tom and his wife, Diane, (daughter of Bud and Edith Bishop of Homestead, Florida) are both students at the University of North Dakota. Tom has been active in the trucking industry for several years, as a driver and as a dispatcher-accountant. Marcianne is a graduate of the University of North Dakota with a degree in theater arts. She lives in Minneapolis where she works as a secretary for Pickwick, Inc., and is active in theater. Jim is a graduate of Wahpeton State School of Science in electronic technology and lives in Austin, Tex., where he is employed by Texas Instruments. Stan. Jr.. is also a graduate of Wahpeton State School of Science. He has become a sheet metal worker and is trained in heating and cooling servicing. Stan is married to Catherine Larson (daughter of Glenn and Jessie Larson of Grand Forks) and they have two children. Stanley Jacob (Jake) and Katie Marie. They live in Thief River Falls, Minn., where Stan works for Brodine Sheet Metal. Eric is currently a student at Wahpeton State School of Science where he is taking a course in electrical technology. Leah has recently graduated from Minto High School and she now lives in Grafton where she is the assistant manager of Hardee's. Jerry is married to Carolyn Lizakowski (daughter of Henry and Alice Lizakowski of Grand Forks) and they live in Wahpeton where he is attending school for diesel mechanics. They have a son, Joshua.
HERBERT WILSON FAMILY Herbert Wilson's parents came to North Dakota from Canada and took up a homestead of 160 acres, near present Ardoch, which is still in the Wilson family, the present home of Herbert Wilson's widow, Agnes Wilson, who has remained there ever since she married Herbert in the year of 1916. The homestead was taken up by Thomas Wilson, Herbert's father, who came down from Canada before 1889, when North Dakota was still called the Dakota Territory. Thomas Wilson and his two brothers, John and William, came down through Pembina, Dakota Territory then, as that was the only trail then to travel on, as it was a stage coach road. It followed the Red River down from Winnipeg, Canada, and was used by the fur traders who traded furs with the Sioux, Dakota, Blackfoot and the many Indian tribes that lived along the Red River of Canada and the Dakota Territory. These fur traders hauled their furs on Red River carts, a large two-wheeled cart pulled by one or two large oxen. It was loaded with a lot of beaver, wolf, mink and muskrat furs. These furs they sold and traded for food and supplies at the Hudson Bay Trading Posts along the trail. Thomas Wilson and his two brothers, John and William, came to the Dakota Territory and filed on three homesteads, which they had to live on and improve for at least five years before they could get a clear deed to their 160 acres each. The land was all prairie grass and had to be broken and made ready for planting. They came down from Canada in a covered wagon drawn by four large oxen, as horses were hard to come by. They also brought two saddle horses. They lived in a dugout in the side of the present coulee bank, located where Mary Wilson lives now, which was William Wilson's homestead. Thomas Wilson went back to Canada and brought his wife, Minnie, to the Dakota Territory the next spring, and they built a small, two-room log house on the 160 acres he filed on, which is the present Wilson
c
homestead. Thomas Wilson's wife died and is buried in the present Ardoch Cemetery. Thomas returned to Canada and married and came back to the present Wilson homestead with his new wife, Mary, Herbert's mother. Four children were born to Thomas and Mary: Maize (Mrs. George Dobson), deceased; Herbert, deceased; Harry, deceased; Louise (Mrs. Harold Johnston), deceased. Thomas died at the age of thirty-three and is buried in the Ardoch Cemetery beside his two wives. His wife, Mary, died a few years later then left her four children, who stayed on the homestead under the guardianship of relatives until they were old enough tocare for themselves. Herbert took over the family homestead at the age of twentyone and farmed it and supported his brother and sisters. He married Agnes Jameison in 1916. They made their home at the present site in the two-room log cabin which by then had some built-on additions to it. They raised seven children, all born in the homestead home with the assistance of the county doctor, Herbert and Agnes Wilson's first child was born in 1917, which was Woodrow; then Henry; then Viva (Mrs. Wilmot Irwin), deceased; then Myrerta (Mrs. Gus Skibley); then Lois (Mrs. Arnold Sitzer); then Phyllis (Mrs. James Dokken); and Lyle, the youngest, deceased. Herbert died in 1953 at the age of fifty-nine. Agnes still remains on the homestead. She is eighty-four and is living there with her son, Henry, who has remained there all his life. He never married, and continued to farm the homestead until his retirement in 1979. The homestead has changed very much since it was first homesteaded by Thomas Wilson, about 1885. The log cabin has long since been replaced by a new home in 1947 by Herbert Wilson, which is the home of Agnes Wilson and Henry at the present time. Rural electricity has replaced the kerosene lamp and the candle, and rural water has replaced the surface water well for home use. The modernized farm tractor and modern farm machinery has replaced the oxen and the fine big horses Herbert used to raise and break for horse power to do all the farm work. Before the farm tractor came in, Herbert had sixteen horses on the homestead to do the farm work, as well as a small herd of cows for milk and beef. Several hogs and chickens were raised each year to feed his large family. Life has been made much easier for living as the years went on. Herbert received his education in the Ardoch Public School, which is about two miles away. He went to the sixth grade and had to quit in order to help on the family farm upon the death of his father, Thomas Wilson. Herbert's seven children all received most of their education in the Ardoch Public School, which was then replaced with a nice new two-story brick building, which offered twelve full years of schooling. Since then that school has been torn down, as the district has been consolidated to the Midway School System at Inkster, N. Dak. Thomas Wilson was born of Scottish and English descent. He migrated from Canada and became a United States citizen. Herbert and his brother and sisters were born in the United States and were United States citizens. All Herbert's children were born in the United States and were brought up as Presbyterians and Methodists. Herbert was Republican and lived through some very hard times in the 20's and 30's, some bad farming years of drought. He sold wheat for 25 cents a bushel, 200 pounds of pork for $5.00, 1,000 pounds of beef for $15.00 and used to buy a ton of lignite coal for heat for $3.00 per ton. The Wilson families were some of the first of many who came from Canada to settle on a homestead when it was still the Dakota Territory and many of the offspring still remain.
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CLEVELAND TOWNSHIP FAMILY HISTORIES FRANK AND ROSE BENEDA FAMILY Frank Joseph Beneda was born Sept. 29, 1903, on the home farm of his father, John Beneda, Sr. He has lived and farmed in Cleveland Township all his life. On July 7, 1948, at St. Luke's Catholic Church. Veseleyville, N. Dak., he married Rose Marie Dvorak, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Adolph Dvorak. Rose was born June 2, 1916, on the home farm of her parents, which is located about three miles west of Veseleyville. Rose was the third oldest child out of a family often children. Rose Marie Beneda died March 7, 1 975.
Thirteen of Frank and Rose Beneda s 15 grandchildren.
25th wedding anniversary of Frank and Rose (Dvorak) Beneda. Frank and Rose had five children — Elizabeth Ann, Marie Rose, Marcella Ann, Edward Frank, and David John. Betty was born Aug. 3 1 , 1949, at Deaconess Hospital in Grafton, N. Dak., and married James Richard Georgeson at St. Mary's Catholic Church, Park River, N. Dak., on June 28, 1966. They currently are farming south of Niagara. Betty and Jim have four children — Michael John, Joyce Ann, Clinton James, and Donna Marie. They raise small grains along with a beef and dairy operation. Marie was born Oct. 18, 1950, at Deaconess Hospital in Grafton, N. Dak., and married Warren Edwin Hurst at St. Joseph's Catholic Church, Lankin, on Dec. 30, 1970. They live in St. Thomas, N. Dak. Marie and Warren have six children — Jason Warren, Dawn Michelle, Amanda Jane, David John, Brian John, and Rosaline Kaye. Warren is a carpenter by trade. Marey was born June 25, 1952, at St. Ansgar's Hospital in Park River, N. Dak., and married Arden Willard Bell at St. Joseph's Catholic Church, Lankin, on June 30, 1971. They farm west of Fordville. Marey and Aden have three children — Angela Rose, Sharon Marie, and Justin Shane. They raise small grains as well as beef and sheep. Edward was born Jan. 1 7, 1954, at St. Ansgar's Hospital in Park River. He presently has taken over the home farm upon Frank's retirement in 1974, on which he continues the small grains operation. David was born Dec. 24, 1955, at St. Ansgar's Hospital in
Frank Beneda Family — left to right, Marie Rose (Hurst), Edward, Frank, David, Rose, Marcella (Bell), and Elizabeth Ann (Georgeson). Park River. He married Jodi Pokrzywinski at St. Joseph's Catholic Church, Lankin, on Aug. 12, 1977. They have two boys, Daniel John and Abraham David. David farms northwest of Adams and has a small grain and hog operation. Frank has always believed in the family farm. He has seen farming with horses and small equipment to the present day farming with large tractors.
JOHN AND AGNES BENEDA John Frank Beneda was born to John and Mary (Novak) Beneda at Lankin, N. Dak., on May 7, 1901. He was the oldest of their five children. John was married to Agnes Sticha, on June 17th, 1930, in St. Joseph's Catholic Church. It was a beautiful sunny June day, with dinner and a reception at the farm home of the bride's parents, Charley and Florence Sticha. The couple went to Spillville, la., for their honeymoon, visiting relatives and the childhood home of John's mother, Mary. John and Agnes's first child was a girl, Dorothy, who was born at home, June 8, 1 9 3 1 . Dorothy is now married to Edmund Gaarder of Park River. The Gaarders have five children — Mrs. Michael (Denise) Callaghan of Minneapolis, Mrs. Paul (Kristin) Nester of Willmar, Minn., Larry of Park River, Mrs. Harold (Charlotte) Myrdal of Gardar, N. Dak., and JoEllen Gaarder of
Washington's birthday must also be named after him! Kenneth graduated from the Lankin High School. He is married to the former Gale Udby and they are the parents of Jon Ellsworth and Janelle. Kenneth is employed at the Lankin School and Gale is employed part-time at the Lankin Post Office. John and Agnes Beneda farmed south of Lankin until 1963, when Dennis and Verna took over management of the family farm. They saw many lean years (especially in the 30's) as a result of droughts, grasshoppers and hail, but these were overshadowed by the happy memories of family togetherness, working and playing together without relying on material things. John was killed in a car-truck accident in August of 1963. He and Agnes had retired earlier that year, and he and his youngest son were on their way to visit his beloved farm. Agnes Sticha Beneda married Jack Jordan in February, 1971 . They make their home in Lankin.
JOHN STANLEY CAPP FAMILY . John Stanley Capp was born Nov. 3, 1945, to Stanley J. Capp (b. Jan. 10, 1905) and Anna R. Beneda Capp (b. Jan. 19, 1909). Stanley is a son of Joseph Capp and Annie Putmer, and Anna, the daughter of John Beneda, Sr., and Marie Ann Novak. John and Agnes Beneda. 1930. Park River. Edmund and Dorothy have two grandsons, Luke Callaghan and Alex Nester., Dennis John Beneda was born July 3 1 , 1933, and is presently living on and farming the farm that John Beneda, Sr., and John Beneda, Jr., had tilled in their day. Dennis is married to the former Verna Votava of Veseleyville. Dennis and Verna have five children — Donald Keith, a UND graduate who is employed in Park River and lives at home; Ronald Dennis, an NDSU graduate who is county extension agent at Langdon and is married to the former Rita Raye Skorheim of Adams and has one son, Micholas Dennis, who is Dennis and Verna's only grandchild; Diane Marie Beneda, a UND graduate who is married to Lee Reierson and lives in Grand Forks; Kathryn Ann Beneda who is completing practicum service at the Veteran's Hospital in Fargo and will graduate from UND in December, 1980; and Dennis and Verna's youngest child, Amy Jo, who lives with her parents. She is a student in the Lankin School. Margarette Elaine Beneda was born at Lankin. She married Melvin Malafa in Park River on July 12, 1954. They are both graduates of Mayville State College. They are parents of three sons: Kevin Charles, died in a car accident while a senior at UND in 1976; Stuart Alan married Mary Jo Wasem of Halliday, Oct. 25, 1975. At present Stuart and Mary Jo are medical school students at UND. The youngest son, Curtis Jon, is also a student at UND. Melvin and Margarette have made their home at Grafton for the past 20 years. They have been teaching at Grafton High School, Melvin in the Science department, and Margarette teaches English. Daniel Beneda was born Oct. 12, 1938, and died in November of the same year. Carol Florence Beneda was born July 18, 1944, and graduated from the Lankin High School in 1962. In 1963, she married Wilmer Pich. Carol is living in Lankin with their four children — Sheryl, Renae, Janet and Steven Pich. Kenneth George Beneda was born Feb. 22, 1949. He received his second name, not from the family, but from Father Mikolasek, who insisted that any boy born on George
John has three brothers and two sisters — Raymond, Eugene, Ronnie, Mary Jane Capp and Joanie Sather. He graduated from the Walsh County Agricultural School, Park River, N. D., in 1963, and from Wahpeton State School of Science in 1964 where he took up general mechanics. John married Janie Maureen Borgeson at St. Joseph Catholic Church on March 20, 1965. Janie Borgeson was born Oct. 2, 1946. Her father was Maurice L. Borgeson born Aug. 1, 1922. He died on April 1 1 , 1966, at the age of 43. Maurice was a son of Emil Borgeson and Ella Liddle. Her mother is Vera L. Phair, born July 1, 1924. Vera is the daughter of John B. Phair and Mildred Larson. Janie has two brothers and two sisters — Terrill, Ronald, Bonnie DuBois and Elizabeth Dvorak. Janie graduated from Walsh County Agricultural School in 1964 and from Bemel's Hairstyling College in 1965. John and Janie have four children — Constance Jane born Aug. 28, 1965; Brian John born Jan. 22, 1968; Sharon Marie, born June 3, 1969; and Anthony James, born June 14, 1978. After their marriage the couple moved two miles south of Lankin and lived on the farm that used to be Rudolph Greicar's. In Oct., 1970, they moved to the Stanley Capp farm, two miles south and a half mile west of Lankin. They reside there today.
STANLEY J. CAPP FAMILY Stanley J. Capp was bom at Yellow Medicine County, Minneota, Minn., Jan. 10, 1905, to Joseph Capp and Annie (Putrner) Capp. His father was bom in Mazelove p Sevetin, Czechoslovakia, and Annie (Putrner) Capp was born in Czechoslovakia near Poland. His mother could speak the Polish language as good as Czech. He spent his early childhood in Minnesota. Stanley was the fifth child in a family of twelve children, two of whom died in infancy. Joseph, the eldest, died April 10, 1977; Frank, April 12, 1977; James, June 25, 1975, after a long illness; and Willie, Nov. 12, 1930. So there was sorrow here. Stanley attended elementary schools in Minnesota. He came to visit his relatives in North Dakota. Joseph Hladik, a half-brother
of his mother; and his family; also their daughters and families: Mr. and Mrs. Abdon Diemert, Mr. and Mrs. Fred Novak, and Mr. and Mrs. John Horejs, all three women being his cousins. The men folks and Mrs. Diemert are now deceased. His father died April 13, 1924, and his mother, May 28, 1933. Stanley Capp worked during threshing time for the Louis Greicar family and was shocking at the Abdon Diemert farm in 1925. Then he came again to visit and work in 1933 in the Lankin and Pisek community. Stanley J. Capp married Anna R. Beneda at Lankin, N. Dak., at St. Joseph's Catholic Church Sept. 26, 1933.
Thirty-fifth wedding anniversary of Mr. and Mrs. Stanley J. Capp and wedding of their daughter, Joanie Sather, September 26, 1968. Anna R. Beneda was the daughter of John Beneda, Sr., and Marie Ann (Novak) Beneda. John F. Beneda was Anna's brother, born May 7, 1 9 0 1 , who married Agnes Sticha June 17, 1930. He was killed in a car-truck accident Aug. 5, 1963. Frank J. Beneda, born Sept. 29, 1903, married Rose Dvorak July 7, 1948; Rose (Dvorak) Beneda died March 7, 1975. The couple celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary in July, 1973. Mary Ann Beneda, born April 17, 1905, married Charles J. Novak, Sr., Jan. 29, 1924, and the couple celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary Jan. 29, 1974. Mary Ann (Beneda) Novak died Dec. 12, 1974. Charles J. Novak, Sr., died Jan. 6, 1979. Then Anna Rosalie Beneda was born Jan. 19, 1909. Jennie Elizabeth Beneda born Aug. 26, 1911, married Rudolph J. Greicar Nov. 27, 1945, and they celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary Nov. 27, 1970. Rudy died July 25, 1971. Anna's father died Dec. 3, 1950, and her mother, June 16,1967. Raymond Frances Capp was born June 4, 1934. Raymond volunteered for military service and left for duty Feb. 1, 1955; returned Feb. 1, 1957. He married Ann Marie Dougherty on June 8, 1959, and they have the following children — Jeffrey Jon born Jan. 4, 1960. Jeffrey Jon married Anita Gail Berberich May 26, 1979. They are the parents of Amanda Ray Capp born Feb. 16, 1980. She lives in Williams, Minn. Kathy Ann Capp, born May 8, 1961, is a student at UND. Matthew Carlson Capp, born Oct. 17, 1963, is in the service in the USN stationed in Virginia. Patrick James Capp, was born Feb. 11,1974. Elsie Ann Capp was born Oct. 9, 1938, and died Dec. 4, 1938. Ronnie John Capp born April 2 1 , 1 9 4 0 , and was in military service from April 4, 1964, to March 3 1 , 1966, in the Vietnam conflict. He married Alice Soukup Nov. 25, 1967. His children
are Robert John born Sept. 22, 1968, and Laurie Ann born Feb. 28, 1970. Mary Jane Capp was bom Sept. 1 6, 1 942. Johnnie Stanley Capp, born Nov. 3, 1945, married Janie Borgeson March 25, 1965. Their children are Constance Jane born Aug. 28, 1965; Brian John born Jan. 22, 1968; Sharon Marie Capp born June 3, 1969; and Anthony James Capp, born June 14, 1978. Joanie Carolyn Capp, born March 5, 1948, married Duane Sather Sept. 26, 1968. Their children are — Curtis Duane Sather, born April 14, 1969; Steven Stanley Sather, born Aug. 30, 1971; Kyle Robert Sather, born Jan. 1 1 , 1975; Duane Henry Sather, born April 14, 1978; and Robert Lee Sather born April 9, 1980.
Mr. and Mrs. Stanley J. Capp on June II. they left on a three-week trip to Czechoslovakia.
1975. before
When Mrs. Capp was little the family lived east of Dennis Beneda's in what they called "the red house." The house was so low their dad had to shovel out steps in the snow for us to get out. The old timers put ropes between the house and barn so they knew where they were when it was stormy. Sometimes it wasn't much fun out in the open. We used to draw the water with a rope and pail from the well. There were good times, too, when the folks invited a lot of neighbors and relatives and all danced on the lawn to accordion music and ate good food. That was in the summertime. Stanley did a lot of shocking in his time and before that he would rake with a wooden rake, put the rakings by the shock or else on top. It was hard work for a kid.
HISTORY OF MR. AND MRS. CHRIS CARLSON Chris Oliver Carlson, son of Charles N. A. and Lenora (Bemtson) Carlson, was born April 19, 1891, in Lister. Norway, and immigrated to North Dakota along with his parents in 1893. He had six sisters and two brothers. Bessie Midthun, daugher of Peder J. and Olina (Berge) Midthun, was born June 1 3, 1895. in Cleveland Township. She was the youngest of ten children, four sisters and five brothers. On Jan. 3 1 , 1917, Chris and Bessie drove in a cutter to Lankin, accompanied by her sister Minnie and his brother Ben. where they were married by Rev. Martineaus Seilseth. They all enjoyed a wedding dinner at the pastor's house and then boarded the train at Lankin and went to Grand Forks where they honeymooned for one week. They had ten children — Conrad, Lena (died shortly after birth), Olger, Blanche, Lyla, Norman, Reuben, Lorna, Donna
and Judy. They all attended grade school at Cleveland District No. 54. Conrad was born Sept. 23, 1917, on the King Wright farm near Michigan, N. Dak. He graduated from Park River High School in 1939. He served in the U.S. Army from 1942 to 1946 in Missouri, Kentucky, Florida and California. He was a radio communications technician. After his discharge he farmed with his father. He never married and still operates the home farm.
Wedding picture of Mr. and Mrs. Chris Carlson Jan. 31, 1917. This was taken at the Depot in Grand Forks just before Conrad Carlson left for service. Along with him were his mother, Mrs. Chris Carlson and sisters. Donna and Judy. Olger was born July 4, 1920, on the Ed Erickson farm. He served in World War II in Germany from 1941 to 1945, and on Sept 14, 1945, he was awarded the Bronze Star Medal. On April 2, 1947, he married lone Bondy, daughter of Arnie and Josie (Vangness) Bondy. They have three sons. Arvin was born July 10, 1947, lives in Devils Lake, and works as an electrician. Moreland, born July 30, 1950, married Patty Jo Holness of Florida on July 14, 1979. They have one daughter, Tiffany Jo. They live in Austin, Texas, where Moreland works as an
Trapping was Olger Carlson's favorite sport. Here he is shown with some of his furs and his sister. Judith (Mrs. Galen Bondy).
accountant. Jerry, born Feb. 24, 1954, married Judy Miller, daughter of Lloyd and Eunice Miller of Petersburg, N. Dak., on Aug. 1, 1975, and live in Grafton. Jerry is an electrician and Judy is a beauty operator. Blanche was born Dec. 22, 1922, on the George Howard farm. Being ill all her life she was not able to attend school so she spent all her life at home. After two years in St. Ansgar's Hospital, Park River, she passed away Jan. 7, 1968. Lyla was born April 5, 1925, on the George Howard farm. She graduated from Park River High School in 1943. She attended Mayville State Teachers College and taught school near Dahlen for two years. She went to Seattle, Wash., in 1947 where she met Milton Benson; they were married in 1947. They have five children; Janice, Linda, Ray, Patty and Danny. Janice, born March 17, 1948, married Dave Johanson. They have two children — Jennifer and Scott, and live in Pennsylvania. Linda, born Aug. 22, 1949, married Jeff Severtson and they live at Bainbridge Island, Wash. They have two children, Courtney and Chris. Ray, born March 26, 1953, and Danny, born Sept. 9, 1957, not married, are working in the Seattle area. Patty, born July 3 1 , 1 9 5 6 , married Darrell Mihara, and lives in Seattle where Darrell is manager of the Space Needle restaurant and Patty works as a medical secretary. Norman was born Oct. 2 1 , 1927, also on the George Howard farm. He served in the Korean War from 1951 to 1953. Upon his return he married Alice Monson, daughter of Oswald and Esther (Hogfoss) Monson, of Lankin on June 19, 1953. He farmed with his dad and then purchased the Monson family farm where they now live. They have four children: Kaye, born Mar. 30, 1962, married Mike Schroeder of Thompson, N. Dak., and has two girls, Erin and Bryann, and lives in Florida where Mike is in the furniture store business. Beth, born Feb. 18, 1955, married Charles Bina, son of Charles and Francis Bina of Lankin. They have one son, Lucas, and live on the Bina family farm. Russel was born Sept. 5, 1956, and married Candy Blazer of Devils Lake. They have two sons, Chris and Jerod, and live on the Carlson farm where he farms with his dad. Noreen was born Mar. 30, 1962, and is now attending Mayville State College. Reuben, born Dec. 15, 1929, on the Mary Johnson farm, served in the U.S. army in Germany from 1952 to 1954. After
his hitch in the service he married Shirley Moe. daughter of Emil and Selma (Hogfoss) Moe, of Lankin. They live on the Moe farm and have six children. Douglas, bom Dec. 29, 1955, married Susan Madson, daughter of Ronald and Avis Madson of Niagara. They have a daughter, Kim, and live in Dickinson, where he is employed in the oil fields. Darrel, born Feb. 20, 1958. is living at home and working in construction. Elaine, born Sept. 5, 1959, married Brad Dahl, son of Mr. and Mrs. Glen Dahl of Park River. They live in Park River. Mark, born Mar. 7, 1962. is attending Lake Region College in Devils Lake. Mitchell, born April 4, 1964, attends Lankin High School. Rebecca, born Jan. 11, 1971, is attending Lankin Elementary school. Lorna was born Aug. 25, 1932, at Grafton, after they had moved to the Midthun home place. She graduated from Dahlen High School. She went to Seattle, Wash; where she became employed and met and married Charles Maughiin in June, 1952. They had five children. Steven, born Oct. 16, 1953, married Beth Milnor and has one son, Chris. Karen, born Oct. 5, 1957, married Rick Milnor and has a daughter, Annie. Jeffrey was born Mar. 30, 1963; Connie Jean, born Dec. 7, 1965, and Susan, born Dec. 2 1 , 1970. Charles passed away in Feb., 1980, as a result of a train accident. He had been an engineer for many years. Donna, born June 10, 1935, at Grafton was graduated from Dahlen High School in 1953. After high school she was employed in Milwaukee, Wise, and then in Park River where she was bookkeeper at St. Ansgar's Hospital for 12 years. She married Clair Kroke, son of Carl and Mabel (Narum) Kroke, on June 9, 1957. They have four children. Kevin, born Jan. 24, 1959, graduated from Fordville High School and North Dakota State School of Science and is employed by Wood Electric. Michael, born Feb. 28, 1961, is attending NDSSS at Wahpeton. Karen, born May 12, 1963, and Kathryn, born June 26, 1964, are attending Fordville High School. Clair and Donna purchased the Elmer Shannon farmstead near Fordville and Clair works at CMEWS site at Concrete.
River. Bruce, born Mar. 19, 1962, is attending school in South Dakota. Brian, born Dec. 3 1 , 1964, and Lisa, born Nov. 30, 1 966, both attend Pierre High School. Galen manages a Tractor Supply Store in Pierre, S. Dak., where they now live. Chris passed away at St. Ansgar's Hospital in Park River, after months of ill health, on June 25, 1972. He was very active in community affairs, serving on the school board, township and Quale Church board. For many years he did custom threshing until the combine took over. He then had a livestock trucking business along with farming-land cattle-raising. He also was an avid baseball fan, and always had time to umpire at a game in the area. He also did auctioneering at the annual Quale Ladies Aid sales, and was a member of the Dahlen Sons of Norway Men's Chorus for many years. Bessie is the only surviving member of the Midthun family. She lives on the home farm with her son. Conrad, and is very active in church affairs.
MR. AND MRS. DENNIS CARLSON Dennis Carlson, son of Mr. and Mrs. Ben Carlson of Dahlen, N. Dak., married Marlys Corah, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Emil Corah, of Lankin, N. Dak. They were married Oct. 24, 1954, at Trinity Lutheran Church, Lankin. They live on the farm that Ben Carlson farmed by Dahlen. They have three children — Craig, Christine and Richard — all graduates from the Fordville Public Schools. Craig has been in the Navy for seven and one-half years, and is married to Delia Fernandz of Manila who is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ceferino Fernandz of Manila, Philippine Islands. They now reside at San Diego, where Craig is stationed. Christine Carlson is married to Darrel Keller. His parents are Mr. and Mrs. August Keller of Dake, N. Dak. Richard is now going to Lake Region Junior College at Devils Lake, North Dakota.
CHARLES L. ERICKSON FAMILY Charles L. Erickson was born in March, 1896, to Mr. and Mrs. Gilbert Erickson of Cleveland Township. He went to school in Cleveland Township and graduated from high school at the Walsh County Agricultural school in Park River.
Mr. and Mrs. Chris Carlson on their golden anniversary Jan., 1967. Judith was born Aug. 5, 1937, at Grafton hospital. She graduated from Dahlen High School in 1956, and married Galen Bondy on Oct. 20, 1957. He is the son of Oscar and Bergit Bondy of Lankin. They have five children. Lori, born Aug. 8, 1958, married Doyle Dalbey, son of Harley and Glenora Dalbey of Fordville. Lori is a beauty operator in Park River and Doyle is employed at Casement Implement Company. Tamera, born Jan. 19, 1960, married James Hanson, son of Mr. and Mrs. Arnold Hanson, Veseleyville. Tamera is employed at the Walsh County Bank and James works as an electrician. They reside in Park
Charles was a World War I veteran and served in France and Germany. After returning from service he took a business course in Grand Forks, and was postmaster in Lankin in the 1920's and early 30's. Charley married Mabel Bundy of Kempton, N. Dak., in 1937 and moved to the family farm and started farming with his brother, Arthur. A son was born to Charley and Mabel on Feb. 10, 1939, at Grafton (Dennis Charles) and a second son (Richard B.) was born July 22, 1940. Both Dennis and Richard attended grade school in Cleveland Township and graduated from high school at Park River. Richard graduated from the N.D.A.C. in Fargo. He entered the Navy after graduation as a Lieutenant, j.g., and served in Vietnam in 1968. He is now in the naval reserve and is employed at an airport in Sunnyvale, Calif., as a flight instructor and charter pilot. Richard remained single. Dennis was married on June 22, 1960, to LuRae Coulthart of St. Thomas, N. Dak., in the St. Paul's Lutheran Church of St. Thomas. Dennis and "Dolly" farm the homestead farm where they also reside. They are the parents of four children — Cynthia, born July 18, 1961; Lynn, born March 1 7, 1963; Bonnie, born
March 3, 1964; and James, born Nov. 19, 1968. Cynthia is now a sophomore at N.D.S.U. in Fargo and is majoring in home economics.
and Jane. Three of the boys attended country school in Cleveland District No. 6 1 . Marvin began school in 1958. In 1963 the country school closed so the children went to Lankin Public School and rode on a school bus. The School District No. 61 was dissolved in 1967, and is now a township hall.
MYRON HALSTENSON FAMILY Mrs. Myron Halstenson (Opal Johnson) is a daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. John I. Johnson of Fordville N. Dak. Opal was married to Myron Halstenson on June 22, 1952. They have two children - John Adolph, born in 1953, and Myrna Gayle, born in 1956. Both children are graduates of the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks.
Marvin, Richard, and Terrence attended U.N.D. at Grand Forks; Timothy and Kevin, N.D.S.S.S. at Wahpeton; and Annette and Jane are presently attending high school at Lankin. Fred was active in the church, school and township activities of this community. The entire family is affiliated with the Catholic Workman Lodge Branch No. 92 and are members of Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church at Bechyne, rural Lankin.
THE JAKE C. AND MARJORIE HODNY FAMILY
Mr. and Mrs. Myron Halstenson
Jake C. Hodny, the son of Jacob Hodny and Mary Urban, was born on Nov. 1, 1926, in Cleveland Township. He married Marjorie M. Soukup, the daughter of Edward H. Soukup and Margaret Pich of Latona Township. Three children were born to their marriage — Margaret Jolyn, born Aug. 18, 1958; Constance Suzette, born Mar. 19, 1961; and Jacqueline Dawn, born Dec. 12, 1963. Jake Hodny was the youngest of eleven children, eight boys and three girls. He attended school in Cleveland Township. Marjorie Soukup had two brothers. Initially, Jake was engaged in farming with his brother, Fred. He was drafted into military service during the Korean War on Feb. 19, 1 9 5 1 . In Korea, he served as a medical corpsman with the infantry, Co. E., 2nd Battalion, 7th infantry Reg., 3rd Division, and was discharged as a Sergeant 1st Class on Feb. 6, 1953. He completed his education at the University of N. Dak., Grand Forks, with degrees of Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Laws and Juris Doctor. For the past twenty years, Jake and Marjorie, together with their family, have made their home at Grafton, where Jake is engaged in the practice of law.
John is married to Sherri Voelker of Petersburg, N. Dak., and they have one daughter, Jenny Kaja, and live in Grand Forks. John is employed as a business manager for an auto dealer.
ORVIN JALLO FAMILY Orvin Jallo, son of Albert and Olga Jallo, was born Nov. 28, 1919, in Cleveland Township. He entered military service on Dec. 28, 1 9 4 1 , at Fort Snelling and served with the 288th Combat Engineers in the European Theater, France, Germany, Belgium, and Holland. He was discharged at Camp McCoy, Wise, on Dec. 20, 1945.
Myrna is married to Doug Runyan, Niagara, N. Dak., and they have a son, Jason Allen. Myrna, a registered surgical nurse, is working at the United Hospital, Grand Forks, and her husband is working for an auto dealer where he is assistant service manager. Opal's husband, Myron Halstenson, has been the postmaster in Niagara since 1957 and Opal has been the clerk in the post office since 1962. Opal and Myron are seen occasionally in the parades of Walsh County towns in their 1914 Ford Runabout. FRED W.HODNY FAMILY Fred W. Hodny was born on a farm in Cleveland Township on July 11,1924, to Jacob and Mary (Urban) Hodny. He married Bertha Votava, daughter of George and Ann (Suda) Votava of Veseleyville, at St. Luke's Catholic Church on June 19, 1951. She was born October 24, 1928. The couple resides on the Jacob Hodny home farm in Cleveland Township, Section 16. Fred's parents moved to Lankin on Aug. 15, 1951. Since his birth, Fred has lived and farmed on this farm he now owns. They are the parents of seven children: Marvin, Richard, Terrence, Timothy, Kevin, Annette,
Orvin Jallo Family 158
He married Lillian Berdahl on Nov. 3, 1946, at Fordville. Lillian was born on Oct. 26, 1922, to Joseph and Ellen Berdahl of Dahlen, N. Dak. She taught school in Cleveland Township District No. 54 in 1944-45-46. They have farmed in Cleveland Township since 1946. In 1954 they purchased the farm from William J. Foss.
Genell and Wayne Jallo. July 12. 1980. in 1974. Wayne is a member of Quale Lutheran Church, rural Fordville. He has always enjoyed hunting, fishing and trapping around home and also enjoys boating and canoeing. Since he lived so close to the Matejcek Dam he didn't have very far to go. Genell is a member of South Trinity Lutheran Church. She was a member of the Hoople Happy Hustlers 4-H Club for a few years. She, too, enjoys being outdoors so canoeing is O.K. by her. When Genell lived at home she could usually be found helping her mother around the house and was able to learn a few baking secrets. She also helped her father in the field, either combining or driving a truck during potato and beet harvest. She worked at the Lutheran Sunset Home as an L.P.N, for a while.
On/in Jallo at Camp Tyson Tenn. Orvin served as clerk for many years on the Cleveland school board in District No. 54, until it redistricted and joined Fordville. The family are members of the Quale Lutheran Church, rural Fordville, members of the American Legion and Auxiliary of Lankin, and Lillian served as District No. 2 ALA President in 1978-80. Three children were bom: June Ann (Mrs. Arthur Selseth, married August 1, 1970), Leslie, and Wayne (married to Genell Anderson of Grafton on July 12, 1980). To this date there are three grandchildren — Julie Rae, Angela Leigh, and Jana Lynn
Wayne and Genell live in Halstad, Minn., where he is employed by Aarestad's Farm Products, Inc.
Selseth.
THE FAMILY OF THE LATE MR. AND MRS. JOHN I. JOHNSON Ingdolph and John Henry are still on the farm where their grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Iver Johnson, and parents, Mr. and Mrs. John I. Johnson, lived.
WAYN E AN D G EN ELL JALLO Wayne. Jallo was born Sept. 20, 1956, in Cleveland Township, the youngest child of Mr. and Mrs. Orvin Jallo. He attended Dahlen school for five years and graduated from high school in Fordville. Wayne was a member of the Seven Rustlers 4-H Club for seven years. He attended North Dakota State University, Fargo, and received a Bachelors Degree in Animal Science in 1978. On July 12, 1980, he married Genell Anderson. The wedding took place at the South Trinity Lutheran Church, rural Grafton, with a reception at the church and a buffet supper at the Lankin American Legion. The hot weather didn't seem to stop anyone from coming, as about 320 guests were served. A wedding dance followed. Genell Anderson was born in Fertile Township on Sept. 2 1 , 1954, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Earl Anderson. She attended first grade at Sinkler School District No. 24. It closed, so she went to the schools in Grafton, graduating from high school there. She attended North Dakota State School of Science, Wahpeton, and received a diploma in licensed practical nursing
Family of the Late Mr. and Mrs. John I. Johnson: left to right, standing, Oliver, Iverna, Gloria, Lloyd, and John Henry; seated, Opal and Ingdolph. 59
Carl Kelley Family: top, Maynard, Betty, Lorraine, Arnold, Laverne, Avis, Carl Jr.: bottom, Doris, Yvonne, Delores, Carl Sr., and Edith.
Ingdolph and John Henry Johnson, Fordville, N. Dak. Oliver married Lorna Loken and they are the parents of four children. They farm near Dahlen, N. Dak. Lloyd is married to Margaret Houdek. They have two daughters and reside at Shakopee, Minn. Lloyd is employed by the Continental Grain Company. Opal is married to Myron Halstenson and they have Iwo children. They live in Niagara where Myron is the postmaster.
Carl and Lillie were married on June 8, 1917, at Grand Forks, N. Dak. Carl's brother, John, and Lillie's sister, Lena, were also married on the same day. The Kelleys farmed in the Dahlen-Fordville area all their married life except for one year when they lived at East Grand Forks. Twelve children were born to this marriage — Mrs. Wallace (Lorraine) Larson of Long Beach, Cal.; Arnold Kelley of Thief River Falls, Minn.; Mrs. James (Doris) Conner, Minneapolis; Corrine, who died in infancy; Mrs. Alfred (LaVerne) Cinelli, San Francisco; Mrs. Donald (Avis) Schuler, Grand Forks; Carl L. Kelley of Fordville; Mrs. Daniel (Edith) Hodny, Newfolden, Minn.; Mrs. Gene (Delores) Olson of East Grand Forks; Maynard Kelley of Hillsboro, N. Dak.; Mrs. Albert (Yvonne) Krueger, Salt Lake City; and Mrs. Allen (Betty)
Mr. and Mrs. John I. Johnson, 1966. Iverna is married to Louis J. Machart and they reside in Lankin, where they both teach. They are the parents of five children. Gloria is married to Lionel Grinter. They have one son, Randy. They farm near Conway, N. Dak.
HISTORY OF CARL AND LILLIE KELLEY Carl H. Kelley was born Jan. 26, 1894, to Charles and Hilda Kelley at East Grand Forks, Minn., and came to the Dahlen area in the early 1900's. Lillie C. Carlson was born Dec. 5, 1900, the daughter of Charles and Lenora Carlson.
Lillie (Carlson) Kelley 160
Ruzicka, Fordville, N. Dak. There are 41 grandchildren and 23 qreat grandchildren. Lillie passed away on June 26, 1945, leaving six young children at home. Carl continued to farm until his retirement when his son, Carl L. Kelley, purchased the farm. Carl passed away July 20, 1978. Both Lillie and Carl are buried at the Quale Lutheran Church Cemetery.
CARL LEROY KELLEY FAMILY Carl LeRoy Kelley was bom to Carl H. and Lillie Carlson Kelley on March 12, 1929, on the Louis Runnestrand farm in Cleveland Township. He attended grade school in Cleveland Township, graduating from eighth grade in East Grand Forks, Minn., where his family lived for two years. His family moved to the Lucy Zeman farm in 1943.
Trisha, age 7 0 and Chad, age 7. They are members of St. Joseph's Catholic Church of Lankin.
Carl served in the Navy for four years, stationed aboard the U.S. Gilmour submarine tender ship. He purchased the Ed Erickson farm in 1957 and in 1963 he bought the Lucy Zeman farm where he and his family now live.
LORETTA AND HAROLD H. MCLAUGHLIN FAMILY Harold Howard McLaughlin was born Oct. 3, 1916, in Cleveland Township, the son of Howard and Rose (Lansing) McLaughlin. He received his education in the rural School District No. 6 1 . On Sept. 26, 1939, he married Loretta Kratochvil, daughter of Emil James and Nellie (Bosh) Kratochvil, at St. Joseph's Catholic Church at Lankin. They were married by Father V. Mikolasek. They lived with Harold's parents for one year after their marriage, in Cleveland Township, then moved to a farm in Norton Township where they resided for three years. In 1943 they moved back to their present home farm in Cleveland Township. Both Harold and Loretta are active in the community, besides being busy with their farm operations. In 1955 they were very happy to be selected as the outstanding conservationists of the Walsh County Conservation District and were guests of the Greater North Dakota Association in Bismarck where they were presented with an aerial photo of their farm.
He married Elaine Ruzicka in 1962. They have one son, Kurt, who is a graduate of Lankin High School and is now attending Lake Region Junior College at Devils Lake, N. Dak., and two daughters, Kim and Jane, who are both students at Lankin High School.
GARY H. MCLAUGHLIN FAMILY Gary H. McLaughlin, born Aug. 14, 1940, the eldest son of Harold and Loretta McLaughlin, married Janice Dahlen, born June 9, 1943, daughter of Rudolph and Olga Dahlen from Dahlen,'N. Dak., on June 27, 1964. The couple located on the Rose Bosh farm, Cleveland Township, Section 3, which they later bought in 1976. Their daughter, Trisha, was born April 16, 1969, and a son, Chad, was born Sept. 23, 1972. Gary, a farmer, is on the Lankin Farmers Union Elevator board. He has also been on the Walsh County Farmers Union board, the Walsh County Fair board and the Walsh County Livestock Association board.
Harold and Loretta McLaughlin
Married June 27, 1964. 161
In 1950 Harold and a friend. Dean Miller, organized the Seven Rustlers 4-H Club and were the club leaders for 14 years; after 30 years the club is still going strong. Harold served as treasurer of the Cleveland School District until it closed. He was township supervisor for thirty years of which he was chairman for 22 years. He helped organize the new Lankin Rural Fire Protection District and was the first president and served on the board for twelve years. During this time a new fire hall was built in Lankin. He is pajt committeeman of the Walsh County A. S. C. Program; has served as director of the Walsh County Crop Improvement Association; has served as board member of the N. Dak. Sunflower Council; and at present he is a member of the Good Samaritan Home Advisory Board at Park River, The Farmers Union, Lankin Community Civic Club, The Eagles Walsh Aerie 2803 at Grafton, and The K.C. Council 5055 of Park River. Harold and Loretta are members of the St. Joseph's Catholic Church at Lankin, where both served on the building committee when the new church was being planned and built. Harold is a trustee and has been secretary of the church for the past fifteen years. Loretta is a member of St. Joseph's Altar Society in which she held several offices. She is a charter member of the Lankin American Legion Auxiliary Unit 157, where she also served as president and in other offices.
Lee McLaughlin Family: left to right, Nicole, Lee, Jeremy,
and Judy. Lee loves to dance and maintains he learned to polka as a small boy by practicing the dance steps on his way to the chicken coop to pick eggs! His cousin, Karen Omlie, helped him polish his technique as they grew older, and Karen and Lee were a "polka team" at all the wedding & old-time dances in their teen years. Basketball was a big interest for Lee in his high school years and the Lankin Lions were a team to be reckoned with. Lee recalls a lot of good times with his friends both in and out of school. He and his buddies called themselves the "Big Six" and got themselves into the usual amount of mischief and trouble that young boys just seem to find. Occasionally, sister Marilyn would inform the folks over breakfast that Lee had been smoking cigarettes or had committed a similar offense the night before, and Lee would be in "hot water" for a while.
Harold and Loretta McLaughlin Family: left to right, standing, Marilyn (Praska), Lee, Gary and Marlen; seated, Loretta (Kratochvil) and Harold. Harold and Loretta are the parents of four children — Gary is married to Janice Dahlen and they have two children, Trisha and Chad; Marlen is married to Diane Ebertowski and they have two daughters, Karla and Tracy; Marilyn is married to Francis Praska and they have three children, Sharlyn, Darin and Jay; Lee is married to Judy Bata and they have two children, Nicole and Jeremy.
HISTORY OF LEE AND JUDY MCLAUGHLIN On Sept. 25, 1947, Lee Patrick was born at the Deaconess Hospital in Grafton to Harold and Loretta McLaughlin. He joined an older brother Gary and the twins, Marilyn and Marlen, on their farm home by Lankin, where they raised grain and the usual cattle, pigs, and chickens. Lee attended grade school at Cleveland Twonship country school and has all the memories associated with the old-time, one-room school house. In 1961 he began riding the bus to high school in Lankin.
In 1965 Lee graduated as valadictorian of his class and made plans to attend NDSU in Fargo the next fall. One day that summer, he and a couple buddies were driving down the street in Adams when Lee noticed a young girl carrying a 50-pound sack of flour out of Roy's Market for an elderly man. It must have been her strength that impressed him because Lee determined to meet her. What Lee found was a busy, hard-working, rowdy bunch of youngsters on Laddie Bata's farm only ten miles from his own home. The oldest of these was to be his future bride, Judy. On May 3 1 , 1969, Lee and his flour-toting young sweetheart became man and wife. Lee finished college in Fargo that fall and graduated with a degree in agricultural economics. In February of 1970 he began his first job working on a chemical research farm for Northland Chemical in Pinewood, Minn. A year later, Lee and Judy moved to Grafton, N. Dak., where Lee took a job as the agricultural representative for the Walsh County Bank. On May 1, 1971, their first baby, Nicole Dionne, was born and the McLaughlins settled into family living. A son, Jeremy Lee, was added on June 15, 1974. As agricultural representative, Lee is actively involved in a farming community. He attends potato, sugar beet, and elevator meetings and functions. He clerks auction sales, helps at the State Potato Fair, and supports the agricultural area in any way he can. His idea of a vacation is helping his parents and brothers with the fall harvesting. He also enjoys hunting, independent basketball, camping, and sports. Lee and Judy are active members of St. John's Catholic
Church in Grafton. They also enjoy golfing, playing cards, fishing, and still love to get together with friends for an old-time dance. The McLaughlins are currently expecting an addition to their family in February and so, the Lord willing, and will be busy for many years to come.
MARLEN MCLAUGHLIN FAMILY Marlen McLaughlin and Diane Ebertowski were married on Dec. 28, 1968, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Ardoch, N. Dak. Parents of the couple are Harold and Loretta (Kratochvil) McLaughlin and Martin and Rose (Stoltman) Ebertowski. Marlen and Diane lived in Grafton, N. Dak., for four months before moving to Lankin, N. Dak., where they rented a house from R. F. Matejcek. While there, their first daughter, Karla Rae, was born on Feb. 17, 1972. After three years they moved to their present location in Cleveland Township. Their second daughter, Tracy Anne, was born on July 14, 1974.
Allen has farmed with his dad through the years. Although always having some livestock, in the late fifties, a beef-feeding operation was started. This has grown through the years, and approximately 400-500 head of beef are sent to market each year. Due to a short water supply for the livestock, a deep well was dug in 1963. This well is 1,044 feet deep and now supplies an ample water supply for the livestock. Betty Jean Kelley was born at Grafton, N. Dak., on March 1, 1941, to Lillie (Carlson) Kelley and Carl H. Kelley.
Allen Ruzicka Family: left to right, Lee, Betty (Kelley), Allen and Penny Jo. On June 5, 1960, Allen and Betty were married at the Quale Lutheran Church. Two children were born to this marriage — Penny Jo on May 17, 1963, and Lee Allen on March 10, 1967. All members of the family were baptized and all confirmed at Quale with the exception of Lee, who is now in the process of receiving instruction for confirmation. Allen is at present president of the congregation, where the whole family is active in the different organizations of the church. In 1955 Allen purchased his first farm land from Lucy Zeman. In 1965 Allen and Betty purchased the farm that was previously owned by Clifford Hagen. An additional 40 acres was purchased from Lucy Zeman in 1973.
Marlen and Diane (Ebertowski) McLaughlin, Karla 8 years, and Tracy 6 years. Marlen was a former board member of the Lankin Community Civic Club. Currently, he is on the Cleveland Park board and director of the Lankin Rural Fire Department. The family are members of St. Joseph's Catholic Church of Lankin and Diane currently serves as secretary of St. Joseph's Altar Society.
ALLEN AND BETTY RUZICKA FAMILY Allen EIRoy Ruzicka was born in Cleveland Township, at the Ruzicka farm, to Oliver and Ruella (Jallo) Ruzicka on April 13, 1934. Allen has lived his entire life on the same place with the exception of two years when the family lived at Michigan, N. Dak. He served two years in the United States Army where he was a paratrooper.
The American Legion and American Legion Auxiliary are of great interest to the Ruzickas. Allen is beginning his 20th year as Bosh-Ryba Post Adjutant at Lankin and has also served as State Historian and as second District Commander. He was honored to receive a life membership in the Post on May 10, 1980. Betty has served the Bosh-Ryba Post Auxiliary as president, secretary, and sergeant at arms. She also served two years as second District secretary. The Walsh County Fair is a highlight of each year for the Ruzickas. Allen is a past president of the fair board, and all are involved with the 4-H program in the county. Allen is beginning his seventh year as a leader of the Norton Farmers 4-H Club, and Betty has been a leader of the Buttercups 4-H Club for 20 years. Penny Jo and Lee are active members. In 1967 Allen was presented the "Outstanding Young Farmer Award" by the Grand Forks Jaycees, for outstanding accomplishments and worthy contributions to his community. In 1969 the Ruzickas were presented the Walsh County Soil Conservation Award. On Oct. 29, 1977, the N.D.S.U. Agriculturist Award was presented to Allen and Betty for service to the agriculture industry. Some of the other offices that Allen has served are, supervisor on the Cleveland Township board for 18 years:
a few months at a hospital at Warren, Minn. She went from there to the Park River Clinic and was employed there for three years.
Adams, Lankin, and Milton Farmers Union Oil Company board for 12 years; Dundee Insurance Company director for four years; is a past president of the Walsh County Livestock Association; is a past director of the Walsh County Crop Improvement Association. In the general election, Nov. 4, 1980, Allen was elected as one of the County Commissioners of Walsh County- He looks forward to this new position as a challenge of service to the people of Walsh County. Penny Jo will graduate from Lankin High School in 1981, and plans to further her education at UND in the field of accounting. Lee is beginning his interest in farming by starting his own herd of registered Polled Hereford cattle.
On June 1, 1962, she married Carl Kelley, Jr. They reside on the Clement Zeman farm, which they now own. They are the parents of three children — Kurt, now a student at the Lake Region Junior College, in Devils Lake, N. Dak.: Kim, a junior, and Jane, a sophomore, both at Lankin High School. For the past year Elaine has been working part-time in X-ray at the St. Ansgar's Hospital at Park River, N. Dak.
FRANK G. W1PPLER FAMILY Frank G. Wippler was bom Sept. 30, 1950, to Melvin and Doris Wippler of Lankin, N. Dak. Frank attended grade school in rural Cleveland Township and completed the remainder of school in Lankin Public Schools, graduating in 1969. He attended Denver Automotive College in Denver, Colo., to become an auto body repairman.
HISTORY OF THE OLIVER RUZICKA FAMILY Oliver Ruzicka, son of Emanuel and Onnie (Huseby) Ruzicka, born at Conway, N. Dak., and Ruella Jallo, daughter of Albert and Julia (Wiste) Jallo, were married in June, -1933, at Grafton, N. Dak. After their marriage they made their home on the Ruzicka farm in Cleveland Township. Their son, Allen, was born during their stay there.
Frank married Arlene K. Ohnstad on Oct. 1 6, 1971. Arlene is the daughter of Walter and Idamae Ohnstad of Petersburg, N. Dak. Arlene graduated from Unity High School in 1970, and received an Associates in Arts Degree in Business from UND in 1972.
In the early part of the year 1935, they moved to Michigan, N. Dak., where Oliver was employed as a trucker for the Farmers Union Oil Co. Their daughter Elaine was born during their stay in Michigan. In the early part of the year 1935, they moved to Michigan, N. Dak., where Oliver was employed as a trucker for the Farmers Union Oil Co. Their daughter Elaine was born during their stay in Michigan. In the fall of 1937 they moved back to the farm which has been their home since that time.
Oliver Ruzicka Family: left to right, standing, Allen and Elaine (Kelley); sitting, Ruella (Jallo) and Oliver. Allen spent two years in the U.S. Army, his training being with the paratroopers. When his time in the service was completed, he returned home to join his father in farming and raising livestock. He is married and is father of a son and daughter. Allen and Elaine attended elementary school in a rural school. After finishing high school at Lankin, N. Dak., Elaine went to Grand Forks, N. Dak., where she studied X-ray Technology at St. Michael's Hospital for two years, three months being spent at the University of Minnesota at Minneapolis. After graduation she worked at St. Michael's for two years, and also for
Frank and Arlene Wippler, Bryan 8 years, Jason 5 years, and Amanda 3 years. Frank and Arlene began farming in Cleveland Township in 1974 and live on the Melvin Wippler farm. Three children were born to Frank and Arlene — Bryan, born in 1972; Jason, born in 1975; and Amanda, born in 1977. Frank does auto body work in the winter months in his shop on the farm and Arlene opened a ceramic shop last February.
164
History of Cleveland Township in Photos
Cleveland School Dist. No. 54 in 1945. Pupils are, left to right, back row, Duane Moen, Alden Jallo, Lloyd Johnson, Eleanor Linstad, Darlyne Moen, Deloris Loken, Lorna Carlson, Albert Jallo, Jr., Merlin Linstad, Gene Jallo, Donna Carlson Virginia Frost, Donald Loken, Richard Hall, Marvin Jallo and Raymond Frost.
Eighth grede graduation class from Cleveland School Dist. 54. Beginning at left; Olger Carlson, Orvin Jallo, Thelman Moen and Ingdolph Johnson.
Frank Beneda's last team of horses, late 1961.
What the snow storm left in March, 1966 — Stanley J. Capp farm.
Sept.. 1932. threshing Speltz at the John Beneda. Sr., farm. Helping that year were Mrs. Charles Novak pitching into the machine. Anna Beneda in front of the horses. George Chyle and Charles Novak, Sr., on the rack.
Harold McLaughlin Farm
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Olger Carlson in Germany. After losing their first two tanks a T-24 with a 76 mm, their crew came up with a name, the Calvert Special.
Chris Carlson (on right) custom threshing. Older Nelson pitching bundles.
Conrad Carlson (standing on ground) and Olger Carlson hauling a load of hay in truck.
Henry Helegeson and Chris Carlson in the late 30's.
166
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Map With Permission of Midwest Atlas, Midland, S.D.
168
DEWEY TOWNSHIP FAMILY HISTORIES EDITH SKARE AUBOL Edith Skare was bom Aug. 30, 1913, in Dewey Township, on a farm south of Fairdale, to Andrew and Emma Skare. She received her elementary education at the Hedlund School, as it was called. She attended one year of high school at Park River and one at Fairdale before entering Minette School, a hair dressing beauty school at Fargo. She opened a beauty shop in Fairdale in 1935.
Orrin Aubol Family: left to right, back, Arbutus, Odis: middle, Edith and Orrin; front, Richard, John, and Verlaine.
Donald Bergquist
In 1937 she married Orrin Aubol, son of Oscar and Hilda Aubol formerly of Berwick, N. Dak. Edith and Orrin had five children - Odis, Arbutus, Richard (deceased), Verlaine, and John. John and Verlaine were born at Kalispell, Mont., where they moved in 1943. In 1951 they moved to Longview, Wash., where the children married and reside. There are thirteen grandchildren. Orrin passed away in December, 1978. Edith continues to live in Longview and operates a beauty shop.
DONALD BERGQUIST Donald Bergquist was born March 3 1 , 1936, in Dewey Township. He received his first six years of education in Dewey Township, and grades 7-12 at Fairdale, graduating in 1954 from Fairdale High School as valedictorian of his class. He was active in 4-H activities and attended National 4-H Club Congress In 1954 He attended NDSU and UND and received a Bachelor's Degree from UND in 1959 and a Master's Degree in education in 1969.
Donald Bergquist Farm Home. HAROLD JOHN BERGQUIST Harold John Bergquist, eldest son of Harry J. and Alma Bergquist, was bom on Oct. 23, 1934, on the family farm in Dewey Township. Harold and his brother, Donald, were raised during their early years in the one-room home which had been used by the paternal grandparents during the pioneering era. In 1940, Harold entered Dewey Township School No. 1 and completed elementary school there in 1 948, and then enrolled in Fairdale High School. After graduation from Fairdale High School in 1952, he entered the University of North Dakota. While at the University, Harold participated as a debate team member, held several campus offices, earned a Phi Beta Kappa membership, and graduated with a B.A. Degree. Later he earned his Master's Doctorate Degree in education at U.N.D.
During the 1960's, Donald taught school in St. Thomas and Grafton, N. Dak., Hallock, Minn., and the Northwest School of Agriculture and the University of Minnesota Technical College at Crookston, Minn. He served in the U.S. Army Medical Corps in 1959 and again during the Berlin Crisis of 1 961-62. Donald has been actively engaged in farming since 1952, and has been farming on a full-time basis since 1971, residing at the homestead of his paternal grandparents in Dewey township.
Harold entered the education profession in 169
1955 at
who also sang and could play the accordion. Esther Braaten was To the marriage of Audrey and Harold Bergquist were born: Kathryn, May 10, 1957 (now a graduate of St. Olaf College and employed in finance in Minneapolis); Beverly, May 17, 1958 (now a senior in Advertising/Marketing at the University of North Dakota); Harold John III, November 27, 1960 (deceased April 11,1 979); David, April 22, 1963 (now a senior at Apple Valley High School); and Andrew, January 14, 1979. In addition to the afore mentioned activities, Harold and Audrey Bergquist have been involved in farming operations in North Dakota and Minnesota. They have developed several business interests and have been active in communitv. church and nolitiral affairs.
Audrey, Beverly, Harold, David, Kathryn, and Andrew. Osnabrock, N. Dak. He served in several communities as high school principal and superintendent of schools. After a six-year stint in the Grand Forks school system, he left there in 1972 as assistant superintendent of schools for a similar role in suburban Minneapolis. As of this writing, he has served in the education field for 26 years. On June 10, 1956, Harold married Audrey E. Eriksmoen from Leeds, N. Dak. Audrey, who is also an educator, has served in several North Dakota and Minnesota school settings. She developed an expertise in early childhood education and served as director of the United Day Nursery in Grand Forks and later in the same capacity at the Prince of Peace Lutheran Child Development and Learning Center in Burnsville, Minn.
HARRY AND ALMA BERGQUIST Harry Bergquist was born May 6, 1905, in Dewey Township to pioneer parents, John and Anna Bergquist. He was baptized and confirmed at Gustavus Adolphus Church and received elementary education in Dewey School No. 1 (Hedlund school). Alma Braaten Bergquist was born Feb. 17, 1908, in Kinloss Township, to Ole and Bergette Braaten, also pioneers. She was baptized and confirmed at Aadalen Church and received her elementary education in Fairdale and three years of the then available high school in Fairdale graduating from high school at Osnabrock, N. Dak., in 1926. That fall she attended Mayville State Teacher's College and at the end of the fall quarter accepted a teaching position in Hay Township, Cavalier County, and finished that school term in June, 1927. That fall she enrolled at Valley City Teacher's College and completed the year 1927-28 there. Attending summer school at Mayville two summers, she taught at Easby, N. Dak., and at the Hedlund school and Wollan schools in Dewey Township. She has always been interested in music and when she was a child, a young lady by the name of Lydia Manderud of Grafton, stayed at her home and taught parochial school at St. Olaf Church. Her brother, Oswald, her sister, Esther, and she attended the month-long summer school. Her father had purchased a pump organ the previous winter and when Miss Manderud came to room and board at the Braaten home, she would play and sing and became very interested in learning to play that organ. Her brother, Haaken, was a member of the Fairdale band where he played the tuba and the slide trombone. He could also play the guitar and was a good singer, and Alma learned fo accompany him and her brother Oswald,
Harold John Bergquist III also a good singer, as were her parents. Almost every evening there was music and singing at the Braaten home. There was no radio or T.V. for entertainment in those days. At the age of 12, Alma began "reading for the minister" or started "confirmation class," as it is called today. The pastor was Rev. Laurhammer. Mrs. Laurhammer was organist at Aadalen Church and was also a former music teacher and Mrs. Braaten asked her to give Alma a few music lessons, so every time Alma went to "reading" which was always at the Laurhammer home in Fairdale, she also had a music lesson. That fall Mrs. Laurhammer became ill and had to undergo treatment away from her home for several months. She said to Alma, "Now you can be organist at church until I get back home again." That was a big job for Alma, as it meant walking to church and back every other Sunday, a distance of 2'/2 miles one way, but she managed and that was the beginning of her services as church organist. She has since been active in that capacity both in Aadalen and Our Redeemer's Church in Fairdale. Through the years Alma has accompanied choirs, men's and ladies' choruses, and a good many singers. In the 20's and early 30's she was accompanist for the Westby Orchestra. This orchestra consisted of Ingolf, Oscar and Selmer Westby, Frithjof and Henry Rundhaug, Theodore Melland, Clayton Fauskee,
The Harry Bergquist Family: left to right, Donald, Harry, Alma, Robert, Harold Bergquist.
Harry and Alma Bergquist wedding picture. Rosanna (Gurterud) Johnsrud, Ethel (Haug) Vejtasa and Alma. They played at church functions, Luther Leagues, Luther League Conventions, and community programs. At the present time Alma is organist at Our Redeemer's Church in Fairdale. Harry was active in church and community affairs and interested in politics and agriculture. He has a hard worker and a good farmer. For 25 years he was a director and, later, president of the Fairdale Farmer's Union Oil Company. He was a past president of the Walsh County Crop Improvement Association and, in the fall of 1968, was named "Walsh County Man of the Year" in agriculture.
Harry and Alma Bergquist
Harry Bergquist (right) receiving Walsh County Man of the Year Award in Agriculture in 1968. He also worked at setting up display booths for the County Fair and judged grain samples at Park River several years. He also was a Democratic precinct committeeman for several years; was a member of the Community Development Board and Dairy Herd Ass'n.; was a member of Vaarliv Sons of Norway, Golden Hour Senior Citizens and Fairdale Booster's Club, at the time of his death. Harry passed away Dec. 3 1 , 1 9 7 9 , at United Hospital in Grand Forks after suffering a heart attack. He is laid to rest at Gustavus Adolphus cemetery near Adams beside a dear grandson, Harold John Bergquist III, who preceded him in death. April 11,1979.
Harry is survived by his wife, Alma; three sons, Dr. Harold John Bergquist II, of Burnsville, Minn., administrator of the Apple Valley School System, Burnsville, Minn.; Donald Owen Bergquist, who now owns and operates the family farm, (John Bergquist homestead) five miles south of Fairdale; Robert Aden Bergquist, a corporation attorney with offices on Wall Street in New York City; and two daughters-in-law, Audrey Bergquist and Dr. Kaaren Bergquist. There are six grandchildren, Kathryn Lisa. Beverly Ann, David .Erick, Andrew Christian. Erick Bjom. and Leif Kristian Bergquist. ROBERT AND KAAREN BERGQUIST FAMILY Robert Bergquist was bom Feb. 5, 1940, in Dewey Township, the youngest child of Harry and Alma Bergquist. He was baptized and confirmed in the Aadalen Lutheran Church. He attended grade school and was active in the 4-H Club in Dewey Township. He graduated from Fairdale High School. In 1960, he earned his Bachelor of Arts Degree and graduated summa cum laude from the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks. He was also elected to Phi Beta Kappa. In
later taught school at Bowman, N. Dak. In 1 953 she worked for Northwest Airlines in Minneapolis and Fargo. After her marriage, she taught school at the Benas Memorial School. Dodie is a member of many local organizations and is an organist at the Mountain Lutheran Church at Adams. She has been a substitute teacher in Adams and has taught Sunday School for many years. In 1979 she received a BS Degree in education from Moorhead State University.
Robert and Kaaren Bergquist, Eric and Leif. 1961, he received his Master's Degree in political science from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. Robert received his Juris Doctor Degree at Harvard Law School in 1964. He is presently a partner in the Sherman and Sterling law firm on Wall Street in New York City. This is the world's largest law firm with three hundred thirty lawyers. In addition to the New York office this firm maintains other offices in San Francisco, Washington, D.C, Hong Kong, Abdu Dhabi, Algeria, France and England. Robert specializes in international tax and corporate law. Dr. Kaaren Nyhus Bergquist was bom at Chippewa Falls, Wis., and graduated from high school there. In 1961, she received a Bachelor of Science Degree and graduated summa cum laude from the University of Wisconsin. Kaaren earned her Medical Doctor Degree from Western Reserve Medical School in Cleveland, Ohio, and is now a staff member of the radiology department of Columbia Presbyterian Hospital in New York City, specializing in mammograms and gastrointestinal radiology. Robert and Kaaren have two sons, Erick Bjom and Leif Kristian. They attend grade school at Concordia Lutheran Chapel School. Robert and Kaaren and boys are members of Concordia Lutheran Church in Bronxville, New York.
KEITH RODGER BOE FAMILY Keith (Roddy), the son of Ralph and Myrtle Boe, was born Feb. 8, 1930, on a farm near Adams. Roddy attended Fairview rural grade school and graduated from the Walsh County Agricultural School in Park River. He served in the army from 1951 to 1953 during the Korean conflict. After his discharge from the army, he returned to Adams and started farming. On June 26, 1954, Roddy married Dolores Joan Meier. They lived in a trailer house on the family farm for a year before moving to a farm, one mile west of there. Roddy started out raising feeder cattle along with small grains but eventually quit the cattle operation. Roddy enjoys hunting and fishing and belongs to various local organizations. He is a member of the Elks in Devils Lake and the DAV. Dolores (Dodie), the daughter of Louis and Mae Meier, was born Sept. 22, 1931, near Edinburg, N. Dak. She received her education at the Adams Public School, graduating in 1949. She then attended Moorhead (Minn.) State Teachers College and
Keith Boe Family: left to right, Rick Kendall, Daidre Kendall, Mrs. Keith Boe, Rondee Boe, Keith Boe, Miriam Boe, and Jeff Boe. Roddy and Dodie are parents of three children. Jeffrey Keith was born on his Grandfather Meier's birthday, June 9, 1955. Jeff had six living grandmothers when he was born. He attended school in Adams and graduated in 1973. He received an Associate Degree in Applied Science in Architectural Drafting from SSS, Wahpeton, in 1975. Jeff and Miriam Elizabeth Steen, daughter of Reverend Lawrence and Barbara Steen of Adams, were married on July 1 1 , 1980. Jeff farms with his dad. Daidre Joan was born on June 29, 1957, at Grafton. She shared her birth date with her aunt and uncle, Marilyn Hegre and Marvin Meier. Daidre graduated from the Adams school in 1975 and Minot State College with a BS Degree in Nursing in 1979. Daidre was employed at St. Luke's Hospitals, Fargo, prior to her marriage on June 28, 1980, to Richard Marshall Kendall, son of James and Donna Kendall, of Milton, N. Dak. Daidre and Rick live on a farm north of Milton where Rick farms and Daidre works at the Cavalier hospital. Rondee Beth was born Feb. 8, 1963, on her father's and Great Grandfather Boe's birthdate. She is a senior at the Adams Public School. Roddy and Dodie had been married twenty-five years in 1979 and the following January they enjoyed a trip to Hawaii with four other couples to celebrate their anniversaries. Each generation has their own peculiar forms of entertainment and in the 1940's, Roddy and Dodie and their friends would go to strawstack parties, which were all the rage. When a fresh straw stack had settled, after being threshed, the teenagers enjoyed climbing them and throwing each other around. When the stack was somewhat demolished, it would be set afire and wieners and marshmallows were roasted. This fun was not without hazards as a head count was rarely taken before putting the stack on fire. Also, some innovative teenagers would speed through the hot ashes with their cars.
ARTHUR BORGESON FAMILY Arthur Stener Borgeson was born Aug. 24, 1916, in Vernon Township, rural Park River, the son of Elmer and Netta Borgeson. He was baptized and confirmed in the Pleasant Valley Lutheran Church and attended the Ramsey Grove grade school. Art grew up and farmed in this area, until he entered the army in April, 1942. He was stationed with the 1st Army and sent overseas in August, 1942, serving in the African and European Campaigns. He returned to the States in October, 1945, and resumed farming in the Lankin area. Art married Eunice Vigen, the daughter of Nils N. and Gena Vigen, rural Adams, on June 1 1 , 1 9 4 6 . She was born Oct. 14, 1926, at Adams; was baptized and confirmed at the Mountain Lutheran Church of Adams; attended the country grade school in Silvesta Township; started junior high school in Adams where she graduated from high school in 1944; she then attended summer college sessions at Mayville and Valley City, teaching school for two years in the Hoople community. Art and Eunice are the parents of seven children; five sons and two daughters. Douglas Arthur was born Dec. 14, 1949, and attended the Dewey School; then went to Adams high school, graduating in 1967. Doug attended Concordia College, Moorhead, Minn., for a year; then one year at U.N.D., at Grand Forks, before enlisting in the army. He was stationed in Germany for 1 Vz years, then returned home to continue his education and graduate from U.N.D. He then moved to Davenport, la., where he is a contract specialist for the Army Armament Readiness Command at Rock Island Arsenal. Douglas married Doris Anderson, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Arvid Anderson of Reynolds, 111., on March 28, 1980, and they reside at Davenport. Debra Sue Borgeson was born Feb. 5, 1952; was baptized and confirmed at Mountain Lutheran Church, Adams; attended school at Adams and graduated in 1970. She continued her education at St. Luke's School of Nursing, Fargo, N. Dak., graduating as a registered nurse in 1972. Debra worked in hospitals at Wausau, Wis., Tulsa, Okla., and Milwaukee, Wise; where she is presently the floor supervisor for the Intensive /Critical Care Unit. Donald Earl, born March 17, 1954, was baptized and confirmed at Mountain Lutheran Church of Adams; attended Adams school, graduating in 1972. Don continued his education at U.N.D., Grand Forks, graduating in 1976 with a B.A. Degree in occupational therapy. Don is presently employed in the Des Moines Lutheran Hospital, Des Moines, Iowa. Deanne Eunice, born April 12, 1956, was baptized and confirmed at Mountain Lutheran Church. She attended the Adams school, graduating in 1974. She graduated from U.N.D. in 1978 with a degree in special education. Deanne married Mark Schneider, June 19, 1976 at Adams, and they have one son, Jeremy Mark, born March 30, 1977. Deanne is presently employed by the State of North Dakota, working in the Human Development Office at Grand Forks with the Infant Stimulation Program. David Mark, born Nov. 22, 1960, was also baptized and confirmed in the Mountain Lutheran Church, graduated from Adams High School in 1978, and is presently attending Junior College at Devils Lake, N. Dak. Daniel Dean, born April 20, 1962, was baptized and confirmed in the Mountain Lutheran Church and graduated from Adams High School in 1980. Daniel is presently attending U.N.D., Grand Forks. Duane Scott, born Sept. 29, 1965, was baptized and
confirmed in the Mountain Lutheran Church and is presently in high school at Adams. Art and Eunice are members of the Mountain Lutheran Church of Adams. MYRON AND THERESA DAHLGREN FAMILY Myron Dahlgren was born Nov. 8, 1926, in the Adams — Fairdale area. His parents, Frederick and Pernelle (Hilde) Dahlgren, owned a farm in Dewey Township, Section 27, SW 14, and lived there until 1948 when they sold the farm to Myron and then moved to Grand Forks. Myron graduated as valedictorian of his class in 1944 from Fairdale High School. February. 1945, he was drafted into the Army during World War II. He was stationed in Texas, Alabama, Oregon, Washington, and served overseas in Honolulu, Hawaii. He was discharged in November, 1946, and returned home. The fall of 1947, Myron went to college at the State School of Science, Wahpeton, N. Dak., where he was enrolled in auto mechanics. In 1948 he started farming and is still not only farming but also milking 40 cows. In 1954 Myron was married to Theresa Ann Burianek. She was born Oct. 6, 1932, in the Veseleyville area where she grew up and also attended a small nearby country school. Myron and Theresa have 12 children. Colleen, the oldest, is married to John Kram Jr. They live and farm in the Edmore area. John and Colleen have two daughters, Jayne 2Vz and Jessica 1 Vz. Roland enlisted in the Army for three years after graduating in 1975. While in the army he graduated from welding school. He was overseas in Germany for six months and in 1978 returned home and is farming with his father. Karl is a resident of the Grafton State School. Doreen is married to Loren Gullikson and has two daughters, Melinda 2Vz and Andrea, 7 months. Loren and Doreen own and manage the Gullikson Department Store in Adams. Fredric works and farms with Lowell Sukstorf, an area Adams farmer. Malcolm lives in Park River and works for Almo Setness, doing carpentry work. Loreen and Daren are sophomores at Adams High School. Erleen is a sixth grader, Noel is a fourth grader, and Oreen is a third grader at Adams Public School. Franceen Beth, the youngest of 12, is five years old and still at home.
PALMER DAHLGREN FAMILY Palmer Dahlgren was born Dec. 4, 1918, in Dewey Township, the third child of Mr. and Mrs. Fred (Pernelle Hilde) Dahlgren. He attended Dewey School No. 4. Palmer bought the farm owned by Mr. and Mrs. Oliver Espetveit in 1943. The Espetviets and their two daughters moved to Washington State. Palmer was married to Borghild Lee of Hampden, N. Dak., in December, 1941. They have two daughters, Bonita Rae, now Mrs. David Wick, of Minnetonka, Minn., and Paulette Ann (now Mrs. Gary Molstad) of Grand Forks. The Wicks have two daughters - Darcee and Daidre - and the Molstads have two sons - David and Jaime, and one daughter, Julie. Borghild died in January, 1944. Palmer married Hope Bergquist, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Elmer Bergquist of Dewey Township, on June 2 1 , 1948. They had Iwo daughters, Joan Elaine, (Mrs. Bud Lockwood) of Petaluma, Calif., and Barbara Jane Dahlgren who married David Needs and resides at Santa Rosa, Calif. The Lockwoods have two daughters, Sarah and Emily.
Palmer won several awards and trophies as Durum King at various Fall and Winter Grain Shows. In 1953, he won an expense-paid trip to the International Durum Show in Chicago, III. In 1956 he won the Soil Conservation Award for his district. He was a life-long member of Vang Lutheran Church and following his death in September, 1966, was buried in the Vang Cemetery. Hope resided on the farm until 1972, when she moved to Grafton to be employed at the Grafton State School. She bought a trailer home in Grafton in 1974 and has since made her home there. LUDVIG AND KARI DAMMEN Kari Anderson Nordlie was born Aug. 8, 1859, in Mor Sung, Nord Odalen, Norway. She came to America in 1887 aboard the ship "Allon," which harbored at New York. From there she boarded a train to Park River, N. Dak., then went on to the Edinburg vicinity. One sister, Mrs. Ole (Sena) Nordlie, also came to America. Left behind in Norway was their father, one sister, Hulda, and two brothers, Ole and Peter. The mother had died some years before. Ludvig Dammen Their Uncle Clarence is the lone survivor of this family. He is now 80 years old and lives at Minot, N. Dak.
MERLE R. DALEY AND MARILYN BOE DALEY Merle Daley, the son of Torger A. and Jennie Iverson Daley, was born April 25, 1928, and is the youngest of their five living children — LeRoy, Francis, Quintin, LaMae (Mrs. Burr Weiland), and Merle. Two brothers, Elvern and Forrest, died when only a few days old. His grandparents were John T. and Karine Torkelson Daley and Julius and Oline Olson Iverson. His home farm was at Mandt, N. Dak., right along the Park River.
Kari Dammen Ludvig Dammen came a year earlier from Sun Sung, Norway. He and Kari met at Edinburg and were married a year later. For seven years they lived and farmed 40 acres of land in that area. Then they moved and homesteaded a quarter of land in Highland Township, west of Fairdale, N. Dak. Seven children were born to them — Alfred, Minnie, Lauris, Oscar, Clarence, Henry, and one daughter who died at birth. In 1936, due to ill health, they moved in with their son-inlaw and daughter, Oscar and Minnie Tollefson, who at the time also lived in Highland Township. Ludvig Dammen died in 1939. In 1942, the Tollefsons along with Kari, moved to Dewey Township in Walsh Co'inty, where she lived until her death in 1953 at the age of 94 years.
Merle attended the Mandt School, which was a one-room school with one teacher and all eight grades. The teacher received about $30 a month as salary and did the janitor work also. This was in 1934. As a boy, he remembers especially the Civilian Conservation Corps (the CCC) men who planted trees and built dams. One of these dams was built on the Daley farm. All work on the solid rock dam on the river was done by hand, laying one rock at a time. All work on the farm was done by horses and by the late 1930's they had turned to all-mechanized farming although they kept horses for haying and a few other jobs. The first tractors his father had were an International Harvester 10-30 and an F-20 on steel wheels. When they had rubber tires put on them they thought they had it made. A new tractor or a new car, in 1936, each cost about $750. In 1932 Merle's father bought 160 acres of choice Valley land for a sum of 15 bushels of potatoes per acre for a period of 10 years. The potatoes were to be delivered on track at Park River, graded and bagged. In 1980 a farm in that area sold for $1,900 per acre. The Mandt area had a baseball team for many years. The Daley pasture had a ball diamond so on Sundays the cattle had to be moved elsewhere so the games could be played. Picnicking, boating and swimming were popular summer attractions near the Daley Dam. Merle's father raised a lot of cattle in the 1930's. One time the prices were so low that the check he got for the cattle didn't quite pay for the railroad charges to ship a carload to South Saint
Paul.
horses. The students heated part of their lunch on top of the wood and coal stove at noon. Marilyn went to school for over IVz years without missing one day. Then measles stopped the perfect attendance. She attended two years of high school at Adams, then transferred to Park River, graduating in 1946. She attended St. Luke's School of Nursing at Fargo and Cook County Hospital in Chicago, graduating from St. Luke's as a registered nurse in 1949. She worked in many hospitals in the following years.
T. A. Daley Family (1945): front, LaMae, Jennie, and Ted; back, Quintin, Merle, LeRoy, and Francis. Merle attended high school at Park River, staying at different homes in town during the winter and paying $30 a month for board and room. Old-time dancing and jitterbug dancing were popular and there was a dance any night of the week in one town or the other in Walsh County. After graduating from high school, he served in the Marine Air Corps. He was in a Fighter Squadron VMF-452, Marine group 12. He served on several aircraft carriers that were land-based at El Toro Air Station in California. His job with that squadron was as a hydraulic specialist. Their sister squadron, which they trained with, was VMF-214, known as the Black Sheep Squadron. An interesting note is that 33 years later Merle was watching a very popular TV show based on the World War II record of that Squadron. The name of the show was "Baa Baa Black Sheep." After Merle was discharged from the service in 1948 he went to work for his brother, Francis, and Henry Monson who operated a grocery store, tavern, and post office in one building in Nash. He helped with the store and post office and tended bar. He was probably the only 20-year-old bartender in the county. He started farming in 1949 and on December 11 of that year was to be married to Marilyn Boe, but on that day his brother Squint and he were the only two of the wedding party who made it to the Adams church, due to a very severe blizzard, so they were married on the next day, December 12. Marilyn Boe was born Sept. 2, 1928, at Grafton Deaconess hospital to Ralph and Myrtle Foyen Boe. Her grandparents were Knute and Ida Qually Boe and Board and Carrie Lockren Foyen. Her parents' farm was 4 miles west and 1 mile south of Adams, N. Dak. She attended country school at Fairview School Dist. No. 102, about 1 Vz miles from her home. She remembers walking to school and riding in a buggy or sleigh drawn by
Merie Daley Family in 1980- front, Andrea, Annie, Jennie, Cindy, and Marilyn; back. Greg Stennes, Mark Daley, Mark Olson, Merle, and Adam Olson.
The first year they were married they lived on Merle's Uncle Clarence Daley's farm at Mandt. In 1950 there was one of the worst floods in the history of the Park River. Their entire farm was under water. The water was up under the floor in the house. They moved out twice in that flood. In 1950 they moved to the Adams area and farmed. In 1955 they bought what was the Louis Stensland farm, 6 miles west of Adams. In that year a Super M diesel International tractor, which was an average tractor on the farm, cost $4,000. The same tractor today would cost about $25,000. The Daleys have farmed ever since on that same farm, but in 1975 they built a home in Adams where they now live. They raised four children. Cynthia (Mrs. Mark Olson) lives at Ottertail, Minn. Andrea (Mrs. Gregory Stennes) lives at East Grand Forks, Minn.; Mark lives at Detroit Lakes, Minn.; Jennifer, who is at home, attends school at Adams. Merle and Marilyn have two grandchildren, Adam Christian Olson and Annie Kathryn Stennes. One grandchild, Luke Christian Olson, died when only a few days old.
PALMER EIDE FAMILY Palmer Eide was born March 3, 1903, to Mr. and Mrs. Rasmus Eide, Minnewaukan, N. Dak. He married Gina Skytland (daughter of Gilbert and Donna Skytland) who was born Dec. 14, 1901. Palmer and Gina lived southwest of Fairdale, 4 miles, in Dewey Township, until the early 1950's when they moved to Grafton for a short time, then moved to Grand Forks. In approximately 1966 they moved to Minneapolis. They lived there until 1979, when Palmer passed away and Mrs. Gina Eide moved to Muskegon, Mich., where she resides with her daughter, Ruth, now Mrs. Willard Berg. Four children were born to the Eides — Gilman born Nov. 24, 1927; Allen, born January 10, 1932; Joyce Ritoch of Grand Forks, N. Dak., born Oct. 10, 1935; and Ruth (Mrs. Willard Berg), born May 20, 1939, of Muskegon, Mich. Palmer Eide died in 1979 and is buried at Sunset Memorial Gardens, Grand Forks.
GILMAN EIDE FAMILY Gilman Eide was born Nov. 24, 1927, in Dewey Township to Palmer and Gina Skytland Eide. He attended the school near the Wollan farm for two years and the next six went to the Hedlund school, all in Dewey Township. He was married Oct. 2, 1949, to Ebba Lundgren, who now lives in Grafton, N. Dak. They had two children — Gerald, bom Aug. 1 8, 1950, attended and graduated from Red River High School, Grand Forks, and went to U.N.D. for 2 years. He now lives in Minneapolis, Minn., and is employed at the Minneapolis Auto Auction. Linda was born Feb. 23, 1960, and lives in Grand Forks where she attends the University of North Dakota. Gilman left the Fairdale area in about 1950, and lived at
Edinburg until about 1 952. He then worked for Nygard's garage, and worked at Bateman Motors in Park River 1952-53. He formed his own construction company (road building, etc.) until 1958, when he sold it and moved to Grand Forks. He sold mobile homes and automobiles for various dealers until 1961, when he started his own mobile home sales business in Grand Forks which he still operates, and also does some part-time farming. Gilman is a member of the Elks in Grand Forks, Eagles in East Grand Forks, Minn., and the Sons of Norway in Grand Forks. On Dec 11 1965, he married Ruby Hobbs. She has one daugher, Connie, born April 23, 1950. She is now Mrs^ Jeff Ellegard, and they live in Mesa, Ariz. There is one grandson, Tracey Ellegard, born April 2, 1973.
OLIVER AND PAULINE ESPETVEIT Oliver Espetveit was born in Horness, Norway, on Sept. 19, 1886. He came to America in 1905 and first went to southern Minnesota where his sister, Anna Uleberg, lived. He then homesteaded in southwestern North Dakota, lived for a while near Joplin, Mont., and came to the Fairdale area in about 1921. His parents, Anna and Torgus Espetveit, came from Norway in 1908 and they settled in the Fairdale area together. (Both his parents are buried in the Aadalen Cemetery.) At Fairdale Oliver met and later married Pauline Haug, daugher of Theodore and Maren Haug, on June 19,1923. Pauline was born in the Fairdale area on Oct. 30, 1896. She went to grade school here and also attended the Oak Grove School in Fargo.
hard to get, so the Espetveits sold their farm to Palmer and Hope Dahlgren, had an auction sale of all their farm and household belongings, and moved to Renton where Oliver went to work for Boeing's They had been out to Washington before, in 1937, to visit their relatives. Since then they lived in the Renton and Seattle areas, with the exception of about a year in San Anselmo, Calif. Pauline and Oliver Espetveit had three daughters - a baby girl who died at birth; Arlene (Mrs. Gordon Rutkai) who now lives in Oxen Hill, Md.; and Pearl (Mrs. Donald Jacobson), who now lives in Renton. Besides their two daughters they have five grandchildren, Ardon, Greg, and John Rutkai, and Douglas and Jim Jacobson, and one great-grandson, Eric Jacobson. Oliver died in 1 968 and is buried in Renton, Wash., where Pauline still resides. DAVID H. FIX FAMILY HISTORY David H. Fix was bom to Ruth I. Thompson and Henry 0 . Fix on July 17, 1942, in Allegheny County, Pittsburgh, Pa. His parents were Scotch-Irish on his mother's side and German on his father's side. Dave attended and graduated from Shaler High School, Glenshaw, Pa., in 1960 and joined the U.S. Navy in Dec. of 1960. He spent basic training at Great Lakes and attended Dental Technical School in San Diego, Calif. He was then sent to the National Naval Medical Center, Bethesda, Md., where he was stationed for four years. He spent part of his time there as Dental Technician to President Lyndon Johnson. He flew with the dentist to Camp David to work on the President, and also worked on him at the White House Office. It was here in the Washington, D.C, area that David met Patricia Gale Johnson, daughter of Lillian Hanson (Olaf) Johnson and Howard C. Johnson (Hans), rural Fairdale. Patricia attended and graduated from Fairdale High School in 1961, Humboldt Institute in Minneapolis, in 1961, and was working for the Central Intelligence Agency in Washington, D C , when they met. David and Patricia were married, eight months after their first meeting, on June 16, 1962. David had two years left in the Navy and Patricia continued working for C.I.A. until their first child was born on March 28, 1964. Her name was Melissa Gale Fix, and she was bom at the National Naval Medical Center, Bethesda,
Md. In December, 1964, David was discharged from the Navy and moved his family back to his home state of Pennsylvania. They lived in Valencia, Pa., for a while, and in Butler, Pa., for 1 Vi years where David worked in sales for Groff Dental Supply. David and Patricia were blessed with a son on May 20, 1966. He was born at North Hills Passavant Hospital, Pittsburgh, Pa., and wasnamed Gregory David. Less than a year later Aimee Lee Fix was born at the same hospital on April 6, 1967. The Fixes spent seven years in David's home state. David also worked for Kelly Chevrolet & Cadillac and Mashuda Construction Company in the Pittsburgh area over the years. In August of 1971 they moved to Rolla, Mo., where they managed Echo Valley Ranch, five miles out of Rolla, and David attended the University of Missouri at Rolla. Patricia was employed by the University as a secretary also.
Oliver and Pauline Espetveit, 1923. The couple lived on their farm, 5 miles south of Fairdale, until they moved to Renton, Wash., in 1943. During their years on the farm they boarded several teachers who taught at Dewey School No. 4. In fact the year the old school burned down they had the school Christmas program in their home. They also had the misfortune of having their barn burn in the late 30's. They were very active in the Aadalen Lutheran Church and the Sons of Norway Lodge. It was war time in 1943 and hired help was very
In October, 1973, they bought two quarters of land in Dewey Township from Patricia's uncle, Albert Hanson. They are now living two miles south and one mile west of Fairdale, on the former Olaf Hanson farm. David has been very happy with life in North Dakota, finds it very nice to live in the country in comparison with his life in suburban Pittsburgh. 176
FRITHJOF AND DOLORES GILBERTSON Frithjof Gilbertson was born to Mr. and Mrs. Gilbert Gilbertson on Dec. 26, 1917. His six brothers and sisters were George, Morris, Mrs. Clarence (Ida) Skytland, Regina, and Mrs. Jerome (Gladys) Hjelmstad. Frithjof was raised and worked on his parents' farm in Dewey Township, near Fairdale. He was drafted into the army on Nov. 3, 1942, and served until Feb. 28, 1946. He served one year in Wales and England, and returned to the United States to serve at Kennedy General Army Hospital. There he met Dolores Schmiedlin, who was serving as a medical and surgical technician. Dolores served at the Army Hpspital from January 1943 to January 1946. They were married on Nov. 28, 1946, in Pittsburgh, Pa., and made their home in Avalon, a suburb of Pittsburgh.
Frithjof and Dolores Gilbertson Frithjof was employed by the Englander Company, Inc., of Pittsburgh as an upholsterer, and retired in July, 1980. Dolores was a graduate of the Franklin School of Nursing and is in the registry through the Pittsburgh Nursing Service. The couple had five children - Dolores (Mrs. Arthur Massucci) who has two sons, Tommy Arthur and Michael David; Dean, also of Avalon, who served four years in the Marines as a teletype and computer operator, and served one year at DaNang, Vietnam; David who married Nancy Hoover, and has a daugher Dana Lynn; Darlene (Mrs. Mark Connolly), who has a son, Ryan Matthew; and Faith Nadine (Mrs. Stephen Meyer), who has a daughter, Jennifer Lynn. They all reside in the Greater Pittsburgh area. DUANE AND LORETTA JOAN (FROVARP) GORDER Loretta Joan Frovarp was born to Carl and Clara Frovarp on Sept. 27, 1938, and attended elementary school at the Hedlund School near Fairdale and also at the Fairdale grade school. She graduated from the Walsh County Agricultural School at Park River. She married Duane Gorder on June 17, 1956, in Park River, N. Dak. They left North Dakota and lived in Blackfoot, Ida., for a short time before proceeding to Seattle, Wash. They have also lived in Burlington, Wash., and Anacortes, Wash., and since 1964 have resided in Anchorage, Alaska. The Gorders have an excavating and landscaping business called Gorder Excavating, and also own a nursery and greenhouse called Lake Otis Nursery and Greenhouse. They have four children. (1) Kathryn Marie was bom June 17, 1957, and attended elementary, high school and beauty collegejn Anchorage, Alaska. She is now married to Glen Weber and they have two sons and live in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
(2) Tamera Lynn was born March 20, 1960, and attended elementary, high school and Branell Women's College in Atlanta, Georgia. She works in the Greenhouse in Anchorage now. (3) Scott Richard was born Nov. 5, 1962, and attended elementary and high school in Anchorage. He is now taking a horticulture course and also works at the Greenhouse. (4) Kimberly Dawn was born Sept. 30, 1964, and attended elementary school and is now attending high school in Anchorage, Alaska. She also works at Gorder's Greenhouse. The couple have done a lot of traveling through their years of marriage and have been in 39 different states in the U.S. on their vacations.
CHRISTIAN GULLICKSON FAMILY Christian Johan Gullikson was born Dec. 4, 1884, at Sannefjord, Norway. He came to the United States in 1902, landing in New York where he had a brother, Andrew Gust Gullikson, a broker. He then came to the Park River-Adams area and worked on several farms for a while. On Jan. 13, 1904, Christ married Hannah Halberg Swanson, daughter of Sven and Gunhill Halberg. Hannah was the young widow of Pete Swanson, and had two small children when her husband passed away. The children were Myrtle and Albin. Hannah had a homestead in Shepherd Township and after her marriage to Christian, the Gulliksons became the parents of eight more children — Gunder, Harold, Cecil, Alice, Laura, Victor, Ludvig, and Edgar. The Gulliksons moved to a farm in Dewey Township, Section 35, in 1924. Myrtle Swanson was born March 19, 1900. She married Jacob Hanson of Christine, N. Dak., on June 17, 1927 and continued to live near Christine, until her death. They had five children — Fern, Mae Jean, Beverly, Lois and James. She died Sept. 2, 1946. Jacob died July 4, 1975. Both are buried in Pioneer Cemetery at Christine. Albin Swanson was bom Mar. 1, 1902. He married Mary Lee Demoray of Whitman, N. Dak., and had three children, Margaret (Mrs. Hjalmer Hove), Kenneth and Keith, now of California. Mary Lee passed away Jan. 26, 1949, and is buried at Lakota, N. Dak. Albin died March 19, 1956, at Aurora, Minn., and is buried in Memorial Park, Grand Forks. Albin's second wife, Florence Blair, is living in Grand Forks. Gunder Gullikson was born Oct. 14, 1904. He married Georgia Peach of Dewey Township in 1933, and they made their home at Cloquet, Minn. They had one son, Darrold. Gunder died March 18, 1973, and is buried at Cloquet. Harold Gullikson was born Oct. 8, 1906. He married Irene Erickson, daughter of Albin and Inga Elton Erickson, at Fairdale, N. Dak., and located for several years at Lankin, N. Dak., before moving to Christine, N. Dak. Harold and Irene have three children, Joyce (Mrs. Darrel Peterson), Roger, and Curtis. They all live near Christine. Cecil Gullikson was born Aug. 17, 1908. He served in the 635th Anti-Aircraft Bn., in the U.S. Army during World War II, being discharged in February, 1944. Cecil was employed in defense work at Superior, Wis., and suffered a fatal heart attack and died, instantly, Sept. 14, 1944, one week before he was to have been married to a Fargo girl. He is buried in the Vang Cemetery. Alice Gullikson was born April 2 1 , 1910. She married Pete Fatland of Walcott, N. Dak., and they had three children, Ellsworth, Paul, and Patricia. The Fatlands made their home at Gig Harbor, Wash., where Pete Fatland died March 2 1 , 1976.
Laura Gullikson, born Jan. 19, 1912, married Charles Peach in January, 1934. They had one son, Ronald. The Peaches lived at Great Falls, Mont. Laura died April, 1952, and is buried at Devils Lake. Charles passed away a few years later and is buried at Great Falls. Victor Gullikson, born Aug. 13, 1914, attended school in Dewey Township and served in the U.S. Marine Corps during World War II, serving in the Pacific area. He married Leigh Chesborg at Tucson, Ariz., and they made their home there. Victor died March 11,1977, and is buried at Tucson. Ludvig (Bud) was born June 13, 1916, and grew up in Dewey Township. He enlisted in the National Guard, Co. C , 104th Inf., before the outbreak of World War II and served in Guadalcanal, and was wounded in the battle in Bougainville in September, 1944. He married Lillian Erickson, daughter of Albine and'Inga Elton Erickson, in Oct., 1946. They had three children - Barbara (Mrs. Gary Hagen), Nancy (Mrs. Rchard Gehrke), and Loren. Ludvig bought the family farm and resided there until his death on Dec. 7, 1966. He is buried in the Vang Cemetery. Edgar was born Feb. 10, 1923, and spent many years with his sister, Mrs. Jake Hanson at Christine, following the death of his mother. He married Betty Stanfield of Dillon, Mont., and they have four children, Edward, Chris, Kathy, and Vernon. Edgar was an amnesia victim for 17 years and took the name of Eddy Reynolds. They live at Dillon, Mont. Hannah passed away in the fall of 1937 and is buried in the Vang Cemetery. Christian spent his last years in Grand Forks and died there March 20, 1962. He also is buried in the Vang Cemetery.
LUDVIG W. GULLIKSON Ludvig, son of Christian and Hannah Halberg Swanson Gullikson, was born June 13, 1916, near Lawton, N. Dak. At that time, he and his parents lived on the Doc Nicholson place, later known as the Joe Peterson farm, now owned by Alvin Peterson. In 1924, he and his parents moved to Dewey Township, Section 35. Ludvig received his education in the Shepherd and Dewey Schools. Ludvig had five brothers and two sisters: Gunder, Harold, Cecil, Victor, Edgar, Alice, and Laura. He also had a stepsister, Myrtle, and a stepbrother, Albin. Ludvig farmed with his dad and brothers for several years. In 1937, Ludvig's mother passed away, leaving the men to do the housekeeping. Ludvig belonged to a Famous Farmers Independent Baseball Team operating out of Shepherd Township in the 1930's. In 1940, Ludvig enlisted in Company C of the 164th Infantry in the National Guard, when that organization was called for training before the outbreak of the war. He received his training at Camp Claiborne, La., going overseas in 1942, to Australia and later to New Caledonia. He saw action in the South Pacific; served on Guadalcanal; was wounded at Bougainville, receiving the Purple Heart. In 1945, he was discharged from service. He returned to Adams to continue farming.
first year in high school at Fairdale; then entered Adams School No 128 graduating in 1965; attended Mayville State Teacher's College for four years, graduating in 1969. She taught school in Fargo for five years. On July 18, 1970, she married Gary Hagen, son of Orville and Lorraine Hagen. He was born Aug. 2 1 , 1947^ Gary is a Marine Veteran of the Vietnam War. In 1975, Gary and Barbara moved to Casper, Wyo., where Barbara continued teaching for four more years. They have a daughter, Erica Jane, born Jan. 2 1 , 1980. They still reside in Casper. Nancy was born Feb. 14, 1951, at Grafton. She attended the Dewey School until 1962; attended the Adams Public School graduating in 1969. She married Richard Gehrke, son of Harvey and Beatrice Gehrke, on Feb. 2 1 , 1 9 7 0 . He was born May 13, 1951. In May of 1970, Richard left for training in the Marine Corps at N. C. He is a veteran of the Vietnam War. Their first child, Justin, was born May 2 1 , 1970, at Fargo, N. Dak^ Nancy and Justin lived in Adams for a time. In 1 9 7 1 , they joined Richard at N.C. Their daughter, Julie, was born Nov. 15, 1972, at Cherry Point, N. C. In 1973, they all returned to N. Dak., moving to Valley City, where Richard attended college for three years. In the fall of 1975, they moved to Hebron, N. Dak., where Richard accepted a teaching position. Joy Marie was born Aug. 10, 1978, at Richardton, N. Dak. The family is still residing in Hebron.
The Ludvig Gullikson Family: left to right, standing, Loren and Nancy; seated, Lillian, Barbara, and Ludvig. Loren was born June 18, 1955, at Grafton. He attended the Dewey School for one year and then went on to the Adams Public School, graduating with the class of 1973. He graduated from the State School of Science, Wahpeton, in 1976. Loren married Doreen Dahlgren, daughter of Myron and Theresa Dahlgren, on June 18, 1977. She was born Feb. 9, 1960. They lived on the Gullikson farm for a time. In 1979, they purchased the Johnson Store in Adams from Jan Englerth. It is now known as Gullikson's Department Store. They moved into Adams the same year. They have two daughters, Melinda, born Feb. 13, 1978; and Andrea, born Mar. 27, 1980. Mr. and Mrs. Ludvig Gullikson were owners of the farm they lived on, purchasing it from Ludvig's father in 1947. That same year his father, Christ, married Tina Garthe Anderson and they moved to Grand Forks. In 1965, Ludvig bought two quarters of land from the estate of B. A. Erickson. Ludvig and Lillian continued farming until 1966, when he became ill with cancer. He died Dec. 7, 1966, and is buried at the Vang Lutheran Cemetery. Ludvig and his family were active members of the Vang Church.
On Oct. 19, 1946, Ludvig married Lillian Erickson, daughter of Bennett and Inga Erickson. They made their home on the Gullikson farm. During this period, three children were born. Barbara was born June 2, 1947, at Grafton. Barbara received her elementary education in Dewey School 1; took her 178
Lillian married Albert Vigen on July 23, 1971, and they continued living on the Gullikson farm until 1977, when they moved to Adams, where they now reside. ARTHUR AND RUBY GUNHUS FAMILY Arthur Gunhus was born and raised on the George Gunhus farm, in Dewey Township. He later bought the farm and continued to live there until October, 1976, when he and his wife Ruby (Olson) moved to Park River. They rented the farm to Ronnie Nygaard who now resides there. The Arthur Gunhus family consists of Lynda (Mrs. Vernon Hammer), who is a graduate of Moorhead State. The Hammers and three daughters, Kimberly, Melissa and Angela, live in West Fargo. Lynda teaches in the West Fargo School System. Karen, a graduate of N.D.S.U., Fargo, married Richard Axvig and they are parents of three children, Nathan, Sarah and Thomas. The Axvigs live in Fessenden and Karen is presently doing some substitute teaching. Ruth Ann Gunhus, a graduate in nursing from U.N.D., Grand Forks, is employed in Denver, Colo. Arthur is Federal Crop Insurance Field Supervisor and Ruby is presently teaching in the Pisek School Systems. ERNEST GUNHUS FAMILY Ernest Gunhus was born in Dewey Township on June 25, 1915, the son of George and Hilda Rustan Gunhus. He was married to Helen Dahlgren, daughter of William and Clara Norq jist Dahlgren. Helen was also born in Dewey Township, on June 19, 1919. They have three children — Gene, teaches music and is principal at Tappen, N. Dak.; James resides at Fargo; and Leanne is married to J. Wesley Gilbart and lives in Selkirk, Manitoba, Canada. Ernest and Helen attended school in Dewey Township.
Joyce Greening, of Grafton, N. Dak. They have three children — Brian born in 1969, Tamela, 1971, and Chad, 1973. They reside in Grand Forks, N. Dak. David Gutterud was born in 1960. He attended early grade school in the Hoople, N. Dak. area, and completed school and graduated at Devils Lake, N. D. He was employed at the CocaCola Bottling Company. In 1979, he married Wendy Voltz, daughter of LaVerne Voltz, Rolla, N. Dak. They moved to Heppner, Oregon, where they are now making their home. Theodore Gutterud passed away Dec. 1, 1980. ERNEST AND HAZEL HANSON FAMILY Ernest Hanson was born July 14, 1914, at Fairdale, N. Dak., to Mr. and Mrs. Olaf M. Hanson, now both deceased. He attended the Wollan school, which was a country school, and had to walk a distance of three miles one way or sometimes drive by horses. He later attended grade and high school in Fairdale. He was one of twelve children — nine who are still living and three, deceased. Those who are still living are Mrs. Howard (Lillian) Johnson, Albert Hanson, Ernest Hanson, all of Fairdale; Mrs. Rudolph (Ruby) Jardine, Grand Forks, formerly of Osnabrock, N. Dak.; Mrs. John (Caroline) Lofgren, Kalispell, Mont.; Mrs. Lloyd (Myrtle) Lien, Colville, Wash.; Mrs. Oscar (Ida) Isaacson, Mrs. A. Y. (Dena) Petersen and Burt Hanson, all of Everett, Wash. Those who are deceased are Melvin Hanson, Park River, who passed away November, 1979; Henry Hanson, who died in 1942,when he fell from a scaffold at Everett, Wash.; and Earl, who died in infancy.
Ernest went to school in the Nygaard school and Helen attended the Hedlund School. The district consisted of four rural schools which served the district for many years. Helen went to high school in Fairdale and attended Valley City State College for two years and taught in rural schools. Ernest farmed until 1980, when he rented out the farm to Michael Okeson, a neighbor. Gene graduated from Mayville State Teacher's College. James graduated from North Dakota State University in Fargo with a degree in electrical engineering. Leanne is a graduate from the University of North Dakota and has been teaching music in the Selkirk School Division since her marriage. THE THEODORE GUTTERUD FAMILY Theodore P. Gutterud, son of Thorvald and Minnie Gutterud, was born in 1915, at Thief River Falls, Minn. He attended schools in Fairdale, N. Dak; and the Hedlund school. On Oct. 28, 1943, he married Mary Melland, daughter of Sever and Lillian Melland, at Grafton, N. Dak. They have two children, Delores and David, and three grandchildren. They made their home in the Hoople area for 24 years, then moved to Devils Lake, N. Dak., where he was employed for the Ranch Supper Club from 1967 to 1972, then by the City of Devils Lake until retirement in 1977. After retirement they moved to Grand Forks, where they have now made their home. Their daughter, Delores, was born in 1946 at Grafton, N. Dak. She attended the Hoople Public Schools, and graduated in 1964. She was employed at the Deaconess Hospital. In 1967 she married Gary L. Burger, son of the late Alfred Burger and
Ernest and Hazel Hanson Ernest was confirmed in the St. Olaf Church, June 10, 1928, by Rev. George Larson. He was a member of the St. Olaf Congregation, this church being a small country church just a mile from the home place. When St. Olaf disbanded and went into Fairdale and joined up with the town church, later known as Our Redeemer's Lutheran Church, the entire congregation was then transferred. Ernest was also a member of Fairdale Men's Quartette which was composed of his brother Albert Hanson, Omar Johnson and Elwood Johnson. This group sang in the local community as well as outside communities. He also played trombone and baritone for many years in the Fairdale band which
was directed by his brother, Melvin Hanson. Ernest was drafted into the army Dec. 29, 1941, at Fort Snelling, Minn.; had basic training in Texas and Louisana; was a Master Sergeant in the 965th Engineering Maintenance Co., and was sent overseas on the Queen Mary, which took six days. The food wasn't good on it so he ate candy bars and drank PepsiCola. It took him sixteen days to get back on a Liberty ship. He returned to the States in November, 1945, and landed in New York. He said it was a good felling to see the Statue of Liberty again and set his feet on good old U.S. soil and have a good steak and eat real butter. He received his honorable discharge Nov. 27, 1945, at Camp McCoy, Wise.
and her mother and sister moved into Edmore. She lived there until her marriage. When the Hansons were first married they lived in the house which was orginally built by Ernest's dad, and in 1958 Ernest built a new house and barn, doing all the work himself, assisted by two of his brothers, Melvin and Albert. The Hansons have one daughter, Sandra Rae, born May 29, 1950. She is married to Robert Wurgler and lives at Rugby, N. Dak. She has three girls, Tina Rae, born March 22, 1969; Kimberly Ann, born Nov. 20, 1971; and Kristy Marie, born June 24, 1976. Sandra attended grade school up to the 7th grade in the old Dewey school, located two miles south of the Hanson farm. When this school was disbanded she finished her grade school in Fairdale and later attended high school in Edmore, graduating in 1968. She is presently a demonstrator for Home Interiors Co., and her husband is a car salesman at Rugby Motors.
THE JOHN HEDLUND FAMILY Volume II of the 1976 Walsh Heritage publication told the story of John Hedlund and his wife, Albertina, Swedish immigrants who settled in Dewey Township. The following narrative will sketch the biographies of their children — Iver, Emil, Albert, John, and Hilda.
Mrs. Sandra (Hanson) Wurgler Family: left to right, Kimberly, Tina, Sandra, and Kristi (sitting). Ernest has lived on a farm his entire life and retired from farming in 1977 when he sold the land. He still resides on the place which was first built up by his father. In 1949, Ernest married Hazel Lommen of Derrick (which is no longer a town), in the Bethany Lutheran Church at Derrick. Hazel was born Sept. 7, 1919, at Hampden, N. Dak. Her parents were Mr. and Mrs. George Lommen, who are both deceased. She has one brother, Kermit Lommen of Edmore, and one sister, Mrs. Earl (Gladys) Simon, Hampden. Hazel attended school at Hampden and Derrick. When her brother married she
John, Emil and Albert Hedlund. Iver Hedlund married Myrtle Tollefson of Fairdale in 1932. The couple have two daughters — Mrs. Gene Weberg of Fairdale and Mrs. Harold Flom of Bismarck. Iver passed away in 1967. His widow lives in Edinburg. A more detailed story of the Iver Hedlund descendants appears elsewhere in this book. Albert Hedlund as a youth worked in Minnesota and married Elizabeth Williams. Elizabeth passed away several years ago, and Albert, now retired, continues to live in Anoka, Minn. Mr. and Mrs. Hedlund had six children — Hale Albert, Emil Arthur, Peter Burr, Leo Iver, Eric, and Ann Marie. John Hedlund and his wife, Helene, reside in Brainerd, Minn. They have seven children — Mary, Richard, Dorothy, Dora, Carol, Alice, and Janet. Hilda Hedlund attended college and became a teacher. She married Ray Stepanek and the couple spent most of their married life in North Dakota but moved to California in the 1950's. Mr. Stepanek died in the 1960's and Hilda passed away in 1966. They had no children.
Ernest Hanson Farm
Emil Hedlund spent most of his life on the Dewey Township
farm which his father had homesteaded. In 1940 Emil married Ragna Underdal and the couple continued to live on the farm until 1960 when they moved to Adams. Ragna Underdal was born in Undredal, Sogn, Norway, and came to North Dakota at the age of 15, to be with her sister and brother-in-law, Elling and Kjerstine Ohnstad. Not until 42 years later did the two sisters find it possible to visit again their brothers and sisters in Norway. Ragna worked for the Ohnstads for several years and then was employed in Grand Forks eleven years until her marriage to Emil Hedlund in 1940. Emil passed away in 1966. Ragna continues to live in her home in Adams, although she sometimes spends a part of the winters with her nieces, the Ohnstad sisters, in Grand Forks. EDWIN AND VERA HJELVIK Edwin Hjelvik, a son of Olaf and Ella Skare Hjelvik, was born July 29, 1920, and has farmed in Dewey Township with his twin brother, Elmer, all of his life.
Emil and Ragna Hedlund District No. 120 from 1902 to 1910, becoming a member of the Board of Directors in 1917 and serving for three years. Syver was one of the original organizers of the Farmer's Cooperative Elevator Company at Fairdale in 1918, and served on the Board of Directors. In 1918 he was elected to the Walsh County Board of Commissioners as representative from the Fifth District. He was re-elected in 1 922. As well as farming 400 acres in the township, he became involved with Dundee, Walsh County Farmers Mutual Insurance Company as an agent from 1916 until his death in 1926. Some of his first clients were Jens Norquist, Mrs. Hulda Okeson, P. J. Backstrom, P. J. Overby and John Bergquist. Syver and Elise cared for Helge and Ingeborg until their deaths, living together in a five-room house on the original homestead. In 1916 Syver built a new barn, and in 1923-24, a spacious 2'/2-story home for his growing family. (These buildings still stand and are occupied by the Leroy Monson family.)
Edwin and Vera Hjelvik On Oct. 20, 1979, he married Vera Phair Borgeson, daughter of John Burton and Mildred Larson Phair. After their marriage they moved a house west of Adams on Section 27 NW in Dewey Township.
Elise was born in Viker, Aadalen, in 1888 to Elling and Sigrid Rundhaug. When she was 15 she left for America with the Syver Nordby family, her father having died earlier. She was a member of the Nordby family until her marriage. One of Elise's sisters, Anne Maria Vinje, also came to America, settling in Minnesota.
The house holds special memories for the children born to Syver and Elise. "I remember my father as kind and gentle, tall and slim, always reading the many books around the house," says Irene Hogfoss Fjalstad, oldest daughter, who was 15 when Syver died. "He made sure there was an organ in the home so those of us who cared to could learn to play. He played the violin, and encouraged music of any kind." Because Syver was charmed by his children and not of a nature to be angry with them, mother Elise was in charge of family discipline. She always had baked goods ready for gatherings, teaching her daughters the special methods tor making the best lefse and Scandinavian delicacies. While raising the children and making a home, she also helped care for her adoptive parents, Syver and Inger Nordby, and her foster-sisters, Sigrid Moe and Gunhild Lunde, when they were ill.
Elise joined the Hogfoss family at a time when Syver was well on his way to becoming the active community supporter he was known for later. He was the clerk for the Dewey School
"Fun times for us children were when Uncle John (Hogfoss) came to visit from Grafton!" says Irene. "Dad was usually quite a serious fellow and didn't joke much, but Uncle John was always
SYVER AND ELISE HOGFOSS Syver Hogfoss was youngest of the six children of Helge Hogfoss (1835-1918) and Ingeborg Storkson Hogfoss (18361910), and immigrated with his family in 1889, when he was 10 years old, leaving Nes, Aadalen, Norway for a homestead in the southwest quarter, section 4, township 157, range 59. In July, 1907, Syver married Elise Rundhaug (Nordby).
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telling us fairytales and making us laugh. He was such a tall, handsome man!" Being responsible was the most valuable lesson learned by Syver's children. He stressed that living up to one's committments was of the utmost importance, and that you must not depend on anyone else to fulfill your promises.
Left to right, Alice Tronset, Selma Moe, Irene Fjelstad, Esther Monson, Ida Machart, and Valborg Bangs; bottom, Art, Mrs. Elise Hogfoss Johnson, Gerhard Johnson, Fred Johnson, and Harold. The accident which took Syver's life at age 46 was indeed a tragic one, and ended what was a promising career for the intelligent family man. It was March of 1926 when a train struck his team and wagon on the railroad crossing in Fairdale. Syver lived for twelve hours after the accident, succumbing after several hours in a coma to a massive head injury. His family and the whole community were stunned. Life was not easy after his death. The depression began in the ensuing years, and all in the area had hard times. Elise remarried in 1930, moving to Leonard, Minn., with her husband, Fred Johnson. She died in April, 1968, and is buried at Seljord Lutheran Cemetery in rural Clearbrook. Fred still lives in Leonard, as does their son, Gerhard Johnson, bom Sept. 12, 1931.
(deceased 1977); Jeanne D., married to Duane Walker, Hoople, N. Dak., five children, Judy, Jeff, Richard, Diane and Nancy; Mary A., married to Bruce Quinn, Eagan, Minn., one child Daniel; David L., two children, Donna and Kjersti. Esther also has eight great-grandchildren, and lives in Eagan, Minn. Alice Evelyn Hogfoss was born Mar. 1, 1914, and married Martin Tronset, Cavalier County, in 1940. They moved to Tacoma, Wash., in 1942. They have two children: Michael, Tacoma, married to Deanna Paul, one child Kristi; Sandra Petrino, Tacoma, two children, Kimberly and Cynthia. Selma Isabella Hogfoss was born Mar. 22, 1916, and married Emil Moe (deceased 1958) of Lankin in 1936. They have two children: Shirley, married to Reuben Carlson, Lankin, N. Dak., six children, Douglas, Darrell, Elaine (Bradford) Dahl, Mark, Mitchell and Rebecca; Judith, married to Donald Johnson, Brainerd, Minn., five children, Glenn, Gayle, Gary (deceased), Gregory and Guy. Selma has one great-grandchild, and lives in Park River, N.Dak. Ida Amanda Hogfoss was born July 23, 1918, and married Harold P. Machart, Lankin, in 1939. They have five children: Elsie, married to Arley Wagner, Mica, Wash., five children, Linda, Tod, Lynette, Lori and Troy; Faye, bom 1942, died 1963; twins, Kathleen, married to Lee Matthiesen, Manda, N. Dak., one child Kelly, and Karen, married to Gary Nelson, Bismarck, N. Dak.; Gregory, Carrington, N. Dak. Ida and Harold live in Carrington, N. Dak. Valborg Margaret Hogfoss was born Nov. 17, 1920, and married Leroy Bang(s), Bemidji, Minn., in 1940. They had two children: Duane B., married to Cheryl Hansen, two children, Jacqueline and Sarah; David G., married to Colleen Severin, two children, Eric Syver and Elliot Bernard. Both Duane and David live in Washington State. Leroy retired in 1971 from heavy construction. The Bangs also owned and operated two restaurants in Ellensburg, Wash., where they now reside. (They experienced the results of the May 18, 1980, eruption of Mt. St. Helens' volcano when total darkness and an inch of ashfall descended upon Ellensburg.)
The eldest son of Syver and Elise, Harold Edward Hogfoss, was born Aug. 13, 1908. He served in World War II from April 1941 to September 1945. He took part in the battle in Tunisia, the landing at Salerno in 1943 (where he was wounded by a hand grenade), the Anzio beachhead, and went on to the Po River Valley, fighting in Europe until the end of the war. He moved to Texas in 1953, and is retired from Northern Natural Gas Company, Midland, Tex. Irene Sophia Hogfoss was born Mar. 16,1910, and married Gunder Fjalstad of Newland Township, Ramsey County, in 1932. She and Gunder have three children: Sherman O., Owatonna, Minn., married to Sandra Daley Conklin of Minneapolis, two children, Lisa and Jon; Mona J. Brown, Cloquet, Minn.; two children, Rebecca and David; and Wayne L., Minneapolis, Minn., one child, Kristin. Irene and Gunder are retired and live in Cloquet, Minn. Esther Sylvia Hogfoss was born Mar. 6, 1912, and married Oswald R. Monson, Norton Township, in 1932. (Oswald died in 1952.) They have six children: Ronald E., Edinburg, N. Dak., married to Malvina Kittleson Monson, widow of Donald Monson. She had one son, Maynard; Alice I., married to Norman Carlson, Lankin, N. Dak., four children, Kaye (Mike) Schroeder, Beth (Chuck) Bina, Russell, and Noreen; Ellen O., married to Leslie Carlson, Wadena, Minn., six children, Dwight, Debbie, Wayne, Robin (Mike) Sabanash, Penny (Bruce) McManigle, and Tamara
Harold Hogfc
Hjalmer and Margaret Hove
Arthur Hogfoss Arthur Stanley Hogfoss was born Jan. 2, 1925, attended school in Minnesota, and enlisted in the US Army in 1943. He was shipped to New Guinea in 1944 where he served until his discharge in 1945. He was employed by Northern Natural Gas Company from 1948 to 1980 when he retired. He was married to Bonita Ducheneau (deceased 1962) in 1951. They had five children: Rodney, Farmington, Minn.; Ricky, Farmington, Minn.; married to Sue Yetzer, two children Jason R. and Steven L ; Kimberly, Hawaii; Pamela, Denver, Cob.; and Barry, presently serving in the US Navy. Art has lived for the last several years in Morris, III., but plans to travel now that he is retired. The family of Syver and Elise includes fiddlers, teachers, chefs, pianists, farmers, bakers, accordionists, church-goers, homemakers, patriots — all of whom carry on the tenets established by their forebearers. The Norwegian tradition continues in Americans like the Hogfoss family. Guy and Gayle (Hove) King HJALMER HOVE FAMILY Hjalmer Hove was born May 25, 1916, to Nels 0 . and Emma Johnson Hove of Shepherd Township. He received his education in Shepherd school No. 1. On May 27, 1944, he was married to Margaret Jean Swanson, born July 17, 1923, to Albin and Mary Lee Demoray Swanson. Margaret grew up near Whitman and attended elementary school at Pelto, moved into Whitman and completed elementary school and graduated from Whitman High School in 1941. In 1946 the Hoves moved to the farm they purchased in Dewey Township, Sec. 36, where they have since resided. A daughter, Gayle LaRayne was born Oct. 6, 1945, and attended the Dewey Township school, the Walsh County Agricultural School at Park River, graduating from there in 1963. She graduated from UND, Grand Forks, in 1967 and received a Master's Degree in English from the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque. She has been an English teacher at Crystal,
Hoople and Devils Lake in North Dakota and Columbus, Ohio. She was married in 1969 to Guy King. In September, 1980, the Kings moved to Alexandria, Va., and are now employed in the Washington, D.C, area. RONALD HOVE FAMILY Ronald Hove was born Nov. 29, 1954, at the Edmore Community Hospital, Edmore, N. Dak., the third of four children to be born to Mr. and Mrs. Chester Hove. The first two years of his education were received at Dewey School. He then transferred to Adams Public School when Dewey School closed down and attended there until he graduated in 1972. Ron furthered his education by attending Devils Lake Junior College and then settled into farming with his father. Ron was married to Renee Kay Krueger on June 29, 1974. Renee was born on Mar. 12, 1956, to the late Dave Krueger and the now Mrs. Charles (Edna) Geier at Harvey, N. Dak. She is the youngest from a family of four boys and four girls. She attended
the Fessenden Public School the first nine years of school, then transferred to Adams Public School in 1971 when her parents moved there, and graduated from there. Ron and Renee lived the first year of their married life in Adams before moving to the farm formerly occupied by Melvin and Lila Myhre. This is where they now make their home. They are members of the Vang Lutheran Church. Four children were born to Ron and Renee — one boy and three girls — Chad David, eldest; twin girls, Trista and Carissa; and Kyza Kay. GEORGE A. JOHNSON FAMILY Mr. and Mrs. George Johnson were pioneers of Walsh County. George Alvin Johnson was bom in Northfield, la on Oct. 28, 1881, and came to Park River with his parents in 1883. In 1900 he went to Edmore where he operated a drug store with John Hamre. On July 10, 1906, he married Maggie Johnson of Edmore. They lived in Fairdale where he owned and operated a drug store. Maggie Johnson was born in Blue River, Wise, on Dec. 26, 1882 She was less than two years when the family moved to Grafton. After finishing high school in 1901 she taught school near Grafton before going to Edmore to teach where she is listed as being one of the first teachers in that new community. George and Maggie were both true pioneers. They loved the challenge of settling new land so during the time they lived in Fairdale they purchased land in Dewey and Shepherd Townships. In 1910 they built a home in Dewey Township on their land. They farmed there until 1916 when they rented out their land and moved to Edmore. George and Maggie's descendants include four children, eight grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.
Clarence Johnson, bom October 3 1 , 1 9 1 6 , was married to Carol Jensen June 2 1 , 1941. They have two children: Dewey Clark born Nov. 14, 1942, and Debra Marie, born Feb. 14, 1952, was married to Ron Ruffner June 7, 1975. They have two children, Jami and Melani. George Johnson, born May 9, 1925 in Edmore, married Joan Yahn of Madison, Wise, on Nov. 13, 1945. They have two children- Mark Wingland, born April 2, 1951, married to Kathy Masonheimer, March 22, 1976. They have one daughter, Molly Francis. Erick Christian, born October 22, 1954. George Johnson was married to Linda Olson on August 25, 1967. They have two children: Lars, born Jan. 2, 1956, Inga, born May 10, 1958. George and his family live in and around Bakersfield, Calif. All of the descendants of George and Maggie Johnson live in California at this time, although the family still owns land in Dewey Township. ARTHUR AND HAZEL LATTIN Arthur Garfield Lattin was born in Brookings, S. Dak., Feb. 28 1890, the son of Sena Opsal, (born in Norway Oct. 6, year unknown - died April, 1938) and Steven Garfield Lattin, (born in Alsace Lorraine — birth and death dates unknown). He is buried in Garden City, Kan. Arthur married Hazel Lucille Ferguson who was bom on Feb. 20, 1887. They first settled in Felton, Minn., then moved to Fargo, N. Dak., where four of their eleven children were born — Floyd,' Verna, Roy, and Fern. Later, they moved to Adams, N. Dak., where Opal, Wilbur (Wimpy), Elva, Ruth, Kenneth, Walter, and Alec were born.
George died Sept. 3, 1942, and Maggie died May 22, 1975. Their oldest child was Elda Johnson who was born in Fairdale on June 5, 1908. After graduating from U.N.D. at Grand Forks she taught school before marrying Clifford Bostrom of McHenry, N. Dak., on July 10, 1931. This wedding date was the 25th anniversary of her parents. They became parents of two daughters: Kay Olive, born April 22, 1934, married Richard Hague on Dec. 20, 1952. They have three children, Clifford, Karin and Kathi. This family lives in Lancaster, Calif. Rita Mae, the second daughter, was born Nov. 17, 1936, and married Earle Summers on July 10, 1956. They have four children - Karl, David, Gary and Erik. This family lives in Bellflower, Calif. In 1931 Clifford and Elda Bostrom moved to their parents' farm in Dewey Township and farmed there for eleven years. In 1942 they moved to California. Clifford died March 17, 1972. Elda retired from teaching in 1971 and now lives in Stanton, Calif. Marian Johnson, born May 14, 1912, in Dewey Township married Richard Teigen of Edmore on Oct. 10, 1935. One of her year's teaching was in a school in Dewey Township. They have two children: Terry Olin, born February 20, 1937, was married to Nancy Rose on August 12, 1961. They have four children - Robert, Michael, Craig and David. Joan Claire, born July 30, 1937, was married to Del Lee on Jan. 10, 1957. They have four children - Danny, Scott, Russell and Melissa. Terry and family live in Orange, Calif., and Joan and family live in Mission Viejo.
Roy and Loyola Lattin are parents of three daughters, Mrs. James J. Connolly, Mrs. Donald Richert, and Mrs. Thomas Walsh. Arthur was a farmer while in Adams. After moving back to Fargo in 1927, he worked for the Independent Ice Co. In the 1940's they moved to Ponsford, Minn., where he farmed for the next eight years. Then they moved to St. Paul, Minn., where they remained the rest of their lives. 184
Hazel died April 23, 1960, and Arthur died Aug. 3, 1963. They are both buried in Elmhurst Cemetery, St. Paul, Minn. Floyd, the oldest of their children, was born in 1911 and died about one year later. Verna was born in Fargo on Aug. 14, 1912. She married Bert Heaton (born in Enderlin, N. Dak., on Aug. 28, 1910). They were married in Fargo where Bert was employed by the Park Board. Bert and Verna had five children: Ronald LeRoy, Jerome Bert, and Hazel Rose were born in Fargo; Douglas Arthur and David Owen were born in St. Paul. Hazel Rose died Aug. 2, 1936, at the age of three. Bert and Verna moved to St. Paul about 1940 where Bert was dock foreman for Garrett Freightlines until his retirement in 1970. He died on Feb. 4, 1971, of a heart attack. Verna died Oct. 14, 1969. They are both buried in Elmhurst Cemetery, St. Paul. Roy Garfield Lattin was born Aug. 15, 1913, in Fargo; moved to Adams with the family, and later moved back to Fargo. Roy left Fargo in 1935, and moved to Minneapolis where he was an over-the-road truck driver. In 1939, he was transferred to Dubuque, la., where he met and married Loyola Kathryn Sanner on Aug. 3 1 , 1 9 3 9 . In 1941, they moved to Sauk City, Wise. In 1942 they moved to St. Paul and brought a home at 1185 Van Buren Ave., where they are still living today. Shortly after they moved to St. Paul, Roy went to work for Garrett Freightlines, where he became chief dispatcher for the St. Paul office until his retirement in 1976. He was employed by Garrett for 34 years. Loyola, his wife, a teacher for 27 years, was educated at Clarke College in Dubuque. She was principal in Farley, la., for four years; taught in elementary grades five years in Dubuque. After fourteen years off to raise their family, she returned to teaching in 1954 and taught second grade in St. Paul until her retirement in 1972.
also moved to Adams with the family and then returned to Fargo. She married A. C. Matson from Moorhead, Minn. They moved to Minneapolis where Matty (as he was called) worked for the Minnesota Paint Co. and Fern worked for the Onan Co. After they retired they moved to Jupiter, Fla., where Matty died on Feb. 25, 1 9 7 1 . He is buried in the cemetery at Jupiter. In 1977, Fern married Felix Rakstis. They now live at 3160 Guana St. in Lake Park, Fla. Fern and Matty had one son, Dennis, who now lives in Columbus, Nebr. Opal Lattin was born in 1915 in Adams, N. Dak. and died at the age of three. Wilbur Lattin was born Dee 15, 1916 in Adams; moved to Fargo and later became an over-the-road truck driver. He then moved to Minneapolis. After several years, he became a city truck driver for Advance United. He married Patricia Luft. (They were divorced several years later.) They had two children, Cindy Lu and Jay Garfield. Wimpy (as Wilbur was known) died Sept. 1, 1969, as the result of a heart attack.
Thomas and Patricia Ann (Lattin) Walsh and son. Elva Lattin was born in Adams, N. Dak., on Aug. 10, 1919, and later moved to Fargo. She married George Curfman, and lived in Fargo for a while. Then they moved to Minneapolis for a short time. Then they went to Denver, Colo., where they owned and operated a variety wholesale business. George died Jan. 28, 1970. Elva sold the business, but still resides in Denver as does their one son, Jerome, born in 1938.
Top, left to right, Kelly, Barbara Jo Connolly, Jim Connolly; front, Linda, Michael, and Laurie. Roy and Loyola have three daughters: Barbara Jo, born Sept. 7, 1940, now Mrs. James J. Connolly, lives in Hugo, Minn, has three girls and one boy; Bonnie Lee, born April 18, 1942 in Madison, Wise, now Mrs. Donald Richert, lives in Houghton, Wise, — has one girl and two boys; Patricia Ann, born Feb. 26, 1944, in St. Paul, now Mrs. Thomas Walsh, lives in Dilworth, Minn., has one boy. Fern Lattin was born Sept. 28, 1914, in Fargo, N. Dak. She
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Ruth Lattin was born in Adams, N. Dak., on Dec. 10, 1920. She moved to Fargo and then to Minneapolis where she married Elliot Kjeseth. Elliot served in the Armed Forces during World War II Elliot is self-employed as a cement contractor. He and Ruth presently reside at 4915 - 36th Ave. So., Minneapolis. They have five children: Elliot, born April 3, 1939, has two children and now resides in Minneapolis; Bruce, born Jan. 12, 1942, has two children, and his wife and family live in Wayzata, Minn.'; Karen, born in June, 1943, with her husband, Richard Hedtke, and their three children resides in Wayzata, Minn., Jeffrey, born Oct. 14, 1955, with his wife and one child live in Minneapolis; Scott, born Mar. 25, 1958, is single and living in Minneapolis. Kenneth Lattin was born Jan. 2, 1922, in Fargo. After spending time in the Army in Germany during World War II, he came to Minneapolis. He later met and married Phyllis Knox in Milwaukee, Wis., June 9, 1962. Phyllis served in the military in
Japan during the Korean War. They settled in Oshkosh, Wise, where Kenneth worked for Rockwell Industries. After suffering a heart attack, he had to take a medical retirement. Phyllis was a home economics teacher until about 1976. Phyllis died from cancer on Nov. 27, 1978, and is buried in Riverside Cemetery in Oshkosh. Kenneth and Phyllis have three children — Kevin, Keith, and Marcella. Walter Lattin was born in Adams, N. Dak., Jan. 30, 1923, moved to Fargo, and served in the military during World War II. After his discharge he moved to St. Paul, and became an overthe-road truck driver. In 1950, he married Theresa McCabe from Storm Lake, la. They were married in Storm Lake and then returned to St. Paul. In 1956, Walt found out he had cancer. He was in and out of the Veteran's Hospital in Minneapolis for treatment over the next two years and died there Feb. 25, 1958. He is buried in the National Cemetery in Minneapolis. His wife, Theresa, had a kidney transplant in 1964. She is buried in Calvary Cemetery in St. Paul. They had one duaghter, Cathy, born Aug. 15, 1951, and now living in Minneapolis.
Ole and Emma (Erhert) Knudson, Larimore, N. Dak., who was teaching at a rural Lankin school. Mabel, a graduate of Mayville State Teachers' College, later taught at a Shepherd Township school. Oscar and Mabel were married June 30, 1928, at her folks' home near Larimore, N. Dak. They made their home at rural Lankin. Emma (Mrs. Gaylord Fosdick, Cheyenne, Wyo.), their firstborn, was born here. The family moved in 1929 to a farm in Dewey Township, Walsh County, where the rest of the children were born: Harold (rural Lankin area), June (Mrs. Arvil Peterson, Colorado Springs, Colo.), Elaine (Mrs. Howard Finger, Santa Rosa, Calif.), Ellen (Mrs. Nels Severson, Grafton, N. Dak.), Lester (home farm, rural Fairdale), and Esther Brown (Grafton,
N.Dak.). Oscar farmed in Dewey Township until his death, Nov. 20, 1955. Mabel remained on the farm until 1965 when she moved to Grafton where she resided until her death Aug. 18, 1979. At present Oscar and Mabel have 29 grandchildren and six great grandchildren, two of which are deceased. Oscar and Mabel Lee were members of the Vang Lutheran Church, rural Fairdale, and are both buried in the Vang Lutheran Cemetery.
Bonnie Lee (Lattin) Richert, Bill, Donald, Nancy and Mark. Alec Lattin was born in Adams, N. Dak., on May 14, 1924. After moving to Fargo, N. Dak., with his folks and attending school, he entered the Army and served in Japan during World War II. He is presently employed as a city truck driver for Garrett Freightlines in St. Paul. He married Vivian Tschida. They now reside at 1684 Hillview Road, New Brighton, Minn.
RICHARD AND DEBRA LEE Richard Allan Lee was born at the Deaconess Hospital in Grafton, N. Dak., Aug. 6, 1957, to Wallace and Irene Lee of Shepherd Township. He has one sister, Judith. Rick attended first and second grades at Shepherd School, Dist. No. 132, Mrs. Mabel Peterson was his teacher. He started third grade at Adams Public School and continued there through high school. Rick is a member of Vang Lutheran Church, rural Fairdale, N. Dak. During his school years he was a member of the Livewires 4-H Club and received awards for his durum entries. He was the United States Durum Show King in 1972, 1974 and 1975, and he had the Champion Durum at the North Dakota Winter Shows in 1975 and 1976. Following his graduation from Adams High School in May of 1975 he attended the North Dakota State School of Science at Wahpeton for one year. In November of 1976 he took employment at First National Bank in Grafton, N. Dak., and then was transferred to the branch bank in Crystal, N. Dak. He served as branch manager in Crystal, N. Dak. until April of 1979, when he began farming and bought the Christ Gullikson farm from Loren and Doreen Gullikson in Dewey Township.
Alec and Vivian have six children: Gary, born Dec. 13, 1946, with his wife and two girls live in Coon Rapids, Minn. Gail, now Mrs. John Estling, lives in Fridley, Minn., with her husband, two girls, and two boys. She was born on Mar. 26, 1948. Linda, Mrs. Tim Krech, was born Nov. 9, 1949. They live in South St. Paul with their three boys. LuAnn, Mrs. Eldo Juse, was born Aug. 8, 1951. The couple lives in Janesville, Minn., with their daughter. Joyce, Mrs. Harry Porter, born Sept. 2 1 , 1956, lives with her husband in N.E. Minneapolis with their son and daughter. Marvin was born Dec. 30, 1960, is single, and living at home. OSCAR AND MABEL LEE FAMILY Oscar Lee was born Aug. 17, 1895, to Nils and Gunhild (Kringstad) Lee, who resided near Lankin, N. Dak. Oscar attended barber school in St. Paul, but returned to farm in rural Lankin area. Here he met Mabel Christine Knudson, daughter of
Richard and Debra Lee, married on June 23, J 979.
On June 23, 1 979, he married Debra Lynn Dvorak, at Our Redeemer's Lutheran Church in Fairdale, N. Dak. Debra is the daughter of Donald and Avis Dvorak of Lankin, N. Dak., was born in Grafton, N. Dak., at the Deaconess Hospital on March 24, 1957, and has four sisters and brothers — Cheryl, Cynthia, Scott and Jason. She attended Lankin Public School and was a member of the Buttercups 4-H Club. She graduated in May 1975 from Lankin High School and attended North Dakota State School of Science at Wahpeton. She graduated from NDSSS in the dental assisting curriculum in May 1976. She was employed by G. L. Coleman, D.D.S., at the Park River Dental Office from 1976 to October, 1979, and is presently employed as secretary at the Lankin Public School. Rick and Deb are involved in bowling leagues and Deb is a member of the Kountry Kraft Klub.
ALFRED W. LINDELL FAMILY Alfred W. Lindell was born March 1 1 , 1927, to P. Arthur and Anetta Lindell on their farm in Golden Township. He was named after his grandfather and was baptized in the St. Peter Lutheran Church of rural Adams. Alfred was the fifth child of the Arthur Lindells' (He has two brothers and three sisters. He attended grade school at the Golden School and high school in Park River, graduating in 1946. Alfred helped his dad with the farming. Help wasn't easy to find during the war, and his older brothers were gone — Wallace to California, and George, in the service, Al went to Ft. Snelling for his physical, but, the war ended then and he didn't get his call. He worked on the farm in the summer, and in the fall he worked at the Ford Garage in Grafton; the second winter he worked for G.M.C. in Detroit, Mich.
then went to work as a bookkeeper at the Grafton National Bank, where she worked until the spring of 1950. Then she and Alfred moved their trailer home to the Arthur Lindell farm in Golden Township where Alfred farmed with his father and raised potatoes. In the winters they would move back to Grafton where he worked in a potato house. After a few years they rented the Roy Price farm and bought some land of their own. Eventually they rented more land. Alfred worked winters in the potato house in Edinburg, where they lived on the Price farm until 1966. By this time they had four children — Alfred Gray, Paige Mardene, Tamara Lane and Suzanne Annette. They then purchased the Peter Hilde farm in Dewey Township. After remodeling the house, they moved in, in time for Gray to start first grade at the Dewey School. Paige, Tamara and Suzie all attended school in the Dewey School until it closed in 1962. Then the children went to school in Adams. There were three more children born to this family, Grant Clark, Jana Dene and Ten a Marie.
Alfred and Mary Ann Mielke of Grafton were married Dec. 4, 1949, at the Grafton Lutheran Church. There was no pastor at the church at this time, so Pastor Alford E. Setness, a cousin of the groom, who had a parish at Hatton, N. Dak., performed the ceremony.
Alfred W. and MaryAnn Lindell Family: left to right, Alfred W., Mary Ann, Tena, Jana, Grant, Suzanne, Tamara, Paige and Gray. Alfred and Mary Ann were members of the Grafton Lutheran Church until they moved to the Price farm, where they joined the St. Peter Lutheran Church and were members there until it closed in 1967. They then joined the Mountain Lutheran Church in Adams. Alfred's, farming has included potatoes (for a few years), cattle, hard wheat, durum, barley and sunflowers. He's kept busy improving the farmstead, remodeling old buildings, and building new ones, and in 1976 built a new home. His activities include: trustee St. Peter Church, being president of Adams Lutheran parish, president of Mountain Lutheran Church, on the Dewey Township board, as one of the original directors for the Adams Rural Fire Department board, a parole officer, president of Walsh County Wildlife Association, serving on school board in Vesta, and as a Cub Scout Cub master. Mary Ann's activities include being a Sunday School teacher, on board of education of Mountain Lutheran Church, treasurer of Mountain Lutheran A.L.C.W., treasurer of the PTA. She helped organize the Adams Band Boosters, serving as vicepresident two years and as president for two years, being a den mother, and a member of the Kraft Klub.
Mary Ann is the oldest child of Rose (Luedke) Mielke and the late Lester Mielke of Grafton. She has two sisters and three brothers. Mary Ann was born Nov. 15, 1929, on her grandparents' farm (Charles Mielkes) in McLeod Co., Brownton, Minn., where Lester was farming with his father. She was baptized in the Biscay Evangelical Reformed Church. She started first grade in a small one-room school house, but, in 1935 the family moved to Grafton, where her father was a partner in the Coast to Coast Store. In 1937 her father and mother opened a cafe, where she spent her spare time, learning the business from the bottom up (bottom being washing dishes, up being a waitress). They sold the business when she was a high school freshman. After that, in the winters, she worked at The Floral Shop and Ben Franklin Store and in summers at Ben Franklin's and Peggy Lee's Curb Service. A memorable experience from Peggy Lee's took place about 1 o'clock of a morning after they had closed and were having lunch. A potato truck driver had fallen asleep while driving his truck, and missed the curve coming into town, east of Grafton, and his truck smashed into the building, ending up with the cab inside the building, where Mary Ann and Lois Rydholm had been sitting on stools. Neither of the girls were hurt, but, by some miracle of God, they found themselves on the other side of the building, having cleared a counter and a table built to the ceiling with shelves, holding all the glasses, cups and coffee-makers. Neither girl remembered getting there.
Biographical notes on the Lindell children include: Alfred Gray, baptized at Grafton Lutheran, married Nancy Sue Drevecky at the Mountain Lutheran Church. They both graduated from Adams High School. Gray attended Lake Region Junior College, Devils Lake; farm and live on the former Arthur Lindell farm in Golden Township; and have four children —
Mary Ann graduated from Grafton High School in 1947, 187
Melissa Anne, Alfred Jason, Justin Arthur and Roslynne Leigh. Paige Mardene, baptized at Grafton Lutheran Church, married Kenneth Dean Setness at the Mountain Lutheran Church with Pastor Alford Setness performing the ceremony. (He is related to both of them.) Both Ken and Paige graduated from Adams High School. Paige graduated from N.D.S.U., Fargo, and Ken, from college at Mayville. They lived at Buffalo, N. Dak., where Ken taught school while Paige completed her college. Then Paige taught one year at Tower City and Ken taught at Buffalo. They then moved to Bismarck, where Ken was assistant manager of the Young America Store. Then he was transferred to Sioux Falls, S. Dak., as manager of a store there. Paige worked for the Copper Craft Company for four years. Ken is now working for the National Federation for Small Business. They have four children — Tana Sue, Tehra Lynne, Tia Rosanne, and Cale Johannes. Tamara Lane, baptized at St. Peter Church, married John (Buzz) D. Lunde, Jr., of St. Thomas, at the Mountain Lutheran Church, with Pastor Alford E. Setness, who was then a pastor of the Grafton Lutheran Church, performing the ceremony, since the bride's church didn't have a pastor at that time. Tamara graduated from Adams High School; Buzz, from St. Thomas; and he attended UND, Grand Forks. Tammy worked at the Sunset Home in Grafton. They farm near St. Thomas, raising grain, sugar beets, sunflowers and pinto beans. They have four children — Rachel Dawn, Paula Jean, Miranda Lane and Marcus
John. Suzanne Annette Lindell, the fourth child of Alfred and Mary Ann Lindell, was born May 24, 1954, at the Deaconess Hospital in Grafton, N. Dak. She started first grade at the Dewey Township country school, with two classmates. The school house was designed with two class rooms and two teachers; one room accommodated first to fourth grade and the other held fifth to eighth. The things she remembered the most were nature hikes, playing in the ditches, and the ice-skating rinks in the winter. In the spring of 1962, the country school closed and Suzanne started third grade at Adams Public School. Activities throughout her remaining years at Adams were band, choir, cheerleading and being editor of the Annual in 1972. On May 24, 1972, she graduated from Adams High School, as class valedictorian. In the fall of 1972, she continued her education at the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks, as she pursued a mechanical engineering degree. In 1974 she was chosen to serve as a Co-op student with the 3M Company, St. Paul. This program allowed her to work and attend college, alternately, for 2'/2 years. On May 15, 1977, she graduated from UND with a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering. During her last year at college, Suzanne married her high school sweetheart, Garlen Lee Haroldson, son of Garvie and Elaine. They were united in marriage on Dec. 18, 1976, at Mountain Lutheran Church in Adams. Presently, Gar and Suzanne are living in St. Paul, where both are employed by the 3M Company. Gar is working in the Alarm Service Department as a data maintenance supervisor, and she is working for Magnetic Audio/Video Division Engineering as an advanced project engineer. They are both very active in their church, Grace Lutheran. They are serving on the Evangelism Committee, and Suzanne also serves on the church council. Some of her favorite hobbies are sewing, crocheting, baking and bike riding.
Grant Clark, baptized at Mountain Lutheran Church, married Sandra Lynne Johnson at the Methodist Church in Turtle Lake, N. Dak. Grant's class was the first class to start first grade in the new Adams school, where he also graduated from high school. Sandy graduated in Turtle Lake school. Both graduated from N.D.S.U., Fargo, where they both lived in the Co-op House. Sandy did her practice teaching in Grafton High School. They are living on the Henry O. Lundene farm, and they are farming. Sandy is the Walsh Co. F.U. Youth Director, and in the winter months Grant is North Dakota F.U. Fieldman for Walsh, Ramsey and Pembina Counties. He is also secretary of the Mountain Lutheran Church. They have two children — Rebecca Jo and Trinity Beth. Jana Dene Lindell, the sixth child of Alfred W. and Mary Ann Lindell, was born on Dec. 9, 1959 at the Deaconess Hospital in Grafton, N. Dak. She was baptized at St. Peter Lutheran church, rural Adams. Jana started first grade in 1 965 at Adams Public School. She was active in girl's basketball, cheerleading, choir, band, and 4H. On May 26, 1978, she graduated as an honor student. In August of 1978 she stated classes at Moorhead Area Vocational Technical Institute (MAVTI). In July, 1979, she graduated as a medical secretary. While she attended school she lived in the Women's Co-op House near NDSU. On Aug. 18, 1979, Jana was united in marriage to Allan Lee Berube of Rolette, N. Dak. Allan graduated from Rolette High School in 1975. He completed his education at NDSU, where he double-majored in agriculture education and agricultural economics. He student taught in Langdon, N. Dak., and graduated in May, 1980. He lived in the Men's Co-op House near NDSU. During this time Jana worked at Northwest Beverage, Inc., as a receptionist/secretary. Following graduation, Allan accepted a job as a loan officer with Production Credit Association (PCA) at Carrington, N. Dak. Jana works part-time at a fabric shop. They are kept busy with Allan's job and also participating in many community activities. Tena Marie, was the last baby to be baptized in the St. Peter Church before it closed in 1967. She attends school in Adams. The summer between her junior and senior years she attended UND on a program for advanced students. She has been accepted in the "Society of Distinguished High School Students," "America's Outstanding Names and Faces" and "Who's Who Among America's High School Students." At the present she is a senior in high school.
FRITZ MONSON FAMILY Fritz Monson was born Dec. 18, 1893, in Silvesta Township, the son of Trond and Ingeborg (Rundhaug) Monson. He was educated in the rural schools of Kinloss and Dewey Townships. When a young man he purchased a threshing machine, and in the fall threshed for neighbors and friends, besides farming. On January 7, 1940, Fritz Monson and Runa Gilbertson were married at the parsonage in Fairdale by Rev. Herbert Larson. Mrs. Monson was born in Aadalen, Norway, July 8, 1906. When an infant she immigrated with her parents, Rasmus and Thora Gilbertson, to America. She attended the Fairdale School and graduated from Edmore High School in 1925. In the fall she enrolled at Minot State Teacher's College and was a graduate of the two-year Standard Course. She later attended the State Teacher's College at Valley City and taught twelve years in the
public schools of Montana and North Dakota. Mr. Monson was township supervisor and a trustee, and Mrs. Monson, secretary, of St. Olaf Congregation, rural Fairdale. She was president and treasurer for LDR and ALCW. They were members of St. Olaf Lutheran and, later, Grafton Lutheran Church.
presently treasurer for Our Redeemer's Church and for the Ladies Aid. Leroy has served on the Farmers Union Oil Company Board of Directors for many years, on the Dewey Township Board, on the Church Council for Our Redeemer's Church, on the F.H.A. Board, and has been a member of the Fairdale Booster Club. The family has been raising and showing horses for the last five years. The summertime weekends finds them loading the pickup and trailer and heading for some show. Karen and Jeff have won numerous trophies and ribbons for their efforts. Teresa was born Jan. 3 1 , 1961, at Devils Lake, and attended grade school at Fairdale and graduated from Edmore High School. She is presently in her third year of college at UND, Grand Forks, where she is majoring in business. Karen was born July 14, 1964, and attended Fairdale Grade School and is now in her third year of High School at Edmore. Jeffrey was born Feb. 1, 1967, and attended school at Fairdale for six years until the school closed. He is now in the eighth grade at Edmore. MELVIN AND LILA MYRHE
Fritz and Runa Monson While on the farm, in the winter months of January and February, they traveled the Southwestern United States, by car, and spent three or four weeks in California. They lived on the farm until 1960 when they moved to Grafton where a new home was built. A nephew rented the farm and in March, 1974, they sold the 720-acre farm to Leroy and Carol Monson.
Melvin Myrhe was born January 24, 1910, on a farm in Newland Township, south of Edmore, in Ramsey County, the oldest child of Carl and Anna Kittleson Myrhe. There were four boys and two girls in the family. They farmed on this place a few years, then moved to a farm in Shepherd Township, Walsh County. Mrs. Myrhe died in 1918 during the flu epidemic. His youngest sister and brother were taken to be raised by other families, while the four oldest children stayed with their father and moved to another farm in Shepherd township. In 1921, Carl Myhre became ill and died. Melvin was then 11 years old, so went to live with Mr. and Mrs. John Hanson until he was old enough to go out working for the neighbors, while the three other children remained in the care of other families.
Fritz Monson passed away June 25, 1976, and the final resting place is the Grafton Lutheran Cemetery. Mrs. Monson has continued to make her home in Grafton.
LEROY AND CAROL MONSON Leroy Monson was born Feb. 16, 1934, at Grafton, N. Dak., to Goodwin and Gyda Monson. He has one older sister, Grace, and a younger sister, Mary. He attended grade and high school at Fairdale and after graduation in 1951, attended the State School of Science at Wahpeton for one year. He worked at the Farmers Union Oil Co., Fairdale, for approximately three years before entering the Marine Corps in the fall of 1954. He met and married Carol Tice while stationed in California. They were married in April of 1958. They returned to the Fairdale community after Leroy was discharged in the fall of 1958. He resumed working for the Farmers Union Oil Company until they moved to the farm of Fritz Monson, an uncle of Leroy, in April, 1960. Carol was hired as bookkeeper for the Farmers Union in 1959 and worked there on and off for about eight years. She also worked for Marvin Ulberg at the Fairdale Supply for approximately two years. Leroy worked with both milk and beef cattle for a few years but later concentrated on small grain farming. Carol was born at Presque Isle, Wise, to Margaret and Milton Tice. She reciived her education in Wisconsin and later in Upper Michigan. She is a past member of the Homemakers Club, has held office in Our Redeemer's Ladies Aid and is
Melvin and Lila Myhre In 1926 Melvin Myhre went to Oregon to work in the saw mills, and spent six years in Oregon. He then returned to North Dakota and worked on farms in the Shepherd and Dewey area. He also worked in Grand Forks for Armour's and Western Fruit Company. In 1943, he bought a farm in Dewey Township. In the winters he has done some traveling and has been in almost every state.
On October 1 2 , 1 9 6 2 , he married Lila Slatten, who lived in Adams. She was the daughter of Henry and Eline Iverson Slatten. She has a brother Lloyd, who now lives in Adams. A brother, Melvin, died in 1974 and her parents died in 1948. After their wedding the couple went to Washington and Oregon to spend the winter, as Melvin's two sisters lived in Oregon. Melvin and Lila were members of the Vang Church and he was treasurer of the church for a few years. He was also a supervisor of Dewey Township for a few years. In 1975, they moved to Adams, N. Dak., where they built a new home. They disposed of a farmstead and some land, but still farm two quarters of land. They are members of the Mountain Lutheran Church.
GUDRUN NYGAARD Gudrun Nygaard was born June 3, 1914, in Dewey Township to Asta and Erick Nygaard. She attended Minette Beauty School in Fargo, N. Dak., in 1934 and worked in Fargo until April 1942. Then she went to Bellingham, Wash., and worked there until Oct., 1942, when a friend (Vivian) from Moorhead, Minn., talked her into going to San Francisco with her.
EVELYN (NYGAARD) AANDAHL Evelyn Nygaard was born June 11, 1917, in Dewey Township to Asta and Erick Nygaard. She attended Lutheran Bible School at Fergus Falls, Minn., graduating in 1 937. She was married to Gorgen Aandahl July 3, 1938, at Edinburg, N. Dak., by Rev. J. P. Langemo, the same minister that married her mother and father in 1912. They moved to Ferndale, Wash., in 1942 and lived there until 1965 when they moved to Marysville, Wash. They had four children — Germaine, Marlene, Cheryl and Howard. Germaine married Dean Hickson and lives in Centralia, Washington. They have two children, Kevin and Sonja. Marlene married Richard Chilson and lives in Fife, Wash. They have four children — Marrita, Richard, Lynette, and Jeanette. Cheryl married Jim Chilson and lives in Everett, Wash. They have two children, LeeAnn and Tyson. Howard is presently living in Everett, Wash. Evelyn Aandahl passed away Dec. 9, 1974, and is buried in Marysville, Wash. Gorgen Aandahl remarried in 1976 to Alice (Gjonnes) Medlang, a classmate of Evelyn. Alice and Gorgen live in Marysville, Wash.
Gorgen, Evelyn and Howard Aandahl.
Gudrun Nygaard In May, 1943, Gudrun joined the Waves (Navy). During the war she worked for Government Printing. After the war she joined the Book Binders Union and worked as a bindery worker until her retirement in March, 1980. Gudrun is now living in Everett, Wash., close to a niece, Cheryl Chilson.
RAYMOND NYGAARD FAMILY Raymond Nygaard, son of Erick Nygaard, was born on a farm in Dewey Township and has lived there all his life. He was born June 15, 1919, and lives on N. W. % Section of 29, Township 159, Range 59. He was married to Myrtle Dahlgren, daughter of Fred and Pernelle Dahlgren, on June 27, 1942.
Raymond and Myrtle Nygaard
They are the parents of seven children — Mardyce Rae (Mrs. Clark Olson) of Boise, Ida., who has five children (four from a previous marriage) — Karen, Dori, Kenneth and Ricky Engen and Christie Olson; Roger is married to Carmen Legacie, and mother of two boys, Todd and Timothy. Roger is farming and working with the Ironworkers. Richard married a Korean girl, Tae Sun Kim, when he was with the army in Korea, and they have two sons, Steven and Shawn. Richard has a body and repair shop in Edmore. Ronnie is farming in the Fairdale area; he married Linda Chyle of Lankin and they have three children — Jody, Heather, and Ronald Brandon. Robert is working and living in Bismarck. He is married to Nancy Shirek of Lankin, and they have two boys, Jared and Jeremy.
CARL AND CLARA RAMBERG Mrs. Clara Mathilda Viger Ramberg was born in Fertile Township, southwest of Grafton, N. Dak., on Aug. 22, 1885. Her parents were Gunerius and Dagna Findring Viger. Her father was born in Telemark, Norway, on June 12, 1845, and married Dagna Findring in Decorah, la. Dagna was born in 1840. Clara was the youngest of five children born to Gunerius and Dagna. Imagine their joy in getting a daughter after having four sons! Clara's brothers were Martin, John, Albert, and Oscar. Martin, John, and Oscar all homesteaded in the Edmore area in Newland Township. Albert farmed with his father in Fertile Township and continued to live there with his family for some years after his father's death. Dagna moved to the city of Grafton after her husband's death. Clara's father died on July 9, 1915, at the age of 70 and her mother died on April 11,1929, at the age of 89 at her daughter's home near Edmore. They are both buried in the Concordia Cemetery, west of Grafton.
Patricia lives in Boise, Ida., and works for a real estate company. She married Jerry Stiburek. Randall, the youngest, is living at home.
LEROY D. OKESON LeRoy D. Okeson, son of Mr. and Mrs. Lewis Okeson, was born and raised on the family farm in Dewey Township. Following Army service, Mr. Okeson attended the University of North Dakota where he graduated in 1958. After that, he attended Southern Illinois University under a teaching assistantship where he graduated with a Master of Science degree in 1959. Mr. Okeson married Marlene Pfeifle in California in 1960. Mrs. Okeson is a graduate of North Dakota State University, Fargo, and taught high school in Minnesota and California. They have lived in San Diego since 1960. There are three children — Scott 19, Jane 15, and Karen 9. The family are avid water- and snow-skiers. Mr. Okeson is the Deputy Director of the City of San Diego Planning Department. He is also a real estate investor and is a member of an office building firm in Salt Lake City, Utah.
MILO OKESON FAMILY Milo Okeson, son of Lewis and Selma Okeson, and JoAnn Drevecky, daughter of Theodore and Emily Drevecky of Adams, were united in marriage October 22, 1954. They farm in Dewey Township. Their three children are: Michael (May 9, 1955), graduated from Adams High School and the Lake Region Junior College, Devils Lake. He farms and works with the James Drevecky Construction Company. Joni (Aug. 1, 1958), is a graduate of the Adams High School and Aaker's Business College and is now employed at Nekoma with the Youth Conservation Corps. Jill (Feb. 4, 1960) attended Adams High School and graduated from Woodrow Wilson Adult Education and Moorhead Area Vocational Technical Institute. She married Michael Owen, son of Delvin and Mildred Owen of Adams, July 30, 1977. She is presently employed at Blue Cross — Blue Shield at Fargo. Michael Owen attends school at Hector Airport in Fargo.
Carl and Clara Ramberg Family: left to right, back row, George, Thelma (Mrs. Luverne Olson), Myrtle (Mrs. Norman Hogfoss), Ernest; front, Carl, Arnold, Delina, and Clara. Clara's close companion was her cousin, Josie Findring Wirkus, during her childhood days. They were like sisters and their friendship and closeness continued through the years. Clara attended a rural school near her home and was confirmed at the South Trinity Lutheran Church, west of Grafton. The only transportation the young folks had at this time was by walking or using their bicycles. Their social life was limited — mostly visiting with the neighbors, going to church activities, or an occasional dance in a neighbor's home. In the meantime Clara met Carl Ramberg who had visited relatives and worked in the Grafton area. Carl immigrated to Grafton, N. Dak., in 1 892 at the age of 18 years. He was born in Namdalseid, Norway, which is north of Trondelags, on Oct. 12, 1873. His parents were Petter and Marselie Ramberg. He had one brother, Eleseus, and one sister, Bertha. It was not easy to leave his family in Norway, but his urge was to go to America to find work. In the year, 1897, he homesteaded on a farm six miles east of Edmore. On June 20, 1906, Carl and Clara were married in Grafton. Their attendants were Josie Findring and Medwin Brende, both of Grafton and cousins of Clara. They continued to farm on his original homestead until 1943 when they moved into Edmore. Carl was one of the first members of St. Olaf Church of rural Fairdale. The Allan Arneson's new live on the home place. Carl and Clara had seven children — George, Ernest, Myrtle, Thelma, Oscar, Arnold and Delina. George married Annie Christianson of Edmore in 1 930 and they farmed five miles west of Edmore. They are retired, but continue to live on their farm.
Ernest married Elda Holm of Edmore and they farmed about five and one half miles east of Edmore. Also retired, they bought a home in Devils Lake in Aug., 1980. They rent their farm land to Elling Holm of Edmore. Myrtle married Norman Hogfoss in 1934 at Fairdale where they farmed for many years before moving to Grafton, N. Dak. Myrtle still works part-time at the Grafton State School. Thelma married Luverne Olson of Milton in 1952. Luverne farmed before the year 1952. In the fall of 1952 he started working as a Standard Oil agent and rented the farm to neighbors. Thelma taught in various schools, for over 23 years, in the Ramsey, Cavalier, and Walsh Counties. Luverne and Thelma both retired in 1976. They continue to live in Milton and spend their winters in Arizona. Oscar died in the year of 1921, from pneumonia, at the age
Protection Corporation; Roger is in business management; Marlyce is a former teacher; Renae is a beautician; Norman, Jr., farms the home farm near Fairdale. The family of Luverne and Thelma Olson are Mrs. James (Bonnie) Granberg of Ray, N. Dak.; Mrs. Lowell (Linda) Williams, Hallock, Minn.; Mrs. Chris (Marcia) Washburn, New Town, N. Dak.; and Keith, Morton, III. Bonnie and Linda are teachers, Marcia is a registered nurse, and Keith is a pharmacist. Arnold and Ann Ramberg have one son, Gary, of Chino Calif. He is in partnership with his father in the Advance Fire Protection Company. Allen Skavhaug is the son of Alden and Delina. He works in a home for the disabled at Rawlins, Wyo. Two grandchildren are deceased. Carl and Clara also had 35 great-grandchildren and six great-great-grandchildren.
of six years. Arnold married Ann Ellingson of Adams. They live in Whittier, Calif., where he is co-owner of the Advance Fire Protection Company in LaHabra. Delina married Alden Skavhaug of Adams. She died in 1954 at the age of 29 years.
Carl Ramberg and Clara (Viger) Ramberg (right) wedding picture.
Left to right, front row: Martin Viger, Clara (Viger) Ramberg, John Viger; back row, Oscar Viger, a family friend, Albert Viger. Carl and Clara Ramberg's 18 grandchildren are: Mrs. Donald (Joan) McGillis of Detroit Lakes, Gerald Ramberg of West Fargo, Mrs. Joey (Georgia) Heisler of Grand Forks, and Brian Ramberg of Chaffee. Joan, Gerald, and Brian are teachers and Georgia is employed at Dayton's in the Columbia Mall. They are sons and daughters of the George Rambergs. Mrs. William (Barbara) Hanson and Mrs. Donald (Mona) Engebretson, both of Glendive, Mont., are daughters of the Ernest Rambergs. They both teach in the Glendive School System. The children of Norman and Myrtle Hogfoss are Curtis of West Covina, Calif., Mrs. Eugene (Marlyce) Kemmet of Wahpeton; Raymond of Fresno, Calif.; Roger of Springfield, Ore.; Norman, Jr., of Fairdale; and Mrs. Monte (Renae) Hansen, Wahpeton. They also raised a nephew, Allen Skavhaug, of Rawlins, Wyo. Curtis is a lawyer; Raymond is a supervisor for a Fire
Like so many pioneers Carl and Clara experienced hardships and disappointments. There were droughts and crop failures, along with the grasshoppers in the thirties; blizzards and often a time of tragedy. The death of their son, Oscar, and a daughter, Delina, were deep losses to them. Sickness struck the members of the family often, but Carl always found a home remedy to cure them. They worked very hard to raise food for their large family, but no one remembers going hungry — even in the time of the Depression days. Everything had to come from the farm. Like others, they bought their supply of flour and sugar in the fall, and did their butchering for the meat supply for winter. During the winter months, Carl, a self-educated man, did a lot of reading and Clara loved to embroider and crochet. They loved to visit with neighbors, attended school activities in Newland School where their children went to school, and often attended house parties in the community. Carl served on the school board in the Newland School District, and was on the elevator board in Edmore. They belonged to the rural St. Ansgar Congregation until 1943 when they joined the Concordia Lutheran Church in Edmore. Mrs. Ramberg was a charter member of that Ladies Aid. The fond memories include summer picnics together, the
Their son, Melvin, married Marie Larvick of Hazelton, N. Dak., in 1936 and they have three children. Milton, their son, married Kay Foss of Fargo and they have Julie, home with them in Wurtsmith Air Base in Michigan, Gregory in the U.S. Navy, and Jodi (Mrs. Randie Strom) of Dayton, Ohio. Melvin and Marie's daughter. Patricia, married Gerald Erickson of Nortonville, N. Dak., and they live in Minnetonka, Minn., with children Steven, Michelle, Wade and Kristi, while Brian attends Gustavus Adolphus College. Their younger daughter, Sharon, married Edmund Albrecht of Oakes and they live in Fargo with their daughters, Elissa, Elayna and Melinda Jo.
Carl Ramberg home 4th of July celebrations in Edmore, our father's threshing rig, helping mother in the cookcar, the annual summer trip to Grafton to visit our grandparents, and, of course, many other memories. Clara and Carl both had time to listen to the children's problems, and had a sense of humor, even in difficult times. Very little traveling was done during their lifetime. Clara went by plane to California in 1 9 6 1 , with her sister-in-law, Mrs. Louise Viger, to visit relatives; Carl made a trip to Norway in 1902 and again in 1948. In 1977 his daughters, Myrtle and Thelma, visited his homeland, and in 1979 George and Annie Ramberg and daughter, Mrs. Joan McGillis, were visitors in Norway.
Matt and Violet's daughter, Harriet, married Harold Vorachek of Lankin, N. Dak., in 1941, and they had four sons. James married Mitzi Fredlund and they and daughters, Laura and Johanna, live in Philadelphia, Pa.; Bryce married Judy Hagen, they and daughter Mara, and son, Mathias, live in Fargo. Keith married Laurel Lewis of Rock Lake and they live in West Fargo. Harriet's husband Harold passed away in 1955 and son Ross in 1963. Harriet, retired, now lives in Wahpeton. Melvin, retired, and Marie now live in Hillsboro, N. Dak. In 1972, following their 60th wedding anniversary, Matt and Violet, with their daughter, Harriet, took a trip to Norway. Matt's first trip back to his childhood home in 68 years was a glad reunion with a brother and sister in Gudbrandsdalen and with a brother and family in Sandefjord.
Carl Ramberg passed away Oct. 19, 1954, at the age of 81 years in the Edmore Hospital. Clara died at the Langdon Hospital on Nov. 12, 1973, at the age of 88 years. Both are buried in the St. Ansgar cemetery, east of Edmore, along with their son, Oscar, and two grandchildren.
MATHIAS A. (MATT) RINDAHL Mathias A. ("Matt") Rindahl was born Jan. 2 1 , 1888, in Saksumdal, near Faaberg, Gudbrandsdalen, Norway, the fourth child of Amund and Anna Rindahl. At the age of 16 he came to America with an older brother, to relatives in Hutchinson, Minn. After a winter of school in Hutchinson he set out to see the new land of America. He worked as a lumberjack in Minnesota, tried his hand at homesteading in Canada, fired a locomotive on a Canadian railroad, and worked on a farm near Edinburg, N. Dak. Returning to Minnesota he became a streetcar motorman in St. Paul. Here he met Violet Hansen of Taylors Falls, Minn. Matt and Violet were married in St. Paul on July 3, 1912, and made that city their home. A son, Melvin, was born there in 1913. Some time later an offer to Matt to work on a farm came from Henning Gunhus of Edinburg. Accepting the offer they moved to a farm, east of Fairdale, in the spring of 1915. On this farm a daughter, Harriet, was born in the summer of 1915. In the fall of 1916 they went into farming for themselves, moving to the East Half of Section 30 in Dewey Township, to what later became known as the Bjorneby farm. Mart and Violet Rindahl enjoyed the ups and endured the downs of the years of farming; busy with the affairs of home, school, and church, a part of a community growing from youth to its maturity. Members of the St. Olaf Lutheran Church, they enjoyed its fellowship until they left the community in 1942 to work in the shipyards of Sausalito, Calif., lending their bit to building tankers for the war effort. In 1945 they returned to North Dakota, settling in Wahpeton, where Matt worked as a plumber and carpenter and Violet worked as a seamstress until they retired.
Matt and Violet Rindahl Matt Rindahl, at 88, passed away at his home in Wahpeton in 1976 and is buried in that city. Mrs. Violet Rindahl continues to live in their home in Wahpeton and at this writing remains busily engaged in her several projects at the age of 87.
HISTORY OF MR. AND MRS. GOODWIN SEVERSON Goodwin Severson was born Oct. 6, 1912, near Adams, to Andrew and Mary (Samuelson) Severson (Vol. 2, Page 982). Inga was born Jan. 14, 1911, near Fairdale, to Andrew and Emma (Bergstrom) Skare. (Vol. 2, Page 882). Goodwin and Inga were married on Aug. 18, 1941, at Grafton and are the parents of three sons, Gerald Severson, born May 26, 1942, at Park River, Roger Severson, born Feb. 6,
1945 at Grafton, and Duane Severson, born April 1 1 , 1 9 4 6 , at Grafton Gerald and Roger are unmarried and live on the home farm Duane is married to Linda Levang, daughter of M r and Mrs Vivian Levang, of Adams. They have five children - David, Diana, Melinda, Mike and Tommy. Duane is employed at the Fairdale Co-op Elevator. Goodwin Severson also has three stepchildren: Mrs. Oliver (Granum) Samdahl, Edinburg. Arnold Granum, now deceased, and Adrean Granum, who is an over-the-road trucker. Goodwin and Inga Severson farmed for a number of years north of Adams until purchasing Inga's parent's farm, south of Fairdale. While there they were members of the Gustavus Adolphus Lutheran Church He served as church treasurer, a member of school and township boards, and member of the Fairdale Booster Club. Due to ill health, Goodwin and Inga purchased a home in Grafton, and moved there in 1968. Inga worked at the Grafton State School for five years. While in Grafton they were members of Our Saviour's Lutheran Church. Goodwin passed away on April 13, 1973, and is buried in the Grafton Lutheran Cemetery at Grafton. GARLEN AND VIRGINIA SKARE FAMILY Garlen Skare and Virginia Keitzman of Bartlett, N. Dak., were married Mar. 1 1 , 1942, at the Lutheran parsonage in Fairdale, N. Dak. They lived and farmed with Garlen s parents, Mr. and Mrs. Lars Skare.
Garlen and Virginia Skare They became the parents of five children: Lila Skare was born Dec. 24, 1942, attended grade school at Dewey School and graduated from high school in Fairdale in 1960 She attended Minot State College for two years and then started teaching in Williston, N. Dak. She married Larry Lynne of Binford N. Dak., Aug. 15, 1965. Larry is elementary principal of two schools in Williston and Lila teaches fifth grade. They have two sons, Paul Michael, born June 20, 1973, and Aaron Mathew, born Jan. 9, 1978. Duane Skare, born Jan. 25, 1946, attended grade school in Dewey Township, and graduated in 1964 from Fairdale High School. He attended the Junior College in Devils Lake for two years and then went on to U.N.D., Grand Forks, graduating in 1968. Duane married Mary Skaug of Nekoma, N. Dak., on July 13, 1968. Duane and Mary taught school for one year at
Pillsbury, N. Dak., before Duane enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in August, 1969. He served overseas in Saigon, Vietnam, for one year- returning to the States, he was stationed two years at Grand Forks Air Base. In May, 1977, Duane and Mary adopted a little Korean girl, who was 10 months old when she arrived in the United States. Her name is Kristina Ranae and her birthday is Aug. 4, 1976. In June, 1977, Duane accepted a civil service job in San Antonio, Tex., where they now live. Dean Share, born Dec. 3 1 , 1 9 4 8 , attended grade school at Dewey School and Fairdale, graduating from Edmore High School in 1967. He worked on local farms until being drafted into the U.S. Army, April, 1970. He spent one year overseas in Korea, and was discharged Jan., 1972. He now farms his own land and lives with his parents. Ranae Skare was born Dec. 10, 1950, attended the Dewey Township school, the Fairdale school, and graduated from Edmore High School in 1968. She attended two years of Junior College at Devils Lake, then went to U.N.D. at Grand Forks, where she graduated in 1972. She taught school for two years in Lakota, N. Dak., then went back to Grand Forks to work at a bank and the Northwestern Bell Telephone Co. She married Mark Larson of Grand Forks on Sept. 14, 1979. They now live at West Fargo, N. Dak., where Mark is manager of Cable T.V. there. Verlane Skare, born Nov. 11, 1958, also attended grade school at Fairdale and graduated from Williston High School in 1977. She married Harold Johnson of Williston on July 30, 1977. They have one son, Kristin Dean, born Feb. 18, 1978. JOHN SKARE John Skare was born in Dewey Township on Oct. 2 6 , 1 9 1 5 , to parents Andrew and Emma Skare. His school days were spent in District 1 with two years in Fairdale. He enlisted in the Navy in February, 1941, serving aboard the battleship USS South Dakota in the South Pacific, the Asiatic and the European Theater of Operations, as well as into the Arctic, off the coast of Spitsbergen (Svalvard), and the northern tip of Norway. The ship participated in most major campaigns of the war including the bombardment of the Japanese home island of Honshu in July, 1945. In August the " A Bomb" was dropped. Thus ended the bitter struggle that had lasted almost four years and been so costly in human life. In the course of the war, the ship steamed 246,970 miles. With the war over, John Skare was transferred to Bremerton Wash While there, he married Theresa Thompson, formerly of Edmore, in Seattle on Jan. 10, 1946. He had one year left in the Navy. His first job was with the Post Office in Seattle for a year before moving to Longview in 1948. Here he worked four years in the plywood industry, then 26 years in the paper industry, retiring in 1978. Theresa is a registered nurse and has worked in Longview for 20 years. Alan their oldest son, was born in Bremerton on Jan. 6, 1947. He and his wife, Karen, are high school math teachers in Shelton, Wash. They have four children. Merle, their second son, was born in Longview on May 13, 1949 He works for a building supply firm in Seattle, and his wife, Kay, works for The Bon Marche. They have no children. Paul their youngest, was born in Longview on Aug. 3, 1954 and works for the same company his father did. He and his wife, Gail, and their three children, live in Longview. 194
John Skare Family: left to right, Paul, Merle, Allan, Theresa, and John Skare. John's membership in The American Legion spans 34 years. Theresa and he are long-time members of Emmanual Lutheran Church.
Andrew and Ragna Skytland
Andrew Skare (father), died in 1936; Anna Skare Peach, (sister), died in 1978; Emma Skare, (mother), died in 1979. All are buried at Gustavus Adolphus Cemetery.
Edinburg and they have four children. Judy is married and lives in Grand Forks; Eileen is married and lives in Washington; Clarine is also married and lives in Greenbush, Minn.; Ardian is a student at Moorhead State University. Andy died in 1968 and is buried at Lakota, N. Dak.
ERICK SKIEDE
Norman was born in Dewey Township, Feb. 23, 1927, and spent his growing-up years in Dewey Township and Adams. He was a member of the armed services for two years during World
Erick Skiede was born July 13, 1890, to Lars and Liv Skiede, a native of Mandalen in Romsdal, in the beautiful little valley of Void, Norway. He received his elementary education in the Void School where the Word of God was taught together with reading, writing and arithmetic, establishing a good foundation for his life. In his family were four sisters, Liv, Chaloug, Margarette, and Swanhild, and one brother, Paul.
War II. On Aug. 28, 1949, Norman married Annie Melland, daughter of Wally and Inga Melland of Fairdale. They farmed in Tiber Township from 1 950 to 1953, and then he was employed by Roy Schultz at Roy's Market, Adams, until 1956. They then moved back to Fairdale and purchased the Fairdale Locker Plant which Norman operated until 1968, at which time he sold the Locker Plant to Jim and Pearl Kotaska. On Oct. 25, 1968, he was appointed postmaster at Fairdale and this is his present occupation.
Erick came to America and settled on a farm near Fairdale, N. Dak., western Walsh County. He was absorbed with grain farming and sheep raising. He was a great help to neighbors round about, especially to Hans and Marie Woldseth, and vice versa. Mrs. Woldseth would make his butter (and how he enjoyed buttermilk), baked his bread and many goodies for his table, also did his laundry, and his house cleaning, washed walls and hung curtains. He, in turn, helped Hans, working together during threshing machine time, and other busy seasons. His brother, Paul, came from Norway and stayed a few years, doing farm work together, after which he (Paul) went back to his native Norway. During the winter months Erick would spend time in Canada and also the west coast. One year he worked as custodian at the Univeristy of Washington. He made seven journeys back and forth to Norway during his lifetime. He bought a little house in Adams and lived there a while before deciding to make Malde, Norway, his home, so never did return to America again. He passed away in Malde, Norway, in 1975. His final resting place is in Void in Romsdal, Norway.
ANDREW SKYTLAND FAMILY Andrew Skytland, son of Martin N. and Olive (Blagstvedt) Skytland, was born in Dewey Township. He married Ragna Rinnhagen in 1920 and farmed in Dewey Township until his death in 1937. They had three children: Andv Roy, Juel Morris and Norman Ordell. Andy, born May 25, 1921, married Nadine Ecckles from
Norman and Annie Skytland 195
particularly hockey, baseball, soccer and basketball. Marlys is interested in swimming, gymnastics, ballet, and, this year is also playing soccer. Michael will get a banjo this fall and begin classes and Marlys will begin violin lessons and later, piano. Michael and Marlys attend Rita Murphy Elementary School. Michael is in the 6th grade and Marlys is in the 4th grade. Each summer Juel's family looks forward to a trip to Minneapolis to attend the Yankee-Twins baseball game. They are New York Yankee fans. They also enjoy camping each summer.
Andy and Nadine Skytalnd Norman and Annie have three children — Nancy, Angela and Wayne. Nancy is married to Dick Robb of Fairdale and they have three children — Matthew Scott, born June 1, 1975; Anthony Michael, born Feb. 16, 1977; and Lisa Maire, born Aug. 18, 1979. Dick Robb is now district manager at Glidden Paint. Nancy is a housewife, but before they had their family she was a licensed practical nurse. They live in Fargo, N. Dak. Angela Wigger and her son, Christopher Aaron, live in Nashville, Tenn. Wayne now lives in Waseca, Minn., and is employed at E. F. Johnson Co., and still single. Annie helped operate the Fairdale Locker for 12 years and also is a part-time clerk at the post office and the grocery store. Now she is busy at home doing ceramics, sewing, bowling, etc Ragna Skytland married Kimpton Torgerson in 1945 and lived in Silvesta Township until her death in 1971. Kimpton is still on the farm and is now 86 years old and still doing fine.
JOHN SOBAK John Evan Sobak was born June, 17, 1924, at the home of his parents, John E. and Emma (Sukstorf) Sobak, in Newland Township, Ramsey County. When John was three years old, he moved with his parents and his sister (Elna Nygaard) and his brother, Willard, to the farm where he now lives, in Dewey Township, in western Walsh County. John attended school in Dewey school No. 120 and then he worked for Erick Skide in 1940 and 1941. John started farming in 1943 with a one-horse outfit and a tractor. John also worked on threshing rigs in the neighborhood. He worked for Erick Nygaard, George Sander and Martin Diseth, driving a team ot horses hauling the shocks of grain to the threshing machine. John and his uncle, Fred Sukstorf of Adams, bought a threshing machine together and threshed for themselves for a few years before buying his combine in 1950. In 1955 John spent a winter in Mexico. He also traveled through the western states. John went to school in Toronto, Canada, in the winter of 1959 for Automotive Diesel Engineering. John belongs to the Masonic Lodge No. 83 in Edmore, N. Dak • also the Kern Temple in Grand Forks and the Devils Lake Shrine Flag Corps; and the Eagles Club in Devils Lake.
HELMER AND ISABELLE (SMERER) STENSLAND Helmer Joseph Stensland was born Jan. 26, 1909, to Lewis and Thea (Rinnhagen) Stensland, on a farm six miles southeast o Fairdale There were no telephones, and doctors didn t get around very fast by sleigh or buggy. So the neighborhood midwives usually delivered the babies, in this case, it was Christina Dahlgren who was the midwife. Helmer received his elementary education at the Hedlund and Dahlgren schools, and was a confirmed member of the Vang rural church. He had one sister, Otella (Mrs. James Johnson), of Adams,
The Skytland family enjoys most sports, such as hunting, fishing, camping and bowling. But the greatest enjoyment that Norman and Annie get is visiting their grandchildren. JUEL AND FLORENCE SKYTLAND FAMILY Juel M. Skytland was born at Fairdale, N. Dak., to Ragna (Rinnhagen) Skytland and Andrew Skytland, on Nov. 5, 1924. Juel Skytland attended elementary school at a Dewey Township grade school, graduating in 1939. He attended high school at Adams, N. Dak., graduating in 1943. His college education consisted of attending the University of North Dakota, graduating with a B.A. degree in 1942, and earning a Master's Degree in social work from the University of Denver in 1971.
N.Dak. He farmed with his father for a time, and also worked for the North Dakota Highway Department. He then attended the Hanson Mechanic School at Fargo and gained experience in repairing tractors and cars for area farmers at his home which later proved to become his livelihood. His hqbbies were fishing and hunting. Isabelle Smerer was born April 22, 1920, at Sarles, N Dak., to Alexander (Sandy) and Alice Smerer, one of 14 children. Deceased are: Jim, George, Joseph, Alvina, and living are Elizabeth, Sadie, Lottie, Stella, Edward, Melvin, Helen, Lizzie, and Cecil. November 9, 1941, Helmer and Isabelle (Bella) Smerer were married at the Adams Parsonage with Rev. O. T. Haugen officiating. James and Otella Johnson were the attendants. I he
Juel was married to Florence Borchelt on Nov. 18, 1967, at Bismarck, N. Dak. Since their marriage, they have lived at Denver, Colo., and Bismarck, N. Dak. His occupation has been that of a school teacher and social worker, and he has worked for the North Dakota Social Service Board since 1966. Juel was in the Army during World War II. His overseas service was spent on the beautiful island of Oahu in the Hawaiian Islands. Juel and Florence have two children — Michael Juel, age 11, and Marlys Jean, age 9. Michael is very interested in sports, 196
Smerers purchased the Andrew Iverson farm and lived there until he retired from farming in 1949 when they moved to Coeur d' Alene, Idaho, and he was employed at a garage. They lived here several years and moved to Wilbur, Wash., for a year. Then they moved to Sandpoint, Idaho, where he worked at the Chevrolet Garage. He specialized in carburetor work and received five training awards.
Otella (Oatsie) married Tom Redl, May 15, 1971. Tom is the foreman for the Camas Prairie Railroad in Kamiah, Idaho, where they now live. They have no children.
OSCAR AND MINNIE TOLLEFSON Minnie (Dammen) Tollefson, the daughter of Ludvig and Kari Dammen, was born at Edinburg in 1892. They moved and homesteaded in Highland Township, north of Edmore, N. Dak. She had five brothers — Alfred, Lauris, Oscar, Clarence, and Henry. One sister died in infancy. Most of her young childhood was spent caring for her brothers while her parents worked in the fields. Schooling had been only a few brief years, as in those days work seemed more important, to help keep families going.
On Aug. 4, 1967, tragedy struck the family when Isabelle returned home to Sarles to attend a long-delayed family reunion and died of a sudden heart attack on her return home on the train. Helmer and fourteen-year-old Otella, the youngest, moved to Sagle, Wash. Helmer still worked at the Sandpoint Chevrolet Garage where he, too, died suddenly of a heart attack, Nov. 30, 1970, while at work. They are both buried in Forest Cemetery, Coeur d' Alene.
At the age of nineteen she had met and married Olaf Sholey, who was born in 1885, the son of Edward and Randi Sholey of Fairdale, N. Dak. To this union were born three children — Leonard (born in 1913), Kelma (born in 1915), and Thorman (born in 1918). After six years of marriage the flu epidemic struck and she became a widow with three children to support, the youngest being one month old. She took in laundry and did sewing for others and managed to keep her family together, although she was told to put her baby out for adoption.
Oscar and Minnie Tollefson Family: left to right, back row, Thorman Sholey, Howard Tollefson, Mrs. James (Kelma) McGregor; seated, Oscar Tollefson, Mrs. Wallace (Irene) Lee, Minnie Tollefson.
Helmer and Isabelle Stensland They had six children — Sharon, Ruby, Lavern, and Ronald, born in North Dakota, and Kathleen and Otella, born in Idaho. Sharon, the oldest, married Richard Braga, Nov. 1965. They have five children — Suzanne, John, Lisa, Sarah, and Mary. They have spent some time in Alaska but presently live at Denver, Colo., where Sharon is employed.
Four years later Leonard became the victim of scarlet fever and passed away at the age of nine. Minnie then decided to work out in cook cars and farm homes. During this time she met Oscar Tollefson, who was born in 1904 to Truls and Clara Tollefson. Minnie and Oscar were married in 1925 at Grafton, N. Dak. They started farming at Derrick, N. Dak., and the next year they moved to Highland Township near Edmore, and farmed there sixteen years. Two children — Howard and Irene were born to them. Those were the years called the "Dirty 30's," when farming was not like it is today. But somehow when the crops were poor, they managed, by having cows, chickens, and hogs to supply food for the table.
Ruby married Bruce Dawson, March 12, 1963, and they live at Hayden Lake, Idaho. They have four children — Rose Marie, David, William, and Elton. Bruce has been employed Department for 25 years.
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LaVern is a jammer operator for a logging company. He married Lois Drapeau on Oct. 16, 1965. They have three boys — Steven, Robert, and Gregory, and live at Post Falls, Idaho.
Years went by and in 1935 Kelma married James McGregor, the son of George and Ella Mae McGregor of Fairdale. Thorman married Adeline Clemens of Cooperstown in 1943. Howard married Adeline Elton in 1949; Howard also served in the Air Force for a few years. Irene married Wallace Lee in 1947. In 1 936, Oscar and Minnie took her parents to live with them, because of their poor health. Her father passed away in
Ronald married Linda Burt, June 29, 1968. He works at the Louisiana Pacific Lumber Mill in Sandpoint, Idaho, where they now reside. They have two children, Jeffrey and Tamie. Kathleen married Ellery Allen, April 19, 1973, and has a stepson, Darrel. She is employed at the Lilac Plaza Hotel in Spokane, where they live. 197
1939, at the age of 74 years and her mother died in 1953, at the age of 94. Oscar and Minnie were members of St. Hans Church and later transferred to Vang Lutheran Church. They had moved to Dewey Township in 1942, where they continued farming until their deaths. Minnie died in 1970 and Oscar in 1978.
VERNON VEJTASA FAMILY Vernon Vejtasa was born Aug. 9, 1923, to Cyril and Annie (Lofgren) Vejtasa, on a farm south and west of Fairdale. He lived on that farm, which he calls the "west place, until he was13 wears old. He then moved with his parents to his Grandmother Lofgren's farm which was 3 miles south, 1 mile east, and V4 mile south of Fairdale. Vernon attended the Hedlund grade school in Dewey Township and graduated from Fairdale High School in 1941. Vernon's special interest, or hobby, has always been horses. He remembers helping his dad move cattle when he was only four years old when he rode a black mare called Beauty. A knee injury from a car accident kept him out of the military service, so he continued to farm with his dad. On June 23, 1963, Vernon and Shirley McDaniel were married in the Gustavus Adolphus Church, rural Fairdale They continued to live on the family farm as Vernon s mother (now a widow) moved into Fairdale. Vernon and Shirley are the parents of J girls, Suellen, born July 17, 1965, and Audrey born Seot 13 1967. Both girls are students at the Edmore Public School. Vernon has been a director on the Fairdale elevator board, and is presently chairman of the Dewey Townshp Board a member of the Fairdale Booster Club, leader of the Fairdale Broncos 4-H Club, president of the Edmore Horse Lover s Saddle Club, and a director of the Upper Valley Riding Club.
and was to be signaled as the event became eminent. Ingeborg Lundene, the maternal grandmother, was in attendance as she would be also at the succeeding births. Two years later, on Dec 7, Borghild Isabella Wollan was born. Rolf Waldemar s birth occurred Dec. 11,1916. All were baptized and confirmed at St. Olaf Lutheran Church which their father, who was an ordained Lutheran minister organized in 1901. The church was located one mile north and one mile east of the family home. Among the bedtime stories read to them as children were the intriguing Norwegian "Eventyr" by Asbjorndson and Moe Mother used to remind Borghild that Norwegian was her first spoken language but, regrettably she retained less ot the language than Erling or Rolf. Their elementary education was obtained at the one-room Dewey school in district 120, frequently referred to as the Wollan School. It was located about a quarter of a mile due east of thenhome. After exiting the driveway and turning east the children soon crossed a country road intersection, and after climbing a hill arrived at school. School was in session seven months of the year. During eight years there were sixteen months less of school than in the more traditional nine-month school systems. Thus students attending the seven-month schools were virtually subjected to their eighth grade examinations at what would ordinarily have been the sixth grade level.
Vernon's love of horses has carried through all his life. He had always had horses on the farm. At the present time he owns three registered Quarter horses, which he and his daughters show at horse shows throughout the summer. The annual Edmore Horse Lover's Saddle Club show is also held at the Vejtasa farm.
WOLLAN, ERLING, BORGHILD AND ROLF North Dakota was a young state, not yet in its teens, when Edward B. Wollan ventured out on the prairies of western Walsh County to make his home. He used to tell of being visited by the great whooping cranes that vanished from the scene as the area became increasingly cultivated and populated. He and Mary b. Olson were united in marriage in 1911. Busy years ensued A new house was built and other buildings that were standard for the operation of diversified farming were added. They rennain pretty much intact today. The farm is now owned and operated by their son, Erling, who continues to make it his home. For a number of years he has been engaged exclusively in grain farming. Through the years North Dakota has been renowned for its waving fields of grain and bountiful harvests.
Erling Wollan The Norwegian-American Centennial was celebrated in Minneapolis in 1925. Accompanied by an aunt, Olga Lundene (Knudson), the Wollans set out for the big city in their Model l Ford The festivities were highlighted by the appearance ot President Calvin Coolidge. It was their first exposure to the rather dangerous crush of crowds that frequently gather on such occasions. While on the excursion they were caught in a downpour o rain which could often turn into a catastrophe during the days ot the Model T The side curtains were hastily fitted which provided some protection from the elements, but the coils in the coil box got wet, stalling the car. The Wollan children completed their high school education at the Walsh County Agricultural and Training School at WW River Erling was enrolled at Concordia College, Moorhead, Minn'., for his freshman year. His uncle, Thomas Wollan serve on the faculty at the time and Erling lived with the family. H| second year as an undergraduate was spent at Mayville Statt
And the earth brought forth grass, and herb yielding seed after his kind, and the tree yielding fruit, whose seed was in itself, After his kind: and God saw that it was good. Genesis 1:12 Erling Palmer, who was the first born, made his appearance on May 1 1 , 1912. His father was teaching at the home school 198
Teacher's College. He often expressed his desire to continue his formal studies but the Great Depression intervened. His parents were grateful that he remained on the farm. Erling's musical interests have been in piano and as a bass singer with various chorus groups. For a number of years he served as organist/pianist of the St. Olaf Lutheran Church. He was a member of the Fairdale-Adams choir that sang at a reception for Norway's King Olav V at Fargo, N. Dak., in 1 968. Their musical selections were presented in Norwegian and they were attired in the national costume of Norway. They were provided the opportunity of meeting the King and having pictures taken with him. On March 1, 1966, Erling was granted a patent for his invention of the Fluid Power System, a device for lift control of farm machinery. Since the death of their mother in 1958 Emelia Rinnhagen has been in charge of the affairs of the house and has helped to make the place a real home for Erling as well as for herself. I have especially appreciated the letters from Emelia that have come my way on a regular basis. Prior to the organization of Trinity Church, Emelia with her parents and sisters attended worship services conducted by our father at the Vejtasa school.
transferred to Richardson, Tex., they built a home and moved to the new location. Richardson is a suburb of Dallas. Rolf's family is a family of musicians. Lois's interest has been as a choir director and accompanist. Their son, Eric, who makes his home in Denver, Colo., is a percussionist and their daugher, Darby, a flutist. Lois currently owns and operates Cardinal, a pre-school and kindergarten, located at St. Barnabas United Presbyterian Church of Richardson. Darby Wollan Gay and her husband, Stephen Gay, who lives nearby, are the proud parents of a baby boy, Andre Nicolas.
BORGHILD WOLLAN Borghild has served in two noble professions — teaching and nursing. Her preparation for teaching was obtained at Mayville State Teacher's College where she completed two years. For four successive terms she taught at Dewey School No. 2 in District 120. During the first year four of the students enrolled had been former schoolmates at the same school. Her final year of teaching was at Melrose in School District 38, south of Michigan, N. Dak. She has fond memories of both her Dewey and Melrose teaching days.
ROLF WOLLAN Rolf graduated from the North Dakota Agricultural College at Fargo in 1940 with a degree in electrical engineering. Shortly thereafter he enlisted in the Army Air Corps. It was somewhat dismaying to read in several of the Cadet newsletters that he had acquired the habit of sleeping through his classes. They did, however, go on to explain that subsequently when tests were administered he passed with good grades. In 1944 Rolf was awarded his Wings at Pampa, Texas, Air Force Base with special recognition for the highest academic achievement in basic, primary and advanced flight training.
1. m Rolf Wollan Rolf was employed by the Collins Radio Company of Cedar Rapids, la., and Richardson, Tex. He served as an engineer and for a time in the capacity of chief pilot. Among his assignments at Collins was participation in the installation of a communication system aboard Air Force One. In 1973 Rolf was cited in Who's Who in Aviation. Rolf and Lois Humble were married in Cedar Rapids, la., Mov. 3, 1948. When the Collins Company headquarters
Borghild Wollan, Kahler School of Nursing Graduate in 1944, Rochester, Minn. In 1936 when her father sought medical attention at the Mayo Clinic she accompanied him and became interested in nursing as a part of continuing education. In 1944 she was graduated from the Kahler Hospitals School of Nursing. They constituted a group of three hospitals, wholly staffed by Mayo Clinic physicians. She was engaged in supervisory nursing work when one of her classmates invited her to accompany her to Washington, D. C. Her aunt resided in Washington and was about to leave for six months of travel and offered her niece her apartment facilities. Furthermore she could bring a friend. She eagerly accepted and obtained positions in nursing upon her arrival. Their spare time was spent exploring the numerous marvels of the Nation's capital as well as the surrounding environs, including New York City. She has remained in Washington and for a number of years
has been engaged in private duty nursing at the local hospitals. With the dual role of provider and housekeeper her years have passed swiftly. In 1964 she was a member of one of Dr. E. W. Bauman s tours of the Holy Land during which she also visited many of the capitals of Europe. Dr. Bauman's Bible Telecasts have been viewed in many parts of the nation and were selected to be used by the Armed Services stationed around the globe. Like countless other natives of the state Rolf, with his family and Borghild, have returned to North Dakota periodically to breathe deeply of its crisp, clean air and visit with family and friends For them the trip is never quite complete without seeing their uncle, Henry Lundene, and Selma Lundene, again. On rare occasions they may arrive when the Northern Lights play across the sky or hoar frost etches every tree and blade of qrass creating a veritable fairyland. Although these sights may be missed they almost always witness one of the spectacular sunsets and the canopy of stars at night where the horizon is unobstructed by forests, mountains or skyscrapers.
A RURAL SCHOOL NEWSPAPER OF THE THIRTIES. Five editions of the Dewey News Reel were published during the 1933-34 school year. The students rotated positions on the editorial staff, giving them experience in the various responsibilities involved. As you might well imagine only one copy of each handwritten issue appeared. Students took turns in taking the paper home. In lieu of a Parent-Teachers Association it provided a means of communication. It was well received by parents and other family members. Five to six pages constituted the usual paper and they were held together by common or straight pins^ Newspaper clippings and other materials of that era were often similarly fastened together. It seems strange today, with paper clips and staplers at one's fingertips. There is a certain nostalgia associated with reading newspapers of yesteryear which also applies to a little newsletter like the Dewey News Reel. Submitted by Borghild Wollan Teacher 1933-36 Dewey School No. 2, District 1 20
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DUNDEE TOWNSHIP FAMILY HISTORIES INGVALD AND THELMA AMUNDSON Ingvald Amundson, son of Hele and Ingeborg Amundson (Vol. 1, Page 585) was born June 7, 1913, on a farm three miles west of Edinburg. In 1914 the family moved to a farm south of Edinburg. When Ingvald was six they moved to a farm about eight miles northwest of Hoople, where Ingvald was to start school at Fairview No. 50. That fall the schoolhouse burned down! Next year they moved to the farm six miles west of Hoople, where Ingvald grew to manhood. Ingvald received his education in the north school of Dundee, School District No. 35, !4 mile from his home. This schoolhouse still stands at the Homme Dam, where it is used for a Pioneer Museum.
Dundee School This is a poem from the second Reader that Lars and Emma Almen used when they attended school in Dundee Township in the 1880's. I remember hearing Aunt Emma recite parts of this at times and wondered where she read it. Then I found it in this book. Virginia Almen Waith NEVER G I V E UP One step and then another, And the longest walk is ended; One stitch and then another, And the largest rent is mended. One brick upon another, And the highest wall is made; One flake upon another, And the deepest snow is laid. Then do not look disheartened On the work you have to do, And say that such a mighty task You never can get through. But just endeavor day by day Another point to gain, And soon the mountain which you feared Will prove to be a plain.
Thelma and Ingvald Amundson (Recently) Ingvald spent his early years doing farm work for his father and neighbors. One year while digging potatoes for his father, he got in an argument with the power takeoff on the F-12 tractor. He lost all of his clothes except his birthday suit, and part of that had to grow back! Another year, during threshing, he and a buddy were on their way from Park River to Grafton when he had his first and only accident. A cement bridge hit their car and threw it into an oncoming car. Luckily, nobody was seriously hurt, but Ingvald's car was totaled out.
Park Center Lutheran Church, located between Hoople and Edinburg.
In the spring of 1 942, Ingvald went into the Army to serve in World War II. He spent four years in service, returning home in December, 1 945. He saw combat as an infantryman in the South Pacific, and ended his tour of duty with the occupation troops in Northern Japan. On June 8. 1949. Ingvald Amundson and Thelma Estad of Hoople were united in marriage at the Hvideso Lutheran Church, where they had both been members since childhood and received their Christian education. Thelma Estad. daughter of Lars and Tilda Estad, was born
Aug. 12, 1915, at the Lars Estad home in Pembina County, about 9 miles northwest of Hoople. She received her education at Fairview School Dist. No. 50, and at W.C.A.S. at Park River. She spent most of her time as a young girl helping her folks, inside and outside, picking mustard in the spring and summer, and potatoes in the fall. Sometimes she worked in the cookcar for a neighbor in the fall, during threshing. During World War II, she worked at a potato dehydrating plant in Grand Forks with two of Ingvald's sisters. In 1944, Thelma and her folks moved to Park River, where she lived until her marriage.
Edinburg High School, and Wahpeton State School of Science. She married David Brandenburg, of Enderlin. in 1 973 and they reside at their new home in Fargo. They are parents of two sons, David and Jason. In 1980, Ingvald and Thelma retired from farming, but continue to live on their farm.
GINA AND ALBERT ANDERSON FAMILY Gina Halvorson was one of nine children born to Gregar and Bergit Halvorson in Dundee Township, east of Edinburg. She was baptized and confirmed in the Hvideso Lutheran Church where her parents were charter members. Gina attended rural school. She and her older sister, Mrs. Tillie Holm, worked hard to help their mother raise the large family and often helped with the chores and field work. After living in the old log house, they moved into a lovely large frame house which now can be seen for miles. Albert Anderson was the oldest of eight children born to Lars and Inger Anderson at Portland, N. Dak. At the age of three the family moved to Fosston, Minn., where he grew up. At the age of eleven he went to work on farms in the area. His parents both passed away when Albert was eighteen years old. The five youngest children put out for adoption. Those were sad and difficult days. During World War I, Albert served in the Navy and spent six months in the Aviation Corps in France.
Albert Anderson Family: Gina, Mable, and Albert.
Thelma and Ingvald Amundson (1949) After their marriage, Ingvald and Thelma settled on the farm north of the Hvideso Church. This farmstead was built up by Ingvald's uncle, Ole Haug. In 1954, their daughter, Joann, was born. Joann received her education in the new Dundee School,
Albert and Gina were married on July 7, 1927. They purchased the Bergit Borge farm, located just south of where Gina grew up and farmed there until their retirement. A daughter, Mable, was born to the Andersons. She married Earl Dahl of Grafton and now lives in Bemidji, Minn., where they are in business. Gina and Albert have seven grandchildren. One grandson, Allen Dahl, was killed in a train-car accident about four years ago. There are seven great-grandchildren also. The Andersons celebrated their Golden Wedding Anniversary on Sept. 18, 1977, at the Hvideso Lutheran Church. They continue to make their home in the white house on the hill where there is always an open door and welcome for all their many friends and relatives.
GILMA AND MELFORD ANDERSON Mr. and Mrs. Melford Anderson lived and farmed in Dundee Township. Melford was the son of Tosten and Johanna Anderson and was born on May 14, 1901, in Dundee Township. Melford had four brothers and two sisters — Elmer, Ben (deceased), Henry, Theodore, Julia (deceased), and Clara (Hurtt). Melford spent five years in Chicago working and went to school and graduated from Coyne Electrical School.
Gilma Anderson and her daughter, Marlene. Melford married Gilma Brandvold, daughter of Ben and Betsy (Finseth) Brandvold. Gilma was born June 1, 1908, in New Richland, Minn, and came to Edinburg, N. Dak., with her parents when she was six months old. They farmed just east of Edinburg in Lampton Township. Gilma had three older halfsisters, Gunhild, Agnes (both deceased), and Helen, and two older half-brothers, Ole and Edgar (both deceased). Gilma graduated from Edinburg High School in 1926, then attended Mayville Normal (Teacher's College) and taught school. In March, 1942, Melford and Gilma were married at United Lutheran Church in Grand Forks by Rev. H. A. Helsem of Grafton. The family became members of Park Center Lutheran Church. They are parents of one daughter, Marlene, who graduated from the Walsh County Agricultural School in Park River. In 1964 Marlene received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Education from Mayville State College and taught school in Argyle, Minn., for seven years. In 1972 Marlene married Norman Paulson, son of Carl and Cora Paulson, Hoople. They are farmers and live on the home farm of Melford and Gilma. In 1980 Norman and Marlene built a new home on the farm.
farmer and mechanic — and has lived on the home place all his life except for two winters in California. He farmed when there were small horse-driven mowers, binders and such. And helped with the shocking of grain and corn. He also stacked the hay that had to be brought in later for feed for lots of cattle, horses, calves, pigs, chickens and turkeys. His mother was a turkey specialist and had a flock much of the time. The grain was threshed by outside threshers and local people helped so Hamie pitched bundles into the threshing machine (spike pitched). Long days — before daylight until after dark in the fields. This gave them huge straw piles to be hauled in as needed to bed down the animals. And most people threshed one large stack in the pasture as protection for the stock. Yes, Myrtle Berg was also out in the fields to help her dad once in a while in Kensington Township — but only in an emergency enough to give her a try at it. There was always more than plenty to do in the house, helping her mother who was always at the sewing machine making new clothes, but mostly meding the old. The children always had a set day for each job: Monday was clothes wash day with the little gas engine to run the machine before they got their first Maytag; Tuesday was the day for ironing and two of them were kept busy all day ironing for a large family and also the hired help's clothes; they heated the irons on the wood-and-coal range and padded the table on each end like an ironing board; Wednesday all the floors were washed and they used a bit of milk in the water to get them to shine; Thursday was their extra day to do more or less as they pleased; then Friday was baking galore and cleaning upstairs and washing the floors upstairs; Saturday was a complete cleaning downstairs when they washed all the floors, and usually baked a cake so it would be fresh for the Sunday company which usually came, or they would go visiting the neighbors or relatives. The kitchen floor was washed every day. Almost every spring they would wallpaper, varnish furniture, and paint woodwork and such. This included calcimining the walls upstairs. Everything always had to be clean and fresh.
Melford died in 1968. When Marlene married, Gilma moved to Park River where she now resides.
MR. AND MRS. E. HAMILTON BERG HISTORY E. Hamilton Berg (Hamie) was born on the farm of his folks, Oscar and Clara Berg, in Dundee Township, where he still lives today. His father died in 1957 and his mother, in 1967. His parents lived in Park River from 1943 until their deaths — except that Clara lived at the Sunset Home in Grafton a few years. Hamie has two brothers and three sisters: Mrs. Alvin Gryte (Esther) who lives in Crookston, Minn.; Mrs. Clifford Gryte (Alice) who lives in Huron, S. Dak.; Orville who is married to Helen Thompson and lives in San Jose, Calif., and the youngest, Otto, who is married to Lillian Moller and lives in Middletown, Md. Hamie was the only one who started and ended up as a
Hamie and Myrt (July I, 1976)
To get back to the field work that Myrtle helped do — she walked behind the horses and drag (harrow), handled six horses on a field cultivator, and if the cultivator shovels got filled with debris, she would just lift them and clean and let the horses keep going.' She also remembers helping with haying, using the rake to gather up the hay in the field, and running the sweep rake to push hay over to stacks. Later in life, at home, she was one of the cooks in the "cook car." She remembers working with Bergit Thompson and her cousin, Hazelle Jacobson, and others. It was lots of hard work but lots of fun too. They fed 30 men - more or less - during the potato harvest. Up at 4 a.m. to fix breakfast for the "digger man" until that was set out the night before — then supper at 11 p.m. for the potato haulers. She didn't lose weight - she gained! They baked all their own bread, pies, fruit sauce and the works, as all did in those days. This was done every day in terrific heat with the coal range going. Pancake morning was really something! The pancakes were stacked inches high, 2-3 piles on each plate and set all over the stove - in the warming ovens, on top and in the oven and sides — to keep them warm, before we dared ask the men to come. Well, they came whether the cooks were ready or not. Never could fill them up, it seemed. During threshing time, his dad and brothers threshed for many others. Then it was up to the women to get the milking done. Mrytle remembers a time or two when she hand-milked 14 cows before her mother found the time to come out to help her. The big switch in farming came when tractors and combines were put into use — in late 20's and early 30's. Both their families got new radios, about in the middle and late '20's, and were very excited about staying up at night — very late - to get far away places. Such a thrill!! And that was when their folks didn't chase them to bed early. Bergs had an Eastman and the Larsons purchased an Atwater Kent. There weren't cars to drive to school and come home as we wanted, then. Mrytle had to go in with her dad when he went in to take charge of his potato crew in the houses there, and wait in the Variety Store until he would pick her up at night. Once in a while the store would close and she would go the corner lunch place. This was after the brothers graduated. Later when Myrtle started to work, she stayed in Park River much of the time. Then she bought an old Model A Coupe and got herself to work. And she dreaded the muddy slippery roads! She has three brothers and two sisters: Ernest who lived in Minneapolis but died in January, 1980; Norman who lived in Park River and died in 1967; Mrs. Oscar Laaveg (Viola) who lives in Fertile, la.; Mrs. Eugene Loftsgard (Pearl) who lives in Park River; and Harry, who also lives in Park River. Myrtle's dad died in 1964 and her mother, in 1967. There was a big flood in the spring of 1948 after heavy snow all winter. The roads were plowed out, leaving only a narrow path to travel with snow banks five feet high on both sides. Roads were washed out many places that spring and there was water everywhere — in every direction one looked. Nothing but water all the way to the church, south, east, and with the overflowed river to the north. The roads and all were covered in many places. Hamie had a jeep and tractor to get through, and help others. In 1959 Dundee built a two-room schoolhouse to keep their children in the country. At this time all rural schools were closed or being closed and all youngsters had to go to the towns for schooling. This school was discontinued in 1979 because of lack of children in the community. Hamie was school director all the years but one, when he was president. He gave his own son, Steve, his diploma. Before his marriage, Hamilton was president of Luther
Mrs. Stephen (Marsha) Berg, Stephen Berg and Brian Berg. Philip Douglas Berg sitting on his father's back. League for many years and at that time the church was filled with young and old — a big program and lunch always. He remembers the Choral Union Conventions when all churches in the circuit gathered to sing together. These conventions were held in a large tent on farms or on the church grounds. A tent was always used at Bible Camp for the evangelistic meetings in summer, too. Since his marriage Hamie has been trustee of the Park Center Church and also held other offices. Myrtle was Sunday School teacher for many years; was president of the Ladies Aid in 1966 and 1967 (after paralysis); held the office of superintendent of Sunday School those same years or more; and was also secretary of Ladies Aid. Today she only holds the office of historian and keep the cards going out for those who are ill or in need. Hamie graduated from the Walsh County Agricultural School in Park River in 1929 and had dreams of Art School in Chicago but these dreams never materialized. There were lots of young people in the Dundee area and many owned motorcycles so there was lots of noisy and dangerous excitement, trips to Minnesota Lakes, and other excursions on these vehicles. But cars were important, too, especially when marriage came in view. In 1941 Hamilton married Myrtle Larson, daughter of Olaf and Lena Larson, who lived six miles northeast of Park River in Kensington Township. Myrtle (Myrt) graduated from W.C.A.S. in Park River in 1930. She attended two terms at the Fargo A . C but in the spring of 1931 when Depression hit, they all had to go home and help on the farm. During her last year at the Park River Ag School, Myrtle worked for H. D. Long, seed inspector, whose office was in the A.C. building. This office work gave her experience in shorthand, typing anf filing. She even set up a full filing system for Mr. Long who had all his papers, letters and documents scattered and piled over a long table in his room. Myrtle worked at the AAA and SCS Government offices from 1931 to 1941. In November of 1941 Hamie and Myrtle were married. They had a trip to California as a honeymoon because Hamie had a job
awaiting him as Lockheed Aircraft Mechanic. Myrtle later worked as a typist at Vega Aircraft, next door to Lockheed. They wouldn't accept Myrtle for work until she had her tonsils out, so that was their first doctoring as "Mr. and Mrs." She had to be pretty closemouthed for a few days and Hamie could have all the say. That was at the same time they heard that Pearl Harbor was bombed and the U.S. was in war — Second World War — 12-74 1 . . . . In the spring of 1942 the newlyweds came home to take charge of farming for Hamie's folks in Dundee Township.
flowers under the direction of the Flower Club. He had loads of mowing to do, and also had charge of a hamburger "joint" on the premises until someone burned it down.
In 1943 they were delighted with a little girl, Sandra Kaye. More excitement and thrills with three more children — all boys. Douglas Michael was born in 1947 and he was one of five grandchildren for the Olaf Larsons that year. A very productive year for the Larsons. Sadness and a great loss was felt when Douglas died in 1948, at seven and a half months. Stephen Roger came to fill the vacancy in 1949 — in fact, on June 29, the same date of his sister's birth. He was a little duplicate of Douglas as his parents had prayed he would be. Brian Gregory was born in 1954 to make their lives more full and happy. Tragedy hit their home in 1956. Sandra and her mother were on their way home from Park River after delivering some "goodies" for the Park Center Ladies Aid Food Sale and heading home to pick raspberries in Mrs. Clarence Johnson's little orchard. They were in a gravel truck-pickup accident. Sandy was not seriously hurt but Myrtle was paralyzed from the waist down because of a broken back. Life goes on for Myrtle and much can be Gone from a wheelchair, too. She took full charge of her children who were then 2Vi, 7 and 13 years old. She just prayed the Lord would let her live long enough to see them out on their own. She did the housework, mopped the floors, dusted, cooked, washed clothes and ironed, fixed beds, and did all that goes with being a housewife, including baking. Many good generous neighbors and relatives brought things too. At Christmas time, for years, the Ladies Aid brought many boxes of cookies and foods. The clothes washing was done with the old wringer type Maytag and the two tubs for rinsing. All the clothes had to be hung on the line to dry. Myrtle would fill containers that fit on her lap and sail out on her ramp through the south door and go 'way around north of the house to hang them. The sheets were the hardest for her to rinse. She would iron by the hour and had shirts galore, which all needed pressing in those days. The children learned to do much for themselves which was helpful for character-building and growth. Myrtle couldn't get upstairs so they had to make their beds and clean up there. The Lord was with them through it all or they never could have made it, she testifies! She was in bed with bedsores for a spell but could watch the children play in the old garden patch and was happy they had red jackets. If she needed something or wanted them to come in, she would just talk to God and many times they would start for the house before she had finished asking. She says she could write a book on answered prayers from her chair. She says this is maybe what she had to learn. Later Oliver Berg, Hamie's cousin, who was retired, took her to Park River to do the clothes wash at the laundromat. Then in the '70's she had her own washer and dryer. They farmed both their own and Berg's land until it was put into Soil Bank. After that they have cash rented their land and are still doing so today. Hamie has worked and helped other farmers as he still does today in the busy season; has worked as a mechanic for International Harvester for many years in Park River and Hoople; was part custodian at Homme Dam Park during some of its beginning years; and has planted lots of shrubs and
Lester Hanson Family: left to right, back, Deborah, Lester and Sandra; middle, Barbara; front, Lori. There are hospital workers, mechanics, secretaries and welders in the Hamilton Berg family today. Sandra was married to Lester Hanson from Fergus Falls in 1960. She finished high school at Lutheran Brethren Bible School there and that is how they met. They have thrilled the Bergs with three lovely granddaughters: Deborah Jo, Barbara Sue and Lori Michelle. Steve married Marsha Moss from the South — Illinois — in 1974. She and her family lived in Grand Forks when they met. They have blessed the Bergs with their first grandson — Philip Douglas. Brian married Patricia Sullivan in 1974 and met her while attending the U.N.D. at Grand Forks. Sandy lives in Fergus Falls, Minn., Steve in Grand Forks, and Brian in Hayward, Calif. The Bergs still enjoy living on the farm. Hamie keeps busy in his well-equipped shop as a hobby, when not helping others. Myrtle still types a lot and keeps busy with Ladies Aid history and all their own photo albums and scrap books.
CHARLEY AND JENNIE BERNAAS Charley Bernaas was born in Tin Telmarken, Norway, on Dec. 25, 1891, along with a twin sister, Berget, to Torstein and Ambjor (Fekjan) Bernaas. He came to the home of an uncle, Torstein Fekjan, near Hoople, N. Dak. and later spent some time in South Dakota with a sister, Mrs. Hans Grimsrud. Later he spent some time in the U.S. Air Force, in World War I, serving in Europe. He was a member of the Edinburg American Legion for many years. Charley was united in marriage to Jennie Halvorson (Vol. 1. Page 588) on May 28, 1924, in Seattle, Wash., where they were both employed. They later came back to the Gregar Halvorson home, west of Hoople. They had one son, Glen, who was born on the Halvorson farm on October 8, 1929. In 1941 they purchased a farm, just one mile west of the Halvorson farm, where the son. Glen, now resides. Jennie Bernaas passed away on Sept. 23, 1963. Charley Bernaas passed away on March 16, 1966. They are both buried in the Hvideso Lutheran Cemetery, rural Hoople.
RICHARD AND ADELINE DENAULT FAMILY Richard Denault was born in Olga N. Dak June 30 1 920. tn Mr and Mrs Henry Denault, now living in Walhalla. IN. UaK. The Denaults celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary on SerA 2 8 ! 1980L Richard came from a family of 10. six brothers and
^ i c h T d came to Dundee Township in 1939 and workec1 for
served in the South Pacific.
Charley Bernaas Family: Jennie, Glen, and Charley. Mr. and Mrs. Alien Denault and son, Richard. GLEN AND HAZEL BERNAAS Glen Bernaas was born Oct. 8, 1929 the son of Charley and Jennie Bernaas. He has resided on the home farm, between Edinburg and Hoople, his entire life. He has held various local offices, serving as assessor of Lampton Township and a trustee of the Hvideso Lutheran Church for many years.
On Aoril 6 1946, he married Adeline Kittleson in Hoople N Dak Adeline was born to Charlie and Millie Kittelson on Apr 22 1927 in Dundee Township. She has two sisters, Mrs. (Lila Paul Olson and Mrs. (Malvina) Ronald Monson both of •Edinburg, N. Dak., and one brother, Gilman, who still lives on the home place. Charlie Kittelson passed away at 86 years of age on Nov. 1 8, 1969. Richard and Adeline bought a farm 6Vz miles northwest d Park River in the spring of 1946. When they bought the farm there was "ot a tree'or a building on the place. It is on this farm that they raised six children, four sons and two daughters. Allen was born Feb. 6, 1947, and is married to Colleen Puppe of St. Thomas. They have one son, Richard Allen, born July 2, 1980. They live three miles west of Park River. Leland was born Aug. 8, 1948, and is living at home and helps with the farming.
Glen and Hazel Bernaas On Nov 16, 1972, Glen Bernaas was united in marriage to Hazel Callaway. Hazel was born at Vang, N. Dak., on Jan. 24, 1924 daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. James Callaway. Hazel is also a member of the Hvideso Lutheran Church, as well as the Hvideso A.L.C.W., and is presently the stewardship secretary of that organization.
The Adeline Denault Family: left to right, back row.Lynelle, Roland, Leland; front row, Lynette, Adeline, Karen and Gerald. 208
Gerald was bom Dec. 18, 1953, and is married to Karen Johnson of Nash, N. Dak. Gerald rents his mother's farm and works as a mechanic for Anderson Sales in Edinburg, N. Dak., where they live. Roland was born March 1 8, 1957. He works as a carpenter for Jim Drevecky of Adams, N. Dak., and is still living at home. Lynette was bom Jan. 2, 1961, is employed at the Good Samaritan Center of Park River; and is still living at home. Lynelle was born March 5, 1966, during the terrible blizzard. Richard had taken the doctor book and started reading on how to deliver babies but the snow-plow and wrecker came and got her to the hospital in time. Lynelle is attending Edinburg High School. Richard passed away June 9, 1969, as the result of a motorcycle accident. His youngest son, Roland, was also along on the motorcycle but only sustained bruises and was in a state ot shock. Roland was in the Cavalier Hospital for two days. The Denault family are members of the Park Center Lutheran Church, rural Hoople.
ORBIN AND MARY ERICKSON Orbin Erickson is the son of Molly Gjevre Erickson and Gustav Erickson. (Vol. 1, Page 586) He is a third generation farmer, who was born October 28, 1917. He grew up and attended rural school in Dundee Township, graduated from the Walsh County Agricultural School in Park River, and attended North Dakota State University, Fargo. He entered military service in June, 1942, in World War II and was assigned to the Air Force and saw action with the 10th Air Force in India and Burma and the 14th in China. He was separated from the Service in December 1945, and resumed his interest in the family farm.
MELVIN GERHARD AND MARGARET ERICKSON Melvin G Erickson, son of Walsh County-Dundee Township pioneer parents, Gustav Carl Erickson and Molly Gjevre, was bom on Oct. 19, 1931. He grew up on the family farm and farms in partnership with his brother, Orbin, and Orbin's son, Richard. On Oct 19 1958, he married Margaret A. Born who was born on a farm near Crystal, N. Dak., on July 2 1 , 1927. Her parents were Herman F. Born of Hensel, N. Dak., and Amanda W Peters Kewaunee, Wise. Margaret graduated from a two-year course at Valley City Teacher's College and also attended the University of Washington at Seattle. She taught schools in North Dakota and Washington prior to their marriage. Margaret and Melvin are both active in church and school functions.
Mr. and Mrs. Orbin Erickson and families. Orbin married Mary Gillespie, daughter of Sarah Storey Gillespie and Archie D. Gillespie (Vol. 2, Page 650) in the Presbyterian Church in Park River, August 27, 1947. She was treasurer of the Walsh County AAA Farm Program before their marriage. They have lived on the Erickson farm in Dundee Township since that time. Orbin and Mary Erickson have one daughter, Molly Ann, who is married to Ken Wiesen and is physical therapist at the Grafton State School since her graduation from the University of North Dakota in June 1972. They have one daughter, Heather Lynn Richard, their only son, graduated from Concordia College in June 1975, married Deb Stull of Stillwater, Minn., and is engaged in farming. They have two daughters, Knsta and Jennifer Anne. Orbin has been active in the Park Center Church, Farm Bureau, American Legion, Masons and politics. He was a member of the Dundee School Board for 34 years and a 4-H leader for many years. Mary is also active in the Park Center Lutheran church and ALCW, the Order of the Eastern Star, and the Daffodil Study Club. She has been Dundee Township assessor for many years and an agent for Erickson Insurance Agency since 1956. The Erickson Farm will celebrate its 100th anniversary in 1981.
ERVIN FOYEN Ervin Foyen, son of Baard and Kari Lockrem Foyen, was born Sept. 23, 1904, in Dundee Township, north of Park River, at his grandparents' home, the Andrew Lockrems.
Melvin Erickson Family. Standing: Scott, Dennis Douglas; seated: Margaret and Melvin. To this union three sons were born. Douglas, 2 1 , graduated from a two-year course in diversified agriculture at the University of Minnesota Technical College at Crookston; Dennis 18, graduated in May, 1980 from Edinburg High School; and Scott, age 14 is a freshman at Edinburg High School. All the boys were active in football and basketball in high school. Other activities for them included Luther League and 4-H.
In 1906 his father, Baard, had gone west to McKenzie County to homestead. He built a sod house and a sod barn. The following year, 1907, Ervin's mother, Kari, and their four children moved there too. They lived in this sod house for four years when their father, Baard built a frame house. The family 209
worked at Valley Memorial Nursing Home for 1 5 years. She then returned to the Grafton area to work before becoming a resident of Borg Home at Mountain. Emma passed away July 7. 1980, at the Sunset Home in Grafton. She was a member of Park Center Lutheran Church and theALCW. Other children in her family were Ted, Oscar, Tillie, Bernice, Gunhild Hultin. all deceased, and Agnes, married to Andrew Novak and living at Park River.
OSCARGROVUM Oscar Grovum was born Sept. 13, 1897, in Dundee Township, Walsh County, the son of homesteaders Olav and Bertina Lee Grovum, one of seven children. He graduated from Dundee Rural School, attended St. Olaf College, Northfield, Minn., and Dunwoody Institute, Minneapolis. He was employed at the'Honeywell Corporation in Minneapolis for 25 years and owned a 120-acre farm at Annandale, near Minneapolis.
Ervin and Grace Foyen moved into this new house in the fall of 1911. Ervin's father, Baard, passed away in June, 1919, and his mother, Kari, in Feb., 1922. When the mother passed away, the children moved back to Park River. Ervin worked around Park River for a few years and later moved to Minot, IN. Dak., where he was employed in a furniture store. Ervin married Grace Bergen, Minot, in 1939. They moved to Great Falls, Mont., where he continued to work in a furniture store until his retirement.
EMMAGROVUM Miss Emma Grovum was born Dec. 20, 1898, in Dundee Township, Walsh County, the daughter of homesteaders, Olav and Bertina Lee Grovum. Her father came to America from Telemark, Norway, in 1882. Emma received her education in Dundee School and worked in the area for many years as a cook and housekeeper. She later lived in Grand Forks where she Oscar Grovum Mr. Grovum made several trips to Norway to visit relatives in Treugen and Nissedal, in Telemarken, where his father Olav Grovum was born and lived. He served in the U.S. army for six months, Aug. 5, 1942 • May 26, 1943, during World War II and was honorably discharged because of his age. He was a member of American Legion Post 240 at Hoople. After retirement he returned to Walsh County and lived at the Borg Memorial Home at Mountain until his death April 9, 1980, at Cavalier, at the age of 82. He never married. He was a member of Park Center Lutheran Church. FRED AND GUDRUN HOLM Fred B. Holm, son of Ole and Tillie Holm, was born in
Emma Grovum 210
Edinburg on Oct. 1, 1927, and attended Dundee School. During the Korean War, he was in the army from 1 950 to 1 952. He is presently farming in the Edinburg and Hoople area. Fred is a member of the Hvideso Lutheran Church, and the treasurer of the Hvideso Cemetery Fund, He is a member of the Edinburg American Legion Post.
from the Walsh County Agricultural School at Park River. Her early life was spent on the farm home in Dundee Township. At a very young age, her mother passed away, leaving Inez, her dad, and two brothers, Orbin and Gerhard. Together with the help of Grandmother Helga Erickson, and an aunt, Mrs. N. E. Syversrud, the family grew up and lived full productive lives. Inez is active in church activities at Park Center and the ALCW. At the present time, Inez is president of the Daffodil Study Club.
Inez and Gilman Holm One June 8, 1946, Inez married Gilman Holm at Park Center Church. They lived at the Erickson farm until his death on Nov. 19, 1970. Gilman Holm was born at Edinburg on Aug. 26, 1918, the son of Ole and Tillie Holm. He was educated and grew up on a farm near Edinburg. Gilman was a veteran of World War II and served in Africa, Sicily and Germany. He was wounded and received the Silver Star Medal. The couple entered partnership with Gust Erickson and Sons in farming, which continued until his death. Inez continues to live in the spacious farm home, which has a welcome for friends and relatives at all times.
The Fred Holm Family: standing, Loretta Ann; seated, Fred and Gudrun Holm. On June 12, 1960, he married Gudrun Finnson at the Vikur Lutheran Church in Mountain. She is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Helgi Finnson of Milton. She attended the Tongue River School, graduated from the Milton High School, and attended Mayville College. She taught in several Cavalier County schools. Gudrun is a member of the Hvideso Lutheran Church, the Daffodil Study Club, and the Edinburg American Legion Auxiliary. She is the president of the A.L.C.W. The Holms have one daughter, Loretta Ann. She attended Dundee School and graduated from Edinburg High School in 1980. She is presently attending the North Dakota State University, Fargo.
GILMAN AND INEZ HOLM Inez Erickson, daughter of Walsh County pioneer parents, Gustav and Molly Gjevre Erickson, was born Dec. 29, 1915. She attended Dundee Township rural schools and graduated
JOSEPH T. AND MAE (MONSON) HOLM FAMILY Joseph Holm was born in Edinburg, N. Dak., on Feb. 20, 1925, one of six children in the family of Tillie and Ole Holm. After his father's death in 1931, the family moved to a farm, six miles west of Hoople. Entering the Service in 1945, Joseph served In the Philipines until 1946. Upon returning back home, he went into a farming partnership with his brothers, Raymond and Fred, where they produce potatoes, sunflowers, wheat, and cattle. On October 25, 1953, Joe married the former Mae Monson of Grafton, daughter of Gust and Olga Monson. They made their home on Joe's grandparents' farm, Bergit and Gregor Halverson, Hoople. Joe has been active in many community organizations. He is president of the Hvideso Lutheran Church, rural Hoople, where the Holms are all members. He is past director and vice president of the Edinburg Farmers Union, a director of the Edinburg Fire Department, a member of the American Legion Post No. 156, and a Dundee Township supervisor. He enjoys carpentry and mechanical work, fishing and hunting when time permits.
Mae (Monson) Holm has also played an active role in the community. She has served as president of the Hvideso A.L.C.W. and was secretary and treasurer of the Hvideso Sunday School. She is a member of and past president of the American Legion Auxiliary and the Daffodil Study Club. Mae and Joe are parents of three children. All of them were born in Grafton and graduated from Dundee Elementary School and the Edinburg High School.
older children have happy memories of going to school in Dundee and living along the river, which they often crossed to play with the Monsebroten children. They especially remember the flood of 1 950 when they were on dry ground but there was water wherever you looked. There were many roads washed out, the spring was late, wheat was planted the first of June and still Helmer had a good crop.
Joseph Holm Family: left to right, front row, Joseph, Mae, Tom, Jane and Camburn Shephard; back row, John. Jane Lynn was born Aug. 2 1 , 1 9 5 4 , and graduated from the L.P.N, program at the North Dakota State School of Science in Wahpeton. She was employed at the Grafton Hospital for three years. She married Camburn Shephard on Oct. 23, 1976. They live on the Shephard farm near Crystal and farm in the Crystal area. Jane has been employed at the Cavalier Clinic for the past three years. John Ole was born Jan. 23, 1958. After his high school graduation, he began raising cattle and farming. He enjoys hunting, fishing, and sports. Thomas Gustav was born Nov. 10, 1962. He is a senior at the Edinburg High School where he played football for four years. He is also in the Pop Singers and chorus. He enjoys all sports, fishing, hunting, mechanics, and carpentery work.
LaVerne and Helmer Hultin (25th Anniversary) Five children were born to Helmer and LaVerne Hultin. Marlyn Annette was born June 5, 1945. She married Earl Fischer on April 4, 1964. They farm near Marlette, Mich., and have four children - Brian, Steven, Marci and Jason. Marian Faye was born Oct. 20, 1946. She married Arnold Brelje on Sept. 20, 1969. They have three girls - Stephanie, Heidi and Rebecca. A daughter, Sonja Faye, died in 1970, a few days after birth. They farm near Glencoe, Minn., and Marian is a medical technician in the Glencoe Hospital.
HELMER HULTIN FAMILY HISTORY Helmer Hultin was born in Grafton, N. Dak., Nov. '29, 1907 to John and Anna (Dahl) Hultin. They farmed in the Nash area and later had a farm west of Hoople. Helmer attended country school and then worked for various farmers before starting farming himself. On Jan. 27, 1944, he married LaVerne Rinde, daughter of Neil and Hilda (Wick) Rinde. She was born in Fargo, N. Dak., on June 13, 1923, which was also her mother's birthday. She attended' school in Dundee Township and the Park River Agricultural School. The Helmer Hultins lived on a farm in Dundee Township previously owned by the Halvor Klungness family, and were members of the Park Center Church. Helmer served several years on the school board, the township board and as trustee of the church. They moved to a farm at Ada, Minn., in 1960. The
The Helmer Hultin Family. Rear: Marlys, Maria n, Glen, Janice. Front: LaVerne, Neil, Helmer. 212
Janice Liane was born Nov. 2 1 , 1 9 5 1 . She married Thomas Albaugh on Oct. 9, 1971. They have four children — Nicole, Rita, Matthew and Benjamin. They live at Glyndon, Minn., Tom works in construction and Janice is an L.P.N, and works at St. Luke's Hospital in Fargo. Glen Helmer was born Aug. 18, 1956. He is presently farming. (He planned to be married to Barbara Anderson of Hillsboro, N. Dak., on Dec. 27, 1980). Neil Earl was born Jan. 2, 1964, and is presently attending Ada High School.
elementary education at Rushford District No. 1, the same school her father and his brothers attended as a child. She graduated from the Walsh County Agricultural School in 1 956 and went to Mayville State Teacher's College for one year on a rural teaching scholarship. This was given provided the student would teach one year following college in a rural school. She then taught a year at the Kensington School, east of Park River, following her marriage to George Hurtt in June of 1957. She has been active in A.L.C.W., Sunday School, school groups, and the Ken Du Homemakers. George and Ellen are parents of three children — Timothy George, Sandra Yvonne and Mary Joan — all born at the Deaconess Hospital at Grafton. Tim was born July 30, 1959, at Grafton. He graduated from 8th grade from the Dundee School of rural Hoople and was an honor graduate from Valley High School of Hoople-Crystal. He attended Wahpeton and is presently engaged in farming with his father and uncles. Sandy was born Jan. 25, 1962. She also attended Dundee for eight years and was an honor graduate of the Edinburg High School. She's presently attending Mayville State College, majoring in elementary education. Mary was born on Feb. 16, 1968. She attended the Dundee School until the school district was dissolved and she transferred to Edinburg where she is now in the
7th grade.
The Helmer Hultin Family grandchildren and sons-in-law.
including
children,
The children all graduated from Ada High School and were active in church and 4-H and the boys, in FFA. Helmer enjoys going to steam threshing bees and doing some traveling now as well as helping with farm work.
GEORGE AND ELLEN HURTT FAMILY George Willis Hurtt, son of Mr. and Mrs. Hamilton Hurtt, Sr., of Hoople, N. Dak., was born Feb. 22, 1936, at his parental home in Glenwood Township, near Hoople. He attended school in the one-room Gryde School and later, when that school district dissolved, he finished his education at Hoople. His favorite pastime as a young boy was, along with his brothers, tinkering with bikes, Model-T's and engines, and building various vehicles of scrap parts. They would also fondly recall roller-skating, iceskating, skiing and sledding. The river, that went right by the door of their home, made a perfect playground. In 1 957 he married Ellen Novak, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Novak of Park River at the Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Park River, They lived in a trailer house for seven years on the home farm and were members of the Zion Lutheran Church, Rural Hoople. George enlisted in the National Guard in 1958 for six years. This included six-months training period at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo. In 1965 they moved to a farm located in Dundee Township that had been purchased in 1959 from Helmer Hultin. Shortly after moving they transferred membership to the Park Center Church. They are engaged in a livestock, grain and potato farming operation with his brothers, Hamilton and Dean, and son, Tim. Ellen Kay Novak, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Novak, was born May 12. 1938, at Grafton. She received her
George Hurtt Family: left to right, standing, Mary, Ellen, George, Sandy; seated, Tim. George has vivid memories of the tornado that struck their farm home in July of 1947, causing considerable damage to several farm buildings. George was carrying milk from the barn and could see the funnel approaching. The storm of March, 1966, that kept everyone home-bound for three days, will never be forgotten. By the time the storm was over houses and cars were covered with snowbanks and it took many days to dig out.
EBER AND MARTHA KALGARD Eberhardt Kalgard was born Feb. 2 1 , 1837, in Norway. Martha Rundberget was born Nov. 14, 1851 in Norway. They were united in marriage in Norway and emigrated to the United States in 1880. They settled in Renville County, Minn., before coming to Dundee Township in 1881. They homesteaded on Section 19, SE quarter, on the land now owned by Eldon Thompson. Their first years were spent in a dugout. After several years they built a three-room house where most of their children were born and raised. A new house was built in 1925. As they
Kalgard Family: left to right, back row, Emil, Theodore (seated) Adolph, Albert, Jacob, and Magnus; front row Anna (Mrs Ole Peterson), Lydia (Mrs. Ole Nelson), Martha Kalgard (mother), Bertina (Mrs. Olaf Vole), and Josephine (Mrs. August Almen). homesteaded on a quarter of wooded land, they cleared some and farmed about 120 acres. With two open springs running through the land, it made it a good place for raising cattle also. Eberhardt and Martha were the parents of ten children: Anna (Mrs Ole Peterson) was born June 29, 1875 in Norway and died in 1966; Theodore, born May 1, 1878 in Minnesota and died in 1958; Josephine (Mrs. August Almen) born Feb. 4, 1880 in Minnesota and died in 1920; Bertina (Mrs. Olaf Vole) born Feb. 25 1882, and died in 1957; Emil, born April 14, 1884, and died in 1965; Adolph, born July 28, 1886, and died in 1950; Albert, born Oct. 9, 1888 and died in 1945; Jacob, born Nov 2 1890, and died in 1939; Magnus, born June 29, 1894 and died in 1965; and Lydia, born April 6, 1897 and died in 1976. The last seven children were all born in Dundee Township. The children were educated in rural schools in Dundee Township and belonged to Park Center Lutheran Church. Eberhardt died in 1904 and Martha, in 1932. They and all the children, with the exception of Albert, are buried at the Park Center Cemetery.
EMIL AND SIGNE KALGARD Mr. and Mrs. Emil Kalgard (Signe Modin, formerly from Oslo Minn.) lived on a farm in Dundee Township, 7 miles northwest of Park River or 4 miles east and 1 mile south of Edinburg. Emil purchased the land in 1905, next to the farm his parents homesteaded in 1880. Emil was born Apr. 14, 1884 to Eberhardt and Martha Kalgaarden. He was the fifth child in a family of 10 - Anna (Peterson), Theodore, Josephine (Almen), Bertina (Vole), Emil, Adolph, Albert, Jacob, Magnus, and Lydia (Nelson). He was born in a sod dug-out in a hillside on the farm he eventually owned, shortly after his parents arrived here by covered wagon and oxen from Renville County, Minnesota. He attended school in rural Dundee Township. He was a member of Park Center Lutheran Church, rural Hoople, and served on boards there as well as township and school boards. Emil had a roller mill and did a lot of feed grinding for friends and neighbors, ln 1928 he was grinding feed for a neighbor when he accidentally got his fingers caught in the mill. He continued farming and working as usual even with the loss of all his fingers on his right hand.
Signe and Emil Kalgard Emil enjoyed having nephews and neices stay with him and many made their home with him through the years because of deaths in their families. On Jan. 28, 1933, Emil and Signe Modin were married at North Star College in Warren, Minn. They had one daughter, Mary Jane (Flaten, Tollefson). Signe was born July 9, 1901, near Oslo, Minn., and attended school in the Oslo-Alvarado community. After th enmarriage they lived on the farm in Dundee Township. In 1944 they spent a year in Alvarado, Minn., and in 1945 they moved to Park River where they lived until 1951 when Signe became ill. She died Oct 23, 1954. Emil moved to the farm with son-in-law and daughter, Mr. and Mrs. Harold Flaten, and spent most of his time with them until his death, Dec. 16, 1965.
HALVOR OLE LANGERUD FAMILY HISTORY Halvor Ole Langerud was born Oct. 16, 1878, in Telemark, Norway. He married Gunhild Sundet in 1899 and settled in the Hoople area. During their years on the farrr.they raisecI ten children, five boys and five girls. They were Tilda, Ann, Aida Hilda, Myrtle, Selmer, Gladwin, Oliver, Henry, and Norman. All were members of the Hvideso Lutheran Church. Halvor passed away July 10, 1968 and Gunhild passed away March 8, 1966. GLADWIN LANGERUD FAMILY HISTORY Gladwin Langerud was born on New Year's Day, Jan. 1, 1905 to Halvor and Gunhild Langerud. Gladwin grew up on a farm near Hoople, N. Dak. He married Alice Rustan, daughter of Thomas and Ambjor Rustan, on Nov. 7, 1936. They are the parents of two boys, James and Glenn (Bud). They have five qrandchildren. Gladwin farmed for many years and now his sons farm the land. They are members of the Park Center Lutheran Church. OLIVER AND HELEN LANGERUD Oliver Langerud was born in 1907 to Halvor and Gunhild Langerud, near Hoople, N. Dak. On Oct. 3, 1936, he married the former Helen Johnson, daughter of Henry and Bessie Johnson, also of Hoople. Oliver worked as a farm laborer and did carpenter work. Helen worked for 14 years for the Hall brothers of Edinburg. In 214
1972, 1973, and 1974 she managed the Langerud's Cafe at Edinburg. Helen and Oliver have three children — Bennie, of Hoople,
is married to lleen Windingland, and they have five children; Ronnie, of Edinburg, is married to Lana Windingland, and they have three children; and Susan lives and works in Fargo. Oliver passed away in 1970. On Jan. 13, 1973, Helen married John Kennelly, son of John and Winifred Kennelly, St. Thomas. Helen and John now live in Sunnyvale, Calif., and manage an apartment complex there.
JOEL AND BORGHILD LANGSETH Borghild Samson, daughter of Sam and Alette Samson, was born in Dundee Township and attended rural school in District No. 35 where she later taught for a few years. Following graduation from high school at the Agricultural School at Park River she graduated from Mayville State College and she taught school in Walsh County. Since Mrs. Samson was in poor health for a long time, Borghild taught close to home so as to be of help to her parents. Those were days when rural teachers and pupils trudged on foot a mile or more to get to school in winters of deep snow and cold winds. Borghild was an active member of the Hvideso Lutheran Church. In 1946 the family moved to Park River, where she lived until her marriage. Joel O. Langseth was born to Pastor and Mrs. John M. Langseth at Pelican Rapids, Minn. When Joel was a baby, he moved with his parents to Manfred, N. Dak., where his father served as pastor of four Lutheran churches. Joel, being the oldest of three brothers, often helped his father get to his congregations, driving great distances with horses. He graduated from the Fessenden High School and attended the Mankato Business College. Joel was employed with the Gamble Company until he entered service in World War II. He served his country for over four years. One and a half years was spent overseas at Germany, France, and England. After his discharge he was employed by the post office department.
Bennie, Ronnie and Susan Langerud
Borghild and Joel Langseth Joel and Borghild were married June 29, 1950, at Our Savior's Lutheran Church, Park River. They moved to St. Paul, Minn., where Joel worked at the Post Office Terminal for five years. Then they moved to Jamestown, N. Dak., where Joel worked as railway mail clerk on the N.P. Railroad. Jamestown was a friendly and fast growing city with much activity, and the Langseths at once became a part of it. This included having a part in the building of the new Trinity Lutheran Church. It was in Jamestown that they adopted their daughter, Barbara, who made the family complete. Ronnie. Bennie and Susan Langerud
In 1968 Joel was transferred to the Fargo Post Office, so
•
they made the move to Fargo when he retired six years later.
Barbara married Floyd Simmons of Los Angeles, Calif., in 1968 at the Trinity Lutheran Church in Jamestown. They now reside at Lookout Mountain, Tenn. The Langseths have two grandchildren - Jonathan, eight years old, and Rachel who is five years old. The Langseths live at 901 1 5th St. South, Fargo. They keep active with church activities at the Bethlehem Lutheran and are always ready to lend a helping hand to families in the neighborhood. Among the many great vacations which the Langseths have taken the most memorable one was the one to Norway and Sweden with a Sons of Norway Tour in 1972. They visited the old home where Borghild's mother lived in Sweden and became acquainted with many cousins. Also they took a tour over the fjords and lofty mountains of Norway. The Langseths make regular trips back to Walsh County to visit old neighbors and friends.
RICHARD AND AUDREY LEE Richard 0 . Lee, son of Sina and the late Ole T. Lee, was born at his present farm home in Dundee Township on May 28 1936 He is married to Audrey R. Lee, daughter of Euger and the late Frank Foerster. She was born on Nov. 1, 1941 Richard and Audrey have two children - a son, Jody, born March 1 1 , 1964 and a daughter, Sharon, born June 14, 1968. They also had 17 foster children; at the present time, they have three. Richard is engaged in farming, on the farm of his birth. He also farms in the state and with a partner he farms the largest contingent farm in Minnesota. He has been active with the school board and is now the president of the Park Center Lutheran
Sharon Ranae Lee, age 12, in Adams Parade -
1980.
Audrey has the hobby of raising Registered Appaloosa horses and is the owner of a five-generation Peacock Leopard stallion. She has offices in the Edinburg P.T.O. and Music Mothers, as well as in the Park Center ALCW and Sunday School. She has been a 4-H leader for almost 15 years. The family enjoys attending the sports that their children participate in and other school activities.
Church.
Jody Richard Lee, age 16.
THETOLLEFLEE FAMILY Tollef Eston Lee was born on Mar. 7, 1890, to Osten and Tone Lee, early settlers in Dundee Township, Walsh County, North Dakota. Tollef had three sisters, Thea, Annie, and Tilda; and one brother, Oscar. Tollef Lee was baptized in the Park Center Church on June 1, 1890; officiating pastor was Rev. J. T. Langemo and sponsors were Ingeborg Veum, Bertha Veum, Gjermund Midboe, and N. E. Clementson. He was confirmed May 1, 1904, at the Park Center Church by K. O. Storeli.
Allen Bergland of California returned to North Dakota, after 60 years, in the summer of 1980. He is a relative of Richard Lee, Hoople, N. Dak.
Mr. and Mrs. Osten Lee and children, left to right, Annie, Tollef, Oscar; standing, Tilda and Thea. Taken in 1894.
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Tollef Lee married Elida Midboe on Aug. 2, 1929, at Grafton, N. Dak. They had two children, Elaine and Earl Thomas. Tollef served as treasurer of the Mount View School for more than 25 years. They lived on the Osten Lee farm west of Hoople. Tollef Lee passed away Aug. 8, 1952, at Grafton and is buried at the Hoople Cemetery. Elida Midboe Lee was born August 9, 1905, in Grafton to Evan and Gunhild Johnson Midboe. Elida had 10 brothers and sisters — Laura, Alma, Tilda, Clara, Ida, Raghild, Myrtle, Gust, Walter and Gena. Elida Lee was baptized and confirmed in the Concordia Chruch. They lived in the Mandt area. Elida's father, Evan Midboe, was the Klokker in the Concordia Church for many years. Evan Midboe passed away Dec. 10, 1917, and Gunhild Midboe died June 6, 1917. They are buried in the Concordia Cemetary. After Tollef Lee's death, Elida and her son, Earl, continued to live on the farm until 1959 when Earl entered the service. Then, Elida moved into Grafton where she resided until her death Jan. 30, 1965. She is buried in the Hoople Cemetery. Elaine Lee was born Oct. 4, 1931, at Grafton and was baptized at the Park Center Church and confirmed at the First Lutheran Church, Hoople, N. Dak. She attended Mount View School and graduated from the Hoople High School. She also attended Aaker's Business College in Grand Forks, N. Dak., and worked at the bank at Hoople.
Mr. and Mrs. Merton Thrugstad (Elaine Lee) March 21, 1954. Earl and Carol are the parents of one son, Darren Michael. They are members of the Bethel Free Lutherna Church in Grafton. They reside at 1034 Lavergne Ave., Grafton. Carol Franklin Lee was born Mar. 30, 1941 at Donaldson, Minn., to David and Emma Lindblad Franklin. Carol attended the Jupiter Mission Convenant Free Church, Kennedy, Minn., and was confirmed there in 1956. She graduated from the Kennedy High School in 1959.
Wedding picture of Mr. and Mrs. Tollef Lee, August 2, 1929. Elaine Lee married Merton Thrugstad of Fairdale, March 2 1 , 1954. They were married at the farm home of her parents. Elaine and Merton are the parents of three children — Ordean, at home; Renae, working in Fargo, N. Dak.; and Evelyn, going to school in Adams, N. Dak. They live on a farm at Fairdale. Earl Thomas Lee was born Oct. 3 1 , 1935, at Grafton. He was baptized at the home of his parents on Nov. 22, 1935, by Rev. B. M. Branford of the Park Center Church. His sponsors were Mr. and Mrs. Gunder Storud and Myrtle Midboe. He was confirmed in the First Lutheran Church, Hoople, in 1950. He attended the Mount View School and Hoople High School. Earl Lee married Carol Franklin of Donaldson, Minn., on July 2, 1960, at Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Grafton. Rev. Sidney was the pastor and Mr. and Mrs. Orphie Borge were the attendants. Mrs. Borge is Earl's cousin.
Mr. and Mrs. Earl Lee and Darren Darren Michael Lee was born Aug. 3 1 , 1 9 6 6 at Grafton, N. Dak. He was baptized Dec. 18, 1966, at the Bethel Free Lutheran Church, at Grafton, by Rev. David Molstre. Darren was the first baby to be baptized in the new church. His sponsors were Mr. and Mrs. Verdell Swenson of St. Paul. Darren will be confirmed in the church in May, 1981, by Rev. Rodger Olson. Darren attends the Grafton High School.
JOSEPH AND SELMA LINDELL Joseph E. Lindell was born March 1, 1907, near Girvin, Sask., Canada, to John and Anna (Hagen) Lindell (see Vol. 1, page 591). In 1905. the family rented out their homestead
between Edinburg and Hoople and took a new homestead in Saskatchewan. When Joseph was three months old the family returned to their homestead in Dundee Township. In 1909. they moved from their log cabin home to thier new home which had been built on the hill. Joseph attended grade school at Dundee District No. 35. He farmed with his father until 1943 when the farm was turned over to him. On Oct. 28, 1936, he married Selma Amundson at the parsonage in Hoople with Rev. B. M. Branford officiating. Selma Amundson was born July 20, 1909, at Edinburg, N. Dak., the daughter of Helge and Ingeborg (Haug) Amundson (see vol. 1, page 585). In 1914 the family purchased a farm south of Edinburg where they attended Garfield Church and she started school. The family moved to a purchased farm west of Hoople. near the Hvideso Church, in about 1920. She attended grade school at Dundee District No. 35 and attended high school in Edinburg and Hoople, graduating from Hoople in 1929. She then worked as a housekeeper for several area families before attending Mayville Teacher's College. She taught in Gryde School District No. 125 and Dundee District No. 90. On October 28, 1936, she married Joseph Lindell. Joseph and Selma have lived on and farmed the Lindell homestead since they were married. They attend the Hvideso Lutheran Church where Joseph served as trustee and has served as secretary for 28 years. Selma has served as Sunday School teacher and has been active in the ALCW, serving as vicepresident, secretary, and has been treasurer for the last 14 years.
Joseph also served as township supervisor and was on the school board for 27 years. They are the parents of three children. Ivonne was born Jan. 8, 1938. She graduated from Aaker's Business College and was employed in Grand Forks as an IBM operator. She married Earl R. Lee on Oct. 28, 1962, and they make their home in Grand Forks. They have four daughters — Vicky, Mrs. Larry (Janet) Lundby, Rebecca and Diane. Joel was born Oct. 10, 1942. He graduated from UND and is vice-president at the Walsh County Bank and Trust Co., in Grafton.
John Lindell Homestead, now owned by Joseph Lindell. Jerry was born Nov. 29, 1946. He graduated from UND and served in the Navy for four years which included duty in Spain and Hawaii. He is vice-president of Finance at Mercy Hospital in Devils Lake.
DESCENDANTS OF GJERMUND AND THONETTA (LEE) MIDBOE ANNIE THEOLINE (LENA) MIDBOE FAMILY Annie Theoline (Lena) Midboe was born Sept. 8, 1879. She married Torger Midboe June 11,1908, and lived at Hatton until her death May 24, 1909. They had one daughter Tina, born May 8, 1909, who after her mother's death lived with her grandparents and Aunt Tilda. When Annie was 12 years of age she went to live with her father, Torger. He died Feb. 8, 1958. Tina graduated from Concordia College and was a home economics teacher. She married Rev. Hans Nelson June 7, 1940, and they served Lutheran churches in Epping, N. Dak., Wisconsin, Canada, Walhalla, N. Dak., and Aberdeen, S. Dak., until retirement. Tina died Oct. 12, 1974. They had 3 children: Joseph Lindell Family — 1976: left to right, back row, Vicky, Rebecca, Earl, Ivonne, Diane, Janet; front row: Joel, Joseph, Selma and Jerry.
Harold Nelson was born April 1 1 , 1941. He married Barbara Preston of Aberdeen, S. Dak. He is a principal of elementary schools in Sauk Center, Minn. They have 3 children — Todd born June 9, 1966; Michelle born April 28, 1969; and Jennifer Lynn, born May 11,1972. Marlyn Nelson was born Jan. 27, 1946. She married Ardell Hanson July 20, 1968. She is a teacher and they live in Northome, Minn. They have 2 children — Angela born Sept. 18, 1968, and Scott, born Nov. 2 1 , 1 9 7 2 . Carol Nelson was born Dec. 24, 1949. She married Gary McKenzie March 2 1 , 1970. She is a teacher and they live in Casselton, N. Dak. They have three children — Brett, born Aug. 2, 1972; Marcus, born May 1 1 , 1 9 7 6 ; and Eric, born May 19, 1977.
THEODORE MIDBOE FAMILY Joseph and Selma Lindell. Wedding picture 1936.
Theodore G. Midboe married Hulda Hendrickson of Oslo, Minn., in June, 1920, and lived on the Ole Midboe homestead
in Glenwood Township until their retirement in 1 959, when they moved into Hoople, N. Dak. Theodore died Dec. 2, 1979. Hulda is at present residing in Phoenix, Ariz., with her daughter. They had five children. Orville was born May 3 1 , 1921, and attended the Park River Ag. School Short Course. He was in the Army and held as a prisoner of War by the Germans in Nov. 1943, until the war was over in April, 1944. He married Anna Mae Malmberg Nov. 24, 1946, at Glenwood, Minn. They lived in Hoople where he operated a gas station until his death, April 2, 1955. LoRene was born Nov. 24, 1923. She graduated from Hoople High School and Fairview Hospital Nursing School in Minneapolis. She married Harold Barsness of Northfield, Minn., on Sept. 8, 1946, lived in Minneapolis for several years, then moved to Phoenix. They have two children: Sandra was born Feb. 10, 1948; married John Aby Aug. 17, 1967. They have four children — Steve born Mar. 23, 1968; Amy born Dec. 15, 1969; Sarah born Aug. 3, 1976; and Hattie bom April 16, 1979. Gary was born April 2, 1950. He is married and has Iwo children, Rachel and Adrian. Vernon was born May 3 1 , 1925, and graduated from Hoople High School. He was in the Army for two years. He married Ruth Barsness of Northfield, Minn., Dec. 26, 1948. He died March 3, 1975. They lived in Minneapolis, Arizona, and Hoople, N. Dak. They had three children: Kathryn, born Nov. 1, 1951, in Minneapolis. She married Handt Hanson of Milton Aug. 19, 1973. They have two children, Heather, born May 26, 1975, and Aaron born Sept. 8, 1979. They live at Apple Valley, Minn. LeRoy was born Nov. 27, 1953, and lives in Washington.
River High School and attended N.D.S.U., lives in Fargo, and is a printer for Pronto Print Co. Mabel Adeline was born Jan. 24, 1931. She graduated from Fairview Hospital Nursing School in Minneapolis, and married James Bolstad of Homestead, Mont, on Sept. 4, 1954, and they live on a farm there. They had four children. Jeffrey, born Dec. 25, 1956, attended Brown Institute in Minneapolis and is a radio announcer. He married Anne Berge of Glasgow, Montana, July 7, 1979 and they live at Whitefish, Montana. Richard, born Feb. 18, 1958, died March 13, 1958. Joel, born May 1, 1960, is attending college at the Williston branch, U.N.D. Jonathon, born Aug. 19, 1963, is at home. Darline was born July 14, 1932. She attended Mayville College and Concordia and taught school 3 years, then she married Howard Johnson of Park River on Nov. 12, 1954. They lived on a farm west of Park River until 1971 when they moved to Grafton where Howard became a realtor. They have five children: Paul born Aug. 13, 1955; graduated from Grafton High School; also graduated from Bottineau branch, N.D.S.U.; then enlisted in the Air Force for four years and is now living in Bellview, Neb., where he is employed in electronics. Daryl, born May 3 1 , 1957, graduated from Grafton High School; attended Devils Lake Jr. College; graduated from Wahpeton School of Science and is an assistant manager of a lumber yard. He married Cynthia Almen of Grafton, June 24, 1978, and they live in St. Cloud, Minn. Douglas, born July 23, 1959, graduated from Grafton High School and the Crookston branch of U.M.; now attending Moorhead State University, Moorhead, Minn. Vonda, born April 15, 1963, and Nathan, born Feb. 6, 1976, are at home. Gilmore was born Dec. 23, 1934, and died April 8, 1949, of a heart ailment.
Connie was born May 1, 1958. She married Rick Stensland from Rugby on July 5, 1980; they live in Wyoming. LeRoy was born Nov. 27, 1928: graduated from Hoople High School: attended Concordia College at Moorhead, Minn., for one year; enlisted in the Navy; was killed in an auto accident in San Diego, Sept. 4, 1949. Corald was born Dec. 7, 1931. He graduated from Hoople High School: served two years in the Army, during the Korean War. He married Julie Luech, Sept. 6, 1958, at Redwood Falls, Minn. They live in Minneapolis and have two children: Terry, born Feb. 4, 1960, and Jody, born Feb. 9, 1963.
MR. AND MRS. OLIVER OLSON AND FAMILY Oliver Theodore Olson was born on March 9. 1912, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Lewis Olson of Park River, N. Dak. Oliver married Ruby Eliala Helen Almen, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. August Almen of Hoople, N. Dak., on April 9, 1931. Ruby was born Oct. 24, 1911, and was baptized and confirmed in Park Center Lutheran Church, rural Hoople. They lived in the Hoople area, working for Leslie Hurtt and Andrew Fedje, until in 1954 when they purchased a farm west of Hoople. They farmed until 1975 when Oliver died. Now, a grandson, Gene Olson, and his
TILDA MIDBOE FAMILY Tilda Midboe married A. Harold Torreson Nov. 30, 1928, at Estherville, la., and they lived at Wallingford, la., until 1933 when they moved to the Gjermund Midboe homestead. Harold was born Feb. 26, 1900, and died June 4, 1974; and Tilda died July 15, 1979. They had four children; all attended Mount View School District No. 34 and Hoople High School. Lorrine was born Sept. 7, 1929. She attended L.B.I, in Minneapolis. She married Vernon Phelps of Hoople, July 16, 1949. They lived at Hoople and moved to Park River in 1958, where they now reside and Vernon works for Polar Telephone. They have two children: Bruce born Oct. 9, 1953, graduated from Park River High School and attended Minot Business College. He married Susan Moen of Park River on Aug. 20, 1976. They live in Park River where Bruce works at the Red Owl Store. They have two children — Christopher born Jan. 24, 1977, and Jennifer born Sept. 5, 1980. John was born Sept. 10, 1957. He graduated from Park
The Oliver Olson Family: left to right, seated. Ruby. Joel and Oliver: standing. LaVoy. Jerry and Echo.
returned to Mayville State College where she graduated Magna Cum Laude. Then she continued her teaching career at Hatton for three years before joining the school system in Grand Forks where she has continued to teach.
Oliver Olson Family: Oliver and Ruby Olson with their family on Christmas Eve 1978. One member missing — Nancy (Jerry's daughter). family live on the farm. Ruby moved to Hoople where she keeps useful and busy in community affairs. Ruby also works at the Lutheran Sunset Home in Grafton.
Joel and Peggy Olson with Melissa and Ryan. Joel is the youngest of the Oliver Olson children. He was born in Drayton, N. Dak., on June 2, 1947, and attended elementary and high school in Hoople, graduating in 1964. He attended Mayville State College for one year and then received an A.A. Degree in business management from the State School of Science in Wahpeton. Joel worked in the admission's office there from 1968-72 until he became a loan officer at the First National Bank in Grand Forks. He was employed at the bank until January, 1980, when he joined First Federal and became manager of their regional office at Cavalier, N. Dak., in June, 1980. Joel married Peggy Geiger of Cavalier on August 10, 1968. They are the parents of two children — Melissa, born March 3, 1975, and Ryan, born Oct. 6, 1 978.
Oliver and Ruby were the parents of four children. The oldest child was Orlan Ray LaVoy, born, July 1 1 , 1932. LaVoy and his family live in Hoople and they have a family write-up in this book. Jerroll Dean Verome was born Nov. 6, 1933. He is better known as Jerry Olson, and he and his family have a write-up in the Hoople or Glenwood section of this book. Echo Joy was born on Nov. 7, 1936. Echo married Ben Bjertness from Hatton, N. Dak., in 1963 and they are both with the Grand Forks School System. Echo was born on a farm home north of Park River, N. Dak., on an extremely cold day with lots of snow. The Olsons still lived like early pioneers. Echo attended elementary and high school in Hoople, graduating in 1954. She received a scholarship to attend Mayville State College for one year with the promise of teaching in a country school for at least a year. Echo then taught in Martin School District No. 67 for two years. She, too, had a taste of a pioneer teacher's life although she was fortunate to stay with the Wm. Coulthart and Helmer Haug families. They used skis to go to and from school because of all the snow during those severe winters in the late 50's. Echo
HARRY OSTENRUDE FAMILY Harry's father, Harold Ostenrude, came to the United States from Oslo, Norway, in 1903 to the Nels Clemetson farm which Nels had homesteaded earlier. Harold's wife, Anna, with a small son, Trygve, and a baby daughter, Esther, came one year later.
The Harry Ostenrude Family: left to right, Harry, Nancy. Neil. Timothy, Mabel.
Echo (Olson) and Ben Bjertness 220
They then moved to the western part of North Dakota near Powers Lake and homesteaded on a farm near Battle View, N. Dak., which was open prairie then. Here four more sons were born — Lawrence, Melvin, Harry and Ervin — and three daughters, Alvilda, Jenny and Viola. Harold's first team was a team of oxen. His first barn was a "dugout" in the ground, as the area is rolling hills country, dugouts were possible and many took advantage of this as it was warmth and protection for the animals before barns could be built.
Wedding picture of Thomas and Ambjor Rustan who were married December 26, 1904. grown. They have three children. Nancy, the eldest, attended elementary school at Dundee No. 34, graduated from Park River High School, and graduated from NDSU, Fargo, with a degree in home economics and nutrition. She married Richard Butts of Carrington, N. Dak., also a graduate of NDSU (in September, 1972). They have no children. Richard is in partnership with his brother, Allan and father, Lloyd Butts, Sr., and own and operate Butt's Feedlot at Carrington, N. Dak.
Neil, Martha and Kate Ostenrude Many stories were told about the early snowstorms in the fall, and the prairie fires which everyone feared so much. The Ostenrudes stayed on the same farm until 1937 when they moved to the Hoople community. Here both Harold and Anna died in 1945. All the children have also died with the exception of Harry, who is the last surviving member of the family.
Neil, the eldest son, attended local schools and graduated from Park River High School. He then enlisted in the Navy for four years, and spent much of that time in Stockton, Calif. When at sea, he was on the U.S. S. Home. Following his discharge, he returned to Fargo, N. Dak., and graduated from NDSU with a degree in agriculture and agri-business. He married the former Kathryn Ann Kinkel from Limon, Colo., in 1 975. They have two children — a girl, Martha Louise, age 3, and a son, Jacob Kinkel, age 8 months. They live in Langdon, N. Dak., where Neil is with the Farmers Home Administration office.
Harry lives and owns the farm which was homesteaded by Nels Clemetson. In September of 1948 Harry married Mabel Rustan. Mabel graduated from high school in Park River and from the former Deaconess Hospital School of Nursing in Grand Forks. She continued her nursing career after their family was
Timothy, the youngest, is a farmer. He plans to be married
Thomas P. Rustan was born October 16, 1868 and passed away April 13, 1948. Ambjor Peterson (Borge) Rustan was born August 4, 1878 and passed away April 14, 1967. Thomas P. Rustan Family: left to right, Mabel Ostenrude, Mr. Rustan, Elvina Fagerholt, Evelyn Kjos, Mrs. Rustan, Ann Fagerholt; back row, Alice Langerud, Palmer Rustan, George Rustan, Selina Roholt. This picture was taken in September, 1939.
Jacob Kinkel Ostenrude (Neil s son) 221
1922. on a beautiful sunny day, but by evening the snow came and they walked to the train depot in snow to their knees. They lived on the farm in Dundee Township which had been homesteaded by Nels Rinde in 1880. They moved to Park River in 1943 and later lived in Phoenix. Hilda died in Phoenix on March 2 1 , 1970, following a stroke. Neil then lived with the children until his death on Dec. 9, 1976, in Minneapolis. They are buried in a Phoenix cemetery.
Halvor P. Borge was born in Numedal, Norway, on Jan. 23. 1854 and immigrated to America with his wife. Sonnev Culbransdatter Borge. Halvor died Dec. 13. 1949. Sonnev was born Dec. 7, 1850. and passed away Feb. 4. 1934. The Borges had two children — Ambjor, who married Thomas P. Rustan. and Peter, who married Edna Finstad. on Feb. 14, 1981, to Sally Jo Bateman of Park River. Her parents are Roland and Marion Bateman. Both Tim and Sally are graduates of Park River High School.
Neil Rinde Family — 1976; left to right, LaVerne, Llewellyn, Marvin, Keith, Marilyn, Ronald, and Rosalind. The children born to them include: LaVerne, who is married to Helmer Hultin, and lives at Ada, Minn. Their children are Marlys, Marian, Janice, Glen and Neil.
THE NEIL RINDE FAMILY HISTORY Neil Rinde was one of twelve children born to Nels and Ingeborg (Hove) Rinde. He was born May 3 1 , 1 8 9 6 , at Grafton, N. Dak., and attended schools there. He married Hilda Wick, daughter of Hans and Mathilda (Nelson) Wick. She was bom June 13, 1897, at Edinburg, N. Dak. She attended schools there and teachers college in Valley City, N. Dak. She taught school for six years in the Edinburg and Fairdale area before her marriage. She told of teaching one summer, south of Edinburg, when she drove to school with a horse and buggy. This particular day she had stayed in school longer than usual and the horse was in a hurry to get home and turned the corner too fast at their place and tipped the buggy and she landed on top of a picket fence, resulting in several broken ribs. After that she got a bicycle to ride to school. A teacher in those days taught all eight grades and was expected to be janitor, as well as take care of anything that was needed in school. Some of her pupils were bigger in stature and older than she was. Hilda and Neil were married on Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 30,
Llewellyn, married to Esther Rickbeil who died Dec. 5, 1978. They lived at Las Vegas, Nev., for several years before moving to Browerville, Minn. Their children are Ann, Steven, and Roger. Llewellyn is presently in dairy farming. Marvin is married to Ernestine Grant; their children are Nic, Todd, and Sheila. They have lived at Park River, Grafton, and now are at Stanton, N. Dak. Marvin has farmed and is now working in construction. Keith is married to Irene Dailey Smith, and they have five children — Donald, James, Janice, Debra and Catherine. They live in Phoenix, where Keith works for State Farm Insurance Co. Marilyn is married to Glen Bolinger and lives in Minneapolis, where Marilyn is a professional banking officer at Northwestern National Bank. Ronald lives at Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. Rosalind is married to Luke Birdwell. They have three children — Craig, Timothy, and Theresa — and live in Tempe, Ariz. Luke works for Continental Airlines and Rosalind works in real estate loans. Llewellyn, Marvin and Keith served in the armed forces during the Korean Conflict. Ronald was in the Air Force for many years, serving in England, and in Vietnam. The family members all scattered and kept busy with their families and grandchildren, but still their roots and memories go back to the farm in Dundee, the School District 35, and the Park Center Church.
THEODORE H. RINDE AND SONEVA GRINDE
Neil Rinde Family: left to right, back row, Llewellyn, Marilyn, LaVerne, Marvin; front row, Keith, Neil, Rosalind, Ronald, and Hilda.
Theodore Rinde was born June 14, 1862, at Nerstrand, Minn., to Hans and Randina (Borloug) Rinde. Hans Rinde came to America from Sogn, Norway, in 1835, first settling in Madison, Wise, later moving to Nerstrand, Minn., where he was engaged in farming. Hans served in the Civil War with the 4th Minnesota Infantry Company H. When Hans Rinde left for the
Four children were born to Theodore and Soneva, namely: Rowena (Olson), Benjamin, Helen (Folson) and Thelma (Stutlien). The children all attended college and became school teachers. Theodore was known for smoking his pipe of honey dew tobacco. He made a twine binder out of a wire binder. He was known for his ability as a self-educated mechanic. He owned and operated a steam threshing outfit with a cook car, sleeping car, and a crew of men. In 1 920, he moved to the city of Hoople, where he resided until his death in June, 1942. Soneva died in April, 1947.
BENNIE AND LORRAINE ROLLEFSTAD Belvin Adolph Rollefstad, first son of Kittle B. and Olga Rollefstad. was born on April 28, 1915 on his parents' farm, west of Hoople, N. Dak.
Soneva and Theodore N. Rinde war, he had a family of six children. When he returned home he continued farming and had six more children, for a total of twelve. Theodore was the sixth child in this family.
At the age of 21 he left the farm and moved to San Francisco where he worked for General Paint Corporation for about four years. He then had the opportunity to work for the California Toro Company, selling and servicing turf and garden equipment.
Soneva Grinde was born in Norway to Elling and Gertrude (Hookie) Grinde. She was born on Apr. 14, 1865, at Sostrand (Sogn), Norway. She was five years old when she came to America. The family settled on a homestead near Dennison, Rice County, Minnesota. This homestead was two miles from the Rinde family home. It was in this rural area that Theodore and Soneva first met. In 1884, Theodore arrived in Dundee Township, where his brother Nels had homesteaded. Theodore was too young to file on a homestead and so he bought an acreage in Dundee Township, a few miles west of Nels' homestead. Having built a modest shack, he sent for Soneva. They were married in Zion Lutheran Church by Rev. Flaten, Aug. 4, 1886. Their first home had a leaky roof and Soneva made certain to protect her "Wheeler and Wilson" sewing machine given by her father for a wedding present. Theodore later filed on forty acres, a short distance from his first home, before he purchased what was known as their home farm.
Bennie and Lorraine Rollefstad He met Lorraine Cirimele, who was born on Apr. 23, 1916, in San Francisco. They were married on July 4, 1942, in the Lutheran Church in Burlingame, Calif. They lived in Millbrae for nine years, then moved to Palo Alto. Their own business was started here, selling and servicing turf and garden equipment. One year later they were joined in business by "Bennie's" brother, Orven H. Rollefstad. At the present time the two brothers operate their own company which is known as Western Lawn Equipment Co., in Burlingame. Bennie and Lorraine have one daughter, Doreen Ellen, now married with a family.
THOMAS RUSTAN FAMILY HISTORY
Theo Rinde Family: left to right. Theodore. Helen (Mrs. C. G. Folson), Rowena (Mrs. Emil Olson), Benjamin. Thelma (Mrs. L. Stutlien), and Soneva.
Thomas Rustan was born in Hallingdal. Norway, on Oct. 1 6, 1868. On Dec. 2 1 , 1904, af Hoople, N. Dak., he married Ambjor Peterson, who was born in Norway, Aug. 4, 1878. Ambjor came from Norway as a baby with her parents to this country. Thomas was 21 years old when he came to America. They were parents of nine children — Selina, Helen, Alice.
Mabel, Ann, twins Elvina and Evelyn, George and Palmer. Thomas passed away Apr. 11,1948, and Ambjor died Apr. 14, 1967.
parents of two children — Kari Ann. age six, and Ryan Loren, age two years. Loren is employed by Polar Telephone. They live in Edinburg and are members of Trinity Lutheran Church.
THE ODIN AND LOIS SPRINGAN FAMILY Odin was born in Grafton, N. Dak., Mar. 28, 1920, to Thea (Lee) and Thor Springan of Hoople. He received his early education at Mount View School District No. 35 and graduated in 1938 from Walsh County Agricultural School in Park River. He has lived and farmed on his grandfather's homestead all his life except for the years he spent in the U.S. Army Signal Corps during World War II. He enlisted Oct. 23, 1942, in the Signal Corps Reserve, graduating as a junior radio repairman. He entered active service June, 1943, and served overseas twentyfive and a half months in the South Pacific. He was discharged from the Army Feb. 6, 1946, and continued farming with his father. Odin-was employed by Polar Telephone in the Military Department from April, 1973, to March, 1976, until the closing of the Safe Guard ABM Complex. His job was plant clerk, dispatcher and electronic equipment technician. Odin also has had a radio and TV sales and service business for thirty years, setting up a repair shop on the farm in 1978.
Ryan and Kari Moe Cynthia Kay was born Feb. 13, 1955, in Grafton and died in a farm accident Oct. 9, 1956, at the age of twenty months. Denise Kay, a registered nurse, was born Aug. 3 1 , 1957; was graduated from Valley High School in 1 975 and the School of Nursing at U.N.D., Grand Forks, in 1979. Denise married Robert Thomasson of the Edinburg-Gardar area June 24, 1977, in Park Center Lutheran Church. They live in Harvey, N. Dak. Alice was born April 1, 1960, in Grafton, N. Dak.; was graduated from Valley High School in 1978. She is presently attending N.D.S.U. in Fargo, majoring in nutrition. Brenda was born Sept. 24, 1964, in Park River, N. Dak. She is a junior at Valley High School. Odin, Lois and family are active members of Park Center Lutheran Church, Odin serving as trustee and on different committees, and Lois as an ALCW member, teaching Sunday School for over twenty years and serving as Sunday School superintendent for three years. Odin is a member of the American Legion, John Anderson Post 240, and is a Past Commander of the Post. Lois is a member of the Auxiliary.
The Odin and Lois Springan Family: left fo right, back row, Roger, Alice, Lois, Odin; front row, Loren Moe, Deborah Moe, Brenda, Kari Moe, Denise Thomasson and Robert Thomasson. Odin married Lois Sigurdson, daughter of Emil and Sigrun Sigurdson of the Gardar-Edinburg area, Dec. 27, 1950, in the Gardar Lutheran Church. Lois was bom Aug. 19, 1929, in Bantry, N. Dak. She has a twin brother, Lloyd, four other brothers and one sister, Emily. She graduated from the Gardar High School in May, 1947, and taught school for two years in Fairview School District No. 50 before her marriage to Odin. Odin and Lois are parents of six children. Roger Lee was born in Grafton, N. Dak., Nov. 6, 1951; was graduated from Valley High School in 1970. He is presently in farming partnership with his father. Deborah Ann, was born Nov. 5, 1952, in Grafton; was graduated from Valley High School in 1970; and graduated from Bill's Hairstylist college in Grand Forks Sept., 1973. Debbie has her own beauty shop in Edinburg called Deb's Beauty Nook. She married Loren Moe, son of Edward and Helen Moe, Hoople on Feb. 17, 1974, in Park Center Lutheran Church. They are
DUANE AND MARY JANE TOLLEFSON Mr. and Mrs. Duane Tollefson (Mary Jane Kalgard) live on a farm in Dundee Township, 7 miles northwest of Park River, or 4 miles east and 1 mile south of Edinburg. It is the same farm which Mary Jane's father purchased in 1905 and part of this is where her grandparents, Eberhardt and Martha Kalgaarden, homesteaded in 1880, having lived in a dugout in the hillside the first winter. Duane was born in Park River on Aug. 9, 1925, to Arthur and Alvilde (Jenson) Tollefson. They lived in Park River one year. They moved to a farm in Highland Township, 3'/2 miles north of Edmore, and later, in 1941, they bought a farm 7 miles northeast of Edmore. Duane farmed there until 1974 when he and Mary Jane were married, and has rented out his farm since 1975. Duane attended Highland Grade School and Edmore High School. He was an active member of Concordia Lutheran Church, taught Sunday School, conducted a Youth Bible Study Group, was a Scout Master five years, and a member and an officer of the Edmore Saddle Club.
presently working at U.S. General Accounting Office, Washington, D.C, where he has worked since 1 972. Mark Allen Flaten, born Dec. 19, 1953, attended Dundee School Dist. No. 34 and Walsh County Agricultural School, graduating in 1971. He spent one year at Zion Harbor Ministry Center, then enrolled at Bethany Fellowship Missionary Training School, Minneapolis, graduating in 1975. He spent his year of interning at Midwest Challenge. He married Carol Dilly at Brainerd, Minn., July 24, 1976. They have one child, Joy Marie, born Feb. 1, 1979. They are on the staff at Midwest Challenge, a Christian Drug Rehabilitation Center in Minneapolis where Mark serves as teacher, counselor and sings and plays with a musical group called "Mantle." Janelle Hope Flaten, born Oct. 15, 1956, attended Dundee School Dist. No. 34, attended Reemer, Minn., High School one year and graduated from Walsh County Agricultural School in
Mark Flaten, Duane and Mary Jane Tollefson, Janelle Flaten Misner, Stephen Flaten, and Robert Flaten. Mary Jane was born at rural Oslo, Minn., on Dec. 4, 1933, to Emil and Signe (Modin) Kalgard. She has spent most of her life on the farm where she grew up and now lives. She attended grade schools at Dundee No. 86 and Alvarado, Minn., and in 1945 the Kalgards moved into Park River so she attended seventh and eighth grades in Park River, and the Walsh County Agricultural School, Park River, graduating in 1951. On July 1 1 , 1951, she married Harold Flaten at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church. They attended California Lutheran Bible School in Los Angeles in 1952, then came back to Park River, and Dundee Township where they farmed (17 years) until the time of Harold's death Oct. 19, 1969. Harold Flaten was born May 14, 1932, to Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Flaten at Park River. He attended Golden School Dist. 97 and Walsh County Agricultural School, graduating in 1949. They were active in Our Savior's Church, Sunday School and choirs, Harold served as deacon, on board of trustees, and was Sunday School Superintendant many years. He was clerk of Dundee School Dist. No. 34 from 1959, when it was consolidated, until 1969, and was P.T.A. president.
Deborah Tollefson 1975. She attended U.N.D. for two years. She married Lonnie Misner May 14, 1977, and they have one child, Stephanie Sue, born Oct. 8, 1979. They live in Grand Forks where her husband attends U.N.D., majoring in electrical engineering. Robert John Flaten, born Nov. 3, 1967, attended Dundee School Dist. No. 34 through the fifth grade when it closed in 1975 and is now enrolled at Edinburg Public School and in the seventh grade. After her husband's death, Mary Jane and children lived one year at Zion Harbor Ministry Center near Bemidje, Minn., and then moved back to the farm in Dundee Township. On June 9, 1974 she married Duane Tollefson of Edmore. They have one child, Deborah Faith, born Aug. 23, 1975. They are members of Christian Faith Fellowship Church. Mary Jane has been a member of Ken-Dee Homemakers Club 25 years and is a charter member. Her hobbies are sewing, china painting and music. She taught some classes in sewing men's sport coats, through the Extension Service.
DUANE AND JEANNE (MONSON) WALKER AND FAMILY
Harold Flaten (1932-1969)
Duane Walker was born on Sept. 8, 1936, to Thomas and Linnea (Larson) Walker, rural Hoople. He has lived his entire life on the family farm in Dundee Township, and received his education in Dundee No. 90 and Hoople High School.
Four children were born to them. Stephen Earl Flaten was born Dec. 17, 1952; attended North Dakota School for the Deaf and graduated as salutatorian of his class in 1971; then attended Gallaudet College in Washington, D.C, for two years and is
He began farming with his father and brother, Kenneth, and continues to run the farm at the present time. He raises small grain, sunflowers, and irrigated potatoes and corn. He also has a feedlot and feeds Holstein steers for slaughter. Duane (better known as Dewey) also drove a semi-truck from 1957 to 1962,
and was heater man for Western Fruit Express and Burlington Northern Railroad from 1963 to 1979. He presently serves as a Dundee Township Supervisor, is a member of the Gideons International, is an active member of Park Center Lutheran Church, where he served as trustee, youth advisor and substitute Sunday School teacher. He married Jeanne Monson at Park River on June 29, 1957. Jeanne was born on May 2, 1940, in Norton Township, rural Lankin, a daughter of Oswald and Esther (Hogfoss) Monson. One of six children, she grew up on the family farm near Lankin and attended grade school at Norton No. 68. Following the death of her father in 1 952, the family decided to leave the farm, and so in 1953 they moved to Park River, where Jeanne attended the Walsh County Agricultural School. At the present time, she is an active member of Park Center Lutheran Church and its A.L.C.W., is superintendent of the Sunday School, teaches eighth and ninth grade in Sunday School, is a member of KenDu Homemakers Club, the Gideons International Auxiliary, and interested in other community projects. She enjoys gardening, sewing, crafts, machine knitting, and music. Jeanne and Duane Walker are the parents of five children who attended Dundee Dist. 34 until the school was closed in 1979. Judy, born Oct. 17, 1958, was graduated from Park River High School in 1977, and is employed at the Good Samaritan Center in Park River. In May, 1980, she underwent a successful kidney transplant performed at Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Jeffrey, born Aug. 9, 1960, graduated from Park River High School in 1978. He farms with his father and is presently enrolled at Dakota Aero Tech in Fargo, where he is learning small aircraft mechanics. He also is taking flying lessons and plans to get his private pilot's license. While in high school he played hockey. Richard (Rick), born Sept. 12, 1963, is presently a senior at Park River High School where he is a member of the hockey team, FFA and Chorus. He is also helping on the farm and enjoys driving his dad's Mack trucks. Diane (Dee Dee), born May 17, 1969, is a sixth grader in the Park River Elementary School, plays the flute in the band, enjoys the piano and organ, and loves to sing. She has been a member of Tater Town Gals 4H Club for two years, and attends the Park Center Sunday School. Nancy, born Nov. 14, 1979, is a fourth grade student at Park River. She likes to be her dad's "Right Hand Man" with the cattle, loves to sing, to play the piano and organ, and attends the Park Center Sunday School.
KENNETH A. AND DELORES (GULL1NGSRUD) WALKER FAMILY Kenneth Walker, son of Thomas and Linnea Walker, was born Sept. 6, 1924, in Dundee Township, rural Hoople. He attended Dundee District No. 90 and the Walsh County Agricultural School in Park River. In addition, he attended Concordia College at Moorhead, Minn., for one year prior to going into farming on a full-time basis in 1948. In 1949 he married the former Delores Gullingsrud of Edinburg, N. Dak. Kenneth has been active in many community organizations. He was a director of Dundee School No. 90 and was instrumental in the reorganization of four small rural school districts into Dundee District No. 34. A modern new school was built to complete the project in 1959. Kenneth served as director and/or president until it closed in the spring of 1979. In addition, he has served as director and past president of the Hoople Farmers Grain Company, past president of the Walsh County School Officers Association, Dundee Township treasurer for 18
years, Sunday School teacher and superintendent, and trustee and secretary of Park Center Lutheran Church for 10 years. Kenneth, in partnership with his brother Duane, farmed the land that his grandfather, A. H. Walker, obtained through the Homestead Act and The Timber Culture Act in the late 1800's. He semi-retired from farming in 1 978 due to health reasons. Delores Gullingsrud Walker has also played an active role in the community. She has served as president of the Ken-Du Homemakers Club, education secretary of the Park Center ALCW, and was secretary-treasurer of the Park Center Sunday school for 10 years. Kenneth and Delores are the parents of four children. All of them were born at Grafton, N. Dak., attended Dundee Elementary School, and Park River High School.
Delores and Kenneth Walker on their 25th anniversary. Robert, born Dec. 19, 1950, was graduated from Moorhead State College with a B.A. Degree in sociology in May of 1973. Robert was married to the former Jeanine Flaten of Hoople in 1972. They have one son, Johann. Since graduation, he has worked as a social worker and is currently employed by Aerial Contractors of Fargo. Lynn Walker was born Oct. 16, 1953. In 1971 he enlisted in the United States Air Force where he served for four years as a jet engine mechanic. This also included a tour of duty in Southeast Asia. After his discharge he attended Dakota Aero Tech, Inc. in Fargo, and graduated in December of 1976. Lynn is currently attending Normandale Community College in Bloomington, Minn., and is employed as an aircraft mechanic for Northwest Orient Airlines in Minneapolis. Lynn is married to the former Patricia Pfau of Fairlawn, N. J. She served four years in the United States Air Force and is presently a sophomore, majoring in nursing, at Normandale Community College. They have one son, Nathan. David was born on Nov. 28, 1955. He graduated from the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, with a B.S. Degree in business administration in December of 1978. He is currently employed as a consumer affairs examiner at the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco. Mary is a senior at Park River High School. She has been very active in many organizations and was student council president. Mary was a member of the International Music Camp Tour Choir and traveled through six European nations in the summer of 1980. She is currently employed part-time at the Good Samaritan Center in Park River.
THOMAS M. AND LINNEA (LARSON) WALKER Thomas M. Walker was born Nov. 1, 1897, in Dundee Township, rural Hoople, the son of the late Andrew H. and Ellen (Gunderson) Walker. He received his education in the rural Dundee School Dist. No. 90 and the Walsh County Agricultural School in Park River. On Feb. 13, 1919, he married Linnea Larson, the daughter of Andrew and Christina (Auguston) Larson. She was born in Dundee Township on July 2, 1894.
later the L.B.I, at Grand Forks. She was baptized and later confirmed at the Hvideso Lutheran Church, rural Hoople, in Dec, 1912, by Rev. Westby. In Dec, 1921, she married Bendik O. Wee of Minneapolis who had graduated from the Red Wing Seminary and had taught school. They were married at Minot and lived there one year after which they moved to Minneapolis where he was a postal clerk at the post office for many years. He passed away in 1951.
Thomas and Linnea farmed the A. H. Walker farm in the Hoople area, retiring from farming in 1964. Thomas and Linnea raised two sons, Kenneth and Duane, who presently farm the Walker farm.
Mr. and Mrs. B. O. Wee, 1921 Lydia took courses in religion and nursing and needlework and crocheting. Later she did millinery work made and trimmed hats and also made flowers for bouquets corsages for herself and as gifts. She did leathercraft ceramics. Thomas and Linnea Walker, 1919 Thomas was very active in community affairs. He served on the board of directors of the Dundee Insurance Company for 39 years and as its chairman for 21 years, retiring in 1976. He also served as a member of the Dundee Township Board, and as assessor, and the board of Dundee School Dist. No. 90. Thomas also served on The Farmers Home Administration, on the committee of the Walsh County A.S.C. Office, and as an A.S.C.S. fieldman for the 11 counties of northeastern North Dakota for 15 years. He retired that position at the age of 70. Thomas was also a member of the Walsh County Historical Society. Thomas and Linnea were both active in Park Center Lutheran Church, where Linnea was a member of A.L.C.W. and Thomas served as president, treasurer, trustee, and on the cemetery committee. Thomas passed away on Sept. 5, 1977, and Linnea still resides on the farm in the Hoople area.
LYDIA LINDELL WEE Jennie Lydia (Lindell) Wee was born Dec. 12, 1897, in Dundee Township, the eldest in a family of six. Her parents were John and Anna Lindell (See Vol. 1, page 591). Lydia grew up on a farm and attended rural grade school and
did and and and
Being a member of the Retired Civil Service Association, she traveled with the group on several trips to various parts of the United States. In Dec, 1971, she moved to Park River, into an apartment, and later entered the Good Samaritan Home. Failing in health she was transferred to the Sunset Nursing Home at Grafton in the fall of 1977 where she is a wheelchair patient at the present time. She and her husband were members of Central Lutheran Church, Minneapolis. Mr. Wee is buried at the Ft. Snelling National Cemetery, Minneapolis. OLE LARSON FAMILY Ole Hagen Larson was married to Kjerstina Remen in Norway in 1876. He was born in Romsdal, Norway, in 1851, left his family temporarily and immigrated to America in 1878. If there were too many under one name, people would change their name. Ole took the name "Larson" being a son of "Lars" and adding 'son', which was a common practice in Norway. His brother kept the name Hagen. Odvin Hagen was one of his sons — a great musician and choir leader at the Waldorf College at Forest City, la. He was a first cousin of Ole's children. Ole came to Walsh County and homesteaded in Kinsington Township, six miles northeast of Park River, on what is now known as the Enoch Larson & Sons Farm. He built a sod house, graduating to a log cabin, and in 1900 built the wood frame house that stands there today.
When enough money was acquired (two years later), he sent for his wife and two sons, Lars and Hans, the latter whom he had never seen. He began homesteading with oxen and wagon, then mules and finally horses. Six sons and three daughters were born to this family: Lars, Hans, Bertha, Martha, Olaf, Enoch, Sr., Enoch, Josef O. and Christina. They had a Lutheran background and became members of Zion Lutheran Church, rural Hoople, when that started in 1 879. We believe tha* Ole and family moved off the homestead in 1911 when Olaf Larson was married to Lena Lien and they lived and farmed on the homestead. Ole's moved to Section 15-15755 — a farm now owned by Mr. John Waslaski. The buildings have all disappeared. The older children remember a very small house with tiny rooms. Grandpa Ole was very sick in a little bedroom in the southwest corner of the house. He gave each of the three older children of Olaf Larson a picture which they still have to this day. Leonard Knoff remembers this place also. He says, "The one thing I remember is the sugar bowl on the table — the house was very small and the morning that Grandpa died Mother called Dad (Peter Knoff) about her Dad's passing away. After Dad hung up the receiver, he wept. I was eight years old then. I remember the funeral — a line over one half mile long, going east — all cars — ours a 1917 Ford Model T. Later some prayer services were held where Grandpa had died. There were his two horses (Duke and Pat) standing by the barn on the east side. Olaf got Pat and I believe Lars got Duke. Duke was a dark — some mottled — color and a white face. My Dad had used those horses digging potatoes. In 1918 he had Pat and in 1919 Dad had them both. That white-faced horse intrigued me." "For weeks after, we looked at Grandpa's footsteps (tracks from his shoes) going through our trees. He had come to visit — Mother gave him coffee. I watched him drink it. He sat on the east side of the table in the dining room then — in the winter this is where the folks had the cookstove — now the stove had been moved into our summer kitchen. Ole walked out north of the trees where Dad worked in the field — seeding perhaps. These tracks could be seen a month or two afterwards. This was a very close family — loving much — real close ties." Olaf Larsons lived on the homestead about six years — 1917. Three children were born to them here — Ernest, Norman and Myrtle (Mrs. Hamilton Berg). Enoch lived there alone for two years and then he married Pauline Kjos in the fall of 1919. They remained there until retirement and moved into Park River. Then Neil and Gene Larson's families lived in two different homes on the place. This is still their home today. Myrtle Larson Berg, remembers vividly when they hauled a load of furniture to the new Larson farm, just one half mile east of there, because they unloaded her highchair, which was possibly her most prized possession. Leonard, Knoff relates, " I can now organize my bit of memory because I remember being in this house when Olaf's folks lived there, and playing with Ernest and Norman near the door entering the kitchen from the living room. Another thing, that I don't remember, was when my mother told me that the scar on the left temple got there when one of these boys hit me with a stove "poker." Leonard goes on, "I also remember Enoch and Pauline stopping in at our house in 1919 shortly after their marriage — in the fall — I guess." Leonard ends this history with: "Stirring the dust of yore only to wish it were more."
Churches PARK CENTER CHURCH 1 980 marked a century of Christian worship for Park Center Lutheran Congregation. This landmark of spiritual faith was observed by a joyous celebration and homecoming in June of that year. A confirmants reunion and Norwegian smorgasbord was held on Saturday evening, June 7th. The festival worship service and centennial program took place on Sunday, June 8. Rev. James Brooks of Freeport, III., was the only former pastor who was able to attend. Faith being the substance of things hoped for, it was this essential bridge of spiritual faith that inspired the founders of Park Center congregation to cross storm-tossed seas with their meager belongings and migrate across half a continent into a wilderness area to establish a new community. There had to be a sense of divine purpose and meaning in such an adventure to sustain their courage over trials of physical and mental endurance. There were no roads or bridges to guide them through the tall grasses of the fertile prairie that stood untouched by man. For the task of altering this primitive environment into homes for their families they sought God's help, and began to worship in homes, log schoolhouses and barns. Due to the fragmentary nature of records kept during the early years of the congregation's history, it is difficult to present a complete history of Park Center Congregation. It appears that since so many immigrants of Norwegian Lutheran background had settled in Walsh County, pioneer Lutheran pastors began visiting this territory, conducting worship services and administering the Sacraments of Baptism and Holy communion. The first of these pastors of whom we have record was the Rev. O. H. Aaberg who lived at Walle, near Grand Forks, who conducted some services for the Park Center community and in 1880 helped them organize into a congregation. From the available records, we quote the following and translate from the Norwegian: "Park Center Congregation was organized in the year 1880." After a worship service, they resolved to organize as a Christian congregation. Martin Johnson was elected president and Ole Gunderson, secretary. (Possibly the church derives its name from the fact that it is located near the center or middle branch of the Park River.) Elected as the first trustees were: Gjermund Gunderson for one year; E. Sandland for two years and Nels Clemetson for three years. It was next decided that this congregation should unite with Zion Congregation (south from Hoople) and the Park River congregation (Our Saviour's) in calling a pastor, and that this congregation agree to contribute to the pastor's salary $80 the first year. Ole Gunderson, Gregar Halvorson, Halvor Peterson Borge and Martin Johnson were elected to select a suitable place as a cemetery for the congregation. The result of this committee's work was that Knute E. Sandland donated three acres for the cemetery and church grounds — the present site. There was a total of 167 members as of 1880 (67 adults and 100 children). At the present time, 1981, there are 107 adults and 12 children. Rev. O. H. Aaberg was the first pastor of this congregation, but he could not serve as its permanent pastor on account of other duties. Names and years of other pastors were: Rev. Christopher A. Flaten 1881-1889; Rev. J. T. Langemo of Edinburg, temporarily for three months; The work prospered so well those years that the members of Park Center began to talk of erecting a church. In the summer of 1892 a serviceable church
building, 30 feet by 75 feet, was erected on the present site, costing $7,000. Pastor K. O. Storli was the next pastor, that there has a record of serving, from 1900-1906; Rev. O. L Kirkeberg 1906-1913. (He passed away in 1925 and is buried in the Zion Cemetery, south of Hoople); Rev. H. O. Shurson 1913-1915 (While he served the parish, he was instrumental in organizing the Lutheran congregation in Hopple); Rev. Adolph Egge 1915-1926. In 1920 a fine and complete basement was built under the Park Center Church. Other improvements and renovations have taken place through the years, making Park Center an inviting place as a house of worship. In 1 926 the parishes were rearranged with the result that Park Center with Hvideso and First Lutheran Church of Hoople would constitute the new parish. Records show Rev. O.A. Norem served the congregation temporarily for five weeks; Pastor Halvard Lie 1927-1 928; Rev. B. M. Branford 1929-1939; Rev. O. R. Swenson 1939-1955 (He took a three-year leave of absence to serve as chaplain in World War II — Rev. John B. Rockne of Park River filled in as temporary pastor in addition to serving his own parish of three congregations); Rev. James R. Sonnenberg 1955-1966; Rev. James L. Brooks 1966-1972; and Rev. M. J. Sheldahl 1972-1979 when he retired. Rev. Kent Garlinghouse, who serves at the present time, came to the parish in July, 1979. In an electronic age we can see a symbolic meaning in the slim steeple of the church pointing skyward as a spiritual antenna communicating God's will to earth, and a prayer of thanks ascending in return for a century of meaningful living under His protective care.
Schools DUNDEE SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 34 The Dundee School had its beginning in 1957 and '58, when a series of meetings was held among the patrons of the four districts that were located in Dundee Township. One of the reasons for merging the four districts into one central school was so that parents could continue to send their children to any high school they chose, to give them the best possible secondary education. While most studeents attended the Walsh County Agricultural and Training School at Park River (later the Park River High School), there were those who chose to go to Hoople,
Edinburg and Grafton. After much discussion and balloting and state approval, it was decided to erect a new school building in the center of the township and actual construction began in the spring of 1959 and classes started that fall. The first Board of Education consisted of Kenneth Walker, president; Harold Flaten, clerk; D. U. Meberg, treasurer; E. H. Berg, Orbin Erickson, Joseph Lindell and Robert Holt, directors. When the school opened there were 38 students in the eight grades and two teachers. The teachers were Mrs. Joe (June) Almen for upper grades and Mrs. Earl (Lulu) Johnson, lower grades. To begin with, the teachers had to act as custodians and that was a job that rainy fall with all the new dirt in the yard. The school board members made a thorough cleaning about every three months and sometimes they worked until 4 a.m. Later Mr. and Mrs. Harold Flaten were hired as custodians. Through the years there was a hot lunch program, a special music teacher, and the school also took part in the basic skills and special education programs. The school also had a very strong and active P.T.A., which would meet once a month and provided fun and entertainment not only for its members, but also for the pupils and anyone else that wanted to come. For many years the parents would put on one special program a year for the children and it was here the Dundee Bums became famous and were asked to do repeat performances at activities outside the local area. Because of declining enrollment, nine students in 1978-79, the Board of Education felt it better to close the school for the 1979-80 school year and pay tuition to the school of the parents' choice. In July, 1980, the school district was annexed to three districts, which were Park River, Hoople and Edinburg, and thus ended one of the few remaining rural schools in Walsh County. Those serving on the Board of Education when it closed were Orbin Erickson, president; George Hurtt, clerk-treasurer; E. Hamilton, Berg, Kenneth Walker, Roy Myhre, and Richard Lee, directors. Dundee teachers during the 20 years were: Lower grades — Lulu Johnson, Ellen Erlandson, Helen Moe, and Kristin Hannesson. Upper grades — June Almen, Ivah Johnson, Lorraine Pederson. Music teachers were: Ernest Larson, Mrs. Kouba, and Esther Olgeirson Jonasson. Basic Skills: Helen Almen and Mary Jo Olson.
History of Dundee Township in Photos
behind Nellie Peterson, Mrs. August Almen, Alice Peterson, Martha Kalgard, August Almen and son Adolph, Magnus Kalgard, Jacob Kalgard and Emil Kalgard.
A gathering at the home of Mr, and Mrs. August Almen one Sunday afternoon in 1914. Left to right, Alva, Ruby, Velma, Esther and Stella Almen, Delia, Gladys, and Selma Peterson. A Helgeson girl, Lydia Kalgard, Mrs. Peterson holding Ethel
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EDEN TOWNSHIP FAMILY HISTORIES HENRY AND FRANCES BURRIS FAMILY Henry Burris was born at Lindsay, Ontario, Canada. His parents died when Henry was 17 years old, the eldest of four children. Henry and his sister, Jane Burris Kennedy, worked hard to keep the family together. In 1882 Henry came to North Dakota to file on land in Eden Township. Later his sisters, Jane Burris Kennedy and Mary Burris O'Reilly, and his brother, Robert Burris, and his future wife, Frances O'Keefe, came to Minto from Ontario. In 1884 Henry married Frances O'Keefe. They lived on their farm in Eden Township where Henry was active in township development. When the railroad came through the area, the town of Conway was built.
Henry and Fanny (1884) Henry Burris ran a threshing machine and crew every fall for many years. They worked from farm to farm late into the fall, and provided jobs for many of the young men in the area. Frances Burris managed the cook car that followed the threshing crew. She was said to be the best bread baker in the county. Even after she became crippled with rheumatoid arthritis, Frances directed the hired help during the busy threshing season. When St. Mark's Church burned in Conway, Henry and Frances donated half of the land on which the new church was built. Henry and Frances raised a family of nine boys and one girl: Thomas Burris (1884-1962) was dray man in Conway for years. He married Rose Vavroski in 1921. In the 30's they moved to Lewistown, Mont., where they farmed until Tom's death. Rose is still living in a retirement home in Lewistown. They raised Marjorie Burris Wojtowick and Thomas Donald Burris (Buzz). Marge and Robert Wojtowick's four children are: Father Tom Wojtowick, associate pastor of Guadalupe parish in Seattle; Bonnie Wojtowick Shaffer, a commercial artist in Seattle; Connie Wojtowick McCabe, who lives in Colorado; and Robert, Jr., a musician in the Seattle area. Thomas Donald Burris and his three children all live in Lewistown. Harry Burris (1886-1960) received his high school education in Park River. He married Katherine Costello (1890-1970) of Minto, N. Dak., in 1913. He was postmaster and ran a store in
Conway for a few years, moved to Minto, and then to New York. When Harry returned to Canada, he became a Canadian citizen, and continued in the lumber business until he retired. Harry and Catherine had four children. Matthew Willard Burris married Eileen Sheeran. Matt served in the Canadian Air Force during WW II. After the war he continued as a commercial pilot. Matt and Eileen had three children. Sherry married George Fox and lives in Montreal, Canada. Patricia married Terence Kitchener and lives in Vancouver, B. C. Carol and Rene Fournel live in Edmonton, Alta., Canada. Frances and John Boyer live in Saskatoon, Sask., Canada, and have five children - Kathryn Boyer Olson, Barbara Boyer Lewis, Michelle Boyer, and twins, Karen and Kelly. Bernice married Lewis Ellert in 1946. Lew is a retired pilot for a Canadian Airline. Bernie is a registered nurse. Their three daughters are Lorrie Ellert Ewonus, Gwen and Pamela. Harry, Jr., married Isabelle Harrison. They live in Lethbridge, Alta., and have seven children — Roberta Burris Murphy, Jane Burris Allen, Timothy, Michael, Mary Kate, Lorena and Erin. Robert Burris (1888-1929) married Blanche Harrington in 1908. They farmed near Conway and then Bob became depot agent for the Soo Line. Later they moved west to Idaho and then to California. They had three sons. Loren married Geraldine Castro. He ran a parts store in Spokane for years until his reitrement. They adopted a son and a daughter, Tim and Susan. Gerald married Grace Moen. He spent years in the armed forces, and then worked for an airline in Hawaii. Their six children are Gerald, Peter, Anthony, Susan Burris Pico, Kathleen, and Michael. Henry married Gertrude Cronan. He died in 1963 from a lingering illness. William Burris (1890-1975) served in the army during WW I. He farmed in the Conway area all his life. When his father, Henry, died, Will bought his father's homestead to keep it in the family.'At his death, Will passed the land on to his nephew, Alden Burris. Timothy Burris (1892-1933) married Lorena Costello. (1894-1977). They farmed southeast of Conway. Tim and Lorena had two daughters. Mildred (1919-1973) married Pat McCann. They farmed east of Minto. They had four sons. Leroy McCann is chief of police in Grafton, is married to Karen Stark, and has one daughter, Katie. Loren married Mary Anderson. Loren is a mechanic. They have four children. Terrance McCann (19521973) died in a car accident. Michael married Joy Duray, and works in Grafton. Gertrude married Raymond Narlock of Minto and lives in Las Vegas, Nev. Their three children are Corrinne Narlock Haeve, Larry and Peggy. Charles Burris (1894-1948) attended school in Park River and college in Saskatoon, Sask., Canada. He served in the Navy during WW I, He married Margaret Morgan. Charlie owned a Lincoln-Mercury dealership in Newark, N. J., and also managed a manufacturing plant during WW II. Charlie is buried at Arlington Cemetery in Washington, D. C. Martha Burris (1986-1974) married Joseph Whelan in New 233
York. Martha spent her last years with her children, Margaret and Joseph, in Champaign, III. Joe is married to Pat Schumacher and has one daughter, Erika. Wallace Burris (1899-1977) married Emily Stone in 1921. They farmed near Conway for a few years, and then ran a store in Conway. In 1942 they moved to Vancouver, Wash., where Wallace worked in the Kaiser Shipyards. After the war Wallace and Emily bought property just outside of Battleground, Wash., where they built their present home. Emily has retired and lives there. Wallace and Emily had three children. Helen married Tony Anglin, lives in Vancouver, Wash., and raised two daughters. Marian and Lloyd Svir (of Park River) have two daughters, and live in Battleground where they built their home near Emily's home. Gene is an ordained minister and lives and works in California. Francis Albert Burris (1901 -1 968) married Blanche Heising (1905) in 1924. Bert and Blanche graduated from high school in Conway in 1 922. Bert spent two years at the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, before going to work for Northern Packing Company in Grand Forks where he spent eighteen years. In 1942 they moved their family to Vancouver, where Bert and Blanche bought a large home for their ten children. They both worked at the Kaiser Shipyards during WW II. Following the war Bert became foreman of mechanics at the Washington Cannery, and Blanche worked as a practical nurse at St. Joseph Hospital until her retirement. Bert and Blanche raised ten children — one boy and nine girls. Their sixth child, Jerry, died as an infant and is buried near his grandparents in Conway CemeteryDonna and Fred Fewins live with their four children in Chino, Calif., where Fred is an optometrist. Their children are Sherry, Randy, Tom and Gary. Charles lives with his two sons, Bert and Chuck, in Vancouver. He works as a mate on an oil tanker. Anna is a teacher of Special Education Students in West Seattle High School. She is a Sister of Providence. Mabel is married to Emil Sakrison. She is a registered nurse and he is an iron worker. They have six children — Rosemary Sakrison Rassmusen, David, Robert, Kathleen, Joni Sakrison Diemert, and Susan.
near Conway for years. Julia still lives on their farm. They had seven children. Joyce and Charles Ross live with their four children in Arthur, N. Dak. The children are Robert, Timothy, Gregory and Christopher. Alden lives on the home farm and has farmed all his life. Carol and Duane Mergner live on a farm near Arthur, N. Dak. Their six children are Debra, Kathleen, John, James, Daniel, and Michelle. Connie and Robert Johnson live near Inkster, N. Dak., with their four boys — Steven, Russell, Jeffrey, and Matthew. Bernice and Douglas Sand have one son, Darren, and live in New Town, N. Dak. Both Bernie and Doug are teachers. Betty and Donald Skari live with their three children in Minot, N. Dak. Betty and Don are teachers. Their children are Heather, Kurtis, and Andrew. Sandy and Brian Kennelly live in Park River with their four children — Sean, Colleen, Kevin and Brendan.
HISTORY OF GEORGE AND MARTHA CLOSE George Close was born in Tara, Ontario, Canada, March 15, 1878. He came as a child with his parents, in 1882, to a farm west of Conway, N. Dak. When he was 25 he returned to Canada and married Martha Border at Owen Sound, Ontario, Mar. 10, 1903. She was born Jan. 2, 1879, at Owen Sound. They came by train to Conway, to the farm now owned by his son and daughter-in-law, Howard and Eleanor Close. The couple had six children — Clifford, Dorothy, Lloyd, Minnie, Willard, and Howard. The door of the Close home was always open for anyone that came. George Close liked to trade horses and also go to auction sales. The couple retired and moved to Fordville in the fall of 1952. They bought a home from Leo Foerster.
Marilyn and Kenny Busig had six children — Carol Busig Cain, Larry, Michael, Chuck, Patrick, and Jeff. Marilyn works for the Nabisco Company in Portland. Cathryn married Richard Werner who is an audio engineer for Motorola in Chicago. Their three chilren are Lucy, Richard and Martin. Teresa and Bill Pausch have one daughter, Mary. Teresa works for a Japanese firm in San Jose, Calif., and Bill works for Western Electric. Patricia married Ted Pawlaczyk. Ted and his family spent three years in a concentration camp in Germany during WW II. Ted works for the county, and Pat works for the State of California. They live in Sacramento with their children, Sharon, Steven and Greg. Judy and Tim Nibler's children are Vincent, Valerie, and Jeff. Tim is a lawyer, and Judy is an inhalation therapist. They live in Fresno, Calif.
Mr. and Mrs. George Close on their 60th anniversary.
wedding
Joyce is a graduate of Portland State University in Portland, Ore. She is an assistant buyer for Montgomery Ward Company in Los Angeles.
In December, 1967, because of poor health, they went to live in the Good Samaritan Home in East Grand Forks until August when they moved to Valley Memorial, Grand Forks, where he passed away Aug. 22, 1968. Mrs. Close continued living in the Home until she passed away Oct. 15, 1970.
Leo Burris (1903-1952) married Julia Barta. They farmed
The Closes were members of the First Presbyterian Church
She married Henry Nelson at Grafton, N. Dak., in Nov., 1941, and moved to Grand Forks where the couple have since made their home. They both worked at various business places. Dorothy and Henry are members of United Lutheran Church, Grand Forks, and are active in the various organizations within the church. They have one son, Howard, born in April, 1945. He attended grade school and graduated from the University of North Dakota in 1971 with a degree in business administration, and is now office manager of a business firm in Grand Forks. He was married to Linda Blair in 1966. Linda is attending the University and working at the Rehab Center. Dorothy and Henry have three grandchildren, Bryce, Blair and Bready.
The George and Martha Close Family. Back row, left to right, Willard, Lloyd, Dorothy, Minnie, Clifford and Howard; seated, mother and dad, George and Martha Close. at Fordville, and are buried at Oak Grove Cemetery at Fordville. The couple celebrated their golden anniversary in the Presbyterian church in Fordville in 1 963. HISTORY OF CLIFFORD CLOSE Clifford, a son of George and Martha Close, was born Oct. 15, 1905, in Eden Township. He grew up, attended school in District 4 1 , and, being the oldest in the family, began working in the field and helping his father and learned to drive the car at an early age. On June 24, 1930, he married Dora Blank of Alexandria, Minn. A daughter, Eleanor, was born in June, 1931, and a son, Arlynn, in June 1 9 5 1 . Clifford farmed for several years around Fordville. In 1945 they moved to Hope, N. Dak., where he was employed by the Johnson Store Company and later was custodian in the Hope school. Dora taught school for many years. She is now retired and continues to live at Hope, N. Dak. Eleanor married Warren Stromberg of Hope. Arlynn married Cynthia Narlock from the state of Wisconsin. Clifford passed away in July, 1972, after suffering many years with cancer, and is buried at Hope, N. Dak. HISTORY OF DOROTHY CLOSE NELSON Dorothy Close was born near Conway, N. Dak., on Sept. 3, 1908, the second child of George and Martha Close. She was born in the house that is still the home on the farm. The children attended Eden School District No. 4 1 . They usually walked to school, about one and three-fourths miles, but as Clifford, the older child, got bigger, their dad bought a pony and buggy, so the children could ride. They carried their lunches in tin syrup pails. The older boys carried water for drinking from nearby farm homes. Later George and Martha Close moved to Fordville so that the children could attend school there. Dorothy graduated from Fordville High School in May, 1927. She tooK part in 4-H clubs and later became a member of the Homemakers while at home.
HISTORY OF LLOYD CLOSE Lloyd Close, son of George and Martha Close, was born May 24, 1911. He grew up on the home farm and attended school with his brothers and sisters in School District No. 41 in Eden Township. He continued working at home until he married Agnes Meagher, a neighbor girl, March 26, 1939. They continued living in the community where Lloyd farmed and worked at various other occupations. Lloyd and Agnes are the parents of three children — Allen, Elaine and David. Allen married Evelyn Novak, Nov. 26, 1960. They live at New Brighton, Minn., and are parents of four children. Elaine lives at Auburn, Wash., is married to Jerry Klugness, and has two children. David married Pollie Parr on Aug. 2, 1956, and the couple has three children. David and his family make their home at Detroit Lakes, Minn. The mother, Lloyd's wife, passed away in August, 1956, and is buried at St. Mark's Cemetery near Conway, N. Dak. On October 27, 1954, Lloyd married Gladys Muir of Inkster, N. Dak. They moved to Grand Forks in April, 1956, where Lloyd was employed by Kedney Warehouse for nineteen years. They have now retired and continue to make their home in Grand Forks. WILLARD AND ILA CLOSE Willard Close, son of George and Martha Close, was born July 3 1 , 1917, on the home farm in Eden Township. He married Ila Ballantine Sept. 1 1 , 1939. Two daughters and one son were born to them. Marilyn in 1940, Bonnie in 1943, and Michael in 1947. They lived in the Fordville area. During the earlier years he worked for farmers in the summers (Wm. Ratcliffe, Alvin Cooper, Wm. Bond, and Albert Hamilton). In the winters he was employed at the Fordville Creamery and Soo Line Railroad as engine watchman. For 12 years he worked and later managed the Civic Improvement at Fordville. Since 1966 he has been employed by the Farmers Fertilizer Plant at Park River, N, Dak. In 1966 Ila began work in the Village Inn. She worked for eight years in the Fordville Mercantile. After it burned she went to work in the Hartz Store. Willard and Ila are members of First Presbyterian Church. At present he is serving as trustee.
Marilyn married Marvin Linstad of Dahlen. They have five children — Waina, Kelly Ann, Chris, Tami and Casey. Bonnie married Kenneth Loveness. They live in Karlstad, Minn., where he teaches in the high school and she is assistant administrator in the Nursing Home. Michael was drafted in 1 968 and served in the Vietnam War. He married Joan Ellingson and has one child, Amanda.
HISTORY OF HOWARD CLOSE Howard Close, youngest son of George and Martha Close, was born Aug. 13, 1921, at Fordville, N. Dak. He received his elementary education at the Eden School District No. 4 1 . He remained at home and worked with his dad on their farm near Conway, N. Dak. Howard married Eleanor Linstad, daughter of Elmer and Agnes Linstad of Lankin, N. Dak., on June 8, 1952, at Quale Lutheran Church. Eleanor received her elementary education at the Cleveland country school and graduated from Fordville High School. After marriage, Howard and Eleanor continued to reside on the Closes' farm. Howard now began farming on his own as his parents moved to Fordville, N. Dak. In 1963 Howard and Eleanor purchased the farm from his parents and continued farming for 10 more years. In 1973 he began working at the Farmers Fertilizer Plant at Park River and at the present time is renting out the farm. Howard and Eleanor Close have been active members of the Fordville Lutheran Church since 1952. They are the parents of two sons, Scott and Larry. Scott Wayne was born May 13, 1955. He was baptized and confirmed at the Fordville Lutheran Church and received his elementary and high school education at Fordville. He attended the Wahpeton State School of Science for two years, studying electrical technology, and graduated in 1975. In May 1975 he began employment in electrical work at Grafton, N. Dak. Scott married Laurel Skjerven of Park River, N. Dak., on Nov. 4, 1978. They now reside in the Grafton area. Larry Dean was born Oct. 18, 1960. He was baptized and confirmed at the Fordville Lutheran Church. He received his elementary and high school at Fordville, and is presently in his third year of college at Valley City State College, Valley City, N.
Dak.
The Joe Foerster Family, back row, left to right, Joe, Marcella holding Joan; front row, Donna and Shirley. Marcella lived in Conway until 1969 when she moved to Fordville. In January of 1974, being unable to care for herself, she moved to Valley Memorial Home in Grand Forks. Donna Foerster married John Kotaska at Conway, N. Dak., on June 10, 1947. They now live in Thief River Falls, Minn. Their family consists of the following children: Victoria — Mrs. Robert Idovich, Cass Lake, Minn., John, Devils Lake, N. Dak., James, Capitola, Calif., Catherine — Mrs. Roger Morken, Colstrip, Mont., Theresa — Mrs. Terry McCollum, Bejou, Minn., Mary, Thief River Falls, Minn., and Joseph, attending college in Thief River Falls, Minn. One daughter died a few days after birth. The Kotaskas have seven grandchildren. Shirley Foerster and Bruce Morstad were married at Park River, N. Dak., Feb. 12, 1955. They now live in Grand Forks,
N.Dak. Joanne Foerster married Lynn Sluke at Park River, Feb. 26, 1955. They live on a farm near Fordville. The Slukes have five sons: David, Grafton, N. Dak.; Dale, West Fargo, N. Dak.; Daniel, attending college at Mayville, N. Dak.; Marcel, attending college at Devils Lake, N. Dak.; and Michael, a student at Fordville High School. The Slukes have two grandchildren.
JOSEPH FOERSTER FAMILY Joseph Foerster and Marcella Coughlin were married Nov. 9, 1927, at Larimore, N. Dak. Joseph, the son of John and Barbara Foerster, was born Sept. 20, 1884, on the Foerster farm east of Conway. Marcella, the daughter of Marcella and John Coughlin, was born on Apr. 20, 1898, on the Coughlin farm in Eden Township. To this marriage there were three daughters born — Donna, Feb. 10, 1929; Shirley, Mar. 3 1 , 1932; and Joanne, Oct. 22, 1936. Joe and his family lived on the family farm which was a halfmile northwest of Conway in Eden Township until his death on Aug. 9, 1941. He was a victim of the encephalitis (sleeping sickness) epidemic which swept through this area at that time. He is buried al St. Mark's Cemetery at Conway. After his death Marcella and the girls moved into Conway.
JOHN S. FOERSTER FAMILY John S. Foerster was born May 10, 1881, in Minto, N. Dak., to John and Barbara (Huebachwerleau) Foerster, and shortly after his birth he moved with his parents to a farm by Conway, N. Dak. As a young man he spent his winters in Canada. Here he met Ursula Hauss, whose parents were Mark and Louise (Roth) Hauss. On April 26, 1911, John Foerster and Ursula Hauss were married in Canada and then moved back to North Dakota to a farm in Ops Township, where Carl, Grace, Leo, and John were born. In September, 1917, they moved to a farm in Eden Township, where Anita was born. Mr. Foerster passed away on July 14, 1931, after a lingering illness. To add to Mrs. Foerster's burden of raising her family alone, a tornado destroyed buildings on their farm ten days after
married Frances Maresh and they reside on a farm in Eden Township. They have five children — Douglas, Debra, Charles, Dawn and Laurie, and three grandchildren. Anita is married to Dwight Hanson and they make their home in Grand Forks. They have two children — Darrell and Darlene, and one grandchild. Their son, Darrell, spent several years in the navy.
FRANK A. GREICAR Frank A. Greicar was born on July 4, 1 876, in Spillville, la., to Albert Greicar and Eva Houser. The seven Greicar children were Frances, Joe, Louis, Frank, Mary, Anna and Emil E. In the 1880's the family migrated to Dakota Territory. Anna and Emil were born in Dakota Territory. Frank A. Greicar married Rose Novak on Aug. 28, 1900, in Pisek at the St. John Nepumocene Catholic Church.
John and Ursula Foerster, Carl and Grace, her husband passed away. On November 12, 1959, Ursula passed away. Both she and John are buried at the St. Mark's Catholic Cemetery at Conway, N.Dak. Carl married Edythe Chyle and they live on the family farm. They have one daugher, Mardell, and two grandchildren. One son, John David, died in infancy and also a granddaugher. Grace is married to Archie Polda, and they live in Grand Forks, N. Dak. Leo married Esther Mitchell and after their first daughter, Charolette, was born, he was called into the service of World War II. He left July 22, 1942, and spent time overseas. He was discharged as a staff sergeant on Nov. 28, 1945. After his return they made their home in Fordville, where four more children were born to them — Jane, Susan, John C , and Curt. The couple also has seven grandchildren. Their son, John C , is a lieutenant in the Navy Air Force at San Diego. John W. (Jack) entered the service of World War II on Feb. 18, 1942. He was an engineer gunner in the Air Corps and spent much of his time overseas. He was discharged as a technical sergeant on Sept. 6, 1945, at Camp McCoy, Wise. He
Family of John S. Foerster: left to right, Leo, Grace, John, Anita, Carl, taken in 1980.
Frank A. and Rose Greicar on their 50th anniversary in 1950. Rose Novak, daughter of Joseph Novak and Josephine Jehlicka, was born on Aug. 5, 1876, in Spillville, la., the youngest of seven children. The others were John, Joseph W., Anna, Mary, Josephine, and Frank. In 1900 Rose came to the Pisek area and became Mrs. Frank A. Greicar. Frank and Rose lived 45 years on a farm in Eden Township. To this marriage was born ten children — James, Mary (Mrs. Frank Jelinek), Frank J., John F., Rose (Mrs. Frank Novak), Josie (Mrs. John Ruzicka), Thomas, Sophia (Mrs. Charles L. Novak), Hattie (Mrs. Frank Dvorak), and Martha (Mrs. Stanley Novak). They had 26 grandchildren.
Frank A. Greicar Family in 1950: left to right, back row, Frank J., Rose, Josie, Sophia, Hattie, Martha; front row, Frank A., Mary, and Rose. Not present were John and Tom. James was deceased.
In 1945 Frank and Rose moved to Pisek. They were members of St. John Nepumocene Catholic Church. Frank was a member of the Catholic Workmen. Rose belonged to the St. Ann's Rosary Society. Frank died June 9, 1953 and Rose died June 18, 1962. They were laid to rest in St. John Nepumocene Church Cemetery.
FRANK J. GREICAR Frank J. Greicar was born Dec. 18, 1903 to Frank A. and Rose Novak Greicar on the family farm in Eden Township. He was the third in a family of ten children. The family members were James, Mary, Frank, Rose, John, Josie, Thomas, Sophia, Hattie, and Martha. Frank attended the country school. He was a farmer all his life. On June 30, 1937, he married Anna Dvorak from Prairie Centre Township. She was the daughter of Adolph F. Dvorak and Mary L. Matejcek; the second in a family of ten children. Her family members were Mary, Anna, Rose, Adolph, Albert, Henry, Marey, Dorothy, Hubert, and Leonard. The couple was married in St. Luke's Catholic Church in Veseleyville, and lived in Eden Township all their married life. In 1945 they purchased the family homestead and lived there the remainder of their married life.
FrankJ. Greicar Family: Anna. Anna Mae. FrankJ., taken in 1964. Grafton. David has also been a National Guard member since 1972. David and Anna Mae have one daughter, Jennifer Ann, born July 12, 1 979. They reside in Park River.
JOHN F. AND LOUISE GREICAR FAMILY John F. Greicar was born July 1, 1905, the son of Frank Greicar and Rose (Novak) Greicar. He had three brothers James, Frank and Thomas, and six sisters, Hattie, Mary, Rose, Josie, Sophie and Martha. John grew up on the farm in the Conway-Pisek area. In 1923, John worked as a butcher in Conway, and in 1927 he started farming. On Oct. 29, 1929, he married Louise Kadlec, daughter of Frank Kadlec and Mary (Hodny) Kadlec. They farmed until retirement in 1970, moving from their farm into Pisek in December, 1975. John and Louise had three children: Kenneth, born Aug. 28, 1933; Isabelle, born Sept. 9, 1936; and Ruth, born March 19, 1938. John and Louise celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary on Oct. 29, 1979.
Frank J. and Anna Greicar on their wedding day, June 30, 1937. Frank J. Greicar died on Jan. 30, 1965, from a heart attack. He was laid to rest in St. John Nepumocene Cemetery at Pisek. Frank and Anna had two children. The first, a boy, was stillborn in January, 1948. Their daughter, Anna Mae, was born June 1 1 , 1951. Anna Mae attended school in Pisek and graduated as valedictorian of her class. She attended Mayville State College and received a Bachelor of Science Degree in elementary education and library science. She taught at Fordville, Pisek, and Nash. On Oct. 26, 1974, Anna Mae became the wife of David Allen Daley. David is the son of Ralph and Violet Daley of Park River, N. Dak. He graduated from Park River High School and attended North Dakota State School of Science, Wahpeton, where he studied plumbing and heating and cooling. He is employed by G. J. LaHaise and Sons Plumbing and Heating in
John F. Greicar Family: left to right, back row, James Costello, Ruth (Greicar) Costello, Barbara (Rudser) Greicar, Kenneth Greicar; front row, John Greicar, Louise (Kadlec) Greicar, and Isabelle Barnes (Greicar). Kenneth lives in Pisek and is married to Barbara Rudser, daughter of Peter and Elizabeth (Horejsi) Rudser of Hampden. They were married on Oct. 7, 1961. Kenneth began working for the Farmers Union GTA in Pisek in 1956 and has managed the elevator in Pisek since 1964. They have three sons: Paul, born Oct. 19, 1963; Leslie, born Feb. 22, 1965; and Mark, born July 3, 1966. Isabelle married Norval Nelson of Grafton in 1953 and lives in Vancouver, Wash. They had four children — Norval, twins James and Jennifer, and Linda. Norval passed away Dec. 3,
1967. Isabelle was remarried in 1973 to Troy Barnes of Vancouver. Ruth graduated from Aaker's Business College in Grand Forks and was employed there until her marriage to James Costello, son of James Costello and Mary (Coffey) Costello. They live on the Costello farm by Voss. They were married Nov. 18, 1961, and have two children, Maureen born Aug. 3 1 , 1962, and Bradley, born Nov. 18, 1965. John passed away Mar. 8, 1980. Survivors include his wife, children, grandchildren and four sisters, Hattie, Rose, Josie and Sophie.
LOUIS A. GREICAR FAMILY Louis A. Greicar was born May 27, 1901, in Prairie Centre Township to Alois and Mary Greicar. He married Adelia Schnedar on Oct. 8, 1928, at St. John Nepomucene Catholic Church in Pisek. They were engaged in farming near Pisek, in Eden Township, for most of their lives. In 1937, they moved to Lawton and managed the General Mercantile Store until 1941. They later moved to their former farm and resumed farming until Louis died on April 4, 1962. He was a church trustee of St. John's Church, a member of Eden District No. 94 School Board and a member of the Modern Woodmen of America. In his younger years he was very active in playing baseball and played on the Pisek team for many years. They had seven children.
Family of Louis A. and Adelia Greicar: Ed, MaryAnn, Ben, Mrs. Greicar, Larry, Kathy and Bob, on Oct. 27, 1978. teachers' sorority, and a member of a federated woman's club. Ben was born Oct. 26, 1931. He attended Pisek High School and graduated from the Walsh County Agricultural School in Park River in 1950. He served in the Army from 1952-1954 in the Artillery Division. He received his basic training at Fort Sill, Okla., and completed his tour of duty in Korea. He married Marie Zikmund on Oct. 14, 1959, at St. Luke's Catholic Church in Veseleyville. He is a member of the Pisek School Board; is a former church trustee; is a member of the American Legion, and has served in various offices; and is treasurer of the Pisek Firemen. They have three children — Clair, Brian, and Deborah. The family is engaged in farming and lives in Rushford Township near Pisek. Ed was born Mar. 15, 1934. He attended high school at Pisek and WCAS in Park River. He married Camille Chyle on May 28, 1964, at St. John Nepomucene Catholic Church in Pisek. Prior to his marriage he worked on a construction crew, erecting and repairing elevator buildings in various parts of the state. Later he was in the construction business in Park River where he worked as a carpenter until 1978. He is now employed as a custodian at the Pisek School. He is a member of the Pisek Firemen and Catholic Workmen. They have one son, Lonnie, and reside on a farm near Pisek where they also raise Aberdeen Angus cattle. Jean was born Aug. 24, 1937. He attended school in Eden District No. 94 near his home. He lived with his family on the family farm until he died on Sept. 23, 1954. His special interest was raising geese and other poultry.
Wedding of Louis A. and Adelia Greicar, Oct. 8, 1928. Mary Ann was born June 14, 1930. She attended Pisek High School and graduated from the Walsh County Agricultural School in Park River in 1949. She earned her B. S. Degree in education at Mayville State College in 1960. Prior to that she taught in rural schools in Walsh County (Eden District No. 94 and Prairie Centre District No. 6). She also taught in the elementary grades at Battle Lake and Breckenridge, Minn., at Grand Forks in the Viking School, and the Robbinsdale Schools in the Minneapolis area. She married James Sommer of O'Fallon, Mo., on June 25, 1966, at St. John Nepomucene Catholic Church in Pisek. They lived in Grand Forks until her husband got his degree in Civil Engineering at U.N.D. Later they moved to Minneapolis and Hallock, Minn. They now reside in New Ulm, Minn., where her husband is employed as the Brown County Engineer. She is a member of the Alpha Delta Kappa, a
Bob was born Oct. 2 1 , 1938, at Lawton, N. Dak. He graduated from Pisek High School in 1956. He served in the army from 1957-1959 in the infantry-mechanics division. He took his basic training at Fort Carson, Colo., and Fort Ord, Calif,, and completed his tour of duty in Paris, France. He is engaged in farming and resides with his mother on the family farm. He is a member of the American Legion and has served in various offices; is a member of the Catholic Workmen, having served as president of that organization; and is a member of the Pisek Firemen. Larry was born May 24, 1947. He graduated from Pisek High School in 1965. He served in the army from 1966-1968 and took his basic training at Fort Polk, La. He completed his tour of duty in Germany. On July 15, 1967, he married Mary Karas of Lankin at Bechyne Catholic Church. After being discharged from the army, he attended a computer school at Fargo, and has since been employed by the First National Bank, Grand Forks, working in the computer department. They live in Grand Forks and have one son, Jamie.
Kathy was born Feb. 28, 1953. She graduated from Pisek High School in 1971, and attended Wahpeton State School of Science where she received her diploma in practical nursing in 1972. She married Lyle Jelinek of Pisek on Oct. 27, 1978, at St. John Nepomucene Catholic Church at Pisek. She is a member of St. John's Guild. They are engaged in farming and live on a farm in Rushford Township near Pisek. They have one daughter, Jeanine.
LIONEL GRINTER AND GLORIA (JOHNSON) GRINTER Lionel Grinter, born Nov. 5, 1926, is the son of Mel Grinter and the late Bertha Maxwell of Conway. Lionel attended the Walsh County Agricultural School in 1940-44 and farmed with his parents, Mel and Mabel Grinter, where he is presently engaged in farming. Lionel has been active as a school board member, a Sunday School worker, township supervisor, and a 4H leader for a number of years. Melville and Mabel Grinter graduating from eighth grade in 1909. The family were people with little money, so he had to go to work instead of going on to high school. He was the youngest boy of a family of five. Oldest in his family was a sister and the youngest was, too. Melville has spent his entire life on a farm, except for one year working in a garage at Fargo and one year in military service during World War I. When he came out of the service in 1919 he purchased the Dan Sutherland home farm in Eden Township, 2 Vz miles northwest of Conway, N. Dak. On Dec. 14, 1920, he married Bertha F. Maxwell from Conway, N. Dak. To this marriage a son was born, Lionel George Grinter.
Lionel Grinter Family: left to right, Randy, Gloria and Lionel. Lionel married Gloria Johnson (born Oct. 8, 1924), a daughter of John I. and Gina (Jarstad) Johnson of Dahlen, on June 24, 1951, at the Quale Lutheran Church. Pastor M. E. Arneson officiated. Gloria is a graduate of Mayville State College and has had nineteen years of teaching experience in the North Dakota Schools of Petersburg, McVille, Larimore and Lankin. She is presently financial secretary of the Fordville Presbyterian Church, program chairman of Snip and Sew Homemakers Club, secretary of the Walsh County Homemakers Council, and secretary and treasurer of Dahlen Roll " A " Ways Square Dance
During his years in the Conway area, Melville was treasurer of their country school for 18 years; served on the township board quite a few years; served on the Fordville Co-op Marketing Association Board for 10 years; he was also a substitute carrier on the Conway mail route for 16 years, and saw many stormy and rough trips. Bertha passed away Nov. 10, 1930. Mel married on March 5, 1934, to Mabel (Finley), and she proved to be a wonderful step-mother for Lionel and a very loving wife. Melville's mother passed away when he was three years old. His father never remarried and a sister, Rose, at the age of 11 took over the household duties. At this writing Melville is the only one left in the family. His wife, Mabel, is the only one left out of a family of seven — two girls and five boys.
Lionel and Gloria have one son, Randell Lynn, who was born Dec. 12, 1957. Randy attended the first twelve years of public school at Fordville. He is a graduate of Wahpeton State School of Science in diesel mechanics and studied Electronics One there. Randy is presently employed at Oppegard's Lawn and Sport, Park River, N. Dak.
Mabel was born to Frank and Jane Finley on a farm near Inkster, Strobane Township, Grand Forks County, on Jan. 30, 1895. During their farming years they planted a home grove as there were only two trees on the place when they purchased it. They have also planted many shelter-belts, which have proven a great asset.
HISTORY OF MELVILLE AND MABEL GRINTER
Melville has been a member of the Masonic Order since 1919, and got his degrees while in service at Battle Creek, Mich. He is a member of the Scottish Rite Kern Temple, Grand Forks.
Melville $. Grinter was born to Walter and Rose (Thomas) Grinter on April 8, 1895, on his uncle's farm, 5 miles south of Grafton. At that time expectant mothers seldom were hospital patients. He grew up in the Minto — Voss area. He attended country schools except for one year when he went to the Minto school,
He belongs to the Legion Post No. 274 at Fordville. Mabel and Mel helped to start a Sunday School, that proved to be quite a success. It was held each Sunday morning at the Conway School. Mabel taught a Sunday School class, and so did Mel for many years. The Sunday School stayed in action until all the young people grew up and went off to college or moved away,
Club.
which was a period of 1 6 years. Then the Seilstads, Maxwells, Joneses, and also Burrises, either moved away or went back to their churches. But out of this Sunday School, many young folks of Conway found salvation. The Grinters belong to the First Presbyterian Church of Fordville. Their son, Lionel, married Gloria Johnson from the Dahlen area, and they have one son, Randy. Lionel now operates the farm with the help of his wife, Gloria, and son, Randy.
FRANK JOSEPH INFELD AND MARY (SLUKE) INFELD Frank Joseph Infeld was born in 1875 in Bon Homme County, S. Dak., near Yankton and Tabor. He was the eldest son of Frank and Mary Rada (Ruda) Infeld, who were both born in Bohemia and immigrated to Iowa in the 1860's. Mary Sluke (Sluka) was born in 1 873 near Spillville, la., to James and Mary Sluka, who later homesteaded near Kimball, S. Dak. Frank and Mary lived for several years near Larimore and worked on the Kentucky Farm. They moved to Medford Township in 1897 and farmed near Fordville and near Conway. In 1914 they built their home in Sec. 18, Eden Township, where they continued to reside until their deaths — Frank passing away on June 9, 1964, aged 89, and Mary on Mar. 17, 1966, age 92. They introduced the growing of alfalfa in the Fordville area, seeding the first patch in rows and cultivating it, saving the seed and selling it to the neighbors. The story is told that Mary sent for the seed because she liked the pretty flowers it had. Mary was the treasurer of the Conway ZCBJ Lodge for many years. Frank went to the State of Washington for several years when he was a young man where he worked in the lumber camps. He was a great fisherman and hunter. They are buried in the Oak Grove Cemetery at Fordville.
Frank Joseph Infeld Family: left to right, front, Pearl, Mary Infeld, Arthur; back row, Stanley, Frank Infeld, William and Samuel. The couple had four sons and one daughter. Sam, born in 1895 near Larimore, died in 1963, at age 67. William, born in 1897 near Larimore, died in 1977, age 80. Stanley, born in 1903 in Medford Township, died in 1973, age 70. Arthur, born in 1906 in Medford Township, resides in Fordville, where he oversees the operation of the home place along with the adjacent quarter section of land that he purchased in the 1940's. Pearl Nelson Steen, born in 1910 in Medford Township, resides in Grand Forks. William also farmed the home place until he and Arthur moved into Fordville about 1970. Stanley was an employee of the Soo Line Railroad for 38 years, retiring in 1968.
WENSEL (VACLAV OR JAMES) INFELD AND KATHERINA INFELD Wensel Infeld and Katherina Infeld were born in Bohemia about 1818-1820. They immigrated, with their four children, to the United States about 1865-1867. They settled near Spillville, la., in Sumner Township, Winnesheik County. The 1870 Census indicates that he was a farmer and owned a house valued at $3,400 and personal property valued at $850. It would appear that Katherina must have died in Iowa about 1880-1881. Wensel then followed his daughters to North Dakota about 1881-1882. He homesteaded on the SEVi, Section 1, Township 155 North, in Medford Township on April 14, 1882. He received a U.S. Patent on this land on Oct. 18, 1886. He sold this land to his son, Frantisek (Frank) in March, 1888. Wensel died Nov. 28, 1898, at the age of 78 years. He is buried in the Conway Catholic Cemetery near the grave of his daughter, Barbara (Mrs. Joseph F. Vorachek, Jr.). The children of this family, all born in Bohemia, were: Frantisek (Frank) Infeld, born Feb. 5, 1845-1850. (See that family history.) John Infeld, born about 1850, remained in Iowa and farmed near Protovin. Barbara Infeld, born in 1854, married Joseph F. Vorachek, Jr., in 1874 in Iowa. They moved to Eden Township in 1881 where they homesteaded near the Forest River. They both died in 1931 and are buried in the Conway Catholic Cemetery. (See Volume II, Walsh Country Heritage, page 1043, for that family history.) Mary Infeld, born in 1858, was the first woman to file on a homestead in Medford Township and one of the first six people to file homesteads in the township. She filed on the NE Vi, Section 26, T155N, R56W. She married John Vorachek who had filed on land in Eden Township. They later moved to Thief River Falls, Minn., where they entered business. They had a daughter, Annie, who married John Grane, and they lived for many years in Grafton. There also was a son, Charles, who worked in Thief River Falls, and is now deceased. Annie and John Grane are also deceased.
ANTON J. JELINEK Anton J. Jelinek was bom May 28, 1913, to John T. and Katerine (Hodny) Jelinek. They lived on the Owen Young homestead, three miles southeast of Pisek, N. Dak., where Lyle Jelinek now lives. Anton and his brothers, John and Alexander, and sister Mary (Mrs. Alex Maresh) attended school in Pisek, driving there by horse and buggy. Anton worked for his parents on the farm until 1940 when he bought two quarters of land in Eden Township, approximately three miles south of Pisek. On June 17, 1941, Anton was married to Verna Schanilec, Veseleyville, at St. Luke's Catholic Church, by Rev. Vaclav Rehor. Verna Schanilec was born June 3, 1912, to Wences and Anna (Janda) Schanilec. They lived on a farm northeast of Conway until Verna was five years old when her father purchased a farm in Prairie Centre Township. She attended school at Nova School District No. 6 with her sisters, Mary (Mrs. Frank M. Suda), Rose (Mrs. Gabriel Dusek), and brother, Charles. The school is now the Pisek American Legion Clubhouse, and the K.C. Clubhouse on Highway 18 now stands where the school once did. Verna worked for her parents making hay, shocking grain and picking mustard. She picked potatoes in 1936 for Peter Foerster for 1 Vi cents a bushel. She also picked potatoes for J. C. Karnik, William Suda, Sr., and William Jelinek. While picking
in Eden Township and graduated from the Walsh County Agricultural School, Park River, in 1965. He attended the Wahpeton State School of Science for two years and then enlisted in the U.S. Army. He was stationed overseas in Germany for most of his enlistment. In 1970 he returned home and began working as an electrician for Park River Electric. On July 14, 1973, he married Mary Hanson of Veseleyville, N. Dak.
Anton Jelinek Family: Dennis Jelinek, his wife Mary holding Laura Jelinek, Ron VanCamp, Verna and Anton Jelinek, Anne (Jelinek) VanCamp, Monica (Jelinek) Dub, James Dub. Wedding of Monica and James Dub, Sept. 30, 1978. potatoes they would carry a sack on their back and walk through a furrow crossing the whole quarter of land. Once the sacks were filled they were set down and picked up by men with a team of horses and a wagon. Anton and Verna started farming in 1941 with four horses. After cutting the grain with a binder and horses, they shocked the bundles and threshed them with Anton's dad's threshing machine. In 1942 Anton bought his first tractor. During the grain harvest he attached his tractor to a binder and set up controls so that he could operate both units by sitting on the binder. Through their years of farming they also raised cattle, chickens, and turkeys. Anton was on the Eden District No. 49 School Board for more than 20 years. He was also a trustee at St. John's Catholic Church, Pisek, in 1952 and a director for Northwestern Bell Telephone in 1953. Anton and Verna have three children — Anne, Dennis and Monica. Anne was born on Aug. 17, 1942. She attended rural school in Eden Township and high school at St. Aloysius Academy, Oakwood. She graduated from Aaker's Business College in Grand Forks and has been employed by the Grand Forks Herald for the past 17 years. On April 19, 1976 she married Ronald VanCamp of East Grand Forks, Minn. Ron is the son of Fred and Mary (McKibbin) VanCamp, originally of St. Thomas, N. Dak. He is employed by the American Crystal Sugar Company in East Grand Forks, Minn. Ron and Anne live in Grand Forks. Dennis was born on Feb. 2, 1947. He attended rural school
Dennis Jelinek Family: Mary, Arnold, Laura and Dennis.
Mary was born on July 10, 1953, the daughter of Arnold and Marion (Houska) Hanson, Veseleyville. She attended her first five years of school at District No. 36 in Veseleyville and finished her elementary education at Park River Elementary School. Mary attended the Walsh County Agricultural School in Park River her first two years of high school and graduated from Mount St. Benedict Academy, Crookston, Minn., in 1971. She also attended the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, for a year and a half before she married Dennis. After marriage Mary was employed by Dr. J. R. Gaustad in Grafton and later by the First State Bank in Park River. In 1975 Dennis and Mary moved to the home farm upon Dennis' parents' retirement. They then began farming and raising cattle in 1976. Dennis and Mary have two children: Laura, born April 26, 1978, and Arnold, born May 13, 1980. Monica was born on Oct. 4, 1953. She also attended rural school at Eden District No. 49 for her first three years at which time the school closed. She then went to Pisek School and graduated from there in 1971. Monica then attended the U.N.D., Grand Forks, and graduated in 1975 with a degree in business administration. She remained at the University where she was employed for three years. On Sept. 30, 1978, she married James Dub. James was born Nov. 24, 1951, the son of Joe T. and Julia (Janousek) Dub, Jr. He attended rural school at Willow Grove School District No. 56 for five years. He then went to school at Park River Elementary School and graduated from the Walsh County Agricultural School in 1969. He served in the U.S. Army in 1971 and 1972 and was stationed in Vietnam. When James returned home he began farming with his dad. James and Monica live on a farm near Park River. Anton and Verna retired from farming in 1975 and are now residing in Park River. FRANK A. KOTASKA Frank A. Kotaska was born in Fusnici-Dlowhe-Lhoty-Tabor, Bohemia, Europe, on Oct. 28, 1862, to parents, Alois Kotaska and Marie (Vessela) Kotaska. He came to the U.S. on a steam boat in 1869 with his parents, brothers and sisters. They landed in New York City, and took the train to Canover, la. Later they moved to Spillville, la., where he lived for 12 years. He came to Walsh County in 1881 and purchased land in the VeseleyvillePisek area. He purchased a fisherman's shack for $75.00 to live in until they could later build a house. The first year after moving to his new farmstead he went to Fargo and worked for the railroad. He worked the railroad between Fargo and Grand Forks. He and another fellow (Mike Tupa) earned $1.50 a day and paid 50 cents a day for board. After work was finished with the railroad, he and his friend worked for a farmer and earned $3.00 a day, which was big wages in those days. With this money he bought a wagon and his friend bought a pair of oxen and they started for home. The next year he filed on 160 acres of land in Eden Township. The government was loaning $400.00 on the land, for improvements, for which he bought two oxen, a plow, and some lumber to build a shanty and started to break the land. He did carpenter work besides.
Simon (James) and Ann Malinovsky Mr. and Mrs. Frank Kotaska and Family: left to right, back row: Frank, Mary, Joe; front, (dad) Frank, Agnes, (mother) Mary, and Jeffrey.
donated it to St. John's Church in Pisek. It is presently in use. James died Feb. 6, 1912, and Ann, in March, 1913. Both are buried at St. John's Cemetery, Pisek, N. Dak.
He married Mary F. Schanilec, daughter of Matt and Marie (Bares) Schanilec, on Feb. 18, 1889. He farmed there until 1892. He built a flour mill in Pisek and later traded his share for an implement shop. As there was not much future in selling farm machinery, he sold the shop and got a job buying grain for St. Anthony and Dakota Elevator Company. After five years he had to quit because the grain dust started trouble with his lungs. He went into partnership in 1904 with John Tomek in a grocery and clothing store which lasted for two years, at which time he sold his share of the store and went back to farming.
HISTORY OF THE HAROLD MAXWELL FAMILY On Nov. 3, 1899, twin boys were born to the William Maxwell family of Conway, N. Dak. They were named Harold and Clarence. Clarence died when he was 10 months old. Harold grew up on the farm and received his education at the Conway school. He had to leave school in his senior year to help with the farm work during World War I. Harold was married to Geneva Krumpos on Nov. 24, 1926. To this union seven children were born — twin boys, Harold, Jr. and Hilliard; three daughters, Barbara Jean, Elizabeth (Betty), and Ruth; two more sons, Billy, who died when he was five days old, and Gerald (Jerry). Harold, Jr., farmed with his father and passed away in 1966. Hilliard is an electrician and is married to the former Norma Cole. They live at Williston, N. Dak., where they are both employed. They have no family. Barbara Jean married Raymond Foerster and they farm near Pisek, N. Dak. They have five children. Elizabeth (Betty) is a nurse and is married to Alan Sheppard.
Frank and his wife Mary had 1 3 children: Joseph A. (married Nettie Capouche), Marie (deceased), Frank C. (married Helen Jelinek), Mary K. (married James Votava), Agnes (married Fred Dunlop who died and later married Basil Carter), Rosie A. who died as a baby, Lewis (married Josie Kachena), Jeffery C , Rose V. (married William Pich), Edward (married Blanche Swehla), Steve (married Hilda Howe), Stanley (married Mildred Sticha), and Timothy (married Anna May Treague). Jeffery C. Kotaska still lives on the original farmstead.
SIMON (JAMES) AND ANN MALINOVSKY FAMILY James Malinovsky was born on March 25, 1852, in Europe and his wife, Ann Sebera, was also born in Europe on May 1, 1857. They both came to the United States at an early age, James was 12 years, and Ann, 8. They lived in Wisconsin before coming to North Dakota. James was the only one of his family to leave Wisconsin. They were the parents of six children: John, who married Lydia Zikmund; Mary, who married Anton Sobolik (his first wife); Peter, who never married; Anna, who married Anton Sobolik (his second wife); Kattie (Katherine), who married Joe Dvorak; and Stasia, who married Ben J. Schnedar. John and his two small children died from tuberculosis at a very young age; and Peter died very young, also from TB. Mary also died at an early age, leaving a small daughter (Mary Sobolik Swehla). James and Ann farmed and lived in Eden Township. James Malinovsky purchased the altar and three-tiered backgrounds above the altar for about $200 in 1889 and
The Harold Maxwell Family: left to right, back row, Hilliard and Jerry; middle row, Betty, Barbara Jean and Ruth; front row Geneva (mother), and Harold (dad). 243
They live in Grand Forks, N. Dak., where Alan works for Burlington Northern and Betty works at the Valley Memorial Home. They also have five children. Ruth married Dennis Ward and they live at Grafton, N. Dak., where they are both employed. They, too, have five children. Jerry was killed in a car accident in 1968 at the age of 20. Besides the 15 grandchildren, the Maxwells have 18 great-grandchildren. Harold and Geneva are members of the First Presbyterian Church of Fordville and the Order of the Eastern Star. Harold is also a member of the Masonic Lodge and treasurer of Eden Township. He also served several years on the Farm and Home Administration Board, and also on the school board — first as clerk and later as a board member. Harold is the only one left in Eden Township still living on the farm his father homesteaded.
HISTORY OF EDWARD MEAGHER FAMILY Edward Patrick (Ed) Meagher was bom May 2, 1880, at Lindsay, Ont., Canada. His parents were Cornelis (Con) Meagher and Ann O'Connell Meagher. Kathrine (Kate) Murray Meagher was born Feb. 22, 1889, at Conway, N. Dak., to Allan Murray and Marcella Malone Murray. Kate completed eighth grade in a rural school. As no further education was needed to become a teacher Kate took a state examination and acquired a teaching certificate. This was good for two years. She taught in District 84 and District 119, Hillside School. Both are in the area north of Fordville.
farm until 1977. Kate passed away May 1 4, 1972, and is buried at St. Mark's Cemetery near Conway. Wallace was born April 12, 1910. He had a twin sister who died at birth. He now owns the home farm which he farmed with his mother after his father's death. In 1977 he decided, rather than buying new and bigger machinery at his age, it would be best to rent the land out and retire. Russell Hoverson now operates the farm since that time. Agnes was born Dec. 17, 1911. She lived at home until her marriage to Lloyd Close on March 29, 1937. They were blessed with three children — Allen, Elaine and David. May, 1950,tragedy struck. A malignant gland was discovered and resulted in Agnes's death Aug. 3, 1950. George was born Dec. 3, 1915. When George was in the U.S. Army he worked as an airplane mechanic. He continued this interest after his service duty ended and went to work for Boeing at Seattle. Alaska was a new frontier where airplane travel was a necessity, so this attracted George to move to Alaska. He went to work for FAA as a flight engineer. On Dec. 1, 1962, he married Virginia Schairer. They are now retired and live in Anchorage. Rose was born Oct. 18, 1917. In the spring of 1933 a test was taken of a swollen gland and diagnosed as tuberculosis. She was sent to San Haven Hospital, San Haven, N. Dak., and after two months the doctors discovered Hodgkins Disease. She returned home and died on Oct. 1 7, 1933. Irene was born on April 19, 1919. She lived at home until her marriage to Henry Aime on Aug. 29, 1940. They lived on a farm near Dahlen until 1945 when they moved to Sunburst, Mont., where they still make their home. They have a family of seven children — Arlene, Marvin, Henry, Steen, Donald, Terry, and Mary. Grace was born Jan. 1, 1921. Grace stayed at home fo. many years helping with the farm work before she started cafe work. She and Jean Holwerda Omdahl operated the Coffee Cup Cafe for a number of years. The cafe was demolished in 1958 and the present Village Inn Cafe was built on that spot. The highlight of Grace's cafe work was meeting her future husband, Erwin Berdahl. They were united in marriage on Nov. 10, 1949. They had three children — Kay, Edward and Rosemary. Erwin passed away Dec. 3 1 , 1 9 7 9 , after a short illness. Grace has been employed at Fordville Grain Co. as bookkeeper since 1969.
Kate Murray, age 18.
Ed Meagher, age 25.
Ed and Kate were neighbors and through house parties, barn dances and other neighborhood gatherings they met and fell in love. They were married Feb. 10, 1909. They moved to the farm northeast of Fordville in Eden Township. They continued to reside there until Ed's death on August 16, 1941. He died during the encephalitis epidemic. Dr. Lommen of Fordville, who was consulted during his illness, thought the cause of the disease was contributed to the abundance of mosquitoes which he may have encountered during his routine farm work cutting and shocking grain. The binder was drawn by horses that also attracted the mosquitoes. Many horses died of the disease. After Ed's death, Kate continued to operate the farm with the help of her two sons, Wallace and George. George was later drafted in the service of the U.S. Army but Wallace continued farming the home place. At the age of 69, Kate decided she would move to Fordville because of the difficulty getting to the highway in the winter. Wallace moved to town with Kate but continued td operate the
Ed was active in community affairs. He was a lifetime officer of School District 49 where he was president for 31 years. This school was located by Walter and Mel Grinter's. Ed, Kate and family were members of St. Mark's Church in Conway.
HISTORY OF CARL AND NELLY NESTE Carl, the oldest of five children born to Juel and Martha Walden Neste, was born on the home farm, homesteaded by his mother's parents in 1888, and where he spent most of his entire life, other than a few years when he resided in Fordville. He went to school in Fargo where he took veterinarian and mechanics courses, later returning to the home farm where he resided and which he operated until he passed away in 1953 at the age of 65 years. He was married to Nelly Juell, daughter of Nels and Helena Juell of Tarsund, Sorland, Norway. Nelly was born Jan. 6, 1890, and grew up in Norway. She came to the United States when she was seventeen years old to live with brother-in-law and sister, Mr. and Mrs. Albert Hagness, who farmed near Fordville. She was employed by the Ernest Hamilton family and worked for Andrew
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later moving to Rochester, New York, where she met and married Edward Sawicki and where they have made their home. They have one son, Jim, who married Wendy Weingartner in 1974, and also lives in Rochester, N. Y. They have one daughter, thirteen months old. Conrad married Joyce Nelson of Starkweather, N. Dak., in 1 946. They farmed near Fordville for a few years, later moving to Spokane, Wash., where they have since made their home. They have three children — Penny, Mark and Julie. Penny lives in Honolulu, Hawaii, was married and since divorced, and has a son, three years old. Mark lives in Spokane; married Penny Garrie in 1976; has a daughter one and a half years old; Julie lives at home, in Spokane. Grandma (Nelly) Neste was 90 years on Jan. 6, 1980, and is still active in her church, loves to grow flowers, and has had lovely gardens in years gone by. She spends the summers at her home in Fordville, and winters in St. Paul with her daughter.
Carl and Nelly Neste, Now. 22, 1911. Waldrens in the cafe, at Fordville. She also spent a year working as a maid in New York City. Carl and Nelly were married in 1911, and moved to the farm, where three children were born to them — Helen, Juliann, and Conrad. Helen married Lynn Hobbs of Grand Forks, N. Dak., in 1933, and lived in Grand Forks for a time while Lynn worked as a carpenter. They later moved to St. Paul, Minn., where they have since made their home. They have four children — Norinne, Janice, Loren and Douglas. One child died in infancy in 1937. Norinne and Janice live in St. Paul where they work as L.P.N.'s in a hospital. Loren, married and divorced, has one son, Scott, 10, who also resides in St. Paul. Douglas married Janet Berke in 1969. They live in Coon Rapids, Minn., and have two daughters, Sherri, 10, and Lora, six years old. Juliann worked in Los Angeles, Calif., for a number of years,
Grandma Nelly Neste, who reached 90 years on Jan. 6, 1980, with her children, Helen, Conrad and Julianne.
HISTORY OF OSCAR AND ELLA SEILSTAD Oscar Albert Seilstad was born Dec. 19, 1897, on the Seilstad homestead in Eden Township, south of Conway, to Engebret and Marit Grav Seilstad. He lived there his entire lifetime. Oscar's parents and a two-year-old son, Ole, came to America from Sondre Fron, Gubransdalen, Norway, June 18, 1880. They resided with relatives at Pelican Rapids, Minn., for a year. On June 18, 1881, they arrived at their homestead in a covered wagon drawn by a yoke of oxen. This land is still a part of the farmstead. Engebret passed away Dec. 2, 1908, and Marit on Aug. 3 1 , 1931. They are buried in the East Forest River Cemetery. Oscar attended the Conway Public School, took a short course at the Walsh County Agriculture School in 1914-1915, and attended Union Commercial College, 1916-1917. Oscar farmed with his brother, Ole, who was 20 years his senior. They were known for their many teams of mules used in their farming operations. They raised Shorthorn cattle, hogs, and sheep as well as small grains, com, and hay. Mother Seilstad carded and spun the wool produced on the farm and used it to knit many pairs of stockings and mittens for her family. She had
Wedding picture of Oscar and Ella Seilstad, June
21,1933.
brought the spinning wheel she had used as a girl in Norway, and this is now a treasured family heirloom. Oscar was active in church, civic, and community affairs. He was baptized and confirmed in the East Forest River Church, which later merged with the Fordville Lutheran Church in 1919. On May 29, 1929, a tornado destroyed the East Forest River Church, but left the cemetery intact. The bell was salvaged and hung for many years in the Fordville Church tower. Oscar held various offices in the church and Luther League for over 35 years. He and Ella taught in the Conway Community Sunday School for 17 years. He was superintendent and Bible class teacher. Following this, they both taught in the Fordville Lutheran Sunday School until 1971. Oscar was very much interested in the young people, and taught the high school Bible Class and was Sunday School superintendent the last years.
father, Ole, came from Hayfield, Minn., and her mother, Lovisa, came from Mondovi, Wise. Lovisa passed away Nov. 20, 1919, and Ole K., on Feb. 1 4, 1 927. They are buried in the East Forest River Cemetery. Ella attended a rural school a few years, continuing at Fordville through her junior year in high school, and graduated from the Walsh County Agriculture and Training School in 1917. She taught for two years in rural schools. After attending Valley City Teacher's College, she taught school for 12 more years at Rock Lake, Wildrose, Fordville, and Langdon.
Oscar held Eden Township offices for 16 years, was a Conway school director for 12 years, a member of the Walsh County War Bond Committee in World War II, and president and director of the Walsh County Livestock Asociation from 19521954.
The Seilstad Family: left to right, standing, Oris (dad), David and David Kelley; front row, Vivian (mom), Ella (grandma), Julie and Jeanne. Oscar and Ella were married June 2 1 , 1 9 3 3 , at the Fordville Lutheran Church by Pastor S. K. Knutson. They have a son, Oris Earl, born May 2, 1935. Oris married Vivian Lee Infeld Aug. 24, 1956, at the Fordville Presbyterian Church. They have two daughters, Jeanne Lee and Julie Marie, and one son, David Oris. Ella and Oscar Seilstad, Eden Township. In 1950 Oscar received the Skelly Oil Company Award for Outstanding Achievement in Agriculture at a breakfast held in his honor at Grafton. Several friends and business associates were present, along with representatives of the Skelly Oil Company. His many accomplishments were enumerated on a national newscast from Chicago by Alec Dryer, a then well-known personality. Oscar was presented a $100 U.S. Savings Bond, a gold lapel pin, and a framed scroll. Oscar was supervisor of the Walsh County Soil Conservation Service District and received his 25-year service pin. He continued as an appointive supervisor for several additional years. He was a director and 1950-1951 president of the North Dakota Soil Conservation Districts Association. He was winner of the Walsh County Soil Conservation Achievement Award in 1958, receiving a framed aerial photo of the farmstead. Due to a terrific sleet storm we were unable to attend the presentation banquet held at Williston. We were without electricity for nine days. During the time Oscar was a director, he and Ella traveled with a group of state supervisors and wives to several national conventions held at Atlanta, Cleveland, Omaha, St. Louis, and Minneapolis. Ella Lenora was born July 7, 1898, to Ole K. and Lovisa Thoe at their homestead in Inkster Township, Grand Forks County. In a family of eleven, Ella was the tenth child. Ella's
Becoming a farmer's wife, Ella had much to learn. Arising at 5 a.m., learning to bake bread, canning meats and vegetables, and making soap were some of her new experiences! Ella had been an active member of the Fordville ALCW, Mission Club, Valley Rose Homemakers of Conway, and Birthday Club. She enjoys gardening, flowers, and watching the birds. Oscar passed away Nov. 8, 1972. He is buried in the Oak Grove Cemetery. Oris and his family are the fourth generation to farm and live on the original homestead, south of Conway. They will celebrate the centennial of the farm June 1 8, 1 9 8 1 . Oscar's life spanned the era of farming where a tremendous amount of change took place. He began with horses, mules, and steam power and was considered an expert teamster as well as a steam engineer on the Seilstad threshing rig. Oscar witnessed and used the evolution of mechanization in his later years. One of his great joys was driving and working with a John Deere 4020 100 H. P. tractor. This represented a world of difference from his beginning. The hospitality of the Seilstad home has been bestowed on family, friends, and neighbors through the years.
FAMILY HISTORY OF ANTON SOBOLIK Anton Sobolik was born on July 20, 1864, in Cresco, la., to Vaclav and Maria (Rehova) Sobolik. He had three brothers, John,
Frank, and Joseph, and three sisters, Mary, Anna, and Rose. After the death of Anton's mother in 1867, his father remarried; Vaclav and Kathryn (Bousi) Sobolik had two sons, James and Edward, and three daughters, Elizabeth, Stella, and Clara. Anton, therefore, was the sixth of twelve children of Vaclav Sobolik. His father died in 1 9 1 1 .
and practical nurse. Anton died at the age of 77 on Feb. 5, 1942, in Conway. Anna continued to live in their Conway home until her death at the age of 77 on Sept. 14, 1959. Anton and Anna Sobolik are buried in the ZCBJ Cemetery in Conway.
JAMES W. VOTAVA James W. Votava, one of nine children, was born on May 8, 1887, at Veseleyville, N. Dak., to parents Frank Votava (born Feb. 19, 1843, at Budejovice, Bohemia) and Anna Kerian. He was educated in New Prague, Minn., a Catholic school named St. Wenslaus. During Sunday mass it was his job to pump the organ; he often forgot to pump and the music would die down right in the middle of a song.
Anton Sobolik, at age 74
Anna Sobolik, at age 71
As a young man, Anton and his brothers drove horses from Iowa to North Dakota. Anton homesteaded on a quarter of land in Eden Township. The document giving him territorial rights to this quarter was signed by President Chester Arthur, twenty-first president of the United States, on April 10, 1883. The deed was recorded in Walsh County on Dec. 29, 1884. The family farm home was located on another quarter of land in Ops Township which Anton purchased from his half-brother, James Sobolik. With the exception of a few years in the early 1900's, when they rented out the land, Anton and his sons farmed these two quarters of land until Anton's retirement in 1925. At that time, the land was again rented out for a number of years until Elmer, the youngest son, returned to live in the farm home and farm the land. When Elmer retired, the Ops Township quarter was sold in 1975 and the Eden Township quarter was sold in 1977 to the Greicar Brothers.
Wedding picture of Mr. and Mrs. James Votava. James married Mary Kotaska, daughter of Frank A. and Mary Kotaska, Sr., on Oct. 26, 1914, in Conway. They had two daughters, Angeline (Mrs. Wm. Swehla) and Alice (Mrs. John Karas). James and Mary lived in the Conway area where he farmed and worked on his hobbies, which were oil painting, sculpturing and wood carving. One of his more famous works was a crucifix and an angel holding a torch for which he had no mold, just his hands. From several of his sketches, a stag being attacked by a pack of wolves was regarded as his best work. He made the statues for Father Turek and placed them in St. Mark's Church in Conway in 1934. These statues were destroyed in a fire which burned the church in 1939. He and his wife retired in Park River where he produced many of his wood carvings.
Sons of Anton and Anna Sobolik in 1953: left to right, Elmer, Dennis, Charles, Albert, and Herman. Anton married Mary Malinovsky, to whom a daughter, Mary, was born in 1894. Mary married Frank Swehla in 1921 and died in 1969. After the death of his first wife on Jan. 8, 1895, Anton married Anna Malinovsky, sister of his first wife, on July 20, 1897. To them, five sons were born: Herman (1898), Albert (1900-1959), Charles (1902), Dennis (1904), and Elmer (1909). Herman was married in 1928 to Bertina Rotnem; Albert, in 1928 to Lauretta Kelly; Charles, in 1934 to Luella Nicol; Dennis, in 1928 to Belle Helgerson; and Elmer, in 1942 to Beatrice Malafa. Anton and Anna Sobolik moved to Conway in the early 1900's where Anton worked in a machine shop and carried mail betwen the post office and the depot. Anna served as midwife
JOSEPH M. ZIKMUND FAMILY Joseph M. Zikmund, the oldest son of Wencel and Mary (Novak) Zikmund (Vol. Il-pp. 661) and the only son to get married and raise a family, was married on July 9, 1906, at St. John's Church at Pisek to Mary Veronica Votava, the oldest daughter of Ignac and Mary (Rijant) Votava (pp. 784—Vol. II). Father Just performed the nuptial ceremony. Joseph was born at Cresco, la., on March 4, 1881, and Mary was born at Veseleyville, N. Dak., on her parents' farm on March 8, 1888. To this union were born eight children: Augustine — never married — was bom Aug. 2 1 , 1907, and died April 19, 1936; Antoinette Petronella White (Jim) was born May 3 1 , 1909; Margaret Nasinec (Ralph) was born July 13, 1910; Joseph A.
Joseph M. and Mary Zikmund wedding, July 9, 1906. (who married Lucy Kouba) was born July 17, 1911; Peter — never married — was born June 29, 1913; Stanley (who married Norma Larson) was born Nov. 9, 1916 and died January, 1967; Matilda was born and died March 14, 1920; and Mary Dobson was born Dec. 8, 1924.
Living members of Joseph M. and Mary Zikmund: Peter, Joe, Mary, Petronella and Margaret in 1978. of the school, several of the teachers boarded at their farm home. Joseph and Mary were members of St. John's Catholic Church at Pisek and Joseph belonged to the Pisek K. D. branch No. 28 and served as an officer for a time (Catholic Workmen).
Joseph and Mary started their life together on a farm in Eden Township which had been purchased by Joseph's father, Wencel Zikmund, in 1892. The original farmstead was west of the present site. The house now used was built in 1926. Joseph's son, Peter, now resides here. In 1980 there are 20 grandchildren and 39 great-grandchildren of this union living all over the United States.
They farmed and lived on the farm their entire life until Joseph's death on Oct. 15, 1930, when the sons took over the farming operation. In her later years Mary lived in Conway. Her death occurred June 24, 1957. Both Joseph and Mary are buried at St. John's Cemetery at Pisek.
Schools
EDEN SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 41 -
1929-1930
First row — Alice Votava, Helen Gilbertson, Lila Howe, LaVerne Infeld, Bernice Infeld, John Howe, Hilmer Howe, Henry Horejsi, Howard Close.
Augustine, Margaret (seated), Joe, Peter, and Petronella Zikmund in 1915.
Second row — Dorothy Infeld, Othelia Howe, Anita Foerster, Henrietta Horejsi, Mildred Horejsi, Ida Gilbertson, Francis Ball, Jack Foerster, Willard Close.
Joseph played the accordion, violin and organ in a family band with his four brothers until the death of his brother, Alois (Louis). At this time the band dissolved. Joseph served on the school board for District No. 94 where their children attended school and Mary served as clerk for a time. Due to the nearness
Third row — Viola Howe, Hilda Howe, Angeline Votava, Mabel Horejsi, Robert Ball, Arthur Howe, Leo Foerster. (AbsentGrant Gilbertson.) Previous story on page 740-Vol. II.
248
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History of Eden Township in Photos
Frank A. Kotaska (front left) and his four brothers.
Will Ballantine and Gerda Stendland sawing wood on the Juel Neste farm.
Barn on the George Close farm with horsepower ready to go. Picture taken in October, 1919.
Dam built by Joe Foerster on his farm near the buildings.
Mable Murray. Kate Meagher, and baby Wallace Meaghe taken in 1910.
Home on the farm of Frank A. Kotaska. ?49
New Buick car owned by George Close with Clifford Close at the wheel, 1916.
Juel Neste in his Model T Ford car. Edith Bannerman is in the back seat.
Threshing on the Juel Neste farm in Eden Township in 1919.
Tom, Harry, Bob, Charlie, Fanny, Henry, Leo, Martha, Wallace, Will, Tim, and Bert in 1904.
The Sobolik farm home taken in 1945.
Fanny and Henry Burris. 1933.
Conway home of Anton and Anna Sobolik. 250
Ink stetching done by James W. Votava, formerly of Eden Township. The Seilstad home in Eden Township 1 973. The house was built in 1912.
winter snow in
Horse- and mulepower on the Ole and Oscar Seilstad farm around 1920.
Oscar Seilstad receiving the Skelly Oil Company award for outstanding achievement in agriculture.
James and Mary Votava and children. Angeline and Alice, by their farm home.
Henry Burris Threshing Crew 251
252
CITY OF CONWAY working at the barn and was sleeping there, but escaped unharmed. It was said that he turned white overnight.
In 1 884 the Great Northern Railway was completed as far north as the present site of Conway. A trust company in Minneapolis bought a claim from Telson Wager. They subdivided the land and sold lots to incoming businesses.
In 1905 the Soo Railroad went through Conway, from east to west. That was the beginning of the end for Conway. The towns of Fordville, Dahlen, Lankin and Adams were built. That took business that Conway had enjoyed.
Vorachek, Voboda and Woods opened the first General Store. Other businesses followed, two more stores, a hardware store, a drug store, a barber shop, a blacksmith shop, a lumber yard and, of course, a saloon. Active business people in those early days included John Vernon, William Cross, John Kerr, Voboda, Tom Daily and Charles Daily.
At one time there were six elevators in Conway. J. C. Cummins was the first grain buyer. Other buyers that followed were Oliver Davidson, Dar Weed, Charles Heising, and Mr. Peterson. On a very windy night the elevator on the Soo Line burned and pieces of burning wood were blown for long distances and neighbors had to form a bucket brigade to save houses.
At the turn of the century Richard Fitzgerald owned a restaurant. His sister, Catherine Fitzgerald, owned a photo gallery. Walter Bye had a barber shop.
Dr. Richard Church lived and practiced medicine in Conway from 1895-1907. He moved to the new town of Lankin and later to Park River where he practiced until his death in 1 915.
In 1902 most of the downtown area of Conway burned. Folks used to talk of the big fire that even burned the water tower, which was empty at the time. A block of brick buildings was built, called the Merriman Block. It housed a drug store run by Charles and Tom Daily. A large hall above the drug store was used for dancing and other public gatherings.
The school built in 1893 burned in 1919, and pupils finished the school year in the dining room area of the ZCBJ Hall. The new brick school was built in 1920. It was torn down in 1975, some time after the school district consolidated with the Fordville School District.
John Wurth and wife ran a hotel next door. Their family lived above the hotel. It was a favorite place for salesmen to stay. In those days salesmen often travelled by train or horse and buggy.
Frank Nasinic operated the blacksmith shop during the early years of this century. He sold the shop and moved to a farm south of town. Two brothers ran the blacksmith shop for several more years. The shop no longer stands.
Bert Stary owned a livery barn facing Main Street, north of the Vorachek Store. One night in 1908 it burned. A few horses lost their lives since they would run back into the fire as fast as the men brought them out. A 14-year-old boy, Joe Hennessey, was
The first hotel in Conway was a large wooden structure, just across the street south of the Conway Bank. William Cross ran it first; later a family named Dowhower ran it. Annie Meagher Fitzgerald also ran it as a rooming house for a short time.
Conway in 7 905 — Soo Depot. 253
The Robertson Lumber Yard was run by Mike Dougherty for many years. Mrs. Dar Weed had a millinery shop in her home for many years. She also provided board and room for high school girls who came in from the country. In the 1890's a group organized to build the Presbyterian Church. It was an active group for many years. The original Catholic Church was west of the Great Northern tracks. It was being remodeled when it burned. Charles and Anna Heising and Henry and Frances Burris donated the land on which the present church stands. Father Simpson was pastor from the 1890's to the 1920's. Charles Van Arsdale was cashier of the Conway Bank from 1898 to 1918. He then became president and Leonard F. Cawley, cashier. In 1926 the bank closed voluntarily because of bad economic conditions. The bank paid all depositors in full. In 1922 the Farmers Security Bank was opened with John Bina as cashier. It closed three years later because of the bad economic conditions. Fred Getchman was the section foreman for the Great Northern. Lars Omdahl was the Soo Line section foreman. Some men worked year around on the section. In the summer extra help was needed to repair and replace ties and rails. Harry Burris ran a store near Bert Stary's tire shop. He also had the post office. His family lived in the back of the store. His oldest son had a broken leg in a cast and was in bed when the store burned. The family escaped unharmed and they saved the post office. Burris opened a store in the Merriman Block and set up the post office there. He and his family lived above the store. At the time, Jack McDonald had a barber shop where the drug store had been. Conrad Bjerke had a hardware store at the far end of the Merriman Block.
One cold night in winter the Merriman Block burned. When Mr. Wurth burned his hands, he put them in snow and they were frost bitten. (He moved to Larimore later and ran a restaurant there.) Harry Burris saved the post office and again the family escaped unharmed. He gave up the store business after that. Conrad Bjerke left town and the stores were never rebuilt. Mary Sobilick (Mrs. Swehla) became postmistress next and the post office was moved into a small wooden building across the street from the Merriman Block. Bert Stary had an automobile dealership and garage on the Main Street not far from the Conway Bank. He did a booming business for some years. One day the garage burned and was never rebuilt. For years there were two depots in Conway. Then one year they closed the Great Northern depot and moved the Soo Depot to where the tracks crossed. It became a Union Depot. Tom Burris bought the Great Northern Depot and moved it to his property and made a barn of it. The Union Depot is now gone and trains no longer stop in Conway. After the fire of 1 902 a single brick store was built across the street from the Merriman Block. Frank Vorachek ran a store there until it burned. He used a small wooden structure nearby as a store while a new brick store was built, and that brick building still stands. After Vorachek sold the store, a Mr. Johnson ran it a few years. Later Charles and Mary Hennessey ran the store. For years a tower stood where the railroads crossed. The Great Northern had the right-of-way so someone had to be in the tower to throw the switches so a Soo train could pass through. Conway always had a baseball team and a band in those early days. Tom Burris ran a livery barn and a dray service for a few years. That barn was on the side street near the blacksmith shop.
Main Street 254
I I I I LU Conway school and Presbyterian Church.
Conway Man Wins High Praise as a Sculptor of Religious Subjects Equipped with only a few instructions he received in a number of books, Wenslous W. Votava, farmer residing 4/2 miles southwest of Conway, has produced three beautiful plaster statues for St. Mark's Catholic church in Conway.
excellent sketches, among them a stag being attacked by a pack of wolves which is regarded as his best work. Scenery he painted for the Z.C.B.J, hall at Conway many years ago still is in use. Previously he and a brother painted scenery for the Veseleyville
Quite by accident did Mr. Votava embark on his sculptoring hobby, for he began his work following the casual expression of Rev. John Turek, church pastor, he wished he could secure a large crucifix for his church. That gave Mr. Votava his start and today he has produced a number of statues, three of which went into the church in which he worships.
hall. Born May 8, 1887, at Veseleyville, Prairie Center Township, Walsh County, Mr. Votava, when 7 years old, moved with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Votava to New Prague, Minn. There he attended St. Wenslous school until he was 16 years old. After clerking in a store for a year he came back to Walsh county, remaining ten years with relatives.
Strangely enough, Eden township is the home of Mr. Votava, where he has produced the Biblical characters and figures. The work was done in his cramped shop, consisting of a small porch and part of the front room of his farm home.
On October 26, 1914, he was married to Mary Kotaska, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Frank A. Kotaska, sr., at Pisek. For several years he was a paperhanger and painter. The family moved to the Joe Bina farm northeast of Conway and later to the farm that now is their home.
The crucifix, four feet high and a striking likeness of Christ nailed to the cross, is in the place above the altar selected by the priest. On the Epistle side of the altar is a life-sized statue of an angel, the right hand holding a torch. To the Gospel side of the altar is a statue of the Sacred Heart of Mary, three and one-half feet high and dressed in a flowing gown with a light blue mantel over the shoulder.
They are parents of two daughters, Mrs. William Svehla and Alice, the latter residing at home.
4
It was in 1934 when the church was being remodeled that Father Turek expressed a desire for the crucifix. Immediately Mr. Votava announced he would make one. "It will be my first attempt, but I think I can do it," was his comment. Without instructions other than those obtained from a few books, Mr. Votava set to work moulding and carving the plaster figure and some time later the crucifix was installed in the church. Some time later, at the request of Father Turek, the Sacred Heart of Mary statue was produced to match the statue of the Sacred Heart of Jesus presented to the church long ago by Mr. and Mrs. John Foerster, sr.
i
The latest and best work of the sculptor is the statue of the angel, produced of his own accord and presented to the church. His daugher Alice was his model. Mr. Votava is an expert penman having produced several
St Mark's Church burned in 1939 255
I
St. Mark's Church in Conway after addition in 1977.
St. Mark's Church, Conway, built in 1939 after other church burned on Feb. 3, 1939.
Family Histories of the City of Conway PETER FOERSTER AND FAMILY Peter Foerster was born on a farm, five miles northeast of Conway, on Sept. 5, 1887, to John and Barbara Foerster. Peter's grandparents were Stephen and Anna Foerster of Gruten Dusseldorf, Germany, and Peter and Margaret Huebschwerlen. Peter Huebschwerlen. Peter Huebschwerlen was from Cologne, Germany, and Margaret was from the area that is now AlsaceLorraine, France. They later moved to New London, Canada, where Barbara was born. John Foerster came to New London, Canada, to visit his brother, Father Stephen Foerster. While there he met Barbara Huebschwerlen and they were married on Oct. 2, 1877. Peter had eight brothers and four sisters. They were Mary, Stephen, John, Fred, Joe, William, Andrew, Charles, Annie,
Frank, Katie, and the second Mary. First-bom Mary, Fred and Andrew died in their youth. The only schooling they had was from a teacher who came to live with the family in the winter and he taught them at home for several years. Peter Foerster married Alice Bina on June 25, 1917, in St. John's Nepomucene Catholic Church in Pisek, N. Dak., with Rev. F. J. Just officiating. They lived on a farm about seven miles northeast of Conway for 19 years. In 1936, he moved toi Conway and purchased and operated the Conway General Store for eight years. He continued farming until 1948 when he retired. Peter and Alice Foerster were both very musical. Alice was the organist for St. Mark's for many years. Peter played several instruments, including the violin, accordion, and the piano. The Foerster children remember their father singing and whistling while doing chores around the farm. Peter Foerster was mayor of Conway for 30 years and also secretary, treasurer of St. Mark's Church for 32 years. His main hobby was hunting, especially upland game, fox and deer. Peter and Alice were parents of five children — Arthur, Margaret, Lawrence, Raymond, and Barbara. Arthur was born May 18, 1918, and married Mary Barta, 'daughter of Frank and Mary Barta, rural Pisek, on Feb. 23, 1946. He served in the armed forces from Oct., 1942, to March 1945, as a radar technician. Arthur attended UND in Grand Forks from June, 1945, to August, 1949, where he was enrolled in electrical engineering. From June, 1950, to May, 1978, he worked at Hector Airport in Fargo as an electronic specialist. He retired in May, 1978, and at present is a volunteer for the Civil Air Patrol and a computer programmer at NDSU in Fargo.
Mr. and Mrs. Peter Foerster, June 17, 1917.
Arthur and Mary are parents of seven children. Theresa (Mrs. Charles Clark), who has two children, Trevor and Cynthia; Ronnie, who lives in Chicago; David and Mary Foerster, who
have two children, Tracy and Christopher; Mary (Mrs. Craig Hanson), who has two sons, Eric and David; Darlene (Mrs. Tom Posey); Sue (Mrs. Bruce Sanderson); and Jim, who is at home and attending NDSU in Fargo. Margaret was born June 17, 1919, and married Harris Omdahl, son of Lars and Hannah Omdahl on Aug. 12, 1941. They were parents of five children: Lawrence, who died at birth; Hope, who married Robert Kelm in 1960 and has three children, Todd, Jeanne and Sandy; (she is now married to Gary Magno and lives in Akron, Ohio); Elwood, who lives in Grand Forks; and Harlan and Robert, at home in Conway. Lawrence was born May 3 1 , 1922, and died Sept. 16, 1939, after being injured in a tractor accident.
Chas. and Anna Heising (Fitzgerald) 1884. built their own home there. Charles Heising, born in Pennsylvania, of German Lutheran faith, and moved to a German settlement in Albert Lea, Minn. Charles worked as a grain elevator man. In 1884 he married Anna Fitzgerald of Clarks Grove, Minn., an Irish settlement. Anna taught school before her marriage. In Conway she was an active member of St. Mark's Catholic Church. When the original church burned in Conway, Charles and Anna donated half the land on which the new church was built. The Peter Foerster Family: left to right, seated, Peter (dad), Barbara and Alice (mother); standing, Arthur, Margaret and Raymond. Raymond was born June 5th, 1925, and married B. Jean Maxwell, the daughter of Harold and Geneva Maxwell, on June 30, 1947. Raymond lives on the Peter Foerster farm and has farmed since 1944, first with Peter Foerster, later taking over when his father retired in 1948. Raymond graduated from the Walsh County Agricultural School, Park River. He has made several hunting trips to Alaska and the Yukon Territory and has many fine game trophies. He also has a large collection of Indian relics and many antiques from his Alaskan trips. Raymond and Jean are parents of five children: Lawrence, who married Marian Nagosek and has three children, Tony, Tim, and Alice; Kathy (Mrs. Marvin Sobolik) who has three sons, Peter, Paul and Patrick; and David, Matthew and Jonathon, attending NDSSS in Wahpeton.
Anna was an excellent seamstress. She sewed and knitted for the family. During World War I, Anna joined the local women in knitting sweaters, socks, etc., for the Red Cross to send to the soldiers overseas. Charles and Anna brought four children from Minnesota, and four more were born in Conway. The oldest and youngest were girls. Mabel Heising (1885-1963) married Dave Curtin, a depot agent from Conway. They homesteaded in Plentywood, Mont., for years before moving to Vancouver, Wash., where they
Barbara was born Oct. 23, 1929, and married Reed Melicher, son of Joseph and Hulda Melicher, on June 6, 1951. They are parents of six children — JoAnn (Mrs. Pat MacErlane) who has two daughters, Katie and Kelly; Janis (Mrs. Brad Kromminga); James who married Helen Hintz and has one son, Joseph; Paul who married Donna Brown and is attending optometry school in Philadelphia; Terri who is attending NDSU in Fargo; and Jeff, at home. Peter Foerster died on June 30, 1972, af his wife, Alice, died on Feb. 5, 1978. Both are buried in St. Mark's Cemetery at Conway.
CHARLES AND ANNA HEISING FAMILY Heising, Charles (1854-1944) and Anna Fitzgerald (18631942). Charles and Anna Heising came to Conway in 1893 and
Anna and Charles Heising in 1940.
worked in the Kaiser Shipyards during WW II. They raised one adopted daughter, Violet Burnham Curtin. Dave and Mabel both died in 1963 and were buried in Vancouver.
perfected the Heising Modulation System by which it was possible to transmit messages for great distances. Raymond and his men installed the first wireless in airplanes during WW I, and he and his crew installed the first ship-to-shore wireless on board ship. He received an honorary Doctor's Degree from U.N.D. in the 1950's. Raymond married Theresa Coneys and raised three children. Bill, an engineer, works for I.B.M. in New York state. He is married and has four children. Charles, an engineer, works for General Electric in New York state, is married and has two children. Mary Ellen is an engineer, married with four children. Herbert John Heising (1891) is a retired railway mail clerk. He married Kathryn Sandberg and worked on the Great Northern Railroad out of St. Paul. Herb was a lieutenant in the army in WW I where he trained young men in machine gunnery. He had two children, Herb, Jr., and Diane Badalich of St. Paul, Minn.
Blanche
George Heising (1893-1942) continued his interest in baseball most of his life. He played with a Minneapolis team. George was active in the Conway Band as a boy. In Minneapolis he worked for the City Water Works until his death. He married Jean Lally and had one son, Robert. Robert served in the Navy in WW II, and worked for an airline in California until his death in 1974.
Blanche Heising (1905- ), the youngest child, graduated from high school in Conway in 1922. She attended school in Valley City, N. Dak., and taught before her marriage to Bert Burris. Bert and Blanche raised ten children, nine girls and one boy. They lived in Grand Forks, N. Dak., until 1942 where Bert worked for Northern Packing Co. When they moved to Vancouver, they both worked in the Kaiser Shipyards during WW II. After the war Blanche worked as a practical nurse at St. Joseph's Hospital. She had always dreamed of being a nurse and worked at the hospital until her retirement. Since retirement Blanche has been an active member, and president of the Hospital Guild.
Earl Heising (1896-1972) served in the Navy Band during WW I in the European Theater. He also traveled with Sousa's Band. He played many instruments, but he played the big bass horn while with Sousa's Band. Earl graduated from North Dakota State University in Fargo, and went on to get his Master's at the University of Wisconsin. He worked in the insurance field at Bismarck, N. Dak. He married Ethel McGuigan and had two sons. His older son, John, is an engineer and worked on the Mars Program in San Diego. John is the father of four daughters. Ralph, the younger son, is a dermatologist in San Diego, married and the father of four children. Both boys served in the Navy of WWII.
The six Heising boys grew up in Conway, N. Dak. They were active on the baseball teams, in the Conway Band, and in school activities. All went on to higher education when they left Conway.
Dewey Heising (1898) is a retired railway mailclerk who worked out of Fargo. Dewey enlisted in the Navy in WW I and spent most of the war in the Navy Band in Panama. He was solo cornetist. After the war Dewey remained in Panama with a local band for about five years. Dewey married Blanche Connor from Park River, and they have three children. Dewey, Jr., works for the Justice Department in Washington, D. C. He was with the army in Italy during WW II, returned to Italy after the war to marry an Italian girl. They have two children. Mary Ann is a registered nurse, married and living in Houston, Texas. James graduated from N.D.S.U. in Fargo, and teaches mathematics in a Fargo High School. He is married and the father of ten children.
The Heising Men — Ralph, Dewey, Earl, George, Herb, and Ray. Raymond Heising (1888-1965) was already inventing helpful electrical devices as a boy when he worked nights in the railroad tower. He put in place a warning device at some distance along the tracks so that he would not miss the night train in the dark. When Raymond had taken all the education offered in Conway, he entered the University of North Dakota where he graduated in 1912 as an electrical engineer. He received his Master's Degree at the University of Wisconsin. Six weeks after going to work for Western Electric, in New York, Raymond
Ralph Heising (1900-1925) was attending the University of Minnesota at the time of his death. He had traveled with Finley's Kiltie Band a few summers. When he reached the age of 18, in 1918, he enlisted in the ROTC at the University of North Dakota. In November the Armistice was signed. That fall the influenza raged through the country. Many of the students were sick, and many died with the flu. Ralph helped care for many of them. When he finally got the flu, few were left to care for the sick. He survived the flu, but was left with a damaged heart. Ralph died in the Veterans Hospital in Minneapolis, and his body brought back to Conway for burial. When Anna Fitzgerald Heising died in 1942, Charles Heising moved to Vancouver, Wash., with Blanche Heising Burris. When he died there in 1944, Blanche and Mabel returned his body to Conway, for burial.
LARS OMDAHL FAMILY HISTORY Lars Omdahl was bom May 18, 1891, at Shelly, Minn., to Andrew and Ingeborg (Eie) Omdahl, borh from Norway. He had six half brothers and one half sister — Ellen (Kolstrand) Oberson, Diedrick (Dick), Andrew, and Pete Kolstrand, Sam (Kolstrand) Anderson, and Olouse and Ole Omdahl. When the Omdahl family moved to America the older children took the name of the community (Kolstrand) they came from in Norway. Lars' two sisters were Louise (Omdahl) Knutson and Gina (Omdahl) Cote. Lars married Hannah Neilson, daughter of Lars and Grethe Neilson and granddaughter of Christian and Inger Neilson and Hans and Maren Lund, on Jan. 3, 1918, in Warren, Minn.
Frances was born Oct. 8, 1923, and went to Seattle in 1944 and worked at Safeway Stores until going to work at Boeing's in Seattle where she works at the present time as a computer supervisor. Douglas was born Aug. 2, 1924. He married Audrey Usletton, daughter of Carl and Lillie Usletton of Brookings, S. Dak. Douglas served in the Army from July, 1943, to Nov., 1945, in Italy, Sicily and South Africa. At present Douglas is foreman for the Soo Line Railroad in Fordville, N. Dak., and lives in Conway. He has worked as a laborer on various railroad gangs and as assistant roadmaster in Thief River Falls and Glenwood, Minn. Douglas and Audrey have five children. Ron is married to Jeanine Stevens; Dougie married Cheryl Westfall and they have two sons, Jason and Eric; Randy married Okay Pyon and has two sons also, Jim and Aaron. All three sons live in Grand Forks. Kay (Mrs. Kevin Papenfuss), Park River, N. Dak., and Mark lives at home. Grace was born Feb. 8, 1926, and married Rudy Eisner in Grand Forks on Apr. 1, 1945. Grace and Rudy had two daughters, Carolyn (Mrs. Charles Iverson) who married Jim Devine and has three children, Pat, Pam and Paula; and Diana (Mrs. Tim Doerkson) who has twin sons, Jason and Jeremy. Rudy died in 1969, and Grace lives in Conway. Dean was born Mar. 11, 1928. He married Mary Sisson, daughter of Louis and Wilma Sisson, on Oct. 24, 1953. He served in the Navy from 1945 to 1947. At present Dean owns and operates the Daisy Elevator in Daisy, N. Dak., where he lives. Dean and Mary have five sons; Neil is married to Kaye Haugen; Jay is married to Laurie Kunze, and Joel, Brett and Jamie are at home.
Mr. and Mrs. Lars Omdahl on their wedding day in 1918. Lars worked as section laborer for the Soo Line Railroad in Radium, Minn., from 1908 to 1918. He came to Conway, N. Dak., in 1918 and was section foreman for the Soo Line in Conway until he retired in 1958. Lars Omdahl died in March, 1964. He is buried in the Conway cemetery. Lars and Hannah were the parents of 13 children — Harris, Glenn, Frances, Douglas, Grace, Dean, Donald, Lloyd, Lawrence, Doris and David. Two children died at birth and they, too, are buried in the Conway cemetery. Harris was born May 3 1 , 1919, and married Margaret Foerster, daughter of Peter and Alice Foerster, on Aug. 12, 1941. Harris served in the army from Sept., 1942 to Oct., 1945; two and one-half years of that time he was in the South Pacific. After his discharge he farmed for 25 years and after that he worked on construction until he retired in 1979. Harris and Margaret were parents of five children. Lawrence died at birth. Hope (Mrs. Gary Magno), Akron, Ohio, was married to Robert Kelm and they had three children, Todd, Jeanne and Sandy Kelm. Elwood resides in Grand Forks and Harlan and Robert are at home in Conway. Glenn was born June 20, 1921. He married Marie Runnestrand of Fordville on Oct. 10, 1941. Glenn was in the CCC camp at Larimore and also served in the Army, in the South Pacific, during World War II. At present he owns and operates the "Wagoneer Restaurant" in Seaside, Ore. Glenn and Marie had three children. Priscilla (Mrs. Howard Berry), Columbia, South America, has five children, Rendy, Renae, Rochelle, RayAnn and Rebecca. Cynthia (Mrs. Chuck Mamon), Seattle, Wash., has one son, Darryn Brian, is at home in Seattle, with his mother.
Donald was born Mar. 1 1 , 1 9 2 8 also. He married Jean Holwerda, daughter of Jach and Emma Holwerda, on Aug. 29, 1949. Donald served in the Army from Mar. 1946 to Oct. 1947 in the South Pacific. He worked for the Soo Line and also operated the Village Inn Cafe at different times. At present Donald and Jean are site managers for the Senior Citizens Nutrition Program in Fordville where he lives. They are parents of six children — Chad in Hatton, N. Dak.; Larry, who is married to Ann Trenda and has two daughters, Amy and Nicole; Faye, in Hannaford, N. Dak.; Daphne (Mrs. Rod Fallis) in Brisbane, Australia; Darlene in Mayville; and Sheri is at home. Lloyd was born Jan. 5, 1931, and married Ruth Jones, daughter of Troy and Evangeline Jones, on Sept. 5, 1953, in Warren, Minn. Lloyd attended the UND, Grand Forks, and got his Master's Degree in political science in 1962. He served as North Dakota Tax Commissioner in 1963, and joined the faculty of UND in 1967 where he teaches political science. Lloyd and
This picture of the Lars Omdahl family was taken in 19b1. Left to right, front row, Doris, Douglas, Lars, Hannah, David, and Frances; back row, Grace, Lloyd, Donald, Glenn, Dean, Lawrence and Harris.
Hanneson on Dec. 1 2. 1 960. David was in the Navy from 1 954 to 1957, and served in the Pacific area. In 1958 he attended Aaker's Business College and worked for Rent or Buy in Grand Forks before moving to Seattle in 1967. In 1974 he attended Western Baptist College in Salem, Ore., and was minister of Charity Baptist Church in Springfield, Ore., in 1976. At present he is minister of Riverside Baptist Church in Albany, Ore., where they reside. David and Marlys are parents of five daughters — Wanda (Mrs. Ron Jarrett), Jeannie, Elaine, Carol and Amy, at home.
Ruth ha»/e three children — Scott in Iowa, Becky in Minneapolis, and Nancy at home in Grand Forks. Lawrence, was born Nov.1, 1932, and he married Judy Sobolik, daughter of Ralph and Bertha Sobolik, on Jan. 22, 1960. Lawrence served in the Army in Fort Sheridan, III., from 1953 to 1955. He attended UND and Aaker's in Grand Forks, and is now working for Casement Implement in Fordville. They have three children — Robin, Jayme and Laura — all at home. Doris was born Nov. 7, 1934, and she married Clarence Gilbertson on July 5, 1958. She has two daughters, Theresa, at home in Conway, and Debbie in Bismarck.
All of the Omdahl children were born in Conway, N. Dak., and attended school there.
David was born Jan. 18, 1937. He married Marlys
History of Conway City in Photos
About 1900 — Upper Grades, Teacher — J. K. Lyons. Top row, Mary Vorachek, unidentified, unidentified, Ellen Mullen, Lilian Vorachek, Frank Weed, Ray Heising, Rob Davidson; middle row, unidentified, unidentified, unidentified, unidentified, unidentified, Bert Stary, Mary Bina, Bruce Mclntyre, unidentified, unidentified, and unidentified; bottom row, Herb Heising, Lloyd Daily, Jack Halvorson, George Daily, unidentified, and Bill Maxwell.
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Peter Foerster admires a trophy bear taken in Northern Canada by his son, Ray.
About 1900 — Lower Grades, row one, fourth from left — George Heising. 260
Marsh, Albert Sobolik, Harold Maxwell, Leonard Daugherty, Frank Zelinka, Charlie Sobolik, Axel Wasgren, unidentified, and unidentified. At the right side in front of Miss Porter are Blanche Heising, unidentified, Agnes Van Arsdale, Dora Nasinec, Mary Flynn, Eunice Sisson, Fritz Getchman, Lillian Nasinec, John Wurth, Annie Burris, Frank Burris, Kate Flynn, Elizabeth Stroble, Emil Urban, Rose Pecka, John Urban, Frank Wurth, Charlie Pecka, and Stanley Bina.
A few of these pupils' surnames are still found in the area. Those attending the Conway School about 1913 and pictured are, top row, Jessie Sisson, Alma Getchman, Ruby Drager, Inga Seilstad, B. B. Wells, John Lola, Dewey Heising, Jim Zelinka, Irma Zahratke, Bill Bina; middle row, Martha Getchman, Viola Hinter, Bertha Maxwell, Herman Sobolik, Ralph Heising and Miss Porter; front rows, left to right, Frank Tasairich, unidentified, unidentified, Elmer Sobolik, Anna Daugherty, Bert Kotaska, Miss Dahl, Percy Maxwell, Bertha Balding, Oliver
Heising House
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FARMINGTON TOWNSHIP FAMILY HISTORIES church board, and Farmington Township board. He was a member of Temple Lodge No. 30 A. F. and A. M. at St. Thomas and Rae Council Royal Arch Masons of Grafton. They were the parents of one daughter, Marion, who married Gordon T. Thompson in 1948. They have one son, Albert Bell Thompson, bom in 1 950.
STEWART AND BERTHA BELL Stewart Bell was manager of the Auburn Farmers Elevator Association, Inc., from 1935 - 1968.
PAT AND ALICE MARY BURNS Patrick Burns was born on Oct. 5, 1883, in Renfren, Ontario, Canada, to John Burns and Mary Hughs Burns. His school years ended with the third grade as he spent his days in the woods with the lumberjacks while his parents thought he was in school. As a young man he came to North Dakota and worked on threshing crews, saving his money to purchase land.
Mr. Stewart Bell When Stewart Bell came to Auburn the elevator's capacity was 30,000 bushels in 1908. This elevator grew to be one of the largest in the area, having a capacity of 60,000 bushels. The 50th anniversary of this establishment was celebrated in 1958.
Pat Burns In 1911 he married Alice Mary Callahon who was born to Cornielles Callahon and Catherine Dennelly Callahon in Renfrew, Canada.
Mrs. Stewart Bell Stewart Bell (Nov. 4, 1897 - Dec. 24, 1976) and his wife, Bertha, (Dec. 9, 1897 - Dec. 18, 1970) were very active in community affairs. These included the Federated Church and
Ollie Burns 265
Queen Pageant, and the Grand Forks Potato Bowl Festivities. Lob was manager of the Nash Store for several years. He served as postmaster at Nash for 25 years. He was a member of Zion Lutheran Church, rural Hoople, and served on the church council. He was a Nash school board member for several years. He was one of the originators of the Walsh Curling Club. He was a director of the Grafton National Bank and active in many civic affairs. Francis M. (Lob) Daley made his home with his family at Nash from 1946 until his unexpected death Oct. 12, 1971. His house and property at Nash was sold in 1 979. THE ANDREW DAVIS FAMILY
Pat lost his left eye in an automobile accident, so wore a glass eye for many years. In 1954 he suffered a stroke and spent his last two years in the hospital where he died Oct. 4, 1956.
Andrew Davis was born May 2 1 , 1854, in Nes, Norway. Nes is about 50 miles north of Oslo. He died Dec. 27, 1941, at Grafton, N. Dak., and is buried at St. John's Lutheran Cemetery, located only one mile from where he homesteaded. His mother, Annie Olson Davidson, was a daughter of Andrew and Bertha Olson. They and younger members of the family immigrated to Iowa and southern Minnesota. Mr. Olson is buried at Luana, Clayton County, la. Mrs. Olson lived with a daughter, Mrs. C. C. Brudahl at Mona, Pembina County, N. Dak. She died April 25, 1890, at Mona and is buried at the South Pembina Churchyard near Langdon.
Pat and Alice were the parents of five children—Winnifred Burns (Hanson), twin boys Norman and Leslie, Beatrice Burns (Mattson), and Marvin.
When Andrew Davidson was 19 he came to America to his mother's relatives. This was in 1873. It was at this time that he shortened his name to Davis.
Children of Mr. and Mrs. Pat Burns: standing—Norman and Leslie; seated—Winnifred and Beatrice; standing in center, Marvin. They lived on several farms before Pat purchased his fatherin-law's farm in 1919 (Sec. 15-158-53) where they lived until he retired. In 1942 they moved to Grafton.
FRANCIS MILTON (LOB) AND ANNIE DALEY) Francis Milton (Lob) Daley was born at Grafton, N. Dak., Oct. 26, 1922, to parents, T. A. (Ted) and Jennie Iverson Daley. He had one sister, La Mae, and three brothers, LeRoy, Quintin, and Merle. He grew up on a farm in Fertile Township. As a boy, Lob attended grade school at Mandt School District No. 62. He graduated from the Walsh County Agricultural School at Park River in 1939. That same year he went to work for Henry Monson at Nash as Hank's potato harvest foreman. Lob married Annie Lawson at Park River on Mar. 27, 1942. That date was the 30th wedding anniversary of her parents, James and Etta May Coulter Lawson, farmers in Golden Township. Lob and Annie had seven children—Mrs. Jack (Barbara) Hanson, Thomas James, Dee Lynne (died at age four and a half), Mrs. Larry (Janet) Lysengen, Mrs. Robert (Lona) Getz, Ted Allan and Michael Francis. These children graduated from the Nash grade school, Grafton Central High School, five of them from the University of North Dakota at Grand Forks, and Ted from North Dakota State University, Fargo. Lob farmed with his father before serving two years in the U. S. Army during World War II. Following his discharge, in 1946, he became a partner with Henry Monson in the Monson and Daley Company, a potato brokerage. They were also partners, along with K. P. Rutherford, in the Rutherford Potato Company, Burlington, la. Every phase of the potato industry was of concern to Lob—potato production, storage, transportation and promotion. He was active in the development of above ground potato storage, bulk loading, potato products (flakes, starch, chips, etc.) and community promotions such as the State Potato Show,
Elvin (E. B.) Davis and his wife, Hulda. They lived two miles west and a mile north of Auburn. E. B. was the son of Andrew and Sophia Davis. Hulda was the daughterof E. J. and Mathilda HIII, St. Thomas. Early in 1881, when homestead land was available in Dakota Territory, he came with Peder Larson, Elias Stensland, Andrew Torgerson, Nels Helle and George Swenson to homestead near St. Thomas, N. Dak. They traveled by train to Grand Forks, many riding in the boxcars with their stock and personal belongings. They then traveled by horse and wagon on a trail to Christiana, near where Forest River is now located. It was May and heavy rains made the trail nearly impassable, while mosquitoes, by the millions, fed on the horses and passengers. The women and children remained at Christiana while the men rode on ahead to select suitable land to homestead. Two days later they returned, having squatted on their claims. The entire group finally reached their homesteads on May 2 1 , 1881, which
happened to be Andrew's birthday. Their first meal on the homestead consisted of pancakes (made from flour, water, soda and lard), salt pork and coffee. They also had some syrup and butter. This was the food they ate for the next three weeks. All cooking was done outdoors on an open fire. If it rained, meals were postponed. The cover of the wagon served as a shelter until a shanty was built. On Sundays, with no church to go to, they gathered together and read from the Bible and the Salmebog hymn book. Andrew returned to Harmony, Fillmore County, Minn., for the winter of 1881 -82 and married Sophia Wilson on Mar. 13, 1 882. They returned immediately to the homestead (N. W. Vi Sec. 2 1 , 159-53) four and a half miles southwest of St. Thomas. According to an article written by Mrs. George Swenson, "The newlyweds came across the field in four feet of snow, Mrs. Davis leading a gray horse and Mr. Davis a cow." Since it was evening, they spent the night at Swensons. Sophia was born Feb. 9, 1859, at Preston, Fillmore County, Minn., and died Oct. 20, 1914, at St. Thomas. She is also buried in St. John's Cemetery.
She and the family then moved to Grafton, N. Dak., where she lived until her death. She was a faithful member of the Grafton Methodist Church. The couple's family consisted of six daughters—Grace, Helen, Rose, Hattie, Ruth, and Evelyn (Mrs. Oscar Oihus), and two sons, Oscar William and Frank, a World War I veteran. G. H. Davis was a member of the Louis McLain Hamilton Post No. 12 of Grafton. He had served three years in the Calvary of the Civil War, having enlisted in Company D., Michigan Volunteer Calvary. PERCY AND AGNES DAVIS Everett Percy Davis was born June 25, 1912, in the family home on a farm two and a half miles west and a mile north of Auburn. He is the son of Elvin Bernard Davis and his wife, Hulda Hill Davis. E. B. Davis was the son of Andrew Davis, a pioneer settler in Pembina County; Hulda was the daughter of Ed and Mathilda Hill, pioneer settlers in St. Thomas.
They were active in community affairs, helping to organize St. John's Lutheran Church, where he served as an officer for 60 years. She was a charter member of the Ladies Aid. He also served on the Deaconess Hospital Board of Directors, Grafton, and the District No. 40 School Board, which became part of the St. Thomas in 1939. They were the parents of 10 children: Elvin born Mar. 26, 1883 - Oct. 19, 1947; Adolph, Mar. 18, 1885 - Sept. 29, 1959; Ida, June 29, 1886 - Sept. 1 1 , 1972; Minnie, Mar. 3, 1888; Mathilda, May 9, 1889 - Dec. 3 1 , 1971; Anna, Aug. 26, 1891; Osmer, Aug. 2 1 , 1893 - Dec. 24, 1953; Hulda, Sept. 4, 1895 - July 5, 1966; Lawrence, June 1, 1897 - Dec. 1957; and Ella, Oct. 15, 1903.
G.H.DAVIS FAMILY Comrade G. H. Davis, a Civil War veteran, and Mathilda Grimm were married and came as pioneers to the area of Hoople and farmed there for some time. Davis was born in the state of New York and Mathilda Grimm was born in Pennsylvania. After a time Davis became a disabled veteran and his wife, Mathilda, managed the farm and family efficiently until his death on Nov. 23, 1898.
The wedding picture of Percy and Agnes Davis, who married Nov. 24. 1937. When Percy was seven years old, he suffered a ruptured appendix after a fall from a bicycle. This necessitated emergency surgery which was performed on the dining room table in his home. Three surgeons attended him—Dr. G. W. Glaspel, Dr. C. J. Glaspel and Dr. Frank Deason. Ruth Holt was the administering nurse. Percy was in bed for seven weeks, on a diet of gruel, custard, and home made ice cream. Percy attended school a mile north of his home at Union School District No. 40. It was called Union because the district was partly in Pembina and partly in Walsh County. He passed the eight grades in six years which was made possible by writing the state examinations. Except for a short period when he went to Billings, Mont., to help his uncle in a gasoline station, Percy has farmed the land all of his life. It is a singular feature of his life that he has always lived in the same house, the Davis family home. When he was a child, the house was moved a mile north on skids, pulled by one horse. The house has been extensively remodeled during the years. Percy started farming with his father during the days when horses furnished the power to do the work. They raised grain, flax, soybeans and potatoes. After Mr. and Mrs. E. B. Davis moved into Grafton, Percy and his brother, Marvin, took over the full farming operation.
C. H. Davis family: left to right, back row, Helen and Oscar; middle row, Evelyn (on father's lap), G. H. Davis, Hattie, Mother Mathilda, Jose; front, Grace, and Ruth on mother's lap.
Sugar beets were added to the farming production. During the earlier days of their farming, dairy cows were an important adjunct, the Holstein cows supplying the cream money which
was used for groceries and other household needs. Later they raised Angus cattle for the market. As a side issue, Percy raised and sold quarter horses, at one time having as many as twenty on the farm. As a hobby, he raised Cocker Spaniels.
Guild and has served the guild as president. Percy and Agnes Davis have four children: Vicki Ann, born Oct. 29, 1938; Sandra Marie, born Oct. 27, 1942; Gayle Jean, born June 5, 1950; and Douglas Thomas, born Feb. 4, 1 953.
On Nov. 25, 1937, Percy Davis married Agnes Bazal at Grafton in the parsonage of St. John's Church. They were married by the late Bishop Mulloy of Covington, Ky., while he was still a parish priest in Grafton. Agnes Bazal was born Oct. 23, 1915, the daughter of Frank Peter Bazal and his wife, Anna Stella Novak. Agnes was born in the farm home belonging to her maternal grandparents, Charles Novak and his wife, Christine Vellek, which was located near Lankin, N. Dak. Her delivery was attended by Dr. Frank Weed, a veteran physician of Park River. She lived in Pisek until she was four years of age, then she moved to Orr, N. Dak., and attended the first two grades in school there. During the next few years, her family moved several times when her father worked on farms in the Park River area. Agnes attended three rural schools in two years' time. During winter months, Frank Bazal worked in the Chevrolet Garage, learning to do repair work on automobiles. The family moved to Park River when her father began to work full-time in the garage. Agnes attended grade and high school through her junior year. She graduated from the Grafton High School in 1933. The following year, she took a nine-months course in Mayville State Teachers College. She received her first grade elementary certificate, making her eligible to teach in the rural schools. She first taught in Acton District No. 30. She had fifteen pupils in all the grades, numbering eight. A year and a half later she attended summer school in 1936. She signed a contract with Union School District No. 40 to teach and, while there, she signed a long-term contract with Percy Davis, becoming his wife. In 1 946, she resumed teaching for a year. She found that teachers' wages had increased from $60 a term to $125. The school had installed an oil-burning stove to replace the coal-heater that had to be stoked every morning. Agnes joined the Riverside Homemakers Club which later became the Riverside Woman's Club. She is past president of the club. During the years that the Family Fun Club was active in the Auburn community, holding sessions in the Auburn Hall, Percy and Agnes were actively involved. In 1968, Agnes once more returned to teaching, this time in the Nash School District where she conducted the spring and fall sessions with the children of the migrant workers. The migrant attendance increased in number until it was necessary to have two instructors. Classrooms were improvised in the school gymnasium. Once more Agnes discovered great changes had been made in the school administration. She received as much salary for two or three days work as she had previously received for a month. Electricity, running water, central heat, and a well-equipped kitchen for hot lunches had been added to the school, a far cry from the rural schools of yesteryear with their coal burning heaters, cold lunches in tin syrup pails, and outdoor privies. Agnes retired from teaching in 1979. For the past twenty years she has taught Confraternity Christian Doctrine classes at the St. John's Catholic Church in Grafton. She began teaching when the late Father Hylden was pastor. She is a member of St. John's Altar Society. During the last years of District No. 40, Percy and Agnes were on the board. Agnes was clerk from 1939 to 1962. Percy was president of the School Board from 1955 to 1962. Agnes is actively involved in china painting and rosemaling. She paints with the St. Thomas China Painters and the Grafton Rembrandt Club. She is a member of the North Dakota China Painters'
The family of Percy and Agnes Davis: Vicki, Gayle, Percy Davis, Agnes Davis, Sandra and Douglas. Vicki Ann attended rural schools and graduated from Grafton High School. During her senior year, she did office practice work under the supervision of Ernie Nyman. Immediately after graduation, she began work in the Walsh County Bank. Later she worked for Norval Narveson Insurance Company. On Oct. 5, 1959, Vicki married Curtis Nelson, son of Melvin and Irene Nelson, of Grafton. Their son, Scott Michael, was born Sept. 16, 1960. They moved to California in 1962. Their daughter, Melanie, was born June 18, 1965, in Westminster. Vicki works for Vorheis, Trindle, Nelson, Inc., an engineering firm in Irvine, Calif. Curtis is Superintendent of Grounds for the Anaheim Schools which includes landscaping and planning the school grounds. Sandra Marie graduated from Grafton Central High School. During her senior year, she did office practice work for Nicholas Altendorf and Charles Pickett Insurance Agency. She attended Nettleton Commercial College in Sioux Falls, S. Dak. She married Carl Geyer Dierk, son of Martha and Herman Dierk, Rock Rapids, la., on June 30, 1962. She is presently employed as secretary for Ross Transfer of Chadron, Nebr. Her husband, Carl, a professional engineer, is city manager of Chadron. They have four children: Lori Lynn, born Mar. 16, 1964; Greg Geyer, Dec. 8, 1966; Lisa Jo, Nov. 2 1 , 1968; and Jeffery Carl, Mar. 16, 1970. Gayle Jean attended grade school in Nash. She graduated from Grafton Central High School, and during her senior year did office practice work with Ernie Nyman. She attended the University of North Dakota and received a Bachelor of Science degree in elementary education and a minor in Spanish, in December, 1968. She has taught first and third grade in the St. Thomas School. She married Robert E. Lee, son of Henrietta and LeClare Lee of Grafton, on June 30, 1973. Robert E. Lee was a corpsman in the Third Marine Division in the Vietnam conflict. He received a Bronze Star and the Purple Heart. While attending Mayville State College, he received a degree in business administration. He is presently employed by the Adamsen Construction Company. Gayle and Robert have a daughter, Nicole Regina, born Dec. 2, 1978. Douglas Thomas attended the Nash School. He is a graduate of Grafton Central High School and the University of North Dakota. He graduated from the university with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology in 1976. His hobbies are fishing, travelling and hunting. He is interested in sports, bowling and softball. He has a trophy room of mounted animals, birds and fish. Percy Davis and his son, Douglas, together with his brother,
wounded Feb. 2 1 , 1945. Recovering from his wounds, he returned to his unit until the war's end. He celebrated his 21st birthday July 1 7, 1945, at home.
The fortieth wedding anniversary picture of Agnes and Percy Davis, Nov. 24, 1977. Marvin, and his two sons, Richard and Randi, are engaged in operating the farming interests of the Davis farms. Percy and Agnes Davis were honored on their fortieth wedding anniversary when their children hosted an open house for them in 1977. BERNARD JOHN DESAUTEL Bernard J. DeSautel was born July 17, 1924, at the homestead of his great grandfather, Francis Xavier, and Joesph Patrice DeSautel His parents were Thomas J. and Matilda (Donnelly) DeSautel of Farmington Township, Walsh County. He was named after his great grandfather, Bernard Donnelly.
Wedding picture of Bernard John DeSautel and Faye
Behnke. On July 25 he was married to Faye Behnke, daughter of Lawrence and Minnie Behnke. They had four sons and two daughters. Kathleen was born March 26, 1947. She married James Slater. They had three children—James, Jr., Brenda, and Kelly. James Slater was killed in a car accident. Kathleen then married Roger Loyland of Grand Forks and they now live in Grand Forks. Duane Allen DeSautel was bom Aug. 20, 1948, and is a Vietnam veteran, having spent a year there. He married Teresa Mora Dec. 1, 1973, and has two sons, Robert and Ryan. They also live in Grand Forks.
Bernard attended the DeSautel School No. 2, Dist. 5 1 , for a year before moving to Grafton with his parents. In Grafton he attended Chase School and Central School. As a young lad on the farm he had a pet pig he really liked but while trying to give the squirming little pig a drink out of the swill barrel, that held separated milk for the hogs, it accidentally fell in and drowned. None of the family knew what happened to.it until the men took the barrel to feed the hogs. Only then did Bernie admit what happened. When he was four he liked to throw sticks in the high water, in the spring of the year, and watch them float away with the current. He slipped and slid in the water. Luckily, his brother, Donald, a year older, pulled him out by the hair, saving his life. He liked to play hockey as a young lad. He made wooden guns for himself and his friends in the neighborhood. When the National Guard was mobilized Feb., 1941, he was just past 16 years old and had to have his parents' consent to join the Guard. His two older brothers, Vernon (Bud) and Earl, said they would look after him, not realizing within a year the U. S. would be at war. Leaving Grafton by troop train they were joined by other troops of the 164th Inf., 34 Division, bound for Camp Claiborne, La., where they trained until the bombing of Pearl Harbor Dec. 7, 1941. After leaving Camp Claiborne they went to Ogden, U., then to California, before boarding ship for Australia, and on to Guad-canal where they joined the Marines and became known as the Americal Division, fighting there until they conquered the island. They then invaded Bougainville, that campaign also ending in victory. The Division then was sent to Leyte in the Philippines where Sgt. Bernard DeSautel was
Left to right. Brothers Sgt. Bernard J. Desautel. Sgt. Vernon A. DeSautel, Lt. Earl A. DeSautel. Taken in Figi Islands, south Pacific, during a rest period after fighting in Guada Canal. Timothy John DeSautel was born May 26, 1950. He is also a Vietnam veteran, serving in the Panama Canal Zone where he met and married Nemisa Gordon on July 1 1 , 1971. They have one son, Christopher Allen, and one daughter, Diana. Bernard DeSautel, Jr., was born Mar. 1, 1952. He was married to Linda Void July 1, 1978, in Grand Forks. They have one daughter, Michelle, who was born July 5, 1980. Linda Lee DeSautel was married to Timothy Olin of the Grand Forks Air Base. They have one daughter and one son. A. C. O. Steven DeSautel was born July 19, 1959. He joined the United States Army Paratroopers, 27th Eng. Bn., and
in dive bombers (Curtiss SB2C) and checked out in carrier flying. He was sent to Pearl Harbor, then on to Guam where he spent a year. He returned to the States in November, 1947, and was released from active duty at Alameda Naval Air Station in San Francisco. After separation from the service he went back to work at Teapot Dome Oil Company until enrollment at North Dakota School of Forestry in September, 1948. At the School of Forestry, Don was very active in school activities including varsity basketball, Newman Club, Forestry Club, etc., and served as president of the sophomore class. In 1950 he was awarded an Associate of Science Degree in Forestry. In September, 1950, he entered North Dakota State at Fargo and graduated in June of 1952 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Geology. He also spent one summer at the University of Colorado. Immediately following graduation, Don went to work for Shell Oil Company in Tulsa, Okl. After assignments in Kansas, Texas, Colorado, South Dakota and Montana, he transferred to New Orleans, La., in 1956. After working in various offices he became Division Geologist for Shell's Offshore Division in 1964. In 1970 he moved to Onshore Division as Staff Geologist and in 1977 joined the Gulf Coast Exploration Division as Operations Geologist. In 1979 he was named a Senior Staff Geologist. Sgt. Vernon "Bud" and brother Bernard DeSautel standing by their brother, Lt. Earl DeSautel"s, temporary grave in Bougainville. His body was later moved to Manila National Cemetery. is stationed at Fort Bragg, N. C. On March 17, 1974, Bernard J. DeSautel married Mrs. Joyce Larson from Grand Forks who has three sons Curtis, Casey, and Tracy. Bernard was a member of the Grafton American Legion, the VFW Post of Grafton, and the Grafton Fire Department, before moving to Grand Forks where he is employed as an electrican.
Don joined Council 3914 of the Knights of Columbus in Grafton in 1941 and has continued his membership in that lodge. In the New Orleans suburb of Metairie, where the DeSautels live, Don has been very active in church and civic affairs. He conceived the idea for a community club in the area. After nearly two years of hard work, the idea became a reality with the formation of the Bissonet-Maned Downs Country Club. Don was president of the club for two years and served on the board of directors for six years of this 300-family member club which has an Olympic size swimming pool, large clubhouse, and several tennis courts.
DONALD JOSEPH AND NINA DESAUTEL Donald Joseph DeSautel, son of Thomas Joseph and Matilda Donnelly DeSautel, was born at the family home in rural Grafton on Feb. 7, 1923. He moved to Grafton with his parents in 1930 and attended Chase Elementary School and graduated from Grafton High School in 1940. Don began working for Chris Anholt in the Anholt Grocery (later Fairway Grocery) at age eight and continued to work after school and Saturdays until graduation from high school. After graduating, he worked full time at the grocery store for nearly a year, then began working at the Teapot Dome Oil Company. He enlisted in the naval flight training program in September, 1942. Don began naval aviation cadet military training at WoldChamberlain Field in Minneapolis. From there he went to St. Olaf's College in Northfield, Minn., then to Minot Teacher's College where he took his first flight lessons and learned to fly Piper Cubs and N3N biplanes. From there he was sent to Iowa preflight school at the University of Iowa. His next step was air gunnery school near Jacksonville, Fla., where he trained as gunner in PB4Y2's (Navy version of B-24 - Liberator). He reentered the flight program and went to a pre-flight refresher course at the University of North Carolina and then to primary training at the Bunker Hill Naval Air Station in Indiana. After completing primary training there he went to Pensacola where he completed his final training period and was designated a naval aviator and commissioned an ensign. Don took advance training
Donald DeSautel Family from left to right, back, Terrel Ann and Patricia Lynn; seated, Nina Norman DeSautel and Donald Joseph DeSautel.
Don has served on the finance committee of St. Philip Neri Catholic Church from its beginning in 1960. He also served as president of the Men's Organization and has been an Eucharistic Minister since the inception of the program in 1974. In 1975 Don received the Medallion of the Order of the Saint Louis from Archbishop Hannan in recognition of his service to the church and the Archdiocese of New Orleans. In June, 1957, Don married Nina Wade Norman of Alexandria, La., at the Saint Francis Cathedral in Alexandria. Nina was born in Alexandria on Oct. 30. 1928. Nina and Don met at Shell Oil Company where she was also employed as a staff secretary. Nina had graduated from Louisiana State University in 1950 and had lived in Panama and San Francisco prior to her Shell employment in New Orleans. Two daughters were born to Nina and Don. Patricia Lynn was born on May 26, 1958, and Terrel Ann on Apr. 28, 1960. Patricia recently graduated from the University of New Orleans in business administration and Terrel Ann is a junior at Louisiana State University, majoring in speech and communication.
in New Caledonia for several months. They releived the Marines on Guadal-canal, South Pacific; then had a rest period in the Fiji Islands. They went into action again on Bougainville, South Pacific, where he lost his life Dec. 27, 1943. He is now buried in a Military Cemetery at Manila, Philippine Islands. He married the former Emma Lou Roney on July 3, 1941, in the old St. Louis Cathedral. New Orleans, La. One son, Paul Anthony, was born to them on August 2, 1942.
EARL A. DESAUTEL Earl Anthony DeSautel, the son of pioneers, Thomas Joseph and Matilda A. Donnelly DeSautel, was born Friday, June 13, 1913, at the homestead of his great grandfather, Francis Xavier DeSautel northwest of Grafton in Farmington Township. He started school when five years old, because his older brother, Vernon, wouldn't go without him. His aunt, Matilda E. DeSautel, was his first teacher. He attended No. 2 School in District 5 1 , of which his father was the treasurer for many years. He also attended the Catholic Convents, one of which is now the Luther Williamson home, and the St. John's Convent, which is now the home of J. J. O'Brien on Western Avenue in Grafton. He wore his first long pants to his eighth grade graduation, which was held at the Walsh County Ag School in Park River. He graduated from Grafton High School at the age of 16. He worked at several odd jobs before joining the CCC's, where he worked in several places in South Dakota. He worked as a fireman for the Great Northern Railroad until called to active duty with the National Guard.
Emma Lou Roney DeSautel and son. Paul Anthony DeSautel. Paul Anthony DeSautel, born in Grafton Aug. 2, 1942, attended the Grafton schools until November, 1952, when he moved, with his mother, to Puyallup, Wash., where he graduated from high school in June, 1960. He was in the Naval Reserves during his last year of high school and spent two weeks on active duty in June after graduation. In September, he went on active duty for two years, was stationed in San Diego, and Vallejo Naval Hospital, Calif. After his discharge, he returned to Puyallup to make his home. He went to work for the Veterans' Hospital at American Lake, then Boeing's, Franklin Finance, and Peoples Bank with Peoples Leasing Co., Seattle, Wash. He and his family made their home in Tacoma, Wash. He married the former Karen W. Berry of Puyallup, Wash., on Mar. 1 1 , 1967. They have two adopted boys: Kelly Dean, born July 3, 1966, and Daniel Earl, born Dec. 6, 1970.
EUGENE ARTHUR DESAUTEL Eugene A. DeSautel was born Feb. 1, 1927, the son of T. J. and Matilda (Donnelly) DeSautel at the homestead farm of his great-grandparent, Francis DeSautel, in Walsh County, Farmington Township. The land is now owned by a cousin, Aurel DeSautel. He moved to Grafton with his parents in 1930 and attended the Chase and Central Schools in Grafton. He tried to enlist in the U. S. Naval Reserves in 1942 but was turned down. On reaching the age for service he enlisted in the U. S. Air Corps, Squadron A 2, Fort Francis and Warren, Wyo. After World War II ended he returned to Grafton. He worked at Kiley's Service Station and Evans Transfer Company. Lt. Earl A. DeSautel He joined the National Guard, Co. C , 164th Infantry, when he was 16 years old. He worked his way up through the ranks to first sergeant. He was commissioned a second lieutenant when the Guard was called to active duty, Feb. 10, 1941. They were sent to Camp Claiborne, La., where they received intensive training. He stayed with his Company until transferred to Hillsboro Company after they went overseas. They were stationed
He joined the National Guard, Co. C , shortly before it was called for active duty to Camp Rucker, Ala., on Jan. 15, 1951, under the command of Lt. Joe Kennedy. In August, 1951, he was home for a 10-day furlough. On Aug. 18, 1951, Sgt. Eugene DeSautel, Sgt. Wm. C. Depuy, Sgt. Arthur Bergquam, Sgt. Herbie Johnson, and Cpl. Thomas LaBerge left Camp Stoneman, Calif., for Korea. DeSautel was believed to be the first soldier of the 47th National Guard Division killed in action on Oct. 5, 1951. His
At the time of their marriage Rae was employed as the society editor of the Walsh County Record in Grafton. Following her graduation from Grafton high school she attended the University of North Dakota. The Desautels lived in Anchorage, Alaska, while Jack was stationed with the quartermaster corps at Fort Richardson. Rae worked for the adjutant general in USARAL Headquarters at Elmendorf Air Force Base. Following his discharge in 1953 the Desautels returned to civilian life and settled on the family farm in Farmington Township. They are the parents of three children—Elizabeth, born in 1953 at Fort Richardson; John D., and Jay M., both born in Grafton. Elizabeth, married in 1975 to Kevin Hoenke, is a teacher at Chase School in Grafton and farms with her husband southwest of Grafton. John is involved in the family farm operation, John F. Desautel Farming Co.,'and Jay is employed at Grafton Equipment Co. The Hoenkes have one son, Christopher. Eugene A. DeSautel
Minnie Desautel, who moved to Grafton in 1953, died in 1959. Jack has served on the boards of directors of Nash Grain and Trading Co., and served as secretary of the Red River Valley Sugarbeet Growers Association and its executive board. He is a past president of the Walsh County Sugarbeet Growers Association and past vice president of the Drayton Factory District of the growers association.
body was escorted to Grafton by S. F. C. Walter B. Fry and the funeral was held on Jan. 10, 1952, at St. John's Catholic Church with Rev. John Garland officating. Burial was in St. John's Cemetery. JOHN F. DESAUTEL John F. (Jack) Desautel was born Feb. 2 1 , 1928, in the house on the farm of his parents, William H. and Minnie (Brosius) Desautel, four miles northwest of Grafton in Farmington Township. He was the second of three sons. The eldest is Robert W. Desautel, who presently lives northeast of Grafton in Martin Township. The youngest son, William D. Desautel, lives in Grafton.
Jack has served on the American Legion's Firing Squad for 20 years and is a past chairman of the American Legion Club board of directors. He is a past chef de gare of the 40 et 8. Presently he is serving on the boards of directors of Sunset Founders and the Grafton Chamber of Commerce, and is a member of the Grafton Rural Fire Department.
Jack and his brothers attended Farmington School District No. 2 which was located in the corner of property homesteaded by their grandfather, David Desautel. Before and following graduation from Grafton high school, Jack farmed with his mother (his father died in 1944) and brothers until he entered military service in June, 1951, during the Korean War.
The Desautels belong to St. John's Catholic Church in Grafton and each has served on the church council. Rae is a member of the Walsh County Fair Association board of directors and is a past president of the Walsh County Homemakers Council, Grafton VFW Auxiliary, Nash Mothers Club, Double M Homemakers Club, Walsh County Farm Bureau Women, and St. John's Altar Society. She has been a member of the Grafton Sugarbeet Festival committee since its beginning five years ago and has served as its publicity and advertising director for the past four years. She also is a member of American Agri Women and North Dakota and National Federation of Press Women.
He was married Dec. 7, 1950, to Rae M. Meier who had moved to Grafton in 1940 from Burt, N. Dak., where she lived with her parents, William F. and Pearl C. (Armentrout) Meier. Her parents were Burt merchants. The Meiers owned and operated the Grafton Paint and Glass, Inc. Following the death of Mr. Meier in 1966, a son, Gerald W. Meier, took over the family business.
Beginning three years ago, Rae has written features and a weekly column for the Grafton Record in addition to articles for other publications. VERNON (BUD) ALPHONSE DESAUTEL Vernon Alphonse DeSautel, the son of pioneers, Thomas Joseph and Matilda (Donnelly) DeSautel, was born Mar. 14, 1912, at the homestead of his great-grandfather, Francis Xavier DeSautel, northwest of Grafton in Farmington Township. Vernon attended school in District 5 1 , School Number 2, of which his father, Thomas Joseph DeSautel, was the treasurer for many years. He also attended the convents, one of which is now the Luther Williamson home, and the St. John's Convent, which is now the home of John J. O'Brien on Western Avenue in Grafton, and the Grafton High School. As a young lad he was always interested in sports, hunting and trapping. In the winters he ran traplines along the North Branch of the Park River. He joined the Boy Scouts under the
John F. Desautel Family 272
leadership of Rev. H. A. Helsem. When he was old enough, he enlisted in the National Guard, Company C, and was a member when the first J. C. Penny's Store burned to the ground and Company C was asked to assist in fighting the fire. In 1934-1935 he joined the Civilian Conservation Corps which at that time was building the dam, just west of Park River, later known as the Homme Dam. He was called to active duty with Company C, 164th Inf., National Guard, in February, 1941. The Infantry left for Camp Claiborne, La., where they were stationed until the bombing of Pearl Harbor Dec. 7, 1941. He was a staff sergeant in the 164th during the fighting in the South Pacific, Guadalcanal and Bougainville Islands Campaigns. After 34 months in the battle zone he was hospitalized in the New Hebrides before being sent back to the States. After being discharged from Letterman's General Hospital, Calif., he met and married the former Judith Carlson, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Gust Carlson, in Grafton in 1 946.
Vemon and Judith were the parents of three daughters—twins Carol Mae DeSaute and Connie Marie DeSautel, and Caryn Marlene DeSautel. Vemon died of a heart attack July 26, 1954, at the Eagles, where he was employed, and his wife, Judith, died nine months later of shock after an operation on May 23, 1 955.
Left to right, Judith, Carol, Caryn, Connie, and Vernon Desautel. The three little children lived with their grandparents, the Thomas Joseph DeSautels, for a number of years. In 1961, the twins, Carol and Connie, left to live with an aunt and uncle, the Richard Heins, residents in Fergus Falls, Minn., and there graduated from high school. They worked at the Lake Region Hospital in Fergus before returning to Grafton, to work at the Grafton State School. Both are very active in ^ the Valley Ambulance and Rescue Service. They are E. M. T.'s and E. C. T.'s; and are also members of the auxiliaries of the V. F. W., the American Legion, and the Eagles, all of Grafton. Caryn DeSautel went to live with her uncle and aunt, Donald and Nina DeSautel, in Metairie, La., where she graduated from high school. She attended a business school in Fargo, N. Dak. Later she met and married Robert Buck of Detroit Lakes, Minn. The couple lives in Kent, Wash., where she is employed by a bank, and her husband works for a refrigeration firm. They are the parents of three children, two sons—Robbie and Matthew, and a daughter, Brandi.
Sgt. Vernon "Bud" DeSautel, 1941. Vernon was a member of the American Legion, the Veterans of Foreign Wars, D. A. V., Eagles, and St. John's Catholic
Church.
ERNEST EBERT FAMILY Nineteen fourty-two was an eventful year for the Jan Ebert family, longtime residents of the southwest corner of Section 23 in Farmington Township. Since they had moved here in the spring of 1913, Jan and Augustine Ebert had watched thenfamily mature, marry, and all but one move away. At 75 and 70 years, it was time to retire from active farming. Like most others of their generation, they had been over a long road which had very few financially smooth places; for the firs* time in their fifty years of farming, the land they tilled was free of debt. They enjoyed the comforts and conveniences of electricity on the farm for three years before moving to Grafton in 1942. Perhaps it was fitting that their Golden Wedding anniversary coincided with the other milestones of their lifetimes mentioned above. My parents deeply appreciated the good will of the many who attended the celebration held for them. Augustine Ebert was laid to rest in 1946 and Jan Ebert in
Three girls of Vernon and Judy DeSautel, Caryn Marlene, Connie Marie, and Carol Mae.
1955. 273
Jan and Augustine Ebert on their 50th wedding anniversary. Georgia Bartelson and Ernest Ebert, son of the couple, were married June 1, 1935, in Bismarck. She is the daughter of Leonard and Ida Bartelson, rural St. Thomas. After graduating from St. Thomas High School, she attended Mayville Teachers College and taught in a rural school for three years. Her pay was $75 per month the first year but was only $50 per month the last year. The school was closed because of the Depression. Later, she was employed in Grafton, Cavalier, and at the capitol in Bismarck. After graduating from Grafton High School in 1928, Ernest worked in a grocery-meat market for two years — an experience he regards as valuable. Because of the state of his health, he went back to the farm, and farming became his lifework. He loved farming but found it was not always an "enriching" experience. A period of "apprenticeship" on the farm lasted from 1931 to 1943 when Georgia and he launched a farming career which was destined to be limited in scope. They both had been through the inconveniences of pre-electricity farm living when sundown meant keresene lamps in the house and keresene lanterns outside. From that they progressed to gasoline lamps and lanterns with their fragile mantles! Electric lights were a great improvement but the big difference electric energy brought was in refrigeration, power and heat. For many years their only refrigeration had been a relatively cool cellar. Half-warm milk with a grassy taste was something that one resorted to rather than sought. Ice cream had to be consumed immediately upon arrival from town. Fresh meat could be kept for about a day. For a few years they had an ice well which kept food moderately well. Home-canned meats, fruits, vegetables and smoked meats were part of the daily fare. A quiet running electric motor replaced the noisy gasoline engine on the washing machine. Now folks live in times of rapid progress. It was not always so. Their farmstead was three-quarters of a mile off the highway but that stretch of road was not gravelled until 1955. For 42 years, road travel was often dictated by the vagaries of the weather. Public snow removal came several years later. Livestock had always been a part of farming. Scarcity of help and the increased value of cash crops caused the Eberts to discontinue all livestock in 1948. They had spent many years of seven-days-a-week, every-week-of-the-year caring for livestock, and found it a welcome change to come home Sunday night and not have to walk to the far end of the pasture to fetch the cows. The present Ellen O'Connor was the first of the Eberts' six
Georgia and Ernest Ebert have observed their 45th wedding anniversary. girls. Ellen, her husband, Jerry, son, Mark, and daughters, Maria and Meghan, live in Grand Forks. Alice and Jim Fagan and their daughters, Beth, Margie and Teresa, live in Bartlesville, Okl. Marjorie and Richard Janousek, their son, Mike, and daughter, Connie, live in Grand Forks. Joyce and Ron Gerhardt, son, Tommy, and daughter, Sara, live in Bismarck. Barbara and Greg Arbach and sons, Jon and lan, live in Aberdeen. Diane is a teacher in Minneapolis. A most catastrophic experience occurred July 3, 1947, when a devastating tornado took the lives of seven people and completely demolished a farmstead just a quarter-mile north of the Ebert place. Their loss was only financial but it was a terrifying experience. They had the first of many floods in the spring of 1942 but the most damaging one occurred in 1950. Early in the morning of Apr. 19, Ellen and Ernest, using a tractor as a vehicle, drove westward to see the oncoming water. What they saw was a solid body of water, dotted here and there, with groves of trees. It was an awesome sight! Georgia had prepared them well with an ample stock of food and other supplies. They had filled every available vessel with fresh water; they expected their cistern water would be contaminated with flood water. The car was parked near the highway—they hoped they'd be able to get to it with the tractor. They had not prepared for nothing. About mid-forenoon the massive sheet of water passed through the Ebert yard, quickly filled the potato pit, cistern and cesspool. There is usually some humor in most situations. While they were having their noon meal, they could hear the clink of canning sealers as the rising water in the cellar floated away another shelf of empty sealers. They had a good laugh with each round of 'clinks'. In January, 1961, Georgia's father, Leonard Bartelson, passed away. In September, 1972, Grandma Ida, after a period of failing health, also passed on. Thus ended many years of a very close and loving relationship. It was always a happy event to visit " P a " and " G r a m " or to see them coming down the road. Theirs had been the best possible association. Georgia and Ernest spent one year on the farm after retiring in 1974. They had three daughters in Grand Forks so they moved there. It was not easy to leave the old farmhhouse that had
sheltered Ernest for 63 years and Georgia, for 41 years. As a hobby, Emest did some writing—a history of farming during the past 50 years. Later, a weekly column for about two and a half years. They became associated with the local Senior Center about two years ago and have become very much involved. They keep in touch with old friends and relatives in the Grafton, St. Thomas, and Auburn area. This year (1980) their daughters, sons-in-law and grandchildren held a 45th wedding anniversary party for them at the Senior Center in Grand Forks. About two hundred friends and relatives came; it was a beautiful party which they will always remember.
LUCY VIOLA (LYKKEN) FLAAT Lucy Viola Lykken was born to Lars H. and Sophia (Thoreson) Lykken Apr. 8, 1896, at their home in Farmington Township, Walsh County. She attended School Dist. 110, and later entered nurses' training at Deaconess Hospital in Grand Forks, N.Dak. . Lucy was united in marriage to Ole A. Flaat of Bygland Township, Fisher, Minn. They obtained the family farm. The operation, however, was greatly expanded to the extent that real estate holdings and resulting operations were recognized by the U. S. Agricultural Department from whom commendable citations were received. Upon their retirement they moved to Grand Forks, N.Dak.
two sons and a daughter. Odney and his wife, Joan, and family live in Grand Forks. Lowell and his wife, Georgia, and family live on the family farm in Bygland Township, Minn. Their daughter, Elaine, who is married to Rodney Rasmus, lives in Portland, Ore. FREDGOLDSTONE, JR. The family of Fred and Leah Goldstone consisted of one son, Fred, Jr., familiarly known as Tim, to distinguish him from his father, and three girls, Enid and twins, June and Joy. They attended country schools, Fred starting at the Klava School, and when the family moved in 1928, to the Gorder School, where they all completed the eighth grade. Fred then attended the W. C. A. S. at Park River, graduating in 1934. His sisters were graduated from Grafton High School. Enid took a business course, and worked in San Francisco during World War II. She married a career navy man, Robert Pittman, and is presently living in Honolulu, Hi., where her husband retired with the rank of commander. After his retirement, they both attended college, Enid getting her degree from the University of Hawaii. They have two children, Roberta and Randi. The twins attended Mayville State Teachers College, receiving teaching certificates, and taught locally before moving to California during World War II. Joy acquired several degrees from the University of California at Berkeley, and taught in the Bay Area, winning a coveted award as most popular teacher of the area, and a trip to Japan. She is now married to Edward Dennin, resides in San Anselmo, and she and her husband are computer programmers. June married Carl Stewart, a Navy man who became a highway engineer after the war for the State of California. They had two children, Todd and Kent. Later they separated, and she completed her studies at the University of Sacramento, where she now resides. She resumed teaching adult courses, and is presently married to Edward Cassinelli. Financial circumstances did not permit any further study for Fred, Jr., so he started farming with his father after high school. In 1943 he enlisted as an Aviation Cadet, earning his wings and commission as Second Lieutenant in the Army Air Force at Big Springs, Tex. He married Betty Sellheim and after further training in the U. S., was assigned overseas as Radar Bombardier with the 305th Bomb Gp., Eighth Air Force. Based at Chelveston, England, he completed 22 missions ranging over Germany to Berlin, and nearly to the Russian border. After VE day ended the war in Europe, he was assigned to Santa Ana, Calif., to train for
Ole A. and Lucy (Lykken) Flaat family: seated, Lucy (Lykken) Flaat and Ole A. Flaat; standing, Odney, Elaine (Mrs. Rodney Rasmus), and Lowell. Lucy, in addition to raising a family, found time to develop her hidden talent, specifically, painting. She has done a number of paintings, which includes farm yard scenes of her favorite, saddle horses of which they had many. She is also a great lover of flowers and house plants, of which she has many. Her rock garden includes the rock collection her husband, Ole, gathered from all over the world. Ole died Feb. 9, 1978. Lucy continues to reside in Grand Forks. The Flaats have
Fred (Tim) Goldstone and Marillyn (Kelly) Goldstone
reassignment in the Pacific. The atomic bomb ended that, and he was released from active duty, but remained in the Air Force Reserves for a number of years, retiring with the rank of captain. During service in England he earned the DFC and Air Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters. As a civilian, he bought his grandmother's farm, and in the 50's, worked in Florida in the winter, where he managed a potato packing company for a New York firm. Later he formed a partnership with Hod Hutson and bought the Park River Aerial Spray Service, which he managed for two years before selling out to help set up the machinery line at Associated Potato Growers of Grafton. When that became operational, he was plant superintendent, and after two years, manager of the Grafton Division. On the death of his father he resigned to manage the family farm. Before his stay with Associated he was married briefly to Jan Kirtely of England, after his first marriage ended. She found the North Dakota weather too severe for her liking, however, and moved to Denver, and by mutual agreement, this marriage too, was terminated. On Sept. 12, 1970, he was married to Marillyn Connell of Blackduck, Minn., and they made their home in the house he inherited from Fred, Sr. From here they manage Corner Court, in Grafton, which they own. They have a hangar and air strip on the farm, and both are active pilots. Marillyn, known as "Kelly", earned her license in 1978 at the University of N.Dak.
Both Fred and Kelly are active in the Experimental Aircraft Ass'n, attending national conventions, as well as local chapters in Grand Forks and Winnipeg. Every fall they have a fly-in at the farm where up to 200 people and 25 planes attend. Other hobbies are square dancing, shooting, and photography. Fred has also kept active in his Bomb Group Association and he and Kelly attended a group reunion in England in September, 1980, where they toured the country. He is presently involved in restoring an old aircraft, and building a home built to join their fleet of three, as well as helping restore a hangar at Grafton Airport, and has little time to farm, so the farm was rented out. Fred has three children by his first marriage—Merrie Kay of Minneapolis, Michael of Honolulu, and Mark, Fargo. Kelly has one daughter, Kim, married and is a dietician in Blackduck, Minn. Fred also finds time to serve on the Oakwood Township Board, on his second term as a supervisor.
ANNA (DESAUTEL) AND JEROME GRZADZIELSKI Anna Marie (DeSautel) Grzadzieleski was born May 4, 1928, to Thomas Joseph and Matilda (Donnelly) DeSautel at the homestead farm of her great-grandfather, Francis Xavier DeSautel, in Farmington Township. Anna is a twin to Donna Mae (DeSautel) Hein. Anna attended the Grafton school, and was employed at both the Deaconess and St. Joseph Hospitals in Grafton. Anna married Jerome Grzadzieleski at St. John's Catholic Church in Grafton, on Nov. 8, 1958. After their marriage they lived in Drayton, N. Dak., where Jerome was engaged in farming.
Kelly Goldstone standing beside the Piper Cherokee 140 plane which she and her husband, Fred (Tim) Goldstone own and pilot. The hangar is on their farm where they have a landing strip which is called Kelly Field.
Fred Goldstone standing beside the Piper Cherokee 140 plane which he and his wife, Kelly, own and pilot. The hangar is on their farm where they have a landing strip which they call Kelly Field.
The Grzadzielski family: front row, Eugene, Shirley, and Dianna; back row, Jerome and Anna.
They later moved to Phoenix, Ariz., for health reasons. They have one son, Eugene, born Aug. 13, 1959, and two daughters, Dianna, born Dec. 22, 1960, and Shirley, born Sept. 3, 1962. They all reside in Phoenix.
OTTO HAUG Otto Haug was born at Newfolden, Minn., to parents Ole T. Haug and Julia Swenson Haug. When he was three, his parents, along with two sisters and five brothers, moved to Dundee Township. In 1929 he married Lorna G. Johnson, the daughter of Joseph and Alma Johnson. They have two children. William Otto Haug graduated from N. D. S. U., Fargo, N. Dak., in 1965. He received his Master's Degree in 1967 in agriculture engineering. He married Joanne Gail Barr Dec. 4, 1965, at Ortonville, Minn. William (Bill) entered the Army in 1968, and left for Vietnam as a second lieutenant in 1970. His wife, Joanne, attended college at Concordia College, and N. D. S. U. in Fargo, where she majored in home economics. The family lives in Grafton. He farms in Farmington Township near Auburn. Willard and Marie Hove's wedding picture. of four. His three sisters are Helen (Mrs. Truman Moe), Portland, Ore.; Laverne (Mrs. Allan Tharalson), Hoople, N. Dak.; and Marion (Mrs. Arleigh Birk), Aurora, Minn. As a young man he farmed with his father until his induction into the Army Air Force in April, 1942. He was stationed at Lubbuck, Texas, where he was crew chief on B25 aeroplanes. He was discharged at Scott Field, 111., on Dec. 4, 1945. He returned home and continued to farm with his father.
Otto Haug family: left to right, standing, Otto and Lorna Haug; middle row, Larry Schwartz, Sharon (Haug) Schwartz, Joanne (Barr) Haug, William Haug; front row, the grandchildren, Daniel and Laura Anna Schwartz, William, Jr., and Jonathan Haug. Sharon Haug and Larry Schwartz were married in the Faith Lutheran Church, Bismarck, N. Dak., in 1975. Sharon graduated from the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, where she received her B. S. Degree in nursing. Larry Schwartz graduated from N. D. S. U. at Fargo with a degree in civil engineering. They now reside in Salina, Kan.
The family of Ole and Edith Hove: left to right, Marion Birk, Laverne Tharalson, Helen Moe, and Willard Hove. On Feb. 23, 1960, he married Marie Matejcek Kubesh, the daughterof John and Josephine Matejcek of Lankin, N. Dak.
Otto has been very active in the community. He served on the Farmington Township board for several years, the Auburn Elevator board, was a trustee of the Lanstad Lutheran Church (now part of Heritage Village), and is still serving on the Lanstad Lutheran Cemetery near Auburn. They spend their winter months in Mesa, Ariz.
Marie Matejcek Kubesh was married to Lewis C. Kubesh, son of Joseph and Antonia Kubesh, on Nov. 24, 1941. He died Jan. 20, 1955, and is buried in St. Luke's Cemetery in Veseleyville.
WILLARD 0 . HOVE
Willard's father, Ole J. Hove, died Feb. 4, 1958, and his mother, Edith, died Mar. 30, 1971. They are both buried in the Grafton Lutheran Cemetery.
Willard Orville Hove was born June 10, 1917, to parents Ole J. Hove and Edith Larson Hove. He is the oldest of a family
Willard and Marie are still living on the Hove farm that was homesteaded by his grandfather, Andrew J. Hove, in 1881. They have no children.
Richard was born July 3 1 , 1 9 2 5 , to Mr. and Mrs. John Hein of Minneapolis, Minn. Donna and Dick were married Oct. 11, 1947. Shortly after their marriage they moved to Grand Forks where they both worked, Dick for a lumber company and Donna, in a five-and-ten store After a couple of years in Grand Forks, they moved to Minneaplois then to Brainerd, Minn., where Dick managed a Variety Store. Dick was transferred to a Scott Store in Fergus Falls, Minn., where they lived for a few years before being transferred to a store in Bismarck, N. Dak. With the family all in school Donna went to work for the J. C. Penny Co., until 1970 when Dick received an appointment to the U. S. Government in Washington, D. C. They made their home in Alexandria, Va. Richard was a World War II veteran of the South Pacific and just recently received his discharge from the Army as a lieutenant colonel a couple years ago. He had the honors of pinning the OleJ. Hove, Farmington Township, taken in 1910.
Threshing on the Andrew J. Hove farm in Farmington Township, 1897. Grandfather of Willard O. Hove.
DONNA MAE (DESAUTEL) AND R. A. HEIN Donna Mae DeSautel was born May 4, 1928, to Thomas Joseph and Matilda (Donnelly) DeSautel at the homestead of her great-grandfather, Francis Xavier DeSautel. She is a twin sister of Anna Marie DeSautel Grzadzieleski. She was born in Farmington Township, Walsh County, and moved to Grafton in 1930 with her family. When Donna and her twin, Anna, were small children in the crib their mother couldn't figure out why Anna seemed so much smaller and cried much more, until one night the mystery was solved; after Donna would finish drinking her bottle she would take Anna's away from her and drink it. They were soon separated. Donna attended the Chase School and Central School. She worked at the Grafton Drug Store where she met Richard Alois Hein, who was assistant manager of the Ben Franklin Store.
The R. A. Hein family: left to right, Lt. J. G. Eugene, Kim Pretts, Richard A., Donna, Roger, Florence Ann, Thomas J., and wife, Janet. bars on his son, Eugene, when he was commissioned a Lt. J9 in the U. S. Navy at Ames, Iowa, College. Donna is very active in league bowling and crocheting. She also does good deeds such as driving an elderly army officer's wife to a doctor a couple days a week for treatments. Dick likes to make cakes—especially bundt. He keeps his office help happy with his specialty. Richard and Donna Hein are the parents of three sons and one daughter. Their oldest son, Thomas John, was born Nov. 14, 1948. He was married Feb. 14, 1970, to Janet Lettau who was born Nov. 3, 1950, at Sioux City, la. He works as a salesman for the Goodyear Company. They have one son, Aaron, who was born in 1976. Florence Ann (Hein) Pretts was born Oct. 29, 1949, and married on June 14, 1969, to Robert John Pretts in Fergus Falls, Minn. He was born Sept. 9, 1949. They have one daughter, Kimberley Ann, born June 7, 1971. Florence Ann works for Electrical Engineering Co., in Washington, D. C. Lt. Eugene Vincent Hein, U. S. Navy, was born Nov. 10, 1951, is a graduate of the College at Ames, Iowa, and is now chief engineer of the United States Ship Duncan FFG10 which was commissioned on May 24, 1980, at the Todd Shipyards in Seattle, Washington, Division. His parents flew out for the event. The ship is now in the South Pacific. Roger Alan Hein was born Aug. 13, 1959, and is a senior at North Dakota State University, Fargo, where he is studying architectural engineering. He is a member of the R. O. T. C and will receive his commission in spring, 1981.
SIG AND JOSEPHINE JAGIELSKI Left to right: Lt. Col. Richard A. Hein, Donna M. Hein, and their son, Lt. (J. G.) Eugene V. Hein.
Sig Jagielski came along and swept Josephine off her feet. After a short courtship, they were married July 3, 1968. Sig told
Josephine it was either him or her jobs, so she let both jobs go and is now enjoying their farm and museum, which is located seven and a half miles north of Grafton. Maintaining the home, park and museum keeps them busy. Josephine also enjoys crocheting afghans and making afghans and making quilts for all her grandchildren and friends. She also loves to bake and entertain the many guests they have. An average of 1200 people come and view the museum each year.
The John Rudnik family, taken in 1927.
Sig and Josephine Jagielski wedding picture.
Ray Feltman, a son of Mrs. Jagielski, is water superintendent at Minto and his wife, Jennette, is a teacher in the Minto school system. They have two children, Tommy and Becky, at home. Louise Feltman Schanilec is a housewife. Her husband, Jim, is secretary of the Walsh County Mutual Ins. Co., and owns Jim's Insurance Co. They have four children—Tim, attending Mayville College, and Therese, Sheila, and Mari, at home.
John and Pelegia Rudnik wedding picture. Ed Kiedrowski was bestman and Josephine Rudnik was John's sister.
C. ALBERT AND LILY JOHNSON Carl Albert Johnson was the eldest son of pioneers, Anton and Betty (Gustafson) Johnson. He was born Jan. 16, 1891, in their home in Glenwood Township that was built of logs and prairie sod. Lily Grace Benedictson was born in Blonduos, Iceland, on Dec. 7, 1896. She came to America with her parents, Gudmundur and Ingunn (Jonsdottir) Benedictson when she was three. Another daughter, Sigurfinna, had left Iceland the year before at the age of fifteen to come alone to the new land. The family lived briefly at Hallson in Pembina County and later moved to Grafton where Lily entered the first grade. The immigrant girl was sent home her first day of school because she was unable to speak or understand English, but her scholarship developed rapidly and she was valedictorian of her Grafton High School graduating class. Lily's father died in 1909 and her mother worked at housework for others to support herself and her daughter. After graduation, Lily obtained a teaching certificate and taught elementary schools in Walsh and Grand Forks Counties. One of them was Glenwood District 13, where Albert Johnson was the clerk.
C. Albert Johnson family: left to right, Carol Johnson, Finley Johnson, Rita Bush and Linda Fiocchi.
On June 23, 1925, Albert and Lily were married by a pastor of the Icelandic Lutheran Church in Winnipeg, Manitoba, where Lily's sister then lived.
reporter. Most of her adult life, however, has been spent in Washington, D. C , where she has worked for members of the U. S. Congress, including North Dakota Senator Milton Young, former Congressman Don Short, and Minnesota Congressmen, Odin Langen, John Zwach, and Albert Quie. She is currently a legislative aide to Congressman Arlen Erdahl. She is secretary of the council and congregation of Augustana Lutheran Church, and editor of the church's monthly newsletter. Finley and Phyllis (Gorder) Johnson live at the Nash farmstead, and also farm additional acreage in partnership with their sons. Livestock on the farm now consists of pets and visiting wildlife, but crops not raised in Albert's day include sugar beets, sunflowers and pinto beans. Finley and Phyllis are Past Grand Patron and Matron of Mizpah Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star. Finley and his family have retained membership in the parish of his pioneer grandparents as members of Zion Lutheran Church, rural Hoople. When their son, Timothy, was elected to the church board, he became the fourth generation to serve on a board within the tri-congregation parish. The Finley Johnsons are the grandparents of Matthew Allan and Jeremy Lee Johnson, children of Timothy Allan and his wife, Bunnie (Anderson). Jeremy celebrated the Icelandic and Norse part of his heritage by being bom on Leif Ericsson Day (October 9) in 1978, which was also his mother's birthday.
Wedding picture of Albert C. Johnson and Lily Bendictson, taken on June 23, 1925. Like his homesteading father, Albert was a farmer, and the couple farmed in Grafton Township until 1936 when they moved to Farmington Township, just west of the village of Nash. Like other farmers of the American Midwest during and following the Depression Era, Albert functioned in many capacities, as a butcher, electrician, telephone lineman, grain dealer and "paraveterinarian". He earned a certificate from Aaker's Business College in Grand Forks which he attended in lieu of high school. He served for many years as township assessor, and on local school and agricultural boards. Farming was diversified for the farmers of the thirties through the fifties, and along with crops like wheat, durum, barley, flax, and potatoes, there were usually cattle, horses, hogs and chickens on the Johnson farm. Among other fauna in residence on occasion were honeybees, turkeys, geese and rabbits. Albert and Lily were members of the church where his parents were pioneers, North Trinity Lutheran of rural Hoople. When that congregation disbanded in 1953, they became members of Our Saviour's Lutheran in Grafton. All of the children born to C. Albert and Lily were born in Grafton: Carol Joy on June 11,1926; Allen Bennett on Sept. 3, 1927; Anton Finley on July 14, 1929; Linda Gail on April. 9, 1936; and Rita Pearl on June 18, 1939. On Sept. 3, 1930, tragedy struck the family when Allen died from a ruptured appendix on his third birthday. Carol Johnson's first regular job was as secretary in the office of Walsh County's State's Attorney. She later worked in the Clerk of District Court's office, and was Clerk of County Court for Judge Melvin Torkelson. She often substituted as a court
Another son of Finley and Phyllis, Steven Albert, attended the Area Vocational Institute, East Grand Forks, Minn. He recently married Laurie Lessard of Grafton. A third son, Paul Henry, is a sophomore at Mayville State College majoring in social studies and english. Other interests center on music and drama. Linda Johnson Fiocchi graduated from Central Technical Institute in Kansas City, Mo., and was employed in Miami before moving to New Jersey where she was married. She was a claims examiner at Prudential Insurance Company there. She currently resides in Argusville, N. Dak., and is employed at the Cass County Auditor's office, Fargo. Linda's stepson, James Fiocchi, Jr., is employed in San Francisco. Her son, Michael, joined the U. S. Navy following his high school graduation in May, 1980. Daughter, Lynn Ellen, is a freshman busy with the activities at Cass Valley North High School, Argusville. Rita Johnson Bush graduated from St. Luke's School of Nursing in Fargo, where she was president of the student body her senior year. She has also worked at George Washington University Hospital in Washington, D. C , Hillsboro Hospital, and is presently treatment nurse at the Moorhead Health Care Center in Moorhead, Minn. She does volunteer work in public health as well. Rita and her husband, Marvin, live on a farm near Argusville, where they raise soybeans and other grains. They have three children, all of whom are active in the athletic and scholastic affairs at Cass Valley North School. They are Bennett Guy, a senior; Rachel Beth, a freshman; and seventh grader, David Carl. Lily Johnson died at Grafton on Jan. 25, 1957,.and Albert died on June 27, 1959.
JAMES AND MARION JOHNS! ON James Johnston, who farms four miles west of Auburn and a little over two miles north of Nash, bears the same name as his paternal grandfather. The grandfather came from County Tyrone, Northern Ireland. He married Annie Noble who came from Dungannon County in Ireland. They had four children: Milton,
Gertie, Myrtle, and Bessie. Milton married Hazel Digness, the daughter of Eddie Digness and his wife, Hilda Lundby. The antecedents of the Digness family are in Solar, Norway. Milton and Hazel had three children—James, Natalie and Mary Ellen. Milton Johnston, after his return from World War I in Europe, purchased the Hogfoss land and farmed it until his retirement, after which his son, James, has lived on the farm and worked the land. James attended the Bell School in District No. 5 which was a half mile east of his home. He graduated from the Grafton High School. He then attended the University of Minnesota. His college career was interrupted by thirteen months of service in the United States Army of Occupation in Japan as a paratrooper, after which he returned to the university to finish his college education. He met and married Marion Crawmer while both were attending the University of Minnesota.
Milton and Hazel Johnston with their children and grandchildren. The group on the left is their daughter, Mary Ellen, and her husband, Donald Heising. Donald is holding Karen, Mary Ellen is holding Linda, Mark and Sue are to her right. The center group is James E. Johnston and his wife, Marion Crawmer, with their sons, James, Jr., Scott and Richard. The group on the right is Natalie LeQuire, daughter of Milton and Hazel Johnston, and her sons, James, Robert and William. Hazel and Milton are seated in the foreground. Marion Crawmer was born in Chicago, the daughter of Haskell Walter Crawmer and his wife, Ruth Marie Wentzel. The Crawmer family originally came from Germany and England to Maryland. Haskell Crawmer was born in Kansas but later moved to Ohio. He graduated from high school in Cambridge, Ohio. He attended college in Chicago where he met Ruth Marie Wentzel who became his wife. Concerning the Wentzel family, it is recorded that Pser Frederich Wentzel was a famous violinist in Sweden. Marion's maternal grandmother, Amanda Sven, was born in Sweden. Marion Crawmer attended high school in Dayton, Ohio, and later went to Finn College in Cleveland, and Wittenberg University in Springfield, Ohio. She took postgraduate courses at the University of Minnesota where she met and married James Johnston. After her marriage, she did secretarial work until James graduated from the University of Minnesota with a degree in Agricultural Engineering. James, or Jim as he is more generally known, began farming with his father in 1951. In 1955 they built a small wash plant in Nash in addition to the potato warehouse already in existence. In 1960 it was expanded to do commercial washing and packaging for ten other farmers. Potato storage for conditioning potatoes for the produce market was added in 1970. Wheat, barley, sugar beets and, more recently, sunflowers are the other crops grown on the Johnston farm.
James and Marion have three sons, James Edward (1951); Scott Thomas (1954), and Richard Mark (1957). James attended the Bell School for one year. At that time the Bell School in District No. 5 was absorbed into the Nash school district. James, Scott, and Rick each went to school in Nash through the fifth grade after which they attended school in Grafton. At this time the boys were active in 4-H work. With three boys in 4-H, Marion, their mother, became involved in the program, helping them to prepare livestock for exhibition at the county fairs and to keep records. The boys attended and graduated from the Grafton High School. Meanwhile, Marion was engaged in Junior and Senior Youth work in the Federated Church and helped set up a program for high school students. She has also served as a Cub Scout leader. James, Scott and Richard are graduates from the North Dakota State University, Fargo, James, Jr., married Linda Hutson, daughter of Ernest (Hod) Hutson and Del Hutson of Grafton, June 23, 1972. They have three boys: Jason Elliot (1975); Keven Shawn (1977), and Brian James (1979). Scott married Vicki Larson, daughter of Gale and Alice Larson of Erskine, Minn., May 1, 1976. They have a son, Shane Thomas (1979). Richard married Helena Ekren, daughter of Ron and Mary Ekren of Breckenridge, Minn., Dec. 9, 1978. They have a daughter, Megan Susan (1980). James, Jr., and Richard are engaged in farming with their father. Scott is an attorney in the firm of Thornton, Hauge, Reif and Johnston, Alexandria, Minn. James Johnston, Sr., has served on the National Potato Promotion Board's Administrative Committee, as member in 1976, as vice-president in 1978-79, as president in 1979-80. He is on the board of directors for Western States Life Insurance Company, the North Dakota state and county Farm Bureau. He is a past director of the Red River Valley Beet Growers Association where he is presently a member of the Traffic Committee. He has been a member of the Grafton Hospital Board. Federated Church Board, and the local Farmer's Elevator Board in Nash, and a township chairman. He is a Shrine member and past Worshipful Master of the Masonic Lodge. He is a member of Delta Tau Delta Fraternity. James gives credit to his two sons, James, Jr., and Richard who keep the farm operations going while their father is involved in community activities. James and Marion were leaders in the Youth Group of the Federated Church for several years. Marion has served on the Board of Directors of the Grafton Leisure Center as chairman of the board. She started a library in the Federated Church in addition to serving as president of the Ladies Aid and being a member of the United Methodist Missionary Society, Eastern District Nominating Committee. She is a member of the Alpha Xi Delta Social Fraternity; she is president of the P. E. 0 . Sisterhood, Chapter X, Grafton, and State Chairman, P. E. O. State Convention. She has been president of the Riverside Woman's Club, and a Star Point in the Eastern Star. Marion was a member of the Governor's Criminal Justice Commission and a member of Governor's Committee on Education. In the Farm Bureau she has been County Woman's Chairman and District Woman's Chairman and State Woman's Chairman. She has been president of the Red River Potato Auxiliary wherein she set up fair booths and promoted the nutrition information concerning potatoes and potato products. She has served as president of the Mother's Club of the Nash School. PATRICK KENNELLY FAMILY In the years of 1845 and 1846, Ireland was stricken with a famine as a result of blight in the potato crop, the mainstay of agrarian population. This famine, coming in the midst of social and political unrest due to resentment of, and resistance to.
England rule and influence, coupled with the problems of absentee landlordism, caused a vast migration of Irish people to Canada and the United States. It was at this time that the forebears of the Kennelly family left "the auld sod" to take up residence in Ontario, Canada. Ellen McMahon and Philip McGrath had a daughter, Ellen McGrath, who married Martin Kennelly in 1853. Martin Kennelly was the son of Daniel Kennelly and Mary Dawford. They settled in Admaston, Ontario, where they had a son, Patrick, born on the fifth of November in 1860. On the distaff side, Donald and Ann McDonald from Ireland had a daughter, Marjory McDonald, born in 1852. Robert Cole and Anne Doxey from Ireland had a son, Hercules Anthony Cole, born in Ontario. Hercules Anthony Cole and Marjory (Mathe) McDonald were married in 1869 and they had a daughter, Jane Ann Cole, born on Sept. 1 1 , 1869 in Cambermice. Two years later, Marjory McDonald Cole burned to death, in 1871. Jane Ann Cole married Patrick Kennelly on June 13, 1894, in Bathgate, N. Dak. They lived east of St. Thomas in Pembina on what was known as the "Riser Place". Three of their ten children were born there, Stanley, Jack, and James. It was at this time that they purchased the Jake Larson farm and moved there, making it their permanent residence. Here seven children were born: Mary, Thomas, Francis, Patricia, Agnes, Bernie, and Leo. Stanley married Mary Campbell of Voss, N. Dak. Mary and her sister, Delphine, were the daughters of Thomas Campbell (1854-1929), born in Arthur, Ontario. Their grandparents were Peter Campbell and Mary Madden, born in North Ireland. On the maternal side, they were the daughters of Mary Noctor (18621932) who was born at Lindsay, Ontario. Their maternal grandparents were Matthew Noctor and Helen Penrose, both born in Dublin, and both died in Mt. Forest, Ont., Canada. Delphine married John Benson, they had four children, two of whom died. Mary Campbell married Stanley Kennelly. She was teaching school in Auburn and staying at the home of Jack Kennelly, Stanley's uncle, when she met Stanley. They were married June 8, 1925. They purchased the Watts farm in Farmington Township just south of the Pembina County line. They built a house and other farm buildings where they have lived and farmed. They had four sons and one daughter, Moureen, who died as a child in 1943. The sons were Dennis, Norbert, Stanley, Jr., and Brian. Stanley, Jr., married Donna Nelson of St. Thomas, their children are Mark, Beth and Tom. Brian married Sandy Burris from Inkster, N. Dak; their children are Sean, Coleen, Kevin and Brandan. Stanley's brother, Bernie continued to work the Patrick Kennelly farm after his parents retired and moved to Pasadena, Calif. He established a potato washing plant in St. Thomas. He married Jean Bartelson, granddaughter of a Pembina County pioneer, Andrew Davis. Their children are Michael, who married Phyllis Hartje. They have three daughters: Angela, Ivy, and Courtney. Bobi who married Tim Gunderson and they have two children, Cole and an infant daughter. Mary Lee who married Robert Anderson and they have three children: Rolney, Tammy, and Paula. Rebecca who married Irving Heazlett and they had two children, Tracy and Michael who died at birth. Irving Heazlett lost his life in an airplane accident at Minto, N. Dak. James, son of Patrick and Jane Ann Kennelly, married Oral Warner of Pembina, they had three girls and two boys. Leo, another son, married Virginia Fergusion. They had six children. Of the three daughters of Patrick and Jane Ann Kennelly, Agnes married Vern Legacy. They have five children.
James, Leo and Agnes live in Pasadena, Calif. Patricia Kennelly married Henry Fisher of Auburn, the son of Herman and Wilhelmina Fisher, pioneer settlers who came from Pomerania, Germany. Henry and Patricia had three children—Patrick, who married Patricia O'Connor of St. Thomas. They have three daughters, Kate, Karen, and Heidi; Jean Ann, who married Dan Lizakowski, they have one daughter, Dana; and later Jean Ann married Charles III; the third girl, Margaret Fisher, married George Frankburg. Two sons of Patrick Kennelly are deceased—Francis and Thomas, who was always known as T. C. He married a Canadian girl, Dorothy Davies, they had four children and lived in Comox, Vancouver Island, B. C. A daughter of James Kennelly, Janet, married Glen Watson, they have four children, Dana, Shelly, Jimmy, and Billy. They live in Cavalier, N. Dak. Mary, the eldest daughter of Patrick and Jane Ann Kennelly, joined the novitate of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet in St. Paul. She made her professional vow, taking the name of Sister Antonius, later completing her college study. She first came to the College of St. Catherine from St. Thomas for the 1918-1919 term. She returned to St. Thomas to teach for two years and then returned to St. Catherines in 1921 -1922. She joined the novitate in 1922. Following graduation in 1926 with a major in chemistry, Sister Antonius did some teaching at St. Catherines. She attended the University of Minnesota in the 1928-1929 school year. The report in the Grafton Record continues: In 1929 Sister Antonius received an International Exchange Fellowship to study in Munich, Germany. The fellowship was renewed for three additional years. She received Ph. D. in chemistry from the University of Munich in July, 1933. During her year in Europe she had also studied at the University of Bonn, the University of Berlin and the University of Graz in Austria. Returning to St. Paul, Sister Antonius rejoined the faculty of the college of St. Catherine in the fall of 1933. She was named chairman of the chemistry department for the first time in 1936. She served a second term as chairman from 1964 to 1969. Named president of the college in 1943, Sister Antonius served as president and superior of the Sisters at the college until 1949. She used the opportunity of a sabbatical leave in 1949-50 to study medical technology at St. Joseph's Hospital in Kansas City, Mo. She received certification as a registered medical technologist in the fall of 1950. She was appointed administrator of St. Joseph's Hospital in St. Paul and Superior of the Sisters at the hospital from 1950 to 1964. She also named to the Provincial Council of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet of the St. Paul Province on which she served from 1951 to 1964. In 1965 she returned to St. Catherine's and has taught in the chemistry department there since then. Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Kennelly retired from farming and moved to Pasadena, Calif., in 1934 where Mr. Kennelly died two years later, in 1936. His wife, Jane Ann, died in 1947. They are interred in the Calvary Mausoleum in Los Angeles. Mary Campbell Kennelly, wife of Stanley, died Apr. 24, 1980, three months to the day after her sister, Delphine, died.' Mary Kennelly is buried in the St. Thomas Catholic Cemetery. HARLEY AND NOELA KINGSBURG FAMILY Harley Ralph Kingsbury was born to Charles Henry and Gertrude (Johnston) Kingsbury, Mar. 9, 1913, in Farmington Township, one and one-half miles west of Auburn on the original Kingsbury homestead. When he was one year old his parents bought a farm two and one-half miles northwest of his birthplace and that was his home until moving into Grafton in June, 1968.
Worthy Matron of the Mizpah Chapter No. 6, Order of Eastern Star, and is a member of the Past Matrons Club. In addition to the children, Harley also has three sisters—Mrs. John G. Walters of Colorado Springs, Colo.; Mrs. Homer Nelson, Grafton; and Mrs. Harold Rustebakke, Corvallis, Ore. Noela has two brothers, Clifford Glenn of Neche, N. Dak., and Wayne Glenn, Kent, Wash. A third brother, Edgar Glenn, died in 1961.
The farm is now occupied by his son, Bill, and family. Harley Kingsbury attended Bell Rural School and Grafton High School. Following graduation from high school he started farming and has continued to do so although now semi-retired. On Oct. 25, 1936, he married Noela R. Glenn at Neche, N. Dak. They are the parents of five children. They are Charles William (Bill), married to Joyce Rustebakke of Niagara, parents of Barry, Melinda and Joanna, residing on the former family farm; Patricia Ann, married to Duane Ganyo of Grafton, parents of Tracy, David, Barbara and Michael (adopted from Korea), now living in Wenatchee, Wash.; Ralph Douglas, married to Cheryl Wilebski of Greenbush, Minn., parents of two little girls, Kelly and Kristen, engaged in farming with the Kingsbury family: Linda Rae, married to Donald E. Carlson of Grafton, parents of three little Korean girls, Sonja and twins Daena and Julie. They live on the old Kingsbury homestead, one and one-half miles west of Auburn, and Don is a salesman for Lockwood, Inc.; Joyce Colleen is married to Leo Staskivige, formerly of Grafton, parents of one daughter, Laurie Ann, living in Grand Forks.
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RAYMOND AND ANNIE KINGSBURY Raymond Kingsbury was born Feb. 2, 1901, the son of Albert Henry Kingsbury and his wife, Wilhelmina Jaster. Henry Kingsbury was born in Hemmingford, Quebec, the son of George Kingsbury from County Down in Ireland and his wife, Anna Dunlap, County Armah, Ireland. Henry was one of eleven children. He and two brothers, Hiram and Leslie, came to Dakota. Hiram's homestead is the site of Auburn. Henry homesteaded on the banks of the Park River, east of the present site of Nash. He later sold this land to his future father-in-law, Edward Jaster, and moved to the open prairie, a mile and a half west of Auburn. In time he acquired five quarters of land, one of which was the Ledwich quarter which he purchased from Hugh Ledwich. This quarter became the property of Henry Kingsbury's youngest son, Raymond.
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The Harley Kingsbury Family: left to right, back row, Ralph Kingsbury, Joyce (Kingsbury) Staskivige, Bill Kingsbury, Patricia (Kingsbury) Ganyo; front row, Harley R. Kingsbury, Linda (Kingsbury) Carlson, and Noela Kingsbury. Harley is extremely active in public and community affairs. He is presently a member of the North Dakota Legislature, having served five terms since 1967. In addition he is a member of Crescent Lodge No. 11 and other Masonic York Rite Bodies. He is presently secretary-treasurer of the Crescent Masonic Cemetery. He is also a member of Kem Shrine. He has been a director of the First National Bank of Grafton for many years, is a director of Nodak R. E. A. of Grand Forks, was a director and past president of the Deaconess and Unity Hospitals of Grafton, treasurer of Farmington Township for many years, past president and director of Nash Grain and Trading Company of Nash, past member and president of the Rural Bell School Board and when it was consolidated with two other districts he was a member of the Nash School Board for several years.
Raymond Kingsbury, the son of Henry and Wilhelmina Kingsbury of Auburn. (1901-1957) Raymond attended school in District No. 29 in Auburn with his brothers and sisters. He married Annie Haug, the daughter of Nels and Margrethe Haug. Nels Haug was born Dec. 22, 1861, at Jevnake, Birkelind, in Norway, to Kristi and Ole Olsen. After coming to America, the family changed the name to Haug which means 'a hill'. Margrethe was also bom at Jevnake on Dec. 20, 1866, the daughter of Inger and Jens Jenson. Nels and Margrethe migrated to the United States by way of Canada, coming through Neche. They first lived in Auburn where Nels worked as a blacksmith and carpenter. Their two small children became sick on the ocean voyage and they died soon after settling in Auburn. Nels Haug purchased two quarters just over the Pembina County line and the Pringle quarter south of the line in Walsh County. The Haugs made their home on this land.
The Kingsburys have been members of the Federated Church (Methodist-Presbyterian) since shortly after their marriage in 1936. Harley has been a member and chairman of the board at different times. Noela Roxey Glenn Kingsbury was born in Neche, N. Dak., Dec. 25, 1913, the daughter of the late Roxey Cheney Glenn and William E. Glenn. She, too, has been active in many community affairs and has served as president or chairman of many of them. They include the Federated Ladies Aid, United Methodist Women, Riverside Woman's Club, and served as
Annie Haug, born in 1901, was one of ten children. She attended school in Union School No. 40, three-quarters of a mile west of her home. In her youth, she worked for the neighbors, chiefly at the Tufft farm, a mile west from where she lived. She 283
married Raymond Kingsbury in 1922. Raymond often worked the land in conjunction with his brother, McKinley Kingsbury, who farmed two quarters. Raymond rented land near Bowesmont and hauled his machinery that distance to work the land there.
1889, in Cashel, N. Dak. He was one of sixteen children. There are only four remaining now. Some died of cancer, one of diptheria, and four in infancy. In those days there weren't many cures. Also, there was no penicillin. When Anton was a young man, he moved to Canada to homestead. He went there by train. There he met Florence Beischel who had come to Canada from Wisconsin to live with her uncles because they needed a housekeeper and cook. Anton married her. My mother recalls Florence telling her of the life that they had. Anton had to go ten miles with a horse and wagon to get coal. While he was gone, she had to scare coyotes away from the door by shooting the rifle he left her for protection. There was a lake nearby the house where Anton would shoot ducks and geese for their meals. Their first home was a one-room cabin. He later built a new house, but later had to leave and come to Auburn because of three years of crop failures from hail. He farmed here until his death in May of 1934. He died during the dust and Depression years. Richard Landowski is his brother. He was born at Warsaw, N. Dak. At three months, his parents moved to Voss with wagon and horses. He remembers running at six years of age to see the first car.
Mrs, Raymond Kingsbury, the former Annie daughter of Nels and Margrethe Haug. (1900-1979)
Haug,
Raymond and Annie had eight children: Donna Mae (1923); Robert Henry (1924-1979); Alice Jean (1927- ); Raymond DeWitt (Dewey) (1930-1963); Dorothy Ann (1933); janice Rae (1937- ); Bonnie Lou (1941 - ); and Thomas Nels (1945- ). All the members of the family graduated from the Grafton High School with the exception of Thomas who graduated from high school in Anaheim, Calif. Dorothy Ann attended the St. Luke's Hospital School of Nursing, Fargo, and graduated as a registered nurse. She worked in the hospital at Wilmar, Minn., for years, then she joined her mother and sisters and brother in California. She worked in the hospital at Chula Vista as a supervisor in surgery. During World War II, Robert was in the Navy, and Dewey was in the Marine Corps. Dewey underwent surgery in the Veterans Hospital in the Twin Cities and died as a result of the surgery. He is buried in the cemetery at Fort Snelling. He had one son, Scott. Robert had a trucking business after which he was an insurance salesman. At the close of his life, he was farming. He died in February, 1979, of a heart attack caused by over-exertion from moving snow. During his days in the Navy he served in the South Pacific. Donna Mae married Leslie Burns; their children are Beverly, Donald, Michael, Barbara, Jane, Patrick, Judith, Jackie, Timothy; Robert married Marie Odegaard, their children: Miles, Roger, Robert, Deborah; Alice Jean married Dennis Folson and they had one daughter, Pamela; Raymond DeWitt married Lorraine Elshaug, and they had one son, Scott; Dorothy married John Richardson, they had two boys: Janice married John Lala, they had four girls; Bonnie Lou married Ole Granum, they had two boys; Thomas married a California girl whose name was Lois, they had two children. Raymond Kingsbury died in the fall of 1957, the same year as his sister, Eva Colter. Annie Kingsbury died June 2, 1979, a little over three months after her son, Robert, died. LANDOWSKI FAMILY HISTORY Ruth Landowski Nelson is my mother. She was born at Ceylon, Sask., Canada, on Apr. 14, 1919. In November of 1920, her parents, one brother, Howard, one sister, Mary, and she came to Auburn, N. Dak. She has lived here ever since. Anton Landowski, my mother's father, was born june 9,
Anton Landowski's homestead, 1915, at Ceylon, Saskatchewan, Canada. Left to right are Anton, Mary, and Florence Landowski. Andrew Landowski was my great grandfather. He was born in 1858 and died in 1917. He was born in Poland, though Germany ruled over this part of the country. He worked as a butcher and baker in Berlin, Germany, for a while, but left in secrecy to avoid serving in their army. His first wife died in childbirth. He met Francis Lunski when he was thirty-three years old. She was sixteen. Most girls were married at sixteen in those years. She had also come over in secrecy when she was fourteen. They had both come over by way of Canada. Andrew settled down in the Cashel area, and all of his sixteen children were born in that area. Most of the Landowski men were musically inclined. Some played the violin and some played the accordion. They all farmed or their parents farmed. Howard Landowski, my mother's brother, was master sergeant with Fifth Air Force's famous Jolly Rogers, pioneer Liberator group of the Pacific, He was a veteran of three years' service and was stationed at Okinawa on the Island of le Shima. At twenty-nine years of age, he was squadron welder and camp construction chief. He campaigned 4,000 miles from
Australia through New Guinea, the Dutch East Indies and the Philippines to his last station in the Ryukyus, 350 miles from Japan. He won five battle stars and holds a one-starred Philippine Liberation ribbon and a unit Presidential Citation with Oak Leaf Cluster awarded his organization for excellence in operations. His squadron members named him most valuable. He was singled out for his ceaseless industry, his almost incredible ingenuity in constructing buildings and facilities under adverse bush and jungle conditions, and his personal service to squadron mates. He left le Shima, the spot of coral and clay off Okinawa, where Ernie Pyle wrote his last lines and where the Jap peace negotiators switched from their two Betty bombers to an American C-54 transport in their flight to Manila, as his unit took on its final assignment. In their three years of combat, the Jolly Rogers set a world's mark of 406 for Jap planes shot down by heavy bomb groups, destroyed nearly 900 on the ground and sank more than half a million tons of shipping. I am very proud of my uncle, who served for his country in World War II.
County all their life. Richard retired from farming in 1966. He then worked as a blade operator in Farmington Township until 1978. In August, 1 9 7 1 , Richard and Violet celebrated their Golden Wedding Anniversary. Richard is a member of St. John's Catholic Church and also a member of Eagles Club.
Violet and Richard Landowski Richard and Violet had six children—five daughters and one son. There are 19 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. The names of their children and their families are as follows: Mr. and Mrs. Don (Clara) Samson, Hoople, N. Dak.; Mr. and Mrs. Steve (Ramona) Hipsak, Dickinson, N. Dak.; Mr. and Mrs. Mark (Jean) Werner, Minot, N. Dak.; Michael Samson, Grand Forks; Duane Samson, Grand Forks; Rene Samson and Rebecca Samson, at home;
John and Anton Landowski, taken in 1912. Stafford Landowski, Howard's brother, was also in World War II, stationed at le Shima. He was in the Navy. While on a ship that was bombed, he was "strapped to his gun". This was done because the ship was swaying so much. The guns weren't the types we think of today. They were big and attached to bases so they could swivel all the way around and up and down. He saw many of his commrades killed during this attack. He was present at the raising of the flag when the Americans took le Shima. Other members of the Anton Landowski family, besides Howard and Stafford, are Mary Elgas, Jefferson, Wise; Maynard and Mark, also from Jefferson; and Jerry, Fort Atkinson, Wics. They have lived there since 1935.
RICHARD LANDOWSKI FAMILY Richard Landowski, son of Andrew Landowski and Francis Lunski Landowski, was born in Warsaw, N. Dak., Apr. 1, 1900. His wife, Violet Janikowski, was the daughter of Joe Janikowski and Johanna Gerszewski Janikowski. Violet was born in Warsaw, N. Dak., June 14, 1901, and passed away Nov. 13, 1971. Richard and Violet were married at St. Edward's Catholic Church, Drayton, N. Dak., Nov. 22, 1921, and lived in Walsh
Mr. and Mrs. Frank (Harriette) Ruscheinsky, Eagle Creek, Ore.; Michele Ruscheinsky, Portland, Ore.; Mr. and Mrs. Dave (Corrinne) Haney, Eagle Creek, Ore.; and Roberta Ruscheinsky, Portland, Ore.; Mrs. Isabel Richlick and son, Jeffery Richlick, both of Portland, Ore.; Mr. and Mrs. Richard Landowski, Riverside, Calif., and Bradley Landowski, Los Angeles; Mrs. Roy (Patricia) Larson, Grand Forks, N. Dak., (Roy deceased May 3, 1978), and Gregory Larson, U. S. Navy; Mr. and Mrs. Daniel (Catherine) Armstrong, Rolette, N. Dak., Mr. and Mrs. David (Lynne) Folden, Fargo; James Armstrong, N. D. S. U., Fargo; Miles Armstrong, N. D. S. U., Bottineau, N. Dak.; Anita, Cara, and Chad, at home. ELI CLARENCE AND ALMA LYKKEN Eli Clarence Lykken was born Jan. 8, 1887, at Auburn, Farmington Township, Dakota Territory, to Lars and Sophia (Thoreson) Lykken. He was married to Alma E. Anderson, daughter of Adolf and Hannah Anderson, on Dec. 3, 1920. Eli homesteaded and farmed in Montana from 1910 through 1914 in the Galata area. Returing home, he continued to farm northwest of Grafton from 1915 through 1970, a period of 55 years. He moved to Seattle, Wash., with his wife, Alma, and son Dewitt. He lived there till his death, Sept. 1, 1980. Eli and his wife were life members of Landstad Lutheran Church. Eli served as trustee for many years. He attended School District No. 110 as a youngster and later served as treasurer for
District No. 110. Their children are Louis Lykken of Kent, Wash., who served in the Navy during World War II in the South Pacific. After returning he married Margie McPhail of St. Thomas. They are the parents of two sons and one daughter.
Eli and Alma Lykken Dak., living in Kent, Wash. Delores Lykken, married to Percy Ray of Glasston, N. Dak., living in Montlake Terrace, Wash. They are the parents of three children. Dewitt Lykken, a twin brother of Delores, who lives at home with his mother.
ill and Alma Lykken in front of their home, northwest of Grafton.
HALLE STEVEN L. LYKKEN Halle Steven Lykken was born Sept. 13, 1885, to Lars H. and Sophia Thoreson Lykken in Farmington Township, Dakota Territory, in a log house belonging to his grandparents, Hans G. and Kari (Olson) Lykken. Halle and his parents continued to live with his grandparents until 1886 when a new two-story 16' x 24' structure, built on skids in Auburn, was bought. It was drawn by horses on the snow, during the winter of 1887. A kitchen was added and the upstairs finished into bedrooms. Later Halle's father purchased the land from his wife's father, Stephen Thoreson, in 1887.
Louis Lykken, son of Eli and Alma Lykken, U. S. Navy World War II in South Pacific. Mary Jane Lykken married to Robert Hietala, and who live in Van Nuys, Calif. Betty Lykken married to Charles Oldfather, who reside in Seattle. Phyllis Lykken, married to Ernest Anderson of Walhalla, N.
Halle S. Lykken in the library of his Seattle, Wash., home. Halle attended the school in District No. 110, which was built in 1893, and continued his education at what is now known as Augsburg College. After completing the business course he was offered employment with the Great Northern Railway Engineering Department. He began work July 1, 1908, and resigned effective May 1, 1918. He then went to work for the Anaconda Mining Co., Great Falls, Mont. After the closing of the plant he returned to the railroad. During his railroad days he was
Ell and Alma Lykken Family: left to right, Betty, Louis, Eli, Alma, twins, Dewitt and Deloris, and Phyllis. Mary Jane is not in the picture. The girl with the baby is not known. 286
employed as a chairman with a survey parry, a stenographer, and eventually received appointment as chief clerk to the resident engineer of Central District which comprised the State of Montana. He resigned from that position and began as chief clerk to a contractor who was building a railroad for the Government. The superintendant of the project was M. S. Ross. He remained as office manager and accountant on extended road and railroad projects for a number of years. He was appointed as travelling auditor on construction in Oregon, Idaho and Washington State. He spent a season with a firm doing a lot of paving at Richland, Wash, (Home of the atomic bomb.) At that site, of particular interest, were numerous two-story barracks for sleeping quarters; a trailer park, three miles long, containing more than 2200 trailers; and the mess hall, as large as a football field.
and Bob Miller are now prominent farmers near Red Lake Falls, Minn., and have raised six children. They also have nine grandchildren. The Millers have been very active in community affairs in the Red Lake Falls area and have held several offices in the church, school and other organizations.
The year, 1954, he retired from the construction work after 36 years. Now he makes his home in Seattle. On Nov. 29, 1919, Hall was united in marriage to Rae Gangnon. They are the parents of two children. The son, William, was born Feb. 24, 1921, and he and his wife have four sons. William has been with the telephone company for thirty-nine years. The daughter, Jeanne, was born June 8, 1922, and is married to Nicholas Parella. They have two sons and a daughter. Jeanne is a registered nurse in a Chicago hospital. Frank and Dorothy Bailey wedding picture. OSCAR LYKKEN FAMILY HISTORY Mabel and Oscar Lykken raised their seven children on their family farm, four miles north of Grafton. The Lykkens were members of the Landstad Lutheran Church in Auburn which was founded by their grandparents and other early settlers from Norway. They received their primary education in a one-room school house known as Farmington District No. 110, and they attended high school in Grafton. In fact, for a continuous period of 25 years at least one member of the family was enrolled at the Grafton High School. Mr. Lykken, who served as Walsh County Commissioner for 18 years, died in 1960 and Mrs. Lykken later moved into Grafton after spending a total of 50 years on the family farm. The eldest of the four Lykken daughters, Dorothy is an executive secretary for the Burlington Northern Railroad and resides with her husband, Vernon Lowe, and their two sons in Richfield, Minn. Mrs. Lowe was previously married to Frank Bailey, Jr., who died in a railroad accident in 1946. Dorothy and the late Frank have one son, Dr. Frank Ronald Bailey, who is a scientist at the NASA Research Center in California. He and his wife, Kay, have given Mrs. Lowe two granddaughters.
The third daughter, Eleanore, was valedictorian of the Grafton High School graduating class of 1947. She attended Mayville College and taught in rural schools in Walsh County prior to her marriage to Harvey Littlejohn, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Littlejohn, rural St. Thomas. The couple were engaged in farming and were active in community affairs. Eleanore served as a reporter for the Walsh County Record and Cavalier Chronicle for 12 years. The Littlejohns had five daughters who include a registered nurse, a business education teacher, a legal secretary, a personnel manager for the Trane Company, and a student. After Mr. Littlejohn's death in 1976, Mrs. Littlejohn moved to Grand Forks where she serves as a hospital volunteer. She also actively pursues her hobby of oil painting, is a grandmother to four grandsons and one granddaughter.
The oldest of three sons, Vernon Lykken is married to the former Carol Hultner of East Grand Forks and they live in Bismarck where he is a principal in the General Diesel Company which deals in heavy equipment. He and his wife have four children and four grandchildren. During World War II, Mr. Lykken served in the Eighth Air Force as a gunner in a B-17 and flew 21 missions over Europe. During one of these missions, he was credited with shooting down an enemy fighter aircraft during a heavy combat exercise. Mr. Lykken has received several awards for outstanding sales performance by the General Motors Corporation which manufactures much of the heavy equipment distributed by his company. The second daughter, Lorraine, was salutatorian of her 1946 high school graduating class. She later worked as a secretary for W. F. Schutt in Grafton until her marriage to Robert Miller, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Ray Miller, rural Grafton. Lorraine
Thomas and Millicent LaBerge and Family
Millicent, the fourth daughter, was well-known for her abilities as an artist, a talent she inherited from her father who was a cartoonist in his early days. After high school, Millicent was employed as a bookkeeper at the Walsh County State Bank and later married Thomas LaBerge, son of Mr. and Mrs. D. J. LaBerge, Grafton. They live in Minneapolis (New Hope) and have four sons and three daughters. Mr. LaBerge is an industrial engineer with the McQuay Company which manufactures heating and air conditioning equipment. Mrs. LaBerge has continued her interest in art as a hobby and has also been employed as a secretary to the principal at a neighborhood grade school. The LaBerges' oldest son, Michael, is a medical doctor. A daughter, Tomi Jane, is a registered nurse. Another daughter, Patti, is a journalist and the other children are students at this time. Lowell, the second son, lives in Westlake Village, Calif., with his wife, Beverly, and their two sons and a daughter. Mrs. Lykken grew up in the area near Lichfield, Minn., and met Lowell in California. During his high school years, Mr. Lykken was active in science fairs on the local, state and national level. He graduated from the University of North Dakota as an electrical engineer and has specialized in the design of automatic flight control and guidance systems for aircraft. He is presently employed by Rockwell International, Inc., and is an engineering manager in the Collins Air Transport Division. Mr. Lykken previously worked for Honeywell, Inc., in Minneapolis and was given an assignment in Sweden where he resided with his family for two years. Glenn, the youngest of the Lykken family, lives in Grand Forks with his wife, the former Dawn McCorquedale of Winnipeg. They have three sons and one daughter. He received a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering from the University of North Dakota and is also conducting research in nutrition at the Department of Agriculture Nutrition Laboratory at the University. During his high school years, he was also active in science and has continued to support the science fair program in North Dakota.
VERNON LYKKEN Vemon K. Lykken was born at Grafton, N. Dak., Dec. 25, 1923, to Mr. and Mrs. Oscar Lykken. After graduating from Grafton High School, in 1942, he attended N. D. A. C. in Fargo where he was a member of Alpha Gamma Rho; he also attended Aaker's Business College, Grand Forks.
Vernon K. Lykken, air gunner on Flying Fortress B-17 over Germany, 1943-44. Vernon joined the Army Air Corps in October, 1943, at Grafton and served as an air gunner on a B-17 Flying Fortress. He flew 17 combat missions over Germany during World War II; also flew several mercy food missions to the starving Dutch. He received the Air Medal with Three Oak Leaf Clusters, The American Theater Service Medal, The European-African-Middle Eastern Service Medal with Two Bronze Stars, and the Good Conduct Medal. He was honorably discharged in September, 1945. He married Carol Y. Hultner, East Grand Forks, Minn., in February, 1948. They reside in Bismarck, N. Dak., and are parents of four children. One son, Terry, served in the U. S. Army in the Artillery during the Vietnam War with 13 months of combat near Da Nang. Another son, Bradley, served three years in the peacetime Navy. A third son, Randy is a building contractor, and daughter, Pamela, is with the National Guard Unit in Minot. Vernon has been in heavy equipment sales for the past 25 years in the Minot and Bismarck areas. He is presently employed by General Diesel and Equipment Company of Bismarck, where he is a vice president and stockholder.
Vernon K. Lykken on top of a Flying Fortress, "Coin' My unidentified, B-17 Flying Fortress (Coin'My Way).
Way".
WILLIAM LYKKEN William (Bill) Lykken was born Sept. 10, 1898, in Farmington Township, Walsh County, N. Dak., to Lars and Sophia (Thoreson) Lykken. He attended School Dist. No. 110 and Grafton High School, was a member of the Landstad Lutheran Church, and was confirmed in Grafton by Rev. uienn at the Our Saviour's Lutheran Church.
Left to right, Gilbert Durheim, William Lykken, and Ingvald Christianson taken the day they left for the army. On July 2, 1943, he was married to the former Dorothy DeSautel. They continued to farm until Bill's retirement in 1963. On Mar. 17, 1964, he broke his hip, which never healed, and was confined to a wheel chair until his death Friday, June 23, 1978, at St. Luke's Hospital, Fargo, N. Dak.
Lars H. Lykken and his son, William Lykken. As a young boy Bill would accompany his father and Uncle Hans Lykken and Louis Sonderland, in a wagon box, to the Red River where his father and Hans would fish, using a 200-ft. seine, 14 ft. wide. They would swim the river, one on each end of the seine. They caught mostly Goldeyes. At that time the river was a lot wider and deeper than it is now. In 1927, Bill and his cousin, Melvin Lykken, left for Palm Springs, Calif., where they were employed in the Palm Springs Post Office which was operated in a store owned by Melvin's brother, Carl Lykken, who was the postmaster. Palm Springs was just starting to get settled. Some of the movie stars, Mary Pickford and John Barrymore, were some of the stars who received their mail there.
Dorothy (Desautel) Lykken
Left to right, William Lykken and Melvin Lykken in the post office at Palm Springs, Calif, where they worked. In the spring of 1928, returning home, he continued farming with his father and brother, Sam. Later, Bill and Sam bought the land from their father. In July, 1942, he was inducted into the United States Army. He was assigned to the 95th Division at Fort Sam Houston, Tex., where he was stationed until his medical discharge from Brooks General Hospital in February, 1943.
Dorothy and William Lykken
LLOYD MONSON Lloyd Monson was born in Grafton in 1936 to Gust and Olga Monson. Gust was a son of Mons Monson of Grafton and Olga's parents were Kristi (Nygard) and Gulbrand Rundhaug of Fairdale. Gust was a lifelong member of South Trinity Lutheran Church. He passed away in December, 1 967. Lloyd is the youngest of five children. He received his education in Farmington School District No. 5 1 , south of Nash. He served six years with the North Dakota National Guard, and is presently farming with three brothers. His mother is living on the farm, south of Nash. Mrs. Lloyd Monson grew up on a farm near Park River, a daughter of Ernest and Beatrice Oak. She has two brothers: Allan, who lives in Fargo, and Lowell, of Park River.
the shock loader. He sold rights to this loader to McCormick Deering for $500. It cost him $2,000 to build it. The shock loader was used for binder and pickup in a combine, and is still in use today. Benjamin Peter, II, was a blacksmith, and had a blacksmith shop and motor hospital in St. Thomas. When he retired, he ran the city light plant at St. Thomas. He married Hanna Inger. Peter Benjamin, III, sold Overland and Willys Knight cars. They were the first automobiles sold in this area. He also sold the first radios. He was killed in a car-train accident in 1937 at age 49. Married to Theresa Kelly, he was the father of nine children. Lawrence Nelson, my grandfather, was a blacksmith in St. Thomas. He married Clara Dickson and had six children—one of them, my father. While working at his forge a piece of iron hit his knee, resulting in a stiff leg. He had to walk with a cane. He was 53 years old at the time. Clara Dickson's parents were Emma Thompson Dickson and George Henry Dickson, II. Emma, who was my great-grandmother, was born Apr. 2 1 , 1859, in Peterboro, Ontario. She died Dec. 2, 1933. William Thompson and Angus Kerr Thompson were her parents. William came from England and Angus from Scotland.
Mr. and Mrs. Lloyd Monson, Connie and Scott. She attended grade school at Fertile School District No. 25 and high school at the Walsh County Agricultural School in Park River, graduating in 1961. After graduation she worked at the Grafton National Bank until her marriage to Lloyd. They were married at Zion Lutheran Church, rural Hoople, on Nov. 4, 1962, which was the 24th wedding anniversary of the bride's parents. They live and farm in Farmington Township, southeast of Nash, and have two children: Connie Jean, born Mar. 14, 1966, and Scott Richard, born Nov. 3, 1971. The Church, and the years on board.
Monsons are members of South Trinity Lutheran rural Grafton. She is also a member of the A. L. C. W. Countryside Homemakers Club. Lloyd has served six the Nash School Board and is currently president of the
Ruth and George Nelson, 1935. George Henry Dickson, George Henry Dickson, IPs, father, came from Scotland. He was born Mar. 3 1 , 1 8 6 2 , and died Aug. 3 1 , 1896. George Henry Nelson was my father. He was one of seven children but only three are now living. He was bom Nov. 10, 1915, and died Sept. 29, 1966. I was four years old when he died. He was born in St. Thomas, N. Dak., and lived in that area until he married my mother, Ruth Landowski. He then farmed at Auburn until his sudden death from a heart attack.
DESCENDANTS OF PETER BENJAMIN NELSON Peter Benjamin Nelson came from Sweden. When he was in Sweden, he was captain in the Swedish Royal Navy. He was one of the earliest settlers to come here, arriving about the same time as the Davises, who now live in this area. He settled in rural St. Thomas. He married Mary Donnelly, an Irish immigrant. He was a veterinarian by trade. They had two sons: Charles Peter and Benjamin Peter II. Benjamin Peter, II, was my great grandfather. He invented
George A. Nelson and Lori, 1966, Farmington Township.
age of 1 0. Dorothy and Orrin Parkins had two children. Martha (Mrs. Ken Rice) and husband have three children: Darrin, Andrea and Brittany. Orrin and Dorothy's son, Paul, died suddenly in 1960, at the age of 1 5 years.
Clara Dickson Nelson I am one of six children. My other brothers and sisters are Paul, Charlotte, Carol, George, and Linda. My oldest brother, Paul, was born Apr. 10, 1936. He married Linda Shannon in 1969, and has six children: Matthew, Rebecca, Timothy, Lisa, Jennifer, and Theresa. He farmed with my other brother for seven years and then moved out of the area. Mrs. William Johnson (Charlotte) was born July 23, 1937. She married William Johnson of Adams on June 20, 1960, and has two sons: Stephen and Joel. They live on a farm and raise wheat and cattle. George H. Nelson, Jr., is my second oldest brother. He was born Mar. 23, 1939, and is farming my father's land. He was in the Air Navy for six years and was stationed at the Naval Air Station at Minneapolis. He was honorably discharged in December, 1967, with the rank of Petty Officer Second Class. He came home to farm. Mrs. Earl Stoltz (Carol) was born Sept. 9, 1944, married Earl Stoltz on May 7, 1965, and has one daughter, Gretchen, who attends Grafton High School. Earl is superintendent of the Grafton City Park. Carol is a programmer at the Grafton State School. Linda Nelson, my third sister, was born Sept. 27, 1952. She is a cook at the Grafton State School and is an active fan of many country western stars, visiting Nashville, Tenn., when she can. Lori Nelson, that's me, was born Mar. 22, 1962. I am attending Mayville State College and am a freshman working for an Associate of Arts Degree as medical secretary. I graduated an honor student from Grafton High School in 1980.
Family of Arne and Hannah Oihus: back row, Alfred, Oscar, Eddie (a cousin); front row, Laura and Alma. Joyce and Bill Baldwin had two children—Ann Baldwin Burgess, who has one son, Christian; and William R. (Buzz) who married LeAnn Korynta, and has four children—Brent, Laurie, Sadie and Mary Beth.
Our home, known as the McKenzie Farm, is an old landmark of the Auburn area. Mrs. Oscar Oihus OSCAR OIHUS FAMILY Oscar George Oihus, son of Arne and Hannah Oihus, and Mary Evelyn Davis, daughter of Mathilda Davis, were married Jan. 1911, at the home of Mrs. Mathilda Davis in Grafton. They made their home at Nash where they farmed during their lifetime. The Oihuses had six children: Joyce (Mrs. William Baldwin, St. Thomas); Dorothy (Mrs. Orrin Parkins, Hoople); Norma, who died in infancy; Marion (Mrs. Lome Larson, Mesa, Ariz.); George of Manitowoc, Wise, who was killed in an auto accident in 1906; and Gordon, Mesa, Ariz. George had married Beatrice Koch of Oshkosh, Wise. Gordon married Leona Trudeau and they had four children: Kathy, who died in 1960; Michael, who passed away early in childhood; David and Barbara, both students in Mesa, Ariz. Marion and Lome Larson have three sons, Ted and Terry and Gary, all of Mesa. Ted's son, Ted, Jr., died in 1980 at the
Oscar Oihus
Oscar Oihus served on the township and school boards, and Evelyn, before her marriage, was a rural school teacher. They were both members of the Grafton Lutheran Church.
OUR PRAIRIE HOMESTEAD By Lillian MacGregorShaw On this last day of the old year, I sit me down to record memories of my first home, some pleasant, some not so pleasant, but all precious to me. I was born on Feb. 27, 1891, in Farmington Township on a farm which my parents had homesteaded in the early 80's. It was a beautiful farm, really blessed by nature, approximately five miles northwest of Grafton. The Park River flowed through it; beautiful woods of oak, ash, and elm bordered the river. There was a grove near the house, lovely trees for shade, and fun for my brother and my five
sisters to climb. From the front of the house we looked out and across the prairie—away to the horizon. Our house was built of logs. It was spacious, always had plenty of room for the unexpected visitor. When my folks took the claim, the unfilled land stretched out in front, dotted with buffalo bones. The day of the buffalo was gone, but his bones remained. Eventually they were picked up, sold to a commercial firm, and shipped out by the train load. Folks who came to the prairie from a wooded area, where every foot of cultivated ground had to be earned by the sweat of the brow, could never cease to appreciate how available this soil was for cultivation. I can still hear my father (William MacGregor) say, "When you put your plow in the ground for the first time, you can plow a mile without hitting a stick or a stone." And the soil, rich and black, was ready for the beautiful fields of golden wheat which made North Dakota the "Bread Basket of the World." Nature was sometimes cruel. A blizzard could strike without notice. On June 15, 1898, a hail storm hit. Not even a leaf was left on the trees. Too late to replant, there were no crops that year. I remember very well seeing the hired man tie a rope to the back door before starting for the barn. He could easily have been lost in a raging blizzard between the house and the barn. One afternoon in the spring of 1897, we were out in the yard enjoying a beautiful day. A neighbor of ours, Matt Kennedy, came riding into the yard on horseback. As he came, he shouted "The flood is coming. If you go upstairs you can see it," and he dashed out of the yard, on his way to warn other families. We ran into tne house and upstairs. Far away across the prairie, on the horizon, we saw a silver line. We watched. It grew larger. It was moving towards us. We stood fascinated. Finally it had crept across the fields into our yard, into our house. The water soon stood a foot deep in our living room. In the meantime the adults had been busy moving necessities upstairs. The Red River had overflowed its banks. For us children who had never seen a lake or any expanse of water it was a treat. For a number of days we lived upstairs as best we could. The water was warm and finally Mother let us go down and play in it. Such a treat and how we envied children who lived near a lake! It was fun for us but a calamity for the folks. Again it was too late to re-seed. It is always important to have good neighbors, but especially so in a new settlement, and we had them. We could not have had better. There were the McManus, the Kennedy, the McCleeland families; all fine folks, always ready to help each other. In case of sickness in a home or a run of hard work, as in threshing time, Mother would always go and help. If she could not go she would bake and send bread to them, or she would take their washing home and send back the clothes clean. She was never too busy to help. Grandma Kennedy was a treasure. She was a little, dried-up old lady who smoked a little clay pipe. She was right from Ireland. We youngsters loved to hear her tell of seeing "fairies dancing on the green." I have always wondered if she really believed it. Best of all, she was a mid-wife, a very good one, I don't suppose there was a youngster in that part of the country that she had not ushered in. The records show that she never lost a baby or a mother. Almost unbelievable. As soon as the baby was born, she baptized it, naming every girl "Mary" and every boy "Joseph". I did not know that, until quite recently. We all loved Grandma Kennedy. She had two sons with families in our community. All good neighbors. She lived to be ninety-four.
In almost every home you found at least one old person, spending his or her last days with a daughter or a sister or some other relative; sometimes no relation at all. There was no provision made for the elderly. They just had to stay with anybody who would keep them. There were even old folks who had no relatives to live with. They wandered around from one home to another. They usually would stay a few days or a few weeks, then goon to some other kind person who would take them in. One of the most interesting characters of our youth was Kelly. We all called him that. Kelly was a veteran of the Civil War. He had joined up as a drummer boy and finally had marched with Sherman to the sea. He always had a story to tell us and we always listened spellbound. He was quite dramatic as he told us his war memories. Some of them are still interesting to me. As their Union army marched through Georgia, they often came to beautiful plantations, large colonial homes with all the buildings to match. They would take out a knife, rip up a corner of the building and set it on fire, then all the other buildings. When they marched on, every building was ablaze. I was sorry for the Southerners. I never wanted to sing "Marching Through Georgia" again. Kelly was an able man. He always came in butchering time and took it over. There was nobody who could take care of the supply of meat as well as Kelly. He would stay on a few weeks after that job was done, then go on to some other home, where 1 am sure he was as welcome as in our home. His stories, his songs, the little jig he danced were entertainment at a time when there was very little entertainment of any kind. During the 90's there was a Depression. Men out of work flocked to the harvest fields in hopes of finding work. Our house was the first near the railroad track, five miles from Grafton. One man seldom walked alone. There would be a number together—two, three, five-sometimes there would be quite a ganq, ten or twelve men. They usually carried a big pot and lived on the land. We called them Pot Gangs. Where the railroad crossed the river, on our farm, there was a sheltered place under the end of the bridge, an ideal camping site. In the big kettle which they carried, they would cook whatever they could get by stealing or begging or buying. My folks were always very generous to them. They took it for granted that they were honest men looking for work. Most of them were. Dad knew neighbors who needed farm help, so often he helped them get a job. They would stay and work until after the threshing and other fall work was done, then back to Minnesota to work in the woods as lumberjacks during the winter. My mother never turned away a hungry man. With all the work she had to do I just can not understand how she did it. Good food stuff was plentiful—meat, eggs, butter, vegetables, and milk. The prices were so low during the Depression and there was no market for them so food was abundant. I wonder as she cooked if she did not drop in a few extras into the pot for the hungry stranger who was almost sure to come. I have a very vivid memory of such a stranger. I was a little girl standing behind mother, peeking at him. He asked for food. " I really have nothing ready that I can give you," said Mother. "My oven is full of bread but it won't be baked for an hour and do you know, I have fed eleven men this morning." " I could eat anything", said the man, " I am starving." "Well, wait a minute and I will see what I can do," said Mother. She poured a big pitcher of milk, cream and all. Then she found a whole loaf of stale bread. He sat at the wood pile and ate every crumb of it. When he was done, he returned the pitcher. He looked like a different man. He thanked Mother over and over again. " I was really starving," he said and he went on his way. Another shining jewel in Mother's crown!
Nyhus on Nov. 16, 1894, in the neighboring town of Grafton. Clara Nyhus was also born in Norway. Her family, which included fifteen children, left Norway and settled in Fosston, Minn. Clara was twelve years old at the time. She moved to Nash, N. Dak., where she worked as a hired girl until she was eighteen years of age at which time she married Marius 'Mike' Skjulstad. During the first years of their married life they lived in a house close to the blacksmith shop.
Then we had another type of visitors! The folks who lived further up the river. By the time they reached our place with their teams, on their way to town, they were cold and hungry. They would stop, asking to get warm. I can still hear my Dad say, "Put up your team and come right in to dinner." And they always did. Mother always rose to the occasion. With no telephone, radio or TV I think everybody was hungry for visitors. One day in mid-winter the Heatherington family stopped in to get warm. The family, consisting of the father and mother and two little boys, were strangers to us. It developed that they were foot-loose. They had been renting a farm but the owner had returned to it. They had another farm to rent in mind but it was not available until spring. The folks invited them to stay. They were very pleasant people to be with. The man helped with the chores. The lady helped Mother with the work. She was a good seamstress and made clothes for us children, sewing that Mother never had time to do. The two little boys were well behaved and we played well together. Days flew by—then weeks— and the Heatheringtons were still with us. They remained for three months before the farm they were renting was available. When they left we were all lonesome for them. I remember it as a very pleasant winter. We attended a little one-room school, a mile and a half from home. The term began about the middle of April and continued until the middle of November. We could not have school when there was the danger of blizzards. That left us children home from school during the long winter months.
Marius Skjulstad.
My mother was very unhappy that we were having such a limited amount of schooling. She was very keen on education. My keen little ears, listening in on adult conversation, began to hear hints that something must be done about it. The children must have a better chance. Crops were very good that year. Golden grain as far as you could see. Wheat was bringing a good price. If all went well, we would move to town!
By this time Auburn had suffered loss from two disastrous fires and was declining from the flourishing town it had once been. Buildings were being moved to the neighboring farms. In 1900, Mrs. Esther Maud Colter purchased the Hostertor house, located on the lots south of the Auburn Store and Woodman Hall, and moved it to her farm, four miles away. The Skjulstads moved their house to the vacated lots because of the many fine trees growing on the lots. During this time Mike Skjulstad had purchased the General Store where he enjoyed a flourishing business during his tenure.
And all did go well. From the sale of that golden wheat the folks bought lots in eastern Grafton in 1898 and built a very comfortable roomy house. We moved to town at Christmas time, all ready to start school after the Christmas vacation.
Farmers drove into Auburn with horses and buggies and wagons, hitching the horse to hitching posts on the front of the store on the west with the overflow hitched to posts on the north side. The horses were also stabled in the Woodman barn. The Great Northern train came through Auburn twice each day and the freight train traffic was heavy. Up to this time, Auburn had a two-room school, but the declining population made it necessary to close one room with one teacher serving the still large enrollment. Harry and Eva Colter had rented a farm about five miles west of Auburn but discovered, to their dismay, that the owner had sold the land. That winter they 'moved in' with Henry and Minnie Kingsbury who were living in the St. Anthony house. Harry Colter kept his farm horses in Mike Skjulstad's blacksmith shop through the goodness of his heart.
We rented the farm and eventually sold it. We did not lose our good neighbors. We saw them whenever they came to town. On one Fourth of July eleven buggies stood in our yard—all good old friends.
MARIUS AND CLARA SKJULSTAD Marius Skjulstad was born May 14, 1867, in Skarnes, Norway, to parents who were farmers. Marius, who was always known as Mike, celebrated his twenty-first birthday while crossing the Atlantic on his way to the United States. His destination was Minneapolis where he found work on a municipal project, laying street car tracks near Loring Park.
Clara and Mike Skjulstad had two daughters, Martha and Hazel. The children attended the Auburn school and the Landstad Lutheran Church where they were baptized and confirmed. Martha, as she grew older, helped her father in the store and post office. Hazel helped her mother in their home. Every day at four o'clock, Mike Skjulstad left Martha in the store and he went over to the house for coffee. Upon his return to the store, Martha took her turn for the coffee break. Clara Skjulstad took pride in baking white bread and dark bread, cake and cookies. The closet under the stairs in the Skjulstad home was filled with childhood treasures—dolls, toy dishes and games.
It was at this time that Dakota Territory was divided into two parts, North and South Dakota, and the two states were admitted into the Union. North Dakota was the thirty-ninth state to enter the Union. By this time the homesteading days were passing in the Red River Valley. When Mike Skjulstad first came to North Dakota, he worked on a farm. Some time later he started a blacksmith shop in Auburn, located on the lots north of the General Store. At that time, Bill Sturdy owned and managed the Auburn Store. When Mike was twenty-seven years of age, he married Clara
(Mike) Skjulstad and his wife, Clara Nyhus
(
Andrew. The latter was eleven years old when the family came to America, and he had been born in Stockholm, Sweden, Aug. 17, 1870. About 1770 Halvor Fodness was a small boy in Norway when many died from Black Death. He and his sister wandered for about three years, cared for by gypsies, and had forgotten their names, when they were picked up and due to accurate church records were returned to their home. The sister died but Halvor married Inger and had four children: Halvor, Ella, Knut, and Gilbert. In 1855 they came to America by sailboat. It took eleven weeks to cross the Atlantic. During the trip a violent storm came up and all of the hatches were closed. The busy sailors on deck found a small boy alone and threw him into an empty sugar barrel. Halvor rode out the storm in this barrel and did not care for sugar for sometime. From Quebec they went to Wisconsin, Iowa and, in due time, to Albert Lea, Minn. Knut married Dorothea Moe, a widow, born in Oslo, Norway, and to them four children were born: Hanna, Attena, Anton, and Carl.
Hazel Skjulstad Schubert, daughter of Marius (Mike) and Clara Skjulstad. Chief among the games was a carom board which filled many an evening with fun. Mike Skjulstad was very proud and honored to be a United States citizen. During the 1900 census, he put Martha in a basket on his bicycle and rode around taking the census. He was the first one in Auburn to own a car. He owned a 1909 Model T Ford. Every Sunday afternoon, during the season of open weather, he took his wife, Clara, and the girls, Hazel and Martha, for a ride. One Sunday afternoon they drove east of Auburn and on a piece of prairie ground he experimented in making short turns. Once he turned too short and the car tipped over on its side. There were no injuries and no harm to the car, but it was many days before he made a chagrined confession as to what had happened. Auburn, at the time that the Skjulstads lived there, was small but enterprising. Only a few families lived there—the families of Henry and Minnie Kingsbury, Harry and Eva Colter, Mike and Clara Skjulstad, Fred and Minnie Douville, O. J. and Annie Bolton, Matt and Annie Archer, and Herman and Minnie Fisher. One of the pleasant memories of the Skjulstad sojourn in Auburn was a couple of resinous balsam trees whose buds filled the air with a wondrous scent. In 1915, the Skjulstads sold the store to J. E. Kingsbury and his wife, Flossie, and moved to Grand Forks where they lived on Cherry Street. Martha passed away in May, 1940. Marius passed away in December, 1951. Clara passed away in April, 1952. Hazel Skulstad Schubert resides in Jamestown, N. Dak. She has one daughter, Martha, five grandchildren, and at the present writing, one greatgrandchild.
CLARENCE ARTHUR AND ALMA CATHERINE (LYKKEN) STARK Charley Stark, Clarence's grandfather, came to America from Sweden in 1870. He worked as a surveyor on the Canadian Railroad. In 1881 his family joined him. He homesteaded land, three miles south of St. Thomas, and worked as foreman on the Great Northern Railroad for Jim Hill from Grafton to St. Thomas. Charley Stark was born in Goteborg, Sweden. His father was an Army officer. His wife, Kisa Johndotter, was also born in Goteborg. They had four children: Otto, Frank, Hilma, and
Alma and Clarence Stark. Alma was the daughter of Hans Lykken and his wife, Clara Johnson. Clarence was the son of Andrew Stark and his wife, Athena Bertina Fodness. Andrew Stark married Attina Bertina Fodness on July 22, 1890. She was born Jan. 16, 1874, and came with her parents to Grafton when she was 12. They first farmed in the Farmington area. For a short time they lived in South Dakota where he bought horses by the carload and then sold them. Then he bought a farm in Oakwood Township and lived there until his death Sept. 2, 1931. He served as a trustee of the Grafton Lutheran Church and as a supervisor of Oakwood Township for 20 years. After his death Attina remained on the farm a while before she moved to Grafton and made her home with her daughters, Mabel and Agnes. She died July 3 1 , 1 9 6 2 . Both are buried in the Grafton Lutheran Cemetery. They were parents of eight children: Anna, Clarence, Agnes, William, Mabel, Manville, Abner, and Lloyd. Hans H. Lykken was born in January, 1858, (died 1940) to Hans Gulmon (1820-1905) and Kari Olson (1821-1894). Hans Gulmon was the son of Gulmon Sletta and Gunhild Angaard. Kari Olson was the daughter of Ole and Anna Kaasa. The Lokke, or Lykken, family lived in Saude Presteegjold, Nedu Telemarken, Norway. Hans and Kari had six children: Ole, Gulmon, Ingre, Hans, Lars, and Ole Gilman. Hans married Clara Emily Johnson. She was born in Muskego, Wise, and was the first child baptised in the first Norwegian Lutheran Church in the United States. This church is now preserved as a shrine at the Lutheran Seminary in Minneapolis. Hans and Clara had eleven children: Cora, Alvin, Hilda, Edwin, Luther, Lottie, Alma, twins Hazel and Mabel, Myrtle, and Harry. (See history of Hans and Clara Lykken in Volume I, page 65.)
Clarence Arthur Stark was born July 5, 1893, at St. Thomas, N. Dak., and died Mar. 15, 1970. He married Alma Catherine Lykken on Dec. 28, 1920, at Crookston, Minn. He attended rural schools and Augsburg College in Canton, S. Dak. They farmed in the Auburn area before moving to Grafton. He drilled artesian wells, was a machinist, and owned City Service Gas Station and Radiator Shop. After retirement he reconditioned guns and refinished furniture. He enjoyed the fellowship in the Royal Arch Masons and the Shrine. He also served on the Grafton Park Board. He was an avid reader, and loved people. Alma was bom Aug. 20, 1894, at Auburn and died Sept. 13, 1971. She attended the Auburn School, loved flowers and the outdoors, and as a young girl loved to ride horseback. Her family was most dear to her. Visitors were always welcome. If Clarence had lived nine more months, they would have celebrated fifty years together. They are buried in the Landstad Cemetery by Auburn. This acre of land was given by Alma's father to be used as a cemetery. Clarence and Alma had one daughter, Clarice Margaret, who married Ervin Friederich Quade. They have two sons: Lyle Ervin (1948) and Robert Charles (1954). They live in Hallock, Minn.
CHESTER AND RHODE THOMPSON Chester T. Thompson, son of L. C. and Julia Thompson, was born in Vesta Township, Walsh County, May 19, 1911, (in the Salle Log House now in the Adams Park). He attended Vesta School District No. 72 and Adams Grade School. In 1926, the family moved to Grafton where they bought the "Herbison Farm" in Farmington Township, three miles north of Grafton. He lived on this farm ever since. He attended the Walsh County Agricultural School, Park River, after winning a scholarship through 4-H work in the Grafton Calf Club, whose leader was A. B. Thompson, and graduated in 1932. In those years the Walsh County 4-H Clubs exhibited at the Grand Forks Fair and at the State Fair. Chester worked on county road construction from 1938-1940 and spent the summer of 1941 on a construction site in Provo, S. Dak., with the U. H. Noel Construction Company, building a World War II ammunitions storage facility. Since then he has farmed. June 8, 1938, he married Rhoda Knutson of Nekoma, N. Dak. They were married in a ceremony at the Nekoma Lutheran Church in only the third ceremony performed in that church up to that time. Church weddings were 'out' during the Depression. Montelle Boone, Truman Moe, Florence Thompson, and Imogene Eikenberry were among the attendants. Chester and Rhoda are the parents of five children. Leslie is now Mrs. Richard Neset of Mayville, N. Dak., they were married in 1961 and are the parents of Bret, Andrew, and Deborah, and farm at Mayville. Raymond graduated from N.D.S.U., Fargo, and is the county agent of Marshall County, Minn., and resides in Warren, Minn. He married Kathie Wilson of Grafton, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Woodrow Wilson, at Our Savior's Lutheran Church in 1965. Kathie is an R. N. graduate of N.D.S.U. and works at the Good Samaritan Nursing Home. They have two sons, Michael and Nicky. Donald graduated from Mayville State College and coached basketball at Rogers North Central and Larimore and is now the athletic director at Bottineau Junior College, Bottineau, N. Dak. Currently, he is on leave working on his doctorate at the University of the Pacific at Stockton, Calif. Don married Linda Fadness of Velva, N. Dak., at Velva in 1968. Linda graduated from Valley City State College. They are the parents of two sons, Matthew and Aaron. Ruth married Virgil Babinski of Minto in 1969 at Grafton. They live at Sharon, N.
Dak., where he is principal in the school. They are the parents of Jeffrey and Carrie. Lloyd graduated from the University of North Dakota and taught at Minot High School and now farms in Farmington Tonwship. He married Claudia Bergquist of Turtle Lake, N. Dak., also a graduate of U. N. D. in 1975.
Chester and Rhoda Thompson All of the Thompson children were active in Walsh County 4-H work, raising and showing registered Yorkshire pigs. Chester was a 4-H leader for 22 years and Lloyd continues the tradition. The family attended Grafton Lutheran Church. Chester served on the Farmington Township Board for many years, on the school district board, and was president of the Rural Fire Department and was director of the Crop Improvement Association.
Twenty-fifth anniversary of the Chester Thompsons: left to right, Rev. and Mrs. A. E. Setness, Lyman and Sylvia Bjerken, Chester and Rhoda Thompson, Truman and Helen Moe, Montelle and Josephine Boone, and Alf and Bertha Nygard. Rhoda Knutson was born at Nekoma, N. Dak., in 1916, to parents, Martha Helland and Andrew Flata Knutson. Martha Helland was born in Freeborn County, Minn., in 1877, to Carrie and Ole Helland. She attended college at Mankato, Minn., and Decorah, la., and taught school. Andrew Knutson came from Numedahl in Norway. Rhoda graduated from Mayville State College and taught. She has been active in and served as president of Grafton ALCW, North Dakota China Painters Guild, and Unity Hospital Auxiliary. Chester and Rhoda currently spend their winters in Mesa, Ariz.
LUDVIG AND JULIA THOMPSON Ludvig Theodore Thompson was bom in Goodue Township, Minn., Oct. 20, 1882, the first of four boys born to Christ and Caroline Thompson. In 1905 he homesteaded at Pohal, N. Dak. In 1908, he married Ellen Julia Thompson, daughter of
Golden Wedding Anniversary of L C. and Julia Thompson. Thomas and Louise Thomspon of Vesta Township, Walsh County, N. Dak. She was one of a family of twelve; five girls and five boys lived to maturity. She attended school in Vesta Township.
Julia Thompson and granddaughter, Jody. miles north of Grafton the ensuing years. Three children were born in GraftomJune, 1926 (Mrs. Bob Hebbel, Davenport, la.); Phyllis, 1929 (Mrs. Marlyn Bogart, Milnor, N. Dak.); and Lynn J., 1931, Grafton. Mr. Thompson (called L. C ) , after moving to Grafton served on the township board, the school board, and was active in Our Savior's Lutheran Church. L. C. and Julia celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in 1958 with all their children present. L. C. lost a leg in a potato digger accident but remained active in farming as long as he lived. L. C. died Jan. 17, 1960, at Grafton. Julia Thompson resides at the Sunset Home presently. She has 26 grandchildren and 30 great-grandchildren.
Ludvig and Ellen farmed in Vesta for many years and also lived in Adams from 1918-1921 while he operated the Farmers Elevator. Their farm house is now located in the Adams Park, known as the "Knut Salle Log House." Children born in this house were Gladys, in 1909 (now Mrs. Cecil Mathena, Leavenworth, Wash.); Bernice, 1914 (Mrs. Art Weishaar, Lemmon, S. Dak.); Lynn Joy, 1922 (deceased 1923); Elsie, 1917 (deceased 1978); Florence, 1920, (Mrs. Don Myers, San Jose, Calif.); and Mildred, 1924 (Mrs. Otto Brende, Belleview, Wash.). The family moved to Grafton in 1926 and farmed three
History of Farmington Township in Photos
jt Auburn Elevator, operated for many years by Stewart Bell.
Don Thompson: 4-H purebred Yorkshire winner, Walsh County Potato Show and Fair. 296
Flood at the Ernest Ebert farm, Farmington Township, April 19, 1950.
William and Dorothy Lykken
Aftermath of July 3, 1947, tornado one-fourth mile north of Ernest Ebert farm, Farmington Township. Farmstead completely demolished. Seven people were killed on this spot.
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FERTILE TOWNSHIP FAMILY HISTORIES ARDELL ALMEN FAMILY Ardell Almen was born in Walsh County and is the son of Andrew and Emma (Hove) Almen. He married Betty Nelson in June 7, 1949, who was also born in Walsh County, a daughter of John N. Nelson and Elizabeth (Hein) Nelson. Betty and Ardell are the parents of six children, three sons and three daughters: Jeffery, Elizabeth Sue, James, Rose Marie, Mary, and Dean.
School Hospital. Lee is still employed at the State School. Lee's hobbies are sewing, curling, and oil painting. Lee and Donnie are parents of two children: Barbara Ann, born Jan. 16, 1952, and David Charles, born July 7, 1955. Barbara graduated from schools in Grafton, attended Bemidji State College, Bemidji, Minn., and graduated from Moorhead State College, Moorhead, Minn. Barbara enjoys sewing and music. Barbara married Jim Osvold of Cloquet, Minn., they have two children: Lisa Ann and Steven James. David Almen attended Grafton Schools and graduated from Covenant College in Tennessee. He married Verna Mattson from Golden Valley, N. Dak., and they have one son, Jonathan. David is the administrator of the Nursing Home at Golden Valley,
N.Dak.
LOUIS AND HELEN ALMEN Louis was a son of Carl and Mary Almen, and Helen, a daughter of George and Mary Fisher. They have three children, Mazie, Larry and Carol.
The Ardell Almen Family: left to right, back row, Jeff, Sue, Jim and Dean; front row, Rose, Ardell, Berty, and Mary. Jeff married Sandra Nord; they have one daughter, Rachel. Jeff is engaged in farming with his dad and Sandra is an L.P.N., working at Unity Hospital in Grafton. Sue married Bruce Mitz; they have two children: Kristy and Kenny. Bruce is employed at Minot Air Force Base as a Civil Service employee. Sue is employed in a department store in Minot. Jim is residing in Anaheim, Calif., where he is employed at McDonnell Douglas Corporation. Rose married Arnold Lauer; they have five children: Sharyl, Michael, Brenda, Becky, and Andrew. Arnold is a deputy sheriff in Walsh County and Rose is a homemaker. Mary is residing in Anaheim, Calif., and is planning to further her education. Dean is attending AVTI in Thief River Falls, Minn., and is enrolled in auto mechanics.
The Louis Almen Family: left to right, front, Carol Almen Colton, Helen Almen, Mazie Almen Kirby; back row, Larry Almen, and Louis Almen. Mazie has worked in the Welfare Office in Portland, Ore., for the past 12 years; Larry has worked as a machinist in Los Angeles for the past 20 years; and Carol is an executive secretary for the Evergreen Airlines in McMinnville, Ore.
DONALD ALMEN FAMILY Donald Almen, son of Carl Oscar and Glora Almen, was born June 23, 1926. Donald received his elementary education at the Monson rural school and went on to Grafton High School. In 1947 he started farming and still farms. In 1950 Donald married Leota (Lee) Sutter of Cooperstown, N. Dak.; Lee, the daughter of Charles and Julia Sutter, was born June 16, 1929. She graduated from Cooperstown High School in 1947. Lee then attended Northwest Institute, graduating as a medical technician in 1949. Lee worked as a Laboratory and Xray technician at the Grafton Deaconess Hospital and Countryman Clinic, St. Joseph's Hospital, and the Grafton State
ESTHER AND OSCAR ALMEN I, Esther, was born on Nov. 14, 1907, at the homestead of my parents, August and Josephine Kalgard Almen, rural Park River, Dundee Township. I was baptized and confirmed at Park Center Lutheran Church. I was the exact middle of eleven children — three brothers and two sisters before me and two sisters and three brothers after me — so there was never a dull moment at our house. We all loved music and especially singing. Our dad being a good fiddler, I learned to chord to his music early in life and he could also sing harmony to our songs. We four sisters and two brothers sang in the choir at the time Odvin
Hagen was the director and taught parochial school at Hvideso Church and the Edinburg community. These were very highly treasured memories of the 'good old days'. We had a_ fun childhood with lots of hard work, too, picking spuds by hand, milking cows, cooking for threshers, and attending rural school at Fairview District No. 50.
live in Park River. I began to work as the assistant cook at St. Ansgar's Hospital and continued to work at that job for eight years. In May, 1971, I went with my cousin, Mrs. Joe Wick of Adams, to Norway and Sweden and returned in July. We met a lot of relatives and had a very enjoyable time. In August, 1972, I contracted pneumonia and was hospitalized for three weeks and thus I resigned from my job at the hospital. On Oct. 17, 1972, Oscar Almen and I were married in Winnipeg, Manitoba. We lived on his farm at rural Grafton for seven years. Oscar is the son of the late Carl and Mary Almen and was born on Jan. 29, 1900, and baptized and confirmed at North Trinity Lutheran Church, rural Nash. Oscar attended Sinclair
Esther and Lloyd Ferguson, taken in 1932. On Nov. 14, 1932, I married Lloyd Ferguson, in the Grafton Lutheran parsonage. Lloyd was born Mar. 26, 1908. We had one son, John, who was bom Oct. 28, 1933, at the Grafton Hospital. Lloyd passed away in June, 1936. Then I kept house for my three brothers on the home place until Ocotober, 1948, when I married Chester Thompson, Fertile Township, at Crookston, Minn. Peter and May Hanson served as witnesses for our wedding and later they became our best friends. Following our marriage we spent at week in Yellowstone National Park and our first winter at Hot Springs,
Oscar and Esther Almen (Taken in 1976) School through eight grade and then attended the Walsh County Agricultural School in Park River. In June, 1925, Oscar married Glora Hove of rural Grafton. They became the parents of two sons, Donald of Grafton and Kenneth of Seattle, Wash. Oscar has three grandchildren: Barbara, David and Debbie. He also has three great-grandchildren: Lisa and Steven Osvold, children of Barbara; and Jonathan, son of David. My son, John Ferguson, lives and farms east of Park River in Kensington Township. He is a 1951 graduate of the Walsh County Agricultural School in Park River. He married Dorothy Thompson in 1955 and they are the parents of five children: Dawn, Kevin, Jeff, James and Jon. They also have two grandchildren: Shawn and Justin Ferguson.
Esther and Chester Thompson Ark., and Texas, returning to Park River where we made our home. Another memorable vacation was in the spring of 1952 when we drove up the Alcan Highway, all through Canada from Winnipeg to Alaska, with stops at Anchorage, Seward and Fairbanks. We had intended to go to Seattle by boat, but due to a boat strike for three weeks we returned home on the Alcan Highway as far as Calgary where we crossed into Montana to visit Chester's sister and brother-in-law, the Ingvald Birks, at Kalispell, Mont. Chester passed away on Jan. 2, 1962, and I continued to
Three Almen sisters: Ruby Olson, Hoople; Velma Estad, Crystal; and Esther Almen, Park River. (Taken October, 1980) So you see, I am a great grandmother. But, I still love music. I still sing with my sisters, Velma Estad and Ruby Olson. We enjoy singing Norwegian. We often sing for ALCW, worship services, local nursing homes, or wherever we are asked. They say all, or most things, improve with age and my love for music has not dwindled one iota and I hope I can enjoy it for many years to come.
DARLA (SUNDBERG) AND ANTHONY AMOTH
years. This was a big, rewarding project; when it was started many were skeptical and reluctant to make the initial down payment, as they thought it was just a big pipe dream and the farmers would never get water piped right from the big wells into their homes. Earl really enjoys the running water; going to the spring just wasn't one of his favorite jobs.
Darla was born Feb. 1, 1 957, to Stanley and Leanna (Fricke) Sundberg at Grafton, N. Dak. She attended grade school at Park River, N. Dak., and high school at Grafton. Her last year of school she worked at West View Grade School in the office, but decided she liked the farm better than office work.
Farming, of course, is his way of making a living — grain, beets and potatoes — potatoes having priority over all. He started beets in 1974. This was a big venture. He has had good beet workers; the same Martinez family has come back each year.
As a lover of animals, she had Appaloosa horses. She took after her Grandfather Fricke, as he was a horse trainer, and she loved to do the same. She was married to Anthony Amoth of Bonners Ferry, Ida., on Nov. 27, 1977, at the Grafton Mennonite Church near Grafton. Anthony was born Jan. 29, 1954, at Roseburg, Ore. Anthony and his father own a cedar shake mill in Paradise Valley near Bonners Ferry, Ida. At the present time they are building themselves a new home in Paradise Valley.
The year, 1980, has been the most difficult year he has ever had. An early spring, no rian and the grain and beet fields just weren't doing very well; then along came the hail storm on Friday, June 13, that "took care" of all the grain and beets. lone Midgarden was born in Fertile Township June 4, 1920, on the quarter of land that once belonged to pioneer Knute Hove. Gunder Midgarden farmed a quarter of a mile south, and the two farmers would meet one another on the road going to and from their homes, so one day they decided to "swap" land; just like that it was done, lone was the only child of Ingvald and Ida Midgarden. She grew up in Fertile Township, attending Sinkler School District No. 24, then graduating from the Walsh County Agricultural and Training School, Park River. She married Earl Anderson Dec. 7, 1939, and they have lived in Fertile Township since.
EARL ANDERSON Earl was born in Glenwood Township, Jan. 15, 1918, the oldest son of Frank and Clara Anderson. He received his education at District No. 13. As the school was close he always walked to school and as a rule ran home for noon lunch, but would rush back so as not to miss a good ball game, or any of the other fun games. Rural schools always had a big enrollment in those days, so the teachers really had their work cut out for them. He still remembers his part in a lot of mischief, so he doesn't think he was ever thought of as a little angel.
They are the parents of three children. Ross Tonnes, born Sept. 17, 1943, at Grafton, N. Dak., attended Sinkler School, the Walsh County Agricultural School of Park River, and the State School of Science at Wahpeton. He is married and lives in Janesville, Wise, and has two daughters: Michele and Melissa. Ross owns and operates his own print shop.
Although Earl doesn't date back to the horse and buggy days, he has fond memories of the beautiful horses his father had that were used for field work when he was a young fellow. Earl belonged to the Nash Corn Club for a time. He played baseball with Nash for a number of years and that was a sport he really enjoyed. The baseball field was right in town and, when the game ended, the team all headed for the Monson Store. He played ball with the Mandt team in later years. In 1939 he married lone Midgarden and moved to Fertile Township. He is a member of South Trinity Lutheran Church and has served on several boards and committees in the church, township and school. He was a 4-H leader for the Fertile Ags for 10 years. He was a hockey booster, taking his car and boys to games wherever the game might be. He later drove the school bus in Grafton and also the athletics bus which proved he must have enjoyed being around young folks. He served on the steering committee of what later became the Walsh Water Users, and served as its president for seven
Melissa Sue Anderson, born July 10, 1980, daughter of Colleen and Ross Anderson. She is the granddaughter of Earl and lone Anderson. Vance William was born Nov. 28, 1949; received his elementary education in Sinkler School, and graduated from Grafton Central High School. He attended the University of North Dakota and served four years in the U. S. Navy. He is now farming with his father, and lives on the place that Gunder N. Midgarden homesteaded. Genell Marie was born Sept. 2 1 , 1 9 5 4 , she attended Sinkler and Grafton schools, graduating as a licensed practical nurse from the State School of Science, Wahpeton, N. Dak. She married Wayne Jallo July 12, 1980; they live at Halstad, Minn. lone is a member of South Trinity Lutheran Church, has
Anderson Jallo Wedding, July 12, 1980. Left to right: Vance, lone, Genell, Wayne, Earl, and Michele. Michele is the granddaughter of Earl Andersons. 303
taught Sunday School for several years, and served as superintendent for two years. She is a member of the A.L.C.W. in which she has taken an active part. She belonged to Countryside Homemakers Club for over 30 years. She feels she has learned a great deal from the ladies in this organization. Her hobbies are many, but baking seems to have priority over all. Just where to separate the work from the pleasure is wondered sometimes. She has enjoyed exhibiting at the County Fair, and winning the Super Loaf bread-baking contest at the State Fair was a thrill. Being selected one of the five outstanding farm women in Walsh County in 1 979 was indeed an honor. As a young girl, lone spent lots of time helping her mother with the poultry, but since then never had any desire to raise any of her own. Cats she loves, and has spent hours feeding and caring for them. She can only remember one year that there hasn't been a cat or more on the farm. When thinking back to a memorable childhood experience, it always involved Sinkler School. Thoughts about school chums like Bernice Thompson (Hall), the Fisher kids, Avyce and Glenn Midgarden, Vivian and Bobby Hanson, the Blegen boys, the Torkelson boys, Lillian Brekke (Larson) and Alvina Thompson (Jorgenson). lone spent part of one winter at Belmont School in Grand Forks. When she returned about Easter time, 1929, she really received a warm welcome from the kids and teacher. Now they had the sixth girl they needed so bad for the Wand Drill and the May Pole dance. This turned out to be quite a production, one most of the kids never forgot. The teacher and director was Gladys Larson (Thompson). School programs were a lot of hard work, but so much fun also. Going over to stay with Grandma and Grandpa Ivesdal was always a big deal, too. They were so good to the children all the time that it was no wonder the children liked it. Then, of course, Aunt Clara (Cye) was only a little older than lone and they had a lot of good times together, lone never knew her other grandparents as they were gone before she was big enough to remember them.
Each summer, one month of "Norwegian School," similar to our present day "Bible School" was held at South Trinity. All the children of the area would attend to study Norwegian as well as religion. Summer school was much more fun than the regular public school because there were more pupils, therefore more playmates. Bardon often talks about his father taking the children to the Barnum and Bailey Circus. If the weather didn't cooperate, so the car could be used, his father would hitch a team of horses to the wagon and they would go to town. Since the circus didn't shut down until midnight it meant a long day for the children. He vividly remembers one time the circus was late in arriving because of trouble at the Canadian border. The circus had been performing at Winnipeg. Since North Dakota was a dry state, it was illegal to bring in alcohol, and alcohol had been found in the caravan, causing the delay. Bardon worked on the home farm and in 1945 he and his brother, Tom, rented the Hadland Farm. Bardon retired in 1976. He still resides on his birthplace. In 1937 Bardon married Astrid Gjesdal at the parsonage, with Rev. L. O. Helleklev officiating. Astrid was born in Highland Center Township, Ramsey County, to Sven and Kristi Rustad Gjesdal in 1915. She attended Highland Center Consolidated School for eleven years and, as a high school senior, attended and graduated from Nekoma Consolidated School in 1934. In 1946 she attended Mayville State Teacher's College which started her on a teaching career of twenty-five years, including terms in Grand Forks and Walsh Counties and one year at Conrad, Mont. Her career ended in retirement in 1971. To this union was born a son, Blair Randolph, in 1 938. Blair (Randy) attended several schools due to his mother's
Earl and lone reside on the farm six miles west and onefourth of a mile south of Grafton. With 1980 drawing to a close, it was a bad year as far as farming went but they are looking forward to 1981 with optimism.
BARDON BIRK FAMILY Bardon, the second son of Ingebret and Mary Larson Birk, was born in 1914 in Fertile Township. He attended school at Monson School No. 114, west of Grafton. At that time he walked to school and home again, regardless of weather. A term of school was usually seven months. Bardon was baptized by Pastor Willimson and confirmed by Rev. Grimsrud at South Trinity.
Mr. and Mrs. Bardon Birk
Mrs. Bardon Birk and son, Blair Randy.
employment as a teacher. When Blair was 1 6 and a half years old he went seeking his fortune in Florida. At that young age, fortune was elusive so he went back to Chicago and married Carol Smith in 1955. Then he saw the need for an education so he finished his high school through a program at the Y.M.C.A. He continued his studies at the University of Chicago. Randy worked at various jobs until he bought Electrical Environmental Systems. This business is located in Elk Grove Village, III.
Arnold Clemenson Family: left to right, Olianna, granddaughter, Lisa Clark, Arnold Clemenson: back row, Rodney Clemenson, and Bonita Clemenson Clark. Lutheran Sunset Home Board; was a member of the Mandt School Board and Fertile No. 62 Township Boards. Arnold Clemenson married Olianna Helgeson in 1945. Olianna was born in Walsh County, the daughter of Haaken and Clara Helgeson. Arnold and Olianna Clemenson have two children: Bonita and Rodney. Bonita was born in 1946. She graduated from Concordia College, Moorhead, Minn., teaches elementary education and piano. She married Cal W. Clark, Jr., and resides in Newport Beach, Calif. They have one daughter, Lisa Anne. Rodney was born in 1952. He graduated from the North Dakota State School of Science, Wahpeton. He is farming and operating the Clemenson certified seed potato business. Carol and Randy Birk, seated, with their children, Brian and Pamela. ALFRED DALEY Alfred Daley and Gertrude Widme were married Dec. 3, 1913, and lived and farmed in the Mandt area. Gertrude was a telephone operator at Crystal before she was married. Alfred worked for the Highway Department and was assessor for many
Randy and Carol have two children: Pamela Sue, born in 1956, and Brian Randell, born in 1961. Pamela graduated from the University of Southern Illinois, in Carbondale, in 1978. She is employed by George R. Frericks and Associates. Brian is with the engineers battalion of the Armed Forces in Germany. Carol works for Trend Carpeting where she has been employed for a number of years. Carol was born in Tennessee in 1938, coming to Chicago in 1952. Her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Edward Smith, live in Lyon, III.
ARNOLD CLEMENSON Arnold Clemenson was born in 1913 on the Clemenson farm in Walsh County to parents, Henry and Hilda Clemenson. Hilda was the daughter of Tom Knudson, who organized Zion Lutheran Church in 1879. On July 7, 1979, the Arnold Clemenson and Lilphare Clemenson families hosted a 100th anniversary breakfast and Norwegian service, on the original Knudson farm site, where the first Zion Lutheran Church service was held. Rev. Earl Sletten officiated at this service and Mr. and Mrs. John Moan provided Norwegian music. Arnold Clemenson farmed in Walsh County and operated a certified seed potato business. He served as president of Zion Lutheran Church; has served two and a half terms on the
Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Daley 305
years for Fertile Township. He passed away in 1 964. Gertrude is a resident of the Lutheran Sunset Home.
He has worked as a farm laborer and diesel mechanic, and is now employed at A and H Implement Co., Grafton.
The Alfred Daleys had five children: two who died at infancy; Ardell, who is deceased; Ralph, on the home farm; and Marilyn, Mrs. Ed Bry of Bismarck, N. Dak. Marilyn is a nurse and has four sons: Donald, Thomas, Robert and Jonathan.
He married the former Reane S. Northagen, daughter of Melvin and Joyce Northagen, Fordville, on May 4, 1 974,. Reane was born in McVille, N. Dak., on Dec. 18, 1951, and lived in Michigan, N. Dak., until 1967, then moving to Fordville. She graduated from Fordville High School in 1969. Reane attended Grand Forks School of Hair Design for one year. She is now employed in Grafton, N. Dak. They have two children: Melissa and Andy.
ARDELL AND MARY DALEY Ardell Daley was born Dec. 3 1 , 1915, in Fertile Township, the oldest son of Alfred and Gertrude Daley. He lived in the Mandt Area part of his life and attended school there and was a graduate of the Walsh Agricultural School, Park River, N. Dak. On April of 1942, he enlisted in the Marine Corps and was stationed in San Diego, Calif. He served as guard for six months in Hawaii; from there he was transferred to Johnson Island and was there until his discharge from Balbon Hospital, San Diego, on Dec. 28, 1944. Ardell married Mary Ganyo, the daughter of James and Gertrude Ganyo, on July 2, 1945. They lived and farmed in the Veseleyville area. After the death of his father, Alfred Daley, they moved to the home place on Highway No. 17, 10 miles west of Grafton.
The James Daleys live in Fertile Township and are members of Zion Lutheran Church, rural Hoople.
DAN DALEY (SON OF ARDELL AND MARY) Dan, the son of Ardell and Mary Daley, was born in Grafton, N. Dak., and grew up in the Veseleyville area. He attended his first five years of elementary school at Grafton, then finished it at Park River, and graduated from the Walsh County Ag. School. He then attended North Dakota State University, Fargo, for two years. He started working for Polar Telephone in 1970.
Ardell and Mary have five children born to them: James, Katherine, Daniel, Timothy, and Renee.
He married Sandy Pokrzywinski on June 17, 1972. Sandy is the daughter of Walter and Milly Pokrzywinski of Lankin, N. Dak. Sandy graduated from Lankin High School in 1972. They have three children: Scott, Patricia and Trudy.
James married Reane Northhagen on May 4, 1974. They have two children, Melissa and Andy.
The Dan Daley family lives in Park River and are members of Our Saviour's Lutheran Church.
Katherine married John Wilmer, Oct. 27, 1968. They have two boys, Greg and Jeff. Daniel married Sandy Pokszywinski on June 17, 1972. They have three children: Scott, Patricia and Trudy. Timothy married Cheryl Simon on Dec. 27, 1972. They have three children: Loretta, Amy Jo, and Matthew. Renee is at home, graduated from Park River High School in 1980, and is presently attending North Dakota State School of Science, at Wahpeton, N. Dak. Ardell passed away in 1970, at the age of 54. Mary, his wife, still lives on the farm. The families live in the Grafton and Park River area.
JAMES A. DALEY (SON OF ARDELL DALEY) James A. Daley was born Oct. 4, 1946, in Grafton, N. Dak., to Ardell and Mary (Ganyo) Daley. He grew up in Prairie Centre Township and attended three years of country school. Then he attended five years of elementary school in Grafton, and continued school in Park River, graduating from the Walsh County Ag. School in 1965.
TIM DALEY (SON OF ARDELL DALEY) Tim, the son of Ardell and Mary Daley, was born Jan. 27, 1954, at Grafton, N. Dak., and grew up in the Veseleyville area. He attended his first year of elementary school at Grafton, then finished in Park River, and graduated from the Walsh County Agricultural School, Park River. He then attended one year at Midwest Automotive Technical Institute at Kansas City, Mo., and is now employed at Erickson Ford in Park River. Tim Daley married Cheryl Simon on Dec. 27, 1972. The daughter of Orvaille and Alfreda Simon of Park River, Cheryl was born Apr. 29, 1953, at Minot, N. Dak., and moved to Park River in 1956. She attended school in Park River and graduated from the Walsh County Agricultural School. She attended the State School of Science at Wahpeton one year. Tim and Cheryl have three children: Loretta, Amy Jo and Matthew. They reside in the Veseleyville area.
CLARENCE DALEY FAMILY Clarence Daley was the youngest son of John T. and Karina Heimdal Daley. He was born on the Daley homestead, in Mandt, on Dec. 3 1 , 1896.
James enlisted in the United States Marine Corps on Aug. 8, 1966, had his "boot training" in San Diego; was stationed in Camp Lejeune, N . C , and served on a Mediterranean Cruise for six months. He spent 13 months in South Vietnam, and was discharged from the Marine Corps July 17, 1969, at Treasure Island, Calif.
He graduated from the Mandt School and in 1913 was a member of the first class to attend the Walsh County Agricultural and Training School in Park River. He also attended the Agricultural School in Crookston, Minn.
James is a life member of the VFW Post 9367, Grafton (past commander 1974-1975); a life member of Cooties Pup Tent 10, Red River Spud Bugs, Grafton; a member of American Legion Post 147, Park River, N. Dak. (past commander 1976); and a life member of America's Former Marines (now serving as commander).
On Nov. 6, 1928, in Thief River Falls, Minn., he married Alice Selma Helgeson. She was born Oct. 2 1 , 1 9 0 9 , in Streeter, N. Dak., the fourth of eleven children of Henry and Clara Helgeson who lived in Duxby, Minn. Mrs. Daley's grandparents were also Norwegian immigrants, in the mid 1800's, to Southern Minnesota.
Agricultural and Training School in Park River, and Mayville State Teacher's College. She taught school for one year in Walsh County and lived in New Mexico and California before moving to Alaska in 1952. She was married in Anchorage on Feb. 8, 1953, to Donald George Sheets, who was born in Washington on Feb. 22, 1927. They homesteaded in Alaska in 1953. Don was employed by Chuqach Electric in Alaska.
Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Daley. Photo taken 1954. Mr. Daley was active on the township board and served on the Mandt School Board. He played the slide trombone in the Mandt Concert Band for several years. He loved playing in the band and I recall him telling of marching with the band, and if a wrong note was played it was blamed on the old brick streets on which they marched, as they were very uneven.
Left to right: Maia, holding Sara; Clarice, Matthew, Nathan, Don, Karina and Donald. Photo taken 1972. Clarice and Don had seven children: Kristin Ann, Donald Bradley, Maia Jeanette, Karina Jean, Matthew John, Nathan Dahle and Sara Margith. Clarice died in Anchorage in May of 1974. Don died in Anchorage in March of 1978. Kristin is married to David Berquist and they live in Camas, Wash. They have two children, David and Eric. Since her parents' deaths, Kristin is also raising her younger brothers and sisters: Karina, Matthew, Nathan and Sara, all students. Maia lives and works in Vancouver, Wash. Donald is married to the former Helena Carter and lives in Anchorage. He is employed in the Prudhoe Bay Oil Fields on the North Slope of Alaska.
The Clarence Daley Family: back row, Beverly, Joyce, Betty and Clarice; front row, Patricia, Clarence, John, Wanda, Alice and Marlys. Photo taken 1948.
BETTY DALEY BANGART (DAUGHTER OF CLARENCE DALEY)
The Daley's raised eight children: Clarice Jeanette, born May 8, 1929; Betty Jean, born Nov. 9, 1930; Alice Joyce, bom July 21, 1932; Beverly Ann, born Sept. 1, 1935; Marlys Elaine, bom July 26, 1938; Patricia JoAnn, born Nov. 1, 1940; John Henry, born Nov. 20, 1942, and Wanda Lee Virginia, born Nov. 13, 1944. Except for a two-year period in the late 1940's, when he owned and operated a motel and store in Billings, Mont., Mr. Daley lived and farmed his entire lifetime on the John Daley homestead. He was a member of the Zion Lutheran Church. Mr. Daley died on Jan. 1 1 , 1964, in Grafton. Mrs. Daley resided on the family farm until her death on Jan. 27, 1981. CLARICE DALEY SHEETS (DAUGHTER OF CLARENCE DALEY) Clarice Jeanette Daley was the first child born to Clarence and Alice Daley. She was born May 8, 1929, in Grafton, N. Dak. She graduated from the Mandt School, The Walsh County
Betty and Bob Bangart on their 30th wedding anniversary, April 2, 1980. 307
Betty, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Daley, was born in Grafton on Nov. 9, 1 930. After graduation from the Mandt School and the Walsh County Agricultural School in Park River, she attended the North Dakota State University in Fargo. Betty lived in New Mexico before moving to Billings, Mont., in 1949. On Apr. 2, 1950, she was married in Billings to Robert W. Bangart, who was born on Dec. 18, 1927, in Montana. He served in the U. S. Air Force in Okinawa. They reside in Billings where Bob is a building materials salesman. Leisure time is spent fishing and hunting.
Sam, Joyce and Aaron McDowell. Photo taken 1980 Tom is employed in the Prudhoe Bay oil fields. Dan and Kevin live in Anchorage and are employed in the Prudhoe Bay oil fields. Sean was killed in a boating accident in May, 1979, at age 21. Aaron is a high school student in Anchorage. The Bangart Family: left to right, Nancy, Tracy, Richard, Susan, holding Gamyr, Tony, Betty, and Bob. Photo taken 1980. They have five children: Susan Rae, Nancy Kay, Teresa Ann, Anthony Wayne and Richard Todd. Susan is married to Ronald Worf and they live in Logan, Utah. They have one son, Gamyr Jon. Nancy is a medical administrative assistant and Teresa, an interior designer. They both live in Kent, Wash. Tony is a structural repair specialist with the U. S. Air Force and is stationed in England.
BEVERLY ANN DALEY CLARENCE DALEY)
MCCARTY
(DAUGHTER
OF
Beverly, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Daley, was born on the Daley homestead on Sept. 1, 1935. She graduated from the Mandt School and attended the Grafton High School. She was employed at the Deaconess Hospital in Grafton until the summer of 1 953 when she moved to Anchorage, Alaska. She was married on Dec. 4, 1954, in Anchorage to Roy C. (Sam) McCarty, who was born on July 27, 1931, in Washington.
Richard is a student at Brigham Young University in Provo,
Utah.
ALICE JOYCE DALEY CLARENCE DALEY)
McDOWELL
(DAUGHTER
OF
Joyce, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Daley, was born on the Daley homestead on July 2 1 , 1932. After graduation from the Mandt School and the Walsh County Agricultural School in Park River, she moved to Billings, Mont, in 1950. In September of 1951 she moved to Anchorage, Alaska, where she still resides. She was married on Mar. 2, 1953, in Anchorage to Sam McDowell, who was born on Sept. 2 1 , 1928, in Missouri. He served in the U. S. Air Force and upon his discharge, in 1948, moved to Anchorage. Joyce is a domestic engineer and Sam is the president of Expediters Research Supply, Inc. He also serves as president of the Anchorage Izaak Walton League and is their National Director at Large. Much of their leisure time is spent fishing.
Beverly and Sam McCarty. Photo taken 1978.
Joyce and Sam have five children: Betty Anne, Daniel Jeffrey, Sean A., Kevin Douglas and Aaron John.
Beverly and Sam now reside in Auburn, Wash., where Beverly is a real estate agent and Sam is employed as an engineer with Boeing Aircraft.
Betty Anne is married to Tom Tuttle and they have three children: Toby, Dione and Tory. They live in Anchorage and
They have seven children: Catheryn, Debra, Michael, Kim, Brian, Patrick, and Terri.
Debra is married to Jeff Neville, has one son, Joshua, and the family lives in Auburn, Wash. Catheryn, Michael, Kim and Brian live and work in Washington. Patrick and Terri are students.
MARLYS ELAINE DALEY KEBODEAUX (DAUGHTER OF CLARENCE DALEY)
John and Corey Lee. Shane is a graduate of the Whapeton State School of Science and is a land surveyor in Grand Forks. Kelly is a student at the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks. Darin is a high school student and Corey is a junior high student in Kent, Wash.
Marlys, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Daley, was born in Grafton on July 26, 1938. Marlys received her elementary education from the Mandt School and attended the Grafton High School. In 1954 she moved to Anchorage and graduated from the Anchorage High School in 1 956.
JOHN HENRY DALEY (SON OF CLARENCE DALEY)
She moved to Washington in 1956 and was married there on Dec. 3 1 , 1 9 5 7 , to Elmo Anthony Kebodeaux, who was born on Feb. 8, 1937, in Louisiana. He served in the U. S. Navy and was stationed in Hawaii.
He graduated from the Mandt School and the Walsh County Agricultural School in Park River. In June, 1960, at age seventeen, he drove up the Alaskan Highway and settled in Anchorage where he still resides.
They lived in California and for the past ten years have lived in Sesser, III., where Marlys is a real estate agent and Elmo is a salesman. They have four children: Joyce Annette, Donna Marie, Terri Lynn and Susan Babette. Joyce is married to David Keip and they have one daughter, Kristian. They live in Mt. Vernon, III.
He served in the Alaska Air National Guard from 1964 to 1970.
John is the only son and seventh child of Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Daley. He was born in Grafton on Nov. 20, 1942.
John works in the construction business and is also employed by Nabor Well Servicing, Inc., on the North Slope oil fields. He and his wife own and operate a jewelry and antique store in Anchorage. He is a hunter, a fisherman, and an Alaskan bush pilot.
Donna and Terri live and work in III. Susan is a junior high school student.
PATRICIA JOANN CLARENCE DALEY)
DALEY
HOLT
(DAUGHTER
OF
Pat, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Daley, was born in Grafton on Nov. 1, 1940. She graduated from the Mandt School and the Grafton High School. She was married on Apr. 22, 1958, to William M. Holt, who was born in Grafton on June 25, 1938. He is the son of Ruth and Sam Holt of Grafton Township.
Janet, John and Drew Daley. Photo taken 1980. In 1979 he married the former Janet Lynn Jones, who was born Dec. 28, 1953. Originally from Bakersfield, Calif., Janet has been an Alaskan resident for twenty years. John has one son from a previous marriage, Drew Sigurd Daley, who was born Sept. 30, 1977.
WANDA LEE VIRGINIA DALEY PETITCLERC Bill and Pat Holt. Photo taken 1979. The Holts lived in Grand Forks until 1979 where Bill was employed in the trucking industry and Pat worked at the University of North Dakota. They now live in Kent, Wash., where Bill is a line driver with Garrett Trucking. Pat is an EDP analyst with the Boeing Company in Seattle. They have four children: Shane Allen, Kelly Anne. Darin
Wanda is the eighth child of Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Daley. She was born in Grafton on Nov. 13, 1944. She took her elementary education in the Mandt School and attended high school in Grafton and Park River. A graduate of Dakota Business College, Fargo, she also attended the University of West Los Angeles School of Law. Moving to California in 1964, she was employed for eight years as a pension and profit sharing administrator. She was
The Storedale is located eighteen miles out of Treungen, Telemark, Norway. The above house was originally owned by John T. Daley's great-grandfather, Tarjei Knutson. Shown in the picture are Mrs. Alice (Clarence) Daley and Wanda L. Daley Petitclerc on a visit to The Storedale in 1976. Denne, Wanda and Scot Petitclerc. Photo taken 1980. married in California on Nov. 27, 1971, to Denne Bart Petitclerc, who was born May 15, 1929, in Washington. He served in the U. S. Navy in the Aleutian Islands. As a journalist, he was a war correspondent during the Korean War and covered the Cuban Revolution. They divide their time between homes in Ketchum, Ida., and Marina del Rey, Calif. Denne is a screenwriter and novelist and Wanda is a production assistant in the film industry. Wanda is an amateur photographer. Denne enjoys oil painting, big game fishing, and hunting. Both enjoy travelling. She has one son, Scot David Petitclerc, who was born in Grand Forks on May 19, 1962. He is a student at the Embry Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, Fla.
JOHN T. AND KARINA DALEY John T. Daley was the son of Tarjie Dahle, who was born on Jan. 2 1 , 1818, in Nissedal, Telemarken, Norway, and Anne Johnsdatter, who was born in Nissedal in 1815.
John T. Daley. Age 90 years. Photo taken 1944.
John's great-grandfather, Tarjei Knutson, was bom in 1 755 in Tinn, Norway. Tarjei married Mari Halvorsdatter, who was born in 1763 in Tinn. In 1793 Tarjei and Mari purchased a farm of some 7,000 acres called The Storedale in Telemarken, Norway. Tarjei and Mari's daughter, Kari Tarjeisdatter, married Bjom Ormsson and they were the next owners of The Storedale. Kari and Bjorn's son, Tarjie Bjornson, was born on The Storedale on Jan. 2 1 , 1818. Tarjie Bjornson married Anne Johnsdatter. Tarjie and Anne imigrated to the United States. Immigration to the United States was caused, in part, by the lack of enough flat farmland in Norway. They had great difficulty providing enough food for the country's population. Although The Storedale was a large farm, little of the land was flat enough to be farmed. In 1852, following his older brother, Anon, Tarjie immigrated with his family (his wife, Anne; children, Bjom, Kara and Anne; and his mother, Kari Tarjiesdarter), via sailing ship, to the United States. Upon leaving Norway, the brothers took the name Dahle
Above is the house in which Karina Cro Heimdal was born in Treungen, Telemark, Norway. The farm was called Southern Heimdal. A one-room log cabin, approximately 150 years old in 1976, the house was still occupied by a man in his nineties, whose parents purchased the farm from Karina's family. Shown in the photo are Mrs. Alice (Clarence) Daley and Wanda L. Daley Petitclerc on a visit in 1976.
from their father's farm, The Storedale. Dahle was later changed to Daley. They settled in Perry, Wise, (later called Daleyville).
Scandanavian Bank in Grafton; and very active in school affairs. Mr. Daley donated the land for the Mandt School (called the Daley School until 1896).
John T. Daley was born in Perry, Wise, on May 9, 1854. He lived in Wisconsin his first 22 years and then moved to Iowa where he continued farming.
John T. and Karina Heimdal Daley had eleven children: Annie (Mrs. Ole Hagen); Sophia (Mrs. Halvor Sanderson); Alma (Mrs. John Hendrickson); Ella (Mrs. Marius Hagen); Clara; Agnes; Carl; Alfred, Torger, Clarence and a boy who died in infancy. All of their children are deceased.
He met and married Karina Gro Heimdal while in Iowa. They migrated to North Dakota in 1878, settling in the Goose River country. Mrs. John T. Daley (Karina Gro Heimdal) was born in Treungen, Telemarken, Norway, on Sept. 1, 1858, on her parents' farm, called Southern Heimdal. She was the daughter of Torkel Jorgenson, who was born Oct. 1, 1822, and Signe Knudsdarter, who was born Aug. 25, 1828. In 1862 they immigrated to the United States and settled in Wisconsin. They returned to Norway and immigrated again in 1869 and settled in Winnebage County, la.
Karina Heimdal Daley died Jan. 25, 1929, and John T. Daley died July 9, 1945. Both are buried at Zion Lutheran Cemetery. Story and photos submitted by John T. Daley's granddaughter: Wanda L. Daley Petitclerc RALPH AND VIOLET DALEY Ralph and Violet (Charon) were married June 15, 1945. They both attended school at Park River. Ralph farmed until 1963, when they both started working at the Grafton State School. They have ten children. Jerome, David and Glenn, are married and reside in the area. Ellen married Robert Arnold, Senior Chief in the Navy, and resides at San Diego. Ellen and Robert have four children: Rhonda, Nicole, Dana, and Robert.
John T. Daley and his first log cabin in Fertile Township. John T. Daley and Karina Gro Heimdal were married on Sept. 28, 1876, in Iowa. In 1878 they moved to the Goose River country of North Dakota. The following year, 1879, they moved to the Red River Valley and settled in Fertile Township. Mr. Daley lived and farmed in Fertile Township for the rest of his life. He was an active participant in community affairs. He was one of the organizers of the Zion Lutheran Church; was a member of township supervisors; was a director of the
Ralph Daley Family: left to right, back row, Paul, David, Jerome, Richard, and Glenn; front row, Ralph, Ellen, Elaine, Nadine, Steven, Dennis, and Violet. Richard graduated from the Walsh County Agricultural School, Park River, in 1969. He was in the Marines from 1971 1973, stationed in Hawaii and Japan. He went to Alaska and worked on the Alaskan Pipeline and resides in Anchorage, Alaska. Paul graduated from Walsh County Agricultural School, Park River, in 1972, then went to Airline School in Kansas City, Mo. In 1972 he entered the army in 1974-1976, serving in Germany. He works at Grafton Auto Electric and lives near Grafton, N.Dak.
John T. Daley and his granddaughter, Beverly Daley, shown outside Mr. Daley's second homestead site in Mandt. The house shown was built around a two-room log cabin and was later the home of the Clarence Daley family. Photo taken in 1937.
Steven graduated from Park River High School in 1977 and works on the farm in the summer and goes to A.V.T.I, in East Grand Forks in the winter. He belongs to the Jaycees in Park River, and lives at home. Nadine graduated from Park River High School in 1980 and worked at the State School this summer. She is presently working at Ben Franklin's in Grafton. She lives at home.
Guard and still is a member of the Grafton unit. David attended the North Dakota State School of Science, Wahpeton, and took plumbing and heating and cooling curriculum. Presently, he is employed at G. J. LaHaise and Sons Plumbing and Heating in Grafton. On October 26, 1974, David married Anna Mae Greicar at St. John's Catholic Church in Pisek. She received a Bachelor of Science Degree in elementary education and library science at Mayville State College. Anna Mae has taught at Fordville, Pisek and Nash. They have one daughter, Jennifer Ann. They reside in Park River.
Dennis, a student at Park River High School, attended school one year in San Diego, Calif., staying with his sister there. He lives at home. Elaine goes to Park River High School and still lives at home.
JEROME DALEY (SON OF RALPH DALEY) Jerome Daley graduated from the Walsh County Agricultural School, Park River, in 1966 and worked for Red Owl before entering the army in April, 1969. He left for active duty in Vietnam Oct. 6, spending 1 3 months there.
GLENN AND JULIE DALEY (SON OF RALPH DALEY) Glenn Daley is a 1975 graduate of Park River High School and has been employed at Nash Grain and Trading Co., Nash, N. Dak., since graduating.
Jerry and Delores Daley He married Delores Johnson Aug. 12, 1977. They live in Grafton. Both work at the State School. Jerome is a programmer and his wife is a ward charge.
DAVID DALEY (SON OF RALPH DALEY) David Daley graduated from the Walsh County Agricultural School, Park River, and in 1972 he entered the U. S. National
Glenn and Julie Daley On June 22, 1979, he married the former Julie Ellefson of Grafton. Julie is a 1977 graduate of Grafton High School and has a degree in executive secretarial from Aaker's Business College in Grand Forks. She is employed as a bookkeeper at Pamida Discount Center in Grafton.
AMASG. FLATEN Amos G. Flaten was born Aug. 10, 1902, on a farm in Fertile Township, Walsh County. He attended schools in Walsh County and was graduated from the Walsh County Agriculture School, Park River, in 1923. He farmed with his father and brother, Peder, until 1925. In 1923 he married Ida R. Lien of Vesta Township, who was born Aug. 3, 1904. In 1925 they bought a farm east of Park River where they lived until 1976 when they moved into Park River. They farmed through good times and bad, and saw a lot of their friends go broke in the 30's when so many banks closed. Seven children were born to them: Duane, Erna and Irwin,
Anna Mae, David Daley and Jennifer Ann. 2
Amos C. Flaten and Ida Lien wedding picture. Mr. and Mrs. Iver Flaten, 1887.
Amos C. Flaten Family: lefto to right, back row, Irwin, Marvin, Ander, Amos; second row, Erna, Duane, Judy; front, Ida and Amos. Marvin, Ander and Amos, and Judy. The farm is now being farmed by Amos, Jr., and has increased to 1,320 acres. Amos and Ida have been active in church and community affairs, and are interested in all of the projects related to the school and their family.
IVER FLATEN Iver A. Flaten was born Sept. 24, 1980, near Black Earth, Wise, to parents, Amund and Johanna Flaten, who had immigrated from Norway in 1 857. Iver came to Dakota Territory in 1882, where he homesteaded in Section 5 of Fertile Township. Iver married Hannah Broget in 1887. She died in childbirth on May 12, 1889, and is buried in Zion Cemetery, rural Hoople. In 1894, Iver rented out his land and went into the hardware business in partnership with I. L. Newgard of Grafton. Anna Halvorson married Iver in 1903. They had one son, Agdur, born Nov. 17, 1904. Iver sold his business in 1904 and went farming near Fork, Minn. He farmed until 1918, when, because of ill health, he
Iver Flaten, wife Anna, and Agdur. rented out his farm. He kept his residence on the farm until 1920. Iver moved to Grand Forks in 1920, where he lived until his death, Nov. 16, 1 921. He is buried in Zion Cemetery.
P.J. FLATEN Peder John Flaten (Pete) was born to Norwegian parents. Paul Flaten and Elizabeth Swenson Flaten, on Feb. 7, 1901. Their home was in Section five of Fertile Township. Pete was one of nine children. Pete attended Rural School District No. 25, known as the Walstad School. He later attended the Walsh County Agricultural School in Park River. He then began farming in a five-year partnership with his brother, Amos Flaten. Pete spent the summer of 1920-21 farming a land investment in Manitoba, Canada. When Pete was 19 years old. he became a member of the
Rural School District No. 25 school board. He was elected clerk, and held that position for 25 years. Pete married Lydia Bjorneby, Jan. 3, 1925, at the Zion Lutheran Church parsonage, rural Hoople. The couple lived at Pete's home in Fertile Township.
Peder and Lydia Flaten Both Pete and Lydia have been lifelong members of Zion Lutheran Church, rural Hoople.
Peder J. Flaten, wife, Lydia Flaten, daughter, Elizabeth, and son, John. Lydia Bjorneby was also of Norwegian descent. She was born Sept. 19, 1903, in Glenwood Township, one of seven children bom to Christian Bjorneby and Anna Midgarden Bjorneby. Lydia also attended Rural School District No. 25. She spent her high school years living with her sister, Alma, attending Humboldt, Minnesota, High School; and with her sister, Ruth, attending Grafton High School. She graduated from Mayville Teacher's College. In 1924, she began teaching at Rural School District No. 76 (Gryde School), and continued until her marriage. A son, Peder John Flaten, Jr. (John), was born to Pete and Lydia, Sept. 15, 1926. A daughter, Elizabeth Ann, was born Jan. 7, 1929. That same year Pete started growing certified seed potatoes, an endeavor that lasted 45 years.
During World War Two, Pete and Lydia's son, John, served irt the Army as a Private First Class in Korea, 1944-46. When John returned home, he attended North Dakota State University in Fargo. On Apr. 3, 1950, John married Marvel Ann Kelsow and began farming in partnership with Pete, Sr. John and Marvel had four children: Peder, III, Marcel (Sally), Jeannine, and Cindy. John died Sept. 7, 1972, and is buried in the Zion Lutheran Cemetery. Elizabeth Ann (Betty) graduated from Colorado Women's College as an x-ray technician. On Aug. 27, 1950, Betty married Delbert McKee. They have lived in Denver since their marriage. Betty and Del have four daughters: Ann, Barbara, Sue, and Nancy. In 1972, Pete's grandson, Peder John Flaten, III, joined the farm partnership. Peder and his wife, Julianne Lewis Flaten, also live on the family farm. Their children are the sixth generation of Flatens to live in the same house. Pete and Lydia celebrated their Golden Wedding Anniversary in July of 1975 on the farm where their marriage began, and where they still reside.
Pete was active in the Republican Party and served as township committeeman. In 1933, he was elected a representative to the state legislature. While in Bismarck, Pete roomed across the hall from the then state representative, Milton E. Young. Since Representative Young had a room without a bath, he was a frequent visitor to Pete's room. Pete was a member of the legislature when Governor Langer was removed from office. Lydia was also an active party member, serving as district committeewoman for many years.
The Flatens have had a special fondness for pets and children. Their home is seldom without dogs, cats, and kids, which is a source of joy for their nine great-grandchildren. They do not believe in retirement. Pete and Lydia continue to be an integral part of the family farm.
Both Pete and Lydia's children attended the same Rural School District No. 25 that the parents had attended. They were also both graduates of the Walsh County Agricultural School; and were both presented their diplomas by their father. Pete served as a school board member from 1 934 to 1948.
One of nine children born to Halvor O. and Kristi (Ellingson) Groven, Henry C. Groven was born May 27, 1895, at his parents' homestead in Dundee Township. In the early 1880's, the elder Grovens had immigrated separately from Nore, Numedahl, Norway, to Walsh County where they were married in 1888.
In addition, Pete was a charter member of the Farm Bureau, a member of the Masonic Lodge in Hoople, and the Kem Temple in Grand Forks. He served on the Nash Farmers Elevator Board, and served three four-year terms on the North Dakota Seed Certification Board. He was one of the original shareholders responsible for building the Livestock Sales Barn in Park River. Both Pete and Lydia were 4-H Leaders. Lydia was a charter member of the Countryside Homemakers. She received a 50-year pin in 1979, and is still an active member. Lydia also belongs to Eastern Star.
HENRY C. GRO VEN
In 1896, the family moved to a farm in Fertile Township where Henry grew to manhood. He remained there and farmed the homeplace his entire lifetime. The farm is presently owned by Wallace and Ernest Thompson. On Dec. 5, 1926, Henry married Gunvor C. Skarness at his home. Pastor Grimsrud officiated at the marriage with Gerhard Groven and Helen Groven as witnesses. Gunvor C. Skarness was born Apr. 3, 1904, at the Gaard Hjalland in Botne, Numedahl, Norway. She immigrated from
They reside in Fargo, N. Dak., and have two daughters: Mrs. H. Corwyn (Joyce) Rice, Edmore, N. Dak., and Mrs. Lane (Vicki) Bina, Lawton, N. Dak. WALLACE GUNHUS Wallace Gunhus, son of George and Hilda Rustan Gunhus, married Edna Thompson Gunhus, daughter of Chester and Mary Vogel Thompson, on Sept. 17, 1948, at Zion Lutheran Church, rural Hoople. They have six children: Sue Ann, Judith Renae, Don Wallace, Joan Marie, Robert Dale and Janet Faye. Wally and Edna make their home in Fertile Township.
Henry C. Groven and Gunvor Skarness wedding photo December 5, 1926.
The house they are now living in was moved out of Grafton in June, 1973. It used to stand where the Walsh County Bank now stands, and was known as the Fraser house. Melvin Thompsons also owned the house. It was moved out of Grafton by Cecil Burger, a housemover from Auburn, and was on the road for two days. It was necessary to make many stops to have wires cut — the movers never realized how many until the house move was on its way. But the house was very well built and stood the move in fine shape.
there with her mother, Christi Gundersdatter Vehus-Hjalland Skarness, to Ernfold, Sask., Canada, in June, 1913. They moved to North Dakota in August, 1916, and settled in Walsh County. Prior to her marriage, Gunvor completed nearly two years of nurses' training at Deaconess Hospital in Grafton. The Grovens were active members of Zion Lutheran Church, rural Hoople. Henry served on the township board for a half century, and also served on the Mandt School Board, District No. 62, in Fertile Township. A World War I veteran, he served as commander of the Walsh County Barracks, and as commander of Grafton Post 41 of the American Legion in 1952. He was elected State Commander of North Dakota World War I Veteran's Association in 1966.
The Wallace Gunhus Family: left to right, front row, Joan and Craig Walstad, Judy and Art Knudson, holding Leslie and David, Sue Ann and Tom Barnhart; back row, Robert, Mrs. Gunhus (Edna), Don Gunhus, Wallace and Janet Gunhus. Sue Ann Gunhus received a Bachelor of Science Degree in nursing at the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks. She married Dr. Thomas Barnhart, son of Dr. Carl and Maxine Barnhart, Dec. 28, 1979, at Zion Lutheran Church. Sue Ann is a nurse at St. Luke's Hospital and Tom is a professor at North Dakota State University, Fargo.
Henry C. Groven Family in 1946. Left to right: Arlene (Olsen), Henry Calmer, Jr., Henry and Gunvor. Henry C. Groven died Sept. 25, 1971. Gunvor Groven then moved to Park River and resided there until her death, Sept. 17, 1979. Both are buried in Zion Cemetery, rural Hoople. Two children were born to them: Henry Calmer Groven, Jr., and Arlene. H. Calmer was born Mar. 5, 1929. After his father retired, he farmed the homeplace for several years before moving to Park River where he has been employed or engaged in business. He was an active member of the Park River Curling Club and was a well-known curling enthusiast in his younger years. Arlene, born Jan. 25, 1932, married Harvey J. Olsen.
Judy received a Bachelor of Science Degree in nursing at the University of North Dakota. She married Art Knudson, son of Herman and Louise Knudson, Nov. 1, 1975, at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church. They have two children: David Arthur, born Dec. 8, 1977, and Leslie Louise, born June 8, 1979. Judy is a nurse in Mayville, N. Dak., and Art is a teacher in Galesburg, where they reside. Don received a Bachelor of Natural Science Degree and Bachelor of Education Degree at the University of North Dakota. He then attended the Ohio State University College of Optometry, graduating in 1980. He is practicing optometry and living in Fargo. When Don attended UND he was on the basketball team for four years. In 1974 he was named AllConference, and in 1 975, the Most Valuable Player. He was also team co-captain in 1975. In 1975 their team were the NCC champions and they went to Evansville, Ind. for the Nationals. They lost their game to Old Dominion.
Joan graduated from Moorhead State University and received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in community recreation and special education. She married Craig Walstad, son of George and Yvonne Walstad, Dec. 23, 1979, at Zion Lutheran Church. Joan works for the Fargo Housing Authority and Craig has a lawn sprinkler business, Rain for Sale, and is doing sub-contractor work for Cable Television. Bob graduated from Park River High School in 1979 and is currently attending the University of North Dakota, pursuing a marketing degree. Janet attends Park River High School and is active in a variety of school activities.
CARL AND EDITH HANKEY Carl C. Hankey started his life in the town of Minto where he was born Aug. 22, 1894. His parents, Con C. Hankey and Catherine Dorscheid, had a butcher shop in Minto at this time. In 1904, when his dad was elected sheriff, they moved to Grafton. After Hankey's term of sheriff they moved to Superior, Wise, and remained until big packing businesses forced him out of his butcher shop, and they returned to Grafton.
Mr. and Mrs. Leonard Hankey On the Golden Wedding Day
Carl started farming in 1915 on a farm east of Minto. Twice Carl was called to serve with Company C, in 1916 and again in 1918. On Nov. 6, 1917, Carl married Edith McAulay, youngest daughter of eleven children of John McAulay and Catherine Scully of Martin Township. Edith was born in Grafton Dec. 7, 1894, attended high school there, and was a teacher. She taught at the Donnelly School Dist. 5 and at Bottineau. Later she attended Aaker's Business College, working in Winnipeg and Saskatoon Sask., and in Grafton for the Trumann Abstract Co. In 1918 the couple purchased the home place from Catherwood and raised their first crop in 1919, living in a house south of the present farmstead while they were building their house in 1 920. In this time three children were born — Catherine (deceased) in Sept, 1918-39; Carl, Jr., Dec. 19, 1919; and Mary Helen Darling, Jan. 2 1 , 1921. Later two more children were born — Jean Haave, Oct. 29, 1927, and John, May 3 1 , 1935. Carl and Edith farmed until their retirement, building a new home in 1956, when John got married and, with his family, lives on the farmstead. Carl passed away in 1 961 and Edith, in 1969.
Taken Oct. 29. 1923 1898, the son of Conrad C. and Catherine Hankey. He spent his younger years there and in Wisconsin, coming back to Grafton, N. Dak., and attending school there. He was married to Jessie Roberta Woods in 1923, and purchased a farm at Park River. Six children were born to them — Leonard R. (Bart); Adele, Lucille (Pud) now Mrs. Wallace L. Thompson, and Paul, all living within this area. Marvin passed away at the age of 16 months, and John died two days after birth. (Reference: Vol. 1, page 171.)
JOHN AND ANNA MAE HANKEY John Hankey, born May 3 1 , 1935, to Carl C. Hankey and Edith McAulay Hankey, married Anna Mae Dvorak on Oct. 20, 1956. A daughter of James G. and Marie (Maresh) Dvorak, Anna Mae was born Mar. 22, 1938. They have four children — Diane, David, Kari, and Karla (Mrs. John Lovaasen), and two granddaughters, Jamie and Randi. John lives on the homeplace and farms with his brother, Carl, Jr., raising grain, beets, and potatoes. Reference: Vol. 1, page 171 and Vol. 11, page 774.
LEONARD AND JESSIE HANKEY Leonard J. Hankey was born in Minto, N. Dak., Oct. 2 1 ,
Leonard Hankey. taken in 1978.
FRANK W. HARRIS Frank Harris was born Jan. 1 7, 1 866, in Pickering County, Ontario Province, Canada, the son of John Harris and Harriet Wadge. He died Feb. 1, 1950, in Park River and is buried in Memorial Park Cemetery there. These are the pioneer events of his life as he wrote them: In 1 880 we came to North Dakota. I was 1 4 years old. Dad and John came with stock, in two railroad cars, and some machinery and feed. We had wagons to start with, and a reaper to take the harvest in. It was one that every fourth rake put off a bundle. Then we had to bind them by hand. That lasted for one or two years. We got a binder that did the tying. After the cars were unloaded, I was started out with the cows, across the prairie. The only marks to go by were narrow wagon trail tracks. Sometimes it was very hard to tell which trail to take. Keep straight ahead, that's the way to go, I was told. The first night we stopped at Turtle River, about 15 miles from Grand Forks. We then started out to Minto, the next stop. Feeding the cattle was the next problem. The next stop was home, but the last six miles were the longest, maybe we were getting tired. It was dark before we reached the end of the trail. After that we had to get the goods moved from the Forks, about sixty miles. I remember one night my oldest brother, Thomas, and uncle were coming home with some loads. When we got to Turtle River, a stopping place, it was all filled up so we fed the horses, then started out on the way to Minto. Uncle John Wadge was ahead. His horses started to turn around. I wanted to know where he wes going. When we got to Minto it was breakfast time. We fed again there. Then we started for home. That took most of the next day. We had to make a few trips to get it all home, but reached home after dark. Then we started to haul our goods from the Forks. The next thing was getting out logs for a house, so we went into the timber. Father picked out the trees that he wanted so the rest of us started to fell the trees and hew them on two sides, securing enough for ends and sides. We scored them and Father hewed them. We kids hauled them out. When he got what he needed they started to build the house and got it squared up. When they got the logs in place we kids got a job chinking up the holes. Then we plastered them up with mud for the first winter. In the spring we did it over again and those logs are in place yet. Later on they put siding on the outside. It is still in use. (This is on Uncle John's farm.) Then we started to get out more logs for a house on the farm Dad filed on and got it ready for spring. Next there was a stable for the horses. Then we got logs for another house for another farm. Most of the winter was spent getting logs for several houses. He had to put one on each of three claims. This was all done in the fall and winter of 1 880. We had to break up sod on each farm. We broke some for others that didn't have any way to do it. They had to have some broke up to hold their claims. This was all done in 1 8 8 1 ; in the spring of 1882, the first crop was taken off. On one field we got hailed out. Our neighbor came along and told Father he might as well put a match to it. He said, "We will cut it, and shock it, and stack it, and thresh it," and I got my experience in stacking. Granddad had given me a few pointers before, so it turned out all right. We got seventeen bushels per acre from that field. In 1883 we cropped what we broke in 1882. Now it was breaking again for the year 1884. We started out after seeding. By this time father had two sulky plows with movable bottoms, so we used one for breaking. Brother John took the oxen. He drove
three oxen on one plow — started the 24th of May and kept on until July. That was his job. The other plow was mine and I used it when there wasn't anything else for the horses to do. Then I would break the rest of the time. The first breaking that was done we could plow back again. They called it back-setting. We used to plow a little deeper than breaking. The breaking was done just as thin as we could do it. Some used to seed the land then break it after they had done the seeding and that was all they did to get a crop. We had to do our breaking before harvest. We used to play some football in the summer, after our day's work. That lasted until one night we came very near having a fight. That stopped the football. My kid brother (Fred) got a bump from a grown-up. When they came together again he got one on the shin — that's what happened. Then came the harvest and threshing. When we came to North Dakota we used to go to Sunday School and church at Uncle John Wadge's home. Uncle Charles Honey used to preach some Sundays. Then the second year they had a preacher once in a while. Then Roger Allen used to talk sometimes. Then they got a regular preacher. One was Rev. Burns, another Rev. Laird. Then there was Rev. Turner. Then when the town got started they started to build churches. They used to meet in some building, and set planks around for seats. In 1884 it was the same thing over again, doing more breaking. We got another 80-acre place so we had that to break. After we got all the breaking done, there was some grubbing to do before starting up some fields and then digging stones. We found a big limestone. We dug it up and made a kiln for burning the limestone and made lime. We had to stay up nights to stoke fires while it was burning and we had to do some fencing around. On one farm we hired one man, then put him and me to digging holes around a quarter section. That took some time. Then there was the wire to put on and the posts to set before it was finished. Then there was a new well to be dug, away from the house, so that fell to my lot. We got started one morning, but I had to wait for help to take the dirt away. By five o'clock we had the curb in; then we had to dig stones up between jobs. In 1885 it was repetition in the spring, sowing to get a crop; and this was the spring that my older brother, John, and I started for ourselves. We were thinking first of going west. Father and Mother didn't want us to do that so we took over two of his farms for $1,000 each. Then he gave us five horses and some machinery to work with and feed for the horses, and a sister, Etta, kept house for us that summer. I still have those two farms and let my oldest son have one, recently. I still have 240 acres. Then the next spring I got married on Mar. 8 to Alice Jones, at age 22. Brother John stayed with us for a while until he got married; then Father moved to town and John lived in his house. Then after a few years he bought a farm next to Father's place; then we bought a brother's farm, next to ours. That is the way we worked for a long time. We had an artesian well, 420 feet deep. We got a windmill to pump the water and grind feed, and were even able to do a lot of grinding for neighbors. On a windy day we would grind all day — the wind was necessary. I had over sixty sacks to do, sometimes. We had a nice big hopper to fill up, so we could go away for a while and do some other chores. We ground wheat for our breakfast food. My wife died after eight years. Then my sister, Lilly, kept house for a while until I got some help. I got Minnie Atcheson for all winter and the next summer she got married to Will Pengilly.
Then I got Miss Levere and she got sick. At that time I got married again, on June 2 1 , to Isabel McCauley. When I got home with the new wife there had been a hailstorm that took the crop. I hauled bundles for Duncan White, our neighbor, for a couple of years, then went into partnership with a cousin, John Bennington, and bought a new threshing outfit and threshed for ten years. Then I sold out to him. After thirty years the first well went wrong and we drilled another one, at one side and a little closer to the barn, so we could pump right into the bam by using a pipe, and the cows could get their water without going out. When it got cold they didn't stay long enough to drink. We built a new barn in 1910, and found we had to make the windmill tower two feet higher. In 1918 we built a new house — took off a lean-to that was on the east and moved it far enough away to live in while building. We took down the old one and started fresh from the bottom, using some of the wall we put in the old cellar over twenty-two years earlier. It was better than some the masons built. Like everything else, if it is done right it is stronger. We learned to chink with small stones instead of using too much mortar. We have moved several small buildings. We used to do lots of butchering. Folks would call on me if a cow or a horse were sick, or for a cow that had milk fever. They would often call me out of bed and, if I could help, I would go. The new house was 26' x 16' with an 18' x 18' kitchen. It had an L-shape and a screened porch on the south and east of the kitchen. Then we had water coming from the barn in the summertime — had pipes just below the ground. Soon we got electric lights and, one fall, put in a yard light. One evening we were going to have a corn roast in our yard but there was a nice yard just across the road so all decided to have it over there. There was a young man selling lighting plants so he used his plant to demonstrate, and put on a good show. The Legion boys had a platform, built in sections, and they brought them out so they could dance if they wanted to. That was a big night! For cooking the corn, we got a good big stock tank from one of the hardware men, dug a hole and put some iron bars across, then put on the tank. When the night came it was all ready. We had around 1,000 cobs of corn. We went and got them out in the corn field. This celebrated our Silver Wedding Anniversary. Now here are some of the things I have done on the side. I have told about my learning to stack. After we left the farm and went to town, one day a man came to town to find a stacker. He had some millet to stack so I went with him and did his stacking. Then another time I was stacking along the highway one morning, got a poke in the back, saying, "Where are you going? I want someone to do some stacking for me." He said he was watching from the road. I stacked hay 25 days. This was for Mr. Douglas.
common mower; so they got a small electric mower, I used to dig the graves. We had 258 while I took care of the grounds. The last year I worked they put a new fence along the south side and we put the old fence along the east. Before this I used to raise windmills for a dealer in town (Meagher and Shepherd). We have a lot of landmarks around there. There were two who wanted to move windmills, so we moved them standing up. I moved mine first. They said it couldn't be done. I said, "Yes." Then the next one wanted to know if I would help him to move his. He said he had all the ropes and the tackle to do it with so I told him it was quicker and easier to do it standing. We have taken the big wheel off the tower which was used for grinding feed and put a small one on for pumping water. We did all this with the tower standing up. I did this windmill work while I was on the farm, while it was seeding or harvest-time. When I moved to town I took most any kind of work. I have done some clerking for Dick Overbye in the Johnson Furniture Store and helped to line up graves out of town. I went west to Bremerton, Wash., for the winter of 1944-45 and again in 1946. I helped Ina plant and take care of flowers, made biscuits and cake for them, and helped gather and shuck oysters. I went to several Masonic Lodge meetings with Mr. Ellis. There is something else we have done while on the farm — I served on the school board two terms and served as supervisor on Fertile Township Board for seven years. I took care of Park River Shipping Association for ten years, and was caretaker for the Cemetery Association for fourteen years — took care of them all at the same time. I also took care of the William Burbidge Estate for sixteen years, and the estates of Mrs. James McCauley and James McCauley. I have done lots of stacking for other folks after moving to town in 1929. Then besides this I threshed for twenty-eight falls and was overseer of a ditch-digging crew from Main Street to the depot. About the children: Frank Wesley Harris married Alice Jones Mar. 8, 1888. Charlie was born Dec. 2, 1891. Ina was born Jan. 30, 1893. After my marriage to Bella McCauley June 2 1 , 1 8 9 8 , there were two more boys born, George and Wesley. George was born June 3, 1899, and Wesley was born Sept. 28, 1900. Ina started school when she was six years old and went to school until 1916, graduating from Hamline University. She quit teaching in 1927. Charlie went through the grades and part of high school. He has had a mail route for 30 years, an oil service truck business, and a little farming in with the rest. George is in the hardware and furniture business. Wesley is a machinist in an automobile business in Dearborn, Mich. They all had two and a half miles to go to school until they started going to town school. They all got some farming lessons. When they wanted their plows fixed they called on Dad. Charlie went halfway up between the canvas on the binder, one day.
One year after I quit farming I got some ideas about laying stones. I told my uncle one day, when he wanted a wall built, that I only had an idea how to do it. He said, "That is all you need." For a few years the crops were not so good. It took most of the crop to pay for threshing. Then I bought a small outfit and used it 20 years. I did threshing two years after I quit farming (1928) and moved to town, and I got a job taking care of the cemetery and threshed in the fall. Then it got time to retire. I was caretaker of the cemetery for 14 years. There are between seven and eight acres that have to be mowed. We did that with just a
THOMAS HARRIS Thomas Harris was born May 30, 1860, in Brooklyn, Ontario, the eldest child of John Harris and Harriet Wadge. There were eight more children — Elizabeth Sarah 1862-1943, Henretta 1863-1889, John A. 1864-1956, Frank Wesley 1866-1950, Fred 1868-1940, Ada Jane 1870-1963, Mary Ann 1871-1912, and Florence Lillian 1 876-1941.
Thomas came to North Dakota in 1 880 with his father, John Harris. Later in the fall they returned to Ontario, Canada, to fetch the rest of the family. They loaded their settlers' belongings on boats on Lake Huron. After the boat trip they went by rail to Grand Forks, N. Dak. From here most of the family traveled by horse and wagon to Park River. Thomas, his father and a frieend, John Martyn, continued with oxen and oxcart. They built a temporary home of oak logs, gotten from along the river. Later lumber was hauled from Winnipeg, Canada, for a more permanent home on the family farm. Thomas filed on the SW Quarter of Section 27, Fertile Township, Walsh County. He also had a tree claim on Section 23, Kensington Township, Walsh County.
Thomas Harris Family (1911): left to right, seated, Alice Verna (1885-1967); Thomas (1860-1929); John Bruce(1903); Mary Ann Jones Harris (I860-1938); Roy Freeman (18861962); standing, Henrietta (1894- ); Frank Beri (1896-1977); Clare Jones (1893- ). Thomas and Mary continued their contributions to the family and community in their new home and country. They moved into the town of Melfort in 1917, but carried on farming operations from there. Thomas passed away Dec. 3, 1929; Mary Ann on August 17, 1938. They are both buried in Mount Pleasant Cemetery, Melfort, Sask.
BOB AND PENNY (WALSTAD) HASELMO FAMILY Pauline Inger, the third child of Oscar and Joann Walstad, was baptized, confirmed and married in the Hoople community. After high school graduation she attended the University of North Dakota where she attained a BS degree in education. Wedding Picture, February 14, 1883. Thomas Harris and Mary Ann Jones.
In 1965 she married Robert Duane Haselmo, a native of Park River. They lived in Grand Forks for a brief period of time before moving to Lompoc, Calif., to make their home.
On Feb. 14, 1883, he married Mary Ann Jones, who had come out from Ontario to teach school.
Pauline, or Penny, as everyone calls her, completed graduate studies at the University of Calif., Santa Barbara, and received a Master's Degree in education with a concentration in psychology, from California State University, San Luis Obispo.
Fertile Township was organized in 1882. At the first meeting, held Jan. 4, 1883, Thomas was appointed pathmaster for District 2. In August, 1884, Thomas donated land on which to build a schoolhouse. It was first known as Harris School District, then Fertile School District No. 28, and later assigned the name of Peter Grobell School No. 1. Both Mr. and Mrs. Harris served as officials for the school district. In 1901 Thomas was on the Board of County Commissioners for Walsh County. Thomas and his family attended the Methodist Episcopal Church in Park River. His father was one of five men who had built the church. In February of 1903 Thomas moved his family to Saskatchewan, N.W.T. He was accompanied by his oldest daughter and three sons. His wife, youngest daughter and son joined the family later in the year. Thomas freighted out from Prince Albert, Sask., by horse and sleigh, settling in the Pleasant Valley District, south of Melfort. Here he and his family took up farming again. When the rest of the family joined them, they freighted out by wagon train.
Bob Haselmo and Penny Walstad Haselmo with son ZakNewton.
She teaches the Mentally Gifted Minor Students for the Lompoc Unified School District. Bob owns and manages Bob Haselmo's Auto Parts which specializes in industrial equipment and fleet accounts. Bob also holds U.S. Patents on three automotive tools, two of which are currently being marketed. Bob and Penny live with their son, Zak-Newton, at 535 Tamarack Ct.. Lompoc. Calif. Family hobbies include gardening, growing show roses and hybrid clivias. and playing musical instruments, especially the fiddle. They are members of Lompoc's Peace Lutheran Church and are active in various community organizations.
CHARLES HOENKE FAMILY Mr. and Mrs. Charles Hoenke live in rural Grafton, Fertile Township. Mrs. Hoenke is the former Ardella Holt, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Herbie Holt (Gladys Sando) who live in Grafton Township.
Log house built in 1879 114 school board. He was also a 4-H leader for a number of years. He farmed a number of years with his dad and brother, and later with Arnold and his son, Gary, until retiring in 1 979.
Charles is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Hoenke (Louise Horn) of Grafton, Acton Township. Charles served in World War II, has served as commander of the VFW in Grafton, and served on the Fertile Township Board.
Millard and Gladys are active members of South Trinity Lutheran Church. They make their home on the farm which once was owned by Albert Viger in Fertile Township.
Charles and Ardella are the parents of five children: Kevin, who is married to Zeb DeSautel; Mrs. John Glanner (Glenda); Mrs. Bill Collette (Jodean); Mrs. Carlos Esteuis (Cheryl); and Mrs. Mark Osowski (Carol).
OTTO HOVE HISTORY
They also have five grandchildren — Jennie and Jeremy Glanner, Carlos, Jr., and Jesse Esteuis, and Christopher Hoenke.
MR. AND MARS. MILLARD HOVE Millard Hove, son of Albert and Magna (Monson) Hove, was born Nov. 18, 1913, in Fertile Township. He has one brother, Arnold, and four sisters, Mrs. Arnold Orsund (Alice), Mrs. Willard Anderson (Rhodella), Mrs. George Delling (Marilyn), and Mrs. Eugene Rozum (Elaine). He attended School District No. 114, rural Grafton.
Otto Hove, the son of Knute and Gunhild Findring Hove, was born in Decorah, la., in 1877. Otto came with his parents to North Dakota in 1879. His six sisters and two brothers were Bertha, Ida, Clara, Nora, Emma, Glora, Pete and Albert. Otto married Mathilda (Tillie) Birk on June 15, 1904. Mathilda (Tillie) was the daughter of Ingebrit and Inger Field Birk. She was born in Osage, la., coming to Prairie Centre Township with her parents in 1887. She had one sister, Ella (Rasmusson); seven brothers, Tobias, Emil, Ingebret, Ingval, Pete, George and Leo; three half brothers, Fritz, Bardon, and Tom; and three half sisters, Mafalda, Elsie and Ruth.
On Oct. 22, 1938, he married Gladys Orsund, daughter of Peter and Annie Orsund. They have four sons — Gary and Dean of Grafton, Wayne of Devils Lake, and Scott of Washington, D.C. Millard has served on the South Trinity Church Board, Nash Grain and Trading, Lutheran Sunset Board, and the District No.
Otto Hove and Mathilda Birk on their wedding day, June 15, 1904. The Millard Hove Family: left to right, standing, Dean, Wayne, Cary, and Scott; Millard and Gladys.
Otto and Mathilda started their married life on the groom's farm in Fertile Township. On January 18, 1907, a baby boy was born to this couple which they named Knute in honor of his
paternal grandfather. Knute died at the age of one and a half years on Sept. 27, 1908, and is buried at the South Trinity Cemetery.
in Grafton. Ruth got her degree in education from the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, and taught school for a few years.
A little girl was born on May 2 1 , 191 1. She was named Inger after her maternal grandmother. Inger attended school at the Grobel School, Fertile Dist. 28, and was confirmed at South Trinity. In 1931 Inger married Clarence Johnson, and a son, Ronnie, was born to them in 1932. Ronnie married in Silvis, III., in 1950. He has two sons, Mark and Mike. Ronnie does carpenter work and lives in Silvis, III.
Ruth married Allen Inchoe. Allen teaches at Pilot Rock, Ore., where they make their home. Ruth and Allen are the parents of three children — Susan, Cindy and Eric. Otto Hove died Mar. 4, 1950, following a long illness. He is buried at the South Trinity Cemetery.
SCOTT HOVE Scott Hove, born Jan. 30, 1957, has been active in many community, religious, and political organizations. At the age of 15 Scott was elected president of the Eastern North Dakota District Luther League of the American Lutheran Church and served in this capacity for two years. At Grafton High School he has held the offices of Sophomore Class President, Junior High Student Council President, Senior High Student Council President, and represented North Dakota in 1973 at the Hugh O'Brian National Youth Leadership Seminar held at Cape Canaveral, Florida. Mr. and Mrs. Victor Liedtke On Nov. 25, 1936, Inger married Victor Liedtke at East Moline, III. Victor worked at International Harvester, and John Deere dealerships and also did some farming. He retired from John Deere in 1977 and lives in Silvis, III. Oliver Kenneth was born Nov. 24, 1918. He attended elementary school in Grobel Fertile District 28 and went to Park River for his high school. He was confirmed at South Trinity.
After graduation from high school in 1975, Scott attended Concordia College, Moorhead, Minn., and studied for one semester at American University in Washington, D.C. During college days, he was able to travel with a group of Concordia students to Europe, Egypt, and Kenya, Africa. After graduating from Concordia in 1979, Scott was employed by Senator Mark Andrews in Washington, D.C. During this time, he was also selected as the youngest member of Concordia College's National Alumni Board.
IVER IVERSON FAMILY In a family of nine children, Iver was the first son born to Alert and Olava Iverson. He was born in a log house in Fertile Township and was a farm laborer. Iver married Pearl Monson, daughter of Peter and Gunhild Monson, in Grafton Township. Pearl was the youngest of nine children and a registered nurse. Iver and Pearl had one child, Peggy Lou, who married Thomas J. O'Connell. Iver and Pearl have five grandchildren — Barbara, Daniel, Erin, Patricia and William O'Connell. Iver and Pearl Iverson lived by, and in Nash, most of their married life. They are both retired now and reside in Park River.
Oliver Hove, Crafton. N. Dak. On Sept. 25, 1941, he joined the First Armored Division where he spent four years. He was with the 47th Medical Battalion and served in Ireland, England, Africa and Italy during World War II. Oliver resides on his birth place in Fertile Township. Mathilda Birk Hove died in 1925 after a long illness. She is buried at the South Trinity Cemetery. In 1 936 Otto married Clara Monson Sandvig. To this union a daughter, Ruth, was born on May 24, 1938. She attended the Grobel School until, with her parents, she moved to Grafton in 1948. She completed her elementary and high school education
They are members of Zion Lutheran Church, rural Hoople, where Iver has served as a board member for a few years and Pearl has been active in Zion ALCW and a Bible study group.
HISTORY OF MR. VICTOR IVERSON Vic is the youngest of nine children, born to Alert and Olava (Nelson) Iverson. Both his parents were born in Norway and after immigrating to the United States settled in Glenwood Township, where they farmed. Vic was born in Glenwood Township on Oct. 1 9, 1 91 2. He lives in Mandt and works as a farm laborer. He enjoys working with his horses and drives them in parades in the area.
OlafR. Johnson Park River where he began farming, raising potatoes and grain. Olaf moved from the family farm in Fertile to Park River in 1935 with his parents. Olaf began farming in 1936 and purchased his first land in 1940. One of the farms he owns is the quarter section of land homesteaded by his grandparents, Olaus and Marie Johnson in Fertile Township, in 1881. Over the years Olaf has farmed in partnership with his brother, Victor. Olaf retired from farming in the fall of 1980. Olaf was baptized, confirmed, and is still a member of Zion Lutheran Church, rural Hoople.
MR. AND MRS. V. O. JOHNSON Victor O. Johnson was born June 16, 1904, on the family farm in Fertile Township where he still makes his home and farms the land. He is one of nine children born to the late Oscar Johnson and Louise Gulbransen Johnson.
Victor Iverson, photo taken in 1980.
Victor received his education in one-room rural school No 25, known as the Walstad School, and at the Walsh County Agricultural High School, Park River. Because of the distance to school and the various ages of the Johnson children attending, it was customary for one of the boys to drive a team of horses to school. The team was kept in the school barn until school was dismissed at 4 p.m. During the snowy winter months, they would shorten the distance by cutting across the fields with the team and sleigh or provide a ride for neighboring children. Victor has had a lifelong interest in farming. He recalls that at the age of ten, he hired out to Lars Larson during the harvest season for fifty cents per day. His job was to drive four horses and operate the binder. Because of the distance from the farm site the entire harvest crew stayed away all week and ate their meals' and also slept out of doors. Any inconvenience was of little consequence when he could drive four horses on a binder and have such an important part in the excitement of qatherina in a crop.
Victor Iverson, photo taken in 1980.
OLAF R.JOHNSON Olaf R. Johnson farms in Fertile Township and lives in Park River. Olaf was born on Dec. 1, 1909, the youngest son of Oscar and Louise Johnson who were also farmers in Fertile Township Olaf has eight brothers and sisters - Melvin, Archie (deceased) Cora, Mrs. Carl Paulson, Victor, Elmer, Irene, Irene, Mrs Bernie Legrid, Hazel, Mrs. Ted Clairmont, Florence, and Mrs. Paul Duffey.
a
In 11935, Victor's parents retired, moved to Park River, and rented the farm to him. That same year, on Dec. 1, he married Verna Lee of Grafton at South Trinity Lutheran Church. Several years later he purchased the farm from his parents. Previously Victor had purchased land which was a part of the Burbidge farm and a few years later, he bought land from Hans Larson, thereby enlarging the farm considerably. About that time, his brother Ulaf, became a partner in the operation and they are still actively engaged in farming together.
Olaf received his elementary education in District No 25 (Walstad School) and then the Walsh County Agricultural School in Park River, graduating in 1929. Then he attended the North Dakota Agricultural College in Fargo for two years, returning to
Throughout the half century or more of his career as a 322
her father played the violin and her mother was an organist and pianist. The family often spent the long winter evenings singing and playing musical instruments. Verna's formal music education consisted of sixteen piano lessons when she was nine years old. Her teacher was Mrs. Frank (Ida Almen) Mastre. Verna soon became the accompanist at various school and church functions. This was her introduction to playing the reed organ and in 1932 she began her duties as regular church organist of South Trinity Lutheran Church at a salary of twenty dollars per year. After her marriage to Victor Johnson, in 1935, she fulfilled her duties as organist for another year at South Trinity and soon, thereafter, became the organist of Zion Lutheran, rural Hoople. She accompanied and directed several choirs and singing groups, serving as senior choir director of Zion from 19551962. She also accompanied the Walsh County Women's Chorus under the direction and organization of Mrs. Lynn (Bess) Williams and later under Mrs. Agnes Dougherty Henderson. Music has been of special interest to Verna and she has enjoyed playing for numerous weddings here and in other areas as well as other functions. She has continued to serve as church organist on a full-time or part-time basis throughout the years and still continues in that capacity. In 1973, Verna retired as organist and was honored by Zion Lutheran for serving that church as full-time organist for 27 years. She recalls that for three consecutive years, she did not miss a single service at Zion. Verna was a member of the Walsh County Rural Electric Board when it was organized in 1937 and continued in that capacity until the Walsh Co-operative joined with other counties to form the Nodak Rural Electric Co-op.
Mr. and Mrs. Victor O. Johnson (Vic and Verna), Park River. N. Dak. farmer, he has witnessed and adjusted to many changes. In the early days, it was a time of diversified farming which included cattle, hogs and chickens together with field crops. All required much help and seasonally feeding large crews, five times a day, proved to be a challenge. A cook car on the premises each fall was a part of the scene. The potato harvest demanded hand labor and required forty or more men. Methods changed from total reliance on horses for power to the modern mechanized farm of today. During that gradual transition, he kept horses for additional farm power and special tasks. It was very often necessary to hitch up a team of horses to pull an automobile a few miles through the snow drifts to get to the highway and, upon returning, to again have to rely on a team of horses to get the automobile home. The demise of the farm horses was a slow process and when the last team was sold, in the late 1950's, it was with sadness and a feeling that a chapter in farm livinq was definitely closed. Victor has taken an active interest in his church and community. He served for many years as treasurer of Zion Lutheran Church, and also several terms as financial secretary, trustee and deacon. He has served as a board member of the Park River Bible Camp, the Sunset Founders, and the Farmers Elevator of Park River. He served as president at the time the elevator enlarged its plant by building a new addition in the late 1950's. He was designated by the board to supervise the building of that structure. Victor is a member of the Elks.
Mrs. V. O. (Verna) Johnson, Park River, N. Dak. North Dakota State Barley Queen — 1979. In 1979, Verna was crowned North Dakota State Barley Queen at the Annual State Barley Show in Osnabrock. She was nominated by the Countryside Homemakers Club of which she is a 45-year member. She is also a member of the Fortnightly Study Club of Park River.
Both Victor and Verna were charter members of the Walsh Curling Club. The are at present members of the Sons of Norway and C-400 Club of Concordia College.
LARRY AND MICKEY KNUTSON Larry Dean Knutson, son of Mr. and Mrs. Clinton Knutson of Park River, N. Dak., was married to Marion (Mickey) Walstad, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Oscar Walstad, rural Hoople, on Aug. 24, 1958, in Zion Lutheran Church, rural Hoople. The Knutsons have one son, James, born Mar. 24, 1966.
Verna Lee Johnson was born Feb. 22, 1912, in Grafton Township. She was the youngest of four children born to Henry and Anne Olson Lee. Verna attended rural school in District No. 114, known as the Monson School, and graduated from Grafton High School in 1928. Music played an important role in her childhood home since 323
They presently live in Minot, N. Dak., where Mr. Knutson is the Executive Director of Dakota Boys Ranch. Mrs. Knutson is Director of the Division of Health Practitioners and Associate Professor with the University of North Dakota School of Medicine.
HERMAN AND MYRTLE LEE Herman Amold Lee was bom July 30, 1907, on the family farm in Grafton Township to Henry G. and Anna Olsen Lee. Herman was the third of four children, including Irene Kjos. Wyndmere; Lawrence Lee, who resides on the family farm; and Verna Johnson, Park River. Herman was baptized and confirmed in Norwegian at South Trinity Lutheran Church where he has continued as an active lifelong member. Herman received his education at the Monson School, formerly located a half mile south of the family farm. Herman, who has farmed his entire life, served as a Fertile Township supervisor for six years and served as clerk of School District 114 at the time the school closed. He is a charter member of Sunset Founders; a director on the Lutheran Sunset Board; has held several offices on the church council, and has been church custodian for many years. One night in 1917 or 1918 Herman's father had been in town and came home with an accordion which he had bought from a man for a dollar. The man was leaving for Seattle and didn't want to take it on the train. Herman has played the accordion ever since, entertaining at neighborhood functions and fourteen years on the Jaycee Shopping Tour in Grafton.
Dianne and Tom Clemens wedding. 1975.
Herman and Myrtle Lee and Erika Clemens.
1967 to 1976. Since 1976, she has worked at the Home as social worker designate. She has written personal histories of many of the Home's residents, which have been published in the Home's newspaper, The Echo, and The Grafton Record. Herman and Myrtle were married at the Zion-South Trinity Parsonage by Pastor L.O. Helleklev on June 19,1941. They have two children — David, Rochester, Minn., and Dianne Clemens, Aberdeen, S. Dak. Their three grandchildren are Angela and Todd Lee and Erika Clemens.
Herman and Myrtle Lee, I960, son David and Daughter Dianne. Myrtle Thelma Johnson was born Mar. 5, 1916, on the Christianson farm in Walsh Centre Township to John T. and Hilda Brende Johnson. Myrtle is the oldest of five children, including Emma Burke, Grand Forks; Hazel Gast, Fargo; Ingvald, deceased and formerly of Portland, Oregon; and JoAnn Aimone, Perkin, III. Myrtle was baptized and confirmed at South Trinity Lutheran Church. Her confirmation class was the first to use English and then for only some members of the class. Myrtle attended the District 2 school by the Sandvig farm; Grafton High School, and Mayville State Teachers College. She taught at several schools in the Grafton area. She has remained an active lifelong member of the church, teaching the Bethel Bible Class, Sunday School, and high school Bible Class, the latter two for over twenty years. She was also very active in the A.L.C.W. She served as vice president of the Grafton Conference A.L.C.W. and president of the Walsh County Homemakers. Myrtle worked as an aide at the Lutheran Sunset Home form
Herman and Myrtle Lee The Lees lived on the home farm from 1941 to 1955. In 1955, they moved across the road into Fertile Township where they had built a new farmstead. Besides doing much of the work on the house themselves, they landscaped the yard and planted many of the trees by hand.
husband, May 3, 1978, at the South Trinity Lutheran Church with Pastor Ernest Christenson officiating. Edwin Markusen and Miss Inger Pederson were united in marriage Sept. 12, 1912, by Pastor J. J. Jacobson in Grafton. The couple had three children — Mabel (Mrs. Albert Erlanson), rural Hoople, born Dec. 29, 1913, and baptized Jan. 23, 1914, by Rev. H. O. Shurson. Her sponsors were Mr. and Mrs. Carl Torkelson, Arthur Staven and Miss Gudron Vaaland; she was confirmed Oct. 2, 1927, by Rev. C. M. Grimsrud. Jimmie, rural Grafton, born June 15, 1917, was baptized July 16, 1917, by Rev. Adolf Egge; sponsors were Mr. and Mrs. Carl Staven and Jens Torkelson and Bertina Torkelson. He was confirmed June 9, 1931, by Rev. L. O. Helleklev. Mildred (Mrs. Alvin Haugland), Hoople, was born Dec. 3, 1919, and baptized Dec. 17, 1919, by Rev. Adolf Egge. Her sponsors were Mrs. Paul Staven and Elmer Staven; he was confirmed Oct. 15, 1933, by Rev. L. 0 . Helleklev. Herman and Myrtle Lee, Todd and Angela Lee.
EDWIN AND INGER MARKUSEN Edwin Markusen was born July 1, 1881, to Jens E. and Mom Brekke Markusen in Prairie Township, Walsh County. His parents were pioneer settlers, having immigrated from Maridalen, Christiania, Norway. He was baptized Sept. 18, 1881. Sponsors were Johanna G. Anderson, Fredrick Olson, Ole C. Martinson and Hans J. Brekke. Rev. O. H. Aaberg officiated. He was confirmed Nov. 24, 1895 by Rev. K. A. Fjellbu. He passed away Sunday Sept. 24, 1939, about 9 a.m. at his farm home, at the age of 57. Heart disease caused his death. He was interred in the South Trinity Lutheran cemetery, rural Grafton, with Rev. L. O. Helleklev officiating. He had four sisters - Mary (Mrs. Paul Staven), Helen (Mrs. Martin Viger), Josephine (Mrs. Carl Torkelson), and Sophie (Mrs. Tolev Staven). Inger Pederson was born Sept. 13, 1894, to Torkel and Olena Pederson in Stavanger, Norway, and was baptized and confirmed in the Dorn Church of Stavanger. She had four sisters and six brothers. She came here in 1911, at the age of 17, to her uncle and aunt, Mr. and Mrs. Tonnes Ivesdal, rural Grafton, N. Dak. She passed away Saturday evening, Apr. 29, 1978, at the Lutheran Sunset Home in Grafton at the age of 84. She had been a resident there one day and one night, after being transferred from the Unity Hospital. Massive stroke and other complications caused her death. She was laid to rest beside her
Children of Mr. and Mrs. Edwin Markusen: standing, Mabel: sitting, Jimmie and Mildred.
Mr. and Mrs. Edwin Markusen (wedding picture).
The Markusens lived on their farm in Fertile Township, Walsh County, growing grain and potatoes. They also had cows and chickens. Farming was done by horses in their early years. The children attended a one-room country school, District 28, and some of the teachers stayed with them. The school term was seven months as they didn't have school during the coldest part of winter. A wood and coal stove heated the school house. The teachers put on programs with the pupils participating. After the program, decorated lunch baskets, brought by the girls, would be auctioned off, and the buyers ate with the girl whose name was in the basket. This was done to raise money for the school. The Markusens were members of South Trinity Lutheran church, rural Grafton. Mrs. Markusen was active in the ladies aid and served as president. Meetings were held in their homes in the early years.
Each summer the children attended parochial school at the church for one month, and parents took turns boarding the teacher. Christmas was a fun time of the year. Neighbors would get together and have dinner parties where we would stay until about midnight playing games and whist. Every home had a decorated Christmas tree. Children were all about the same age so they had a good time playing together. In the fall of 1948 Mrs. Inger Markusen returned to Norway for a visit.
JIMMIE AND LOUADA MARKUSEN FAMILY Jimmie Markusen was born in Fertile Township on June 1 5, 1917, to parents, Edwin and Inger Markusen. He has two sisters: Mabel (Mrs. Albert Erlanson) and Mildred (Mrs. Alvin Haugland). He graduated from Grobel School District No. 27 in Fertile Township. Reminiscing he found that the hardest time to go to school was at threshing time, as it was hard to miss all the excitement of threshing. He still enjoys the "threshing bees" in Park River each year.
Dennis Markusen Family: left to right, standing, Jessica, Jason; seated, Dennis, Jonathan, Linda, Joseph (held by father).
After completing elementary school, he farmed with his dad, Edwin Markusen, until he died in the fall of 1939. After that Jimmie operated the family farm for his mother.
Jimmie and Louada Markusen, wedding — October 8 1949.
Mr. and Mrs. Donald Payton (formerly Leanne Markusen), daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jimmie Markusen.
He married Louada Thrugstad, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Thrugstad, of Silvesta Township, on Oct. 8, 1949. The wedding took place at the Hirterdal Lutheran Church, north of Adams. The attendants were Joyce, Louada's sister, and Arnold Staven of Grafton.
Park River High School in 1972. Leanne attended Trinity Bible Institute in Ellendale for three years and graduated in 1975. In June, 1976, she married Donald Payton of Louisville, Ky. They have traveled a lot in evangelistic crusades. At present they are employed in Louisville, Ky., but live in New Albany, Ind.
Jimmie and Louada have two children. Dennis was born on Sept. 17, 1950. He graduated from elementary and high school in Park River, then attended N.D.S.U., Fargo, and N. D. State School of Science, Wahpeton. He married Linda Feltman in August, 1971. They have four children: Jessica (8 yrs.), Jason (6 yrs.), Jonathan (4 yrs.), and Joseph (5 months). These four bring their grandma and grandpa lots of happiness as they share the same farmyard. Dennis has worked for the Walsh County Highway Department and Civil Defense, with the exception of six months, since graduating from NDSSS in 1972.
CLIFFORD I. MASTRE AND FAMILY Clifford Ingvald Mastre married Edith Adeline Wooldridge on April 28, 1938. They lived on a farm all of his life. He worked on farms in Fertile Township. Clifford and Edith had three children. Donna Lou is married to George Robinson from Hensel, N. Dak. They adopted two children, Jason Paul, age 10, and Shawna Kay, age 7. They live in Lakota, N. Dak. JoAnn Elizabeth married John Davis from Grand Forks, N. Dak. They have two daughters — Janelle Kay, age 3'/2, and Joan May, age 2/2. They live in Grand Forks. She has two daughters
Their daughter, Leanne, was born Aug. 28, 1954. She attended elementary school in Park River and graduated from 326
from her first marriage. They are Jeanne, age 19, and Jacqueline Kowalczik, age 1 8 years. Larry Clifford married Linda Hanson from Northwood, N. Dak. They have two children — Julie Lynn, age 6 years, and William Clifford, age 2Vi years. They live in Grand Forks, N. Dak. Clifford passed away on Aug. 28, 1980, in Fargo at the age of 66 years.
CHRIS AND EVELYN MIDGARDEN FAMILY HISTORY December 25, 1934, was the day chosen for the wedding of Chris Midgarden and Evelyn Florence Jamieson. The event took place at the bride's home in St. Paul, Minn., with Guy and Florence Jamieson hosting the wedding. Rev. Asher, cousin of Florence Jamieson, performed the ceremony. Ella Johnston Tripp provided the wedding music. Leonard Heder, then of Hoople, and Genevieve Rose Luck attended the couple. A wedding dinner was served for 25 guests. Jean Hunter Adams and Doris Hunter Wesbrook were waitresses and special guests. The Jamieson family had moved to St. Paul in the spring of 1934 where Guy was appointed chief appraiser of the Federal Land Bank. Two brothers, Marvin and Raymond, were students at what is now N.D.S.U. and the University of North Dakota. Evelyn's twin brother, Ralph, was attending the University of Minnesota and Harry was a student of piano in St. Paul. The youngest brother, Don, was in elementary school at the time. Christmas Day was chosen to make it possible for the North Dakota students as well as Raymond's bride, Ruth, to attend the wedding. Mrs. Nels 'Inger' Midgarden, represented Chris' family on this day. Chris and Evelyn Midgarden moved to a farm south of Hoople and moved to the Rev. Flaten homestead near Zion Lutheran Church, rural Hoople, which has been their home the past 30 years.
Chris Midgarden Family: left to right, Chris, Marjorie, Kim and Arpad, Evelyn, Doris, and Joel. Picture was taken at the wedding of Kim and Arpad, June 28, 1980. Six children were born to this union — Doris, Guy J., Marjorie, Joel, Neil and Kim. Doris Midgarden is a research biochemist and teacher; Marjorie Kitzrow is owner of Kitzrow Advertising Agency, Chicago, III.; Joel Midgarden is a farmer and partner in the Midgarden Potato Co., Hoople, N. Dak.; Kim Lengyel is a free lance artist and designer in advertising and student; and Neil Midgarden died unexpectedly at the age of 2 1 , while attending business college, Jan. 19, 1967; and Guy J. Midgarden died in infancy, April 16, 1938. Five grandchildren have brought joy to Chris and Evelyn. They are Tanya and Heather Kitzrow, 16 and 15 years of age, of Wilmette, III.; Nicole, 14, Barbara Midgarden, 10, and Jason Midgarden, age 8, of Hoople, N. Dak.
Chris and Evelyn Midgarden's daughter, Kim, the bride, and the Midgarden grandchildren, Tanya, Jason, and Heather; front row, Barbara and Nicole. Chris has been vitally interested in agriculture and 4-H Club work. He is a former board member of the River Valley Potato Growers Association, a past board member of the School District 25 and the Walsh County Agricultural School of Park River; and is a former partner in the Midgarden Potato Company. School District 25 was located on Chris' farm. The new owners of the building, which was moved to Park River, gave Chris the old bell but much to his surprise it was removed from the tower by pranksters. The Chris Midgarden children all completed their eight grades in the old school except Kim Elizabeth who spent her first year there and loudly protested having to leave the country school to ride the bus to Park River to complete her education there. The re-districting of No. 25 was completed Oct. 18, 1960. Six sections went into Park River District 78 and one and 1/8 went in to Hoople District 42. Chris has also enjoyed working with the Walsh County Fair and State Potato Show since his youth. He is the youngest son of a pioneer couple, Nels and Inger Flaten Midgarden. Evelyn and Chris are both active members of the Zion Lutheran Church near their farm home. They were privileged to take part in its 100th anniversary July 8, 1979. They have both held offices in Zions' organization. Evelyn is one of the organists, a past youth advisor, and teacher in the church. She was the first president of the Walsh Women's Curling Club and still enjoys curling. Evelyn has been a member of the Countryside Homemakers' Club for 45 years. Her hobbies include piano and organ, oil painting and photography. The photographs shown were taken June 28, 1980, of the family at the wedding ceremony of Kim Elizabeth and Arpad Lengyel who are now residing in State College, Pa. The Midgardens were privileged to be guests of the 100th anniversary of the Nels and Inger Midgarden Homestad which was held at Joseph and Karen Midgarden's farm home which was the original site. This was also the former home of Alfred and Beulah Midgarden. Relatives from many parts of the U.S. were there in attendance. This event took place July 1, 1979.
JOEL DAVID AND JANET MIDGARDEN FAMILY
EDWARD AND IDA MONSON
Joel David Midgarden was born in Grafton, N. Dak., on Feb. 14, 1943, the son of Evelyn and Chris Midgarden. He grew up on his parents' farm in rural Hoople with three sisters and one brother, and attended a country school known as the Walstad School through the eighth grade. Joel graduated from the Walsh County Agricultural School in Park River, N. Dak., in 1961 where he was active in many sports.
Edward Monson was born in 1892 in Fertile Township to Monsand Runaug (Lindelien) Monson. He married Ida Rundhaug, the daughter of Gulbrand and Kristie (Nygaard) Rundhaug, at the Zion parsonage on Oct. 2 1 , 1925. They were married by Rev. Adolph Egge. They moved to a farm in Fertile Township, where Mrs. Monson is recently residing with her son, Arnold Monson. Edward and Ida were the parents of three children — Manville Monson of Fergus Falls, Minn.; Eleanor Monsebroten of Grand Forks, N, Dak.; and Arnold, at home. Manville and Dorothy (Houska) Monson are the parents of four children — Lavonne, Ronald, Allen and Marty. Eleanor and Norman Monsebroten have six children who are Jeffrey, Nancy, Lyle, Ray, Sally and Betty. A son, Russell, died in 1967. Edward Monson died Nov. 1 8, 1 974.
GUSTAV AND OLGA (RUNDHAUG) MONSON FAMILY Janet and Joel Midgarden wedding, April 12, 1964.
Nicole and Barbara Midgarden, 1980
On April 12, 1964, he married Janet Marie Hall at Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Park River, N. Dak. Janet was born in Park River, N. Dak., on Dec. 20, 1944, the only daughter of Stella and Charles Hall. She has six brothers — Gordon, Curtis, Conrad, Thomas, Dennis, and Larry. She attended the Park River schools and graduated from Walsh County Agricultural School in 1962 and from Aaker's Business College in Grand Forks, N.Dak., in 1963.
Gustav Monson, the son of Mons and Rundhaug (Lindelien) Monson, was bom Dec. 9, 1898. He had five brothers and four si=ters and lived in Fertile Township. Gust and Olga were married April 4, 1 923. They farmed six miles west of Grafton for ten years, then moved to another farm, south of Nash. They are parents of six children — Orvil, born July 17, 1924 (deceased 1934); Mae and Mandus, born July 3 1 , 1926; Vernon, born June 5, 1928; Willard, born Feb. 15, 1931; and Lloyd, born Nov. 8, 1936. They are all members of the South Trinity Lutheran Church and attended the local schools. Willard served in the army and was stationed in Germany, 1953. Lloyd was also in the armed services. Mae was employed at the Deaconess Hospital in Grafton as a nurses aide from 1945 to 1953. She married Joseph Holm, Oct. 25, 1953, at the South Trinity Lutheran Church and they live west of Hoople. Gust and his sons were active farmers in the Grafton and Nash area where the brothers are now farming in partnership. Lloyd is married to Joyce Oak and Mandus is married to Marlene Schultz. Gust often butchered and cut meats for others, making dried beef and sausages. Gust passed away Dec. 3, 1969. Mrs. Monson, Willard, and Vernon are living on the home farm.
RAYMOND W. AND MARGARET NELSON
Joel Midgarden Family: Nicole, Barb, Janet, and Joel (1980). Joel and Janet have two children — Nicole Marie, born July 8, 1966, a freshman at Park River High School, and Barbara Lyn, born on June 26, 1970, an active fifth grader. They live on the same farm that Joel's parents did when they first married. Many activities keep them busy especially golfing and curling. Both Joel and Janet were on a State Champion Curling team. Joel is in a farming partnership with his six cousins in the Midgarden Potato Company and the family are members of the Zion Lutheran Church of rural Hoople.
Margaret Thorsen Nelson was born in 1915, the daughterof Olaf and Carrine Thorsen of Fertile Township. She grew up in the Mandt community and attended grade school at Fertile District No. 62. She attended High School and in 1942 she married Raymond Nelson of Becker, Minn. Margaret and Ray were parents of three sons. Gerald Nelson, married Sharon Johnson of Park River, N. Dak., and they have two children, Jennifer and Scott. Richard, who lives on the home farm in Mandt, works on farms in the community. For many years he helped on the Tallackson dairy farm. James graduated from UND at Grand Forks with a music major, and is now attending business school in Minneapolis. Margaret and Ray were members of Zion Lutheran Church. Margaret was in the church choir, A. L. C. W., and was church secretary for many years. Margaret worked at the Grafton State
Agricultural School at Park River from 1959 to 1 965. In November of 1965 he went to work for the Grafton Implement Company as a bookkeeper. On June 19, 1966, he married Marlys Olson of Rugby, N. Dak. In February, 1967, he joined the North Dakota Army National Guard and, upon completion of basic training, worked at various jobs before joining the Fargo Public schools in February 1968, where he is currently employed as warehouse manager. Marlys and Allan have three children: Kimberle, born Aug. 5, 1967; Suzanne, born Dec. 18, 1971; and Jeffrey, born Feb. 20, 1974.
ERNEST AND BEATRICE OAK Ernest Oak, son of George and Lydia (Johnson) Oak, was born at Riceton, Sask. Canada, 30 miles southeast of Regina, on Apr. 2, 1912. At the age of six years he moved with his parents, three brothers and two sisters to Mcintosh, Minn. Later, two more girls were born to the family. Ernest (Ernie) spent his earlier years at Mcintosh, receiving his education there. Later he spent some time in Montana and came to the Hoople area as a farm hand in the early 1930's.
Richard Nelson and Raymond W. Nelson working in the dairy milk house on Harvey Tallackson Farm, Aug. 1968. School as secretary-bookkeeper for many years. Ray held offices in Zion Church, and was a dairy herdsman for the Harvey Tallackson Dairy for 15 years. Margaret died in 1967 and Ray, in 1977.
Ernest was married Nov. 4, 1938, to the former Beatrice Hultin, granddaughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Karl Hultin and Mr. and Mrs. Torgrim Evenson, who all came to Walsh County about 1882. She is a daughter of the late Nels and Augusta (Evenson) Hultin who owned and operated the farm on the Northwest Quarter Section 8, Fertile Township, on which they are living and have been farming since their marriage. She had one brother, Clifford, and a sister, Margaret (Mrs. Isaac Isaacson). Both are deceased.
RICHARD NELSON Richard Nelson was born in 1948 to parents, Raymond W. and Margaret Nelson. He resides at his farm home near Mandt. Richard has two brothers, James and Gerald. Richard attended elementary school at Fertile Dist. No. 62 and Park River, graduating from the Walsh County Agricultural School in Park River in 1966. Richard lives in the farm home built by Ray and Margaret Nelson. He is a member of the Zion Lutheran Church and has served on the church board. He is employed as a farm laborer.
ALLAN AND MARLYS OAK Allan Oak was born Mar. 18, 1945, at Grafton, N. Dak. to parents, Ernest and Beatrice Oak, of Fertile Township. He attended grade school at Fertile District No. 25, which was located along North Dakota Highway No. 18, three miles north of the junction of North Dakota Highways 17 and 18, from 1951 to 1959. He attended high school at the Walsh County
Ernest Oak Family: Allan, Beatrice. Ernie. Joyce and Lowell on the Ernest Oaks' 40th wedding anniversary. Beatrice attended grade school in Fertile District No. 25 and received her high school education at the Walsh County Agricultural School at Park River, graduating in 1936. The following year she attended the New York Hairdressing School at Fargo, N. Dak. After completing the course she owned and operated a beauty shop at Gilby. N. Dak., until their marriage. The Oaks have three children.
iB0
Joyce married Lloyd Monson and lives on a farm east of Nash. They have two children. Connie and Scott. Allan married Marlys Olson of Rugby. N. Dak., and resides in Fargo, N. Dak. They have three children — Kimberle, Suzanne, and Jeffrey.
Mr. and Mrs. Allan Oak and children. Kim. age 9: Suzie. age 4; and Jeff, age 2. 329
Lowell, a single man, has been farming with his dad since completing high school. During that time he served his six-year stint in the N. Dak. Army National Guard. In 1979, when Ernie retired, Lowell took over the farming business. The Oak children received their elementary education in Fertile District No. 25 and their high school at W.C.A.S. at Park River. In June, 1954, the Oaks experienced a very bad wind storm that passed through their area and blew their barn down. Ernie, with the help of a hired man, built it up again during the summer. In August, when it came time for the shingling, all their neighbors got together, came over and did the job in one day. It is at a time like this they realize how wonderful friends and neighbors are. In 1976 they moved into the new home which they built. This replaced the old house in which Beatrice grew up. The Oaks are members of Zion Lutheran Church of rural Hoople. Ernie has served on the Church Council at several different times, was township supervisor for a number of years, and served on the school board of District No. 25. Beatrice is a member of the A.L.C.W. and Countryside Homemakers Club.
MICHAEL AND ROSANNA STANGELAND Rosanna Bjorneby was born Jan. 29, 1864, at Arkdale, Adams County, Wise, to Gunnerius and Olea Bjorneby. She came with the family to Grafton in April, 1882. On Dec. 25, 1895, she married Michael Stangeland at the home of her parents near Grafton.
Valley, with glowing reports of the free land and good grazing country, the urge to go west was strong. In the fall of 1 900 after threshing, he came to White Earth, homesteading in Dry Fork Township, south of Tioga, the family joining him in 1 9 0 1 . This was their home until retiring in 1 943, when they rented the ranch and moved to Williston. The ranch was sold to a grandson, Arnold Krogen, in 1 960. The Stangelands were parents of three children born in Walsh County; an infant daughter died while there. Bergitte Theodora Stangeland Krogen and Olea Gleora Stangeland came with their parents to Williams County in 1901. Myrtle Stangeland Stuart and Thorleif Gerhard Stangeland were born in Williams County. Rosanna Stangeland died in Williston Dec. 19, 1949, and Michael Stangeland died in Williston Sept. 22, 1 964. They were returned to Zion, rural Hoople, for burial.
FRANK AND ANNA SUDA FAMILY Frank Suda, born in 1875, was the adopted son of John and Anna Suda. Anna Janousek was born April 14, 1879. Frank and Anna were married Jan. 18, 1898, at St. Luke's Church in Veseleyville. When they first married, the couple lived with his parents for two years, then moved to a farm in Prairie Centre Township (the present Cyril Suda farm) where they resided until 1907. They then bought a farm in Fertile Township (now the Paul Suda farm) and moved into the small house on that place.
Michael Stangeland was born Oct. 29, 1871, in Kopervik, Karmoy, Norway. He came to America in 1890, locating in Benton County, la., where his brother, Elling, had come earlier. The brothers came to Dawson, Minnesota, in 1893 and in the fall, Michael came to Grafton for threshing. Threshing in the Red River Valley at that time was done with steam rigs, and wages were good — $5.00 a day. Here he met and married Rosanna Bjorneby.
Frank Suda Family: left to right, Anna, Rose, Joseph, Frank, Cyril, Frank, Sr. holding William. Their first child, Rose, was born Feb. 26, 1899; Frank J. was born Oct. 6, 1900; Cyril, born Mar. 2 1 , 1 9 0 4 ; Joseph A., born Mar. 17, 1902; and another son, William J., born Sept. 27, 1905.
Golden Stangeland.
Wedding Anniversary,
Michael
and Rosanna
After their marriage they lived on a farm out of Grafton, but, wheat selling for 40 cents a bushel and interest on the loan at 12 percent was too much; when Nels Kamp and Sondre Barstad came to Hoople to sell horses they had raised in the Nesson
In 1909, a tragic accident took the life of Frank Suda, then a young man of 34. He and Andrew Kuchar were instantly killed when they drove their horse-drawn wagon on to a railroad track in Voss, just as a southbound train was approaching at 50 mph. It is thought that the men did not hear the whistle of the engine as a strong wind was blowing from the south and, driving on the track, did not see the train until it was on them. It was evident that the men misjudged the speed of the train and thought that they could cross ahead of it. Frank was buried in the St. Luke's Cemetery at Veseleyville. He was survived by his wife, Anna, who was pregnant at the time, and five children. Their infant daughter,
Frances, was born Mar. 1 4, 1 909. Anna Suda then moved to a house in Veseleyville. after her husband died, renting out her farmland until 1914. By that time her sons were old enough to start farming and they moved back to their farm home, three miles north of Veseleyville, and started farming in 1915. In 1918, they built a new barn and in 1920, they built a new house. In the fall of 1919, Rose left home to join the Order of the Sisters of Notre Dame in Omaha. Nebr., and became Sr. Mary Alphonsa. In 1 921 and 1927, the Suda family acquired more land and farmed four quarters until the boys started to marry. On June 2 1 , 1932, three brothers married three sisters on the same day. Frank J. married Antoinette Karnik; Joseph married Mary Karnik; and Cyril married Julia Karnik. Farnk and Joe moved on to their farmsteads after marriage and Cyril lived with his mother for a year until their home on their farmyard was finished. Frances married Joe Karnik on July 18. 1933, and they resided on a farm several miles south of her home. When William married Angela Dusek on Oct. 2 1 , 1935, they remained on the farm and Anna moved to Veseleyville where she resided until about 1 963. She resided at the homes of her children for a while and at the Fisher Rest Home in Grafton for about one year. She died at the age of 86 on Oct. 24, 1965.
LUKE SUDA FAMILY Luke Suda, oldest son of Wences and Gaddie Suda (Spale), was born Aug. 13, 1932, and lived three miles north, and one mile east of Veseleyville, N. Dak. He has always lived on the farm, except for two years that he spent in the Army in Kansas and in Japan. He married Geraldine Gerszewski on June 20, 1956, in Ardoch, N. Dak. Three children have been born to them. Lynette Marie was born Jan. 13, 1958, and graduated from Grafton High School in May, 1976. She died July 8, 1976, following a bicycle accident in Shoreham, N. Y. Kevin Luke was born July 22, 1959. He graduated from Grafton High School in May of 1977, and from A.V.T.I. in East Grand Forks, Minn., in June, 1980, with a degree of occupational proficiency in parts service training. Paulette Ann was born May 28, 1961. She graduated from Grafton High School in May, 1979, and is a sophomore at Mayville State College, Mayville, N. Dak. Geraldine is employed at the Grafton State School. Luke graduated from the Western College of Auctioneering in Billings, Mont., on Mar. 16, 1979. He is operating a used machinery business, and radiator repair shop on Highway 17, west of Grafton. The Sudas live in Fertile Township on the Great Grandfather John Suda's farmstead, three miles north of Veseleyville, N. Dak. They are members of St. Luke's Catholic Church in Veseleyville.
PAUL SUDA FAMILY HISTORY Paul Suda, son of William and Angela Suda, was born Jan. 14, 1939, in Fertile Township. Shirley Sevigny was born to Simeon and Clara Sevigny on Nov. 24, 1939, at a Grafton Hospital. Paul and Shirley were married on June 9, 1959, at Sacred Heart Church in Oakwood. Their first home was 214
Paul Suda Family: back row. Party, Michael, Lisa; middle row, Amy, Paul, Donald, Jennifer; front row, Christopher, Kim, Shirley holding John, Jean Anne, and Paula. miles north of Veseleyville, in Prairie Centre Township. Their first child was a daughter, Lisa Marie, born May 26, 1960. Lisa graduated from North Dakota State School of Science in Wahpeton, in 1980, and is now working at a State Farm Insurance Claims Agency in Fargo. Michael Paul, born June 27, 1961, now farms with his father. Patrice Geralyn, born Jan. 4, 1963, is a senior at Grafton High School. Kim Therese, born Aug. 24, 1964, is a junior at Grafton. Jean Anne was born July 6, 1967; Amy Jo, Sept. 1, 1968; Jennifer Lynn, Feb. 9, 1970; Donald John, Oct. 19, 1971; Paula Beth, Mar. 25, 1973; Christopher Steven, Dec. 5, 1974; and John David, Oct. 23, 1979. In 1970, the Sudas moved to the William Suda farm in Fertile Township, which was % miles north of their first home. In 1973, they built a new home to accommodate their large and growing family. Paul had a share with his father, Bill, in the potato business from 1959; then took over when Bill retired, in 1970. Paul continued with washed red table potatoes until 1974 when he converted his operation to white chipping potatoes which he could sell in bulk, thus cutting down on the time and the size of crew needed to load and ship the product. Paul is very actively involved in community affairs and is now serving on the Grafton School Board as vice-president and is chairman of the North Valley Vocational School. This is his fourth term on the school board. He was a director on the Nash Grain & Trading Co. board for six years and is now a director of the Grafton Farmers Grain Co. He was trustee for St. Luke's Church in Veseleyville for four years; is a member of the Catholic Workmen Organization, having served as president for four years; is a member of the Knights of Columbus, the Fraternal Order of Eagles, the Fraternal Order of Elks, the Quarterbacks Club in Grafton, and Walsh County Farm Bureau. He has served as director for five years and one year as treasurer in the Red River Valley Potato Growers Association and on the Potato
Council Board for six years. In farming, 1980 was a year to remember with its early hot spring, its drought conditions all summer, then the damaging hail and excessive rains when harvest time came, and the field work continuing into November. This uncertainty, however, typifies th of a farmer!
WENCESSUDA FAMILY Wences Suda, son of James and Elizabeth (Dusek) Suda, was born in Prairie Centre Township, two miles north and one mile east of Veseleyville, on May 29, 1904. He married Caddie Spale on May 13, 1930. They have six children. Luke was born Aug. 13, 1932. He married Geraldine Gerszewski on June 20, 1956. They had three children and live in Fertile Township on the farmstead of his great grandfather, John Suda. Sylvester was born Nov. 2 1 , 1933. He married Rullie Korynta on June 14, 1955, and has six children. They live in Shoreham, New York. Bridget was born July 17, 1935. She married Ermin Votava on April 10, 1956. They have five children, and live on a farm one mile west and one half mile north of Veseleyville, on the Votava homestead. Irene was born Feb. 13, 1937, and married John Janda on Oct. 6, 1959. They have three children and live on a farm two and one half miles east of Veseleyville. Rudolph was bom Mar. 18, 1939; married Katherine Trenda on Nov. 13, 1965, has five children, and lives near Portland, N. Dak., where he is manager of the Valley Farmers Bean Association in Portland. Edith was born May 19, 1941. She married Norbert Korynta on August 3 1 , 1959. They have four children, and live on a farm near Ardoch, N. Dak. Wences and Gaddie Suda lived in Fertile Township, three miles north and one mile east of Veseleyville, for 48 years before moving into Grafton, N. Dak., in 1978.
WILLIAM J. AND ANGELA SUDA FAMILY HISTORY William (Bill) Suda, son of Frank and Anna Suda, was born Sept. 27, 1905. Angela Dusek was born Mar. 26, 1909, the daughter of Frank and Anna Dusek. Bill and Angela were married Oct. 2 1 , 1935, at St. Luke's Church in Veseleyville and made their first home in Fertile Township on a farm three miles north of Veseleyville. Their first child was a son who was stillborn, Aug. 1, 1936. The following year a daughter, Cyrilla, was born Aug. 24, 1937. In 1938, Bill planted potatoes with a two-row potato planter, for the first time, starting with about 40 acres and thereafter planted potatoes every year except two, 1951 and 1952. Addition of some new farming was made in 1938. A W.C. Allis Chalmers tractor was purchased to replace the horses and farming had taken a big step forward. A son, Paul, was born Jan. 14, 1939; and a daughter. Lillian, on May 17, 1940. In January of 1941, electricity came to the farm, much to the joy and convenience of everyone! A third daughter, Theresa, was born Oct. 2 1 . 1942. Diane was born April 23, 1943; Marcella, on Oct. 5. 1944; and
William Suda Family: left to right, back row, Paul, Marey, William, Jr.; middle row, Diane, Lillian, Cyrilla, Theresa; front row, Angela, Anna Mae, Bill. another son, William Donald, on Aug. 30, 1 947. During the flood of 1948, on a Sunday in April, the wall of the underground potato pit caved in because the entire yard was flooded. Neighbors rallied round to help remove the 1800 bags of potatoes from the wet pit. They filled a van on the truck and then stacked the rest outside where they were high and dry. A predicted heavy frost on Monday meant something had to be done to preserve those spuds. Bill tried to get to town for supplies but because some of the roads were under water, he could not get there, so he went to Park River where he hired a truck to deliver lumber and tar paper to build a temporary shelter around the potatoes. Monday night it froze but the potatoes were saved. On Sept. 23, 1948, a son, Ronald, was born but he was called to his eternal reward Dec. 11, 1948, when he was only two and one half months old. The sixth and last daughter, Anna Mae, was born on March 1, 1950. In 1955, the first spudhouse and washplant was built on the farm, to be followed by another spudhouse in 1957. All their potatoes could therefore be washed, bagged, and shipped by semi-truck to their destination. As the years went by, the children grew up and married. Cyrilla became a practical nurse, then married Ronald Demers on Apr. 13, 1959. They have seven children — Denise, Beverley, Roger, Robert, Mark, Marvin and Thomas. Ronald worked in the Grafton post office until the spring of 1980 when he accepted a position as rural mail carrier in Fordville and the family moved there. Paul married Shirley Sevigny on June 9, 1959. They have eleven children — Lisa, Michael, Patrice, Kim, Jean Anne, Amy, Jennifer, Donald, Paula, Christopher and John. Paul is a selfemployed farmer and his wife is a domestic engineer. Lillian married James Houska on June 13, 1960, and they have four children — Connie, Gail, Kristine and Douglas. Their home is in Grafton where Jim is employed at MDU and Lillian is a secretary at the Walsh County Bank. Theresa is single, resides in Grand Forks, and is an elementary teacher in the East Grand Forks school system. Diane married Donald Sevigny Jan. 28, 1963. They have six children — Kenneth, Rebecca, Peggy, William, Angie and Traci. Don and Diane live in Hoven, S. Dak., where they own, and manage the Sevigny Farm Service which sells Surge milking equipment and feed for cattle. Marcella married Raymond Gourde on June 27, 1968.
They reside in Grafton and have two sons — Rodney and Mario. Ray owns and operates Ray's Fabrics and Upholstery and Marey teaches at Westview School in Grafton. William married Judy Keller on July 10, 1970. They have two sons — Benjamin and Andrew. Bill is also a self-employed farmer and Judy is a housewife and mother. Anna Mae is still single and now resides in Bullhead City, Ariz., where she teaches school. Bill was actively involved in community affairs during his farming years. He joined the Catholic Workmen in 1928, served nine years as president and 1 8 as financial secretary. He joined the Knights of Columbus in 1941 and has been a member ever since. He was a director of Walsh County Farm Mutual Insurance for 18 years; a director of Nash Grain and Trading Company for six years; a director of Grafton Rural Fire Department for 14 years; a director of Walsh County Farm Bureau; a director of the Bank of Minto; a director of Walsh County Fair Association; served as treasurer of the building committee when St. Luke's Church was built in 1957; was chairman of the building committee for the parish center and rectory in Veseleyville; was treasurer of St. Luke's Cemetery Board for nine years; and a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles in Grafton. In 1970, when Bill, Jr., married, he moved to the farm where Paul and his family had resided. Paul moved to the homeplace and Bill and Angela moved to Grafton where they reside now at 1473 Dogwood Avenue. Even though Bill is retired, he still spends much time on the farm which was such a big part of his life for so many years.
GALEN AND DORIS SUNDBERG Galen Sundberg was born Aug. 24, 1951, at Grafton, N. Dak., to Stanley and Leanna (Fricke) Sundberg. He attended Mandt country school and later, the Park River schools. He farmed with his father until he married Doris Koehn of Cimmaron, Kans., Dec. 23, 1973. They bought the farm place known as the Mary Bell Farm in 1974. Mary's folks, the Angus Bells, came from Canada in 1 882 and settled on that farm. They had five children. Galen and Doris have one son, Sherwin Richard, born December 30, 1978. Doris is a registered nurse and at the present she works parttime at the Lutheran Sunset Home in Grafton, N. Dak. Galen is a devoted certified potato farmer and farms near Pisek and Fordville, N. Dak.
GARY AND CORALEE SUNDEBERG Gary was born April 12, 1949, at Grafton. N. Dak., to Stanley and Leanna (Fricke) Sundberg. He attended Mandt country school and, later, the Park River schools. He helped his father farm until 1968 when he went to Grand Rapids, Mich., where he worked as an orderly in Butterworth Hospital for two years. Then, deciding he wanted more schooling, he attended Junior College in Grand Rapids for two years. On April 15, 1978, he was married to Coralee Voss of Grand Rapids, Mich. Coralee was born Aug. 30, 1947, in Grand Rapids. The last four years Gary has been working in real estate, with his office located in Grand Rapids. Just recently Coralee has gotten her license to deal in real estate, also.
In 1979 they bought themselves a home near Caledonia, Mich. He has two sons by adoption. William Joseph, born Feb. 7, 1967, in Grand Rapids and Timothy Edward, born Aug. 23, 1968, in England. An interesting coincidence is that Gary's Grandfather Sundberg was born at Caledonia, N. Dak., and Gary lives in Caledonia, Mich. STANLEY AND LEANNA (FRICKE) SUNDBERG Stanley was born Sept. 7, 1918, west of Langdon, N. Dak., to Daniel and Olga (Pederson) Sundberg. When he was 17 he came to Fertile Township. How did it happen that he came to Grafton? His older brother, Clifford, had been in the Mandt area and at the time he had taken a job to do chores for the Clifford L. Mastres while they were gone on a trip. There were cows and chickens, etc., to care for, so Cliff made a trip home to Langdon and talked his younger brother, Stanley, into coming back with him to the Mastres to help him. There were seven boys and two girls in the family so there were still plenty to help at home. Stanley stayed on after the Mastres came home and never did move back to Langdon. He finished high school in Park River and helped on the Mastre farm. Stanley says he made many trips home to Langdon on the train, the Galloping Goose, to see his family. His father's parents immigrated from Sweden to Caledonia, N. Dak., and later moved to the Langdon area. His grandfather was a Baptist minister. His mother grew up near Fort Ridgley, Minn., and told many stories to her grandchildren of the Indians at Fort Ridgley. The fort was only 1 Vi miles from her home. On June 20, 1948, Stanley was married to Leanna Fricke of Archbold, O., who was born Feb. 10, 1924, near Archbold. to Jacob and Myra (Seiler) Fricke. She received her schooling at Archbold, Ohio. They lived in a house on the Mastre farm and Stanley farmed in partnership with Mastre. Stanley was president of the Mandt School District No. 62 at the time it closed in 1961. On the last day there was a large farewell picnic. In 1967 they built themselves a new home, one mile east of Mandt, on the farm they bought in 1952 from the Jorgen Torkelson estate. The Leonard Torkelson family had lived on the farm for 22 years before it was sold. Stanley's parents lived in the old house on the Torkelson farm until his father's death. The old house, which was partially built of logs, was moved four miles south and two miles east to the Rudy Suda farm when the Sundbergs built their new home. The Sundbergs had five children — Gary Lynn, born April 12, 1949: Galen Stanley, born Aug. 24, 1951; Deanna Sue, born Oct. 28, 1953; Darla Kay, born Feb. 1, 1957; and Gene Edwin, born Mar. 15, 1960. They are all married except Gene, the youngest. He lives at home, and farms with his father and brother-in-law. They farm certified potatoes, wheat, barley and corn.
GENESUNDBERG Gene was born Mar. 15, 1960. at Grafton. N. Dak., to Stanley and Leanna (Fricke) Sundberg. He attended school in Grafton. N. Dak. Gene is a lover of nature, especially trees, and
has started a small apple orchard. Every spring he plants new trees all over the yard. He also keeps very close track of the weather and has kept daily record for the last several years.
THE BILL AND HANNAH TALLACKSON GIRLS The children of Tellef William (Bill) Tallackson and Hannah Maria Almen: Avis Marie was born Oct. 1, 1917 at the home of her maternal grandmother, Mrs. Carl F. Almen, and Betty Mae was born May 17, 1920, Deaconess Hospital, Grafton. Both finished grade school at Mandt and graduated from the Walsh County Agricultural School, Park River. Following business college and a Civil Service examination, Avis accepted an appointment with the Department of State, Washington, D. C , in 1941, which led to assignments in New Delhi, India (traveling in convoy from New York City to Colombo, Ceylon) and Tokyo, Japan, during General Douglas MacArthur's regime. She later accepted an appointment with an intelligence organization, which ended when she married Jesse Bryant Bettis of Brownwood, Tex., on Sept. 5, 1959, and moved to Dallas, Tex. They retired to their ranch near Zephyr, Tex., in 1967. Jesse B. died June 30, 1970; no children.
Tea party - playing house: Avis and Betty Tallackson. taken in front of Wm. Tallackson home. Avis 3 years, Betty. 6 months. For the past five years Avis has been co-chairman for community development of the Zephyr Community Improvement Club. During the Nation's 100th birthday she cochaired the Bicentennial Jubilee in Zephyr and was instrumental in renovationg and getting an historical marker for the town's gospel tabernacle. She served as publicity chairman for Zephyr's Centennial celebration in 1980, concurrently co-authoring "The Story of Zephyr, Yesterday and Today," a 264- page history of the town published by Banner Printing Co., Brownwood, in July 1980. Betty pursued a secretarial, reporter-advertising career with the news media. In the 1940's she served as secretary and radio broadcaster with Whatcom County Emergency Defense Council and executive secretary of the Junior Chamber of Commerce, Bellingham, Wash. She was a member of the Bellingham Professional Women's Club; American Red Cross; recording secretary, Norwegian Relief, Inc. Following her move to Seattle, Wash., Betty was co-editor of the Boys Club News; on the editorial staff of the Sons of Norway publication, "The Viking," and district secretary of the Seattle Automobile Club. She later was a member of the editorialadvertising staff of various newspapers in areas where she lived. Betty married Orville Silas Roupe of Nez Perce, Ida., Sept. 14, 1947, making their home in Marysville, Wash. Their three daughters were born in Everett, Wash. Orville S. died Mar. 9, 1956; Betty on May 22, 1968, and both are buried in Mount Pleasant Cemetery, Seattle. Robin Marie was born July 26, 1951; married Michale Terry Mabes, Jan. 10, 1970; divorced; one daughter, Aimee Michelle. Married second, Larry Lee Nelson, Jan. 24, 1973; divorced; one son, Donalde Jayson. Robin died Feb. 1 1 , 1979; buried BIythe, California.
Avis Tallackson Bettis Avis continues to live on the ranch, active in civic and volunteer work. She is a member of Grace Lutheran Church and its Women's Missionary League, Brownwood; Brown County Humane Society; Historical Society; Brownwood Hospital Women's Auxiliary. She has been a member of the Zephyr Extension Homemakers Club for 12 years; served as chairman of the Brown County EH council, currently serving her third year as reporter.
Dawn Avis, was born July 1, 1953; married Loyd Larry Don Smith, Oct. 17, 1971, and resides in California. They are parents of two daughters, Shanna Dean and Laura Mae; one son, Clifford Eric. Dayle Dellarae was born Sept. 2, 1954; married Ronald Carby, Mar. 23, 1974; divorced; one son, Paul; resides in California.
HARVEY AND GLENNA MAE (WALSTAD) TALLACKSON Harvey grew up in the community of Mandt, N. Dak., nine miles west of Grafton. He was the son of Mabel and Arthur Tallackson, Sr. He had five brothers and three sisters. (Reference:
parents. It was cold upstairs where they slept during the winter and the kitchen range and floor furnace were places of warmth. Harvey remembers how hard his parents worked to raise a family of nine, and the sorrow they had when they lost three sons; all the cooking and sewing his mother did, the hired men to cook for in her large kitchen; the aroma of her whole wheat bread coming from the kitchen; the Christmases at home, and opening of gifts on Christmas morning. His father had a fox ranch. The family helped raise silver, black and red foxes. Harvey remembers butchering old horses and grinding meat for the foxes. He also carries a scar on his upper lip from being bitten by a red fox. Baseball was a favorite sport of the Mandt community. Harvey played baseball with the Mandt team for many years. He was a pitcher and first baseman. He attended Walsh County Agricultural and Training School (WCAS) in Park River where he was active in football and basketball and the Future Farmers of America. He attained the degree of American Farmer, the highest award in the FFA in 1946. He graduated from high school in 1943.
Harvey and Glenna Tallackson, wedding picture in August, 1946. Heritage Book, Vol. 1, page 450). He attended Mandt grade school, Fertile District No. 62. All the chores had to be done at home before he began the long walk to school. He remembers the school's Christmas programs and visits to the Mandt store and post office which was located near ihe school. Harvey grew tall, reaching a height of 6 ' 5 " . Some of his childhood memories include the hired men on the farm, especially John and Tom Skaar who were with the family about ten years, and one particular family pet, a fox terrier named Pup, who lived to be about 16 years old. Harvey worked in the fields at an early age, loading potatoes in a wagon and later sacks on trucks. He and brother, Ross, helped the men grade potatoes when they weren't in school during the winter. He also milked cows during his early years.
He married his high school sweetheart, Glenna Mae Walstad, on Aug. 4, 1946. She was the daughter of Gust and Christine Walstad. She lived most of her life in a large house west of Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Park River. Her neighbors included Mrs. Mamie Gillespie, the Ben Larsons, Ben Middendorf, the John Martins, the Denckers and the Knute Wicks. Glenna had three brothers and four sisters. (Reference: Heritage Book, Vol. 1, page 462). Percy Walstad, mayor of Park River, and Clayton Walstad, a retired bachelor farmer, are the only two living in this area. Glenna's folks were city farmers. They worked hard and raised eight children. They had a dairy farm and dairy route. Glenna ran the milk route with her mother and dad. She attended Park River Grade School and the Walsh County Agricultural School (WCAS) where she was active in school activities such as cheerleading and the school paper. During the summer she worked at the Texaco Drive In. At that time hamburgers were either 5 cents or 10 cents; two scoops of ice cream, with chocolate, were 10 cents; and lemonade, 5 cents. After their marriage, Harvey and Glenna moved into a farm
Harvey and his family lived in a large house built by his grand
Harvey and Glenna Tallackson Family: left to right, front, Harvey, Laura, Glenna; back row, Debra Tallackson Wilhelm, Thomas Tallackson, Amy Tallackson Elbert, and Lynda Tallackson Ackert.
Harvey Tallackson, North Dakota State Senate, 1979.
house formerly owned by John Manderud. This was originally Harvey's great-grandfather's homestead. They lived there for eighteen years. Then they moved across the road to his dad's large home. They have lived there since 1965. In 1 954, Harvey started a 60-cow dairy. He had the first milking parlor operation in Walsh County. The dairy was in operation for 18 years with Raymond W. Nelson employed as herdsman. Harvey received the Grafton Jaycees Outstanding Young Farmer Award in 1 955. Harvey and Glenna have been active in community affairs. They are members of Zion Lutheran Church. Both have taught Sunday School there. Glenna is a member of Countryside Homemakers, Zion A.L.C.W., Decca Club of Park River, Aggie Alumni and Community Betterment of Park River. She was chairman of the Aggie Alumni All-Class Reunion in 1976 for which she received the Governor's Award in Leadership in connection with Community Betterment contest. She has also worked with the Walsh County Fair.
Ackert, 2 years; Trevor Tallackson, 5 years; Sarah Tallackson, 3 years; and Andrew Elbert. 6 months.
LYNDA TALLACKSON ACKERT Lynda Tallackson was born in Grafton, N. Dak., on July 3, 1947, the day a big tornado struck the Grafton area. She is the daughter of Harvey and Glenna Tallackson. She was raised on the Tallackson farm in Fertile Township.
Harvey is active on the Zion Church Board. He served as chairman of the Building Committee at the time the new Zion parsonage was built. In 1 968, he sold the dairy and started to sell insurance in Grafton. He also continued to farm with his son, Tom, who returned from service in the Navy. Harvey represented North Dakota on the National Potato Advisory Committee to the Secretary of Agriculture in 1961. He served on this committee for four years and traveled many times to Washington, D.C, Denver and Minneapolis.
Cary and Lynda Tallackson Ackert and daughter, Elizabeth. Lynda attended grade school for seven years at Mandt Fertile District No. 62. She completed eighth grade at the Park River grade school. In 1965, she graduated as valedictorian from WCAS High School in Park River. She attended the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks, graduating in 1969. She accepted a teaching position with the Osseo, Minnesota, school distirct. In 1971, she married Gary Ackert of St. Paul, Minn. A daughter, Elizabeth, was born to them April 19, 1979. The Gary Ackerts live in Shoreview, Minn. Laura Tallackson. age 17, grade 6, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Tallackson. He is also active in the Lions Club, Walsh County Fair (former president) and the Walsh Curling Club (chairman of Building Committee in 1965). In 1965 he was elected to the Nodak Rural Electric Board, serving as president, secretary and director representative for Nodak on the Minnkota Power Co-op in Grand Forks. In 1976 Harvey was endorsed for the North Dakota Senate. He was elected and served a four-year term. He was re-elected in 1980 to serve another four-year term. Harvey and Glenna are the parents of five children. Lynda Tallackson Ackert was bom in 1947. She teaches in Brooklyn Park, Minn. Tom was born in 1949 and farms in Fertile Township. Debra Tallackson Wilhelm is a medical technologist in Portland, Ore., and she was born in 1951. In 1954 Amy Tallackson Elbert was born. She is a physical therapist and lives in Jamestown, N. Dak. Laura Tallackson was born in 1969. She lives at home and is in 6th grade at Park River Grade School. Harvey and Glenna have four grandchildren — Elizabeth
THOMAS TALLACKSON Thomas Keith Tallackson was born in Grafton, N. Dak., on July 7, 1949. His parents are Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Tallackson. He was raised on the family farm in Fertile Township. He attended school at Mandt Distirct No. 62 for five years, and completed his elementary education at the Park River Grade School. In 1967, Tom graduated from WCAS High School. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served for two years. He returned to farm with his father. On Sept. 1, 1973, he married Diane Barrie. She was born in Estevan, Sask., Canada, moving to Park River in 1962. She is the daughter of Dr. and Mrs. J. G. Barrie. She attended Park River Grade School, graduated from WCAS in 1969, and also graduated from the University of North Dakota in 1 973. Tom and Diane are the parents of two children — their son, Trevor, was born July 27, 1975, and their daughter, Sarah, was born Feb. 23, 1978. Trevor and Sarah are sixth generation members of Zion Lutheran Church.
Tom Tallackson Family: Tom, Sarah, Trevor, and Diane. (Taken in 1980.) Tom and Diane are active in curling. Tom served as president of the Walsh Curling Club and as president of the North Dakota State Curling Association. Tom also plays independent basketball in Park River and Grafton.
DEBRA KRIS TALLACKSON WILHELM Debra, daughter of Harvey and Glenna Tallackson, was born Aug. 1, 1 9 5 1 , in Grafton, N. Dak. Debra attended country school at Fertile Dist. No. 62 for three years, then attended Park River Grade School and the Walsh County Agricultural School in Park River. She graduated from high school in 1969. She was active in school organizations. She attended U.N.D., graduating
Dale and Amy Tallackson Elbert raised on the family farm in Fertile Township. Amy attended Park River Grade School and graduated as an honor student from WCAS in 1972. Amy graduated from the University of North Dakota in 1976 with a degree in physical therapy. In 1977 she married Dale Elbert of Grafton, N. Dak. Dale and Amy Elbert reside in Jamestown, N. Dak., where she is employed as a registered physical therapist. Amy and Dale are parents of one son, Andrew Dale, born Dec. 20, 1980.
JOE AND STELLA THOMPSON FAMILY Joseph Theodore Thompson was born in Fertile Township, Walsh County, on April 28, 1894. His father was born in Dane County, Wisconsin, in 1850 to parents from Telemarken, Norway. His mother, Berget Torkelson Thompson, was born in 1860 in Telemarken, Norway. Hilda Elenor Monson was born Mar. 18, 1895, in Glenwood Township, Walsh County. Her father, Peter Monson, was born in Farlof Township, Skane, Sweden, in 1857. Her mother, Gunhild Johnson, was born in 1874 in Norway and came to this country as a small girl. Joseph Theodore Thompson and Hilda Elenor Monson were married in Grafton, N. Dak., on Dec. 26, 1918. They lived on a farm in Fertile Township, Walsh County, just a quarter mile west of the Thomas Thompson farm where Joe had been born. They were members of the North Trinity Lutheran Church until it closed. The family then transferred to the Zion Lutheran Church.
Steve and Debra Tallackson Wilhelm. in 1973 with a Bachelor of Science degree in medical technology. She has worked at hospitals in Colorado, Cavalier, and Pensacola, Fla. Debra married Steve Wilhelm of Pensacola, Fla., in April, 1976. They reside in Portland, Ore., where Debra is also employed.
Hilda and Joe were parents of two daughters. Bernice Glenna was born on Feb. 7, 1920, in Grafton. She married William Hall in 1955 and they are parents of one daughter, Joann Jean Hall, born Mar. 20, 1961. Doris Jean Orlaine was born Aug. 9, 1927, in Grafton. She married Wayne Knauss in 1950 and they have three children. Nancy Jo Knauss was born in California, Nov. 26, 1951. She is married to Dr. David TenHulzen and they live in Omaha, Neb.
AMY TALLACKSON ELBERT Amy Joleen Tallackson was bom on June 2, 1954, in Grafton, N. Dak., to Glenna and Harvey Tallackson and was 337
During the years he farmed by himself, then in partnership with a nephew, Ernest Thompson, and a daughter, Bernice Thompson Hall. In later years he was in partnership with J. G. Hall and Sons of Edinburg. At one time he and the late Clark Farup of Park River were in partnership in the ownership and operation of several farms. Perhaps his greatest contribution to agriculture on a statewide basis was some 20 years ago when he served as chairman of the committee which raised more than $100,000.00 to purchase an agricultural experiment station near Casselton to be operated by the North Dakota State University of Fargo. This is now known as the State Agronomy Seed Farm. In 1 950 he received an award from the University for his part in this undertaking. In 1963 he received the Distinguished Service Award from the North Dakota Crop Improvement Association. In 1966 he was honored for "meritorious service" to the potato industry at the First Annual Potato Football Game at the University of North Dakota at Grand Forks, the first person to be selected for this award.
Wedding picture of Joseph Theodore Thompson and Hilda Elenor Monson, Dec. 26, 1918, at Grafton. Best man was George Monson, brother of bride; maid of honor, Helga Thompson, sister of groom; flower girl, Pearl Monson, sister of bride. Thomas Jo Knauss was born Mar. 17, 1954, in Oregon and resides in Sherwood, Ore., with his wife, Cheryl. Robert Wayne Knauss was born Jan. 17, 1956, in Oregon and continues to reside in Sherwood, Ore.
Mr. Thompson made it a point to keep abreast of the improvements and developments in agriculture, especially in the potato industry. To view new methods and new ways of doing things in both growing and marketing agricultural products, he traveled extensively to all parts of the United States, Canada and Mexico. In 1955, in company with Henry Monson, he made a trip to Norway and Sweden. In 1959, with Ross Page of Cavalier and Charles Harris of Park River, he made an extensive tour of Russia, Holland, Sweden, Czechoslovakia, Germany and
England.
Hilda died Nov. 16, 1943, and is buried in the Crescent Cemetery, Grafton, N. Dak. While his activities extended into many fields, it was in agriculture that Joe Thompson was best known. Few men have had a larger part in the development of the potato industry which has brought nationwide renown to the Red River Valley. Over the years, Mr. Thompson has accumulated more than 150 ribbons and trophies for exhibits of potatoes and grain at fairs extending from Iowa to Canada and from North Dakota to Chicago. The first ribbons were won in 1930 and the first potato trophy was won in 1931 when he was crowned King of the North Dakota State Potato Show. Other awards came to him for exhibits at the Walsh County Fair and State Potato Show at Park River; the North Dakota Winter Show at Valley City; the North Dakota State Barley Show at Osnabrock; the North Dakota State Seed Grain Show at Minot; the State Corn Show at Bismarck; The International Livestock Exposition, Grain and Hay Division, at.Chicago; the Midwest Horticultural Exposition at Shenandoah, Iowa; the Iowa State Vegetable Growers Association, at Mason City, Iowa; the North Dakota State Fair at Grand Forks, and the Northeastern North Dakota Winter Fair at Park River. Perhaps Joe was best known for his connection with the development and promotion of the potato industry. It was in 1922 that he became the local representative of the O. J. Barners of Grand Forks; then as a representative of Frissell Brothers of Minneapolis and Chicago, and later, for 11 years, as the representative of Leonard, Crosset and Riley, Inc., of Moorhead. For many years he maintained an office in Nash and later at his home.
Joseph Theodore Thompson, wife, Hilda Monson Thompson, daughter, Bernice Glenna, and daughter, Doris Jean Orlaine. Picture in 1942. While he listed his occupation as "farmer," Joe had extensive experience in business. For many years he was a director of the Grafton Deaconess Hospital. The Dundee Farmers Mutual Insurance Company is one of the largest and most successful business concerns of its kind in North Dakota. Joe was a director of that company for many years. Frdfn 1955 to 1967 he was a director of The Grafton National Bank. He helped organize the Grafton Rural Fire Department and was the president of that concern. He was a past vice president of the Greater North Dakota Association; and was a member of the steering committee of the C-400 Club of Concordia College at Moorhead, Minn. Joe was a member of the following: North Dakota State
University S.U. Development Foundation; the North Dakota State University Presidents Agriculture Club; and the Sioux Potato Club at the University of North Dakota. Fraternally, Mr. Thompson was a member of the Masonic Blue Lodge since 1918, and subsequently a member of Grafton Chapter, Royal Arch Masons, and St. Omer Commandery, Knights Templar; had been a member of the Shrine since 1920. He was a member of the Elks Lodge at Grand Forks; a member by invitation of the exclusive Royal Order of Jesters; and a charter member of the Grafton Kiwanis Club. Perhaps Joe Thompson's most active interest, next to agriculture and farming, was his work in the Boy Scouts. For many years he served on the finance committee and was a heavy contributor to the Lake Agassiz Council. For his work in the Scouts, he received the Silver Beaver Award in 1959. He was a long-time member of the National Council of the organization and attended (at his own expense) many of the council's national meetings in the United States. He was a member of the National Council which meets in Chicago.
Grafton was sold in 1 980. Joseph Theodore Thompson died March 2, 1980, in Grafton and is buried at the Crescent Cemetery, Grafton, N. Dak. Stella continues to live in Grafton.
THOMAS AND JUNICE THOMPSON Thomas F. Thompson was born Sept. 28, 1918, in Fertile Township, a son of Chester and Mary Thompson. He attended school at Dist. 66, Mandt, N. Dak. There was always work to be done on the farm so he was often kept out of school to work at home every year. He recalls that in his eighth grade he attended 78 days of school and still passed. He attended high school in Park River but work at home came first so he was always late in getting started and in his senior year he never did get back to school. Potatoes became a year-round job. He grew up and worked on a farm all his life.
Like many men, Joe at one time had a hobby. In partnership with the late Bert Stary, he owned and raced horses in Canada, North Dakota, Arizona and California. Joe grew up on his father's farm and lived the average farm boy's life with five brothers and three sisters. The brothers were Chester, Emil, T. George, Lloyd and Aimer. The sisters were Selma, Sena and Helga. One sister is still living — Mrs. Ingvald Birk (Selma), Kalispell, Mont.
Wedding picture of Thomas F. and Junice Thompson, Park River, Fertile Township, Sept. 3, 1941. In 1941 he married Junice Holt. They had six sons. The unusual thing about this is that his father and grandfather also each had six sons. In 1946 Thomas and his brother, Wallace, rented the farm from their father, and farmed in partnership until 1965. Wally and Ernie stayed in partnership but Tommy split and began farming alone, with the help of his growing sons. This developed into a partnership which is growing grain, certified seed potatoes, beets and pinto beans. Tommy was active in building and working at the Walsh Curling Club and served as its first elected president. He was a 4H leader for 15 years; worked with the Park Board Hockey Program in Park River from 1950-1970; served as the first president of the Hockey Boosters; served on the board of trustees of Zion Lutheran Church for several years; was a Sunday School teacher for five years; served on the board of directors of Nash Grain Elevator for six years, and was president for two years; was a member of Grafton American Legion Club for 38 consecutive years; served on the Dist. 66 school board for several years, and on the North Dakota Certified Seed Growers board. He has also
Stella and Joe Thompson Stella Sigvaldson was born to Kathinka and Sigvold Sigvaldson Apr. 3, 1904, at Edmore, N. Dak. She married Abraham Fjalstad Apr. 13, 1923. They had four children Bernice (Mrs. Robert Whittington), Allan (married to Dolores Vejtasa), Phyllis (Mrs. Larry Knoke), and Mary Carol (Mrs. Lyle Hoff). Abraham passed away November, 1954. Joseph Thompson and Mrs. Stella Fjalstad of Edmore were married in Zion Lutheran Church, rural Hoople, on Dec. 27, 1963. They lived on the farm until 1968 when they built a home in Grafton. Daniel Thompson then bought the farm homestead and continues to reside there with his wife, Barbara, and children, Patricia, Brenda and Joseph. The Joe Thompson home in 339
served on the United States Grand Jury. Tommy (which he has always been called) bought the home place and, with his wife and three unmarried children, is still living in the house in which he was born and raised. The structure is the same but they have done some remodeling and added a large garage on the house. Son, Daniel, married Barbara Lee, Park River, N. Dak. and they have three children; James married Alyce Matcha, Grafton, N. Dak. and they have two children: Richard married Pamela Garnaas, Park River; and Douglas, Ronald and Thomas, Jr., are at home. Junice Holt was born in Fertile Township, Grafton, N. Dak., June 3, 1922, to Henry and Julia Holt. She attended Dist. 22 near Grafton for her elementary education and graduated from Grafton High School in 1940. Her childhood was a happy one. Her mother taught all the children how to work for which she is thankful. They had close neighbors, so the children walked back and forth every evening and played games or went swimming. They lived by the river so did a lot of swimming in the summer and ice skating and sleding in the winter. Her classmates and friends were, and still are, Joy Anderson Gilleshammer, Deloris Brating Johnson, Helen Olson Cates, and Elizabeth Jackson Fagerholt. She was confirmed from the Grafton Lutheran Church by Rev. H.A.R. Helsem. The year after she graduated she stayed home on the farm with her dad and took care of an older sister's two children and another sister's one child. Ruth was-working at the state school putting her husband, Willard Solberg, through college, and Helen was working as a beauty operator. My mother took care of Mr. and Mrs. John Larson in Grafton who needed semi-nursing care at home. They paid her well. She only had a 6th grade education but was so capable of serving in every capacity. She was always being called to come and help someone.
one night and killed several of them. The next night they heard something after their turkeys again so got up and Tommy took the gun and Junice took the flash light. Junice put the flash light on the skunk and Tommy shot it. The woods must have been full of skunks and they knew where their turkeys were because, come fall, there was nothing left except the turkey gobbler. The mink got her chickens after they grew up so her poultry-raising career was short. There were too many wild animals around. Junice and Tommy waited a long time for their first child. Their first baby was born Dec. 12, 1949, and they named him Daniel Thomas. His father was so proud and happy all the buttons popped out of his shirt. Douglas was born April 25, 1951; James, Sept. 16, 1953; Richard, Nov. 2 1 , 1955; Ronald, June 14, 1963; and Thomas, Jr., Aug. 12, 1965. Hockey has been the favorite sport for all six boys and they have all starred on the Park River Hockey teams. Junice has been an active member in the Zion Lutheran Church and her community. She has been Sunday School superintendent and teacher for over 25 years; has been a member of Homemakers club for 35 years, holding all offices; and is a past president of Walsh County Homemakers Council; she has held most all offices of Zion A.L.C.W. and was book coordinator for the Zion Lutheran united church directory, 1 970; and was Worthy Matron of Mizpah Chapter No. 6, O.E.S., Grafton in 1964; and chairman of Walsh County Cancer Society for one year. She has been curling since the club organized in 1951 and is a past president. She has done lots of modeling for Reyleck's Store in Grafton for their pattern jubilee and Farm Bureau Style Shows, and also for the Walsh County Fair style show. She loves all sports, and her indoor hobby is sewing.
G. LEONARD TORKELSON FAMILY Leonard Torkelson was born in Fertile Township in 1897 to parents, Carrie and Jorgen Torkelson. He attended school at the Sinclair School. He grew up and farmed with his father except from 1923 to 1926 when he was employed in Wisconsin and Michigan. He returned to Fertile Township and engaged in farming again. In 1927 he married Helen B. Groven and farmed in the Cashel area until 1929 when they moved to his father's farm in Fertile Township where he farmed until 1 9 5 1 .
Family picture of Thomas Thompson Family: Thomas, Jr., James, Daniel, Junice, Thomas, Richard, Douglas and Ronald. This picture was taken the day of Richard Thompson and Pamela Garness's wedding May 25. 1978. The following year Junice married Thomas Thompson of Park River, N. Dak., on Sept. 3, 1941, at her home. Only the immediate family and relatives were in attendance. Their first home was on the homestead farm of Thomas Thompson. During her early marriage, Junice tried her luck with turkeys, chickens and ducks. Her mother gave her three turkey hens and a gobbler and they hatched out sixty turkeys that first spring. They were coming along nicely when a skunk got in the turkey pen
Leonard Torkelson Family: (1949) — Back row, Lois, Shirley, Jean, Myron (Mike); seated, Leonard, David, George, Helen Groven Torkelson.
(Mike), Prior Lake, Minn.; George, Long Lake, Minn.; David, St. Paul; and son, Lowell, who died in 1942 at the age of two years. In 1951 the family moved to a farm near Red Lake Falls, Minn., where Leonard farmed until his death in 1973. Helen Groven Torkelson was born in 1904, the youngest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Halvor Groven, and lived on a farm near Mandt. In 1919 she moved with her parents to Pasadena, Calif., where they lived until 1922 when they returned to North Dakota. Helen was married to Leonard Torkelson in 1927 and lived in Fertile Township until they moved to Red Lake Falls in 1951. After the death of her husband she continued to live on their farm until 1979 when she moved to Park River where she and her sister, Agnes Carlson, are making their home together. Helen has 28 grandchildren and 17 grandchildren.
HISTORY OF MILLARD TORKELSON FAMILY Millard Torkelson was born Aug. 28, 1916, at the home of his parents, Carl and Josephine Torkelson, where he still lives and farms. After elementary education in Fertile Township, District 28 (also called the Grobell school) he attended W.C.A.S. in Park River. He always has been a member of South Trinity Church where he was confirmed and baptized, and been active on the church board as trustee and deacon. Millard was president of Fertile District 28 for 15 years and served six years on the board of the Grafton Public Schools. He is a member of "Sons of Norway" and the Fraternal Order of Eagles.
Millard and Helen Torkelson years. When she married Millard she transferred her membership from Grafton Lutheran Church to South Trinity Lutheran Church where she has taught Sunday School, was in the choir, and is also an active member of the A.L.C.W. She also participates in the Lutheran Sunset Home Auxiliary. Three children were born to Millard and Helen.
Linda (Torkelson) Hauge
Diane and Tom Torkelson
Linda, Mrs. Dale Hauge, born Nov. 26, 1941, attended school in Fertile Dist. 28 and graduated from Grafton High School. Linda was married Sept. 5, 1959, at South Trinity Church, where she was baptized and confirmed. Linda and Dale then moved to Ames, la., where Dale is manager of Central Iowa Construction Services and Linda runs a nursery care center for children in her home. They have two children, Brian and Tammy.
Wedding picture of Millard and Helen Torkelson He married Helen Elshaug, who was born to John and Hannah Elshaug of Grafton, on May 18, 1921. She was baptized and confirmed at the Grafton Lutheran Church and attended school at District 22, Grafton Township. She had to walk 2'/2 miles to school each day unless the weather was real bad. It was a large school but Helen was the only student in her class for her first six years. She was clerk of School Dist. 28, Fertile Township, for 15
Diane was born in Grafton, on June 2, 1946, attended Dist. 28 school, graduated from Grafton High School and then went on for nurses' training at Swedish Hospital in Minneapolis, where she graduated as a registered nurse. The past six years she has worked at Scott and White Hospital in Tempel, Tex., as a nursing supervisor of the psychiatric unit. Thomas was bom Apr. 28, 1958, at Grafton. He attended school in Grafton, and after graduating from high school he attended Concordia College, Moorhead, Minn., for two years. He took flying instruction in Fargo, N. Dak., and received his pilot's license. Tom is now engaged in farming with his father and uncle.
DEANNA (SUNDBERG) AND LINFORD UNRUH Deanna was born Oct. 28, 1953, at Grafton, N. Dak., to Stanley and Leanna (Fricke) Sundberg. She attended first grade at the two-room country school in Mandt, N. Dak., and then attended Park River grade school for seven years. She attended high school in Grafton, N. Dak., and
friends. George still enjoys flying and she still enjoys singing for fun. She enjoyed being associated with Gerdes-Sparrow Realtors for two years as a salesperson. Working outside the home was a new experience for her. They look back fondly upon the years in Walsh County where they enjoyed the privilege of working with young people in 4-H and with friends in Zion Lutheran Church and organizations such as the Farm Bureau and the American Legion and Auxiliary. They think that Walsh County is truly "God's Country."
graduated in the spring of 1971. During her last year of high school she worked at the Credit Bureau in Grafton. On Oct. 3 1 , 1971, she married Linford Unruh at Grafton. Linford was born May 2 1 , 1951, at Goessel, Kan., to Murphy and Susie Unruh. They have four children — Larren Ray, born Aug. 2, 1972; Karlin Keith, born May 14, 1975; Brian Dale, bom Feb. 5, 1978; and Shana Janine, born Apr. 24, 1980. Linford farms together with his father-in-law, Stanley Sundberg, and brother-in-law, Gene Sundberg. They lived in a trailer house on her folks' farm until June, 1980, when they moved into a new home they built themselves on the same yard.
RICHARD WAYNE AND LAURELYN LARSON Richard Wayne Larson and Laurelyn Joann Walstad were married in Aug., 1973, while they were students at NDSU, Fargo. Dick was enrolled in agricultural economics and Laurie, in pharmacy. They had both graduated from WCAS in Park River.
Linford is a carpenter in his spare time and Deanna is a fulltime housewife and mother and does a lot of sewing in her spare time.
Dick was born May 15, 1952, the son of Mary Ford Larson and Harry Larson. Their home was in Park River and he had two sisters, Diane and Bonnie, and one brother, Robert.
GEORGE AND YVONNE (CHAPMAN) WALSTAD George Midgarden Walstad was born in 1930, the son of Oscar and Joann Midgarden Walstad, rural Howple. His parents and relatives had lived and farmed in that area for several generations. George attended his first eight grades in the country school, known as the Walstad School. He spent many hours as a boy, working on 4-H projects, and was rewarded with several interesting trips, such as 4-H Congress in Chicago, and a trip to Washington, D. C. George and his future wife met when they were students at WCAS in Park River. She was the daughter of Lillian and Leonard Chapman and had lived all her life in Park River. They graduated a year apart and George attended NDSU, Fargo, before beginning to farm with his father. They were married and farmed in the Hoople and Grafton area for 23 years before moving to Burlington, la., where George became associated with the Rutherford Potato Co. Richard Larson Family: Laurelyn, Wendy, Richard, Brandon. Laurie is the daughter of Yvonne Chapman Walstad and George Walstad and she was born May 23, 1953, in Fort Knox, Ky., where her father was stationed with the army. After two years, she and her parents returned to their home in rural Hoople. She has a brother, Craig. Laurie attended a one-room country school, known as the Walstad School, for one year before it joined the Park River School District. She was interested in 4-H and received several nice awards including the 4-H Congress trip to Chicago and an REA trip to Washington, D. C. Laurie and Dick have two children — Brandon Jay, born in 1975, and Wendy Marie, in 1980. The Larsons graduated from NDSU in 1976 and are now living on the Walstad home farm, rural Hoople, where Dick is engaged in farming with his brother. Laurie is manager and coowner of Ye Olde Medicine Shoppe in Park River.
CRAIG CHAPMAN WALSTAD
George and Yvonne Walstad
Craig Chapman Walstad, son of Yvonne Chapman Walstad and George Walstad, was born Dec. 13, 1955. He and sister, Laurie, were reared on a farm, rural Hoople. Craig attended the Park River schools, graduating from WCAS in 1974. He received a degree in agricultural economics from NDSU.
George spent two years in the service during the Korean Conflict and their daughter, Mrs. Richard Larson (Laurie) was born at Fort Knox. They also have a son, Craig Chapman Walstad, and two grandchildren, Brandon and Wendy Larson. They are enjoying life in Burlington, and have many new
In 1979 Craig marrried Joan Marie Gunhus, daughter of Ed342
As with most families in Fertile Township, Oscar and Joann worked hard on their farm and were able to expand their operation through land purchase and lease. They both found time to work equally hard for their community with their emphasis on youth activities. Joann devoted a great deal of time to the promotion of homemaking and leadership skills in the young girls in the community. She organized and provided the leadership to the Hoople Happy Hustlers Girls 4-H Club. She was a firm believer that development of leadership and community involvement were essential for the future of women. She herself was involved in many community organizations and served as president, as well as in other offices, for the Zion Ladies Aid, the Park River American Legion Auxiliary, and the Countryside Homemakers Club of which she was a charter member. As one of the organizers and most fervent boosters, Oscar was "Mr. Hockey" to scores of youngsters in the Park RiverNash hockey program. The president of the North Dakota Amateur Hockey Association described Oscar as "always on hand to take the kids to a game or tournament, and if the team needed money for equipment, you could count on Oscar to head a drive or even donate the entire cost himself."
Craig and Joan Walstad na Thompson Gunhus and Wallace Gunhus, rural Park River. Joan was born June 10, 1956, and she also graduated from WCAS in 1974. Joan received a degree in community recreation and special education from Moorhead State College. She has three sisters, SueAnn, Judy, and Janet and two brothers, Don and Robert. Craig and Joan are now residing in Fargo where Joan has a position with the Fargo Housing Authority and Craig is a contractor and owner of a cable television installation and yard irrigation business.
OSCAR AND JOANN WALSTAD Oscar Everett Walstad was born Dec. 1, 1903, to Gunerius and Laura Walstad on the Walstad homestead, located five miles south of Hoople. His wife, Joann, daughter of Nels and Inger Midgarden, was born Feb. 15, 1906, and raised on her father's homestead, located two miles east of the Walstad home.
Wedding picture of Joann Midgarden and Oscar Walstad, July 25, 1928. Oscar and Joann were ambitious people. They would tackle any kind of a job and see it through without shirking or looking for help. They were not individuals who just went along with the crowd. They had strong beliefs and views and would speak up for them.
The couple was married at the Zion Lutheran Church, rural Hoople, on July 25, 1928. At the time of their marriage, they purchased the Walstad farm from Oscar's parents who retired to Hoople. Oscar and Joann lived in Walsh County and were members of the Zion Lutheran Church their entire lifetime.
Oscar was a driving force behind a number of Walsh County clubs, organizations, and activities. He served on the board of directors of the Nash Grain and Trading Company and the Fertile Township No. 25 School Board (known as the Walstad School). He was active in the Crop Improvement Association, Farm Bureau, and Curling Club.
Oscar and Joann had four children. George (1930) is married to Yvonne Chapman of Park River; Marion "Mickey" (1936) is married to Larry Knutson of Park River; Pauline "Penny" (1942) is married to Robert Haselmo of Park River; and Donald "Pepper" (1946) is married to Darla Petrilli of Pittsburgh, Pa. Oscar's mother, Laura, bedridden and crippled with arthritis, made her home with the family in 1955. Joann provided around-the-clock home nursing care to Laura until her death in 1964.
Oscar spent endless time, money, and effort in facilitating and working for the Walsh County Fair Association. Because of his interest in promoting youth programs and encouraging excellence in young people, the Grand Champion Showmanship Trophy Award is given each year at the Walsh County Fair and State Potato Show by the Oscar Walstad family in his memory. Most of all, Oscar loved life and people. He was often seen laughing so hard he had to wipe away the tears. His friends were of all ages and from every social level. Oscar had a rare sense of
With the photo Joe Rosenthal added his personal greeting to Wendell. His service in World War II was from 1 942 to 1 945. In May, 1943, he married Beryl Walters from Walhalla, N. Dak. They have one son, Warren, who lives in Baraboo, Wise. Warren was married in May, 1979, to Beldona Hirsch of Baraboo. Wendell and Beryl live on the family farm in Fertile Township where his father and mother, Edgar and Lia White had lived and also his grandparents, Duncan and Maria White.
t
Wendell has one brother, Garth White, of Danbury, Wise, and two sisters, Doris Jean (White) Pettit of Council Bluffs, la., and Coral (White) Madden of Great Falls, Mont. After leaving military service Wendell attended electrical school at the State School of Science at Wahpeton. He started farming in 1 9 5 1 , and in 1 954 he also went to work for Samson Electric where he is still employed. He is still farming. Wendell and Beryl belong to the Park River Federated Church where Wendell has served several times on the church governing board. He is also a member of the Paul Farup Post 147, American Legion. He belongs to Eagles, V.F.W., and the Moose Lodge.
Oscar and Joann Walstad's Home humility and generosity. One example, known to few, was the annual supply of potatoes he provided to the area nursing homes. Very important to Joann were family unity, family tradition, and her church. Many people remember Joann best for her flowers. She loved to garden and had a knack for flower arranging and corsage making. When it came time for a wedding at Zion, Joann could always be found giving the last minute touch to a bouquet of flowers or an added twist to a flower in a corsage. She spent hours with her flower gardens on the farm and at the church. Death came to Oscar during his sleep on Feb. 13, 1 9 6 1 , at his farm home. Joann continued to live on the farm home, supporting the goals and activities that she and Oscar established for their family and community, until the time of her death on Aug. 10, 1978. Their enriched lives were made possible through sharing with others in Walsh County the belief in the worthiness of mankind.
WENDELL AND BERYL WHITE Wendell White was born in Park River on July 29, 1923, the son of the late Edgar and Lila (McConnachie) White. He has lived in Park River all of his life. He attended grade school in the country, in what was known as the Bruce School and high school in Park River. After high school he enlisted in the U. S. Marine Corps and received his basic training in California. At 21 he attained the rank of Sgt. Major and was listed as one of the youngest to hold that rank in the Marine Corps at that time. He served in the Pacific area, Tinian, Saipan and Iwo Jima. He has in his possession a glossy photo of the famous flag raising at Iwo Jima. The photo was sent to him by Joe Rosenthal of the San Francisco Chronicle. Rosenthal became famous for his photo of the historic event.
Warren and Wendell White snowmobiling in Yellowstone Park. He is an enthusiastic snowmobiler and motorcycle rider. He looks forward to going to Yellowstone Park each winter for a fun trip through the trails. In the summer he likes to take at least one trip on the motorcycle to the Wisconsin area to see Warren. He has also driven it to Omaha, to Glacier Park, and Banff and Lake Louise in Canada. Beryl is a member of the P.E.O. Sisterhood, the American Legion Auxiliary, and the Federated Ladies Aid. She worked for 21 years as program assistant at the ASC Office in Park River, retiring in March, 1976.
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Hoople. The first meeting was held at the home of Mrs. Oscar Johnson. Other members were: Mrs. Louis Paulson, Mrs. 0 . C. Bjorneby, Mrs. Ole Brager, Mrs. H. G. Hurtt, Mrs. Bernard Nilson, Mrs. Alfred Daley, Miss Minnie Paulson, Miss Clara Berg, Mrs. Orvil Johnson, Mrs. A. Shannon, Mrs. C. M. Grimsrud, Miss Edna Shannon, Miss Hannah Gryde, Mrs. William Tallackson, Mrs. Edward Johnson, and Mrs. Oscar Walstad.
Organizations COUNTRYSIDE HOMEMAKERS—52YEARS OLD. The Countryside Homemakers Club has been an organized Homemakers unit for 52 years, celebrating its 50th Anniversary in 1979. The present officers are lone Anderson, president; Joyce Monson, vice president; Diane Tallackson, secretarytreasurer; Ruth Clemenson and Laurie Larson, program chairmen. These are pictures and clippings taken from the scrapbook of Countryside Homemakers about past activities and the 50th Anniversary.
A history of the club meetings and activities, recorded by Mrs. P. J. Flaten, shows the members active both locally and in county projects, lessons, demonstrations, style shows, skits, teas, etc.
Countryside Homemakers Club of Hoople Marks 50th Birthday; Has Many Accomplishments.
The changes in the past half century in the woman's role as a country homemaker is indicated by the changes in the club's programs. Some of the early lessons taught various aspects of raising chickens, ice wells, dying clothes, washing dresses, cheese making, rag rugs, pressing suits, ice cream making, care of baby chicks, hot beds and uses, electricity and spices.
The Countryside Homemakers of rural Hoople is 50 years old and still perking. In fact, they're cooking on the front burner. Their membership of 23 is a stimulating mix of age groups: charter members, experienced homemakers and young mothers. The club celebrated its golden anniversary at a luncheon on Thursday, Jan. 4, at Larson's Cafe in Park River.
More recent lessons focused on music, first-aid, the woman's place in the world today, hobbies, study of different countries, lanscaping, plastics, fabrics and raising children in rural areas.
Only one other homemakers club has remained active in the county longer than Countryside. The Walshville Club was organized in November, 1927. Mrs. Thomas Thompson serves as president, Mrs. Richard Clemenson, vice president; Mrs. Robert Midgarden, secretarytreasurer, Mrs. Lloyd Johnson and Mrs. Ernest Oak, program chairwomen, and Mrs. Harvey Tallackson, historian.
The club has had many a family picnic, entertained their husbands at Christmas parties and, in the early days, they even hosted a roller skating party for their spouses. Baked goods showers were held for members during times of illness. Wedding receptions were served as well as many other community activities.
Two charter members remain active in the club: Mrs. P. J. Flaten and Mrs. J. D. Midgarden. Other members are: Mrs. Earl Anderson, Mrs. Clifford Berg, Mrs. Albert Bruce, Mrs. Ernest Christensen, Mrs. Tilphare Clemenson, Mrs. Nora Gyrde, Mrs. V. O. Johnson, Mrs. Richard Larson, Mrs. Beulah Midgarden, Mrs. Chris Midgarden, Mrs. Joel Midgarden, Mrs. Lloyd Monson, Mrs. Tom Tallackson and Mrs. Mark Thompson.
Quilts were made for a children's home in Fargo and the Red Cross. Cash donations have been given to the Nellie Svee home in Fargo, State School in Grafton, nursing homes and other medical drives and charities in the community. The members manned a booth at the county fair where they sold homemade goods made by the San Haven tuberculosis sanitarium. The club has had numerous booths and demonstrations at the Walsh County Fair and State Potato Show beginning with the mid-winter fair formerly held in March. In 1961 their booth
When the Club was organized in January, 1929, it was called the Fertile-Glenwood Homemakers Club. The 19 charter members lived in the Zion Lutheran Church locale, south of
Countryside Homemakers, Aug. 17, 1950. Taken Lila Thompsons yard. Back row: Glenna Tallackson, Josie Johnson, Lily Paulson, Joyce Peoples, Eleanor Aasand, Gladys Bjorneby, Lorraine Daley, Verna Johnson, Irene Clemenson. Lucillle Thompson; front row: Neil Midgarden, Evelyn
Midgarden, Florence Midgarden, lone Anderson. Junice Thompson, Lila Thompson. Nora Gryde. and Bernice Thompson. Absent: Irene Brubakken, Lydia Flaten, Joann Walstad. Clara and Beulah Midgarden. Hazel'Berg, and Frances Aasand. 345
In November, 1957, the Countryside Homemakers Club members served the reception for Doris Tallackson's wedding. Members from left to right, are Irene Clemenson, Nora Gryde, Hazel Berg, Verna Johnson, Gladys Bjorneby, Yvonne Walstad, Lorraine Daley, Lydia Flaten, Lila Thompson, lone Anderson, Mabel Erlanson served for Beulah Midgarden, Joann Walstad,
Pud Thompson, Margrete Nelson served for Thelma Bruce, Florence Midgarden, behind her Josie Johnson, Lily Paulson, Glenna Tallackson, Marion Manderud, and Dody Tallackson. Members, not on picture were Grace Johnson, Beulah Midgarden, Clara Midgarden, Evelyn Midgarden, Grace Midgarden, Junice Thompson, and Thelma Bruce.
recognized the Dakota Territory Centennial. The club was responsibile for selling the most Centennial items in the county and Walsh County surpassed all others in the state. As a result, the Countryside booth was pictured in "Dakota Portraits", a booking marking the Territory Centennial.
Mrs. V. O. Johnson pens poem for Golden Anniversary of Countryside Homemakers Club.
In addition to being willing workers both on and behind-thescenes, the members are active exhibitors at the County Fair and State Potato Show. Last fall they were awarded $25 for the club with the largest number of blue ribbons, 30, won in competition. Several members have been sweepstakes winners in various divisions. Mrs. Earl Anderson won state-wide recognition in competition last summer at the North Dakota State Fair in Minot. Her bread entry won first prize among 36 entries in the Super Loaf Contest. Several members have represented the club on the Country Homemakers Council and the Walsh County Fair Board. Mrs. Thomas Thompson, Mrs. Art Tallackson, Jr., Mrs. Lila Thompson and Mrs. Alfred Midgarden have served as council president. Mrs. Clifford Berg served as secretary, Margaret Bruce as treasurer and Florence Midgarden as vice chairman. A quilted purse made by Florence Midgarden was chosen for exhibit at a State Homemaker's Council meeting.
The following poem was written by Mrs. Victor O. Johnson for the Countryside Club's golden anniversary observance. It was in the year of nine and twenty They tell us the wind was blowing plenty But 19 ladies that day braved the weather On a January day they got together. A homemakers club they were determined to form So they came in spite of the snow and storm. They certainly did accomplish that mission For 50 years now, there's been no intermission. Some things have changed we certainly know But to our club meetings we still eargerly go. Of the first 19 members we still have two As Countryside's history we pause to review.
The club has sponsored the Countryside Girls 4-H Club since 1941, helping with achievement days, finding leaders and remembering the leaders with appreciation gifts. A cookbook of recipes shared at meeting roll calls was compiled in 1964. More than 1,200 copies were sold. Proceeds from their sale at the county fair booth netted $400 which was donated to the building fund for the new exhibit hall. Three members wrote papers about homemaker clubwork for a county project in 1954. Mrs. Lloyd Johnson wrote "What Does A Homemakers Club Mean To Me" "Homemakers Story" was written by Lydia Flaten and Thelma Bruce. The Countryside Homemakers has met once a month for 50 years. The members share the fellowship of friends and neighbors and their combined talents have led to a lenghty list of achievements as a group and individually. The club plans an anniversary tea on Thursday, April 19 at the home of Mrs. Victor Johnson. All former members will be invited.
Mrs. O. C. Bjorney, left first president of Countryside Homemakers, with Mrs. Thomas Thompson, president on the 50th Anniversary year, 1979.
Down through the years there has been much transition But Countryside Club has maintained its position It serves in this area a definite need To keep our homes sacred—that is our Creed.
Much time has been spent in support of the Fair When to duty we're called, someone's sure to be there With booths and exhibits and talents and more Ribbons and prizes have been won by the score.
From time to time our membership changes We are proud of the fact that our age has wide ranges. We have been most active for these many years And at times we've even had to shift gears.
Now lest it would seem Club's all work and no play Those thoughts right now, to rest we shall lay. Countryside is always a most happy bunch Just listen in when the hostess serves lunch!
The subjects we studied have been many and varied Through 50 years "major projects" we've carried. From how to churn butter and care for the chickens And how to can meats and how jelly thickens, How to starch curtains and stetch them and such Now we keep house with the buttons we touch. We must conserve, oil and energy save, And learn to make meals in our new "microwave".
We share our joys, our problems, our sorrow But always with hope of a better tomorrow. We treasure the friendship that we have made These many years that together we've stayed. Now you have heard, the story's been told Countryside Club is now 50 years old!
Countryside Homemakers that marked its 50th anniversary, is one of the oldest in Walsh County. Seated, first row, left to right, are Laurie Larson, Verna Johnson, Florence Midgarden, and Janet Midgarden; second row, Evie Midgarden, Kathy Christensen, Lydia Flaten, Clara Midgarden, and Glenna Tallackson; standing, Beulah Midgarden, Joyce Monson, Sandy
Midgarden, Irene Clemenson, Diane Tallackson, Junice Thompson, Margaret Bruce, lone Anderson, Ruth Clemenson, and Hazel Berg. Not pictured are Nora Gryde, Shari Thompson, Beatrice Oak, and Joyce Johnson. An Anniversary Tea was held April 19, 1979, at the V. O. Johnson home in Park River.
Countryside Homemaker women model at the Walsh County Fair and State Potato Show at Curling Club in Park River, 1975. Left to right are Clara Midgarden, Nora Gryde,
Hazel Berg, Junice Thompson, lone Anderson, Beatrice Oak, Joann Walstad, Beulah Midgarden. Florence Midgarden, and Glenna Tallackson. 347
THE WALSH GUN CLUB AND THE WALSH CURLING CLUB The Walsh Gun Club was formed in the spring of 1949 as a non-profit corporation with 75 charter members and 125 associate members. This corporation bought 40 acres of land from Ole Tveit. The land was located one-half mile west of Highway 18. A club house, 24' by 40', was built and two trap layouts were installed, one lighted for night shooting. Trap shooters from surrounding states and parts of Canada have enjoyed shooting at the Walsh club. Art Tallackson, the club's original organizer, served as president of the club for two years, during which time a baseball field was built on one corner of the 40 acres. A new club house for trap shooters was constructed about 100 yards east of the old facilities in 1976. Lyle Dosmann, Ron Carlson, and Kenny Fisher are 1980 copresidents. Fred Clark is secretary-treasurer.
On October 15, 1 9 5 1 , a start was made on something new . . . the organization of a curling club. Although curling was an almost unknown sport at this time, 80 charter members and 40 associate members formed the original club. A quonset type building, 40' by 170', was added to the existing trap shooter's club house, giving space for three sheets of ice. Twenty feet of the new building housed a kitchen and washrooms, with upstairs living quarters provided for a caretaker. Glassed-in sections for spectators were on both floors. An outdoor skating rink was built adjacent to the curling building. The Walsh Curling Club was built entirely through voluntary iabor. It was located one mile north of the junctions of Highways 17 and 18. Art Tallackson was the first president of the new Walsh Curling Club. A new club house and facilities for four sheets of ice were constructed in Park River in 1965. The old Walsh Curling Club was abandoned and torn down in 1979.
Former Walsh County Curling Club and Old Gun Club. Taken from North American Curling News.
Schools MANDT SCHOOL MEMORIES By Lynda Tallackson Ackert Fallen leaves carpeted the brown grass as I stopped the car along the gravel road. During the walk toward the deserted building, I picked cockleburrs from my clothes. The formerly well-groomed playground of my school days was now unkempt, long stalks of dried weeds erupted from the tall grass. The building was to be stripped of its schoolhouse trappings and boarded up to prevent intrusions by man or nature. The school was closed several years before, but now the building had been sold. I made a last private visit, a sentimental journey on an autumn afternoon, back to Mandt School District No. 62. My memories of attending the one-room country school are vivid ones. Childhood experiences form sharp, distinct and lasting images. As I walked to the crumbling front steps, I craned my neck upward toward the bell tower. The metal bell had rung at least four times each school day. The door was unlocked and I entered the cloak room. There were rows of black hooks for hanging coats, low shelves for boots and lunch pails. In the corner was a large cream-colored crock from which we drank water in envelope cups. In winter, ice formed a thin crust on the water in the crock. In spring, the water was tepid. Each family took turns supplying our drinking water. Once, in a scuffle, the crock had received a hairline fracture.
Mandt School Fertile District No. 62, taken in November, 1975. As I entered the school room proper, I counted thirty-four desks of various sizes. Each had an ink well and a flip-up top. A few were visibly scarred with primitive carvings. The seats were smooth and shiny, made so by numerous scholars sliding in and out of them. Located along the east wall of the room was an empty glass-enclosed bookcase. Here resided our limited library. When our school was incorporated into the dreaded town school, the library books were divided among the current students as keepsakes. Along the north wall, the blackboards hung. Our teacher held opening exercises in front of them. A Bible verse and fifteen minutes of reading from a novel had begun each school day. The blackboards were used daily but, on special occasions, the most artistic students drew elaborate murals with colored chalk. When I was in first grade, I mistakenly added my talents to one of these completed murals. I was told in no uncertain terms by the older students that my talents were not welcome and that I should go outside and get lost permanently.
This photo of pupils attending the Mandt School (Fertile District No. 63) was taken May 11, 1928, on the bridge at
Mandt. Teacher (standing at left) was Mrs. (Gertrude Thorsen).
Walter Monson
Top row, left to right: Mrs. Edith (Mastre) Ackerland; Mrs. Irene (Thompson) Clemenson; Mrs. Adeline (Ivesdal) Fennern; Mrs. Avis (Tallackson) Bettis; Mrs. Betty (Tallackson) Roupe, deceased; Mrs. Clara (Ivesdal) Nevenon; Mrs. Margaret (Thorsen) Nelson, deceased; Thomas Thompson; Vernon Mastre, deceased; Ardell Daley, deceased; LeRoy Daley; Mrs. Irene (Mastre) Toews. Front row, left to right: Quentin Daley (an eager youngster who frequently visited school); Leonard Mastre; Francis ("Lob ") Daley, deceased; Ms. Helen Thorsen; Mrs. Gladys (Mastre) Currie, deceased; Ernest Thompson; Kermit Mastre (deceased); Harding Tverberg; Ralph Daley; and Wallace Thompson. Information for this photo was supplied by one of the students pictured, Mrs. Avis (Tallackson) Bettis, now residing in Zephyr, Texas.
Above the blackboard, several wires were strung across the length of the room about seven feet from the floor. These wires brought back memories of Christmases past. Preparations for the annual Christmas program occupied part of each school day from Thanksgiving until the appointed evening for the program in December. Curtains were hung from the wires above the blackboards forming a small stage. Copies of plays, made from the jelly-pan duplicator, were distributed, memorized and practiced. Each student had a "piece" to be learned and recited along with a part in at least one play. We had a choir, resplendent in dishtowel robes and red ribbon bows. On the night of the presentation, families gathered to watch the plays, listen to the music, and laugh at the obvious mistakes in the production. Then the curtains were taken down for another year. The practice time away from our studies seemed a blessing for us. But the Christmas season was another burden to our teacher as she prepared for the program and other annual parties. Her daily duties seemed overwhelming. She was responsible for teaching all subjects on eight different grade levels. Janitorial work in the building was part of her job. Emotionally, the teacher became a part of each of our families. When she left our school,
Mandt School Fertile District No. 62. Left to right, back row, Wanda Daley, Joann Mastre, John Daley, Larry Mastre; front row, Bonita Clemenson, Jerome Daley, Ellen Daley, Lynda Tallackson, and William Daley. Taken in 1955.
Mandt School Fertile District No. 62, May, 1959. Left to right, top row, Bonita Clemenson, Wanda Daley, Ellen Daley, Lynda Tallackson; second row from top, William Daley, Larry Mastre, Jerome Daley, Richard Nelson; third row from top, Gary Sundberg, Tom Tallackson, Dan Thompson, Susan Daley, Mary Thompson; next row, Richard Daley, Doug Thompson, Galen Sundberg, Debra Tallackson, James Nelson, Jack Thompson; front row, Carol Ann Daley, Rodney Clemenson, Donald Koehn, and David Daley.
spread sweeping compound on the wooden slats of the floor and began cleaning up. If someone lingered after the others, they would help by cleaning the blackboard erasers, pounding them on the siding of the building. The scent of sweeping compound and the haze of chalk dust hung in the air. These were my thoughts of our country school.
Mandt School Fertile District No. 62, 1957. Left to right, back row, Susan Daley, Ellen Daley, Tom Tallackson, Jerome Daley, Gary Sundberg, Bonita Clemenson, Dan Thompson; front row (kneeling), Mary Thompson, Lynda Tallackson, William Daley, Gerald Nelson, Larry Mastre, Wanda Daley, and Richard Nelson. tears flowed unashamedly from everyone's eyes. The west side of the school house was the location of the oil stove. During the winter, the aroma of baking potatoes wafted across the room from the top of the stove. Our families had a plentiful supply of potatoes. We wrapped them in foil and put them on the stove in the morning. By lunch time they were ready to eat. We thought they were a real treat and that we were quite clever. Our windows to the outside world gave us a southern exposure. Looking through them 1 saw the river which flowed past our schoolhouse. We walked along it, skated on it, and built forts on its banks. In spring we watched the water rise, hoping for a flood and therefore a brief recess from school. Through one of these windows, a squirming, howling dog was once tossed into our classroom by a mischievous student who had been banished to the cloakroom. As I turned to leave the building, I recalled the end of each school day. After the students rushed homeward, our teacher
Teachers from Mandt School District No. 62 Fertile from the beginning of the school. Closed in 1960-61 school year, reorganized as part of Park River No. 78, Fertile No. 24, and No. 114. Mrs. Eva M. Ford, 1886; R. J. Storey and Nettie Sandswerk, 1892; Louise Gulbrandsen, 1893-1895; C. G. Anderson and Jessie Sinkler, 1895-1896; Oswald Foley and Sarah Moen, 1897; M. A. Hoghaug and Leonard L. Butterwick, 1898-1899; Agnes Scott, 1900; Carrie Clifford, 1901; W. F. Youngs, Vin Murphy, and H. N. Midbo, 1903; Theo. J. Clifford, 19041905; Lizzie M. Kenzie, 1905-1906; Theo. Cliffgard, 19061914; Mary Dahl, 1915-1916; Geneva A. Johnson, 1917-1918; Minerva J. Thompson, 1919; Inga Lee, 1920; Nora Gryde, 1921; Violet Ferestad, 1922-1923; Marie Johnson, 19241925; Thelma Sundvor, 1925-1926; Gertrude Thorsen, 19261928; Hilma Lillehaugen, 1928-1929; Esther Starkson, 19291931; Edith Thompson, 1931-1932; Doris L. M. Strand, 1932-1934; Kathryn Shaw, 1934-1936; Cleo Sheridan, 19361937; Ida Midstokke, 1937-1939; Norma Halvorson, 19401941; Mrs. Kermit Erickson, 1940-1942; Alyce M. Gillespie, 1942-1946; Doris Ann Tanke, 19461947; Joyce Sampel, 1947-1949; Ida Lawson, 1949-1950; Mrs. Russell Dunford, 1950-1952; Carol Rustebakke, 19521953; Donna Klinicke, 1953-1954; Mrs. Carl Momerak, 19541959; Mrs. William Bruce, 1958-1960; and Gertrude Novak, 1959-1960.
Churches SOUTH TRINITY HISTORY The history of the South Trinity Lutheran Church continues from the Walsh Heritage Book, Volume 1 and page 402. In November of 1929 Rev. L. O. Helleklev arrived and served the congregation faithfully for 24 years, when he resigned in 1953 due to failing helath and became a resident of the Valley Memorial Home in Grand Forks until his death in 1958. Rev. Oliver Johnson accepted a call and was installed in 1953. On July 16, 17 and 18, of 1954, the 75th Anniversary was held. The activities began with a Fellowship Tea on Friday evening. On Saturday evening a banquet was held and on Sunday morning, the anniversary service. In 1959 Rev. Berdell Digerness was installed and served until December of 1964 when Rev. Melvin Peterson came to serve as interim pastor and stayed until Rev. E. M. Sletten was installed on May 9, 1965, who served until his resignation in 1971. During this time a new furnace, glass doors and a sign erected by the church. On Sunday, June 29, 1969, the 90th Anniversary of the church was celebrated, with a joint morning worship service held at Zion with a dinner following. In the afternoon a joint service took place at South Trinity.
South Trinity, Rural Crafton, N. Dak.
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MANDT SCHOOL District No. 62 Fertile Twp., Walsh Co., N . Dakota. GERTRUDE 0. THORSEN, Teacher PUPILS Dina A. Barstad Hazel M. Barstad Luella F. Barstad Ardell W. Daley Arnold L. Clemenson Ralph J. Daley Francis M. Daley LeRoy W. Daley Adeline C. Ivesdal Clara L. Ivesdal Ingvald J. Ivesdal Edith Mastre Clifford 1. Mastre Elliott O. Mastre Vernon L Mastre Avis M. Tallackson Betty Mae Tallackson Irene V. Thompson Thomas F. Thompson Margaret E. Thorsen Harding A. Iverberg
South Trinity Rev. Clifford Johnson served as pastor from 1972 until his death in 1975. At this time arrangements were made to have Rev. Terance Anderson of Grand Forks serve as interim pastor. On June 20, 1976, the joint congregation voted to sell the parsonage, which had been built in 1891, and build a new one. Rev. Ernest Christensen was installed on September 12, 1976, as pastor of South Trinity and Zion churches and is presently serving as pastor of the parish.
SCHOOL BOARD Tonnes Ivesdal, President William Tallackson, Clerk Ole Thorsen, Treasurer Alfred Daley Chester Thompson Benj. Rindo, County Supt.
The Centennial, the 100th Anniversary of the founding of this congregation, was held on July 6, 7, and 8 of 1979, with services at North Trinity on Friday evening. Saturday morning a breakfast and Norwegian service at Zion. On Saturday afternoon a tea and get-ro-gether at South Trinity was followed by a banquet in the evening, with remarks by former pastors. Sunday morning a Centennial Worship Service was held and a joint service of the parish at Zion church, and again on Sunday afternoon, followed by a tea and an open house of the new parsonage.
Sample Souvenir from Mandt School Fertile District No. 62.
We are thankful to the pioneers and the present members of 351
Over the years the Aid has sponsored many food sales article sales, basket socials, church suppers served lunch at auction sales, and had several Harvest Festivals, some of which were held at farm homes. These activities were the Aid s main money-making projects. It joined the Women's Missionary Federation in 1953 when Rev. Oliver Johnson came to serve the parish. That requ.ed the addition of secretaries to head stewardship, education and cradle rof The organization was known as the Women's Missionary Federation. After the merger of the American Lutheran Church and the United Evangelical Lutheran Church in I 9 6 0 , the name was changed to the American Lutheran Church Women. South Trinity Lutheran Confirmation Class 1928: back row Lome Staven, Bardon Birk: front row Wallace Evenson, Rev. Grimsrud, Judith Larson, and Millard Hove. South Trinity who have let their lives shine forth for Jesus to establish a place of worship for over 100> years; and we give n o God for the many rich blessings through the years and for his guidance and protection. "Thanks be to God who giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Corinthians 1 5.57 Submitted by: Mrs. Marion Lee
SOUTH TRINITY A . L . C . W . This organization of the church was originally called the Ladies Aid. and was organized in 1886 at the Gulbrand Lee ' home Mrs. Iver Iverson, Mrs. Gunder Midgarden and M,ss Lena Larson were the first officers. Meetings were held for a couple yea s and then discontinued. In 1891 the Aid reorganized and has continued since, making many contributions to world and home missions. In 1928 a basement was built under the church This has been used for so many things. Parochial school was held here, social gatherings, later Sunday School and the A.L.C.W meeting's, to mention a few things. Up until this time, he church gatherings were held at the I. Birk home and also at Ole Hellands.
Committee in charge of the Old Fashioned Ladies Aid at South Trinity. Left to right, Gladys Thompson Margaret Hove, Betty Almen, lone Anderson, Gladys Hove, and Blanch Hauser. In 1979 we helped celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the church. I'm sure almost all the active A.L.C.W. members were on one committee or another. In June of that year we held an Old Fashioned Ladies Aid meeting. The program consisted of a Bib le study, a skit, and singing of many favorite hymns. T h * also included an article sale from a simulated country store. Guests were invited, many of who were former South Trinity members. The lunch, of course, consisted of layer cakes, sandwiches dark bread, cheese, pickles, rhubarb sauce, lemon-ade, and coffee. This meeting was the kick-off to our church celebration. The A L C W. has helped pay for several projects at the church, the latest being a sign placed along Highway 1 / designating the location of the church. Meetings are held once a month and usually at the church. Besides the business meeting a Bible study is given and an offering is taken for the Cause of the Month as well as one for home use. The present officers are Gladys Hove and lone Anderson, co-preside'nts, Margaret Hove, secretary Nelte T « * e t o n treasurer; Eileen Brekke, secretary of stewardship, and Rae Ann Larson, secretary of education.
GENELL ANDERSON OPENS GIFTS AS HAIL AND WIND POUND CHURCH South Trinity A.L.C.W. members. Front row, Eileen Brekke, lone Anderson, Gladys Hove, Margaret Hove. Betty Almen, Ethel Sander, second row, Kathy Christensen Nellie Torkelson, Gladys Thompson, Olga Monson Ida Monson Mabel Jonnson, Tilda Brekke, Myrtle Lee; third row Blanch Hou er Helen Torkelson, Mavis Almen, Rhody Anderson, Alice Orsund, Gladys Holt, Sandra Almen; fourth row, Esther Almen. Mavis Staven, Lillian Larson, Helen Sander, Charlotte Tweten, Joyce Monson, and Marion Lee.
Submitted by lone Anderson South Trinity suffered much damage from the hail storm June 13, 1980. Genell Anderson opens gifts as hail and wind pound church A presentation on a "nervous bride" was given at a bridal shower for Genell Anderson of Grafton at the South Trinity Lutheran Church, Friday, June 13. 352
She probably wasn't the only nervous person in attendance before that evening was over. The guests arrived; a program was presented; and then as the honored guest was opening and viewing her gifts, a storm struck. Friends and relatives just sat and watched as hail and wind broke windows in the basement of the church where the shower was being held. Hostesses, in addition to their regular duties at a shower, cleaned up the hail-covered floor, and even ended up boarding the windows. After it was all over, Miss Anderson expressed her thanks and appreciation to everyone for the gifts and party. Mrs. Herman Lee was mistress of ceremonies for the program. Mrs. Elton Brekke gave devotions, and Mrs. Richard Van Camp sang two selections, "You Light Up My Life," and "That's the Story of Love." Close friends of the bride, Sandy Mohagen, Tina Paschke and June Selseth, gave a presentation on the nervous bride, with Mariette Niswongerthe narrator. Joan Duray was at the guest book, and greeting the guests upon their arrival were Mrs. Alfred Sander and Mrs. Clarence Thompson. After lunch was served, Carol Brekke, dressed in nurses' attire, brought Miss Anderson's gifts to her on a hospital cart, and also read "Bridal Verse for a Nurse." Garden flowers and nursing paraphernalia decorated the basement of the church. Corsages were presented to the brideelect, her mother, Mrs. Earl Anderson, and the groom-to-be's mother, Mrs. Orvil Jallo, Lankin.
Zion Lutheran Church, Hoople, N. D.
Other special guests were the groom-elect's grandmothers, Ellen Berdahl and Olga Jallo, both of the Lankin community, and Miss Anderson's grandmother, Clara Anderson, a resident of the Lutheran Sunset Home. Hostesses for the evening were Mmes. Ardell Almen, Lynn Almen, Elton Brekke, Arnold Hove, Paul Larson, Clarence Thompson, Alfred Sander, Millard Hove and Herman Lee. Miss Anderson became the bride of Wayne Jallo at South Trinity on Saturday, July 12. She has been employed as an LPN at the Lutheran Sunset Home.
ZION CONGREGATION Zion Congregation, rural Hoople, in Fertile Township, celebrated its Centennial on July 7 and 8, 1979. The theme selected for this joyous time was — "Come, Let us Praise the Lord!" Psalm 9 5 : 1 . The two-day Centennial Celebration began with a pancake breakfast, hosted by the Arnold and Tilphare Clemenson families, on the farm of their grandparents, the Tom Knudsons, which was the original site of the first meeting of Zion Congregation in 1879. A Norwegian service followed the breakfast with former Pastor E. M. Sletten delivering the message. A catered banquet was served at Zion Church that same evening, from 5-7 p. m., and this was followed by a Centennial program. On Sunday morning there was a Centennial worship service with former Pastor Oliver Johnson delivering the message, and a joint Centennial service for Zion, South Trinity and North Trinity at Zion Church in the afternoon with former Pastor E. M. Sletten giving the Centennial Address, and the program was followed by the serving of a fellowship lunch. Former pastors of Zion who
The chancel of the Zion Lutheran Church, rural Hoople. attended the Centennial were: Pastor Oliver Johnson, Pastor Berdell Digerness, and Pastor E. M. Sletten. This write-up will include a brief history of Zion Congregation since 1930, since the earlier history of Zion is recorded on pages 403-406 of the first edition of the "Walsh Heritage" books which was published in 1976. And, a Centennial History Book of Zion was published in 1979. Rev. L. O. Helleklev served Zion as well as South Trinity and North Trinity Churches from 1929-1953. He resigned due to failing health and became a resident of the Valley Memorial Home in Grand Forks until his death in 1958 and he was buried in Zion Cemetery. In 1953 North Trinity withdrew from the parish and now the pastor began to serve two churches instead of three. Prior to 1953, worship services were held every other Sunday at Zion, and now Zion and South Trinity began to hold
weekly worship services. Pastor Oliver E. Johnson graduated from seminary in 1953 and came to serve Zion-South Trinity Parish that same year. His wife, Grace, also served as organist and choir director during part of the time while her husband served as pastor. They became the parents of three children. In 1954 Zion celebrated its 75th Anniversary with a two-day celebration which marked another milestone in the history of the congregation. Pastor Selmer Tallakson was interim pastor in 1958 and died while serving Zion-South Trinity in May, 1959. In 1959 Pastor Berdell Digerness came to serve the parish after his graduation from seminary and he served the parish until his resignation in 1964. While Pastor Digerness was serving the parish, the ELC, with which Zion was affiliated, merged with other Lutheran Churches to form the ALC (American Lutheran Church) in 1961. Pastor Digerness and his wife, Delores, are the parents of four children. Pastor Melvin Peterson served a short time as interim pastor. And, in 1965 Pastor E. M. Sletten came to serve Zion-South Trinity Parish until 1971. While serving our parish, his wife, Inga, died in February, 1969. Pastor Sletten and Inga's only daughter, Ruth, is married to Richard Clemenson and is a member of Zion Church. Now their three children, Kristin, Bradley, and Beth, are sixth generation members of Zion. Also, the organizational meeting of Zion was held at the Tom Knudson farm home and the Knudsons are great-great grandparents of Kristin, Bradley and Beth. Pastor Sletten and Inga also have two grown'sons. Pastor Sletten married Ruth Wattnem Gronna in Minneapolis while still serving the parish and they retired in December, 1971, and moved to Moorhead.
New Parsonage - Dedicated in 1977 In June, 1969, Zion celebrated its 90th Anniversary with a one day celebration. Pastor Clifford H. Johnson came to serve Zion-South Trinity in 1972 and served until his sudden death on Christmas Day, 1975. Pastor Johnson and his wife, June, are the parents of five children. Pastor Terrance Anderson and Pastor Eylands were interim pastors in 1976 until Pastor Ernest Christensen, Jr., was called to serve Zion-South Trinity Parish in 1976. Pastor Christensen and his wife, Kathy, are the parents of two children. In 1976 ground breaking was held for a new parish parsonage on the site of the previous parsonage. The old parsonage was sold to Don Anderson and moved to section three in Farmington Township near Auburn. The new parsonage was dedicated in October, 1977. In June, 1978, David Hurtt was ordained into the Lutheran Ministry at Zion Church. In the 99 years of Zion Congregation David was the first confirmed member to be ordained into the ministry at Zion Church. As of November 1, 1980, Marion Folson Anderson who will be 100 years old on November 26,
Rev. Ernest Christensen Family: Rachel, Kathy, Kurt, and Pastor Christensen, standing. (Present Pastor) 1980, is the oldest living person confirmed at Zion and she now resides in British Columbia, Canada. Carl J. Paulson who was born in 1885 and as of November 1, 1980, he is the oldest life long member of Zion Congregation at the age of ninety-five. Zion Ladies Aid was organized in 1885 and now this organization is known as the American Lutheran Church Women. This active organization still continues as a benevolent organization within the congregation. Over the past years there have been many major repair projects or improvements at Zion. The present structure was built in 1921 and the exterior was re-stuccoed in 1935. In 1950 acoustic tile was installed throughout the interior of the church proper, roof reshingled and basement redecorated. In 1958 trees were planted around the exterior of the cemetery and church yard. In 1964 the area between the church and parsonage was leveled and landscaped thus enlarging the cemetery. In 1967 the interior of the church was painted a lighter cream color, altar retouched, pews varnished, basement ceiling installed, glass block basement windows installed and bathrooms constructed, and a new furnace installed. The shingle shakes were stained and the exterior of the church was painted in 1973. In 1978 the cemetery was leveled and all the tombstones aligned. Zion,
Group of Senior Men of Zion Congregation: first row, Amos Flaten, J. D. Midgarden, Nels Johnson, and P. J. Flaten; second row, Clifford Berg, Tip Clemenson, V. O. Johnson, Joe Thompson, and Iver Iverson.
paneled and carpeted. And, in 1980 shatter proof protection panels were installed over the stained glass windows in the church and the church roof was also reshingled. "Praise the Lord! Praise God in His temple! Praise His strength in heaven! Praise Him for the mighty things He has done! His supreme greatness! Praise the Lord!" Psalm 150:1 -2.
Cemetery received a gift deed of land in 1 976 from Molly and Hans Larson, Park River, with rent from the land to be used by the cemetery and church. Other improvements have been carpeting of the church proper and entry, new glass entry doors, and new lighting to mention only some of the improvements. Many of these projects have been financed by memorials or special drives. The year of our centennial the basement was
Submitted by Lorraine Paulson
:
9 V:t,V ' . Croup of Senior members of Zion Congregation: front row, Carl Paulson, Annie Aasand, Clara Nilson, Edward Johnson, Gertie Daley; second row, Clara Berg, Anna Orsund, Una
Bjorneby, Clara Anderson, Marion Burtt, Christine Groven, and Gunvor Groven.
Zion American Lutheran Church Women, picture taken in December, 1978. First row: Ida Flaten, Cora Paulson, Bessie Midgarden, Clara Midgarden, Lydia Flaten. Second row: Beulah Midgarden, Ruth Clemenson, Irene Clemenson, Kathy Christensen, Pearl Iverson, Bernice Flanagan, Charlotte Tverberg, Bev Hurtt, Bette Nilson, Evie Midgarden, Glenna Tallackson. Third row: Donna Erovick, Margaret Larson, Lavonne Berg, Violet Daley, Edith Mastre, Joyce Johnson, Sonia Midgarden, Beatrice Oak. Fourth row: Mary Daley, Hazel Berg, Gladys Bjorneby, Olianna Clemenson, Mabel Johnson, Mabel Erlanson, Carol Tallackson, Junice Thompson, Linda Johnston. Marilyn Hurtt, Lily Paulson. Back row: Alice Daley,
Sandy Midgarden, Karen Midgarden, Phyllis Johnson, Edna Gunhus, Verna Johnson, Julie Flaten, Synnove Svarthus, Renae Daley, and Snooky Bjorneby. Members absent for group picture were: Dody Tallackson, Annie Daley, Bunnie Johnson, Laurie Larson, Barbara Thompson, Janet Midgarden, Annie Aasand, Clara Anderson, Clara Berg, Una Bjorneby, Gertie Daley, Christine Groven, Clara Nilson, Anna Orsund, Helga Erlanson, Nora Gryde, Alice Iverson, Helen Bjorneby, Stella Thompson, Lila Monson, Marvel Flaten, Barbara Bracken, Delores Daley, Lila Thompson, Gunvor Groven, and Helen Almen. 355
Fertile Township in Photos
Barn on Thomas Harris Farm, 1880's.
This is a picture of lone Midgarden Anderson with her mother's White Holland turkeys. Mrs. Midgarden (Ida Ivesdal) won many ribbons at the Mid-Winter Fair in Park River, N. Dak, and United States, Canada and other countries, with her turkeys.
Granary on Thomas Harris Farm, 1880's.
Texaco Lunch Stand, Harold and Frances Gillespie, owner. Waitress, Glenna Walstad. (1940)
House on Thomas Harris Farm, 1880's.
The field crew on Ihe Clarence Daley farm that Mrs. Daley cooked three complete meals and two lunches for daily. Fall of 1937.
Iver A. Flaten donated his Percheron stallion to the Red Cross in 1918. It was sold at auction in Oslo, Minn., and bought for $460. 356
Dinner following confirmation, 1926.
Learning their 3 R's in Monson School District were Bardon Birk, Millard Hove, Wallace Evenson, Alfred Viger, Arnold Hove, Torfin Evenson, Ruth Birk, Tom Birk, and Alice Hove. The teacher was Irene Lee.
Old Timers from Fertile Township — 1935: Phillip, Henry Tallackson, a sister, Sophia Swiggum, Arthur, Sr., and William (Bill) Tallackson, at the William Tallackson farm home.
Fritz, Bardon, Elsie and Mafalda Birk.
Bardon Birk Home, 1927.
After the hail and wind storm June 13, 1980. The old and the new — Bardon Birk and Oliver Hove (on tractor).
Tobias Hadland and friends, about 1923 or 1924. 357
Harvey Tallackson was the first to introduce a milking parlor in Walsh County.
Joe Thompson was a pioneer in the North Dakota Potato Industry. Here are two pictures of early potato digging in Walsh County. The picture with potato sacks was taken when Joe was one of the buyers for Leonard, Crosset and Riley of Moorhead, Minn. He worked for the two men in dress coats, A. W. McConn and W. C. Knowles.
? i Mrs. Ole Larson and Family: left to right, Olaf Larson, Bertha Larson Lindgren, Martha Larson Knoff, Hans Larson, Lars Larson, Christina Larson Walstad and Enoch Larson. Seated in rocker is Kjerstina Larson.
Fertile Township Float in Park River July 4, 1976, Parade.
Mr. and Mrs. Chester Thompson and grandchildren in the parade in Park River, 1976.
Farm Home of Amos and Ida Flaten in Fertile Township. 358
Weather to remember: July 3rd tornado, 1947; windstorm, June 7, 1954; drought and hail storm, June 13, 1980.
359
Sam Peoples Farm (taken about 1920).
Picture of Milton Peoples and Ted the Horse. Prize winning photo taken by Mrs. Paul Peoples of Park River. N. Dak. Milton is the son of Sam and Sara Peoples of Fertile Township. 360
FOREST RIVER T • WN S H [P.,_
Scale 1% iDchM to 1 mile
Uownship 1SS Worth, Range S3 West of the Sth
S'.X.
1910
WALSH
TWP
CENTER
GRAND FORKS 361
FOREST RIVER 1975 TOWNSHIP: I55 N
RANGE • 53 W CODE
WALSH
""GRAND" FORKT 3££ I f l J NAME I — A — Sophia t, M a u r i c e . K o r v n t a l — B — J o a » p h ii , Verne PeplinSrkiI — C —-Merdv Hardy Heuj.TTHeu • • Q—CheeTer G o r n d u J i c H 12 — A — G e o r g e l o r a n g e r 1
SMALL ACRES SEC. - 1000 - 50 00 21— - C46 21 20— 26—
TRACT
LOT NAME -ClmTon Tbraerson A — W a l t e r t NWra Woods B —B.N, Co /ryCorp A — Rovd M > \ l e r — B —Leddis Johnston J
E
Map With Permission of Midwest Atlas, Midland, S.D. 362
ACRES SEC. LOT NAME A — Lee. Fe.ro.eson21 - B — L e t G l e n ? 2* .57 - RobCrH Wbo< - I \C 30" omas • 2 SO - J o h n ^ Trior t
GiHham-
-
I TS 10.10 36.00 .300 3.00
CITY OF FOREST RIVER SOMEBODY'S HOMETOWN Unless you have lived in a small town, you will find it a little difficult to understand how we feel about it. When I tell people here about it, I mean people who have always lived in a metropolis, they say — " I wouldn't want to live there, every one knows your business." I say . . . "What business?" We never had any that mattered who knew it. I have always been thankful that through either choice or circumstance we had the opportunity to raise our children in that environment. We never seemed to have any fear of anything. And I don't think they missed very much, if anything. We lived near the river and they learned to be excellent swimmers without anyone to instruct them. "The proverbial swimming hole." It also provided good skating in the winter. And when the snow was too deep, a homemade rink was provided for their enjoyment. A music teacher, bandmaster, vocal teacher all came to our town to teach them. The opportunity was there if they cared to avail themselves of them. On Decoration Day, and other holidays, seeing our young bunch marching through town, we were really thrilled. The fact that quite a few notes were missing . . . what parent noticed that???? The town, at one time, boasted a dentist, drugstore and even a hotel, but they were long gone when we got there, as there just weren't enough of us to support them. Saturday night dances were a family affair; adults had to be very sure-footed to dodge all our children that were on the floor. The only ones that weren't up were the babies bundled and asleep on the side benches. The traveling orchestras were really lively and we had a lot oHun dancing to the tune of "The girl with the hole in her stocking." We had roller skating for all, our children underfoot, as usual. And afterwards, we would go to someone's home for a midnight snack. Our young people made all the dances in the surrounding towns, which were also small. If they didn't get home when we thought they should, we just turned over and went back to sleep. And they always came home. Whenever we needed money for a project we were interested in, we put on "home tale.it" p'-ays, which were very popular and attended by all. Our school was so nearby the children could walk to it in any kind of weather, and could come home for a hot lunch at noon. There was an active " 4 - H " Club, also church club. Whoever was to serve lunch would notify you an hour before the meeting, and bring the plate back empty in another hour. What they did, besides eat, I never knew. We had two churches, one on each corner of one block, so consequently that street was called Church Street. As it was a farming community, our children had an opportunity to pull mustard in the summer and pick potatoes in the fall — which usually got them a new sweater or something really wanted . . . mostly fun, tho'. For a funeral every business place closed for the afternoon. The farmers shut down all their machinery and came in; our churches were always filled for those occasions. A solemn atmosphere of respect was in the air. The sympathy and help that your neighbors give you in your hour of sorrow is so very real and unforgettable. This small town has contributed several doctors, engineers, nurses and other prominent citizens, to which we point with pride. The architecture of the town is comprised of two or three grain elevators, a beet loading plant, two railroad depots, large potato warehouses, and a new Masonic Temple. A prosperous little town. Our community Christmas tree was always such a joyous event, with gifts for all. Sometimes you would get a package that would hardly come under the name present... all
for fun tho'. And the harvest home suppers given in the town hall! People from all the small towns came, and so much of the banquet was homegrown, so we considered them free. People in town never thought of planting sweet corn or potatoes; we just hopped in a car and went to the farmers' fields and helped ourselves. So much fun to pack a lunch and go berrying! Wild plums, big juicy gooseberries whose prickly thorns never kept us away, choke cherries hanging in big black clusters. You were always warned not to drink milk after eating them for fear you would choke, but we ate them, drank milk, and nobody ever choked. Our doors were never locked and the keys were always in the car. And shades were seldom drawn. If you wanted to see anyone special, be at the post office at mail time. No delivery, but such a good chance to see your neighbor. In the spring, your lawn was a yellow carpet of the biggest, fluffiest and healthiest dandelions ever to grow. They just challenged us to try to eradicate them. When I see a lonesome little one out here, I feel sorry for it, because it really looks like it has "tired blood." Oh yes! we did have a policeman. But if he ever had anything to do, I never knew what, nor did anyone else. Our programs on Decoration Day at the cemetery were very impressive, after which we all went to the community picnic in the park. When filling up your plate you would just wonder how there could be so many good cooks in such a little place. If you are not one that has had the privilege of living in a small town, you have really missed something so very worth while. Truly . . . you have missed something if you have never lived in a small town. WRITTEN BY Mrs. Wm. G. Legg, April, 1960
Businesses
This Forest River Bank was the first bank building used by the present Walsh County Bank and Trust Company. Walsh County Bank at Forest River (1913) was the first station of Walsh County Bank at St. Thomas. The Farmers and Merchants State Bank, Fordville, consolidated with Forest River State Bank and moved to Crafton (193 7). Forest River State Bank, 1937, changed to Walsh County State Bank and moved to Crafton. The first station of Walsh County Bank was established at Hoople, 1937.
FOREST RIVER TOWNSHIP FAMILY HISTORIES JOHN AND ANNIE FERGUSON FAMILY Margaret Ann Hand carne to Fisher's Landing from Ontario with her family — George and Lydia Houston lland, and two sisters. A brother had died in infancy. They arrived about 1870 and seemed to be close to a brother who owned a dairy near what became East Grand Forks. Annie stayed with her uncle's family to go to school as they lived too far out in the "timber" for schools. Lydia died sometime before 1890. The family apparently moved back and forth across the Red River from time to time. Annie and John Ferguson were married at the farm home in Walshville Township in 1891. John was born in Renfrew County, Ontario, and came to Dakota territory to join several brothers who settled in this area. John and Annie settled down in Walshville Township and their four children were born there and attended country schools. One old hymn book is inscribed "Poland Sunday School." My inquiry as to this strange title brought the reply that there was no church building or a minister but the children had to have some religious teaching. Apparently they met in the school on Sunday.
John and Annie Ferguson Ernest llland Ferguson was born April 28, 1892; Mary Jane Ferguson, born Jan. 16, 1896; Harold Houston Ferguson, March 16, 1898; and Raymond John Ferguson, May 16, 1900. The family moved to Forest River in 1912 and occupied the same farm until moving into Forest River in 1948. In August, 1941, a large family gathering was held to mark Annie and John's Fiftieth Anniversary. John died in October, 1943, and Annie lived until November, 1959, a little over two months past her 100th birthday. Ernest went from country school to business college in Grand Forks and started work in the area doing grain buying for elevators. He had worked his way up to manger when World War I interrupted his career. He left with Company C out of Grafton and served for the duration of the war, receiving several decorations, including Silver Star and Purple Heart. Through an oversight, he received the actual Purple Heart some 25 years late! Ernie was selected to the "Occupation Army" and did not get home until 1920. He was married to Georgene Willson at Forest River in July, 1921. Having already resumed his work in grain buying, they moved to the Bottineau area before moving back to Forest River
in 1929 where Ernie operated the Ops Elevator.and later, the Peavey Elevator at Johnstown. Ernie died in June, 1 953. Ernest and Georgene had two daughters; Ivonne Rae is married to James Eastman and they live at Johnstown. Adele Margaret has a career in nursing and lives at Bismarck, and is married to Howard Gorder from Grafton. Mary Jane attended school in Forest River and later worked in the drugstore in Oslo, Minn., for Marie Ponton Francisco who was one of the first female pharmacists in the area. She married Wilhelm Larson of Oslo and moved to Oregon in 1928. They had one daughter, Lois Marie. Mary died in January, 1958. Harold graduated from Forest River High School in 1917, attended U.N.D., and was in ROTC during the war. He studied engineering and went into mining. In 1932 he completed work and received his degree from U.N.D. He spent many years working on the Panama Canal and came back to North Dakota to work for the Corps of Engineers at Riverdale, eventually following the Missouri River Conservation work to Omaha before retiring in 1964. Harold died at Forest River in 1965. Ray attended school at Forest River but left to farm when both older brothers were away. He spent his entire life at Forest River with the exception of winters, when he and a friend would work in the "lumber woods" of northern Minnesota. Ray usually drove the draywagon, hauling supplies from town to the remote lumber camps. It was exciting, as children, to hear the stories of the timber wolves chasing the sleighload of fresh meat, etc., to the camp. Some winters the friends went as far east as Michigan to find work. One winter was spent in Detroit but that was a short winter since the hotel lobby, where they were living, was sprayed with bullets from a passing car! A newspaper account, read on the train headed west, reported the gangland slaying in the Detroit Hotel. That ended the city adventure for the country boys. In 1929 Ray was married to Lilly Willson, youngest daughter of early pioneer George B. Willson. Lilly was graduated from Forest River High School, attended Valley City State College, and taught country school in Walsh County. She died in 1941. Four children survived — Rae Ann, Lee Gene, Mary Alice and Jay Willson. The family grew up at Forest River, moving in to town in 1948. Ray spent his life farming and in farm-related activities. He often commented that there was nothing prettier than a field of blossoming potatoes. He always had a hoe in the pickup and often stopped to "clean-up" a field headland. Ray died climbing into the cab of a loaded truck to haul the last load of sugar beets Nov. 3, 1959. He was an active member of St. John's Lodge No. 36, AF & AM, having served in all offices and as Worshipful Master, he also held membership in other Masonic bodies. Ray served over 1 5 years on the school board, including several as president. All four children are graduates of Forest River High School. Rae Ann lived in Forest River until 1970 when she married Henry Larson and moved to a Walsh Centre Township farm. She is a teller at Walsh County Bank and Trust Co., in Grafton. At Forest River she was active in the usual community projects, serving as financial secretary of Forest River Community Church, a member of the choir, serving as a Sunday School teacher, a 4-H leader, and active in Order of the Eastern Star. Lee has spent all his life at Forest River except two years in the Army, spent mostly in Germany. He married Marilyn Sobolik at Fordville in 1959; they have two children. Gary Lee graduated from Midway High School in 1978, attended Wahpeton State
School of Science, and lives at Forest River. Debbie Lynn graduated from Midway High School in 1980 and is a UND student. Lee is active in all community affairs, including American Legion, St. John's Lodge, Community Church and is serving his second term as mayor. Mary Alice left to attend classes and work in Minneapolis for two years before marrying Harry Lottine, Jr., of Johnstown. They lived at Forest River for two years before moving to Cheyenne, Wyo., and eventually to Fillmore, Calif. They have two daughters. Jay has spent his entire life at Forest River except for a short time at school and some time in the Army. He married Doris Lee Bayne, daughter of Earl and Hazel Bayne, at Forest River in 1961. They have three children — Angela Kay, Cathy Lynn and Ray Shane. Jay has served as an officer in St. John's Lodge, American Legion, and Community Church.
JEAN (GILLHAM) FREDEN FAMILY Jean Elizabeth Gillham, daughter of Thomas E. (Ted) and Ella (Hewitt) Gillham, was bom Jan. 9, 1946 at Grafton. She was the granddaughter of C. W. and Ethel (Sample) Gillham and Lome and Carrie (Woods) Hewitt. All were residents of Forest River Township. She lived in Forest River Township until leaving for college. She attended school in Forest River up to grade 10, when the high school was closed, and the students attended Midway High School. She graduated from Midway in 1964 and attended North Dakota State University, Fargo, for two years. Following this she attended North Dakota State School of Science, Wahpeton, and graduated from the dental hygiene program. In 1972 she graduated from the University of Minnesota with a Bachelor of Science Degree in dental hygiene education. Upon attaining this degree, she returned to the North Dakota State School of Science to become clinical supervisor of the Dental Auxiliaries Department.
director. On August 5, 1980, a son, John Thomas, was born to them at St. Francis Hospital, Breckenridge, Minn. She is a member of the United Methodist Church in Wahpeton, the American Dental Hygienists Association, the North Dakota Dental Hygienists Association, and was an active member of the order of Eastern Star. She held membership in the United No. 19 and Wahpeton No. 3 Order of Eastern Star and served many offices in the Order. JOHN E. GILLHAM John E. Gillham was born Sept. 7, 1907, in Forest River, the son of Charles W. and Ethel (Sample) Gillham, He received his education in the Forest River School, graduating in 1927. He lived and farmed in the Forest River his entire life, retiring from active farming in 1978. John was a member of the Forest River Community Church where he served as elder. He was a Past Master of St. John's Lodge No. 36, A. F. and A. M. He was also a member of the following: the American Hereford Association, the Northeast North Dakota Pioneer Machine Association, the Walsh County Crop Improvement Association, the Walsh County Livestock Association, the Walsh County Historical Society, and the 999 Club of Sunset Founders.
On July 19, 1975, she married Roger George Freden who was born and raised around the Aberdeen, S. Dak., area. Roger is employed at the radio station in Wahpeton as the news and sports
John E. Gillham John's favorite sport, being fishing, let him enjoy many happy hours with many of his friends. One of the highlights of John's life was a trip that he and his sister, Beth, made to England in May, 1977. They found that the family home had been replaced with a shoe factory. None of the relatives remained, but they did locate an elderly couple who remembered having visited at the Gillham home as children. At Luton, south of London, they visited a cemetery where they were shown family graves. The inscriptions were barely legible. John Gillham died Apr. 7, 1979. He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Thomas (Ted), and Charles, who had died in infancy. One sister, Mrs. Ed (Beth) Morwood, and two nieces survive. Burial was in Forest River Memorial Cemetery.
Roger and Jean (Gillham) Freden Family: Jean, Roger and John Thomas.
THOMAS E. (TED) GILLHAM Thomas E. (Ted) Gillham was born Apr. 1 1 , 1 9 0 5 , on the farm southwest of Forest River which is located in the S Vn of
Section 31-155-53. He was the eldest son of Charles W. and Ethel Sampel Gillham. He had two brothers, John and Charles, and a sister, Beth (Mrs. Ed Morwood). Ted attended school in Forest River. He was a member of a 4-H Club and a stock judging team, at which time, he showed the State Champion Hereford heifer and won a gold medal for judging potatoes. In 1929, Charles W. Gillham died and Ted and his brother, John, took over the farming operations of the family farm. In 1930, Ted was elected to the Forest River Township Board on which he was serving as chairman at the time of his death.
Township Board, and is a member of the Minto Legion Post 201. Gertrude Marciniak Hewitt was born June 13, 1927, near Voss, N. Dak., to Stanley and Annie Kutz Marciniak. She had two sisters — Evelyn, who passed away when she was 2'/2 years old, and Sophie Gordon, who lives in Sun Valley, Calif. She received her elementary education in Voss, then graduated from Minto High School. She belongs to the Sacred Heart Church in Minto, its Altar Society, and the Minto Legion Auxiliary. They have one daughter, Ann Reyne, who is married to Mitchell Ryan of Inkster and lives in Mandan, N. Dak.
DALE AND MARLENE KORYNTA Dale Korynta was born to Dominic and Mae Riske Korynta on Nov. 6, 1940. He is one of a family of eleven children. Dale attended Grand Forks County - al t-ciiools and in Gilby. 1
On Oct. 19, 1963, he married Marlene Yon at St. John's Catholic Church at Ardoch, N. Dak. Marlene is the daughter of Walter and Burdell Swensrud Yon of Forest River, born June 28, 1937. Marlene is a graduate of Forest River High School and attended Aaker's Business College, Grand Forks.
Thomas (Ted) and Ella Gillham In 1939, Ted married Ella Hewitt at Minto. They were parents of on'? daughter, Jean, now Mrs. Roger Freden of Wahpeton, North Dakota. Ted was a lifetime farmer, raising purebred Hereford cattle, hogs, sheep, small grains, potatoes, and sugar beets. In 1964, Ted and John received the Three Rivers Soil Conservation Award. Ted was a member of the Forest River Community Church; St. John's Lodge No. 36, A.F. and A.M.; the Elks Lodge No. 255 at Grand Forks; the American Hereford Association; the Walsh County Livestock Association; the Walsh County Crop Improvement Association; the Northeastern North Dakota Pioneer Machine Association; 999 Club of Sunset Founders; the Walsh County Historical Society; and the Heritage Book Committee. He had been a member of the Forest River School Board. Ted succumbed on Apr. 9, 1978, at United Hospital, Grand Forks, following a short illness. He was laid to rest in Memorial Park Cemetery at Forest River.
Dale and Marlene are the parents of four children — Mathew, Colleen, Cameron, and Dominic — all of whom are attending Midway School. Dale farms in Levant Township, Grand Forks County. He is president of the Farmers Elevator at Forest River; he is a city alderman, and fire chief for the Forest River Fire Department. Marlene is a member of the Johnstown Active Homemakers Club. The Koryntas have built a new home in Forest River where they make their home. -••
STANLEY AND ANNIE MARCINIAK Stanley Marciniak was born April 16, 1894, in Pozen, Poland, and came to Greenbush, Minn., with his parents in 1894. He was raised in that area and in April, 1918, left Roseau, Minn., for France to serve in the U.S. Army during World War I. After the war he came to the Minto area and met Annie Kuta. Annie (Kuta) Marciniak was born July 29, in Poland, and came to the Minto area in 1904 with her parents, John and Annie Kuta. She was raised in this area and graduated from Minto
HERITAGE OF WALTER AND GERTRUDE HEWITT Walter (Bud) Hewitt was born June. 10, 1922, at Minto, N. Dak., to Lome and Carrie Woods Hewitt. He had one sister, Ella Matejcek, and two brothers, William and Hardy. Graduating from Minto High School, he attended U.N.D., Grand Forks, for one year before joining the U.S. Navy on July, 1941. He served in the Pacific Theater during World War II with the late President John F. Kennedy and Supreme Court Justice White. He served in the Navy until December, 1945. In 1950 he married Gertrude Marciniak, daughter of Stanley and Annie Marciniak, and started farming in the Forest River area. He has served as an elder in the Presbyterian Church in Minto, on the A. S. C. committee, was a member of the Farmers Elevator Board in Forest River, a member of the Forest River
Stanley and Annie Marciniak
High School May, 1921. On Jan. 3 1 , 1922, she married Stanley Marciniak. They were married 52 years and both went to their eternal rest in 1974, three months and eight days apart. Stanley died Mar. 16, 1974, and Annie, on June 24, 1974. Stanley and Annie worked hard and successfully on a rented farm near Voss, N. Dak., for 20 years. In 1943 they bought a farm of their own near Forest River, N. Dak. In 1 950 they had a home built in Minto and retired from farming. During their marriage they had three daughters — Sophie (born February 24, 1923); Gertrude (born June 13, 1927); and Evelyn (born September 24, 1932). Evelyn passed away when she was only 2Vi years old, on Mar. 5, 1935, with spinal meningitis after being very ill for 19 days. Sophie (Marciniak) Gordon left for southern California in 1944, married Clifford E. Gordon Jan. 24, 1948. They have a daughter, Evelyn Linda, born Jan. 1, 1949, and a son, Clifford Stanley, born June 28, 1950. Gertrude (Marciniak) Hewitt married Walter Hewitt Nov. 29, 1950, and settled on the Marciniak farm, where they are still living 30 years later. They have a daugher, Ann Reyne, bom Sept. 27, 1955. Since Stanley and Annie Marciniak have gone to their eternal rest, three more branches have grown to their family tree — two great grandsons, Seth Cameron Whiteley (born October 11,1976) and Steven Clifford Whiteley (born October 8, 1979) to Seth and Evelyn (Gordon) Whiteley. They live in Littleton, Colo. There is also a great granddaughter, Jena Gordon, born May 8, 1980, to Clifford S. and Linda (Hansen) Gordon. They live in Lake Tahoe, Calif.
one sister, Bertha (Mrs. Kelly), and three brothers, Walter, Christie, and Eli. He attended school in Ardoch and Aaker's Business for a term. He owned and operated hardware stores in Ardoch and Forest River but spent most of his life farming. In 1917, he married Nellie Hughes at Manvel. She died in 1947. In 1952, Edward married Elizabeth (Gillham) Hoverson at Grand Forks. They lived on a farm east of Forest River until moving to Grand Forks in October, 1980. Edward served as clerk on the Forest River Township Board for many years; is a member of the Forest River Community Church; was a member of a male quartet; and is well-known in the community as a member of the Morwood Quartet. Edward has two daughters — Dolas Sjoquist of Moorhead, Minn.; and Dolores Carroll, of Fargo, N. Dak.; one stepdaughter, Ellen Stevens, Lander, Wyo.; and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
ELI AND GLADYS MORWOOD Gladys Susanna Hughes was born in Manvel, N. Dak., on Apr. 28, 1898, to Mr. and Mrs. James Hughes. Mrs. Hughes was the former Ellen Greenwood Thomas of Birmingham, England. Gladys was the sixth child in a family of eight children. She finished schooling through high school at Manvel, took the teacher's examinations, and taught 1 Yi years at the Bayne Rural School of Oslo, Minn., before her marriage to Eli J. Morwood on Oct. 29, 1919, at the Congregational church of Manvel. Eli J. Morwood was born in Ardoch, N. Dak., on Feb. 10,
ELLAK. HEWITT GILLHAM MATEJCEK Ella Kathleen Hewitt, daughter of Lome and Carrie Woods Hewitt, was born July 22, 1912, at Minto. She was the eldest of a family of four, having three brothers — William (Bill), Walter (Bud) and Hardy. She attended the Minto Public School, graduating from high school in 1929. She attended the Union Commercial College at Grand Forks, Mayville State College, Mayville, and U.N.D., at Grand Forks. She taught in the Walsh and Grand Forks County schools. Ella married Thomas (Ted) Gillham on Nov. 23, 1939, at Minto. They farmed the Gillham family farm, southwest of Forest River, until the time of Ted's death in 1978. A daughter, Jean, was born to them on Jan. 9, 1946. She attended the local schools, the N.D.S.U. at Fargo, School of Science at Wahpeton, and the University of Minnesota at Minneapolis. In 1975 she married Roger Freden at Wahpeton. They are the parents of a son, John Thomas, born Aug. 5, 1980.
Grocer Eli Morwood
Ella is a member of the Forest River Community Church and the Community Church Women's Association; of United Chapter No. 19, Order of Eastern Star; the Walsh County Historical Society and the Lankin Senior Citizens Club. She was a former Homemaker and 4-H leader. In July, 1979, Ella married R. F. "Pete" Matejcek and is at home in Lankin, N. Dak. EDWARD A. MORWOOD Edward A. Morwood was born Oct. 7, 1896, near Ardoch, N. Dak., the son of James and Isabelle (Irwin) Morwood. He had
Mrs. Frank Kurtyka, left; Mrs. Morwood.
1898, to Mr. and Mrs. James Morwood. He was the fifth child in a family of five children: brothers, Walter, Christie, Edward, and one sister, Bertha. Eli attended the Ardoch schools and the Methodist church where his father, James, was a founder and lay preacher. He farmed the farm his father had homesteaded and brought his bride there to make their home. Their first child, and only son, Lloyd, was born Sept. 24, 1920, on that farm. Seven years later, a daughter, Hope, was born to them at the Deaconess Hospital, Grand Forks, on Sept. 12 1927. Their third child, a daughter, Norma, was born four years later on Oct. 30, 1931. The family left the farm in 1935 to enter the grocery business. They purchased their first store from Mr. and Mrs. Bill Breitweiser when there were two other grocery stores in Forest River, later expanded their business, and moved into a larger facility. When this building was destroyed by fire in 1951 the Morwoods built the existing structure.
The former Eli Morwood grocery store at Forest River, N.
Dak. They continued in business until a year after the death of Eli on Jan. 8, 1972, at the age of 73 years. Mrs. Morwood assisted her husband in their business venture. She has since retired to her love of gardening at their family home in Forest River. Both Mr. and Mrs. Morwood have been active in church activities all of their lives. Eli was a Mason; Gladys is a member of Eastern Star. They enjoyed their family of six grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren, now living in the states of Minnesota and California. ELIZABETH L. MORWOOD Elizabeth L. Morwood was born Dec. 28, 1913, in Forest River, N. Dak., the daughter of Charles and Ethel (Sampel) Gillham, one of four children. Her three brothers were Charles, who died in infancy; Thomas (Ted) and John. She received her education in the Forest River school and after graduating from high school, in 1 9 3 1 , attended Mayville State College. She taught for several years in Grand Forks County schools. In 1945, she married Albert Hoverson. They lived in the Niagara and Forest River areas. A daughter, Ellen Hoverson Stevens, was born in 1946, and is now living in Wyoming. She has two children, Kelly and James Stevens. Albert died in 1950. Elizabeth married Edward Morwood of Forest River at Grand Forks in 1952. They have resided on a farm, east of Forest River, until moving to Grand Forks in October, 1980. Elizabeth is a member of the Forest River Community
Church, the Community Church Women's Association, and the Walsh County Historical Society. LLOYD AND GRACE MORWOOD Lloyd H. Morwood was born Sept. 24, 1920, to Eli and Gladys Morwood in Forest River Township. He attended school in Ardoch, a one-room country school in Forest River Township, and high school in Forest River. He studied vocal music at the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks. He was married in 1940 to Grace Harriet Finley, daughter of Harry and Grace E. Finley of Ops Township, and they became the parents of two daughters: Constance, (Mrs. Wayne Pastir) and Mary Carol (Mrs. Patrick Devig). They have farmed in Forest River Township since 1940. One of the farms includes the original site of the sod hut, dug into the coulee bank by Lloyd's grandfather, James Morwood, and great grandfather, Joseph Irwin, who built and lived in the dugout the first year after they came to this area to homestead in 1878. Lloyd began growing sugar beets in 1943 and became involved with the Red River Valley Sugar Beet Growers Association when it was formed in the early 1950's. He held various offices in that organization and was serving on the executive board as vice president when the growers purchased the American Crystal Sugar Company in 1973, and formed a grower-owned cooperative of approximately 1,300 Red River Valley farmers. He has served on the board of directors of The American Crystal Sugar Company for eight years, the Walsh County Welfare Board for 20 years, and served on the Forest River City Council for 26 years. He served on the board of directors of the Forest River Farmers Elevator for 12 years, and is a past president of the Walsh County Farm Bureau. He is an elder in the Presbyterian church in Forest River, and is a member of B.P.O.E. (Elks) and Eagles Lodges, United Chapter No. 19 O.E.S., and is a Past Master of St. John's Masonic Lodge. He is now serving as precinct committeeman for the Republican Party. Music has always played an important part in the Morwoods' life and, in the earlier years, Lloyd sang in a quartet with his father and two uncles. Singing for church and community affairs has been his hobby and pleasure and he has sung solos for several hundred funerals and weddings in the Forest River community and surrounding areas.
JAMES J. RISKE FAMILY James J. Riske, son of Henry J. and Adeline Riske, was born June 30, 1949. He resided in the Forest River area all of his life and graduated from Midway High School in Grand Forks County in May of 1967. James entered North Dakota State University, Fargo, in November of 1967. In September, 1970, James married Cynthia L. Barta, born March 26, 1949, to Leonard F. and Genevieve Barta. They lived in Fargo until James graduated in November, 1 9 7 1 , with Bachelor of Science Degree in animal science. The Riskes returned to the Forest River area where James started farming with his father, Henry. Cynthia lived in the Forest River area all of her life and graduated from Midway High School in May, 1967. Cynthia entered Mayville State College in September, 1967, and in May of 1968 started working in Grand Forks with the North Dakota Geological Survey until her marriage in 1970. The Riskes have two daughters — Tracy Diane, born Feb. 12, 1973, in Grafton, in Walsh County, and Kathryn Emily, born
Johnston, came to Walsh County in 1 879 with their family from Ontario, Canada. Gladys' parents, Cora Finley Dunlop and Daniel Dunlop. farmed near Inkster. Cora taught school and her parents, Edmund Burke Finley and Sarah Long, came in the early 1 880's and homesteaded the farm where Henry Sobolik lives. They came from Quaker ancestry and moved from Pennsylvania to Wisconsin before coming to Walsh County.
Tracy Riske, age 7, and Kathryn Riske, age 5.
Family of Allen Sampel: left to right, Joyce (Sampel) Bell, Gilbert Sampel, Verna (Sampel) Ecker, Leona (Sampel) O'Neil, Gladys (Dunlop) Sampel, and Allen Sampel.
June 26, 1975, also in Grafton. Both of the girls were born with a genetic hearing loss and have worn hearing aids since an early age. They now live in Forest River Township, Section 9, Township 155, Range 53, on a farm owned by Homer Miller. James is a member of the Park River Knights of Columbus and the family are members of the Sacred Heart Church in Minto, N. Dak.
Allen and Gladys had three daughters and a son: Verna, born in 1922, married Dean Ecker and lives on a farm west of Grandin, N. Dak.; Lona, born in 1925, married Jack O'Neil in 1947, and lives in Mayville, N. Dak.; Joyce, born in 1929, married Howard Bell and lives in Indianapolis, Indiana. Their son, Gilbert, born in 1936, married Bonnie Gerrard, daughter of George and Mildred Gerrard of Grafton.
ALLEN AND GLADYS (DUNLOP) SAMPEL FAMILY
Gilbert and Bonnie's son, Gene, was born in 1958 and farms. Their daughter, Cheryl, was born in 1960 and is attending the U.N.D., Grand Forks.
Allen Sampel, born Dec. 4, 1 890, and Gladys Dunlop, born Sept. 28, 1895, were married July 11, 1921, in Park River. They spent the first three years of their married life on a farm in Manitoba. Allen's brother, Clarence, born June 12, 1893, farmed with them. Clarence served in the army in France during World War I. He was a member of the American Legion Post of Forest River. Allen had gone to Montana, the fall of 1912, to live on a homestead and start farming in 1913. His uncles, Jack and George Johnston, and their families were farming near Joplin, Mont, at the same time. Allen's parents, Thomas and Elizabeth (Johnston) Sampel, homesteaded the farm where their grandson, Gilbert Sampel, and family now live. Elizabeth's parents, John and Maria (Junkin)
Four generation Allen Sampel Family: Center — Allen Sampel, left — Wesley Dean Ecker, right — Verna Sampel, Baby — Daniel Dean Ecker. M e n and Gladys moved from their farm near Forest River to a farm near St. Hilaire, Minn., in 1957. Both Allen and Clarence bought land near St. Hilaire. In 1967 they moved to Forest River and resided there the remainder of their lives. Clarence died in November, 1974; Allen, in January, 1 979; and Gladys died Aug. 3 1 , 1 9 7 9 . All are buried in the Forest River Memorial Cemetery.
Left to right, Clarence Sampel, Edith (Sampel) Wilson, Tena (Sampel) Thistle, Ethel (Sampel) Gillham, and Allen Sampel. 369
LLOYD F. SAUVIE Lloyd F. Sauvie, the son of Asa and Cathryn (Sweeney) Sauvie, was born at Inkster, N. Dak. on Mar. 7, 1898. He had four sisters, Jennie, Annie, Susie, and Edith, and three brothers, Silas, Guy, and Leo. Lloyd attended school in District No. 8, Ops Township, commonly known as the Chamberlain School. He was confirmed at St. Mark's Catholic Church at Conway, N. Dak. Lloyd grew up on the family farm in Ops Township and worked as a farm laborer and carpenter. In 1938, he moved to Forest River where he made his home until about 1977, when he went to become a resident at St. Anne's Guest Home at Grand Forks, N. Dak. He resided there until the time of his death on Jan. 12, 1981. He was buried at St. Mark's Cemetery at Conway. Lloyd loved music and dancing. Those who are familiar with music, and have had the opportunity to have heard the effects of a set of "bones," which are four pieces of seasoned wood, about six inches long, held between the fingers of each hand and rattled to the tune of any snappy song, will have a hard time sitting still and not reacting to the rattle of the four pieces of wood. Lloyd had entertained the folks at St. Anne's Guest Home many times with the rhythmical action of his nimble fingers accompanying any musician that would be entertaining the folks who were there at the time.
he and Blanche retired to Minto. Frank served as Legion Post Commander at Minto Post 201 in 1937, and was a lifelong member of the organization. Frank died on Aug. 28, 1971, and is survived by his wife and both children.
WALTER AND VIVIAN SOLBERG Walter Solberg was born May 2, 1911, at Clifford, N. Dak., to Mr. and Mrs. Edd. Solberg. He attended a country school and graduated from high school in 1929 at Clifford, N. Dak. Then he attended Interstate Business College, Fargo, receiving his diploma in 1 9 3 1 . Vivian Hotter (Solberg) was born Mar. 24, 1921, at Twin Valley, Minn., and moved to Sherwood, N. Dak., when only a small child. Her parents were Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Holter. Walter and Vivian were united in marriage at Clifford on Sept. 23, 1939. They were blessed with three children.
HISTORY OF FRANK AND BLANCHE SCHILLER Frank Schiller was born to Jacob and Julia Schiller on Mar. 4, 1897, in Harriston Township. He was one of ten children. His father had emigrated from Bratasdos, Poland, in 1883. His mother, Julia Paschke, was born in Winona, Minn., on June 20, 1876. At about the age of fourteen, Frank moved with his parents to Forest River Township where he joined his father in farming. He was called to service in 1918 and served in the army for the duration of his military career.
Walter Solberg Family: left to right, front, Vivian and Walter; back, Marilyn, Gerald, and Ronald. Gerald, born Oct. 7th, 1940, attended grade school in Kempton and Forest River and graduated from high school in Forest River. In 1962 he graduated from Mayville State Teachers College, Mayville, N. Dak., and now is a mathematics teacher in a senior high school at Kenosha, Wise. Marilyn, born Feb. 15th, 1943, attended grade and high school in Kempton and Forest River, graduated from high school in Forest River in 1 9 6 1 , and is a graduate of an x-ray school in Minneapolis. She is now working in a clinic in Hinckley, Minn. Ronald, born May 17th, 1948, attended the grades and high school in Forest River, graduating in 1977. He attended the University of North Dakota at Grand Forks and graduated in 1971 and is now an insurance salesman in Portland, Ore.
Wedding picture of Frank and Blanche Schiller. After his discharge, he returned to Forest River and married Blanche Misialek, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Matt Misialek, on Oct. 26, 1925. They settled on a farm, one mile south of the original homestead. Two children were born to this union — Ruth, who is now Mrs. Norbert Korteum of Waukegan, III., and Frank, Jr., who resides in rural Forest River. Frank, Sr., was actively engaged in farming until 1954 when
Walter Solberg managed grain elevators in Wolford, N. Dak., and Kempton, N. Dak., moving to Forest River on July 15, 1951, where he managed the elevator there until his retirement in 1976. While living in Forest River he served on the school board for two terms, and the City Council for 12 years, was a member of St. John's Masonic Lodge in Forest River, and a member of Kern Temple Shrine, Grand Forks. Vivian is a member of The Order of Eastern Star, a member of the American Legion Auxiliary, and at the present is a postal clerk in Forest River. HARRY WILSON On May 23, 1874, near Pakenham, Ontario, a son was born to John Carter Willson and Janet (Woods) Willson. He was
named James Henry, but was always called Harry. He was the first child in a family of nine children. Others in the family were William, Lorn, Rhoda (Frank), Emma, Alice, Titus, Oliver and George. The family moved to the Forest River area in the 1880's. During the early 1900's Harry Wilson owned and operated the barber shop in Forest River. On June 10, 1907, he and Edith Ann Sampel, daughter of Thomas and Elizabeth (Johnston) Sampel, were married. Harry and Edith later moved to a farm, south of Forest River, where they operated the farm until Harry's death, July 1 1 , 1936. Edith moved to Indianapolis in 1942 where she lived until her death, Feb. 10, 1957.
into the armed forces and was stationed in the Philippine Islands. On Thanksgiving Day, 1951, he married Donna Facey, the daughter of Ted and Bernice (Hanson) Facey, at her parental home in Gilby, N. Dak. Donna's father, Ted, died in 1977. Her mother, Bernice, has continued to live in Gilby. Raymond and Donna lived with his mother and later occupied the upstairs apartment of the Methodist Manse at Forest River. From there, they moved to the Ray Ferguson farm home. In the spring of 1955, the home burned. They returned to the family farm where they had moved in a house and set up a permanent residence. Raymond and Donna are the parents of one daughter and four sons. Barbara Ann was born on Feb. 8, 1953. She attended grade school in Forest River, completing her high school education at Midway. After attending N.D.S.U., Fargo, for one year she married Max Danner of Johnstown. They have two boys — Neil, 6 years old, and Brian, 3. Both Barbara and Max finished college, Max graduating from NDSU, and Barbara, from UND. Barbara is teaching home economics at Midway and Max teaches vocational agriculture at Michigan and Petersburg, N. Dak. Arthur Dallas was born Dec. 16, 1955, one month after the death of Raymond's brother, William Dallas, who died in a onecar accident, one and one-half miles from his home. Arthur attended school at Forest River and Midway. He graduated from UND in 1978. In June, 1979, he married Mary Kosmatka and they reside in Grand Forks, N. Dak.
Forest River Barber shop, Harry Wilson (left), Tom Scott (right). After Harry's death, the farm was operated by their son, Vern. Vern and Zeta Irwin were married Apr. 25, 1931. They had three daughters — Muriel, who died in November, 1939; Jacqueline Parke, who lived in Indianapolis until her death in June, 1967; and Arlene Lucke, who resides in Grand Forks. Vern lived on the family farm until his death, Feb. 5, 1958. Zeta died in July, 1972. The daughters of Harry and Edith Wilson all live in Indiana. Louise Richards lives near Linton and has two daughters, Linda Myers of Perrysburg, Ohio, and Karen Lydick who lives in Indianapolis. Ruth Perry lives with her husband, Harlan, in New Palestine. Their sons, Jim and Jeff, also live near New Palestine. Harriett Allen and her husband, Maynard, live in Indianapolis. RAYMOND WOODS FAMILY Raymond (Am) Johnston Woods was born to William Arthur and Annie (Maltman) Woods on May 3 1 , 1933, at their farm home in Forest River Township. His father, Arthur, died at the farm home in January, 1950, at the age of 65 years. His mother, Annie, died in March of 1978, just two days short of her 88th birthday. They were the parents of five children — Raymond; one sister, Louise (Mrs. Howard Dunlop), of Spokane, Wash.; Robert, Hillsboro, N. Dak.; Dallas (deceased); and John Philip of Fargo. Raymond attended school at Forest River, graduating from high school in 1948. The following fall he enrolled at N.D.S.U., Fargo, where he completed his first year. Due to the urgent need of farm produce during World War II many farm boys had gotten a farm deferment which kept Raymond on the family farm for the next two years. Following his two years at home, he was inducted
Roger Dean was born in October, 1958. He attended school at Forest River and Midway after which he attended NDSSS at Wahpeton. He now farms with his father. Paul Raymond was born in August of 1961. He attended school at Forest River and Midway, and NDSSS at Wahpeton. He is at home on the farm. Scott David was born in March of 1965 and started school at Forest River. After finishing his second grade, the school became part of Midway School system where he is finishing his sophomore year. Raymond is an elder of the Forest River Community Church. He was a 4-H leader, served on the Farmers Elevator Board, the Midway School Board for six years, and is president of the Forest River Improvement Corporation. He is a member of St. John's Lodge, A.F. & A.M., of Forest River, and the Elks Lodge No. 255 at Grand Forks. Donna's interests are with music and church work. She is president of the Church Women's Association and also works with the youth groups. At present, Donna is Worthy Matron of United Chapter No. 19, O.E.S. The Woods family have always been avid sports fans, following football, baseball and basketball even before their family participated. Sugar beets, wheat, and pinto beans are raised on the family farm. Raymond raised Columbia sheep for a time and Shorthorn cattle for many years.
WALTER WOODS Walter Woods was born at Forest River, N. Dak., on May 4, 1899, the son of John M. and Agnes (Scott) Woods. He was the youngest of a family of three, having two sisters, Carrie (Mrs. Lome Hewitt) and Elsie (Mrs. John Poole). He grew up and attended school in Forest River. On Nov.
22, 1918, Walter married Myra Jamieson, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Jamieson of Walshville Township. Walter and Myra were the parents of four children — Eileen (Mrs. Carl Ell), John, Robert, and Annette. They farmed and lived on the farm which was homesteaded by Walter's grandfather, Thomas Scott, Sr. His grandfather had a prize herd of Jersey cattle which Walter took upon himself to maintain to his grandfather's standards. They also raised sugar beets, small grain, turkeys and hogs. In 1943, they retired from living on the farm and moved to Forest River to make their home. Walter died May 27, 1979. Interment was in Forest River Memorial Cemetery. Walter was a member of the Forest River Community Church, and St. John's Lodge No. 36, A.F. & A.M. of Forest River. He had also served as a member of the Forest River school board. JULIAN WYSOCKI FAMILY Julian Wysocki, youngest son of Joseph Wysocki,and Augusta Maszk, married Rowena Kennedy, daughter of Ronald Kennedy and Irene Welter, on Nov. 25, 1934, on his parents' fiftieth wedding anniversary. Their children are Irene (deceased), Paul, Carl, Gary, Gene, Lyle, and Lois. They also have ten grandchildren. The couple farmed for thirty-seven years, three miles southwest of Minto, N. Dak. Paul attended the Crippled
The flood of 1950, covering Gornowich, southwest of Minto.
the land
of Chester
Children's School at Jamestown, N. Dak., for six years. After all the family had graduated from the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, they moved to Minneapolis, for medical reasons. Rowena had a kidney transplant Oct. 7, 1972. During the years at Minto, all family members were active in the Sacred Heart Church, the Minto school, F.F.A., 4-H, band, music, athletics, fraternities, a sorority, township activities, special education, Handicapped Committee, Homemakers, Elks, and the Eagles. Paul now resides in Seattle, Wash., and works for Manpower Handicapped; Carl lives in Denver, Colo., and is employed by Proctor & Gamble; Gary makes his home in Souris, N. Dak., as a farmer; Gene lives in Houston, Tex., working for Unicenter Properties, Inc.; Lyle is in Minneapolis, and is employed at The Northwestern Bank; and Lois (Holt) lives in Denver, Colo., employed by the Kraft Co. Julian and Rowena have retired now and live in St. Louis Park, Minn., where both keep busy in Senior Citizens and other community activities. THOMAS WALTER YON Thomas Walter Yon was born to parents, Walter and Burdell (Swensrud) Yon, on May 9, 1940, at Grand Forks. He has three sisters - Lillian (Mrs. Graydon Pladson); Marlene (Mrs. Dale Korynta); and Bonnie (Mrs. Dennis Carroll); and one brother, Peter Yon. He completed his twelve years of school in the Forest River School. In January, 1959, he entered the army for two years. While stationed at Fort Lee, Va., he met the girl who was to become his wife. On May 14, 1961, Maxine Butler and Thomas Yon were married at her home in Roanoke Rapids, N.C. They came to Forest River where he worked in the elevator until his unit was reactivated in October, 1 9 6 1 , at Fort Huachuca, Ariz. In August, 1962, they returned home and Thomas enrolled at North Dakota State School of Science, Wahpeton, in an auto body repair course, for two years. Their son, Jeffrey, was born June 15, 1962, while the couple was at Fort Hauchuca, and a daughter, Connie, was born on August 2, 1965, while they were living at Fargo, N. Dak. They have lived several places but they are glad to be back on the farm in North Dakota. Along with farming, Thomas has the shop for auto body work which he does during the winter months.
Rowena and Julian Wysocki
Julian Wysocki Family: left to right, Carl, Cary, Lois, Gene, Rowena, Julian, Lyle; front, Paul.
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GLENWOOD TOWNSHIP FAMILY HISTORIES HISTORY OF GLENWOOD TOWNSHIP (1931 to 1 980) History before 1931 in Volume I, page 339 On Oct. 3 1 , 1 933, the township board, after considering the graveling projects which are being contemplated on roads going through the timber within the township, decided to drop the proposition of obtaining federal funds, but recommended that the program be financed by local funds and that the W.P.A. Department in Devils Lake be notified. Jan. 3 1 , 1 9 3 5 , they requested from C.C.C. Camp Surveyor that three dams be built in the township the coming spring. The Mill levy for the coming year was set at 5 mills; as of Mar. 26, 1935, wages for repairing tractor, grader, and doing snow fence work was to be paid at the rate of 25 cents per hour. March 29, 1947, the board requested a $20 donation for each quarter section of land in the township for road improvements. Tax for this year to be levied at $2,338.00. May 3, 1965, the board purchased an Allis-Chalmers motor road grader for $8,659, to be paid over 5 years at 4 percent interest, and the operator was to be paid $2 per hour. Dec. 5, 1978, the township enacted a zoning ordinance requiring a permit for nonagricultural construction. May 10, 1979, a used Caterpillar motor grader was purchased for $34,500 plus an old Allis Chalmers grader. The operator was to be paid at the rate of $5 per hour. In 1980, the township mill levy was set at 27 mills with a tax of $20,100. Birth and death recoards were kept by the township from 1903 until 1922. Serving as township board chairmen were: Gust Johnson from 1926 until 1938; Frank Hurtt, T938 until 1952; Clifford Berg, 1952 until 1965; Norman Bjorneby, 1965 until 1972; Russel Hultin, 1972 until 1976; Paul Nilson, 1976 unfit 1980. Serving as township clerk were Andrew Fagerholt from 1905 until 1909; Albert Fagerholt, 1909 until 1960; Leonard Fagerholt, 1960 until 1976. Serving as township treasurer were N. G. Bjorneby, 1915 until 1956; Murray Swanson, 1956 until 1965; Melvin Brubakken, 1965 until 1974; Mrs. Leonard Fagerholt, 1974 until 1976. Serving as township assessors were A. N. Midgarden, 1920 until 1951; Oscar Johnson, 1951 until 1968; Adolph Johnson, 1968 until 1970; and Wendell Martinson, 1970 until 1980.
Knute Aaland Wedding Picture (7 892)
Mrs. Knute (Mary) Aaland Wedding Picture (1892)
moved west to the Turtle Mountains where he bought land and farmed for seven years. Returning east to Walsh County, Knute married Mary Larson on Dec. 29, 1892, at Hoople, N. Dak. Mary was the daughter of Andrew and Caroline Larson, immigrants from Frederchstad, Norway (1871). The Larsons came to Glenwood Township in the Nash, N. Dak., area after six years in Jackson County, Minn. Their daughter, Mary, understood the hardships of farming, having seen crops destroyed by fire one year, and by grasshoppers several years later. In the early years of marriage, Knute worked as a butcher for a while and, in 1909, the family settled near Nash. This location was only temporary, however, for after his start as a potato grower in 1910, Knute entered the industry commercially in 1912, locating on land west of Hoople. The Aaland potato business expanded gradually over the following years as Knute branched out to seed and table stock enterprises. He erected a potato warehouse in 1920 and was also one of the first sugar beef growers in North Dakota. The fact that the Aaland name is still associated with the potato industry in North Dakota is a tribute to the enterprising Knute Aaland, who died on June 23, 1938, from injuries suffered in an automobile accident. His wife, Mary, lived to see the full extent of Knute's pioneering efforts before her death on Oct. 10, 1958.
The present board members are Hamilton Hurtt, chairman; Paul Fedje, Lloyd Johnson, members; Nels Midgarden, clerktreasurer; and Dean Baier, assessor.
KNUTE AND MARY AALAND FAMILY The Knute Aaland name has been associated with the potato industry and the Hoople, N. Dak., area for the better part of the twentieth century. An immigrant from Norway, Knute, and his wife Mary, lived to see the enterprise he founded advance far beyond their expectations, but their early years in North Dakota were not without disappointments. Coming to North Dakota in 1881, Knute Aaland originally filed on a homestead near Gardar. After losing this claim (he was under legal age at the time of filing), the young homesteader
Mrs. Mary Aaland and Family (Taken in 1952): seated, Grace, Mary and Adolph: standing, Pat, Clarence and Andrew.
Knute and Mary Aaland had eight children, six of whom survived infancy: Andrew Aaland was born on Oct. 29, 1896. He married Luafey Olafsdottir, a native of Iceland, on Dec. 8, 1954. Their only child, a son Drew, was born in 1955 and currently farms at Hoople. Andrew died on Feb. 28, 1974.
Knute Aaland Family home, just west of Hoople.
Laufey and Andrew Aaland with their son, Drew. (1956)
The Knute Aaland Family home as it looks today and is owned by Laufey Aaland. Falls, Mont. Millie passed away on Jan. 15, 1939, and Howard died on Dec. 2 1 , 1980. Clarence Aaland was born on Nov. 27, 1909. In October, 1933 he married Minnie Walstad and the couple had two children: Wayne, born May 30, 1934, and Marlys, born Sept. 14, 1939. Wayne married Peggy Groves and the couple has four children: Laurie, Wayne, Jr., Becky and Cash. Marlys married Jim Bailey and the family lives in Grafton. Marlys and Jim have four children - Michael, Mark, Todd and Kimberly. Later, Clarence married Emma Anderson and they had one daughter, Mary Ellen. Clarence died on June 4, 1 9 6 1 .
Drew Aaland, son of Andrew and Laufey Aaland and grandson of Knute and Mary Aaland. Mrs. Andrew (Laufey) Aaland in her native Icelandic costume. Adolph Aaland was bom on Feb. 27, 1898. He married the former Josephine Wood on Nov. 2, 1937, and they became the parents of one daughter, Jane, born July 16, 1941. Jane married Arnie Jensen and the family, with three children — Lisa, Andrea and Matthew — live in Mason City, Iowa. Adolph passed away on Jan. 1,1974. Morgan (Pat) Aaland was born Feb. 15, 1901, and married Ingebjorg Marifjeren on Nov. 22, 1928. Their son, Daniel, was born on Dec. 5, 1936. Daniel is married to Melinda Bakken. They live in Grafton and farm near Hoople. Twin daughters, Grace and Millie Aaland, were born on April 16, 1906! Grace married Dr. William Robbins on July 10, 1935. They are the parents of one son, William (Bill), an attorney in Cavalier, N. Dak. Bill married Joan Page of Grand Forks, and the couple has two sons, Charles and Scott.
HISTORY OF LYLE FRAINE ANDERSON AND FAMILY Lyle Fraine Anderson was born July 16, 1929, in Glenwood Township, the son of Frank Archibald Anderson and Clara Gryde. He attended school in Glenwood Township No. 13 and then attended school in Grafton and Park River, N. Dak. Lyle was active in sports as he was growing up. He played hockey with Nash and later played American Legion baseball at Hoople, N. Dak. He was a charter member of the Walsh County Curling Club, and also active in the Walsh County Gun Club.
In May, 1937, Millie Aaland married Howard Lewis at Bozeman, Mont. Their son, Charles, was born on Jan. 15, 1939. Charles is the father of three children and lives in Great 376
Mr. and Mrs. Anderson are members of South Trinity Lutheran Church. Willard is a deacon on the church board and Rhodella is a member of the ALCW. Willard and Rhodella farm in Fertile Township. Rhodella is presently employed at the Lutheran Sunset Home as activity director. HISTORY OF MARILYN LOU ANDERSON MATTSON Marilyn Lou Anderson was bom Apr. 5, 1933, in Grafton, N. Dak., the daughter of Frank A. Anderson and Clara Gryde. She attended school in Glenwood Township No. 13 and then in Grafton, graduating from Grafton High School in 1951. Family of Lyle Anderson: left to right, Kent, Beth, Lyle, Danette (Kleven) Anderson, Clark, Yvonne and Scott. Lyle served with the U.S. Army 1950-1951 during the Korean Conflict. November 14, 1953, he married Yvonne Selly, daughter of Arthur and Margaret Selly, Winnipeg, Man., Canada. Lyle and Yvonne presently live in Grand Forks, N. Dak. Yvonne is a registered nurse and patient care manager of Intensive Care Unit and Coronary Care Unit at United Hospital, Grand Forks, N. Dak. Lyle works at the American Crystal Sugar Company in East Grand Forks, Minn. They are the parents of four children: Clark, born Feb. 22, 1955, and married to Danette Kleven of Grand Forks, N. Dak. They are living in Longmott, Colo. Elizabeth, born Aug. 5, 1956, living in Grafton, N. Dak. Scott, born March 2, 1959, and residing in Tempe, Ariz.; and Kent, born Dec. 22, 1964, living at home.
She married Carl John (Jack) Mattson, son of Mr. and Mrs. Carl Mattson of Park River, N. Dak., at her parents' farm home on Oct. 7, 1951. After their marriage they lived in Park River where Marilyn worked at the First State Bank until she retired to raise her family. Marilyn and Jack then moved to Grand Forks where Jack was employed at the State Mill and Elevator. At present they reside in Eldred, Minn., where Jack manages the Farmers Elevator.
HISTORY OF WILLARD ANDERSON FAMILY Willard Ray Anderson, son of Frank A. Anderson and Clara Gryde, was born in Glenwood Township, Walsh County. He attended school at District No. 13 and high school at Park River. His interests were baseball, hockey, and 4-H. He married Rhodella Hove, daughter of Albert Hove and Magna Monson, in 1940. Rhodella attended school at District No. 114 and high school in Park River, N. Dak. They are the parents of Maureen Hardaway and her children are Lori and Mark, all living in Ingnacio, Colo; Bonnie Perea, and children, Bradley and Khristina, residing in Albuquerque, N. Mex.; Robert and son, Eric, living in Spring Green, Wise; John, living in Alexandria, Minn.; and Greg Anderson, living at rural Grafton.
Family of Mr. and Mrs. Jack Mattson: left to right, standing. Marjorie, Barbara, Randall, Susan, Richard; front, Bill and parents, Marilyn and Jack. They are the parents of six children: Susan, born Nov. 2 1 , 1952, married Bob Grigg of Moose Jaw, Sask., Canada. Their children are Michaela, 4, and Jared, 3. They reside in Clarkston, Wash. Barbara, born Nov. 8, 1953, married Robert Swehla of Bowbells, N. Dak. They have one son, Daniel, and reside in Great Falls, Mont. Marjorie, born Nov. 25, 1954, married Ronald Amundson from Rothsay, Minn. They have three children — Emilie, Ben, and Matt, and all reside in Rothsay. Twin boys, Richard and Randall, were born Feb. 10, 1956. Richard married Tammie Stoval of Lincoln, Neb. They have one daughter, Nicole, and live in Anoka, Neb. Randall married Rosalie Honrud of Rothsay, Minn. They have two children, Karl and Teresa. All reside at the University Village at Fargo, N. Dak. William Blair, born March 15, 1961, is presently attending the University of Minnesota at Crookston, and living at home in Eldred, Minn.
Family of Willard R. Anderson: left to right, back row, Bonnie (Anderson) Perea, John Anderson, Maureen (Anderson) Hardaway, Robert Anderson; front row, Willard Anderson, Greg Anderson, Lanny Anderson, Rhodella Anderson.
GEORGE ANDERSON FAMILY George " B u d " Anderson was born on a farm near Narsh, N. Dak., in Glenwood Township, the son of Wilford and Isabelle Anderson. When he was a year old, the family moved to a farm
She spent many years on the family farm helping her parents and when they passed away Clara moved to Grafton. She worked for ten years with the hot lunch program at Central School in Grafton and for several years, during the summer months, she worked at the Park River Lutheran Bible Camp. Presently Clara is a member of the Lutheran Sunset Auxiliary, the Walsh County Historical Society, and is a charter member of the Countryside Homemakers Club.
CLIFFORD S. AND HAZEL BERG
This picture was taken at the wedding of James Anderson and Janice Buchholtz. From left to right are, back row, Dick Ward, Jill, Barbara, Ellen and Donald Anderson; middle row, Joel, Sharon, Phyllis, George "Bud," Janice and James; front, Tammy and Bill, children of Sharon and Joel. adjoining Hoople on the east. On Nov. 1 1 , 1941, he married Phyllis Larson and the couple built a home on his parents' farm. George farmed with his dad until Wilford retired, and has continued farming since. They have five children.
Clifford Steinard Berg was born June 3, 1907, in Glenwood Township, the son of Ole C. and Annaie Aasand Berg. He was baptized and confirmed in the Zion Lutheran Church, rural Hoople. He is a graduate of W.C.A.S. at Park River. He married Hazel Brekke of rural Grafton, June 30, 1934. They are the parents of four children: Harris Odell, born Nov. 4, 1935, married LaVonne Ardell Peterson from Galchutt, N. Dak. He attended N.D.S.U., Fargo, and served with the U.S. Navy in the U.S. Intervention. He has also served four terms in the House of Representatives. He took over the farm management when his parents moved to Park River in 1976. They have four children: Scott Clifford, Lynn Harris, Brenda Jo, and Jodi Sue.
Joel Anderson married Sharon Estad and they have two children — Tammy and Bill; Donald married Ellen Ward and they have three children — Jeremy, Keith and Kristy; Barbara is a nurse at United Hospital in Grand Forks; James married Janice Buchholtz and they have a daughter, Candace; and Jill is married to Dick Ward and they have a daughter, Jessica Jill. James is presently farming with his dad. They have a home just east of Hoople.
MISS CLARA BERG Clara Berg was born in Glenwood Township, Walsh County, Dec. 19, 1890, to parents, Ole and Anne Berg. Clara was the oldest in the family and had four sisters and three brothers — Alma, Otto, Inga, Marion, Clifford, Esther and Leonard. All the children attended grade school in Glenwood District No. 13, and Clara didn't know one word of English when she started school. Later she attended one term at Concordia
College.
Clifford S. Berg Family: left to right, Clifford S., Hazel, Clifford Wayne, Barbara, Odell, Judith Ann and Ruth Kay. (Taken at the wedding of Clifford Wayne and Barbara Christine Pitschs, June 28, 1980.) Ruth Kay, born Sept. 18, 1937, married James D. Blizzard from Havlock, N. C. She attended N.D.S.U. and is a graduate of the School of Medical Technology, Minneapolis. They live in Grand Forks and have two daughters, Pamela Kay and Cindy Sue. Judith Ann, born July 29, 1939, married Roger M. Gunderson from Pembina, N. Dak. She is a graduate of Valley City Teacher's College. They live at Killdeer, N. Dak., and are the parents of a daughter, Deborah Kay. Clifford Wayne, born Feb. 8, 1944, married Barbara Christine Pitsch from Hardin, Mont. He is an agricultural engineering graduate of N.D.S.U. and also attended the University of Idaho at Moscow. He served with the U.S. Army in the Vietnam Conflict. He and his wife are living in Albany, Oregon.
The Berg sisters — Marion, Esther, Inga, Clara and Alma.
Clara Berg
She was baptized in the Bigwood Church, Marshall County, Minn., and confirmed at Zion Lutheran Church, rural Hoople, by Rev. Storlie. She has been a member of Zion ever since that time. She is also a lifelong member of the A.L.C.W. While a child she would walk four miles to Sunday School every Sunday, and later helped teach Sunday school.
Besides Mr. Berg's extensive farming interests he has also served in many official capacities, such as: holding all offices in the Zion Lutheran Church; a member of the Lutheran Brotherhood; A.S.C.S. Committeeman; past president of the Walsh Curling Club, which he also helped organize and build; served on the Glenwood Township Board for 27 years; served many years on the board of Glenwood School District No. 13; twelve years with the Nash Grain & Trading Co. as president and in other offices; past president of the Walsh County Farm Bureau;
past Worshipful Master of Crystal Masonic Lodge No. 38; member of Grafton Chapter No. 9; St. Omer Commandry No. 6, Knight Templar; Crescent Lodge No. 1 1 , A.F. & A.M.; Rae Council No. 5, R. & S.M.; Kern Temple Shrine Club, Grand Forks. He is also a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles, and the Red River Shrine Club. Hazel Brekke Berg was born Feb. 28, 1911, in Grafton Township, the daughter of Hans and Hulda Josephine (Helgenset) Brekke. She was baptized and confirmed in the South Trinity Church, rural Grafton. She is a graduate of Aaker's Business College, Grand Forks. While attending school in Grand Forks she was employed at Paul Girard & Sons, Jewelers. She is a member of the Zion Lutheran Church, rural Hoople; the Zion A.L.C.W., of which she has held all offices; past secretary of the Grafton Conference A.L.C.W.; past secretary and president of the Walsh County Farm Bureau Women; member of Mizpah Chapter No. 6 Order of the Eastern Star; past president of the Red River Shrine Auxiliary, Grafton; member Kern Temple Shrine Auxiliary, Grand Forks; member Countryside Homemakers Club, of which she has held all offices; was chairperson for Glenwood Township Liberty Bond sales during World War II; past secretary of the Walsh Women's Curling Club; past president of the V.F.W. Auxiliary; a member of the American Legion Auxiliary; chairperson of the Zion Lutheran Church 75th Anniversary in 1954 and she also helped with the 100th anniversary in 1979; a past secretary of the Walsh County Homemakers Council; a 4-H leader for five years and she has worked with the Walsh County Fair the last 33 years; helped with biographies and selling of Volumes I and II of the Heritage Books. Mr. and Mrs. Clifford Berg are charter members of the Walsh County Historical Society which was formed in 1969. Together with their children and grandchildren they are still enjoying busy and interesting lives.
H. ODELL AND LAVONNE PETERSON BERG Harris Odell is the oldest child of Clifford S. and Hazel Brekke Berg. He was born Nov. 4, 1935, at Grafton, N. Dak. He has two sisters, Ruth Blizzard and Judith Gunderson, and one brother, Clifford Wayne. He was baptized and confirmed at Zion Lutheran Church, rural Hoople, N. Dak. He attended school at Glenwood Dist. No. 13 and graduated from Grafton High School in 1953. He was a 4-H member and enjoyed playing hockey and baseball for Nash and Curled at the Walsh and Grafton Curling Clubs. He attended Concordia College and North Dakota State University, Fargo, before being drafted into the U.S. Navy, serving aboard the USS Thomaston. Upon his discharge, he began farming with his father. In 1958, Odell married LaVonne Peterson at the Grafton Lutheran Church. They have four children: Scott Clifford, born July 19, 1959, attending the University of Minnesota, Crookston, and farming; Lynn Harris, born March 4, 1961, attending UND, Grand Forks; Brenda Jo, born Aug. 3 1 , 1 9 6 4 , a junior at Grafton High; and Jodi Sue, born Oct. 2 1 , 1965, a ninth grader at Grafton High. All children were baptized and confirmed at Zion Lutheran Church, where all are presently members. Odell and LaVonne's first home was a trailer house located on his parents' farm, 6 miles southeast of Hoople. In 1964, they bought a home in Nash and moved there. All the children attended school and graduated from the 8th grade there. They moved back to the farm in 1976 when Cliff and Hazel retired and moved to Park River. Odell's activities have been varied and many. He was
H. Odell Berg Family: back row, left to right, Jodi, Scott, Lynn, and Brenda; front row, Lavonne and Odell. treasurer of the Nash School District for several years; president of the N. D. Farm Bureau Young Farmers and Ranchers; a director of The Red River Valley Potato Growers and Red River Potato Express; is a past president of Zion Lutheran Church and board member; is a past 4-H leader; past commander of St. Omer Commandry; a director of Nash Grain and Trading Co.; a member of Masonic Lodge, Kern Temple and Red River Shrine Club (at one time riding their world's largest bike); a director of the Grafton Chamber of Commerce; a member of Grafton American Legion and V.F.W. In 1968, he ran on the Republican ticket for the North Dakota House of Representatives and was elected. He was re-elected for three more terms, each term being two years. He served on the Transportation, State and Federal, and Veterans Committees. In 1973 he was vice chairman of Transportation and was its chairman in 1975. Due to redistricting the following year, he chose not to run again. In 1979, Odell was lobbyist for the Red River Valley Potato Growers, commuting to Bismarck on several occasions. LaVonne Ardell Peterson was born at her parents' home in Richland County, N. Dak., the fifth child in a family of six, to Arnold and Clarice Bolstad Peterson, on June 4, 1939. Brothers include Harlan, Minot, N. Dak.; Laverne, Detroit Lakes, Minn., and Dale, Grafton, N. Dak. Sisters are Mrs. Ken (Marilyn) Baumann and Patricia Rose, both of Grafton. LaVonne's mother passed away in September of 1956, at the age of 49, due to a stroke. Mr. Peterson presently resides in Grafton. LaVonne was baptized and confirmed at the Galchutt Lutheran Church. As a first grader her parents moved from a farm to Galchutt, where they operated a grocery store and locker plant. She attended eight years of grade school there, then going to two years of high school at Antelope Consolidated, rural Barney, N. Dak. For her junior year, she moved with her sister, Marilyn, to Hillsboro, N. Dak. She began her senior year there and with the passing of her mother, in late September, moved to Grafton to be with her father and younger sister. She graudated there in 1957 and began working at Northwestern Bell Telephone Co. as an operator, continuing there until her marriage. Community activities filled LaVonne's calendar shortly thereafter, with her holding various offices in the Zion ALCW, Walsh County Farm Bureau Auxiliary, and its Citizenship Seminar Program, Nash Mothers Club, Double M Homemakers, and The Grafton Heathers Curling Club. She also is a member of Mizpah Chapter, O.E.S., Red River Shrine Auxiliary, Nash School Board, and is involved in the 100th Anniversary of the Zion Lutheran Church as chairman of the Plate and Plaque Committee.
Sports have always been a part of LaVonne's life, in spite of a brief illness, and she found curling, a new sport to her, to be very exciting. She began at the Walsh Curling Club and later joined Grafton, where her team has represented their club ten years at state competition, winning the state title three times, and advancing to National competition on two occasions. LaVonne was also on a Grafton Women's Softball team which won the State AA Slowpitch Championship in 1975. She was also manager-coach of the Nash Girls Basketball team for five years, their highlight being the winning of the Walsh County Grade Tourney.
MR. AND MRS. LEONARD BERG Leonard Berg, son of Ole and Anne Berg, was born in Glenwood Township, Walsh County, on Nov. 3, 1911. He attended school at Glenwood Dist. 13 and the Walsh County Agricultural School, Park River, N. Dak. He served in World War II in the Medical Corps from November, 1942, to November, 1945. He is a member of the American Legion post at Grafton, N. Dak., and St. John's Catholic Church, Grafton.
Barbara Berg Steinman Family: Barbara, Ben, Travis and Marc (Taken in 1980). (Barbara Ann), Grand Forks, N. Dak. She attended school at Glenwood Dist. 13, Nash Dist. 5 1 , and graduated from Hoople High School in 1967. She attended Mayville State College and worked for Job Service of North Dakota as a statistical clerk. In 1969 Barbara was married to Ben Steinman in Grand Forks. He is a diesel mechanic and they are the parents of two sons, Marc Robert, born on Apr. 10, 1970, and Travis John, born on July 25,1979. Leonard and Julia Berg make their home on the original Berg homestead where Leonard farmed and has lived all his life.
OTTO BERG FAMILY
Mr. and Mrs. Leonard Berg
Leonard Berg, pictured in 1 943, in his military uniform.
On Oct. 26, 1948, he married Julia Bohac at St. Luke's Catholic Church in Veseleyville, N. Dak. Julia is the daughter of Frank and Barbara Bohac of Prairie Centre Township, Walsh County. Julia has four sisters — Rose Vonasek of East Grand Forks, Minn.; Nettie Vonasek, Angus, Minn.; Mary Bohac and Anne Bohac, of Veseleyville; and one brother, Frank, (deceased 1975).
Otto Berg, son of Ole and Anne Berg, was born in Glenwood Township on Oct. 8, 1895, and died on Mar. 24, 1946. Otto lived all his life in the Hoople area and attended grade school in Glenwood Dist. No. 13 and the Walsh County Agricultural School, Park River. Otto served as treasurer of School Dist. No. 13. Otto farmed with his father, Ole, for several years and they also did their own threshing. Otto became the owner of a quarter of land, once owned by his Uncle Knut and purchased by Otto's father. It was on this farm that Otto made his home following his
Leonard and Julia have one daughter, Mrs. Ben Steinman
Ben Steinman and his wife, the former Barbara Berg, with infant son, Travis, and Marc along with Mr. and Mrs. Leonard Berg.
Otto and Hilda Berg
marriage to Hilda Bekkerus on Nov. 12, 1929, at Grafton, N.
Dak. Otto and Hilda became the parents of three children — Orlyn, who is married to Mary Dusek, and has two daughters, Mary Kay and Joyce, and resides in Grafton; Carol Ann who is married to Neil Offerdahl and has three children, Karen, David, and Susan, and lives near Fordville; and Allen Ole, who lives on the home farm in Glenwood Township. Otto and Hilda were members of Zion Lutheran Church and Hilda was a member of the A.L.C.W. Hilda died on Nov. 30, 1974, and both Hilda and Otto are buried at Zion.
FRED AND BERNICE BERGMAN Asmundur Fredrik Bergman was born June 2, 1914, at Gardar, N. Dak., the .second son of Sigurd and Anna (Asmundson) Bergman. He had two brothers and three sisters — John, Langdon, N. Dak.; Mrs. Florence Iverson, Grand Forks, N. Dak. (deceased in 1968); Mrs. Thomas (Esther) Mullen, Crystal, N. Dak.; Mrs. Henry (Anna) Gorder, Grafton, N. Dak., and Kristian, Chicago. Fred was raised in the Gardar and Park River communities. At a very young age he lost both of his parents. Fred then moved to live with his aunts and uncles and Grandmother Asmundson near Gardar. He moved to Edinburg, N. Dak., in 1935 where he purchased and operated the Gambles store. In 1937 Fred became the Standard Oil bulk agent in Hoople.
Picture of Bergman Imp. in Hoople (Betty Jo sitting on hood of the car). Fred and Bernice have four daughters — Mrs. Dale (Beverly) Romuld, Grand Forks; Mrs. Arlen (Ann) Jackson, Hoople; Mrs. Gouglas (Carol) Lund, Aneta, N. Dak.; and Mrs. Jay (Betty Jo) Fagerholt, Hoople. They have nine grandchildren: Cheryl, Barbara, Fred and Kevin Romuld, Julie and Robert Jackson, and Mark, Jeffery, and Mary Jo Lund.
ROGER BJORNEBY FAMILY Ilia (Snookie) Fay and Roger Norman Bjorneby were married June 29, 1968, at Zion Lutheran Church, rural Hoople. Snookie is the daughter of John and Edith Fay, Park River, N. Dak., formerly of Carrington, N. Dak. Roger is the son of Gladys and Norman Bjorneby, Hoople. Roger is a farmer in the Hoople area.
Bernice and Fred Bergman taken on their 25th wedding anniversary in 1963. He married the former Bernice Stenerson of Edinburg, N. Dak., April 16, 1938. Bernice was born Feb. 8, 1917, to Charles and Emma (Sonderson) Stenerson, of Edinburg. Bernice's only sister, Mrs. Norris (Norma) Gutterud, lives in Edinburg. In 1948 Fred joined his brother, John, in the International Harvester business in Hoople. The partnership was dissolved in 1956 with John moving to Langdon and Fred continuing with the International Harvester firm in Hoople. Fred continued in business up to the time of his death. (March 14, 1969) Fred was a member of the First Lutheran Church, Hoople, served on the church board, and was also a school board member. Bernice is active in community work, was a Hoople Band Booster member, worked in Civic Club, Garden Club, and belongs to the First Lutheran Church, Hoople, and its A.L.C.W. She is a graduate of the Edinburg High School.
Audrey Bjorneby
Alice Bjorneby
Billy Bjorneby
Roger and Snookie are the parents of five children: Angela Marie, born 12-2-70; Amy Louise, born 7-6-72; Audrey Renae, born 12-15-75; Alice Elaine, born 4-3-77; and William Roger, born 1 -27-80.
HENRY BRUBAKKEN FAMILY Henry Brubakken, son of Ole and Margit (Moen) Brubakken, was born Oct. 8, 1907, in Hoople. Esther Josephine, daughter of John and Emma (Grytdal) Hanson, was born May 8, 1914, at Colgate, N. Dak. Henry and Esther were married on Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 26, 1936, in Rosewood, Minn., at the home of her mother. They have lived and farmed in the Hoople area for 44 years.
Ole and Irene Brubakken School and Mayville State College. She taught several years in rural schools in Walsh County and ten years in the elementary school of Hoople. She is a member of First Lutheran of Hoople and has been involved in many of its activities. She has held office in the ALCW; was superintendent of Sunday School; a leader of LCR, and a member and secretary of the building committee. She has been a 4-H leader. At present, she is a member of the Hoople Civic Club, Town-Ru Garden Club, Monday Night Study Club and the American Legion Auxiliary. Henry Brubakken Family: left to right, standing, Elaine, Henry, Esther; front, Dale and Ronald. They had four children, of which three are living. They are Marjory Ruth, who died at birth; Elaine Helen, now Mrs. Donald Haugland; Dale Henry, and Ronald John. They also have seven grandchildren and three greatgrandchildren.
MR. AND MRS. OLE BRUBAKKEN, JR. Ole Brubakken, Jr., was born Mar. 2, 1901, in Telemark, Norway, the son of Ole and Marget (Moen) Brubakken. When he was fourteen months, he came with his parents to the United States. They settled in the Hoople vicinity which was to remain the home of Ole the rest of his life.
MRS. MARION BERG BURTT Marion Berg Burtt was born March 1 1 , 1 9 0 3 , the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ole C. Berg, Glenwood Township, rural Hoople. Marion was baptized and confirmed in Zion Lutheran Church, rural Hoople. She received her elementary education in rural School Dist. No. 13, Glenwood Township, attended two years of high school at the Walsh County Agricultural School in Park River, and completed her high school at Mayville, N. Dak., where she also received her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Education from the State College at Mayville. Marion taught school for forty-one years in North Dakota. She taught for several years in District No. 13, her home school; at the Nash School which was at that time located in the country; the Sinclair rural school; and then in Glenfield and Hamilton. The
He received his education in rural schools and the Hoople Public School. He graduated from the short term course at the North Dakota Agriculture College, Fargo. On Nov. 23, 1939, he married Irene Wangsness at Grafton. They established their home on a farm in Glenwood Township. Ole was actively engaged in farming until his forced retirement due to illness. He held the office of trustee of the First Lutheran Church of which he was a member. He also served as supervisor of his township. He was a member of Sons of Norway. Ole passed away June 25, 1977, at Cavalier, N. Dak. He is buried In the Hoople City Cemetery. Irene Wangsness was born July 3 1 , 1910, at Grafton. Her parents were John and Bertha (Brekke) Wangsness. The family lived in Canada for a while, but returned to Grafton in time for Irene to begin her education. She graduated from Grafton High
Mrs. Marion Burtt
Clyde Burtt
last twenty-five years were spent teaching in Grafton where she was an instructor in Junior High. Marion is a member of the Zion Lutheran Church, the A.L.C.W., the American Legion Auxiliary, and Retired Teachers Association. Clyde Duane Burtt, the son of Hollis and Marion Burtt, was born Oct. 2 2 , 1 9 2 7 . Clyde was baptized and confirmed in the Zion Lutheran Church, rural Hoople. He attended elementary school in Glenwood Township, Dist. No. 13, and is a graduate of Grafton High School. Clyde was married to Marcene Kliniske Veum of Grafton on Dec. 3 0 , 1 9 7 6 . Clyde has five step-children and two step-grandsons. In 1 9 5 1 Clyde entered the army and spent three years of military service during the Korean Conflict. After completing his tour of army duty, he returned to farming in Glenwood Township where he raises small grain, potatoes, beans and sunflowers. Clyde is a member of the Grafton Lutheran Church, the Crescent Lodge of Grand Forks, the Kern Temple of Grafton, the Grafton American Legion, the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the Elks and the Eagles. Clyde and Marcene reside in Grafton.
MR. A N D MRS. RICHARD C L E M E N S O N Richard Clemenson was bron April 17, 1 9 4 1 , in Grafton, N. Dak., the oldest of three children born to Tilphare and Irene Thompson Clemenson. Richard received his education at the Walstad Rural School, the Walsh County Agricultural School at Park River, N. Dak., and graduated from North Dakota State University, Fargo, in 1 9 6 3 . After college, he was a member of the Air National Guard. Richard was an avid sportsman in high school and participated in basketball, track, football and baseball. He played Legion, independent and college baseball as well. Richard was active in 4-H and FFA. His involvement in these organizations helped develop his interest in farming. He began farming full-time with his father after college. Richard married Ruth Sletten on July 3 1 , 1 9 7 1 , at Zion Lutheran Church where he is a member. They live on the family farm in Glenwood Township. Richard's present farming interests include certified seed potatoes, small grains and beans. He has seen many changes in handling and storing potatoes. Shoveling potatoes by hand from underground pits was a challenge. The above ground storage now used facilitates loading and preserves the potato better with improved circulation, especially with air-conditioning. The improved grading table, bagging and sewing machine and bulk loader have improved loading efficiency. A welcome innovation for the potato harvester was received in 1 9 8 0 , called a delumper. This device eliminates the hand labor needed to pick lumps of dirt on the harvester as the potatoes move from the ground to the trucks.
the Zion — South Trinity Parish. Ruth attended public school in Kindred for ten years. She graduated from Oak Grove Lutheran High School, Fargo, in 1 9 6 3 . She attended the Lutheran Bible Institute in Golden Valley, M i n n . , for one year and graduated from Concordia College in 1 9 6 7 . She taught junior high English in Montana, Iowa and Minnesota. As a child, spending money was not a c o m m o n item, so chances for making money were eagerly sought. At the age of nine, she began helping her brothers deliver newspapers and continued for several years. She also baby-sat (for twenty-five cents an hour) and mowed lawns. Her first bicycle was purchased at the age of thirteen, for fifteen dollars, and was second-hand. One summer after high school, she was a companion to the late Mrs. Reuben Youngdahl at their summer home near Lutsen, M i n n . A bonus from that job enabled her to buy a brand new three-speed bicycle which provided good transportation for college. Ruth married Richard Clemenson on July 3 1 , 1 9 7 1 , at Zion Lutheran Church. They live and farm in Glenwood Township. They have three children — Kristin, Bradley and Beth. Ruth has been active in church and community affairs. She has worked with music at Zion in various capacities, served on the board of education, been active in the A L C W and served as a member of the Zion Centennial Committee. She is a member of the Countryside Homemakers and the Walsh County Farm Bureau W o m e n . Ruth, Betty Nilson and Linda Johnston sing in a trio called " T h e Country Notes." They have enjoyed singing for a variety of events. Ruth enjoys music, reading and traveling.
Norwegian
stitchery,
rosemaling,
MR. A N D MRS. TIP C L E M E N S O N Tilphare (Tip) Clemenson was born Dec. 4 , 1 9 0 6 , in Fertile Township, one of five children bom to Henry and Hilda Knudson Clemenson. Tip received his education at the Sinkler and Mandt rural schools and the Walsh County Agricultural School, Park River,
N.Dak. Tip has raised potatoes most of his life, beginning at the age of twelve with an acre of Early Ohios when the potatoes were cut by hand and planted in soil, plowed with a walking plow and two horses. They were dug with a one-row digger. In 1 9 2 5 , he started to raise 2 0 - 2 5 acres and continued to increase each year thereafter. At first the potatoes were stored in the basement, but when that space was outgrown, pits were dug
Richard has served on the executive boards of Zion Lutheran Church, Nash Grain and Trading C o . , Walsh County Farm Bureau and the North Dakota Certified Seed Potato Growers Association. He has also belonged to Toastmasters and has been a representative to the National Potato Board. Richard enjoys fishing, hunting, golfing and traveling. Richard's wife, the former Ruth Sletten, was born August 1 3 , 1 9 4 5 , in New Rockford, N. Dak., the youngest of three children born to Pastor Earl and Inga Barstad Sletten. In 1 9 4 9 , the family moved to Kindred, N. Dak., where they lived for sixteen years. In 1965, Pastor and Mrs. Sletten moved to rural Hoople to serve
Wedding of Myrna Clemenson and Rex Carpenter: left to right, Richard, Beth, Ruth. Kristin, Irene, Janice, Tip, Bradley Clemenson, Myrna and Rex Carpenter.
in the ground. In the 1940's the potato harvest required up to sixty pickers in the field and a cook car was used for feeding them. The first potato harvester was purchased in 1951. In 1938, Tip married Irene Thompson. They lived on his farm in Glenwood Township. They have three children — Richard, Janice and Myrna. Tip and Irene moved to Park River in 1974. Tip has served on the school board and the Zion Lutheran Church Board where he is a member. When Zion celebrated its Centennial in 1979, the Clemenson Family, descendents of Tom Knudson, hosted a breakfast on the original Tom Knudson farm where the church was first organized. Tip enjoys hunting, fishing and woodworking. Tilphare's wife, the former Irene Thompson, was born Sept. 25, 1916, in Fertile Township. Her parents were Chester and Mary Vogel Thompson. She has two sisters and five brothers. Irene attended rural school at Mandt. For small children, the walk to school was a long trek and on stormy winter days, the mother wished they could have stayed home. Sometimes the children were given rides. The hired man would come and get them with a hay rack and a team of horses. He drove so slowly that many times they would rather have walked. When the boys were big enough to drive, they took a "jumper" and horse. The "jumper" was a type of sled with one seat and it was partly covered with canvas leaving just the front open. The children carried their own lunch and many times the sandwiches would be frozen when it was time to eat because the school was so cold. The drinking water was also very often frozen. The fire in the schoolhouse stove went out each night, so it took quite a while to warm up the building during the day. Irene later attended the Walsh County Agricultural School in Park River. Because of the distance from home, she stayed in the girls dormitory, and often did not get home on weekends. Sometimes the meals were made for them; at other times the girls took turns cooking. For a couple months in the winter, they had school on Saturday in order to get out earlier in the spring. She graduated in 1934.
enlisting for the Spanish American War. Following his release from the Army, he worked for a while in his father's General Store and Funeral Home. He left Long Prairie for North Dakota and worked for C. D. Lord and in Nettleton's and Bergerson's Livery at Park River for a time, but eventually settled at Hoople, N. Dak., where he worked as a laborer, operated a Standard Oil Bulk Service, was a rural mailman, ran a dray business and worked on the then new Highway 18 with his horses, until the machines took it over. Helga Sveen was bom at Rena, Norway, on Apr. 5, 1890, and emigrated to America in September, 1910. She landed at Ellis Island, New York, then traveled on to Edinburg, N. Dak., where she stayed with Nygaard relatives until she found work. Her sister Marie, later Mrs. Adolph Brevik, had arrived in America two years earlier and their borther, John, arrived in 1912. Helga moved to Hoople that fall and worked for Mr. and Mrs. Henry Hendrickson in their hotel, where she met Frank Dinkel. Frank and Helga were married in Grafton Nov. 13, 1911, and were the parents of ten children. Two girls died in infancy. In 1931 they bought a farm at Crystal, N. Dak., moving onto it in December. Five of their six sons served in the military forces, four during World War II and one during the Korean Conflict. Frank Dinkel died in 1954 at the age of 77. A son, Ralph, a single man, lives in Crystal. Another son, Gordon, lived in California for many years, but in July, 1972, he and his wife, Avis, moved back to Crystal. Gordon died Nov. 23, 1980, and is survived by his wife and one daughter, Sharon, of Oxnard, Calif. Dolores was married to Floyd Hunter of Crystal in 1937; they have three sons and three daughters. Stanley lives at Crystal and has one son. Joy married John W. Hartje in 1938. They have two sons and two daughters and live in Crystal as does Frank, who has two sons and seven daughters. Donald and his wife, Mary, live in Grand Forks where they own and operate a machine shop. David and his wife, Carol, who have a son, Nathan, live on and operate the home farm where the mother, Helga, still lives at age 90. She has 22 grandchildren, 28 greatgrandchildren and one great, great-grandchild.
After helping at home for several years, Irene attended Aaker's Business College in Grand Forks for a few months. On December 12, 1938, Irene married Tilphare Clemenson at Wheaton, Minn. After a wedding trip to California, they settled on Tilphare's farm in Glenwood Township. Irene is a member of Zion Lutheran Church and has been active in various areas there. She is also a member of the Countryside Homemakers, the American Legion Auxiliary, and the Nordland Rosemaling Association. Irene has many hobbies. She likes traveling, gardening, crocheting, china painting, quilting, ceramics and Norwegian stitchery.
ALBERT AND MABEL ERLANSON Albert Erlanson was born Jan. 16, 1895, in Glenwood Township, Walsh County, to Amund Erlanson and Anetta Olson Erlanson who were early pioneer settlers, having emigrated from Norway. He had four brothers and two sisters. All attended a oneroom country school at District 76. They walked with other neighbor children through the river woods, as their home was along the middle branch of the Park River, five miles south of
FRANK L. AND HELGA SVEEN DINKEL FAMILY Frank L. Dinkel was born in Long Prairie, Minn., June 22, 1877, son of pioneers Michael and Mary (Schrenk) Dinkel, who emigrated from Bavaria in Germany in 1851. His father, Michael, served in the Second Regiment of the United States Infantry for five years, part of this time in the West in the Indian Campaigns and part fighting in the Civil War. In 1861 Michael Dinkel and some of his relatives were among those German immigrants who helped hold the state of Missouri for the Union, historically recorded in that period of American History. Frank was the only one of Michael's sons to serve in the military,
Mr. and Mrs. Albert Erlanson, son Dale, and daughter Linda (Taken at 25th wedding anniversary).
Hoople, where his parents had homesteaded. When the First World War broke out, Albert enlisted in the Army, June 24, 1918, and served overseas with Co. K, 352nd Infantry, 88th Division, Alsace Lorraine front. He was waiting for the Metz Drive when the Armistice was signed. He was honorably discharged June 14, 1919. When he came home he farmed the family farm with his brother, Gilbert, who also served in the army. He was a lifetime member of the Zion Lutheran Church, rural Hoople, where he was baptized April 2 1 , 1895, by Rev. K. A. Fjellbu; sponsors were Mr. and Mrs. John Paulson and Mr. and Mrs. Knute Gryde. He was confirmed June 20, 1909, by Rev. 0 . L. Kirkeberg. He served on the school board of Glenwrod District 76; was a life member of the Hoople American Legion Post, and was also a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and of the World War Veterans. Albert passed away at his farm home Aug. 20, 1965. Funeral services and burial were at the Zion Lutheran Church with Rev. Earl Sletten officiating. Albert's wife, the former Mabel Markusen, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Edwin Markusen, rural Grafton, Fertile Township, Walsh County, had one brother, Jimmie, rural Grafton, and one sister, Mildred (Mrs. Alvin Haugland) of Hoople. All were members of the South Trinity Lutheran Church. Mabel was born Dec. 29, 1913; and baptized Jan. 23, 1914, by Rev. H. O. Shurson, with Mr. and Mrs. Carl Torkelson, Arthur Staven and Miss Gudron Vaaland as sponsors. She was confirmed Oct. 2, 1927, by Rev. C. M. Grimsrud at the Zion Lutheran Church as there was no confirmation at South Trinity that year since there were only two confirmands. As a child, she went to country school, Dist. 28, about one and one half miles from her home. There was no school during the coldest part of winter. Albert and Mabel were married in 1931, and honeymooned in Canada. Witnesses were Miss Inger (Hovey) Leidtke and Mr. Clarence Johnson. They lived on the Erlanson homestead farm where they farmed and raised chickens and milked cows — had a dog and some cats. In their early years, farming was done by horses; shortly after, tractors came into usage.
Mr. and Mrs. Al Freeman (nee Linda Erlanson) and sons, Todd, seated; Greg, back row left; and Jeff. (Taken in 1978). confirmed June 6, 1945, by Rev. Oliver Johnson. Linda Lou was born May 14, 1940; baptized by Rev. L. O. Helleklev June 2, 1940; sponsors were Mr. and Mrs. Otto Paulson and Mrs. Inger Markusen. She was confirmed June 6, 1954, by Rev. Oliver Johnson. Dale and Linda attended Sunday school at Zion and took part in its Christmas programs. Both were 4-H members. Mabel Erlanson has taught Sunday School and was treasurer for several years. In the ALCW she has served as president and held other offices. Dale and Linda went to high school in Hoople; after high school, Dale enlisted in the Army Oct. 15, 1957, for three years. He was honorably discharged Oct. 14, 1960. Then he came home and farmed with his dad. After Linda's graduation she attended Northwest Institute of Medical Laboratory Technique in Minneapolis, graduating from there on Sept. 25, 1958. Dale married Barbara Cowlin and lives in Superior, Wise, where he is in the trucking business. Linda married Allen Freeman and lives in Springfield, Va. Allen is in the insurance business. They have three sons — Jeffrey, Todd and Gregory. Mabel lives on the family farm and takes an active part in her church and its ALCW and other community affairs. She has many pleasant memories of her married years, one in particular — every summer the couple would spend several days at the lake; go fishing and sightseeing or just relaxing. The children were so excited and happy. Christmas, too, was always a fun time of the year. In 1956 they celebrated their Silver Wedding Anniversary in her church.
Albert Erlanson (World War I)
Mr. and Mrs. Dale Erlanson (wedding Picture, Jan. 28, 1978).
They were blessed with three children — Allen, Dale and Linda. All attended the same country school which their father had, except it was a newer school since the old one had burned. The parents took turns boarding the teachers. Allen Dale was born April 25, 1932, baptized May 15, 1932, by Rev. L. O. Helleklev at Zion Lutheran Church. Sponsors were Miss Caroline Torkelson and Jimmie Markusen. Allen passed away Apr. 20, 1938, from a ruptured appendix. Dale Allen was born Apr. 15, 1939; baptized by Rev. L. O. Helleklev May 7, 1939; his sponsors were Mr. and Mrs. Gilbert Erlanson, Mrs. Edwin Markusen, and Jimmie Markusen. He was
LEONARD AND STELLA ESTAD Leonard Estad was born in rural Hoople, May 6, 1911, to Lars and Tilda Estad, both deceased. In 1940 he was married to the former Stella Bolstad of Edinburg, N. Dak., who came to this area with her parents, John and Anna Bolstad, from Estherville, Iowa. To this union were born three children. Sharon is married to Joel Anderson, manager of Hoople Potato Products. Sharon is bookkeeper at Fagerholt and Jackson Potato Co. The couple lives in Hoople and has two children, Tammy, a student at UND, Grand Forks, and Billy, at home. David is married to the former Kathleen Johnson of
Leonard Estad Family Edinburg. They live in Hoople and have two children, Michael and Sherry. David is with the Erickson Ford Company of Park River. Janice is married to Roger Maras, formerly of Windom, Minn., who now works with Hoople Farmers Grain Co. They have three children — Robbie, Richard, and Rachael. Leonard and Stella Estad farmed in the rural Hoople area until 1969 when they retired to make their home in Hoople.
THE ALBERT FAGERHOLT FAMILY Clara Brende of Grafton and Albert Fagerholt of Hoople were married by Pastor Egge on May 3 1 , 1917. They had five children — Arthur, Elmo, Leonard, Eulalie and Eunice. They lived on a farm south of Hoople.
Albert C. Fagerholt
Clara Marie (Brende) Fagerholt
July 8, 1972. Arthur married Elvina Rustan on June 1 6, 1946. Arthur died on Dec. 27, 1960. Their two children are Mark and Jay Fagerholt. Elmo married Ann Rustan on June 28, 1944. They have one daughter, Cheryl. Elmo died on Jan. 26, 1976, at Phoenix, Ariz. Leonard married Elaine Westby of Fairdale on Aug. 4, 1946, at Fairdale. They had two children, Bruce and Bette. Elaine died on July 16, 1968. On April 4, 1972, Leonard married Elizabeth Jackson Bygland of Grafton.
Albert Fagerholt died on Dec. 27, 1964, and Clara died on
The Albert Fagerholt Family: left to right, front, Eulalie, Clara, Eunice, Albert, Lowell Smestad; back, Ann and Elmo, Elvina and Art, Elaine and Leonard. (1952)
Clara Fagerholt and eight of her twelve grandchildren in 1971, at Clara's 80th birthday. Back row, left to right, Marie Void, Jay Fagerholt, Mark Fagerholt, Bette Fagerholt, Robert Void, and Bruce Void; front row, Joanne Smestad, Carol Smestad, and Mrs. Fagerholt. Eulalie married Rev. Lowell Smestad of Dovray, Minn., on Aug. 10, 1952. They have four daughters — Ruth, Gloria, Joanne and Carol. Eunice married Rev. Harold Void of Montpelier, N. Dak., on July 19, 1943. They have three children — Marie, Robert and Bruce.
ARTHUR AND ELVINA FAGERHOLT
Mr. and Mrs. Albert Fagerholt and four Bette, Mark, Bruce, and Cheryl. (1952)
grandchildren,
Arthur I. Fagerholt was born Sept. 3, 1918, to Clara (Brende) Fagerholt and Albert Fagerholt at Hoople, N. Dak. He graduated from Hoople High School and farmed until he entered the army in July, 1942, and served in World War II. After his discharge, in 1945, he continued farming. On June 16, 1946, he married Elvina Rustan. They had two
sons, Mark and Jay. Art passed away on Dec. 26, 1960. Elvina F. Rustan was born July 26, 1919, to Ambjor (Peterson) Rustan and Thomas P. Rustan at Hoople, N. Dak. She graduated from the Walsh County Agricultural School at Park River and from Aaker's Business College in Grand Forks. She was employed at the County Auditor's office in Grand Forks until her marriage to Arthur Fagerholt on June 16, 1946.
Elaine and Leonard Fagerholt (Wedding Day) Mark and Linda Fagerholt (1976)
Jay and Bette Jo Fagerholt (1975) wedding day.
On Apr. 4, 1972, Leonard Fagerholt married Elizabeth (Jackson) Bygland, daughter of Lydia 0 . (Svarte-Thompson) and Arthur F. Jackson of Grafton Township. She has one child — Roberta Elizabeth (Mrs. Earl Burger) of St. Thomas, N. Dak.
Children of Mark and Linda Fagerholt, left to right: Thea, taken in 1980; and twin sons Bryan Arthur and Barry James, taken in Nov. 1980. Mark S. Fagerholt was born March 22, 1950, to Elvina (Rustan) Fagerholt and Arthur Gagerholt. He graduated from Hoople High School and attended Valley City State College and UND. On July 17, 1976, he married Linda Homer Colwell of Grand Forks. They have one daughter, Thea, and twin sons, Bryan and Barry. Mark farms with his brother, Jay, raising potatoes and small grain. Jay D. Fagerholt was born June 22, 1954, to Elvina (Rustan) Fagerholt and Arthur Fagerholt. He graduated from Valley High School at Hoople and attended UND. On June 22, 1975, he married Betty Jo Bergman of Hoople. He farms with his brother, Mark.
LEONARD FAGERHOLT FAMILY Leonard Fagerholt, farmer, was born Dec. 9, 1923, to Clara (Brende) and Albert C. Fagerholt. He graduated from Hoople High School. On Aug. 4, 1946, he was married to Elaine Westby, daughter of Amelia (Arneson) and Jacob Westby of Fairdale, N. Dak. Two children were born of this marriage — Bruce Leonard, on June 14, 1948, and Bette Jean, on March 8, 1951 and Bette Jean, now Mrs. Michael D. Nelson resides at West Fargo, N. Dak. Elaine Westby Fagerholt passed away July 16, 1968.
Leonard and Liz Fagerholt Family: left to right, back row, Earl Burger, Leonard Fagerholt, Michael Nelson, Bruce Fagerholt; second row, Roberta Burger, Elizabeth Fagerholt, Scott Burger, Bette Nelson, Susan Fagerholt; front, Arthur F. Jackson holding Beth Burger and Christopher Nelson, Lydia O. Jackson, Karen and Thomas Fagerholt. Leonard served as Township Clerk for 14 years (19601974); in the House of Representatives (Appropriations Committee), 44th Legislative Session, in 1975; is a Walsh County Commissioner (1978) and as a legislative director of the Walsh County Farmers Union. The Fagerholts are members of the First Lutheran Church of Hoople.
EULALIE FAGERHOLT Eulalie Fagerholt, daughter of Albert and Clara (Brende) Fagerholt, was born March 5, 1929, at the hospital in Grafton, N. Dak. She graduated in 1947 from Hoople High School, Hoople, N. Dak.; attended Concordia College, Moorhead, Minn., taking
the prenursing program, 1947-49; she then attended the Fairview Hospital School of Nursing, Minneapolis, graduating in 1951, as a registered nurse. She received her Bachelor of Science Degree in nursing education on June, 1952, from the University of Minnesota, Minneapolis. On Aug. 10, 1952, she married the Rev. Lowell H. Smestad at First Lutheran Church, Hoople, with Rev. Oscar R. Swenson officiating. Rev. Smestad of Dovray, Minnesota, is a 1949 graduate of St. Olaf College, Northfield, Minn., and graduated with a Certificate in Theology from Luther Theological Seminary, St. Paul, in 1952.
EUNICE VIOLA FAGERHOLT Eunice Viola Fagerholt was born Oct. 9, 1931, at Grafton, N. Dak., to Mr. and Mrs. Albert Fagerholt of Hoople. She attended school at Hoople and graduated in 1 949 from Hoople High School. In 1948 and 1949 she was president of the Park River Circuit Lutheran Daughters of the Reformation. In 1953 Eunice graduated from Concordia College, Moorhead, Minn., with a major in elementary education and a minor in sociology. Eunice was married to Harold Void of Montpelier, N. Dak., on July 19, 1953, at the First Lutheran Church at Hoople. Eunice taught school for two years in Minneapolis, Minn., while Harold attended Luther Theological Seminary in St. Paul.
Taken on Aug. 10, 1952, at 1st Lutheran Church, Hoople, N. Dak. The bride and groom are Rev. and Mrs. Lowell Smestad — nee Eulalie Fagerholt. Parents are Mr. and Mrs. Helge Smestad of Dovray, Minn., and Mr. and Mrs. Albert Fagerholt of Hoople, N. Dak. The family has lived in several locations where Pastor Smestad has served these congregations: Medo Lutheran Church, Mapleton, Minn., 1952-57; Ascension Lutheran, Orofino, Ida, (an organized Home Mission congregation) and Faith Lutheran, Kamiah, Ida., from '57-'59; Trinity Lutheran, New Richland, Minn., 1959-69; and Trinity Luteran Church, Pelican Rapids, Minn., 1969 to the present time. Family members are four daughters — Ruth Eulalie, who graduated from St. Olaf College, Northfield, 1975; Gloria Jean, who graduated from St. Olaf, 1977; Joanne Renee, who will graduate from St. Olaf, May, 1981; and Carol Jean, to graduate from Pelican Rapids high school, May 1981. Eulalie has been active in church and community projects; has taught Sunday School and was superintendent of Sunday schools in the congregations served; has served as education secretary for the American Lutheran Church Women, Albert Lea, Minnesota, conference. Has been employed as a nursing educator, Pelican Valley Health Center, Pelican Rapids, Minn., 1970-79. The family interests are music, sports, reading, and travel.
Leonard Fagerholt, Eunice Fagerholt Void, Elmo Fagerholt, and Eulalie Fagerholt Smestad. (1973)
Eunice Fagerholt and Harold Void (July 7 9, 7 953) Harold Void was ordained into the holy ministry of the Evangelical Lutheran Church on July 17, 1955, at Montpelier, N. Dak. He accepted a call to serve three churches at Keene, N. Dak., where they lived until 1960. In February, 1960, they moved to Ellendale, N. Dak., where they served Christ the King Congreation and Our Redeemer's Lutheran Church at Edgely. In 1966 they moved to Grand Forks, N. Dak., where Rev. Void was pastor at Sharon Lutheran Church. From 1968-1980, Eunice was a substitute teacher in the Grand Forks School system. From 1974-1980, Eunice was president of the Eastern North Dakota District American Lutheran Church Women. At the same time she also served on the Concordia College Board of Regents and the Eastern North Dakota District Council of the American Lutheran Church.
Rev. and Mrs. Harold Void, Marie, Robert and Bruce (December, 1965).
Rev. and Mrs. Void have three children: Marie Beverly was born Feb. 6, 1947, at Watford City, N. Dak.; Robert John was born Feb. 19, 1959, at Watford City; and Bruce Allyn was bom Aug. 1, 1 960; at Ellendale, N. Dak.
The Alfred Gunstenson family: left to right, tront, Baroaro, Carilynn, Margaret; back, Leanne, Helen, Alfred, Aden, and Mr. and Mrs. Hemchand Cossai (Marie Void); Rev. and Mrs. Harold Void, and Robert and Bruce Void (Taken June 17, 1979, at Grand Forks). Marie was married on June 17, 1979, to Hemchand Cossai of Guyana, South America, at Sharon Lutheran Church in Grand Forks. In January, 1980, Rev. and Mrs. Void moved to Milnor, N. Dak., where they presently reside and serve Milnor Lutheran Church.
THE ALLYN FAGERHOLT FAMILY Allyn Fagerholt is the son of the late Clarence and Amanda (Johnson) Fagerholt. He was born in Grafton, N. Dak., and educated in the Hoople Schools. Allyn graduated from Hoople High School in 1952, where he participated in basketball and baseball with several winning teams. He attended Mayville State College, 1953-1954, served 2 years in the U.S. Army and was stationed in Korea, 1954-1956. He returned to Mayville State in 1956 and graduated in 1958 with degrees in mathematics and physical education. In college he played basketball, baseball and also amateur baseball with the Mayville Red Caps, coached by Al Meyer. After graduation he taught school and coached sports at Northwood, N. Dak., 1958-1960, and at Edinburg, N. Dak., 1963-1964. Allyn and Carilynn Gunstenson were married June 9, 1957, at the First Lutheran Church. It was the first wedding in the new church at Hoople, N. Dak.
State College and graduated in 1953 with a Standard Degree in elementary education. She taught grade school at Langdon, N. Dak., Buhl, Minn., Portland, N. Dak., Northwood, N. Dak., and Hoople, N. Dak. Allyn's father, Clarence, died in 1957 and in 1960, Allyn and Carilynn moved back to Hoople where Allyn engaged in the farming of potatoes, small grains and beans. In 1975 they moved to the farm where they now reside. Amanda Fagerholt died in February of 1978. Allyn has one sister, Janice, who is married to Lowell Malmin and lives in Brooklyn Center, Minn. They have two daughters, Natalie and Nancy.
David Fagerholt
Kari Fagerholt
Jon Fagerholt
Carilynn has three sisters; Barbara (Mrs. Kenneth Hallgrimson) of Grand Forks, N. Dak., has four children, Robert, Patti (Mrs. David Mikkleson), Teri Lynn and Scott; Leanne (Mrs. Ronald Dahl) of Park River; has three children, Bette Jo, Curtis and Douglas; Margaret (Mrs. Thomas Walker) of Austin, Tex., has two children, Meribeth (Mrs. Jeff Page) and Chris Hurtt Walker, and one grandchild, April Page. Carilynn's two brothers are Aden Gunstenson who lives at Fargo with his family, wife, Lorraine, and two daughters, Amy and Jill; Thomas S. Gunstenson, who lives in Moorhead, Minn., with his wife, Rose, and children, Jason, Mark and Kristin.
From left to right, Alfred and Helen Gunstenson, Mrs. Etta Christopherson (Carilynn's maternal grandmother), Carilynn and Allyn Fagerholt, Amanda and Clarence Fagerholt.
In June, 1980, the entire Gunstenson family, along with all their relatives, celebrated the 50th Wedding Anniversary of Helen and Alfred Gunstenson at Sharon Lutheran Church in Grand Forks.
Carilynn was born at Oklee, Minn., and is the daughter of Alfred and Helen (Christopherson) Gunstenson. She attended grade school at Oklee and at Hoople, N. Dak., where she graduated from high school in 1951. Carilynn attended Mayville
EDWIN AND LILY (TRAVERS) FEDJE Edwin Fedje was born on Aug. 13, 1894, the son of Nels and Syneva Fedje. Edwin grew up on a farm, seven miles west of
Hoople, where his parents farmed. Edwin attended school in Dundee Township and Aaker's Business College in Grand Forks. Edwin married Lily Travers, daughter of James and Emma Thompson-Dickson. Lily was born on Sept. 14, 1904, in Hoople. Ed and Lily were married on June 4, 1924. The young couple lived and farmed on the Henry Fedje farm, five and a half miles west of Hoople. They raised four children — one son and three daughters — Geraldine, Lyle, Earlyce and Joyce. The family were members of the First Lutheran Church in Hoople. Edwin died on Dec. 9, 1949, at the age of fifty-five and Lily died on Dec. 14, 1951, at the age of forty-seven; they are both buried in the Hoople cemetery. Murlen and Geraldine (Fedje) Hagen Family: left to right, standing, Jeff Nord, Diane (Hagen) Nord, Bruce Hagen and Murlen Hagen; seated, Charlotte Hagen, Geraldine Hagen and Mark Hagen. (1975) one year. Geraldine worked at the Union Stockyards at West Fargo until her marriage to Murlen Hagen, Ayr, N. Dak., on Jan. 18, 1948. They farmed near Ayr. They became the parents of four children — Bruce, born Oct. 16, 1949, and lives at Ayr; Diane, bom Nov. 19, 1952, married to Jeff Nord on April 5, 1975, reside in Wolverton, Minn., and who have one child; Charlotte, born August 20, 1954, who lives in Fargo; and Mark, born Oct. 5, 1961, and is attending the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks. Geraldine's husband, Murlen, died suddenly of a heart attack on April 19, 1975. Geraldine still lives on the farm at Ayr.
Edwin and Lily (Travers) Fedje (1924) Lyle and Joyce are married and still live in the Hoople area so they have separate family write ups. Joyce is Mrs. LaVoy Olson. But, Geraldine and Earlyce live outside the county so their brief family write-up will follow: Geraldine (Fedje) Hazen was bom on Jan. 29, 1926, at Grafton, N. Dak. She attended grade school at Dundee School District No. 35; graduated from Hoople High School in 1944; and then attended the State School of Science in Wahpeton for
Lloyd and Earlyce (Fedje) Pladson Family: Bride, Kris (daughter-in-law); standing, left to right, Jeff, Greg, Earlyce, Lloyd and Joel; lower right, Lonna and her husband, Dennis. Earlyce (Fedje) Pladson was born on Jan. 12, 1932. She grew up on the family farm, five and a half miles west of Hoople, and attended Dundee School for grades 1-6. She then enterec the Hoople school system where she graduated. Earlyce attendee Interstate Business College in Fargo and then worked for Branicl Mfg., Fargo, for four years as a secretary.
Edwin Fedje Family, left to right, Geraldine, Joyce, Edwin, Earlyce, Lily and Lyle.
On May 25, 1952, Earlyce married Lloyd Pladson. They ar the parents of four children — Lonna, born in 1954; Jeffrey, bor in 1957; Gregory, born in 1958; and Joel in 1959. The fami! lives in Moorhead where Lloyd is employed by Midwest Mote Express, and Earlyce is office manager of Barrett Mobile Home Transport, Inc.
Iowa. He is married to the former Beverly Cottonwood, Minn. They have two daughters.
Knutson of
MR. AND MRS. LYLE FEDJE The Lyle Fedje family resides in Hoople. Lyle was born on July 14, 1928, at Grafton, N. Dak., to parents, Edwin and Lily Fedje. Lyle went to school in Dundee Township, rural School Dist. 35 and graduated from Hoople High School in 1946. Lyle grew up on the family farm, west of Hoople, where his parents farmed. On Oct. 28, 1951, Lyle married Eleanor Momerak, daughter of Gunder and Myrtle Momerak of Park River, N. Dak. They became the parents of four children. Mrs. Lyle Fedje died in January, 1981.
Shelly and Paul Thude, grandchildren of Earlyce and Lloyd Pladson.
ERNEST FEDJE FAMILY Ernest Theron Fedje was born Dec. 6, 1909, on the farm of his parents, Nels and Syneva Fedje, in Dundee Township. He lived there until his family moved to the present farmsite in Glenwood Township, two miles northeast of Hoople. Mr. Fedje attended school in Hoople, graduating in 1928. He attended the North Dakota Agricultural College in Fargo, then farmed with his brother, Sam, and worked for the N. D. State Seed Dept. until October, 1942. In November, 1945, he served in the signal corps of the U.S. Army, being stationed in Australia, New Guinea, and the Philippines. He married Violet Sommer of Grand Forks on June 1 8, 1941.
Lyle and Eleanor Fedje (1951)
In addition to maintaing a lifelong farming partnership with his brother, Sam, he served as manager of Hoople Seed Potato Company from 1946 to 1960, and also as the manager of Hoople Potato Products, Inc., from 1960 to 1975. Since his retirement he has maintained an active involvement with Fedje and Sons, Inc. He has served as mayor of Hoople; president of the Hoople School District; commander of the American Legion Post; and as deacon at First Lutheran Church of Hoople. He and his wife have been active members in church and community affairs.
Linda was born on Jan. 3, 1954. She is married to Earl Otto of Crystal; they have two daughters, Stephanie and Julie, and the family lives at Crystal.
They have three sons — Winston, Timothy and Thomas.
Lowell was born on Feb. 1 1 , 1958, and also lives in Wahpeton.
Daughter, Susan, was born on Oct. 16, 1952, and is married to Bruce Otto of Crystal, N. Dak. They have one daughter, Karen. They live at Crystal.
Allen was born on Oct. 1, 1956. He married Penny Moe of Henry, S. Dak. They have one son, Brian, and live in Wahpeton, N.Dak.
Winston was born May 6, 1944, and attended school in Hoople and the University of North Dakota. He spent two years in the U.S. Army, from 1 965 to 1967, one of these years being in Vietnam where he received the Purple Heart and two Bronze Stars. Winston Fedje is married to the former Carol Fischer of Drayton and they have two daughters and one son. Winston is engaged in farming with-Fedje and Sons, Inc. Twin sons, Timothy and Thomas, were born April 9, 1948. They attended and graduated from Hoople High School and Concordia College, Moorhead, Minn. Tim lives in Rochester, Minn., where he is a physical therapy supervisor at Methodist Hospital. He is married to the former Cheryl Alswager of Lisbon, N. Dak., and they have two sons. Tom resides in Bertendof, Iowa, and is employed as the executive director of the Maternal Health Center in Davenport,
Lyle Fedje Family: left to right, front, Bruce, Susan and Karen; bridal couple, Penny and Allen — and Eleanor; back, Stephanie, Earl and Linda, Lyle, and Lowell.
Stephanie and Julie, daughters of Linda and Earl Otto. Brian Fedje, son of Allen and Penny Fedje. Lyle and Eleanor farmed until they moved into Hoople in 1966. He is now employed as an inspector with the North Dakota State Seed Department.
OLAF FEDJE FAMILY Olaf Fedje, Hoople, N. Dak., was born in Sogn, Norway, and came to the United States and this area in 1914 where his uncle, Ole Fedje, owned a general store, Venberg Fedje. Olaf attended Concordia College to learn the English language and took a course in bookkeeping, later becoming a partner in the Venberg-Fedje Store. He was a member of the First Lutheran Church, in Hoople, where he was head usher for 26 years.
Left to right: Mary Jo (Johnson) Smestad, Elizabeth Johnson, Philip Johnson, Isabel (Fedje) Johnson, Marion Fedje, Jay Johnson, andJ. Paul Johnson. wife accompanied him on one trip. Isabel, Joann and Noel also made trips to Norway to visit and see the beautiful scenery of their ancestors. The Fedjes' oldest daughter, Isabel, was bom July 15, 1929, at Grafton. She graduated from Concordia College, Moorhead, Minn., and married J. Paul Johnson, Kalispell, Mont., that same year. They made their home in Moorhead. They had four children — Mary Joan, Philip, Elizabeth, and Jay Paul. Isabel passed away May 3 1 , 1977, after a lingering illness. She opened the first nursery school in Moorhead and operated it until her illness forced her to sell it to Helen Hagen. Noel was born May 7, 1933, in Grafton. While attending high school at Hoople he went to Boys State where he was chosen Governor. He graduated from US Military Academy at West Point in 1957; was first lieutenant in the Army 1957-1959. He is manager of Fargo Branch of Dain Boseworth, Inc.
In 1925 he married Marion Midgarden, daughter of pioneers Nels and Inger Midgarden. They lived in Hoople all their life. After 40 years in the store, he retired due to poor health. He died in a Fargo Hospital September, 1977.
Noel Fedje and Judith Gryte, daughter of Esther and Alvin Gryte, June 23, 1957. On June 23, 1957, he married Judith Gryte of Crookston, Minn, a graduate of Concordia College. They have four daughters — Kari, Lori, Jill, and Julie Anne.
Olaf Fedje and Marion Midgarden were the first couple to have a wedding in Zion Lutheran Church, rural Hoople. (June, 1925)
Philip Fedje Johnson was born June 9, 1952, in Fargo. He graduated from Concordia College with B.S. Degree in business administration. He works at Casualty Underwriter for Great America Underwriter Work Co. of Minneapolis, Minn. He
They had three children — two girls and one boy — Isabel, Joann and Noel. Olaf made three trips back to Norway to visit his relatives. His 392
married Linda Lee, also a graduate of Concordia in 1974, with a Degree in B.S. elementary education. She teaches at Forest Lake, Minn., where they make their home. They have one daughter, Lindsay. Elizabeth C. was born Feb. 22, 1954, in Fargo. She also graduated from Concordia College with a degree in elementary education. Jay Paul, youngest son of Isabel and Paul, was born March 8, 1938, in Fargo. While a student at Concordia he was an outstanding hockey player. He transferred to Bemidji State to complete his study in business administration.
BA degree from the University of Michigan in 1973. She earned the Master of Social Work degree from Michigan State University, and is a Case Work Supervisor in Flint, Mich. Paul F. Heiss was born Oct. 8, 1953, in Charleston, W. Va., and graduated from the University of Michigan in 1975 with a BS in industrial engineering. He married Lois M. Kavanaugh, July 10, 1976, in Grosse Pointe, Mich. They have one daughter, Karin M., born in Milwaukee, Wise, Feb. 16, 1978. Paul is manager of manufacturing resources for Allis Chalmers Co., Milwaukee, Wise. John D. Heiss was born Feb. 6, 1956, in White Plains, N. Y. He graduated from the University of Michigan in 1977 with a BS degree and from the University of Michigan Medical School with an MD in 1980. He is a resident in neurosurgery at the Univeristy of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio. Mary E. Heiss, born June 17, 1959, in White Plains, N. Y „ attends Michigan State University, E. Lansing, Mich., majoring in retailing of clothing and textiles. Eric Noel Heiss was born Nov. 3, 1966, in St. Clair, Mich., and attends St. Clair Junior High School.
OLEA. FEDJE FAMILY
Mr. and Mrs. Olaf Fedje on their 40th wedding anniversary.
Ole A. Fedje came to Hoople in 1891 from Feios, Norway, to the farm home of Mr. and Mrs. Lars Fedje. After graduating from the commercial department of Concordia Academy, Moorhead, Minn., in 1896, he was employed by Mr. N. M. Venberg as a bookeeper and clerk in his general store. Hannah Huseby came from Dennison, Minn., to the home of her aunt, Mrs. Lars Fedje. On Aug. 1, 1900, Ole and Hannah were married at this home. He became a partner after the store was rebuilt, following a fire in 1902.
Ole and Marion Fedje's 40th anniversary; June 24, 1964. Olaf and Marion (Midgarden) Fedje's younger daughter, Joann B., was born in Grafton, N. Dak., June 22, 1928. She graduated in 1950 from St. Olaf College, Northfield, Minn., with a BA degree, and attended the University of Pittsburgh's Graduate School in 1950-51. On Aug. 12, 1951, she married John F. Heiss, Pittsburgh, Pa., at Zion Lutheran Church, rural Hoople. John Heiss was born July 2, 1920, in Altoona, Pa., and graduated from the University of Pittsburgh with a PhD. Degree in chemical engineering in 1950. Currently, he is Director of Research and Development of Diamond Crystal Salt Company, St. Clair, Mich. They have five children. Ann K. Heiss was born Aug. 22, 1952, in Charleston, W. Va., attended St. Olaf College 1970-72, and graduated with a
Mr. and Mrs. Ole Fedje, Adeline, George Hendrickson, Alice, Beatrice, and Winifred in 1932. They were charter members of the First Lutheran Church in Hoople. He passed away in 1 937 and she, in 1957. They had four daughters — Beatrice, Adeline, and Alice, who graduated from Concordia College, and Winifred, who chose a business course, attending schools in St. Cloud, Minn., and Fargo. Winifred came home and became employer as a bookkeeper in the Venberg-Fedje and Co. and the Fedje Hardware stores. Beatrice taught in high schools in the state until the death of her father and came home and was employed in the store until 1967. Adeline taught home economics in several high schools in Minnesota until she went to St. Cloud, Minn., where she taught
in the Junior High for 29 years, totaling 40 years of teaching. Alice married George D. Hendrickson in 1932. He was superintendent in the high school at Philip, S. Dak., until 1957. She taught English, Latin, and typing there. They moved to Aberdeen, S. Dak., in 1957 where he was state supervisor of the Teacher Placement Bureau until he retired. She continued teaching English and Latin for about 10 years there. Their children are Fred, an attorney, and Mary Alice Keiper in Blunt, S. Dak. The daughters have continued the farming interest of their parents. FAMILY OF PAUL AND MERLE FEDJE Paul James Fedje and his wife, the former Merle Arlene Neilson, grew up in Hoople, N. Dak., graduated from high school there, and received part of their higher education at the same school, Concordia College, Moorhead, Minn., and Paul presently serves on the Concordia Alumni Board. Paul was born Oct. 24, 1925, to Arthur Fedje and Merle Jean (Peterson) Fedje of Hoople. Pauls' father died Dec. 18, 1956, and his mother, June 11,1973. Paul served three years in the U.S. Navy during World War II, graduated from Concordia in 1950, then taught six years in Bottineau, N. Dak. He moved to Hoople in 1956 where he began farming. Paul has served on the school board, elevator board, church board, township board, and is a member of First Lutheran Church, Hoople.
and resides at Plentywood, Mont., where she and her husband, Ray Weisgarber, make their home. She is also a Concordia College graduate.
SELMER FEDJE FAMILY Selmer (Sam) N. Fedje, son of Nels and Syneva Fedje, was born on a farm, west of Hoople, on July 26, 1907. In 1920 his father bought a farm one mile east of Hoople and moved his family there. He attended high school at Hoople and at the Walsh County Agricultural School, Park River. He has farmed in the HoopleCrystal area all his life. He also operated Hoople Seed Potato Company for thirty years and was active in all phases of community life. He is a member of the First Lutheran Church where he has served in many offices; he has served on the township board and school board; was an officer of the Red River Valley Potato Growers Association for a number of years, including one year as president; was elected a director of the Walsh County Bank in 1956 and served in that position for twenty years. In 1971 he was presented with the Silver Beaver Award by the Boy Scout Council for his work in Scouts as District Finance Committeeman and Council Executive Board member. Sam was married to Berneice I. Tharalson in 1936. She is the daughter of John O. Tharalson and Grace Neilson Tharalson of Hoople. Berneice graduated from Hoople High School and attended N.D.S.U. in Fargo for two years. She has been very active in church and community affairs, as well as the area China Painters Association. Sam and Berneice have four children: Neil, Cheryl, Margaret, and Barbara.
Paul and Merle Fedje Family: left to right, back, David Hensrud, Robert Keller, JoAnn Keller, Diane Weisgarber, Ray Weisgarber, Jeffrey Hall, Nick Hall; front, Carol Hensrud, Merle Fedje, Paul Fedje, Mary Jo Hall, and Stephanie Hall. Merle was born Aug. 1, 1928, to Wilmer E. Neilson and Myrtle Annie Johnston Neilson, Grafton. She attended Macalester College, St. Paul, before enrolling at Concordia. Merle and Paul were married Aug. 22, 1948, and have four daughters. Mary Jo, was born Sept. 23, 1949. She attended Concordia College and graduated from the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks. She married Nick Hall, Feb. 24, 1968. Their two children are Stephanie Merle, born Nov. 4, 1976, and Jeffrey Bjom, born Nov. 16, 1979.
Selmer N. Fedje Family: left to right, back row, Margaret, Neil, and Cheryl; front row, Berneice, Barbara, and Sam.
JoAnn Merle, born July 29, 1954, is also a graduate of Concordia. She married Robert Keller May 29, 1976.
Neil was born on Dec. 14, 1938, in Grafton, N. Dak. He graduated from Hoople High School and attended Concordia College for two years. He then spent three years in the U.S. Army and farmed with his father for several years before returning to college. He received his B.S., B.A., from the University of North Dakota in 1965. He was then employed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation as a bank examiner in various parts of North Dakota and Minnesota. He was appointed the Senior Examiner in Charge of the Grand Forks area in 1974. In 1977 he purchased an interest in the Citizens State Bank of Pembina County and moved to Cavalier.
Diane Kaye, the youngest daughter, was born Dec. 5, 1957,
He was married to Sandra Eeg Nelson on July 18, 1970.
Carol Jean was born Dec. 13, 1951. She is a graduate of Concordia College. She and her husband, Dave Hensrud, reside in Grand Forks. They were married Aug. 5, 1979.
She was graduated from the University of North Dakota in 1965 and received her Master's Degree from U.N.D. in 1969. She taught at various private schools in both Minneapolis and Grand Forks. In June, 1979, they adopted three children; Elizabeth, age 7; Patricia, age 6; and Donald, age 3. Neil is now vice president and director of the Citizens State Bank and Sandra is owner of the Scandinavia, Too! gift shop in Cavalier. Cheryl, born Aug. 27, 1941, now lives in Norman, Okla., where she is on the faculty of the University of Oklahoma. After graduating from Hoople High School, she received her B.A. Degree from St. Olaf College and a Master's Degree from N.D.S.U., Fargo. She was an instructor at the University of Minnesota — Duluth for several years before joining the Peace Corps and then spent two years working in the West Indies. After returning, she obtained her Ed. D. from the University of Nebraska. Margaret, born Nov. 14, 1946, lives in Grand Forks. She was married to Rodger Rieger on July 3, 1966. He received his degree in Industrial Design from the Wahpeton State School of Science and was employed by the State Highway Department in Bismarck. While there, she received a B.S. degree in elementary education from Mary College and taught in the Bismarck school system. In 1974 her husband accepted a position with Engineers — Architects, P.C. in Grand Forks. They have three children — Christine, 10; Scott, 6; and Thomas, 2. Barbara, born July 2 1 , 1950, now lives in Hoople. She graduated from Hoople High School and was married to Ronald Brubakken on Dec. 22, 1969. While her husband was a navy recruiter stationed in Milwaukee, Wise, Barbara graduated in 1974 from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee with a degree in special education. She taught school in Cavalier for several years before opening the Sonshine Christian Bookstore in Cavalier in 1980. Her husband, Ronald, is assistant mail carrier for the Hoople area. They have one son, Timothy, born July 6, 1978.
HISTORY OF THE DONALD FOLSON FAMILY Donald Folson carries on the tradition of farming, raising grain and potatoes, into the third generation of the Folson family. He was born Sept. 27, 1922, the son of Charles and Helen (Rinde) Folson. In January, 1957, he married the former Muriel Behl of Grand Forks. She is the daughter of George and Alma (Dallum) Behl of Grand Forks, born Nov. 19, 1925. They are the parents of four daughters:
Diane Helen Folson (born Sept. 27, 1 960) is also attending UND. Barbara Lynn Folson (born June 5, 1962) is a freshman at UND. Lori J. Folson was born Dec. 17, 1964, and is attending Valley High School. Both Mr. and Mrs. Folson have served on many committees and have been active in community and church affairs.
THE ANDREW GJEVRE FAMILY Andrew Gjevre was born Nov. 11, 1880, at Maynard, Minn., and came to North Dakota with his parents and settled near Edinburg, N. Dak. Jeanette A. Tveten was born Nov. 4, 1887, to Mr. and Mrs. Nels J. Tveten, one of Walsh County's first pioneers.
Wedding picture of Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Gjevre, Dec. 17, 1908. Andrew and Jeanette were married at Grafton, N. Dak., Dec. 17, 1908. They lived and farmed on her father's homestead. He enjoyed playing the violin and she chorded on the piano. The Gjevres had six children, all of whom attended Glenwood District 76 school. Andrew Gjevre died March 22, 1961; Jeanette Gjevre died June 4, 1972. The children were Arvid, Irene, Evelyn, Maynard, Clinton, and Delores. Arvid married Hilda Bjerke of Hoople and they live and farm southwest of Hoople. Irene married Erick Kristofferson of Salol, Minn. They have one son, Alton, married and living in California. Irene and Erick reside in Gresham, Ore. Maynard married Marie Tupa of Veseleyville, N. Dak. They
The Don Folson Family: left to right, Barbara, Diane, Muriel and Donald, Peggy and Lori. Margaret Kay Folson (born June 2 1 , 1959) is currently attending the University of North Dakota and will be graduating in May, 1981.
Family picture of Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Gjevre: left to right, standing, Irene, Arvid, Evelyn; front, Maynard, Andrew (dad), Delores, mother, and Clinton.
had four children — Laurel, Marlin. Maynard, Jr., and Irene. Laurel died Sept. 13, 1975, in an accident in Oregon. Marlin died at the age of three years. Maynard, Jr., is married to the former Sandra Smith of Faith, S. Dak. They have one daughter, Amanda Alice. They live in the original Glenwood District 76 School building. Irene attends nursing school in Bismarck, N. Dak. Marie Gjevre died Oct. 14, 1967. Maynard Gjevre lives on his grandfather's homestead. Clinton married Ruth Ann Dahl of Park River, N. Dak. They have three children — Diane, Wade and June. Clinton and Ruth Ann farm and live near St. Thomas, N. Dak. Delores married Torfin Evenson of Grafton, N. Dak. They reside in Grafton. They have two children, Terrance and Deanna.
sons, Alden and Darrell, who graduated from Grafton Central High School in Grafton. Alden also graduated from Aaker's Business College in Grand Forks, and now lives in Pharr, Tex. Darrell graduated from North Dakota State School of Science in Wahpeton in 1975. He majored in refrigeration and air conditioning and now lives in Seattle.
THE HISTORY OFTHE OLE K. GRYDE FAMILY The history of the Gryde Family is continued from the First Edition of "Walsh Heritage." Since their retirement, Herbert and his wife, Jayne, have been living in Rancho Mirage, Calif. During the summer they travel or spend their time in the mountains. Elvin continued to live on the homestead with his sister, Nora, until his death in 1975, He had also bought the adjoining farm from the Gilbert Twedt estate. For many years he had been a member of the Gem and Mineral Club in Grand Forks, N. Dak., and had an extensive rock collection. He also made many beautiful things from the rocks such as a fireplace, table tops, lamp shades and other things.
Wedding picture of Mr. and Mrs. Harold Barstad, July 12, 1946. Evelyn married G. A. Grefthen of Wannaska, Minn. They have one daughter, Mildred, now living and teaching school in Grand Forks. Mildred has three sons and one grandson. Evelyn later married Harold Barstad of Edmore, N. Dak. They have two
Darrell and Alden Barstad, sons of Mr. and Mrs. Harold Barstad.
Julia Gryde Lundgren and Nora Gryde.
Nora continues to live on the home farm. She had been active in church and many civic organizations and was on the committee of the First Edition of the Walsh Heritage. She spends her winters in Florida with her sister, Julia, and her family. Julia, whose husband died in 1968, lives in Winter Park, Fla. Since her retirement, in 1959, she has continued to be active in church and other organizations. She has seen many changes from the horse and buggy days of the past to the modern conveniences of today. Her daughter, Kathryn, and husband, Robert Hults, and family live nearby. Robert is a medical technologist at the Orlando Regional Medical Center. The family have all been very active in their church, St. John Lutheran, and community affairs. Katie, their oldest daughter, is a medical technologist in Greenwood, S. C. Margaret is attending school in Minneapolis and Mary Barbara is in the first year of high school in Winter Park.
LEONARD GULLICKSON FAMILY Leonard Gullickson was born Dec. 6, 1915, in Hoople, N. Dak., to Gullick and Margit (Brubakken) Gullickson. On Dec. 6, 1942, he married Lyla Knutson at the Zion Lutheran Church Parsonage with Rev. L. O. Helleklev officiating. Lyla was born Oct. 13, 1921, in Harwood, N. Dak., to Christ Iver Knutson and Hannah Emilia (Antonson) Knutson. Leonard and Lyla have six children — five boys and one girl. Harold Allyn was born Dec. 5, 1943; Dwight Leonard, July 15, 1945; Loren Gullick, Dec. 2, 1954; Curtis Chris, Jan. 28, 1956; Mark Olen, Apr. 14, 1957; and Jane Lyla born March 11, 1963. Leonard and Lyla lived on the farm near Hoople until 1961, when they took over the Hoople Cafe, May 12, 1961, and moved to Hoople. The cafe is now known as Lyla's Cafe. Two sons are married. Harold married Maria Haner, Aug. 4, 1965; Maria's parents are Clarence and Dorothy Haner, Aurora, Colo. Loren married Leila Hunter on July 28, 1973; Leila's parents are Bennie and Ann Hunter, Crystal, N. Dak. Lyla and Leonard Gullickson have four granddaughters and two grandsons.
Bjorn Hall Family: left to right, seated, Bjom and Wanda: standing, Douglas and Jill (McKay), Las Vegas, Nev.; Thomas and Ruth (Tharalson), Las Vegas, Nev.; Nicholas and Mary Jo (Fedje) Hall, Grafton; and Laurie Hall, Hoople; and Robert Larson, Park River. electrify their remodeled house, near Gardar. This was quite an experience for Wanda as much Icelandic was still spoken in the home. Her father, Lewie Samson, was Icelandic, but her family did not speak it, as her mother, Marie McLean, was of Scottish descent. There were seven children in her family. Wanda was born on Sept. 12, 1925, near Edinburg. I never knew it was important to be Icelandic, until I came to Gardar to live. Bjom, bom March 1 3, 1920, was one of eleven children, of Johann and Hosa Hall. They had five sons and six daughters. About 1946, the sons began their farming career, together. They raised potatoes, as one of the main crops, with all storage in "pits," or underground. The first storage units and wash plant were built in Edinburg in 1950. The five brothers, Joe, Bjorn, Edward, Bill, and John chose the company name — J. G. Hall & Sons. Four children were born to Bjorn and Wanda — they lived at Gardar-Nicholas, Douglas, Thomas and Laurie. As the farming operation grew, a grain elevator, another washplant and more storage units were built in Hoople, and the Bjorn Halls located there. In 1961 they built their present home. The children have all married, and have homes of their own. ROBERT AND LAURIE (HALL) LARSON
BJORN AND WANDA (SAMSON) HALL Bjom Hall and Wanda Samson were married after World War II, which was very significant in their lives. Bjom was in the South Pacific nearly three years, in the 161st Infantry, and was engaged in battle action on Guadalcanal, Luzon and the Solomon Islands. He was awarded the Purple Heart Medal for wounds received and given a medical discharge in 1945. Wanda had entered the Cadet Nurse Corps and had taken training at Grand Forks Deaconess Hospital. Those in the Cadet Corps were to help relieve the nursing shortage in their home hospitals, as nurses were needed by the Armed Services. Their hours were long, but no one minded as the war was deeply felt by all. 1945 saw the peace treaties signed, and the servicemen coming home. Hearts ached for the neighbors and relatives whose families would forever feel the loss and trauma of war . . . that we must never forget. After their marriage, the couple lived with Bjorn's parents for a time, while they waited for the R.E.A. to come through to
Robert John Larson was born June 22, 1956, at the Deaconess Hospital in Grand Forks, N. Dak., to proud parents, Harry and Mary Larson of Park River, N. Dak. Robert, or Bob as he was soon called, attended elementary and high school at Park River, graduating from Park River High School in May, 1974. It was in those high school years that he met his future bride, Laurie Marie Hall, from Hoople, N. Dak. Laurie Marie Hall was born March 24, 1957, at the Deaconess Hospital in Grafton, N. Dak., to Bjorn and Wanda Hall of Gardar, N. Dak. The Hall family moved from Gardar to Hoople, N, Dak., in 1961 where Laurie attended elementary school. Hoople school then joined the Crystal school system and formed the new Valley High School which Laurie attended and graduated from in May, 1975. Bob and Laurie were married in the Hoople First Lutheran Church on Nov. 15, 1975. They then went on to college at the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, for one year and then to North Dakota State University, Fargo, where they both received their B.S. Degrees in May, 1980. It was during these
Haugland. They have two daughters and two grandsons. Carol Haugland attended Valley City State College, Valley City, N. Dak., and Aaker's Business College, Grand Forks, N. Dak'. She presently resides in East Grand Forks, Minn., and is employed in Grand Forks, as a bookkeeper. Shirley Haugland married Steve Perreault of Red Lake Falls, Minn., in February, 1973. They currently reside in Nelson, Minn.' Shirley, who attended the State School of Science, Wahpteon N. Dak., is a licensed practical nurse and is employed in a doctor's office. Her husband, Steve, is an area salesman for Brach Candies. They are the parents of two sons, Brian Matthew (age 5 years), and Christopher Scott (age 1 year). Mildred Haugland, daughter of the late Edwin and Inger Markusen, was bom at their farm home near Grafton, N. Dak.
Robert, Katie and Laurie (Hall) Larson. college years that their first child was bom. Kate Elizabeth Larson was born on July 3 1 , 1979, at the Pembina County Memorial Hospital in Cavalier, N. Dak. Following college graduation, the couple moved home to Hoople where they are presently living. Bob is engaged in farming with his brother, Richard Larson, and Laurie is presently teaching home economics at Park River High School.
ALVIN AND MILLIE HAUGLAND FAMILY Alvin Haugland, son of the late Even and Annie Haugland, attended Mount View School District No. 34. He was confirmed at ParkCenter Church, rural Hoople, N. Dak. During World War II, he was in the 12th Armored Division in Germany, France, and Austria, from December of 1944 until May of 1945. Upon his return, he met his wife, Mildred
She attended Groble School District No. 38. Her teachers over the years were Hazel Fweskee; Jean Campbell Hadden of Park River, N. Dak., and now residing in California; Thelma Thorson Momerak of Mandt, N. Dak.; Gertrude Thorson Monson of Mandt, N. Dak., and now of Grafton; Nellie Tewkesbury Torkelson of Fordville, N. Dak., now of rural Grafton; Anna Egeland of Grafton, N. Dak.; Gladys Larson Thompson of Grafton, N. Dak.; and Eleanor Clemenson, of Mandt. At that time, there was none of the playground equipment that schools have today. The boys mainly played bat and ball. The girls played blind man's bluff, ante-over, ring-around-therosey, and tag. The teachers would stay at the homes of her students usually for one month at each place. However, if there were smaller families, that had more room, she would stay the full term. The Markusens had many teachers who stayed the full term. There were approximately 28-30 children in grades o m through eight. At the Markusen home, Norwegian was the only language spoken. So, it was quite difficult for the children when they started school. The Markusen children walked 1 Vz miles to school during the nice weather. However, in the winter, their father would take them to school in a sleigh pulled by horses. Mildred was confirmed at South Trinity Church, rural Grafton, N. Dak., by Rev. L. 0 . Helleklev. In June of each year, there was parochial school for one month at South Trinity Church. Lydia Stromberg Grovum was one of the teachers then. On the Markusen farm were found cows, horses, chickens, turkeys, and pigs. In order to buy groceries, eggs and cream were sold. During the war, all farmers found it necessary to have pigs. The Markusens had forty or more pigs. Mildred and her brother teased one of the turkeys so that whenever anyone came in the yard, the turkey would run to them. One day, the turkey flew at Mrs. Markusen's back so hard that she fell to the ground. Mildred and her brother had to use sticks to get the turkey away from their mother. That was the last day for that turkey. MELVIN HAUGLAND FAMILY Melvin Clarence, son of Evan W. and Annie CTweef) Haugland, was born March 10, 1909, in Dundee Township. His wife Daisy Irene, daughter of Henry C. and Inga E. (Torkelson) Sandlan, was born on Oct. 23, 1911, in Piney, Man., Canada. They were married in 1933 and resided in the Dundee Township until 1937 when they moved to Hoople.
The Alvin Haugland Family: seated, left to right, Millie and Alvin Haugland with grandson, Brian; standing, Carol, Shirley and her husband, Steve, and baby, Christopher. 398
doing so for 30 years. When farming, he drove the community snow plow for seven winters. After farming, he worked in Fedje Hardware at Hoople; and did plumbing and carpenter work for seven years. He has also been a salesman of water conditioners and steel granaries and buildings. Allyn is a member of the Hoople United Methodist Church and the Hoople Volunteer Fire Department. He served on the church board; has been a volunteer fire fighter for several years, and is now a director of the Fire Department. He has also served on the township board. Allyn married Elnor lone Holland, daughterof Elizabeth and Walter Holland, who live at Mayville, N. Dak., on Apr. 2, 1942. Elnor was born at Blanchard, July 28, 1920. She attended Mayville State College before her marriage. She has one brother, Wyman Holland, who lives at Ada, Minn., with his wife and four children.
Melvin Haugland Family: front row, left to right, Daisy and Melvin; second row, Richard, Harland and Allen; back row, Rodger and Donald.
Elnor is a member of the Hoople United Methodist Church and has taught Sunday School there. She has been a Girl Scout leader and a Campfire Girls leader at Hoople. She's a member of the GFWC M and M Study Club, The United Methodist Women
The couple had six children — Harlan Earl, Allen LeRoy, Robert Neil (died Aug. 3 1 , 1953), Donald Melvin, Richard James, and Rodger Duane. The Hauglands also have 13 grandchildren and six greatgrandchildren.
ALLYN HOOPLE FAMILY Allyn Ardell Hoople was born in Hoople, N. Dak., Jan. 24, 1915, to George and Annie (Rollefstad) Hoople, one of their six children. Allyn has three living sisters: Mrs. Lloyd (Vera) Larson, Minneapolis; Mrs. Robert (Ethel) Birkman, Fort Peck, Mont.; and Mrs. Robert (Pearl) Morrison, North Aurora, III. His two brothers passed away — Glen in 1 967 and Earl in 1963. His father, George Hoople, passed away in 1948 and his mother, Annie, celebrated her 90th birthday Feb. 29, 1978. She now resides in the Lutheran Sunset Home in Grafton, N. Dak. Allyn's grandfather, Allen Hoople, settled on the land in 1880, and the town was named Hoople Jan. 7, 1890. Mrs. Allen Hoople was the first postmaster of Hoople. Allyn attended the Hoople school and began farming the family farm in 1937,
Bette Hoople, 1972-73, North Dakota State Potato Queen.
Allyn and Elnor Hoople (Allyn's 65th birthday in 1980).
Bette and Stanley Market
and the Hoople Ladies Civic Club, in all of which she has held office. Allyn and Elnor have one daughter, Bette Veronica Hoople Markel, born Dec. 23, 1953, at Grand Forks. Bette is a graduate of Valley High School in Hoople and is presently employed there as secretary. Bette has been a Campfire Girl and has done work in 4-H. She was North Dakota State Potato Queen in 1972-73. Bette is a member of the Hoople United Methodist Church and has taught Sunday School there. She is a member of the Hoople Ladies Civic Club and, at the present time, she is the president. Bette was married June 29, 1974, to Stanley John Markel, in the Hoople United Methodist Church of which Stanley is also a member. Stanley was born Aug. 27, 1950, at Clinton, Mo., to Joe and Lodifa Markel, who live in Hoople.
JOHN AND ANNA (DAHL) HULTIN John Hultin was born Dec. 4, 1873, at Orkeljonga, Sweden, and came to America with his parents, Karl and Petronella Hultin, in 1882. They lived in the Nash area where he attended school in Glenwood District No. 13. In 1906, he was married to Anna Dahl at the Hans Dahl home. She was born Aug. 9, 1879, to Hans and Ingeborg (Estenson) Dahl. They first lived in Grafton, then on a farm near Nash. In 1913 they moved to Berthold, N. Dak., to farm but Mrs. Hultin's health made it necessary to return to Nash that same fall. The trip was made to Berthold by train; but returning, the family went by train while Mr. Hultin drove a team of horses and wagon. They later moved to a farm west of Hoople.
few days, Stephanie Lynn, Heidi Lee and Rebecca Leann; Janice Liane, born Nov. 2 1 , 1951, is married to Thomas Albaugh, Glynd'on, Minn., has four children, Nicole Cheri, Rita Liane, Matthew Thomas, and Benjamin John; Glen Hultin, born Aug. 18, 1956; and Neil, born on Jan. 2, 1964. Arvid Julius was bom June 10, 1909; he married Clara Carpenter in 1936. They farmed at Hoople, Fordville, and Red Lake Falls, Minn. Their children are Patricia, born Oct. 2 1 , 1937, who married Albert Hoglund, Crookston, Minn., and whose children are Craig and Gwen Marie; Alden, born April 23, 1940, who married LoveEII Olson, and whose children are John Arvid, Jennifer Ann, and Alden Scott; Wilmar, born Jan. 1 1 , 1942, who married Lynda Gjerde, and whose two children are Tamara Lynn and Randall Scott; Sheldon John, born Oct. 12, 1944, who died March 28, 1946; Mary Elizabeth, born May 10, 1947, who is married to John Roy, and whose two children are Ann Marie and Andrew James; Phyliss Amelia, born Aug. 5, 1949, who married Robert Fick, and whose three children are Kari Lynn, James Allen and Anthony Robert. Leonard Hugo was born Feb. 27, 1911. He married Gunhild Grovum Oct. 2 1 , 1937. They farmed in Dundee Township. They adopted a son, Dale Norman, born Jan. 17, 1946. He married Judy Dobmeier and they have two children, Christy and Jeremy. Leonard died on Jan. 12, 1978, and Gunhild died on Apr. 14, 1979. Doris Petronella, born Sept. 19, 1912, married Everett Owens in 1942. He is a Methodist minister and they have served parishes in North Dakota and Indiana. They had three children, Everett Ronald, born Nov. 20, 1943, and who died Nov. 25, 1943; Sheryl Ann, born Oct. 23, 1944; Roberta Ray, bom Oct. 3, 1948, and who married Kenneth Mahen. Russell Richard was born May 26, 1914. He entered military service in March, 1941, and served 27 months overseas in Hawaii, New Guinea and Luzon. He married Selma Swenson on Dec. 23, 1945. They farm near Hoople and have two sons, Ronald Richard, born Oct. 10, 1950, and Daniel Dean, born July 18, 1952. Alvin Johannes was born June 18, 1916. He entered the service in May, 1942. He was the victim of a sniper's bullet in Zig Zag Pass, Luzon, P.l. Alvin was with the leading platoon which was stopped by machine gun and rifle fire. He went forward to help evacuate a wounded buddy and was hit by sniper fire. As a result of his action, his wounded buddy was saved. T-5 Alvin Hultin was killed in action on Feb. 6, 1945.
John and Anna attendants.
(Dahl)
Hultin's
wedding
and
their
Ten children were born to them — eight boys and two girls. Four sons were in the armed forces during World War II and two gave their lives at that time. Several grandsons have also served their country in the armed forces. Mrs. Hultin died on Jan. 4, 1933, at the age of 53, and Mr. Hultin died Jan. 13, 1963, at the age of 89. They are buried at North Trinity Cemetery near
Nash. Their children are: Helmer Carl was born Nov. 29, 1907, in Grafton. He married LaVerne Rinde on Jan. 27, 1944, and they farmed in Dundee Township until moving to Ada, Minn., in 1960. They have five children — Marlys Annette, born June 5, 1945, who is married to Earl Fischer of Marlette, Mich., and has four children, Brian Earl, Steven Douglas, Marci LaVerne and Jason Carl; Marian Faye, born Oct. 20, 1946, is married to Arnold Brelje, Glencoe, Minn., and had four girls, Sonja Faye, who lived only a
Merton Naford was born Oct. 16, 1917. He worked as a farmhand and later in meat markets in Hoople and St. Thomas. He was a private first class in World War II, serving from June, 1942, to October, 1945. He was in New Caledonia and Saipan. He died on Jan. 12, 1977. Irvin Linton was born June 30, 1919. He married Freida Bauer in August, 1964. They have a son, David Irvin, born July 22, 1968. Irvin is a Methodist minister and has served several North Dakota parishes. John Vernal was born Sept. 12, 1920. Lt. John was listed as missing in action over Germany on Dec. 23, 1944. He was a copilot of a B-26 Bomber, with the 9th Air Force. He was married to Donna Hobbs in 1944; they had one son, Gary Vernal, born Nov. 14, 1944, who is married to LaVonne Albers. Their children are Chad Vernal and Dawn. Anna Josephine was born May 3 1 , 1925. She attended school and worked in Chicago before her marriage to Arthur Schroeder in 1945. They farmed near Lakota. She later married
presently works as a mechanic.
Ed Krueger of McClusky, N. Dak. Her children are: Aileen Ann, born July 22, 1948, who is married to Gary Fahey, and whose children are Melissa Jean and Michelle Lee; Arlan Arthur, born June 6, 1950, who died Feb. 5, 1953; Alvin Loren, born Sept. 17, 1954, who is married to Debra Moen and who have a daughter, Amber Marie; Paul James, born Apr. 20, 1957; Nedra Jean, born May 14, 1959, who is married to Adolph Froelich and who have a son, James Carl.
Daniel was born on July 18, 1952, and also attended Hoople School, Lake Region Junior College in Devils Lake, graduating from Waldorf Junior College in Iowa. He received his degree from North Dakota State University, Fargo, in 1976, in mechanical engineering. Daniel has worked as an engineer in Texas and Louisiana since graduation. The Hultin family has been active in the township, serving on various boards and committees, volunteer firemen, Hoople American Legion, Northeast North Dakota Pioneer Machinery Association, church, and community.
MR. AND MRS. RUSSELL HULTIN Russell Hultin is the son of John and Anna (Dahl) Hultin of Crystal Township, Pembina County, and was born on May 26, 1914. He attended the Hartford School and farmed until he entered the army. He served in the United States Army from March, 1941, until November, 1945, as a mechanic. He served twentyseven months in Hawaii, New Guinea, and Philippines.
HISTORY OF LESLEY HURT FAMILY Lesley Hurt was born March 18, 1 892, the •=< n of Elinor and Frances Hurt, who homesteaded on a farm in Dundee Township, southwest of Hoople. Lesley spent his childhood in the Hoople area and was educated in Dundee Dist. 34. He also attended the North Dakota Agricultural College at Fargo. Lesley and his brother, Robert, bought the Kittle Veum farm in Glenwood Township, 2Vz miles southwest of Hoople, and began farming together. A few years later, Bob left the farming operation and moved to the state of Washington.
In 1945, Russell married Selma Swenson, daughter of Ed and Julia Swenson, Hoople. Selma attended rural school, Carpio High School, and Minot State College. For sixteen years Selma taught school.
Lesley continued to farm, raising grain, livestock, and potatoes. On March 23, 1932, he married Bergit Qualen, a native of Telemark, Norway. A son, James Franklen, was born on June 27, 1933; and they welcomed a daughter, Bessie Lou, on March 13, 1935. The family enjoyed traveling throughout the United States and Mexico, and spent several winters in their trailer at St. Petersburg, Fla. Bergit was interested in sewing and crafts, including basketweaving. She became a U.S. citizen on May 4, 1942.
Wedding picture of Selma and Russell Hultin (1945). Russell and Selma farmed in Glenwood Township. They became the parents of two sons, Ronald and Daniel. Ronald was born on Oct. 10, 1950. He attended school in Hoople and served in the U.S. Army for three years with duty in Vietnam for thirteen months and in Germany for one year. Ronald graduated from the North Dakota State School of Science, Wahpeton, in the two-year diesel mechanic course and
Bergit, Bessie, Jim, and Lesley Hurt (1937) Lesley was interested in electricity and soil conservation. As soon as generators were available, the Evergreen Farm began utilizing electrical power. Les was very proud to become an REA member. He also had one of the first single-row tree shelterbelts in his field for soil conservation, some of which are still there today. On a family trip to Yellowstone Park, Bergit Hurt passed away of a heart condition. Lesley then married Olga Ljunggren Veum, the widow of Livy Veum, on Oct. 23, 1947. She had four children by her previous marriage. They are: Lowell Veum, Fosston, Minn.; Allan Veum, Minneapolis, Minn.; Opal Veum (Mrs. Allyn Myrvik), Edmore, N. Dak.; and Raymond Veum, Adams, N. Dak. On May 23, 1952, a daughter, Nancy Jo, was born to Olga and Lesley^ Olga passed away in 1958. Lesley continued to make his home on the farm until his health failed. He spent several months at the Lutheran Sunset Home and the Walhalla
Russell Hultin Family: left to right, Ronald, Russell, Selma andDaniel. (25th Wedding Anniversary of Russell and Selma) 401
Lesley with daughter, Nancy Yvonne, Leslie, James, and Eric Hurt Nursing Home where he passed away on Nov. 22, 1970, at the age of 78. James Franklen Hurt graduated from the Hoople Schools in 1952. He attended North Dakota State University, Fargo, for several years. He was inducted into the army for two years and was stationed in Germany. He married Yvonne Severson of Park River on Oct. 26, 1957. They moved to the family farm in 1958 and continued to operate, growing grain and potatoes. Jim is a director of the Red River Valley Potato Growers Association and a director on the National Potato Promotion Board. Yvonne and Jim have two sons: Leslie Martin Hurt, born Dec. 30, 1958. He is presently a student at UND and has his instrument and commercial license in flying. Eric James Hurt was born Feb. 12, 1962. He presently is enrolled at AVTI in East Grand Forks, Minn., in truck drivers' training.
to Scott Klumb and lives at Ethan, S. Dak. Laurie, born Feb. 16, 1963, is a senior in high school and teaches gymnastics at the Bismarck Y Center. Nancy Jo Hurt, Lesley's youngest daughter, graduated from Valley Public School and married Daniel Salwei of Crystal where they reside.
MR. AND MRS. DEAN HURTT Dean Richard Hurtt, the son of Hamilton Hurtt and Olga Paulson Hurtt, was born March 25, 1940, at Grafton, N. Dak. He attended Gryde School Dist. No. 76 and the Hoople school. He was a member of the Grafton National Guard. Dean Hurtt and Beverly Tisdale were married July 27, 1963, at the United Methodist Church at St. Thomas. Beverly was born March 12, 1943, at Grafton, the daughter of Ray Tisdale and Esther Wibe Tisdale. She graduated from St. Thomas High School in 1961 and from Mayville State Teachers College in 1963 with a Standard Teaching Certificate. Following their marriage, Beverly taught sixth grade in Hoople from 1963 to 1965 and in Valley Middle School at Crystal for one-half year in 1969.
Scott, Jim, Sara, Laurie, Bessie, and Bob Paul. Bessie Lou Hurt was educated in the Hoople schools and graduated from Minot Teacher's College with a degree in elementary education. She was married to Robert Paul of Minot on June 1 1 , 1955. They lived near Chicago until Robert graduated from Garrett Theological Seminary. They served the Methodist parishes at Hoople-Crystal and Devils Lake until Rev. Paul became Superintendent of the Western District with headquarters in Bismarck. From there they went to Mitchell, S. Dak., where Bob was Director of Dakota Area program staff for several years. Presently, Rev. Paul is pastor of McCabe Methodist Church in Bismarck. Bessie is a travel agent for Satrom Travel of Bismarck. They have three children: James, born May 25, 1957, who graduated from Dakota Wesleyan College and is the consumer credit counselor for Village Family Service Center (Children's Village). Sara Jo, born July 22, 1960, who is married
Dean Hurtt Family: left to right, Jeffrey, Dean, Bev. Michelle
and Kim. Dean and Beverly are the parents of three children — Michelle, born Oct. 20, 1966; Kimberly, born March 10, 1969; and Jeffrey, born June 29, 1975. They are members of Zion Lutheran Church, rural Hoople. Dean farms in the Hoople area with two brothers.
HAMILTON AND OLGA HURTT Hamilton George Hurtt, Sr., was born Aug. 2, 1896, to William and Marion Hurtt of Hoople, N. Dak. He attended the Hoople Schools and the Walsh County Agricultural and Training School at Park River, N. Dak. He was married to Olga E. Paulson on Oct. 22, 1925, at Hoople. Olga (Paulson) Hurtt was born on Aug. 3, 1899, to parents, John and Caroline Paulson, also of the Hoople area. She attended the Gryde schools.
Marion and Don with their six children at their daughter, Mary Dawn's wedding in 1977. Left to right, Lon, Debbie, Marion, Wayne (back of Marion), Mary Dawn, Don, Pam and Lowell. members of St. John's Lutheran Church in St. Thomas. Parents of six living children, they are Wayne Donald, born March 25, 1956. He farms at home and is at present attending A.V.T.I. this winter in East Grand Forks. Mary Dawn, born Feb. 2 1 , 1958, lives in Fargo, N. Dak. She graduated from NDSSS in Wahpeton from nursing and works at Fargo Clinic in the surgery department. She is married to Mark A. Hartje of St. Thomas and he works for Cargill in North Fargo. Debra Gayle, born Apr. 30, 1959, lives in St. Thomas. She is married to Bruce Puppe of St. Thomas and he works as a selfemployed carpenter. They have one daughter, Sarah Mae, age 4. Olga and Hamilton Hurtt (1947) After their marriage the couple resided on the homestead which had been that of his uncle, George, in Glenwood Township, and engaged in farming. They were members of Zion Lutheran Church, rural Hoople, their entire life. Hamilton served on the Glenwood School District No. 76 board for 28 years; was Glenwood Township supervisor; and was chairman of the church board until his death on March 14, 1955, at the age of 58, after a lingering illness. Olga was a member of the Zion Ladies Aid and sang in the church choir for many years. She continued living on the home place until her health failed. She resided in the Sunset Home in Grafton for several months until her death on Jan. 25, 1976, at the age of 76 years. She was an honorary member of the Zion Ladies Aid at the time of her death. Their six children survive. They are Mrs. Donald (Marion) Tisdale, St. Thomas, John W., Hamilton G., George W., Lowell E., and Dean R., all of Hoople.
Lowell Richard of St. Thomas, born June 16, 1960, also farms at home. Lon Vernon, who was born Sept. 28, 1962, is a senior and attends St. Thomas High. Pamela Sue was born May 8, 1965, and is a sophomore at the same school. A twin sister, Pauline Joy, and another son, Lowell V., born in 1957, died soon after birth.
HAMILTON HURTT, JR., AND FAMILY Hamilton Hurtt, Jr., was born to Hamilton, Sr., and Olga Paulson Hurtt on March 14, 1931. He attended school for eight years in Gryde School District 76 and then attended Hoople High School, graduating in 1950. He resides on the family farm and continues farming with two of his brothers, George and Dean, his son, Randy, and a nephew, Tim. On June 20, 1954, he married the former Marilyn Hanson at Milton, N. Dak. She is the daughter of Bernard (now deceased)
MARION (HURTT) TISDALE Marion Carol (Hurtt) Tidale was born to Hamilton Sr. and Olga Paulson Hurtt on Sept. 26, 1933. She grew up in the Hoople area and attended Gryde School Dist. 76 eight years and Hoople High School, graduating in 1951. After one year at MSTC, Mayville, she worked as a nurses aid at Deaconess Hospital in Grafton until her marriage to Donald M. Tisdale of St. Thomas, which took place at Zion Lutheran Church, rural Hoople on Oct. 2, 1954. They have resided on a farm three miles east and Vi mile south of St. Thomas for 26 years where they farm and are
Marilyn and Hamilton Hurtt on their wedding day, June 20, 1954.
and Alice Hanson of Columbia Falls, Mont, Hamilton is presently serving on the Glenwood Township board as chairman and is also on the Valley School board where he has served as president. He has been past president of the Hoople Farmers Elevator board, and president and trustee of the Zion Lutheran Church Council several times. Marilyn has worked part-time as a nurses aide for several years at Unity Hospital in Grafton.
Ivan Hurtt Family: back row, Ivan and June with their oldest son, Troy and youngest son, Jayson: front, oldest daughter, Pam, and youngest daughter, Cynthia. Children of Marilyn and Hamilton (1969): left to right, Laurie, Randy, Kathy, Barbara and Teri.
Ivan attended Hoople schools and was a graduate of the class of 1958. He married June Vollrath, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Albert Vollrath of Neche (who now reside in Cavalier).
They are the parents of five children. Laurie, born Aug. 3, 1957, graduated from NDSSS in Wahpeton as a legal secretary and is employed at Onstad - Twichell Law Firm in West Fargo. On June 20, 1980, she was married to Kent Johnson, son of Tookie and Ruth Johnson of Park River. They reside in West Fargo. Kent works at Goodyear in Fargo.
Ivan and June are the parents of four children — Troy age 16, Pamel age 10, Cynthia age 5, and Jayson 1 Vz years. Ivan has one brother, Lorin of Arvilla, N. Dak.; and four sisters, Lois of Sherwood, Ore.; Lola of West Linn, Ore.; Inez of Farmington, Minn.; and Evelyn, Minneapolis.
THE JOHN HURTT FAMILY John and Adeline Hurtt have been residents of Walsh County most all their lifetime. Their home is in the country, three miles south of Hoople, N. Dak., in the woods along the middle branch of the Park River, where John spent many days of his childhood, hunting, skiing, and swimming. Their home is on the northeast corner of the family farm, now owned and operated by John's brothers. John Hurtt was born Aug. 6, 1928, at Grafton, N. Dak., the oldest of six children born to Hamilton and Olga (Paulson) Hurtt. He attended grade school at the Gryde School District No. 76 and attended high school in Hoople, graduating in 1946. He has taken many short courses throughout his life at mechanic schools in Fargo, Minneapolis and Chicago.
Hamilton Hurtt Family: left to right, Barbara, Randy, Hamilton, Laurie and her husband, Kent Johnson, Marilyn, Kathy and Teri. (Wedding day of Laurie and Kent, June 20, 1980).
John loved to fly and received his pilot's license the summer following his junior year in high school. During his senior year, he often flew his plane to school, landing just east of the school building. He earned the honor of being the only senior in North Dakota to fly his plane to and from school.
Kathy, born Oct. 1 1 , 1958, graduated from NDSSS in Wahpeton where she took general office training. Barbara, born Nov. 7, 1959, also graduated from NDSSS in general office. Teri, born Aug. 1 1 , 1962, attended Valley High School. Randy, born Feb. 5, 1964, attends Valley High School where he is a sophomore.
John worked hard and long hours with his father and brothers on the home farm, and their second farm located near Forest River, N. Dak. John's plane proved very useful in faster transportation between farms as well as quick trips to Grand Forks and Fargo for machinery repairs. John was chief mechanic — caring for all the farm machinery with the help of his younger brothers, Hamilton Jr., George, Lowell and Dean.
The Hurtts were parents of another son who was born on May 17, 1956, and died shortly after birth.
John had to leave farming behind when in the spring of 1951 he was inducted into the armed services during the Korean War. He was tank commander in the First Armored Tank Division, stationed at Fort Hood, Texas. Later he was transferred to the Medical Division of the same camp, where he worked in a dental lab and as a medical assistant.
IVAN HURTT FAMILY Ivan Hurtt is the son of the late Roy and Alice Hurtt, rural Hoople. Ivan and his family live two and one-half miles south of Hoople on the former Roy Hurtt farm which before that was owned by Ivan's grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Hurtt. 404
On John's first furlough home Sunderland on September 12, 1 9 5 1 .
he
married
Adeline
Adeline was born Apr, 10, 1 929, at the Deaconess Hospital in Grafton, the daughter of Oscar and Josie (Flom) Sunderland of Adams, N. Dak. She attended elementary school in Silvesta District No. 103 and completed high school in Fairdale, N. Dak. Following graduation, she attended the Mayville State Teacher's College at Mayville, N. Dak. She taught school for one term at Union, N. Dak., and one term at the Gryde school, south of Hoople. It was while boarding with the Carl Paulson family that she met John, Carl's nephew, who later became her husband. Adeline enjoyed teaching school, but continued to hold on to the childhood dream, of some day becoming a registered nurse. She entered the Grand Forks Deaconess Hospital School of Nursing, attending classes at the University of North Dakota and received her clinical training at the Deaconess Hospital. She affiliated at the Gillette Crippled Children's Hospital in St. Paul, and at the Moose Lake Mental Hospital at Moose Lake, Minn. She received her Bachelor of Science degree in nursing at the graduation exercises held Sept. 7, 1951. She took the State Board examination for nurses in the Capitol Building at Bismarck, N. Dak., in October, 1951, and left directly from there by train for Gatesville, Tex., to join her husband, John, stationed at Fort Hood. She worked at the Gatesville General Hospital for one year.
pastor of the Faith Lutheran and the Bethel Lutheran Church of Scanlon, Minn. Carole Joann was born Nov. 18, 1955, at the Grand Forks Deaconess Hospital. She received her elementary and secondary education at Hoople, N. Dak., and graduated from Valley High in 1973. She attended the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, and the Mayville State College, Mayville, taking courses in music and medical secretary. She worked at the Christian Unity Hospital in Grafton, N. Dak., before her marriage. Carole married Richard Engelmann of Hoople, N. Dak., on June 12, 1977. They own and operate a farm east of Crystal, N. Dak., and are active in their church and community. Carole has been organist of the First Lutheran Church of Hoople since 1970. She is co-owner and operator, along with Rick's mother, Elvira Engelmann, of Browsin' House, a boutique and gallery which is located in the old farm house on the same yard near Carole and Rick's new home. Sharon Kay was born Dec. 22, 1958, at the Deaconess Hospital at Grand Forks. She received her elementary and secondary education at Hoople and Crystal, N. Dak., graduating from the Valley High School in 1977. She attended the North Dakota State School of Science, graduating in the spring of 1979. She attended the Northern University of Illinois at DeKalb, III., and also worked as a campus secretary there. She is presently secretary in the Trust Department of Fargo National Bank of Fargo, N. Dak. Gay Ann was born Sept. 20, 1963, at the Deaconess Hospital in Grand Forks, N. Dak. She is a senior student at Valley High, Hoople-Crystal. She is active in church and school activities, assisting her sister, Carole, as organist, is a teacher in Sunday School, and directs the Carol Choir. This past summer she was on the Park River Lutheran Bible Camp Staff. She would like to become a nurse and also further her musical training. She plans to enter Waldorf College of Forest City, Iowa, this fall.
John Hurtt Family: Bride, Carole, and her husband, Rick Engelmann; John Hurtt and daughters, Gay Ann and Sharon; and wife, Adeline; son, David, and his wife, Brenda. John and Adeline have four children — David, Carole, Sharon, and Gay Ann. David John was born Dec. 7, 1952, af Fort Hood Hospital, Killeen, Tex. He received his elementary and secondary education at Hoople, graduating from Valley High, HoopleCrystal, in 1970. He attended Waldorf College of Forest City, Iowa, where he received his Associates of Arts Degree. David went on to Concordia College, Moorhead, Minn., where he received his B.A. in philosophy in 1974. On June 29, 1974, David married Brenda Markley of Beaver Bay, Minn. David entered Luther Theological Seminary in St. Paul, Minn., in the fall of 1974. His third year of seminary was spent on internship at Good Shepher Lutheran Church of Aberdeen, S. Dak. On May 28, 1978, David graduated from Luther Theological Seminary where he earned his Master of Divinity Degree. He has served as pastor of Christ Lutheran Church of Nauvoo, III., and is presently residing with his wife, Brenda, and little daughter, Greta, at Cloquet, Minn., where he serves as
John owns and operates the Hurtt Mfg. and Repair shop, located just east of their home. He is a very busy mechanic and also has an inventive mind. He designed the screen-o-matic, a device installed on tractors, combines, and swathers, to deviate the over-heating problems due to chaff and debris during combining, swathing, and haying operations. He received a patent pending for the adaptor which is the device that holds the screen in place when mounted on the front of the radiator. Friesteel Products of Winkler, Manitoba is now manufacturing this product. Both John and Adeline are active in their church and community. Adeline is on the nursing staff at the Christian Unity Hospital in Grafton where she works three to four days a week. John helped organize and is a member of Grafton Gideon Camp; Adeline is a member of its auxiliary. They are active in the First Lutheran Church of Hoople and throughout their lives have served on boards and held various offices. John and Adeline appreciate their heritage and are grateful for the toil and hardship of the past generations. As they look back over their lives, thus far, they see the Lord in each scene — sharing and caring, watching and keeping.
LOWELL HURTT FAMILY Lowell Edward Hurtt was born at Grafton, N. Dak., on Sept. 20, 1938, the fourth son of Hamilton Hurtt and Olga Paulson Hurtt. Lowell attended his first six grades at Gryde School District
No. 76, then transferred to the Hoople Public Schools and graduated from high school in 1956. The following year he married Irma Axvig, daughter of Joe and Irene Axvig, at the Axvig farm home. Over the years Lowell has worked as a hardware salesman, construction worker, and farm laborer, until August, 1964, when he went into business for himself — selling Allis Chalmers farm equipment at a building in Hoople known as the Hoople Farm Supply. Ten years later, in 1975, a new building was constructed, just south and east of Hoople along Highway No. 18. The Hurtts have won several prizes for top sales of farm equipment, including trips to Las Vegas, Freeport in the Bahamas, San Diego, a Caribbean Cruise and a fishing trip to Canada.
Rebecca Joy, born on July 7, 1961, is a licensed practical nurse at St. Luke's Hospital, Fargo. Brenda Sue, born on Oct. 11, 1962, is a senior at Valley High School in Hoople; and Lowell Donald, born on Nov. 12, 1964, is a sophomore at Valley High School. Lowell and Irma have one grandchild — Jamie Lee Bennington — who was born on Nov. 25, 1978. Lowell and his family enjoy fishing on the Lake of the Woods, Minn., on weekends during the summer and often enjoy a winter vacation which is often a month in Arizona. The family are members of First Lutheran Church in Hoople where Lowell has served on the financial committee, swimming pool board, Hoople City Council; for one year, Lowell served on the National Allis Chalmers Deal Council as a representative.
ROY AND ALICE HURTT FAMILY Roy A. Hurtt, son of William and Marian Teresa Hurtt, was born on Apr. 18, 1892. He spent his entire life on the homestead farm of his parents near Hoople. One of nine children, Roy had two brothers and six sisters, of which two sisters (Esther and Ruth), remain living. Roy served in World War I asa machine gunner. On Nov. 16, 1927, Roy. married Alice Johnson of Badger, Minn., whom he met while employed in the Hoople community. Alice was born at Duxby, Minn., on Apr. 19, 1905. Alice was from a large family and was raised in a log house.
Lowell Hurtt Family: seated, left to right, Ruth Hurtt Bennington and her son, Jamie, and husband, Mark; standing, Rebecca, Daniel, Lowell, Jr., Thomas and Brenda. (Taken in 1979)
Roy and Alice Hurtt (1952), on their 25th anniversary. Irma and Lowell Hurtt Lowell and Irma are the parents of six children. Ruth Marion, born on June 14, 1957, married Mark Bennington of Park River on July 1 1 , 1976, and they are the parents of a son, Jamie. They live in Park River and farm in that area. Ruth is a graduate of the State School of Science in Wahpeton. Thomas Lowell, born on Aug. 27, 1958, is in the farm implement business with his father in Hoople as parts manager. Before entering the business with his father he attended N.D.S.U. in Fargo. Daniel John, born on June 4, 1960, is also in business with his father as a diesel mechanic. Danny is a graduate of the twoyear course at the State School of Science in Wahpeton.
After Roy and Alice were married, Roy, with another carpenter, built a new home in the orchard, just south of the homestead house, where the family continued to live. Roy farmed in Glenwood Township with his brother. Over the years, Roy invented various machine items, over-hauled cars and trucks, repaired clock and watches, and upon retirement he began to rewind and repair motors of all sizes, in his home. Roy and Alice reared a family of six children — four girls and two boys. They are Evelyn Offerdahl of Minneapolis, Minn.; Inez Van Cura of Farmington, Minn., who has eight children; Lorin of Arvilla, N. Dak., who has three children and three step-children and three grandchildren; Lois Melland of Sherwood, Ore., who has three children and one grandaughter; Ivan, Hoople, who has four chiidren (There is a separate write-up on Ivan and June Hurtt who live on the homestead in Glenwood Township); and Lola Babnew of West Linn, Ore., who has two daughters.
Roy died on June 24, 1975, at Warren, Minn., and Alice Johnson Hurtt died on Oct. 8, 1979, at Crafton, N. Dak., and both are buried in the Hoople Cemetery.
ARLEN AND ANN JACKSON Arlen Ordean Jackson was born Aug. 30, 1 939, in Drayton, N. Dak., son of Henry and Minnie (Johnson) Jackson. He was baptized at Park Center Lutheran Church, rural Hoople, attended Sunday School and was confirmed there. He joined First Lutheran Church in 1964 when his daughter was baptized. He has two sisters, Mrs. Glenna Jackson, Thief River Falls, Minn., and Mrs. Marilyn Linnett, Mankato, Minn. He attended elementary and high school in Hoople, and furthered his education at the State School of Science, Wahpeton; North Dakota State University; and Interstate Business College. In 1958 he started farming with his father, the third generation to farm the land that his grandfather, Abraham Jackson, homesteaded in 1889.
Arlen and Ann lived in Hoople from 1961-65, then moved to the farm where they reside at present. Arlen has served on the finance committee, and been trustee and deacon of the First Lutheran Church; has been a board member of the Hoople Farmers Elevator and Hoople Community Swimming Pool; a Park River Bible Camp Director; and a member of the Hoople Ambulance. Ann has been A.L.C.W. president; a Civic Club officer; served as choir director; been a Sunday School teacher; and superintendent of Sunday School at First Lutheran. Both Arlen and Ann worked in Community Betterment and are Junior Luther League advisors. Ann has three sisters: Mrs. Beverly Romuld, Grand Forks; Mrs. Carol Lund, Aneta, N. Dak.; and Mrs. Betty Jo Fagerholt, Hoople. They are the parents of two children — Julie Ann, born July 16, 1964; and Robert Arlen, born Apr. 4, 1968.
MR. AND MRS. HENRY JACKSON AND FAMILY Henry Jackson was born March 1, 1895, on the farm of his father, Abraham Jackson, who homesteaded in Glenwood Township in 1 879. He attended school in the Mount View Rural School. Because there was no high school in Hoople, he attended and graduated from the Grafton High School. He also attended the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks. Henry was baptized and confirmed into the Lutheran faith at Zion Lutheran Church, rural Hoople. Minnie Johnson was bom on June 30, 1899, in Dundee Township at the farm home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ole M. Johnson. She attended the Marifjeren School, rural Hoople, and Concordia Academy in Moorhead, Minn. She is a lifetime member of the Park Center Lutheran Church where she was baptized and confirmed.
Mr. and Mrs. Arlen Jackson On June 18, 1961, he married the former Ann Elaine Bergman of Hoople, daughter of A. Frederik and Bernice (Stenerson) Bergman. Ann was born Dec. 7, 1940, in Grafton. She spent all her early years, elementary and high school, in Hoople. She graduated from Mayville State Teacher's College, and taught one year at Finley, N. Dak., before her marriage. After her marriage she taught three years in the Crystal, N. Dak., school system. At present she is teaching kindergarten at Valley High, Hoople-Crystal, consolidated.
'. i
Minnie and Henry Jackson (1975) on their 50th Wedding Anniversary.
Arlen Jackson Family: left to right, Ann, Bob, Julie, Chico and Arlen.
Henry and Minnie were married at the farm home of her parents, July 29, 1925, by the Reverend Adolph Egge. Amanda Johnson Fagerholt and Clarence Johnson were their attendants. Henry and Minnie have three children — Glenna, born in 1930; Marilyn, in 1932; and Arlen, in 1939.
uncle, Con Lillegard, was married to Ida Johnson, Edward's sister. Josie often visited Con and Ida and through them she met Edward. They were married Nov. 19, 1924, in the Zion Lutheran Church, rural Hoople. Edward was on the school board and the church board, and is the second oldest living male member of the Zion Lutheran Church. Josie was also a member of Zion Lutheran Church, the Ladies Aid, and the Countryside Homemakers Club.
Jackson Family: left to right, Marilyn, Minnie, Arlen, Henry and Glenna. Glenna Jackson Wefald is living in Thief River Falls, Minn., and has three children — Joanne, Michael and Paul. Her husband is deceased. Marilyn is married to Lawrence Linnert. They live in Mankota, Minn., where Lawrence is an instructor at the State University. They have two boys, John and James. Arlen married the former Ann Elaine Bergman and they have two children, Julie Ann and Robert. Henry and Minnie retired from farming in 1965 when they moved to Park River, N. Dak., where they are presently residing. Upon their retirement, Arlen and Ann moved to the farm where they are engaged in farming.
EDWARD JOHNSON FAMILY Edward Johnson was born June 6, 1889, to Germund and Ragnild (Oland) Johnson on the original homesite that his father homesteaded in 1883. He had six sisters. The family lived in a log house until May, 1904, when Germund Johnson bought the quarter of land and buildings, adjacent to his quarter, from Nels Folson. Edward received his education in the Walstad and Gryde schools. After his father's death, Edward farmed and had the responsibility of caring for his sisters and mother. Early in life, Edward learned to play the violin and provided much entertainment for his friends and neighbors. Josie Matilda Knutson was born March 8, 1904, at Oslo, Minn., a daughter of Charles and Olga (Lillegard) Knutson. Her
Edward and Josie Johnson
Glenn and Elaine. Born to Josie and Edward were three girls and a boy: Elaine (Mrs. Hilary Biakle), Park Rapids, Minn.; Norma (Mrs. Roland Pavek), Minneapolis; Eleanor (Mrs. Robert Thompson), Grand Forks; and Glenn, who is farming the home place and now lives there. Josie passed away on Dec. 22, 1977. Edward is a resident of the Lutheran Sunset Home, Grafton, N. Dak.
GLENN JOHNSON FAMILY Glenn James Johnson was born Jan. 1, 1931, to Edward and Josie (Knutson) Johnson. There are also three sisters, Elaine, Norma and Eleanor. Glenn attended school at Fertile Dist. No. 25, also known as the Walstad school, and graduated from the Hoople High School. He farmed with his dad until entering the Korean Conflict in 1952, where he served as a tank driver and saw service in Korea, Okinawa, Formosa, and Japan. He was discharged in 1954. He returned to the farm and took over the farming operations in 1957. He married the former Elizabeth (Betty) Harlow in 1960. The couple lived in Nash and were members of the Zion Lutheran Church, rural Hoople. Glenn was a member of the Board of Trustees and Betty was a member of the Ladies Aid and a member of the Double M Homemakers Club. In April, 1964, they bought the Hjalmer Heder house in Hoople, where they resided until August, 1979, when they moved into their new home on the farm. Three generations of
Johnsons have lived and farmed the same land for 97 years, with the exception of the quarter bought in 1 904.
The Johnsons also have 13 grandchildren. 19 greatgrandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.
Glenn and Betty have one daughter from their marriage and two from Betty's former marriage. Suzanne (Mrs. Keith Craig) lives in Fargo where her husband is employed by Cable-corn TV. She is a former employee of the City of Moorhead. They have a son, Aaron Keith, age one year.
In September, 1977, Henry and Bessie celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary with their family and friends at their home.
HISTORY OF KENNETH E. JOHNSON AND FAMILY Kenneth E. Johnson, was born to Oscar and Olava Johnson. Jan. 24, 1925, at Grafton, N. Dak. He attended grade school at Glenwood School Dist. No. 13, a rural school, two and three quarters miles west of Nash, N. Dak. He graduated from Grafton High School in 1944.
The Glenn Johnson Family: left to right, Lynda, Glenn, Suzanne, Keith, Betty and Mary. Mary is employed by the Lutheran Sunset Home as a receptionist and secretary to the Administrator. She had been a nurses aide before accepting this position. :
_ynda is a student at North Dakota State University, Fargo, pursuing a career in physical education. The family are members of First Lutheran Church, Hoople, and have been very active in the church, the school and in community affairs.
He attended church at North Trinity, rural Nash, N. Dak., and was confirmed by Rev. L. O. Helleklev Aug. 25, 1941. At present he is a member of Our Savior's Lutheran Church, Grafton. He is the president of the congregation at the present time. Kenneth is active in the community that he grew up in and still lives in. He played ball with the Nash baseball team, and has curled in the Walsh County and Grafton Curling Clubs. He has served on the following boards: president of Walsh County Baseball League; president of Future Farmers of America (John Donnelly Chapter); president of Nash Grain and Trading Company; president of Grafton Rural Telephone Company; as a member of the Park River Bible Camp board and a member of North Trinity Church board.
HENRY AND BESSIE JOHNSON Henry Johnson was born to Ole and Karen Johnson of Hoople, N. Dak., in 1894. On Dec. 3, 1917, he married the former Bessie Halverson, daughter of Gust and Sarina Halverson, of Bagley, Minn. The Johnsons lived in Hoople until the 1930's when they moved to Minnesota where they farmed and he also did carpenter work. They moved back to Hoople, N. Dak., in 1968 and live there still. Henry still does carpenter work, builds bird houses, makes children's toys, ladders, wishing wells, etc.
Kenneth E. Johnson Family: left to right, standing. Kenneth. William, and Beatrice: seated. Bonnie. Gavin, and Keith.
Henry and Bessie (60th Wedding Anniversary) Henry and Bessie had five children. Delores died at less than two years old; Dennis served in World War II and was killed in action; Helen, Mrs. John Kennelly, now lives in Sunnyvale, Calif.; Allen lives in Northhome. Minn.; Ordean lives at Oxnard, Calif.
He married Beatrice Brateng, Feb. 8, 1948 (which was the coldest day of the year), at Our Savior's Lutheran Church of Grafton. A daughter of Bert and Eva Brateng, she was born at Grafton, Feb. 7, 1926. She attended grade school at rural Grafton, and Forest River. N. Dak.; attended high school at Little Fork, Minn., and Grafton High School, graduating from Grafton in 1 945. She was confirmed from Our Savior's Lutheran Church of Grafton, where she is still an active member. She curled in the Walsh County Curling Club and is also curling at the Grafton Curling Club; has been a member of the Double M Homemakers Club for twenty-five years. She worked at the Lutheran Sunset Home of Grafton, N. Dak., as Activities Director and is president of the Sunset Auxiliary. Kenneth has lived and farmed at rural Nash, N. Dak., all his
adult life. Kenneth and Beatrice have two sons, William and Keith. William was born in Grafton, Apr. 2 1 , 1952; Keith was born in Grafton, Nov. 2, 1953. They both attended grade school at Nash School Dist. No. 5 1 , graduated from Grafton High School, and attended the State School of Science, Wahpeton, N.
Dak. Keith married Bonnie Berg, daughter of Omar and Gerry Berg, at Munich, N. Dak,, on June 14, 1975. They have one son, Gavin William, born March 1 5, 1978, at Grafton. They live at Nash. Both William and Keith farm with Kenneth, their father. William lives on the farm. It has been a tradition in the Johnson family to ring the North Trinity Church bell at 6 p.m. Christmas Eve. This is now carried on by Kenneth Johnson and his sons, William and Keith Johnson. This tradition has been carried over from Kenneth's grandfather, Anton Johnson, and father, Oscar Johnson. With modern conveniences of a mobile telephone, and the help of a cousin, Robert Johnson, of Hoople, N. Dak., they have rung the bell to be heard in far-off places all over the U.S.A. People living near the North Trinity Church listen, too, as the bell rings out the "Glad Tidings of Christmas."
LLOYD JOHNSON FAMILY Lloyd Johnson and Joyce Lindell were married Aug. 22, 1959, in Bemidji, Minn., at the First Lutheran Church. For a brief while after their marriage they resided in Grafton, but in 1960 built a house near the middle branch of the Park River.
Raymond Johnson receiving the Silver Oil Can Award from the Pioneer Machinery Assocation for his volunteer service, 1979. The family moved from their farm and into Hoople in 1926. Raymond attended Gryde School District No. 76 for grades one through five, and then entered Hoople Public Schools, graduating from Hoople High School in 1 932. Raymond served in the Army from July, 1942, until December, 1945, with duty in France, England and Germany. Raymond is a member of the Hoople American Legion and Pioneer Machinery Association. After returning from the service, he operated the Standard Oil Service Station in Hoople with LaVoy Olson as a partner. During this period, the station was located at two different locations and the water delivery truck also operated from the station. After twenty-one years in the Standard Oil business, Raymond retired in 1974.
Lloyd Johnson Family (1976): left to right, Lisa, Joyce, Lloyd and Cynthia.
HISTORY OF REUBEN WILHELM JOHNSON (1901 -1978) Reuben Wilhelm Johnson was born Aug. 8, 1901, the third child of Anna Marie (Almen) Johnson and Gustaf A. Johnson, who resided on a farm in Glenwood Township. He received his early education in the rural school of District 13 and the Walsh County Agricultural School at Park River, N. Dak.
In 1961 a daughter, Cynthia, was born, and in 1962 another daughter, Lisa, was born. They attended kindergarten at the Grafton Lutheran Church; and then were students in Nash. They are both graduates of the Central High School in Grafton. Lloyd farms two miles west of Nash and has worked parttime during winters at Nash Grain. Joyce is presently teaching in Grafton. Cynthia is a student at Mayville State College and Lisa, a student at Valley City State College.
RAYMONDJOHNSON
Early in his life he was taught to use horses and machinery. When he first started to harness horses he was so young that he had to stand on a box to reach over the horses heads. He was the last one of the six brothers and sisters to leave home and, therefore, took the responsibility of caring for his parents in their senior years very seriously.
Raymond has lived in Glenwood Township all his life. Raymond was born Sept. 7, 1913, the son of Ole E. and Karen (Gunderson) Johnson. He had six brothers and sisters — Henry, Alma, Melvin, Elvina, Lydia, Lillian; and two older half-brothers, Oscar and Edwin.
In 1930, when the Agricultural Fair at Park River was held in the month of February, Reuben took a sample of Early Ohio Potatoes to the exhibit and was awarded a blue ribbon. In the fall four exhibitors from Walsh County were awarded sweeping victory at the Midwest Horticultural Exposition and Convention 410
held at Shenandoak, Iowa, in the Early Ohio Potatoes. This encompassed samples from 11 midwestern states and Reuben's exhibit was one of the winners. These early Ohio Potatoes had such a delicious flavor but were finally ruled out because of production difficulties.
Walsh County. There were four children born to the Lars Gustaf and Hulda Christina (Anderson) Almen family among which I am the eldest, born at the farm home constructed by my father, prior to my birth on April 3, 1912.
In 1932 Reuben and his brother, Walter, bought the John Magnus Almen farm from their father. Grain and potatoes were the main crops on the tillable acres. Livestock was also raised because of the 40 acres of woodland near the middle branch of the Park River which meanders through the farmstead. At the time of his death, Reuben had owned and lived on this farm longer than anyone since John Magnus Almen obtained it in the years prior to North Dakota becoming a state.
We had a very happy childhood with everything we ever needed or reasonably wished for.
John Magnus Almen and his family took squatter's rights to this farm when coming up from central Minnesota where they had earlier homesteaded. Many of his brothers and cousins, whom he helped come to this country, stayed with them until they were able to get property of their own. mggmm
Our elementary education was obtained in District 46 of Golden Township and Dist. 63 of Vesta Township. We were permitted to attend Vesta No. 63 because it was nearer our home; three and a half miles in sub-zero weather was hard on both man and beast, as our only transportation in those days during the winter was horses and bob-sleigh or cutter. Some years we stayed in Edinburg and were enrolled in their school system. I attended one year at the high school in Edinburg but wanted so badly to transfer to the Walsh County Agricultural and Training School in Park River during my sophomore year. This I was allowed to do provided I would agree to stay at the dormitory. On May 23, 1930, the largest class in the history of W.C.A.S. was graduated and I was among the candidates. During the summer of 1930, four of us from the graduating class attended Mayville State Teacher's College for three months and obtained a certificate to teach in the elementary schools of North Dakota. I taught one year in the Larson School in Dundee Township and then went back to school to obtain my Standard Certificate, graduating from Valley City State Teacher's College on March 23, 1935. In the fall of 1935, I was hired to teach the Hedlund School of Dewey Township, which was located within a Swedish settlement in Walsh County. The fact that I could speak Swedish made my stay in this community such an enjoyable one. May 14, 1937, we lost our mother at the early age of 57 to the dreaded disease of cancer. We had never experienced a loss like this and it required a great deal of adjustment for all of us.
Left to right: Margaret Johnson, Jeanette Benson, Kathleen Johnson and Reuben Johnson. On March 10, 1940, he was married to Margaret Almen of Golden Township near Park River. In May of 1940, they established a home in the house built by John Magnus Almen in the 1880's, after Walter sold his share of the farm to Reuben. He and his father farmed together for awhile. When his father retired from farming, Reuben still farmed both his own and his father's land for a short time until Adolph started farming the home place and the west 80. Reuben always farmed the east 80 and the 40 until he became the owner. Incidentally, Reuben was born on the 40 which was the first home of Reuben's parents. Two daughters were born to Reuben and Margaret — Kathleen, born Jan. 13, 1944; and Jeanette, born Aug. 24, 1948. Reuben passed away Oct. 17, 1978, in Grand Forks. N. Dak., after being hospitalized for about seven weeks. Burial took place at the North Trinity Cemetery, Oct. 2 1 , 1 9 7 8 . He was an active member of the North Trinity church and its Cemetery Association. He served as sexton of the North Trinity Cemetery until his death. He was also a member of the Farm Bureau and the Walsh County Historical Society. During the last years he lived he was a member of South Trinity Church. ETHEL MARGARAT CHRISTINE ALMEN JOHNSON This will be an autobiography of my life, spent primarily in
Although I was very happy in the Dewey School District I decided to get a school nearer my home now that mother was gone. In the fall of 1938,1 started teaching in the Christopherson School in Lampton Township. After I had taught six years in the rural schools of Walsh County, I was married and traded my ruler and text book for a broom and cookbook, thinking that I would never take up teaching again, although I did have a Life Certificate in elementary teaching for the state of North Dakota. When Reuben and I moved to the John Magnus Almen house I was happily and gradually adjusting to the role of a farmer's wife. Farm work was not quite as mechanized as now and much help was especially requried during the harvest time. This meant lodging and meals for many hired hands — four or five meals a day. Reuben always made arrangement that I had help with my housework as there were times I was called on to assist at his parents' home — especially in transportation. Reuben and I had two daughters — our eldest daughter, Kathleen, was born Jan. 13, 1944, and baptized by Rev. L. O. Helleklev at our home Apr. 2, 1944. We were then members of the North Trinity Church. Our second daughter, Jeanette, was born Aug. 24, 1948, and baptized by Rev. Helleklev Nov. 14, 1948, at the North Trinity Church. Both girls attended Glenwood School District 13. Jeanette also attended grade school at Sinkler and Nash. Kathleen graduated from elementary school June 12, 1958, and Jeanette graduated June 14, 1962. Both girls were active in 4-H clubs.
In September of 1952, we started attending Zion Lutheran Church, rural Hoople, where both daughters attended Sunday School and were confirmed. Kathleen's confirmation date was May 25, 1958, and Jeanette's was June 10, 1962. Kathleen attended high school at Oak Grove Lutheran High School, Fargo, and received her high school equivalency diploma on May 22, 1967. Jeanette attended four years at the Grafton High School and received her diploma June 1, 1966. She went on to the North Dakota State University at Fargo, and obtained her degree in home economics, May 29, 1970. Kathleen now resides with me in our new home in Grafton. Jeanette was married to Burns Benson on June 5, 1976, at the Wooddale Baptist Church in Minneapolis where they now reside. Her husband is a pharmacist at the Abbott-Northwestern Hospital in Minnespolis. In 1957, after 17 years of absence from the schoolroom, I was asked to teach Dist. 13 for a few months until the building for the consolidation of the three adjoining districts was completed. However, I continued teaching the entire term as the move was made so late in the school year. In 1958 I began teaching in the Sinkler School, a couple of miles south of our farm home. Here I continued until they affiliated with the Grafton School District. In 1961 I started teaching remedial reading and grade 1 in the Minto District 20. This was the first place in Walsh County where a teacher had been specifically hired for this type of teaching. I taught in this capacity for three years and then spent five years in the first grade only, in the Minto school system. Two years were spent at the Grafton State School, in the first grade capacity, where I was asked to help in an emergency. In 1971, I retired from teaching after having spent 20 years in the education field, 14 of those after my marriage. I have been a member of several organizations in Grafton for many years. These include Grafton Businesses and Professional Women's Club, Sunset Home Auxiliary, United Hospital Auxiliary, N. E. Area Retired Teacher's Association, and Alpha Delta Kappa Epsilon for teachers. We now belong to the Grafton Lutheran Church and are active in the work of the A.L.C.W. of the church.
VICTOR J. AND ALICE (HANSON) JOHNSON Victor J. Johnson and Alice E. Hanson were married Dec. 2, 1931, at the Grafton Lutheran Parsonage by Rev. H. A. R. Helsem in the city of Grafton, N. Dak. Victor was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Anton Johnson, and Alice, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Hanson. After a short trip to Minneapolis, they went to their newly built house, with basement, in Glenwood Township. The house had four rooms and an unfinished upstairs. For a wedding gift from Alice's parents they received a Monarch range stove and a Holstein cow. Four unfinished chairs, a table, a bed, and a dresser was all the furniture they had for two years. Every winter Victor tackled a project around the house or yard. Some of these projects were to build a garage, a chicken house, to pipe running water into the house, and finish the upstairs of the house. Three children were born to this couple — Duane, born Nov. 7, 1932; Richard, born Dec. 10, 1935; and Myrna, born Oct. 18, 1943. Victor operated a diversified farm with small grain, sugar beets, and certified seed potatoes. He continued farming until he reached 75 years of age. In 1966, Alice, Victor, and Myrna moved to 49 West 14th Street in Grafton, a house which they started building in 1965. Victor was an inventor and handyman in many different fields. His many projects included piping artesian water from the
Victor Johnson Family: left to right, seated, Alice, Myrna and Victor; standing, Richard and Duane. well into a water system in the house that included a heating unit on the kitchen range. He was one of the first to build and design a septic tank. In 1942 he completed a grain elevator on the farm that included an underground pit and leg for transferring the grain. Victor was active in starting the Grafton Rural Fire Department and in founding the Lutheran Sunset Home where he later served on the Board of Directors for many years. He was active in many organizations such as Kiwanis, Nash Grain and Trading Company, and the North Trinity Lutheran Church. He later joined the Grafton Lutheran Church where he was on the Grafton Lutheran Cemetery Board until his death on Oct. 5, 1979, at the age of 82. Alice raised turkeys and chickens, and cooked for large potato crews. She was active in the Ladies Aid of North Trinity and Grafton Lutheran Church and the Sunset Home Auxiliary. She was busy over the years raising her family and in later years providing rides for many who didn't drive and doing good-will deeds for the sick or shut-in. Myrna attended Glenwood Dist. No. 13 grade school. She moved to town with her parents and enjoys going to church circle and other meetings with her mother. In 1971 they purchased a camper trailer and together with their son, Richard Johnson, and family, traveled all over the United States and Eastern Canada. They also joined Richard Johnson on two trips to Europe, one which included the homeland of their forefathers, Sweden. Alice found the place where her father was born and Victor visited a cousin while there.
DUANE V.JOHNSON Duane Victor Johnson was born Nov. 7, 1932, to Alice and Victor Johnson in Grafton. He attended Dist. No. 13 grade school and graduated in 1950 from Grafton Central High School. In 1954 he graduated with a degree in agriculture from North Dakota State University, Fargo. He then spent two years in the army as a lieutenant, stationed in Alabama and Korea. In 1956 he was discharged from active duty and returned to the family farm. He farmed with his father until his father's retirement in 1 9 7 1 . Duane married Gloria M. Hoganson on June 30, 1957, in Fargo. They have three children — Terryl Marie, born Nov. 24, 1961; Janelle Diane and Jerrold Duane, Nov. 24, 1964. They
Richard and Valerie had three children: Mark Richard, born Dec. 18, 1960; David Michael, born June 18, 1962; and Susan Fay, born Aug. 25, 1963. They have lived at 5612 No. 18th Street, Arlington, Va., since 1960.
Duane Johnson Family: left to right, seated, Duane and Gloria; standing, Janette, Jerry and Terry. lived on the Jens Knoff farm in Glenwood Township until 1966. They now live on the home farm, SE Sec. No. 25 of Glenwood Township. Duane has been a director of the Walsh County Farm Bureau; director of the Nash Grain and Trading Co.; a member of the Nash School Board District. No. 5 1 ; a 4-H leader; a director of Potato Grower's Association; officer of the Walsh County Beet Grower's Association; and served on the church council at the Grafton Lutheran Church. Gloria graduated in home economics from North Dakota State University, Fargo, in 1955. She taught school at Buffalo, N. Dak., and Hoople, N. Dak. She has been a 4-H leader; a Sunday School teacher; an officer of the Walsh County Farm Bureau Women's organization; a member of the Double-M Homemakers Club; PEO Sisterhood; Grafton Curling Club; American Association of University Women; and a member of the Leisure Center board. She presently is employed by the State Public Health Department as a nutritionist. Terry graduated in 1 980 from Grafton Central High School and is a student at Concordia College, Moorhead, Minn. She was a member of the Countryside Girl's 4-H Club and won a trip to the National 4-H Club Congress in Chicago. Janelle and Jerry are sophomores at Grafton Central High School (1980-81).
Richard Johnson Family: left to right, front row, Richard, Valerie, and Susan; back, Mark and David. The Johnson family has enjoyed traveling throughout the United States, Canada, and Europe. The Johnsons would meet his parents at certain locations and travel from there, each towing travel trailers. They also took his parents to Europe, one time visiting the Scandinavian countries, another time visiting Germany, Italy, Austria, and Switzerland.
BENNIE AND ILEEN LANGERUD Bennie Langerud was born May 27, 1937, in Hoople to Oliver and Helen Langerud. His grandparents were Halvor and Gunhild Langerud, and Henry and Bessie Johnson. In June 12, 1955, he married lleen Windingland, who was born March 14, 1937, in Grafton to Leon and Mildred Windingland of Hoople. Her grandparents were Lars and
RICHARD J.JOHNSON Richard J. Johnson, son of Mr. and Mrs. Victor J. Johnson, was born on Dec. 10, 1935, at Grafton. He attended Glenwood Dist. No. 13 for eight years and graduated from Grafton High School in 1953. After graduation from North Dakota State University, Fargo, in 1957 he served as a lieutenant in the United States Army in Fairfield, Calif., for two years. In 1959 he married Valerie Block in the Lien Lutheran Church at Barrett, Minn. Shortly after his discharge from the Army they moved to Arlington, Va., where Richard was employed by the United States Patent Office as a Patent Examiner. Richard serves as a Primary Examiner in examining patent applications in the area of farm earth-working implements and bulldozers.
Bennie and lleen Langerud (Wedding Day in 1955).
Nickalina Windingland and Carl and Ida Troftgruben. lleen and Bennie went to Sunday School in Hvideso Lutheran Church, rural Hoople, were confirmed there; and on June 12, 1955, were married there. They lived in Hoople for two years, then moved to Edinburg, where they resided for 10 years. While there Bennie attended meat-cutting school at Toledo, Ohio, for an eight-week course and came back and opended a meat department in the Johnson Food Store for 10 years. In 1967 they bought the Fairway Store at Hoople from Olaf and Andrew Fedje and moved back to Hoople. In 1972 they built the Langerud's Cafe at Edinburg which they owned for a few years.
Bennie and lleen have five children — Debbie Lynn, Bruce Allyn, Vincent Allyn, Scott Allyn and Timothy Shawn. Bruce is married to the former Karen Gemmill of Edinburg. They were married in the bicentenial year, 1976, and had a red, white, and blue wedding. They have one daughter, Carrie Ann. Bruce is a carpenter.
Bruce, Carrie, and Karen Langerud. Debbie works at Sunset Bowling Lanes, Moorhead, Minn.; Vince, Scott and Timothy attend school at Valley School. Debbie and Bruce had 13 grandparents when they were small and, likewise, Bruce's daughter. Carrie Ann still has 13 living grandparents, which is quite unusual.
Bennie and lleen Langerud anniversary.
on their 25th
KITTEL C. AND ANNE LERUD Kittel Lerud was born in Sauland, Telemarken, Norway, Sept. 10, 1865. He came to America in the spring of 1885. He was from a family of five boys and two girls and was next to the oldest in the family. He was the only one of the family that left Norway. Anne Listul was also from Sauland. She was born June 3, 1867. She came to this country with her mother, brother John, and sister Signe in 1883. Ole Listul, her other brother, had gone to America a few years earlier, so he had already located on a homestead about seven miles west of Hoople. Their father had died in Norway.
wedding
Bennie is now a life insurance agent and does some farming. He has been active on the church board; Park River Bible Camp board; ambulance crew; and other community activities. They belong to the First Lutheran Church of Hoople. lleen has been active in ALCW, and Civic Club, having held office in both, and in Band Boosters and other community activities. She also teaches Hardanger classes (A Norwegian stitchery) to small groups.
Kittel and Anne Lerud (1890)
Bruce, Debbie, Vincent, Scotland Jimmie. 414
Dak. She graduated from the Hoople High School and Valley City State College. She taught in the Hoople Public Schools for 24 years; is a member of the First Lutheran Church and its A.L.C.W.; a member of Hoople Civic Club, Town-Ru Garden Club, and Northeastern Retired Teachers Association; and a former member of the Monday Nite Study Club and American Legion Auxiliary. Mr. Lerud was the postmaster in Hoople from 1 936-1972. He is a member of the First Lutheran Church in Hoople, the Masonic Lodge, the Hoople Park Board, and served as clerk of the Hoople School Board for many years. Since retirement, the couple have spent their winters in California. Lawrence has a number of hobbies, including Norwegian rosemaling, water color and oil painting.
The Kittel Lerud Family: left to right, front row, Anne, Lawrence seated with mother, Alfred, Kittel, dad, Anna, Henry; back row, Alma, Clarence and Carl. Kittel Lerud and Anne Listul were married in Grafton, N. Dak., Nov. 6, 1890, by Pastor J. A. Ofstedahl. They had eight children: Clarence, Alma, Carl, Alfred, Henry, Johana (died in infancy), Anna and Lawrence. During the first years of their marriage they were located on a place north of Badger, Minn. They then moved to a location about seven miles west of Hoople until they purchased the Erik Romuld farm in 1898. In 1912 they purchased the adjacent Jacob Rollefstad land. In 1919 they retired from farming and moved to Hoople. Kittel then pursued the carpenter trade. They were early members of the Hvideso Lutheran Church but later transferred to First Lutheran in Hoople. Kittel was a member of the church board at Hvideso and also a member of the school board. Anne was a member of the Ladies Aid, P.T.A. and the American Legion Auxiliary.
Lawrence and Helen have two daughters — Rebecca Lerud, who teaches microbiology at the University of Bridgeport, Bridgeport, Conn.; and Ruth (Mrs. James Barnett), who lives in Villa Park, Calif. The Barnetts have two children, Erin and Timothy.
THE JOSEPH B. MARKEL FAMILY Joe was born on Apr. 29, 1913, at St. Thomas, N. Dak., the son of John and Jennie Markel, who had eleven children. Other children in the family besides Joe are Mrs. Nels (Esther) Bradock and Roy Markel, both of Hoople; Georganna Markel, Fargo; Charles Markel of Bemidji, Minn., Mrs. Ralph (Donna) Heiken, Columbus, Mont.; Mrs. Arthur (Jane) Huber, Valley City, N. Dak.; Stanley Markel, St. Thomas, who died in April, 1949; Howard Markel of Bemidji; Mrs. Jack (Phyllis) Johnson, of Longview, Wash.; and Richard Markel, Park River, N. Dak. Joe is a veteran of World War II. He served in the Signal Corps in the States for two and a half years and one and one-half years in the C.B.I. Theater.
Kittel Lerud died Nov. 2, 1937, and Anne died Feb. 26, 1958. They are buried in the Hoople Cemetery.
LAWRENCE AND HELEN LERUD Lawrence Lerud was born Jan. 26, 1907, on a farm northwest of Hoople. In 1919, he moved to Hoople, where he attended grade school and high school. In June, 1937, he married Helen Berdahl at the Berdahl home in Hoople. Helen was bom May 24, 1915, in Grafton, N. Joe and Ladifa Markel Joe met Ladifa Reiger, who was born in Eureka, S. Dak., on March 30, 1918, and they were married in Neasha, Mo., on Dec. 10, 1943. They are the parents of three children — Glenn Allan, Hoople, who is married to Cathy Vandeventer, also of Hoople; Joanne Kay Atkins, of Blacksburg, Va.; and Stanley John, Hoople, who is married to Bette Hoople of Hoople, N. Dak.
Mrs. Lawrence (Helen) Lerud
Lawrence Lerud
Until 1949 Joe lived and farmed in the Hoople area. Then they moved to Missouri where he was in the ranching and farming business for five years before returning to Crystal, N. Dak., where they leased a grocery store for two years and later purchased a grocery store and a home in Hoople which they owned and operated for twenty years until their retirement. They still continue to reside in Hoople.
THE OSCAR MIDBOE FAMILY Oscar Midboe was born Nov. 9, 1887 (passed away Dec. 28. 1964), to Gjermund and Thonetta Midboe at Hoople, N. Dak., in Walsh County. He married Ida Gunderson Aug. 7. 1910, in the Park Center Church, rural Hoople. Ida was born Oct. 22. 1889, (passed away Aug. 2, 1974) to Torge and Signe Gunderson of Hoople. They farmed in the Hoople community all their lives. Two sons were born to the Midboes — Tilbert Gladwin, born June 13, 1911; and Leonard Sanford, born Aug. 3 1 , 1915.
Leonard and Inez Midboe Family: left to right, standing, Tyrone, Sue, Becky and Landis; front row, Leonard holding Matthew, and Tyson, Inez holding Troy. andJeremie. 15, 1979, at Minneapolis; Tyrone and family live in Bloomington, Minn., where he is manager of a Snyder Drug Store. Leonard's other son, Landis Jay, was born June 1, 1952. He married Rebecca Otto Aug. 10, 1973, in Hoople. Rebecca, daughter of Ivan and Jean Otto of Crystal, was born Jan. 13, 1951, at Grafton, N. Dak. They have two sons in their family, too. It is quite unusual that Oscar Midboes had two sons; Leonard Midboes had two sons; their two sons, Tyrone and Landis, each had two sons.
Tilbert and Beulah Midboe (40th Wedding Anniversary, June, 1975). Tilbert married Beulah Almond Jan. 3, 1935, at Crystal, N. Dak. Beulah was the daughter of Alvah and Leona Almond. Beulah was born Aug. 19, 1910, at New Sharon, Iowa. They have one son, Dean Kermit, born Oct. 1, 1939. He married Ruth Neilson at Hoople on June 19, 1960. She was the daughter of Linden and Mazel Neilson. They have three children — Pamela Ruth, born May 20, 1964, at Evanston, III.; Timothy Dean, born
Jeremie Douglas was born Sept. 27, 1974, at Grand Forks. Matthew Jay was born Aug. 10, 1977, at Grand Forks, N. Dak. The Landis Midboes live in Mason City, Iowa, where he is an anesthetist in the St. Mary's Hospital in Mason City.
ALFRED AND BEULAH MIDGARDEN FAMILY Alfred Midgarden was born July 20, 1896, on the farm of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Nels Midgarden in Glenwood Township. He resided on this homestead of his parents all his life. Alfred was married to the former Beulah Lykken, daughter of Joseph and Rose Thompson Lykken, Edinburg, N. Dak., on Nov. 5, 1935. Alfred graduated from the Walsh County Agricultural School in Park River. He held offices in Glenwood School District No. 13 and offices in Zion Lutheran Church. Alfred died Dec. 9, 1975. Beulah Lykken Midgarden was born March 6, 1912, in Silvesta Township, Milton, N. Dak. Beulah Lykken was a graduate of Milton High School.
Dr. Midboe Family: left to right, Dean, Kristi, Pamela, Ruth and Timothy. May 5, 1966, at Fargo, N. Dak.; Kristi Lynne, born Feb. 25, 1969, at Lexington, Ky. The Dean Midboes live in Grand Forks, N. Dak., where he is a doctor at the clinic there. Leonard married Inez Brunsvold of Souris, N. Dak., Nov. 11, 1939, at Hoople. Inez was born June 9, 1918, the daughter of Asle and Nora Brunsvold. Two sons were born to this union.
Alfred and Beulah were the parents of four children — Russel, Paul, Alice, and Joseph. They all attended the Walsh Counly Agricultural School in Park River. The Alfred Midgarden Family were all members of Zion Church, rural Hoople.
Tyrone Lee, born Apr. 2, 1947, married Susan Patterson on July 12, 1975, at Minneapolis, Minn. She was born Apr. 17, 1952. She was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Dayton Russell of Minneapolis, Minn. They have two sons — Tyson Russell, born March 14, 1977, at Minneapolis; and Troy Nathaniel, born May
Russel Midgarden is married to the former Grace Woolridge of Park River and they are the parents of ten children — Valery, Tracy, Nancy, Jenny, Timothy, Samuel, Wes, Michael, Heidi, 416
Countryside Homemakers Club and served as president of the Walsh County Homemakers Council. Following the death of Alfred, in 1975, Beulah moved to Grafton and Joseph and his family live on the farm.
Alfred 1935).
and Beulah Midgarden
wedding picture
(Nov.
Alfred Midgarden Family: left to right, front, Beulah, Alice and Alfred; back row, Joseph, Russel and Paul. and Sherry. Russel farms in the Hoople area and lives in Park River.
Paul Midgarden Family: left to right, back row, Tauna, and Tami; front, Paul, Kathy, and Jane.
Paul Midgarden is married to the former Kathryn Maier of Park River. They have three children — Tami, Tauna, and Jane — and live in Hoople and farm in the area. Alice Midgarden is married to Glenn Moe of Grafton, N. Dak. They are the parents of four children — Gregory, Wendy, Darcy, and Natalie, and live near Grafton. Joseph Midgarden is married to the former Karen Newman of Cando, N. Dak. They have adopted two Korean children — Leah and Jessica. They live on the Nels Midgarden homestead in Glenwood Township and farm in the Hoople area. (They have a separate family history under Glenwood Township.) Beulah has been active in various community and church activities. She was president of the ALCW; a member of the church choir when she was first married; a leader of the L.C.R. which was a youth group in the church; a Sunday School teacher for four years, a substitute teacher, and assistant superintendent. Beulah has been president and secretary-treasurer of the
Glen Moe Family: left to right, back, Darcy, Greg, Wendy; front, Natalie, Alice, and Glenn.
JOSEPH AND KAREN MIDGARDEN Currently occupying the Nels Midgarden homestead farm is the Joseph Midgarden family. Joe is the youngest son of the late Alfred Midgarden and Beulah (Lykken) Midgarden. Born Dec. 14, 1943, he began his schooling at the Glenwood Township School and, following consolidation, was a member of the first graduating class at the new elementary school in Nash. He spent his high school years at WCAS in Park River. Following high school, Joe stayed at home and became a member of the Midgarden Potato Company in partnership with his uncle, brothers, and cousins.
Joseph and Karen Midgarden, with their two daughters, Leah and Jessica.
council and chaired the cemetery renovation efforts there. Karen is one of the church organists. Besides church activities, the Midgardens are active curlers. Joe was a member of the team representing North Dakota in the National Bonspiel in 1975. In the summer, the Midgardens all enjoy boating at Homme Dam. Joe and Karen moved to the home farm in 1976, following his father's death. There they hosted the July 1, 1979, reunion at which 146 descendants of Nels and Inger Midgarden gathered to celebrate the homestead's centennial anniversary.
GUNDER MIDGARDEN Gunder Midgarden was born Dec. 13, 1903, to Nels and Inger Flaten Midgarden, at their farm home in Glenwood Township, and baptized into the Zion Lutheran congregation, rural Hoople. He attended school in rural School District 13, then went on to graduate from the Walsh County Agriculture School in Park River. Gunder was an active member of the 4-H Club, and was a member of the North Dakota State 4-H Livestock Judging Team, going to Waterloo, Iowa, and the International Livestock Exposition in Chicago in 1921. He continued his interest in 4-H by organizing the "Busy Beavers" 4-H Club in 1943, and was leader for several years. Gunder was instrumental in bringing the State Potato Show to Park River, where it is held with the Walsh County Fair. The Walsh County Gun Club was one of Gunder's special interests. He was a charter member and its president for several years. He was a member of the Board of Zion Lutheran Church; member of the board of School District 13; a member of the Elks Lodge No. 255; the Farm Bureau; the Potato Growers Association; and the American Amateur Trapshooting Associ-
Karen (Newman) Midgarden was born Apr. 1, 1949, to Mr. and Mrs. Donald Newman of Cando, N. Dak. Her father is a farmer at Egeland, N. Dak., and her mother is a clerk for FmHA in Cando. Graduating from Cando High School in 1967, Karen received her BS in vocational home economics education from NDSU, Fargo, in July, 1970. Her first teaching job was in Park River at WCAS. Joe and Karen met during her first year of teaching in Park River and were married at Cando Lutheran Church on June 19, 1971. Following their marriage, Karen taught one more year in Park River and then became the upper grade teacher and music instructor at the Nash School. After holding this position for three years, Karen decided to teach part-time, and for the next four years was the migrant instructor for grades 5-8 during the fall term at Nash. In the fall of 1979, Karen became the home economics teacher at Valley High in Hoople. She resigned this position at semester time, however, when the Midgardens' adopted daughters arrived from Korea after a 37-month wait! Leah Michelle Midgarden, born Nov. 27, 1976, and Jessica Ranae Midgarden, born Jan. 15, 1978, are natives of HamPyung, Jun Nam, South Korea. Working with Holt Adoption Agency of Eugene, Ore., and Lutheran Social Services of North Dakota, the Midgardens received their daughters at the Minneapolis Airport on Jan. 18, 1980. Gunder and Florence Anniversary, 1957)
Joe, Karen, and their daughters are all members of Zion Lutheran Church, rural Hoople. Joe has served on the church 418
Midgarden
(25th Wedding
ation. The North Dakota State Trapshoot each year has a "Gunder Midgarden Event." On Oct. 30, 1932, Gunder married Florence Peters at Keosouqua, Iowa. The daughter of Albert and Blanche (Cook) Peters, Florence attended school in Iowa and was graduated from Iowa State University in 1927, with a B.S. Degree in home economics. Gunder and Florence met while she was teaching at the Walsh County Agricultural School in Park River. They made their home on a farm in Glenwood Township. Florence was active in Zion Lutheran Church, the A.L.C.W., and Sunday School. She is a member of Countryside Homemakers Club, and was a leader of the "Hoople Happy Hustlers" 4-H Club for several years. Gunder and Florence have four children — Nels, Peter, James, and Sue. Gunder died March 2 1 , 1 958, and is buried in the cemetery of Zion Lutheran Church. After Nels and Soniz were married, they moved onto the farm and Florence moved into Grafton. Florence taught four years in the Grafton High School; is active in the Countryside Homemakers Club, The Association of American University Women, Fine Arts Club, Lutheran Sunset Auxiliary, Grafton Lutheran Church, and the Church Women. In 1980, Florence was chosen the "Farmwife of the Year" at the Walsh County Fair. The award is given annually to emphasize the place of the wife in the business of farming.
NELS AND SONIA MIDGARDEN Nels Norman Midgarden was born Oct. 19, 1933, at Grafton, N. Dak., the son of Gunder and Florence Midgarden. He grew up on his parents' farm in Glenwood Township and attended District 13 grade school. One of his most embarrassing moments was in the first grade when the teacher made him sit on top of the old wood stove in the corner in his wet long underwear to dry off after playing in the snow at recess. Nels was a charter member of the Busy Beavers 4-H Club and has held all of the offices in the club. His main project through the years was registered Duroc Swine. He and his brother, Peter, won many trophies and ribbons at local and state fairs. When Nels was 14, he stayed for a week at the Grand Forks State Fair and showed his pigs. He was on the County Judging Team that won the contest and went on to state competition at Fargo. In 1953, he was awarded a two-week scholarship to the Danforth Youth Leadership Camp at Muskegon, Mich. At the present time, he is the leader of his old club. Nels attended high school at the Walsh County Agricultural and Training School, Park River. He was active in the Future Farmers of America and was given the State Farmer Degree at the convention in Fargo his senior year. He attended North Dakota State University and majored in agriculture. He was a member of the Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity. Nels was drafted into the Army in Dec. of 1953 and after attending radio repair school, served in Korea for 14 months in the Signal Corps. After returning from the army, he started farming with his father, uncles, and cousins. They formed a partnership, The Midgarden Potato Co., that started with 200 acres of potatoes. At present, with his brother, James, and five cousins, The Midgarden Potato Co. raises 1,900 acres of potatoes and 330 acres of sugar beets, as well as small grains.
Nels Midgarden Family: Charles, Sonia, Kit, Nels and Terre (1980) Nels was baptized and confirmed in the Zion Lutheran Church and has served as president of the Luther League, Sunday School Teacher, Bethel Bible School Teacher, chairman of the 100th Anniversary of the Church, and president of the Church Council. He has been very active in community affairs and has served as president of these organizations: Park River Toastmasters Club, Walsh County Livestock Association, Walsh County Farm Bureau, Walsh County Fair and N. Dak. State Potato Show, Nash School Board, Hoople Farmers Grain Co., Park River Bible Camp; and has served on the boards of The Walsh County Park Board, The Lutheran "Sunset Home, The District Republican Party, Grafton Lions Club, Walsh County Wildlife Federation, and The Walsh County Historical Society. He is clerk and treasurer of Glenwood Township and is the Republican Precinct Committeeman. Nels has made many trips around North Dakota, Minnesota , and Canada to participate in his favorite hobbies of hunting and fishing. He married Sonia Tveit, June 21st, 1959, at Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Larimore, N. Dak. Sonia Beverly Tveit was born Aug. 23, 1936, at Northwood, N. Dak., to Sigurd and Beatrice Tveit. She grew up on a farm in Logan Center Township and attended school at Logan Center for 11 years. The consolidated country grade and high school offered good education and many pleasant memories. She has fond memories of Gerald and Ruth Mclntyre who taught there and coached girls' basketball for many years, often taking them to various competitions throughout the state. She remembers the covered sleigh and horses which took the McCoys and Tveits to school most of the winter months during her early school days; also the spring floods, the skiing and ice skating on their beloved Goose River where a couple of her brothers almost lost their lives as they got too daring in the springtime. She had a fun childhood, growing up with good parents, four brothers and one sister. She was active in the Logan Go-Getters 4-H Club and received awards in Grand Forks County. She was on the County Livestock Judging Team. Sonia attended Larimore High School her senior year and graduated there in 1954. She went on to nurses training at Grand Forks Deaconess Hospital, graduating in 1957 with a diploma as a registered nurse. She has enjoyed hospital work in Grand Forks; Fargo; Orange, Calif.; and Grafton since that time, mostly specializing in surgery — her favorite part of nursing. She is currently employed as a registered nurse at the Lutheran
Sunset Home in Crafton, N. Dak. During her married life, she has served as president of the Zion ALCW, Double M. Homemakers Club, Walsh Co. Farm Bureau Women; has been an officer of the Grafton Heathers Curling Club, and has attended national curling competition in Wisconsin, Illinois, and Washington. She was a 4-H leader of the Countryside Girls for three years, a Sunday School Teacher for several years, a member of the Zion Lutheran Church Council, and has been active in the Walsh Couniy Fair. She completed the Bethel Bible Series Teachers Course in 1969, served one year as secreatary of the Grafton Conference Council of the ALC, and is listed in the 1970 Edition of Outstanding Young Women of America. Nels and Sonia moved onto the family farm in Glenwood Township when they were married. Nel's father had died the year before and his mother and sister moved into Grafton. They have taken an active part in the Park River Bible Camp where as a family they were instrumental in organizing the first lutefisk dinner where 1,700 people were served. One of the continuing family activities has been camping in a tent or a camper. Their first camping trip was to the World's Fair in New York City in 1964. Since that time, camping has been one of their favorite summer activities. They have written an extensive history of the Midgarden Family, going from the present day back to the 16th century. They spent two weeks visiting relatives in Norway, in 1976, working on the family history. They have three children. Kit Allen, born April 18, 1 9 6 1 , in Grafton, N. Dak., attended Nash Grade School, Grafton High School and is a student at the North Dakota State University at Fargo, N. Dak., majoring in Agricultural Economics. Terre Lyn, born April 22, 1963, in Grafton, attended Nash Grade School, and is a senior at Grafton High School. Charles John, born Feb. 14, 1969, attended Nash Grade School and is currently in the sixth grade at Grafton Central School.
LaJolla Calif., where Peter was stationed several years with the Pacific Fleet. During the Vietnam War he flew bombing missions from the USS Ticonderoga. The family spent two years in Monterey, Calif., while Peter studied for and obtained a Masters Degree in electronics from the Naval College there. After completing the work at the Naval College, Peter was assigned to the Atlantic Fleet and they moved to the east coast. During the crisis with Iran, Peter was serving aboard the USS Nimitz in the Mediterranean when the ship was ordered to the Persian Gulf. Because of the ship's size, they made the trip around the Cape of Good Hope, thru the Indian Ocean and into the Arabian Sea. Peter and Aleda have two children, David and Anne. David Gunder, born Feb. 23, 1962, in Escondido, Calif., is attending Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, Va. Anne Renee, born Nov. 19, 1964, in Escondido, Calif., is attending high school in Vienna, Va. Aleda has been a public health nurse for several years, and at present is working in the hospital in Vienna, Va. Aleda has her Bachelors Degree in nursing from the University of Alabama. Peter, with the rank of Navy Captain, is serving at the Pentagon in Washington.
JAMES AND VICTORIA MIDGARDEN James Albert Midgarden was born to Gunder and Florence Midgarden on March 28, 1938, in Grafton, N. Dak. He was baptized and confirmed in the Zion Lutheran Church, rural Hoople. He attended elementary school in District No. 13, Glenwood Township. He was a member of the "Busy Beavers" 4-H Club and won many trophies for showing his Duroc Swine. He also attended 4-H Leadership Camp at Lake Metigoshe. Jim attended high school at the Walsh County Agricultural School, Park River, and graduated in 1957. He was a four-year letterman in football and a three-year letterman in track. Jim was nominated to the "All State Football Team" in 1956. In 1956 and 1957, he qualified for the State Meet in the 440-yard dash in track.
PETER AND ALEDA MIDGARDEN Peter Neil Midgarden was born to Gunder and Florence Midgarden, March 10, 1935, in Grafton, N. Dak., at the Deaconess Hospital, and baptized in the Zion Lutheran Church, rural Hoople. He attended elementary school in District 13, and was graduated from the Walsh County Agricultural School in 1953. He continued his education at the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Md., and received his rank as ensign in the U.S.Navy in 1958. He entered flight training at Pensacola, Fla., where he received his "Wings." In 1 9 6 1 , Peter married Aleda Avera of Lucedale, Miss., in
Jim Midgarden Family: left to right, Melanie, Vicki, Jim and Jimmy (1980) Jim attended the North Dakota State University, Fargo, N. Dak., and majored in agriculture. He was a member of the Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity. Jim was one of the runners who carried the torch from Bismarck to Fargo in the start of the 1957 Homecoming activities.
The Peter Midgarden Family: Aleda, son David, daughter Anne, and Peter
In January, 1959, Jim went into the Army for two years. He was assigned to Dugway Proving Grounds, Utah. He was nominated Soldier of the Year in 1960, and was awarded an "Evening with the Stars," which included Angie Dickinson, Jeff Chandler, and Stan "the man" Musial.
In 1 962, Jim took up flying and holds ratings in commercial, instrument, flight instructor, instrument flight instructor, multiengine, helicopter, and sea-plane. He is a member of the North Dakota Aeronautics and is an active flight instructor at the Grafton Airport. In the 1960's, Jim was an active member in the "Grafton Skydivers Club." He made over sixty jumps, performing at fairs and celebrations; some jumps were from altitudes of 14,000 feet. One June 22, 1974, Jim married Victoria Ann Hanson, daughter of Arnold and Marion (Houska) Hanson, of Veseleyville, N. Dak. Vicki attended schools in Veseleyville (District No. 36) and Park River, and graduated from Mount Saint Benedict Academy, Crookston, Minn. After graduation, Vicki enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps for three years. She attended Court Reporter School in Newport Beach, and was stationed at El Toro, Calif., Parris Island, S.C, and Camp LeJeune, N. C. After returning home from the service, Vicki was employed by Dahl, Dahl and Greenagel, and later as a dental assistant for Dr. J. V. Jaehning. Vicki is a member of St. John's Catholic Church and Altar Society; was a Girl Scout Brownie leader; and is a member of the Double M Homemakers Club.
Stanley. Ron has a class of Veterans Agriculture, is active in the American Legion and the Farm Bureau. Sue is active in the Homemakers Club, is a 4-H leader, and a substitute teacher in the Stanley High School. Four children make up the family: Kimberly Jo, born July 3 1 , 1968, in Grafton; Kelly Sue, born May 4, 1971, in Fargo; Desiree Leigh, born March 25, 1976, Minot, N. Dak.; and Heidi Michelle, born Nov. 1, 1977, Minot, N. Dak.
LOUIS MOE FAMILY In February, 1935, Louis Moe came to Hoople from Van Hook, N. Dak., where he had worked as a mechanic. He began his business on Feb. 5 in the old brick building which was owned by Alec McGraw, and now is in his forty-fifth year of maintaining a repair shop. He also was a direct Chevrolet dealer for more than 25 years, but now is an indirect dealer through other dealers. Louis was mayor of Hoople for several terms, and it was during this time that he, with the other town board members, were able to have the sewer system installed and the streets surfaced. He also served on the Hoople Fire Department for several years.
Jim and Vicki are the parents of two children: Melanie Ann, born March 2 1 , 1976, Grafton, N. Dak., and James Matthew, born Dec. 2 1 , 1 9 7 7 , at Grafton. Jim is a member of the Zion Lutheran Church, North Dakota Farm Bureau, the Red River Valley Potato Growers Association, the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Eagles, Sons of Norway, and Elks.
SUE MIDGARDEN NICHOLS AND RONALD NICHOLS Sue Midgarden was born to Gunder and Florence Midgarden on Feb. 20, 1945, and was baptized in the Zion Lutheran Church, rural Hoople. She attended school in Glenwood District 13, and was graduated from the Grafton High School in 1 963. In 1967, she received her B.S. Degree in home economics from NDSU, Fargo. Sue and Ronald Nichols were married in Grafton, Nov. 26, 1966. Ron is the son of Jack and Lavonne (Whitmore) Nichols, of Stanley, N. Dak. Ron received his B.S. Degree from NDSU in 1966. After serving as an Army Lieutenant in Vietnam, Ron returned to NDSU to complete work on a Masters Degree in agriculture economics. He served several years on the State Legislative Council before returning to the family farm near
Louis Moe Family: seated, Louis, JoAnn, and Alice; standing, Lynn (deceased), Richard, Keith, Chris and Dean. On June 22, 1935, Louis married Alice Moerke at Parshall, N. Dak. They have made their home in Hoople since that time, and Alice has done the bookwork for most of their years in business. The Moes are members of First Lutheran Church in Hoople and also are interested in all activities for the benefit of Hoople and community. Louis and Alice are the parents of five children. Dean is associate pastor at Bethesda Lutheran Church, Ames, Iowa; JoAnn, married to Glenn Gorder, a farmer and businessman, is living near Grafton; Keith, an engineer, is employed by 3M of St. Paul, Minn.; Richard lives at Park River, N. Dak., and farms; Chris works at the Minnesota Employment Bureau, where he operates a computer. One son, Lynn, is deceased. The Moes also have seven grandchildren.
PAULA NILSON FAMILY Sue Midgarden Nichols Family: Heidi, Sue, Kelly, Ron, Desiree, and Kimberly.
Paul Allen, son of Bernard and Clara (Paulson) Nilson of Park River, was born Feb. 17, 1932. He has one sister, Ardis Nilson Karban, of Hetland, S. Dak., and one brother, Carl
Paul and Lee Anne Nilson, 25th Wedding Anniversary.
active in Playmakers, GAA, Chorus, Pep Club, and a member of the National Honor Society. Paul and Lee Anne were married March 24, 1955, in East Grand Forks, Minn. Lee Anne is the daughter of A. E. (Emil) and Agnes (Schnedar) Greicar who reside in Grafton and are formerly of Pisek. Paul and Lee Anne have made their home in rural Hoople, having purchased the Aimer Paulson farm in Glenwood Township. Paul is a member of Zion Lutheran Church, rural Hoople, and has served as president and a member of the church council; has served as Glenwood Township supervisor; a director of North Dakota Seed Potato Growers Association; is a member of the Walsh County Township Officers Association; is a Walsh County Farm Bureau officer and director; and also a director of the Hoople Farmers Grain Elevator. Lee Anne is a member of St. John's Church and Altar Society in Grafton; a member of North Dakota Society of Medical Technology; a member of North Dakota Society of Radiologic Technologists; an officer of Walsh County Farm Bureau Women's Organization; an officer of Double M Homemakers Club; a past officer of Walsh County Homemakers Council; and
Nilson, of Hoople, N. Dak. Bernard Nilson died in 1971 and Clara resides at the Lutheran Sunset Home in Grafton since May 1978. As a boy, Paul attended the Walstad School in the country, District 25. He attended high school at the Walsh County Agricultural School in Park River. Here is where he met his future wife, Lee Anne Greicar. They were classmates and both class officers. Paul was very active in FFA — also was president of the local chapter of FFA and State FFA vice president. Lee Anne was
Bradley, Bette and Sara Jean Nilson
Four Generations of Nilsons; Paul, Bradley, Clara and Sara Jean Nilson.
Nina and Keith Nilson 422
is employed as lab and x-ray technician at the Grafton Clinic. Paul and Lee Anne, along with Bea and Kenneth Johnson of Grafton, enjoy making and serving homemade ice cream to the Lutheran Sunset Home residents one Sunday every February. Paul and Lee Anne have two sons — Bradley Paul, born Aug. 14, 1956, and Keith Allen, born Sept. 22, 1957. The boys graduated from Valley School (Hoople-Crystal). They have both attended NDSU at Fargo. The two sons are farming with their father. Bradley married Bette Jean Hillier at Hoople, June 27, 1976. They live on Bradley's great-great-grandparents' farm home, Even Andersons of Hoople. Bette is a graduate of UND, Grand Forks, and teaches second grade in the Valley School System of Hoople-Crystal. Bradley and Bette became parents of a girl, Sara Jean, on Oct. 24, 1 980.
additional properties. In 1 944, Dalmar moved to Grand Forks so Hugo bought out his interest. Dalmar proceeded to buy land near East Grand Forks and east of Auburn, which his family still owned when he died in 1967. They had one son who lives in Cheyenne, Wyoming, where he is a teacher. In 1936, Hugo and Gladys Gullickson were married. She was born in Dundee Township west of Hoople, the daughter of Gullick and Margit Gullickson. She attended country school and later, when the family moved east of Hoople, she attended the Hoople school where she graduated from high school in 1928. They have two children, Marlys and Loyd, who both graduated from Hoople High School.
Keith married Nina Carmen Weyers of Fargo on July 26, 1980. They make their home on the Rev. Mandus Egge farm in Fertile Township; this farm has been rented from the Egge family to the Nilson families since 1926. Nina graduated from NDSU School of Nursing, Fargo, and is employed at Unity Hospital of Grafton.
HUGO OBERG FAMILY Hugo Oberg was the eldest of seven children bom to Mr. and Mrs. John Oberg in Glenwood Township, near Hoople. Hugo was educated in Gryde and Hoople schools, then went to school for three winters at the Hanson Auto, Tractor and Electric School in Fargo, and to the J.I. Case Co., where he received an education and license in steam engine engineering. He held various jobs as a young man, including cafe work in Fargo; work for the Jardine Bridge Construction Co. in Cass County; and employment with the Dalyrmple Bonanza farms in Cass County. He then went to work at the Virginia Rainy Lake Logging Co. in northern Minnesota, where winter temperatures got down to 55 below zero. He later worked as a night clerk in the new Grand Hotel in Morris, Minn.
Marlys and Lloyd Oberg, children of Hugo and Gladys Oberg. (1945) Marlys graduated from N.D.S.U. at Fargo. She married Lowell Shelton who also graduated from N.D.S.U. They live in Burnsville, Minn., and have two daughters, Lori and Julie. Marlys is a teacher in the Burnsville school system and her husband works for Univac in the computer business. Loyd graduated from Wahpeton College and also attended N.D.S.U. He is married to Leta Trengen and they have four children — two girls and two boys. Hugo sold out his farming interest to Loyd in 1967. Hugo and his family belong to Hoople Lutheran Church where he has served on various boards. He was a charter member of Walsh County Curling and Gun Club; belongs to the Walsh County Historical Society; is a member of the North Dakota Pioneer Machinery Association; has belonged to Modern Woodman Lodge for 53 years, and to Elks Lodge No 255, Grand Forks, for 37 years. He still enjoys bowling and belongs to the Senior Citizens Club in Grafton and to an Edinburg club. Gladys' hobbies are gardening, flowers, sewing, and making quilts and rugs.
Gladys and Hugo Oberg He returned to Hoople in 1921 and started a car and tractor repair shop with John Rue. He operated tractors and threshing machines for Nels Folson and other farmers in the Hoople area; and did the same work in the area of Hannah, N. Dak., and Saskatchewan, Canada. In 1927, John Oberg moved to a small farm, six miles northeast of Park River. Hugo and his brother, Dalmar, rented 320 acres which is now the home place, four miles southeast of Hoople. After four years, they purchased this land and some
Hugo and Gladys Oberg — 45th Wedding Anniversary with children, Loyd and Marlys.
THOMAS ODEGARD FAMILY Thomas (Tom) Odegard was born in Telemarken, Norway, on Nov. 20, 1884, to parents, Ole and Tonje Odegard. He emigrated to Ame.ica with his father in the year 1902. They settled in St. Thomas Landing and were joined by the rest of the family, three months later. Tom worked in the Hoople vicinity for about five years before claiming a homestead in Buchanan, Sas., Canada. After three years, he sold his land and bought land at Preeceville, Sask., Canada, where he met Anna Oline Nybo. They were married at her parents house in 1910. Anna Oline Nybo was born on March 9, 1891, in Cadington County, S. Dak., to Ole and Annie Nybo. She and her husband, Tom, lived near Preeceville, Sask., for approximately three years. During this time, their first son, Edner, was born. Then they sold this land and homesteaded near Saco, Mont. They lived here for a period of seven years and during these years had five more children — Emma, Tillie, Elmer, Thelma and Selmer. Their daughter, Tillie, was not well from the time of her birth and she died at the age of two.
Their oldest daughter, Emma, is married to Olaf Winther, a native of Park River, N. Dak., and lives in St. Paul where her husband is a consultant for the Minnesota Mining and Mfg. Co. They have a son and a daughter. Another daughter, Thelma, is not married and works as a secretary for the Roberts-Hamilton Htg. and Plumbing Co., in Golden Valley, Minn. She resides in St. Paul. Henry (Hank) Odegard is employed at the Minnesota Mining and Mfg. Co., at St. Paul, and lives in rural Anoka, Minn. He also was a veteran of World War II. He and his wife, Alice, have three sons. Their youngest son, Maynard, is a carpenter and lives with his wife, Ann, in Rapid City, S. Dak. They have two sons and a daughter. Leona, their youngest daughter, is married to Dale Gemmill of rural Edinburg who is engaged in farming. They have three sons and one daughter.
JERRY OLSON FAMILY Jerry Olson is the son of Oliver and Ruby (Almen) Olson of Hoople, N. Dak. Jerry (Jerroll) was born on Nov. 6, 1933, grew up in that community and was educated in the Hoople Schools. In 1953 Jerry married Nadine Rodger, daughter of Vernon and Nettie (Hurtt) Rodger of Hoople. Both Jerry and Nadine are graduates of Hoople High School and Nadine received her college degree from Macalaster College. They are the parents of four children. Nancy was born May 29, 1954, and in 1980, married Al Conover; they live in Orlando, Florida, where they both work in Disneyworld. Nancy is a graduate of Bemidji State College and taught music at Valley High School (Hoople and Crystal). Thomas and Anna Odegard, Wedding Day 1910. Once more they decided to make a move since there was no school in the area for their children to attend. They took their family, horses, and machinery, and moved to the Hoople area in 1920, where they lived and farmed for the rest of their lives. Three'sons and a daughter were born to them after they settled in the Hoople vicinity — Henry, Maynard, Oscar and Leona. Oscar died of complications of an ear infection at the age of one. Tom and Anna and their family were longtime members of the First Lutheran Church of Hoople, N. Dak. Thomas Odegard died at the age of 62 on June 16, 1947, of a heart attack. He was interred at the Hoople Lutheran Cemetery. His wife, Anna, died of cancer on Nov. 26, 1967, at the age of 77, and is also interred at the Hoople Lutheran Cemetery. Since that time, three of their sons have passed away — all veterans of World War II. Elmer died of a heart attack on May 10, 1972, and his survivors include his wife, Bonnie, three sons, and a daughter, who reside at White Bear Lake, Minn. Elmer was interred at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in St. Paul. Edner (Ed) Odegard also died of a heart attack on April 3, 1977, and was survived by his wife, Kate, three sons and two daughters. His wife resides in Grafton. Ed was interred at the Hoople Lutheran Cemetery. Selmer (Sam) Odegard died as the result of a tragic traffic accident on Sept. 16, 1977. Never married, he was a carpenter in the vicinity of Hoople. His interment was at the Hoople Lutheran Cemetery.
Jerry Olson Family: left to right, seated, Nadine and Jerry; standing, Barbara, Nancy, Steven and Patricia. Steven Rodger, born September 2 1 , 1955, farms along with his dad in the Hoople-Crystal areas. Barbara Lynn was born Sept. 22, 1957, and Patricia Ann, born Aug. 12, 1959. The following write-up of Jerry Olson was presented in November, 1979, when he was nominated as a candidate for the North Central Conference Honor Award and it tells about his education and athletic career. JERRY OLSON HONOR AWARDS DINNER, NOVEMBER 19, 1979 The University of North Dakota is extremely proud to present Jerry Olson as a deserving candidate for the North Central Conference Honor Award. 424
Spring Football Clinic which is now in its 22nd season. He served as a staff member of the regional conference of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes at Fort Collins, Colorado in 1969.
Coach Olson, who retired'as UND Head Football Coach Feb. 22, 1978, is a resident of Grand Forks, N. Dak., is engaged in farming interests in his home town area of Hoople, N. Dak. Coach Olson has been a leader in the field of athletics all of his life, beginning with a standout high school career at Hoople, continuing through his college playing days at Valley City (N. Dak.) State College and as prep coach at Pelican Rapids (Minn.) High School and later as head coach at UND for 10 sessions.
Those of us who have had the honor of knowing Jerry know him as a man of high moral principles and complete dedication to what ever he is involved in. He thrilled many high school athletic award banquets, mothers, fathers and sons with his inspiring talks.
Jerry Olson's coaching achievements are all a matter of record, and it is an outstanding record. But those who know Jerry will also speak highly of his honesty and willingness to work for the betterment of college athletics, particularly football.
JOYCE AND LAVOY OLSON AND FAMILY Joyce and LaVoy were born and raised in the Hoople area, graduated from the Hoople High School, and now reside in Hoople. LaVoy is the son of Oliver and Ruby (Almen) Olson. He was born in the Grafton Deaconess Hospital on July 1 1 , 1932, and was baptized with the name, Orlan Ray LaVoy Olson but he is better known as LaVoy. LaVoy has two brothers, Jerry and Joel, and one sister, Echo.
Coach Olson led UND football through an era of rapid changes and established himself as an able strategist, excellent recruiter, and a man strongly concerned that the young men he recruited obtain a good education and graduate better able to handle life's challenges. He has been successful in all those areas. He was bom in 1933 on a farm in Walsh County, N. Dak. He attended elementary and high school in Hoople, graduating from high school in 1951. Enrolling at Valley City State, Jerry earned a total of nine letters. Letters were awarded in football, basketball and baseball. He was a standout football tackle and named to the North Dakota College Athletic Conference team in 1954 and also was named the league's most valuable football player in 1955. After receiving a bachelor's degree in June 1955 he became a teacher and football coach at Pelican Rapids, Minn., high school. Jerry came to UND to earn a Master's Degree in Physical Education, which he received August, 1961. While working on his Master's Degree he served as UND freshman football coach. He returned to Pelican Rapids to coach one more season and was named a full-time assistant football coach at UND, 1962. He served as an assistant coach from 1962 to April, 1968, when he was named North Dakota's 20th head football coach and was the first North Dakotan ever named to the position.
LaVoy and Joyce (Fedje) Olson (1953) LaVoy married Joyce Fedje on Nov. 1, 1953, at the First Lutheran Church in Hoople with Rev. O. R. Swenson officiating. Joyce is the daughter of Edwin and Lily (Travers) Fedje of Hoople. Joyce has two sisters, Geraldine and Earlyce, and one brother, Lyle. Joyce was born at Grafton on July 6, 1934. She grew up on the farm, west of Hoople, and attended the first three years of school at Dundee School District No. 35 in Dundee
In the 10 seasons Coach Olson led the Fighting Sioux they showed a 54-39-4 record. He had four NCC championship teams in 1971, 1972, 1974, and 1975, tying for first place in 1972 and 1974. Two of those teams appeared in NCAA sanctioned post-season games, defeating Cal Poly at San Luis Obispo, 38 to 2 1 , for the Camellia Bowl title in T972 and losing in 1975 playoff game to Livingston University of Alabama. Olson-led UND football teams were ranked frequently in the national polls, finishing 1971 — 9th nationally, 1972 tied for 6th place nationally, and 1975 in seventh place nationally. And Coach Olson developed skilled football players as evidenced by the fact that 22 of the players he coached signed professional football contracts. To obtain such outstanding records of achievement requires dedication, intelligence and the cooperation of hundreds of people, including family members. That such cooperation was given is self-evident and we'll never know how many family vacations were forsaken, how many holidays were spent seeking the prize of all coaches — excellence in all phases of the game. Coach Olson's coaching peers recognized his talents. He was named NCAA District 6 Coach .of the Year in 1971 and North Dakota's College Coach of the Year in 1972. From 1972 through 1975 he served on the American Football Coaches Association Rules Committee. He has been a lecturer at several area football clinics. He was one of the originators of the UND
LaVoy Olson Family: left to right, Douglas and his bride Alyson, Gene and his wife Cindy, Joyce and LaVoy and their youngest son Mark. 425
Township. She transferred to the Hoople Public Schools and graduated from the Hoople High School in 1952. Joyce took part in many school activities as well as being an active member of the Hoople Lutheran Church where she was baptized and confirmed. After graduation, she attended Interstate Business College in Fargo and then was employed at the Walsh County Bank in Grafton. Joyce and LaVoy became the parents of three sons. Gene LaVoy was born Jan. 15, 1955. In 1975 he married Cynthia Folson, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Richard Folson, of Grand Forks, formerly of Hoople. They have a daughter, Laura Elizabeth, who was born on Sept. 24, 1980. Douglas Mark, born on Jan. 15, 1958, married Alyson Unke, daughter of Eva Unke Russum, in 1980. The youngest son, Mark, was born on May 20, 1969. LaVoy is owner of the L. R. Custom Service and Fertilizer Company in Hoople and his two sons, Gene and Doug, work with him. LaVoy and Joyce are very active in community affairs and in the Hoople Lutheran Church, doing their best for Hoople and surrounding community. ORRIN PARKINS FAMILY Orrin Parkins was born on Aug. 3 1 , 1910, the son of Thomas and Annie Parkins. When he was eight years old he moved with his parents and his brother, Walter, to live on their farm, southeast of Hoople, N. Dak. It is on this same farm he lives today.
in 1879 and Caroline Anderson and her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Even Anderson, also homesteaded in Glenwood Township in 1879. John and Caroline were married in 1 880. Carl was the third from the oldest in a family of eleven children. The first child, Minnie I, died at birth and is buried on the homestead since the church had not set aside a specific area for a cemetery in 1881. The tomstone still stands on the family farm. The second child, Edward, died at the age of nineteen. Carl and Minnie II were both born at home in the family log cabin and in 1 887 when Minnie II was born the family was getting ready to move into their first wood frame home. As the family grew in number, additions were added to the home. Other children listed chronologically are: Arnold, Clara, Aimer, Otto, Severen who died at birth, Louis and Olga. All the children continued to live in the area even after they grew to adulthood. Carl, Arnold, Aimer, Otto and Louis farmed in the Hoople area. All the children continued throughout their life being members of the same church — Zion Lutheran, rural Hoople. Carl received his early education in District No. 76 — better known as the Gryde School. Due to roads, transportation, etc., school was in session from early fall until Christmas and recessed until early spring and then they had several more weeks of school. During the summer, they attended parochial school for a few weeks. Carl's three children also attended the same school district.
On June 1, 1937, he married Dorothy Oihus, daughter of Oscar and Evelyn Oihus of Nash. They are the parents of two children. Mrs. Kenneth (Martha) Rice teaches in Phoenix, Ariz., where her husband, Kenneth, is in the real estate business. They are the parents of three children. Orrin and Dorothy had a son, Paul, who died on Aug. 1, 1960, as a result of a cerebral hemorrhage. They are members of the Methodist Church in Hoople. Dorothy has worked at the Lutheran Sunset Home in Grafton and she also enjoys china painting. Orrin and Dorothy retired from farming in 1976.
WALTER AND MARY PARKINS Walter Parkins was born on Nov. 9, 1908, the son of Thomas and Annie Parkins. When he was ten years old he moved with his parents and brother, Orrin, to their farm, southeast of Hoople. On April 6, 1947, he married Mary Young, daughter of George and Elizabeth Young of Grafton. Walter owned and operated "Walt's" Radio and TV Shop in Park River for many years. In 1973 they moved to Grafton and worked at the State School. He retired from the Grafton State School in 1975 and Mary is still employed at the school. They both remain active in church work. CARL AND CORA PAULSON FAMILY Carl J. Paulson was born in a log cabin in Glenwood Township, Dakota Territory, on Sept. 5, 1885. His parents, John H. and Caroline (Anderson) Paulson, were pioneer farmers in Glenwood. John H. Paulson homesteaded in Dakota Territory
Paulson Family: seated, Cora, Lorraine and Carl; standing, John, Mrs. Norman Paulson (Marlene), and Norman. (1979) In the winter of 1904-1905 and again in 1905-1906 Carl attended the North Dakota Agricultural College, in Fargo, where he took farm-related courses. Some of his fondest memories are of going from the farm to the big city where they had lights, streetcars, and many other conveniences they did not have on the homestead. Carl and his brothers helped on the family farm. Carl began to help his father as a young lad and by the age of fourteen drove a bundle wagon for the threshing crew. A few of Carl's early memories go way back — in 1890 Carl went with his grandfather, Even Anderson, to see the first train engine come into Hoople. Another incident he will never forget was when Rev. Storlie, in 1901, stopped and told the men, who were working in the field near the road, that President McKinley had been assassinated. When President J. F. Kennedy was assassinated in 1963, Carl heard the sad news over the television set immediately; so over the years Carl has witnessed many changes in life styles.
Carl's first car was a Ford touring car, purchased in 1913. Carl was in charge of storing, hauling and erecting the Circuit Luther League Tent for twenty-nine years, lt was used for Luther League and other church-related conventions and, in later years, was used for services at the Park River Bible Camp. Since it was difficult to haul poles in small trucks, Carl would borrow wood poles and then years later they got metal poles which would telescope and could be bolted. Carl went as far as Ashby, Minn., and up to Williston, N. Dak., (both church conventions), with his truck and tent. The first time Carl was ever hospitalized in his life was in 1979 and he was ninety-three years of age. After his first surgery, hospitalization of six weeks, and six weeks at the Sunset Nursing Home in Grafton, he was able to return to the farm. Carl married Cora Johnson in July, 1934, at Zion Church, rural Hoople, where they were both members and then they began farming in Glenwood Township, continuing until retirement. They purchased the Paulson farm in 1936. Cora was the oldest daughter of Oscar and Louise (Gulbranson) Johnson who farmed in Fertile Township. Cora's grandparents, Olaus and Marie Johnson, homesteaded in Fertile Township in 1881. Cora's two older brothers are Melvin and Archie, who is deceased, and the younger members of her family are Victor, Elmer, Irene, Olaf, Hazel and Florence. Cora was born on Nov. 10, 1902. Cora attended District No. 25 (Walstad School) and then attended the Walsh County Ag School in Park River. She assisted on the family farm until her marriage. As a member of Zion Congregation, she is a member of the ALCW and served as its president; has served as a Sunday School teacher for many years which she really enjoyed; was an advisor of the L.C.R. which was a youth group in the church. Her hobbies are handwork — embroidery, crocheting, quilting and ceramics; and cooking and baking, especially Norwegian goodies. And, she also enjoys playing the piano.
activities. He is a charter member of the Walsh County Historical Society and presently serves as a director of the society; is on the board of directors of the Walsh Heritage Village in Grafton; was the first president of the Northeast North Dakota Pioneer Machinery Association and held that office for four years and presently serves as a director. For twenty-one years, he was a 4-H leader of the Victory Club of Hoople and, prior to that time, a member of the club for eight years. While a 4-H member, he won many awards, including a national award. Every year he assists with the Walsh County Fair and State Potato Show in Park River. His farming began with his 4-H and FFA (Future Farmers of America) projects. For six years John served as director and secretary of the Lutheran Sunset Home Board in Grafton; presently is the president of the Lutheran Sunset Founders which is the fundraising committee for the Sunset Home; has also been president of the Walsh County Crop Improvement Association; president and director of the Hoople Farmers Grain Company; a director and secretary-treasurer of the Nash Bulk Potato Storage; a supervisor of the soil conservation board in the county; a member of the John Anderson American Legion Post in Hoople; has served as president, vice president, trustee, and member-at-large of Zion Congregation; been a Sunday School teacher and treasurer; in 1979 served on the Zion Centennial Committee for the church anniversary celebration; and was co-chairman, with his sister, for the church history book. In 1970, John was chosen "Outstanding Young Farmer of Walsh and Pembina County" by the Grafton Jaycees. John D. owns and farms the land homesteaded in 1879 in Glenwood Township by his paternal great grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Even Anderson, who were the parents of Mrs. John H. Paulson. John D. built his new home on the farm homesteaded by his grandfather, John H., in 1879 and he also rents the farm homesteaded by his maternal great grandparents, Olaus and Marie Johnson, in Fertile Township. LORRAINE PAULSON
Paulson farm home A new home was built on the farm in 1971, replacing the original wood framed Paulson home which had been erected in 1887, with several additions added over the years. Three log structures still remain on the family farm. When the Paulson family had a Centennial family gathering at the farm, in September of 1979, the younger relatives were able to see where their ancestors had lived. The log cabin was built in 1879.
JOHN PAULSON John Duane was born in May, 1935, and farms in the Hoople area where he raises potatoes, grain and corn. John is a 1953 graduate of the Walsh County Agricultural School in Park River, and then attended the North Dakota State College short course in Fargo for three years. He served in the North Dakota National Guard for six years with six months' active duty at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo. John is involved and interested in many community
Lorraine was born in 1938. In 1952 she was afflicted with poliomyelitis and is confined to a wheelchair. Lorraine graduated from the Walsh County Agricultural School in 1958. Mrs. J. C. (Dorothy) Kenney, Park River, was her private teacher or tutor since Park River High School wasn't accessible for a wheelchair student at that time. Then she attended Moorhead State College and transferred to the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, where she received her B.A. Degree in Social Work and Psychology in 1970. While at UND, Lorraine was a member of the Phi Alpha Honorary Social Work Sorority. In 1972, she received her Master of Arts Degree in counseling and guidance and psychology from the university. Lorraine began raising potatoes with her brothers — John and Norman — while still in high school and in 1964 she purchased the Bjerke farm, adjoining the Paulson home farm, with her brother, John, and she still continues to raise potatoes. Lorraine has been part-time secretary for Zion-South Trinity Church from 1959-1980. When Zion celebrated its centennial in 1979, she was co-chairperson of the Zion Church history book. She is also a charter member of the Walsh County Historical Society; corresponding secretary of the Historical Society from 1974-1980; editor of the annual Walsh County Historical Society Newsletter from 1975-1980; and presently serves on the book committee for volumes three and four of the "Walsh Heritage" books and chairmans the Walsh County
Centennial spoon committee. Lorraine has been a volunteer at the Lutheran Sunset Home in Grafton where she enjoys playing the piano and organ for the residents and visitation. In 1973 Lorraine was awarded a pin and certificate for volunteering over one-hundred hours, in one year, as a volunteer at the home. Other volunteer work has included chairman of the baked foods division at the Walsh County Fair and State Potato Show in Park River from 1974-1980; assisting with the County Easter Seal Drive from 1971-1979. Lorraine is also a member of the Red River Valley Handicapped Club and a member of Handy-Cap Horizons which promotes travel, social and community involvement for the handicapped. For three winters she has gone with the group to the Hawaiian Islands — this year they will be in Hawaii for forty-six days. She has also gone with the group to Florida and California. Lorraine is a member of Nordland Rosemaling Association and has taken painting lessons from Edith Coulthart for two years.
The John H. Paulson Family: left to right, seated, Carl, Minnie and Arnold; standing, Louis, Clara, Aimer, Olga and Otto. (1956)
NORMAN PAULSON Norman was born in 1940 and farms and lives in Dundee Township with his wife, the former Marlene Anderson, daughter of Melford and Gilma Anderson. Both are graduates of the Walsh County Agricultural School in Park River. Norman also graduated from the two year-course at the North Dakota State School of Science, Wahpeton, in 1962 and then served in the North Dakota National Guard with six months active duty at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo., and Fort Belvoir, Va. Norman's interest in farming, began with his 4-H and FFA projects and he continued in farming. Norman's wife, Marlene, received her B.S. Degree in education from Mayville Utate College and taught in Argyle, Minn., for seven years. Now they both farm and raise sunflowers, grain and beans. In 1980 they built a new home on the farm, about four miles north of Park River. Norman and Marlene were married in Jan., 1972, at Park Center. They are both members of Park Center Lutheran Church where Norman has served as a trustee. Both Norman and Marlene enjoy traveling. Norman and Marlene drive for their winter vacation to California, Florida or other vaction areas. Lorraine flies to join them and they vacation together.
Minnie Paulson during the summer months she would stay at the Park River Lutheran Bible Camp where she served as a cook. Minnie loved people and enjoyed helping others, so she did a lot of baby-sitting for friends and relatives over the years. In January of 1973, Minnie died at the age of eighty-five at the Lutheran Sunset Home in Grafton where she had been a resident for many months.
MINNIE PAULSON Miss Minnie Paulson was born in a log cabin on the John H. and Caroline (Anderson) Paulson homestead in Glenwood Township, on Apr. 2 1 , 1 8 8 7 . She was one of eleven children in the family, and the oldest living daughter. The year she was born, the family moved from their log home into a wood frame house on the homestead. Minnie attended school in Dist. No. 76 and at a very young age began to help care for her brothers and sisters since her mother was ill; her mother died in 1916. Minnie remained on the farm until her brother, Carl, married in 1934 and purchased the family farm. Than Minnie and her father, John H., purchased a home in Hoople. They lived together in Hoople until John's death in December, 1938, at the age of 87. Minnie was a lifelong member of Zion Lutheran Church, rural Hoople; a life member of the Ladies Aid or A.L.C.W.; a charter member of the Countryside Homemakers; and a member of the Hoople American Legion Auxiliary. For many years Minnie cooked at the Hoople School and
MR. AND MRS. OTTO PAULSON Otto and his wife, Inga, farmed in Glenwood Township, Walsh County, all their married life. Otto was born on Jan. 8, 1894, at the Paulson homestead, the son of John H. and Caroline (Anderson) Paulson, and was one of eleven children born to John H. and Caroline. In November, 1930, when he married Inga Berg, they built a new home on a quarter section of land just north and across the river from where Otto was born. Otto purchased this farm from his father, John H., and that land had previously been homesteaded by Otto's grandparents, Even and Marie Anderson. Otto and Inga continued to farm until their retirement in 1960. Otto attended School District No. 76 and Hanson Mechanical School in Fargo. During World War I, he served in Europe with the armed forces. Otto was active in his community. Both Otto and Inga were lifelong members of Zion congregation, rural Hoople, where Otto served as treasurer and financial secretary of the church for a number of years, served on the
church board, and enjoyed singing in the church choir. He was also an active member of the John Anderson American Legion Post in Hoople, the Walsh County World War I Barracks, and served as treasurer of School District No. 76 for many years.
L. S. Reichert Family: left to right, Kent, Mrs. Riechert, Reed, Mr. Reichert, Rand, Jean, Colleen andJayne. Reichert and his wife, the former Lois Matter of Crystal, N. Dak., were married in 1943. Following graduation from high school, Lois attended Mayville State College until her marriage. Mr. and Mrs. Otto Paulson (Wedding Picture) Mrs. Otto (Inga) Berg Paulson was the daughter of Ole C. and Annie (Aasand) Berg, who were also pioneer farmers in Walsh County. In 1880, Inga's father homesteaded in Section 23 of Glenwood Township. Inga had seven brothers and sisters — Otto, Clifford, Leonard, Clara, Alma, Marion, and Esther. Inga was born on Jan. 7, 1900. She attended rural school at District No. 13 and graduated from Mayville Normal after which she taught school for several years until her marriage to Otto in 1930. Inga was a member of Zion Church and Ladies Aid, Hoople American Legion Auxiliary, World War I Barracks Auxiliary, and a charter member of the Countryside Homemakers. Inga died in November, 1975, and Otto died twelve years prior to that time in February, 1963; they are both buried at Zion Cemetery. The Otto and Inga Paulson farm was purchased by their nephew, John D. Paulson, in 1976 and then Brad and Bette Nilson purchased the farmyard from John and the Nilsons now own and live in the Otto Paulson home. Brad is a great, great grandson of Even Anderson who homesteaded the property in 1879.
L.S.REICHERT FAMILY L. S. Reichert came to Hoople, N. Dak., in the fall of 1946 as principal and coach of the high school. Reichert, son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Adolph Reichert of Hamilton, N. Dak., received his B.S. Degree from Mayville State College in 1943. He also attended Northwestern University in Chicago, III. Prior to World War II, Reichert was a flying cadet at the United States Flying Academy in Ontario, Calif. In 1942, he enlisted in the Naval Reserve and after completing his college education was commissioned an ensign in the United States Navy. He served in the Pacific Theater until February, 1946, when he was released to inactive duty in the Naval Reserve. Following his release he returned to college to complete studies in pre-medicine. Reichert spent four years in the Hoople school system, the last two as superintendent, before joining the Midthun Insurance Agency. He purchased the agency in 1951 and established the Reichert Insurance Agency at that time. In 1951 he also became manager of the Hoople Branch of the Walsh County Bank. Reichert was a vice president of the Walsh County Bank and Trust Company and served as branch manager for twenty-seven years. He also maintained a bookkeeping and tax service until his retirement in 1 978.
The Reichert family are members of the St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Crystal, and they are active in many community affairs. The Reicherts are parents of six children. Reed, a graudate of the U.N.D., is assistant vice president of marketing with P.B.A., a consulting firm in Minneapolis; Jayne, who attended Lake Region Junior College and Mayville College, lives in Hoople; Rand, a graduate of the University of San Diego and St. John's University, is a Catholic priest, serving the San Diego Diocese; Kent, a Vietnam veteran, attended N.D.S.U., Fargo, and also U.N.D., Grand Forks, before joining the family business in 1975. Following his father's retirement he became manager of Reichert Insurance, Inc. Jean Ann graduated from U.N.D., attended the University of Texas, and is employed by the San Diego school system; Colleen, the youngest, is a student at the University of San Diego.
OLE AND MAREN SHANNON Maren Evenson Shannon was born Aug. 15, 1909, at Hoople, N. Dak. She was a daughter of Theodore Evenson, born in Perry, Wise, July 17, 1881, and Maren Ivarna Knoff, born in Oslo, Norway, Oct. 23, 1888. When Maren was twelve days old her mother passed away and she and her two sisters, Esther, and Hazel, were welcomed into the home of their grandparents, Torgrim and Margit Evenson, where they spent their childhood. When Maren was a year old her grandmother passed away but the children had three very special aunts, Rebecca, Cora and Hilda, who showed them
Ole Shannon
Maren Evenson Shannon
much kindness and love. Maren was graduated from the W.C.A.S., Park River, N. Dak., in 1929; attended Mayville College, and taught in the Walstad School for four years. At the Zion Lutheran Church, rural Hoople, on June 3, 1933, she was married by Rev. L. O. Helleklev to Ole Andrew Shannon, son of John and Eliza Shannon. John was born March 1 1 , 1866, at Wamstead, Ontario, Canada; Eliza was born Dec. 17, 1863, at Calmar, Iowa. Ole was born at Princeton, Minn., Sept. 7, 1900. In the spring of 1925 he moved to Hoople, N. Dak., where he farmed on the home farm for seven years. He attended Moler Barber College, Fargo, in 1932. In June, 1935, Maren and Ole came to Hoople where he owned and operated a barber shop for 25 years. They purchased half of the John Shannon farm in 1946, retiring in 1966. On Apr. 5, 1973, Ole passed away at the Pembina County Memorial Hospital.
born Dec. 3, 1962, at Minneapolis. Currently, Mark is a junior at Concordia College, Moorhead, Minn., studying for a major in business administration and a minor in communication. Jon is a senior at Armstrong, Golden Valley, Minn. He will pursue the field of Computer Science, Math. RICHIE AND WILMA SWANSON Richard T. (Richie) Swanson was born June 1, 1934, the son of R. A. (Art) and Sophia (Gryde) Swanson of Grafton, N. Dak. He attended school at Hoople, N. Dak., from first grade through high school, then attended Dunwoody Trade Institute at Minneapolis, Minn., for two years. He then volunteered for military draft in 1954. He was stationed at Ft. Sam Houston, San Antonio, Tex., for two years.
Richard T. Swanson Family: left to right, back row, Bad, Gregg, Clay, and Blake; front row, Richie, and Wilma. On June 30, 1955, he married Willma Steinnetz at San Antonio, Tex. She is the daughter of Wm. and Mabel (Peterson) Steinnietz of Jamestown, N. Dak. After they returned from the service they began farming. Four sons were born to Richie and Wilma: Gregg, born Apr. 8, 1957; Clay, born Nov. 19, 1959; Blake, born Apr. 13, 1963; and Bart, born Dec. 19, 1966.
Viola Shannon Their daughter, Viola Margaret, was born Jan. 6, 1935, at Grafton, N. Dak. She married Lowell Richard Thompson June 16, 1957, at Hoople. Vi and Lowell were graduated from Concordia College, Moorhead, Minn., in 1957, and taught school in the secondary system in Cyrus, Minn. Lowell is an insurance broker. They live in Golden Valley, Minn.
MR. AND MRS. ED SWENSON Ed (Eivind) Swenson was born in Mo, Telemark, Norway, on March 2 1 , 1 8 7 9 . When he was twenty years of age, he came to Eastern North Dakota where he met his brother, Knut, who had preceded him to America. They worked here before filing for adjoining homesteads, north of Carpio, in Ivanhoe Township, Renville County, North Dakota. A number of other people from the Hoople area also settled there.
Maren has two grandsons — Mark Lowell Thompson, born June 14, 1960, at Morris, Minn., and Jon Richard Thompson,
In 1910, Ed married Julia (Gunhild) Twedt, daughter of Ole and Ingeborg Twedt of Hoople. They lived on the homestead in Renville County until 1934 when they moved back to Hoople where they continued to farm on what used to be the Lars Veum farm. After a period of failing health, Ed passed away in 1942. Julia resided in Hoople from 1946 until her death in 1959. They were the parents of three children. Selma was born in May, 1 9 1 1 . She taught school in various areas of North Dakota for sixteen years. In 1945 she married Russell Hultin from the Hoople area and they continued to farm in the area, residing on their farm in Glenwood Township. They are the parents of two sons — Ronald and Daniel.
Margit and Torgrim (Thomas) Evenson Family: (Their history was in Vol. 1 of "Walsh Heritage books) back row, left to right, Theodore, Cora, Rebecca, and Hilda; front, Torgrim, Augusta, Walter and Margit. 430
married at the Grafton Lutheran Church Nov. 6, 1946. Allen had served two years in the Navy, during World War II. He has a thirty-two year record as a rural mail carrier in surrounding Hoople and part of rural Edinburg. They have two children — Ruth Laverne and Roger Allen. Both attended and graduated from the Valley High School. Ruth graduated from the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, in 1975 with a major in elementary education and belonged to the Pi Beta Phi Sorority. She taught one year at Crystal, N. Dak.
Julia and Ed Swenson (1910) Clarence was born in November, 1915. He married Asta Hall in 1944 and lived near Osnabrock, N. Dak., until his death in December, 1977. They were the parents of five children — Louise, Eileen Earl, Kay, and Leann. Walter was born in February, 1925. He married Anne Nelson in 1946 and they reside in Grand Forks, N. Dak. Walter
Allen Tharalson Family: left to right, seated, Mr. and Mrs. Allen Tharalson and their daughter, Mrs. Thomas Hall (Ruth); standing, Thomas Hall and Roger Tharalson. Roger attended the State School of Science at Wahpeton until he was drafted into the Army. He chose to serve in the National Guard for six years. He was employed several summers at Lake of the Woods as a fishing guide and launch driver. During the winters, he was employed in Grand Forks. Ruth Tharalson and Thomas Hall were married July 27, 1974, in the First Lutheran Church of Hoople. They now reside at Las Vegas, Nev., where both are employed. Thomas was also a graduate of the University of North Dakota. Ruth had also studied piano and taught piano lessons and was most generous with her talents in piano and voice in the community and the church. Ed Swenson Family: standing Selma and Clarence; seated, Ed, Walter and Julia. served in the U.S. Army from January, 1943, until October, 1945, and was stationed in the European Theater. Walter was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for heroic achievement in France.
T. LINDEN AND HAZEL THARALSON Thomas Linden Tharalson was born on July 30, 1910, at the home of his grandparents, the Thomas Neilsons, in Glenwood Township. His parents were John 0 . and Grace Neilson Tharalson, and Linden was the oldest of eight children.
ALLEN THARALSON
His early years were spent on "The Old Place" where his grandfather Paul and Sigri Tharalson had homesteaded, east of Hoople, living in the log cabin his pioneer grandfather had built. A house was built on the site which was later moved a mile north. The family lived in the house as it was slowly moved north that mile.
Allen Tharalson, son of Mr. and Mrs. John O. Tharalson, and Laverne Hove, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ole J. Hove, were
Linden attended the Hoople schools and graduated from Hoople High School. Mr. Tollefson, school superintendent, for
They are the parents of ten children — Susan, Ruth, Carol, Edward, Steven, Rose, Kristina, David, James and Amy.
many years said at a class reunion that Linden wanted an education more than anyone he had ever known, as he found it necessary to work before school and after, on the farm. His early ambition was to become a civil engineer but these dreams were impossible for him. However, farming is his love and he enjoys hard work and all phases of it. On June 20, 1936, T. Linden and Hazel Hanson were married at the South Trinity Lutheran Church, west of Grafton, by Rev. L. O. Helleklev. They made their home northeast of Hoople until in 1 950 when they built their home in Hoople.
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Daryl, Nancy, Cindy and Eloise Williamson
40th Anniversary of Linden and Hazel Tharalson in 1976. Hazel and Linden became the parents of four children. Eloise was graduated from Concordia College, Moorhead, Minn., and taught before her marriage to Dr. Daryl Williamson. They have two daughters, Cindy and Nancy, and make their home in Minneapolis. Carmen Lee graduated from the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, is a registered nurse and lives in St. Paul, Minn. Kathleen attended college in Minneapolis and is a registered technician. She was employed at clinics in Grand Forks prior to her marriage to Gary Phelps of Hoople. They are the parents of three children — Robert, Julie and Heidi — and they live and farm in the St. Thomas-Hoople area.
Heidi, Gary, Julie, Robert and Kathy Phelps.
John Thomas graduated from Dana College at Blair, Nebraska, and was employed in social work there before joining his father farming. He also lives in Hoople. Hazel Hanson was born in Fertile Township, the daughter of Eddie and Gena Lee Hanson. Hazel attended Sinkler School and graduated from Walsh County Agricultural School in Park River. She recalls many happy childhood memories and especially enjoyed winter sports. Grandpa Lee lived with them and was respected and loved by all six Hanson children. They all loved to hear stories of the joys and sorrows in the early pioneer days.
Carmen Tharalson
John Thomas Tharalson
After their marriage, Linden and Hazel lived on what was known as the Fox farm and saw many changes — sort of pioneered in that generation. The roads were poor so a sleigh was their mode of travel when there was a lot of snow. One severe winter, supplies were delivered by plane by Bud Anderson of Hoople. No telephone line went by their farm so they were isolated on the prairie for weeks at a time. All the modern conveniences came later. The telephone, R.E.A., graded roads, and, after they had moved into Hoople, the school bus came that way. Their silver wedding was celebrated at the First Lutheran Church; in 1976, at their home in Hoople, their 40th anniversary was observed with their four children hosting the event.
Linden Tharalson Family 432
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— HENRY M. THOMPSON FAMILY Henry Melvin Thompson, the son of Sam and Bella Thompson, was born Dec. 13, 1899, in Grafton Township, Grafton, N. Dak. He was baptized and confirmed in the South Trinity Lutheran Church, rural Grafton. Henry attended rural school and later went to Aaker's Business College, Grand Forks, N. Dak., after which he was engaged in farming with his father.
Mae, Hazel Loreen and Marlyn Yvonne Rae. There are ten grandchildren and, as of this date, fourteen great-grandchildren. Henry passed away July 27, 1946, at the farm home and was laid to rest at the South Trinity Cemetery. Lila still resides on the farm near Hoople.
HUBBARD FREDDIE TRAVERS Hubbard Travers was born on a farm near Hoople Oct. 10, 1899, the son of Jim and Emma Travers. He served in World War I for the duration of the war. In 1925 he married Anna Lerud. Hubbard and Anna had a family of five sons: Freddie, Harold, Leon, Donald and Kenneth. The sons are all married and live in various parts of the United States.
Thompson Family: seated, Lila, Marlyn Yvonne Rae, and Henry; standing, Hazel Loreen and Dorie Mae. On Oct. 24, 1922, he married Lila Thompson, daughter of Theodore and Olava Thompson of Hoople, at the Zion Lutheran parsonage, rural Hoople, with the Rev. Adolph Egge officiating. They farmed the former Sever Lee farm northwest of Grafton until the spring of 1930 when they purchased the Peter Monson farm, Glenwood Township, four and one-half miles southeast of Hoople. Henry and Lila were the parents of three daughters — Doris
Hubbard and Anna Travers Family: left to right, standing, Mrs. Anna Travers, Freddie, Harold and Hub; seated, Donald, Kenneth and Leon. (1945)
The Travers Family taken in 1975: standing, Anna, Freddie, Harold and Hub; seated, Donald, Kenneth, and Leon. Thompson Family: left to right, Loreen, Lila, Doris and Yvonne. (Taken at Lila's birthday party in 1980).
The two oldest sons served in the U.S. Forces during World War II. Two other sons served in the Korean War. The three oldest sons stayed in-service for twenty years each. Hubbard worked at the Farmers Grain Elevator in Hoople for thirty years. He was a member of the American Legion Post. Anna Travers was a member of the A.L.C.W., the American Legion Auxiliary, the Civic Club and the M & M Study Club. Hubbard and Anna are members of the First Lutheran Church of Hoople. The couple feels that one of the highlights of their life was the Fiftieth Wedding Anniversary Party given in their honor at the Lutheran Church in Hoople in 1975. It was sponsored by their five sons and their wives.
Lila and Henry Thompson Family (Taken in 1980) 433
LEON WINDINGLAND FAMILY Leon Windingland, the son of Lars and Nikalina Windingland, and Mildred Troftgruben, the daughter of Carl and Ida Troftgruben, were both born in Tibert Township. Both went to school in District No. 92.
Leon Windingland Family;: standing, left to right, Clarion, Mavis, Allan, lleen, and Larry; seated, Mildred and Leon.
Mr. and Mrs. Leon Windingland (Wedding Day—1935) Leon and Mildred were married in 1935 and for three years farmed south of Edinburg. Then they moved to the farm of Annie Lerud in northeastern Pembina County. They rented for six years, then bought the farm. Now, after farming for 43 years, they have retired and moved to Hoople. Leon and Mildred had five children — Clarion, lleen, Mavis, Larry, and Allan. Clarion is married to Rose, a native of Korea. They live in Grand Forks where Clarion is a TV manager at Goodman's, and Rose is a seamstress. They have three children.
lleen (Mrs. Bennie Langerud) is a secretary for her husband in the life insurance business and they also farm. They have five children and one granddaughter. They live in Hoople, N. Dak. Mavis (Mrs. Ed Grant) lives in West Des Moines, Iowa. They have four children. Mavis does pottery and her husband is a teacher. Larry is an electrical engineer and works for the Army on solarheating. His wife, Elaine, is a nurse and works in a home for retarded children. They live in Champaign, III., and have two daughters. Allan is manager of a Farmland Co-op Station in Crystal, N. Dak. His wife, Jane, is in nursing and they have three children.
History of Glenwood Township in Photos
Kittel Aaneson Reunion at their farm home. This picture was taken at the home of my great-grandparents, Signe and Kittel Aaneson. It was taken in about 1904. Present are my grandparents, Thomas and Burget Thompson, and their family;
the John Daley family; Tollef Fjelstad family; Andrew Anderson family; the Jorgen Torkelson family; and other relatives and friends. Mrs. Fjelstad, Mrs. Anderson and Mrs. Daley are my grandmother's sisters and Jorgen Torkelson is her brother.
The Albert Fagerholt Family: left to right, standing, Leonard, Elmo, Arthur, Eulalie; front, Albert, Eunice, and Clara. (1941)
The Albert Fagerholt Farm, taken in 1950, Hoople, N. Dak.
Helmer Hultin's 1939 combine
Henry, Ole and Melvin Johnson taking a lunch break on their farm in Glenwood Township.
Andrew Gjevre and family out for a ride. (1916)
Community boosters, left to right, Marian and Olaf Fedje, and Maze! Neilson at a community gathering.
Hugo and Gladys Oberg's first home (1936) and their 1933 Cher. car.
John Wall from Nash, and Gunder Midgarden, rural Hoople, in field checking grain. Wall worked for the grain elevator in Nash. (1948) 435
Hauling potatoes on the Ole Johnson farm, Section 29, N.W. Quarter, in Glenwood Township. Left to right, Melvin, Raymond, Lillian, Aunt Kristina, Lydia and Oscar.
Rose (Fedje) Moore and Rosabelle Rinde of Hoople.
Theodore Halvorson's threshing outfit
Carl Nilson, Cliff Johnson, Laffey Aaland, Elaine Fagerholt, Elnor Hoople, Ruth Midboe, Beth Tharalson, Marilyn Ginder and Allan Tharalson helping to make plans for the Hoople Betterment Contest in 1964.
Carl Paulson, Hoople, riding his high-wheeled bicycle.
The farm home of the Henry Brubakken Family near Hoople.
Andrew Gjevre playing the violin. 436
CITY OF HOOPLE manager. Ed and Wm. McMurray had a Hardware store and machine shop. N. M. Venberg bought out Fred Frazier in 1893 and later Ole Fedje became his partner. Hoople's first blacksmith was David Henry with Malcolm Smith appearing shortly after. The first hotel and livery was established in 1891 by Thos. Woods. Then came the Sole Elevator, first with Fred Marble as manager; then came the Peavey, with Wm. Herriot as manager; other early elevators were the National, St. Anthony, and one established by Nels Folson.
HISTORY OF HOOPLE PRIOR TO 1925 Hoople's post office was first called Richmond and was opened in the home of Wm. Richie, Aug. 7, 1879. The name was changed to Hoople, Jan. 7, 1890. Mrs. Allen Hoople was the first postmistress. Dr. King was its first physician; L. Smith was the first attorney; and Miss Deschenes was the first teacher; the first school was built a half mile north of the village in 1882; the first school in the village was held in 1 8 9 1 , in Nicholson's Hall. The Methodists were the first to organize a church congregation, but the Presbyterians erected the first church in 1891 under the direction of Rev. Morly Hall.
The first depot agent was Norman Nelson. Al Hewitt was another early hardware and machinery business. Other firms included Crusby Bros., Torgerson, Eckberg, Jack Hamilton, Adam Patterson Furniture, Chas. Vick Hardware, A. E. Duff (fresh meats), Dora Foss (dressmaker), People's Supply Co., Mrs. McLaren (hotel), Frank Bennet (hotel), Betsey Getstad (Millinery), Henry Patterson (livery), Andy Patterson (livery), F. Bennet (livery), Billy Young (drayman), Dave Watson, Jack McNeil and Frank Dinkel (drayman), John and Alex Skene (hardware and machinery), Ab Kraft (druggist), Joe Bodmer, Confectionery.
The village was incorporated in 1898. Ed McMurray was the first Mayor; Harry Bunn and E. P. Diment were the First Councilmen; Chas Eckberg, the first clerk; and E. J. Flannagan, policeman. The first telephone switchboard was in use in 1907; the electric power plant in 1918; and Naegell Bros, and The State Bank of Hoople established in 1904. H. Bunn was bank chashier. Later The Farmer's State Bank opened for business with Oscar Truman as chashier. The Hoople townsite was plotted in the fall of 1890 when the Great Northern Railroad was built to that point. It was named for Allen Hoople, who settled on the land in 1880 on which the townsite is loacted. The first storekeeper was Fred Frazier; the first druggist, N. Young; the third business place to be established was a barbershop, confectionery and pool hall by George Johnson. A Robertson Lumber Yard was established early with Dick Farrel as
HOOPLE, PRESENT AND PAST By 1880 Allen Hoople and his family had arrived to join others who either walked from Grand Forks or the Red River or traveled by covered wagon to file for land to begin farming in the Hoople area. In 1980 Allyn Hoople, Allen's grandson who now lives in Hoople, could be given a plane ride by any of his many friends for recreation. They would see a towering sky-scraper on
Early days in Hoople. Building to the right is the Modern Woodmen of America Building, now the site of the Hoople Fire Hall. The building to the left is the livery stable.
Picture of the old Woodmen Hall and old Standard Service Station in Hoople taken from atop the St. Anthony and Dakota Elevator in Hoople in 1936 by Ray Johnson.
Ray Johnson took this picture from the steps of St. Anthony Dakota Elevator in 1936, looking toward the southeast section of Hoople. 437
the prairie — oh! It's the farmer-owned cooperative of the Hoople Farmers Grain Company built in 1906 with a couple !arge additions added over the years. The present manager is Wayne Lunnaborg who succeeded Charles Bessire who retired as manager in 1980. The cooperative has also converted the elevator, a little farther south, for grain drying and to handle sunflowers. The cooperative has also leased many grain hopper railroad cars from Burlington Railroad to move grain to market. The elevator is also a distributor of gasoline and oil. Another high-rise is the J. G. Hall and Sons Grain Elevator on the southwest edge of Hoople over by their potato warehouse
Governor Frazier from Hoople raising his hand while auctioning off an egg for the benefit of the Red Cross at a fundraising event in Hoople in 1918. Standing to the right of Governor Frazier is Delph Brandt. Frazier served as Governor from 1917-1921.
Loading potatoes into box cars in Hoople in 1918. Already looks like "Tater Town." and washplant. Bjorn and Warren, who live in Hoople, own and assist other members of the Hall Family in this large operation. Now large potato warehouses can be seen as far as the eye can see. The Folson Potato Company was the first to ship potatoes out of the state in 1907. Other early potato companies in Hoople besides Folsons were Aaland Potato Company and farmer-owned Hoople Potato Produce Company; Hoople Potato Produce was built in 1916 and the bins held 800 bushels. Now potato warehouses line the railroad tracks in town, north of Hoople sprawls the Hoople Potato Products, and approximately one mile south and east of Hoople you see another large area covered with potato warehouses. With all these potato warehouses in town and many on farms near Hoople you can see why Hoople is known as "Tater Town, U.S.A." Several of the North Dakota Potato Queens have also been from Hoople. According to the last census, Hoople has a population of 349 people. The present mayor of Hoople is Marcel Hillier and the four councilmen are: Russel Crowder, Roger Maras, Gordon Trana, and Carlton " B u d " Rinde with Mrs. Phil McIver as clerk.
There is activity on the streets of Hoople, both early and late. Businesses on the south side of the street are: Norman Olson's Barber Shop and the beauty shop his wife, Marlene, operates from their home in Hoople; west of the barber shop is the Hoople Bar, owned and operated by Elaine and Gordon Trana; east of the barber shop is the Standard Service Station, operated by Elaine and Bob Johnson who also have the Johnson Roofing and Chemical Company; east and across the street is Raynold Bodmer's Service Station which is leased from Hoople Farmers Grain; back of the Standard Station is Gullickson's Cafe where Lila serves delicious homecooked meals to many people each day; and south of her cafe is Cece and Roger Guderjahn's Market which was previously run by Ladifa and Joe Markel. On the north side of the main street is Darrell's Fairway, operated by Darrell and Shirley Freeze; and in the same building, Joel Fedje and his son, Dick, own and operate Our Own Hardware; west of this building, known as the Fedje Store, is the Hoople Branch of the Walsh County Bank with Gary Shannon as branch manager; across the alley is Reichert's new Insurance Building, owned and operated by Kent and L. S. Reichert; and directly west is H. & C. Lumber, managed by Larry Jasmer. When you go east and across the street from Fedje Hardware, you see the new American Legion and Community Center with a dining area and cafe, bar and meeting rooms; and Bennie Langerud operates his New York Life Insurance Business from that building. As you go farther east, you come to Moe's Garage which has been operated by Louis and Alice Moe since 1935, and the large blacksmith shop directly east of Moe's Garage which was operated by the late Conrad Gustafson — the last blacksmith in Hoople. Some other farm-realted places of business in Hoople are
The card states that Hoople was a dog-on-nice town. Prominently shown are the Hoople Livery Stable, and the old Lee house where the Cuderjohn family lived in 1980.
The Johnstone building in Hoople which was destroyed by fire in the late 1940's.
Churches FIRST LUTHERAN CHURCH OF HOOPLE Formal organization of First Lutheran was on Feb. 1 1 , 1914. And on Mar. 2, 1914, the constitution was adopted. Rev. H. O. Shurson, who encouraged it, was the first pastor and he served from 1 913-1 5.
Main street in Hoople in the early 1960's. LaVoy, Gene and Doug Olson's fertilizer and oil company; Hoople Farm Supply which is the area Allis-Chalmers Dealer and is owned by Lowell Hurtt and sons; Simplot, which operates out of two locations; andTrana's Fertilizer Company. The Hoople Cooperative Scale Association, one mile southeast of Hoople along State Highway No. 18, weighted over 3,000 semi-loads from July 1, 1979 to July 1, 1980. Most of these are potato loads leaving the Hoople area and we must remember that this does not include all bagged and washed loads from three Hoople washplants — Hall's, Hoople Potato Products, and Aaland's — since they don't need to weigh all washed and sacked loads. This is another reason why Hoople can truly be called "Tater Town."
On June 1 1 , 1939, the congregation celebrated its twentyfifth anniversary. Pastors serving up until that date were: Rev. Shurson, 1913-15; Rev. Adolph Egge, 1915-26; Rev. O. A. Norem 1926; Rev. H. H. Lee, 1926-28; and Rev. B. Brandford 1929-39. Rev. O. R. Swenson came in 1939 and in August, 1942, he left to serve as an army chaplain until 1945 in the Pacific area and returned as pastor to First Lutheran in Hoople and served the congregation until his resignation in 1955. Succeeding him was Rev. J. R. Sonnenberg, 1956-65; Rev. James Brooks, 1966-72; Rev. M. J. Sheldahl, 1972-79; and Rev. Kent Garlinghouse who came to serve the congregation in 1979.
The Valley (Hoople-Crystal) High School is located in Hoople and children in the elementary school go to Crystal. Hoople also has two churches — the First Lutheran and the Methodist. Hoople has a lovely park and swimming pool. And, people in Hoople and the surrounding area also get a feeling of security from the Hoople Volunteer Ambulance Service and the Volunteer Fire Department.
COMMITTEE'S NOTE: The information and material for the book section on Hoople and rural Glenwood was gathered by Lorraine Paulson and lleen and Bennie Langerud, and assembled by Lorraine. A special thanks to Beatrice Fedje for her assistance and to Ray Johnson for the numerous pictures of Hoople, and thanks to those who submitted histories and pictures.
Clergy who took part in activities when the First Lutheran Church at Hoople was dedicated May 5, 1962: left to right, James R. Sonnenberg, Dr. Loyal Tallakson, Rev. Leonard Smestad, Rev. O. R. Swenson, Rev. Oliver Johnson, Rev. S. O. Kvaale, and Rev. T. H. Megorden. In 1944 the beginning of the building fund for a new church originated. On Oct. 25, 1953, the fortieth anniversary of the congregation was observed with former Pastor Adolphe Egge delivering the sermon. The ground breaking service for the new church was conducted by Pastor 0 . R. Swenson on June 12, 1955. The first worship service was held in the new church on Feb. 10, 1957, and on May 5, 1957, Rev. Swenson was the guest speaker for the dedication. And, in 1962 Rev. Swenson was present for the
A 228,000 bushel annex (far left in photo) has increased the storage capacity of the Hoople Farmers Grain Company to approximately 492,000 bushels. The annex was completed Aug. 25, 1977.
Building Committee for new church: left to right, Murray Swanson, Mrs. Ole Brubakken, Elma Fagerholt, Mrs. Dennis Folson, Mrs. Andrew Fedje, Pastor Sonnenberg, Morgan Aaland. Leonard Gryde and Sam Fedje.
mortgage burning ceremony. On May 17, 1964, the fiftieth anniversary was celebrated with Dr. Loyal E. Tallakson, president of the Eastern North Dakota District, delivering the sermon.
this accomplished, the accomodations were improved and many suppers were held all year around. Surrounding communities came and enjoyed our good food.
Those who served on the building committee were: Mr. Morgan Aaland, chariman; Mr. Elmo Fagerholt; Mrs. Harold Douglas; Mrs. Andrew Fedje; Mrs. Ole Brubakken, secretary; Mrs. Dennis Folson; Mr. Leonard Gryde; Mr. Murray Swanson; and Mr. Sam Fedje. Because of an accident causing death in 1957, Mrs. Douglas was replaced by Mrs. Dennis Folson.
Plans for the new church and raising money was our next project. The Aid contributed $1,000.00 a year. When the building was completed, the Aid had contributed over $11,000.00 along with equipment such as chairs, tables, china, silver, etc. In 1960 the Evangelical Lutheran Synod came to a close, and we became the American Lutheran Church Women.
The new brick church has a sanctuary that seats two hundred twenty-five and a dining room which is often used as an overflow, fellowship room, pastor's office, secretary's office, Sunday School rooms on the main floor and in the basement, well equipped kitchen, recently enlarged library, and balcony for the organ, piano, and seating for chairs.
New parsonage of First Lutheran Church, Hoople. In 1979 the new parsonage was purchased by the parish with Pastor and Mrs. Garlinghouse as the first pastor's family to live in the home. Members of the congregation have in their hearts that the purpose of the congregation has always been to lead souls to Christ in our homes, community, nation, and mission fields through the service of the pastor and organizations for which both young and old are a part.
HISTORY OF A.L.C.W. FIRST LUTHERAN CHURCH, HOOPLE, N.DAK. In the early records of the Ladies Aid of First Lutheran Church, they were known as the "Kvinde Ferening," with the constitution and the secretary and treasurer reports in Norweigan. In the absence of the pastor, Mrs. Nels Folson would conduct the meetings. Meetings were informal and some hand work and socials were their means of raising money. Before 1913, for a short time, the ladies joined the Methodists to help make improvements in their church as the Lutherans conducted services there on Sunday afternoons. November 10, 1913, a meeting was held with Pastor Shurson to consider the advisability of organizing a congregation. A constitution was adopted March 2, 1914. On May 1 1 , 1915, the Board of Trustees was empowered to buy the Presbyterian Church. The Ladies Aid had sufficient money on hand and $600.00 was paid for the building. Meetings were held in the homes, lunch was served and small donations given. Half of the proceeds went toward the minister's salary (he was paid once a year). The women assumed the payment of unpaid pledges on the parsonage and some monies were contributed toward the janitor's salary. Everyone worked diligently and a wonderful fellowship was formed. The afternoon meeting gradually developed into an evening meal; prices went up and the Aid's treasury increased. In 1931 the Ladies realized that it would be impossible to build a new church so they decided to build a dining room and kitchen adjoining the church. With
Many pastors have served First Lutheran to the present date. They have attended our devotional meetings and conducted our Bible Studies. Instructions for Bible Study Leaders and spiritual guidance have been provided. Two church magazines, Scope and The Lutheran Standard, are mailed to all members. When a family or member joins the church^hey automatically become a member of the A.L.C.W. At the present time, there are 121 members. We are divided into Bible Study groups, work groups, and have prayer partners. We have two suppers a year, Spring and Fall, a few morning meetings, and some afternoon and evening meetings. We have observed several anniversaries and soon will be 25 years in our new building. Looking back, we realize the pioneer women have had a great part in establishing First Lutheran. We salute these early settlers and appreciate their foresight in making it possible for us to enjoy the right to worship and help in the furtherance of God's Kingdom here on earth.
NORTH TRINITY CONGREGATION (Earlier history is recorded in Walsh Heritage Vol. 1, p. 340). North Trinity was one of three rural congregations, along with South Trinity and Zion Lutheran of rural Hoople, who during the time of the merger of synods, was served by one pastor. This arrangement was continued until 1953 with Pastor Rev. L. O. Helleklev. He was the last pastor to serve North Trinity Church. North Trinity withdrew from the affiliation, leaving South Trinity and Zion churches to be served by one pastor. According to records, the first member to be baptized into the faith in the early congregation (on August 7, 1881) was Hannah Maria Monson. The last child baptized in the church was JoAnn Lynn Klava, daughter of David and Lois Klava, of Grafton, N. Dak., on June 22, 1958. Records show that the last marriage ceremony performed in the church building was that of Helen Johnson and the late Paul Almen, in November, 1939. However, the records will now be changed; as the wedding of Delene Monsebroten, daughter of Neil and Margaret Monsebroten of Nash, N. Dak., and Douglas Johnson, son of Elaine Johnson of Warren, Minn., was performed Sept. 6, 1980. Delene's great grandmother, Carrie Monsebroten, was organist when the congregation was first organized. Other marriages are recorded, but were performed at the parsonage, private homes or other churches by the North Trinity pastor. The marriage of David Klava and Lois Johnson on December 14, 1952, is the last documented by Rev. L. O. Helleklev. Although there have been several North Trinity family members buried in the cemetery since the congregation was disbanded, the last funeral service held at the church was for Carl Albert Johnson, June 29, 1959. In the last class to be confirmed as members, in September, 1949, were Eleanor Orsund, Linda Johnson, and Richard
Johnson. An adult confirmation of Marilyn Lou Anderson is recorded in 1 9 5 1 . The North Trinity church building is still somewhat primitive, but it is used annually. In June or July a worship service is held at North Trinity. Special guest speakers have conducted the services. Among the guest speakers have been Dr. Joseph Knutson, President Emeritus of Concordia College, Moorhead, Minn., whose father had earlier served the parish; pastors of neighboring Lutheran congregations; and college student descendants of early pioneers such as Rev. Lowell G. Almen, Scott Hove, and Wayne Stark, all of Concordia College. Last class confirmed in North Trinity September, 1949. Left to right, Richard Johnson. Linda Johnson, Eleanor Orsund, Rev. L. O. Helleklen. area; others from throughout the country often returned for a nostalgic visit to the simple white frame church of rural Nash, N. Dak. North Trinity celebrated its 100th Anniversary in a joint celebration with South Trinity and Zion Lutheran Churches. The Anniversary observance at North Trinity church was held at 7 p.m., July 6, 1979. The theme of the celebration was "Come, Let Us Praise The Lord" (Psalms 95:1). Guest speaker for the occasion was the Reverend Lowell G. Almen, editor of the Lutheran Standard (official magazine of the American Lutheran Church). He is the son of Helen Almen, a former member. His theme for the day was "Forget Not All His Benefits." Special music was provided by Cynthia and Lisa Johnson, Paul Johnson, Shelly Johnson, and Terry Johnson. A Norwegian song was sung by Mrs. Oscar Almen, Mrs. Velma Estad, and Mrs. Ruby Olson. The 103rd Psalm was read by Mrs. John Minnis: Miss Ella Dahl read the lesson from Ecclesiastes; and the Gospel was read by Victor Johnson. A flute selection was played by JoAnn Hall. Organist and pianist for the service were Mr. Ardell Almen and Mrs. Robert Johnson. Interior of North Trinity Church The old "pump organ" was, and still is, used to lead all church hymn singing. Some of the organists in the church were Helen Johnson Almen, Ruth Johnson Mesedahl, Carol Joy Johnson, Mrs. Reuben Johnson, Linda Johnson Fiocchi, Mr. Ardell Almen, and Mrs. Robert Johnson.
The service was well attended with people from thirteen different states attending. Pastors from sister congregations attended. Pastor Mandus Egge, son of a former pastor, Rev. Adolph Egge, gave a greeting. Committee members for the observance were as follows: Anniversary Booklet — Carol Joy Johnson, Kenneth Johnson, Duane Johnson, Mrs. Helen Almen, Mrs. Gunder Beyer, Miss Ella Dahl, and Victor Johnson; Invitation Committee — Mrs.
A long standing tradition is the ringing of the church bell at 6 p.m. on Christmas Eve. This is now carried on by Kenneth Johnson and his sons, William and Keith Johnson. This tradition has been carried over from Kenneth's grandfather, Anton Johnson, and later, his father, Oscar Johnson. With modern conveniences of a mobile telephone and the help of a cousin, Robert Johnson, of Hoople, N. Dak., they have rung the bell to be heard in far-off places such as California and New Jersey, as a Yuletide greeting to former parishioners from the old home church. At 1 p.m. Central Time on July 4, 1976, when President Ford decreed that bells throughout the country ring in the Third Century of Our National Independence, the bell of North Trinity, rung by Paul Johnson, great-grandson of pioneer members, also sounded. A special musical service of "Prayer and Praise" was presented by Our Saviour's Ladies Choir from Grafton, N. Dak., directed by Mrs. Ralph Spear. Rev. Ralph Spear led in devotions and prayer. Worshipers at these services include many members of the earlier North Trinity pioneer families who still live in the
Rev. Mandus Egge, left, and Rev. Lowell Almen converse at North Trinity Church's 100th anniversary.
1
Bernice Hall and Miss Ella Dahl; General Committee — Gloria Johnson; Banners — Bea Johnson; and flowers, Margaret Larson. At present, Duane Johnson is president of the church board; Kenneth Johnson is treasurer and sexton. North Trinity also has a cemetery board of which Duane Johnson is chairman and Robert Johnson is treasurer. The Cemetery Association is funded through donations and memorials which are used to maintain the grounds. Church records are kept by Kenneth Johnson. Although North Trinity Congregation is not regularly active, it may well be " A Church Still Reaching." Only the Lord knows the spiritual blessings bestowed, not only on members of the congregation itself, but also the on-going influence on their descendants (and others touched in various ways) that may well continue throughout time and eternity.
THE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH OF
HOOPLE
The first religious organization in this new settlement was a community Sunday school organized by Mrs. Thomas Frazier with meetings each Sunday in her farm home. As the school grew it was moved to the district school house which was then loacted one half mile north of the village of Hoople. Mrs. Frazier and her pupils loved the hymns of the Church so she would load her organ on the sled or wagon and two faithful horses hauled it across the fields to the school house. The team of horses waited patiently to return it after Sunday school closed. With this meager beginning came a desire for the preaching of God's word regularly and the Rev. H. P. Cooper, a Methodist circuit rider stationed in Grafton, came to minister to this little group. This was the first Methodist Episcopal Church in Hoople. Four pioneer ministers served here before the church building was erected. They were Rev. H. P. Cooper, Rev. J. C. Struthers, Rev. H. G. Clivers, and Rev. W. May. The church building was erected in 1893. It is located on the north branch of the Park River on farm land owned by Allan Hoople, Sr. As the congregation took form the first official board was named as follows: John Hughes, John Porter, Allan Hoople, E. J. McMurrey, David Henry, William Henry, Dave Young, T. H. Topping and Isaac Mill.
main building was completed. Mr. Hamilton then made pews and pulpit — the congregation purchased three cane bottom pulpit chairs and everyone felt the church was well furnished. The pulpit is still in use downstairs. A committee was named and they purchased and placed a wood or coal heater in the west end of the sanctuary with a long pipe over the heads of the congreation to the chimney located well front and on the annex wall. Neither the length of the pipe nor the heat of the sermons could keep the congregation real warm. Next a metal jacket was placed around the stove to help distribute the heat and that was some better but many cold feet trudged back home on Sunday morning. We look at the first 25 years and say again: "In the beginning — God spoke and worked through the hearts of men to establish the First Methodist Church in Hoople." Twenty-one pioneer preachers served the church from 1893 till 1925. They were as follows: Rev. D. C. Irwin, Rev. S. L. Hart, Rev. J. A. Davies, Rev. H. R. Randall, Rev. W. Bell, Rev. A. Murchison, Rev. A. S. Mason, Rev. O. D. Cannon, Rev. F. A. Grossman, Rev. E. L. Mudge, Rev. W. Burns, Rev. Thomas Dyer, Rev. I. E. Moats, Rev. C. T. Ensign, Rev. C. F. Brindley, Rev. W. J. Medland, Rev. E. E. Satterly, Rev. W. Hyndman, Rev. T. A. Simpson, Rev. E. Trigg, and Rev. T. S. Brown. During this time a member of the congregation was called to the ministry, George Henry, who later was named president of Wesley College. Rev. and Mrs. H.J. Empie began serving in 1924. The next period, 1924-1945, was a time of revival and the church was again filled with many young families. The Sunday school which was prominent in the beginning became one class of a few adults taught by Allan Hoople, Alex Smith, Mrs. Morley Nelson and others but that class was discontinued in the early 1920's. In the winter of 1924 Rev. and Mrs. Empie spoke to the young families, asking them to bring their children to Sunday
Under the guidance of their pastor, Rev. D. C. Irwin, the borad hired a carpenter and the church building was soon under way. John Hamilton was the carpenter and after many months the
Hoople Woman's Society of Christian Service of the United Methodist Church, Hoople. Seated are Mrs. L. T. Neilson, Mrs. Kate Parkins, Mrs. John Tharalson, Mrs. Wilmer Neilson, Mrs. Linton Woods, and Mrs. Albert Markel, Sr.
Hoople Methodist Church
Second row, Mrs. Roland Voegeli, Mrs. Charles Lietz, Mrs. Merle Phelps, Mrs. Orrin Parkins, Mrs. William Schaetzel, Mrs. Royal Phelps, Mrs. Albert Dickson, Mrs. Dean Markel, and Mrs. Don Kiser. Top row, Mrs. Charles Kraft Dickson, Mrs. William Cinder, Jr., Mrs. Raynold Bodmer, Mrs. Albert Markel, Jr., Mrs. Charles Bessire, Mrs. Allan Hoople, Mrs. Don Woods, Mrs. Lois Skaro Olson, Mrs. Duane Shannon and Mrs. Paul Tharalson. (Taken in 1970.)
school. Mrs. Empie gathered the children into one class but within a few Sundays she needed more teachers. Mrs. Mary Otto was the first teacher who came to assist and that was the beginning of a primary department. She was a faithful worker in the Sunday school till it was necessary she resign for health reasons. There were many who worked long and faithfully in the Sunday school and are no longer with us. To name a few Mr. and Mrs. Morley Nelson in the Bible class, Linton Woods superintendent of the Sunday school for many years. There are others such as Mr. and Mrs. Ted Holt and she taught the Bible class for several years. Looking back to 1925 a furnace was put into a dirt cellar under the front of the sanctuary. To stoke the furnace it was necessary to open a heavy trap door in the annex floor. Now the cold feet found their way to the front of the church to huddle over the grating in the floor. Music has always been a part of any Methodist service so in the early years of the church a small reed organ was purchased and the members of the congregation were always willing to give their service in playing. Among those who played for church services were Ethel French Kraft, Ruth Parkins Smith, Nellie Hurtt Schaetzel, and Maud Bunn Sonsterud. In 1925 the organ was sold and a piano took its place furnishing musics for hymn singing till the electric organ was purchased in 1945 with memorial funds, a gift from the Women's Society and the church treasury. A few years later a new piano was purchased for use in the sanctuary. During this period of evangelism four young men of the congregation heard and answered the call to "go and preach." They are Raymond Otto of Sweet Home, Oregon; Irvin Hultin a member of the North Dakota Conference; Leonard Kraft of Sioux Falls, South Dakota; and Ivan Goodahl of California. The Ladies Aid was active since the beginning of the church. One big event of the year was a supper and bazaar held in the Woodmen Hall. We will always remember George Hoople as the auctioneer for the bazaar items with several senior members of the Aid in charge of this sale. Among this group we remember Mrs. T. J. Neilson, Mrs. R. J. Woods, Mrs. Donald Smith, Mrs. Robert Naeglei, Mrs. Elsie Best, and Mrs. Minnie Skene. All the members worked with the supper. We can't forget all the boilers of good coffee made by Mrs. D. Brandt. In 1926 the Woman's Home Missionary Society was organized by Mrs. A. Roe of Grafton and Mrs. Empie. This organization continued active until women's work in the church was organized into one and given a new name — The Woman's Society of Christian Service. The Hoople Society has been generous in its giving to the mission work of the society. The Hoople W. S. C. S. provided the first district president, Miss Catherine Smith. She was also the conference president from 1954 to 1959. Other district officers from Hoople were Mrs. Linden Neilson and Mrs. Dean Markel. In the years 1924 to 1945 only six pastors served this charge. They were Rev. H.J. Empie, Rev. L. E. Dickenson, Rev. M. W. Gress, Rev. F. W. Gress, Rev. T. C. Torgerson, and Rev. F. E. Spear. The church was saddened by the death of Rev. F. W. Gress while serving this charge. Funeral services for him were held in Hoople and burial in the Hoople Cemetery. After standing and in use for over 50 years the church was in need of many repairs. A fund for building improvement was started and in October, 1950, the church board voted to begin this work by ordering a car of cement which arrived sooner than
anyone expected and this began the period of rebuilding within the church organizations as well as the church structure. Mr. Glen of Neche was hired to raise the church and to place it down on the foundation after the cement work was done. This began a winter of work for all the men of the congregation and for others who came to help. Albert Fagerholt spent many days putting the cupboards in the kitchen. The ladies of the church took turns bringing dinner and lunches up till the kitchen was usable. Then the men named Bill Scheatzel as the chef and he fed them well. They all seemed to get fat that winter on plenty of work, good fellowship and Bill's cooking. We have heard them say it was the best winter they ever spent, working all day and drawing up blue prints during the evening. From their work and planning came a church building well suited to the congregation's need. This church also took part in building the new parsonage in Crystal which was dedicated on September 2 1 , 1 9 5 8 . Rev. and Mrs. Rod McDonald worked hard on the parsonage project. Mrs. McDonald drew up the floor plan for the house. Much has been accomplished on the charge to make it acceptable to those who come to minister here.
Flower show sponsored by Dorcas Circle of the Hoople Methodist Church. Down through the years the church has sent forth its young men and women into the service of their country with some answering the summons on foreign soil. Two memorial services were held here for brothers killed in action. On Sunday, July 1, 1945, memorial services were held for Technician Fifth Grade Alvin J. Hultin killed in action on Luzon P. I. February 6, 1945. On Sunday, May 26, 1946, memorial services were held for Second Lieutenant John Vernel Hultin who was killed in action December 23, 1946, in the European Theater in Germany. We are thankful for the many others who were in their country's service and returned home again. There are others from the church who have served their country outside of the military, George Hoople in the state senate, Lynn J. Frazer, governor of North Dakota, and then in the United States senate are but two of those who have served their state and nation. During the period 1945-1970 nine ministers have served this church which is now the United Methodist Church. They are Rev. Paul Spear, 1945-1950; Rev. Marvin Johnson, 19501951; Rev. D. W. Nankivel, 1951 -1954; Rev. R. A. McDonald, 1955-1958. In 1959 the church was left to be supplied; Rev. Robert Paul, 1960-1961; Rev. Robert Collitt, 1962-1965; Rev. Charles Hunt, 1966-1967; Rev. Mark Meir, 1968; Rev. Roland Veogeli, 1969-70; and Rev. Charles Neill, 1970 to present. HOOPLE METHODIST CAMP MEETINGS In 1928, Rev. M. J. Empie called a group of people together from the Methodist congregation in the interest of holding a
camp meeting. The group was able to rent a tent, 40' by 60', from the DeMoines Tent Company and later they were able to purchase the tent. The services of a traveling evangelist and a men's quartet from Asbury College in Kentucky came to the first tent meetings. Mr. Linton Woods was elected the first president and he held this position for thirty-five years. The camp continued to be held each year in June. And one day, each year, was set aside especially for missionary emphasis. People came from the surrounding area and great interest was taken in the services, the Bible study classes, and morning sessions for children. A tabernacle was built in 1941. The Camp Association was dissolved in 1978.
Organizations HOOPLE WINS IN BETTERMENT CONTEST In November, 1964, Hoople captured first place honors and a five hundred dollar award in its population category in the North Dakota Community Betterment Awards Day in Williston. Through the cooperation of many individuals and organizations many goals were reached. Three major projects chosen by Hoople were: youth, beautification and agriculture. In 1963 a new swimming pool was opened in Hoople with dedication in June, 1964. Bluebird and Campfire groups for the girls were organized and summer baseball program for the boys. New playground equipment for the city park, picnic tables and shelters were made and these improvements are still being enjoyed by everyone. The band boosters organization converted an old furnace and coal room at the school into a fine band and music room. Beautification began with paving the streets and installing a curb and gutter system, and erecting new street lights on every half block. Flower planters and trash receptacles were placed throughout the town. The general clean-up and paint-up campaign brought a new look to Hoople.
LaVoy Olson, right, president of the Hoople Community Betterment Council, discusses an upcoming project with Allan Tharalson, (left), and Allyn Hoople. Hoople and Tharalson are among the dozens of Hoople residents who are active on betterment committees. Herald Photos Many committees and individuals were active in this joint effort so it would hardly be possible to thank each one, but we are all proud of Hoople and we remember what we did in bringing home this award.
"HOP TO HOOPLE" TATER TOWN U.S.A. Another highlight in events at Hoople is Potato Bowl, U.S.A., which has been held annually in Grand Forks for the past sixteen years. When Jerry Olson of Hoople was assistant coach and head football coach at UND, the community of Hoople became involved and helped organize a "Hop to Hoople" which is held for all area men and they have the opportunity to talk sports, meet players and coaches and have an evening meal. For the past fifteen years the community of Hoople has entered a float in the Potato Bowl Parade in Grand Forks and the Hoople entry has won first place several times and placed in other years. The Valley Band of Hoople and Crystal has also marched in the parade.
Tractor Pulling Contest in Hoople The agriculture committee concentrated its efforts on starting the Walsh County Tractor Pulling Contest. This event was enjoyed by many and in September, 1964, approximately 1,700 attend this exciting event and a barbecue meal was served to 1,200.
Tater Town salutes.
HOOPLE SWIMMING POOL The Hoople swimming pool was built in 1963 at a cost of $30,000. The Board of Directors for the Hoople Community Recreation, Inc., were Bjorn Hall, L. S. Reichert, Allyn Fagerholt. Paul Fedje and Laufey Aaland.
Hoople swimming pool under construction in 1963. The fund-raising process began by asking $100 pledges from people of the community. The goal was reached by individual contributions and donations from local business places and organizations. The 1972-73 State Potato Queen, Bette Hoople, riding in the Potato Bowl Parade in Grand Forks on a float sponsored by "Tater Town " — Hoople.
Through the years approximately 3,000 students have received swimming instructions by certified Red Cross instructors.
Tater Town Express
A group of hosts and hostesses at one of the Hoople Swimming Pool Balls. Left to right, Vernon Rodger, Lavern and Allan Tharalson, Evelyn and Chris Midgarden and Nettie Rodger. For the past 17 years an annual Swimming Pool Ball has been held to provide funds for maintenance, instructors, etc.
HOOPLE AMERICAN LEGION The Hoople American Legion was organized on Apr. 24, 1929. The Post was named after John Anderson, the community's first casualty of World War I, so now the Hoople American Legion is known as John Anderson Post No. 240. The following names appear on the charter: Louis Paulson, John Roholt, Carl E. Lerud, Theodore Nelson, Theodore H. Holt, Erling Logeland, Otto R. Paulson, Arthur Fedje, Kittle Listul, Hub Travers, Ernest DeSautel, Olaf Fedje, Halvor Markholt, Albert Dickson, Albert Erlanson and Gilbert Erlanson.
Truck carrying early potato growers.
Norton Hendrickson was the first commander of the new organization; Louis Paulson, first vice commander; Arthur Fedje, 445
community. The first officers were Mrs. Mary Lageland, president; Mrs. Anna Travers, vice president; Mrs. Merle (Art) Fedje, secretary; and Mrs. Alice Lerud, treasurer. Other charter members besides the officers were Marion Fedje, Lydia Desautel, Nina Listul, Clara Duff, Cora Holt, Anna Lerud, Mary Aaland, Minnie Paulson, Vera Lee, Margaret Anderson, Inga Paulson, Dina Dickson, Tena Hendrickson, Lily Paulson, Nettie Rodgers, Syneva Fedje, and Aldis Folson.
Post No. 240 of the American Legion at Hoople honored all of its members with 25 years or more of membership by awarding them special pins in 1972. In the above photo, from left to right, are: front row — Helmer Borge, Harold Bjorneby, Joel Fedje, Roy Oasheim, Al Kern and Ray Johnson. Second row — Joe Markel, Odin Springan, Don Folson, Allan Tharalson, Leonard Midboe and Pete Leedahl. Third row — Maynard Gjevre, Ernie Fedje, Bjorn Hall, L. S. Reichert, Leonard Lowe, Paul Fedje and Russell Hulton.
In 1945 (during World War II) the American Legion Auxiliary served a banquet and presented a program to all Legionnaires and their wives. It was held in the old Lutheran Church dining room addition in Hoople. Over the years, auxiliary members have sold Poppies and Forget-Me-Nots to help veterans and their families. They have also sewn articles for the Veterans Hospital in Fargo. At Christmas time auxiliary members have packed and distributed fruit baskets, and packed candy bags for Santa's Day in Hoople. The auxiliary also serves a meal for Legionnaires and the general public on Memorial Day. Sometimes this meal has been served prior to the program and other times after the Legion memorial service.
Others with 25 years or more of membership not present for the photo taking were Thelmer Johnson, Sam Odegard, Harry Ostenrude, George Wadie, Sam Wadie, Arnold Bakken, Ed Broten, Frank DeJeager, Elmo Fagerholt, Ardell Johnson and Vernon Midboe. (Photo by Anderson Photography, Park River).
In 1957 and '58, Mrs. Conrad (Emelia) Gustafson, Hoople, served as district auxiliary president.
post adjutant; Hub Travers, sergeant at arms; Olaf Fedje, historian; and Halvor Markholt, chaplain. The first Legion Hall was purchased from the Modern Woodmen Lodge in March of 1951. Prior to that time the organization held meetings in the basement of a cafe and in the firehall. The hall was improved by insulating the walls, installing a new furnace, cementing the floor, shingling the roof, with much of the work done by volunteer labor.
Hoople Legion Community Center In 1971 a new American Legion Community Center was built. The building measures 50 X 98 feet. Located in the new Legion center is a cafe or steakhouse, which is leased out; several meeting rooms, and a bar. Many community functions are held in this spacious and well furnished'building. The Legion Auxiliary, Hoople Civic Club, Annual Hoople Swimming Pool Ball, and other gatherings are held at the center. Throughout the years the Legion Post has been instrumental in sponsoring baseball programs, sent delegates to Boys State, contributed to the Hoople swimming pool, and supported other civic projects.
In 1976, the Hoople Legion Auxiliary donated a flag and pole to the Hoople Park. Left to right are Alvina Fagerholt,vice president, and Anna Travers, Auxiliary president. Centennial year (1 976) the auxiliary placed a flag pole and flag in the Hoople Park. It was dedicated on July 4th, at the allclass reunion celebration in the park. The auxiliary also donated a flag to the Hoople School in 1977.
HOOPLE AMERICAN LEGION AUXILIARY The Hoople Legion Auxilariy was organized in January, 1939, and still continues as an active organization in the 446
On Nov. 11, 1977 (Veteran's Day) the Legion auxiliary served a banquet and presented a program for all veterans and their wives from the Hoople community.
KEN-DU HOMEMAKERS CLUB
At one of the auxiliary meetings in 1977 the auxiliary honored two Gold Star Mothers — Mrs. Henry Johnson and Mrs. Ted Midboe — and presented them with auxiliary emblem broaches. The first Gold Star Mother in the Auxiliary was Mrs. Margaret Anderson.
During the eveing in conversation it was mentioned the fact of not seeing many neighbors during the past winter and what could be done to avoid isolation for the next winter. It was then the idea of a club in the community was suggested to solve the problem.
The auxiliary has a membership of approximately fifty-three. In 1980 there are several charter members who are living and they are as follows: Anna Travers, Nettie Rodgers, Lydia Desautel, Dina Dickson, Nina Listul, Lily Paulson, Marion Fedje, and Vera Lee.
In April, approximately 25 women were called and most were in favor of a Homemakers Club, and the first meeting was held May 13, with 12 women attending.
Early in March of 1955, on a cold winter evening, Harold and Mary Jane Flaten came to visit Gail and Urby Meberg.
Mrs. Harold Flatten was named president of Walsh County's newest Homemakers Club, when the group met at the farm home of Mrs. D. U. Meberg. Mrs. Vernon Lindberg was named vice president; Mrs. Melford Anderson, secretary-treasurer; Mrs. Charles Lindell, program chairman. Other members of the club (which was as yet unnamed), and the 49th Homemakers club in Walsh County, were Mrs. James Gillespie and Mrs. Louis Olson.
HOOPLE POTATO PRODUCTS, INC. Hoople Potato Products, Inc., and the Hoople Potato Storage Association were organized in 1960 and operate as a joint venture under a single management team. The firms are actively involved in washing, grading, packaging, and shipping fresh market potatoes throughout the United States and to selected Canadian and overseas markets.
Walsh County's new club was named Ken-Du, since part of its members live in Kensington Township and the others in Dundee Township. Marvel Lindberg gets credit for naming the club, with the other members agreeing unanimously. After this meeting new members joined and enjoyed the monthly social, as well as informative and educational meetings. Some of the projects undertaken during the years have been lessons on landscaping, floor coverings, knitting, cake frostings and decorationg, candle-making and decorating, MotherDaughter Banquet, programs and lunch at Sunset Home and Good Samaritan, pieced quilt made and handstitched by members, crocheted afghan made by members, sponsoring of baby showers, bridal showers, housewarmings, and remembering the elderly and shut-ins with candy and homebaking each Valentine's Day, and an annual Christmas dinner and party with husbands as guests, money donations to favorite charity in place of gift exchange. Donations are made yearly (to mention a few) to the Klein family at Sawyer, N. Dak., Zion Harbor Bible Camp, Camp Grassick, Good Samaritan, All Faith's Chapel, Santa Claus Girls, Grafton Shopping Tour.
Seated is Tom Johnson, salesman; standing, left to right, Gene Kringstad, production supervisor; Leigh Brandt, office manager; Wes Phelps, storage supervisor, and Joel Anderson, general manager.
Former members who have belonged to the club at one time, but have dropped out for various reasons are: Mmes. D. U. Meberg, Melford Anderson, Vernon Lindberg, Charles Lindell, James Gillespie (deceased), Louis Olson (deceased), Floyd Greenwood and Alton Larson; Miss Johanna Rustgard (deceased), Miss Christine Rustgard; Mmes. Gene Larson, Neil Larson, Theodore Loftsgard, Helmer Hultin, Orvin Loftsgard, Robert Holt, James Letnes, Lowell Hurtt, James Langerud,
The company maintains one of the largest single wash plants in the Red River Valley and packages potatoes in five to one hundred pound packs utilizing a variety of packaging materials. In addition to shipping potatoes, Hoople Potato Products serves as area dealer/distributor for Agsco and Ortho agrichemical products.
Hoople Potato Products, Inc. 447
appointed temporary chairperson and Mrs. Elma Fagerholt, temporary secretary. The constitution and by-laws for the M & M Club was drawn up by Mrs. Emest Fedje and Mrs. Leonard Gryte. The first meeting was held at the home of Mrs. Odne on Dec. 4, 1944, and the proposed constitution was read. The second meeting was held at the home of Mrs. Oliver Desautel with Helen Roberts, who was soon to be Mrs. Cliff Johnson, as hostess for the Dec. 18th meeting. At the following meeting the constitution was accepted, colors chosen were green and yellow, with the yellow rose as the club flower. The name chosen for the club was the M & M Study Club and the motto chosen was "Service Above Self."
Quilt-making completed: left to right, Evelyn Kjos, Beverly Hurtt, Jeanne Walker, Janet Leith, Clarice Langerud, Ellen Hurtt, Mabel Ostenrude, Juanita Myhre. Hilda Gjevre was missing on the picture. Benjamin Langerud, Dean Skjerven. Douglas Leith, Tillman Goodoin, Eldon Thompson, Richard Erickson and Paul Nelson. The present 12 members are Beverly Hurtt, president of the club; Mary Jane Tollefson, Hilda Gjevre, Evelyn Kjos, Ruby Gunhus, Ellen Hurtt, Clarice Langerud, Juanita Myhre, Mabel Ostenrude, Alice Stevens, Audrey Lee, and Jeanne Walker. This year, 1980, marks the club's 25th anniversary. There is only one charter member still in the club — Mary Jane Tollefson. So we come to the end of the first 25 years — may there be many more. They have been good years.
MONDAY NITE STUDY CLUB (1927) The Monday Nite Study Club of Hoople was organized in December, 1927, at the home of Mrs. George Johnston of Hoople. In April, 1928, the members voted to join the General Federation of womens clubs, with headquarters in Washington, D.C. This is the largest women's volunteer service organization in the world. Hoople has three clubs that are members of this organization. 1
The Monday Nite Study Club meets twice a month, from September through May each year. Meetings are held in the homes of the members. Each fall a rummage sale is held and lunch served all day to help finance the many projects the club supports, such as CARE, The International Music Camp, Girls State, Cancer Fund, March of Dimes, Heart Fund, Mental Health, and many local projects. In 1979 its 50th anniversary was observed with a large party with many farmer members present as well as district and state officers of the G.F.W.C. Many members have attended State and National conventions of the G.F.W.C. in May of 1980, all the North Dakota members were hostesses at the installation of Mary Jo Shide of Larimore as president of the G.F.W.C. This took place in St. Louis, Mo. M&MSTUDYCLUB(1944) An organizational meeting was held on Nov. 16, 1944, at the home of Mrs. Harold Douglas, a member of the Monday Nite Study Club, which sponsored the new club. Mrs. W. Odne was
M & M Picnic in Hoople (1975): left to right, back row, Beatrice Fedje, Phyllis Anderson, Elnor Hoople, Thelma Sheldahl, Anne Estad and Helen Johnson; kneeling, Adeline Fedje, Dorothy Anderson, Inge Aaland; seated, Violet Fedje and Winnie Fedje. Picture was taken by Anna Travers, another member of the club. Charter members were Mesdames Odne, James Porter, Leonard Gryte, Ernest Fedje, Elmo Fagerholt, Hubb Travers, Morgan Aaland, Allen Hoople, Cliff Johnson, and Misses Catherine C. Smith, Winifred Fedje and Beatrice Fedje. Members joining later were Mrs. Bud Anerson, Mrs. Carlton Rinde, Mrs. Don Kiser, Mrs. Shirley Melland and Adeline Fedje who have continued their membership. Others who have been members were Geraldine Paulson, Mrs. Adolph Aaland, Mrs. Merle J. Fedje, Mrs. Louis Estad, Mrs. Wallace Ruud, and Mrs. M. J. Sheldahl. New members in 1980 are Mrs. Leonard Estad and Mrs. Shirley Melland who rejoined. The club has raised funds for the various projects through rummage sales, bake sales, silent auctions and dues. Gifts are given to Care, Heart Fund, Girls' State, Music Camp, and the State School in Grafton. The M & M Study Club celebrated its twenty-fifth Anniversary in 1969. The M & M Club also sponsored the Tater Town Study Club. Besides the regular programs, twice a month the club reviews the North Dakota Clubwoman and the Club Women. The M & M Club is affiliated with the G.F.W.C. and it is proud that Mrs. Don Shide from .arimore, N. Dak., is the national president of the General Federation of Women's Clubs.
affliated with the General Federation of Women's Clubs in the summer of 1 970. Regular club meetings are held every second Monday of the month. The purpose of the club is to improve minds through study; community service and entertainment; and also to support projects pertaining to the Federation Club work.
HOOPLE CHINA PAINTERS Elvira Engelmann, wife of Wm. " B u d " Engelmann, was introduced to china painting as a hobby during a winter spent in her native Florida in 1957. Returning from there she and a few friends, namely, Mazel Neilson, Jean Bodmer, Beth Tharalson, Hazel Tharalson and Hazel Johnston took a few lessons in Grand Forks from Mrs. Cecil Williams.
Present members and officers are Mrs. Mark Holt, president; Mrs. Larry Larson, vice-president; Mrs. Paul Rinde, secretarytreasurer; Mrs. Duane Shannon, Mrs. Jack Hanson, Mrs. Albert Markel, Jr., Mrs. Roger Maras, Mrs. Bruce Fagerholt, Mrs. Loyd Oberg, Mrs. Roger Bjorneby, Mrs. Phil Maclver, Mrs. Joel Anderson, Mrs. Dale Brubakken, Mrs. David Estad, and Mrs. Lowell Hurtt.
Later she began teaching ladies from Hoople and St. Thomas. Two of her first students were Mrs. Ernest Fedje and Mrs. Carlton Rinde who are now very accomplished painters. Mrs. Rinde and Mrs. Jean Bodmer later gave lessons and sold supplies to many painters. The Hoople ladies helped organize the North Dakota China Painters Guild which in 1980, marked its fifteenth anniversary.
HOOPLE HAPPY HUSTLERS The oldest 4-H Club in Walsh County is the Hoople Happy Hustlers which was organized in 1941. In 1970 the name was changed to the Countryside Girls when more girls from the Nash and Grafton area joined the 4-H Club and the 4-H Club was being sponsored by the Countryside Homemakers Club.
The Shady Scrollers is one of the four china painting clubs that was active in Hoople, where some of the town's veteran china painters belonged to two clubs. At work at the left, from left to right, are Mrs. Raynold Bodmer, Mrs. Morgan Aaland, Mrs. Donald Folson, and Mrs. Linden Tharaldson. At the right, Mrs. William Engelmann, center, shows a vase to Mrs. Carleton Rinde, left, and Mrs. Ernest Fedje. In 1960, Mrs. Rinde, Mrs. Bodmer, Mrs. Morgan Aaland, and Mrs. Engelmann went to Detroit, Mich., to the International Teachers Organization Show and since then quite a few ladies have been attending the International Shows and Regional Shows all over the United States.
This picture was taken in 1951 at the home of their 4-H leader, Bernice Thompson, who is now Mrs. Bill Hall of Edinburg. Left to right, standing, are Doris Midgarden, Ruth Berg, Mickey Walstad, Marilyn Midgarden and Yvonne Thompson; seated, Lorraine Paulson, Linda Erlanson, Peggy Iverson, Judy Berg, Margie Midgarden, and Jean Johnson.
Several painting groups have been formed. The are the China Coupers, Shady Scrollers, Monday Night, and Friday Club. The women not only paint china but also lamps, porcelain tiles which are framed, procelain Christmas ornaments and round tiles for table tops. Professional out of state teachers are brought into the area twice a year to present new ideas. Three Hoople women are presently members of the International Porcelain Art Teachers (I.P.A.T.); they are Marsha Rinde, Jean Bodmer and Elvira Engelmann.
Charter members of the club in 1941, were Loreen Thompson, Betty Ann Flaten, Elaine and Norma Johnson, Jean and Ruth Midgarden, Gladys Nybo and Marcia Paulson. Mrs. Oscar (Joann) Walstad was the first leader and in charge of organizing the Hoople Happy Hustlers 4-H Club.
Mrs. Henry (Dorothy) Anderson has been teaching classes in china painting the past few years and also enjoys having displays of her work at art and craft show in the area. At these show people are able to purchase her china painting.
HOOPLE LADIES CIVIC CLUB The Hoople Ladies' Civic Club was organized in 1928 with Mrs. J. B. Johnson as president, Mrs. Andrew Berdahl as vice president, and Mrs. George Sonstrud, secretary. The aims of the club — a club with a purpose — the care and upkeep of the cemetery and the park. In early days the women volunteered the work and later people were hired to do the mowing and incidental work. Banquets were given honoring athletic groups. When Hoople joined the N.D. Community Betterment Program for 1963-1964, the club sponsored its organization that involved men and women to reach this goal, winning first in its division.
TATER TOWN STUDY CLUB April 13, 1970, was the founding date for the Tater Town Study Club of Hoople. The charter members were Mrs. David Estad, Mrs. Roger Bjorneby, Mrs. Joel Anderson, Mrs. Dale Brubakken, Mrs. Paul Rinde, Mrs. Albert Markel, Jr., Mrs. Marvin Holt and Mrs. Loyd Oberg. Charter officers were Mrs. Joel Anderson, president; Mrs. Dale Brubakken, vice-president; and Mrs. Roger Bjorneby, secretary-treasurer. The club became 449
For three wears, for the Labor Day Tractor Pulls, the club helped by serving barbecued meals. In 1968 the club celebrated its 40th anniversary in the school gym with a program and tea. Mrs. Bud Engelmann was president at that time. In 1978 the club observed its 50th anniversary at the Lutheran Church dining room with an interesting program and silver tea. Mrs. Bennie Langerud was president at this time. Mrs. Mazel Neilson was honored for being a member for 50 years. Left to right, Mazel Neilson, Alice Moe, Adeline Fedje and Beatrice Fedje at Golden Anniversary for Hoople Civic Club in 1978.
VICTORY 4-H CLUB
Linda Fagerholt and lleen Langerud who was president at the time of the 50th Anniversary of the Civic Club in 1978. Mazel Neilson at the coffee service at Civic Club golden anniversary. Mazel became a fifty year member of the club at that time, 1978. Victory 4-H Club in Hoople: left to right, front row, Tom Hurtt, Terry Ginder, Owen Melland, Mark Russell, and Lynda Johnson; back row, Paul Rinde, leader; Noel Tharalson, John Paulson, leader; Mark Carson, Jolyn Ginder and Kathy Melland. The Victory 4-H Club was organized in 1 943. Some of the former leaders are: P. J. Flaten, Elvin Gryde, Oscar Walstad, Chris Midgarden, George Walstad, Ernie Thompson, Harold Bjorneby, Bruce Fagerholt, Ray Brubakken, Paul Rinde, Roger Bjorneby and Mark Holt. When the club was organized it was a boys' club and now both boys and girls are members of this ag club.
HOOPLE VOLUNTEER AMBULANCE
Marian Fedje at the guest book with Babe Bodmer registering for Civic Club Golden Anniversary in 1978. In 1976 the Hoople Civic Club served a picnic at the park for the All-Class Reunion. In 1977 it sponsored an auction sale and picnic with all proceeds given to the ambulance drive when a 1971 model was purchased. In 1978, it sponsored an auction and supper at the school for the benefit of the Swimming Pool Fund. Another auction sale and supper was held in 1979, for the Ambulance Fund when it purchased a new ambulance. The club used to meet in the homes, but now meets once a month in the American Legion Building and has a variety of interesting programs. The present officers are Mrs. Stanley Markel, president; Mrs. Emelia Gustafson, vice president; Mrs. Leonard Estad, secretary; and Mrs. Donald Folson, treasurer. The membership of the club as of 1979 is sixty-eight.
The Hoople Volunteer Ambulance was formed on June 3, 1969. Mr. Orlan Melland was elected president and Allan Tharalson was elected secretary-treasurer. The original squad was made up of area nurses — Mrs. Joel (Amy) Fedje, Mrs. Marloew (Merle) Woods and Mrs. Bjorn (Wanda) Hall. Orland Melland, Allan Tharalson, Paul Midgarden, Bennie Langerud, Lowell Hurtt and Lyle Fedje were some of the first drivers and assistants, aided by several other community volunteers. The first ambulance was a 1959 Cadillac ambulance purchased from the Park River Ambulance Squad. This was replaced in 1975 by a 1971 Cadillac coach ambulance. This 1971 unit is still in service, serving as the secondary ambulance or backup unit. The primary ambulance is a 1979 mini-rescue modular coach, on a Ford chassis, purchased in the summer of 1979. The money was raised by donations from the community and a community picnic held in the Hoople Park, co-sponsored
The newest fire truck which was purchased in 1973. Their white International truck, which is their newest, was purchased Mar. 23, 1963. Hoople Volunteer Ambulance Service. by the Ambulance Squad and the Hoople Civic Club.
The new Fire Hall was built in 1971 and the trucks and fire equipment were moved to the new hall Jan. 16, 1972.
The Hoople ambulance has averaged approximately 26 runs a year since it was formed eleven years ago, with service to the Grafton, Park River, and Cavalier hospitals, and transfers to Grand Forks and Fargo. The ambulance is a non-profit organization and gets its funding through its memberships. There is a charge of $10 per household a year for which the members are taken to the above mentioned hospitals, except to Fargo, at no additional expense. The present officers are Ron Brubakken, president; Warren Hall, vice-president; Wendy Oistad, secretary; and, Roger Maras, treasurer. There are now fourteen trained emergency medical technicians, emergency care technicians, and nurses. They are Darrell Freeze, Marilyn Hall, Wanda Hall, Arlen Jackson, Warren Hall, Bruce Langerud, Vicki Rieger, Joel Anderson, Kathy Vasquez, Bradley Nilson, Roger Guderjahn, Ron Hultin, Elaine Johnson, and Ron Brubakken. Each person has completed training in excess of 200 hours with refresher courses every two years.
Hoople Fire Board in 1972: left to right, Bob Johnson, Tilbert Midboe, Fire Chief Leonard Lowe, Carlton "Bud" Rinde, Ray Johnson, President Russell Hultins and secretarytreasurer Don Folson. The Hoople Fire Department is made up of volunteers. They hold monthly meetings and fire drills at the fire hall. Both city and rural men volunteer.
HOOPLE FIRE DEPARTMENT The Hoople Fire Department still owns their original 1937 Chevrolet tank and pumper truck, which is in good operating condition. The Hoople Rural Fire District was organized in August, 1962.
Schools SCHOOLS OF GLENWOOD TOWNSHIP School District No. 76, Walsh County, is better known as the Gryde School. It is located in Section 20 of Glenwood Township. (The early history of Gryde School is written up in Volume I, page 348 of the "Walsh Heritage" Books.)
New Hoople Fire Hall built in 1971, with the 1937 fire truck which is still in use.
Teachers were 1929-32, Verna Larson; 1932-33, Marcella Wieg; 1933-35, Nora Gryde; 1 935-36, Nora Gryde, Mrs. Bella Erlandson; 1936-37, Esther Starkson; 1937-38, Helen Johnson; 1938-39, Helen Johnson (Almen); 1939-41, Selma Swenson Hultin; 1941-42, Borghild Samson; 1942-44, Sylvia Phair; 1944-45, Delores Staven; 1945-46, Norma Westby; 1946-47, Margaret Born — year completed by Mrs. Leonard Fagerholt; 1947-48, Adeline Sunderland; 1948-49, Louanda Thrugstad; 1949-50, Margaret Gryde; 1950-51, Alice Kalgard; 1951-52, Constance French; 1952-53, Mrs. Carol Thompson, Frances Rath; 1953-54, Dorothy Swenson, Mrs. Joseph Almen; 1954-55, Mrs. Joseph Almen; 1955-56, Mrs. Amund Nygard; 1956-57, Richard Holand.
Valley's first trial year was in 1968-69 with Myron Jury as the first superintendent. The superintendents that have followed are 1969-70, Ben Bordo; 1970-72, Elwood Richmond; 197275, Larry Durand; and 1975-81, James N. McGurran. The first school building in the village of Hoople was held in the Nicholson building in 1891. A year later a two-room school was built on the present school grounds. This was an elementary school with a few 9th grade courses offered.
Gryde School District No. 76, Rural Hoople: first row, Arlen Jackson, Loren Hurtt, George Hurtt, Lorraine Paulson, Lois Hurtt, John Paulson and Millie Grefthen; second row, Helen Holt, Marilyn Jackson, Marian Hurtt, Inez Hurtt; third row, Robert Holt, John Hurtt, Jr., Hurtt, Evelyn Hurtt, Glenna Jackson, Jerry Paulson; back row, Gladys Nybo, teacher, Borghild Samson, and Marcia Paulson.
The Hoople High School and old Elementary School. The old Lutheran Church was moved and is now the school parking
lot. In 1914 the school district consolidated with two country schools. A new structure was erected at that time. The brick high school building was built in 1921, and was the year of the first four-year graduating class. The gymnasium, a donation from the people of the community, was added to the school in 1948. In 1958 a one-story addition was built for the grade school. A new lunch room, science lab, home-economics and industrial arts department were also included in this building.
District No. 76 Glenwood Township (Better known as the Gryde School) In 1957-58 — school was reorganized as part of Hoople
Dist. 42. The school building is presently owned by Maynard Gjevre, Sr. The school was remodeled into a home and presently Maynard Gjevre, Jr. and his family live there.
HOOPLE HIGH SCHOOL Hoople High School Superintendents from 1920 on are: 1920-21, Violet Fitzmaurice; 1921-22, Violet Fitzmaurice; 1922-23, R. W. Beighlie; 1923-24, R. W. Beighlie; 1924-25, F. S. Hallanger; 1925-26, Cliff Hultin; 1926-27, John Meisner; 1927-37, G. F. Tollefson; 1937-45, LeRoy Peterson; 194547, C. A. Solom; 1947-48, H. A. Kappes; 1948-50, L. S. Reichert; 1950-51, Ross Barker; 1951-52, R. A. Badker; 195254, M. L. Castleman; 1954-57, R. Ratzlaff; 1957-1960, M. E. Barthel; 1960-62, Melvin Anda; 1962-66, George Brooks; 1966-68, Myron Jury;.
The Hoople and Crystal School districts merged for a threeyear trial period in 1968, after which they voted for a permanent consolidation as Valley District No. 12. At the present time the high school is held in Hoople, using only the one-story building built in 1958 for a grade school. Due to the few rooms being used and rising fuel costs, the brick high school building was closed in the winter of 1979, being used only as cold storage. The industrial arts room in the grade school building was remodeled in December, 1979, into a music room, superintendent's office principal's office and outer office. The elementary classes are in the Crystal building. In the 1920's the school bus was a sled pulled by horses. The class of 1938 was the first class that wore graduation caps and gowns. The first Hoople school yearbook, called the "Hoople HiLites" was printed in 1938. The name of the book was later changed to the Hohiscan. This name was comprised of the first two letter of Hoople High School Annual. The Valley School chose the name Valley Raider for their yearbook. In 1942-43, the Hoople Spuds basketball team took second place in the state tournament. The Hoople Spuds took seventh place at the State Basketball Lourney in 1949 at Minot and in 1950 at Fargo they took fifth at the State Tournament there. The largest Hoople High School enrollment was 77 students, in the 1966-67 school year. The Valley football team was one of seven undefeated teams in North Dakota the fall of 1968.
Wayne Johnson '52; Dean Markel '52; Hamilton Hurtt. Jr. '50; John Skaro '50; Carl Anderson '50; and Bob Johnson '51. Back row, Harlan Haugland '51; Bill Ginder '49; Jerry Olson 51; Noel Fedje '51; Jim Hurt '52; John Carson '50; Glen Martinson '50; LaVoy Olson '50.
Hoople High School graduates held reunion for classes of 1948-1952 on July 3, 1965. Left to right, first row, Mrs. Jerry Olson (Nadine Rodger'49); Mrs. Louis Malenowski (Carole Parkins '48); Mrs. Duane Shephard (Janet Lohse '50); Mrs. Harlan Haugland (Vonnie Thompson '52); Mrs. Jim Bigwood (Donald A. Dickson '50); Mrs. Laddie Zahradka (Delores Desautel '49); Mrs. Al Klongerbo (June Gryte '50); Mrs. LaVoy Olson (Joyce Fedje '52).
Valley High School in Hoople.
Second row, Mrs. John Skaro (Lois Neilson '52); Mrs. Roy Kincaid (Arlene Ginder '49); Mrs. Glenn Udby (Carol Loftsgard '51); Mrs. Harold Void (Eunice Fagerholt '49); Mrs. Don Tisdale (Marian Hurtt '51); Mrs. Jim Bolstad (Adeline Torreson '48); Mrs. Lloyd Pladson (Earlyce Fedje '49); Mrs. Allyn Fagerholt (Carolyn Gunestenson '51); Mrs. Allan Myrvik (Opal Veum '50); Mrs. Howard Johnson (Darlene Torreson '50); and Mrs. Rollie Larson (Elsie Ginder '51).
The Valley Raiders basketball team took sixth place in the State Tournament in 1978. Foreign exchange students provided a new learning experience for students at Valley High School. In 1973 Annariika Janson from Finland was a member of the M. J. Sheldahl family. Cecilia Nilsson, a native of Sweden, lived with the Bjorn Hall family.
Third row, Allyn Fagerholt, '52; Richard Swanson '52;
In 1 976 Hoople hosted an all-class reunion.
History of Hoople City in Photos
A group of Hoople men at community gathering; left to right, Ole Shannon, Hugo Oberg, Carl Rinde, Murdo Smith, Andrew Fedje, Ray Bodmer and Albert Markel, Sr. (standing behind Markel is Sam Fedje.)
Fargo area Hoople natives met at North Dakota State University with President L. D. Loftsgard to plan for "Hoople Day" April 12, when a Hoople plaque will be installed in the Red River Mall and 1,500 ten-pound sacks of potatoes will be distributed free. In the front row are (left to right): Jean Travers Howland, Moorhead; Marge Rinde Haggart, Fargo; Bev Hendrickson Kibler, Fargo, and Earlyce Fedje Pladson, Moorhead. In the back row are Virginia Douglas Geston, West Fargo; President Loftsgard; Noel Fedje, Fargo; James Larson, Fargo; George Dickson, West Fargo, and Bob "Goose" Johnson, Fargo. Others assisting with the planning but not pictured are Marian Douglas Halgrimson and Isabel Fedje Johnson, both Moorhead.
Oscar Johnson on sleigh at the Ole Johnson farm in Glenwood Township. 453
Hoople after the 1966 blizzard. Mattress factory burning in Hoople in 1939. Building standing to the left of the fire is the Gullickson Cafe in 1980.
A. Paul Tharalson homestead near Hoople.
Getting ready for a tour around Hoople are N. C. Olson, cranking the car, Ab Kraft at the wheel, and Ole A. Fedje in the backseat.
John Paulson Farm, Hoople, Glenwood Township
Jean Bodmer, Helen Lerud and Elvira Engelmann seated at the table during tractor pulling contest in Hoople. Standing behind the group is Senator Burdick.
John Hurtt Home 454
Hugo Oberg tractor on Markel farm.
Mrs. Esther (Hurtt) Hodge of Rock Island, III., formerly of Hoople, is a well-known artist from the area. She attended local schools and graduated from the UND in 1923. She has been an art teacher since the 1920's and now, that she is retired, can devote more time to her hobby of painting. She has painted hundreds of watercolor pictures and many of these works can be seen in homes in this area.
CHRISTMAS STORY — Written by Myrna Clemenson, Hoople, while attending school. Her teacher said it was well expressed. Christmas has much hustle and running around. People are doing Christmas shopping and stores are busy. People are hurrying around.
Hamilton Hurtt farm
On the afternoon of December 24, we deliver Christmas baking to many friends. But, most I like to visit an old lady. She lives all alone in an old-fashioned house, with an old-fashioned coal and wood stove. You would see a pail of coal and a pile of wood. She has a radio which she never uses. She has some visitors. She reads the newspaper and books a lot. She carries her water from a well. In the summer she has a nice garden. When we come, she sets our shoes in the oven to keep them warm. I enjoy visiting her and bringing her a box of Christmas joy most of all. (Memories of a child can tell us alot.)
Otto and Ole Berg threshing crew (Glenwood Twp.)
Family Members of First Walsh County Gun Club: Pictured above are Frank A. Anderson, extreme right, and three sons and a daughter, left to right, Earl W. Anderson, Lyle F. Anderson, Verna (Anderson) Duray, and Willard R. Anderson. For several years the Gun Club was located at the Frank A. Anderson farm. In 1946, Art Tallackson and Frank A. Anderson, charter members, were instrumental in establishing the first Walsh County Gun Club, located north of the junction
of Highways 17 and 18. The Curling Club was built in 1952 at the same location. The five family members entered several team events, along with singles and doubles. After moving to Grand Forks, N. Dak., Lyle continued to shoot at the Grand Forks Gun Club. All five family members were avid trap shooters, hunters, and baseball enthusiasts.
Venberg and Fedje Store in 1904, at Hoople. N. M. Venbeerg on the left; Ole A. Fedje, right. 456 4
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GOLDEN TOWNSHIP FAMILY HISTORIES ALVIN JOSEPH AND JUNE ALMEN Alvin Joseph Almen was born on May 18, 1920, near Hoople, N. Dak., to August and Josephine (Kalgard) Almen. He is the youngest of eleven children of which five are living: Velma (Mrs. Thomas Estad), Esther (Mrs. Oscar Almen), Ruby (Mrs. Oliver Olson), and Vernal. After the death of his mother, a few days after his birth, he was raised by his grandmother, Martha Kalgard, and an aunt, Lydia Kalgard. From 1930 until 1942, he lived with an uncle, Emil Kalgard. Joseph attended rural schools in Dundee Township and graduated from eighth grade in 1935. He was baptized, confirmed, and is still a member of Park Center Lutheran Church. In the fall of 1942, Joseph and his brother, Vernal, went to Hill Field, Ogden, Utah, and did Civil Service work. They also spent some time at Bremerton, Wash, before returning home in the spring of 1943. Joseph returned to farm for his aunt, Lydia (Kalgard) Nelson, after the death of her husband, Ole Nelson. Joe is still farming west of Park River in Golden Township. Joseph has been a supervisor of the Golden Township board for ten years.
Lennart Almen Family: Lennart, Mary, Peter, Carol and Marjorie. and Hulda Almen, rural Park River. He attended grade school in Edinburg, high school at the Walsh County Agricultural School, and graduated from college at N.D.S.U., Fargo. Lennart and Marjorie Egerstrom of Kerkhoven, Minn., were married July 17, 1953. Marjorie graduated from N.D.S.U. and was teaching home economics in Park River. Their farm home is in Section 7, Golden Township. Lennart and Marjorie are the parents of three children. Mary attended school in Park River, graduated from Concordia College, Moorhead, Minn., and travels with a gospel music group, The Living Water. Carol graduated from Park River High School, the. University of North Dakota, and is a registered nurse at the Rehabilitation Hospital in Grand Forks. Peter also graduated from Park River High School and is a student in agricultural engineering at N.D.S.U., Fargo. The Almens' first home was made of logs, dating back to the 1880's. It was constructed by Nels Monson. They built a new home in 1961 on the same site. The St. Peter Lutheran Church was the center of the community then. The pastor who served the parish lived in Edinburg. The Edinburg dentist, doctor, and also phone line, served this area then though phone service, school districting, health care and church membership later changed to Park River.
Joseph and June Almen On Jan. 5, 1954, Joseph was united in marriage to June Vole of Lawton, N. Dak. June Yvonne Vole was born at Powers Lake, N. Dak., on June 30, 1927. Because of the death of her mother, when June was only two and a half years old, she was raised by her foster grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Olaf Vole. They moved from Tioga to Lawton in the fall of 1930.
Lennart is the Golden Township assessor. He is on the board of directors of the Dundee Insurance Company and the Good Samaritan Center. The Almens have been active in the Our Saviour's Lutheran Church of Park River.
June received her education in the Lawton school and graduated from high school in 1945. After working in Grand Forks, after graduation, she began attending Mayville Teachers College in 1946. She taught rural and consolidated schools in Ramsey and Walsh counties until 1963 when she began teaching sixth grade in Park River. In 1969, she received her bachelor of science degree from Mayville State College. At present, she is teaching fifth grade in Park River.
OLGA LINDELL OEN ALMEN FAMILY Olga Charlotte (Lindell) Oen Almen was born in Golden Township, Walsh County, N. Dak., on Dec. 29, 1900, the daughter of Alfred and Anna Almen Lindell, pioneer settlers (Vol. 1, page 606). Olga attended grammar school in Garfield District 46 and graduated from the Walsh County Agricultural and Training School in 1919. After a summer course at Mayville State Teacher's College, she taught rural school for several years. As a young girl, Olga loved the outdoors. She and her girl friends often went swimming in the Park River near her parents' rural home. Her parents stressed the importance of education. School was three miles away, so Olga became very adept at handling horses as a means of transportation. She continues to be very
After her marriage to Joseph Almen, they resided on the farm of Lydia Nelson where they still live. She is a member of Park Center Lutheran Church and the A.L.C.W.
LENNART AND MARJORIE ALMEN FAMILY Lennart Almen was born June 17, 1928, the son of Lars 459
active in her 80th year (1980). She enjoys traveling and travels by bus to Tennessee several times a year to visit her son, Ordean, and his family. One June 3, 1925, Olga married Sigurd Oen. Sigurd was born Aug. 12, 1896, in Kensington Township, Walsh County, N. Dak., the son of Simon H. and Inger Midtmoen Oen. He attended grammar school in Kensington, District 98, and in 1915 graduated from the two-year short course at the Walsh County Agricultural and Training School in Park River.
they were always joyous and festive occasions. Ordean spent quite a bit of time with the family of Sander and Mabel Kjelland. He fondly remembers practicing his early reading lessons while sitting in Uncle Sander's lap. Ordean married Carol Jean Blackey of Egeland, N. Dak., June 16, 1953. They had met at the University of North Dakota when he was working on his Master's degree and she was a freshman. They then moved to Columbia, Mo., where both
Upon completion of the fall grain harvest in 1917, Sigurd enlisted in the U.S. Army and trained at Fort Monroe, Va. Overseas he served with the 60th Artillery Unit and participated in the St. Mihiel offensive and the Meuse Argonne offensive. Upon cessation of hostilities, he was honorably discharged and returned home to resume his farming interests. Following Sigurd's marriage to Olga Lindell, they moved to Park River, N. Dak., where Sigurd served as a rural mail carrier (Route 3) for the U.S. Post Office Department. In Park River, Sigurd was very active in civic affairs and the American Legion. He helped organize and develop the uptown city park and for several years he coached the American Legion youth baseball teams. Olga was active in the Ladies Aid of the Lutheran Church and was a charter member of the Harmony Homemakers Club. Their only child, Ordean Silas, was born June 29, 1927. Sigurd died Feb. 2, 1932.
Mr. and Mrs. Ordean Oen and children: from left to right, William, Kristin, Norman. continued their education and both worked. During their five years in Missouri, Carol completed a Master's Degree in medical physiology and pharmacology and Ordean, his doctorate. Their three children were all born during this time in Columbia: Kristin Kay, Sept. 29, 1954; Norman John, Apr. 5, 1956; and William Lee Oscar, Mar. 7, 1958. The Oens were known for their hard work and many honors while also having and rearing their young children.
Mrs. Olga Almen and son, Ordean Oen. Olga married Adolph Ernest Almen on Apr. 19, 1944. Adolph, the son of August and Josephine Kalgaard Almen, was born Aug. 13, 1899, in Pembina County. Adolph was a farmer and he and Olga purchased the Alfred Lindell farm after the death of Olga's father, Alfred. Adolph loved music and sang in the Lutheran church choir. He was remarkable for his kindness and quiet humor. In joint work efforts, many neighbors remarked that it was fun to work with Adolph because of his gentle nature. Adolph died Feb. 25, 1956. Ordean, the son of Olga and Sigurd Oen, went to grammar school in District 46 and graduated from the Walsh County Agricultural and Training School in Park River in 1944. He graduated from Concordia College, Moorhead, Minn., in 1949. His college was interrupted for one year, which was spent in the Navy during World War II. He got his Master of Science degree in physics at the University of North Dakota in 1953 and his doctorate in theoretical physics at the University of Missouri at Columbia in 1958. In 1958, he joined the research staff at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory in Oak Ridge, Tenn., where he continues to work. Although Ordean didn't have any brothers or sisters, the extended family was very close. There were over two dozen cousins living very nearby. Family gatherings were frequent and
Kristin Kay Oen married John Christopher Dorian of Memphis, Tenn., on Aug. 19, 1978. She and Christopher had been fellow students at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, where they were both very active in student affairs. Christopher was student body president. They each received numerous honors, including the University Torchbearer Award, the highest student honor the University bestows. Christopher is an attorney in New York City, having graduated from the Yale College of Law in 1979. After working several years, Kristin is now studying for a Master of Business Administration degree at New York University. Norman and William Oen are attending the University of Tennessee. William is a cooperative student in electrical engineering, spending every other school period working at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory. He has been awarded several honors and is active in several engineering organizations. Bill has a keen interest in his church and has worked with many of its youth activities. Norman enjoys working with motors and with growing plants. He has studied both agriculture and engineering. A highlight of Ordean's career was an invitation to spend a year as a guest scientist at the Max Planck Institute for Plasma Physics near Munich, Germany. It had always been a hope of Carol's to learn first-hand the culture and language of her German forefathers. During their year (1977-1978), they traveled extensively throughout Europe to attend scientific meetings and visit scientific institutions. A trip to Sweden provided the opportunity to look up Ordean's roots on his mother's side. Ordean, Carol, and Bill visited the Lynneryd Church in Smaland, where Ordean's grandfather Alfred, along with his brothers and sisters, were
baptized and confirmed. The 150-year-old church is remarkably well preserved. In conversations with the pastor at Tosse, Dalsland (near the town of Amal), they were given directions to the Torp of Kolon, some seven miles distant. From this place, on the estate of Bjakebol, had come Ordean's grandmother, Anna Almen. She emigrated to America with her parents in 1883. Ordean conversed with the present owner of the land on which the Almens had lived. This man was 76 years old and spoke no English. Ordean managed with simple Swedish, which he had learned as a child from his grandparents. Of the buildings, present during the Almen family's residence there, only part of an old barn remained. As the present owner described the very small old house that had been taken down some years before, Ordean could remember his grandmother saying, "Where there is heart room, there is always house room." The Oens traveled to Goteborg, Sweden, where original records pertaining to the family are archived. There they examined the original old parish books and sailing records. Alfred Lindell was listed under his brother Otto's name in the passenger list, since Alfred was not yet of age (he was 17) when they emigrated together to America in 1 876:
Vesta School District No. 63 for his elementary education and graduated from Oak Grove Lutheran High School in Fargo in 1959. He earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Concordia College in Moorhead, Minn., in 1963 and a master of divinity degree from Luther Theological Seminary in St. Paul, Minn., in 1967. He was ordained as a pastor of the American Lutheran Church on June 11,1967, in Our Saviour's Lutheran Church at Park River and served as pastor of St. Peter's Lutheran Church in Dresser, Wis., from 1967 to 1969. From 1969 to 1974, he was associate campus pastor and director of communications at Concordia College in Moorhead. In 1974, he became managing editor of The Lutheran Standard, official publication of the American Lutheran Church, in Minneapolis. He became editor in 1979. The magazine, published 21 times a year, had a 1980 circulation of nearly 600,000. Lowell married Sally Arlyn Clark, daughter of C. C. "Jiggs" and Grace Clark, on Aug. 14, 1965, in Fargo, N. Dak. They are the parents of two children: Paul Simon, born on Nov. 9, 1968; and Cassandra Gabrielle, born on July 9, 1970.
As one writes of one's ancestors and heritage, the question arises as to the influence of these family members from long-ago times and distant places and what threads are woven across the generations to following generations. To a descendant, five characteristics reoccur over the generations: the love of family, love of learning, love of the land and its fruits, devotion to work, and faithfulness to the Lutheran Church. These were the same in Sweden and Norway so many years ago as they are today in North Dakota and as they have been brought along to Tennessee.
Anna Marie (Almen) Fischer was born Dec. 28, 1943, in Grafton. She attended rural school, graduated in 1961 from Walsh County Agricultural School in Park River, and earned her Bachelor of Science Degree from Mayville State College in 1965.
PAUL AND HELEN ALMEN FAMILY
They made their home at Drayton until 1980, when they moved to Crookston, Minn.
Paul Orville Frederick Almen was born in Golden Township, Mar. 13, 1915, to Lars and Hulda Almen. Their biography is in Walsh Heritage Volume 1, page 598. Paul attended Golden Township School District No. 97, and graduated from the Walsh County Agricultural School in Park River. On November 7, 1939, he and Helen Eunice Marguerite Johnson were married at North Trinity Lutheran Church near Nash. Pastor L. O. Helleklev performed the ceremony. The parents of Helen Johnson were Gustav A. and Anna Marie Johnson whose biography is in Volume I on page 377. She was born on June 4, 1913, in Glenwood Township where she attended School District No. 13. She also graduated from the Walsh County Agricultural School and attended Valley City State College for two years to receive her teaching certificate. Helen taught in rural schools of Walsh County for 12 years before joining the teaching staff at the Park River Elementary School in 1959. In 1970, she received her Bachelor of Science degree from Mayville State College. After having taught in Park River for 1 7 years, she retired. Paul Almen was active in community affairs and farmed with his brother, Lennart. When Paul's failing health forced him to suspend farming, he and Helen moved to Park River in 1965. He died on Aug. 26, 1967, and is buried in the St. Peter Lutheran Cemetery of rural Park River. Helen continues to reside in Park River. Their offspring are Lowell Gordon Almen and Anna Marie (Almen) Fischer. Lowell was born on Sept. 25, 1 9 4 1 , in Grafton. He attended
Anna Marie and Carl Gary Fischer of rural Drayton were married on June 25, 1966, at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church in Park River. He is the son of Carl and the late Isabelle (Pokrzywinski) Fischer. They are the parents of two children: Jill Elizabeth, born on Aug. 8, 1968; and Ryan David, born on Dec. 7,1973.
THORVALD H. BAKKE Thorvald and Sophia Ellingson were united in marriage Dec. 10, 1913, at the home of his parents, Kristian and Anna Bakke, in Park River. The ceremony was performed by Rev. John Bjerke. Sophia is a daughter of Marie (Olsen) and Elling Osterhus Ellingson of Golden Township. They farmed in Golden Township and were members of the rural Golden Lutheran Church. During the earlier years of marriage both Sophia and Thorvald played in a small orchestra and gave concerts at churches around the community. Sophia's sister, Clara, played the mandolin; Sophia, the organ; and Thorvald, the violin. Their director was Arthur Thompson, who later moved to Sioux Falls, S. Dak., and became a well known band leader. Three daughters were bom to Sophia's and Thorvald's marriage. The first born, Marion, died in infancy. In October, 1936, Thorvald passed away at the age of 46 and Sophia with hier two daughters, Loraine and Florice, moved to Park River. In 1940, Loraine was married to Einar Windingland of Edinburg. They have a son, Lynn, and a daughter, Rita. All reside in the Arlington, Va., area. In December, 1943, Florice was married to David A. Ford of Park River and they have one daugher, Patricia. Sophia and her sister, Clara J. Ellingson, a retired teacher, make their home together in Park River.
THORVALD CHRISTIANSEN HISTORY Thorvald Christiansen and Bertha Hamre were married on Dec. 22, 1878, the first :ouple to be married in the present Pleasant Valley Lutheran Church, rural Park River. Thorvald was born in Iowa on Nov. 24, 1 874. He came to Walsh County as a child with his parents, the late Ole and Pauline Christiansen. He homesteaded in Shepherd Township on the Southwest Quarter of Section 4. For 21 years before his death he resided on his farm in Vernon Township, rural Lankin, N. Dak. He died on Sept. 10, 1945.
(Mrs. James Zahradka) and Marlene (Mrs. Dale Prazak), both of St. Paul; Beverly (Mrs. Tom Calgaro) of San Diego, Calif.; and Allen, of Park River. The late Annette and Andrew Wiste were the parents of four children — Robert, Travis, Beatrice, and Bonnie, all of Lankin, N. Dak. Olga Jacobson Christiansen and the late Clarence Christiansen are the parents of four children, Harvey, Grand Forks; Marion (Mrs. Edward Enright), East Grand Forks, Minn.; Donna (Mrs. James Weber), Thompson, N. Dak., and Glenn, Grand Forks, N. Dak. Thelmer and the late Mabel Flaten Christiansen are the parents of four children — Harriet (Mrs. Merlin Fingarson), and Arne Christiansen, both of Edinburg, N. Dak.; and Joan (Mrs. Howard Nichol); Glastonbury, Conn.; and Marvin, Park River.
ERNEST AND IRENE (AKRE) DENCKER Ernest and Irene (Akre) Dencker grew up in the Walsh County community. Ernie was born June 5, 1913, at Lancer, Sask., Canada, and came to the United States with his mother and father (Mr. and Mrs. Herman Dencker) and his two sisters, Irene and Thea, and his brothers, Herman, Jr., and Fred. He attended school in Walsh County Dist. No. 122 and farmed with his dad. Mr. and Mrs. Thorvald Christiansen Bertha Hamre was the daughter of the late Torger and Amber Hamre, rural Park River. She passed away in 1949. They were active members of the community and charter members of the Vang Congregation. He was an organizer of the building of the church. He was elected to overseer of the roads and development of District Two in the township. He was elected as director of School District No. 132 when that was begun in 1915.
Ernest married Irene Akre in 1936. She was born on a farm in Lampton Township on Aug. 1 1 , 1916, the oldest daughter of Sondre and Julia Akre. Her mother passed away when she was four years old and she was then raised by her grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Lars Madland. She attended school at Dist. 122 and the Walsh County Agricultural School, in Park River.
Thorvald and Bertha were the parents of 11 children, seven of whom grew to adulthood. The children were Mabel (Mrs. Chris. Idzel) of Vancouver, B. C , Canada; Agnes (Mrs. John Jore), Grand Forks; Myrtle (Mrs. Hjalmer Anderson), who passed away Dec. 22, 1978; Annette (Mrs. Andrew Wiste), who passed away in 1941; Thelmer of Park River; Clarence, who passed away Aug. 6, 1961; and Henry, who passed away in September of 1959. Two children were born to Agnes and the late John Jore. They were LaVerne who passed away in May of 1957, and Bernice (Mrs. Clarence Moe) of Grand Forks. Born to the late Myrtle and Hjalmer Anderson were four children — Lorraine Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Dencker Ernie relates to the times he and his dad traded potatoes they had grown for about 70 pigs from the western part of North Dakota. There was a shortage of feed where the pigs came from so the animals were undernourished and of various sizes. Herman and Ernie cooked a mash of home grown potatoes and grain, mixed with water, in a large vat outside to feed to the pigs. They raised them for selling or to butcher. They also fed the pigs all the skim milk they had and sold the cream to the local creamery.
Thorvald Christiansen Family: left to right, seated, Annette, Bertha, Henry, Thorvald; standing, Clarence, Mabel, Thelmer, Agnes and Myrtle.
Ernie and Irene farmed and owned land in Lampton Township and in 1962 they bought a quarter of land belonging to Inga Montague and the late Earl Montague. This farmstead was originally built and lived on by Ernie's great uncle, Claus Bornholt. They moved to and still live on this property. The Denckers raised wheat, barley, oats, potatoes and corn. They also raised dairy cattle, pigs, chickens, turkeys and had a large garden and orchard. They canned and froze fruits and vegetables as well
as meat. They raised spring fryers for butchering or sold them, ready for the frying pan, to local people. To Ernie and Irene's union were bom four children — Doris Ann, Barbara Joan, Judith Irene, and Ronald Frederick. Little Ronnie passed away at the age of six and one-half years from a lengthy illness. The girls were active in 4-H work. They did sewing, cooking, and raised beef animals, and won grand championship and blue ribbons. They were members of the
at Park River, N. Dak. She married Herman Dencker on Nov. 23, 1903, at Park River. They lived on a farm in Golden Township for eight years. They had six children. John Henry Fredrick was born in 1 909, in Park River. In 1910, the Denckers moved to Sask., Canada, where they homesteaded at Lancer. Four more children were born in Canada — Herman, Jr., Lancer, Sask., in 1910; Thea Dencker Holland, Roseau, Minn., in 1912; Ernest Dencker, Park River, N. Dak., in 1913; and Irene Dencker Grahn Ellis of Otis, Ore., in 1915. Herman and Elise moved back to Park River in 1923 where they farmed the "home place" of his parents. In 1924, Helen Dencker McKay was born.
Judy Dencker (McGoven), Doris Einarson, and Barbara Nelson. Edinburg Band under the leadership of Emmet Lowe. Judy was also a baton twirler with the band. Barbara and Judy graduated from the Walsh County Agricultural School and were members of the school band. Judy is also a graduate of a Beauty and Hair Design School in Minneapolis. She married Robert McGoven of Grand Forks and is the mother of three children. Barbara went to St. Luke's School of Nursing in Fargo and married Carl E. Nelson of Veblen, S. Dak. They have four children. Doris worked in Seattle, Wash., and Grand Forks, N. Dak. She married Harold Einarson of Hensel, N. Dak. They have one child.
Ronald Dencker taken shortly before his death. Ernie Dencker was a director in School District No. 122 for 17 years and Irene was clerk of the same school board for several years. They were also members of the Golden Farmers Union local. In 1968 Ernie and Irene rented out their land and worked at the Grafton State School for 11 Vi years. They retired in the summer of 1979.
HERMAN AND ELISE DENCKER Mr. and Mrs. Herman Dencker were born in Germany. Herman was born in Elmshorn, Germany, in 1875, and came to the United States in 1887 with his mother and step-father, Henry Dencker. Herman attended the University of North Dakota, in Grand Forks, where he majored in business administration. Elise Dorthea Bornholt was born in Ahrenboke, Germany, on Mar. 5, 1886, and came to Lory Island in New York in 1898 at the age of fourteen. She stayed with her uncle, Claus Bornholt,
Herman Dencker Family in 1953: left to right, standing. Ernest, Irene, Herman, Jr.. Thea, Fred; seated, Helen, Mrs. Herman Dencker, and Herman, Sr. The Denckers raised turkeys, chickens, guinea hens, geese, cattle, horses and had a dairy herd. They had a large garden and orchard. They canned and cured all their own meats and vegetables. Elise had a garden that was a beauty to behold. She spent many long hours in it and enjoyed every minute of it. Herman had a machine and hardware business in Swift Current and Cabri, Sask., for 12 years besides running the farm. In 1923, Herman and his two sons (the oldest) came to Park River by train. He brought horses, cattle and some machinery with him. Elise came with the other three children on a passenger train to Winnipeg and then to St. Thomas. There they were met in a Model T Ford pickup by their brother-in-law, Otto Schultz. Thea married Rudy Holland at Roseau, Minn. They had four children. Herman, Jr., remained at Lancer, Sask., and married Doris Berg. Doris's mother was the former May Puri from Adams, N. Dak. They have four children. Fred was a member of the Canadian Army. He married Edna Moxham. They have one child. Irene married Lawrence Grahn of Roseau, Minn. They had seven children. Helen married Donald McKay. Donald is the son of Percy and Belle McKay of Park River, N. Dak. They live in Hemit, Calif. Ernest married Irene Akre of Park River, and they had four children. Herman and Elise moved to Moorpark, Calif., where their daughter, Helen, and family lived. They bought a home and continued to grow vegetables, flowers and fruit. Herman returned home by plane for a number of years during the summer months to assist in farming operations and enjoy the beauty of North Dakota summers. Herman passed away at age 91 in the year of 1966. Elise passed away at age 85 in the year of 1971.
KENNETH FJELD FAMILY Kenneth Adrian Lindell Fjeld was born May 12, 1918, to Melvin and Hedvig Fjeld of rural Park River, N. Dak., at his parents' farm home in Golden Township. He was baptized and confirmed in the St. Peter Lutheran Church of rural Edinburg, N. Dak., and received his elementary education in the Garfield School. He was a member of the Golden Valley Lutheran Church, rural Park River, until it dissolved and then joined Our Saviour's Lutheran Church in Park River. Kenneth farmed with his father. His hobbies were collecting arrowheads, agates, and Indian artifacts. He owned a fine collection of these. He received recognition by the State Historical Society on this and information given by him was published in their book. Kenneth died June 18, 1972. His marriage to Eleanor Violet Ingulsrud, Park River, took place Oct. 18, 1944. Eleanor was born Feb. 24, 1925, on a farm six miles south of Milton, N. Dak. She was baptized and confirmed in the Hitterdahl Church, Edinburg, and was a duaghter of Ben and Amanda Ingulsrud of Park River. She received her elementary eduation at Milton and then graudated from the Walsh County Agricultural School in 1942. She started early in life to accompany herself on an auto harp and to sing sacred songs. From 1967 to 1970, Eleanor and Kenneth owned and operated a Fashion Shop known as Fjeld's Fashions. In 1960 she began working for Johnson Stores and Floyd's Department Store where she is presently employed.
Mark, Jana, Rory and Ryan Fjeld
Marsha and Earl Axvig, Matthew, Sally and Michelle
Kenneth and Eleanor Fjeld To them were born four children — Mark Kenneth, Marsha Ellen, Jonathan Shane, and Teresa Holly. Mark Fjeld was born Nov. 16, 1948, at Grafton. He received his first years of elementary education in the Garfield School until it dissolved and then went to the Park River Schools. He attended one year at U.N.D., Grand Forks. He served six years in the Army National Guard. In 1970 he began employment at Polar Telephone, Park River, where he is presently employed. He has received recognition for his oil paintings, wood carvings and taxidermy. His drawing was used by the North Dakota State Game and Fish Department on the 1979 Deer and Mountain Sheep Hunting Proclamations. Outdoor Life Magazine has also published his drawings of wildlife. He married Jana Clemens May 4, 1974. She is a daughter of Gilman and Jeanette Clemens of Park River. They have two sons, Ryan Tyler, born May 8, 1975, and Rory Kyler, born July 3, 1978. They live in Park River and are members of Our Saviour's Lutheran Church. Marsha Fjeld was born June 7, 1950, at Grafton. Her first years of elementary education were at the Garfield School, and later on went to the Park River Schools. She worked as secretary
and assistant at the Park River Veterinary Clinic until her marriage to Earl Axvig, June 27, 1970. Earl is a son of Joe and rene Axvig of Adams, N. Dak. Earl is a Vietnam veteran Earl and Marsha raise Registered Angus Cattle and Appaloosa horses and do grain farming. They have one son, Matthew Jon, born Apr. 9, 1971- a daughter, Michelle Ranae, born Dec. 5, 1974; and a daughter, Sally Jo, born Nov. 16, 1975. Marsha's hobbies are riding and training horses, and hunting small and big game with her husband. She also teaches Sunday School and holds various offices in the church. She has poetry published in the book Great Poems of the Western World. They are members of the Mountain Lutheran Church of Adams, N. Dak. Jonathan Fjeld was born July 6, 1955, at Grafton, attended the Park River Schools, and one year at Bottineau College. He is trained as a plumber. He owns a fine collection of arrow heads and does oil paintings. He is a member of Our Saviours Lutheran Church, Park River. Teresa Fjeld was born Oct. 10, 1957, at Grafton, and
attended the Park River schools. She married Timothy Gire Nov. 6, 1976. Timothy is the son of Bob and Allice Gire of Grafton. They make their home in Park River where Teresa is secretary for Farmers Union Insurance and Dahl Construction of Park River. Timothy is employed by Burlington Northern Railroad. Teresa's hobbies are sewing and outdoor activities. Their first child born Nov. 24, 1980 in Grafton has been named Andrew Christopher. Teresa also has poems published in Poems of The Western World. They are members of Our Saviour's Lutheran Church.
MELVIN AND HEDVIG FJELD Melvin Fjeld was born at the farm home of his parents, Christian and Karen Fjeld, in Golden Township, May 15, 1894. He had four sisters, Johanna Fjeld, Gina (Fjeld) Everson, Christine (Fjeld) Bylin, and Frances Fjeld, and one brother, Johan. He attended school in Garfield District No. 46, rural Park River, N. Dak. His mother died at the age of 42 years. Melvin's father came to America from Norway in 1880, at the age of 17 years. On the trip over, the ship ran into an iceberg and which did some damage to the vessel; in fact, it was quite serious damage. Christian Fjeld and several of the others walked out on the iceberg, looking things over, and decided that this was the end for them. They decided then to dress up in their best clothes, thinking they would perish. He had a few cents left in his pocket and threw it in the ocean. As time passed the ship was repaired and when they reached their destination he was very sorry he had thrown his coins away as he could have bought some beautiful red apples with the money.
one son, Kenneth. The Fjelds boarded the teacher for 10 years. The teachers' names were Hulda Lindell Dahl, Ruth Cook Jensen, Selma Hilde, Ethel Torblo Brekke, Edna McLean Olson, Verna Samuelson Greive, Irene Wagsness, Myrtle Kvelstad, Irene Larson Fostervold and Florence Rusten Stensland. Hedvig's hobbies are crotcheting, tatting, knitthing and embroider work, but her favorite pastime was baking. These included all the Swedish and Norwegian bakings. She also played the piano. Melvin and Hedvig observed their 48th wedding anniversary about two months before Melvin passed away on Nov. 13, 1 965, at the age of 71 years. There are four grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Hedvig is presently a resident at the Good Samaritan Center in Park River.
VIVA AND CHRIS GROVOM FAMILY Viva Ratliff Grovom was born at Doland, S. Dak., on Oct. 19, 1909, to Grace and George Ratliff. Both her parents are now deceased (1981). The Ratliffs brought their family of eight children to Park River, N. Dak., in 1912. Later, twin boys were born. Their home was east of the bowling alley, not far from the railroad track. At this time the passenger train and the freight went through Park River twice a day, and was pulled by a steam engine.
Melvin loved the home place, woods, river and surroundings. His hobby was reading. He was a member of the Golden Valley Lutheran Church, and had been confirmed by Rev. Gulseth. On Sept. 6, 1917, Melvin married Hedvig Lindell. Hedvig, a daughter of Alfred and Anna Lindell, was born Mar. 15, 1896, in Golden Township at the Lindell farm home. There were eleven
Viva and Chris Grovom Viva remembers the day in 1917 when many boys got on the train and were off for war. It especially stands out in her mind because a neighbor boy, Nick Simmer, left at that time. Another thing that comes to her memory is the flu epidemic of 1918, because of so many people dying at the outbreak. A fun thing was when the big Barnum and Bailey Circus came to town, and the children watched them load and unload from railroad cars. They carried water for the elephants and were close by when they put up the big tent in O'Brien's pasture at the south end of town.
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Melvin and Hedvig Fjeld Family: Hedvig, Kenneth, and Melvin. children in the Lindell family — Alice Lindell (Setnes), Agnes Lindell (Peterson), Mabel Lindell (Kjelland), Arthur Lindell, Hedvig Lindell (Fjeld), Walter Lindell, Olga Lindell (Oen Almen), Hamilton Lindell, Edith Lindell, Eva Lindell (Nottestad), and Harriet Lindell. Hedvig attended school in Garfield District No. 46 and graduated from Park River High School in 1915. She attended Mayville Normal for one year and taught school at Bisbee, Towner County, North Dakota. Melvin and Hedvig had
The Ratliffs were memebers of the Bethel Baptist Church and also attended Sunday School for further spiritual food. Viva attended elementary school in Park River. When the school burned, classes were held in the old funeral home, City Hall, and the church basements until the new school was built. Three of Viva's teachers in the new school were Ruth Orn, Mabel Thompson, and Louise Weiler who taught eighth grade in Park River for many years. Viva's dad and mother parted when she was quite young, leaving her mother alone to provide for all the children. In order to heip out, Viva did a lot of babysitting for twenty-five cents an
hour, during the week, and fifty cents an hour, during the weekends. She also did housework during the summer when there was no school She got three dollars a week and in the winter months, when -he worked, a dollar an hour and board and room, sharing a bedroom with daughters of the people she worked for. Pay wasn't great at this time, but a half pint of cream could be bought for a nickel. She worked in this way from the time she was thirteen years until she was eighteen and a half. On Mar. 1, 1928, Viva married Christopher O. Grovom, rural Park River, N. Dak. He was the son of Caroline and Halvor Grovom, pioneers of Golden Township. They came from Iowa in a covered wagon. Chris was born on the Grovom estate and lived there his entire lifetime. He went to Garfield School District No. 46. Chris was a member of the Golden Valley Church where he was baptized and confirmed. He played ball with Vesta and Adams teams. Chris had a cafe in Adams for a short time, but most of his life was spent as a farmer. Viva and Chris lived on the Grovom homestead claim in a log house. They had two children.
supplement the cash income. When "the stork" visited homes, she cared for the family members. Viva's brother-in-law had a big steam rig. She was the cook's helper for twenty-five men, and also cooked alone for Martin Laaveg's gas threshing outfit of thirteen men. She did this for four falls. Chris Grovom was failing in health but the couple had the opportunity to celebrate their twenty-fifth wedding anniversary. This was observed in the Golden Valley Church in February, 1953. On April 9, 1955, Chris suffered a heart attack and passed away. He was laid to rest in the Golden Valley Cemetery. Carol graduated from high school the spring of 1955. She helped on the farm, was a clerk at the Hartz Store in Park River, and also worked as a nurses' aid in the Park River hospital. In November, that year, Harlen took the family out to Fresno, Calif., to visit Viva's sister. They stayed for two and a half months, their first trip away from home. They came back in February to lots of snow. When Harlen was fourteen years old, he gave up on school and started farming. He raises Charolais cattle besides farming and enjoys working in his shop, doing repair work. He was on the G.T.A. elevator board in Park River for six years. Harlen loves kids and is a "special uncle" to many. Some of his hobbies are hunting, fishing, square dancing, and visiting. Harlen never married.
Viva Grovom, Harlen and Carol Jean. Their son, Harlen L. Grovom, was born Oct. 20, 1932. Highway Number 17 was being remodeled that year and there was an early sleet storm, so bad that many trees and wires were down. The roads were so bad that Viva went to her sister's place early to prepare for that birth. In those days people didn't go to the hospital for childbirth. Her mother was a midwife for Dr. Frank Weed and Dr. V. S. Irvine, Park River doctors at this time. Her mother helped not only Viva, but many others in the surrounding area during childbirth. The Grovoms' daughter, Carol Jean, was born Sept. 28, 1936, also at Viva's sister's place in Park River. The children attended the same church and school as their father. The school house is still standing and was used as a township hall for many years. Plans are also being made to dismantle the Golden Valley Church. The Grovoms lived in the log house until in 1945. At this time they moved part of the old Slette house to their place and lived in that until in 1971, at which time they bought a trailer and moved it on the N. G. Grovom farm. Harlen bought a barn from the Grafton State School and moving and setting that up was the excitement of the year. The family experienced the Dirty Thirties, not only was there drought and dust storms, but the grasshoppers came in so thick one could hardly see the sun. The hoppers devoured everything in their path. The crops were poor and also the price. Viva remembers selling eggs for six cents a dozen and butterfat for eleven cents a pound. She raised chickens, turkeys and geese to
Carol and Richard Wefterlund Carol was married Apr. 1, 1961, to Richard Wefterlund of Kennedy, Minn., a son of Hilda and Carl Wefterlund. They farmed his dad's farm for five years and then moved to Minneapolis. They are now living in Glenwood, la. They have three children — a boy, Gerald, born Sept. 2, 1962; a girl, Marie, born May 28, 1964; and Ruth Ann, born June 1, 1966. All the children are in school and the girls do baby-sitting jobs in thier spare time. Gerald helps out as a fry cook. They are interested in Sunday School and church, and are grandma's pride and joy. After the family grew up Viva started working at the Grafton State School for the mentally retarded. She found the first two weeks were hard, but thanks to Dr. Charles Rand, superintendent, who was so understanding, encouraging and helpful, she was made to feel that the work was appreciated. She learned to love the residents and worked for eleven years, with many good memories and, of course, a few bad ones. She worked with a bunch of wonderful dedicated people, some who had worked there for over forty years. She learned a great deal and is very glad and thankful for that experience. Viva's hobbies are cooking, gardening, flowers and crocheting. She believes 1980 will go down in history as unusual—the
Arnold Haas Family: Arnold, Helen, Julie and Arthur G. He is living in Grand Forks, N. Dak., and is a service representative for Versatile Manufacturing Co., Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. He is married to Julie Ann Beyer from Breckenridge, Minn., and she is a pharmacist in a hospital in Grand Forks. Mrs. Arnold (Helen) Haas is very active in church work and has been organist for 32 years in the Pleasant Valley Lutheran Church, rural Park River, and has taught Sunday School and held many offices in the A.L.C.W. of the church.
Viva Grovom's grandchildren, Wefterlund.
Gerald, Marie, Ruth Ann
April temperature of 102-105 degrees; very dry, poor pastures, and not much hay to speak of. The crops were poor, but finally the rains came, too late for the small grains. It was very hard to get the combining done and also the hay-baling because of the wet weather. She will remember the year for a long time. Viva considers it a privilege to have been born in America — still a free country. A thrill for the family this summer was having company from Norway. They were relatives on Grandma Grovom's side of the family and stayed for three weeks. ARNOLD AND HELEN HAAS FAMILY Arnold N. Haas was born in Vernon Township Feb. 25, 1913, to George and August (Holter) Haas. He attended school at Golden School District 97, across the road from his home, and also attended church at Pleasant Valley Lutheran where he is still a member with his wife and son. He worked on the farm to help his father and later, when old enough, worked out on other farms and helped threshing crews. He later went to Minneapolis to work and in March of 1942 was called into the Army. He spent 44 months in military service which included two years in the war in Europe. He was discharged in November, 1945, with 89 points and several medals. While Amold was working in Minneapolis he met Helen Bowe from Oconomowoc, Wise, who was attending Bible School there. They were married July 15, 1943, and late in 1945, when Arnold was discharged from the Army, they came back to live near Park River, N. Dak. In 1946 he started farming and he farmed in Vernon Township with his brother, Lloyd, until retiring in December, 1979. Arnold and Helen have one son, Arthur G. Haas, born in June, 1950, in Grafton, N. Dak. Arthur attended schools in Park River, and graduated from North Dakota State School of Science, Wahpeton, and North Dakota State University, Fargo, N. Dak.
RUSSELL AND BEVERLY HANSON Russell Hanson (son of Mary Senecal and Leonard Hanson of Park River, born on Jan. 16, 1937), married Beverly Dvorak, Veseleyville, born on June 6, 1947) on Nov. 20, 1965. They live near Park River, and have four children — Gail, Dennis, William, and John. (See Vol. 2, page 774). TENNESON -
HOGLUND
Christina Bratt was born in Ekshard, Varmland, Sweden, on Feb. 19, 1868. She was one of five children born to Pete and Ingeborg Bratt. She had one sister, Ida, and three brothers, Lars, August and Pete. Christina received her formal education in Sweden, and she was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran faith. One of her brothers, Pete, and she immigrated to the United States. They came to the Park River, N. Dak., area in 1892. Christina worked in restaurants and also did housework in Park River. Tom Tenneson, a nephew of Sivert Kjelland, came to America and Walsh County in the company of Mr. Kjelland in 1885, from Norway. Tom Tenneson married Christina Bratt and they had one child, Tilda, born on Dec. 16, 1901. Mr. Tenneson passed away in 1903. Christina's brother, Pete, made his home with her until she remarried. On Nov. 9, 1907, Christina married John Hoglund, who was an acquaintance from Sweden. They had been members of the same church. Christina and John were married by Rev. Gulseth at her home, with Christina Beckstrom and Pete Bratt as the attendants. Prior to Mr. Hoglund's marriage he had lived at Deary, Ida. He came from Sweden in 1890. There is not much known about John's parental family as he seldom spoke of them. Christina Hoglund enjoyed knitting. Another accomplishment she excelled in was the making of butter. She taught her daughter, Tilda, the art of preparing good butter and this paid off for her. When she was about twelve years old and was attending school in District No. 46 in Golden Township, the girls in the county were competing in butter making. Tilda
Tenneson won first prize, two years in succession. She was given a calf and a trip for this accomplishment. This information came from a friend of Tilda's. Christina Hoglund died on Aug. 2 1 , 1921. Tilda Tenneson married Victor Johnson. He was a native of Minnesota and they began their new life together in that state. To this union five children were born — Joseph Johnson, now of San Francisco; Ted Johnson, San Jose, Calif.; Willard Johnson, Xenea, Ohio; Mary Ann Donarski, Viking, Minn.; and Janice Mae Borowicz, Strandquist, Minn. John Hoglund lived on the farm until in 1945 when he sold the farm and moved to Strandquist, Minn. He made his home with Tilda and Victor Johnson and their family until he passed away Nov. 6, 1949. Tilda Johnson is living in Thief River Falls, Minn., after the death of her husband.
MYRON LAVERN HYLDEN Myron Hylden was born July 26, 1923, in Vernon Township, the son of the late David (died 1955) and Alvina (died 1968) Hylden. He attended the Ramsey Grove School, the Walsh County Agricultural School, and Concordia College, Moorhead, Minn., from which he was graduated in 1950. Hylden also served in the U.S. Air Force from 1943-1945.
employed in Jacksonville, Fla.; Martha, a Concordia graduate, is married to Bruce Hendrickson and lives in Seattle; Michael, who attended Concordia College, is employed at Waconia, Minn.; and Eric is a student at North Dakota State University, Fargo. Myron, as well as his children, is interested in photography as a hobby and Anne enjoys reading and gardening. Both are active members of Our Saviour's Lutheran Church, Park River,
N.Dak. JOHN AND ELIZEBETH JENSON John Jenson was born in 1857 in Gulbrandsdalen, Norway, and he immigradted with his parents, in 1863, and settled in Osage, la. In 1878 he married Elizebeth Fjeld and he and his family moved to Tiber Township, west of Edinburg, in 1882 where they began farming. Exact dates are not known as to Elizebeth Fjeld's history. However, she was born in Norway and shipped passage on a sailing vessel, was shipwrecked in the Atlantic, and transferred to another ship. The passage took 11 weeks. Elizebeth was a sister of Christian Fjeld and a cousin of the first Mrs. Hans Sundvor who died in 1884. The Jensons adopted Lars after his mother, Mrs. Hans Sundvor, passed away. The Jensons had no other children.
His wedding to Anne Haugrud of Hawley, Minn., took place in 1950. She is also a graduate of Concordia College and taught before her marriage.
John and Elizebeth Jenson
Myron Hylden Family: left to right, Myron, Michael, Eric, Maren, Martha, and Anne. Following the birth of their first daughter, Maren (1951), the Hyldens moved to the Jerry Kittelson farm near Edinburg. This farm was purchased by Hylden Brothers (Myron, Duane, and Donald) the same year. The three brothers have farmed in partnership (dairy, grain, sunflowers) ever since. In 1956 Myron, Anne, and their three children moved to Twin Valley, Minn., where Myron and Anne taught high school English. After five years at Twin Valley, the Hyldens moved to Grafton, where Myron taught high school English and speech another seven years. Anne also taught junior high English in Grafton. Summers always found the Hylden family back at the farm, however, since Myron retained his interest in the Hylden brothers' partnership. In 1970 Myron returned to full-time farming. Their daughter, Maren, a graudate of U.N.D., Grand Forks, is now
They moved to Golden Township, five miles west and one mile north of Park River, which is just a quarter mile west of the present Bible Camp. From word of mouth, the spot where they built their home is known to be on the south bend of the Park River at the point where the river forms a complete S. One spring the snow had completely filled the river channel between Fjelds' and the Jensons'. Although Christian Fjeld warned John of the danger of a flood, he refused to move. The result was that they were flooded. The livestock survived on the manure pile and straw stack. A new wagon box was pressed into service as a boat and was kept tied to the kitchen door knob. They were surprised that the wheat in the flooded granary was only slightly damaged. Later they rebuilt on the southside of the river. The pioneer town of Garfield was located on this site. In 1887 John and Elizebeth deeded two acres to the newly organized Garfield Free Church for the church building and cemetery grounds. The church was built but was later relocated one mile south of Edinburg. The cemetery can be seen but is unattended with only the Omland gravestone in evidence. During this time John served on the Golden Valley Church board, being one of the charter members. He was also a member of the school board and township supervisors. When his son, Lars, returned from Augsburg College, John decided to move to Park River where together they formed a mercantile business called "Jenson & Son." John had a wide circle of acquaintances and friends to whom he extended credit.
mile west of the present Bible Camp. A warranty deed, donating two acres to the newly organized Garfild Free Church, was filed indicating the time as 1885. He completed his grade school at Garfield District No. 46, later attending Augsburg Seminary with the intention of entering the ministry. He, however, later joined his father, John, in a general store business called "Jenson and Son," in Park River. In June of 1905 he married Lena Wickstrom, who was employed at the hotel in Park River. Lena was born in Sweden in 1882, immigrating to Roseau, Minn., in 1889 with her parents. They were married at her parents' home in rural Roseau, Minn., making the trip to Roseau by team and buggy. Both Lena and Lars were active in the affairs of the community. Lars was a member of the Park River Band and also superintendent of the Sunday School at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church while they lived in Park River.
He also believed in giving good measure, a pound of sugar was usually closer to 114 lbs. While we have no records as to the date of the move to town, it must have been 1900. They were unable to collect the accounts and no doubt did not pressure anyone. In 1912 they sold out and moved back to the farm in Golden Township. There building was bought and stocked with merchandise, to continue as a country store, with John and Elizebeth living in the back part of the store. A grandson, Leonard Jenson, nicknamed their grandparents "Buba" & Bima" and so they remained the rest of their lives. In 1926 the Jensons sold out and followed their son, Lars, and family to Roseau, Minn. They were affiliated with Moe Lutheran Church in Roseau where he also served as a deacon for a time. John and Elizebeth both experienced a deep and strong Christian faith. His grandchildren never heard him utter a profanity; nor did the grandparents fail to have a daily devotion. While John was a proud man, he never complained about losing his money. He was not too proud to work and he continued to work until he was past 70.
In 1912 they sold the business and moved back to the farm in Golden Township. A building had been prepared on the farm and stocked with merchandise, with the John Jensons living in the back part of the store. Old memories die hard and the fondest of these that a son remembers were of the pioneer customers. Some of the most vivid are of Gilbert Slette with his pinto pony, complete with saddle, a lariat tied to the saddle horn. Others are Christian Fjeld, brother of Elizebeth, Aron Levin, whose farm was just west across the river; and in younger days, Palmer Levin and Thorvald Bakke. These were the years of the peddlers and transient laborers, not one of whom was ever turned away without a meal or night's lodging. Lena was frequently called on to serve as midwife and to assist where there was illness.
Elizebeth passed away in May, 1933. John passed away at the home of his son and daughter-in-law on May 16, 1938. They are laid to rest in beautiful Golden Valley cemetery. Family love, respect, and admiration for these dear wonderful people grows with the years.
LARS AND LENA JENSON Lars Jenson was born in Tiber Township, west of Edinburg, Aug 28, 1882. He was born in a sod house to Hans and Ingeoorg Sundvor. One sister, Wilhjelmin, and one brother,; John, preceded him in death. There were also one half brother, 'Christian Sundvor, and six half sisters, Ida Troftgruben, Caspera Berk, Inger Ulberg, Hanna Brock, Thelma Solom, and Bertha Lerud. His mother, Ingeborg Sundvor, died in 1884 when Lars was two years old. He was then adopted by John and Elizebeth Jenson of the same area. Elizebeth and his mother, Mrs. Sundvor, were cousins.
Lars was a gifted musician, serving as organist for Golden Valley Church. He was also clerk of the Garfield S. D. No. 46 school board. It was a sad day for the family in the fall of 1926 when the farm was sold, the auction over, and the day arrived to leave for Roseau, Minn. Neighbor Palmer Levin and Lars' half brother, Christian Sundvor, loaded their Model T trucks with furniture. The oldest son, Leonard, drove the 1924 Chevrolet Touring with Lena, Jeanette, Ina and Harlan. The last to leave was Lars and son, Millard, in the heavily-loaded wagon. The favorite team, now 17 and 18 years old, had been kept for the move. Starting from the farm at 10:00 a.m. they reached Drayton the first day, a distance of over 40 miles.
Years later, Lars, together with his family, moved five miles west and one mile north of Park River, which is just one-fourth
They farmed a few years before Lars became deputy county auditor, a post he held until he retired. He served as clerk of his school district, as member of the Minnesota State School Officers Association, as deacon in the First Lutheran Church, as well as Sunday school teacher and church choir member. Lena was also active in church activities, the theme of her life being service to others. She died in 1 966, at the age of 82 years. Lars lived to be 89 years and passed away in 1972 at Sheltering Oaks Rest Home in Roseau. There were five children. Leonard, who was superintendent of public utilities at Hawley, Minn., for many years, passed away at Mesa, Ariz. Jeanette Breiholz, supervisor at the Goodwill Industries of Minneapolis, is also deceased. Ina Anderson lives in Kennewick, Wash; Millard, farmer and merchant, lives in Roseau, Minn.; the youngest, Harlan, a 20-year veteran of the Navy Air Force, is soon to retire from the San Diego Naval Base where he is a metalsmith with 20 years' service. There are 18 grandchildren and 1 9 great-grandchildren. GILMAN AND EVA JOHNSON FAMILY Gilman was born in Lampton Township, about three miles
Lars and Lena Jenson and children, Leonard. Jeanette and
Millard. 469
southwest of Edinburg, N. Dak., on Apr. 19,1924, the youngest son in the large family of Morris and Hannah Johnson. He attended the District No. 37 Christopherson School, a rural school neighboring the Leonard Christopherson farm home.
1977. Henry's sister, Benda, died in infancy. His sister, Blanche, passed away in 1917 at the age of 16 years. His sister, Lillian, married Sig Bakke of Union, N. Dak., and they live near Adams,
He married a neighbor girl, Eva Peterson, the youngest daughterof Morris and Agnes Peterson, on Dec. 3 1 , 1 9 4 9 .
Henry received his elementary education in Golden Township School District No. 97. He also attended the Walsh County Agricultural School in Park River, N. Dak. In 1928 he was on the Stock Judging Team with Norman Larson and Howard Cree. In the spring they went to Fargo and won the State Championship there. In the fall they went to Kansas City, Mo., and there Henry took first place in beef judging for which he got a gold watch; he got a blue ribbon for tenth place in judging horses.
Eva "had her eye o n " the young neighbor boy who lived "across the valley" from her for many years, but being six years younger she had to wait. Eva also attended the Christopherson School, as did all or most of the Peterson and Johnson children at this time. During the first years of their marriage, from 1950 to 1954, Gilman and Eva lived in a house owned by Leonard Christopherson, about two miles southwest of Edinburg, right across the road from the gravel pit. In 1954, they purchased the John Sundvor house in Edinburg where they are still residing. Gilman has done different types of work including farm labor and work at the nearby missile site, and has been a self-employed trucker for many years. Eva worked with potatoes in the potato-growing community of Edinubrg for many years, but when Elton began school in 1956, she quit that work because of the difficulty in obtaining a baby-sitter. She then dedicated her time to being a housewife. In 1954, she began a baby-sitting service herself, and is still doing this in 1980. Gilman and Eva have three sons. Elton Harvey, the oldest, was born on Aug. 12, 1950. He attended school in Edinburg until graduating from Edinburg High School in May of 1968. In October of that same year, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. He plans to make a career in the Air Force and, at the time of this writing, he is a technical sergeant stationed at Kunsan, Korea. During his Air Force career, he has been stationed at Lachland Field in Texas; Beloxi, Miss.; Minot, N. Dak.; Lowry Base, Color.; and over seas at Udorn, Thailand; Taipei, Taiwan; and now at Kunsan, Korea. The second son, Daniel Allan, was born on Apr. 2, 1960. He also attended the Edinburg Schools. He graduated from high school there in 1979, then enrolled at Mayville State College and completed his freshman year there in 1980. He then transferred to the University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, where he is now a student at the time of this writing. The youngest boy, Roger Mark, was born on Jan. 2, 1962. He graduated from Edinburg High School in May, 1980. All three boys were interested in and excelled in sports during their Edinburg school days, taking part in baseball, basketball, football, and track. Elton and Daniel both were quarterbacks on their Edinburg High School football teams.
N. Dak.
He farmed with his father and brother, Selmer, in Golden Township. The farm was situated close to Pleasant Valley Church and School Dist. No. 97. The school house has been torn down but Pleasant Valley Church is still in use. In March, 1942, he was inducted into the Army in World War II. He was with the 90th Infantry Division. He got his first training at Camp Barkeley, Tex., and was sent overseas from Fort Dix, N. J. He took part in the invasion of Normandy and was wounded twice so he received the Purple Heart and Cluster. Then he was transferred from the Army to the Air Force and in November, 1945, he was discharged. In November, 1947, he married Palma Nappen of Lankin, N. Dak. She was a daughter of Olaus and Ida Espelien Nappen. Olaus had a general store in Lankin. Ida passed away in 1918 during the flu epidemic. Olaus later married Emilie Johnson of
Mr. and Mrs. Henry O. Johnson
Paul Johnson
HENRY O. AND POLLY JOHNSON Henry O. Johnson was born in Golden Township July 26, 1910, to Bernard M. and Sarah Lee Johnson. Bernard was born in Solor, Norway, and came to America at the age of five. Sarah was born in Valdres, Norway, and came to this country as a young girl. Henry was two years old the day after his mother passed away and his father, Bernard, was two years old when his mother died — a sad coincidence. Henry had five brothers and three sisters. Otto, Henry Bertram, and Lawrence passed away at an early age. Oscar passed away in 1921 at the age of twenty-nine. Selmer, who married Hega Bakke of Union, N. Dak., passed away Mar. 9,
Cindy and Dennis Johnson, Denny, Matt and David.
the Dahlen-Petersburg area, and they moved to California in the early forties. Palma has one brother, Oliver (Happy), who married Frances Sehee of Chicago and lives at Van Nuys, Calif. They have a daughter, Linda, and a son, Donald. Palma had a sister. Ruth, who passed away as a young girl. Palma graduated from Lankin High School and then worked for Montgomery Ward at Thief River Falls, Minn., for some time. After moving to California she worked for Lockheed Aircraft doing secretarial work. Henry and Palma (Polly) have two boys — Dennis and Paul. Dennis graduatedd from Cleveland High School in Northridge, Calif., and the University of Northridge with a degree in computer programming. He is now manager of Albertson's Grocery Store in Northridge. While in grade school he was chosen to be on Art Linkletter's program, "Kids Say the Darndest Things." He married Cindy Farm and they have three boys — David, Matthew, and Dennis, Jr. Paul graduated from Cleveland High School in Northridge, Calif., and Berkeley University in Berkeley, Calif., with high honors. His major was architecture. He got his Masters Degree in architecture from Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He is employed in Cambridge, Mass.
one daughter, Hannah. When she was four years old her mother died. Mina's sister, Georgina, who was now married to Lewis Hanson, Fairdale, N. Dak., and had no children of her own, raised Hannah, her sister's daughter. She also helped raise her half brother, Peder Martinus. Hannah married Haaken Braaten of Fairdale, N. Dak. They had no children. They farmed the Lewis Hanson farm near Fairdale, N. Dak., until they retired and moved to Adams, N. Dak., where they resided until they passed away. They are buried in the Aadalen cemetery, south of Fairdale, N. Dak. Georgina and Lewis Hanson are buried in the Aadalen cemetery also. Olina married A. C. Hanson, brother of Lewis. They had six children. They lived on a farm near Fairdale, N. Dak., until they retired and moved into Fairdale. They are buried in the St. Olaf Cemetery.
Henry worked for May Company in California for four years and then for Electrofilm for twenty-eight years, retiring in March, 1979. Henry and Palma live at Reseda, Calif. They are members of the First Lutheran Church of Northridge, Calif.
OLE AND HANNAH JOHNSON Ole Johnson, son of Martin and Olia Johnson, was born Feb. 2 1 , 1862, in Solar, Norway. The family name in Norway was Kamphaugh. His mother died when he was seven years old. In 1873 his father and sisters, Olia and Karen, and brothers, Gunerius and Bernard, immigrated to the United States, coming to Decorah, la. In 1879 he came to the Park River area and settled on land his father, Martin, and uncle Per or Peter had homesteaded southwest of Park River. His brother, Gunerius, passed away, leaving his wife, Hannah, and three daughters, Mina, Olina and Georgina. Ole married his deceased brother's wife, Hannah, and raised her three daughters. To this marriage five children were born — Hilda born in 1884 and died in 1900; Olova born 1886 and died 1957; Peder Martinus bom 1890, died 1964. Peter and Ole died in infancy. Mrs. Hannah Johnson died in 1893.
Ole Johnson Family: seated, Ole, Olina, Peder; back, Georgina, and Olova. Ole and Hannah's children are Hilda, who died at the age of sixteen from appendicitis; Olova, who married Theodore Frederickson and resided in Canada. He passed away and she later married Henry Wold of Grand Forks, N. Dak. Olova passed away in 1957 and is buried in Sunset Memorial Gardens at Grand Forks. Peder Martinus married Inga Laura Flaten of rural Park River, and farmed the homestead until they moved into Park River, where they resided until their deaths. Peder passed away in July, 1964, and Laura on Nov. 26, 1974. They are buried in the Pleasant Valley Cemetery. Ole resided on the homestead, except for a while when he and Peder lived on a farm near Rolette, N. Dak. In his later years, after his marriage to Hulda Haas, he resided in Thief River Falls, Minn., until the time of his death, Sept. 23, 1927. He is buried in the Christianson cemetery near Lankin, N. Dak.
Mina married Thor Thorvilson of Adams, N. Dak. They had PEDER M. JOHNSON FAMILY Peder M. Johnson was born in 1890 on the farm homestead in Vernon Township to parents, Ole and Hannah Johnson who had immigrated from Solar, Norway. The farm is now owned by their sons, Allerd and Howard. Peder's mother passed away when he was three years old so he spent his childhood days with his half sister, Mrs. Georgina Hanson, and his father in Vernon Township and a short time at Rolette, N. Dak.
The wedding picture of Ole and Hannah Johnson.
In February, 1918, he married Inga Laura Flaten, daughter of Andres and Maria Flaten, rural Park River, N. Dak. The first few months they lived in Golden Township, on the Mogan place, with a brother-in-law, Alfred Flaten, and his wife, Myrtle. The following summer they built a house, one mile east of the homestead. Then, in 1928, they purchased the homestead on which he was born and there they resided until they moved to Park River.
1933. Their married life was spent farming Selmer's home place in Golden Township. Helga was born Oct. 22, 1 905, to Syver and Johanna Flaten Bakke at Union, N. Dak. Syver was born in Hemsedal, Hallingdal, Norway, in 1861 and came to this country about 1891. He taught parochial school over a large area for several years. He passed away in 1922. Johanna was born Aug. 28, 1882, at rural Park River, to Andrew and Guri Ulberg Flaten. She married Syver Bakke in January, 1905. She passed away in May, 1975.
Mr. and Mrs. Peder Johnson
Helga had four brothers - Sig of Adams, N. Dak., Alvin of Fairdale, N. Dak., Oscar of Union, N. Dak., and Joseph of Edinburg, N. Dak. Helga's five sisters are Laura Bakke and Mrs. Adolph (Thelma) Haug, both of Park River, N. Dak., Mrs. Joseph (Gertrude) Landsem of Edmore, N. Dak., Mrs. Gerald (Sigrid) Hank of Lakewood, Colo., and Mrs. Bjarne (Clara) Dramstad of Binford, N.Dak.
Peder and Laura are the parents of six children — Martha (Mrs. Edroy Troftgruben), Edinburg; Allerd, Park River; Howard, Grafton; Lois (Mrs. Benjamin Winther), Park River; Dorothy (Mrs. Vernon Russum), Grafton; and Marilyn (Mrs. Rossford Johnson), Park River. They have 28 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.
Helga received her early education at Union, N. Dak. She graduated from the Lutheran Brethren School in Grand Forks, N. Dak and attended the University of North Dakota at Grand Forks, and Mayville Teacher's College. She taught school in western North Dakota, the Ingebrigtson School, rural Adams, and Golden School District No. 97, rural Park River, before her marriage.
Peder M. Johnson Family: back row, Lois Winther, Howard Johnson, Allerd Johnson, Martha Troftgruben; front row, Marilyn Johnson, Peder Johnson, I. Laura Johnson, Dorothy Russum. Peder served on the school board in District No. 97 for several years. Beth were active members of Pleasant Valley Lutheran Church and she was a member of A.L.C.W. Peder passed away June 30, 1964, and Laura spent three years at Lutheran Sunset Home, Grafton. She passed away Nov 26, 1974. They are buried in Pleasant Valley Cemetery, rural Park River. Mr. and Mrs. Selmer B. Johnson SELMER B. AND HELGA JOHNSON Selmer B. Johnson was born in Golden Township Mar. 26, 1899, to Bernard and Sarah Lee Johnson. Bernard was born in Solor, Norway, in 1 867 and came to the United States at the age of five. Sarah was born in Valdres, Norway, in 1866, and came to this country as a young girl. Selmer had five brothers and three sisters. Otto, Henry Bertram, and Lawrence died at a early age. Oscar died in 1921 at the age of 29. Henry O. married Palma Nappen of Lankin, N. Dak and they live at Reseda, Calif. Selmer's sister, Benda, died in infancy. Blanche died in 1917 at the age of 16. Lillian married Sig Bakke of Union, N. Dak., and they live at rural Adams, N. Dak. Selmer got his education in Golden Township School District No. 97, rural Park River, N. Dak. Selmer married Helga Bakke of Union, N. Dak., Nov. 23,
Selmer and Helga had three daughters and one son. Their oldest daughter, Sara Jane, married Roscoe Berg and they farmed near Dawson, Minn. They had one boy, Elden, and one girl, Valerie. Sara Jane and Elden were killed in an auto accident in 1961. Their daughter, Blanche, married Lester Boraas and they live at Montevideo, Minn. Lester Boraas works for Production Credit Assocation and Blanche does secretarial work. They have four daughters Melody, Dawn, Pamela and Holly. Melody, Dawn, and Pamela have all had the opportunity to go to South America on the exchange student program. Selmer and Helga's third daughter, Edith, married Al Johnson and they live at Delafield, Wise. They have a son, Sheldon, and a daughter, Jill. All of Selmer and Helga s daughters graduated from Minot's Lutheran High School.
Their son, Richard, married Barbara Magnuson of Grygla, Minn. They have a daughter, Kirsten. Richard graduated from Park River High School and Concordia College, Moorhead, Minn. He got his Doctorate Degree in music at Iowa State University at Ames, la. He has studied music abroad, including Austria and Germany. Richard served in the United States Army. He was stationed at Vietnam. Both Richard and Barbara teach at Eau Claire. Wise. Selmer and Helga were members of the Pleasant Valley Congregation, rural Park River, and both held offices in the congregation and A.L.C.W., respectively. Helga also served as Sunday School Superintendant. Selmer passed away Mar. 9, 1977, and Helga passed away Mar. 5, 1980. They are both buried at Pleasant Valley Cemetery.
ADOLPH KJELLAND (1881 -1967) Adolph Kjelland was born in Norway October 1, 1881, and came to the United States at the age of seven years. His father had come to this country earlier and purchased land in Golden Township. His mother and Adolph and Soren came to Golden Township in 1888. Adolph grew up on the farm, attended school just a few years, and bought a farm just west of his father's farm. He married Inga Maria Askim in January, 1907.
Mr. and Mrs. Oliver Kjelland, Mary Ann, Leland. and Kenneth. Oliver married Karen Windingland June 26, 1938. She is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Lars Windingland of Tiber Township. (Vol. 1, page 561) During the war Oliver worked in a defense plant at Cheyenne, Wyo., then came befck to Golden Township and farmed the Adolph Kjelland farm for eight years. He quit farming and moved with his family to Temple, Tex., where he has been engaged in commerical construction welding for several years. Oliver and Karen have three children, all born in Golden Township. They are Mary Ann, Leland, and Kenneth. Mary Ann finished grade school and high school in Temple, Tex., attended Concordia College in Austin, Tex., and Concordia College in River Forest, III. She taught in Lutheran Schools in Jackson, Mo., and New Orleans, La. She married Frank Spera of New Orleans in August, 1963. They have four sons, Keith, Craig, Chris and Kevin. Leland finished grade school and high school in Temple, Tex., and is a manager of a pawn shop in Temple. He married Linda Pace of Belton, Tex., in December, 1966. They have one daughter, Leona. Linda is employed in a drug store at Temple.
Mr. and Mrs. Adolph Kjelland Inga was born in Norton Township, a daughter of Anders and Kari Askim, on Dec. 13, 1882. Inga and Adolph had no children of their own, but raised one girl, Edna, and a boy, Oliver. They farmed until Adolph retired and moved to Park River, then they moved to the Northwood Nursing Home, where they resided until their deaths. Mrs. Adolph Kjelland died in March, 1967, and Adolph died in June, 1967. They had just celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary in January, 1967. There were three grandchildren — Mary Ann, Leland, and Kenneth Kjelland. OLIVER AND KAREN KJELLAND Oliver Kjelland was born Sept. 3, 1912, in Vernon Township to Mr. and Mrs. Albert (Bergitta Svidal) Christianson. He has a sister, Marie, born in March, 1914. Their father died while the children were very young. Oliver was then raised by Mr. and Mrs. Adolph Kjelland while Marie stayed with her mother. Their mother then remarried. She married Albert Lovaasen and they had six sons and one daughter, so Oliver has six half brothers, Elmer, Bennie, Ernest, Kenneth, Vern, and Robert, and one half sister, Doris. Oliver received his elementary education at Golden School Dist. 97, and also attended the Walsh County Agricultural School in Park River.
Kenneth finished grade school and high school in Temple, Tex., then joined the Navy for four years. He attended school while in the Navy. He made two trips on the Forrestal Aircraft Carrier to the Mediterranean Sea and spent some time in Italy and Spain. After he returned from the Navy, he went to work for a large construction company. He is now a superintendent with the company and is building a VA Hospital in Dallas. He married Marlena Robinson from Wilson, Kans., in June of 1974 and they have one son, Matthew. Marlena is a teacher and is teaching in Dallas.
SANDER KJELLAND FAMILY Sander Kjelland was born May 6, 1889, in Golden Township, Dakota Territory. He was the son of Sivert and Severine Kjelland who had come from Norway in the 1880's. He went to school in the local country schools — Garfield School, District 46 and Golden District 97. Sander spent his youth on his parents' farm. He purchased his first quarter section of land in 1913 on which he later built a nice farmstead. Sander and his brothers purchased a Buffalo Pitts Steam Threshing rig in 1911 and threshed with it until 1936. Sander Kjelland married Mabel Lindell June 14, 1919. Mabel was the daughter of Alfred and Anna (Almen) Lindell, born in Golden Township on May 6, 1891. She went to school in Vesta School District 63 and Garfield District 46.
Valley Church and at one time stood by the cemetery. "Grandpa" Sander Kjelland recalled seeing it moved tq its present location when he was a young lad. Jim and Marlys Kjelland now own and live in it. Stanley and Frances have four children.
Sander and Mabel Kjelland, wedding picture.
Mr. and Mrs. Sander Kjelland
Sander and Mabel Kjelland were very active members of Golden Valley Church. Sander and Mabel Kjelland had three sons. Son, Stanley, married Frances Froiland on June 19, 1945. They have four children — Keith, Orville, Marlene and James.
Stanley Kjelland Family: left to right, front row, Keith, Cheryl and Kim Kjelland, Frances Kjelland, Stanley Kjelland (holding Sarah Quanrud), Dick and Marlene Quanrud: second row, Orville and Sheryl holding Nathan and Laura; back row, Marlys and Jim Kjelland. Keith is married to Cheryl LaMotte of White Bear Lake, Minn. They own and operate the Drayton Drug, Drayton, N. Dak. Their children are Kim LaRae and Gwen Ann.
Sander Kjelland Family: standing, left to right, Milton, Stanley; seated, left to right, Sander, Robert, and Mabel. Son, Milton, lived with his parents until they died in 1978 and now lives on the farm where Sander and Mabel spent all their married life. Robert, the youngest son, served in the U.S. Navy from December, 1951, to December, 1955. He married Mary Ann Thielman June 14, 1958. They have one son, John. STANLEY AND FRANCES KJELLAND Stanley and Frances Kjelland were married June 19, 1945. Stanley, the son of Sander and Mabel Lindell Kjelland, was born and raised in Golden Township. He attended grade school in District No. 46 and high school at W.C.A.S., Park River. He began farming by helping on the home farm, then expanded by buying land of his own. Frances was born and grew up in Vesta Township. Her parents are Mr. and Mrs. J. A. Froiland. She attended grade school in Vesta School District No. 63. After attending high school in Park River for two years, she stayed with her grandmother and went to high school in Plummer, Minn. After graduation, she attended a teachers training course at Red Lake Falls, Minn. She taught rural schools in Minnesota and North Dakota four years before her marriage. The Kjellands have lived on the same farm since 1948. It was known as the "Kleiv" farm. The house, believed to have been built in the 1880's, was the parsonage of the Pleasant
Orville is married to Sheryl Johnson, Audubon, Minn. They live in Vernon Township and farm. Sheryl teaches piano. Their children are Nathan Jerome and Laura Jeanne. Marlene married Richard Quanrud. They live in Grafton. Dick teaches Junior high at Drayton and Marlene is a medical technician at the Grafton hospital. Their children are Sarah Elizabeth and Stephen Roy. James married Marlys Ramsey. They farm and Marlys is a nurse at the Park River Hospital. JOSEPH KOZEL Joseph was bom Nov. 27, 1883, at Jezviny, Bohemia, Austria, and came to America in 1904. He was one of ten children, having six sisters and three brothers. He had only three years of schooling as his father died when he was ten years of age. Being the oldest of the boys he took on the responsibility of earning a living for the family. With the help of his older sisters, they broke sod with oxen to add to the farm land. He later worked at a starch factory where sacks were carried on their backs up stairways. At the age of 20 he, with the remaining family, came to the States. They settled in Veseleyville where he worked for an uncle for several years. On April 10, 1910, he married Barbara Kotaska of Pisek. She, too, was one of ten children, having six brothers and three sisters. Her early years were spent working out as a housekeeper and also as a seamstress. She would travel between Pisek and Park River by bicycle to do the shopping. After their marriage they farmed in the Pisek vicinity until the spring of 1919 when they moved to Golden Township, four miles southwest of Park River. They had four children — two boys died at birth; the two girls are Marie, now residing at Oakwood, and Betty, Mrs. Elphage Denault, residing near Pisek.
They loved farming. Joseph Kozel took pride in his horses, and could talk about his horses, hours on end. Sheep-raising was another hobby he had until he retired. In the early years, before the family car, Barbara Kozel would drive with a two-wheel cart and "Queeny," the trotter mare, to Park River to shop. The country school was about a mile and half from their home; the neighbor's family would pick up the children or they would walk. Both of the girls received their grade school education at country school. Marie went on to high school, and it was before her senior year that her mother died. Her mother was attacked by a mad sow, that tore her left arm badly, and died of the poisoning ten days later. This was in the Depression 30's and making a living was not easy. In the early forties Betty went out to work, and Marie and her dad, with the help of a hired man, continued with the farming. Betty Kozel and Elphage Denault were married in the early fifties and live on a cattle and grain farm near Pisek. Their four children are her dad's only grandchildren. The Denault children are Michael, a teacher; Patti in the Navy; Yvonne, an LPN nurse; and Mark, at home. Joseph Kozel's failing health forced him to retire from farming in the fall of 1969 and he and daughter, Marie, moved to Pisek. He died in May, 1970, at the age of 86.
WILLIE AND JOSEPHINE LAAVEG Willie Laaveg was born Nov. 2, 1913, in Walsh County, North Dakota, to Martin and Anna Laaveg. He attended grade school in both Golden and Vernon Townships. He started farming in Vernon Township after grade school. Josephine Lovaasen was bom June 17, 1914, in Walsh County, North Dakota, to John and Clara Lovaasen. She attended grade school in Golden Township, graduated from the Walsh County Agricultural School, Park River, and the Grafton Deaconness Hospital School of Nursing and became a registered nurse. Willie and Josephine were married in November of 1939 and began farming in Vernon Township. They later moved to Golden Township, where they are presently living and farming. Willie and Josephine have three children. Marvin is married to Margie Thompson and farms in Golden Township. They have four children. Linda is married to David Austermann and lives in Pontiac, Mich., where Linda works as an executive secretary at Pontiac Osteopathic Hospital. They have one child. Lorie, a graduate of the University of North Dakota, plans to teach high school business education and is currently continuing her education at U.N.D.
ARNOLD AND ROSE LAUER Arnold Lauer, son of Mary Lauer of St. Thomas, served in the U.S. Navy for eight years and is a Vietnam veteran. He is an active member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and is presently District Commander. Upon discharge he worked for the Norfolk, Va., Police Department for about three years before deciding to return to this area. He has since been employed as a deputy sheriff by Walsh County. At this time he met his wife, Rose, the daughter of Ardell and Betty Almen, who was working as a radio dispatcher for the Grafton Police Department.
Arnold and Rose Lauer, Mike, Brenda, Becky and Andy. Arnold and Rose married on July 10, 1976, and make their home west of Park River, N. Dak. They have five children; Sharyl, presently living in Seattle, Wash.; and Mike, Brenda, Becky and Andy, at home.
INGEBRET LEVIN Ingebret Levin was born on April 5, 1885, in Plymouth, la., at the home of his parents, Anders Levin and Gurin (Birk) Levin. He moved to Park River with his parents when he was a youngster. He farmed with his father until he married Marie Louise Simensen on Aug. 25, 1912. She was the daughter of Adolph and Carrie (Evanson) Simensen of Milton, N. Dak., and was born on Jan. 20, 1981. They were married in the home of Mrs. Levin in Park River by the Evangelical Lutheran Pastor P. A. Uykreine. The witnesses were Nels Levin and Jenny Levin. Ingebret (Bert) continued to farm until in the 30's when they sold the farm and he went to work for the railroad. He worked for the railroad for 34 years during which time he was, for a while, a foreman at Osnabrock, N. Dak. From there they moved back to Park River where they bought a home. The Levins had eight children. They were Gladys, Alden, Lillian, Margaret, Raymond (and a twin who died at birth), James, and Donna. Ingebret was ill for several years after his retirement and passed away on Oct. 3, 1963. Marie continued to live in Park River until her death, May 9, 1977.
JAMES ROBERT LEVIN James was born on May 1 1 , 1 9 2 7 , to Ingebret and Marie Levin of Park River. He was baptized on Mar. 16, 1928. He attended the first eight grades of school at the Park River Grade School. On June 7, 1942, he was confirmed at Our Savior's Lutheran Church, Park River, by Pastor Leonard Nypen. He attended four years of high school at the Walsh County
Agricultural Training School and graduated on May 28, 1946. After high school he worked until he was drafted into military service on Nov. 2 1 , 1950. He spent his time in the service overseas during the Korean Conflict. He was discharged on Nov. 6, 1952. After his return he attended Mayville State Teacher's College and graduated in 1957. In July, while waiting for the fall school term to begin, he was interviewed for a job with Commercial Investment Trust in Grand Forks and was hired. On Aug. 18, 1957, James married Carol Marie Sholey of Fairdale. They were married in Our Savior's Lutheran Church by Rev. Smestad. They moved to Northwood, N. Dak., where Carol was teaching and he commuted to Grand Forks to his work. On Nov. 15, 1960, their son, Jeffrey Bruce, was born. James' work moved the family to Duluth and then to St. Cloud, Minn., where their daughter, Rhonda Michele, was born on Dec. 24, 1962. James was then transferred to Dickinson, N. Dak., where he became manager of a C.l.T. office. In 1966 he was made a sales representative and moved to Bismarck, where they continue to live. The children have attended Roosevelt Grade School, Hughes Junior High, and Bismarck High School.
PALMER M. LEVIN Palmer M. Levin, son of Aaron and Martha Field Levin, was born Sept. 6, 1893, in Tiber Township where he got his early education in a country school. In 1908 the family moved to Golden Township. He received further education at North Dakota State University in Fargo. On Jan. 30, 1918, Palmer married Lena Ulberg. They had four children: Marvel (Mrs. Alford Setness), Devils Lake; Curtis, Lake Oswego, Ore.; Rhoda (Mrs. Ben Bramble), Auburn, Calif.; and Mavis (Mrs. Kirk Bale). Minot.
CAROL MARIE SHOLEY LEVIN Carol was the youngest of three children born to Tallak and Hilma Sholey. She was born on Dec. 20, 1934, in the family home in Fairdale. On Mar. 7, 1935, she was baptized in Silvesta Lutheran Church and later was confirmed in the same church by Rev. Orville Bilstad on June 6, 1948. She attended the Fairdale Public Schools for 12 years and was graduated in May of 1952. She then attended Interstate Business College in Fargo for one year. After taking a state teacher's examination in Grafton in April of 1953, she signed a contract and taught school in Dewey Township. The following summer she attended college at Mayville State Teacher's College and returned in the fall to teach at Dewey again. She returned to college and graduated in 1957 and then taught in Northwood,
N.Dak. On Aug. 18, 1957, Carol married James Robert Levin of Park River. They were married in Our Saviour's Lutheran Church in Park River by Reverend Smestad. After their marriage they lived for one year in Northwood where Carol continued to teach. After the school term they moved to Fisher, Minn., where Carol taught again and James worked for a finance company in Grand Forks. On Nov. 15, 1960, their first child, a boy, Jeffrey Bruce, was born in Grand Forks. He was baptized on Jan. 1, 1961, in Park River at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church by Rev. Arne Carlson. James' work moved them to Duluth and then to St. Cloud, Minn., where their daughter, Rhonda Michele, was born on Dec. 24, 1962. She was baptized in the Bethlehem Lutheran Church on Feb. 24, 1963, by Rev. Richard D. Vangerud. The following year they moved to Dickinson, N. Dak., and from there to Bismarck in 1966. Here, when the children began Jack and Jill Kindergarten, Carol went to work selling real estate for the Main Real Estate Co. After several years with the firm and the children becoming more active at Roosevelt Grade School, Carol gave up her job to become a full-time mother and homemaker. The children have since attended Hughes Junior High and Bismarck High School, with Jeffrey going on to his first two years at Bismarck Junior College at the time of this writing.
Mr. and Mrs. Palmer M. Levin Mr. Levin held many offices in the community in township, school and church. He helped organize the Adams Farmers Union Oil Company and was on its first board of directors. He was active in state politics, serving in the state legislature from 1935-1953. He was on the first legislative research committee and in 1949 was elected Speaker of the House. In 1950 Mr. Levin was appointed by Governor Aandahl to the State Civil Defense Council. In 1953 he was given a federal appointment to serve on the State Agricultural Stabilization and Conservation Committee of which he was chairman from 1954-1957. Governor Davis appointed Mr. Levin in 1957 to the State Board of Administration on which he served for six years. Mr. Levin presently resides in Minot, N. Dak.
HAROLD AND OLIVE LIEN Harold Lien and Olivia (Olive) Johnson were married in Golden Township, Nov. 23, 1916. Harold was born in Vesta Township on Jan. 4, 1894, the son of Ole P. and Hanna Lien, and Olive was born in Golden Township on Jan. 24, 1895, the daughter of Knute and Anna Johnson. The couple farmed in Dundee Township, following their marriage, where their three daughters were born. Harold recalls one winter when the snow became so deep that all small buildings were covered and the banks around the barn were even
f
with the hayloft door. He remembers that they shoveled the livestock out and said they had to remember to close the loft door so the cattle wouldn't enter by mistake. He also said he told a neighbor, who came to visit one day, that he had driven over his car, as it was parked in the sno-covered garage.
Wallace attended grade school in Golden District 97 and also attended W.C.A.S., Park River. He was employed at the Bremerton, Wash., Navy Yards before entering 3'/2 years of service in World War II. He served in the European Theatre with the 87th Infantry Division.
They lived just west of Park River on what was then one of the Clark Farup farms, for thirteen years, while Harold was manager of that operation. The girls remember playing along the river which is now totally covered by the water of Homme Dam.
Hazel is the daughter of the late John and Clara Lovaasen, who farmed the homestead in Golden Township. They were also members of the Golden Valley Church. John passed away in 1950 and Clara passed away in 1941. They are buried in the Golden Valley Cemetery. John and Clara Lovaasen were the parents of six children — Alvin, who passed away in 1978 and is buried in the Golden Valley Cemetery; Josephine (Mrs. Willie Laaveg), rural Park River; Melvin, Minneapolis; Norence, Park River, N. Dak.; Gladys (Mrs. John Aaland), Colorado Springs, Col.; and Hazel (Mrs. Wallace Lien), rural Park River. Hazel attended Garifeld School District 46 and graudated from W.C.A.S., Park River, in 1941. Wallace and Hazel were married Mar. 20, 1947. Their farm home is the former John Haugland farm which Wallace purchased in 1941. They are the parents of three children.
Harold and Olive Lien's Golden wedding anniversary was Nov. 23, 1966. In 1944, the family moved to Agnes Township near McCanna, IN. Dak., where they farmed until retiring in 1960, and later moved into Larimore. They are now both residents J Valley Memorial Home, Grand Forks, where they celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary in 1976. Their eldest daughter, Muriel, was married first to Kenneth Schafer and later to Gerald Chambers. She had eight children — Helen, Ruby, Marilyn, Wanda, Sandra, twins-Barbara and David, and Debra. Helen and Wanda are now deceased. Muriel is retired and living in Grand Forks. Another daughter, Beulah, married James Frovarp of Park River, and they have two sons, Dennis and Robert, both living in the Minneapolis area. They farmed near McCanna and many years near Red Lake Falls, Minn., but now reside in Grand Forks where Beulah is a dietary supervisor at United Hospital.
Wallace Lien Family: left to right, back row, Grant, Jennifer, Nicole, Beverly, Michael; front, Hazel, Becky, Holly. Jim, Wade. Michael, Wally, and Tommy.
Their third daughter, Wanda, married Palmer Rustebakke of Niagara, N. Dak., and farmed near McCanna until his health failed and they moved to East Grand Forks and she worked as a secretary. They had three sons, Ralph of Madison, Wise, Dale of Denver, Colo., and Steven in the U.S. Army. After Palmer's death, Wanda returned to Walsh County when she married Art Flaten.
Their son, Michael Henry, graduated from W.C.A.S. and the Wahpeton School of Science. He married Beverly Jean Hanson of Veseleyville, N. Dak., in 1973. They have three children — Thomas Michael, Wade Jonathan and Nicole Renae. Michael was in the service during the Vietnam conflict and was stationed at Ft. Lewis, Wash., Ft. Carson, Colo., and Bamburg, Germany. He has built his own home on the Henry Lien farm. He is employed by the Polar Telephone Co. in Park River and also farms with his dad.
WALLACE AND HAZEL LIEN FAMILY
Rebecca Ann (Mrs. James Hall) graduated from W.C.A.S. and married James Wilson Hall of Moyock, N.C, in 1971 in Park River. They live in Norfolk, Va., and have two children, Michael James and Holly Ann.
Wallace Lien was born July 8, 1917, in Dewey Township, the son of the late Henry and Laurine Lien, who later moved to Golden Township to farm. They were members of the Golden Valley Church. Henry passed away in 1946 and Laurine passed away in 1 979. They are buried in the Golden Valley Cemetery. Wallace is one of six children. He has a brother, Leonard, who farmed with Wallace prior to moving to Worthington, Minn.; Hazelle (Mrs. Charles Jacobsen), Sun City, Calif.; Floyd, Burnsville, Minn.; Wallace, rural Park River; Esther (Mrs. Floyd Rush) Silver Spring, Md.; and Grace (Mrs. Harvey Loftsgard), Park River, N. Dak.
Grant Wallace Lien is a student at N.D.S.U., Fargo, and will graduate in the spring of 1981 with a Bachelor's Degree in agricultural economics. He married Jennifer Anne Aas of Minneapolis, in 1980. Grant farms with his dad also and they live in Golden Township, on the Selmer and Helga Johnson farm, both of whom are now deceased. Wallace has served on past and present administration boards including the Cenex Oil Company, Farmers Union
Elevator, Golden Township Board. Sunset Home. Sunset Founders and several '-hurch organizations. He holds a private pilot's license besides huving hobbies of hunting and fishing. Hazel held offices in Golden Valley Church and Garfield School District 46. Her hobbies are oil painting, sewing, and craftwork. Wallace and Hazel are members of Our Saviour's Lutheran Church in Park River, transferring from Golden Valley in 1 965.
ARTHUR AND ANETTA LINDELL FAMILY Peter Arthur was born Feb. 27, 1893, in Golden Township of Walsh County to Alfred and Anna (Almen) Lindell. Most of his young life and all his adult life, he used his second name, Arthur, rather than his first name, Peter. When he was two years of age, the family moved into the new house which his father had built. This house was to be an important part of Arthur's life. He attended elementary school in Golden Township, District No. 46, also called Garfield, and in Vesta School District No. 63. The Lindell children had from three to four miles to go to attend school. Arthur, being the oldest boy, at a very early age would be the driver and have the responsibility of the horses.
Arthur Lindell and Anetta Stenerson were married June 14, 1971. at the parsonage in Edinburg by Rev. A. J. Krogstad. Their attendants wert Mabel Lindeil and Everet Stenerson. Following their marriage mother and dad Lindell served a reception in their honor to close friends and relatives. After their marriage the Stenersons lived on a farm about a quarter of a mile south of St. Peter Church. When Anetta was fifteen years old, a tragedy struck her family and she lost her father, mother, and two young sisters by coal gas poisoning. Her youngest brother, Cecil Stenerson, had his life spared because of being so well under bed covers. Being the loving person she was, Anette took Cecil, a boy of two years, and after her marriage he lived with them until he went to make his own way in the world. Another brother, Joy Stenerson, made his home with his sister and brother-in-law part-time. When Arthur and Anetta were living in Vesta Township four of their six children were born. Adeline Genieve, the oldest, was born Feb. 28, 1918. Clayton Wallace, born Sept. 25, 1919, was called Wallace from infancy. Another son, born on Apr. 25, 1921, was named George Clifford; and another daughter, Ardys Irene, was born June 22, 1922.
P. Arthur was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran faith. He was a member of the St. Peter Lutheran Church, where he, as a child, attended Sunday School and vacation Bible school. Vacation Bible school was held during the summer months and would continue for three to six weeks. After eighth grade Arthur attended school at the Agricultural College (now N.D.S.U.) at Fargo and also Gustavus Adolphus College, St. Peter, Minn. Arthur, like his father, liked farming. Prior to his marriage he was engaged in farming with his father. He was truly a tiller of the soil and found this type of work both enjoyable and rewarding. Anetta Josephine Stenerson was born Mar. 26, 1899, to parents, John and Adie (Van Dyke) Stenerson, in Vesta Township, Walsh County. Adie Van Dyke was a direct descendant of a Hinrick Van Dyke, who came to America in 1640. She attended the Hedlund School No. 1 in Dewey Township and in several other schools before having to quit her formal education after the sixth grade. Being the eldest daughter, her help was required at home.
Art Lindell Family: left to right, standing, Adeline, George, Ardys, Dorothy; seated, Alfred II, Anetta, Arthur, and Wallace. After Walter's death, Arthur's brother, Alfred and Anna Lindell moved a mile south into the home that had been built for Walter and his bride. Arthur's family was growing and their home was quite small so they then moved to the home place where the house was much larger. Here were born their two younger children — Alfred and Dorothy, who was fondly called "Dolly" by the family. Alfred Walter was born Mar. 1 1 , 1 9 2 8 , and Dorothy June, on June 19, 1930. Arthur and Anetta were truly hardworking people. They had a togetherness that is not always evident in the lives of people. For example, if a piece of machinery had to be repaired, Anetta was always with Arthur helping him if, for no other reason, than just for moral support. Besides the grain farming, they also milked cows and this, too, they did together. After they moved to the home place the family Christmas party was always held at Arthur and Annetta's. Arthur's brother and sisters and their families would also bring Christmas goodies and this was a very festive occasion. This was done in the late 20's and 30's. Alof Stenerson, Anetta's borther, was also present at these parties. Often when he was not working he would stay for a while. Cousins who were small children in these years consider these Christmas festivities as highlights of their childhood days. In later years Arthur and Anetta's children and grandchildren will have fond memories of Christmas Eve at home with mom and dad. Their parents truly lived a life of service for their children and grandchildren.
P. Arthur Lindell and Anetta J. Stenerson.
Anetta was an active and faithful member of the Ladies Aid. She held the position of treasurer for many years. Arthur, too,
served on the church board. As for hobbies — aside from Arthur's work, farming, which he loved — perhaps reading was his favorite pastime. During the winter months he would read until the early hours of the morning. Art was like his mother, Anna, in this respect. She, too, liked to read. After television, Arthur also enjoyed that. Anetta had many hobbies. She was a good baker and enjoyed to do that for her family. She also did sewing, crocheting, tatting and embroidery work. Anetta liked to visit with relatives, neighbors and friends. In her later years I suppose some of her happiest times were spent caring and playing with grandchildren and great-grandchildren. The six children attended elementary school in Golden District No. 46. Adeline attended high school in Park River and graduated from a School of Hairdressing in Fargo. She married Lawrence Windingland of rural Edinburg area. They were married in St. Peter Lutheran Church by Rev. P. Laurhammer. Three children were born to Adeline and Lawrence: Arden, Loretta and Donald. Lawrence and Arden died in a boating accident. Since that time Adeline has made her home in Fargo. Adeline has two granddaughters and one grandson. Wallace attended high school in Park River. When World War II broke out, he worked at the west coast in defense plants. He married Eunice Richardson, also called "Vicky," from Pawnee, Okla. They had three children — Jeffrey, Anetta, and Rodnye. Wallace and his family moved to Montana where he worked as a mechanic. His wife, Vicky, passed away suddenly in 1973. Wallace later married a native of Montana. Betty and Wallace reside at Laurel, Mont. Wallace has one grandchild.
Alfred graduated from high school in Park River. He also assisted his father with the farming operation. Alfred married the former Mary Ann Mielke of Grafton. They are the parents of seven children — Gray, Paige, Tamara, Suzanne, Grant, Jana and Tena. Mary Ann and Alfred are engaged in farming and have their home in Dewey Township. One son, Gray, lived on the home place where his father and grandfather grew up. Alfred and Mary Ann have fourteen grandchildren. Dorothy, after high school in Park River, attended college at N.D.S.U., Fargo, and graduated from Valley City State College. She married Lawrence (Lefty) Kluge of South Dakota. They have three daughters that are still in school — Gerogianne, Kaylynne and LaDonna. The Kluges are now living in Torrington, Wyo. Arthur and Anetta Lindell had the opportunity to observe their golden wedding anniversary. This was one of the last social events held in the St. Peter Church before it was closed. After that time Anetta and Arthur were members of Mountain Lutheran Church at Adams. Arthur and Anetta lived a full and uncomplaining life even though there were times when situations were hard for them. Even so, there was always love and contentment at home. Arthur died May 2 1 , 1976, at 83 years of age. He always said he had been blessed with a good life. He died at home, where he lived most of his life. Anetta continued living at the farm. She died three years later, June 1 1 , 1979, at 80 years of age. Arthur and Anetta are laid to rest in the St. Peter Lutheran Cemetery.
PHYLLIS AND STUART LOFTSGARD Phyllis Loftsgard is the daughter of Elmer Monsebroten and Ruby Madland Monsebroten. Elmer is currently residing in Park River and is engaged in farming. Ruby Monsebroten passed away on July 3, 1980, after a long illness. Phyllis was born May 20, 1947, at Grafton, N. Dak. She attended a rural school near Park River and graduated from the
Arthur Lindell Family: Alfred, Wallace, George, Arthur, Anetta, Adeline, Ardys and Dorothy. George completed eighth grade and then assisted his father farming. He was in active combat duty during World War II. He was at Kiska in the Aleutian Islands from three to four months. He later landed in a glider behind enemy lines in Italy and fought through Italy, France and Germany. After the war, he married Ann Novak of Lankin. They were members of Mountain Lutheran Church in Adams. They had two adopted sons, Robert and David. Ann passed away in 1974, leaving her husband and two motherless young boys. Ann will always be remembered for her faithful service as Sunday School teacher and work in the A.L.C.W. at Mountain Church. George now lives at Ray, N. Dak. He has one grandchild. Ardys graduated from Edinburg High School and The Deaconess Hospital School of Nursing in Grafton. She married James A. Melby of Grafton. They had three children: Arylis lives in Larimore, Gale in West Fargo, and John is a student at Moorhead State University. Ardys was widowed, and later married Aimer B. Olson of Bagley, Minn., then sheriff of Clearwater County, in Minnesota. They now live on a farm at Gonvick, Minn. Ardys has four grandchildren.
The Stuart Loftsgard Family: Tracy, Justin, Stuart and
Phyllis.
Walsh County Agricultural School, Park River, in 1965. She attended two years at Valley City State College and graduated from North Dakota State University, Fargo, in 1969. She has been employed as Juvenile Supervisor for Walsh, Pembina and Cavalier Counties since that time, working full-time for two years and continues to work part-time. Stuart Loftsgard was born Sept. 6, 1947, at Fargo. He is the son of Eugene Loftsgard and Pearl Larson Loftsgard. Eugene Loftsgard is the manager of Dundee Insurance at Park River and Pearl is a homemaker. Stuart attended Park River Elementary School and graduated from Walsh County Agricultural School in 1965. He attended one year at North Dakota State University. Fargo, and a year at Bottineau School of Forestry. He served in the United States Army and spent one year in Vietnam. Stuart and Phyllis were married Feb. 2 1 , 1970, at Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Park River. They reside on a farm, two miles west of Park River. They have two children — Tracy Leigh born July 14, 1972, and Justin Paul, born July 18, 1974. Stuard is engaged in farming with his brother, Clarke. They raise small grains and beef cattle. Stuart is also a rural mail carrier. His hobbies include raising and training quarter horses and hunting. He is a member of the VFW, American Legion, North Dakota Stockman's Association, and North Dakota Quarter Horse Association. Phyllis is a member of PEO, Our Savior's ALCW, and North Dakota Cowbelles. She also enjoys riding horses and doing needlework. AUGUST AND ELSIE LOHSE August G. Lohse was born Feb. 8, 1895, in Brooklyn, New York, the son of the late Henry and Maria Lohse of Brooklyn. He was married on May 2, 1923, to Elsie M. Dencker of Golden Township in rural Park River, N. Dak. Elsie was the daughter of Henry and Elseba Dencker. She was born May 9, 1893, at their farm home. Mr. and Mrs. Dencker were pioneer settlers in Golden Township. After their marriage, Gust and Elsie moved to Brooklyn, New York. Gust and two of his brothers owned and operated a funeral home at 933 Cypress Avenue. In late 1924 they moved back to rural Park River and started to farm. They had one daughter, Mary, now Mrs. Roy Seboe. They farmed for 32 years, until the death of Gust on Dec. 8, 1956. Elsie remained on the farm most of the tinrie until her death on Jan. 1 2 , 1 9 7 2 . They were members of the Zion English Lutheran Church at Grafton, N. Dak. Gust and Elsie are both buried at the German Lutheran Cemetery in Golden Township. Elsie's father, Henry Dencker, founded this cemetery.
ALBERT J. LOVAASEN (1885-1965) Albert J. Lovaasen, the youngest son of Andreas and Elen Maria Lovaasen, was born in North Dakota on June 15, 1885. Other than time spent attending school in Minnesota while a youth, and some time with his children in Texas in his later years, his whole life was lived in and around Park River. Two children, Alfred (now deceased), and Mrs. Marie Sukstorf of Adams, N. Dak., were born to him and his first wife, Annie. After Annie's death he married Bergetta Svidal, and to this union was born Elmer of Bottineau, N. Dak.; Bennie of Temple, Tex.; Ernest of Young, Ariz.; Vern of Austin, Tex.; Kenneth of San Francisco; Robert of St. Martinville, La.; and Doris Timaeus of Freeport, Tex. The second Mrs. Lovaasen had two children by her first marriage to Christiansen, Oliver and Marie. Mr. Lovaasen is buried by his wife, Bergetta, in the Golden Valley Cemetery. BENNIE A. LOVAASEN (1919-) Bennie A. Lovaasen, the second son of Albert J. and Bergetta (Svidal) Lovaasen, resides near Temple, Tex., where he has been with the Temple Fire Department for over 27 years. He served in the U.S. Army, both in World War II and the Korean Conflict. He and Ruth Gibbs were united in marriage on July 19, 1952, in Burnet, Tex. They have one son, Grant, who is 19 (1980) and is attending the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque. Interests of the family include their church work, woodworking, collecting bells, gardening, fishing, and snowskiing. MARIE LOVAASEN (1914-) Marie Alvina (Christiansen) Lovaasen was born Mar. 27, 1914, in Lankin, N. Dak. to Bergetta and Albert Christiansen. Having resided in North Dakota until 1948, she moved to Temple, Texas, and then to Austin, Texas, where she was employed until she retired in 1975. She now resides at 9120 Northgate, Box 5 0 1 , Austin, Texas 78758. HISTORY OF MR. AND MRS. NORENCE D. LOVAASEN Edythe C. Lien was the only child of Clarence and Estine Lien that stayed in Walsh County. She and Norence D. Lovaasen were married in 1940. Edythe lived in Edinburg until 1936 when she moved to Park River. She was active in school activities and graduated from the Walsh County Agricultural School as valedictorian of her class. She was the first car-hop in Park River. She worked for Mrs. Mervin Adams at the Nickle Inn while she was in high school. When she went back to work after her marriage she worked at the Walsh County ASCS Office. She has worked there for more than twenty years. Norence was born and raised in Golden Valley Township. He is a veteran of World War II and served in the Navy in the South Pacific. Norence has worked in some phase of the potato industry all of his life. He was active in the American Legion and the Lutheran Church Choir when he was younger.
Mr. and Mrs. August G. Lohse
Norence and Edythe have four children. They are Donald R., Barbara A., John W. and Jeffrey D.
Seven children were born: Lloyd (Frazee, Minn.), Marvel Jacenko (Minneapolis), Orville (Mound, Minn.), Luverne (Vergas, Minn.), Richard (Tucson, Ariz.), Jeanne Seng (deceased) and Carol Copley Fowles (Cheyenne, Wyo.). Ole died in 1 949 and is buried in Garfield Lutheran Church Cemetery near Edinburg. Katie remarried in 1954 to Gunnar Ernest Anderson and they made several enjoyable trips to Norway and Sweden. Katie visited her parents homeplace, Aseral, and met the relatives who stayed behind. Katie died in 1966 and is buried in Union Cemetery in Mound, Minn. VERN LOVAASEN FAMILY HISTORY
Mr. and Mrs. Norence Lovaasen Family, taken in 1976: left to right, back row, John, Donald, Barbara; front row, Edythe, Jeffrey, Norence.
OLE AND KATIE LOVAASEN
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Ole was born July 27, 1881, in Goodhue County, near Kenyon, Minn., to parents, Andreas and Marie Johansen. During his early childhood, his family moved :o Walsh County in Golden Township and, at that time, changed their name to Lovaasen after the area of origin in Norway. The family lived for a time in a log cabin and later built a large stone house. Ole attended public school in Garfield, N. Dak., a short-lived village located across the highway from Park River Lutheran Bible Camp.
Vern Lovaasen, Sr., was born Feb. 25, 1924, at Park River (Walsh County), North Dakota, the son of Albert J. Lovaasen and Bergetta (Svehahl) Lovaasen. Vern lived on the farm in North Dakota until he was seventeen years old. He then went to work for Ford Motor Company in California. In 1944 he joined the U.S. Army, and after completing his service, he attended barber school in California. After graduating in 1948 he left that state and went to Austin, Tex., where he began his career in barbering. Vem became a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church of Austin in 1949. In 1951 he met his future wife, Hattie Zoch. She was born Aug. 27, 1923, in Warda, Tex., the daughter of Alvin T. and Ernestine (Mertink) Zoch of Warda.
Katie Lovaasen was born Anna Christine Madland on Feb. 16, 1891, to Lars and Christine Madland, on their farm three miles south of Edinburg, N. Dak. Katie attended a small country school near her home, graduated from Edinburg High School, and went on to teachers college to become an elementary school teacher. Katie lived in a sod hut with her parents, four brothers, and two sisters until about the age of nine. Katie recalled a raging blizzard that covered their sod hut, except for the chimney. The door opened outward and was completely blocked and her father had to force the door open and scratch the snow away and tunnel to the surface. Katie also told of the many hardships common during the Depression and drought of the Twenties and Thirties, such as dust storms lasting several days that would blot out the sun on a clear day or the grasshoppers that would eliminate what little vegetation there was. The government supplied poison bait to control the pests but, very often, farm animals were accidentally killed, causing added hardships. In 1 920, Ole and Katie were married and farmed for several years just south of Lankin, N. Dak., and later, near Edinburg.
The Vern Lovaasen Family: left to right. Deborah Ann Lovaasen, Vern Lovaasen, Jr., Vern Lovaasen, Sr. and Hattie Lovaasen. Vern and Hattie were married Feb. 24, 1952, and continued to reside at Austin, Tex. On Jan. 28, 1953, Vem, Jr., was born and on June 10, 1958, Debbie Ann was born. At the present time Vern, Sr., is the owner of the Wooten Barber Shop in Austin, and Hattie is employed as a sales clerk at J. C. Penny. Hattie and Vern reside in their own home at 7313 Bucknell Drive, Austin, Texas. Vern, Jr., is a graduate of Reagan High School and two years of college in Austin. He served three years in the U.S. Army, and is presently attending electronics school in Austin. Debbie Ann is a graduate of Reagan High School and also of Austin Community College Licensed Vocational Nursing Program. She is currently working towards a degree as a physical therapist at the University of Texas in Austin. The family still resides at Austin, Texas.
Ole Lovaasen Family: left to right, standing. Lloyd, Marvel. Orville; seated, Luverne, Ole, Jeanne, Carol. Katie, and Richard.
ANNA (SKOJE) RINDE MCINTYRE Anna Skoje was born Jan. 28, 1902, in Hedal, Norway, to
John Skoje and Bergit Moen Skoje. She was baptized a Lutheran at Hedal Stavkirke. On Mar. 27, 1902, Anna and her parents left Norway to come to America. The boat trip took an uncomfortable and often frightening six weeks. One family buried five children at sea. The Skojes settled east of Edinburg. In America, five other children were born to them. Anna attended school in Lampton Township, but being the oldest child she soon had to stay home to help her parents with the younger children and work on the farm. At the age of 14 she began working as a "hired girl," and cooked in the cook cars during harvest.
Arthur Mclntyre
Ann Mclntyre in Norse Costume.
200 lamps and numerous other antiques, and was part of the heritage left to their children and grandchildren. Art died May 30, 1961, and was buried in the Park River Memorial Cemetery.
Oliver Rinde, first husband of Ann Mclntyre. On June 20, 1923, Anna married Oliver Rinde. Oliver was born Feb. 14, 1 8 9 1 , in Dundee Township, the son of Nels Rinde and Ingeborg Hove Rinde. The family moved to Grafton when Oliver was an infant. He graduated from the Grafton High School with the class of 1911. Oliver received an appointment to West Point, but because of ill health, was unable to accept. He suffered from ill health most of his adult life. He went to Bartlett, N. Dak., where he worked as a bank teller for several years. In 1919, when he met Anna, he was farming with his father in Dundee Township. Oliver owned a Buick, which provided transportation to dances and picnics for him and his friends. In 1925, Oliver and Anna moved to Grafton where he worked as a relief mail carrier. In the spring of 1927, they moved to Hoople where he farmed with his uncle, Jim Hove, and worked in the bank. A daughter, Carol Ann, was born to Anna and Oliver on Aug. 15, 1927. Oliver died just five years after her birth, Sept. 27,1932. Life as a widow in the thirties was not easy. Anna held a variety of jobs, including cooking in cook cars, restaurants, and the boys' dorm at Walsh County Agricultural School; and ironing for fifty cents a day. In spite of hardships and long hours of work, it was important to Anna to study for United States Citizenship. In 1938, she became a naturalized citizen. Between 1942-43, Anna worked in Detroit, Mich., at a war plant. Anna married Arthur Mclntyre, Dec. 14, 1943. Arthur was the son of Edward and Anne Machart Mclntyre. He was born July 24, 1903, in Park River, where he spent his boyhood and acquired his education. Arthur graduated from the Park River W.C.A.S. He then began working on the family farm. Arthur had a daughter, Doris Jean, by a previous marriage. Anna and Art lived and farmed in Golden Township, rural Edinburg. Their mutual hobby was going to auction sales and collecting antiques. This hobby resulted in a collection of over
In the fall of 1961, Anna moved her home to Park River. She was a member of Our Savior's Lutheran Church and was active in A.L.C.W., and worked with Junior Lutherans. She was a member of Fortnightly Study Club, North Dakota China Painters Guild, Golden Lamplighter Homemakers, and Gyda Varden Sons of Norway Lodge. She was also a charter member of both Agassiz Garden Club and the Walsh County Historical Society. Anna became a resident of the Good Samaritan Home in Park River in 1976. She died there Oct. 22, 1978, and was buried in the Grafton Lutheran Cemetery. Both Anna's daughters are residents of Walsh County. Carol Ann married Jay Lewis, April 1 1 , 1 9 5 0 . They farm in Golden Township, and have four children and two grandchildren. Carol is a nurse at the Good Samaritan Home in Park River. Doris Jean married Raynold Bodmer of Hoople, Sept. 18, 1949. Jean is now Walsh County Tax Director. Preserving a sense of heritage was very important to Anna. She was proud of her Norwegian descent and made three return trips to Norway. And she loved to tell stories to her children and grandchildren recapturing Norwegian culture and tradition. The following article that Anna wrote for the Dakota Farmer describes her childhood Christmas memories. I REMEMBER CHRISTMAS To Dakota Farmer: My folks immigrated from Norway, and they lived up to all their Norwegian Christmas traditions in this new land. I well remember how busy mother was during December. It was butchering time so we had all kinds of meats for the holidays — oldfashioned Norwegian blod klub, rullepolse, headcheese, and pickled pigs' feet (sylte and sylte lab). Then there was the baking of flat brod, lefse, Fattigmand, Berliner Kranser, Sandbakkelse, Krum Kage, Goro Kake, Jule Kake, rosettes, fruit cakes (both light and dark), and the good old homemade dark or white bread. Then there was a trip to town for a box of apples, a wooden pail of mixed candy with all the twisted and colored stripped toffee in, and the lutefisk (in those days we bought it dry and put it to soak in a solution of wood ashes, which made a lye water). Then I'll never forget those warm new flannel nightgowns for
the girls and pajamas for the boys which my mother always made to wear Christmas eve. Dad would make each of us a pair of slippers or moccasins of lamb's wool. Dad was quite a fairy tale teller and some of the tales were pretty tall, but we believed them. He told us. as in Norway, about Jule Nissen and Jule Jeita (Christmas elves); he had us believing that just before Christmas they came and sat on the top of the roof of our house to watch to see if we were good or bad. If we were not good, Nissen would come and put us in a sack and carry us away. The night these little people really stirred around was the eve of December 23. That was the spooky night and was called Snorte Jule or Lille Jule (black Christmas eve or little Christmas eve). Also there was Tassen; to have peace with him, we were supposed to put an X over our beds and on loaves of bread (or whatever we baked), and he would have no power over us. Finally, came the great day of December 24. We were up bright and early that morning. There was lots to do. The house had to be just so, the decorations put up, and mother's Christmas cactus, which was in full bloom, had to be in the right place. Everything had to be done by noon. Early in the day, Dad put up an oat bundle on a pole for the birds. After dinner the tree was trimmed; the children were not to see it until it was all trimmed, the packages put around it, and the parlor door opened.
any longer to open our packages. Oh! what excitement and how happy we were with those china dolls and the pull trains! More carol singing followed. Mother would join in, and Dad would pick up the old eight-string Hardanger violin inlaid with pearls and accompany us. But Dad and his fairy tales reminded us we had to go to the big oak tree in our yard and leave a treat for the troll if we wanted peace through Christmas. So off we would go with the lighted lantern, a bowl of rice mush, and some Fattigmand. Christmas morning, bright and early, mother would bring a tray to us with some baking and a little coffee in our own little china cups we had receved as gifts. I still have my cup with words "Think of me" on it. Mother and Dad always had coffee the first thing in the morning before breakfast. It was time to go to church. Dad fixed up the old sleigh — put straw in the bottom of the box and blankets on top. He covered the top with a canvas and put in hot bricks. Was it ever fun to crawl in under the canvas and get settled! The horses' harness was all shined up and the bells put on. What an exciting ride we had over the crisp snow to church! The next bit of excitement was to look for Jule buikkler (Christmas fools). The young people around would dress up with masks and go from place to place and act silly; we were to guess who they were. The 1st stop usually ended in an old-time dance. Christmas season lated for 13 days among the Norsks, so there were lots of parties.
Since there was no bathroom in those days, the boiler would have to be filled with water and heated for our baths. Someone had to get the wash tub from the shed and warm that up. One by one, six of us took our baths, because we really had to be clean for Christmas eve and those new gowns, pajamas, and slippers.
When I was very young, the folks would not take us out in bitter cold. On such a Christmas eve, I remember, Dad walked to church, so mother was home with us children. As mother sat in the rocking chair that night with us at her feet she read stories and sang.
Everything had to be done before four o'clock, for after that time Holy Christmas eve was here.
Then mother would sit and whittle some dolls out of sticks, carve faces in them, dress them with some cotton pieces, and put some of her own hair on them. These were just like the dolls she played with when she was a child in Norway.
At four o'clock, Dad would take his gun and go out and shoot up in the air to bring in Christmas. Then, it was time for us to run out and listen to bells ringing in the Christmas season over the valley. The door to the parlor was opened. How pretty that tree looked with popcorn and cranberry strings and the angel on top! (I still have some of those ornaments). We had an organ so we would gather around and sing carols both in English and Norwegian while mother was getting the supper ready. A white tablecloth and red candles were a must for Christmas eve. Dad would be out feeding the cattle. It was Christmas eve for them, also. They had to be bedded down extra well with the best hay and an extra helping of oats. Then we would run out to the barn to look at the contentment of the animals, cats, dogs, and
all. When we came in, Lutefisk was cooking; so was the grot. The kerosene lamps had to be lighted, including the fancy hanging lamp with prisms; it hung in the parlor. Now, all to the table but no noise, this was Holy Night. Dad read the Christmas story. Then we would say our table prayer. The first course was mush made of rice and served with a sprinkle of sugar and cinnamon and butter in the center. Then came Lutefisk and Lefse, spareribs, potatoes, some of mother's good beet pickles, and Flatbrod. Our dessert was doughnuts always served in an amber, fluted, carnival glass dish she had. (It's still used that way.) Dishes had to be done in a hurry, for it was pretty hard to wait
Now Dad was coming home. What excitement to hear all about the Christmas program and the size of the tree! He brought us each a treat — apples and a box of animal crackers. But the best treat of all was a little basket of candy that had an angel and tinsel on the handle. It was the first tinsel I had ever seen. How tenderly I held it, and how I loved it! We kept it for years, and it was put on our own Christmas trees after we started having them. When we were old enough, we took part in the Christmas programs at church and school. —Mrs. Arthur Mclntyre, Walsh County. KJETTEL AND CAROLINE MOMERAK Kjettel Momerak was born in Fyresdal, Telemarken, Norway, Aug. 25, 1854, and came to America in 1882; he died July 26, 1919. Kjettel was a son of Aavold Kjetelson Momerak, born Nov. 17, 1815, who died Oct. 26, 1868, in Fyresdal, Telemarken, Norway. His mother was Bergit Toresdatter Momerak, born Oct. 22, 1819, and who died Mar. 11, 1858. Aavold married a second time and Kjettel had two half-brothers, Torof and Aaslag. They were bachelors and came to America later in life. Th parents of Kjettel's wife, Caroline, were Gunder and Signe Svenkeson. Gunder was born in Skein, Norway, Apr. 29, 1846, and settled in the Glyndon, Minn., area in 1867. He died Jan. 2, 1907. Signe Vetlesdarter Lisland was born in Norway June 20, 1850, and died in 1 938 in Moorhead, Minn.
Kjettel and Caroline were married in Glyndon, Minn., in 1886. They moved to Park River, N. Dak., and settled on a farm about 10 miles west of Park River. A school was built three miles east of their farm and the Golden Valley Church was built three miles north of the farm. AH of their nine children attended this school and church. During winter it was a problem for children to get to school. They were hauled in covered bobsled-grain boxes, driven by horses. Teachers came from as far away as Iowa. Bible school was held from one to two months in the summer time. There were 10 children born into the Momerak family. Evald left home at the age of 16 and sought work. He married and lived on a farm near Grygla, Minn. He then moved to Park River where he farmed for two years. His first wife, Alma Bjornstad, passed away, leaving four small girls. He then married Doris Erickson and they moved to Grafton where he worked for the Ringsak Hardware until hid death, May 24, 1964. His children are Agnes (Mrs. Inar Stenso); Clara (Mrs. Howard Thompson); Edna (Mrs. William Svare); and Lorna (Mrs. Leonard Douville).
Evenson of Parshall, N. Dak. Ed died Feb. 27, 1980. Edwin moved to Napa, Calif., and was a carpenter. They had three children: John, Coralee (Mrs. Lonnie Nalley, Jr.) and Roy. Andrew was born July 3 1 , 1901. He married Clara Torson and they have two girls — Carol (Mrs. Wallace Johnson) and Judith (Mrs. Boyd Romine). Andrew was a contractor in Minot, N. Dak. In Jan., 1980, he was honored by the Builders' Association as an outstanding builder. Gustave was born Jan. 5, 1905, and married Lucille Larson of Raub, N. Dak., in 1928. Gustave had a grocery store in Harvey, N. Dak., and has been a salesman for years. He lives in Minot. They have two children — Lorraine (Mrs. Kenneth Montgomery) and Wayne. Konrad was born Apr. 9, 1915, and died in 1 930. Kjettel Momerak was a man that belived in progress. His granary, that he used for wheat, had a pit elevator where the different grains were elevated to their right bins. He installed gas lights in his house — one each in the kitchen, dining room, and living room. Kjettel and Caroline belived in entertaining young folks in their home. In 1909 Kjettel made a trip back to Norway which made for reacquaintanceship with his brother and sister. He brought back articles made in Norway which the family enjoyed. Kjettel contracted tuberculosis after the flu of 1918 — and spent his last two months of life in a tent near the house on the farm. Caroline then moved into their house in Park River, which they had purchased some years before. She lived there with her daughter, Bergit, and family until her death, Aug. 9, 1947.
Kjettel and Caroline Momerak Family: letto to right, back row, Evald, Gunder, Wilhelm, Carl and Andrew; front row, Signe, Kjettel, Edwin, Bergit, Gustave, and Caroline. Bergit was born Oct. 4, 1889, and passed away June 25, 1968. She was married to Oscar Thompson and three children were born to this union. Bergit was a seamstress, and after her husband died she lived with her mother and took care of her. She also cooked at the Walsh County School dormitories. Her children are Inez (Mrs. Weimer Skager); Kenneth; and Opal (Mrs. Warren Lee). Gunder was born Apr. 27, 1891, and passed away Aug. 19, 1973. He was a farmer. He married Myrtle Dahl and they had four children: Lillian (Mrs. Percy Anderson); Eleanor (Mrs. Lyle Fedje); Glenn; and Dorothy (Mrs. Kenneth Ramsey).
EARL AND INGA MONTAGUE Earl Patrick Montague was born in Webster, N. Dak., Mar. 28, 1905, to Bertha and John Montague. The family lived at Lawton, N. Dak., for several years before moving to Thief River Falls, Minn. Earl received his education in the grades and high school at Thief River Falls. In 1919 the family returned to North Dakota and bought a farm in Golden Township. They made their home there until they retired in 1936 when Earl took over the farm. Inga Cecelie Strand was born in Edmore, N. Dak., Oct. 20,
Wilhelm was born Nov. 2, 1893, and passed away Oct. 5, 1976. He married Odelhia Dahl. Willie was a carpenter. They had seven children: Wallace; Harvey; Donna (Mrs. Eugene Evenson); Bernice (Mrs. Glenn Dahl); Ordean; Leonard; and Wilma (Mrs. Gordon Gemmill). Signe married Charles Deardurff Apr. 26, 1924. He died Apr. 19, 1942. She then married Ernest Giffey on Sept. 27, 1949. Signe taught school for several years. She now makes her home in Roseglen, N. Dak., on the farm in the summer and has an apartment in Garrison, N. Dak., during the winter. Signe and Charles had three children: Robert, Gloria (Mrs. Clark Hendrickson) and Andrew. Carl was born Apr. 12, 1898, and died June 30, 1977. He married Annie Thompson and they had one daughter, Margaret (Mrs. Robert Birney). He was also a farmer and later a carpenter. After Annie's death he married Thelma Bruce in 1 9 7 1 . Edwin was born Mar. 1, 1900, and married Bernice
Earl and Inga Montague
1904, the daughter of Karen and Andrew Strand. Her family bought a farm in Golden Township in 1917. She graduated from the W.C.A.S., Park River, and attended Mayville State Teacher's College for three years. She taught school for ten years before her marriage to Earl. On June 25, Earl and Inga were married at the home of her parents with Rev. P. O. Laurhammer performing the ceremony. They lived on the farm until his death Aug. 24, 1954. They were members of the Garfield Lutheran Church, and he is buried in the Garfield Cemetery. After the death of her husband, Inga moved to Park River in Nov., 1954, and has made her home there since. In the fall of 1955 she went back to teaching and taught for fifteen years at the Park River Elementary School, retiring in 1970. Inga and Earl had one daughter, Lynda Faye, born June 12, 1944. She attended Jamestown College before her marriage to Dr. Harold Harris July 26, 1963. Both Lynda and Harold are graduates of the W.C.A.S., Park River, and he received his doctorate at the University of Iowa at Iowa City, la. They make their home in Watertown, Wise, where he has his dental practice. Their family includes three children — Leslie Ann, Jeffrey Harold and Douglas Earl.
FRED AND EVA NOTTESTAD FAMILY Fred Oliver Nortestad was born May 16, 1912, in Albert Township, Benson County, near Maddock, N. Dak. Fred is second to the youngest of thirteen children of Theodore and Jorgine Nortestad. Eva Marie Lindell was born Dec. 15, 1911, the next to the youngest of eleven children born to Alfred and Anna Lindell in Golden Township of Walsh County. Eva attended the Garfield rural school and graduated from the Walsh County Agricultural School at Park River, N. Dak., in 1930. She then attended Mayville State Teacher's College and received her teacher's certificate. In the fall of 1931, Fred, in the company of neighbor boys, came to the Park River and Hoople area to seek work in the potato harvest. They arrived at the Alfred Lindell home early one morning and, as was always the custom, all five young men had a good, hot breakfast.
OLEAND LYDIA NELSON Lydia Helga Kalgard was born in Dundee Township on Apr. 6, 1978, to Eberhart and Martha Kalgarden. She was the youngest of a family of ten children — Anna (Peterson), Theodore, Josephine (Almen), Bertina (Vole), Emil, Adolph, Albert, Jacob, Magnus, and Lydia. Lydia attended rural schools in Dundee Township. She was baptized and confirmed in Park Center Lutheran Church where she was a life member. She spent her early life on the Kalgard farm until her marriage to Ole Nelson in November, 1928.
Eva Lindell Nortestad, 1913
Fred and Eva Nottestad
Eva, who was teaching the Vesta School District No. 63 at this time, was quite impressed with the fine looking young men, especially the one. She vowed she had never seen anyone with such beautiful eyes. The attraction must have been mutual, as the following fall Fred returned again and in the summer, June 30, 1933, Fred and Eva were married in St. Peter Lutheran Church by Rev. P. 0 . Laurhammer. This was the first church wedding in twenty years, at which time Eva's sister, Alice, had been married in this same church. Mother and dad Lindell arranged a very nice wedding for their daughter, Eva, and son-in-law, Fred. After a honeymoon to Bismarck, N. Dak., and a trip to Maddock to visit relatives, the couple were at home in an upstairs apartment in the Lindell home. This was very comfortable for them.
Ole and Lydia Nelson, 1928 Lydia and Ole rented several farms in the Park River and Grafton area before purchasing a farm west of Park River in 1937. Here she spent the rest of her life until her death in 1 976. Ole Nelson was born near Newfolden, Minn., on Mar. 26, 1888, to Mr. and Mrs. Iver Nelson. He had three brothers — Gilbert, Kittel, and Theodore. He received his education in rural schools in Minnesota, and began working early as a farm laborer. In the 1920's he came to work in the Hoople — Park River areas.
Money was scarce and the Depression was hitting hard, even in eastern North Dakota. Dad Lindell gave the couple two cows and Fred bought two, and taking a very special care of these, they offered milk and cream for the table use and also some butter to sell in exchange for groceries. Eva's butter was good; an art she had learned from her mother. Because of the excellence of the butter she got a few cents more a pound. Melvin Fjeld, a brother-in-law, gave Fred — for his birthday that spring — nine turkey eggs. He set them under one of his mother-in-law's faithful hens and every egg hatched. These poults grew and supplied meat for Thanksgiving and Christmas parties. On Nov. 2 1 , 1934, Fred and Eva's son, Darrell David, was born at their home. A good friend and neighbor, Ellen Hoy,
assisted them tor ten days after his birth. They were very happy to receive their baby boy, even if he had colic for six weeks and the parents had to sleep in shifts. Fred was always busy. During the fall and winter he hauled home wood, assisted with the sawing, and then split the wood ready to be burned both in our stoves and for his wife's folks. During the spring and summer he farmed and prepared hay for the cattle and horses which were used for farming. After a few years Fred and Eva decided to prepare a home of their own. There was very little money but Fred was clever at working with his hands as a carpenter. On Eva's dad's Quarter in Section 18, there was a log house built by Ole Bratstad, some time between 1870-1880. No one had occupied this house for thirty years. Fred, with the help of his faithful team, June and Daisy, dug a basement under the house and plastered the walls and floor. Two bachelor neighbors, Willie Brandt and Gust Sjogren, also offered their help. A cistern was dug on the outside of the house. The inside of the house was wall boarded and the floors painted. The logs on the outside were left, as original, except for plastering between the logs. In December, 1940, the little family moved into their humble home — but a home of their very own. Fred continued farming on shares with Eva's dad. Eva helped with the cattle, which brought income for food, clothing, and also a little cash. Later, Fred worked as a carpenter and painter for the neighbors and also built homes and quonsets in the Edinburg and Hoople area.
Darrell David Nortestad
MaryAnn Nortestad (Erickson)
Their daughter, Mary Ann, was born on Christmas morning, Dec. 25, 1942. They now had a daughter and a son — Darrell — and their life was quite complete. In the 30's and into the 40's, Fred made sleigh runners from trees with a natural bend. He also had a turning lathe and Darrell enjoyed helping his dad make many useful articles from wood such as lefse rolling pins, candle holders, lamp stands, and these were used as gifts. As time went on, a kitchen and entry were added onto the log house. The electric current came to this area in 1947. Prior to that, meat was butchered in the fall and kept frozen. Rolle pulsa and dried beef were also prepared besides grinding meat with a handoperated meat grinder. When spring was coming, meat was again cared for and prepared. Eva would can meatballs and roasts for summer use and also place pork in salt brine for frying during the hot weather. Gardens and chickens were also work accomplished on the farm. During the 30's, rainfall was not sufficent to produce a very
Fred Nortestad Family: seated, left to right, Eva, Mary Ann, Fred; standing, Darrell. ample crop and after the threshing bill was paid, there was not too much left. In the summer of 1935, it looked really quite encouraging, but then the grasshoppers came and devoured the greater part of the crop. Fred brought his first tractor in 1942. This was a McCormick F-12 Farmali. Before this time, the work had all been done with horses. Even though there were hard times and often times sickness, it also had its good points. Neighbors and relatives were friendly and there was more love and concern for one another. During the winter months much visiting was done in the neighborhood, and horses and sleigh were used for transportation. The church, too, was important to everyone. Fred served as deacon on the church board. The children attended Sunday School and Vacation Bible School. Fred and Eva took part in various organizations of the church. They had both been raised in Godfearing homes and they, too, tried to give their children a Christian heritage which will never be taken away from them. Fred served for many years as president of the school board in Vesta School District No. 63. Darrell attended one year of high school at Oak Grove High School in Fargo, N. Dak., and after graduating from high school in Park River, he attended and graduated from Mayville State Teacher's College. It was in Mayville he met his wife-to-be, Ellen Odegaard. They were married June 6, 1957. He later attended the University of North Dakota. He has been an administrator in the Grand Forks school system for several years. They have two daughters — Michelle Jean and Julie Anne. After attending high school in Park River, Mary Ann married Arthur Erickson, Jr., a farmer southwest of Adams. They have two children — Terri Ann and David Charles. Since 1956, Fred and Eva have spent the winter months living in Park River. They own a trailer which is their winter home. Eva worked as a pastry cook at Larson's Cafe for twentythree years. Fred worked for many years at the Grafton State School for the Mentally Retarded. He worked both on the wards and in the laundry in maintenance and as a supervisor. He enjoyed being able to help those who were less fortunate. After the couple's retirement they still spend the summers in the log house home at the edge of the timber, and find it a wonderful way for relaxation.
MORRIS AND AGNES PETERSON FAMILY Morris Peterson was born near Oslo, Norway, on Sept. 16, 1890. As young men, two brothers and he came to the Minnesota woods and worked as "lumberjacks" for some time. Morris later moved to North Dakota and found work on the Alfred Lindell farm. There he met and married Alfred Lindell's second eldest daughter, Agnes, in 1 920, at Grafton. They lived on the Lindell farm for one year before moving to the Emma Almen farm home where they made their home for seven years. They then moved about a mile north, to a "quarter of land" that Agnes parents had given her. This farm in Golden Township, about five miles southwest of Edinburg, is where the Petersons farmed and raised their family. The Petersons were members of the St. Peters Lutheran Free Church, a rural church in Vesta Township. All the Peterson children were baptized and confirmed there. The church was about three miles away. Rev. Laurhammer was their pastor for most of those years.
now married with two children each. They are living in the Minneapolis area. Mark passed away unexpectedly at home in Edinburg at the early age of 55 on July 7, 1978. Alice did housework at different places in the Edinburg area until she was about eighteen years od when she moved to Minneapolis. She married Clement Koska, a service man from Minneapolis, a short time later. They lived at different places during his period in service, including Providence. R. I. They then moved back to Minneapolis where he was employed by the railroad. They had five children, all still living in the Minneapolis area. They are Delroy, Arlan, Michael, Clement, and Natalie. The three older boys are now married and have families of their own. Alice obtained a beautician's license a short time ago. She is now married to Harold Smith of Minneapolis. Eva also did housework at various places before marrying Gilman Johnson of rural Edinburg on Dec. 3 1 , 1949. Gilman enlisted in the Air Force in 1942 with Mark Peterson. They served together for quite some time. Elmer attended Edinburg High School, then worked on the Windingland farm, among other places, for a time before moving to Minneapolis. He served in the Navy for a while, then joined the Naval Reserve and was later called back into active duty during the Korean Conflict. He served in the Pacific Area on a destroyer or a destroyer escort. In Minneapolis, he accepted employment driving a truck for Gamble-Robinson, a wholesale fruit and vegetable company, where he is still employed. He is married to Carol Ramsey of Park River. They have four sons — Merle, Dale, Charles, and Gary. All are still residing in the Minneapolis area.
Morris and Agnes Peterson Family: standing, Allan, Mark and Alice; seated, Eva (Mrs. Gilman Johnson), Morris, Agnes and Elmer. Five children were born to Morris and Agnes. Mark was born in July, 1922; Alice and Allen, twins, in October, 1925; Eva and Elmer, another set of twins, in January, 1930. They all attended the Christopherson School in Lampton Township which was about a mile and a quarter away. Morris and Agnes retired from farming in 1956 and moved to an upstairs apartment of Mrs. Swenson's in Edinburg. They lived there until 1958 when they purchased the little house right next to the Edinburg ball diamond. Morris planted some evergreen trees there that are now an Edinubrg landmark. They can be seen from miles away because of their great height. After moving to Edinburg, the farm was rented out to the Windingland "boys," and times were better financially for them now that they had cash rent money and their social security checks. Morris passed away in 1966, after a short illness, at the age of 76. He is buried in St. Peter Cemetery. Agnes is still living at her home in Edinburg, in 1980, at 91 years of age. She now has fifteen grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren. Mark Peterson worked for neighboring farmers until 1942 when he enlisted in the Air Force. He worked on the Reuben Johnson farm at Nash for many years. While in the Air Force, he was stationed at Randolph Field in Texas for quite some time, then was transferred to Tennessee, from where he was sent to the island of Guam for a while. After his discharge from the Air Force, he moved to Minneapolis. He worked as a mechanic for the Twin City Transit Company for many years. He married Muriel Kuehn of Minneapolis shortly after moving there. They had three daughters — Kathy, Judy, and Peggy. All three girls are
Allen graduated from Edinburg High School in 1943. He was drafted into the Navy in January, 1944, and took part in the Leyte, Luzon, and Okinawa invasions aboard the battleship U.S.S. California, experiencing many air attacks by Japanse suicide planes. He also took part in the Battle of Leyte Gulf, one of the last and greatest sea battles in history, in which the Japanese Navy was severely defeated. He also had the opportunity of sailing around the world, making stops at Hawaii, the Philippines, Okinawa, Tokyo, Singapore, and Capetown, South Africa. After serving in the Navy, he enrolled at Concordia College, Moorhead, Minn., and was graduated from there in 1950. He also attended summer sessions at Mayville, Valley City, and Minot State Colleges. He taught rural schools in eastern Montana for ten years and urban schools in North Dakota for twenty years. He married the former Beverly A. Gullingsrud, Alvin Gullingsrud's youngest daughter, of rural Edinburg in 1963. They now reside at Mandan, N. Dak. PETER OLIVER PETERSON Peter O. Peterson, the son of Ole and Anna (Kalgard) Peterson, was born in July, 1897, and raised in the Hoople area. In 1926, he married Astrid Olson. They had five children: Arvil married June Lee of Adams; they have one child, Laurie, and live in Colorado Springs, Colo. James (Art) married Zelma Byars of Edinburg and they have seven daughters. They live in Grafton. Lloyd, married Lois Stenerson of Park River; they have one daughter, Sheryl, and reside in Park River. Muriel married Andy Biri of Edmore; they have two children, Larry and Carol, and reside in Grafton. Boyd married Bettey Brooks of Hamilton; they have three sons — Dennis, Kevin, and Wayne — and reside in Grafton. Peter Peterson farmed most of his life in the Park River and Hoople area. He was custodian of Park Center Lutheran Church for many years where he was a lifetime member. Peter Peterson passed away in 1953 at the age of 56.
ROY A. AND MARY (LOHSE) SEBOE Roy A. Seboe was born Dec. 27, 1924, at Fairdale, N. Dak. He is the son of the late Andrew and Mary Seboe. On Feb. 23, 1950, he was united in marriage to Mary Lohse, the daughter of Elsie and Gust Lohse. Mary was bom Sept. 20, 1929, in the home of her grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Henry Dencker.
Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Strand on their Golden Wedding Anniversary.
Mr. and Mrs. Roy Seboe Roy and Mary were married at the bride's home. The Seboes had three children: Allerd Roy, at home, is farming with his father; Lynnette Mary, married to Greg Swartz; they are living in her grandparents' home and have one daughter, Stacey Lynn; Peggy Ann, at home, will graduate from the Park River High School in May of 1 9 8 1 . Roy is a member of the Golden Township board and is a member of the Sunset Founders. He was on the Park River School Board for eleven years and the chairman of the Lutheran Sunset Board for five years.
She, too, had come to New York from Arndal, Norway, at the age of 17. She spent nine years working in New York. During this time she made several visits to North Dakota to see her sister and family. It was during her first visit to North Dakota that she met Andrew. Another sister, Christine (Mrs. Ole Svendal), also came from New York and she and her husband settled near Park River. Her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ole Olson Handland, also came to Park River and in their later years made their home with the Strands at Edmore. The Strands farmed the homestead until 1918 when they bought a farm west of Park River. They lived there until 1945 when they sold both farms and bought a home in Park River. They have one daughter, Inga, who married Earl Montague June 25, 1936. Earl passed away in August, 1954. Inga makes her home in Park River. She has one daughter, Lynda, who is married to Dr. Harold Harris and they live in Watertown, Wise. They have three children — Leslie Ann, Jeffrey and Douglas. Mr. and Mrs. Strand celebrated their Golden Wedding at the Garfield Lutheran Church in October, 1953. Mr. Strand passed away in 1963 and Mrs. Strand, in 1968.
MR. AND MRS. ANDREW STRAND Andrew Strand was born in Hadland, Norway, in 1876. At the age of 15, after the death of his father, he came to the United States to make his home with relatives at Vining, Minn. The next few years were spent at Vining and later at Grafton, N. Dak.
Churches
In 1891, at the age of 2 1 , he filed on land in Ramsey County, settling three miles west of Edmore. Theland is now owned by Alfred Monson. At that time the nearest towns were Devils Lake and Park River. All the lumber for the buildings had to be hauled from Devils Lake. The settlers were often plagued with prairie fires and it was during one of these that his home was destroyed. Until he could haul lumber to rebuild, he lived under a wagon box. In 1898 his sister, Annie (Mrs. Halvor Hellekson), and brother, Ragnavald Strand, came from Norway. His home became their home and Annie proved to be a good cook and housekeeper. She made her home with him until 1905 when she married Halvor Hellekson and settled on a farm near by. Some years later two other brothers and a sister migrated from Norway. They were Gilbert, who later made his home at Lawton; Peter, who now lives in Spokane, Wash.; and a sister, Caroline, who later married John Johnson and moved to Canada. On New Year's Eve, in 1903, Andrew married Karen Olson at the home of her sister, Mrs. Elling Osterhus, at Park River.
GOLDEN VALLEY CHURCH The history of the Golden Valley Church does not begin with the first settlement of the prairie on which it stood. Families were settling this area as early as 1880. But in January of 1895, twelve men met in the Garfield Schoolhouse, six and a half miles west of Park River, N. D., for the purpose of organizing a new congregation. There is no mention of a specific reason for the formation of a new congregation in the area. One can only guess that the existing congregations were unable to meet the needs of these men and their families. They met with visions of forming their own congregation in that particular area to meet their particular needs. On January 26, 1895, the following men met in the Garfield Schoolhouse and voted unanimously to organize a new congregation: Gilbert P. Slette, Ole J. Forgaard, H. Hanson, C. J. Fjelde, Knut Johnson, John Jenson, H. N. Grovom, R. C. Nodland, I.
families included C. I. Christenson, John F. Pederson, Tolleft Christenson, Siver A. Kjelland, Tom Tonneson, H. S. Anderson, John Espelien, Peder Johnson, K. A. Momerak, and Ole T. Klein. In 1902, plans for construction of the Golden Church building was made. The congregation wanted the church to be built in the form of a cross. It was to seat two hundred people. The steeple tower was to be seventy feet high. Obviously these people wanted to be involved in the building of their church. In April, 1902, Andrew J. Loe was employed as the builder. He was also commissioned to build the baptismal font, pulpit, and altar ring. The building of the church was financed by its members. In April, 1902, the Ladies Aid turned over $800 from its treasury to the building fund. February 1 1 , 1 9 0 4 , the church building was completed.
Golden Valley Church Iverson, 0 . E. Lofthus, Trond Monsen, and C. F. Gustafson. Following this decision, they began to make plans for their new congregation. The chairman, Ole E. Lofthus, had secured a constitution which was read and accepted with only a slight revision. Next, the congregation needed a name. It was decided that the congregation would be called "Golden Fri Menighed" or Golden Free Congregation. The word "free" does not tie the congregation with a church body known as the Lutheran Free Church, organized in 1897. "Free" meant that the congregation was, from the start, unaffiliated with a church body. The group decided to hold regular services every Sunday at 3 p.m. Services were held in the Garfield Schoolhouse until the church building was constructed. Rev. N. S. Thorlakson served as the first pastor. Creating a school for their children, in their native language, reflecting their own views, was important to many immigrants. Those who formed Golden were no exception. They elected a committee of five to look into the possibility of a parochial school. This committee was to confer with "Pastor Kringle's" congregation. The question of a cemetery was brought up; it was decided that the burial place on Margit Halvorson's land should be the congregation's cemetery. This became the site of the Golden Church building. During this first year the congregation's membership nearly doubled, increasing from twelve families to twenty-three. The following families joined the congregation the first year: O. A. Frovarp, P. Frovarp, Ole Frovarp, K. P. Levang, Martin Nordus, Nels Nelson Grovom, Peter G. Levang, Christ Levang, A. N. Grovom, George Jacobs, and Andrew Simpson. Golden's growth continued as four more families joined in January and February of 1898, bringing the congregation's membership to twenty-seven. These families included Ole O. Brenden, H.O. Brenden, John O. Mogen, and C. A. Thompson. In February, 1899, ten more families joined Golden. These
Although Golden started as an unaffiliated church, they joined Our Saviour's, Pleasant Valley, and East Forest River Congregations. These congregations were affiliated with a larger church body or synod, the United Norwegian Lutheran Church of America (UNCLA). Immigrants to this country often were able to bring very little with them; but one thing they all brought was their native language. This was a major bond in the organization of a church. Those who spoke the same language flocked together. They held their meetings and church services in the language they had known from birth. But English gradually became a part of the lives of these people; for many of their children it became their native language. So it is not surprising that eventually their church services and meetings made the transition to English also. During the late forties and early fifties, Golden experienced a period of growth. Its membership reached 111 in 1950 and remained stable through the fifties and into the sixties when its final decline began. In the summer of 1944, a landmark event took place in the Golden Congregation. On the 25th of June two of its members, Oscar Laaveg and Floyd Lien, were ordained into the ministry. Elmo Anderson, who as a child and young man was a member of Golden, also became a pastor. Golden's final congregational meeting was held on Dec. 5, 1967. The final committee reports were read and remaining assets were turned over to the Cemetery Association, bringing a close to the life of the Golden Congregation. Pastors who served Thorlakson, Rev. Olaf Shurson, Rev. Bjerke (1922-1929), Rev. L. (1943-1954), Rev. L. Carlson (1960-1967).
Golden throughout the years were: Rev. Guldseth (1901-1910), Rev. George (1911-1922), Rev. J. H. Strandjord Nypen (1931-1942), Rev. J. Rockne Smestad (1954-1959), and Rev. Arne
PARK RIVER LUTHERAN BIBLE CAMP At the business session of the Young People's Luther League, July 13, 1935, which was held in Hoople, the recommendations committee recommended that a Bible Camp be sponsored by the Circuit Luther League. To help organize a camp the following were chosen to constitute the board: Rev. G. L. Halmrast, Edinburg; Rev. M. G. Berg, Walhalla; Mr. Albert Fagerholt, Hoople; Miss Ethel Grove, Adams, and Rev. Oscar Rud, Fairdale. This group voted to try and hold a Bible Camp in 1936. The camp was held at the Golden Park, which was owned by the Omland Brothers, located west of Park River in Golden Township.
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Park River Lutheran Bible Camp and could secure at a low cost. They were able to secure government granaries, building materials and also volunteer help and financial donations. In 1942, the treasurer, Mr. N. Ordahl, was authorized to put $925.00 into bonds for the future erection of a chapel. During this time, an electric light plant had also been installed, and in 1945, the boys' dorm, a memorial to Captain A. Winther, was constructed. Also, a gift of one thousand dollars from Mrs. Tina Hoff, Adams, helped finance a cottage which was constructed in 1947.
The Luther League tent was used as both an auditorium ana a girls' dorm. A cook car was used by the Edinburg Ladies' Aid for preparing and serving the meals on tables under the trees. To help finance the camp two hundred dollars were borrowed from Nels Folson, Hoople. The camp instructors that first year were Rev. G. M. Trygstad and Rev. Scotvold. The camp management staff were: G. L. Halmrast, camp dean; Rev. Rud, Fairdale, secretary-treasurer; Miss Rosabelle Rinde, Hoople, dean of women; Rev. O. Rud, dean of men.
In 1945, at a board meeting at the Olaf Torson home, plans were made and accepted for the construction of a chapel. From that time on, many individuals worked diligently to secure funds to begin construction and in 1947 it was constructed. Until the construction of the wood chapel, the tent was erected each year with Carl J. Paulson, Hoople, in charge of setting it up. This large tent, which would seat approximately one thousand people, was owned by the Circuit Luther League. Planks served as pews for the many worshipers.
In 1936 the Young Peoples' Luther League made a motion, which carried, to elect a Bible Camp Committee to form an association. In 1936 the six elected were Rev. L. Nypen, Park River; Mr. Albert Fagerholt, Hoople, Rev. M. G. Berg, Walhalla; Miss Rosabelle Rinde, Hoople; Rev. G. L. Halmrast. Then in 1937 the six-person board, elected by the assocation to serve were: Rev. L. Nypen, Mr. Oscar Ulberg, Edinburg; Rev. B. M. Branford, Hoople; Mr. Albert Fagerholt, Hoople; Rev. Halmrast, Edinburg; and Mr. Alfred Flaten, Park River.
Still, in 1980, the chapel looks as beautiful as ever as each year it calls people to worship. Some other new additions to the camp over the years have been a large area set aside for camping vehicles, new kitchen and dining room, new office and bathrooms, dorms, more recreation facilities, etc. Over the years there have also been sizeable bequests. The camp was remembered in the wills of the Mable Johnson Estate from Grafton in 1976 and the Anton Olson Estate, Adams, in 1978.
In 1937 the decision was made to purchase three tents, size 18 by 24. In 1938, Rev. Herbert Larson, Fairdale, and Mr. Alton Thorson, Park River, became members of the board and Rev. S. O. Hilde, Walhalla, became a member in 1939. Also, in 1938, the Hoople Luther League built the kitchen, which still stands on the grounds. The following year an office building was erected. In 1939 the camp had purchased its own dishes and kitchen supplies and began to hire its own kitchen help.
After the new dining hall and kitchen was completed by Oscar Bakke, Union, women from the conference and the board decided to cooperate and serve a lutefisk, meatball and lefse dinner in 1975. This has been an annual affair now for the past six years, and proceeds have helped to pay for the new dining facilities.
It was not until 1940 that the first girls' dorm was constructed. July 1 1 , 1 9 4 0 , was a very significant date for the camp, because at this time a recommendation was made to the board to purchase forty acres of land from Mr. G. Omland. And, on Dec. 9, the deed which conveys to the Park River Lutheran Bible Camp (SWVA, SWA) of Section 15 in Township 157, Range 56, was drawn up. By Dec. 17, 1940, the Articles of Incorporation were drawn up and a copy was forwarded to the Secretary of State at Bismarck.
The Park River Lutheran Bible Camp has been used for young people of the area since 1936 to instruct them in the Christian faith and enjoy fellowship with other young people and their instructors and counselors. Each week of camp is carefully planned for different age groups for both instruction and recreation. Evangelism Week is scheduled for two Sundays and one full week each summer, with outstanding speakers as well as singers. Certain weeks are also set aside for retarded children so they can also have the opportunity to enjoy a Bible Camp.
In June, 1941, Olaf Torson, Park River, was elected as camp director. From then on, Mr. Fagerholt and Mr. Torson were the business managers. Over the years they both worked continually and unselfishly for the growth of the camp. It was difficult to secure building materials during the war years and the camp lacked finances so they tried to make do with what they had
As one considers the years 1935 - 1980, one remembers the faith and vision of those who have made the Park River Lutheran Bible Camp possible.
490
History of Golden Township in Photos
LITTLE OLD SOD SHANTY ON THE CLAIM Air:—Old Log Cabin in the Lane. I am looking rather rusty now, while holding down my claim; And my victuals are not always cooked the best, And the mice play slyly 'round me, as I nestle down to sleep, In my Little Old Sod Shanty on the Claim. CHORUS: The hinges are of leather and the windows have no glass, While the roof boards let the howling blizzards in And I hear the hungry gopher as he sneaks up through the grass, 'Round my Little Old Sod Shanty on the Claim. Yet I rather like the novelty of living in this way, Through my bill of fare is always rather tame, But I'm happy as a clam on this land of Uncle Sam's In my Little Old Sod Shanty on the Claim—(Cho:) My coat is plastered o'er with dough, And my shirts have crawled away, Dirty dishes scattered 'round the room, Even great hunks of slap-jacks is on my only stove In my Little Old Sod Shanty on the Claim—(Cho:) My land is deeded to me now And my squatting days are o'er My creditors are glad to see me home; But when they speak to me of pay, I think I hear the angels say: Get in your Little Old Sod Shanty on your Claim. (Cho:) Now I am going to Park River, To take an annual wash. And get my stum-jack filled up to the brim! With a mortgage on my farm, Which I fear will do me harm; And take my Little Old Sod Shanty with my Claim (Cho:)
John and Elizabeth Jenson home, taken about 1906.
Copyrighted and Photographed by Bald Headed Ball, Park River, Dakota.
The P. Arthur Lindell Farm
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GRAFTON TOWNSHIP FAMILY HISTORIES ANDREW ALMEN FAMILY Andrew Theodore Almen, the son of Carl and Mary Almen, was born Sept. 2, 1897, at the family farm in Fertile Township. Emma Mathilda Hovey, the daughter of Knute and Gunhild Cornelia Hovey, was born Dec. 14, 1897. They were married Jan. 1, 1923, by Pastor H. A. R. Helsem, at the Lutheran parsonage. The Almens have lived their entire life on the present farm, and were blessed with three children — two boys and one girl. Ardell Eugene was married to Betty Louise Nelson, and they live on the Carl Almen farm and have six children Jeffrey Lynn, Elizabeth Sue, Rose Marie, James Andrew, Mary Louise and Dean Allan.
Andrew Almen Family: left to right, Lynn, Mrs. Emma Almen, Avanelle Gjersvold, Andrew Almen, and Ardell Almen. (Aug. 5, 1973) Avanelle Elaine was married to Norman Gjersvold, and they live in Lakewood, Calif., and have four children Tommy Lynn, Laurie Ann, Douglas Allan, and Scott Andrew. Lynn married Mavis Lorraine Lene at Fertile, Minn. They have six children Robert Dean, Patricia Dawn, Cynthia Sue, Richard Lynn, Linda Lorraine, and Randell Scott. Andrew and Emma celebrated their Silver Wedding at their farm home on Sunday, July 1 1 , 1948, and a Golden Wedding was held at the South Trinity Church Sunday, August 5, 1973. There are 1 6 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.
Jorgen Bjerke was very active in the building of Our Saviour's Lutheran Church in Grafton. He went in all kinds of weather with the slush scraper and a team of horses to dig the church basement. He also showed great endurance in providing for his family, often walking the forty miles to Grand Forks and returning with a hundred-pound sack of flour on his back. At the time of his death, on Mar. 16, 1927, near age 88, he was said to be Grafton Township's oldest citizen. Olava Bjerke, Jorgen's wife, was born in Norway Sept. 4, 1841, and died of pneumonia at the farm home in February, 1924. Their second daughter, Dorthea Iverta Bjerke, was born at Grafton June 17, 1882. Ludvig Bjerke joined the family at age eight. He was born in Norway on Feb. 9, 1882, and was brought to the United States by his uncle, Anton Jensen, who lived in Grafton for many years. Ludvig Bjerke lived as a single man, in and near Grafton, until his death in 1960.
The Bjerke daughters, as seen in the above photograph, married and lived out their lives in the Grafton community. Barbro, seated in the picture, became Mrs. Julius Selliken on July 29, 1908, and Dorthea, standing at right, became Mrs. Adolph Presteng Dec. 9, 1909. Both husbands, each at left of his lady on the picture, immigrated from Norway shortly before the turn of the century. Barbro Selliken died in 1966, Julius in 1955; Dorthea Presteng died in 1945 and Adolph in 1976, at a little less than ninety-four years of age. The following picture was taken of Jorgen and Olava Bjerke and daughters several years before the young ladies were married. Julius and Barbro Selliken had five children. Olaf was born
JORGEN JEREMIASON BJERKE AND ADOLPH PRESTENG FAMILY Vol. 1, page 104, lists Jeremiason, J. E. as a pioneer without a biography. Soon after coming to Grafton to homestead, this person changed his name to Jorgen Jeremiason Bjerke, adding the place name of his family farm in Norway where he was born May 17, 1893. There he grew to manhood and was engaged as a fisherman until the age of 36 years. He emigrated to the United States in 1875, going first to Minneota, Minn., where his brothers lived. After one year in Minnesota, Jeremiason moved to the Fargo area where his first child, Barbro Christine, was born at Christine, N. Dak., on May 16, 1877. In 1880 he came to Walsh County in a_Red River cart, pulled by one ox. He walked most of the way as the cart carried not only his wife and daughter but also necessary supplies. His homestead, three miles southwest of Grafton, later became known as the Adolph Presteng home, and eventually the Herbert Presteng home.
Jorgen J. Bjerke Family: standing, Dorthea Bjerke, Barbro Bjerke: seated, Jorgen Jeremiason Bjerke and Olava Bjerke.
Apr. 20, 1909, in the Great Northern Railroad section house at Ardoch N. Dak. Joseph (born 8-17-10), Juline (born 1-17-12), Gladys (born 12-15-13), and Margarete (born 4-16-20) were all born in the Grafton home, now the residence of Gladys Selliken. The family did not enjoy the comforts of today's modern living, such as inside plumbing or running water, and modern heating facilities. Traveling 50 yards at -40 degrees F., to the outhouse was general practice in Grafton through the mid-20's. Sub-zero weather was never an excuse for non-attendance at school, even for first graders. Of the five Selliken children, Olaf passed'away at age 70 on Dec. 18, 1979; Joseph lives at Torrance, Calif.; Juline and Gladys both live in Grafton, and Margarete has lived in Minneapolis since 1939.
OlafSelliken
Joseph Selliken
Juline Selliken
All three Selliken sons served in WWII and were overseas for many months prior to the end of the war. Olaf was in the Army in New Guinea and later in the Philippines where he was awarded the Bronze Star medal for heroism in action. When his squad was struck by machine gun fire and several men were wounded, he exposed himself to go to their aid, moving them to sheltered positions where he administered first aid. Joe was executive officer with the 19th Bombardment Group on Guam, being discharged from service in 1946. After earning a Master's Degree at Oregon State University and employment as an engineer at Boeing's in Seattle, in development of the B-52 Bomber, he was recalled to active duty in 1952. He retired from the U.S. Air Force in 1967. Juline was in the 87th Cavalry Reconnaisance Squadron Mechanized of the 7th Armored Division. After 19 months of training in U. S. camps, he sailed on the Queen Mary for Europe. Landing in Scotland, after six days, he went by train to a camp about 40 miles from London, England. From England, he sailed to France and was assigned to an Armored car. Besides the Car Commander, there was a driver, radio operator, and Juline, the gunner. The guns, a 30-caliber machine gun and a 37 MM gun, were mounted so that one gun could be fired at a time, or both guns could be fired at the same time. The Armored Car was sent far ahead of other troops to scout out the posiition of the enemy. When ordered to outpost at the City of Verdun, France, Juline's car was fired on by the Germans. The bullets came through the front hatch of the car and ricocheted. The driver received shrapnel in the back. The Car Commander had shrapnel go through his face - in one cheek and out the other. Juline was hit in the right shoulder and still has shrapnel embedded there after 36 years. The Car Commander stood up in the turret and surrendered. After the Armored Car had gone a short distance, under guard, a company of Germans with all types of weapons came into view. Without surrendering,
the four in the Armored Car would have been blown up on the day of capture, Sept. 1, 1944. The Car Commander was sent to a hospital. The other three were sent to a temporary camp to join a few hundred prisoners of war. After a few days they were packed like sardines into freight cars and moved from one camp to another. During the trip to the final camp, about 40 miles southeast of Berlin, Juline spent four days and nights in the cramped quarters of a box car. For three weeks the group lived on German prison rations until the American Red Cross could bring in food. Meanwhile, the prisoners were given a cup of black coffee for breakfast, a thin soup made of sugar beet tops or rutabagas, and one-sixth of a loaf of bread for dinner, and supper consisted of another cup of black coffee or tea. After the three weeks, the weekly Red Cross parcels arrived to supplement their diet. From five to seven packs of cigarettes were included in the weekly parcel. Occasionally the prisoners were able to bribe the German guards into giving them a loaf of bread for cigarettes. At first thirty cigarettes could buy a loaf of bread, but later the guards demanded fifty. The prisoners cut their own cigarettes into three parts, smoked butts, and waited for the next Red Cross parcel to arrive. Juline described the Red Cross parcel sent to the prisoners for Christmas as containing the following: Four packages of Spearmint gum, 4 oz. can Vienna sausages, 7 oz. can salted mixed nuts, 12 oz. can mixed candies, 3 % oz. package tea, 1 package Prince Albert tobacco, 1 pipe, game of chess, 14 oz. package fancy dates, 8 oz. can honey, 8% oz. can cherries, small can deviled ham, 12 oz. can boned turkey, 1 pound can plum pudding, and 2 scenic pictures of places in the United States. Juline was a prisoner for five months. The prisoners were never bodily harmed by the guards during his stay at the camp. On the morning of Jan. 3 1 , J'945, the sound of approaching Russian forces was heard by the prisoners. Around noon the prisoners were taken out on the road by their guards. Spearheads of the Red Army, thinking they were Hungarian soldiers, fired on the group. Several Americans were killed and wounded. The guards then returned the prisoners to the camp and later that day the Russians entered, killing all of the guards and liberating the prisoners. The freed prisoners were told by the Russians to head for Odessa, Russia, on the Black Sea. No help was given for transportation or food procurement. They were ordered to proceed in small groups. Juline and a fellow from Ohio, who was capable in the German language, traveled together. At various times it protected their lives to explain in German that they were liberated prisoners trying to leave the country. One time they had a feast on tin-canned foods found in the basement of an abandoned German hotel which had been bombed out by the Russians. They walked, rode on horse-drawn wagons, on old Russians vehicles, and on American trucks which were leased to the Russians. It was nearly three weeks before they arrived at Odessa, where they stayed for some time before shipping on a Scottish boat to Naples, Italy. After a time at Naples, they sailed on an American ship, landing in Boston, Mass., on Apr. 20, 1945. Olaf and Juline returned to Grafton at the close of the war. They both retired from employment with the Great Northern Railroad, the company for which their father had been section foreman for more than forty years. Olaf Selliken married Laura Johnson Bevan of Portland, Ore., in December, 1947. They had four children - Julie, Portland, Ore.; Lauren, Grand Forks, N. Dak.; and Janice and Lowell, Grafton. Olaf's only grandchildren are Julie's children 496
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Michelle born in '68, and Jamie born in '70. Laura works at Grafton Carnegie-Bookmobile Library and is involved in cra'ts at Prairie Rose Crafts Shop. Joe Selliken married Zora Brown, formerly of Sherwood, N. Dak., in Juneau, Alaska, in May, 1939. They have one son, Joseph, Jr., who is a doctor of medicine, specializing in pathology. He is married and currently living in Madison, Wise. Juline Selliken married Marjorie Newsock from Dayton, 0., in August, 1954. They celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary at Grafton Bethel Free Lutheran Church where they are charter members and Marj is the organist. The couple are enthusiastic rock hounds and participate in Arts and Crafts Fairs in surrounding towns.
16,1913; and Herbert, born March 1 1, 1916. All three children were born on the farm home which was purchased from Adolph's father-in-law, Jorgen Bjerke. The Bjerkes made their home with Adolph and Dorothea Presteng until the time of their death.
Adolph, born July 8, 1882, in Hemnesberget, Norway, the son of a fisherman, migrated to the United States at the age of 19. He came to Sacred Heart, Minn., and lived with his uncles for a short time. He later worked in a saw mill at Warroad, Minn., before coming to Grafton where he married Dorothea Bjerke. Adolph became a carpenter and helped build many homes in the Grafton area. He also made many additions on the old farmstead home. He was also engaged in farming, which was done with horses until 1929.
Gladys Selliken lives in the old family home and has retired from many years of employment at Grafton's Ben Franklin store. She, as well as Marj, is a member of Unity Hospital Auxiliary, and Gladys is an active member of Grafton Lutheran Church and the ALCW. Margarete Selliken was graduated from North Central Bible College in Minneapolis, and worked in a defense plant during WWII. Later she became a deaconess in the First Covenant Church in Minneapolis. Doing a variety of duties in bur' s offices, she has become specialized in computer programming.
ADOLPH AND HERBERT PRESTENG FAMILY
Adolph and Dorothea Bjerke Presteng had three children born to them — Edna, born Dec. 25, 1911; Trueman, born Jan.
.
Mr. and Mrs. V. Olson and children, Virginia and Richard. Mrs. Olson is the former Edna Presteng.
Mrs. Jorgen Jeremiasen Bjerke, grandmother of Edna Presteng, Trueman Presteng, and Herbert Presteng. (1916)
Their eldest daughter, Edna, became a school teacher and taught in the rural schools of Walsh County. She married Verner J. Olson of Wisconsin in January, 1947. They had two children — Richard, born November, 1947, and Virginia, born November, 1948. They lived and worked in Anoka, Minn., where they retired.
Richard served two years in the United States Army in Germany. He married Connie Treutman and they are both employed as x-ray technicians in Glendale, Ariz., hospitals.
Virginia, a graduate of University of Minnesota in social work, married Jeffrey Barnes. He is employed as a plumber in Anoka, Minn. They have three children — Anna, born 1975; Beth, born 1977; and Joey, born 1 980.
The second child, born to Adolph and Dorothea Presteng, was Trueman. He never married but farmed all of his life in different areas of North Dakota. He retired from farming in 1970 and moved to Anoka, Minn.
Mr. Jorgen Jeremiasen Bjerke, grandfather of Trueman Presteng, Herbert Presteng, and Edna Presteng. (1920)
The youngest son of Adolph and Dorothea, Herbert, married Dorothea Holt on June 17, 1937. Dorothea, granddaughter of pioneer Martin 0 . Holt, was born the fourth child to Henry and Julia Holt. Because of hardship in the family, Dorothea lived with her grandparants, Dorothea and Martin, for most of her first year
of life. Born to Herbert and Dorothea Presteng were seven children — Carol, Dec. 20, 1940; baby girl, born and died 1944; Allan, born Jan. 25, 1946; Jean, born Dec. 4, 1947; Lois, born Apr. 6, 1950; John, born Dec. 15, 1952; and baby girl, born and died 1954.
of music in Elim Lutheran Free Church, Lake Stevens, Wash., where Lois is also pianist. Lois is also a piano teacher and has several students. They have two daughters, Rachel, bom 1978, and Noelle, born 1980. John also served two years in Germany in the United States Army in 1972-1974. He married Anne Snipstead, who is a talented violinist. They have three sons, Mark, born 1977; Michael, born 1978, and Daniel, born 1980. John is engaged in farming with his brother, Allan, and also has taken over his father's carpenter business since 1978. HERBERT AND ETHEL BREKKE Herbert Brekke was born in Grafton Township, Walsh County, on April 2 1 , 1909, the son of Hans and Josie (Helgenseth) Brekke. Herbert received his education in rural Grafton S. D. No. 58, where he later served as clerk for several years. Brekke was engaged in farming in Grafton Township, taking over the family farm when his father died in 1927. On June 12, 1935, he married Ethel Torblaa, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. L. O. Torblaa.
Dorothy and Herbert Presteng's 40th Wedding Anniversary — back row, Donald Fossum, Carol Fossum, John Presteng, Lois Forde, Randy Fossum, Lyle Forde, Terry Olson holding son, David, Margo Presteng and Allan Presteng; second row, Sonja Fossum, Dorothy Presteng, Anne Presteng holding Mark, Jean Olson holding Sarah, and Herbert Presteng; third row, Becky Fossum, Matthew Olson, Nathaniel Olson, Julie Presteng, Jeanine Presteng, and Jill Presteng. Grand children not in picture: Rachel and Noelle Forde, daughters of Mr. and Mrs. Lyle E. Forde; Michael and Daniel Presteng, sons of Mr. and Mrs. John Presteng; Brian Presteng, son of Mrs. Allan Presteng. Herbert followed in his father's footsteps and became a carpenter and also farmed the home place. Besides building many of the homes in Grafton and surrounding areas, he also designed and built Iwo churches — Bethel Free Lutheran Church, Grafton, and Bethel Free Lutheran Church, Minot, N.
Mrs. Herbert Brekke
Herbert Brekke
Mrs. Brekke was born on May 12, 1908, in Osage, Iowa, and came to Grafton Township with her parents in the fall of 1908. They settled on a farm purchased from the John Guttormson family. Mrs. Brekke attended rural school near Grafton and in 1926 graduated from Grafton High School. She went on to further her education at St. Olaf College, Northfield, Minn., receiving her B. A. degree in June of 1930. In May of 1980, she returned to St. Olaf College to participate in the Golden Anniversary of her graduating class.
Dak. Carol Presteng, who married the Rev. Donald Fossum, in 1962, is an outstanding pastor's wife and mother of three children. She is teaching Sunday School and is organist of Christ Lutheran Church at Allyn, Wash., where they reside. Carol is a registered nurse and is employed as school nurse in their school district. Their three children are Randy, born 1963; Sonja, born 1968; Rebecca, bom 1970. Allan Presteng served in the United States Army for two years in Germany (1966-1968). He married Margo Ruud in 1969. He is engaged in farming the original Bjerke-Presteng farm and also is a North Dakota State Seed inspector. They have four children — Jeannie, born 1970; Jill, born 1972; Julie, born 1974; and Brian, born 1979.
Before marrying Herbert, Ethel taught in the rural schools of Walsh County, including District No. 58 near Grafton, where she later served as Clerk, and in District No. 34 near Hoople, and District No. 46 west of Park River. While living in rural Grafton Township, the Brekkes attended South Trinity Lutheran Church where Mrs. Brekke was involved in the reorganization of the Sunday School. She served as a Sunday School teacher for over 20 years. In 1950, the Brekke family moved to Grafton, but Herbert continued his farming operation until the time of his death in 1959.
Jean Presteng married the Rev. Terry L. Olson in 1968. He serves a Home Mission Church of the Association of Free Lutheran Congregations in Minot, N. Dak. Jean is involved in teaching Sunday School and is painist for her church. They have four children — Matthew, born 1972; Nathaniel, born, 1974; David, born, 1975; and Sarah, born 1977. Lois married Lyle E. Forde in 1974. Lyle is a music instructor in Arlington, Wash., where they live. He is also director
Four children were born to Herbert and Ethel Brekke — Harlan, Earl, Betty Lou, and Ruth. 498
Harlan was born on May 10, 1936, he received his education in rural Grafton and graduated from Grafton High School in 1954. Harlan is presently engaged in farming and operates Brekke's Hallmark Shop in Grafton. Harlan is married to the former Patricia Strietzel who is also a graduate of Grafton High School. She was employed for several years by the Northwestern Bell Telephone Company. Harlan and Patricia have four children — David, Debbie, Linda, and Lisa. They also have one grandson, Christopher.
Dakota, Grand Forks, graduating in 1969. For seven years, Ruth was employed in the Zoning and Planning Department for Pima County near Tucson, Ariz. Presently she is in Denver, Colo., serving as a secretary to the vice president of UNIRAD, a company involved in the production and distribution of medical body scanners.
EMMA ANDERSON (MRS. ANTON C.) DAHL Emma Anderson (Mrs. Anton Dahl) was born in Skane, Sweden, on Aug. 8, 1874, the daughter of Hannah Tuve Anderson and Per Anderson. Mr. Anderson was a tenant farmer; and although he lived in a large, comfortable home, he could never hope to own land. In 1882 Per Anderson and his oldest son, Andrew, by a previous marriage, bade the family goodbye and set sail for the New World. He assured his wife and children that he would send tickets for them as soon as he could earn the money. Although Emma was only eight years old when she left Sweden, even in old age she talked about the beautiful intertwined trees that formed a canopy over their highways. She recalled how the children would stand by the highway and watch the grand coaches with from four to eight horses as they went by. The rich would throw pennies to the children. Her mother insisted that her children never touch the money. She said, "It is cheap; we are not cheap." Some lessons in that kind of independence followed her the rest of her life.
Children of Mr. and Mrs. Herbert Brekke: left to right, standing, Earl, Harlan; seated, Betty Lou, and Ruth.
By 1883, Emma, her two sisters, and her mother boarded the ship at Malmo, Sweden, for Quebec, Canada. Having limited travel experience and not understanding the English language, they went to the lowest class quarters. They did not realize that Mr. Anderson had sent them first-class tickets. Emma was violently seasick, could eat little, and was indeed relieved when the long voyage was over. On the train ride from Quebec to Winnipeg, they saw shacks of sod and log. Mrs. Anderson tried to prepare her children for their new lowly American home. One can only imagine the joy of the reunion of children and wife with their father and husband as they alighted at Grafton's new rail stop!
Earl was born on Oct. 18, 1938. He attended rural school near Grafton, then high school in Grafton, graduating in 1956. He attended college and received a B.A. from Concordia College, Moorhead, Minn., in 1960 and an M.A. from the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, in 1964.
Per Anderson, in the meantime, had discovered that desirable larger areas of land had already been taken so he had filed a homestead claim to a "forty" near the John Jackson homestead, west of Grafton. Here Mr. Anderson drove his family and proudly stopped at an immaculate little frame house. Their first home in the new land was not a sod or log hut after all!
Earl is engaged in farming and is also serving as a social studies instructor at Grafton High School.
Mr. and Mrs. Anderson were eager to have the children get started at school. This was a three-mile walk for Emma. On her
Earl is married to June Kraft from Tuttle, N. Dak. A graduate of North Dakota State University, Fargo, June taught home economics at Grafton and is now serving as the Extension Home Economist for Walsh County. Betty Lou was born on Apr. 16, 1944, and attended school at Grafton and graduated from Grafton High School in 1962. Betty Lou is married to Roger Davis, who also received his education at Grafton and attended Grafton High School and the State School of Science at Wahpeton. Roger and Betty Lou own and operate Davis Sylvania, a television sales and service shop. Betty Lou is also employed at Valley Jewelry at Grafton. The couple has two sons: Scott and Brett. Ruth was born on July 1 1 , 1946, and received her education at Grafton, graduating from Grafton High School in 1964. She continued her education at the University of North
Family of Anton Dahl and Emma (Anderson) Dahl: standing, left to right, Edna, Vernard, Ella, Victor, Agnes. Seated: Anton. Verna and Emma.
way she would stop at the Martin Dahl farm home and take sixyear-old Hannah with her to school. Hannah, later Mrs. Jack Rutherford, was the first white child born in Walsh County. The early friendship between her and Emma continued throughout their lives. Incidentally, the school which they attended, District No. 51 Nash School, was the same school in which Emma's and Hannah's own sons and daughters later received their elementary education. A forty-acre farm could hardly prove adequate for raising a family. The land was sold to John Jackson, and in 1887, Per Anderson purchased a farm near Hoople. It was here that the youngest child, Hattie, was born in 1888. As Emma grew older, she learned the skills necessary for pioneer women. Sheep were shorn, wool washed, dried, carded, and combed. From there the spinning wheel took over; every homestead had its spinning wheel. Making the dye and the dyeing process itself were somewhat dreaded tasks. An unforgettable event in the community was the diptheria epidemic of 1889. The illness claimed the lives of her two youngest brothers, Oscar and Carl, aged three and five. The mother prepared her boys for burial in the rough caskets her husband had fashioned as best he could. What a sad occasion as he drove to the cemetery of North Trinity Church with two caskets in a lumber wagon! Because of dangers of contagion, a public funeral could not be held. Mr. Anderson had begun digging the graves when a neighbor, John Almen, walked over to make inquiries. He relieved Mr. Anderson of the shovel. From the Testament carried in his vest pocket, he read scripture, prayed and sang. He then sent the father home and completed the burial. The Christian parents of the young boys were comforted and deeply grateful for Mr. Almen's kindness. Religion played an important part in the lives of most pioneers. When Emma Anderson was fourteen, she studied her Catechism and "Forklaring" in preparation for Confirmation. Joined by other young people along the way, she would leave for the parsonage in the South Trinity vicinity about 7:30 every Saturday morning. The good pastor's wife would serve dinner at noon. Instruction would continue throughout the afternoon when they would begin the long walk to their homes. An old pioneer pastor, Rev. Nykreim, confirmed the young people in the fall of the year. They had been given a good foundation of Christian truths to carry through life. The Per Andersons were among the earliest members of North Trinity Church. Emma and her husband, Anton Dahl, were also pioneer members; and their children were confirmed members of the same church. When Mrs. Anderson was only 39, she fell victim to pneumonia and passed away after a few days' illness. Left in the home were her husband; Emma, aged 16; and two younger girls, Sarah and Hattie, aged ten and two. An older daughter, Tilda, had married. Mr. Anderson's two children from a previous marriage, Christine and Andrew, had long since left the home to build futures of their own. Emma in later years told of the loneliness pervading the home after the mother's passing. When Emma was eighteen, she began making plans for her marriage. To earn some extra money for a fitting "trousseau" she went to work for "Blacksmith Jacksons" in Grafton. She assisted with household duties which included clothes-washing. Items such as clothespins were nonexistent, and the clothes, even in winter weather, had to be pinned to the lines with straight pins. During this period, her father and sisters lived with his oldest daughter, Tilda. Emma Anderson and Anton Dahl were married Dec. 9,
1893. Seven children were born to the couple — Victor, Bernard, Agnes, Francis, Edna. Ella, and Verna. All except Francis lived to adulthood. They also took into their home Emma's sister, Hattie and "Grandfather" Anderson. Hattie regarded Emma as her mother, and she also became very fond of Anton. "Never once," she said, "did he make me feel that I didn't belong, and he thought of me as part of the family." They also cared for "Grandpa" Dahl for a time prior to his death; he had emigrated from Norway after his wife's passing. In the Dahl home were many happy times. There were family games, ice skating, singing around the old organ, and visits among neighbors. It seemed miraculous that so much could be accomplished in that pioneer home which lacked conveniences that were later regarded as necessities. A skilled seamstress, Mrs. Dahl often worked far into the night — one foot on the treadle, the other rocking the baby's cradle. The family continued to live on the farm; homesteaded by the father in 1878. After her husband's sudden death in 1925, the farm was operated by the oldest son, Victor. During her last years, they resided in Grafton during the winter months. Although Mrs. Dahl suffered many physical ailments in later years, she remained mentally alert and interested in the world about her. After a lingering illness, she passed away in Grafton on June 1 5, 1 962. First and foremost, Emma Dahl was wife and mother. Kindly and serious minded, she was a friend to all, particularly to children, the needy, and the troubled. As the little grandchildren appeared, she enjoyed sewing clothing and complete outfits for them. During World War I she knitted many articles given to the Red Cross. Deeply religious, much of her life outside the home centered around the church. She worked tirelessly on projects for the Ladies Aid. Her greatest joy seemed to be in doing things for her family and for others. From our pioneer ancestors, ours is truly a great heritage!
VICTOR C. DAHL Victor Dahl, eldest son of Anton and Emma Anderson Dahl, was born in Grafton Township on the family farm which his father had homesteaded in 1878. Other members of the family who lived to adulthood were Bernard, Agnes, Edna, Ella, and Verna. They all received their elementary education in the rural school adjoining their parents' farm. Victor continued into Grafton High School where he was graduated with honors with the class of 1914. At that time, college training was nota pre-requistite for a teaching career. After high school graduation, he taught a rural school near Lankin and later a school in the Henry Lee community. Here he made his home with the Lees, and enjoyed very much his stay with them. His last teaching experience was in his "home school," Nash, S. Dist. 5 1 . Here he had over 45 pupils and all eight grades; among his pupils were his three youngest sisters. A teacher's salary at that time ranged from $45 to $55 per month, and Victor felt he needed training that would enable him to do better financially. He attended a Grand Forks business college and later was employed as a bookkeeper for various firms in Grand Forks and in Winnipeg. While employed here, he was called home because of the serious illness of his father. His father recovered, but a new line of duty awaited him. The United States had declared war on Germany on April 6, 1917. Unrestricted submarine warfare and other breaches of international law gave this country no choice. According to President Wilson, this was the "war to end all wars and make the world safe for democracy." The country was totally unprepared
for war, but within a short time four million men were conscripted for military duty, two million of which were sent overseas to help our Allies. Victor Dahl left with a contingent of men from Walsh County in April, 1918. Stopping briefly at Fort Dodge, IA. he was then moved on to Camp Logan, Tex. Here, after a background study of his qualifications, he was transferred to the Headquarters of the Field Hospital and also did part-time office work. Throughout the remainder of the war, he was with the 108th Sanitary Train of the 33rd Division. He felt fortunate in being assigned this post rather than becoming part of an Infantry Unit. He was soon transferred to Camp Merritt, N. J., prior to overseas duty. He arrived in England on June 17, 1918, and from then on the letters to his family were invariably headed "Somewhere in France." He took part in all the last major drives of the war, including St. Pierre, Langres Area, Verdun, St. Mihiel, Troyon, Meuse-Argonne Offensive, and others. His family retains possession of many of the letters that were written to them at this time. When the Armistice was finally signed on Nov. 1 1 , 1918, he wrote a detailed letter relative to his whereabouts and some of his experiences during the war. The letter told of a few of the "narrow escapes" and harrowing events of the fighting; but after his arrival home, he preferred not to talk about them.
England to join the Allied Forces of World War I. There is also a letter from General John Pershing, Commander-in-Chief of the American Expeditionary Forces of World War I, sent to Victor at Field Hospital Co. No. 130 after the signing of the Armistice; this form letter expressed the general's appreciation of the part played by American soldiers for their aid in bringing the war to a victorious close. After returning from army life, Victor seemed to like nothing better than working on the farm where he had spent his early years. He enjoyed the outdoors, was an avid reader, and followed sports enthusiastically. He kept informed on current happenings, and he held strong convictions on politics and government. Considered somewhat of an introvert by many people, Victor had a droll sense of humor and was good company. He thoroughly enjoyed a good political argument and was usually able to back up his convictions with facts. He and his mother continued residence on the family farm until the 60's. Eventually he rented the farm land to a neighbor, and during the winter months he and his mother took up residence in Grafton. About the time that her health began to fail, her two daughters moved to Grafton to teach in the local school. The family then lived in Grafton for most of the year and spent summers at the farm. Mrs. Dahl passed away in 1962. In his early 80's, Victor's health was somewhat impaired by a series of light strokes and he spent one and a half years at the Lutheran Sunset Home. With good care, he improved sufficently to return to the home in Grafton where he lived for one and half years before his death. He suffered a massive stroke on the evening of March 5 and passed away at Unity Hospital early the next morning on March 6, 1980. He had been a lifelong member of North Trinity Church, near Nash, and served many years on the board of trustees. After the closing of this rural church, he was an associate member of Our Saviour's Church in Grafton. He held life membership in the American Legion and was for a time also a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and other service-related organizations, including membership in the Veterans of World War I. The Grafton American Legion Post conducted military rites at the funeral services with burial at North Trinity Cemetery.
Victor C. Dahl (World War I) After the signing of the Armistice, the American soldiers soon talked of nothing else than looking forward to returning to the United States. It seemed unbelievable, especially for European civilians and soldiers after four years of warfare, that it was all over. Victor's family was therefore somewhat disappointed when they received notice that he had been transferred to Larochette, Luxembourg, with the 108th Sanitary Train; this meant that he would be part of the Army of Occupation indefinitely. However, as he later said, these months were also very interesting; he was given various passes for travel which enabled him to tour portions of Europe such as Paris, Italy, the beautiful Rhine Valley, and other places of interest. In May, 1919, he was happy to set sail for the United States, and he received his discharge from the service on June 1. He often said that his overseas experiences had been very interesting, but also that he would not like to relive them. Victor's complete uniform, together with his medic helmet, regular American helmet, gas mask, a German helmet, and other mementos, are on display at the Minto Historical Museum. Also on display at the museum is a form letter from "His Majesty King George V " welcoming American soldiers as they landed in
A. BERNARD DAHL Bernard Dahl was the second oldest in the family of Emma and Anton Dahl, born June 22, 1896. He attended Rural (Nash) School No. 51 for h'rs elementary education. His eighth grade diploma indicates that his teacher at that time was Miss Julia Johnson and the County Superintendent, Edward Erickson. He enjoyed farm work and worked on the family farm for several years. In the early 1920's he, in partnership with some friends, purchased farm land near Carmen, Man., Can. He remained there only about three years, as the investment proved financially unsuccessful. A succession of events, including flooding and a devastating hailstorm, caused him to sell the land and return for a time to North Dakota. Later he worked briefly in Thief River Falls, Minn., and there met friends who were interested in seeking their fortunes in Chicago where they felt that opportunities were greater. After working for a short time with an upholstery firm, he began work with the Chicago Transit Lines as a motorman. Here he remained for many years qualifying him for a pension. He then turned to work for the Grain Millers Association. While in Chicago his favorite sport was bowling. The Devon Transit Team, of which he was a member, won several first place
awards in the annual bowling tournaments. While in Chicago he also attended many of the Major League Baseball games; at that time the Cubs were the outstanding team and he was a real Cub fan. He enjoyed recalling stories of old-time greats such as Dizzy Dean, "Gabby" Hartnett, William Herman, " K i k i " Cuyler, Charles Grimm, and others that he saw in action. After spending nearly forty years in Chicago, he decided, somewhat to the surprise of his family, that he would like to retire in his native town of Grafton. At that time, Bernard felt that Chicago was rapidly changing. He had been in the city during the growing race riots and other dissensions. City life appeared to be changing rapidly, and he found the atmosphere of small town life such as that of Grafton more to his liking. He often remarked that it was a treat to walk around on the grassy yard of the old farm rather than the cement of the city. Bernard was extremely outgoing, jovial, and made friends easily. His mother, who had been in failing health for some time, passed away in 1962. Bernard and his brother, Victor, continued to stay at the old farm home during the summer months and then joined two sisters of the family living in Grafton during the winter. Bernard's health appeared to be excellent, although an examination revealed a slight heart irregularity in 1962. It was not necessary for him to curtail his activities, however, and he remained active as usual. It was therefore a great shock to his family and to the community when he suffered a massive coronary attack and passed away very suddenly at Deaconness Hospital on Nov. 7, 1963. He is buried in the family plot at North Trinity Cemetery. It was at North Trinity Church that he had also been baptized and confirmed. AGNES DAHL QUALLY After completing her elementary education in the rural school near her home, Agnes entered Grafton High School. She enjoyed her studies during her freshman year; but her parents agreed that, because she was about two years younger than others in her grade, it would be advantageous for her to remain at home for a time. Two years later she entered Mayville State College, which at that time offered both high school and college courses. Here she completed her high school studies. At the age of 17, she passed what was known as "Teachers Examinations." This permitted her to teach. Knowing that it was a financial sacrifice for her parents to continue sending her to college, she accepted a summer term of teaching in a rural school near Langdon, N. Dak. She also taught a rural school near Walhalla; in District 5 1 , near Nash; and the "Holt School" near Grafton. While teaching the Vesta School near Park River, she met her future husband. She was married to Palmer Qually of Vesta Township on June 2 1 , 1921. Following their marriage, they farmed in Vesta Township. Two daughters were born to the couple at that time — Vivian and Lorraine. After disposing of the farm, they moved to Edinburg where they operated a cafe for a brief period; Mr. Qually also was a good car mechanic and had a small car repair shop in Edinburg. Later they were employed by Rue Bros. Construction Company of Bismarck. They had just completed arrangements for purchase of a farm near Edinburg and had moved their household goods into the farmhouse when Mr Qually, without warning, passed away suddenly from a heart attack on the street of Edinburg during a family shopping trip. Agnes' husband's death occurred in 1932. In addition to the personal loss and adjustment to his death, the world-wide depression created financial problems for Agnes. Widowed at 33, she was left with two girls, eight and ten, to support and care for. A third daughter, born in 1925, contracted hepatitis and had died
in 1926, just one year later. Agnes was able to dispose of the newly-bought farm and the next year she moved to Grafton. Here she worked half days in the OPA Office and also part-time at the Deaconess Hospital. She managed during summers to return to college and completed requirements for a Standard Diploma. While her daughters attended school in Grafton, she taught rural schools in the Grafton vicinity. With economic conditions improving to some extent, she was able to give her daughters many advantages such as special instruction in music, etc. While in high school, the girls were both active in music groups, and both continued their music studies in later life. The family often said that few women experienced the variety of employment that Agnes did. During one summer, she was manager of a coffee shop at Glacier National Park; at another time she worked at Estes Park, Colo. Very often her daughters would accompany her and also managed to find employment. One summer Agnes worked as "relief agent" for the Great Northern Railway, in some of the smaller towns in Montana for the regulars who were on vacation. Her oldest daughter, Vivian, attended Augsburg College, Minneapolis, for one year and later was graduated from Ellendale (N. Dak.) College. She specialized in primary work and music. She taught school for about four years at Edgeley, N. Dak., before her marriage. Lorraine became a registered nurse, receiving her training at Great Falls, Mont. When Vivian married Ted Hillius of Ellendale, after his return from the army after World! War II, they both worked at West Fargo. Here Ted was principal for a number of years and later requested transfer to head of the industrial arts department; his wife, Vivian, also taught for three and a half years in West Fargo. Lorraine also continued working in her nursing career while her husband, David Colt, formerly of Colorado, completed his assignment as an ensign in the Merchant Marine. Both couples now have children and grandchildren of their own. Among many hobbies that Agnes pursued was creative writing. She belonged to the State Pen Women's Club and various other organizations of amateur writers. A number of her writings have been published. Shortly before her death, she published a short book of original poetry entitled "Smarter." Her interest in young people continued throughout her lifetime; she took personal interest in all students, and maintained contact with many of them throughout later years. She had taught a total of 38 years when she retired in 1965. From time to time she had attended summer schools to further her education. In Grafton she was a member of Our Saviour's Lutheran Church. Here she served several years as Sunday School teacher and as superintendent. She was active in the Ladies Aid and in all church organizations.
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For many years she was afflicted with heart problems, but she maintained a positive cheerful attitude and rarely let health problems interfere with her many interests. However, after several weeks of hospitalization, she passed away at the Deaconess Hospital on May 10, 1972, at the age of 74 years.
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In addition to one brother and one sister, survivors included her two daughters, Mrs. Ted Hillius of West Fargo and Mrs. David Colt, Minneapolis. Four grandsons also survived: Dr. James Colt, now of St. Cloud, Minn.; Jerry Hillius, a supervisor at Syva Company, Minneapolis; Joel Hillius, music instructor at the present time in St. Thomas; and Jeff Hillius, a sophomore in computer science at Moorhead State College. The James Colts have two children, Angela and Karen. The Jerry Hilliuses have three young daughters — Cathie, Jan, and Laura.
MISS EDNA DAHL Miss Edna Dahl was graduated from Nash District No. 5 1 , Grafton High School, and Mayville State College. She also attended summer sessions at the University of North Dakota, Valley City State College, and Moorhead State College. She began her teaching career in a rural school near Park River, residing at that time at the Bert Phair home; she and Mrs. Phair had been long-time friends. The following year she taught primary grades af the Edinburg Public School where she remained for three years. After one year's teaching in Baldwin, N. Dak., she taught first grade at McVille, followed by several years as primary instructor in the Grafton Public Schools. From Grafton, she went to Ellendale and from there to Valley City. She remained in Valley City for a period of eighteen years and expected that this would be the school where she would teach until her retirement. However, when the opportunity presented itself, she was happy to receive a contract to teach in Grafton again. Considerations influencing her in the decision were her mother's failing health and the thought of coming back to her native town, both to teach and to eventually retire. Edna taught in Grafton, from 1960 until retiring in 1965, when impaired health began to make teaching difficult. After a lingering illness, she passed away on Aug. 22, 1968. Miss Dahl taught for a total of 42 years. She loved the younger children and they seemed to be devoted to her. In addition to her regular teaching duties, she often taught extra classes in art and crafts. In almost every school system where she taught, she organized a rhythm band that often performed at community functions. Her primary students also brought home many "blue ribbons" from the declamation contests that were at one time popular in area schools. Another "first for Edna was the organization of what came to be known as the "Doll Buggy Parade." Some older members of the present generation in Grafton may recall such entertainments as "The Pied Piper of Hamelin", the "Tom Thumb Wedding',, the "Barnum and Balehay Circus" and various other operettas and school entertainments. In 1945 Miss Dahl was elected to membership in Delta Kappa Gamma Chapter of Alpha Omicron, an honorary society of women teachers. She was also a lifelong member of the North Dakota Teachers Association and the National Education Association. She was among a committee of teachers who represented the Valley City Schools at the National Education Association in Chicago. Edna's hobbies included sewing, embroidery, flower gradening, various kinds of crafts, drawing, and painting. She made several trips to the Pacific Coastal States, The Minnesota Iron Range Area, Chicago, and other places of scenic interest in the United States. She taught in the nursery department of Our Saviour's Lutheran Sunday School for many years, and she was also active in church work in the various towns where she taught. After her death, a teacher from Valley City was asked to write a tribute to Edna to be given in public. Mrs. Elin Bjornson, a coworker and also a member of Delta Kappa Gamma, wrote the following tribute in her memory: TRIBUTE IN MEMORY OF EDNA DAHL "God asks no man whether he will accept life. That is not the choice. You must take it. The only choice is how." So said Henry Ward Beecher. For the next few minutes I'd like to review with you how our recently departed Delta Kappa Gamma sister, Edna Dahl, met that choice. Forty-two years of her life were spent in teaching little
children in our public schools. She also taught in the Sunday School of her church. Having taught in the same building as Edna for many years, I came to know her quite well. She had a way with children. She was quiet, gentle, and unassuming, and a real teacher. Never did I hear her raise her voice, but her classes worked in quiet harmony and cooperation. Their behavior was a reflection of her love for them. Having taught for eighteen years in Valley City, she left in 1960 to make her home in Grafton because of her mother's poor health. There she taught for five years and retired only three years ago. During her teaching career she belonged to the N.E.A., the N.D.E.A., and the local chapter in her school. In December, 1945, she became an active Alpha Chapter member. As such she worked diligently as an officer and on many of the committees of the Society. During the last eighteen years of Edna's life, she bravely struggled with an illness which hospitalized her from last April until she passed away August 22, 1968. "God asks no man whether he will accept life. That is not the choice. You must take it. The only choice is how." How did Edna meet the choice? She was a devout Christian, a loving devoted daughter and sister, a loyal friend, and an inspired, untiring teacher, truly a credit to her profession. Blessed be her memory. (By Elin M. Bjornson) MISS ELLA DAHL Ella Dahl was born on August 23, 1905. When interviewed, she said she could not recall the time when she did not aspire to be a teacher. No doubt this came mainly from the fact that older members of her family were teachers. She was graduated from Grafton High School in 1921 and attended Mayville State College for one year after high school graduation. She was then hired to teach a rural school in Marshall County, Minn., a few miles east of Red River. What her students learned that year is questionable, but they were a very polite and cooperative group. There were no disciplinary problems, although there were about 27 pupils enrolled and all grades represented. From 1923 until 1925 she taught seventh and eighth grades at Rock Lake, N. Dak. Here, too, she enjoyed her schoolwork and a friendly community. However, she soon learned of the plight of many school districts of the time. She was paid $35 each month and the balance in "warrants". From her $35, she paid $33 for room and board each month. She remarked that it was at least one time in her life that she did not spend money foolishly. However, the school board was able during the second year to pay salaries in full. In the meantime, she used the warrants, at a discount of course, to attend six weeks of summer school at the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks. After two years teaching sixth, seventh, and eighth grades at Edinburg, N. Dak., she entered Valley City State, and at the end of the year received her Standard Diploma. From 1928-1932 she was contracted to teach seventh and eighth grades and also direct the Girls High School Glee Club at Sentinel Butte, N. Dak. The Sentinel Butte District was rather wealthy because they possessed more railroad land than many surrounding areas. But in the spring of 1932 came the inevitable. The Board of Education served notice that for the following school year her salary would have to be cut from $ 135 to $90 per month. Other districts had made similar cuts in earlier years because of the economic depression setting in. She
decided to leave Sentinel Butte and took her small amount of savings and enrolled at North Dakota State University for two quarters. At the end of the year she tells of how delighted she was to receive an offer from the school board at Edinburg to return there a salary of $65 per month! She remarked that it was a good lesson in economics. And, in spite of the low salary, she says she was the envy of her friends who wondered what the secret was of getting a teaching job! Those were the days when there were perhaps one hundred applicants for every teaching position in the state. Ella remained at Edinburg for six years at the $65 salary. At the end of the summer of 1939, she received her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Education. She then accepted an offer as teacher and principal at Kathryn High School. She remained there nearly three years, but during Easter vacation of 1942 had the opportunity to go to Hillsboro with an increase in salary. The School Board at Kathryn was not too happy with the situation, but they permitted her to resign to accept the position at Hillsboro. She remained at Hillsboro also the following year. However, she was here quite disappointed in the school system. Equipment was meager and many of the students were indifferent to their studies. This was a radical departure from what she had found at Kathryn; she often wondered if it were her punishment for breaking the contract at Kathryn. In the fall of 1943 she was offered a contract to teach social studies and some English in Valley City High School. Her sister Edna also taught in the same school system. They remained in Valley City until 1960 when they were both offered contracts to teach in Grafton. Here Ella taught High School English until her retirement in 1968. She was grateful to have the opportunity of coming back to her native town, and there was the added advantage of setting up a home here with an invalid mother and also with other family members. In addition to her regular teaching duties in Valley City and Grafton, she was director of Playmakers and of student entries in the spring speech festival. Dramatic productions which people in the area seem to remember best were "David Copperfield," "The Robe," and "Off a Pewter Platter." The work was enjoyable but timeconsuming, especially since she also taught five classes of English, a required subject, which often brought from 25 to 30 students in each class. Needless to say, she "burned the midnight oil," correcting papers and preparing for the next day's work. Teaching was not all work and no play. It afforded opportunities for summer travel, summer studies, and various hobbies. Activities outside the school included teaching high school Bible Studies in her church (Our Saviour's Lutheran) and also an attempt to direct the church choir when no other was available. While in Valley City, Ella was elected to membership in Delta Kappa Gamma, an honorary society for women teachers. She was also recognized by Radio Station KOVC and Dr. M. S. Ward of Valley City when presented the Distinguished Service Award for Citizenship and Service to the Community. Ella enjoyed young people and is still in contact with many students that were in her classes many years ago. She taught for a total of 44 years, and says that if she had her life to live over again, she would still choose teaching as a career.
VERNA DAHL STARK Youngest in the family of Anton and Emma Dahl was Verna, now Mrs. Manville Stark, who was born on Oct. 30, 1907. Like other members of her family, she attended rural School No. 51 and then continued to Grafton High School. She was graduated
in 1925. She was a good student and was one of the more outgoing members of the family — fun-loving and energetic. Having taken what was then termed a "teachers' course" in high school, she began her teaching career early at the age of 17. Her first teaching experience was in what was commonly known as the "Walstad School." She later taught for one year at Baldwin, N. Dak., and then returned to teach in the Nash School, her home district for two years. During these years, she also attended summer sessions at Mayville and at Valley City State Teachers College. During the year 1927-28, she enrolled at Valley City State College, and received her "Standard Diploma" at the end of that year. She was then contracted to teach what was known as the "Jaster School"; it was located also in District No. 5 1 , that district at the time operating two schools. Those were the days when most school boards were reluctant to hire married teachers; jobs were scarce and it was felt that men should have first chance at teaching vacancies. Because of this, Verna and her sweetheart of many years, Manville Stark, decided to marry secretly on Nov. 1, 1 930. The marriage proved to be a secret for only a day or two, as a record of their marriage license appeared in the Fargo and Moorhead papers. They had been married in Moorhead Trinity Church. Although some members of the school board were not too happy with the arrangement, it was agreed that she would be permitted to complete her teaching term. Her husband, Manville, farmed only a short distance from the school so she was soon established in her new living quarters. The Starks had three children — Avis, born in 1933, and twins, Lowell and Lavonne, born in 1941. The arrival of twins was exciting, not only to the parents, but to relatives and community as well. It seemed that twin births were less common at the time. Avis began school in the rural school near their farm, but she took her intermediate grade work in Grafton Elementary Central School. Here, during the week, she made her home with her paternal grandmother, Mrs. Andrew Stark. She remained with the Starks during her high school years also and was graduated in 1951. She was employed by the accounting department of Northwestern Bell in Fargo where she was named supervisor. She married Joseph Birkeland in 1959; the story of her later years is recorded in this volume together with a biography of Mr. Birkeland. The twins, Lowell and Lavonne, also began their elementary work in the rural school. However, when they were in the intermediate grades, their mother, Verna Dahl Stark, decided to return to teaching. She followed the path of many other wives. Since farming had become more mechanized, farmers were not required to work throughout the winter months. She first finished a semester in a consolidated school near Cummings. The following three years she taught in Hamilton. Here Lowell and Lavonne completed the eighth grade. In 1955, Verna was employed by the Grafton Board of Education to teach primary grades at Central School. During the same year Lavonne and Lowell entered Grafton High School as freshmen. After high school graduation, they both enrolled at Valley City State College. In 1961 Lowell married Priscilla Hughes, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Arnold Hughes of Grafton. He then went to work for a grocery company at Jamestown for a time, but later went into businesses associated with grain elevators, seed, and fertilizer products. While employed by Northland Chemical Company, he and his wife were awarded an all-expense paid trip to northern and western Europe. He has also held employment as field man
j
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and zone supervisor of various seed and grain concerns in Minnesota and by INorthrup-King in Wisconsin. At the present time he is employed as public relations man for Arwood-Larson of Minneapolis. The Lowell Starks are the parents of six children: Mitchell, Julie, Matthew, Joshua, Rachel, and Jeremiah. Lavonne Stark transferred from Valley City State and graduated from the University of North Dakota with a major in social science and in economics. She was then employed as a high school teacher in Grand Rapids, Minn., for four years. She resigned her position there to join the International Volunteer Services and was assigned to teach English to Vietnamese during the Vietnam War. She arrived in Vietnam, but because of increased war activity, schools were not reopened; she was also somewhat disillusioned by the American presence in Vietnam and felt that the IRS could accomplish little in the midst of fierce combat. The long-time head of IRS in Vietnam resigned and Lavonne was also free to return to the United States. It was a traumatic experience and one that she will never forget. In 1969 she was married to Robert Fischer of Rhame, N. Dak., son of Mr. and Mrs. Leonard Fischer. He was also a Vietnam veteran. They decided to purchase a ranch near Dickinson, N. Dak. Here they still make their home. Their six children include Michael, Monica, Timothy, Kristi, Robbie, and Anthony. When Verna Stark began teaching duties in Grafton, the family had purchased a home here. Mr. Stark lived in Grafton but continued to farm until his retirement a few years ago. Verna Stark continued to teach first grade in Central School until she resigned in 1971. She loved little children, and they in turn loved her. She was active in the Local Education Association and still maintains membership in the North Dakota Education Association and in the National Education Association. She is also a member of Retired Teachers Association. The Starks are long-time members of the Grafton Lutheran Church. At the time that her children were younger, Mrs. Stark was active in Sunday School work and in the Ladies Aid of the same church. Nov. 1, 1980, was a special day for the Stark family. It marked the golden wedding anniversary of Verna and Manville. A family observance was held at the Robert Fischer home at Dunn Center, N. Dak. A part of the evening's entertainment was given over to listening to tape recordings of musical numbers and greetings made by the Fischer grandchildren for their grandparents. Mr. and Mrs. Stark still reside at their home in Grafton and they have no plans of change at the present time.
RUSSELL AND ANNA (MOHAGEN) DUNCAN Anna Marie was bom Jan. 14, 1911, to Robert H. and Nelsine Mohagen, at the rural farm home near Grafton, N. Dak. Anna's birth was not registered at that time so a delayed birth certificate had to be obtained from school and church records. Anna attended rural school District No. 2 and High School at Grafton. She attended Valley City State Teacher's College and taught in rural schools in Walsh and Cavalier Counties. Anna married Russell Duncan of Calvin, N. Dak., on June 15, 1934. They farmed near Calvin, N. Dak., until 1951, when they moved to Fargo, N. Dak., where they owned and operated the Duncan Seed Co. Russell and Anna are now retired and live at 1441 N. Broadway, Fargo. They are members of St. Paul's Free Lutheran Church in Fargo. Anna's hobbies are needlework,
Russell and Anna (Mohagen) Duncan
Robert H. and Nelsine Mohagen and their daughter, Anna, at their farm home near Crafton, in Grafton Township. knitting and crocheting. She also enjoys baking — especially Scandinavian pastries. Russell served two terms in the House of Representatives in the North Dakota Legislature. Russell and Anna have three children — David, and twins, Marvin and Marilynn. Dr. Marvin Duncan is married to Janise Fedje of Milnor, N. Dak. Their children are DeAnn, Steven and Paul. They live at Kansas City, Mo., where Marvin is vice president and economist with the Federal Reserve Bank there. Marilynn is married to Darrel Moe of Grafton, N. Dak. Their children are Nancy (Mrs. Erling Langness, Ishpeming, Mich.); Muriel, Warren, Ruth Ellen, Carolyn, and Brian. Marilynn teaches music in her studio in her home. Dr. David Duncan is married to Helen Medalen of Nekoma, N. Dak. Their children are Leonard, June, Cynthia and Ginger. They live at Cedar Falls, Iowa, where David is chairman of the mathematics department at the University of Northern Iowa.
JOHN ELSHAUG John Elshaug was born in Grafton, N. Dak., June 2, 1881, a son of Eldrie and Jon Elshaug. There were four boys in his immediate family - Nels, Ole, Andrew, and Martin and three girls — Emelia, Molly, and Ella. His, father, Jon, died at a young age and his mother, Eldrie, was left to raise the family. Life was hard for her, as it was for all pioneer families. There were many serious illnesses, death, and long cold winters to endure. Life and living became better as the
Dak. They have two children, Cory Jon and Amy Jo. Jennifer Skjerven (Mrs. Howard Welch) graduated from U.N.D., and received her Master of Science Degree at Billings, Mont. She also attended a summer term at Bergen, Norway. She resides at Gillette, Wy., where her husband has a carpet business. She is on the high school staff there as an instructor. They have one daughter, Kimberly Johanna. Joel Skjerven graduated from Colorado State University with a degree in range and forest management. His wife, Colleen, also graduated with the same degree. They recently returned from Alaska where he has been employed for the summer months. They make their home at Kamich, Idaho. Brothers and sisters of John Elshaug: back row, John Elshaug, Ole, Nels, Andrew, Martin; front row, Emelia, Ella, and Molly. family grew up and married. John married Johanna Anderson, Edmore, N. Dak., the daughter of Bertram and Marit Loseth Anderson. In their early years of marriage they homesteaded land in Canada. John was a noted thresher in his day, owning two steam rigs. He threshed for farmers in the Edmore and Grafton area. In later years, Eldrie moved into the city of Grafton, where she lived until her death. John moved to the original homestead, rural Grafton, and farmed this same land until just a few years before his death in 1963.
Ruby Elshaug (Mrs. Ernest Skjerven) married Ernest Skjerven Mar. 1, 1946. Ernest passed away April 13, 1977. He served in the Air Corps Engineers for three and a half years; was employed for a number of years for Firestone; was employed by Home Gas Company, Grafton, for ten years; and at the time of his death was maintenance engineer at Bordens', Inc., for eleven years. They have three children: Trudy (Mrs. James Jacobson), Wahpeton, N. Dak., is employed in the business office of the Breckenridge, Minn., hospital. They have three children — Kelly Jo, Christopher, and Jesse.
Willard Elshaug, youngest of the eleven children born to John and Johanna Elshaug, was employed by Evans Transfer for many years, and is now employed at St. Paul, Minn. Marilyn Elshaug (Mrs. Hans Hovde) — Marilyn lives in Grafton where her husband is street superintendent of Grafton. They have six children: Michael, Gail, Steven, Cheryl, Marlene, and Guy. They also have ten grandchildren.
Mr. and Mrs. John Elshaug wedding picture. Nancy (Mrs. Paul McDonald), Grafton is employed as a hair dresser. They have two children — Shari and Dana. David Skjerven, Moorhead, Minn., is an insurance broker. They have three children: Jennifer, Michael and Kristen. Parents , brothers, and sisters of Mrs. John Elshaug: back row, Mabel Anderson, Alice Jeglum, Hannah Elshaug, Alfred Anderson, Christina Lien; front row, Mary Loveness, Bert Anderson (father), Leonard Anderson, Clarence Anderson, and Mrs. Bert Anderson (mother). June Elshaug (Mrs. Harvey Skjerven) — June and Harvey make their home in Grafton where they are in partnership with their son, Jeffrey; in owning and operating Amco Printing, a business they have been in for the past three years. Harvey is the son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Edward Skjerven. He spent two years in the service. He worked as a printer for thirty years at The Walsh County Record. They have three children: Jeffrey Skjerven graduated from U.N.D. with a B. A. in public administration. He has been employed at Bemidji, Minn., on the Governor's Crime Commission; was a Regional Planning Officer at Grafton for three years; is now co-owner with his dad at Amco Printing. His wife is a registered nurse at United Hospital, Grand Forks, N.
Helen Elshaug (Mrs. Millard Torkelson) was born May 18, 1921, and married Millard Torkelson in 1941 at Grafton. They live on a farm, west of Grafton, where they farm. They have three children: Mrs. Dale (Linda) Hauge, Ames, Iowa; Diane Torkelson, a registered nurse, .Austin, Texas; and Tom Torkelson. Ruth Elshaug (Mrs. Rolland Riopelle) — she and Rolland live in Grafton, N. Dak. They have five daughters: Joanne (Mrs. Dean Bjorneby), Grafton. They have three children: Jill, Linda, and Keith. They have one grandson, Christopher, a son of Keith Bjorneby. Doris (Mrs. Donald Hagen) — Grand Forks, N. Dak. They have two children: David and Lori. Bonnie (Mrs. Kennth Mlcoch), Rockford, III. They have one son, Ronald. Darlene (Mrs. Terrance Larson). She and her husband make their home in Mesa, Ariz.
Mary Patricia, who lives in Grafton. Edward Elshaug, Grafton, N. Dak. — He is married to the former Irene Tjosheim, and has been employed at the State School for many years. Irene and Edward are the parents of three children: Roger, Grand Forks, N. Dak. He attended school at Wahpeton and the University of North Dakota, and is employed by the Highway Department. He has one child, Julie Lynn. Sandra Elshaug, Grand Forks, N. Dak., is an administrator at U.N.D. Medical School. Sheryl isajuniorat U.N.D. Mabel Elshaug (Mrs. Martin Kennelly) — The Kennellys live in Grafton, N. Dak., and are the parents of three children: DeWayne Kennelly, Auburn, N. Dak.; Ronald Kennelly, Grafton, married, and has three children — Marty, Matthew and Lisa; Janice (Mrs. James Lysengen), St. Thomas, N. Dak., who has two children, Jackie and Jamy.
Andreas and wife had eight children. Lawrence and Shelbert were born and died in Norway. Next were Peter, Bert, Andrew, Olaus, Ludvig and Annie (all born in Norway). In 1881 Peter and Bert left from Trondheim, Norway, for America. The rest of the family came later. Bert started working as a farm laborer in Minnesota and in North Dakota. He then came to Milton where he met Marit Losith of Rindalen, Norway. She had left Trondheim in 1885. Bert Anderson and Marit Losith were married Jan. 6, 1887. They started farming by Union, N. Dak., and had nine children: Christine (Mrs. George Lian), who had four children; Johanna (Mrs. John Elshaug), who had eleven children; Alice (Mrs. Oliver Jeglum), who had three children; Marie (Mrs. Edward Loveness), who had three children; Andrew, who died in infancy; Alfred, who now lives in Grafton; Mabel, who passed away at Grafton, N. Dak.; and Clarence and Leonard, who both live at Grafton.
Mr. and Mrs. John Elshaug family picture — front row, left to right, June, Helen, Ruby, Marilyn, Mabel, Ruth, Emily; back row, Willard, Edward, Mrs. John Elshaug, John Elshaug, Leonard, and Roy. Leonard Elshaug — He resides at Grafton, N. Dak.; has been employed for many years at the State School, and is now retired. He and his wife have five children and seven great grandchildren: Shirley Elshaug (Phillips), San Jose, Calif. They have two children, Kirk and Toni. Judy Elshaug (Mrs. Eugene Keeley), Grafton. They have three children, Christine, Robin and John. Jean Elshaug (Mrs. Ronald Helm). They have two children, Ronda and Peter. Irene Elshaug, Bemidji, Minn. Frank Elshaug, Minneapolis, Minn. Roy Elshaug — Grafton, N. Dak. — He and his wife have two sons and two grandchildren: Jack Elshaug, Grafton, and children, Julie and Jay; and Billy Elshaug, at home. Roy worked many years as a carpenter at the State School. The family resides on their farm north of Grafton. Emily Elshaug (Mrs. Clarence Viger), International Falls, Minn. — Emily has lived in International Falls since she was married. She and Clarence have two children — Howard of New Orleans, La., who has three children; and Marlys (Mrs. Merlin Holmes), International Falls, Minn., who also has three children, all at home. Clarence Viger is now retired. This is the family history of Bortinus or, better known as Bert, Anderson. Bert's father, Andreas Anderson of Stordalen, Norway, was born in 1829 and died in 1913. Andreas' wife was born in 1831 and died in 1915. They are buried east of Langdon, N. Dak.
Mr. and Mrs. John Elshaug — 50th wedding anniversary. In 1912, on their 25th wedding anniversary, the family drove to Edmore in a grain box, on a wagon, to have their family picture taken. In 1914 Bert Anderson bought a covered Iwoseated surrey which was quite an improvement over riding in a wagon. The first "family car" was a new 1917 Model T. Ford with side curtains, and all. Bert Anderson was born Oct. 5, 1861, at Stordalen, Norway; he passed away Feb. 5, 1953. Marit Losith Anderson was born Nov. 24, 1862, at Rindalen, Norway, and passed away July 26, 1947. Mrs. John Elshaug (Johanna Anderson) was born Aug. 30, 1889, at Milton, N. Dak.; she died Oct. 18, 1975, at Grafton. Johanna Elshaug attended school in the Edmore area and married John Elshaug at Edmore Oct. 28, 1908. They had eleven children. The couple lived in the rural Grafton area and farmed until retirement when they moved into Grafton. Mrs. Elshaug was a member of the Grafton Lutheran Church.
ELLA AND TORJUS FLOM Ella Jorgine was born July 12, 1913, to.Robert H. and Nelsine Mohagen at their farm home in Grafton Township. Norwegian was spoken much in the home and Ella knew very little English before her older sister, Anna, started school. Nelsine taught her children to also read Norwegian, so all four children
Herman and Anna Flom of Tiber Township, Walsh County. Torjus and Ella made their home in Thief River Falls, Minn., where Torjus was a Land O'Lakes employee until his sudden death in 1 966. Ella continued living there and was employed as a bookkeeper in a business firm there. Following her retirement, she sold her home in Thief River Falls and moved into an apartment in Grafton, N. Dak. She enjoys her home town, her family, friends, and Grafton Lutheran Church. Nelsine's widowed mother, Anne Thomasen, came from Norway in 1 908 to make her home with her daughter and family. Nelsine passed away at age 60, in 1 939, while her mother lived to be 90 and died in 1944, at the Mohagen farm home.
ELMER AND KAREN HOLT
Robert H. and Nelsine Mohagen
Elmer Holt, son of Martin O. and Dorthea Holt, was born in Grafton Township on May 26, 1883. He married Karen Dahl, daughter of Johan and Christina Dahl of Trondheim, Norway, on Oct. 23, 1907.
(I9U/)
Karen was born on Sept. 18, 1887, in Trondheim. Her father was a tailor. She came to the United States with her brother in 1905, settling in the Grafton area. She worked at the Merchants Hotel in Grafton, where many of the immigrants worked in those days, until she married Elmer. She made several trips back to her native land.
axe still fluent in the Norse — a knowledge they find easy to carry around. Ella attended grade school in rural School District No. 2 and was graduated from Grafton High School. She attended Valley City State Teacher's College and taught school in Walsh County a number of years. Like so many others who were teachers during the Depression years of the 30's, she began her teaching career with a salary of $45 a month. Sept. 2, 1951, Ella was married to Torjus G. Flom, son of
Elmer Holt
Karen Holt
Elmer and Karen had six boys — Clifford, Ralph, Myron, Elmer, Jr., Frank, and John. Elmer served on the school board of District 22 and as a deacon and trustee of the Grafton Lutheran Church. He was a lifelong member of the congregation of which his father, Martin O. Holt, was a charter member.
Torjus and Ella Flom
Elmer passed away in 1953 and his wife, Karen, in 1960. Their sons, Clifford, Ralph and Elmer, Jr., are also deceased.
FRANK AND HELEN HOLT Frank Holt was born May 1 1 , 1919, in Grafton Township to the late Elmer and Karen Holt; he is a grandson of Martin O. Holt, one of the first settlers in Grafton Township. Frank attended school at District 22, then known as the Holt School, and later attended Grafton High School. Frank married Helen Votava, daughter of Joseph and Leona Votava of Grafton, in 1943. Frank and Helen resided on the farm, where he farmed with his father, Elmer, and later with his brother, Myron. His sons, Timothy and Wayne, are currently farming the land, making this the fourth generation of Holts to
Mrs. Anna Thomasen 508
where Willard is a retired school superintendent; Helen, who married John Davies, and resides in Chicago where they are in the real estate business; and Kenneth, East Grand Forks, Minn., an electrician, Ray married Marjorie Thomson and Kenneth married Leona Kelly; both women were from Grafton.
Family picture of Frank and Helen Holt, Route 2, Crafton, N. Dak. farm the land. Frank and Helen had six children — John, Karen, Judith, Timothy, Wayne, and Jennifer. John married Mary Meyers of Fargo, and they have three children — David, Georgia, and Chrissy. John and his family live in Grosse Pointe Woods, Mich., a suburb of Detroit. Karen married Thomas Daley of Nash, and they have three children — Chad, Temre, and Joshua. They are now living in Wausau, Wise. Judith married Walter Vollmers of Drayton, and their three children are Matthew, Tyler, and Bree Ann. They reside in Bismarck, N. Dak. Timothy married Kandice Kortsick of Bismarck. They are living on a farm near Grafton. Wayne married Cynthia Sevigny of Grafton, and they are also living in the Grafton area. The youngest, Jennifer, is still living with her parents, Frank and Helen. She is a sophomore attending Grafton Central High School. Frank and Helen still live in the house that Frank was born in and are happily enjoying a retired life together — camping, traveling, and visiting their children and grandchildren.
HENRY HOLT
Henry and Julia Holt celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in July, 1963. They farmed in Grafton Township all their life. Ten children were born to this couple, two dying in infancy. Henry Holt passed away in August of 1971, at the age of 81; she died in July of 1976, at the age of 83.
OLE SELMER HOLT AND RUTH CHRISTINA HAGEN Ole Selmer Holt, son of Martin Holt and Dorothea Ellefson, was born in Grafton Township on Sept. 9, 1901. He attended rural school and graduated from Grafton High School. He farmed on his father's farm and lived in the original home built in the late nineties. Ruth Christina Hagen was born in Grafton Jan. 9, 1906, to Jens and Milla Hagen. She attended school in Crystal, N. Dak., and graduated from St. Thomas High School on June 13, 1923. She taught rural schools in Pembina County for four years and then was employed at the Grafton State School for two years as head seamstress. In March 28, 1930, Ruth Hagen and Ole Selmer (Sam) Holt were married at the Grafton Lutheran Church parsonage. They lived on the Martin Holt farm. Sam passed away on Dec. 23, 1966, and Ruth continued to live on the farm until August, 1979, when she moved into Grafton.
Left to right are children of Henry and Julia Holt, pioneers in Grafton Township, posed at Paul Callahan s wedding in July, 1980. Raymond, who stayed on the farm and farmed with his father; Dorothy, who married Herbert Presteng, a farmer and carpenter at Grafton, N. Dak.; Junice, who married Thomas Thompson, Park River, N. Dak., and who are engaged in farming; Marilyn, Mrs. John Withy, St. Paul, Minn., whose husband is a retired printer; Harriet, who married Murphy Callahan, Grafton, a partner in Reyleck's Store in Grafton; Ruth, married to Williard Solberg and residing at Bowman, N. Dak.,
Four children were born to Sam and Ruth. The eldest is Jacqueline, married to Herbert T. Johnson, the youngest son of Harold and Edna Johnson. They have five children. Craig is at medical school; Barbara is teaching at Baker, Mont.; David is at home in Minot; and Douglas and Phillip are both attending school in Minot where the family has resided for the last 20 years. Herbert works with Social Security at Minot. Arlene, the second child, is married to Lon G. Stenerson, son of Stanley and Mandy Stenerson of Edinburg. They live on a farm, three miles south of St. Thomas, where they grow grain and potatoes. They have three children — Lonna, teaching at present in Melrose, Minn.; Leanne, married to Keith
Family of Mr. and Mrs. Sam Holt: left to right, back row, Jackie Johnson, Arlene Stenerson, Marjorie Loos; front row, Sam, Ruth, and William. Gilleshammer, and presently living in Fargo where Keith is attending N.D.S.U. and Leanne is employed at a bank in North Fargo; and Montelle Stenerson, engaged in farming with his father.
Jackson Family: left to right, front row, Lydia O. and Arthur F.; back row, Elizabeth, a daughter (Mrs. Leonard Fagerholt); Scott Burger, great-grandson; Roberta, granddaughter (Mrs. Earl Burger), and Beth Jackie Burger, Great-granddaughter.
The third Holt child is Marjorie, married to John Loos, son of Jack and Octavia (Geston) Loos of Grafton. They are at present living in Fargo where John has the Fargo Electric Company. Their daughter, Janel, is married to Keith Wanttaja. They live at Wahpeton where Keith is employed at an implement Company; they have two children, Todd and Lori. Their second child, Thomas, is married to Debby Haugse. They have a son, Jason. Thomas is employed with his father in the electric business. Robert, their youngest child, is at present attending college in Bemidji. William Martin, only son of Sam and Ruth, is a truck driver. He is married to Patricia, daughter of Clarence and Alice Daley, and they have four children. Shane, their oldest son, is in Grand Forks, employed as a surveyor; Kelly is attending U.N.D. in Grand Forks; Darin and Corey are at home in Kent, Wash., where Bill and Patsy moved two years ago after having lived in Grand Forks for many years. So there are four children of Ruth grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
and Sam,
15
After her children were grown and married, Ruth worked in the food service department at the State School for 18 years.
ARTHUR F. AND LYDIA O. JACKSON In continuation with the previously printed historical facts in the Walsh County Historical Books, copyright 1976. On Feb. 6, 1978, at Fargo, N. Dak., the Fargo Farm Forum presented Arthur F. Jackson with a Centennial Farm plaque (as illustrated in picture), he being one of the two farmers still living on the farm that had been homesteaded 100 years or longer ago. In 1979 Lydia O. Jackson, life-long resident of the Grafton, N. Dak., area was named Co-Poet Laureate of North Dakota. This is just one of the long series of awards that she has received over the years. She held the title Co-Associate Poet Laureate of North Dakota from 1975-1979. Her name and title are included in four volumes of International Who's Who in Poetry; five copies of the International Biography; nine editions of Marquis Who's Who of American Women, and eight editions of Who's Who in the Midwest.
Arthur F. Jackson, Walsh County farmer, rural Grafton, displaying Centennial Farm plaque, flanked by daughter, Elizabeth Fagerholt, and grand-daughter, Roberta Burger, at Fargo, N. Dak. Jackson were honored at a reception for their 60th Anniversary at the home of their son-in-law and daughter, Leonard and Elizabeth Fagerholt, rural Hoople, N. Dak. Their wedding Dec. 20, 1920, had taken place on the farm on which they still reside.
HERZELL LARSON Herzell and Margaret Larson still live on the original H. P. Larson farm. They are the parents of four children: Herzell, Jr., deceased; Daniel, pressman at the Grafton Record; Richard, editor for the University Relations Office, University of North Dakota; and Corliss, wife of Wesley C. Rogers of Grand Forks. There are two grandchildren, Cheryl and Jennifer Rogers. Herzell and Margaret are retired. His hobby is woodworking, and she raises flowers. They are members of Zion Lutheran Church.
Marian is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. L. O. Torblaa. She attended the State School of Science at Wahpeton. She is presently employed at Reyleck's Department Store in Grafton. Lawrence and Marian were married on Oct. 16, 1940, at the Grafton Lutheran Church. They have one son, Lloyd, who attended school in Grafton and the State School of Science at Wahpeton. He served six years in the National Guard and is married to the former Jackie Sass. Lawrence and Lloyd farm the Lee homestead, which is located southwest of Grafton, and is the fourth generation of Lees to do so, namely, Gulbrand Lee, Henry Lee, Lawrence and Lloyd.
LAWRENCE AND HAZEL LYKKEN
Margaret and Herzell Larson Margaret was born at Lake Bronson, Minn., to Anton and Rikkardena (Lorenson) Olson.
LAWRENCE AND MARIAN LEE Lawrence Lee, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Lee, attended school in District No. 114 and spent his early manhood farming on h.s father's farm.
Lawrence Lykken and Hazel Berg were married Dec. 3, 1919, at Grafton, N. Dak. Hazel was the daughter of Carrie Foster and Theodore Berg, and Lawrence Lykken, the son of Ella Thorsen and Gilman Lykken. Lawrence and Hazel lived in the farm home of his parents, the Gilman Lykkens, in Grafton Township, west and a little north of the city of Grafton, for about four years. They then purchased land, and a farm yard, built a new home in 1942, and still make their home there. They are the parents of two daughters and three sons. They have 23 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.
V?
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Hazel and Lawrence Lykken
Lawrence and Marian Lee — 40th Wedding Anniversary.
Left to right: Don, Ruth, Dean, Lawrence, Hazel, Norman,
and Ethel. A daughter, Ethel, is married to Vernon Sander. They live on a farm. Mr. Sander is retired from farming, and Ethel works parttime in Grafton.
Lloyd Lee, son of Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Lee, and wife, Jackie Lee.
Donald Lykken is married and lives in Thief River Falls, Minn. He is associated with Forsberg, Inc. He served in the Marines an Okinawa, South Pacific, during World War II. He is the father of five and has three step-daughters. Ruth is married to Robert D. Johnson, and is coordinator of
Southwest State College, Marshall, Minn. They are the parents of four children. Norman Lykken, married and living in Gig Harbor, Wash., is a highway official for the State of Washington. He is the father of four. Dean Lykken, married and living in West Fargo, N. Dak., is a State Farm Insurance agent for the Fargo area. He was stationed in Germany for nearly two years. He is the father of four. Lawrence has one sister, Tilda Olson, and a brother, Melvin, living in the Grafton area. Five brothers and one sister are deceased. Hazel has one brother, Sam Berg. A sister, Clara, passed away in 1 979. ANDREW AND KATHERINE MISIALEK As this volume of Walsh County Heritage goes to press it is believed that Mrs. Andrew (Katherine) Misialek, 925 Lavergne Ave., Grafton, is the oldest pioneer in the area at the age of 103. Andrew Misialek was born in Poland in 1875 and immigrated to America. He worked in different areas and settled for some time in the Minto and Warsaw, N. Dak., areas. His two older brothers were here a few years earlier so he worked for them and soon sent for his bride-to-be from Poland, Katherine Misialek, who was born in 1877. The couple was married in the St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, Warsaw, by Father Frank Gornwicz. They farmed in the Minto area and later purchased a farm north of Drayton where the family lived for a number of years.
Mrs. Andrew Misialek (Katherine), age 103, Dec. 19 1980. They experienced a lot of hardship like other pioneers in their time. Mrs. Misialek had her own projects besides homemaking. She always had a huge garden, and raised poultry like chickens, turkeys, geese, and ducks; there were always cows to milk. She sometimes helped with the field work, at a time when horses were used. Since she had exceptionally good health, she didn't mind the work. Today, Mrs. Misialek is living in Grafton, and enjoys visits from her family, neighbors and friends. She talks on the telephone and is interested in plain everyday living. She did have to give up T.V., crocheting and sewing during the past years, due to failing eyesight. ISADORE J.MISKAVIGE FAMILY Isadore J. Miskavige, better known as Izzy, was born May 1, 1918, a son of Isadore and Pauline (Jagielski) Miskavige, rural Drayton, N. Dak. His parents were immigrants from Poland. Isadore was a native of Warsaw and Pauline was born in a village near Krakow, Poland. Pauline was only 12 years of age when she arrived in New York alone and worked her way to Cleveland, Ohio, where her sister lived.
Wedding picture — Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Misialek (1903). But luck was not with them — just a lot of grief — so they moved to St. Thomas and Auburn. By then Mr. Misialek's health was failing so he retired, had an auction sale, and moved to Grafton. He died July 24, 1946. Mr. Misialek was a member of St. John's Catholic Church, and is buried in St. John's Cemetery. Mrs. Misialek still lives in Grafton with her son-in-law and daughter, Tom and Eleanor Birk, and is in good health for the age of 103, reached on Dec. 19, 1980. The couple had eleven children, nine of whom are still living. They are: Bruno Misialek, Josephine Sondeland, Martha Elshaug, Irene Elshaug, Joe Misialek, Leonard Misialek, and Eleanor Birk, all of Grafton, N. Dak.; Christine Pykosz of Grand Forks, N. Dak., and Richard Misialek, Virginia, Minn. An infant son died at birth and a daughter Rose at the age of seven years. Mr. and Mrs. Misialek lived most of their lives on the farm.
Isadore and Pauline were married in Warsaw, N. Dak., and farmed near Drayton, N. Dak. They had a large family of seven children — Stella, Isadore, Isabel, Alvin, Teddy, Nettie and Casmer. The family had all the hardships of the times, but on March 15, 1927, the father, Isadore, contracted pneumonia and died at the Drayton Hospital, Drayton, N. Dak. Pauline was left a widow with seven children, the oldest child only 10 years of age and the youngest, a baby six weeks old. All sorts of changes took place; she was unable to keep the farm operation going, so moved to the St. Andrew's Township Village, which was near the present Alexander Rest Area. She and the family lived there only one year and then moved to Minto, N. Dak. Living in Minto brought more income for the family; the children began working out as farm laborers with their mother at their side. They worked in grain, potato fields, and in the new crop of sugar beets which only a few farmers had began seeding. Pauline also did housekeeping for some of the residents of Minto and the family was able to make ends meet. The oldest son, Izzy, did manual work from the age of 12, as he became nearly the prime wage earner for the large family. Being very small for his age the farmers were skeptical of his
Harold Wayne was born Apr. 2, 1951. Harold, as did the other three children, completed his elementary grades and received high school diplomas from the Grafton Public School system. He attended and graduated from the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, with a Bachelor of Science Degree in education. Harold was an instructor in the Grafton Public Schools and started as a part-time mail carrier for the United States Postal Department in Grafton. He transferred and advanced to the position of supervisor of collections and delivery in the United States Post Office at Grand Forks. Harold married Jewell Herzog of Cavalier, N. Dak., on June 4, 1977. They are parents of one daughter, Laura Jane, born Oct. 10, 1979. Jewell is a graduate of the University of North Dakota with a Bachelor of Science Degree in home economics. She was an instructor in the West Fargo School system and in the Midway Consolidated School system near Gilby, N. Dak.
Children of Isadore and Pauline Miskavige — left to right, Stella, Alvin, Nettie, Isadore (standing), Isabel, Teddy, and Mother Pauline holding Casmer. strength but he soon proved himself by his durability to handle any job. There was little time for education, so therefore, he completed only eight years of school. He became interested in the great outdoors as hunting, fishing and trapping became part of his life. He was a licensed mink ranch operator until 1950 when his brother, Alvin, took over. It was in the outdoors that Izzy found his employment. As a young man he worked under the P.W.A. and the W.P.A. programs. These projects took him to the construction of the Ardoch Dam and the Forest River Dam in Minto. But every fall took him into the potato fields, where he gained a reputation for being a very fast potato picker. It was great satisfaction for Izzy when he could compete in the potato picking contests. He had earned many awards for his performances and in 1942 he received the North Dakota State Potato Picking Championship Award.
Kenneth Lee was born on Sept. 29, 1952. After completing high school he enrolled at the School of Forestry at Bottineau, N. Dak. In 1975 he became manager of the "Sport Stop," a sporting goods store in Grafton, N. Dak. On May 3 1 , 1975, Ken and Kathryne Rindel of Noonan, N. Dak., were married. They reside in Grafton, are parents of two children — Jeremy Lee, born July 13, 1976, and Kate Marie, born July 23, 1979. Ken is employed by the City of Grafton in the Water Treatment Plant. Kathryne is also a graduate of the University of North Dakota and is the Medical Technologist Laboratory Supervisor at the Unity Hospital in Grafton, N. Dak. Jane Ellen is a great joy, primarily because she is the only daughter. She was born on Oct. 2 1 , 1954, and was a delight to her two older brothers. She also completed her education in the Grafton School System and went to Wahpeton State School of Science and enrolled in the dental assistant program. Jane began employment as a dental assistant in Grand Forks in 1972. This was also the year that she and Lon Brorson, of Grand Forks, were
It was on August 1, 1940, that Izzy began working for the Great Northern Railroad and continued with the system for 35 years. Izzy held many titles with the railroad, such as track maintenance, truck driver, foreman, and small and heavy equipment operator. In 1967 he was the last foreman for the section headquarters of the Great Northern Railroad in St. Thomas, N. Dak. All the days on the railroad were long and hard, every bit of repair and construction was done by hand. The cold winter days were unbearable at times, and his frostbitten face and feet showed scars of the cold temperatures. The heavy snowfalls of 1948 and 1950 kept him operating the snowplows to the Canadian Lines for weeks at a time. The record snowfalls brought the floods in the spring and it was during the flood on May 2, 1950, that Izzy married Amelia (Amy) Kubesh at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Minto, N. Dak. Amy is the daughter of the late Frank W. Kubesh and Anna (Dusek) Kubesh, bom July 27, 1928, at rural Grafton, N. Dak. She completed the eight elementary grades in country school districts and in 1947 graduated from the Minto Public High School. Following graduation, Amy worked as a bookkeeper in the Grafton National Bank until 1950. Following her marriage, she took on a full-time job of housewife and mother of four children. It was not until three children were in high school and one in junior high, that she took on a full-time position as a dental assistant and receptionist for Dr. M. L. Erlandson in Grafton, N. Dak. It is her fourteenth year of employment at this dental office. Izzy and Amy are residents of Grafton, N. Dak., having made their home at 604 Burgamott Avenue for thirty years. Their family consists of three sons, Harold, Kenneth, and David, and one daughter, Jane Ellen.
Family of Mr. and Mrs. Isadore Miskavige: left to right, back row, Kenneth and Jane; middle row, Isadore, David, Harold; and Amy (seated). 3
married on Nov. 24. They are parents of a daughter, Amy Jane, born Mar. 20, 1980. Lon had attended the University of North Dakota, and is manager and co-owner of the Taylor Rental, Inc., and Jane is employed as a receptionist at the Dr. Paul Gillespie Dental Office in Grand Forks.
Alfred and Dorothy are members of Grafton Lutheran Church, where Alfred is currently on the church council. He has also taught Sunday School and served as a deacon.
David Miles was born on Sept. 3, 1956. After completion of High School in Grafton, he left for a Modeling Course in Las Vegas, Nev. In the fall of 1975 he attended the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, N. Dcik. Always being interested in golfing he borrowed his brother's clubs to compete in the University of North Dakota Golf Tournament. David took the medalist honors as well as the championship trophy for the title. David and his brother, Harold, are both avid golfers and have numerous trophies for their performances in golf tournaments. David is single and at the present is employed in the entertainment field in Hollywood, Calif. Izzy Miskavige retired on Feb. 5, 1975, after 35 years of service with the Burlington Northern Railroad. He has a part-time security guard position at the Unity Hospital in Grafton, N. Dak., as a supplement to his retirement pension. He enjoys fishing at the Lake of the Woods area and also at the North Dakota Lakes. Unlike most fisherman, he is not out to get a trophy size, but he enjoys the peacefulness of the sport and the love for the outdoors that makes fishing Izzy's favorite hobby.
ALFRED MOHAGEN Alfred Manvil was born Dec. 19, 1917, to Robert H. and Nelsine Mohagen at their farm home in Grafton Township. He attended elementary rural School District No. 2 and was graduated from Grafton High School. He farmed with his father and was employed at Kellogg Potato House for a number of years.
The children of Alfred and Dorothy Mohagen: left to right, Wayne, Paul, Sandra, Alan. They have four children. Paul works at Hanson-Kopperud as parts manager. He is married to Bonnie Livingood and they have two children, Andrea and Erik. Wayne works at Gillespie's Meat Market. His wife is the former Bonnie Zarn and they have three sons, Dustin, Adam and Marc. Alan does construction and painting. He also is a fourth generation farmer on his parents' farm. One quarter section of this farm has been in the Mohagen family since 1880. Daughter Sandra is married to Roger Stark and they live on the farm which was originally the Guftorm Mohagen farm.
On Aug. 4, 1946, he was married to Dorothy Mae Westby at Fairdale Lutheran Church, a daughter of Jacob and Amelia Westby. She attended grade and high school at Fairdale.
Lawn wedding at Mohagen farm home. Front, left to right, Mrs. Alfred Mohagen, Sandra Stark, Andrea Mohagen, Alfred Mohagen; back row, Wayne and Bonnie Mohagen, Dustin and Adam, Alan Mohagen, Roger Stark, Bonnie and Paul Mohagen
and Erik.
Wedding picture of Alfred and Dorothy Mohagen, Aug. 4, 1946. Alfred has served on the District No. 2 School Board, Grafton Township board, board of Kellogg Telephone Service, and is a member of the Sons of Norway. During the sixties, sons Wayne and Alan were overseas in the U.S. Armed forces during the Vietnam Conflict. At that time, Dorothy worked as nurses' aide at Unity Hospital for a number of years.
Alfred and Dorothy continue to live on the Robert H. Mohagen home place. Alfred worked at the Borden Potato Plant for 18 years, the last five years as maintenance manager. Since retirement he works at improving their home and assists his son, Alan, with farming. He also enjoys a wood carving hobby. Dorothy, with her "green thumb" and love of flowers, has made their yard a real beauty spot. They keep busy with home and enjoy their five grandchildren. They hope some future day and year will see a fifth generation Mohagen on the farm.
ROY AND ETHEL MOHAGEN Roy H. Mohagen, son of Robert and Nelsine Mohagen, was born Sept. 30, 1915, at Grafton, N. Dak. He attended rural school District No. 2, and graduated from Grafton High School
in 1933. He worked on the home farm and area farms for four years, and from 1937 to 1940 was an employee in grain elevators at Kellogg station, south of Grafton, and for the Bagley Elevator Company at Dupree, S. Dak. In March, 1941, he went to California to seek work in the growing aircraft industry. From 1941 to 1945 he worked for the Lockheed Aircraft company in their plants at Burbank.
neighboring cities, 1,200 voices in all. Later, while visiting at Fortress Monroe, in West Virginia, with Mrs. Mott's cousin, an army officer, Mrs. Mott's attention was attracted to a young Negro boy, recently freed who was to go on to become the greatest educator of his race, Booker T. Washington, founder of Tuskegee Normal and Industrial Institute. The " T " in his name, Mrs. Mott recalls, was for Taliaferro, the name of his master before emancipation by President Lincoln. Washington was educated at Hampton Institute, near the camp. Mr. and Mrs. Mott came to Grafton in 1882. Mr. Mott had been admitted to the bar in Warren, Ohio, and expected to practice law here but found surveying, in which he also was trained, more remunerative. Both Mr. and Mrs. Mott took an active part in the early community of Grafton and both were strong in temperance work. Mrs. Mott was a charter member of the W.C.T.U. in Grafton. Mr. Mott was a Mason and Shriner. Mrs. Mott was one of the earliest members of the Order of the Eastern Star and is now a life member of the local chapter.
Roy H. and Ethel R. Mohagen On June 29, 1 9 4 1 , he was married at Inglewood, Calif., to Ethel Ruth Anderson of Dupree, S. Dak. They made their home at Roscoe, in the San Fernando Valley. That city is now called Sun Valley. In November of 1945 they came back to Grafton. They lived at Hamilton, N. Dak., in 1946 where Roy worked on a farm. In 1947 they started farming south of Grafton where they have since lived. They have three children: Delores Nell (Mrs. Dennis Fast). She and her husband have two children and live at Thompson, N. Dak.; Donald Roy — He and wife, Carol, live in Bismarck, N. Dak.; Henry Charles — He, his wife Linda, and three children live on a ranch at Towner, N. Dak.
HENRY AND EMMA MOTT Mrs. Valentine (Emma) Mott was born in Branchville, Sussex county, New Jersey, Jan. 7, 1849, and there grew to young womanhood and received her education. She taught her first school in Pennsylvania, when she was 16, being too young to get a certificate in her home state. Later she attended various schools of higher education such as the Trenton, N. J. normal school and the Collegiate institute at Newton, N. J., the college of Ellocution and Oratory in Philadelphia and the Bryant and Stratton business college. This period of her own education was interspersed with teaching in order to get money to continue her learning. She taught in the city schools in Cleveland, Ohio, and altogether instructed children in six different states. Her father was a lawyer and died when the youngest child in the family was a week old. Mrs. Mott was next to the youngest in a family of five girls and one boy, who died in the army in the Civil war, at 18. Mrs. Mott was married to Henry Harrison Mott, Courtland, Ohio at Branchville, N. J. They went on a wedding trip to Washington, D. C , and en route stopped in New York City where Mrs. Mott sang in an oratorio under the direction of Dr. Leopold Damrosch, father of Walter Damrosch, famed conductor. This group was composed of singers of the city and
Mrs. Mott taught in the first organized public school in Grafton. Ed Shumway was principal, and the quarters, a tworoom school house. She taught here one year, then taught a year in Minto before assuming charge of the English department when the University of North Dakota was started in Grand Forks under Dr. Blackburn as president. She remained there only one year, returning to Minto to teach an additional year in that village. From that time on she devoted her time to her family but gave private music lessons. She was an ardent worker in the Baptist church many years directing choirs and teaching Sunday school. Mr. Mott was a member of that church and was Sunday school superintendent. By faith, Mrs. Mott originally was Presbyterian. They had only one child, H. V. Mott, with whom she has made her home since the death of her husband. The area is proud that Mrs. Emma A. Mott was the first woman instructor at the University of North Dakota. Henry Valentine Mott was married to Ragna Paulsen of Maaselv, Norway, at South Bend, Ind. They lived in Chicago, III., a few years, but returned to Grafton in the year 1919. He worked as a surveyor throughout the Walsh County and the City of Grafton. Many of the city plats were drawn by him. He also worked for the Light and Water Department as a bookkeeper several years. Three children were born to this union: Virginia, now Mrs. O. J. Alcorn of Grove, Okla.; Georgia, now Mrs. R. C. Carr of LaCrosse, Wise, who has five children; and Henry Valentine, Jr., now of Fargo, N. Dak., who has four children.
VERNON AND ETHEL SANDER Vernon Sander and Ethel Lykken were married Nov. 25, 1943, by Pastor L. O. Helleklev at the Zion Lutheran Church, Hoople, N.Dak. Vernon is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Sander, both deceased, and Ethel is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Lykken, who still live on a farm near Grafton. Mr. and Mrs. Sander have one daughter and two sons, and three grandchildren. Judith Dionne was born and raised at Grafton. She was baptized by Pastor H.A.R. Helsem, attended grade school, and graduated from Grafton High School. She attended Mayville College and was a stewardess for Northwest Orient Air Lines for four years. Judith married Ray Hansen at Huntington Beach,
Vernon Sander Family: left to right, back, Darryl, Judith, Dale: front, Vernon and Ethel Sander. Calif., and is now residing near San Francisco. She is a real estate agent there. Darryl Wayne, born in Grafton, was baptized and confirmed at the South Trinity Church. He attended Grafton grade school, graduated from Grafton High School, and attended Aaker's Business College in Grand Forks. He is married to Arlys Melby. They are the parents of two children — Lynda 16, and Blake 12. Darryl is a salesman for Simplot Fertilizer in East Grand Forks, Minn. His wife has a part-time job at an insurance company and a flower shop. Dale, born in Grafton, was baptized and confirmed at South Trinity Church. He attended grade school and high school in Grafton, and graduated from Mayville State College. He is married to Dionne Quam. They are the parents of one child, Molly Ann, 14 months old. They live in Grand Forks. Dale works for the I.D.M. Insurance Co., and Dionne is a speech therapist in an elementary school. Mr. and Mrs. Vernon Sander are still living on the farm. Vernon is retired from farming and Ethel has a part-time job in Grafton.
ALFRED AND CHRISTINE STARK Alfred Stark was born Sept. 13, 1898, in St. Thomas, N. Dak., the son of Otto and Sarah Stark. He had one brother, Otto, and two sisters, Hilma and Mary. His father, who was a farmer and blacksmith, died in 1900. Sarah later married Carl Carlson, and they had eight children. Alfred came to Grafton, in 1919, and worked as a carpenter for Charles Sieben, and later for Charles Adamsen. In 1926, Alfred married Christine Mohagen, who was bom March 20, 1904. Christine was the daughter of Guttorm and Oline Thingelstad Mohagen, who were pioneer homesteaders in Grafton Township. She had two brothers, Manvel and Oscar, and one sister, Mary, and is now the surviving member of the family. Three children were born to Alfred and Christine. The eldest son is Gordon, of Grafton, who married Donna Erlendson, and whose children are Sandra, Roger, and Steven. Gordon is presently building trades instructor at the Vocational School in Grafton. Doris, of Williston, who married Robert Molland in 1952, and whose children are Michael, Beth, Jeffrey and John. She is the county health nurse for Williams County. Fred, of Grafton, who married Betty Ebert in 1955, and
The Alfred Stark Family: left to right, Christine, Doris, Cordon, Fred, Alfred. whose children are Susan and Tom. Fred is part owner of Brodeur & Stark Bldg. Materials in Grafton. In 1941, Alfred, along with Einar Presteng and Walter Monson, worked together as home builders, and until 1958, built a large number of homes and farm and commercial buildings in Grafton, and the surrounding area. In 1959, he was joined by his son, Fred, and formed the firm of Stark Woodworking, and in 1962, his son, Gordon, also entered the business. Alfred passed away in November, 1968, after a short illness. Christine continues to live in Grafton, and is active in the Sunset Auxiliary, of which she is a charter member; the Grafton Lutheran Church Women, and the Senior Citizens Center and its activities.
HISTORY OF ART AND DELORES TALLACKSON Arthur James Tallackson, Jr., was born on June 12, 1933, at the Deaconess hospital in Grafton, N. Dak. Art was known as "Junior" or "Junie" to his family and friends. Junie was born into a family of three brothers, Ross, Harvey, and Bert; and two sisters, Faye and Doris. Ruth, the youngest sister, was born two years later to complete the family unit. Art and Mable Tallackson, Junie's parents, farmed and lived two miles north of Highway 17 through the old "Mandt" area, and this was Junie's home for his first 19 years. Junie attended Mandt country school, one mile south of his farm home. Walking was the form of transportation to and from school, and going home from school against the north wind was done backwards with each child checking the other for signs of frost bites. Junie remembers his father raising silver fox during the late 30's; bath time in a tub out behind the old lilac bush; their neighbor, Johnny Manderud, and hired men, John and Tom Skaar, who were more like family; the July 4th celebrations at Mandt; the Mandt picnic and baseball team; beginning to help with the farm work at an early age; attending Sunday School and church at Zion Lutheran, located two miles north of his home; and his mom cooking for large crews of help during harvest. Junie went to high school at the Walsh County Agricultural School in Park River, N: Dak., staying in town during the winter months. He played football and basketball during those years and graduated in 1951. He attended Wapehton State School of Science for one year. Known all of her life as "Dody," her given name was Delores Lucille McPherson and she was born on a well celebrated day, Nov. 9, 1933. It was the wedding anniversary of her parents, Norman and Maud McPherson, and also of her
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great grandparents. She spent all of her growing-up years in her birthplace, Park River. In the 30's and 40's the parents were so busy trying to support their families that it left little or no time for them to plan for their children's entertainment; because of this Dody and her peers led a gloriously carefree and imaginative youth. As these were the war years and there was a shortage of nearly everything, especially gas and cars, it left the streets free for the children and use them they did, sledding down the hill from the high school with never a worry of seeing a car in a whole evening. Whether winter or summer, almost all their playtime was spent out of doors — roller skating on the street, skating on the river with the Power House used for warming up, swimming in the river, or skiing down the hill below the old water tower. She was born and lived, during those early years, in the house of her grandparents, Louis and Annie Robbie McPherson, which still stands and is located north of the grade school; the present school playground was her front yard, and well used by Dody, her sister, Shirley Ann, and her brother, Jimmy and their friends. Mastering the "bars" and the "chains" were big things in those years. School was always a joy; especially happy memories are connected with cheerleading and acrobatics or "tumbling" as it was called then. Other memorable times were piling into trucks at the Ford garage and singing their way out to the fields to pick mustard; the "luxury" ice cream parlor; Saturday nights; hand picking potatoes; school not starting until late September; Saturday school for two winter months to make up for lost time; and boys' and girls' dormitories. Many of these things have gone with the ways of progress, but Dody remembers that there were times, at least for the children, that were carefree. She graduated from high school in 1951 and worked at the First State Bank in Park River until she married.
babies: James Bryant, born Aug. 4, 1952; Anita Dawn, Oct. 10, 1954; and Donald Bert, June 19, 1956. During the next six years they lost three infant children, two boys and a girl, due to an RH blood factor. Art worked as a hired man for his father and brothers, then became a partner and finally bought the farm from his father. Art now farms in partnership with his oldest son, Jim. Their farm operation is located three miles west and two miles north of Grafton. The middle branch of the Park River runs just north of the farmstead and the family remembers well the flooding that occurs every year to a lesser or greater degree. It was many a spring that a boat was needed to get to the mailbox, Vn mile south of the house.
Art and Delores Tallackson and children: left to right, Anita, Don and Jim. (1962) During those years as Art struggled to make a living on the farm for his family, Dody was involved with school activities at the Nash school, which all three children attended. The family attended Zion Lutheran Church rural Hoople, and recently, Art and Dody have also become associated with "Christian Faith Fellowship" of Park River. During those years, Art's main interest, other than his business, was curling. Playing the game since 18 years of age, his goal was to become a champion. The goal was accomplished many times during the years as he skipped teams to many bonspiel and club championships. Three state titles came in 1969, 1970, and 1975, and in 1970 when he skipped his team to the United States championship and an opportunity to play in the "World Playdowns." A direct result of this was two trips to Europe in 1970 and 1971 for the teams and spouses. As the children grew they finished their schooling and are now married; Jim to Carol Biri; Anita to Dan Passolt; and Don to Donell Graumann and have since presented Junie and Dody with three beautiful granddaughters, Andrea, Amy, and Rebecca.
Art and Dody Tallackson (1975) Arthur James Tallakckson (Junie) and Delores Lucille McPherson (Dody), high school sweethearts, were married on Jan. 25, 1952. The first year of their marriage they lived on the Aasand farm, three miles north of Mandt. They then moved to the Chris Midgarden farm for two years. They spent one winter in Grafton and one year on the Bill Tallackson farm, and finally settled on a farm belonging to Art, Sr., known to the family as the "Paulson place." It was by no means a new home, built sometime before 1896. Living in this house for the first year was a learning experience for the young couple as it had no sewer or running water. During those years Art and Dody had three
This history would in no way be complete without including the most momentous thing to happen in Art and Dody's lives. That was in the late 1960's when both Junie and Dody received Jesus as their personal Savior and Lord and experienced the reality of II Cor. 5:17. They both are thankful to God for the past events which drew them to Him and are looking forward to a continuance of the "Abundant Life in Christ."
JAMES AND CAROL TALLACKSON James Bryant Tallackson was born Aug. 4, 1952, at St. Ansgar's Hospital in Park River. He lived with his parents, Art and Delores Tallackson, in several different rented farm homes for his
first four years. At that time he moved with his family to their permanent home, two miles south of Nash. He graduated from Grafton High School in 1970. While attending he took part in many activities, including football and basketball. He enrolled at Bottineau School of Forestry, receiving an Associate Degree in forestry-wildlife in 1972. He began farming in partnership with his dad in 1974.
After high school Anita attended Living Faith Bible school in Caroline, Alta., Canada. Upon returning from Canada she was employed in Fargo for one year and then enrolled at the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks. It was there Anita met and became engaged to Daniel Passolt, a young man from St. Louis Park, Minn., who was attending UND on a hockey scholarship.
Carol Marie Biri was born July 4, 1955, at Deaconess Hospital, Grafton, to Andy and Muriel Biri. She lived at 304
Jim and Carol Tallackson and daughters , Andrea Marie and Amy Lynn. (1980) Prospect Avenue until 1964 when they moved to 323 Burgamott, where she lived until her marriage. During childhood she attended Sunday School and church at Our Saviour's; grade school at Chase Elementary; and high school at Central High where she graduated in 1973. While in school she was active as a pompon girl, volleyball and curling. After graduation she attended Aaker's Business College and later was employed at Brodeur Sales and Construction and Chase Elementary School. On June 7, 1975, Jim and Carol were married and moved to the farmstead formerly owned by Victor Dahl. On Nov. 8, 1977, their first daughter, Andrea Marie was born. She was joined by a sister, Amy Lynn, on Jan. 7, 1980. The family attends Jim's home church, Zion Lutheran, rural Hoople. Carol enjoys curling, volleyball and crafts, and Jim enjoys hunting, trap shooting, fishing and sports in general.
Anita and Daniel Passolt and daughter Rebecca (1980) Anita and Dan were married April 30, 1977. They lived in Minneapolis for one year and then moved to Grand Forks where Dan was associated with the First Bank Agency of East Grand Forks. It was in Grand Forks that their daughter, Rebecca Delores, was born on June 14, 1978. In August, 1980, Anita and Dan brought into reality a long-held ream to attend Bible School. They moved to Broken Arrow, Okla., and enrolled at "Rhema" Bible Training Center, where they now live.
DONELL AND DONALD TALLACKSON ANITA (TALLACKSON) AND DANIEL PASSOLT Anita Dawn Tallackson was born Oct. 10, 1954, at St. Ansgar's Hospital in Park River, N. Dak. Anita spent the first four weeks of her life in the hospital overcoming a severe blood disorder. It was a happy day when her parents, Art and Dody Tallackson, were finally able to bring their beautiful baby girl home. Her first winter was spent in Grafton, and her second year she lived on the Bill Tallackson farm. The year she was two she and her family moved to the home where she would spend the rest of her growing-up years. Anita has two brothers, Jim and Don. She attended Nash grade school, Grafton High School, and Sunday School and church at Zion Lutheran Church, rural Hoople.
Donald Bert Tallackson was born to Art and Dody Tallackson on June 19, 1956, at St. Ansgar's Hospital, Park River, N. Dak. Donny, as his sister before him, spent a month in the hospital receiving blood transfusions to help him overcome a severe blood disorder. Don and his sister, Anita, and brother, Jim, grew up happily, running in the fields and woods. A blind coulee, created by the flood waters of the middle branch of the Park River, was a favorite swimming hole in early summer. Out of those early years of playing and working on the farm, a deep love for the land and farm life grew in each one of the Tallackson children. Don attended Nash grade school and Grafton High School, taking part in the activities that make school such a memorable time of life, and attended Sunday School and church at Zion
degree in nursing. They now live in Fort Sam Houston, Tex. Don is now attending graduate school there to become a nurse anesthetist.
CLARENCE THOMPSON FAMILY Clarence Thompson was born Dec. 10, 1905, in Grafton Township, the son of Sam and Bella Thompson. He farmed in the Grafton and Drayton area his entire life. In 1930 he married Gladys Larson, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. H. P. Larson of rural Grafton.
Donell and Donald Tallackson (1979) Lutheran, rural Hoople. He graduated from high school in 1974, attended Living Faith Bible School for one year, and then enrolled at UND, Grand Forks, where he graduated cum laude from the School of Nursing in 1979. Don enjoyed junior curling during his high school and university years, playing in the National Jr. Playdowns one year with a team from North Dakota, and playing in the Minnesota State Junior finals one year. He spent two summers backpacking through Europe. In 1 979 Don enlisted in the U.S. Army. On Dec. 22, 1979, he and Donell Graumann of Harvey, N. Dak., were married. He met Donell at the university from which she also graduated with a
Wedding picture of Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Thompson. They were active members of South Trinity Lutheran Church and Clarence served on the school board of Sinkler school for several years. Clarence and Gladys were the parents of two children. Their son, Gordon, now operates the family farms at Grafton and Drayton; and daughter, Lois (Mrs. Herb Larson), lives in Fargo, N. Dak. They also have six grandchildren. Mr. Thompson died Dec. 12, 1968, and is buried at South Trinity Cemetery.
History of Grafton Township in Photos
Walsh County Old Settlers Picnic. Oct. 1. 1910. Taken at the Elmer Holt farm. Grafton, North Dakota. Picture furnished by Frank Holt. 519
Wedding picture of Elmer and Karen Holt, taken at his parents'farm home, Martin O. Holt.
Installing Delco light plant — Mrs. Adolph Presteng, Adolph Presteng, son Herbert, and Mr. Jacobson.
Farm Forum Award — 1978. Arthur F. Jackson, recipient.
Leo and Philip Birk and Martha Birk. Philip died young.
The Presteng-Bjerke house before an addition was built. Adolph Presteng, daughter Edna, Grandma Bjerke, Mrs. Adolph Presteng holding son Trueman, Mrs. Julius Selliken holding son Joe, son Ola f standing in front, Grandpa Bjerke and Julius Selliken.
Philip andArleigh Birk 520
Ingvald and Leo Birk
The John Elshaug threshing crew.
Early scene in Grafton after a heavy snow storm. Probably sitting in the snow at right is Hugo Kutz, long time Grafton resident. 521
Crafton's Main Street (1912).
BIRD'S EYE VIEW, GRAFTON, N, D*K.
Overview of Crafton, early days.
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CITY OF GRAFTON Churches BETHEL FREE LUTHERAN CHURCH - GRAFTON, NORTH DAKOTA The AFLC (Association of Free Lutheran Congregations) was born in 1962 as the result of 42 congregations from the Lutheran Free Church not wanting to be certified into the ALC (American Lutheran Church). Since that time the AFLC has experienced remarkable growth, now numbering about 130 congregations. The merger was undesirable to many because of some very key issues. They were, briefly, the World Council of Churches; the growing liberalism within the merged church; the danger to the freedom of the congregation as we have known it within the LFC (Lutheran Free Church); the emphasis on highchurchliness; and the lack of emphasis on personal Christianity.
Bethel Free Lutheran Church At a joint business meeting, with Trinity Free Lutheran Church of Grand Forks, it was decided to call a pastor to serve the two congregations. Until a call was accepted, the congregation was served by Gordon Johnson, Grand Forks, and Lay Pastor Roy Mohagen, Grafton, others of the local congregation, and visiting speakers.
The AFLC was born in times of struggle and turmoil. Very few today can realize how very close we came to not having an AFLC. From man's viewpoint, the future of this handful of congregations was anything but bright. God gave us some very precious promises at that time. They were the words of the psalmist in Ps. 118:8, 9, "It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man. It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in princes." What an encouragement this word was!
The first service of the present congregation was held Sept. 13, 1964, in a vacant building, located at 114 East 5th Street, with 36 present. Sunday School was also organized that same day with 24 children and adults enrolled. At this place of worship there were no facilities. Chairs were borrowed; cottage cheese cartons served as offering plates. Due to the lack of a piano, a tape recorder was used to tape the music, and recorded music accompanied the singing. Before too long, chairs were purchased, and a piano was borrowed. The next place of worship was the Westview School Auditorium. The Church of the Nazarene served as the last place of worship until the new church was ready for use.
The AFLC has its headquarters on beautiful Medicine Lake in Minneapolis, Minn., where its Bible School and Seminary are located. Because of a growing need for a Free Lutheran Fellowship in Grafton, and because of the merger into the ALC of Our Saviour's Lutheran Church, a group of families left their church and began meeting in homes for Bible study and prayer for a considerable time. These services were conducted by members of the group. The ladies organized as "The Mission Circle" in January, 1964.
In January, 1965, Pastor George Schuster accepted a call to serve the congregations and a joint installation service was held at Trinity Free Lutheran Church, Grand Forks, Jan. 3 1 . Following Pastor Schuster's resignation in October, 1965, Pastor Trygve Dahle served as interim pastor until Student Pastor David C. Molstre was called in May, 1966.
Meetings were held, exploring possibilities of becoming an organized church of the Association of Free Lutheran Congregations.
In order to incorporate as an organized church it was necessary that a name be chosen. At a business meeting, "Bethel Free Lutheran Church" was selected as a church name. The first officers of the organized congregation were: Arnold Narveson, chairman; Roy Mohagen, vice chairman; Herbert Presteng, Vernon Russum, Dennis Vogsland, trustees; Arnold Narveson, Roy Mohagen, Darrel Moe, deacons; Juline Selliken, treasurer; Mrs. Juline Selliken, secretary; and Manfred Peterson, head usher. The first confirmation service was a joint service with Trinity Free Lutheran Church at Grand Forks, Jan. 2, 1966. Those from Grafton being confirmed were Alden Barstad, Elton Johnson, Linda Narveson, Darlene Monson, Lois Presteng, and Rose Sando. Pastor Dahle conducted the service. After several months of having services in temporary quarters, the need was felt for a permanent place of worship. In anticipation of building, land was purchased in June, 1965. Committees were appointed, preliminary plans were made, and reports were given. After numerous meetings, the decision was made to build and on June 26, 1966, the ground breaking ceremony was held, with Pastor Dahle conducting the service,
Ground breaking picture: standing, (left to right) Marion Hellekson, LaVerne Vogsland, Darrel Moe, Manfred Peterson, Pastor David Molstre, Glen Monson, Pastor Trygve Dahle with shovel. Front row, (left to right), Arnold Narveson, Herbert Presteng, Juline Selliken, Roy Mohagen, Dennis Vogsland, Vernon Russum. 523
Because of the growth of the congregation, a need for a Sunday School addition and Fellowship Room was necessary. The congregation voted to hire Presteng Construction, with John Presteng as foreman, to build the addition. It was completed and dedication services were held July 30, 1978. Pastor Rodger Olson was serving Bethel at the time.
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Pastor David Molstre Family: Mark, James, Sandra, Pastor Molstre and Renita.
Bethel Free Lutheran Church with new Sunday School addition.
assisted by Pastor Molstre. Construction began soon after ground breaking, with Herbert Presteng as designer and contractor.
Those having served Bethel Free Lutheran Church are as follows: Pastor George Schuster, 1965; Pastor David Molstre, 1966-1968; Pastor Gerald Mundfrom, 1968-1970; Pastor Dennis Gray, 1971-1975; and Pastor Rodger Olson, 1970 to present.
An important step toward the goal of a Free and living Congregation, in our community, was made Dec. 1 1 , 1 9 6 6 . On that day the first worship service was held in the new church building at 1566 Hill Avenue, Grafton, with Pastor David Molstre bringing the message. During that first worship service, the AFLC Bible School Choir from Minneapolis, gave one of their first concerts in Bethel Free Lutheran. Jean Presteng, a member of Bethel, and also one of the first 13 students at our Bible School, was a member of the choir.
Interim Pastors were: Lay Pastor Gordon Johnson; Lay Pastor Roy Mohagen; Pastor Trygve Dahle; Pastor John DeBoer; and Pastor Kenneth Moland.
The special altar furniture of the church was built by Mr. and Mrs. Herbert Presteng and Mr. and Mrs. Harold Barstad. On Oct. 17, 1971, the dedication service for the newly built parsonage was held. The parsonage was built by Herbert Presteng, with many from the congregation donating time and labor. Rev. Dennis Gray was pastor.
Pastor Rodger Olson Family: left to right, Pastor Olson holding Benjy; standing, Brent and Aaron; center front, David; seated right, Helene. Charter membership list of Bethel Free Lutheran Church, Grafton, North Dakota, was as follows: Olga Aas, Mr. and Mrs. Harold Barstad and Alden and Darrell, Marion Hellekson, Mrs. Clara Moe, Mr. and Mrs. Darrel Moe, Nancy and Muriel, Mr. and Mrs. Roy Mohagen and Henry; Mr. and Mrs. Glenn Monson, Darlene and Mark, Mr. and Mrs. Amold Narveson, Lloyd, Lyle, Linda and Arlen, Mrs. Emma Ness.
New parsonage, October 17, 1971.
Mrs. Avis Palmer, Lorena, Loren, Clifford and Charleen, Mr. and Mrs. Manfred Peterson, Adolph Presteng, Mr. and Mrs. Herbert Presteng, Allan, Jean, Lois, and John, Mr. and Mrs. Vernon Russum, Judith, David, Karen, Sandra and Cheryl, Mr. and Mrs. Juline Selliken, Avis Laverne Vogsland, Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Vogsland, Robin, Scott, Jeffrey, Chris, Brett and Jennifer. GRAFTON FEDERATED CHURCH On Oct. 7, 1931, the Federation of the Presbyterian Church of Grafton and the Methodist Episcopal Church of Grafton was effected. The early history of these two bodies is scanty, but the
Rev. Dennis Cray Family: left to right, Michael, Pastor Gray, Timothy, Marilyn, Craig. 524
following facts were published in 1 900 by W. L. Dudley of Grand Forks in his book, "City of Grafton." The Presbyterian Church was organized in Grafton in the summer of 1 882. Its first minister was the Rev. Mr. Cobleigh for two years; then Rev. Mr. Brownlee for two years. After that time the church was supplied by college students for several years. Early in the spring of 1892, the Rev. McDonald, then of Kildonan, Manitoba, was invited to take charge of the Grafton church, and was duly installed as the regular pastor of the parish. In 1893 they erected a very neat and substantial frame building at a cost of $2,000. It was nicely furnished and equipped with a fine organ. The Methodist Episcopal Church of Grafton was organized during the summer of 1882. Rev. R. J. Laird was the first pastor, followed by Rev. John Walton, during whose pastorate the first church building was erected. Rev. H. P. Cooper came next. Rev. G. H. VanVleet followed and the parsonage was built. The next pastor was Rev. D. W. Parker. Rev. L. D. Moore came next; during his pastorate, the church building was moved to the corner of 7th and Griggs Avenue, the present site of Cox Chevrolet Company.
Rev. Given T. Kutz remained pastor of the church from 1949-1970. The Rev. Dwight Meier came to the church in June, 1970. He moved to Fargo Calvary Methodist in 1979. The present pastor E. James Elvig came in the fall of 1979 from Grand Rapids, Minn. Within the last twenty years, there have been nineteen youth go from the Federated Church into full time Christian work. Seven are fuli-time pastors and one is at present attending Seminary.
Organizations THE AAA FARM PROGRAM OF 1933 After a prolonged depression of farm commodity prices, the Roosevelt Administration decided to implement a farm program, the object of which was to more nearly balance the production of farm crops and livestock to actual demand and by this process improve prices to the farmer. Therefore, in 1933 the Agricultural Adjustment Act was passed. The farmer was placed under mandatory restrictions of acreage of various crops in exchange for Federal subsidies and commodity loans. The basic quarrel farmers had with this legislation and, to which the courts agreed, was that it was compulsory and left the farmer no choice.
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Federated Church, Crafton, North Dakota The histories of the two churches for the years from 19001931 have been lost or destroyed in the fires that swept the present church building. The federation of the two churches was brought about by the realization of both congregations that neither one could survive alone. The preamble to the Articles of Federation read in part — "in order to unite Christian forces in the attainment of a common objective, to more economically and efficently further the cause of the Master in the community, to secure the continuance of unbroken church services, and to promote the general spiritual welfare of ourselves and our children The first pastor of the Federated Church was the Rev. B. S. Locher, who was the pastor of the Methodist Church at the time of the Federation. He was followed by the Rev. Gordon MacDonald from 1934-1936. In 1936 the Rev. Albert E. Place came to Grafton from Carrington. In Jan., 1945, the church building was partially destroyed by fire. In February, the Rev. Nathan L. Daynard came as pastor of the church. He was followed shortly by Rev. Archie B. Smith who came to Grafton in November, 1946. In June of 1949, Rev. Smith was elected District Superintendent of the Eastern District of the Methodist Conference of North Dakota. The church was without a pastor until November of that year when Rev. Given T. Kutz came to Grafton from Lisbon, N. Dak. After the fire of January, 1945, the church was renovated and many improvements were made. In 1958 an Educational Building was added. The present parsonage was built in 1951.
FIRST WALSH COUNTY AAA COMMITTEE: front row, left to right, are Frank Kouba, Lawton; John Kennedy, Voss; Mrs. Orbin Erickson (nee Mary Gillespie), Hoople; Mrs. Joseph Vettleson (Irene Orstad), Warren, Minn.; J. C. Stewart, Drayton; Joseph C. Machart, Lankin; back row, left to right, are Oscar Westby, Fairdale; Edmund Rath, Drayton; Oswald Brett, Park River; Oscar Ulberg, Edinburg; W. S. Peterka, Veseleyville. The above picture shows the first Walsh County Committee elected to administer this program. There were nine districts at that time and one committee member from each district served on the county board. There were only two office girls at the beginning but more employees were added to the force later as they had to go out to the different townships to sign up every farmer and there were a lot of different figures to compile. The hours were from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., six days a week, with the pay at $1.75 per day. They also worked many nights until 11 or 12 p.m. The Supreme Court of the United States declared this Act unconstitutional in January, 1936. Subsequent revisions reinstated the program and while it has taken many changes over the years, under different conditions in time of peace and war, it still remains a basic part of modern agriculture under the ASCS Program.
MIZPAH CHAPTER NO. 6 ORDER OF EASTERN STAR The ESTARL awards project, instigated by the General Grand Chapter in 1953, was adopted by the North Dakota Chapter that same year, and since that time approximately 109 young people have been recipients of awards totaling more than $70,000 to further their study in the field of religious education. Among those who have received awards through Mizpah Chapter are Ronald Rand, Charles Nelson, Douglas Ganyo, and Robert Kingsbury. Among those who have headed the Grand Chapter of North Dakota are Lynn Grimson, Worthy Grand Patron 1947; Elizabeth Treumann, Worthy Grand Matron 1943; Jeanette Numedahl, Worthy Grand Matron 1973; and Paul Torgeson, Worthy Grand Patron 1978. At this writing Lynn Grimson is the oldest living Worthy Grand Patron of North Dakota. Mrs. D. O. Numedahl, Worthy Grand Matron 1973, was installed as a member of the General Grand Chapter Education Committee at the 36th Triennial Assembly at Toronto, Ontario, Canada, Oct. 25, 1979. Mrs. Arthur F. (Lydia) Jackson was given special recognition by the chapter when she was named co-associate poet laureate of North Dakota at the 1975 Session of the Legislature. The present project of Mizpah Chapter is the installation of a loud speaker system in the Temple. The present officers of Mizpah Chapter No. 6 are: Mrs. Orville Nomeland, worthy matron; Earl Hegstad, worthy patron; Mrs. Dwight Wilson, associate matron; Paul Torgeson, associate patron; Miss Edith Monson, secretary; Mrs. E. R. Nyman, treasurer; Mrs. Richard Anderson, conductress; Mrs. Emma Lou Minden, associate conductress; Mrs. Homer Nelson, chaplain; Mrs. Norris Sando, marshal; Mrs. Vera Carlson, organist; Mrs. John Gorder, Adah; Mrs. George Bliven, Ruth; Mrs. Alice Baird, Esther; Mrs. Montelle Boone, Martha; Mrs. Paul Torgeson,
Electa; Mrs. Verne Billings, warder; and Mrs. Earl Hegstad, sentinel. SIGMA RHO Sigma Rho was organized in 1932 at the Ralph Boone home, rural Grafton, by a few farm wives who enjoyed reading and studying to 'broaden their horizons.' Charter members were: Mrs.. Donald Dike, the first president; Mrs. Ralph Boone, Mrs. Arthur Jackson, Mrs. Stanley Kennelly, and Mrs. William Williamson. Members of Sigma Rho presented regular book reviews, studied various subjects of interest, invited speakers and kept abreast with current events. Members took special UND correspondence courses. Sigma Rho was instrumental in establishing Theta Chapter (North Dakota) for Epsilon Sigma Omicron, the educational branch of the Federation of Women's Clubs. Lydia Jackson gave the first book review. She later became a Poet Laureate of North Dakota. Lydia presented to Sigma Rho a gavel which was carved from a log from the pioneer log cabin which still stands at the Jackson farm home. The gavel is the handicraft of Malcolm Dike. Sigma Rho held family outings and, as a group, attended special events. Sigma Rho was first to contribute to the Grafton Bookmobile Library which was then directed by Nora Moberg. When the Bookmobile Library merged with the Grafton Carnegie Library, Sigma Rho donated a North Dakota State Flag for the dedication. Myrth (Mrs. T. Wendell) Walker was invited to join the club. In time the roster was increased to include members of the Sigma Rho families: Inga (Mrs. Harold Moore); Judy (Mrs. Robert Boone); Josephine (Mrs. Montelle Boone); Mary Nancy (Mrs. Luther Williamson). During her brief sojourn in Grafton, Mrs. Leonard Claxton was also a member of the group.
CITY OF GRAFTON FAMILY HISTORIES OLAF AASAND FAMILY Olaf LeRoy Aasand was born in Grafton on Aug. 25, 1928, the son of Ole and Annie Aasand, the only one of their five children to be born in a hospital. He lived with his parents, three older sisters, Beulah, Lila, and Olga, and a brother, Jevon, on a farm near which Lars Aasand had homesteaded. The family moved to Grafton in 1944 due to the severe illness of Ole Aasand. Following the death of his father, on Dec. 9, 1944, he started farming. On June 27, 1948, he married Frances Weed, the daughter of Dr. Frank E. Weed and Hortense Spain Weed of Park River, N.Dak. Three of the six Aasand children live in Grafton. Frank, a graduate of N.D.S.U., Fargo, and married to the former Victoria LaBonte from Grafton, is a pharmacist. They are the parents of two sons, Robert and Peter. John, a University of North Dakota graduate, and his wife, the former Debbie Houska of Grafton, own and operate the "Extra End" bar in Grafton. They are the parents of a girl, Nicole. James is engaged in farming in the Grafton area, and is married to the former Nancy Gorder of Grafton. Mary, a registered nurse, graduated from N.D.S.U., and is married to Michael Pederson from Fargo. Kim, a graduate from Moorhead State and his wife, JoAnn Erlandson from Fergus
Olaf Aasand family: standing — Jevon and Lila; seated, left to right, — Olga, Olaf, Annie and Beulah. Falls, Minn., live in Fargo. Charles attends N.D.S.U. in Fargo. A curling family, all but Frances have curled. Frank and John were members of the U. S. team which placed second in the world in Germany in 1972.
THE CHARLES E. J. ADAMSEN FAMILY Charles E. J. Adamsen was born in Svenstrup, Jutland, Denmark, Mar. 13, 1894, and was one of thirteen children. His maternal grandparents had emigrated from Sweden to Denmark
many years before. He immigrated to the United States in 1914 and arrived in New York on his 20th birthday. Travel was on the S. S. Mauritania, English registry, owned by the Cunard Lines. It was the sister ship of the S. S. Lusitania. They were two of the proudest ships on the Atlantic. The ticket cost $60.00. He recalls that it was on Ellis Island that he tasted a donut for the first time. He was bound for Grafton because he had several distant relatives here. Henry Lundgren, Mrs. Charles Sieben and Mrs. Joe Thompson were second cousins. Sena Selliken and Billie Olson were his mother's first cousins. Of his immediate family he was the only one to come to the United States. His first meal in Grafton was at the Grand Pacific Hotel, which was located on East 6th Street on the site that is now occupied by the Walsh Water Users office. His first job was with Charles Sieben, local builder, and it lasted about six weeks because there was not much work available. He then went to work for Henry Russum as a farm laborer. In 1916 and 1917 he worked for Rustad Construction Company of Thief River Falls, Minn. They had contracted to build houses for J. J. O'Brien at 807 Kittson Avenue, Grant Hager at 820 Western Avenue, the Berg and Flekke Department Store, and the Strand Theater. The O'Brien house is now occupied by the Ralph Adamsen family, the Hager house by the Norman Burneses, and the Berg and Flekke Store by S & L Department Store. He then returned to work with Charles Sieben until February, 191 S, at which time he enlisted in the Army. Three men left Grafton together for Army duty. They were Joe Rinde, Roy LaMarre and Charles. He was discharged Apr. 20, 1919, and returned to work for Sieben until 1926. Dagmar Framnes came to Grafton from Harstad, Norway, in 1915. Harstad is approximately 150 miles north of the Arctic Circle in the area commonly called "The Land of the Midnight Sun." She was one of several young women who left the locale to come to Grafton. They included Mrs. Ole Moe, Mrs. L. R. Roney, Mrs. H. V. Mott, Mrs. Elmer Holt and Dagmar.
In November, 1919, she and Charles Adamsen were married in the Methodist parsonage in Grafton with Rev. Satterlie officiating. From that union four children were born. They are: Charles D. (Bob), born in 1920; Ralph, born in 1929; John, born in 1935; and Jean, born in 1928 and deceased in 1939. In the spring of 1927, Charles, Alfred Stark, Einar Presteng, Adolph Presteng and Walter Monson started the Grafton Construction Company. It was dissolved that fall and all of its assets were purchased by Charles. He then started the Adamsen Construction Company. Bob joined the firm in 1946, after serving in the Army with Grafton's Company C, and Ralph joined the company after he finished college in 1952. The firm is still in business, operated by Bob and Ralph and a third partner, Odo Langowski, who became a principal of the firm in 1976. Bob was married in 1941 to Eloise Nelson, daughter of Alfred and Hilda Nelson of Fordville, N. Dak. They have four children: Judy (Mrs. Jack Henning), Minneapolis; Alan in Grafton; Jane (Mrs. Tim Thaggard), Birmingham, Ala., and Karla in high school in Grafton. In 1954 Ralph married Jacquelyn Larson, daughter of Bernett and Amy Larson of Oslo, Minn. They have three children: Paul in Grafton, Greta in college in Canyon, Tex., and Kari in junior high school in Grafton. Dagmar was born in 1892 and passed away in 1959 at the age of 66 years. Charles resides in Grafton and occupies the family home where he has resided for about 30 years. John lives with him there. John has been handicapped since birth, but has many friends in Grafton.
CLARENCE AND HARRIET ANDERSON Clarence Anderson was born Oct. 17, 1907, the son of Ole and Sophie Anderson. Ole Anderson, son of Johannes and Tonetta Anderson, came from Preston, Minn., and homesteaded a mile west of Grafton. Sophie Foster Anderson was the daughter of Ole Helgason Foster and his wife, Kari Braget Foster, who came from Elizabethtown, Minn., and who homesteaded two miles north of Grafton. After the death of her husband, Kari married Theodore Berg whose children were Selmer, Clara (Mrs. Ole Rod) and Hazel (Mrs. Lawrence Lykken). Clarence Anderson was born on the Berg farm where his parents were living while the Berg family homesteaded in Canada for three years. Later the Andersons moved to the family homestead, west of Grafton. Clarence attended school in District 22, a mile west of Grafton, on the Holt road. He attended Grafton High School. He always worked in the Grafton area, being employed for eighteen years at the Grafton State School in the wards and as a painter.
Charles and Dagmar Adamsen
While working at the school, he became acquainted with Harriet Louise Colter. They were married in November, 1940, by Rev. H. A. R. Helsem in the Lutheran parish home. Harriet Louise Colter was born Dec. 22, 1915, in her parents' home in Auburn. She was the daughter of William Harry and Eva Amelia Colter. Harry Colter was the son of John Everet Colter and his wife, Esther Maud Burrows, both of whom were born in Colchester County, Nova Scotia. They were married in St. Paul. They farmed for a year near Chippewa, Falls, Wis., then moved their household and farm equipment by freight car to St. Thomas Township where they rented a section of land from H. S. Gilmore. Later they purchased a quarter of land in School District No. 40. Eva Colter was the daughter of Albert Henry Kingsbury and his wife, Wilhelmina Jaster. Henry Kingsbury came from
Princeton, Wise, and his wife, Praxie Raybaski, who was born in Poland. Isabel Nowacki is the daughter of John Gratzek of Strandquist, Minn., and his wife, Stella Przybylski, who came from Poland by way of Canada. The family walked to Florian from Canada. The grandfather, John Gratzek, came from Grujonj in Poland in 1872. He established the Polish community at Florian, Minnesota. Ronald Nowacki graduated from the high school in Argyle in 1968. He attended the vocational school in Crookston, Minn., taking a course in accounting. He has been
The wedding picture of Clarence O. Anderson and Harriet Louise Colter. Hemmingford, Quebec. He was the son of George Kingsbury from County Down and his wife, Ann Dunlap, from County Armah in Ireland. The Kingsburys originally came from Suffold County, England. Wilhelmina Kingsbury was the daughter of Edward'and Eva Jaster who came from the Black Forest region near Frankfurt, Germany. They came to Dakota Territory after a long sojourn near Rochester, Minn. Harriet Colter attended school in Auburn, District No. 29 and in District No. 40 after her family moved to the Colter farm in St. Thomas Township. For two years she attended St. Thomas High School, then took the remaining two years of high school in Grafton. She worked for several years at the Grafton State School as a ward attendant and as supervisor over a group of girls in the dining room. She was one of a long line of faithful, hardworking employees since 1904 who have administered to the comfort, the care and well-being of the unfortunate patients, the victims of an unhappy fate.
Jane Claire Anderson and Ronald David Nowacki employed at the Arctic Enterprises plant in Thief River Falls except for an interlude of fourteen months which he spent in Vietnam. While in the service he was awarded two Bronze Star Medals, one for meritorious service and one for valor, and possesses two Vietnam Service medals. He was stationed, at Danang. He was Sp. 5, Specialist Fifth Class, a member of 1 Corps, First Area Logistic Command Advisory, Team 6. They aided the South Vietnamese to get supplies from the United States. As a member of the Military Assistance Command, he called in air and artillery support. The base of operation was Khesanh, sometimes called Hamnigh in Vietnam. A son, Christopher Michael, was born to Ronald and Jane in 1975, but died in infancy. A daughter, Nicole Susanne, was born on October 2 1 , 1976, and a second son, Jonathan David, was born on Oct. 5, 1980.
Clarence and Harriet Anderson had one daughter, Jane Claire. Jane attended the Chase and Central schools in Grafton. She graduated from the Grafton High School in 1965, and attended the St. Luke's Hospital School of Nursing in Fargo, N. Dak., for three years, taking supplementary courses at North Dakota State University. After graduating as a registered nurse in 1968 she worked at St. Luke's Hospital in Fargo. She was associated with a group of nurses in the neurological-coronary intensive care unit who were considered pioneers in intensive care nursing at the hospital. When the hospital established a coronary intensive care unit, Jane moved to that department. She also worked in the intensive care unit at Dakota Hospital in Fargo and as a registered nurse in the American Nursing Home. After that she went to Thief River Falls, Minn., where she worked in the intensive care unit of Northwestern Hospital. Sponsored by the Minnesota Heart Association, she took a short course in the Coronary Care School at the Rochester Methodist Hospital. She was a member of the Beta Sigma Phi Sorority. She married Ronald David Nowacki on Assumption Catholic Church in Florian, Nowacki is the son of Clarence Nowacki Gratzek. Clarence Nowacki is the son of
THE PAUL ANDERSON FAMILY Paul Anderson was the son of Peder and Elise Anderson. Peder was born on Christmas Eve in 1834 in Loiten, Hedemarken, Norway, and died in St. James, Minn., in 1915. His wife, Elise Brunstad, was bom in Hedemarken also and died in St. James at the age of 76. Peder and Elise Anderson had ten children — eight sons and two daughters. Paul was bom on Nov. 12, 1881, at Bloomer, Wise. Paul married Lulu Sylvia Simmons at Roosevelt, Minn., on Nov. 26, 1908. They were married by Lulu's father who was Justice of the Peace there at that time. Lulu Sylvia Simmons was the daughter of Marion Wesley Simmons and Hattie Angelina Russell Simmons. Marion was born Feb. 1, 1854, in New York
May 4, 1974, at the Minnesota. Ronald and his wife, Isabel John Nowacki from 528
state. He died and was interred at Badger, Minn., Apr. 24, 1914. Hattie was born at what is now known as St. Paul, Minn., on June 9, 1853. It often has been said that she was the first white child born in St. Paul. Hattie died Sept. 29, 1938, near Gatske, Minn., and is interred beside Marion in Badger.
Auburn. They have three children; Jeffery Paul, who lives in Fort Collins, Colo.; Janis Elaine, who is married to Mark Friederichs and lives in Minneapolis; and Douglas Luther who lives in Auburn and works with his father on the farm. Doug is a student at the Crookston Agricultural College.
Lulu was one of six children — two girls and four boys. Lulu was born on a farm between Park River and Adams, N. Dak., on May 28, 1 888. Paul and Lulu Anderson moved to Grafton from Roseau, Minn., in 1920 where Paul became manager of the Farmer's Elevator until his retirement in 1946. Paul died in Grafton at the age of 76 in 1957. Lulu died Aug. 19, 1973, and is buried beside Paul in the Grafton Lutheran Cemetery. Paul and Lulu Anderson had five sons — Loren Wesley, Elvon Adolph, known as Buzz, Vernet Raymond, Paul Leslie and Marion Wesley.
The fifth of the Anderson brothers, Wesley, lives in Denver. He is an architect and is employed by the Department of Interior. He was a navy pilot during World War II and the Korean War. He retired from the service as a Lt. Commander. He has one daughter, Susan Beth. The Anderson brothers were encouraged by their parents, Paul and Lulu Anderson, to be active in music. All of them have performed with the Grafton Municipal Band. At the present writing, Vernet is bass clarinetist with the Minneapolis Shrine Band. Leslie is the director of the Grafton American Legion Band in which he and two brothers perform. Leslie plays the clarinet, Loren, the trombone, and Buzz, the baritone horn. Leslie Anderson's many past achievements in community music include the Grafton Symphonette Orchestra which he organized and conducted and Les Anderson's Orchestra with the big band sound for dancing. Leslie also directed the choir in the Grafton Lutheran Church for several years. The son of Leslie and Virginia Anderson, Jeffery, plays the string bass and the electronic bass in the Fort Collins Symphony Orchestra in Colorado. Paul and Lulu Anderson received a letter from the Secretary of the Navy on behalf of President Franklin Delano Roosevelt in recognition of having four sons in the service during World War II. They and their sons and their sons' families have been members of the Grafton Lutheran Church.
The Paul Anderson Family: left to right, standing, Elvon, Marion Wesley, Leslie, Vernet, and Loren; seated, Paul and Lulu Anderson. Loren was born in Roseau, Minn., on Jan. 14, 1913. He is married to the former Irene Larson. They have two sons, Lowell of Grafton and Loren, Jr., of Auburn, Wash. Lowell married Mary Lou Dietrich; they have two children. Loren, Jr., married Linda Setness; they have five children. Loren and Elvon (Buzz) owned and operated the Anderson Bros. Oil Co. in Grafton for more than forty-three years. They sold the business to Buzz's son-inlaw and daughter, Lynn and Judy Johnson. Loren is presently employed at the Grafton State School. Buzz is retired and lives with his wife, Meredith Manderud, in Grafton. They have three children. Judith Mary is married to Lynn Johnson; they have two children, Janelle Renae and Kristen Dee. Richard Elvon is married to Inez Bogdan; they have one son, Brian Christopher. Richard Elvon is presently in the army and is stationed near Tucson, Ariz. The third son of Buzz and Meredith Anderson is Roger, who lives in Grafton with his wife, Denise Horter. They have one daughter, Tiffany Jeanne.
MABEL (DOMSTAD) BAUER My dad would call early in the morning, "Daylight in the swamp," and out we children would come to milk cows before going off to school. We had better come directly home after school and get busy! We churned butter or cleaned barns. We were able to follow orders. My brother, Joe Domstad, and I got up at four in the morning and soon I was on the tractor and Joe on the binder. I plowed the farm one year, after tractors were available. I sank the tractor in a hay bed, found a heavy branch and put it under the wheel and while it nearly threw me off, I went on. Those were the days! I had to do a lot of cattle herding; I was so bored with the job. I took along paper and pencil and drew my horse, Susie. I always got off the horse and sat on the ground or in a field and let the horse eat. No saddles in those days. Our potato picking days were hard; we did earn a little.
The third of the five Anderson brothers, Vernet Raymond, lives in Crystal, Minn. His wife is Mary Mainz. They are both employed in the Anoka County system. They have two daughters. Karen Louise is married to George Opheim; and Carol Jane, married to Rev. James Haun, has three children — James Paul, Brianna Lea and Allyson. The fourth brother, Leslie, lives in Auburn, N. Dak. He married Virginia Lykken. Virginia is the daughter of Luther Lykken and his wife, Alma Oihus. The Lykkens originally came from Saude Presteegjold, Nedu Telemarken, Norway, three Norwegian miles from Skien. The Oihus family came from Bagn and Trondjiem, Norway. Leslie and Virginia formerly owned and managed the Anderson,'s Music Store in Grafton for twenty-three years. They are now engaged in farming the Lykken land near
Karl Bauer Family, left to right, Barbara (daughter, Karl and Mabel (Domstad) Bauer.
We, Karl Bauer and I, were married on April 3, 1940. We lived in Upham, N. Dak., where we operated a lunch counter. Coffee was 35 cents a pound and hamburger, three pounds for 25 cents.
teaching profession in 1930, holding positions at Columbus, Ray, Hebron and Hettinger in North Dakota before going to Grafton in 1 9 4 1 , where he taught in the Grafton school system until his retirement in 1970.
We raised a daughter, Barbara, who was born Aug. 22, 1942. She was a parish worker for several years, graduating from P.L.U. She then received her teacher's certificate and taught school for many years. She is married and lives in Burlington, Wash. We have had 40 busy years. We built two houses. 1 hammered and sawed as much as Karl, and also did the painting. We have also given a lot of time to our young Lutheran church, starting in a new area, painting or doing whatever we could do, and have confined to do so.
During his first years in Grafton, Joe reorganized the existing city band into the Grafton Parade Band. This group included members from the high school as well as men and women from the community. Under Joe Birkeland's direction, they began traveling to mid-west area events. Their reputation brought them an invitation to appear in the Rose Bowl Parade at Pasadena, Calif., in 1949. After being named the outstanding band at this event, they continued to travel to various national events in subsequent years — the Orange Bowl at Miami; the Rose Festival at Portland, Ore.; the Mardi Gras in New Orleans; and almost weekly appearances during the summer months at celebrations in the midwestern states. One of the disappointments was not being able to accept an invitation to the admittance of Hawaii to the Union, due to a conflict of dates in booking. The band traveled in forty-two states. During those years, they represented North Dakota as the "Official State Band" by appointment of the governor of North Dakota.
We sold the houses and moved to Stevensville, Mont., and farmed for a year and a half. It was back to the coal and wood range, carrying water,' going to the "little house" out back, and milking cows. I was very happy to return to Great Falls! We started all over — bought a house that needed a lot of work. We took up backpacking and for several years went with wilderness groups of Great Falls. It was great entering beautiful back country, many high passes, eating what you could carry. We have also done ice skating and snowshoeing with the same group. I am proud to be a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Domstad. JOSEPH AND AVIS BIRKELAND Joseph Birkeland was born to pioneer Norwegian parents, Gunder and Margit (Sorenson) Birkeland, on the family homestead in Polk County, Minn. He was the tenth of eleven children. He graduated from Mcintosh High School in Minnesota and Concordia College, Moorhead, Minn. He entered the
Joe and Avis Birkeland in a rustic scene on the family farm in Mcintosh, Minn. Joe Birkeland resigned as band director in 1960, but continued to teach economics and history in the Grafton High School until 1970. He still serves as a substitute teacher. In past years, he also directed the City Male Chorus and the Senior Choir in the Grafton Lutheran Church. In 1959, he married Avis Stark. She is the daughter of Manville and Verna Stark of Grafton and granddaughter of Anton and Emma Dahl and Andrew and Athena Stark, both couples being Walsh County pioneers. After graduating from Grafton High School, Avis was employed by the Northwestern Bell Telephone Company in their area accounting offices in Fargo. At the time of their marriage she was accounts supervisor for the state of North Dakota. Following their marriage, she was employed in the Northwestern Bell Telephone Company office in Grafton until 1972. Avis also played in the Parade Band, her instrument being the clarinet. She made all the major band trips.
Avis and Joe Birkeland. Avis is the daughter of Manville and Verna Stark.
Joe and Avis have enjoyed travel in addition to the band trips, including two trips to Europe covering eleven countries. They were able to visit Joe's relatives in Norway and the home where his father was born and lived until coming to America. In 1972, Joe Birkeland received the Alumni Achievement Award from his Alma Mater, Concordia College. He was the twelfth person selected to receive the award out of 17,000 graduates. The
award cited him for his work in the field of music, contributing to his school, his community and his church. In 1974, Joe obtained his family farm at Mcintosh, Minn., where his mother homesteaded in 1883. They maintain the family home there as well as their home in Grafton. Since retirement, the couple has developed an interest in collecting and restoring antiques. Joe has at the farmstead a complete array of horse-drawn machinery and vehicles. He also has a team of mini-Percheron horses on the farm and takes satisfaction in retaining the 'olden days' image as it was when his family lived on the farm. Joe and Avis Birkeland continue to live in Grafton where they are active in community and church activities. SYVERT AND GRETA BJORG FAMILY Syvert Bjorg married the former Greta Jacobson of Osnabrock, N. Dak., Oct. 19, 1930, and lived and farmed three and a half miles north of Adams, N. Dak. They raised small grain and some cattle. Both were very active in church and community affairs. Syvert became ill in 1953, with a heart problem, and was forced to sell his cattle and slow down his farming operation.
Lyle Johnson Family: front row, Janyce, Jana, Lyle; back row, Michelle (Shelly) Gregory and David. her senior year in high school. On Sept. 27, 1977, she was admitted into the hospital in Grafton, and later was treated at St. Luke's in Fargo, and St. Mary's in Rochester, Minn. On April 3, 1978, she died of Cardiomyopathy. Michelle, born on Jan. 3 1 , 1962, attended elementary and high school in Grafton. While in high school she was active in cheerleading, and other school organizations. She is presently attending UND in Grand Forks, and plans to become a court reporter. David, born on Oct. 24, 1964, is presently a sophomore at Grafton Central High School where he is active in chorus and sports, especially football, hockey, and golf.
Syvert and Greta Bjorg, married Oct. 19, 1930. The Bjorgs were parents of two daughters. Janyce was born Jan. 15, 1932, and Arnola was born Sept. 24, 1933. They received their education in Adams, N. Dak. Syvert died June 25, 1955 of a lingering heart disease. Greta was a widow for nineteen years, and during that time continued to live on the farm. She made several trips to Arizona for the winter, and also worked for six years during the winter at the Ebenezer Home in Minneapolis. The last trip Greta made was to Europe. Greta died July 28, 1974, very suddenly from a heart attack. The farmstead that belonged to Syvert and Greta is now owned by Gary Vigen. Janyce taught school at Portland, and Grafton, N. Dak. On June 4, 1955, she married Lyle M. Johnson, son of Lloyd and Matilda Johnson. They reside in Grafton, N. Dak., where Lyle is employed at the First National Bank. Lyle started working there in 1954 and is presently holding the office of vice president. Janyce and Lyle are parents of four children: Gregory, born Nov. 28, 1957, attended elementary and high school in Grafton; was interested in playing hockey while in high school; and at the present time is attending NDSU in Fargo, N. Dak., majoring in economics. Jana, born on Jan. 1 1 , 1960, attended elementary and high school in Grafton. Jana became very ill during the beginning of
Jack Evje Family: Arnola, Brent, Bruce, and Jack. Arnola, the second Bjorg daughter, married Jack Evje, son of Herman and Gina Evje, from Shelley, Minn., on Apr. 23, 1955, at Adams, N. Dak. They reside in Fargo, N. Dak., where Jack and Arnola are parents of two boys, Bruce and Brent. Bruce, born Jan. 12, 1956, in Fargo, attended elementary and high school in Fargo and played football and basketball while in high school. He is now attending Moorhead State College, Moorhead, Minn., majoring in biology. Brent, born on Feb. 23, 1958, attended elementary and high school in Fargo and while in high school was active on the swim team. Brent joined the United States Navy on Aug. 1, 1977. While in the Navy, he developed a heart problem, Cardiomyopathy. The strange thing about this is that exactly one year prior to the day, Sept. 27, 1978, his cousin, Jana Lynn Johnson, was stricken with the same heart disease. Brent had a heart transplant on Oct. 19, 1979, at Stanford University, Palo Alto, Calif. Brent is presently employed at a landscaping firm in Kelso, Wash.
OLIVER C. BJORNEBY Oliver C. Bjorneby was born Nov. 5, 1891, to Christian and Anne Midgarden Bjorneby in Glenwood Township in Walsh County. He was married to Ruth Ashline in Los Angeles, Calif. They farmed near Hoople on his farm until 1937 when he bought his own farms near Minto. They moved to Grafton in 1937 and have lived there ever since. In 1938 he started the O. C. Bjorneby Potato Co. in Voss, N. Dak. Henry French built the first potato house for him on the N.P. tracks in Voss. It was later added to and expanded into a wash plant. When sons, Jack and Dean, joined him in the farming operations they purchased a building in Minto and enlarged it into modern storage and wash plant.
the J.C. Penny Store. The clinic moved to a building next to the Williamson Milk Co., then to the annex of Grafton Paint and Glass, and is presently on Highway 17 West. Harold, Sr., came to Columbus, N. Dak., with his parents, Dr. Harold Blanchard and Nettie (Seneca) Blanchard from Eastern Ontario, Canada. Ann is the child of Ole Egeland and Sophie (Torgerson) Egeland. They came from Norway and settled near Rugby, N. Dak. Harold and Ann met at the University of North Dakota. Harold, Sr., passed away Jan. 4, 1974, and Ann resides at the Lutheran Sunset Home in Grafton. The Blanchards had four children, Harold Jr., Maryann, Shirley, and Jerry.
The four Bjorneby children are: Patricia, married to William Crumley of Gainsville, Ga. They have three daughters — Pamela Crumley Davis, Kathryn Crumley Reed, and Patricia Beth Crumley.
Fiftieth wedding anniversary picture of Oliver and Ruth Bjorneby: left to right, Jack, Dean, Ruth, Oliver, Phyllis and Patricia.
Dr. Harold B. Blanchard
Mrs. Harold Blanchard
Harold, Jr., was born in Chicago, while his father was attending the National College of Chiropractic. He married Nancy Loos, daughter of Jack and Octavia Loos of Grafton. Nancy graduated from Deaconess School of Nursing in Grand Forks They returned to Grafton in 1955 where Harold, Jr., joined the Blanchard's Chiropractic Clinic. They moved to Langdon, N. Dak., in the fall of 1957 where they still reside. They have four children. Steve was born in Chicago while his father attended the National College of Chiropractic. Steve is now pastor of the Baseview Assembly of God Church in Emerado, N. Dak. Dr. David, born in Grafton, is a graduate of the National College of Chiropractic and practices in Langdon, N. Dak. Pamela, born in Grafton, is attending the University of North Dakota. Kim, adopted in 1972, is attending school in Langdon.
Jack, married to Donna Gubrud of Crosby, N. Dak. They have three sons and one daughter. Richard is married to Diane Wicklund of Northfield, Minn., and living in St. Augustine, Fla. Michael is a geologist in Casper, Wyo. Mark, farming with his father, is married to Debra Peterson of Grafton. Daughter, Jo Anne is of Grafton. Phyllis, married to Vern Knutson of Edina, Minn., an engineer at Fairview Hospital. They have three children — Christie, married to Bruce Boeder, an attorney; David of Albert Lea, Minn., and James of Steamboat Springs, Colo. Dean, married to Joanne Misialek of Grafton. Son, Jack, enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps in 1943, and was assigned to the Second Division as a radio operator. He spent three years on active duty in the South Pacific and Japan.
Maryann (Blanchard) Kennedy was born near Cooperstown, N. Dak., and graduated from the Deaconess School of Nursing in Grand Forks. She married Paul Kennedy, son of Frank and Leona Kennedy of Grafton. They returned to Grafton where Paul was assistant manager of S & L and Maryann worked at Deaconess Hospital. They now reside in Marshall, Minn., where Paul manages the Stevenson's & Bostwick stores and Maryann is surgical supervisor of the Marshall Hospital. They have six children — Debbie, Douglas, Michael, born in Grafton, and Lori, Kevin, and Brian.
Son, Dean, enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1956 and spent four years in the medical department as an x-ray technician. He was stationed in Alabama and Fukoka, Japan. Oliver C. passed away Oct. 20, 1978, and is buried in Zion Lutheran Church cemetery in Fertile Township. He was 86 years old and a 30-year member of the Elks Lodge. Oliver and Ruth celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary Jan. 18, 1977.
Shirley Rae (Blanchard) Colgrove was born in Grafton and graduated from the University of North Dakota. Shirley now resides in Houston, Tex., where she owns and publishes the Southwest Advertiser Advocate Newspaper and is president of the National Association of Advertising Publications. She has two children — Robin and Cassie. Jerry was born in Grafton and graduated from the National College of Chiropractic. He married Karen Finger from Enderlin,
DR. HAROLD B. AND ANN BLANCHARD Dr. Harold B. Blanchard and his wife, Ann, moved to Walsh County in October, 1931, with their son, Harold, Jr. Dr. Blanchard began his chiropractic practice in Park River and a short time after moved to Grafton where his first office was over 532
N. Dak. They returned to Grafton from Chicago in 1967 and joined the Blanchard's Chiropractic Clinic. Ownership of the Clinic changed in 1971 and in 1972 Dr. Jerry Blanchard built the new facility on Highway 17 West where he currently practices. They have three children — Jeff, Darren and Lisa, all born in Grafton and residing at home.
members of the Arthur Hegranes family who invited them to attend and join their church, Our Saviour's Lutheran, in Grafton. Many new friends were made in this church — Anna and Herman Russum, Minda and A. G. Strand, Linne and John M. Johnson, only to mention a few. Both Bert and Eva were active members in the church organizations — Ladies' Aid, Men's Club, and ushering. All the children were confirmed in this church. A daughter, Beatrice Johnson, is still an active member there.
BERT AND EVA BRATENG FAMILY
In 1929, the family moved to a farm northwest of Grafton, and rented land from Annie Olson. They lived on this farm for five years. Two children were born while living here — Phyllis and Joel. The children attended rural School Dist. No. 22.
Bert C. Brateng was born June 9, 1894, near Trondheim, Norway, a son of Hans and Mathea Brateng. He came to America at the early age of ten years. His mother and five other brothers and three sisters sailed from Trondheim, Norway, on the ship Kinsington. After landing at the emigration port in Quebec, Canada, they traveled by train to Thief River Falls, Minn., where they were met by their father and an uncle, who had sailed to the U.S.A. at an earlier date, to find homes for their families. The trip to America was a long and trying trip for Bert's mother and her children. It took almost a month to reach their destination. They had to pack enough food for the trip. The trip being longer than planned, they ran out of food and had to go without for three days. When the tired, hungry and crying children, and their mother, arrived at Thief River Falls, their father greeted them with open arms. The family spoke only the Norwegian language, so the communication at the emigration port and railroad stations was very complicated for them. Bert was one of a large family of twelve children. He grew up in the Thief River Falls and Roseau, Minn., areas. He met and married Eva E. Durheim, daughter of Charles and Anna Durheim. She was born in May, 1896, at Cottage Grove, Minn., Washington County. She also was from a large family of 12 children. Bert and Eva married Dec. 27, 1917, at Thief River Falls, and lived and worked in that community for eight years. During that time three children were born — Bernice, Howard, and Deloris. The family then moved out to Portland, Ore., for a short time, and their daughter, Marion, was born into the family.
After working very hard, for many years, Bert and Eva decided to buy a farm of their own. They bought a farm, three miles north of Forest River, N. Dak., where they raised cattle, hogs, poultry, grain and beets. They farmed here from 19341942. Darrel and Avis were born while living here. The smaller children attended rural School Dist. No. 38, two miles northwest of the farm, and the older children attended high school in Park River, N. Dak., and Grafton, N. Dak. During this time of farming at Forest River, Bert bought a threshing machine and a cook car. Bert did custom work for many neighbors, and Eva and her daughters cooked for the men. Mother Brateng was a good wife, mother, cook and seamstress for her large family. While living at the farm near Forest River, the family continued to attend church at Our Saviour's Lutheran at Grafton. It was a long ride to church, but attending church and Sunday School was the big event of the week. The large family nearly filled one pew, as they came to worship God. In 1942 the family moved to a farm at International Falls, Minn. Bert raised cattle and sheep. They moved back to Grafton, in 1943 and he was employed by the Walsh County Highway Department, driving the road patrol. Eva was employed by the Williamson Milk Co. They bought a home, and lived on Prospect Avenue in Grafton. Bert died in 1952, at the age of 58 years, at his home in Grafton. Eva lived in Grafton until 1960 when she moved to Dallas, Ore. In 1981, she is in good health and maintains herownhome. Eva has nine children, eighteen grandchildren, and nine greatgrandchildren. Two sons served in the U.S. Army — Joel and Darrel Brateng. A daughter, Avis (Brateng) O'Leary, has been employed at the Capitol Building, Washington, D. C , working for the U.S. Government for 25 years.
Family of Bert and Eva Brateng-1941: standing, left to right, are Deloris, Eva, Howard, Bert, Marion; seated, Beatrice, Phyllis, Avis, Darrel, Joel and Bernice. The family yearned for the rich farm lands of North Dakota (the Red River Valley), so packed up their family and moved back. The family arrived in Grafton, N. Dak., and lived on the William Williamson farm south of the city. While living on this farm a daughter was born. Making many new friends, and working in this friendly community, the family decided to stay for awhile. Some of their lifelong friends in the Grafton community were
The Brateng children are: Mrs. Bernice French, Scortsdale, Ariz.; Howard Brateng, Monmouth, Ore.; Deloris (Mrs. Lavern Johnson), Tacoma, Wash.; Marion (Mrs. Vern Franham), Tacoma, Wash.; Beatrice (Mrs. Kenneth Johnson), Grafton; Joel Brateng, Dallas, Ore.; Phyllis (Mrs. Walter Gjersvold), Dallas, Ore.; Darrel Brateng, Fairfield, Calif.; and Avis (Mrs. Tim O'Leary), Washington, D.C.
JOHN AND ELEANOR BRINTNELL FAMILY John Acy Brintnell was born Apr. 29, 1864, in Chiselhurst, Ontario, Canada, the son of John Dennis and Adeline Larta Brintnell. At the age of twenty-one, he came to Dakota Territory. After a short time, he made application for his citizenship papers, to become a citizen of the United States. He settled on a farm in the Ardoch area. In 1890 he married Eleanor Kerr at Grand Forks, N. Dak.
Adeline Brintnell The wedding picture of John arid Eleanor Standing: Uncle John Harland Aunt Iza Kerr.
Brintnell.
They resided on the farm until 1904. While still living on the farm, four of their five children were born — Ann, William, Adeline and Nellie. In 1904 they moved to Grafton. The fifth child, James, was born in Grafton on Mar. 13, 1916. John Brintnell continued his interest in farming after moving into the city. He purchased a steam threshing machine and did custom threshing on the farms in the area. After the threshing season was over in North Dakota, he shipped the equipment by rail to Canada and did custom threshing on farms around Saskatoon, Sask. At a later date, he purchased two Percheron stallions for the purpose of breeding horses and building up the horse-power for the farmers. He travelled a regular route, east and west of Grafton. John Brintnell passed away Aug. 22, 1922, at the age of fifty-eight. His death came unexpectedly, when he was stricken with apoplexy. Eleanor Kerr Brintnell was born June 10, 1871, at Tidioute, Pa., a coal-mining town in the northwestern part of the state. It is located on the Allegheny River which joins the Monongahela River to form the historic Ohio River. Eleanor Kerr's father worked in the coal mines there. Her sister, lza, was also born there. The family made a return sojourn in Canada, after which they resumed living in the United States at which time they filed for U.S. citizenship papers. Eleanor liked having young people about her. After her husband's death, and after her family had married and left home, she provided room and board for boys and girls attending high school in Grafton. In those days it was unthinkable for students to drive daily back and forth to school as is the custom today. Eleanor had failing health for the last two years of her life and was under hospital care in Grafton. She passed away May 1, 1955.
Eleanor Freedland
(Nellie)
Freedland,
Gerald
Freedland, Oscar
Ann Loretta Brintnell, the first-born child of John and Eleanor Brintnell, was born July 8, 1891, on a farm near Ardoch in Walshville Township. Ann taught school for several years until her marriage to Ferdy Bergh on Dec. 30, 1914. At this time
Mrs. Ferdy (Ann) Bergh and William Brintnell
World War I had been raging for five months. Ferdy Bergh was born in Cambridge, Minn., Aug. 22, 1890. Baseball was the most popular game in Grafton. Ferdy Bergh came to Grafton as a hired player for the Grafton team. Both Ann and Ferdy worked at the DeSoto Creamery in Grafton, which was located on Stephen Avenue not far from the Bergh home. They worked at the creamery for several years after which Ann worked at the Williamson Milk Station and Ferdy worked as custodian at the Grafton Central School. Ann passed away Nov. 2 1 , 1 9 5 1 . Ferdy died on Dec. 1 1 , 1961. They had four children: Winnifred, who is Mrs. Halgrim Torstad; Charles, who married Mildred Maxwell; John, who married Marie Broseau; and Dorothy Ann, who married Robert Fredrickson. William John Brintnell, the first-born son of John and Eleanor Brintnell, was born Dec. 9, 1894. He attended rural school in Walshville Township for four years. After his parents
The Ferdy Bergh Family: Winnifred, Ferdy (father), Dorothy Ann, Annie (mother), John and Charles. moved to Grafton, in 1904, he attended Chase School, completing his eighth grade education. At that time the Grafton State School was to a large extent self-sufficient with gardens, a dairy farm, a chicken farm and crop land. William Brintnell worked on the State School farm for a few years. Later, he went to work on the section crew for the Northern Pacific Railroad. He had forty-three years of service for the railroad company. For twenty-five years he was section foreman at Meckinock and Gilby. He was a member of the Grafton Lutheran Church, and a Past Master of the Masonic Lodge at Gilby. He married Anne Mathilda Mattson in Grafton, Oct. 3 1 , 1917. They had three children: one daughter Ethel, deceased; Willard, who lives in Bismarck, working at the Employment Bureau; Donald, who is superintendant of schools in Pembina, N. Dak.; William Brintnell died Aug. 5, 1964. Adeline Elizabeth Brintnell was born June 3, 1900, in Walshville Township. At the age of four, she moved to Grafton
with her parents. She attended grade school at Chase; Central School for Junior High; and attended Grafton High School for two years. In 1919 she married Walter E. Schneider after he returned from the service in World War I. They had one daughter, Marjorie, who was born Feb. 5, 1922. Walter was popularly known by the name of 'Dutch' Schneider. He worked in the bakery in Grafton which was owned by Lu Deidrich. It was located in the five hundred block on the west side of Hill Avenue. The next step for 'Addie' and Dutch was to buy the Turgeon store. This was a confectionary store, located on Fifth Street about a block east of Hill Avenue, next to the Northern Pacific tracks. Adeline's sister, Nellie, worked there during her school days. After several years of operating the store, the Schneiders sold it and built a new home on Summit Avenue. Adeline was employed as a clerk in the ready-to-wear department at Reyleck's Department Store and later was employed at the Fashion Shoppe. Walter (Dutch) Schneider died in 1955. In 1958 Adeline married J. Samuel Nelson, owner and manager of Nelson's Drug Store, the successor to Haussaman's Drug Store, one of the oldest firms in Grafton. Sam Nelson died in 1967. Adeline was a member of Past Matrons of the Mizpah Order of Eastern Star; she was a member of the V.F.W. Auxiliary and the American Legion Auxiliary. Adeline died in 1975. She was survived by her daughter, Marjorie, (Mrs. Gordon Torblaa of Tucson, Ariz.; a sister, Mrs. Nellie Freedland of Grafton; and five grandchildren. Because of failing health, Adeline was living with her daughter in Tucson when she died Mar. 6, 1975. Eleanor Irvin Brintnell (always known as Nellie) was born Nov. 24, 1902, in Walshville Township. She moved to Grafton with her parents at the age of two years and attended grade school in Chase School which was only a block from her home. But when she attended Central School and Grafton High School, she walked six and seven blocks. She always appreciated walking on the south side of the old Opera House in winter because it broke the cold wind from the north. She graduated from Grafton High School with the class of 1920 and was employed at the Northwestern Bell Telephone Company as an operator for three years. That was in the day when the country lines each had a number and a letter followed by numbers indicating the numer of rings on the party lines. Nellie Brintnell married Oscar Freedland in 1923. Oscar was employed at the Grafton State School as an attendant. In 1925 Nellie changed from the telephone company to the State School where she worked for forty-seven years. She started as a hall girl and the last position she held was matron. Oscar and Nellie had one son, Gerald, who was born Jan. 7, 1924. He graduated from Grafton High School in 1943 and, in answer to his country's call, joined the United States Navy. He signed up for an aviation machinist. He was assigned to the Franklin Roosevelt Aircraft Carrier. He was on the maiden cruise when peace was declared. Gerald was interested in photography. After his discharge from the Navy, he went to photography school in Portland, Ore. Upon completing his course there, he signed up for camera repair at New Haven, Conn. He returned to Grafton and practiced photography. Later there was an opening for a manual training teacher at the Grafton State School which Gerald filled for the next several years. He married Shirley Nelson in 1958. Gerald Freedland passed away on his birthday, Jan. 7, 1960, after being stricken with a short but fatal illness. Oscar Freedland had several positions at the Grafton State School, such as fireman in the engine room, and plumber. Like his son Gerald, Oscar passed away after a short illness on May 12, 1963. James Alexander Brintnell, the second son of John and Eleanor Brintnell, was born Mar. 13, 1916, in Grafton. He
received his education in the Chase and Central Schools and Grafton High School where he graduated with the class of 1934. For the next sixteen years he worked for the Robertson Lumber Company. From 1934 to 1940 he was yardman in Grafton; 1941 -1 942, he was assistant manager at Minot; 1943-1946 he was manager at Stephen, Minn.; 1947-1950 he was manager at Warren, Minn. For the next ten years he was self-employed in a business in Grafton. From 1960-1966, he worked at the Grafton State School, but retired because of illness. He passed away in a rest home in Langdon, N. Dak., on Nov. 18, 1979. James married Agnes Bergquam, Sept. 1, 1940, in Grafton. They had four children — James A., Jr., Grafton; Robert John, Minot; Kathleen Ann, Little Falls, Minn.; and Marilyn Buchholtz, St. Thomas, N. Dak. Agnes Brintnell passed away Oct. 9, 1976. James Brintnell was a very active in the Veterans of Foreign Wars Organization because of his service in the Korean Conflict. He was stationed in Seoul, Korea, in the Quartermasters Corps during 1 943 and 1944. He was married and had three children at the time. He is credited with being the founder of Post 9367 of the VFWin Grafton. In 1953-54 he was 8th District Commander of the North Dakota VFW; in 1954-55, he was Junior Vice Commander of North Dakota VFW; in 1955-56 he was state commander of the VFW in North Dakota.
ROBERT AND MADELYN BURKE Robert L. Burke was born of pioneer parents, John M. and Anna Burke, Cavalier, N. Dak., on Sept. 30, 1909. He attended grade and high school at Cavalier, and obtained a B.A. degree from the University of North Dakota in 1931. He escaped from the Depression by obtaining a teaching position at Joliette, N. Dak., and later at Loma, N. Dak. He married Madelyn Rene, daughter of Fred and Katherine Rene, Oct. 6, 1934. Leaving the teaching profession, the Burkes entered the world of business by purchasing a general store at Loma. World War II interrupted this occupation when Robert volunteered in 1942 and served in Africa and Italy in the Infantry. On his return from World War II, Robert served as a Customs Inspector at Pembina, N. Dak. He obtained leave of absence from the position to attend Law School at the University of North Dakota, attaining his LLD in 1951. He commenced practicing law in Grafton, N. Dak., in 1951. Burke has served as president of the Chamber of Commerce of Grafton, president of the Eagles Lodge, president of the Grafton Golfers, has been active in Red Cross and the Grafton School system, helped to found the Carnegie Bookmobile
Madelyn and Robert Burke
Library, has served as a delegate to North Dakota s Second Constitutional Convention, was active in North Dakota and District Bar association work, was appointed to the North Dakota Real Estate Commission by Governor Guy, has been active as a director of Lutheran Sunset Home, and has served several years on the church council of St. John's Catholic Church of Grafton N Dak. Burke is a member of the Eagles Lodge, Elks Lodge of Grand Forks, The American Legion at Grafton, the Knights of Columbus and the North Dakota Bar Association. The Burkes have two children, John F., an attorney in the same firm with his father, and Robert P., an attorney in Madison, Wise Madelyn Rene, who married Robert Burke, was the daughter of Fred and Katherine Rene, who lived on the Rene homestead in Pembina County. As with most families, the record and history of the early wanderings and settlement was not considered important enough to record by diary or memorandum. The antecedents of the Rene family in the Pembina Territory came originally from the country ot France where the family was known by the name of Rene de Cartier. After emigration to Canada, the family name was shortened to Rene From Canada the family moved to Manchester, New Hampshire, prior to 1875. Whether by the exigencies of economic forturne, or a feeling of wanderlust, a branch ot the Rene family, Felix Rene, commenced a journey from Manchester, New Hampshire, in 1876 to the Pembina area. The journey was made by boat, by the Great Lakes, and in the vicinity of Duluth, Minn., the journey was continued by wagon tram and steam boat to Fort Gary, Man. Upon arriving at Fort Gary, Man., the patriarch of the Rene family, Felix Rene, accompanied by a Mr Lepier, left their families at Fort Gary and walked to the place where the elder Mr. Rene picked his homestead, approximately seven miles east of Neche, N. Dak., in what is now Pembina County. Not much is known of the activities of Mr. Rene and Mr. Lepier but it is known that they built log cabins for the accommodations of their families, and then walked back to Fort Gary for their families and returned to their homesteads.
It is noted that the presumably happy couple left on a honeymoon trip to Winnipeg and other Canadian points, after which they returned to reside at the old Rene homestead. It would appear that the natural obstacles of an Irish brogue, on the part of the bride, and a French accent on the part of the bridegroom, offered no obstacle to the marriage, and shortly thereafter were born Felix, named after the grandfather; Mary Magdalene, named after the great Biblical sinner; William, named after a previous antecedent; and Benedict, named after a famous saint of the church. The Fred Rene home was a happy one, and was a gathering place for neighbors and visitors from distances. Dances and games were weekly occurrences in the Rene home. Music was provided by neighbors, and often Katherine, the wife, entertained the visitors with her concertina. The gay and handsome Katherine, from the cold and spare land of Ireland, taught her husband, Frederick, from the warm and lush lands of France, the Irish Jig, and the happy couple often entertained visitors with their performance of this art. Frederick Rene was a progressive citizen and farmer, and he became the proud possessor of one of the first automobiles of the area. Although the roads were limited and primitive, the possession of the automobile was a status symbol that the owner 'had arrived.' The Frederick Rene family resided on the homestead in Pembina County until the 1940's. Frederick Rene died in Grand Forks, N. Dak., in 1943; Katherine Rene died in Grand Forks in 1957.
NORMAN AND WINNIFRED BURNS Norman Burns and Winnifred Sevigny were married on Mar. 4 1935. They lived on a farm Norman purchased from Archie LaHaise in 1933, located about 3Vz miles southwest of Auburn, N Dak. They had 160 acres of wheat, barley, sugar beets, and a few potatoes. Times were hard, but land was cheap and so was farm machinery. The Burnses lived on this farm until 1952.
The Felix Renes had seven children — George, William, Fred, Alvina, Florence, Carolyn, and a child who died in infancy. The Rene homestead was located at one time along what became known as "Old Highway No. 5 5 " in later days. It was a thoroughfare for travelers to Pembina. The Pembina-St. Vincent area attracted many early homesteaders who produced small grains and who brought their produce to this area to the grist mill for grinding into a coarse flour The Pembina-St. Vincent area was also a stop on the newly established railroad, and this attracted many travelers to the area from the country west of Neche, such as the present Walhalla, Cavalier and Langdon areas. Being on the route taken by these travellers, the Rene homestead was often called upon to accommodate travellers who, because of darkness or hardship, could no longer continue the journey. Stories handed down from generation to generation indicate that the Rene home was very often crowded with travellers so that the kitchen floor and other areas of the house were lined with guests sleeping on the floor, side by side.
Family of Mr. and Mrs. Norman Burns: left to right, Robert, Roger, Winnie, Norman and Ronald. Three sons were born to this marriage — Robert, Ronald and Roger. The family moved into Grafton, N. Dak., where the boys attended school. Robert graduated from high school and went on to the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks. Ronald graduated from high school in Grafton and had just started at the University in Grand Forks when he was killed in a car accident, Oct. 9, 1 9 6 1 . Roger went to U.N.D., also. Robert, who is farming with his father and lives in Grafton, is married to Sharon Rheaume of Oakwood, N. Dak. They have three sons — Dennis, Douglas and Darren. Roger is married to Arlene Johnson from Udell, la. He works for Rockwell International in Cedar Rapids, la. They have no family.
A son of Felix Rene, Fred J. Rene, took over the old Rene homestead about 1907, when he married an Irish lass, newly arrived from Ireland, and they made their home there. The bride was Katherine Crotty who had come from Ireland in 1901 with her brother, Robert. She emigrated from County Tipperary, Mullinahone, and joined a sister living near Bathgate. Fred J. Rene and Katherine Crotty were joined in marriage at the Catholic Church of Bathgate, by Reverend Father Arsenault. 536
Farming is still the family's main interest, but is becoming very expensive. Norman and Robert are still raising wheat, sunflowers, potatoes, sugar beets and barley. FRANK AND MARIE BYZEWSKI Marie (Gourde) Byzewski, daughter of Joseph Gourde and Alphonsina (Campbell) Gourde attended school at St. Aloysius Academy, Oakwood, from 1 913 to 1927 when she received her high school diploma. She spent two years at home to help her mother, but was often out working for $3 per week, including Sundays, or picking spuds for three cents a bushel. The parents were of French origin and French was spoken at home, except when they had English-speaking visitors. (See Vol. I, page 236.) Two years after graduation Marie Gourde went to Valley City State Teacher's College where she received her standard certificate. Later she attended summer schools at U.N.D., Grand Forks, Bismarck College, took science courses at Lake Ashtabula near Valley City for three summers, and several night classes at Grafton High taught by professors from Mayville. Her first teaching job was in a rural school in Harriston Township, at the time of the Dust Bowl and the Depression. Times were hard and many school districts were short of funds. The monthly pay was $45 for a seven-month term, with grades one to eight, 28 pupils, and a mile to walk besides doing all the janitor work. The pay for board and room was $14 per month, provided you went home on weekends. She vows she learned as much as the kids did that first year. The next year salaries climbed to $60, then $90, $135, etc., etc., etc. She married Frank Byzewski in 1938 and lived near Hwy. 29 and taught the school there, while Frank operated a gas station and beer parlor. After their first son, James, was born in 1941 they sold the place and moved to the farm. Jeffrey was bom two years later and when the boys were nearing school age they moved to Grafton where they have lived since. In Grafton, Frank worked at Carlson's Garage, Gamble's, Simonson's and Norge Cleaning Village. After suffering a heart attack he was disabled and retired and Marie went back to teaching. She then taught at Cashel, Veseleyville, Ardoch, Drayton, and; the last six years, at Chase School in Grafton, retiring in 1970 after twenty-four years of teaching.
Jim Byzewski
Jeffrey Byzewski
Their two sons both graduated from Grafton High School in Grafton. Jim joined the armed forces soon afterward and spent fourteen months in Korea after finishing his basic training. He completed his two years in the Army in Maryland where he
Marie and Frank Byzewski and grandsons, Mike, Jay, and
Tad. travelled to the schools to demonstrate the missiles. After his return home Jim married Sharon Wimpheimer of Grand Forks and they moved to Devils Lake where he attended Junior College. After finishing his course they returned to Grafton, where he worked surveying in Walsh County and Sharon worked as a bookkeeper at Reyleck's. He later went to work for the Grafton Post Office where he is still employed and is co-partner in the Norge Laundry and Cleaning Village. Jim and Sharon have three sons — Michael, a junior in Central School; Tad, a ninth grader; and Jay, in sixth grade. The second Byzewski son, Jeffrey, also graduated from Grafton High School, then spent one year at the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks. After working one year at American Crystal Company, East Grand Forks, he too joined the Army to fulfill his military duty of two years. After basic training he was sent to Fort Sill, Okla., where he was seriously hurt in a car accident, resulting in a skull fracture and a broken jaw. He was unconscious for seven days and spent a few months in Reynolds Army Hospital. Following his discharge from the Army he went to the State School of Science, Wahpeton, for two years and after graduation he spent one year in Bemidji, Minn., working as assistant manager in a lumber yard. Before joining the Army he had also worked at Burlington Railroad in Grand Forks as a clerk and the job was still open for him, so the pay, being much better, he went back there where he has been for the past fifteen years. Frank and Marie have been retired for a few years now and find time going too fast. She loves to read, crochet, visit the lonely and sick, play cards, and make banners for her church. They enjoy their grandchildren stopping in to visit them on their way home from school. You can find Frank busy in his garage, making windmills or welding, whatever needs doing. Or at other times he'll be in the basement getting another team of horses hitched to a new miniature farm machine, that he has just made, just like the ones he used on the farm several years back.
WILLIAM SHANLEY AND BESSIE VIOLET (BRUCE) CALLAHAN FAMILY HISTORY William (Bill) Shanley Callahan was born Jan. 14, 1895, to Timothy Callahan and Euphemia J. (Smith) Callahan. Timothy and Euphemia were both from eastern Canada. Timothy had a brother, Mike, and a sister, Maggie (Malone). William was born at their farm home in Harriston Township. He had three sisters and five brothers. Mary, died as a baby; Elizabeth, was killed in a tragic accident when she and her fiance were crossing the railroad tracks near Grafton in a sleigh and were hit by a passenger train. She was buried at the same
The Morris Callahan Family: left to right — Kathleen, Morris, Jean, Bradley. William and Bessie Callahan time and day that she was to have been married; Jane (Mrs. Frank McAulay); three brothers — Joseph, Thomas and Timothy all died around 1918 from the flu epidemic and pneumonia; Albert; and Daniel. William continued living in Harriston Township until joining the army in 1916 during World War I. He returned to his home in 1918. William married Bessie Violet Bruce on Nov. 28, 1921, in Minto. Bessie Violet Bruce was born Jan. 26, 1898, at a farm near Voss, N. Dak., to John Bruce and Maggie McCannell. John White Bruce, Bessie's father, was born Nov. 13, 1868, in Harrison, Ontario, Canada, to William Bruce, who was born in Scotland and died at Park River, N. Dak., and Betsy (White) Bruce, who was born in Scotland and died at Park River. John White Bruce had five brothers — David, William, James, Alexander and George and two sisters — Annie and Phoebe. John White Bruce died April 10, 1936, at Grafton.
The Merlyn (Murphy) Callahan Family: standing, left to right, Patricia, Jody, Colleen, Nancy; sitting, Harriet, Paul, Murphy. This picture was taken in 1966 when Colleen, the eldest child, was a senior and Paul, the youngest, in first grade, both at Grafton Central.
Maggie (McCannell) Bruce, Bessie's mother, was born July 8, 1 8 7 1 , at Harrison, Ontario, Canada, to Donald McCannell, who was born in Scotland and died at Minto, N. Dak., and Ann (Morrison) McCannell who was born in Scotland and died at Minto, N. Dak Maggie McCannell Bruce had four brothers — Malcolm, John, Alexander and Daniel; and five sisters — Elizabeth, Mary, Rose, Annie and Flora. Maggie McCannell Bruce died Mar. 25, 1902, while giving birth to twin daughters, at Park River, N. Dak. Bessie Violet Bruce Callahan had three sisters — Annie, and twins Katie and Maggie (all three died as infants); and one brother, William. After Maggie McCannell Bruce's death in 1902, John White Bruce married Hannah Gibbons in Nov., 1904. Hannah and
The Marvin Callahan Family: standing, left to right, Timothy, Michael, Karen. Seated, Cindy, Ardis, Marvin, Wendy. John had one daughter, Gladys, which would be a half sister to Bessie and brother William. Bessie attended school at District No. 108 in Forest River Township through the 8th grade. She helped her parents at their farm home, three miles southwest of Minto, until her marriage.
Margaret (Callahan) and Alfred Bolster
After Bessie and William were married they moved to a farm near Voss where they lived for five years. They then moved to Forest River where Bill operated the Standard Oil Station and
Melford (Mike) Donald, born Oct. 18, 1936, at their home in Forest River; married Susan Gaustad and residing in Grafton.
The Joseph Cowley Family: Lesley, Deborah, Shawn, Joseph, and Marie (Callahan).
Five generation picture: Hannah Gibbons Bruce, seated left, was the stepmother of Bessie Violet Bruce Callahan, seated right, since Bessie was six years old. Standing behind Bessie is her son, Merlyn (Murphy) John Callahan, and standing next to him is his daughter Colleen Ann Callahan Burns. Hannah and Bessie are holding Colleen's two children, Nichole Katherine and Shane Michael. This picture was taken in 1974. Susan and Melford Callahan then went into the elevator business; they remained in Forest River for 25 years. The elevator business took William and Bessie to three other towns — Mahnomen, Minn., Southam, N. Dak., and Fairdale, N. Dak. In 1959 they moved to Grafton where both were employed at the Grafton State School. Bessie is still employed at the Grafton State School as a foster grandparent. William passed away Sept. 24, 1961, at Grafton and is buried at Minto. Six children were born to this union: Margaret Josephine, born Aug. 20, 1923, at the farm home near Voss; married to Alfred Bolster, and residing at Seattle, Wash. Morris William, born June 29, 1925, at the farm home near Voss; married to Jean Leeby and residing at Fargo. They are the parents of a son, Bradley, and a daughter, Kathleen. Merlyn (Murphy) John, born Dec. 6, 1926, at the farm home near Voss; married Harriet Holt and residing at Grafton. They are the parents of four daughters — Colleen, Jody, Patricia, and Nancy; and a son, Paul. Marvin James (Ole) born Apr. 16, 1931, at their home in Forest River; married Ardis Hellickson and residing in Mayville, N. Dak. They are the parents of two sons, Michael and Timothy and four daughters, Karen (deceased), Karen, Cindy, and Wendy. Marie Bessie, born May 10, 1934, at their home in Forest River; married Joseph Cowley and residing at Medford, Ore. They are the parents of two daughters, Deborah and Lesley, and one son, Shawn.
Bessie Callahan is presently residing at 1489 Fernwood Drive in Grafton. She has been a long time member of the Eastern Star of Forest River. Sometime during the lifetime of Euphemia and Timothy, the spelling of the last name of this family was changed from Callaghan to Callahan.
MERLYN JOHN AND HARRIET JANE (HOLT) CALLAHAN FAMILY HISTORY. Merlyn (Murphy) John Callahan was born to parents, William and Bessie Callahan, Dec. 6, 1926. He was the third of the six children in the family — three brothers, Morris, Marvin and Melford, and two sisters, Margaret and Marie. Merlyn attended Forest River High School, graduating in 1944. After graduation he joined the Navy, Dec, 1944, and spent most of his naval days in the South Pacific until his discharge in 1946. After returning home he attended Aaker's Business College in Grand Forks. He married Harriet Jane Holt on May 3 1 , 1947, at the United Lutheran Church in Grand Forks. Harriet Jane Holt was born March 4, 1925, to parents, Henry Martin Holt and Julia Karen Serness, at their farm home in Grafton. She had four brothers — Kenneth, Raymond, John (deceased) and William (deceased); and five sisters — Ruth, Helen, Dorothy, Junice and Marilyn. Harriet attended school at District No. 44, two miles west and one mile north of Grafton. After attending high school at Grafton, she was employed at the Grafton Milk Company. She
the Deaconess Hospital in Grand Forks, N. Dak., the first child of Merlyn and Harriet Callahan. She attended grade school and high school at the Grafton Central School, graduating in May, 1966. She was baptized and confirmed at the Grafton Lutheran Church. She married Michael Ray Burns on June 22, 1966, at the Grafton Lutheran Church.
Merlyn and Harriet Callahan, wedding day, May 31, 1947.
Merlyn and Harriet Callahan taken in July, 1980
then moved to Grand Forks and worked at the J. C. Penny Store until her marriage to Merlyn Callahan. Murphy and Harriet lived in Grand Forks until March, 1949, when they moved to Grafton and Murphy began his employment at the W. W. Reyleck Store. In 1961 Murphy bought into Reyleck's and at present is a partner with Richard LaBerge. Harriet is also now working at Reyleck's after being employed at the Grafton State School for many years.
Michael Ray Burns was born Sept. 27, 1943, at the Deaconess Hospital in Grafton to Donna (Kingsbury) and Leslie Burns, rural Grafton. He attended the Auburn school and then began working as a farm laborer. He worked on the farm for many years and then began work as a heavy equipment operator. For the past three years he has been employed as an over the road trucker, working for Kenneth Olafson of Gardar. In 1962, Michael enlisted in the National Guard and spent six months at Ft. Leonard Wood, Mo., and then belonged to Company 957 at Grafton.
Murphy has been a member of many organizations including the American Legion, 40 et 8, Elks, V.F.W., Eagles, Lions, Quarterback Club, Curling Club, Northwest Shoe Travelers Association, 2 / 1 0 National Foundation, Inc., Jaycees, Chamber of Commerce, Fair Oaks Golf Club, N. Dak. Officials Association, and at present is the president of the Grafton City Council. Harriet has been a member of the Grafton Bowlers, Grafton Heathers Curlers, G.L.C.W., and a birthday club that has been together for over 30 years. Both Harriet and Murphy are members of the Grafton Lutheran Church. Murphy has always been an avid sportsman, playing baseball, basketball, softball, golf and curling. He officiated at many basketball and baseball games including the N. Dak. Class A and Class B Basketball Tournaments in 1968, 1969, and 1970.
Michael Burns Family: standing, Michael and Colleen; front, Shane and Nichole. After their marriage, Colleen was employed at the Borden Company for 6/2 years as a receptionist-payroll clerk. She then became a "domestic engineer" until Dec, 1980, when she began employment at The Grafton Record as a typesetter. One of Colleen's favorite pastimes is the sport of curling, the highlight of this being the winning of the 1977 North Dakota State Women's Curling Championship with team members and friends, LaVonne Berg, Delores McDonald and Paddy Hankey.
The Merlyn Callahan Family: left to right, Nancy, Patricia, Harriet, Paul, Merlyn, Colleen, and Jody. This picture was taken at Paul's wedding, July 11, 1980. Murphy and Harriet are the parents of four daughters — Colleen Ann, Patricia Ann, Jody Ann, and Nancy Jane; and one son, Paul Murphy. Murphy and Harriet are presently residing at their home at 902 McHugh Avenue in Grafton. Their children all grew up in this home.
MICHAEL RAY BURNS AND COLLEEN ANN CALLAHAN BURNS FAMILY Colleen (Kande) Ann Callahan was born Jan. 12, 1948, at
Colleen and Michael have one son, Shane Michael, born Nov. 8, 1969, and a daughter, Nichole Katherine, born Feb. 9, 1973. Both were born at the Grafton Deaconess Hospital and are presently in the fifth and second grade, respectively, at Grafton Central. Both children were baptized at Grafton Lutheran Church and are presently attending its Sunday School, where the Michael Burns' family are members. The Michael Burns family resides at 325 West 4th in Grafton. While living at this location their home was hit and damaged extensivly by the flood of 1979. They were forced to vacate their home for 2Vz months, following the flood. In 1980 their home was again damaged, but not as extensive this time, by a hail storm that passed through Grafton. Colleen Burns is a member of the Grafton Heathers Curling Club and the Business and Professional Women's Club of Grafton. Michael is a member of the American Legion at Crystal,
N. Dak. Nichole Burns is a member of the Brownie Troop of Grafton. Shane Burns was a member of the V.F.W. Hockey program for many years. The family enjoys camping, swimming, roller skating and ice skating. Shane has had much enjoyment traveling in the truck with his father to many of our states. DAVID ARLEN AND JODY ANN (CALLAHAN) CLEMENS Jody Ann Callahan was born the second child to Merlyn and Harriet Callahan on April 13, 1949, at the Deaconess Hospital in Grafton. She attended Grafton High School and Mayville State Teacher's College, graduating in 1970. Jody taught two years in Winthrop, Minn., and then returned to Grafton where she was employed at the First National Bank. On April 14, 1973, Jody married David Arlen Clemens, son of Arnold and Lillian Clemens of Fairdale, at the Grafton Lutheran Church.
Patricia and Robert Gust and son, Christopher. Minn., where Bob is teaching school at the Karlstad High School and Patricia is employed at the Karlstad State Bank. Patricia and Robert are the parents of one son, Christopher Robert, born March 20, 1972, at the Mayville Hospital.
David Clemens Family: left to right, Aaron, David, Rebecca, Katie, Jody, Molly. David was born Feb. 2 1 , 1 9 4 8 , at the Deaconess Hospital at Grafton. He attended the Fairdale schools and graduated from Oak Grove High School, Fargo. He attended N.D.S.U. at Fargo and then served in the army during the Vietnam Conflict. After his tour of duty he returned to Fairdale and engaged in farming with his father. Jody and David are the parents of three daughters — Rebecca Ann, born July 3, 1974; Katie Marie, born Sept. 24, 1976; and Molly Mae, born Nov. 20, 1979; and one son, Aaron David, born Jan. 7, 1978. All of the children were born at Grafton.
GARY ALAN AND NANCY JANE (CALLAHAN) WINGER Nancy Jane Callahan was born Dec. 20, 1952, the fourth child of Merlyn and Harriet Callahan, at the Deaconess Hospital in Grafton. She attended Grafton High School and Mayville State Teacher's College, graduating in 1975. She married Gary Alan Winger of Mayville, N. Dak., on July 13, 1974, at the Grafton Lutheran Church. Gary Alan Winger, son of Bernard and Josephine Winger, of Mayville, was born Feb. 18, 1950, at the Mayville Hospital. He attended Mayville High School and then enlisted in the Navy for three years. He spent part of this time in Vietnam. He then
Jody and David reside at a farm home, three miles north of
Adams. ROBERT DOUGLAS AND PATRICIA ANN (CALLAHAN) GUST Patricia Ann Callahan was born April 3, 1951, at the Deaconess Hospital in Grafton, the third child of Merlyn and Harriet Callahan. She attended Grafton High School and after graduation was employed at the Grafton National Bank. She attended U.N.D., Grand Forks, until her marriage to Robert Gust on Sept. 18, 1971, at the Catholic church in St. Thomas. Robert Douglas Gust, son of John and Norma Gust of St. Thomas, N. Dak., was born Jan. 28, 1951, at the Deaconess Hospital at Grafton. He attended St. Thomas High School and Mayville State Teacher's College, graduating in 1973. After Patricia and Robert's marriage they lived in Mayville, N. Dak., where Bob attended college and Patricia worked at the Goose River Bank. After Bob graduated, they moved to Karlstad,
Nancy and Gary Winger and daughters, Kami, (standing) and Brooke.
returned to Mayville, attending Mayville State Teacher's College, graduating in 1976. Nancy and Gary are living at Mayville where Gary is the city auditor and Nancy is the asistant manager at the Portland Credit Union. They are the parents of two daughters — Kami Jo, born Oct. 3, 1976, and Brooke Nichole, born June 22, 1980. They were both born at the Mayville Hospital. PAUL CALLAHAN AND JULIE (GREMBOWSKI) CALLAHAN Paul Murphy Callahan was born March 3 1 , 1959, the fifth child and only son of Merlyn and Harriet Callahan, at the Deaconess Hospital in Grafton. He attended Grafton High School and then attended Aaker's Business College and U. of Minn-Crookston. He then returned to Grafton where he is presently employed at the W. W. Reyleck's Store in which his father has a partnership. Paul is also coaching in the V.F.W. hockey program in Grafton.
cream were sold around the neighborhood. Delivered price for the milk was 5 cents a quart and cream sold for 1 0 cents a pint. ALBERTINA WILHELMINA FRITZ Wilhelmina Fritz, an orphan, was born Aug. 14, 1865, and raised in Strolsness, Sweden, and arrived in Grafton in 1883 with the Newlander family. She met and married Gust Colsen in 1887. To this union seven children were born, four of them in a log cabin which was erected just north of Linden Drive. The other three children were born in a frame house that Gust built for less than $500 in 1894. Minnie, as she was called by her friends, cooked for her family of seven, with her family tended a huge garden which stretched between Prospect and Summit Avenues, carried water up from the river banks in buckets suspended on shoulder yokes, and kept busy from morning until night raising pigs, calves and chickens. In addition she cared for a miniature orchard near her front door where grew apples, crab apples, plums, and currants (black, white, and red) which she used to make jelly sauces that topped ner homemade ice cream which she served with unfrosted molasses sheetcake. Besides the weekly homemade bread and rolls and the general upkeep of the home, she nursed her children through childhood accidents and illnesses without a thought of sparing herself. Both Gust and Minnie are buried in the Grafton Crescent Cemetery.
Paul Callahan and Julie Grembowski on their wedding day, July 11, 1980. Paul married Julie Ann Grembowski on July 1 1 , 1980, at the St. Stanislaus Church at Warsaw, N. Dak. Julie is the daughter of Mike and Cecilia Grembowski and was born Dec. 5, 1958, at St. Joseph's Hospital at Grafton. She attended Grafton High School and U.N.D., Grand Forks. She was then employed at The First Bank of Grand Forks until May, 1980, and is presently employed at Grand Forks Federal of Grafton.
GUST A. (COLSEN) CARLSON FAMILY Gustavus Adolphus (Colsen) Carlson* arrived in New York from Linkoping, Sweden, in 1876 with his brother, John, at the age of twelve, bringing very little other than a small family Bible in a burlap bag. For a time he worked in the copper mines in the state of Michigan. While helping lay rails for the new CPR railroad in Canada, he heard about the cheap land available in the United States. With some friends, he walked from Emerson, Manitoba, the end of the railroad line, and arrived in Walsh County Jan. 1, 1879. They stayed with Ben Askeleson in his log cabin in what is now the Eastwood area of Grafton. His homestead (present address 200 Summit) was part of the original Grafton townsite. He also had a tree claim south of Grafton. It was necessary to walk to Grand Forks to register for land, paying $1.25 per acre and getting a document bearing the signature of President Chester Arthur. The best land had already been taken so his tree claim quarter was full of alkali which made it hard to raise grain crops, although grass and hay grew well. Gust decided to raise hay and feed for the four dairy cows which his wife cared for at their home in the northeast end of Grafton. The milk and
Gust Carlson Family, taken about 1898; left to right, Joe, Jennie, Mary; front right, Segre and Hulda. The oldest child was a girl named Jennie. She apprenticed at Miss Taylor's millinery in Grafton. Jennie worked as a trimmer. This meant she was involved in helping ladies try on untrimmed hat frames. The fancy trims were spread out for the ladies' selection and the trimmers then put the trimmings on the hats. The girls were instructed not to offer an opinion as to the taste of the customer. When the girls were not busy with customers, they were required by Miss Taylor to do fancy work, keeping their fingers chalked so as not to soil the piece they were working on. This embroidery was sold at the shop. Jennie was sent to the western part of the state to sell hats. One Easter season she found it necessary to make a delivery on the Montana side of the flooding and very rough Yellowstone River. With a great deal of persuasion she found a row boat owner who would take her across. Jennie made the journey, clinging to the box full of hats
and the sides of the boat. Once the opposite bank was reached the boat owner flatly refused to attempt the return trip. She spent Easter in Montana. While out west she fell in love and married a local mailman, Nels Score. To this union three children were born — Peter, Donald and Elva (Mrs. Ed Larson, Havre, Mont.). Jennie's later years were spent in Grafton with her sister, Hulda, in the home at Summit Avenue and later in the Lutheran Sunset. She is buried in Malta, Mont. The second daughter, Mary, apprenticed with a dressmaker in Grafton and did so well she purchased the establishment from her employer and hired four girls to work under her. She married Conrad Bjerke in 1910. They moved to Conway, N. Dak., when Conrad purchased the local hardware store. Part of his time was spent working as an undertaker and also installing embossed tin on walls and ceilings which was so popular at the time. While in Conway two children were born. After hard times struck they moved to Bowdoin, Mont., where the rest of the seven children were born. New opportunities beckoned in Powell, Wyo., but World War II broke out and shipbuilders were needed to build Liberty Ships. He went to Bremerton, Wash., where he was joined by Mary who helped out in the commissary for the soldiers. Mr. Bjerke passed away while there and was brought jack to Powell for burial. After a few years Mary joined him. Lee, Avis, Grant, William, Rhoda, Betty and Eileen were their children. The third daughter, Hulda Thorinda, was also born in the old log cabin. Since the two older girls were out working, much of the cooking fell to her as well as caring for the two younger ones. Often in the summer she helped Dad on the farm as a short-term housekeeper and picked strawberries from Mr. Levi Blades' commercial garden. She was a very good student, eager to advance. She took herself up the educational ladder, graduating at the top of her class at Grafton Central High School. Her valedictorian speech used the topic of the day "Boy Scout Movement in America." The exercises were held in the old Opera House which at that time had deteriorated so badly that it was necessary to raise umbrellas to keep the rain from the leaky roof off the audience. She put herself through college, attending Valley City Normal, but graduating from Mayville. She taught at various country schools and then became principal at Chase School and retained that position for 37 years, missing only twice during that time. She won the Valley Forge Medal for emphasizing patriotism and loyalty to our country. In 1962 she won the honor of being named one of three of the best teachers in North Dakota. She loved to belong to worthwhile organizations and was secretary of the Sunset Auxiliary for 11 years; headed Eastern Star; was a member of WCTU and Delphian Study Club, and for 33 years served as secretary for the Grafton Carnegie Library. Due to ill health she retired and spent her time raising flowers that she took to the patients at the Sunset Home. Her other interests included bird watching, letter writing to her nieces and nephews and their families, and her concern for the elderly. She died at Sunset Home, in August of 1979, and was buried near her parents. The fourth daughter, Segre Wilhelmina, was also born in the log cabin that was soon to be replaced by the new house. The log cabin was then used as a barn before being torn down. She graduated from Grafton High School in 1915, going right out to teach in country schools and attending a summer school in Grand Forks. While teaching at Herrick school, S.D. No. 3 1 , she met and married Herbert A. Stewart. Segre and Herb Stewart lived on a farm near Herrick where their five children were born. Their children are Charles, Jack, Robert, James and one daughter, Jean. Being a farm wife and
Gust Carlson and children — left to right, Joseph A. Carlson, Segre W. (Mrs. H. A. Stewart), Hulda T. Carlson, Mary (Mrs. C. Bjerke), Jennie (Mrs. Ed Score), Pearl (Mrs. J. D. Morrison), Percival E. Carlson. Seated in front is Gust A. Carlson. raising five children left her little time. But she still found time to read to her children who can still remember the stories 50 years later. After her family was grown she found time to belong to the Drayton Eastern Star, United Methodist Women's Society, the American Legion Auxiliary, and was a charter member of the St. Andrews Homemakers Club. She is buried in the Grafton Cemetery. The fifth child was a long awaited son, named after his father, Adolph, and his grandfather, Joseph. Joseph helped his father with the farming as much as his studies would permit as he played football and was sports editor for the school paper. In the winter time he worked at a local print shop and also at the local electrical plant which furnished lights for the whole town. He also dabbled in raising turkeys but found them too hard to confine and gave it up. After graduating from the local high school he volunteered for overseas duty with the signal corps battalion of World War I. He was at the front in several battles and received mustard gas poisoning and shrapnel injuries which made him unable to stand North Dakota winters. He and a buddy left for California, selling auto parts to help out with expenses. Once there he got a job selling ceramic tile to government installations and the Army and the Navy. He married twice. He came back to North Dakota to live with his sisters in the old home place. His health finally failed and he passed away in the military hospital in Fargo. He is buried in Grafton beside the rest of the folks. The sixth child was a girl named Pearl by her sisters. Pearl was always susceptible to colds and a sore throat, due to bad tonsils. Their removal made medical history. When Pearl was nine years old, she walked 16 blocks up to Dr. Suter's office, upstairs over the Hausseman Drug Store where the doctor sat her up on a chair and extracted them. Mary came from the dressmaker's shop and walked Pearl home. In the last block, Pearl fainted and Mary dragged her on down the road. Pearl was so shook up and exhausted that she refused to eat or try to get up for a week. But after that she was strong and well, helping her father on the farm, keeping house of sorts in a small unpainted shack, listening to the morning sounds while making breakfast while her father harnessed up the horses. Taking a great interest in singing, Pearl was happy to be included in Glee Clubs, in the church choir, and community singing, often walking up to the high school after supper to sing. With the help of her sister, Hulda, Pearl spent a number of summers and one full year attending Valley City Normal School. Her first teaching experience was in 1918, the year the dread flu broke out, closing all the schools in the county and not opening them until April. She received half of her wages. Pearl married J. Douglas Morrison of Drayton and they lived on a farm near Pittsburgh, north of Drayton, for 42 years before moving to St. Thomas to a
Mrs. Gust A. Carlson (1931) house inherited from Mr. Morrison's cousin, Lena Ganssle. To this union three sons were bom. The first died in infancy; the other two are James of Hastings, Minn., father of five, and Robert of St. Thomas, unmarried. The seventh child was another boy, the pride and joy of his mother, (named by his older sisters) Percival Eugene. He was a pal to his sister, Pearl, helping her out to care for the small calves^ Since there was extra milk, it was delivered in the neighborhood by the children for 5 cents a quart and 10 cents a pint for thick cream. The milk was put into syrup pails, with handles which made it possible for them to carry two pails in each hand. Deliveries were made in the evening, regardless of the weather. This, plus home grown meat, eggs, and all kinds of vegetables, helped out with family expenses. I recall a day when Percy (Bud as he was called) and Pearl were helping shock some early grain bundles that were as taI as they were. It was a very hot day and Percy complained of feeling poorly so his father sent him home, which was four miles away^ When he got home his mother put him to bed and the doctor said he had rheumatic fever and that it had enlarged his heart. He was confined to bed for nine months. During this time, Mrs. Treumann, a neighbor, visited him daily, reading and counseling him in Christian Science which he followed faithfully. He graduated from Grafton Central High School with high skill as a typist After graduation he secured a job with J. E. Grey, an attorney, and later with Judge Phelps. After the judge died he worked in the Luther Williamson Milk Company office. Then an opening came along in the County Treasurer's office. He ran for and won the treasurer's position which he held from 1942 until his death in 1949. His wife (Vera Herbison) followed as county treasurer. To this couple two children were born - Jessie (Mrs. Truman Thompson) and Donald Carlson, who is with Lockwood Potato and Beet Equipment of Grafton. Percy is buried in the Crescent Cemetery at Grafton, N. Dak., with other departed members.
Kenneth lived and attended school in Auburn during his early years A Mrs. Bucholtz of Grand Forks came to Auburn by train to give piano lessons at the A. A. Stavert home. Here, Kenneth was enrolled in piano lessons. Later he took lessons from Mrs Stavert. With his love for music and strict practicing he became an accomplished pianist and composer. Kenneth performed at many functions, including accompanying at school functions in the rural school near his home in Union District No. 40. He is still giving instructions to many Grafton children, and is busy composing music. Kenneth was a good son and brother, and is a very devoted uncle to his niece, Jane Anderson Nowacky, and her family, who reside in Thief River Falls, Minn. Kenneth and his mother were great movie fans and made every change of a show. It was fun to listen to them discuss shows, movie stars and producers, which most people do not bother to notice. Among his many interests, Kenneth and his mother were avid gardeners. Their garden was not only huge but many, many varieties were grown. In the fall mother and son were busy filling hundreds of quart cans with produce. Their specialty was green tomato pickles, something this young bride (Agnes Davis) had never heard of The work of peeling all those small green tomatoes to fill a gallon crock would discourage most. The eating, however, was worth the work and neighbor children would come home overjoyed with their treasured prize of muskmelon and watermelons, storing them in the haymow to complete the ripening process. Another hobby was the profusion of flowers in their yard. It was a wonderland of color and included perennials, biennials and annuals. Many a clump found their place in their ne:ghbor s yard Their yard was a storehouse of knowledge for names and kinds of flowers. People would drive around to see the Colter yard, a picture of color and beauty. How Kenneth and his mother must have enjoyed sitting in the yard among such beauty. Kenneth's love for music and playing the piano has proved helpful to the teachers as he was generous with his help for the school programs. Whether living in the country or in the city he was always willing and able to give a cheerful helping hand to h.s fellowman.
MR. AND MRS. HERMAN DAHL Herman Oscar Dahl and Gena Helen Settingsgard were married at Edmore, N. Dak., on Jan. 24, 1917. Herman was the eldest child of Oluf C. and Tilda Dahl, born April 8, 1890, and Gena was the eldest child of Ole H. and Marie Settingsgard, born Aug. 30, 1896. Herman served as a rural mail carrier in Grafton for over forty years and Gena was very active in the women's activities of the Grafton Lutheran Church where she held several offices over the years. She was also active in the auxiliaries of the American Legion, the Deaconess Hospital and Sunset Home. Herman and Gena Dahl were the parents of one son, Paul Allan born Dec. 1 1 , 1933, in Grafton. Mrs. Dahl passed away on Sept. 9, 1970, and Mr. Dahl, on Dec. 2 1 , 1974, both in Grafton. Paul graduated from the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks in 1955 and began a career of social work as a caseworker in the Walsh County Welfare Office in January, 1956. Paul married Adele Kantor, a native of Winnipeg, Man., on Aug. m
* There are many theories concerning the variation of spelling of the surname: immigration officer's inability to distinguish between Coleson and Carlson, of family disagreements, but perhaps the most logical would be the Anglicizing of the Swedish i n t 0
E n g l i s h
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By Pearl (Carlson) Morrison St. Thomas, N.Dak.
KENNETH COLTER As you read histories from Walsh County Heritage books, you will notice the number of stories submitted by Kenneth Colter of Grafton. We think it is only proper to include in the later editions of the books a short summary of Kenneth Colter. If you look on page 51 of Volume I, Walsh County Heritage Book, you will find Kenneth recorded as the son of William Harvey Colter and his wife, Eva Amelia Kingsbury, and also a daughter, Harriet Louise.
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Police Department, and was the City Street Commissioner for a number of years. Margaret was employed at the Grafton State School for 15 years. Both Ray and Margaret retired in 1973, spending their summer months at their cabin at Birch Beach on Lake of the Woods, and the winter at home in Grafton. The Demesters have seven children: Elaine, married to Robert Harrah, lives in Bettendorf, la. They have three children — Diane, Susan, and Robert. Elsie, married to the late Clem Roufs, lives in Grand Forks, N. Dak., and has five children — Mike, Cindy, Jim, Greg and DeLaine. Charles, married to Marilynn Eiken, lives in Grafton, N. Dak., and they have four children — Julie, Lonnie, Ruth and Holly. John Dean, married to Emilie Deseth, lives in Grafton, N. Dak., and they have two children, Terry and David. Shirley, married to Larry Durand, resides in Grafton, N. Dak. They are parents of a son, Todd. Patricia (Patty), married to Gary Moe, lives in Grafton, N. Dak., and they have four children — Kelly, Wendy, Jeffrey and Bradley. Kenneth (Ken), married to JoEllen Tanke, lives in Mayville, N. Dak., and has three children, Jennifer, Craig and Jayda. Ray and Marge have 22 grandchildren and seven greatgrandchildren.
Wedding picture of Herman O. Dahl and Gena Helen Settingsgard. 1959, at the Grafton Lutheran Church. The Paul Dahls are the parents of two children, Linda Lou and Randall Allan. Linda is now Mrs. William A. Gross, living with her husband in Colorado Springs, Colo., with their two sons, Jeremy and Jason. Randall is a sophomore at South High in Fargo, where his father, Paul, has been the director of the Svee Rehabilitation Home since the family moved to Fargo in 1966. Paul served two years in the U.S. Army from December, 1956, to December, 1958, and was Director of Social Services at the Grafton State School for six years prior to moving to Fargo in 1966.
HELMER O. (WHITEY) DOMSTAD FAMILY Helmer O. (Whitey) Domstad, son of Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Domstad, joined the Navy Nov. 18, 1927, and went through training at Great Lakes Naval Training Station. On finishing his training there he was assigned to the USS Neches at San Pedro, Calif. The ship went to the Hawaiian Islands, and while there he was transferred to the USS Sinclair. He served on the USS Sinclair for two years and when it was decommissioned was transferred to the USS Litchfield. When his four years were up he came to Bremerton and went back to North Dakota for a visit and then came back to Bremerton and reenlisted Feb., 1932, at the US Naval Training Station in Bremerton and was transferred to the USS Tennessee. While on the Tennessee he became active in athletics, and participated in all sports. He won the All-Navy Heavyweight Championship Mar. 16, 1935. In October, 1935, he was discharged and came to Bremerton to live and work. He was married in 1933 to a local Bremerton girl.
RAY DEMESTER FAMILY Ray Demester was born in Hooghlede, Belgium, April 7, 1906, and came to the United States as a baby with his parents. Margaret Dietrich Demester was born in McArthur, N. Dak., on Sept. 7, 1909. Ray and Margaret were married Apr. 10, 1929, at Pembina, N. Dak. They farmed in an area north of Joliette, N. Dak., for about 12 years. They moved to Bowesmont, N. Dak., in 1940 and owned and operated the Bowesmont Cafe for two years before moving to Grafton, N. Dak. In 1942 Ray commenced work for the N.P. Railroad, and continued for 15 years. He ran the City Dray for 12 years, was employeed with the Grafton
H. O. "Whitey" Domstad worked in the Naval Shipyard for a while and then managed a restaurant and bar for the Bremer Estate. He went back into the service during World War II. When the war was over he went back to work at his former position. He was elected mayor of Bremerton from June, 1955, to June, 1964. Before he was elected mayor Domstad worked for Kerr Motor Car Agency for five years, where he took part in many community activities as listed below: Scoutmaster; Red Cross Board and Drive Chairman; Hospital Board, 10 years; Elks, Past Exalted Ruler; March of Dimes, president and drive chairman many times, belonged for 30 years; Salvation Army, Treasurer; Cancer Society, president, member for 26 years and still active; State Athletic Commission; Bremerton Port Commissioner for 6 years; Washington Association of Retarded Children; State
The Ray Demester Family: Elaine, mother, dad, Dean; Ken, Elsie, Pat, Shirley and Chuck. 545
Tourist Advisory Commission for five years; many youth sports activities and school bond drives; a past president of Active Club; president of Association of Washington Cities while Mayor of Bremerton; president of the Puget Sound Governmental Conference; and on the board of directors for Hospice. These awards were presented to Domstad for his services to these organizations and community endeavors: Golden Acorn Award given by the PTA; Hyass Tyee Award for Outstanding Community Service, given by the Bremerton Chambers of Commerce; honorary life member, USAF Air Defense Team; honorary life membership in Kitsap County Fair Assn. (Gold Card); honorary membership card, Fleet Reserve Association; District Community Member Olympic Area Council May, 1963. (Boy Scouts); chairman of Kitsap County Bloodbank and awarded 5-gal. pin; Officii Gratia in Honor of Services to the Bremerton Public Schools; a recipient of The Seattle Times Humanity Award for 1977; a member of the National Old Granddad Club; received, recently, an Honorary Member Award from the Sons of Norway, given by the authority of the Supreme Board of Directors for his services; has been official City Santa Daughter, Karen (child of Mr. and Mrs. H. O. Domstad), husband, Will and their three children. described Domstad as the type of person who would go "100 miles to say hello to someone in a hospital." About three times a week, he visits his "old buddies" who are bedridden. Domstad has special sympathy for them. He is stricken with Parkinson's disease, a nerve disorder that leads to shaking in the limbs and body and threatens to end Domstad's life of devotion to physical activity. But from golf and waterskiing to hiking and jogging, he figures he can fight off the debilitating effects of his disease. Elsie Domstad and H. O. (Whitey) Domstad. Claus for Bremerton and Santa Claus for different service organizations and Rest Homes; president and board member of Olympic Enterprises, an organization for helping retarded; past president and board member of Kitsap County Health Planning Board; and has received a scroll from the United Way for Outstanding Service to his Community in Promoting a Better Way of Life. An article in the Bremerton (Wash.) newspaper written by Mike Prager throws further light on the character of this Grafton native: H. O. (Whitey) Domstad, of Bremerton, figures the turning point in his life came when he won the Navy's heavyweight boxing championship in 1929. He's not sure why, but that event stirred a desire to stay in the public's eye. Today, at 68, Domstad's life reads like a book on community service and activities. From mayor of Bremerton to blood-bank chairman, Domstad's done just about everything imaginable. " I haven't been in jail yet," he said. "But I've done so many darn things. I just hope it's made it better for someone else." Because of his dedication to community service, Domstad has won the latest Times' Humanity Award. He was nominated by his daughter, Mrs. Karen Maupin, of Bremerton. Domstad is probably best known to the public as a longtime fight referee for Golden Gloves matches and as a member of the State Athletic Commission. Jimmy Rondeau, of Seattle, a fellow commissioner,
"Parkinson's? That's nothing when you see all these people in bed with cancer, strokes and what-have-you," he said. Domstad, who has been retired for three years, works parttime for the city's public-works department. He also mows lawns for some friends who can't. On Sundays, he is a Eucharist minister at his Holy Trinity Catholic Church, which he and his wife attend in Bremerton. Next month, Domstad begins work on the Kitsap County Fair. Meantime, he works as a public-relations man for the Cancer Society. During his nearly 50 years as a Bremerton resident, the North Dakota native has been a scoutmaster, port commissioner, March of Dimes drive chairman, president of the Association of Washington Cities, hospital board member, president of Olympic Peninsula Enterprises for mentally retarded and the official Bremerton Santa Claus. "When anybody needs any help, I give them a hand," Domstad said. " I enjoy helping people and working for people. If anybody comes up and asks me for a dollar or five dollars, I give it to them. And I usually get it back." JAMES B. DOMSTAD James B., a son of Alfred and Helga Domstad of rural Grafton, was born at Grafton, July 30, 1915. He has resided in Kitsap County, Washington, since October, 1935; and in Silverdale, Wash., since 1946. He is retired after spending 35 years in the tavern business. His hobbies are golf and collecting antiques.
Bella has been working at W. W. Reyleck Co., in Grafton, for about 26 years. Four children were born to this marriage: Marie Angeline died 12 days after birth. Lloyd, married to Carol Hefta and living in Madison, Wise, owns and operates an accounting firm in Madison. Carol teaches in that city. They have two children, Craig and Lisa. Melvin, married to Cecilia (Pat) Kliniske, lives in Grafton, N. Dak. Melvin works for the City Light Department and Pat teaches at Grafton Central Grade School.
James Domstad and grandchildren, Susan and Timothy Rienbold.
The Wilfred Durand Family: Melvin, Patty, Alan, Carla, Lloyd, Carol, Craig, Shirley, Larry, Barbara, Dale, Bella, Wilfred, Todd and Lisa. Larry, married to Shirley Demester, is a resident of Grafton, N. Dak., Larry teaches at the North Valley Vocational Center and Shirley is employed at the Walsh County Bank & Trust Co. They have one son, Todd.
James Domstad's daughter and family — Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Rienbold and children, Susan and Timothy. His son and daughter-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Rienbold, and children, Susan and Timothy, reaide in Bremerton, Wash. James is a member of Central Kitsap Chamber of Commerce; the Bremerton Fraternal Order of Eagles; the Bremerton Elks Lodge No. 118; a past member of the Silverdale Fire Department; and a member of the Village Green Golf Course.
VERNA MAE ANDERSON DURAY AND FAMILY Verna Mae Anderson was born in Glenwood Township, Walsh County, to Frank Archibald Anderson and Clara Gryde, Aug. 3, 1916. There were 33 consecutive years of Andersons attending S. D. No. 13, Verna being the first, followed by Earl, Willard, Lyle, Marilyn and Eldon. Verna attended Walsh County Agricultural and Training School in Park River, N. Dak., and was active in Playmakers, track, cheerleading, and basketball. During her last year of school she worked for H. D. Long Potato Company and was active in the North Dakota State Potato Show at Park River. After graduating, in 1933, she worked at Nash Grain and Trading and the Conoco Oil Co. as a bookkeeper. In 1934 she worked at the
He has four sisters, Alida Goodman of Grafton; Mable Bauer, Great Falls, Mont.; Hannah Tagg , Republic, Wash.; and Isabelle Whithy, Willow City, N. Dak.; and one brother, Helmer (Whitey), of Bremerton. A brother, Joe, is deceased.
WILFRED DURAND FAMILY Wilfred Durand was born on May 8, 1900, in Grafton, N. Dak., and his wife, Arbella Demers Durand, was born on Jan. 23, 1914, in Grafton. They were married on Nov. 13, 1933, in Oakwood, N. Dak. Wilfred drove a gas truck for Pure Oil and Grafton Implement Company for many years, prior to his retirement in 1968.
Pictured here at the Grand Opening of Verna's Beauty Shop Mar. 23, 1965, are left to right, Frank Jay Duray, Jr., Frank Duray, Verna Anderson Duray, and Joan.
Grafton State School before going to Fargo to take up hairdressing at Chicago Hairdressing Academy, where she graduated in 1935. Verna returned tc Grafton where she worked for two years before buying the beauty shop above Ben Franklin Store. She then had a beauty shop in her basement at 40 West 12th Street for several years before opening her present shop on Mar. 1, 1965, at 726 Hill Avenue. Verna Mae married Ingvald Hagen July 1, 1945. He died Oct. 8, 1945. Ingvald Hagen served in World War II. Verna Hagen and Frank Duray were married Feb. 25, 1952. Frank attended Mayville State Teacher's College, then taught school for five years. Frank spent three and half years in the Medical Corps during World Warr II and, following his discharge, farmed in the Ardoch and Warsaw area before being appointed Deputy Sheriff in 1949. In 1952 he was elected Walsh County Sheriff.
Mar. 1 1 , 1954, and works at Verna's Beauty Shop in Grafton, N. Dak., and lives at home.
MR. AND MRS. BEN DUSEK FAMILY Mr. and Mrs. Ben J. Dusek reside at 422 W. 6th. St., Grafton, residents of Grafton since their marriage Sept. 18, 1951. Ben, son of Frank and Mary (Blazek) Dusek, was born in Grafton and grew up in Prairie Centre Township near Veseleyville, N. Dak. He attended school in District 58. He served in the Armed Forces for two years during World War II. After the war he was employed by Peavey Company in Grafton for three years as a trucker. In April, 1 9 5 1 , Ben began working as assistant manager for Grafton Farmers Co-op Grain Co., where he serves as manager at the present time. Before her marriage, Mrs. Dusek was Louise Riskey, daughter of Leon and Clara (Mach) Riskey, of Pulaski Township, rural Grafton. She attended elementary school in Acton Dist. 57, attended Minto High School for two years and received her high school diploma at Grafton High School in 1946. She attended Mayville State Teacher's College and taught in rural schools — one year in Levant Dist. 3 1 , — Grand Forks County, and three years in Walsh County, Acton Dist. 57. Ben and Louise were married at Warsaw, N. Dak., on Sept. 18, 1951, in St. Stanislaus Catholic Church. They are parents of seven children — four daughters and three sons. Barbara Ann is a graduate of the University of North Dakota, a registered nurse, has been employed in St. Joseph's Hospital in Denver, Colo., in the Pre-mee intensive care nursery for the past six years.
Frank Duray, Walsh County Sheriff Frank Duray was chief deputy and jailer from Jan. 1, 1949, to 1952 when he was elected sheriff and took office Jan. 1, 1953. A native of Walsh County, Mr. Duray was born in Walshville Township, later moving with his family to Ardoch Township. He graduated from the Ardoch High School. He attended Mayville Teacher's College and taught school for five years, after which he engaged in farming near Ardoch. Mr. Duray served in the medical corps for three and one-half years during World War II, and, after his discharge, resumed farming. He was married to Verna Anderson Hagen of Grafton in 1952. He served on the highway safety committee and was a member of Grafton American Legion Post 4 1 . Frank Duray died on Oct. 17, 1970. Verna and Frank Duray were the parents of two children: Frank Jay was born Mar. 23, 1953. F. Jay is married to Janet Langowski. They have two daughters, Angela Sue, born Sept. 23, 1976, and Mandy June, born on June 30, 1979. They live three miles northeast of Grafton. Frank Jay is employed at the Chevrolet Garage in Grafton, N. Dak. Joan Colleen was born
Mr. and Mrs. Ben Dusek and family Susan Marie (Mrs. Tom Huey) of Rochester, Minn., is a graduate of the University of North Dakota with a major in elementary music and taught in the Viking School in Grand Forks for two years before moving to Rochester, where her husband is employed by Crawford Insurance Company. They are parents of a son, Benjamin Grant, born June 27, 1980. Janet Lee is a graduate of Mayville State College with a major in English and a minor in library science. She is a member of the faculty at Grafton High School for the second year. Grace Clare is a student at Moorhead State College and is working toward a Masters Degree in speech pathology. Timothy Mark is a senior at the University of North Dakota, majoring in accounting.
James Jeffrey has attended North Dakota State College. Fargo, N. Dak., for one year and at present is employed in Denver, Colo. John Paul is a senior at Grafton Central High School.
JEROME DUSEK FAMILY Jerome Dusek, born Mar. 12, 1903, to Frank, Jr., Dusek and Anna (Suda) Dusek, married Mamie Votava, born Jan. 23, 1904, to Frank J. Votava and Cecilia (Matcha) Votava, on Oct. 26, 1926. They had five children. Lawrence was born Mar. 6, 1928; Cyril, born Mar. 10, 1930; Rita, born Oct. 6, 1933; Viola, born Oct. 28, 1938; Lucas, bom Dec. 7, 1942. Jerome and Mamie farmed near Veseleyville, N. Dak., but moved to Grafton in 1953 to retire. Lawrence worked the farm until 1965; after that he moved to Grand Forks. Jerome rented the farm for three years and in 1 968 sold the farm to Alex Barta.
1946, on Sept. 8, 1967. They had six children — Audra, born Sept. 19, 1968; Carrie, born Aug. 19, 1969; Erin, born Apr. 28, 1971; Pamela, born Oct. 12,1973: Quincy Lea, born Oct. 22, 1977; and Shea Lynn, born Nov. 9, 1979.
EDWARD EBERTOWSKI FAMILY Edward was born Jan. 29, 1915, to Frank and Valeria Ebertowski of Grafton, now deceased, who retired in Argyle, Minn. Edward lived at home on his parents' farm, where he was born, until 1 944. Ed moved to Davenport, Ia., to work in defense plants. He and a brother, Gehard, lived with a sister and brother-in-law, Florence and John Tandeski, and worked in many different jobs supplying equipment for the armed forces. His last place of employment before moving back to North Dakota was at the Rock Island, III., Arsenal.
For enjoyment the Duseks square dance and do a lot of card playing with friends. Lawrence Dusek resides in Grand Forks, N. Dak. Deloria Sevigny, born Sept. 16, 1930, married Lawrence Dusek on June 23, 1952. They adopted two children — Peter, born Feb. 24, 1958, and Ellen, born April 9, 1961. Peter married Coleen McDonough on Mar. 3, 1979. A daughter, Jacqueline, was bom to them on Oct. 1, 1979. Ellen married Rick Bratvold on June 17, 1978. A daughter, Nichole, was born to them on Oct. 19, 1978.
Brothers Louie and Frank Ebertowski.
Jerome Dusek Family: left to right, Mamie, Lawrence, Viola, Rita, Lucas, Jerome and Cyril in 1951. Cyril Dusek is postmaster in Grafton, N. Dak. Johanna Slominski, born Mar. 20, 1935, married Cyril Dusek on Oct. 26, 1954. They had four children — Cynthia, born Aug. 10, 1955; Sheila, born Sept. 26, 1956; Gerette, born Sept. 19, 1958; Kevin, born May 16, 1963. Cynthia married David Bye on Nov. 26, 1976. A son, Derrick was born to them on Mar. 2, 1978. Sheila married Mike Daley on Aug. 6, 1976. Rita Dusek lives in Grafton, N. Dak. Her husband is James Janikowski, a self-employed carpenter. Janikowski was born on Jan. 2, 1936, and married Rita on Feb. 2 1 , 1 9 5 3 . They had six children: Catherine, born Aug. 24, 1953; Allen, born Apr. 8, 1956, who died Apr. 9, 1956; Myra, born Aug. 3, 1959; Brian, born Sept. 23, 1960; Cecilia, born Mar. 22, 1962; Todd, born Feb. 2 1 , 1966. A son, Christopher, was born to Myra on Nov. 19, 1975. Viola Dusek lives in Grand Forks, N. Dak. Her husband, Edward Vanyo, was born Aug. 1, 1937. They married on Oct. 26, 1959. Ed is a fireman. They had four children — Dale, born Sept. 8, 1960; Anita, born Nov. 7, 1961; Yvonne, born Dec. 15, 1963; and Jerry, born May 26, 1965. Lucas Dusek lives at Horace, N. Dak., and is employed at the Fargo post office. He married lone Paulson, born Apr. 18,
Ed married Ruth Kline in Davenport, la., July 17, 1945. After their marriage they moved to Grafton, N. Dak. The first fall they picked potatoes and he worked in potato warehouses. Then he was employed by the Grafton State School, a job he worked at for over 20 years. He also worked 18 years at Grafton Floral. He was employed by the City Street Department for several years, before a back injury and surgery for that injury forced him into semi-retirement. Ed enjoys hunting and fishing, and his hobbies are refinishing old furniture and going to auction sales. His favorite pastime is playing pinochle. Ruth and Ed enjoy planting and caring for a vegetable garden, canning and freezing food s from their garden. Her hobbies are sewing, embroidering and making quilts. She worked at several jobs in Grafton and is now employed by the Grafton State School as a seamstress. Their four children are: Rosemary, born Oct. 14, 1946, who married William (Bill) Rodgers Oct. 3 1 , 1964. They live in the original Thomas Cooper house, the first frame house to be built in Grafton, 1881, by Cooper. Bill and Rosie have three children; William James II (Billy), Brenda Lynn, and Rebecca Marie. Shirley Ann, born July 1 2, 1948, who is single. She lives in Fargo, N. Dak., and is a licensed hair dresser. Shirley's hobbies are painting ceramics, knitting, and embroidery needle crafts. Joyce Valeria, born Nov. 9, 1949, is married to Donald Anderson. They were married Nov. 7, 1970, and now live on a farm north of Auburn, N. Dak., in a home purchased from Zion Lutheran Rural Church in 1976, and moved to the Anderson farm, formerly owned by Don's grandparents and parents. They
have three boys, Brent Edward, Kurt Jeremy and Douglas John. Dean Allen was born Aug. 18, 1951. (Dennis, twin brother of Dean, died at 3Vz months of age). Dean was married Oct. 4, 1975, to Karen Mondry at Minto, N. Dak. They have two children — Ryan Alan and Holli Jo.
HENRY AND PEARL ENG AND FAMILY Henry Eng was born in Cavalier County, N. Dak., Feb. 20, 1901, a son of Ole and Bertha Eng. He had four brothers — Ted, Albert, James, and Merlin; and three sisters, Elenor, Melvina, and Etta. He married Pearl Lauier, July 26, 1926, at St. John's Catholic Church in Grafton. They lived on a farm in Cavalier County until 1930, when they moved to Grafton. They have nine children, all of whom were baptized in St. John's Catholic Church and are graduates of Grafton High School.
continued living with his foster parents, until moving to Edinburg, N. Dak., where he worked asa clerk in one of the stores. In spite of the fact that he had a school education, which Eggert considered limited, he became a self-taught man. He was an avid reader and had an unusual talent for retaining whatever he read. He began early to collect books, historical and poetry being his favorites. In time he had perhaps the finest collection of books in Walsh County. In 1907, Eggert purchased the weekly newspaper, "Edinburg Tribune," which he published until 1915. On Thanksgiving Day, 1914, Eggert married Margaret Stephania Gillis, in Gardar.
Eggert and Margaret Erlendson Henry Eng Family: left to right, seated, Larry, Mrs. Eng, Mr. Eng, Mary; standing, Gene, Audrey, Ron, Kaye, Lucille, John and Fran. Henry Eng was employed by Adamsen's Construction Company for seven years and then became custodian of the Walsh County Court House for 30 years, retiring in 1970. Mrs. Eng was born Nov. 28, 1902, at Oakwood, N. Dak., the daughter of Joseph and Mary Lauier. Mrs. Eng is a member of St. John's Altar Society. Pearl and Henry celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary July 26, 1976, at an open house at St. John's Parish Center, with family and friends gathered for the occasion. Mr. and Mrs. Eng's favorite hobby is cultivating flowers and their yard. They received the Yard of the Week Award in the summer of 1969.
Margare Gillis was born Aug. 18, 1882, in Iceland, in a family of seven boys and two girls. The family emigrated to Canada, in the summer of 1887, settling first in Selkirk, Man., and then moving to New Iceland, Man. When Margaret was eight years old the family moved to Duluth, Minn., and when she was 18 years old, to Gardar. To complete her education Margaret studied at the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, and taught school for several years in rural schools near Gardar. Shortly after Eggert and Margaret were married, Eggert sold the "Edinburg Tribune" and moved to Grafton, N. Dak., where he was appointed deputy county auditor for Walsh County. He served in this position for a few years, and then was appointed collector of internal revenue in Walsh, Pembina, and Cavalier Counties. Later on he worked for the "News and Times," a weekly newspaper in Grafton. Six children were bom to Eggert and Margaret Erlendson.
EGGERT AND MARGARET ERLENDSON Eggert Erlendson was born June 1, 1873, in Iceland, the third oldest child in a family of seven sons and one daughter. His father, Johann Erlendson, was a bookbinder in Akureyrar, Iceland. In 1883, Eggert, then 10 years old, and his brother, Jacob, who was 7 years old, emigrated to America, accompanied by two aunts and their families. They landed at Quebec, Canada, traveled by train to Winnipeg, and then came to the HamiltonGlasston area. Eggert and Jacob were invited to live with relatives there, and attended Cull School District No. 48. Three years later the rest of the Johann Erlendson family emigrated to America, and settled first in Gardar, Pembina County. Four years later Johann purchased a farmstead, three miles south of Akra, in Pembina County. Eggert, however,
Joyce, born Nov. 16, 1915, married Harold J. Peoples, a Park River farmer, in 1944. They had two children — Susan and Donald. The family moved to Visalia, Calif., in 1962. Marvin, born Sept. 28, 1917, married Helen Losch, of Peoria, 111., in 1944. Their children are Peggy, Nancy, Lisa, Kisten, and Eric. The family now lives in Vienna, Va. Elizabeth (Betty), born July 3, 1919, married Vern Roterud of Grafton, in 1945. Their children are Caryn, Richard, and Charles. The family lives in Madison, Wise. Vern passed away in 1974. Bertel (Buddy), bom Sept. 10, 1922, married Lucille Berg of Grafton, in 1946. They had three children — Diane, David, and Gail. Buddy passed away Oct. 14, 1965, in Milwaukee, Wise. Lois, born Oct. 23, 1924, was married to E. R. Cranston of
New York City, in 1944. Their children are Ellen, Patricia, Edward, Jr., Kathryn, and Michael. The family lives in Stratford, Conn. Donna, born Oct. 6, 1926, married Gordon Stark of Grafton, in 1949. Their children are Sandra, Roger, and Steven. The family lives in Grafton. Margaret Erlendson passed away Jan. 10, 1933, at the age of fifty-one, having been in poor health for several years. The children at the time ranged in age from six to seventeen years. This was a difficult time for Eggert, who with the help of his two oldest children, Joyce and Marvin, managed to keep the family together during the Depression years. Lois, however, lived with an aunt and uncle, Asa and Fred Johnson, of Gardar. It was also about this time that Eggert began to suffer from the first symptoms of Parkinson's Disease. Later on Eggert was appointed city assessor and justice of the peace for the City of Grafton. He was forced to give up these positions in 1940, due to his health.
We always looked forward to the Arabian peddlers coming around with their horse and wagon, carrying clothing merchandise in trunks. And then there were the horse traders that would come through with a herd of horses for sale or trade. My aunt, Laura Midboe, who helped raise us, worked hard, as did all women in those days. She milked cows, raised about one hundred turkeys and seventy-five chickens each year, churned butter, baked all the bread and cookies, made the meals, washed clothes by hand — stamping them with a stamper and scrubbing them by hand on a scrub board in a wash tub, ironing, tending the garden, canning vegetables, pickles and fruits in the fall, and canning meat for summer use because we had no refrigeration. She also made pickled pigs feet, cottage cheese, "Gammel Ost," lefse, and soap out of old lard and lye. She did the housework and raised us kids, and she often acted as a "midwife" for a neighbor woman. All these chores were typical woman's work, for that time, so it is little wonder that their life span was comparatively short.
Eggert lived for a time with his daughter, Joyce, and family, of Park River, and then with his daughter, Betty, and family of Milwaukee, Wise, where he passed away Aug. 12, 1950, at the age of seventy-seven years.
One of our pastimes in the winter was skiing down a straw pile with a jump at the bottom. We also had a "bronco" pony and saddle that we would ski behind, with a long wing rope.
TORFIN AND DELORES EVENSON FAMILY
I joined the Navy in 1938 and served seven years through World War II. My brother, Wallace, was killed in Normandy in 1944. My father, Walter, died in 1978, at the age of 84. My mother, Ragnild, resides at the Sunset Home.
1 was born Dec. 25, 1917, to Walter and Ragnild (Midboe) Evenson at Nottingham, Sask., Can., where they farmed for a short time. My brother, Wallace, and I were raised on the Midboe Farm in Fertile Township, the Hovde place in Grafton Township, and the Thomas Evenson Farm near the Zion Lutheran Church, rural Hoople. My grandfathers were Even T. Midboe and Thomas Evenson. T. G. Midboe was my great, great grandfather, the "kirkesanger" in Zion Church in 1880. Their biographies are found under Fertile Township, Walsh Heritage Book, Vol. I. I recall walking 1 Vz miles to the Monson School during my school years. We carried our lunches in syrup pails and drank artesian water from Monson's flowing well, in the water cooler. Farms were small in the 1920's — one quarter being common and three-quarters considered large. Most of the farming was done by horses, but they had the steamers and bigger gas-powered engines for threshing. We had a Model-T Ford for transportation. Crank-type telephones were common, but we never had one. No electricity — we used kerosene lamps. There was much visiting between neighbors in those days. Cards would often be played in the evenings and many Christmas parties were held.
No one can forget the drought, grasshoppers, grain rust and the Depression of the Thirties. I picked potatoes every fall for three cents a bushel.
I married Delores Gjevre in 1945 after I was discharged from the Navy. Delores was born to Andrew and Jeanette (Tweten) Gjevre, May 30, 1923. Her grandfather was Nels Tweten, the first assessor in Walsh County and one of its first settlers. Nels Tweten's first home was a dugout in a hill on the land he was to have for his homestead, before he got his log house built. They had a long way to go to get their food in those days. He walked the railroad tracks to Grand Forks for some things. My grandfather told of many Indians running over the lands in his day. His biography is found under Glenwood Township in the Walsh Heritage Book, Vol. I. Delores was raised on the Tweten Farm on Highway No. 18, three and one-half miles south of Hoople. Her farm life was much the same as mine. She has three brothers and two sisters — Arvid, Maynard, Clinton, Evelyn Barstad and Irene Christopherson. Andrew died in 1961 and Jeanette died in 1972. We have two children. Terry is Minister of Music and assistant Pastor at the Assembly of God Church in Green Bay, Wise. He is married to Joyce Ness and they have two children, Shawn and Troy. Deanna married Dave Thomas, who works with the Minnesota Forest Service. They live at Williams, Minn., and they have two children, Christie and Ryan. After my marriage my life's work has been five years as a voag instructor at Minto, and twenty-four years with the Soil Conservation Service at Grafton and Park River. I am now retired and we live in Grafton. Delores has worked for thirteen years at the State School at Grafton and she is still employed there.
DESCENDANTS OF NILS AND KARI FIELD The Evenson Family: left to right, Tortin, Terry, Deanna, and Delores.
Our great grandparents, Nils and Kari Field, came to America from Valdres, Norway, in 1848. Their eight children
came with them, one of whom was Hans, our grandfather. Hans was 26 years of age at the time. They came to Dane County, Wise, five miles from Madison, to a place called Blooming Grove. It took them 18 weeks to cross the ocean in a rebuilt cattleboat. The bottom of the boat was loaded with iron to keep the ship upright. While on the sea a storm arose and was so severe that it tore loose the iron and they nearly sank. They chanced to reach an island where the boat was repaired. They suffered from a food shortage due to time at sea. Water had to be rationed carefully. Great grandfather couldn't bear to hear the children cry. One daughter died at sea. Two of Nel's sons settled in Iowa where they purchased land at $4 per acre. The rest of the Field family settled in southern Wisconsin. Olaus Field, son of Hans, and another son of Nels came to Walsh County about 1890.
Mrs. Field was bom in Trondheim, Norway. Her family settled in Duxby, Minn., a few miles north of Badger, Minn. Her sisters were Mrs. Anton Honsvall (Christine), a resident of Sunset Home, Mrs. Albert Honsvall (Margaret), Mrs. Charles Charleston (Ella),' Mrs. Tom Noonan (Sophie) and Mrs. Olaf Graving (Annie); and one brother, Peter. The grandchildren of Helmer and Bernice are Darren, Ryan and Janessa Berndt, children of Lynda and Kenneth Berndt; Bonnie Carr has two children, Carrie and Dawn. When Andreas Field, a brother of Hans, went by train to purchase land in Iowa, he took his young son, Carl Alfred, with him. As the train went over the Mississippi River at LaCrosse, Andreas said, "See that bright light down there — that is an electric light," Carl Alfred had never seen one before.
MR. AND MRS. JAMES GANYO James, the son of Leslie and Mary (Law) Ganyo, was born in Renfrew County, Canada. As a young boy of 14 years, he walked up the Red River and stopped in Argyle, Minn. He worked in lumber camps and served as a policeman before coming to North Dakota. James married Sarah Vary in 1903, who died after a short time, some time in 1903.
Nils and Kari Field's Family: Eva Dahl (Mrs. Charlie Folson) Cristine Hegstad (Mrs. Anton Honsvall), Laura Hegstad, Agnes Field, Mrs. O. H. Field, Ella Hegstad (Mrs. C. E. Charleston). Olaus was born in Dane County in 1862. He purchased the property at 516 Summit Avenue from A. D. Robertson in 1892 and sold it to Fred Hohnke in 1911. In 1894 he bought a lot from O. M. Fraser and in 1899 he bought lots from the Independent School District of Grafton. The land was in the Field possession until 1975 when it was sold back to Public District No. 3. These lots were behind the Chase School. This is where the Field family lived. He owned and operated the Pioneer Feed Mill on lots on which the V. F. W. is now located. These lots were purchased in 1895 and owned by the Field family until 1926. He owned other property throughout the city and county. A card was sent home in 1914 while on a trip to Wisconsin and it stated that he made 57 miles in one day. lt sounded as if he had made quite a few miles for one day's travel. Olaus Field married Maria Johnson in 1891. Three children were born to this union. Arthur was born in 1895 and died in 1918. Howard was born in 1897; Edward in 1903. Date of Maria's death was not available. He married Thora Hegstad Dahl on June 24, 1 9 1 1 , in Grand Forks. They were married by A. J. Purcell, City Justice of Grand Forks County. Attendents were A. J. Houglum and A. Sundby. Three children were born to them — they are Agnes (Mrs. Ludwig Swartz), Helmer and William. William married Runa Lowe of Hoople; Helmer married Bernice Holm of Hoople and they have three children who are Bonnie Carr, Lynda (Mrs. Kenneth Berndt) and James. Agnes married Ludwig Swartz in 1940. They have three children. They are Kay (Mrs. Fred Karnik), Marlys Jorde and a son, Mark. The Karniks have three children. They are James, Melissa and Jennifer. Marlys has one daughter, Lynn Rennae, and Mark has two children, Jacqueline and Douglas.
Wedding picture of Mr. and Mrs. James Ganyo, the couple at the left. Attendants were Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Jensen (couple at the right). i
James continued working as a farm laborer. Later he married Gertrude Coats in May, 1923. Gertrude was the daughter of Robert and Hannah (Dileman) Coats. They had three children Douglas, Mary (Ganyo) Daley, Park River,and Marjorie (Ganyo) Rose, Grafton. He was engaged in farming in the Drayton and Grafton areas until he retired, moving to Grafton in 1946. James Ganyo died in April, 1947. At present, Gertrude Coats Ganyo is a resident of the Grafton Lutheran Sunset Home.
Mr. Field died December, 1921. Mrs. Field died in 1959. 552
DOUGLAS GANYO FAMILY Douglas J. Ganyo, son of James and Gertrude Ganyo, was born May 3, 1924, in the Deaconess Hospital on Hill Avenue in Grafton, N. Dak. His parents moved to a farm about seven miles west and north of Grafton, where he attended school through the seventh grade. Then the family moved back to Grafton where he finished eighth grade. After that, they moved to a farm north of Cashel, N. Dak., and farmed there approximately nine years.
family and resettled them in Argyle, Minn, lt was known, that there was a French-speaking settlement, known as French Town, there and whether Levi knew people or just longed for someone to speak his own tongue this is where he came. Here Thomas Ganyo, long-time Grafton resident, was born as were Nellie and Mary. In February, 1978, the last living child, Nellie, was alive at Seattle, Wash. The research to fill in the missing years goes on as it is rumored they left the U.S. for Canada, back to the U.S., and finally to Walsh County where both Levi and Mary are buried.
He was married to Hilda Dietrich of St. Thomas in Grafton, by A. B. Smith, in 1945. They had twelve children — Douglas, Jr., Ronald, Donald, Randall, Lynn Marie, Shelly, Deborah, Stephen, Cindy, Gary, Nancy, and Michael, who died at the age of three months and was buried in the City Cemetery.
LEVI CHARLES GANYO
Douglas J. has been employed with the Light Department of the City of Grafton since 1949. He has also been a member of the Volunteer Fire Department since 1952, and a member of the Federated Church. His wife, Hilda, passed away in June, 1973. In 1975, he was re-married to Grace L. Beattie of Hamilton, Mass. They reside at 244 Burgamott Ave., Grafton, N. Dak.
Levi Charles Ganyo, oldest child of Levi and Mary (Law) Ganyo, was born at Renfrew, Ont., Can. on July 1, 1868. On Nov. 2, 1885, at the age of 16 or 17, he, along with his parents, seven brothers and sisters, immigrated to the United States. They came on the Great Northern Railroad via Winnipeg, Man., Canada, entering the United States at Port Neche located at Neche, N. Dak. While the rest of the family made its way to the area around Graceton, Minn., Levi Charles traveled to Walsh County in North Dakota.
LEVI GANYO, SR. Records as to Levi, Sr.'s birthdate and birthplace are unclear, but it is rumored he came from France with a brother or brothers, immigrating into Canada and landing at Renfrew, Ontario, Canada, which at that time was a stop-off holding place for foreigners coming from other countries. A brother left that area and moved to the Perth area, but Levi stayed. What his reasons were for coming to Canada, what his occupation was, and whether he was married before he came to Renfrew, or after he landed, is speculation. Records indicated he married a Miss Mary Law, born in Westmeath County, Ireland. They had a total of 12 children. They came by train, through Winnipeg, Man., Can., to the Neche Port of Entry at Neche, N. Dak., with seven children. Those were listed as Levi Charles, William, Anna, James, Patrick Levi George, and twins, May and Jack. Written in the family Bible of Patrick Levi George was the information that he was about three years old when the folks came to the United States, settling at Graceton, Minn.
Levi Charles Ganyo's Family picture, taken in 1957: top row, left to right, Frederick, Margaret, Myrtle, Henry; bottom, Edward, Agnes and Clarence. The records between the years 1885-1898 are lost. Mostly "word of mouth" has it that he worked as a dray man, farm laborer, etc., and at some time he left Walsh County and went to Argyle, Minn., becoming its police chief. He later returned to Walsh County where he married Bertha Belter on June 2 1 , 1898. Despite the fact that Levi Charles had no fingers on either of his hands he farmed for many years near Hoople, N. Dak. Four of his children were born on what was then known as the Christ Sorenson farm. Levi died on Nov. 2 1 , 1937, and is buried at Grafton as is Bertha, in the Belter family plot. To this marriage 10 children were born: Lawrence Francis, (Ellsworth P. and Lela Agnes, died as infants), Mary Agnes Jane, Edward James, Clarence Patrick, Myrtle Evelyn, Frederick John, Margaret Louise, and Henry George. All are deceased, except for Fred, who still resides in Grafton.
Levi Charles Ganyo and wife, Bertha, with three youngest children, Frederick, Margaret and Henry.
FREDERICK JOHN GANYO
As to the reason why Levi moved his family to the United States is speculation. However, at that time, land grants were given away in Minnesota and, by living on the land and clearing it, one could get homestead rights. Records indicate they did not stay in the Graceton area too long. There was a big timber fire around that time and many people left, as did Levi who took his
Frederick John Ganyo is the surviving member cf the Levi Charles Ganyo family. He farmed with his father around the Hoople area until about the age of 17, when he moved to Grafton. He was employed by the City of Grafton, for 41 years, with the City Light Department. He retired from his position as chief
Frederick John Ganyo Family: left to right, top, Betty, Dennis, Richard, James, Jerome, Lois; front, Elaine, Ann (mother), Frederick (father) and Janet. operator in 1977. His wife is the former Ann Bruski. They have eight children — James Frederick, Richard Charles, Lois Ann, Elaine Bertha, Dennis John, Janet Rose, Jerome Lawrence, and Betty Jean. They also have 17 grandchildren.
JOHN AND REGINA GERSZEWSKI John Gerszewski was born Feb. 6, 1902, in Ardoch Township, to Joseph and Veronica (Rogella) Gerszewski. On June 2 1 , 1 9 2 7 , he married Regina Rudnik, daughter of Frank and Elizabeth (Lizakowski) Rudnik, at Warsaw. They had two children; a son, Raymond, who died soon after birth, and a daughter, Joan, who married Charles Thacker. They farmed until 1935 before moving to Grafton where John went to work for Grafton Implement (International Harvester dealer) as a mechanic. He worked there until he retired due to health reasons. Regina worked in the parts department at the same place for over 25 years.
Peter Gilleshammer Family: left to right, back row, Orvil, Thelma, May (mother), Peter (father), Gladys, Allen; front row, Joyce, Glenn, Betty Jean. Two brothers immigrated to Kittson County, Teien Township, three miles east of Drayton, N. Dak., on the Minnesota side of the Red River. They settled in homes one and a half miles apart. It was a Norwegian custom to take different last names when they came to this country. Andrew's brother took their father's first name, Mons and added son to it. His name then became Rasmuss Monson. Peter's father took the name of the village they came from in Norway, which was Lillehammer. In translation it turned out to be Gilleshammer. Andrew Gilleshammer and his brother helped to found the Skjeberg Lutheran Church in rural Teien Township. Peter was the oldest boy bom to the family. He was born May 22, 1896, across the road from the Skjeberg Lutheran Church. His mother's maiden name was Johanna Johnson. She was born in March, 1866, and died in 1914. One brother, also named Peder, died in infancy. There were four sisters: Hannah
Andrew Gilleshammer Family: front row, left to right, Peter, Andrew (father), Oscar (sitting on lap), Olga, Gunda (mother); back row, Hannah and Etna.
John and Regina Gerszewski and daughter, Joan John died Jan. 27, 1968, at Grafton and Regina passed away June 18, 1970, at the Dakota Hospital in Fargo. In her early years Regina served as separator man on threshing rigs. During World War II both John and Regina drove transports for Hvidsten. PETER GILLESHAMMER FAMILY Peter's father, Andrew M. Gilleshammer, was born and raised in the village of Lillehammer, Norway. He was born June 24, 1853; he died in 1916. The family's name in Norway was Mons Peaderson.
(Mrs. E. J. Bowers of Minneapolis), Olga (Mrs. Nels Anderson of Minneapolis), Elna, who died at the age of fourteen years, and Marie (Mrs. William Korman of Minneapolis, deceased); and one brother, Oscar. Oscar married Edith Crowder of Drayton. He lived and worked many years in the Grafton and St. Thomas area. He is deceased. Peter worked for his father in farming. When World War I broke out, he was inducted into the U.S. Army. He served overseas in some of the heaviest fighting of the war. In France he was engaged in the battle to break the Hindenburg Line and drive the Germans from the Argonne Sector. General Pershing later reminisced, "The period of the battle from October 1st to the 11th involved the heaviest strain on the army and on me." On October 7th, 1918, in the fighting around Cambrai, Peter Gilleshammer was wounded by bullets, shrapnel and mustard
gas. He was sent to England on Oct. 11, and remained there in a hospital until Dec. 1 2, when he was shipped home, sailing on the Baltic, landing in Hoboken Dec. 2 1 , 1918. Thereafter it fell to his lot to work on the separator during the threshing seasons. Sometime he sat up half the night, struggling for breath. He married May Agnes Cecelia Olson on June 1, 1919, at the Skjeberg Lutheran Church. They had known one another since the second grade in school. May was a seamstress until her marriage. She went into people's homes to sew for them. May Olson's parents were Ole Knute Olson, who was born at Wasico, Minn., (born Sept. 19, 1968; died Oct. 7, 1953) and Sophie Rose Hanson (born Sept. 25, 1870). Sophie was raised on a farm, four miles west of Grafton. May was bom at their home at Stephen, Minn., then moved to Teien Township, Kittson County. She had an older brother, Otto M. Olson, deceased, and three sisters: Helen (Mrs. Irvin Felt), deceased, Dena Johnson (Mrs. France) of Hallock, Minn., Selma Johnson (Mrs. Oscar) of Lake Bronson, Minn., and one younger brother, Theodore (Ted), who lives in St. Paul. Ted is married to Kathryn Klenvocter of Karlstad, Minn.
Carol. Joyce passed away in 1950, aged twenty-two, when Duane was two years old and Carol was nine months. The children were raised by their grandmother, Mrs. Edith Pede, of Pembina. Betty Jean married Orval Bjerke. They have three children — Douglas, Barbara and Daniel. Betty Jean lives at Casselton, N. Dak. Glenn married Lorretta Paul; they live in Grafton. They have five children — Guy, Glenna, Gar, Todd and Mark. At the present writing, May and Peter have twenty-five grandchildren and twenty-eight great-grandchildren. Peter passed away at the age of fifty-eight on Nov. 18, 1954. May passed away at the age of sixty-three, on Mar. 3, 1963. They are buried in the Grafton Lutheran Cemetery with their daughter, Joyce.
ALIDA (DOMSTAD) GOODMAN FAMILY My birthplace was on a farm about 2/2 miles northwest of Grafton. My parents, Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Domstad, had purchased this farm from my grandfather, John Anderson Domstad. I am the oldest of seven children. My parents and one brother, Joseph, are deceased. As soon as any of us could handle a milk pail, we were taught to help with the milking. In those days anyone capable of doing anything had to share in the chores of the farm. Besides the tilling of the soil and attending to the milking chore, there were chickens, turkeys, pigs, ducks, geese and a huge garden that needed care by all of us.
Ole K. Olson Family: back row, Hilma, Otto, May; front row, Selma, Ole (father), Dina, Sophia, (Sophie, mother) and
Ted. Peter and May lived on a farm two miles east of Halma, Minn., where their first child, Thelma, was born. They moved to Minneapolis where Peter was a street lamp-lighter and also learned the trade of electrician. Their first boy, Orvil, was bom in Minneapolis. They moved back to a farm in Teien Township where Gladys, Allen and Joyce were born. In 1928, they decided to move to North Dakota. Orvil, aged six years, drove a team of horses, pulling a load of furniture, along with his father who had another rig, from Minnesota into North Dakota. They moved to the Fred Moore farm, north and west of Auburn, in Farmington Township. Betty Jean and Glenn were bom there. The farm was sold to Joe Thompson. However, they continued to work the land. Their close neighbors were E. B. Davis, Osmer Davis, Harry Colter, and Albert Jagielski. They moved to the Tufft farm, a mile and a quarter north and west, where they lived until they retired to their home in Grafton at 102 Griggs Avenue in 1951. Thelma married Merle Freedland; they had four children, Sherrill, Ronald, Janice and Gail. Merle passed away in 1971. In 1973, Thelma married Earl M. Anderson of Walhalla where she now resides. Orvil married Joy Anderson; they live in Grafton. They had two daughters, Karen and Kay. Gladys married Marvin (Jim) Rutherford; they live at Hickson outside of Fargo. They have five children Gary, Dianne, Pamela, Peggy and Charles. Allen married June Romine. They live in Grafton. They have four children — Keith, Kathy, Julie and Jay. Joyce married Marvin Pede. They had two children — Duane and
Although we were no foreigners to labor, we did have some fun. This included playing in the hay loft, swimming, tag games in the trees, and in winter, skiing down the riverbank with barrel staves as skis, skating, and playing hockey with a tin can as a puck and a suitable tree branch for a hockey stick. Other activities were playing kitten - ball with other youngsters in the area. This was usually a Sunday afternoon sport. Our parents and neighboring farm families usually took turns having fourth of July celebrations, picnics, and house parties. So not only did the younger ones have fun but the Moms and Dads got a needed recreation break now and then.
Franklin Goodman Family: back row, Clara Marie (Goodman) Lizakowski. Freida Mae (Goodman) Martin. Larry Goodman; seated. Mrs. F. Goodman and Franklin Goodman. Our education necessitated a trek of about a mile or so to a one-room rural school with an enrollment exceeding the figure of 25 students and all grades. In winter if the weather was too severe, my dad usually took us to school by sled and horses, otherwise we walked. Some teachers, I remember, were Julia
Johnson (now at Eastview Manor), Lulu Sterling, Florence Von Gorres, Agnes Dahl, and Miss Stoltz. I suppose there were some disciplinary problems but they were usually squelched by the teacher with the aid of the parents. I completed my eighth grade education in six and one-half years in District No. 22. During my last year of school, I delivered milk to Grafton customers in the morning, came directly to school with my horse and milk wagon, tied him to the wagon wheel and returned home after school with milk bottles, delivery wagon and free ride for students going my way. My brothers and sisters followed much the same plan of duties as I did. Before we were sure of finishing eighth grade, we had to come to the Courthouse in Grafton and take state exams. A grade of 65 was passing. My on-going education was being completed as I was graduated from Grafton High School. Our three children, Freida Mae, Larry and Clara Marie, also were graduated from Grafton High School. And it looks as though my three grandchildren, residing here in Grafton — Brenda, Dawnae, and Denise Lizakowski, children of Mr. and Mrs. (Clara Marie Goodman) Lyle Lizakowski — will follow this same route.
In time I received my degree in elementary education. I taught in the old Nash school; at Auburn; and finally in Grafton. During this process, I also secured a reading credential and special education credential. Agnes Syrup (now deceased) and I were the first remedial reading teachers in the Grafton School system. I became the first special education teacher in the same system. I spent 30 years in the teaching profession. When my husband retired from the shoe repair business, due to ill health, I also retired from the teaching profession. I still do some tutoring and substitute teaching. Franklin passed away May 11,1975. After retiring I became interested in the Meals on Wheels program and was the first coordinator of this now successful community service, sponsored by the local Kiwanis Club. An interest was shown in organizing a local Retired Teachers Association. In this I became the first president of Northeast Area Retired Teachers Association which has now grown to include many of the adjacent areas.
At Mayville State Teacher's College, I went on to prepare myself for a teaching career. My first six weeks at Mayville proved to be a little frightening. Imagine a full-fledged country hick's first time away from home and lonesome! But I survived! My mother saved money from selling eggs, cream, butter and chickens so I could have $100 for my first taste at a preparatory endeavor into the field of making a living. By teaching, working at any job in sight, help from home as well as my brothers and sisters, I finally was graduated with a twoyear standard teaching certificate. In 1932 Franklin Goodman and I were married. As I mentioned before, three children were raised. Circumstances led us back here to Grafton. When Clara Marie entered school, I started teaching again and went on to pursue my degree in elementary education.
Larry Goodman Family: Virginia (mother) holding Regina, Larry, holding Larry, Jr. Lyle Lizakowski Family: back row, Teeto and Lyle, parents: second row, Dawnae and Brenda; front, Denise. Our daughter, Freida Mae (Goodman) Martin, now lives in Corsicana, Tex. Her husband, Irving Martin, originally from Cavalier, is production manager of a Corsicana newspaper as well as being responsible for several other newspapers from other areas. Freida is currently working on a degree in nursing. They have five children: Darcy and Rhonda live in Antioch, Calif.; Diana (Martin) Wright, Janelle and Karen Marin, live in Corsicana, Tex.; and have one granddaughter, Tamara Wright. Our son, Larry, lives in Middletown, Calif., where he is a supervisor of Unit 13, at the Geysers, for Pacific Gas and Electric. Larry and wife, Virginia, have two children — Larry, Jr., and Regina. Our daughter, Clara Marie (Goodman) Lizakowski, and husband Lyle, live here in Grafton. They have three children — Brenda, Dawnae and Denise. Lyle is employed by Lykken, Inc., and Clara is employed as optometric assistant for Dr. J. M. Kerner, optometrist. As for myself, I am finishing my sixth year as a member of the Grafton School Board and my first year on the North Valley Special Education Board. FAMILY HISTORY OF HENRY OLAF AND IDA GORDER Henry O. Gorder was born in Oakwood Township June 28, 1889, the son of Ole T. Gorder and Mathea Sundby Gorder. He attended Buttons Business College in Grafton and the Agricultural College in Fargo. He married Ida Caroline Eck on Mar. 28, 1914. She was
Family of Mr. and Mrs. Irving Martin: back row, Janelle. Karen, Rhonda; middle row, Diane, Irving and Freida; front, Darcy. 556
born Apr. 3, 1887. the daughter of Edward Eck and Anna Tharalson Eck of Gonvick. Minn. They were married in the Eck home and honeymooned in Winnipeg. It is said that as they boarded the train they were serenaded by the village band! Ida and Henry met when her brother, Theodore, came to work in the harvest, hauling bundles, and she came to cook in the cook car. They worked for Henry who had a large Rumley steam rig and threshed for many farmers in the Grafton area.
Hill Avenue and he operated this until he was inducted into service in World War II. He met Ann Einarson who was a nurse. They were married on Jan. 18, 1942, in Las Vegas, Nev. While Hank was in the Air Corps he was an air mechanics instructor and later a flight engineer on a B-29 bomber stationed in Guam. After he returned from the army he became employed by the U.S. Postal Service and retired this past February. 1 980. Ann, a nurse in the Deaconess Hospital and the Grafton Clinic, retired from her work in December, 1 978. Ann and Hank have two children — Carol Lynn, born Nov. 6, 1947, and Jon Michael, born Mar. 9, 1953. Carol married Paul Janousek of Grafton Aug. 1 6, 1 969. They have three boys — Jason, John and Jeremy. They live at Mentor, Minn. Jon married Cindy Seylar of East Grand Forks, Minn., Mar. 24, 1979. He has one step child, Theresa. They live in Colorado Springs, Colo.
Ida C. Gorder
Henry O. Gorder
After marriage they lived on the Gorder homestead in Oakwood Township until 1918 when Henry's mother died and they moved to 410 Cooper Avenue, Grafton, to take care of his invalid father. By this time Henry Olaf Edward had been born on Apr. 7, 1915, and Alice Mathea on Dec. 4, 1916. Included also in the household was Henry's oldest brother, Hans, who was unmarried. Gorder Brothers Garage became a reality at this time as Henry went into partnership with his brother, Gust. It was located in the 400 block on Griggs Avenue and was a Ford garage. Later they constructed a new modern building which is now the annex for the Grafton Paint & Glass. They had the Oakland-Pontiac dealership at that location. Following this venture and the Depression years, Henry became a salesman for the International Harvester Company and traveled for them. Howard Donald was born on Aug. 12, 1923, and Phyllis Elizabeth on July 7, 1929. Henry was treasurer of Oakwood Township for several years and 1 st Ward Alderman during the time they saved the Municipal Light Plant for the city under Dr. Frank Deason, Mayor. The 30's were not easy for the Gorders, but Ida sewed for her family, raised a big garden, and canned and preserved much food each fall. She really utilized the large pressure canner that Walsh County provided at that time. The family became members of the Grafton Lutheran Church in 1920. Ida belonged to the Ladies Aid and served as president and also treasurer. All members of the family attended church and supported church activities — Sunday School, Luther League, L.D.R., choir, etc. Henry, Jr. was a member of the orchestra and Phyllis and Alice were choir members. Howard served as president of Luther League.
Henry O. Gorder Family (1942): left to right. Phyllis. Howard. Henry J., and Alice. Betore her marriage Alice was a receptionist at the Grafton Deaconess Hospital and later at the Countryman, Tompkins and Rand Clinic. She married Donald J. Mitchell, a farmer of Crystal, N. Dak. They were married in the Grafton Lutheran Church on Feb. 13, 1944, by Rev. H. A. R. Helsem, who had baptized and confirmed Alice. They have three children. William Edward was bom June 25, 1945. He was married to Mary Ellen Olson, Edinburg, on July 27, 1969. They have two children, Paula and Peter, and live at Thompson, N. Dak. Twin daughters, Ruth Elizabeth and Leslie Ellen, were born Nov. 4, 1947. Ruth was married to Lawrence Ries, St. Louis, Mo., on Jan. 20, 1968, and they have two children — Rhonda and Scott. They live in Fargo. Leslie married Steven Adams of Buxton, N. Dak., at Crystal on July 1, 1967. They have two children, Elizabeth and Michael, and also live in Fargo.
Henry, Sr., was very proud to have been a member of the Community Band when he was young. He played trumpet and the band performed at all community functions, celebrations and such. Hank, Howard and Phyllis were also band members during school years and Howard is still a member of the State American Legion Band and the Bismarck Elks Band.
Howard worked part-time in his brother's service station during high school. Following graduation he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps. He took his training at San Diego, Calif., and served overseas in the Aleutian Islands. He received an honorable discharge from the Marine Corps on Mar. 2, 1946, and returned to North Dakota to work as an Interviewer with the State Employment Service in 1947. He married Adele Ferguson, RN, of Forest River, on May 16, 1948. They have one daughter, Bonnie Jean, born Aug. 16, 1959. Bonnie is now a student at Iowa State University. Howard was with the North Dakota Employment Security Bureau for several years and was a management analyst when he resigned in March, 1979. He is now an owner in a business tax consulting firm, and is president of International Parkway, Inc., a real estate investment and development company. They live in Bismarck.
All four children attended Grafton schools and after graduation Hank became owner of a Texaco service station on
Phyllis, after graduation, was a legal secretary in the law office of Lynn G. Grimson, a Grafton attorney. She married A.
Finley Johnson of Nash in the Crafton Lutheran Church on Dec. 11, 1949. They farm in the Nash area and have three sons. Timothy Allan was born May 13, 1951; Steven Albert was born Oct. 28, 1955, and Paul Henry was born Feb. 26, 1961. Tim is married to Bunnie Anderson of Grafton and they have two sons, Matthew and Jeremy. Steve was married to Laurie Lessard of Grafton on Nov. 14, 1980. Paul is a second year student at Mayville State College. Phyllis is clerk of Nash Public School District No. 51 and is presently in her twenty-fifth year in that capacity. About the grandchildren, Carol and Ruth are L.P.N.'s and working at their profession. Leslie is an x-ray technician. Bill is a salesman, Jon is a draftsman, Tim and Steve are farmers, and Bonnie and Paul are college students. Henry O. Gorder met his death accidentally on Nov. 23, 1950. Ida worked for many years as a cook at the Grafton Deaconess Hospital and when she was not able to work at that position any longer, she was with her children and grandchildren doing for them the things that grandmothers do best. She passed away Mar. 17,1978, at the Lutheran Sunset Home in Grafton.
HISTORY OF WILLIAM E. GORDER FAMILY William E. (Bill) Gorder, son of William H. Gorder and Stella Eck Gorder, was born at Grafton, Mar. 2 1 , 1 9 2 9 . He spent his boyhood years on the family farm, three miles southeast of Grafton. He graduated from high school in 1947 and farmed until leaving for army service in December, 1 9 5 1 ; he served one year in California and one year in Korea. After returning from service he resumed farming. On Mar. 1, 1955, he married Marlene Ness of Grafton. She had moved with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Harry Ness, from Doran, Minn., in 1940. Marlene had been employed with Northwestern Bell Telephone Company.
Four children were bom to Bill and Marlene: Roger A. (Jan. 29, 1956), Sheryl A. (Apr. 4, 1957), Dean W. (June 5, 1959), and Janet R. (Jan. 17, 1962). These children gave Marlene plenty to do as they grew up. There was never a dull moment — ball games, music lessons and summer vacations.
William E. Gorder Family — 1979: front row, left to right, Roger, Roger's wife, Morna, Marlene Gorder, William £ Gorder; back row, left to right, Janet, Dean, and Sheryl. ln 1956 Bill returned to college, graduating from U.N.D. in 1960. He then taught for two years at Minto, N. Dak. In 1962 he returned to farming. In 1965 the Gorder family moved to Karlstad, Minn., where Bill taught English for three years. In 1968 the family moved to East Grand Forks where, in 1969, Bill received his Masters Degree from U.N.D. A position was then obtained in the Grafton Public Schools where Bill taught through 1976. He then returned to full-time farming, coupled with real estate sales. In 1978 he ran successfully for the North Dakota House of Representatives and was re-elected in 1980. As you will note, the Gorders have been on the move. During all this time they were very involved in church work, with Marlene being especially active in Sunday school work as a teacher, secretary-treasurer, and superintendent. She spent hours preparing for these duties. She also was very active in the Women's Missionary Council where she helped to get money and supplies for missionaries. She always enjoyed working with children. There are also fond memories of all the trips that the Gorder family took, especially the one to Israel in 1977. Those fourteen days are treasured in each of their memories. To be able to walk where Jesus walked was truly a joy. All the Gorders enjoyed traveling and Marlene could pack more into a car than most people. Marlene was an excellent cook and housekeepr and made every house they lived in a "home" very quickly. She had a real "knack" for making a very average house look great. Marlene and Bill also remember the many times they had family devotions with their family — reading the Bible and praying together. These are their cherished memories. Their hope remains that each one of the family members will be faithful Christians and that all may gather "together" in that beautiful land called "Heaven" when life on earth is past. There was never a great amount of money to spend as the family grew up, but there was always enough to be comfortable and they were happy to be together to share the joys and, yes, sometimes the heartaches, of life. OLAF GRAVING FAMILY
Marlene Anniversary.
and
Bill
Gorder
on
their
Silver
Wedding
Olaf A. Graving was born at Solar, Norway, May 22, 1868, and when he was one year old he came to America with his
parents, Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Graving. His family settled in the Farmington-Northfield, Minn., area. Eleven children were born to this family and all but four died from a scarlet fever epidemic and are buried near Farmington. In I 884 the four remaining Graving children and their father came to Grafton: Gustava, Alfred, John, and Olaf. Olaf was the oldest, and John Graving, the youngest. Olaf Graving died Nov. 10, 1938. The Nov. 16, 1939, issue of the "Grafton News and Times" contained the following excerpt from a front page story: "Olaf A. Graving, prominent resident of Grafton for more than a half century, was buried Saturday following funeral services held at 2 p.m. in the Lutheran Church with Reverend H. A. Helsem officiating. He died at his home Thursday following an immediate illness of a week's duration, although his health had been gradually failing for over a year. Industry, honesty and community loyalty characterized the man. He was active in many community enterprises. He performed his work well, dealt honorably with his fellow citizens and accepted the mingled joys and sorrows of life with resignation and fortitude." For twenty-six years Olaf was employed at the Grafton Roller Mills and after the mill closed in 1931, during the Depression, he also lost all his savings when the bank closed. The bank owned the mill. He then operated a shoe shop. He knew the trade well. As the family of Olaf Graving recalls the life of their father, they marvel at his accomplishments. He did not have a single day of school yet for twelve years he served on the Grafton City Council, was a member of the Grafton City School Board for many years, and a faithful active member of the Grafton Lutheran Church. They were able to discover how he became so literate. His main pastime for all the years of rearing a family, when not on city duties, was to sit each night in the same little room from 7:30 to I I p.m., reading the daily Minneapolis Journal, and two Norse papers, Minneapolis Tidene and Decorah Posten. He read them from cover to cover, ate two apples, and went to bed. In the 1880's, Olaf worked as a farm-hand in Walsh County — for the Tiberts at Voss and the Lykkens at Auburn. The family has a picture of three stacks of grain bundles that won a prize in the entire Walsh County for its perfect and unique symmetry. The younger children like to recall their father's story of how he worked at the Lykken farm as a very young man and rocked Cora Lykken when she was a baby. We know that is true and found the story exciting since several of the Graving children had Cora Lykken as a teacher in junior high school. Mr. Graving varied his daily routine only on Saturday nights. He got his weely bath in the galvanized tub brought into the kitchen, put on his Sunday clothes, and headed each Saturday night, with his cigar and a smile, for main street, Hill Avenue. He visited often with N. D.-Erie and charted with all his old friends, up and down the street. The children waited in the background until he was deep in conversation and approached him for spending money. There was never much left over in those years, but on Saturday nights he didn't dare say " n o " to their requests. Olaf Graving married Annie Jorgine Hegstad Jan. 1, 1900, at 2:30 p.m. at the Hauges Lutheran Church with Rev. Barsness officiating. Mrs. Graving, born May 29, 1876, in Trondheim, Norway, came to American, third class, with four little sisters and her mother, in 1888, to join her father, Peder Hegstad, who arrived in America in 1887. Mrs. Graving passed away April 13, 1959. She went to school in the Nash area, was confirmed, and before her marriage, worked in various sophisticated homes as a housemaid. She quickly learned the English language and all the
Wedding picture of Olaf and Anna Craving: standing, Alfred Craving and Margaret Hegstad; seated, Mr. and Mrs. Olaf Graving. mannerisms required in America to make her well-prepared to take over her own household. To this marriage seven children were born, four of whom are surviving. As the surviving children are now all over the sixty-five mark, we naturally reminisce about our happy, wholesome childhood. We had just enough financial security to break even but we had an abundance of love, encouragement, and praise for our accomplishments. We lived in a small house built in the eighties with no running water, bathroom or luxuries. I guess the only luxury was the "Stone" piano that started each child on a pattern of music that has extended to the third generation. I can remember when I got up to go to school in the cold winter mornings, ice could be found in the kitchen sink wash basin. The family is grateful for such a heritage and feel that such a simple happy life is still reflected in our homes of today. The six children that grew to adulthood all worked in the Grafton area and eventually branched out into many varied occupations in other states. Alvin Graving is the last of the family to still be living in Walsh County, at Forest River. The children and a brief resume of each is herewith recorded: Lawrence Graving — Born on Sept. 30, 1900, and died Dec. 17, 1973. He worked at the Scandinavian American Bank, the Glasston Bank, as Internal Revenue Collector under Gundor Olson; and eventually settled in Duluth, Minn., where he became a Certified Public Accountant in the firm of "Graving and Honigman." He married Laura Loucks in 1924; she died in 1958. They had one son, Richard, born Aug. 24, 1929. Richard has two children, Daniel 14 and Sarah 12. Richard is now an international law executive with Gulf Oil. In 1960 Lawrence Graving married Clara Hays who still survives. Alice Graving — Born June 30, 1902, and married state patrolman Elmer McConnachie in November, 1934. Alice passed away in January, 1979. She taught in the rural schools of Walsh County, in Chase and Central schools in Grafton, and in Grand Forks City. Two children were born: John, a teacher, who passed away at 36 years in 1974 (born Feb. 10). Second son, Donald, born Apr. 28, 1940, and now manager of Woolworth's at Brookdale, Minneapolis. Donald was married to Judy Robertson Aug. 5, 1961. Donald and Judy had two children: Timmy (1966 to 1 973) and Ricky (1963- ). Lillian Graving one week with polio.
Born 1904; died 1909. She was ill for
heritage to pass on to our children and grandchildren. We have already passed on many beautiful stories from your books to our relatives still living in Scandinavia, whom we visited in 1972 and 1980.
Olaf Graving Family (1916): standing, Alice, Lawrence, Inez; front, Olaf Graving, Alvin, Mabel, Lloyd and Mrs. Olaf Graving. Inez Graving — Born in Grafton in 1907. Employed as a clerk at Walsh County Record; also for States Attorney T.I. Dahl; was Deputy County Superintendent of Schools under Ben Rinde and A. G. Strand. Married Stephen Dahl of Crary, N. Dak., on July 17, 1934, in Grafton by Rev. H. A. Helsem. Stephen Dahl was manager 1931-34 of Red Owl Store in Grafton; also in Devils Lake; and later in Fargo. From 1943-77 he owned his own store in Fargo, called "Dahl's Super Valu." Two children were born to Stephen Dahls, Laverne and Robert: Laverne, born Sept. 26, 1936, was graduated from the University of Minnesota with a B.A. in nursing administration. Married to Charles Norquist June 27, 1959, at Fargo, N. Dak. Mr. Norquist is now a stock broker in Minneapolis. Four children were born to the Norquists: James and John, identical twins, born June 2, 1961, now students in college; Susan, Aug. 3 1 , 1965, and Sarah, July 28, 1967. Second son of Stephen Dahls — Robert, born Apr. 15^ 1940, attended North Dakota State and later became manager of Dahl's Super Valu. Robert married Marilyn Bierman, Nov. 1, 1959. Five children: Cathy (1960), Michael (1961) both in college, and Steven (1964), Keith (1968), and Jeff (1966). Mabel — Born Nov. 17, 1909. Married to Palmer Isakson, Dec. 24, 1935. Mabel taught school in Walsh and Grand Forks Counties and for many years was Deputy County Superintendent of Grand Forks County schools. Palmer, born July 22, 1906, taught school many years in Walsh and Grand Forks Counties. Alvin - Born March 25, 1912. For, many years he worked at John Craving's Grocery, and Reyleck's; served overseas in World War II; and for many years was a North Dakota State Dairy Inspector. He retired in 1976 and lives in Forest River. He married Marie Checkley of Forest River in 1966. She passed away in January, 1968. Lloyd — Born May 15, 1915, was graduated from UND, Grand Forks, and upon graduation was employed with Cargill Grain of Minneapolis. He served as an FBI man during World War II and later became manager of Cargill Grain Company of Baton Rouge, La., where he is still employed. He married Ruth Johnson of Minneapolis on Nov. 7, 1942, and she passed away in 1972. Two children were born — Suzanne, Jan. 19, 1959, and David William, Nov. 30, 1960. Lloyd Graving married Kathryn Balmer Leake Oct. 5, 1974. In remembering our dear parents we experience feelings of pride and thankfulness. We appreciate the work of the Walsh County Historical Society and we live and breath so many of the early happenings mentioned in your books. We want to be a part of that great
THE HEDER-BREZINA FAMILIES Kenneth Heder was born on Dec. 3 1 , 1922, the son of a Swedish father, Hjalmer Heder, and a Norwegian mother, Emma Grand. Hjalmer Heder came to Grafton from Vargorda, Sweden. Hjalmer's father was an auctioneer; he also owned a small tract of land on which he cut pulpwood. Hjalmer Heder was bom Oct., 1882. As a child he sold newspapers until he was eighteen years old. He had saved enough money at that time to pay for his passage to the United States. When he arrived he was unable to speak English. His young acquaintances found it great sport to teach him to use the wrong words in the right places and the right words in the wrong places. He had an uncle, Gust Heder, living in Grafton. In 1900, Hjalmer worked as a farm laborer and at various other jobs. He decided to start working with his Uncle Gust for the Robertson Lumber Company, which was a pioneer lumber company with stores in Grafton, Auburn and Hoople. Hjalmer made a trip to Sweden in 1909, returning to the United States in 1910. He married Emma Grand in Grafton. He then moved to Hoople where he managed the Robertson Lumber Company until his retirement in 1952. Emma Grand's parents came from Oslo, Norway. Her father was a baker by trade and her mother was a weaver. After coming 'to Dakota Territory, Emma's father homesteaded near Grafton in 1885. In 1886, he sent for his family who were still in Norway. In 1889, he lost his homestead to the railroad by a government land grant. The government took over the land thinking to encourage growth and development by promoting the railways. After losing his land in 1889, he became a fisherman on the Red River of the North. At that time the river was a source of large quantities of edible fish. In 1890, they were living along the Red River, when one of the frequent spring floods occurred. As the water rose, they had to move upstairs to escape the rising tide, but before long they had to escape out of the upstairs window and sail out on the flood-waters, taking with them only what they could carry. After that they moved to Roseau, Minn., where their daughter, Emma, was born. She was bom on Apr. 29, 1 8 9 1 . Later they moved back to the Grafton area and farmed along what was later to be Highway 81 on the north side of Walsh County No. 9 or the Nash road. This farm later became the property of Eli Lykken. Hjalmer and Emma Heder had a family of eight children — three sons, Leonard, Arvil and Kenneth; five daughters, Sylvia, Anna May, Mary Ann, Audrey and Vearnice. Mary Ann, the wife of Don Baker, lives in Alaska where she has been both city and society editor for the Anchorage Daily Times. Kenneth Heder received his education in the Hoople schools. He then worked as a farm laborer, as manager of a cafe, ultimately arriving at sales work. At first he was involved in the potato business, being field representative for the Red River Valley Potato Growers Association. He was manager of the Hoople Produce Company, after which he was a private broker for twenty-one years. At present writing, he is engaged in the sale and distribution of long life lighting supplies. He is associated with Maintenance Engineering of Fargo, N. Dak. He married Mary Ann Brezina in Langdon, N. Dak., on Aug. 8, 1953. Kenneth Heder is a Past Master of the Grafton Chapter of the Masonic Order. He is one of the Shriners from Grafton and a member of the Kern Temple of Grand Forks. He is a member of the Elks and the Eagles.
Mary Ann Brezina is the daughter of Alexander Brezina and his wife, Frances Hosna. Alexander Brezina is the son of Joseph Brezina (1859-1923) and his wife, Annie Novacek (18781902). Joseph Brezina was the son of Alexander Brezina (1 8271885) and his wife, Anna Osmera (1827) of Studnce, Moravia. Moravia is a province in Czechoslavakia which occupies the rich basin of the Moravia River. It borders Bohemia on the west and Slovakia on the east. Joseph Brezina came from Moravia when he was nine years old at a time when his native country was a crown-land of the Austrian-Hungarian empire. The voyage to America took a month, sailing by ship across the Atlantic. They settled in Wahoo, Nebr. They left there in 1882 to come to Dakota Territory. Joseph Brezina built a sod house and barn, two miles north of Osnabrock. He homesteaded three and a half quarter sections. One quarter was expropriated by a claimjumper. However, the loss of the land was considered to be minimal inasmuch as it was three-fourths slough land. The original buildings which were built after the sod buildings went out of use are still in existence. St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Osnabrock was promoted and built by Joseph Brezina, Tom Barry, and Joe McGauvran. Mary Brezina (1874-1944), sister of Joseph Brezina, was born in Nebraska. Mary was much beloved and her memory highly esteemed in the Brezina family. They regarded her as a second mother. Alexander Brezina was born on Apr. 22, 1899. He went to school in Osnabrock and attended the University of North Dakota. The year, 1928, was a bad year because he borrowed $4,000 from the Federal Land Bank to retire some bills and obligations. A local bank official persuaded Alexander to deposit the money in the local bank. Before he could use the money, the bank closed, leaving him liable for both the loan and the financial obligations. As a result of this, he lost the farm in 1929, shortly before Governor Langer's moratorium went into effect. From 1945 to 1960, Alexander Brezina was engaged in gravelling Cavalier County roads, and installing sewer and water systems in farm homes. In 1948, he worked on the Homme Dam project, preparing the grounds for a recreational area and park. He worked on Hank's Corner, west of Cavalier, levelling the contours of the hill and making the highway safer for winter travel. From 1955 to 1965, he constructed municipal sewer and water works, including lagoons in several North Dakota cities. In 1941 he organized a band of twenty-five members in Osnabrock. He played with a dance orchestra from 1925 to 1940 and with the Milton Band, the oldest band in North Dakota, from 1918 to 1960. He directed the Osnabrock School Band. At a music festival in Langdon, Dr. Hans Lee from Mayville State College judged the band 'excellent'; the following year he judged it 'highly superior.' Alexander Brezina married Frances Hosna from Adams. Frances Hosna was born Apr. 5, 1896, on a farm near Adams. She is the daughter of Frank Hosna and Amelia Svoboda Houser. Frank Hosna was born in 1874; Amelia Houser was bom in 1879. Both were born in Czechoslovakia. Frances Hosna was one of nine children, and attended school in Adams and Park River. She married Alexander Brezina on Feb. 10, 1920. They had a family of seven children: Alice (Mrs. Laurence Power of Langdon); Joe (who was once associated with the North Dakota Highway Patrol in Grafton, and is now in Longmont, Colo.); Emory (who lives in Oregon and Arizona); Quenten (who has interests in Langdon and Hawaii); Gerald (who lives in Colorado); Kenneth (who lives in Fargo); Mary Ann. Mary Ann Brezina graduated from high school in Osnabrock, and attended St. Joseph's School of Nursing at St. John's Hospital in Fargo, 1945-1948. While there she took
courses at North Dakota State University, Moorhead State College, and interned at the Jamestown Mental Hospital and the Mental Hospital in Fergus Falls, Minn. She studied psychiatrics and obstetrics at the hospital in Jamestown. She worked as a nurse at the Grafton Deaconness Hospital and as medical and surgical nurse at St. Joseph's Hospital in Grafton. At the Tompkins and Countryman Clinic in Grafton, she worked as xray and laboratory technician in addition to general nursing. Her community activities have been chairman of the County March of Dimes, working on the Cancer Drive Committee, C C D . substitute on St. John's Catholic program. She has been president, vice-president and secretary of the Monday Nite Study Club in Hoople, president of the American Legion Auxiliary and musician for the Auxiliary. She was instrumental in starting the annual Memorial Day Smorgasbord, and honoring war veterans for the general public. She has been organist for St. Patrick's Church in Crystal and St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Osnabrock. She has been chairman of County Farm Bureau Woman's Group, county chairman of the Walsh County Homemaker's Council and a Cub Scout leader when her two sons were members. She has been secretary of both the Westview Parents-Teachers Organization and the North Dakota China Painters' Guild. She has served in three offices in the Fine Arts Club; she is a member of the Rembrandt's Painting Club. She was a member of the Sigma Chi Fraternity Mothers' Club in Fargo when, as chairman of a committee, she worked for improvements in the fraternity house.
The family of Kenneth and Mary Ann Heder. Mary Ann, Michael, Michelle and Kenneth. Mark is seated in foreground. She married Kenneth Heder on Aug. 8, 1953. They have a family of three: Michelle, born Feb. 22, 1955; Michael, born Apr. 5, 1957; Mark, born Sept. 29, 1961. Michelle and Michael started school in Hoople. After the Heders moved to Grafton, in 1965, they completed their grade and high school education in the Grafton schools. Mark attended school in Grafton. Michelle attended the University of North Dakota and North Dakota State University. She has a double degree in nursing and Child Development and Family Relations. She worked at Dakota Hospital and the Americana Health Care Center in Fargo. After her marriage to George Georgeson, she moved to Bismarck where she works at the Missouri Slope Nursing Care Center. George Georgeson is associated with the Apollo Sprinkling Company. Michael Heder attended the North Dakota State University and graduated with a degree in pharmacy. At the present writing he is stationed in Champaign, III., working at his chosen profession. Mark attended the University of North Dakota for one semester when he studied a course in aviation. At present, he is attending North Dakota State University in Fargo.
CARLHEGRANES FAMILY Carl Hegranes was a pioneer in the Grafton area. What records we have indicate that he was a highly respected citizen interested in school and church affairs. We note that he served in Grafton Township as a supervisor during the period 1882-1900. The farm adjacent to the city of Grafton, was operated for general farming and a dairy. In the fall of 1897 Carl Hegranes took a group of people by wagon load, horse drawn, to a church meeting in Grand Forks, N. Dak.; arriving there too late to find a place to sleep he made a bed on the ground under the wagon. It was a cold, frosty night and he contracted pneumonia and his death occurred shortly thereafter. His wife was left to care for the six children and the farm. Mrs. Carl Hegranes succeeded her husband in death not too long thereafter and the household was taken care of by his sister, Anna. Six children were born to Carl Hegranes and his wife, as follows: Henry Hegranes - There were two children born to Henry Hegranes and wife; a daughter, Marian (Mrs. Foster), and a son, Laurence, both living in California. Both Henry and wife are deceased. Anna Hegranes - Anna was the only daughter. She was unmarried, remaining at the home place until her death in 1918. Arthur Hegranes — Arthur and wife, Guri, operated the farm land on the home place near Grafton until their death. Born to them were two children, Philip and Ivan. Philip died of a heart attack at an early age. He and his wife had resided on the home farm, also. The other son, Ivan, moved to California, married, and lives in the San Diego area. Three children were born to Philip and his wife; Ivan and wife have no children. Carl Hegranes — We do not have much information on the younger Carl Hegranes. We do know that he is now deceased, and, in all possibility, his wife is also. John Hegranes — John Hegranes remained on the home farm and assisted his brother, Arthur, in its operation. John never married and is now deceased. Andrew Hegranes — Andrew married Anne Marie Mohagen on Oct. 4, 1916. They operated a successful business in Grafton for many years. Andrew took an active part in civic affairs, serving as a councilman for many years. While in Grafton they also took a great interest in school and church matters. Born to them were four children — three sons — Grant Marvin, Donald Paul, James Vernon, and a daughter, Jean Anne. Shortly after his retirement to Mesa, Ariz., Andrew suffered a fatal heart attack on Aug. 30, 1950. His wife survives him, as do his three sons. The daughter, Jean, died in November, 1973.
GULBRAND MOHAGEN FAMILY In the 1700's there resided in Hadeland, Norway, a Reier Mohagen (at one time called Vasenden). His son, Guttorm Mohagen, and wife, Anna, had five children — three daughters, Randi (Mrs. Brede Jorgenson), Kjersti G. (Mrs. Martin Olson), and Gudbjar G. (Mrs. Pederson). Records indicate that Kjersti was born in 1830 and died in 1885 and Gudbjar, born Mar. 1838, died in 1899. There were two sons — Gulbrand (also known as Gilbert) and Hans. My father, Gulbrand Mohagen, was born July 4, 1842. At the age of 20 he and three other young men about the same age, eager to leave Norway and seek their fortunes in America, emigrated by sail ship, a journey of six weeks. He and his companions settled first in Wisconsin and from there went on to southern Minnesota. A young woman in Christiana (Oslo), Norway, named Maria Christenson Egge, born May 24, 1844,
was pledged to my father and he sent for her some time after arriving in the United States. They were married about 1869 or 1 870 in Fillmore County, Minnesota. I have a photograph of my mother taken on the eve of her departure from Norway, standing at the gate of a lovely garden, knowing full well that when she left she would probably never return to her homeland. She made the six weeks journey with all her belongings — a clothes trunk which I still have, with the name, "Maria Christenson Egge" beautifully stencilled thereon, a spinning wheel, kitchen utensils, etc. The Bible belonging to my parents was a constant companion, but the entries — names and dates are very difficult to decipher. The first son, Thomas, was born in Fillmore County, Minn. Eventually the family came to Grafton, N. Dak., in the year 1881. Father had a limited education, but his native intelligence served him in good stead and he transacted his business exceedingly well. He was a respected and able citizen, taking an interest in civic, church and school affairs. We note that he served as a member of the school board, and as president of the school board during the years 1882-1900. I have some of his papers and his handwriting was excellent. A son, Christian, was born in 1877, and another son, Albert in 1881. Albert was born shortly after the family arrived in Grafton, after a cross-country trip by covered wagon with oxen, and horses purchased in Minneapolis. Minneapolis was then only a very small town. Two more sons were born, Robert in 1883 and Ingvald in 1886, and finally a daughter, Anne Marie, born in 1893. Our farm home was built in the 1880's and still stands, surrounded by a large grove of trees which had been carefully planted. A deep artesian well was drilled and water piped into barnyard and the house. This well is still operating. The hard labors of these pioneers cannot be fully comprehended by succeeding generations. My father spoke of walking to Grand Forks for a keg of nails, carrying them home on his back. My father and mother worked constantly to accomplish their goals of a good home for the family and land sufficient for each of the five sons and one daughter. I have papers showing the new loans he made, as little by little, he added additional acreage to his estate. I remember the last time he did this, my mother said, "Did you contract for another 80 acres?" And when my father answered in the affirmative, she said, " I am so tired." And she was not one to complain. But with each addition of land, it meant more work. She spun the wool, sewed the clothes by hand until a machine was later acquired, and later knitted all the socks, caps and sweaters. Winters with the frequent raging blizzards, with mountains of snow piled up as high as upstairs windows, sometimes brought about a provisions and transportation problem, but somehow things always worked out. In those days there was always poultry and cattle on the farm, and we all had a big garden. In the fall of the year, the butchering was done, the meat treated and hung, and to this day I remember that good dried beef. Cheese was also made in the fall — many kinds, primost, etc., enough to last for the year. Potatoes and vegetables were gathered and put in the dirt cellar to keep for the winter, together with a supply of apples. Flour was bought in the fall in 100 lb. sacks — 8 or 10 — and stored upstairs. The only "refrigeration" we had was lowering milk and cream into a well. There were many to feed — six grown men, besides the women, and the threshing crews in the fall of the year. All were well-fed, including the many Sunday visitors we had who drove out to visit and enjoy a good meal. When I was about school age, a fare would be paid to send for a girl from "the old country", and she would work until her fare was paid up, and then another girl would be sent for. I remember at least three. These girls would learn the English 562
language and the ways of the Americans and then go and find work and a place and life for themselves. My father and mother, with their family, would always attend church services every two weeks — snow, rain or shine — and in the freezing winter months were all bundled up in the sleigh for the trip of five miles to church. The sermons, in the Norwegian language were at least one and one-half hours long, and the confirmation classes for a period of a year, required much memorization. Years later this, and many other things, changed. The horse gave way to the tractor and the automobile. The kerosene lamp and Aladdin lamp were taken to attics to later become valuable antiques, and the REA arrived to make life a little easier on the farm — all before my parents could enjoy it. In their later years, my father and mother moved into Grafton to live out the rest of their lives. My father died in May, 1928, and my mother in April, 1931. FOURTH GENERATION Thomas Mohagen was born Aug. 17, 1871, in southern Minnesota. He came to Grafton, N. Dak., in 1880, married Oct. 18, 1894, to Bertha Marie Blegen, who was born September 22, 1872, in Bergen, Norway, near Oslo. Bertha came to Grafton about 1889 to be with her brothers, Andrew and John, and left behind her parents and two sisters, Hannah and Annie, also three brothers, Tom, Christopher and Ingvar. Tom and Bertha farmed near Grafton, also in McHenry and Cavalier Counties, before moving to the city of Grafton. Tom and Bertha are now deceased. Following are the names of their eleven chilciren:
Married Bessie Nord. They had one son, Robert. They farmed for many years near Grafton, N. Dak. Robert, Sr., is now deceased. Bessie Nord Mohagen now resides with her son, Robert, and family. Ingvald Mohagen was born Dec. 18, 1886, at Grafton, N. Dak., and married Julia Warlof of rural Brainerd, Minn., in 1912. They farmed southwest of Grafton, N. Dak., living in the farm house on the home place. Three daughters were born to them — Evelyn M. (Mrs. Leo S. Johnson), Mesa, Ariz.; Lila M. (Mrs. Donald Weldon), Albuquerque, New Mexico, and Eilene J. (Mrs. Harris J. Nygard), Grafton, N. Dak. Julia Mohagen died in 1961 and Ingvald, in 1 972. Anne Marie Mohagen was born Nov. 9, 1893. She married Andrew Hegranes Oct. 4, 1916. They operated a successful business in Grafton, N. Dak., for many years and took an active part in civic and church affairs. There were four children born to them — three sons, Grant M., an official in IMS Corporation, San Antonio, Tex.; Donald P., Dist. Mgr., Milwaukee Elec. Tool Co., Dallas, Tex., James V., in the field of transportation based in Oakland, Calif.; and a daughter, Jean Anne (Mrs. C. J. Bueschel) who died in November, 1973. At the time of her death, Jean was a teacher in the school system in Chandler, Ariz. Andrew Hegranes died August 30, 1950, and is survived by his wife, Anne M. Hegranes, and the three sons.
HAKAN HELGESON Hakan was born May 14, 1873, in Branvold, Norway, and came to America as a single man in 1909. During the fall, Hakan traveled back to Norway to spend the winter months.
George M., deceased; Ida C. (Mrs. Frank Colsen), now living in California; Glen Manville, residing in Grafton; Manford Gerhard, now living in Minneapolis; Thelma M. (Mrs. Edward Geisler), residing in Fergus Falls, Minn.; B. Viola (Mrs. C. J. Glaspel), living in California; Chester Robert, living in Minnesota; Clara Adeline (Mrs. Warren Naegeli), living in Minnesota; A. Irving, California; Pearl M. (Mrs. R. J. Cavanaugh), living in California; and Madeline I. (Mrs. C. Mark). Christian Mohagen was born Sept. 5, 1877, in southern Minnesota, and came to Grafton, N. Dak., with his parents in 1880. He married Elise Warlof, born July 23, 1882; Elise Warlof came from a farm home near Brainerd, Minn. They engaged in farming near Grafton. Four children were born to them — a son, Gerhard Arville Mohagen, who died Jan. 17, 1911; and three daughters — Myrtle C , a teacher who later moved to Peoria, III., and became assistant to Director for Management, Northern Research Laboratory, there; Edna A., Historian Technician with Bureau of Animal Industry, U.S.D.A., and Verna C , who was personnel director with the Soil Conservation Service, U.S.D.A., in Washington, D. C. Christian Mohagen died Feb. 2, '1934, his wife Mar. 23, 1970. Myrtle C. Mohagen died July 1 1 , 1966, and Edna A., on Mar. 1, 1957. Verna C , born July 16, 1908, died Oct. 18, 1980, Bethesda, Maryland. Albert Mohagen born at Grafton, N. Dak., on Mar. 20, 1881. Married Boletta Brenna. Four sons were born to them, Garfield, Oliver, Harold and Ivan. While the boys were quite young, Albert, Boletta and family moved to Naicam, Saskatchewan, Canada, and began farming operations. Of this family, Albert, Boletta and one son, Garfield, are now deceased. Oliver and Ivan remain in Canada and continue to farm; Harold and family came to the United States and now reside in the State of Washington, where he is employed. Robert Mohagen born June 26, 1883, at Grafton, N. Dak.
Mr. and Mrs. Hakan Helgeson and Family: left to right, Christian, Hakan, Ella, Jeanette, Clara holding Olianna, and Helen.
Mrs. Hakan Helgeson (Clara) and youngest son, Harold. In May he returned to America, accompanied by Clara Kveseth. Clara was born in Solar, Norway, Aug. 28, 1880. On May 10, 1910, Clara and Hakan were married in Grafton. Six
children were born to this union: Jeanette, Helen, Ella, Olianna, Christian and Harold. Hakan was a masonry contractor in Grafton. Hakan passed away June 9, 1924, and Clara, on Sept. 28, 1958. Four of the children have also died. Mrs. Jeanette Henrickson of Phoenix, Ariz., and Mrs. Arnold (Olianna) Clemenson of Grafton are living. A TRIBUTE: Late Sunday afternoon the Good Lord laid his hand on Mrs. Clara Helgeson's shoulder and relieved her of many months of intense suffering. This wonderful mother came from Norway as a young girl and settled in Grafton when she married Hakan Helgeson. When their six children were very young the father was shot to death by a mentally unbalanced character who turned the gun on himself. With this tragedy behind her this young mother faced the task of raising her family. This she did in a wonderful way and through the years she earned the admiration of the whole community. As the family grew one daughter was taken in death and just a few years ago she lost a second daughter. When the children were grown they showered all the love and affection that was theirs to give to their mother. We are all richer for having known this lady who was our friend.
also was a member of the Famous Farmers Playmakers. ln the summer months they played ball in Depression Park, and during the winter put on plays and musical numbers at the Shepherd School No. 1 32 where they entertained the community. Jerome sang in the church choir and also with the FairdaleAdams Male Chorus. In September, 1950, they moved to Fairdale where Jerome managed the Locker Plant, was a janitor at the Fairdale School for a number of years, and also was acting postmaster for several years. In 1958 they moved to Edinburg where he was employed at the Johnson Store. In 1961 the family moved to Grafton. Jerome was employed at the Hartz Store in St. Thomas and then at the Grafton State School for three years. Jerome passed away July 25, 1968, and is buried in the Grafton Lutheran CemeteryGladys worked at the Grafton State School from August, 1961, through December, 1978. She still lives in Grafton and is a member of the Grafton Lutheran Church, Grafton Lutheran Church Women, Lutheran Sunset Home Auxiliary, and Grafton Senior Citizens.
A Tribute to Mrs. Clara Helgeson Submitted by Mr. and Mrs. William Larson Sept., 1958 — Crafton, N. Dak.
JEROME AND GLADYS HJELMSTAD Jerome Hjelmstad was born Nov. 16, 1911, in Shepherd Township to Peder L. and Beret (Bertha) Silrum Hjelmstad. Gladys Geneva Gilbertson was born March 24, 1916, in Dewey Township to Gilbert and Gunhild Monson Gilbertson. They were married at the Fairdale parsonage (now the Omar Johnson home) June 1, 1937, by Pastor H.S. Larson. The couple farmed until 1950 in the Shepherd-Dewey area where they were members of the Vang Lutheran Church and Jerome was president for many years. Gladys belonged to the Vang Ladies Aid and was its president several times and also served as secretary for a few years. Jerome played baseball with the Famous Farmers Team and
Children of Jerome Hjelmstads, Joyola, Judith, andJerold. Joyola (Jody) Hjelmstad was born Mar. 27, 1938, in Dewey Township. She attended school at Shepherd Dist. 132 and the Fairdale School, graduating in 1956. In 1959 she graduated from the Deaconess School of Nursing. She was employed as a registered nurse at the Deaconess Hospital for several years. She married Kendell Olson of East Grand Forks, Minn., on Sept. 4, 1960. They have three children — Karen, born June 6, 1962; Kelly, born Sept. 16, 1963; and Craig, born June 9, 1965. They have lived in East Grand Forks and Hopkins in Minnesota, and Sioux Falls and Rapid City, in South Dakota. They presently live in Burnsville, Minn., and have started their own business: a dealership in heavy construction equipment. They are active members of the Prince of Peace Lutheran Church. They all sing in the church choirs and Joyola has served in many capacities in the ALCW and the circles. Joyola's main hobby is gardening. She belongs to a local garden club and has held many offices in that club and the Minnesota Valley Council of Garden Clubs. She currently is on the Board of Directors of the Federated Garden Clubs of Minnesota. She has won many ribbons and awards for flower arrangements and horticultural exhibits in flower shows. Gladys Judith (Judy) Hjelmstad was born Jan. 6, 1940, in
Wedding picture of Jerome and Gladys Hjelmstad, 1937. 564
Shepherd Township. She was baptized at Vang Lutheran Church and confirmed at the Hitterdahl Church. She started school at Shepherd Dist. 132 and graduated in 1958 from Fairdale High School. On June 11, 1960, she married Norman L. Westby from Fairdale at the Trinity Lutheran Church in Edinburg. At the present time, Judy is attending Moorhead State University and will graduate in 1981 with a B. S. degree, majoring in business administration. She is a member of the TCSPA (Tri College Student Personnel Association). They live in Fargo and are members of the Olivet Lutheran Church where both Norman and Judy have been Sunday School teachers for a number of years. They are also members of the Fargo South High Bruin Boosters Club which is an organization which promotes athletic activities at Fargo South.
captain while in Washington. From October through December, 1978, Jerold attended a professional military education course at Maxwell AFB in Montgomery, Ala. In August, 1979, he moved to Montgomery where he began work as the accounting and finance officer at the Air University at Maxwell AFB. He married Yolanda Mercado in March, 1967, whom he had worked with at San Antonio AFS. Their first child, Stephanie, was born in San Bernardino on May 2, 1968. While in Ft. Collins, their second child, Stephen, was born on July 22, 1970.
They have two children, Kevin James (3-27-61) who is a student at NDSU and Kristin Jane (1-15-66), a student at Fargo South. Jerold Fraine Hjelmstad was born Mar. 3, 1943, in Shepherd Township. He attended Shepherd 132 his first year, then moved to Fairdale where he finished eighth grade. He graduated from Edinburg High School in May, 1961, and enlisted in the Air Force on July 19, 1961. After finishing basic training he was assigned to Officer's Training School at Lackland. He worked in various administrative jobs until Oct., 1965. In October, 1965, he was transferred to District 10 of the Air Force Office of Special Investigations at San Antonio Air Force Station. He worked in administration for one year and then went to school in Washington, D. C. He attended the Special Investigators' Course in Washington from October thru December, 1965. In January, 1967, he moved to San Bernardino, Calif., to work as a special investigator for District 18 of the Air Force Office of Special Investigations at Norton AFB. In July, 1968, he was transferred to Frankfurt, West Germany, where he worked as a special investigator at Rhein Main AB until December, 1969. He returned to the US in December, 1969, and was accepted for the Airmen's Education and Commissioning Program. Under this program, he received his B. S. degree in business administration with a major in accounting from Colorado State University, Ft. Collins, in August, 1971. From Colorado he went to San Antonio and attended Officer's Training School where he received his commission as a second lieutenant on Nov. 24, 1971. In December, 1 9 7 1 , he moved to Duluth, Minn., where he worked as Deputy Accounting and Finance Officer until June, 1973. In July, 1973, he was transferred to Takhli, Thailand. While in Thailand he was assistant comptroller for nonappropriated funds, which involved supervising eight Thai accountants. After Thailand, the next assignment was Shaw AFB, S. C., where he was deputy accounting and finance officer. In August, 1975, he moved to Washington, D. C. In Washington Jerold worked for the Air Force Office of Special Investigations Headquarters as chief of the accounting division. This job included managing special investigative funds, used worldwide by the Air Force Office of Special Investigations. He was required to communicate continuously with the various offices using the funds, and was required to make several trips to assist in the handling and use of the money. One such trip in 1976 took Jerold to Hawaii, Japan, Korea, Taiwan, Okinawa, the Philippines and Alaska. He was promoted to first lieutenant and
JoEllen Hjelmstad, daughter of the Jerome Hjelmstads, at two years. JoEllen Gayle Hjelmstad was born May 6, 1949, at the Grafton Deaconess Hospital. She attended grade school at Fairdale, Edinburg, the Chase School in Grafton, and graduated from Grafton Central High School in 1968. In December of 1971, she was graduated cum laude from the University of North Dakota with a B. S. degree in business education. On Jan. 22, 1972, she married Michael Dyson Thacker of Grafton. They first lived in Breckenridge, Minn., and then moved to Fergus Falls, Minn., in 1973. JoEllen was employed at Western Minnesota Savings for six years where she worked with mortgage loans and was a branch manager. In 1980 she obtained her real estate license and is now associated with Bel Realty. While a junior in high school, JoEllen attended Girl's State, sponsored by the Grafton Business and Professional Women's Club. She is now an active member of the Fergus Falls BPW Club, having held many offices and is presently president-elect. She is also a member of the Fergus Falls Area Credit Women International. The Thackers are the parents of two sons, David Dyson, born June 8, 1975, and Jared Michael, born Dec. 27, 1978. They are all members of the Bethlehem Lutheran Church.
ANTON AND CHRISTINE HONSVALL Anton Honsvall was born in the province of Vestfold, Norway, on Sept. 24, 1881, and immigrated to Grafton, N. Dak., in 1900. He engaged in farm work and also worked for several years for his brother, Albert Honsvald, who was the International Harvester dealer in Grafton from 1905 to 1929. Anton homesteaded at Galata, Mont., during the years 1912 to 1916. He returned to Grafton and was married in 1918 to Christine Hegstad. Christine was born near Trondheim, Norway, on June 2 1 , 1885. She was the daughter of Peder and Laura Hegstad and had five sisters and one brother. In 1 888 the family emigrated to the United States, homesteading near Badger, Minn. In 1918
Mrs. Anton Honsvall
Anton Honsvall
(1881-1963)
she married Anton Honsvall from Grafton, N. Dak. Anton and Christine had four children: Ralph, Baudette, Minn.; Arvid, Minneapolis; Margaret (Mrs. Walter Honewald), Dickinson, IN. Dak.; and Phillip, who died at the age of four, in 1928. Four of Christine's sisters married and lived in Grafton. Thora (Mrs. Ole Field); Annie (Mrs. Olaf Graving); Margaret (Mrs Albert Honsvald); and Ella, (Mrs. C. E. Charleston). A fifth sister Sophie, was married to Thomas Noonan and lived in Valley City, N. Dak. The only brother, Peder, died at the age of 17 in Badger, Minn. In about 1918 Anton purchased a farm in Grafton Township which he farmed for many years. In later years he built roads for the Walsh County Highway Department. Anton was a charter member of the Grafton Sons of Norway and served terms as president and financial secretary. He served a number of years on the Grafton City Council. During this time Grafton's first modern light plant was built. Anton and Christine were active members of the Grafton Lutheran Church, with Anton serving terms as financial secretary. Anton died on Dec. 22, 1963, at the age of 82. Christine passed away Dec. 18, 1980, at the age of 95. She had resided at the Lutheran Sunset home in Grafton, N. Dak., for several years.
in 1943, and they established their home in Grafton. Ralph and Phyllis have four children. Joanne (Mrs. George Berg) resides at Grosse Pointe Farms, Michigan. Her husband is with Ford Motor Co., in Detroit. They have two children, Lisa and George. Mary Lou (Mrs. Paul Sandager) lives at Forest Lake, Minn. Her husband is a family practice physician at the Doctors Clinic in Forest Lake. They have three children - Matthew, Jason, and Jennifer. Paul Brooklyn Park, Minn., works for the Manufacturers Life Insurance Co., in Minneapolis. He and his wife, Tern, have one child, Kristen. James, Baudette, Minn., is presently working for Hayes and Fulton, a certified public accounting firm in Roseau and Baudette, Minn. At the present time, Ralph and Phyllis, with their son, Jim, own and operate River Oaks Lodge at the Lake of the Woods, near Baudette. HOD HUTSON FAMILY Ernest (Hod) Hutson was a Wisconsin farm youth, born to Ernest G. Hutson and Julia Anderson Hutson on July 12, 1922. He attended school at Hayward, Wise, and while a freshman at Eau Claire Teacher's College, in Wisconsin, World War II started. Hod served as a pilot in the Twelfth Air Force in the European Theater of Operations where he participated in the bombing of Occupied Germany and Balkan States. As a group lead pilot, in precision formation bombing, Hod led his group on many occasions and was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross one of his most valued honors. Upon completion of the war he went to Devils Lake, N. Dak., as a flight instructo. where he met and married Delphine Kiedrowski. In 1951 they purchased the Grafton Aero Service, Inc., Grafton, N. Dak., and operated an aerial spraying and flying service/pioneering the aerial spray industry. During this period, Hod served as president of the North Dakota Aviation Operators for two terms and served as executive director for a number of years. Hod now works for Nodak Mutual Farm Bureau and is an active member in community affairs, including serving as a bank director of Walsh County Bank. Delphine (Del) Kiedrowski was born in Bisbee, N. Dak., on Jan. 2 1 , 1931, and educated in Cando and Devils Lake, N. Dak. She is the daughter of Anne Hefter and Albert Kiedrowski. Del, after many years of working at home and in the community, works as a buyer and clerk for Reyleck's Department Store in Grafton.
Ralph Honsvall, the oldest son of Anton and Christine Honsvall, was born in Grafton, N. Dak., on Mar. 2 1 , 1919. He attended elementary and high school in Grafton. In June, 1939, he formed a partnership with Carl Torkelson in the Standard Service Station on Hill Avenue and Fifth Street. The partnership was dissolved in 1949 at which time Ralph formed the Honsvall Oil Co. He operated the oil business until 1966 when it was sold to the Grafton Implement Co. (David Hvidsten). Shortly after this, Ralph started the Honsvall Real Estate Co., which he operated in Grafton until 1976. He was married to Phyllis Peterson of St. Thomas, N. Dak.,
Del and Hod Hutson have had seven children. Donald Douglas graduated from the University of North Dakota, majoring in business, and works as a commercial pilot in the Grafton area. Linda Louise Hutson married James E. Johnston, Jr., and lives on a farm north of Grafton with her husband and three children: Jason, Kevin, and Brian. Nancy Renae Hutson graduated in education from the University of North Dakota and teaches school in Wilmington, N. C. Robert Scott Hutson, an accounting graduate from UND, works in Minneapolis for Investors Diversified Services. Working on her masters degree in speech therapy is another daughter, Debra Kay Hutson. Debra did her undergraduate work at the University of North Dakota. Dorothy Marie and Majorie Joy Hutson are currently students at UND; Dorothy (Dot) is majoring in elementary and special education, and Margie is a North Dakota State High School track star and is continuing her athletic career this year with the
Ralph Honsvall and his service station on Hill Avenue and Fifth Street. Ralph is attending to the car. 566
married Linda Louise Hutson and they moved back to Grafton to farm after graduation in 1973. A sideline to their farming operation is raising Appaloosa horses at their home, "J L Spotted Acres." Jim and Linda Johnston have three children who tend to follow their father's love for horses. Their boys are Jason Elliot (5), Kevin Shawn (3), and Brian James (1). WILLIAM AND MARY JANOUSEK William Janousek was born at Veseleyville, N. Dak., to parents, Peter and Josephine Janousek. He was married to the former Lillian Kachena who passed away in 1939. Hod Hutson family university track team. Linda Louise Hutson Johnston was born on Nov. 1, 1951, to Ernest (Hod) Hutson and Delphine Kiedrowski Hutson in Devils Lake, N. Dak. When Linda was still a baby, the Hutson family moved to Grafton, N. Dak., to live at the airport. At the age of five her family moved into town. Linda was educated in the Grafton Public School System. A very active student, her most important honors during this time were the Balfour Award for scholarship, loyalty, and achievement, and election as Homecoming Queen. Linda attended the University of North Dakota for three years after graduating from high school.
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He came to Grafton in 1939 and was employed as a mechanic in the Ford Garage. He went into military service in 1942 during World War II and served in the European Theatre. William (Bill) Janousek was assistant chief of police with the Grafton Police Force for 25 years, retiring in 1972. He married Mary Gudajtes in 1 948.
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Family of Linda Louise Hutson Johnston. In 1972 she married James Edward Johnston, Jr., and transfered to Moorhead State College. In 1973 Linda earned her bachelor's degree in elementary education and early childhood. Moving back to Grafton with her husband, who farms, Linda taught school for six years (four of them in kindergarten) before retiring to keeping the family healthy and happy. James Edward Johnston, Jr., was born at Camp Atterbury, Ind., on July 16, 1951, to James E. Johnston and Marion Crawmer Johnston. Jim was still an infant when his parents moved back to the family farm in Grafton, N. Dak. Growing up on a busy farm, Jim met with his share of accidents. Curiosity sometimes gets the best of us and Marion found Jim one day when he was playing by a grain auger and his foot slipped in. There were many stitches in a foot that today's modern machinery would have never let go of. This major accident didn't stop Jim from indulging in his favorite sport, football. Jim played football the four years he attended Grafton High School. Jim's early education was received at Bell School, a half mile from the family farm, and at Nash School. Jim Attended North Dakota State University, Fargo, receiving a degree in soils. In 1972 Jim
Mr. and Mrs. William Janousek, 1980. Mary Janousek came to Grafton in 1933 with her husband, Benj. Gudajtes. He passed away in 1944. Mary taught in the rural schools of Walsh County and worked in the Walsh County Auditor's office. She was the daughter of Leon and Valeria Rolczynski of Minto, N. Dak. HAROLD AND ALICE JASTER Harold Jaster was born in 1904, the son of Henry Jaster and his wife, Annie Mclntyre. Henry was the son of Edward and Eva Jaster who came from Germany to Rochester, Minn., in 1874 with their three-year-old daughter, Wilhelmina. They lived near Rochester for seven years. The grasshopper plague in southern Minnesota and the hope of new land moved them to come to Dakota Territory. Edward Jaster preceded his family. He purchased the homestead of his future father-in-law on the banks of the Park River, east of
the site of Nash. Henry, together with his mother and two sisters, Wilhelmina and Emma, came to Grafton by train in 1881, the year that the train first came to Grafton. When Henry Jaster attended school, he had as his teacher, Clara Johnson, who later became Mrs. Hans Lykken. Henry claimed her as the best teacher he ever had. Annie Jaster was born in Cedarsville, Ont., Canada, the daughter of Duncan Mclntyre and Isabel McMillan. Their antecedents were in the Isle of Islay, off the coast of Scotland in the inner Hebrides. The Mclntyres moved to Pisek in 1888. Annie Mclntyre married Henry Jaster and for the first years of their marriage, they lived on a farm north and west of Nash. It was here that Myrtle (1898-1974); Edward (1899) and Harold (1904) were born. One child died in infancy. Emma Jaster married Will Conrad and moved to Lindenhurst, Long Island. Edward and Eva Jaster followed them to New York. Henry Jaster took over the farm and moved his family there from their home northwest of Nash. It was here that Aubrey was born in 1911. Harold attended school in District 5 1 , located on DeSautel land. However, it was often called 'the Jaster school', probably because Annie Jaster boarded the teachers. From 1929 to 1937, Harold Jaster worked for the Walsh County Highway Department, driving a Caterpillar tractor in grading the county roads. During the first year that he worked with the grader, he slept in a shack by the equipment during the night to guard it. From 1937 to 1947, he drove the Conoco gasoline truck for the Nash Grain and Trading Co. After that, he worked at the Grafton State School, working as a plumber. ln 1935, Harold Jaster married Alice Almen, the daughter of Carl F. Almen and his wife, Mary Jehandater Johnson. Carl F. Almen was born in Amal, Torsbyn, Sweden, in 1862. He came to America when he was nineteen years of age. Mary Jehandater Johnson was born in Gulbrandsdalen, Norway, on Feb. 22, 1872. The name Johnson was later changed to Dolshaug.
marriage to Harold Jaster, she and Harold lived in Nash for twenty-three years. They moved to Grafton where they both worked at the Grafton State School, Alice working as an attendant for a group of those unfortunate people with blighted lives.
Harold and Alice had three children: Gale, Gary and Miles. Gale and Gary were twins, born on Sept. 17, 1940. They attended school in Nash, later going to high school in Grafton. They had only begun school in Grafton when Gary was stricken with dreadful leukemia. He died October, 1954, and is buried in the Crescent Cemetery in Grafton. A second son, Miles, was born Feb. 17, 1949, in Nash. He attended school in Nash and Grafton. Gale was employed in the Grafton office of the Bell Telephone Company. She married Mason Fisher; they have one daughter Marlys. Mason works as custodian at the Central School in Grafton. Miles married Mary McDonald. Miles is a salesman for Chevolet; Mary is a secretary at the Grafton State School. Like his father, Henry Jaster, Harold is a member of the Masonic Lodge. He and Alice are members of the Federated Church where Alice is active in church work.
GEORGE AND MYRTLE JORANDBY George Jorandby is the son of Andrew Jorandby and his wife Christine Halvorsen, born on Oct. 17, 1908. He and his brothers, Alvin, Cyrus and Arthur, his sisters, Myrtle and Adah, attended'school in District 105 near the Jorandby home, south of Grafton. Andrew Jorandby served as a member of the school board. George graduated from the Grafton High School in 1925. His sister, Myrtle, worked for the Gaarder sisters in their millinery shop in Grafton. She married Lloyd Lake who worked in McDonald Farr's Grocery. They moved to Grand Forks where Lloyd Lake worked in the Red Owl store, later going into the grocery business for himself. Alvin and George Jorandby became associated with their brother-in-law in his business. While in Grand Forks, George attended the University of North Dakota for two years. He managed a grocery store in Hillsboro for a year, then became a travelling salesman for a grocery firm. The third Jorandby brother, Arthur, managed the family farm with his father until he lost his life in the botulism tragedy which occurred in the winter of 1931. A total of thirteen people lost their lives as a result of eating home canned peas in a salad. From that time on, Alvin and George took over the family farm, south of Grafton.
•jaw* m Seated are Alice and Harold Jaster with Gale and Miles Jaster. The Almen settled in Fertile Township. Some of the Almens settled in Glenwood Township where John Almen was postmaster in the early town of Sweden. Carl Almen died in October, 1912, at his farm home. This left his wife with ten children to care and provide for in those early days. She relied on the help of hired men, who were part of the mainstay of farming at that time, until the Almen boys were old enough to take over the farming. The children attended the Sinkler School, District No. 24. Alice attended high school in Grafton and the Teachers College in Mayville, and taught school for five years. After her
The George and Myrtle Jorandby Family: seated, Sharon, George Jorandby, Myrtle Jorandby holding Pamela, Judith (Judy). In front row, Gary, Susan, Bonnie, Kenneth. A third son, James, died in 1953. 568
George married a neighbor girl. Myrtle Moe. Living in the same neighborhood, they had gone to school together in District No. 105. Myrtle was the daughter of Martin Moe and his wife, Gunhild Kydland. Martin Moe was the son of Johann Moe whose parents came from Hakkedal near Oslo. Norway, and Emma (Ingeborg) Wralstad Moe. Martin was of a family of eight children: Inga, Linda, Christine, Bernhard, Andrew, Peder, Daniel and Martin. Gunhild Kydland was the daughter of Torgart Kydland and his wife, Lese Osland, who lived one Norwegian mile from Stavanger in Norway. Gunhild came to North Dakota in 1902. She married Martin Moe in 1906. They lived on a farm about a mile and a half south of Grafton. They had two sons, Ingvald and Truman, and three daughters, Myrtle, Evelyn and Gladys. The children attended school in District No. 105 and later attended high school in Grafton. After her graduation from high school, Myrtle worked as a telephone operator in Grafton until her marriage to George Jorandby. They lived on the Jorandby farm. Alvin Jorandby and his wife, Helen Schmidt, together with their family of two daughters and a son, lived in Grafton. George and Myrtle Jorandby had eight children: Judith, James, Sharon, Bonnie, Susan, Gary, Kenneth and Pamela. By this time, School District No. 105 had become a part of the consolidated Grafton School District No. 3. Consequently, the Jorandby children attended school in Grafton. While attending high school in Grafton, Judy (Judith) worked as a nurse's aide in the Grafton Deaconness Hospital. After graduation, she worked as a secretary for the Walsh County Farm Bureau and the NoDak Insurance Co. For a time she had a business of her own selling fertilizer. She took a six-weeks course in learning to be a stewardess and received her Wings. She worked for Northwest Airlines as a stewardess. She studied to be a pilot and has a license to fly a private plane. She married Robert Boone, the son of Ralph and Clara Boone. They have four children: Stephen, Elizabeth who married Rick Suda, Beverly and Brenda. James Jorandby graduated from the eighth grade in Grafton.
James (Jimmy) Jorandby, son of George and Myrtle Jorandby. Jimmy was killed on Highway No. 81 when a car struck him while he was riding his bicycle.
The same year that he graduated, he met with a fatal accident on Highway No. 81 near his home, south of Grafton. Jimmy died during the summer of 1 953. Sharon Jorandby attended school in Grafton. After her graduation she next attended Jamestown College where she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in physical education. She then attended the University of Maryland for post-graduate courses. While there she met William (Bill) Grey, the son of Edward and Mabel Grey, both citizens of Maryland. Bill Grey has a degree of Bachelor of Science in physical education. Both Sharon and Bill taught this subject in the elementary schools in Maryland. Bill specializes in education for handicapped children. Sharon and Bill have worked for the Kennedy Foundation in Summer Camp programs, for the handicapped in conjunction with Ethel Shriver who has devoted much of her life to this cause because the Kennedy family was faced with the problem of a handicapped child. Sharon presently teaches a nursery school in her home in Upper Marlboro. Bill and Sharon are actively involved in the Largo Community Church where Bill serves on the church board. Sharon is church educational director; she sings in the choir and is on the children's teaching staff. Sharon took a college course in puppetry which she uses in her church work for children. Bill and Sharon have two children, Nancy and Kevin. Following her graduation from the Grafton High School in 1962, Bonnie worked as a receptionist in the Walsh County Bank. She moved to Denver in 1964 where she was employed as executive secretary for the Denver Industrial Equipment firm. She married Tom Landauer, son of Frank and Jean Landauer of Denver. The Landauer family own and operate the Brake Service Wholesale firm in the city of Denver. Bonnie and Tom have four children, Kathy, Laura, Thomas and Robert. Susan Jorandby secured a Bachelor of Science degree in education with a major in English from Moorhead State College. She taught for two years in Bismarck High School. For six years, she owned and operated the Owl Book Store which she sold in 1978. Since then she has worked as manager of the parts department for the Bismarck Total Recreational Vehicle Center. In 1974, Susan married Gene Bartholome, the son of Walter Bartholome and his wife, Mathilda Sevig, both from pioneer homesteading families of Regent, a community near Dickinson, N. Dak. Gene attended the North Dakota State University where he took courses in business administration. He worked for ten years for Welk Steel Company in Bismarck where he was purchasing agent for the company. The steel used in building the Grafton Lagoon was purchased from his company. Gene is currently self-employed as owner of Pioneer Paints and Metals in Bismarck. He paints on new construction, specializing in coatings for industrical application, such as storage tanks, railroad cars, pipe-lines. Gene and Susan are interested in hiking, skiing, motorcycling tours through the National Parks on the North American continent. Immediately after graduating from Grafton High School in June, 1968, Gary Jorandby enlisted in the Marines. He received basic training at Camp Pendleton, Calif., and took further training at Aberdeen Proving Grounds in Maryland. He served in Vietnam at the Dong-Ha Combat Base in the 11th Engineers Battalion, 3rd Marine Division. He was in the Marines four years after which he joined the Nevada National Guard. At the same time, he also worked as a civil service employee at an ordnance factory, making ammunition for the armed forces in Hawthorne, Nev. After this he was employed by Butler Machine Co., in Grand Forks and Simplot Soil Builders, Grafton. He worked as projectionist at the Zelda Theatre in Grafton. He made a trip to
Bogota, Colombia, with a Colombian friend at which time he met his future wife, Luz Marina Sanchez, daughter of Rafael Sanchez y Ziola. After a protracted correspondence, Gary made a return trip to Colombia for his marriage with Luz Marina in Duitama, Boyaca. Luz was a teacher of elementary education in her native country. After coming to Grafton, she taught Spanish in the Grafton High School. Their son, Andrew, was born at this time. Luz's mother, Ziola Sanchez, came from Colombia to spend several weeks with her daughter at the time of her grandson's birth. Gary next attended the University of North Dakota where he took a course in business administration. He also worked for the Veteran's Administration. At the same time he attended the North Dakota Military Academy's Officer Candidate School at Camp Grafton in Devils Lake. He was commissioned a second lieutenant on July 26, 1980. After that he left for Aberdeen Proving Grounds in Maryland for further work in Officer's Training School. During their sojourn in Grand Forks, a daughter, Melissa, was born to Luz and Gary. Their son, Andrew, was named after his paternal grandfather.
Northwestern Bell Telephone Co. He served as company commander of the local Company C, N. Dak. National Guard, and was recalled to active duty Jan. 16, 1951. He served until discharged Oct. 1 5, 1 9 5 1 . He returned to work with the telephone company until his retirement in 1 979. He was married May 8, 1947, at St. John's Catholic Church to Margaret Orsund, daughter of Peder and Anne Iverson Orsund of Nash. They make their home in Grafton.
While Kenneth Jorandby was a student in Grafton High School, he was one of three Grafton Spoilers named to the AllNorth Dakota Conference football team. He attended the North Dakota State University in Fargo where he gained a Bachelor of Science degree in pharmacy. He married Ann Marie Christenson, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. August Christenson of Grafton. Ann attended the North Dakota School of Science in Wahpeton where she graduated as a dental hygenist. Kenneth was employed as a pharmacist in Ellettsville and Andersonville in Indiana. He and his family then moved to Rice Lake, Wise, where the climate is more temperate and moderate, less warm and humid than Indiana, and more to the liking of former North Dakotans. Kenneth and Ann Jorandby have two children, Erika and Kendra Ann. Pamela Jorandby was but a small child when her mother died in 1959. Pamela attended school in Grafton. After graduating from high school, she took a course in beauty culture in Grand Forks. She worked as a beauty operator until she found that the chemicals used impaired her health. She later was employed by the Northwestern Bell Telephone Company. Her advancement with the telephone company has taken her to the oil-boom town of Williston, N. Dak., where the drilling of oil in adjoining communities has created new demands and opportunities.
Wedding picture of Mr. and Mrs. Joe Kennedy.
After a protracted illness, Myrtle Jorandby died in 1959. With the help of his older daughters, George Jorandby kept his family of young children intact in their home. George married Mrs. Sylvia Flanders on June 22, 1963. Sylvia is the daughter of John Mondry and his wife, Anna Riske, pioneer homesteading families in Ardoch Township. Sylvia married Everett Flanders in 1935. They had a family of four children, Fred, Beverly, Dale and Dean. Everett Flanders died July 3 1 , 1958. The Flanders have twelve grandchildren.
JOE KENNEDY Joseph Allen Kennedy was born in Grafton Dec. 9, 1920, to Frank and Leona Zolondek Kennedy. He attended schools in Grafton and graduated from Central High School. He enlisted in the National Guard and was called to active service with Company C of the 164th Infantry Regiment on Feb. 10, 1941. He served on Guadalcanal and Bougainville in the South Pacific, and was discharged Aug. 4, 1945. He then worked with Nodak Rural Electric until 1949 when he started employment with
The Joe Kennedy Family: left to right, standing, Kirk, Tim, Frank; front row: Mary Jo, Mrs. Kennedy, Joe Kennedy and Kerry Jean. Their five children include Kirk, born June 28, 1948. He is married to the former Linda Warner of Pembina. He is employed as traffic manager at Napco Industries, Inc., in Minneapolis. Timothy Allen was born Sept. 24, 1949. He is married to the former Gail Puppe of Neche. They have two daughters, Shanna and Kalie. Tim is employed as an equipment technician
at Northwestern Bell in Grafton. They were married Nov. 5, 1971. Mary Jo, born Dec. 29, 1950, is married to Michael Boelke of Great Bend, N. Dak. She is employed at Social Security and her husband is employed at Nodak Mutual Insurance Company at Fargo. They have two children, Scott and Kimberly. They were married Aug. 3, 1974.
In 1 947 the family moved to Grafton to build a new home (which is still occupied by Joe and Emeline). The family, then six, had to live in the finished basement until the main floor was complete. Soon after moving up to the main floor another child was born. The next year the flood of '48 did extensive damage to the basement as did the flood of '50. Joseph and Emeline are members of St. John's Catholic Church of Grafton. Joseph has a lifetime membership to the Verterans of Foreign Wars. He is also a member of the American Legion.
Francis Mark was born Aug. 13, 1952. He is employed at Schumacher and Sons in Grafton. Kerry Jean was born Sept. 7, 1962, and is presently attending the Area Vocational Technical School in East Grand Forks, Minn. Mrs. Kennedy is employed at the Grafton State
On March 1, 1976, Joseph, Jr., and his dad along with Lester joined their skills to form the Langowski Construction Co. (Joe, Jr., owner). Joseph, Sr.'s, lifetime dream came true!
School.
Joe and Emeline are the parents of fourteen children:
GEORGE LAHAISE George LaHaise, born Dec. 27, 1 9 2 1 , in Grafton, was a son of Archie LaHaise and Gertrude LaHaise. He is a member of St. John's Catholic Church, American Legion, VFW and Eagles. George served four years in the Army during World War II and was stationed in New Zealand. After service, he worked for Kutz and O'Brien Plumbing and Heating until he went into business for himself in January, 1960. Besides his plumbing and heating business he was active in constructing many buildings and living units in the city. He constructed a building on Manvel Avenue to house Norge Cleaning Village and then constructed his own shop, north of this building. South of Norge he constructed another building which was rented out for a couple of years and, in 1967, he had a second story added to it and converted it to the Midtowne Motel, with 11 rooms decorated in Mediterranean decor. In subsequent years, two more wings were added on to the motel. He also converted his shop into a beauty parlor and built another shop across the street from his motel. Also during these years he had constructed a total of 27 apartment units in the city. He developed a piece of property in the northeast section of the city and had constructed eight twobedroom homes. A street was developed past these houses called "LaHaise Drive".
Joseph Paul Langowski Family: left to right, top row — Buster, Odo; second from top, Georgia, Sylvia, Joseph, Jr., Lester, third row from top, Veronica, Joseph Paul, Emeline, Mary; front row, Mark, Ora, Inny, and Jeanne. Not pictured are John and Vicki. the two oldest. Minto. The third child, Amelia, lives in Minto, also. The first son. Julian, now lives in Ardoch, and the second son, Joseph P., lives in Grafton. The third son, Richard, died at the age of five years. After Richard, another girl, Regina, was born; she now lives in Washington State. The last of the eight children is Stanley, who also lives in Grafton.
He moved his shop to a building on Highway 17 that he purchased from Lloyd Everson; added another section to his former shop and created a lounge and restaurant accoss from the motel. This was subsequently sold to the American Legion.
Born in Ardoch Township on his father's farm, Joseph was raised in the area and attended school there. Around the age of ten or eleven, Joe began to show a real interest in carpentry. His mother needed a brooder coop for her chickens. She told Joe to build her one. With his mother's supervision, they constructed her a new brooder coop for her chickens.
In 1978, LaHaise started Metal Max, Inc., along with two sons, Danny and Tom, manufacturing aluminum flex pipe and other fittings. He had constructed another two-story building next to his shop to house this new venture. Seeing the need for the most efficient use of energy while keeping the cost down, he assembled his own version of an electric boiler to produce radiant heat and proceeded to manufacture it. He was married in 1952 to Georgette LaBerge. Their children are Daniel born in 1953; Bonita, 1954; Mary, 1956; Thomas and Patricia, 1957; John, 1960; Jeanne, 1961; Elizabeth, 1965; and James, 1967.
Josephine's father was a first class carpenter, so Joe was easily impressed with his grandfather's talents. He yearned to some day be a great craftsman. He tried to take advantage of every opportunity to improve himself and learn the trade. On Sept. 10, 1940, in St. John's Nepucene Catholic Church, Pisek, N. Dak., Joe married "his girl," Emeline, the daughter of Frank and Mary (Hodny) Kadlec of Pisek. She was born in Pisek on her father's farm on Feb. 8, 1918. She is the sixth of seven children.
JOSEPH PAUL LANGOWSKI
During the Second World War, Joe served two years with the U.S. Army in the Philippines. Emeline and the three children moved to Pisek to live on her parents' farm until Joe returned home from the war. After the war, Joe, aka "The Bishop" by his fellow workers, was employed by Adamsen's Construction Co.,
Josephine Berszewski, born March 17, 1883, and John Langowski, born March 25, 1887, were the parents of eight children. The eldest was Rose Marie, who died at the age of six months. Their second child is Stephie who presently lives in 571
of Grafton. He apprenticed there for three years. He was employed with Adamsen's for 35 years. Joe has worked on many buildings in Grafton and the surrounding area. To name a few: The All Faiths Chapel, The Walsh County Bank, Old Deaconess Hospital New Wing, the Carnegie Library, First Federal of Grafton, and supervisor and foreman of construction for both Central and Westview Schools. John Vincent — Born July 19, 1941. John, at the age of 16 years, joined the National Guard. He served for three years from July, 1957 to July, 1960. He was stationed at Camp Grafton. He is presently living at home in Grafton. Victoria Marie — Born Sept. 19, 1942. Vicky graduated from Grafton High School. She then attended Mayville State Teacher's College. There she met James Bryn (Devils Lake). They married and moved to Nevada where Jim had a teaching position. They presently live in Reno with their two children: Eric Merton, born Aug. 2 1 , 1965; and Michele Rae, born Apr. 19, 1967. Innocentia T. — Born Dec. 28, 1943. Inny married Raymond James Praska (Park River). They lived in Grafton for a few years before moving to Seattle, Wash., where they now live with their two children: Joseph, born Oct. 28, 1961, and Rae Ann, born Nov. 1 1 , 1964. Joseph Leonard — Born Nov. 6, 1946. A graduate of Grafton High School, Joe enlisted in the Air Force for a term of four years, which began in the fall of the year he graduated. Stationed mainly in Washington State, he met and married Janet Odell in Seattle. They have four children and reside in Grafton: David, born Oct. 1 1 , 1965; Michael, born Sept. 25, 1968; Todd Joseph, born May 24, 1971; and Jody Lynn, born July 7, 1972. Odo James — Born Nov. 8, 1947. A graduate of Grafton High School, Odo attended NDSSS where he played on the football team and studied architectural drafting. He met Chris Johnson (Aberdeen, S. Dak.) and they married. Odo and his family of three boys live in Grafton: James Odo, born Dec. 15, 1967; his twin brother, Joseph Mark, born Dec. 15, 1967; and Brandon Seth, born July 2 1 , 1975. Gontron F. — Born Mar. 28, 1949. A graduate of Pisek High School, Gontron (Buster) attended Mayville State Teacher's College. After graduation he returned to Pisek to teach. He was also principal at Pisek High School, before moving to Kulm, where he taught. At present, Buster lives in Killdeer, N. Dak., where he teaches and coaches basketball. Ora Sellene Sherbon — Born Apr. 17, 1951. Ora met her husband, Henry Meyer, in Seattle. She was staying with her sister, lnny, at the time. They married and lived in Seattle, before moving to Langdon where they presently live with their three children: Scott John, born July 13, 1970; Sherbone, born Nov. 9 , 1 9 7 2 ; and Shane, born Apr. 19, 1977. Jeanne Trea — Born July 1 1 , 1 9 5 2 . A graduate of Grafton High School, Jeanne married Frank James Quinn (Cavalier). They have built a home, two miles north of Grafton. Frank has his own construction business and Jeanne is employed by the USDA-SCS. They have two children: Melissa Jean, born July 14, 1977, and Zachary James, born Nov. 11,1978. Lester Keith — Born July 22, 1953. Lester is a graduate of Grafton High School. After school he enlisted in the U. S. Navy
for a term of four years. He is married to Melody Kilmer (Grafton). They have three children: Leah Nigel, born Jan. 2 1 , 1973; Cory Lee, born Mar. 11, 1974; and Joshua John, born Nov. 5, 1980. Mary Martha — Born July 29, 1954. Mary married Richard Earl Chapman (Drayton). They have built a home two miles north of Grafton, neighboring her sister Jeanne's home. Mary and Rick have three children: Lisa Jean, born Jan. 22, 1973; Kristi Jo, born Nov. 27, 1974; and Jeremy Thomas, born Sept. 11, 1978. Rose Marie Sylvia — Born Sept. 2 1 , 1956. Sylvia is a graduate of Grafton High School. She married Maurel Mattson (Grafton). They reside in Grafton with their two children: Jessica Marie, born Feb. 22, 1977; and Matthew Gene, born Jan. 28, 1979. Veronica Lillian Elizabeth — Born Jan. 8, 1 958. Veronica is planning her marriage to Arlyn Askim (Lankin) for Feb. 27, 1981. They will live in Lankin. Arlyn works on the family farm with his dad. Georgia Ann — Born May 25, 1959. Georgia is a graduate of Grafton High School. She attended NDSSS where she received her L.P.N, license after passing her state boards in Bismarck. At present, Georgia lives in Grand Forks and is employed at the United Hospital. Mark Kendall Ray - Born Mar. 3, 1961. A graduate of Grafton High School, Mark attended St. Scholastica in Duluth, Minn., before deciding to attend NDSSS, Wahpeton. He is presently taking up architectural drafting with hopes to join the construction field some day.
GEORGE AND ANNE TERRILL LOOS George Loos came to Grafton in 1896, as a young man of 21 years. There is evidence of his Tin and Repair Shop as early as 1903. Loos and McKellar were manufacturers of a cigar box lid holder, which was patented in 1905. George established the hardware and plumbing firm, George Loos and Sons, which was located at 424 Hill Avenue. George was active in city affairs. He served as an alderman in the 1920's and was an early member of the Grafton Fire Department. He died in 1957 at the age of 82. George Loos and Anne Terrill were married in Grafton in 1901. Their home was located on the northwest corner of Fifth and McHugh. They were the parents of four children. Rose Loos graduated from Grafton High School. She married William H. Dirrum and they live in Richmond, Va. Robert, who died in 1958, was married to Peggy Schuster of Fairdale, N. Dak. Peggy is presently living in Rhode Island with their daughter, Elain. Don married Dorothy Stavert and they raised two sons, Douglas and James. Their story is continued in the Stavert family history. John (Jack) Edward, the youngest son, graduated from Grafton High School and attended the Agricultural College in Fargo. He married Octavia Geston in 1931. Octavia was the youngest child of Sigurjon and Thora Geston who moved to Grafton in 1917 from the Icelandic community of Eyford in Pembina County. She was educated in Grafton and Mayville where she earned her teaching certificate. 'Occie' taught in
Auburn and Lankin before her marriage and was a homemaker until her death in 1 960. Jack died in 1 976. He was a past president of the Grafton School Board, was active in Jaycees, Chamber of Commerce, Eagles, and the Grafton Golfers. The family were members of the Grafton Lutheran Church. Jack and Occie were the parents of four children. Nancy Loos is a graduate of the Grand Forks Deaconess School of Nursing. She married Harold Blanchard, Jr., of Grafton in 1 953. They live in Langdon where Harold is a Doctor of Chiropractic. Their children are Steven, David, Pam and Kim. John Richard is a master electrician and owner of Fargo Electric. He married Marjorie Holt in 1 952 and they have three children, Janel, Thomas, and Robert.
Now retired, she still makes her home in Missoula. The next daughter, born to Lucinda and Richard, was named Anne. Anne married George Loos, was a homemaker and mother, and lived in Grafton. Their children were Rose, Robert, Don, and Jack. George Terrill was the next in line and he made his home in California after learning the plumbing trade from George Loos. Jean Eliza was the next daughter. She was trained in telegraphy by her sister, Ellen, whom she replaced at Western Union when Ellen left to be married. Jean later went to work in Minneapolis where she met and married Arthur Lee Wood, a telegrapher from Illinois. They later made their home in Jamestown. Their children are Raymond, who lives in Fargo, and Genevieve Smith of Corona del Mar, Calif. Before leaving Grafton, Jean taught telegraphy to her younger sister, Mary, who also worked for Western Union. Mary was killed at a railroad crossing while walking in a snow storm. Another daughter, Saddie, died of tuberculosis at a young age. John Terrill, the third son, entered the service from Grafton during World War I. He married a Canadian girl and they lived in Canada where John worked as a telegrapher for the Grain Exchange. Ruth, the youngest child, was born in 1899. Ruth was still fairly young when, with her mother, she moved to Cavalier to make her home with the Clows. Telegraphy, which seems to be the family vocation, was taught to Ruth by sister Ellen. Ruth eventually went to work in Fargo. Some of the cousins have fond memories of visiting Aunt Ruth in the big city. Anne Terrill is the only member of the family who remained in Grafton. Her story continues with the story of the George Loos family.
The George Loos Family: standing, Anne Terrill Loos. George Loos, Donald Loos, Robert Loos, Rose Loos: seated in foreground, Jack Loos. Dennis George served with the U. S. Army and is a graduate of Minot State College. He is presently a math teacher at Stanton, N. Dak. Dennis and the former Jean Mattson are the parents of Debra, Howard, William and Sonja. Linda is the only member of the family still in Walsh County. She married Frank McCann in 1956 and they farm in the Grafton area. Their home is located one mile north of Voss. Their children are Michael, Douglas, Jeffrey, and Jane. Lucinda Colbom was of English descent and was a Presbyterian. She came from Pennsylvania to Dane County, Wise. She married Richard Terrill who was Justice of the Peace for Dane County. Richard was of the Catholic faith and Irish nationality. Lucinda's brother, George Colborn, was married to Richard's sister, Ellen Terrill. Both families came to Grafton about 1896. Lucinda and Richard Terrill were the parents of nine children. Edward, the oldest, was a logger in Washington state. Ellen, born in 1880, was educated in Wisconsin. As a young lady, living in Grafton with her family, she went to work for Western Union as a telegrapher. At this time Chester Clow was the ticket agent at the railroad depot in Hoople. Through the lines' a courtship began and Ellen and Chester were married. They made their home in Cavalier where Chester was bank president. Their only child, Maurine, was born in 1908. Dr. Maurine Clow was dean of women at the University of Montana.
CORA LYKKEN In the best tradition of the Norwegian settlers in America, Cora Lykken devoted her life to the teaching of children and young people. Cora was the great-granddaughter of Gulman Sletta and his wife, Gunhild Angaard. They lived in Saude Prestegjold, Nedu Telemarken, three Norwegian miles from Skien. Skien is in the southeastern part of Norway, inland several American miles from the west coast of the Skaggerak on the river Skienselva. One writer writing rhapsodically of that part of Norway wrote: "Away beyond the mountains and beyond the silvery lakes glimpsed through mile on mile of rolling forest, where the wind whispers through the firs, lie the broad valleys of East Norway with their prosperous farmsteads and fields of ripening grain." Gulman Sletta and Gunhild Angaard had a son, Hans, who married Kari Olson. Their children were Ole, Gulman, Ingre, Hans, Lars and Ole Gulman. In 1 872, Gulman came to America to earn passage money for his parents and brothers and sister, Ingre, to follow later. In 1873, Hans and Kari and their family boarded a sailing boat, the 'Nordhand', at Skien. Skien is one of the oldest cities in Norway, having been founded in 111 0. It had been a monastery. It is an industrial city in Telemark Fylke or county. The Nordhand sailed down the Skienselva river to the Skaggerak. Whether they sailed southward through the English Channel or skirted the British Isles to northward is not stated, but they reached the Atlantic Ocean on their way to America. The voyage lasted seven weeks and two days. They landed in Quebec, and from there took a river boat to Milwaukee. They settled in Farmington, Minn., for a time before coming to Dakota Territory. Hans Lykken first homesteaded on the Park River, later moved into the open prairie, a mile or so north and east of the
those years, she was a member of the Grafton Lutheran Church where she taught Sunday School for many years. She was a member of the Senior Lutheran Daughters of the Reformation, the Lutheran Business and Professional Women, the Delphian Club, the Mizpah Chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star, the W.C.T.U., Deaconness Hospital Auxiliary, the Parents-Teachers Association and the charter treasurer of the Business and Professional Women's Club. During a testimonial dinner on Oct. 8, 1960, after her retirement from fifty-four years of teaching, she received testimonial congratulations from President Dwight David Eisenhower, Governor John E. Davis of North Dakota, and W. W. Eshelman, President of the National Educational Association, in addition to testimonials from the local community where she had taught almost three generations of young people. After her retirement, Cora lived at the Hans Lykken homestead which the family had named Shadowlawn.
Cora Lykken present site of Auburn. He retained the woodlots along the river for getting winter firewood. Hans married Clara Johnson, Auburn's first school teacher. They had a family of eleven children: Charlotte, who died as a child: Cora; Alvin; the second Charlotte (Lottie); Edwin; Luther; Alma; Hazel; Mabel; Myrtle, and Harry. Cora attended school in Auburn. She is described as walking the mile and half to school with her brothers and sisters, carrying her dinner pail, and dressed in gingham with her golden hair tied up in braids. She loved nature, always observing the clouds in the sky, the birds winging or warbling in song, and the trees which were so deeply appreciated on the open prairie land. Cora's first teacher was Maude McKenzie. Other teachers bore the names of Wilman, Regan and McConnachie. Mr. Regan presented her with a volume of Longfellow's poem which Cora cherished. Cora attended high school in Grafton, graduating in 1 904. An old program from Grafton High School, dated Saturday Evening, February 20, 1904, commemorating the birthdays of Washington and Lincoln, included an oration by Cora Lykken on the subject, "What the Revolution Means." Cora spent the years from 1904 to 1906 at the University of North Dakota where she received the training and education to become the teacher which filled the next fifty-four years of her life. Her first experience in teaching was gained in Auburn in the school where her mother had been the first teacher in the early pioneer days. Cora taught in Auburn from 1906 to 1910. Her second school was in Hannaford, a small community south and west of Cooperstown, N. Dak. In those days it was no small venture for a young lady to contract for a position in a strange community, to move there, secure room and board, and make new friends and acquaintances. Life was more insular then than it is today when people are conditioned by vastly improved communication and increased mobility. Cora took the five o'clock train from Auburn and traveled to Fargo where she changed trains for Hannaford. There she found a small town with a two and half or three-story school. She taught there from 1910to 1919. In 1919, Cora signed a contract to teach the fifth grade in the Central School in Grafton. The Central School was organized and the first unit was built in 1885. the year Cora was born. In 1920 she joined the Grafton Junior High School faculty. From 1922 until 1950, Cora was principal of the Grafton Junior High School. She retired from teaching on May 3 1 , 1960. During
During the last four years of her life, she was a resident of the Lutheran Sunset Home. Cora Lykken was born May 19, 1885; she died Nov. 25. 1980. She lies at rest in the Landstad Cemetery which is located on the Hans Lykken land, a grant from Hans and Clara Lykken.
MATTSON FAMILY Eberhart T. Mattson was born in Hoff, Solar County, Norway, on Jan. 2 1 , 1864. At the age of four years, he came with his parents to America. They settled first in Trempealeau County, Wise, where they filed on a homestead. In 1 8 7 1 , Eberhart's father was one of many who worked to rebuild Chicago after the disastrous fire which, according to folklore, was started when Mrs. O'Leary's cow kicked over a lamp. He was a carpenter by trade. The Mattsons came to Grafton in 1882 where they tarried a short time before filing on land in Midland Township, Pembina County. Eberhart farmed there until 1922 when he moved to Grafton. In August, 1884, he married Anna Dahlen. They had six sons and two daughters: Bennie, Eddie, Ebert, Theodore, Torbies, Gilbert, Anna and Tilda. Eberhart served for many years on the school board in Midland Township. He lived in Grafton on Griggs Avenue for thirteen years. The move to Grafton proved to be an auspicious one for the city inasmuch as two of his sons, Bennie and Eddie, made decisive imprints on Grafton's history and development. At one writing, all the Mattson brothers, together with their sons and grandsons, had accumulated more than two hundred years of active service as firemen in the Grafton Fire Department. The four brothers, Eddie, Bennie, Ebert and Ted, were all dedicated members of the fire squad. It is Eddie who holds the record with fifty-six years of service. In Midland Township the Mattsons owned two quarters and an eighty. They owned a steam threshing rig with which they did their own threshing and custom threshing in the neighborhood. They also owned land near Purdue, Sask., Canada. They loaded the entire threshing rig, including the crew and cookcar, and shipped it into Canada for the later threshing season in the north. As a boy, Eddie Mattson studied all the books he could find on the operation and maintenance of the steam engine. He was a natural born mechanic. He wrote on a test in Regina, Sask., and passed it with a mark of 86 which secured for him a certificate, certifying him as an engineer for all manner of steam-powered engines.
After investigating and declining an offer to work in a sawmill and gold mine in British Columbia, he worked in the Grafton Roller Mills, which at that time was an established Grafton business producing flour to be shipped to many parts of the United States and other parts of the world. After that he worked for Walstad and Radford. In the meantime, Bennie Mattson was working for the streetcar lines in Grand Forks. This was in the days when the streetcar was one of the chief means of public transportation in the cities. He was both motorman and conductor. Bennie married Bertha Nelson, the daughter of Theodore Nelson. While in Grand Forks, Bennie and Bertha lost their infant son. And shortly after returned to Grafton. At this time the automobile was beginning to dominate the transportation scene. Bennie and Eddie established a car sales, repair and farm implement business which they called Mattson Brothers, locating it on the corner of Fourth Street and Hill Avenue. Bertha Mattson served the firm as bookkeeper as a result of her taking a business course in a commercial school in Grand Forks. Those were the days of startling new developments and burgeoning new enterprises, not the least of which was the appearance of radio broadcasting on the rapidly changing scene. Eddie Mattson experimented in this new venture, building antenna towers on the roof of their garage on Hill Avenue and began broadcasting. Unfortunately, governmental red tape and legal problems closed down the station. In his first fall season in Grafton, in 1918, Eddie Mattson answered 67 calls to service steam engines. He was one of the few men who could quickly adjust the main valve of a steam engine. With the passing of steam powered engines, the Mattson Brothers turned their attention to the gasoline motors in automobiles, farm tractors and farm implements. Eddie Mattson developed an interest in refrigeration and became an expert repair man in that field.
This is the interior of the Mattson Brothers Garage on Hill Avenue, later known as Mattson Implement. It was owned by Eddie and Bennie. Bennie is sitting at the desk: his wife. Bertha, did the bookwork for the firm. Eddie was a charter member of the local chapter of the Sons of Norway Lodge. He served as alderman from the second ward on the Grafton City Council from 1923 to 1938. The city of Grafton had the distinction of owning the first municipal power plant in the Northwest. The city provided its own electrical power, independent of tax revenues. The privately owned public utility company, the Otter Tail Power Company, pioneered in building power lines through the Red River Valley. This was before the days of the REA which was a government-sponsored program. The Otter Tail Company proposed to buy the Grafton plant and operate the lines in the city. The citizens of Grafton voted to retain control of their municipal plant although the vote was only advisory and not mandatory. Mayor Ben Sell and other members of the City Council moved to sell to the Otter Tail Power Co. Otter Tail took over the municipal plant in November, 1926. Eddie Mattson campaigned actively and vigorously to negate the
The boy "straw boss" is Ebert Mattson. The husky man in the light shirt is Eric Overland, the Man with the dark hat, coat and pants wearing a necktie is the patriarch of the Mattson family, Eberhart Mattson. Next to him is Tommy Kees of Drayton and Gilbert Mattson. Tobies Mattson is on the water tank, Bennie Mattson is the engineer and Eddie Mattson is the fireman. sale, securing a court injunction against the final transfer of the ownership. The mayor was recalled in a public election, the first such recall of a mayor in North Dakota and one of a few in the nation. A district judge declared the sale invalid in 1927. Dr. Frank Deason replaced the recalled mayor on Jan. 28, 1927. Citizens of Grafton gave credit to Eddie Mattson because of his leadership in the matter. After the death of their infant son, Bennie and Bertha Mattson adopted a boy, Truman, and a girl, Jean, the children of Bertha's brother, Oscar Nelson. Eddie Mattson married Elida Helgenseth and they had three sons, Alvin, Orton and Donald. Ebert married Ruby Stone; their children were Ruth, George, Gordon, Donna and Guelma. Ted married Clara Lunde; they had two daughters, Patricia (Patty) and Irma. Torbies married Sophie Arneson; their children were Edith (Mrs. Walter Coulthart). Vernon, Helen, Ted, James, Bill, Daniel, Joyce, Lorainne and Dolores. Gilbert married Agnes Nelson; their children were Garfield (who married Beatrice Burns); Elton, Virginia, Mildred, Benjamin, Clayton, Darrel, Arlen, Larry, Roger, Curtis, Judy and Betty Ann. Anna Mattson married William Brintnell; they had two sons — Donald, who is superintendent of schools in Pembina, and Willard, who works in the employment office in Bismarck. William Brintnell worked on the section for the Northern Pacific Railroad Co., for forty-two years. Twenty-five years of which he served as foreman at Gilby, N. Dak. The first several years, he worked between Pembina and Grafton. He died in 1964. The second daughter, Tilda, married Oscar Olson. He worked on the section for the Great Northern Railway Co., for close to fifty years. Eberhart Mattson and his wife, Anna Dahlen, had a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren who have carried on the family tradition of inventiveness and resourcefulness and public service. On his farm in Midland Township, Eberhart had a fully equipped blacksmith shop, including a bellows to fan the fire on the blacksmith forge. He sharpened plowlays for his neighbors as a neighborly act. He developed a ten-or twelve-bottom plow which he pulled with a 35 horse-power steam engine. His grandson, Alvin, the son of Eddie Mattson, developed a new type harrow for farming for which he obtained a patent. His sons. Maurel and Allen, are at the present writing, manufacturing this farm implement in a plant in south Grafton. Eberhart Mattson died at his home on Griggs Avenue in Grafton in 1935. His wife. Anna Dahlen Mattson, died in 1939. They are buried in the
Landstad Cemetery located on the Hans Lykken farm east of Auburn. Information obtained from a Grafton Record article written by Clarence Schuldheisz and from Mrs. William Brintnell of Eastview Manor. Script by Kenneth Colter
WILLIAM AND MALCOLM MACKENZIE In the days when William and Malcolm MacKenzie pioneered in North Dakota, it was still the Dakota Territory. It became a state in 1886. It was a time for men to explore and stake land claims. The Red River Valley had rich black loam soil and many were interested in farming. As people made their homes, they needed storekeepers, carpenters, teachers and other occupations. It was a time of riding horses, trading posts and bringing goods and supplies up the river. There were Indians there at that time who were, for the most part, friendly. William MacKenzie explored eastern North Dakota on horseback and staked a land claim near Auburn. He moved to Grafton in 1889 and was County Judge for many years. Malcolm MacKenzie, his brother, had been living in Grafton since 1882 or earlier. He was a cabinet maker and had a furniture store. Where did these men come from?Their parents came from Inverness, Scotland; they were born in Prince Edward Isle, grew up in Gwelph, Ontario. Then as young men, pioneered in North Dakota. In 1894 John J. O'Brien came to North Dakota at age 18. His business was real estate, but for Grafton he was an innovator, a planner. He helped start the first baseball team and the first curling club. He was active in getting the first tennis courts (back of the Hofstetter house). He chose the land and helped Grafton acquire it for the first golf course, west of the city, and for the second golf course, east of the city. Where did he come from? In 1851 the O'Briens came from Ireland to Waukon, Iowa. In 1894 John J. O'Brien came to North Dakota. Some of the MacKenzie children's impressions of growing up in Grafton in the years — 1888 to 1908: 1. Main street was a muddy road when it rained. Wooden sidewalks with ditches on the side. Swimming in the river. Parades with marching bands. (Mrs. Ball's parrot who sat on the porch watching the parade and saying over and over "Going to Park River? Going to Park River?" 2. Winters were quite severe — at times 40 degrees below zero. Deep snow and high drifts. Ditches would be frozen over and children would ice skate on ditches and at times on the river (although this was forbidden as one could fall in).
2. Summers were delightful. Dry. sunny climate. We would roller skate and ride bikes. In the city park we had two hard surface tennis courts. Before the park courts, there were courts about two blocks from where we lived. How Grafton got its name The Cooper family came from a town called Grafton in the East (possibly New Hampshire or Vermont). They owned a large farm. Grafton, N. Dak., was built on the Cooper farm. The first child born in Grafton. N. Dak., was named Grafton Cairncross. LESTER R. AND ROSE MIELKE Lester Raymond Mielke was born Sept. 20, 1906, to Charles and Bertina Mielke, at Brownton, Minn., on the family farm. He was baptized in the Biscay Evangelical Reformed Church. Rose B. Luedtke, born to August and Marie Luedtke, rural Hutchinson, Minn., on Jan. 5, 1908, was baptized in the Acoma Lutheran Church, rural Hutchinson. Rose and Lester were married June 14, 1928, at the Peace Lutheran Church, Hutchinson, Minn. They lived on a farm near Brownton, where Lester farmed with his father for seven and a half years' During this time they had three children, Mary Ann, Marvin and Marlene. In 1935 the Mielkes moved to North Dakota, to the shock of all the family, who couldn't imagine anyone wanting to live in a place with no hills and few trees. Lester went into a partnership with Henry Steffan, in the Coast-to-Coast Store. During this time, a fourth child was born (Norma). In 1938, Les and Rose leased a building that stood where part of the Grafton Record building now stands (the Chevrolet shop was on the comer). Rose and Les did the cooking, with the help of faithful Laura Nelson, who was always so willing to put in extra time or come when a call of help was sent; she would even work dogble shift. Rose opened the cafe at 5 o'clock in the morning; in the fall, it was the busiest, with all the trensient labor coming in, from the south, for the potato harvest. Rose would have twelve gallons of pancake batter mixed, before opening, and then run out and have to mix more. Les would come in, in time for dinner at eleven o'clock, then at two o'clock Rose would go home for a while and go back to help over supper hour. Then she would go home, for the day. Les would stay open until one a. m., then clean up, but, when the train crew would pull into Grafton at 2 a. m. the back door was always open
Some of the O'Brien children's impressions growing up in. Grafton in the years 1913 to 1933. 1. Winter not as severe as in MacKenzies' childhood but always deep snow by Thanksgiving and no warming or melting before May 1. There was a toboggan slide in the city park and, for a time, we had a toboggan slide in our yard. We had sleds and skis. A city block was frozen for ice skating — had a warming shelter with potbellied stove. As much fun as anything, were the "forts" we built in the backyard. The fort was made of snow with walls a foot thick and had recessed places to store snowballs. It was fun building and would last a long time but, of course, the game was to choose sides, to have an enemy and make war. On the days the ammunition froze into ice balls, it became a dangerous game. At birthday parties and other parties we would rent a huge sleigh and horses and stay out until we were half frozen.
Wedding Picture of Rose and Lester Mielke, June 14, 1927. 576
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for them. After they finished eating, Les would go home. After a few years in this small building they built a new cafe, "The Grand," which they operated until 1944. During this time they had their fifth child, Charles. They then leased the building and sold the business to H. H. Fisher. The long hours were taking a toll on their health. By this time, besides the cafe building, they owned their own home and three apartment houses, but this wasn't enough to keep Les busy so he went to work for Kimballs, a poultry processing plant. This was fall work. Then he would do maintenance work at the plant readying it for the next season. This gave him the summers to do what he liked best, going out to his son-in-law and daughter's farm, helping out, doing his gardening, and helping others. In 1952, their sixth child was born, Jon. Although his sisters and brothers were quite a bit older, Jon already had a niece and a nephew for companionship. When Marlene was married, Rose decided to make her wedding cake, and this was the beginning of approximately 15 years of baking and decorating cakes, that went far and wide, the farthest being to a wedding in Iowa. She averaged 100 wedding cakes a year and 250 birthday cakes; she made all her own cake tops and decorations for the cakes. In a year she used an average of 1,500 lbs. of powered sugar, 300 lbs. of granulated sugar for frosting, 300 lbs. of shortening, 230 doz. eggs, and 1,200 cake mixes. Once she retired from her cake making she would come out of retirement only for the weddings of her son, Jon, and her grandchildren.
school in Brainerd. Charles married Rita Monson of Edinburg, N. Dak.; they have three children and are now living in Germany, where Charles is a lieutenant colonel in the Army. Jon is married to Carol Polivka of Williston, N. Dak.; they live in Bismarck, where Jon is working for the state Public Service Commission and Carol is a certified public accountant.
LYNN AND INGA (NEWELL) MILLER John Munro Miller married Sarah Eva Newell in Winnipeg, Man., Can., on Feb. 23, 1887. They settled three miles north of Grafton, N. Dak., in Farmington Township, and lived there until moving to Yakima, Wash., where they resided until their deaths — Sarah in May, 1937, and John, in January, 1940. Three sons and four daughters were born to the couple. Lynn Chester married Inga J. Moe; William Newell married Agnes Peterson and lived in Fertile, Minn.; Leslie John married Helen Peterson and lived in Washington; Hazel Agnes married
Lester passed away Nov. 26, 1976, at the United Hospital in Grand Forks from a blood clot, following surgery.
Wedding photo of John Munro Miller and Sarah Eva Newell. (Feb. 23, 1887)
The Lester Mielke Family: left to right, standing, Marlene, Norma, Charles. Jon, Marvin; seated. Rose, Mary Ann. and Lester. (Approx. 1964) Lester and Rose joined the Grafton Lutheran Church when they moved to Grafton. They and their family were faithful members of the church and five of their six children have been married in this church. Mary Ann married Alfred W. Lindell; they have seven children, and live on a farm west of Adams, N. Dak. Marvin married Lila Kaldor; they have two children, and live in Grafton. Lila manages the Credit Bureau, and Marvin is a vicepresident in the Walsh County Bank. Marlene married Larry Gorder of Park River; they have four sons, and live in Tacoma, Wash. Larry is retired from the Army and is now working with Social Security. Norma married Ted Kotyk, of Ft. Francis, Ont.; they live at Brainerd, Minn., and have five children. Ted is a counselor at the
Wedding picture of Lynn and Inga(Moe) Miller. (1912)
Jack Freedland and lived in Grafton; Ethel Maude married Nic Rinde, lived in Hoople, and now resides in Grafton; June Eva married Roy Lenderman, lived in California; and Alice Smillie married C. A. Biehrmaster and lived in Yakima, Wash.
The Dean Bjorneby Family: Dean, Jill, Keith, Linda, and Joanne.
John M. Miller Family: left to right, standing. Hazel (Freedland). Bill. Leslie. Ethel (Rinde). June (Lenderman): seated, Alice (Biehrmaster), John, Sarah, Lynn. Taken on the 50th wedding anniversary of Mr. and Mrs. John Miller (early 1937). Lynn and Inga Miller resided on the home farm until 1943 when they moved into Grafton, and lived there until his death in 1974. Mrs. Miller lives at the Lutheran Sunset Home at the age
of 90. They had four children — Douglas Lynn, of Sault Ste. Marie, Mich.; Grace Eva O'Hearn, Reseda, Calif.; Betty June Lerud, Grand Forks, N. Dak.; Alice Jane Thompson, Grafton, N. Dak.; and 11 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
JOE MICHAEL MISIALEK Joseph Misialek, the second son of Andrew and Katherine Misialek, was born at Warsaw, N. Dak., and his early years were spent on farms in the rural Grafton areas. In 1937 he married Ruth Jessie Elshaug, the daughter of John Elshaug and Johanna Anderson Elshaug. They had four daughters - Joanne Carol, Doris Adele, Bonnie Lou, and Darlene Avis. Joe worked in construction and cement work in the Grafton community. Joe also has six grandchildren and one great-grandson.
Ashline Bjorneby, at the Grafton Lutheran Church Aug. 1, 1956. Following their marriage, the couple left for Montgomery, Ala., where Dean was stationed with the U. S. Air Force. A son, Keith Dean, was born Jan. 2, 1957, at the Professional Center Hospital, Montgomery, Ala. The following two years of service was spent at Itazuke Air Force Base, Fukuoka, Japan. While there Linda Ruth was born, Jan. 23, 1959. Upon discharge from the service Joanne and Dean returned to Grafton, where Dean is engaged in farming. A second daughter, Jill Marie, was born Mar. 12, 1963, at the Deaconess Hospital.Grafton, and is a senior at Grafton Central High School. Keith Dean is a graduate of Grafton Central High School and the North Dakota State School of Science, Wahpeton, and is engaged in farming in the Grafton area. He was married July 15, 1978, to Joleen Rae Ferguson of Grafton, a graduate of Lake Region Junior College, Devils Lake, N. Dak., and a licensed practical nurse. They have one son, Christopher Keith, born Nov. 12, 1979. Linda Ruth attended NDSU, Fargo, and UND, Grand Forks and graduated from Aakers Business College, Grand Forks. She is employed as a secretary for Potlatch Corporation, Bemidji, Minn.
Joanne Misialek Bjorneby was born Aug. 2 1 , 1938, at the Deaconess Hospital to Joseph Misialek and Ruth Elshaug Misialek. She attended school in Grafton, N. Dak., and graduated from Grafton High School in 1956. She married Dean Oliver Bjorneby, son of Oliver and Ruth
Family picture of Doris Misialek Hagen, Lori, David, and Don Hagen. Doris Misialek Hagen was born Nov. 22, 1940, at the Deaconess Hospital, Grafton, N. Dak. She is a graduate of Grafton High School. She married Donald Lowell Hagen, son of Lewis and Ella Hagen, of Grafton. Doris and Don have two children: Lori Lynn Hagen, born Oct. 25, 1959; and David Wayne Hagen, born Nov. 14, 1961.
Left to right, Ruth Elshaug Misialek, Irene Misialek Elshaug, Martha Misialek Elshaug, Joe Misialek, and Leonard Elshaug. 578
Doris is employed by Palay Displays of Grand Forks, N. Dak. Her husband Don is employed by Welter's of Grand Forks. Bonnie Misialek Mlcoch was born Apr. 12, 1948, at the Deaconess Hospital to Joe Misialek and Ruth Elshaug Misialek. She is a graduate of G.E.D., Rockford, III.
Wedding picture of Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Moe.
Ronald, Kenneth and Bonnie Mlcoch She married Kenneth Lewis Mlcoch, son of Art and Stephanie Mlcoch, Grafton, N. Dak.; they have one son, Ronald John, born Oct. 3, 1964. Darlene Misialek Larson was born Mar. 13, 1955, to Joseph Misialek and Ruth Elshaug at the Deaconess Hospital, Grafton,
N. Dak. She is a graduate of Westwood High School, Meza, Ariz., and attended Meza Community College. She married Terrance Lee Larson, son of Lorene and Marion Larson, on June 2, 1975, at San Diego, Calif. Darlene is employed by Neurological Physicians of Arizona as a business manager. Terrance is self-employed.
CLARENCE MOE FAMILY Clarence A. Moe was born on his parents' homestead, south of Grafton, the fourth son and eighth child of Guttorm and Andrea Moe, completing the family of four boys and four girls. He received his education at the area rural school, in Grafton, and short courses at Concordia College and a business college. Just a few years later, on another homestead northwest of Grafton, Mabel B. Dahl was born, the first daughter and third child of Oluf and Tilda Dahl. Later, two more boys and three more girls were born to that family. Mabel attended the area rural school, the Grafton High School, and a short term at the Mayville Teacher's College. Clarence and Mabel became friends and this friendship grew into a lasting relationship, resulting in a wedding which took place at the bride's home, on June 2 1 , 1916. Following the honeymoon, they made their home in Grafton. At that time Clarence was working as a grain buyer at the Kellog Elevator. Through the years Clarence went on to other employment, working for a time for the Standard Oil Company and later as a partsman and bookkeeper for the Chevrolet Garage. In 1933 he accepted the position of Walsh County Deputy Treasurer, later
Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Moe observed their 50th wedding anniversary. served as Walsh County Treasurer, and later was elected Walsh County Auditor where he continued until he retired in 1961. Clarence and Mabel started their life together in a rented house, but within a few years they purchased the house on the corner of Kittson Avenue and Fifth Street. This is the house that their children still call home. Mabel was an active housewife, always finding time for her church women's groups, Sunday School teaching, and various school activities while her children were students. She enjoyed handwork — sewing, crotcheting, quilting — etc.; also gardening and flowers. Their family consisted of three children: Clayton, Minneapolis; Merlene, Battle Lake, Minn.; and Curtis, Fargo, N. Dak. All three graduated from the Grafton High School and went on to further education. Clayton attended a business college, then accepted a position in the United States Weather Bureau, where he worked until his retirement recently. He married Marge Dickey in Grafton in 1940; they have one son, Larry. Merlene attended Concordia College in Moorhead, Minn., where she met the man she married — Edward Leivestad. They were married in Grafton in 1943. Edward attended Luther Seminary, has served as parish pastor in several different places, presently retired. They
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Fam/Vy of Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Moe, left to right, Curtis, Merlene, Clayton, Mabel (mother), and Clarence (father). have three children, and five grandsons: Mae (Mrs. Duane Benting) Portland, Ore., has three sons: Scott, Steve and Shane; Marlys (Mrs. Gene Ohnstad), Rochester, Minn.; Ernest (Married Kathleen Drewniak), Fergus Falls, Minn., has two sons: Edward and Elvin. Curtis also attended Concordia College, married Malvina Berntson at Adams, N. Dak., in 1952. He works for the Northern States Power Company. They have two children: Pam (Mrs. Bob Ward) St. Paul, Minn., and Philip (married Jolene Hibma), Rochester, Minn. After retiring, Clarence spent more time at home as his wife was not well — she passed away in Oct., 1972, spending the last three years of her life as a resident of the Sunset Home. Clarence continues to keep up with the routine jobs around the house and is always ready to visit with his friends.
on their spinning wheel, and wove into cloth on their handloom. They used the cloth for clothing, curtains, blankets, quilts and rugs. They made their own dye from mosses, berries and bark which they gathered from the countryside. Because the winters were long and the winter days short, they liked to surround themselves with bright colors — orange, blue and red. In addition to a flock of sheep, the Kydlands owned one horse and six or eight cows. They had their own meat, butter, milk and cheese. The nearby lakes offered a rich bounty of fish. Three times a year they hitched their horse to a wagon and drove over to Stavanger for supplies that they could not produce for themselves. In winter, Gunhild and her brother and sisters skated to the end of the lakes; then, on the return trip, the girls spread their skirts as sails and let the prevailing wind coast them home. The family observed all the holidays, Pentecost (Pinsedag), Good Friday (Sherators Dag), Ascension Day (Christi Himmel Fartsdag), Easter (Paaske Dag or Passover Day), Christmas (Yule). The seventeenth of May or Syttende Mai was the Norwegian equivalent of the American Fourth of July or Independence Day. Gunhild's father had a brother, Kittle Peterson, living on a farm east of Grafton. She had two aunts living at Cooperstown, N. Dak. and her step-mother had a sister living there also. When the Watne family from Cooperstown visited the Kydland home in Norway, Gunhild 'took a notion' to go back with them and visit her relatives for five years. They returned on an ocean liner and Gunhild observed that she 'danced her way all across the Atlantic'. That was in 1902.
GUNHILD AND MARTIN MOE One Norwegian mile from Stavanger, Norway, which is the equivalent of seven English miles, situated among the rolling foothills and flanked on the south and east by two small lakes, was the home of Torgart Kydland. He married Lese Osland; they had four children, a son, Anton, and three daughters, Sera, Gina and Gunhild. When Gunhild was a baby, her mother, Lese, died. Later, Torgart took a second wife, Gurina Lana, who proved to be a good mother to the family. The Kydlands owned a flock of sheep. Mutton and lambchops were staple items of their diet. They sheared the sheep for the wool which they carded, spun into yarn and thread The family of Martin and Gunhild Moe: Evelyn, Gladys, Myrtle, Ingvald, and Truman. Gunhild spent three years with her aunts, Abegal (Mrs. Torkel Fugelstad) and Louisa (Mrs. Torkel Vegeso) who lived on farms in the Cooperstown area. Gunhild worked for them and their neighbors for two dollars a week. Then she came to Grafton to visit with her uncle, Kittle Peterson. She used to walk four miles into Grafton to buy Kittle's favorite plug tobacoo, 'Two Burros'. He always admonished her 'if you don't bring the right kind of tobacco, you will have to turn around and go back again'. Kittle Peterson had married a widow who had two sons, Hans and Johann Moe. They also had a daughter, Sena, who, when she grew up, married Ludvig Egeland; they had three sons, Carl, Iver and George. Johann Moe married Ingeborg Wralstad. They had eight children, Martin, Inga (Mrs. Lynn Miller), Bernhard, Linda (Mrs. Roy Miller), Christine (Mrs. Irving Kern), Andrew, Peder and Daniel. Gunhild Kydland married Martin Moe in the home of Johann Moe. Her father and stepmother and an adopted daughter from Norway attended the wedding. The couple spent two weeks in Minneapolis for a honeymoon, 'taking in the shows.' They settled
The wedding picture of Martin Moe and his bride, Gunhild Dorothea Kydland, March 18, 1907. 580
on a farm south of Grafton, about two miles away. Gunhild could 'hitch a horse like nobody's business' and drive into Grafton where she tethered the horse behind the Grafton Drug in the hitching yard and spend the afternoon. When trouble came to the home of Martin's brother, Andrew, and his wife, Laura, Gunhild left her family in the care of Martin and some ministering neighbors, and stayed at Andrew's home and cared for three children stricken with diptheria, a dread disease of that day. The children died. Gunhild contracted the disease as did her son, Truman. Fortunately the rest of the family were spared. Martin and Gunhild had five children: Ingvald, who has farmed south of Grafton; Truman, who farmed the home farm for a time; Myrtle, who worked as a telphone operator in Grafton until she married George Jorandby; Evelyn, who was a secretary for J. E. Grey, a Grafton attorney (later she went to Ft. Lewis, Washington, where she married Ray Guillette, an optometrist in Massachusetts); Gladys, who attended Aaker's Business College and was bookkeeper for the Grand Forks Wholesale Grocery Co. (she married Lynn Keaveny who was associated with the Northrup Aviation Co. in Los Angeles). As children they attended a country school, south of Grafton, and attended high school in Grafton. Gunhild was an organic gardener and took great satisfaction in her vegetables and flowers. She prized her antique furniture which included a spool bed, a round oak table and fine needle-point chairs. Martin and Gunhild moved into a house in the nine hundred block on Hill Avenue in Grafton. Martin commuted to the farm. While walking down the N. P. track, during the spring flood, he was struck by the train and died a day later. Gunhild lived alone for several years in her home. She died in the home of her daughter, Gladys, in Hawthorne, Calif., in 1972. Both are buried in the Grafton Lutheran Cemetery. Their grandchildren are Roger, Carol, Noel, Jean, born to Ingvald and his wife, Hazel Larson; Eileen, Grant, Gordon, John, Janet, born to Truman and his wife, Helen Hove; Judith, James, Bonnie, Sharon, Kenneth, Gary, Susan, Pamela, born to Myrtle and her husband, George Jorandby; Nancy, Karen, Linda, Susan, Paul, born to Evelyn and her husband, Ray Guillette; Willis, Gordon, Dennis, Dick, Butch, born to Gladys and her husband, Lynn Keaveny. At the present writing there are several great-grandchildren and one great great-grandchild. Some sixtyfive years after she came to America, Gunhild was sitting on the davenport in her granddaughter's home, and said: "I thought I was coming for a visit and here I sit."
and Bennie still goes out there once a year to visit old neighbors. In 1935, Bennie joined the CCC's and got into a camp in the North Dakota Badlands. The Civil Conservation Corps group, he belonged to, was building a road through the Park by wheelbarrow and shovel. In the summer of 1937 a fellow CCC member, Orville Nomeland, who still lives in Grafton, N. Dak., and Bennie hopped a freight train and headed for the promised land, The Red River Valley. Landing in East Grand Forks, Minn., they got a job shocking grain and hauling bundles with a team and rack to a threshing machine. Later they did some silo-filling around Lakota, N. Dak. When it was potato picking time, they somehow ended up in Grafton at the Williamson Stock Farm where they picked potatoes behind a single row digger drawn by four horses. Williamson also had quite a large dairy and farm operation so after potato season he asked them if they would like a job in the dairy barn for the winter, which they did, and they stayed there for about three years.
Bennie's gas station in Billings, Montana. Bennie in the picture. Notice hamburger sign five cents and gas 20 cents a gallon. (1939)
BENNIE MOLDE FAMILY Bennie Molde was born on the farm of his parents, Andrew and Clara Molde, on their homestead, eight miles isouthwest of Bowman, N. Dak. He has one brother, Lloyd, who lives in Eugene, Ore.; a sister, Adelene Thompson, who lives in Petaluma, Calif.; and a second sister, Mable Bloome, who lives in Billings, Mont. They also had another brother who died soon after birth and is buried in a rural churchyard in Bowman. They had no country school so they drove a pony, named Trix, and a two-wheeled cart to Bowman for school. They would drive the first two months in the fall and then they would board in Bowman for the winter months and again drive the last two months in the spring. Bennie's father died in 1920 and it was up to his mother to be both parents, which wasn't easy in the horse-and-buggy days. Things went quite well until 1935. In 1935, his mother died and they lost their land. Today there is an oil well, one-half mile away,
Our first home in Billings, Montana, a one room log cabin. Ten dollars per month, heat and lights furnished. Mildred Molde and Bennie s sister. Mabel. (1939)
In 1939, Christian Williamson brought out a new hired girl, Mildred Burns. Molde and she were married on Nov. 1 7 , 1 9 3 9 . Orville Nomeland married another hired girl, Walberga Davidson, some time later. After their marriage they lived for about six months in Billings Mont. Bennie had a small gas station but things didn't pan out so they came back to Grafton and the Williamson Stock Farm. Bennie's job was threshing, filling silo and, finally, shoveling beets by hand, onto a truck in the field. Bennie figures that was the hardest work he has ever done. He got 10 cents a ton. He made $125.00 in 25 days. About this time the Moldes were expecting their first baby, and needed a house. He built a new three-room (not modern) house on the corner of Seventh Street and Summit Avenue, at a total cost of $350.00. The lots cost $10each. Bennie kept in contact with the Williamson Brothers. In February of 1941, when Co. C mobilized, Luther Williamson needed someone to replace Art Griffiths who was in Co. C. February 10, 1941, Bennie made his first trip alone on the East Side Milk Route, driving a horse named Star, and had a sled with an enclosed box on it with a kerosene stove inside to keep the milk from freezing. In the summer time, an enclosed rubber-tired wagon was used. It wasn't long before they used the wagon all year 'round. In 1945, Bennie got "Montana fever" and they sold their small house and left the Milk Company for a job with Thompson Dairy in Billings, Mont., but Billings had changed a lot since they were there in 1939 and they were not satisfied. One day Bennie got a call from Luther, who said the fellow that took his place was not panning out (he couldn't get along with the horse) so he was glad to come back to Grafton. The Moldes needed and built a new (modern one, this time) sevenbedroom house at 620 Prospect Ave., where they still live.
In 1950 the Milk Company went modern and bought a stand-up and drive milk truck and said goodbye to Old Star (with a heavy heart) even if the horse did run away once in awhile and scatter milk bottles along the street. Also, about this time, the Milk Company changed to cartons so, there was no more picking cold bottles out of the snow. Williamson decided he needed a route foreman as his business was increasing, so Bennie was foreman until he retired and Richard Larson took his route. Bennie retired and Larson replaced him as route foreman until the Milk Company closed Dec 1, 1979. The horse and sled are gone, the Williamson Stock Farm is gone, and also the Milk Company is gone, but Molde is left with a lot of memories of all three. Mildred Burns was born to John and Blanche Burns and has lived all of her life in Grafton. Her mother was Blanche Gornovicz, born near Warsaw, N. Dak , and her father was born on a farm in southern Illinois. They, at one time, owned the Hungry Man's Cafe where D J's is today. Mildred had nine brothers and two sisters. William, Harry, George and Eddie have passed away. John lives in Kelso, Wash., Paul in Salem, Ore.; Rudy in East Grand Forks, Minn.; and Gene and Ted, in Grafton. One sister, Dorothy, died at age five, and her only living sister, Shirley Zeigler, lives in Mequon, Wise. Moldes are parents of fifteen children. One girl, Janice, died at age two Judy, Mrs. Joseph French, lives in Crookston, Minn., and is mother to four children - Monica, Jill, Monte and Nathan. Dianne is not married and lives in Portland, Ore. Billy is married to Georgia Tanke and lives in Grafton, N. Dak., where he works for Texgas. They have two boys, Dane and Dean. Bonnie is married to Paul Strand of Crystal, N. Dak., and have two children, Tricia and Michael. Strands will soon be moving to a new home near Anoka, Minn. Susan is married to Craig Conway; they live in Portland, Ore., with their two girls, Kimberly and Gail Tommy is married to Robin Fitzsimmonds and are residents of Grafton; they have a boy, Brian. Bobby is not married and lives in Grand Junction, Colo. Danny, married to Sheila Langdrin, lives in Aurora, Colo.; their two boys are named Anthony and Jerry. Gail is married to Randy Stenerson; they live in Grafton, and have a girl, Melissa. Mary is not married and lives in Aurora. Colo. The rest of the children are Jimmy, Jay, Lisa and Marcia, at home. Mildred has operated a baby-sitting service in the Molde home for a number of years which has helped a lot to feed and clothe all the kids and Bennie has always had a part-time job (or two) which has been a big help. The sunset years have been good to both of them, blessing them with good health and a good relationship. Mildred does not care to travel by bus so Bennie has been taking a trip each spring, since he retired, which includes visiting kids, relatives and fronds all over the United States, Canada and Alaska. When Mildred travels she likes to go by air but Bennie likes to see the countryside. They travel, generally, alone. She keeps active with Catholic Daughters, Degree of Honor Lodge, her card club, and homemakers.
Mr. and Mrs. Bennie Molde celebrated 40 years of marriage.
HARVEY E. AND PHYLLIS MOMERAK FAMILY Harvey E. Momerak was born Jan. 7, 1931, to Wilhelm and Odelia Momerak, in Park River, N. Dak. He attended grade school and high school at the Walsh County Agricultural Schoo, where he was very active in athletics, especially football. Following high school, he attended Dakota Business College at 582
Fargo, N. Dak. Harvey married Phyllis Crandall, daughter of Ed and Alma Crandall, who was born on Jan. 5, 1930, in Bottineau, N. Dak. She moved with her parents to Vesta Township in 1934 and attended the rural grade school there through seventh grade; took eighth grade in Edinburg; and high school at WCAS in Park River, where she met Harvey. Their wedding on Oct. 8, 1950, took place on her parents' 31st wedding anniversary, at St. Peter's Lutheran Church, rural Park River. Harvey entered the Armed Services in January, 1952, took his basic training at Ft. Leonard Wood, Mo., and since he was not given a furlough, he returned to Park River on a three-day pass. Phyllis had been employed as a secretary at the First State Bank in Park River, and it was necessary to quickly resign and pack a few belongings into the "new" 1940 Chevy and take up residence in Rolla, Mo., until Harvey received orders to go overseas. While living in Rolla, Mo., Phyllis was employed as a secretary at the Missouri Trachoma Clinic. Since this was during the Korean Conflict, orders to leave for Japan caused some concern, but upon arriving in Japan, Harvey was assigned to the 43rd Engr. Const. Bn., serving as Company Clerk until discharge. While Harvey was overseas, Phyllis moved to Grafton and was employed as a legal secretary. Upon his return to Grafton from the service, he worked in construction for a year, and then joined the Walsh County Bank in 1955.
where she started in 1 952, but a few years were spent at home so she cannot claim any records. LEONARD MOMERAK FAMILY Leonard Leroy Momerak was born May 28, 1944, to Vilhelm (William) and Odelia (Dahl) Momerak in Park River, N. Dak. He was the last of seven children to be born in this family, and was baptized and confirmed at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church, Park River. He attended the Park River Elementary School where he participated in basketball and baseball. In high school he played varsity football four years; was on the basketball team; and graduated from the Walsh County Agricultural School in Park River May, 1963. During the summer of 1959, he worked on a farm for his brother-in-law and sister, Gordon and Wilma Gemmill. The next years he worked with his dad and brother, Wallace, doing carpentry work. During the last years in high school, he was employed by Wm. Seiben, house contractor in Grafton. On June 6, 1964, he married Adele Cudmore in Our Saviour's Lutheran Church, Park River, with Rev. Arne Carlson and Rev. Gordon Berntson officiating. Adele was flower girl at Gordon's wedding. He and Adele's mother are first cousins. Adele Erna Cudmore was born Aug. 4, 1942, to Erwin and Bethel (Ingulsrud) Cudmore in Grafton Deaconess Hospital. She was baptized at the Hitterdal Lutheran Free Church with Rev. P. O. Laurhammer officiating. She grew up on her great grandfather's (Joseph Cudmore) homestead and completed her eight grades in a one-room school house (Kensington District No. 98, one mile west of the farm). She attended Sunday School in Park Center Lutheran Church, but was confirmed in Our Saviour's Lutheran Church, Park River, where the family had transferred their membership. She enjoyed riding horseback and participated in many horse shows. She was a member of 4-H, GAA, and FHA. Adele helped on the farm, driving trucks and milking cows, along with helping with the housework. She also enjoyed helping out Grandma (Amanda) Ingulsrud at the "Midget Cafe" on her noon
Harvey E. Momerak Family: left to right, seated, Phyllis Momerak and Harvey Momerak; standing, Gail and Michael. In 1960, daughter Gayle Elizabeth joined their home, and in 1963, Michael Jon completed the family circle. Gayle graduated from Central High School in 1978, attended the State School of Science in Wahpeton for one year, and transferred the following year to A.V.T.I. in East Grand Forks, Minn., where she graduated from the financial occupations course. She is presently employed at the Polk County State Bank in Crookston, Minn. Michael is a senior in high school and lives at home. The family are members of Our Saviour's Lutheran Church, where Harvey has been active, serving as treasurer and as a member of the church council for many years. Phyllis has taught Sunday School and enjoys the ALCW and Circle groups. Harvey's hobbies include trap shooting, golfing, and he shares Michael's interest in hunting and snowcatting. This year, 1980, found Harvey completing 25 years with the Walsh County Bank, and he is presently their Senior Vice President, while Phyllis is still a secretary with the same law firm
Leonard Momerak Family: left to right, back row, Alyson, Brenda, Leonard; front row. Adele and Bill.
hours and Saturday nights. She graduated from the Walsh County Agricultural School, Park River, in May, 1960. In September, she enrolled in Sisters of St Joseph's School of Nursing, Grand Forks, and earned her diploma in August, 1963. Her first position as a registered nurse was being the supervisor on third floor of the Grafton Deaconess Hospital. She also worked for a while in surgery until she and Leonard Momerak were married. Leonard and Adele made their first home at 1136 Western Avenue In 1956 they built their present home at 515 West l b Street Leonard was employed by Marvin Lykken, a house building contractor, at the time. Adele began working as a statt nurse at The Lutheran Sunset Home, in October, 1967. 5he continued working part-time until May, 1969, when she accepted the position as director of nursing there, a position she continues to hold. Leonard took a correspondence course and received his diploma from The Commercial Trades Institute and in September, 1973, he developed Momerak Construction, in which he has had from one to four employees at a time. He is a house building contractor, a cabinetmaker, and does remodeling and concrete work. They have three children. Alyson Beth was born Sept. 2, 1966, followed by Brenda Caye, Aug. 13, 1968, and William (Bill) Erwin, on Dec. 12, 1969. All the children were baptized by Rev. Loren Spaulding at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church, Grafton.
a member of the hockey team for two years. Trophies accumulated by Billy include a basketball trophy for first place in Optimist Club Competition in 1979; team trophy for first place, 1979 (third grade); for nine-year-olds, second place trophy for Punt, Pass and Kick; Optimist Club Tri-Star 1980 Competition, third place basketball trophy; Eagles 1979-80, grades three and four, first place basketball trophy; and a bowling handicap trophy. He also attends Sunday School and Sunshine Choir at Bethel Free Lutheran Church and takes piano lessons. Family outings which include camping, motorcycling, skiing, snowmobiling, horseback riding, swimming, hunting, ice and roller skating, makes for a very exciting and balanced life. HARVEY AND HILDA NELSON FAMILY Harvey Nelson is the son of Elias Nelson. Elias Nelson was born in Roland, Story County, Iowa, on Mar. 3 1 , 1862, the son of John and Siri Nelson. They came to the United States from Norway. The name Tarvestad is associated with the family name of Nelson which indicates that they came from a community or place in Norway named Tarvestad. When settling in America, Norwegians often took the name of the place they had left in the old country. Often they called themselves by their father's name adding the word 'son' to it. Elias Nelson had two brothers, Osmund of Grafton and Nils of Roland, Iowa, and two sisters named Ellen and Becha. Elias Nelson married Isabel Swenson who had the word Olvik associated with her name. Isabel Swenson came from Norway at the tender age of one and a half years.
The children have been active in many church and sports activities. They attended primary grade school at Westview School. Alyson and Brenda are now attending junior high at Grafton Central School. As a family they enjoy and take part in the many church activities as Sunday School, Luther League, Vacation Bible School and choir. The children have attended and hosted the Five-day Clubs for Child Evangelism. Leonard is a member of The Gideon International, while Adele belongs to The Gideon s Auxiliary.
Elias and Isabel Nelson came from Illinois and settled in the , vicinity of Osnabrock where they farmed. They had ten children - Alma, Jesse, Cora, Annie, Delia, Esther, George, Reuben, Elmer and Harvey. At the present writing, Reuben Nelson lives on the family farm at Osnabrock at the age of 80; George farmed near Walhalla and is deceased; Cora Thompson lives in Iowa, aged 92; Annie Jacobson lives in Waterville, Iowa, aged 90; Alma Hultin lives in Montana at the age of 95; Jesse is deceased; Elmer Nelson is deceased; Delia Gillette is deceased; Esther married Handy Lykken of Adams and is deceased.
Alyson is very active in sports and school activities. She was alternate cheerleader for seventh grade football, cheerleader for eighth grade basketball, ninth grade basketball and footbalh Basketball and track are the sports she participates in, along with playing flute in the Senior High Band. She was honored to be chosen one of three eighth graders to go to the National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade in April, 1980. Her mother accompanied the group as a chaperone. She has taken many years of piano lessons and figure skating. She helped work on the Junior Annual. Alyson is presently kept busy with choir, confirmation classes, and Luther League at The Bethel Free Lutheran Church. Babysitting and. a part-time job for Russum Sales at Montgomery Ward's provides her with extra spending money. Brenda participates in basketball and track. She received a silver Junior Olympic Award in 1979 for relay race in track. She also attends Sunshine Choir, Luther League, and Sunday School at Bethel Free Lutheran Church. She has won many ribbons while a member of the Sunshine Girls' 4-H Club. Figure skating and baseball are also sports events she participates in. She plays bass saxophone in the band and has taken piano lessons for several years. She also baby-sits in her spare time and enjoys cooking. Billy has also been very active in sports. He plays baseball every summer, has basketball and bowling every winter, and was
Harvey Nelson received his education in Osnabrock and Park River. He took up the trade of carpentry and built up a construction business which produced many of the fine buildings in the area. He built the Grafton Lutheran Church, the Grafton Armory, the Professional Building in Grafton, Lykken Pontiac Garage,' Robertson Lumber Company, the Hvidsten Building, the Rinde Garage which later became the VFW building, Mielke Restaurant, Grafton Light Plant, City Hall Electric Power Plant addition, and the Radar Station. After the fire in the Strand Theatre, he rebuilt and remodeled it. He built the addition to the Chase School in Grafton plus additions to schools in Edinburg, Milton, Lankin and Adams. He built the Olson Garage in Cavalier and the Ford Garage in Rugby. He built St. Luke's Catholic Church in Veseleyville. He built stations for the Farmer s Union in Drayton, Edmore, Rollette, Edinburg, Adams and Finley, and the Raney Hardware Store in Drayton, N. Dak., which was later destroyed by fire. Several houses and smaller business structures are credited to Harvey Nelson. In bidding on the Lutheran Sunset Home he included the cost of a massive landfill which raised his bid higher than the one accepted. Subsequent problems with high water have justified his bid for a higher ground level. Harvey Nelson married Mrs. Hilda Littlejohn in 1940. Hilda was the daughter of Gilbert Olson and his wife, Ida Nelson. Both Gilbert and Ida came from Sc'.ar, Norway. Ida Nelson was born on Mar. 2, 1865. She married Gilbert Olson in 584
1884. They ultimately settled on land east of Glasston, N. Dak. They had a family of four sons, Clarence, Oscar, William and Bert, and three daughters, Minnie, Inga and Hilda. Minnie married Louis Warner of Pembina; they had six children. Inga married John Pearson in Los Angeles; they had two children. Hilda married Roy Littlejohn; they had two daughters, Aurel and Bonnie. Clarence married Mae Rogers; they had five children. Bert married Madeleine Stafford; they had two sons and a foster daughter. Hilda married Roy Littlejohn in 1929. The Littlejohn family was of English descent and long settled in the St. ThomasGlasston area. Roy and Hilda lived on a farm east of Glasston, a short distance from the Olson farm. In 1933 Roy Littlejohn was holding his infant daughter, Bonnie, when he was suddenly stricken with a heart attack and died. In 1940, Hilda married Harvey Nelson of Grafton and the family moved into Grafton. Harvey and Hilda had one son, Charles. Aurel and Bonnie graduated from the Grafton High School. They were majorettes in the Grafton Parade Band at the time when band director, Joe Birkeland, and the band won national acclaim on their many tours, including two trips to the Tournament of Roses in Pasadena. Charles Nelson graduated from the Grafton High School. In 1962 he graduated from the University of North Dakota with a degree of Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering. He married Marlys Brown, the daughter of Don and Irene Brown of Drayton, N. Dak. They had two children, Brent and Kimberlee. Charles and Marlys moved their family to Roxbury, a suburb of Boston, while Charles attended the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. While at MIT, he received a Masters Degree in Civil Engineering in 1965; an Engineer's Degree in 1967; and his Ph. D. in 1969. While a student at MIT, he wrote a thesis on rock formations which the Federal Government published and sold, using it as an authoritative treatise on geology. He was a faculty member in Civil and Mineral Engineering at the University of Minnesota from 1969 to 1978. In June of 1978, he opened his own firm, Charles R. Nelson and Associates, Inc. Consulting Engineers, specializing in underground construction. He has worked on such projects as subway systems (Buffalo, New York); underground buildings (Civil and Mineral Engineering Building at the University of Minnesota); 102 ft. underground sewer tunnels, storm water tunnels (10,000 feet long under the City of Minneapolis for Department of Transportation). Marlys Nelson does all of her husband's bookkeeping and secretarial work for his private business in engineering. Brent Kyle Nelson was born in March, 1960. He graduated from Alexander Ramsey High School in Roseville, a suburb of St. Paul, in 1978. At the present writing he is a junior in civil engineering at the University of Minnesota. During the summer he works on heavy construction. He has worked on highway bridge jobs, installed sewer systems, and has done some work on the new Dome Stadium in Minneapolis. Kimberlee Rae was born in June, 1961. She graduated from Alexander Ramsey High School in 1979. At the present writing, she is a sophomore in engineering at the University of Minnesota. She is a member of the Delta Delta Delta Sorority. After graduating from Grafton High School, Aurel Littlejohn attended Stephens College in Columbia, Mo. She married Gordon Jacobson on Aug. 15, 1952. Gordon is the son of Harvey Nelson's sister, Mrs. Annie Jacobson of Waterville, Iowa. Aurel worked at Dayton's in Minneapolis. Gordon has worked for the Lampert Lumber Company for fifteen years. At present he is Training Director for the firm. They have two sons, Gary and Paul. Gary was born June 19, 1953, in Grafton. He is a sergeant
in the United States Air Force and is stationed at Eglin Air Base near Pensacola, Fla. Paul was born on Apr. 1 1 , 1955, in Decorah, Iowa, near his father's hometown. Paul is an operational manager for G. C. Murphy Company in Sturgis, Mich. Upon graduation from Grafton High School, Bonnie Littlejohn went to work for Northwestern Bell in Grafton. Later she became a dental assistant for Dr. F. B. Cuthbert, both in his private practice and in his office at the Grafton State School. Bonnie married Marvin Lykken on Dec. 29, 1953, in the Grafton Lutheran Church shortly after it was built by Harvey Nelson. Marvin is the son of Selmer Lykken and his wife, Dagmar Sather, both members of pioneer families who settled early in the Grafton area. Marvin build residences, commercial buildings, a potato warehouse and apartment buildings. He was in the United States Armed Services from Mar. 27, 1951, to Mar. 27, 1953. He was in the 141 Armored Division. Marvin Lykken went to school in Camp Gordon, Ga., learning to be a radio repair man. He was stationed in Fort Hood, Tex., during his term of service.
HOMER AND VIVIAN NELSON Homer Nelson was born in Hoople, N. Dak., on June 2, 1909. His father, Morley Nelson, was born in Ontario, Canada, and came to Nash, N. Dak., around 1900. His mother, Effie Parkins, was born at Pine Island, Minn., and came to Sweden, Dakota Territory, in 1 880. Homer Nelson attended the Hoople Schools graduating from high school in 1928. Following graduation he worked for the State Seed Department in the Potato Division. In 1935 he came to Grafton to work in the grocery department of the S & L Store, and later went to work for Alvin Gryte in the IGA Store and purchased the store in 1938. Homer Nelson and Vivian Kingsbury were married on Sept. 1, 1937, at the farm home of her parents, Charles and Gertrude Kingsbury, in Farmington Township. Her parents were both born in North Dakota. Charles was born near Auburn to Albert and Wilhelmina Kingsbury on June 26, 1884, and Gertrude Johnston was born near Nash to James and Annie Johnston on June 8, 1888. Vivian Kingsbury was born on Aug. 15, 1911, in Farmington Township. She attended rural Bell School and graduated from Grafton High School in 1928. She attended Valley City Teacher's College and received her Standard Teaching Certificate and taught for a few years, then transferred to the University of North Dakota where she received her B. S. Degree in elementary education and M. S. Degree in library
Homer and Vivian Nelson
science. She taught school for twenty-seven years in the rural and elementary schools of Walsh and Pembina Counties. She retired in 1978. Homer and Vivian operated the IGA Store, later called Super Valu Store, from 1938-1960. The store was sold, and Homer went to work for the Men's Store for one year; he then became administrator of the Deaconess Hospital until 1965. He left that position to become personnel director at the Grafton State School for the Mentally Retarded. He retired in 1 977. Homer and Vivian have one son, Charles Thomas, born July 4, 1948. Charles (Chuck) graduated from Grafton High School in 1 966 and the University of North Dakota in 1 970. He married Gail Gustafson from Dickinson, N. Dak., who also graduated from UND. They were married June 6, 1970. They have three children — Scott David, Stacie Lyn, and Ryan Paul. Since college graduation, Chuck and Gail have worked on staff for Campus Crusade for Christ and, at present, Chuck is computer analyst for "Here's Life" publications located in San Bernardino,
Calif. Homer and Vivian are members of the Grafton Federated Church and are active in church and community affairs.
N.O.NELSON FAMILY Nels 0 . (Sterri) Nelson was born at Modena, Buffalo County, Wise, Dec. 1, 1856, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Ole SterriNelson who had migrated from Hafslo, Sogn, Norway, in 1 855. He was educated in the public schools there, and assisted his father with farming. In 1882, Nels O. came to Grafton, Dakota Territory, and homesteaded on a claim in central Walsh County. He sold his claim; left, then came back to Grafton where he lived the rest of his life. He was a charter member of Company C of the 164th Infantry, North Dakota National Guard; the Lutheran Church; and The Sons of Norway. He married Oline T. Steigen Olson on Feb. 28, 1886. Oline was born in Fennimore, Grant County, Wise, Dee, 6, 1866, to Mr. and Mrs. Thor Steigen Olson who had migrated from Ron, Valdres, Norway, in 1856. She came to Grafton in 1883, and lived with her sister, Mrs. Peter Olson, whose husband owned the Grafton House, a pioneer hotel located on Main Street and Fourth Street.
Legislature for many sessions at Bismarck; was elected sheriff and served for two terms. He died in 1917. Mrs. Nelson died in 1929. There were ten children born into this family: Maria (Mollie) E. Hodgdon, 1888-1956; Elvira M. Nelson, 1890-1911 and Otis E. Nelson, 1890-1964, twins; Ann N. Southard, 1892- ; Fred T. Nelson, 1894-1922; George R. Nelson, 1897-1897; Samuel Nelson, 1899-1970; Clara H. Nelson, 1901-1901; Grant N. Nelson, 1902-1964; and Harold R. Nelson, 19061906. George, Clara, and Harold died in infancy; the other seven were confirmed into the Grafton Lutheran Church, and educated in the public schools, in business colleges, and at the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks. Mollie attended business college, then was a secretary to a firm in Grand Forks until her marriage to George E. Hodgdon of Grinnell, Iowa. He was a signal engineer with the Pacific Union Railroad so they lived in various places, but mostly in Los Angeles. They had two daughters — Hope (Mrs. W. R Haynie) and Faith (Mrs. D. E. McArthur). The Haynies have five children: Allen, Ruth, Gary, Glenn, and Lois, Saugus, Calif. The McArthurs have two children: Richard and Barbara, Los Angeles. Elvira and Otis Nelson were twins. Elvira taught school in North Dakota for two years; she never married. She died in 1911 and is buried in the family plot in the Lutheran cemetery.
Family of Mrs. N. O. Nelson: left to right. Otis. Ann N. Southard, Grant "Bud", Mollie N. Hodgdon, Samuel; seated, Mrs. Nelson. (1927) Otis also taught school for one year, attended business college, then was employed by the U. S. Postal Service with headquarters in St. Paul and Grand Forks for 43 years. He retired in 1953, then lived in Santa Monica, Calif.; Washington, D. C ; St. Louis, Mo.; and Hinsdale, III., before his death in 1964. He never married. Athletics interested all the Nelsons — baseball, tennis, football, and track. There were baseball games where four Nelson brothers — Otis, Fred, Sam, and " B u d " (Grant) — played in the infield of the Grafton team.
Mrs. N. O. Sterri-Nelson
N. O. Stern-Nelson
" N . O.", as he was called, had a farm implement business; became deputy sheriff; then held the office of constable for many years; was appointed sergeant-at-arms in the North Dakota
Ann attended business college and the University of North Dakota, then taught school for five years before her marriage to A. E. Southard of Drayton, N. Dak. They have two daughters: Virginia (Mrs. D. A. Farley), Tonasket, Wash., and Leila (Mrs. J. A. Ronning), Hinsdale, III. The Farleys have five children — Ann, William, Susan, John, and Ruth, and three grandchildren, Craig, Jennifer and John. The Ronnings have three children: Diane (Dr. S. A. Halbrook), Arlington, Va.; David, D. D. S., Hinsdale, III.; and Karen (Mrs. C. E. Lang), Sycamore, III. The Halbrooks have one child, John; the Langs have two daughters, Chelsea and
Jessica; and Dr. and Mrs. David Ronning have one daughter, Kerstin. Virginia Southard graduated from the Grafton High School and Lutheran Deaconess Hospital School of Nursing in Chicago and was chief stewardess for the United Airlines before her marriage in 1947 to Delmar A. Farley of Tonasket, Wash. She assisted her husband in their grocery business, then became a Public Health Nurse in Okonagan County, Wash. Leila Southard graduated from Fargo High School and the Lutheran Deaconess (Lutheran General) Hospital School of Nursing, Chicago. She was a U. S. Cadet in the Nurse Corps, and married Lt. J. A. Ronning. They were stationed at Ft. Sampson, New York, and Paris Island, M.C.R.D., South Carolina. When the war was over, they returned to Chicago. Since Dr. Ronning had graduated from Northwestern University Dental School, he went into dental practice and has stayed in the Chicago area ever since. The Southards lived in Drayton, Fessenden, Grafton, and Fargo, in North Dakota, and at their summer home at Shoreham, Minn., at various times. They had retail stores in the confectionery and grocery business. Bert was sales representative for Monarch Foods. While in Grafton, they were members of the Grafton Lutheran Church. Ann was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary and the O.E.S.; she was a Worthy Matron of Mizpah Chapter No. 6, and also Grand Representative to California. She keeps her membership at Mizpah No. 6. She was a geographer with the U.S.A.F. Chart and Information Center in Washington, D. C., and Defense Mapping Association in St. Louis; then, in Chicago, she was employed by World Book Encyclopedia Company as their map consultant until her retirement. She lives in Hinsdale, III., with her daughter, Leila, and husband, John Ronning, D.D.S. She received an Award of Merit and Award for Distinguished Service, and is listed in the World Who's Who of Women.
Mrs. N. O. Nelson and sons: left to right, Fred, Samuel, Mrs. Nelson, Grant "Bud" and Otis. (Taken at their home. 25 E. 9th St., Grafton. N. Dak.. June 11.1917.) Fred T. Nelson taught public school for one year, then attended University of North Dakota Law School, Grand Forks. His education was interrupted in 1916 when Company " C " , 164th Infantry National Guard, was federalized and called for duty on the Mexican Border, stationed at Mercedes, Tex. In the next year, Company " C " was sent to Europe and Fred served as Reg. Supply Sergeant until the Armistice was signed. He was a member of a class who, under the leadership of Col. Fraine, became members of the Masonic Blue Lodge of Grafton, taking three degrees while in France. After he returned to Grafton, he and Edwin Swiggum compiled a book entitled "Walsh County In The World War." He was a charter member of the American Legion, and was their first historian. He was sent to a military hospital at Oteen, N. C., for his health and died there in 1922. At the University of North Dakota he was awarded the championship trophy twice as tennis champion. He never married. He is buried in the family plot in the Grafton Lutheran cemetery.
Samuel D. Nelson worked for the St. Hilaire Lumber Co.. at Grafton, Winnipeg, Marshfield, Wise, and Fargo, N. Dak., after his schooling. Later, he was with the Midland Industries Co., and worked in Chicago, New York City, and Indianapolis, Ind. His wife was the former Dorothy Butler of New York Mills, Minn., who taught in the State School at Grafton. They had two sons — Dewey of Indianapolis, and Glenn, who died in infancy. Dewey is engaged in the real estate business in Indianapolis. His wife is the former Dorothy Beebe; they have one child, Carri. Clara H. Nelson: died in infancy. After high school at Grafton, Grant " B u d " Nelson attended the University of North Dakota at Grand Forks and was graduated with a B. A. degree in education and a major in science. He then received his Master's Degree from the University of Southern California at Los Angeles. He was principal of the high schools in Fessenden and Grafton in North Dakota and in Clinton, la. He was later on the faculty of the New Mexico Military Institute in Roswell, New Mexico. He was Professor of Science (Chemistry) and was the chief of the Audio-Visual Department. He held the rank of lieutenant colonel in the U. S. Army. His wife is the former Margaret Montegue who also taught in the high school at Clinton, Iowa. They had one child, Grant M. Nelson, who is a doctor of education at Odessa, Tex.; and one grandchild, Karl Joseph Nelson. " B u d " was a member of the Lutheran Church. R.O.T.C., Sigma Nu Fraternity, Masonic Lodge and the Shrine, and he was inducted into the University of North Dakota Athletic Hall of Fame. Margaret Nelson lives in Trimble, Missouri.
EDWIN A. SOUTHARD FAMILY 1844-1905 E. A. Southard was born in Baldwins, N.Y,, Mar. 25, 1844. He was educated in the public schools there; enlisted in the U. S. Army and served in the Civil War for three years. He was married to Sarah Rock Smith in 1866. They moved to Walsh County, Dakota Territory, in 1883, and lived on a farm near Cashel. The family consisted of three children: Frederick, (1867-1927); Nellie (Mrs. Ed Berg). Minneapolis; Edna (Mrs. Mahlon Van Camp), Minneapolis. Frederick married Emma Jane Reynolds in Baldwins, N. Y.. in 1891 and moved to Drayton, N. Dak. They had six children: Albert E. (1892-1966) — A. E. Southard was married in 1916 in Grafton to Ann Nelson, and they have two daughters; Virginia E. (Mrs D. A. Farley, Tonasket, Wash.) and Leila A. (Mrs. J. A. Ronning, Hinsdale, II.); Winifred (Mrs. William Holler) 1894- : Mildred (Mrs. L. Gross) 1896- ; Elizabeth (Mrs. Howard Thibodo) 1901- ; Sidney R. 1899-1957; and Dorothy (Mrs. Elmer Tarver) 1910-. Mr. and Mrs. E. Southard later moved in to Grafton where Mr. Southard was engaged in making and laying concrete sidewalks; his name may still be seen on sidewalks in Grafton. Mr. Southard was county commissioner in Walsh County for several terms; he was commander of North Dakota State G.A.R.. and was a patriotic speaker throughout the State. He and his wife are buried in the City Cemetery at Grafton.
MYRON W. OMLIE Myron W. Omlie was honored on January, 1981, by his American Legion Post and the National American Legion for having been a charter member (1919) of the Grafton Post No. 41 and having continuous membership in the American Legion.
HISTORY OF VERNON AND PHOEBE OMLIE Memphis' No. 1 flyer, Captain Vernon Omlie, visioned Memphis as the air capitol of the mid-south and worked hard toward that end. He established the city's first flying school and commercial aviation company, managed its first airport, and made other contributions to its aerial progress. He was largely instrumental in taking flying out of the stunting class and making it a real industry, Flyers, and laymen, and faith in Captain Omlie, and thru him, built faith in flying.
Picture in the room dedicated to Vernon and Phoebe Omlie at the Memphis Airport.
EARLY AIR COMPANIES <19294936)
4
In 1929 two national air compari opened rr>e(r hangar doors at MenvpN* afcp They were Curtiss Hying Service and Univa tion Corporation. Service* indue sales, maintenance, and fW Instruction. But In the wake of the © Depression the flight schools were fb? to dose. Local pilots, such as Vemon O a n d Tod McCalkim, stayed on as 1 b a s e operators. They were the p»on the general aviation Industry. ?•,.»§
Plaque above Vernon Omlie s Log Book in room dedicated at the Memphis Airport. Memphis Airport was dedicated to Vernon (Captain) Omlie previous to Phoebe's (his wife's) death in 1975. It was seldom called the "Omlie" airport, although many pictures in a room at the airport were dedicated to the two Omlies. Vernon (a paid passenger) was killed in a plane crash in August, 1936. Since Phoebe died there has been a steady campaign by a Memphis newspaper for a proper dedication of the "control tower" at the Memphis airport. There have been many articles and editorials in mid-south newspapers, especially the Press-Scimitar and Memphis commercial appeal. These have been working constantly in the last few years.
United States in 1907 and settled in Barrett, Minn. He came to Walsh County in 1921 at the age of 2 1 . He married Anna Iverson, the eldest daughter of Alvert and Olava Iverson, pioneer settlers in Fertile Township, on Nov. 4, 1913. They first settled on the Alvert Iverson farm (Mrs. Orsund's father), rural Hoople. This is now the site of the Richard Clemenson farm. They lived on several other farms in the area while Mr. Orsund was engaged in farming. He also worked on the Ed Kopperud dairy farm for about seven years. Around 1938 they moved to Nash where he worked at the Nash Grain and Trading Company until his retirement.
Peter Orsund family on 45th anniversary left to right, back row are Lawrence, Gladys, Alvin, Arnold, Luella and Wallace; front row, Phyllis, Eleanor, Peter (father), Anna (mother), Helen, and Margaret. Eleven children were born to Peter and Anna. Alvin, married to the former Beatrice Peterson of Drayton, lives in Pelican Rapids, Minn. They have three children. Mrs. Millard Hove (Gladys) who resides in rural Grafton; they are the parents of four sons. Arnold makes his home in Grafton with his wife, the former Alice Hove. They have four children. One son, Richard, lost his life in the Vietnam War; Luella lived but a brief time, dying at the age of one; Lawrence, married to the former Dorothy Peters of Drayton, lives in Kennedy, Minn., and they have one son; Wallace, at one time married to the former Carol Garaster; they had five children. He is now married to the former Jewell Bockwitz of Humboldt, Minn., and resides in Champlin, Minn. Helen, now Mrs. Warren Schumacher, lives in Grafton and they have two children. Margaret, married to Joe Kennedy, resides in Grafton as well; she and Joe are the parents of five. Luella, now married to Christ Schatz of Jamestown, at one time married to Sheldon Loftsgard, and the mother of six children, also has three stepchildren. Mrs. Gene Eng (Phyllis) resides in Grafton with her husband and two sons. Eleanor makes her home in Alexandria, Minn.; four children were born to her during her marriage to Dennis Henderson. Peter loved to tell about his native Norway, which inspired several of his offspring to make a trip to his homeland. Mr. Orsund died in February, 1963, and is buried at the Zion Lutheran Church cemetery, rural Hoople. His widow, now eighty-seven years of age, resides in Grafton and leads a very active life. As of this writing, she is in remarkably good health. She walks every morning, weather permitting, and still assists her daughters with their holiday baking, especially the lefse part. She also maintains her own apartment.
These pictures were taken and sent to me, Helene Omlie, by a chance passenger changing planes at the Memphis airport. He recognized the many pictures and knew Vernon to be the brother of his uncle, Myron Omlie (my husband). (This is a continuation of Omlie family from Vol. I, page 199.
PALINA H. (FREDA) PALMER Freda Palmer returned to her former home town of Grafton with her husband, Fred W. Palmer, in January, 1966. They came here from Iowa where they had made their home tor eighteen years. Fred died in June, 1967, and burial was in the
PETER AND ANNA ORSUND FAMILY Peter Orsund was born Mar. 2 1 , 1890, in Romfo, Norway, the second son of Ole and Annie Orsund. He immigrated to the 588
Grafton City Cemetery. Freda was born Apr. 1 8, 1 902, the daughter of Tryggvi and Osk Paulson, at Hallson, N. Dak., (Pembina County), and was baptized into the Lutheran faith. Her parents had both immigrated to this country from Iceland at an early age. Mr. Paulson was a carpenter by trade. Freda was one of seven children in the family. The family lived on an acreage near Mountain where Freda grew up. She received her education in a rural school there. Freda was married to Sigurbjorn J. Bjarnason Apr. 9, 1920, and the couple settled in the Hallson area where they farmed. They were the parents of six children; two died in infancy. In the spring of 1927 the couple purchased the Hallson General store and operated that. Mr. Bjarnason died in November of that year, leaving Freda a widow with four children at the age of twenty-five.
Nursing at Grand Forks as registered nurses in 1944 and worked at the Grafton Deaconess Hospital for one year. Leona was married to W. Harold Tanney July 3, 1945. They are parents of two sons and one daughter and reside in Des Moines, la., where Leona worked as an RN until 1 975. Lena was married to John E. Fischer Dec. 15, 1946. They had one son and the family lived in Denver, Colo., where Lena was also employed as a nurse. Lena died in April. 1 974.
ALVIN AND CAROL PEDERSON Alvin H. Pederson, son of Alvin H. Pederson, Sr., and Inga Pederson, Grafton, N. Dak., and Carol H. Pederson (nee Prosser), daughter of the late Harry and Clara Prosser of Greenbush, Minn., met at Concordia College, Moorhead, Minn. They were married Jan. 9, 1 954, after which Alvin spent the next 18 months in the Army in Germany. Carol joined him after she finished teaching the school term in Fargo, N. Dak. After returning to the States, they both graduated from Concordia College, Moorhead, Minn. In 1955 Alvin joined his father in the jewelry business at Pederson's Jewelry in Grafton. They had two daughters born to them — Coral Lee, born Oct. 1 8, 1 955, and Cathy Lynn, born Dec. 14, 1956. Carol continued her teaching in the Grafton Public Schools the next 13 years. In 1970 she returned to the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, after which she served as Learning Disabilities Instructor for the next 10 years in the Grafton Schools.
Freda Palmer Operation of the store continued for Freda for one year. At that time she sold the property and the family moved to Mountain where she worked as a clerk and cared for the sick and invalids in their homes. Her mother-in-law made her home with the family and helped in caring for the children. She died in 1936. Freda and her family moved to Grafton in 1939 where twins Lena and Leona, Johanna and Raymond attended Grafton Central School. Freda began working at the Grafton State School as a ward attendant, a position she held for eight years, until her marriage to Fred W. Palmer in 1947. The couple moved to Iowa. While there, she earned her license in practical nursing and on her return to Grafton worked as an LPN at the Grafton Deaconess Hospital and the Lutheran Sunset Home until her retirement in 1972. She enjoys knitting and crocheting and has demonstrated her skill in spinning yarn on several occasions. Freda is a member of the Zion English Lutheran Church and its Women's Missionary League, the Lutheran Sunset Home Auxiliary of which she was treasurer for three years, and the Icelandic Heritage Club. |
The only member of Freda's family, living in this area, is Johanna (Mrs. Wesley Schrank), who lives in Acton Township. Raymond served in the United States Navy during World War II and in the Army during the Korean war, most of which time was spent in Germany where he was a member of the army band. He was married to Shirley Benson of McVille, N. Dak., June 20, 1948, and they are the parents of one son and one daughter. The family resides at Golden, Colo., where Raymond is employed as mechanical engineering specialist at Denver Research Institute of the University of Denver. Leona and Lena graduated from Deaconess School of
Alvin Pederson Family: left to right, standing, back row. Carol and Alvin Pederson; bottom. Carol and John Donnelly. Tami and Amy: Cathy and Dan Axvig. Matthew and Maria. Alvin continued in the jewelry business after the death of his parents. In June, 1980, Alvin and Carol purchased the former Walsh County Bank Building, 539 Hill Ave., Grafton, and moved Pederson's Jewelry to that location. Coral Lee Pederson graduated from Grafton High School and NDSU. Fargo, with a degree in home economics. She married John Donnelly. They live on a farm near Nash and have two daughters, Tami Lee and Amy Jo. Cathy Lynn Pederson graduated from Grafton High School
and Concordia College where she received a degree in dietetics. She married Daniel Axvig of Adams. N. Dak. The couple has two children — Matthew Dean and Maria Lynn.
JAMES ARTHUR AND ZELMA PETERSON James Arthur Peterson, son of Peter O. and Astri Peterson, was born at Fairdale, N. Dak., at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Truls Tollefson on Sept. 4, 1928. They lived in the Fairdale, Adams and Hoople areas. He married Zelma Byars in Hoople Mar. 18, 1951. They lived in Park River until Art left for the service in June, 1951; he served in Korea until June, 1953. They moved to Rock Lake, N. Dak., for a short while, then returned to Edinburg, N. Dak., where he worked for the Farmers Union Oil Co., until 1965, when they moved to Minto, where he managed the Farmers Union there for three years. In 1960 Art decided to try something new, so they moved to Glen Ullin, N. Dak., and sold candy for the Curtiss Candy Co. That winter they moved back to Grafton where they have lived since Art worked for various other oil companies until 1970 when they took over the Skelly Oil Co. In 1978 Art suffered a heart attack which caused him to give up the oil business and, after a short rest, he went to work for Hart Machine Co., where he is presently employed. His hobbies are golf, when he has time or isn't helping to farm or cut wood for his wood stove. He is a member of the American Legion and VFW of Grafton and vice president on the council at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church. Zelma, daughter of Louis and Olive Byars, of Edinburg, N. Dak., was born on a farm near Fairdale. They lived on a farm near Park River and in 1939 moved to Edinburg, where she attended and graduated from high school. Zelma has had various jobs during their married life which include bookkeeping, running a filling station, driving a truck, and helping run the oil business. She also has her oil painting for a hobby whenever she isn't busy with her children and grandchildren. Zelma is presently employed as a cook at the Lutheran Sunset Home in Grafton. She also sings in the choir at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church. Of the ten children born to them, seven girls remain: Karen Haggerty, Grafton, has two sons - Steven and Brian; Cindy Passa, Salt Lake City, Utah, has two children - Chad and
Alysha; Debby Bjorneby, Minto, has one son, Tory; Barbara Lembke Clearwater, Minn., has one son, Christopher; Kathy Dahl Grafton, has two children - Tonya and Jeremy; Phyllis Peterson lives in Salt Lake City, Utah, and Mari Beth Lindenberg, in Grafton.
RONALD J. PICH FAMILY Ronald James Pich was bom in Latona Township on Apr. 30, 1936, to John and Mary (Maixner) Pich. He attended a nearby rural grade school and graduated from Lankin High School in 1954. Ron farmed with his father and attended the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, before joining the United States Army. He received his basic training at Camp Chaffee, Ark., in 1957 and was transferred to Fort Bliss, Tex. In December of 1959 he attended Mayville State College.
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Ron Pich Family On June 6, 1959, he married Catherine Matejcek, daughter of R. F. and Mayme (Schanilec) Matejcek. Ron worked for Nustad Implement at Larimore, N. Dak., before moving to Grafton on August, 1959, where he is employed at Lykken, Inc., as the office manager. Ron and Catherine are the parents of four children: Janell, Jay, David, and DeAnn.
MARTIN RINGSAK FAMILY Martin Ringsaker, Grafton, N. Dak., was born in the Ringsak Valley, on the family farm located near the town of Fagerness, Norway, in 1 8 8 1 . He was the youngest of six children born to Mr. and Mrs. Ole Ellendsen Ringsaker. Ole Ringsaker was born in Nord Aurdal in 1834, and died on Jan. 1, 1923. Mrs. Ringsaker, the former Kristi Tostensdotter or Christube T. Hippe, was born in Nord Aurdal, on July 22, 1840; she died Apr. 29, 1919. The history of the Ringsaker family goes back to about the year of 1800, and here it begins to get foggy, the reason for that being that, there was a change in the family name. The name changed from Johnson to Ringsaker. (The Ringsaker name is German.) The family acquired the Ringsaker land holding, either by marriage or buying. ln the war of the French, under Napoleon, with England in 1805, the Ringsaker family was cutting and dealing in lumber, for fighting ships. And in World War I, this was repeated, for the family cut and sold lumber, lt was repeated in World War II.
Family of James Art Peterson: left to right, back row, Phyllis Peterson, Debby Bjorneby, Cindy Passa, Kathy Dahl; middle. Barb Lembke, Karen Haggerty, Mari Beth Lindenberg; front, James Arthur (Art) and Zelma.
In 1904, Martin Ringsaker attended the University of Oslo, and came out with a commission in the Army. He saw duty on 590
the Swedish Border. Norway was declaring its independence from Sweden. He said they could see the Swedish Army on maneuvers but there was no action. Sweden let Norway go its way. In 1905, he was in the Honor Gurad lined up at the dock when the new king came from Denmark. Martin Ringsaker was the first soldier the King walked by on land when he stepped off the gang plank, from the ship. In 1 907, he came to Canada, with five neighbor boys. It was so cold when they arrived in Winnipeg that they decided to go south to a warmer climate. And they landed in Minneapolis, Minn. The boys stuck together, as some of them could not talk English. So for about a year, they worked in Minneapolis. They then decided to break up, and each of them go to their relatives. Martin headed for Velva, N. Dak., where an older brother was farming. His name was Ole Ringsaker. Here he stayed for one year. Then he headed for Bemidji, Minn., and here he spent a winter, working in the timber. In the spring of 1991, he enrolled in a business college, in Crookston, Minn. After schooling, he went to Greenbush, Minn., to work in a hardware and implement store.
L R . RONEY FAMILY L. R. Roney, or " B u d " as he was more familiarly known, was born Oct. 23, 1891, in Bethany, III. He attended schools there, graduating from high school in 1910. He came to North Dakota some time around 1915 to visit his sister and her family, Mr. and Mrs. W. S. Eikenberry, who farmed four miles north of Grafton, N. Dak. He stayed on the farm a while, then went back to Illinois. He returned a short time later, and worked on the farm; later he worked at the State School and the Grafton Roller Mill. He was called into military service during World War I, 1918, stationed in Grand Forks, then somewhere on the East Coast. His outfit was one of the last to go overseas. Some of them got the influenza during the 1918 epidemic, including him, and were hospitalized. The Armistice was signed before another boat could be loaded. He joined the Grafton Light and Water Department as an engine operator on Apr. 1, 1920, and was named superintendant in 1933. In 1955, the two departments were separated and he continued to head the light and power division. He retired in April, 1961, after serving 41 years. One of the incidents he recalled was a special trip to Pembina for the pontoon bridge the City had purchased. He was one of the men who "rode" the bridge down the Red River to Grafton. He died April 7, 1969, and is buried in the Crescent Cemetery.
Mr. and Mrs. Martin Ringsak Here, he met Minnie Mattson, and they were married. She was born in Alexandria, Minn., the daughter of Mathis Mattson and Infia Mattson. Her father came from between Vernland and Sconia, Sweden, and her mother, from Vernland, Sweden. Minnie was the oldest of eight children. The next year, they moved to Blackduck, Minn., and here they stayed for one year. Then Martin took off for Edmonton, Canada, just to look things over. On the way back, on the train, he started to visit with a man by the name of Gunder Olson, who was one of the owners of the Brosnahan Olson Hardware and Implement Company in Grafton. During the visiting, Mr. Olson offered Martin Ringsaker a job in Grafton. So the Ringsakers moved to Grafton, in the year 1914. It was here in Grafton, that Mr. Ringsaker had his name changed to Martin Ringsak. In the course of time, Martin started to buy into the business. On April 6, 1929, he bought out the partners of the business who were Gunder Olson, William Ware, and Mr. Haugan. The firm of Brosnahan and Olson, was founded in the year 1890. It is now operated as the Ringsak Hardware Company. The Ringsaks had two sons, Walter and Elton. Walter lives in Grafton, and is married to Bemice Gullickson, who is from Hoople, N. Dak. They have a son, Marnell, and a daughter, Luann. Marnell is a lawyer, and is working in western North Dakota. Luann is married to Gary LaMont, and lives in Grafton. Elton Ringsak and family have moved to the state of Arizona, and now make that their home.
L. R. Roney and Emma Paulsen were married Jan. 29, 1918. Bud Roney was married to Emma Margaret Paulsen, Jan. 29, 1918. Emma was born in Maalsev, Nordland, Norway, May 11, 1897, a daughter of Peder and Ragnhild Brovold Paulsen. She came to America, observing her eighteenth birthday on the boat. There was a fire on the boat and they almost had to turn back. Fortunately, the fire was put out and they were able to continue on the journey. She arrived in the Grafton area in the summer of 1915. She came to her two sisters in Grafton, Mrs. Ole Moe and Ragna Paulsen, who married H. V. Mott. During her early years in Grafton, Emma learned to speak and write the English language without going to school. Her early jobs were doing cafe work, working at the Merchants Hotel, and at the State School. In later years, she worked at Field's Dry Cleaners and
Grafton Drug. She retired in 1 971. She was active in the Chase School Mothers' Circle while her children were in school. She was also active in the American Legion Auxiliary, serving as president in 1938, was a member of Eastern Star, Royal Neighbors, and Rebekah Lodges. There were three children born to the Roneys — Emma Louise, Harold Douglas, and Robert Paul. Mrs. Roney died Feb. 19, 1976, and is buried in Crescent Cemetery. Emma Lou Roney, born Dec. 10, 1919, attended Chase School and Grafton High School, graduating in 1937. She was employed by the Light and Water Department, J. C. Penney Co., and Bill Offuft Potato Co.
L. R. Roney Family: left to right, Mrs. Roney, Paul, Emma Lou, Douglas, Mr. Roney. Photo by Salter Studio, Grafton, 1933. She was married to Earl Anthony DeSautel July 3, 1941, in the old St. Louis Cathedral, New Orleans, La. They lived a short time in Alexandria, La„ near three large army camps, before "Pearl Harbor"; then resided in LaGrande, Ore. She returned to Grafton when the "boys" were sent overseas. One son was born to the Earl DeSautels on Aug. 2, 1942 - Paul Anthony DeSautel. Earl lost his life on Bougainville Island, South Pacific, Dec. 27, 1943. Emma Lou and son, Paul, lived in Grafton until November, 1952, when they moved to Puyallup, Wash. About 20 years later, in February, 1973, Emma Lou returned to Grafton to care for her mother, Mrs. Roney, who suffered a stroke. Mrs. Roney recovered enough to make a trip to Norway, her birthplace up in the northern tip, accompanied by Emma Lou. This was the one and only trip to Mrs. Roney's homeland. Truly "a dream come true" for Mrs. Roney. Douglas Roney, bom Jan. 24, 1921, attended Chase School and Grafton High School, graduating in 1939. He worked for Western Union and Homer's I.G.A. Store. He took some machine shop training from Hugo Kutz and a course at the University of North Dakota. He was employed by Remington Arms Co., in Denver, Colo., until his enlistment in the U. S. Navy, August, 1942. He received training at schools for machinists and sheet metal work. He was assigned to the baby flattop U.S.S. Guadalcanal, September, 1943, with a task force submarine patrol in the North Atlantic. A well kept secret was this task force, which captured and boarded a German Submarine in June, 1944. This news was not released by the government for about a year. After his discharge from service, he attended watchmakers School in Denver, Colo. He operated the Roney Jewelry in Park River, East Grand Forks, Minn., and Denver, Colo., where he now makes his home. He married the former Marcella Erickson of East Grand Forks, Minn., on Nov. 12, 1944. Two sons were born to them — Michael Douglas and Gary Lee (who died at about two years old). They adopted a girl, Marsha Lynn. They all make their home in and around Denver, Colo. Paul Roney, born November 2, 1922, attended the Grafton
schools. He worked as a delivery boy for Anholt's Grocery (the beginning of the present Fairway), then Maher's Bakery. He was a member of Co. C, 164th Infantry, National Guard, and went to active service with them to Camp Claiborne, La., in February, 1941 He received a medical discharge in September. He then went to Rockford, III., to work. He enlisted in the Paratroopers in 1943. His outfit was sent to the European Theatre, where they took part in the Allied Invasion through Italy to Germany, and the Battle of the Bulge. After his discharge, he attended School of Science at Wahpeton, N. Dak., where he became an electrician. He worked for the City of Grafton; at Moorhead, Minn.; in Fargo; and in San Diego and Anaheim, Calif. He now makes his home at Anaheim. He married the former Marjorie Ann Larson Nov. 10, 1943. A son and a daughter were born to them — Robert Paul, Jr., and Deborah Ann.
JOE M.ROSE AND FAMILY I Joseph M. Rose, was born Sept. 11,1916,1 remember as a boy going to school in Voss, N. Dak., when everyone bought Model T Fords. I enjoyed farming with my dad, and riding on the machinery with him. We moved to Grafton, N. Dak., in 1929. Going to school was a lot different than in Voss. Dad was still farming from town, and I would go out and help him and enjoyed doing so. Then in the year 1934, the year of the great "dust storms," I started helping Stanley Bessette in the garage in Oakwood, N. Dak. While farming with dad, I got a job working for Norris Sando, in the Cities Service Station for a monthly salary of $60. From here I went to work for the Ford Garage, for one year, and from there I went to the Chevrolet Garage known then as Overby and Scidmore Chevrolet Co. The garage paid for a course at the Hanson Mechanic School. I was employed with the Chevrolet Company as a mechanic for six years, with a starting salary of $80 a month. I married Marjorie Ganyo, the daughter of Jim Ganyo, Drayton, N. Dak., on Oct. 9, 1945. I was still employed for the Overbye and Scidmore Chevrolet Co., until the spring when I built my own shop, and became self-employed as of April 6, 1946.1 was in the business of building homes with my sons for a time, but never stopped working on automobiles. Along with my shop I repaired, fixed, and painted used cars for the Ford Garage and some for the Chevrolet Garage also. I put in a quarter of a century for the Ford people, under six different ownerships, I stayed in the automobile business until retiring in the fall of 1979. In our family we have six children — Cordell, Mark, Chester, Connie Gregory, and Lorraine. All of our children were born in Grafton', delivered by Dr. C. C. Rand or Dr. W. P. Teevens of Grafton. My wife, Marjorie, was educated in local schools around Grafton. She is presently employed at Unity Hospital, where she has been a nurse's aide since August of 1958. Cordell married Alice Henschell, on Feb. 4, 1967; they have two children, Brian and Shelly, and reside in Grafton. Cordell served in the National Guard from 1966 to 1978. Mark married Sylvia Boettger, Sept. 10, 1976. They have one child, Matthew, and reside in Langdon, N. Dak. He went on after high school to Bottineau and also Brookings, S. Dak., to college. He served in the Army for three years, trained at Fort Lewis, Wash., and Fort Ord, Calif. He spent one year in Korea, and one year in Turkey. Chester married Ellen Rosencrans, on Mar. 4, 1977. They have three children - Deanne, Chipper (Robert) and Harmony Jo - and live in Grand Forks, N. Dak. Chester went on to 1
Bottineau School of Forestry and Mayville State College. He served in the Navy, trained at San Diego, Calif., and spent two years aboard the U.S.S. Camden in the Pacific Ocean. Connie, married to Gary Knapp on Nov. 27, 1970, has two children — Tammy and Christie. They are living in Cadillac, Michigan. Connie went on from high school to Aaker's Business College, Grand Forks. Gregory married Sandy Welsh on July 16, 1977. They have no children at this time, and are living in Grafton. Lorraine is the youngest and is presently attending the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks.
ANNARUNGA In Liepaga, on the Baltic south coast, which is a city divided' into an old town, typical of the Middle Ages, and a new town, with broad streets and fine squares, was born one of Grafton's highly esteemed citizens, Anna Runga. In Latvia, which had a high standard of literacy, Anna received the equivalent of a high school and junior college education. She also learned the practice of bee-keeping and took courses in first aid treatment. These advantages were to serve her well in the crisis to come. She can speak German, Russian and Latvian. Latvia declared her independence from Russia during the turbulence that followed the Soviet revolution in 1917. For a long time, life was reasonably serene and pleasant, orderly and respected. Anna married a colonel in the Latvian army; they lived in government housing, especially for high ranking officials. They often spent happy hours at her husband's small farm among the fields of grain and the herds of grazing cattle. Her husband died in 1939, on the eve of the shocking changes which were to rock the world. Just before his rape of Poland, Adolf Hitler of Germany signed a pact with Joseph Stalin of Russia which countenanced Russia's move to take over Latvia and her sister states. Then the treachery of the international power struggle of that time reversed the trend of events and Hitler invaded Russia. Germany then occupied Latvia from 1941 to 1944. In 1945, Russia reconquered Latvia and at the present writing the country is entirely under communist domination. About ninety-five percent of the farms were collectivized and great numbers of Latvians were forcibly resettled in other parts of the Soviet Union. Anna became separated from her daughter. She took refuge in displaced persons' camps in Germany. While in the last camp near Heidelberg, she began a study of the English language. She hoped to come to an English-speaking country. She finally secured affidavits certifying her for employment in the United States of America. Her certification was for bee-keeping. She came to this country by ocean liner, landing in Boston. She came directly to Grafton by train. She first found employment in the Norman Rest Home on Stephen Avenue in Grafton where she helped care for elderly people. She learned of an opening in the Deaconess Hospital in Grafton; she applied for the job. Her first work for babies was to cut wrapping to cover the bottles after they had been sterilized. She received a month's observation-training in the delivery room and then embarked on her long career of caring for babies in the nursery, together with duties in the delivery room. Her background in hospital work, prior to that, had been limited to several first aid courses she had taken in her native Latvia. She spent many hours feeding premature babies with an eye dropper. Doctors learned to rely upon her knowledge and capabilities and consulted with her before making out the charts. She cared for hundreds of babies and when those babies grew to adulthood and
had babies of their own, she cared for them. Her home was an upstairs room in the residence of Mrs. Martin Ringsak where she lived for the twenty-three years that she worked in the Grafton Hospital. When she retired, she took up residence in Eastview Manor where she lives with her books, her records and her memories. She is an avid reader; she loves the many operas which have come out of Europe. She is almost resigned to never seeing her daughter, her grandchildren and her great-grandchildren. The course of living has many unexpected twists and turns, who knows? On the fourth of July, 1980, Runga received word of another great grandchild born to her that makes two boys and one girl. Source: a Grafton Record article by Clarence Schuldheisz; the New University Encyclopedia. Script by Kenneth Colter. JOHN AND KATHERINE SASS FAMILY John Sass, the son of Stanislaus and Katherine Misalek Sass, was born at Warsaw, N. Dak., in Pulaski Township April, 1888. He married Katherine Prondzinski at Warsaw, Nov. 18, 1907. They settled at Minto where he and a brother, Nick, operated a dray line. They bought a team of horses for $400.
Mr. and Mrs. John Sass From there the Sasses moved to Auburn and lived on a farm. There they lost all their belongings in a fire. It seems that some of the boys were trying to smoke out a gopher, and fire caught in the straw that was used to bank the house for warmth during the winter. This was on an Easter Sunday. The family then moved to another farm near Auburn, in Farmington Township. Later they moved to St. Andrews Township and lived there for a number of years, leaving that area to make their home on the John Popowski farm, in Harriston Township, renting that for several years. Mr. Sass was a farmer all of his life except for a few years as a construction worker after moving into Grafton in 1945. They were the parents of nine children — Edwin, in Minneapolis; Isabel (Mrs. Edmund Pagote), Salem, Ore.; Irene (Mrs. Frank Rolczynski), deceased in 1946; Leonard who married Cecilia French, died in 1959; Arthur, deceased at the age of nine; Virginia McGuire, Salem, Ore.; Eugene, Hettinger, N. Dak.; John E. who married Rita Blaski, and died in 1964; and Aurelian, in Wisconsin. Mrs. Sass died in 1957 and he died in 1966; they are both buried in St. John's cemetery in Grafton, N. Dak.
OLE AND MARIE SETTINGSGARD FAMILY Ole Settingsgard, son of G. Herbrand and Guri Brye Settingsgard, was born at Hoi, Hallingdal, Norway, Aug. 6, 1868. He came to America with his parents when nine years old. They settled in Coon Valley, Wise. Ole came to North Dakota
while still a young man, and worked in the Grafton area.
ELMER AND JOSEPHINE SONDELAND
He married Marie Moe Nov. 27, 1895, at the first Grafton Lutheran Church which was on the present church cemetery site. She was born in Decorah, la., the daughter of Guttorm G. and Andrea Stianson Moe, on Sept. 3, 1876, After a move to Granite Falls, Minn., they traveled by covered wagon to North Dakota, arriving in May, 1880, and homesteaded two miles south of Grafton, N. Dak.
Elmer Lauritz Sondeland was bom Sept. 30, 1909, to Lauritz J. Sondeland and Emma Loe Sondeland, Auburn, N.
Dak. Elmer attended school in that area and spent his early life on the farm with his parents; two brothers. John and Melvin; and six sisters, Laura, Ida, Hilda, Thea, Lillian and Martha. In 1932 he met Josephine Misialek in Auburn and the couple were married. They have four children — Marilyn E. Ginder, Hoople. N. Dak.; Duane E. Sondeland, Breckenridge, Minn.; Betty Jean Krueger, Downey, Calif.; and Lewis R. Sondeland, Hawley, Minn. They have thirteen grandchildren and one great grandson.
Wedding picture of Ole Settingsgard and Marie Moe, 1895. Following their marriage they homesteaded near Edmore, Ramsey County, N. Dak. Their first home was a sod house which they built. A frame house was later erected which is still standing on the homestead. They were actively involved in the organization and establishment of church and schools. They experienced many difficulties, hardships, and severe weather. It was, however, a generation of sharing with neighbors — in work, joys, and sorrows. They farmed until retirement, in 1920, at which time they bought a home in Grafton, and made their home there. He died Dec. 1, 1936, at age 68. She died Aug. 2 1 , 1975, at age 98. They both showed a sincere devotion to duty and a genuine interest in the support of churches and human welfare. Five children were born to them: Gena, George, Esther, Hazel and Oliver. Gena married Herman O. Dahl (son of pioneers Oluf and Tilda Dahl), a rural mail carrier. They made their home in Grafton, had one son, Paul, who is presently director of Svee Rehabilitation Home in Fargo. Gena died in Sept., 1970, and Herman, in December, 1974. George married Theoline Staven at Grafton in 1920, and continued farming operations in Edmore until retirement. They have two children: Marion Morseth and Grant Settingsgard (married to Donna Preston) who now owns the farm his grandparents homesteaded. Esther was a teacher befoer her marriage to John L. Stevens of Edmore. They have two sons, Duane and Jerry. They moved to California in 1937, and make their home in Simi Valley, Calif. Hazel, a retired federal civil service employee with service in Washington, D. C., St. Paul, and North Dakota, now makes her home in Grafton. She was married to Gordon S. Stephenson, who was also in federal service. He is deceased as are two children, Robert and Jean. Oliver married Dorothy Ford at Park River in 1940. They have one daughter, Annmarie. He was employed by a local automobile dealer in Grafton and served in the Americal Division during World War II. He moved to California in 1963, is now retired and living in Simi Valley.
Children of Mr. and Mrs. Elmer Sondeland Elmer was employed mostly in the Grafton area on the N. P. Railroad and for 27 years for the Grafton Street Department. His health was failing and he retired, which didn't agree too well with him. Elmer was badly injured when he fell while working on the roof of his home. Five months later he died (Sept. 28, 1977). He was a member of the Grafton Lutheran Church and is buried in the Lutheran Cemetery. Josephine Sondeland was born on July 24, 1 9 1 1 , to Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Misialek from the Warsaw area. She attended school in different areas and spent all of her years in North Dakota. She lives in Grafton and has for 45 years. Josephine's brother and sisters are Bruno Misialek, Martha Elshaug, Irene Elshaug, Joe Misialek, Leonard Misialek and
Eleanor Birk, all of Grafton; Christine Pykosz of Grand Forks, N. Dak., and Richard Misialek, Virginia, Minn. William L. Ginder was born Oct. 28, 1928, in Grafton, N. Dak., to William J. Ginder and Edna (Johnston) Ginder of Hoople, N. Dak. He was their first-born child. William has two sisters, Arlene and Elsie. A baby brother died shortly after birth. William attended school in Hoople and graduated from high school in 1949. He attended North Dakota State University at Fargo, N. Dak. He farmed with his father until he joined the U. S. Air Force in 1951, serving until 1953. After his military service, William went back to farming.
they live in Grand Forks, N. Dak. A daughter, Holly J., was born August 23, 1966, and lives at home and attends high school. William and Marilyn are farming near Hoople. They are members of the Hoople United Methodist Church. Duane Elmer Sondeland was born in Grafton, N. Dak., on Mar. 2 1 , 1934, to Elmer and Josephine (Misialek) Sondeland. He is married to the former Bonnie Duff, daughter of Walter and Blanche (Levang) Duff, of Hoople, N. Dak. They are the parents of three children — David Duane, Julie Ann and Debra Kay. Duane is presently employed as general manager of Sigco Sunflower Products, Breckenridge, Minn. Betty Jean (Sondeland) Krueger was born in Grafton, N. Dak., on Jan. 1, 1936, to Elmer L. and Josephine R. (Misialek) Sondeland. She attended Chase School and Grafton High School where she was very active as a high school cheerleader and majorette for the Grafton City Band under the direction of Joe Birkeland that traveled throughout the United States. She was employed with Ernie's Business Service as a secretary and in accounting. Betty Jean married James R. Krueger on Oct. 29, 1955, in St. John's Catholic Church in St. Thomas.
Mr. and Mrs. William Ginder Family: seated, left to right, Jolyn, Terry (standing) Mrs. Ginder, Mr. Ginder holding Holly. On Aug. 24, 1954, William married Marilyn E. Sondeland in the Grafton Lutheran Church. Marilyn was born Mar. 3, 1933, on the Arthur and Thea Hove farm, near Grafton, N. Dak., to Elmer L. and Josephine (Misialek) Sondeland. She was their first born child. Marilyn has two brothers and one sister; Duane, Betty Jean and Lewis. Marilyn attended school in Grafton and graduated from high school in 1951. She worked in the office at the Gamble Store in Grafton for three years before her marriage. William and Marilyn had four children. A daughter, Jolyn E., was born July 3, 1955. She married Warren Stevens Apr. 23, 1977. They have a son, Ryan, who was born Dec. 14, 1978. They live in Westby, Mont. A daughter was born Aug. 3 1 , 1 9 5 6 , and died shortly after birth. A son, Terry W., was born Dec. 4, 1957. He married Jill A. Johnson Dec. 8, 1979, and at present
The James R. Krueger Family: left to right, James R. Krueger (father), Carrie Jo, Christine, Carla Jenine, and Betty Jean (mother). They moved to South Gate, Calif., where they raised three daughters. Christine was born Dec. 22, 1957; Carrie Jo, on Nov. 2, 1959; Carla, on Apr. 15, 1961. They all attended parochial school at Our Lady of Perpetual Help and Warren High School in Downey, Calif., where their residence has been for 16 years. Christine works for Zerox Corporation as a supply order representative in Santa Fe Springs, Calif. Carrie Jo is a legal secretary for a large law firm in San Jose, Calif. Carla is attending Cerritos College, in her second year, majoring in mathematics. James and Betty Jean have just celebrated their 25th Wedding Anniversary. James is self-employed in real estate investments in California and Utah; and is president of Krueger Equipment Company and Krueger Plastic Products. Betty Jean works for Reliance Steel and Aluminum Company in Los Angeles as an accountant in the corporate office. They belong to a bridge group that has been meeting once a month for the past 15 years. They also bowl on a church league and are active members of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, in Downey.
Duane Sondeland Family: left to right, standing, Julie and David; seated, Bonnie (mother), Debbie, and Duane (father).
Lewis Richard Sondeland was born Dec. 15, 1942, in Grafton, N. Dak., to Elmer L. and Josephine (Misialek) Sondeland. He married Bonita Lee Jorstad from Orr, N. Dak., a daughter of Chris K. Jorstad and Anna J. (Quam) Jorstad. They
Louis Sondeland Family: left to right, Bonnie (mother), Scott, Lewis (father), Kimberly; front, Kathy and Richard. have four children — Lewis Scott, Kimberly Ann, Richard Allen and Katherine Leigh. Lewis is employed as a sheetmetal worker for Robert Gibb and Sons, Fargo, N. Dak.
v^zecn people moving to a village oy me name oi vesen. munro Catherine Spale as a widow was very poor. It was a burden for her to provide food and clothing for her children. She sent Frank to investigate the State of North Dakota for a better living, and he wrote back to follow him — that there was a future in North Dakota. They came and settled in Veseli where Frank obtained a farm job. Jake attended school district Nova 6 which was located between Pisek and Veseli. Later Frank rented a farm, southwest of Veseleyville where they all resided. When Jake became 12 years old he went out to work on a farm, which was very hard for him to do. There were long days of work, walking behind a walking plow and harrow; the wages were $375 per year, with board and room. At the age of twenty-two, on Oct. 10, 1910, he married Josephine Tupa. They lived a half mile north of Veseleyville. The wedding took place in Saint Luke's Catholic Church, which they both belonged to at that time; they both sang in the church choir. After their marriage they rented a farm and operated a grocery and hardware store in Veseleyville. Four children were born to Jake and Josi: Mrs. Wences (Gaddie) Suda, Jerry and Felix Spale, and Mrs. Charles (Beaty) Karnik, presently all of Grafton, N. Dak.
JACOB AND JOSEPHINE SPALE Jacob F. Spale was born Apr. 10, 1888, in Voltin Village No. 10, State of Tabor, Czechoslovakia, the son of Frank and Catherine (Vasta) Spale. His father, Frank Spale, expired in Czechoslovakia a few years before he left Czechoslovakia. Jacob did not know his father for he was a small child. Jacob came to the United States in 1893 with his mother, brother and three sisters, to the City of Chicago. Jacob was better known as Jake. Before they came they wrote to Joseph and Wences Spale, brothers of Jake, who had already been in Chicago for a couple of years, for advice and recommendations if they should follow. Jake's brother, Frank, and Jake's mother were to decide on that matter, for Frank was the oldest brother. Jake was five years old when they came to America. There were seven boys and four girls in the family. They lived in Chicago for a couple of years, and Jake attended grade school at the Kollej Svotej Prokopa, V Lisle, III. In time they heard of
Fiftieth wedding anniversary picture of Jacob and Josephine Spale and their family, Oct. 10, 1960. In the year 1919, they sold the store and moved to a farm three miles east of Veseleyville. In the fall of 1941 they had an auction sale on all the machinery and horses, and purchased a dairy farm outside the town of Drayton, N. Dak. In October, 1946, they discontinued the dairy business. Jake was then employed at Peavey Elevators as a second man in Drayton. On July 1, 1947, he was promoted to manager-grain buyer, which was alright with Jake. "He always loved bookwork, to help and meet people. In 1949, Jacob and Josephine purchased 320 acres of Red River land. Jake was always interested in community affairs. He served as church trustee, sang in church choir for seventy-seven years, played a clarinet, violin, and organ, and piano in bands and orchestras; he was assessor in Walsh Centre Township, County of Walsh, for many years, and one year in the town of Drayton. He was a member of the triple " A " (Agricultural Adjustment Administration) when it was first formed, back in the early 1930's; served twenty years as a treasurer of School District No. 80. In 1954, at the age of 67, he retired from Peavey Elevator. Thereafter his hobby was reading, visiting and keeping a diary of weather and special events. In February, 1961, Jacob and Josephine decided to move to Grafton where their children were residing.
Wedding picture of Jacob F. Spale and Josephine Tupa. Married on Oct. 10,1910.
Josephine was born Dec. 13, 1889, one half mile north of Veseli, Prairie Centre Township, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Matt
Tupa. They had a family of eleven children — seven girls and four boys. Matt and Catherine came to the United States about 1875 from Czechoslovakia and settled in Iowa. Shortly after they decided to move to Walsh County and settled on 160 acres of land, a half mile north of Veseli. They came with a covered wagon and horses from Iowa. At first they lived in a sod house. Shortly the Czech people organized and wanted a Catholic Church. Matt and Catherine were very much interested and donated five acres of land on which Saint Luke Catholic Church is built. Josephine was one of the younger members of the family. She attended the Veseleyville grade school, and was a house wife all her life. Her hobbies were visiting, gardening, canning, and cooking. She died at the age of 81 years on Aug. 18, 1971. Jacob expired at the age of 85 years on Nov. 29, 1973. Both are buried in St. John's Catholic Cemetery, Grafton.
LOUIS AND LAURA STAMUS Like so many immigrants from across the Atlantic, Louis Stamus spoke little of his antecedents or his former life. He came from Greece and landed in New York, later coming to North Dakota. He had two brothers, Ernest and Tom Stamus, who lived in Minot. His wife wrote that "it was difficult to understand his English but it got better and I got used to it." He couldn't read the menu or speak English when he arrived in New York so he pointed to an item not knowing what it was. It turned out to be eggs. For several days his meals were eggs. He didn't think he would ever eat eggs after that. I can't remember ever preparing eggs for him. Then he met a Greek fellow who ordered for him. He bought reading material that would help him to learn to speak American. Mrs. Stamus further writes: 'I was married Nov. 17, 1917, to Louis Stamus. We lived in Minneapolis until January,
Louis Stamus and his brother, Tom. Louis Stamus owned the Chocolate Shop. David Sgayias, grandson of Louis and Laura Stamus of Crafton. David received a Bachelor of Arts Degree from the University of Manitoba, May 25, 1972. Hill Avenue. Louis Stamus passed away in February, 1958. Whereas, Louis Stamus' antecedents in Greece are obscure, 'he worked for the government' was all that his wife knew. The antecedents of Mrs. Stamus (Laura Goutermont) are rooted deeply in the history of the United States, dating back to the Mayflower and the expedition of Government Winthrop in 1630. Her paternal grandmother's ancestors came from England; her maternal grandmother came from Germany, bringing three children, one of whom was Laura's mother. Paternal ancestors were numbered among the Pilgrims who landed in 1620 at Plymouth and with Governor Winthrop in 1630. Records of the latter group still exist in the family. They contain letters written by Governor Winthrop to the original family in England and the signatures of persons in each succeeding generation in America. In 1775, Ezra Pond II enlisted with the colonists and fought during the Revolutionary War; he was of the fourth generation from the Governor Winthrop expedition. A son-in-law of Ezra Pond, namely, Henry Carter, served in two great wars — in 1812, at the age of 13, and in 1861, at the age of 62. He passed as a man of lesser years because of his splendid physique, and served his country in the Civil War strife. In World War I, a grandson made the supreme sacrifice in France. Members of the Goutermont family in the Civil War were Franklin, who volunteered Feb. 2 1 , 1864; Charles, who volunteered Aug. 12, 1862; and James, Sept. 2 1 , 1864. It is recorded that in 1794, a free tract of land in Wolf Creek Township was given to James Pond for service in the American
Louis, Vasilo and Laura Stamus. 1918, when we went to Minot, N. Dak. We worked at the Pure Food Cafe in Minneapolis and at the Waverly Cafe in Minot. We lived in Mowot about three years, then moved to Winnipeg for a short while. In 1922, if I remember right, we came to Grafton and I'm still here. We opened The Chocolate Cafe and Confectionery in 1924 in the Minnie Shannon building, next to the Strand Theatre, where Miss Shannon previously had. a millinery shop. She moved across the street but lost her shop a few years later by fire. Louis Stamus was in the old Shannon building for a year when he decided to build a new brick building. During the erection of the new building, he moved his business over to Sixth Street, in a vacant building next door to the news agency which had been a furniture store. After they sold the Chocolate Shop, they had a cafe in the four hundred block on
Vasilo Jane Stamus and her husband, Perry Sgayias, of Winnipeg, Manitoba.
Revolution. This is but a partial list of ancestors of Laura Stamus who participated in the unfolding of American history. The list also includes members of the Daughters of the American Revolution. Laura J. Goutermont was born Nov. 25, 1892, at Dodge Center, Minn. She has one brother living in Good Thunder, Minn., and a sister in St. Paul. Three brothers have passed away. Louis Stamus belonged to the Masonic Lodge. He went to the Episcopal Church and later joined the Methodist Church. Louis and Laura Stamus had one daughter, Vasilo, who married Perry Sgayais who works for the Canadian National Institute for the Blind. Thev have one son, David, living in Ottawa, Ontario. He is a Canadian government attorney.
Highway Department. Roger Gordon was bom June 2 1 , 1951, graduated from Grafton High School, and has his own business, Stark Roofing and Painting. Roger married Sandra Mohagen on Aug. 5, 1978. She is the daughter of Alfred and Dorothy Mohagen of Grafton. They built their house in rural Grafton. Steven Gillis Stark was born May 14, 1955, graduated from the Grafton High School, and is a carpenter by trade. In 1978, Steven married Valerie Havis, daughter of James and Vivian Havis of Grafton. They are the parents of a daughter, Abby Christine, born July 20, 1978. The family lives in Grafton. At present Gordon is building trades instructor at the Vocational School in Grafton, and Donna is employed by Carnegie-Bookmobile Library.
GORDON AND DONNA STARK Gordon Alfred Stark was born Nov. 16, 1926, in Grafton, N. Dak., the oldest child of Alfred and Christine Stark, rural Grafton. He graduated from the Grafton High School, and enlisted in the U. S. Navy, in November of 1944. He served in the North Alantic Theatre, and was discharged July 5, 1946.
THE ADAM STAVERT FAMILY
Gordon returned to Grafton and purchased, in partnership with Fritz Finger, Fish's Variety Store. This partnership was dissolved in 1962, and Gordon entered the construction business with his father and brother. He later took over the contracting business, and specialized in homes and cabinet building. As his sons, Roger and Steven, grew older they, too, entered the business.
Adam was the son of Scottish parents. His father, John, was born in Glasgow, Scotland, in 1844, and his mother, Christina, was born in Edinburgh in 1850. In Scotland, John was a railroad engineer, and Christina was l^dy-in-waiting to a Lady Gibson. They were married in Edinbu/gh about 1873 and emigrated to the United States in 1874 pit 1875. They lived in Fowler, Ind., for several years, and their three oldest children were born there: Agnes Christina in 1876, Margaret Alice in 1878, and John Hamilton in 1881. They came to Dakota Territory, to what is now Arvilla, N. Dak., in 1882, and Adam Alexander was born there on Aug. 4, 1883. Late in the fall of 1883, they homesteaded in the area that was to become Island Lake Township of Rolette County. The Staverts were pioneers in a farming community inhabited by many other Scottish people. Their school was called the Scotch Block School, and the Staverts were among charter members of the Island Lake Presbyterian Church. Margaret Alice died of a "summer complaint" in 1892, and John Hamilton died of a burst appendix in 1 9 0 1 , while attending business school in Minneapolis. When John Stavert died in 1916, his nephew, another Adam Stavert, came from Scotland to manage the farm. In the Depression of the 30's they gave up the farm.
Gordon was active in the Chamber of Commerce and the retail Merchants Committee, in Boy Scouts as Scoutmaster, and also served on the Grafton City Council for twelve years. He has also been active in the American Legion, serving in local offices in Grafton Post 4 1 , and two state offices. At present he is chairman of Post 41 Building Corp., and is post historian. He is also, at present, a member of the Grafton Planning and Zoning Commission.
The Cordon Stark Family Gordon married Donna Erlendson on Aug. 5, 1949. Donna is the daughter of Eggert and Margaret Erlendson of Grafton. She graduated from Grafton High School, and was employed as secretary in the Walsh County Welfare office at the time of her marriage. They are the parents of three children. Sandra Christine, born April 13, 1950, graduated from Grafton High School and the Wahpeton State School of Science. She was married to Tom Wallner of Richardton, N. Dak., Oct. 2 1 , 1972. They are the parents of a son, Brian Thomas, born November 12, 1976. They are residents of Bismarck, N. Dak., where Tom is employed by Job Service, and Sandy is a secretary in the
Adam Alexander and Elizabeth Ann (Cain) Stavert did not come to live in Walsh County until the summer of 1917, but both were children of early settlers in Dakota Territory. Ancestors of Adams Alexander Stavert.
Agnes Christina (Sic) and her mother became residents of Walsh County. Christina died in 1937, and Agnes Christina died in 1948. All the Staverts except Adam Alexander are buried at Rolla, N. Dak. At the time that Margaret Alice died, there were no burying grounds at Island Lake, so lots were obtained at the Rolla cemetery. Ancestors of Elizabeth Ann (Cain) Stavert. Elizabeth Ann Cain was of Scottish and English background. She was born in Avondale, Ontario, on July 28, 1881, the eldest child of John Cain and Sarah Scott (Hamblin) Cain. The Cains migrated to Dakota Territory in 1883, and homesteaded near the townsite of St. John. John Cain served as a blacksmith in the pioneer community, and was one of the early day sheriffs of Rolette County. He farmed and raised cattle and sheep until his death in 1932. John Cain's family had been in Ontario for many years; an ancestor had been a Tory at the time of the American Revolution and had been given a grant of land on the St. Lawrence river when he fled from New York state. Elizabeth Ann's mother, Sarah Scott Hamblin, was a Canadian school teacher, who married John Cain in 1879. Sarah's mother,
Margaret (Scott) Hamblin, was the daughter of Alexander Scott, who emigrated to Ontario in 1827. The family has a Scott geneology, tracing many of the branches of the family who were descended from Alexander's grandfather, George Scott, who was born in Alloa, Scotland, in 1729. Alexander settled on land which was called Mount Joy Farm at King's Road, Ontario, and this property is still occupied by Scott, descendants. Alexander Scott was reported to be a second cousin of Sir Walter Scott, poet and novelist. Barbara Ann Scott, Olympic Figure Skating Champion in 1948, is in the Scott geneology. Elizabeth Ann's grandfather, Jesse Hamblin, was born in England in 1819, and was the grandson of Robert Hamblin, a shepherd, who was born in Berkshire, England in 1 730. The marriage of Adam Alexander and Elizabeth Ann. Elizabeth Ann Cain came to teach at the Scotch Block School about 1905, where she met Adam Alexander Stavert, the son of local farm people. They were married at her parents' home on Nov. 10, 1907. Adam worked as a grain buyer at Nanson, Rolette, Auburn and Grafton. Their three children were born while they lived at Rolette. Douglas "Gordon" was born on Nov. 19, 1910; Dorothy Lorraine, on Sept. 7, 1912; and Elizabeth "Margaret" on Sept. 3, 1914. The family came to Walsh County in 1917, when Adam became manager of the Auburn Farmers Elevator. The children attended grade school at Auburn, and Gordon and Dorothy graduated from St. Thomas High School in 1928. They went to St. Thomas because the Great Northern train went north about noon each day, returning to Auburn about 5:30. When the weather was good, they drove and attended classes for the whole day; when the roads were impossible or the weather stormy, they were given the privilege of attending only afternoon classes and the teachers assisted them in doing the morning class work at home. The family moved to Grafton in 1930, and Margaret graduated from Grafton High School in 1931. Gordon and Dorothy attended Jamestown College — Dorothy for one year, and Gordon for two years; Margaret went to Minot State for a short period. Elizabeth Ann gave piano lessons in her home, and also taught piano in Hoople, Crystal, St. Thomas and Forest River. In later years she successfully sold life insurance. Elizabeth Ann died in April of 1953, and Adam
Alexander died in June of 1975. Both are buried in the Masonic Cemetery in Grafton. The descendants of Ann and Adam Stavert. D. Gordon Stavert married Helen Christina Brown in April of 1940. They first lived in Grafton, moving to Crosby when Gordon joined the Border Patrol. He enlisted in the Navy, and served as a Navy storekeeper in World War II. After leaving service, Gordon became an auditor for Mobil Oil, and continued in that occupation until his retirement. Helen has been a housewife, and they have lived in Minot for many years. They are the parents of two daughters. Sharon Jeanne is married to Robert Ronning, an oil dealer in Mandan; Sharon is a housewife, and their children are Stephen and Keri, who are both grade school students. Judith Ann Stavert, their younger daughter, is a school teacher in a Minneapolis suburb. Dorothy Stavert married Donald Loos in 1936. Dorothy has been a housewife, and Donald was a partner in Geo. Loos and Sons Hardware. Dorothy has continued to live in the same house that they moved into in 1936, since Donald's death in 1973. Their son, Douglas Lynn, married Janice French in 1959. Janice is a housewife and Douglas is a structural engineer. They live in Bismarck, and are the parents of three children. Barbara Ann is married to Larry Moszer of Bismarck, and Elizabeth Ruth (Beth) and Robert Douglas (Robb) are in high school. The second son, James Stavert Loos, married Janet Grimson in 1942. Jim is a research Physicist and Janet is a CPA. They have two children, Becky, a 17-year-old who is now an exchange student in Japan, and Mike, a high school student. They live in Downers Grove, III. Elizabeth "Margaret" Stavert married Oliver Kana in 1937. Margaret was a housewife, and Oliver was manager of the Grafton Farmers Elevator. Margaret died in 1972, and Oliver is retired, but still doing bookwork for the elevator. They were parents of six children. Dorothy (Jill) is married to LeRoy Stamer. LeRoy is a farmer and seed dealer in Hector, Minn., and Jill is a housewife. Their oldest child, Sally, is married to Randy Ashburn, and they are both continuing their college education. Mike, who attended Vo-Tech school, is farming with his father. Tracy is a college student; Nancy and Jeff are high school students; and Dale is an eighth grader. The second Kana child is John Gary, "Jack". He and his wife, Sonya, live in Black River, Mich., where Jack is employed by the IRS, and Sonya is a housewife. Their two children, Marit and Erik, are in grade school. The third Kana child is Jane, whose husband, John Borland, is employed by a Moorhead bank. Jane is a librarian. Their children are Jennifer and Jay. Marit is a Wycliffe Bible worker and is stationed in Jayapura, Irian Jaya, Indonesia. Janis (Sue) is a Methodist minister. She lives in Starkweather, N. Dak., and has charge of congregations in Edmore, Starkweather and Hampden. Jody, the youngest child, is a sophomore at Minot State, majoring in English and music. Adam and Ann Stavert would have been pleased by some of the accomplishments of their nine grandchildren, and their seventeen great-grandchildren. They would have been proud of the two granddaughters who are in Christian service, and of the successful careers and happy homes of many of the others. The scholastic and musical achievements of many of their descendants would have brought them much satisfaction. E. V. (GENE) AND ELEANOR SWARTZ FAMILY
The family of Adam and Ann Stavert — Gordon Stavert. Dorothy Stavert, Elizabeth Ann Stavert. Adam Stavert. and Margaret Stavert.
Eugene V., better known as Gene, the youngest child of Albert and Nellie A. Kirkey, was born February 10, 1921, at Grand Forks. He grew up and was educated in the Forks,
graduating from Central High School in 1939. That same year he enlisted in the regular Navy. During his six year naval career he served aboard the battleship Arizona, the carriers Hornet and Natoma Bay, and the destroyer Barton. Following World War II he returned to his home state and graduated from UND in 1951, majoring in journalism. On June 9, 1950, Gene married Eleanor Ruth, daughterof Wilmer E. and Myrtle A. Neilson, Hoople. Eleanor was born in Grafton, Nov. 5, 1925. She grew up on her parents farm located about four miles east of Hoople in Glenwood Township. Eleanor finished at Hoople High in 1943 and enrolled at Macalester College, St. Paul the same year. Following graduation from Macalester in 1947 she returned to the home place and taught for two years at Hoople High School.
Eugene (Gene Swartz Family: left to right, front, Eleanor Neilson Swartz, Susan Jane, and Gene; back, Cathy Ellen, Thomas Neil, and Donald Gene Swartz (1964). In 1951 the couple made their residence in Grand Forks where Gene was employed as an advertising salesman with the Herald. Thomas Neil, their first child was born Jan. 3, 1952, and Cathy Ellen arrived May 2 1 , 1 9 5 3 . An important move in the life of the young family came in 1954 when Gene and Eleanor purchased the Dairy Queen store in Grafton. On March 7, 1954, Gene opened the store for business and the family made the move to Grafton in May. For twenty-six years the Swartz's operated the store which became known as D. Q. Gino's. Donald Gene, child number three, came along December 30, 1955, and Susan Jane the youngest member was born Sept. 30, 1960. The Swartz's sold the D,. Q. business in March of 1980 and since that time Gene has been selling life insurance for the Farm Bureau. Eleanor was a mother advisor to the Rainbow Girls for 1958 and 1959, and is an active member of long standing in the Federated church choir, PEO Sisterhood, Chapter X, the Mizpah Chapter of Eastern Star and a special education teacher at the Grafton State School. Gene has been a member of the VFW, American Legion and the Elks for over 30 years. All four of the Swartz children sang with the Grafton high school chorus and the Federated Choir. While in school Tom, Cathy and Don played in the band and orchestra. The two boys were active in prep sports and the girls were both varsity cheerleaders. Tom, graduated from NDSU in 1975 with a degree in Pharmacy and was a registered pharmacist in Minnesota for three years. He is presently on the staff of Campus Crusade for Christ in high school campus ministry at Coon Rapids, Minn. Cathy earned both her bachelor and masters degrees in
Business Education from UND. She taught one and a half years at San Jacinto Junior College in California and four years at Mayville State College. Don, also known as Bim, graduated from UND, majoring in Business Administration. He also lettered four years in hockey for the fighting Sioux. He worked for two years as counselor for young people from the North Dakota state training school and is presently with Gate City Savings and Loan at Park River. Susan is in her second year at Mayville State, majoring in Business Education. Her main hobbies are singing and golf.
MELVIN KASPER SWENSON Melvin Kasper Swenson was born Sept. 2 1 , 1899, the son of Ashel and Sina Swenson, of Grafton, N. Dak. He attended local schools, graduating from high school in 1918. That fall he went to the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, and was enlisted in the R.O.T.C. At the end of World War I he returned to Grafton, and joined his father in the artesian well drilling business. After the death of his father he worked with Stark Brothers, and was also engaged in farming. In 1945 he married Olga Brevik, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ole Brevik, of Edinburg, N. Dak. They were the parents of two children — Marlyn Keith, born May 13, 1946, and Marilyn Karen Henrietta, born Aug. 2, 1947. Melvin died Jan. 6, 1952, and interment was made in Grafton City Cemetery. He was a member of the Grafton Lutheran Church, American Legion, and Modern Woodman Lodge. A year later the family moved to Edinburg, N. Dak., where the children attended school. In 1963 the family returned to Grafton, where the children finished school. His wife, Olga, went to work at the Grafton State School. In March, 1965, Marlyn enlisted in the U. S. Marine Corps, San Diego, Calif., where he received his boot training, and was sent to Vietnam in September of that same year. After completing his tour of duty in Vietnam, he was returned to the United States, in August, 1966, and was stationed at Camp Pendelton until discharged in April, 1968. He received his honorable discharge from the Marine Corps and Marine Reserve in April, 1971. After his return to civilian life he was employed by Hart Machine Shop for twelve years. In April of 1 9 7 1 , Marlyn Swenson married Ruth Ann Hartje, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Lee Hartje, of East Grand Forks, Minn., at the Missouri Synod Church, Grafton, N. Dak. They are the parents of three children: Shiloh Ann, born Sept. 4, 1971; Jason Keith, born July 3, 1973; and Jamey Lov, born Feb. 25, 1975. Marlyn and family members of the Lutheran Church, and American Legion. He is employed at French Manufacturing, Grafton. His wife, Ruth, is employed at the Grafton State School as a programmer. Marilyn Karen Henrietta, daughter of Melvin and Olga Swenson, was born Aug. 2, 1947, at Grafton, N. Dak. She attended school in Edinburg, N. Dak., from 1953 to 1963, where her mother moved after the death of Melvin in 1952. In 1963 Marilyn returned to Grafton with her mother and brother, and graduated from high school in 1965. After school she was employed at the Deaconess Hospital. On Jan. 15, 1966, she was married to Milan J. Mohn, son of Mr. and Mrs. Leroy Mohn, Breckenridge, Minn., at the Grafton Lutheran Church. They are the parents of two children — Shane Douglas, born Feb. 6, 1967, Conrad, Mont., and Kendelyn Marie, born Jan. 19, 1970, Winnipeg, Man., Can.
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The Mohns were divorced in 1 970. Karen has been employed at the Grafton State School, as a programmer since 1970. She is a member of the Lutheran Church, and Royal Neighbor Lodge. Beulah C. Swenson, daughter of Ashel and Sina Swenson, Grafton, N. Dak., was born Oct. 23, 1904. She attended the local schools, graduating in 1922. That fall she entered Union Commercial College in Grand Forks, N. Dak., and after completing the course, worked as follows: Murphy and Murray Real Estate, Grand Forks, 1923 to 1925; DeSoto Creamery and Produce Co., Grafton, N. Dak., 1925 to 1935; Overbye and Scidmore Chevrolet, Grafton, N. Dak., 1935 to 1952; Overbye and Church Chevrolet Co., Grafton, N. Dak., 1952 to 1958; sick and convalescent leave, 1958 to 1960; Kiewel Ford Co., Grafton, N. Dak., 1960 to 1965; Hart Machine and Mfg. Co., Grafton, N. Dak., 1965 to 1980, where she is still employed. She is a member of the Grafton Lutheran Church, American Legion Auxiliary, and Royal Neighbors of America.
HANNAH CAROLYN DOMSTAD TAGG I was born Apr. 10, 1917, at Grafton, N. Dak.; as a child we were all taught to work, including milking the cows, etc.
Family of Joseph Bowe and Carol Ann Bowe, daughter of Hannah Domstad Tagg, left to right, Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Bowe, children, Theodore, Troy, Todd, and Tony. husband passed away Oct. 18, 1969. I have two daughters — Dianne Peters, Bellevue, Wash., has a daughter that is nine years old; Carol Ann Bowe of Republic, Wash., has four boys; Theodore Ronald is 19 and lives here, Troy Lance is attending W. S. University at Pullman, Washington. Todd will graduate from high school this year, and Tony age 1 1 , is in the fifth grade. Carol and her husband Joseph manage SanPoil Saw Mill here in Republic.
I graduated from high school and my folks sold a cow so I could attend school. I waited tables for my room and board and attended Union Business College at Grand Forks, N. Dak. During the Depression my sister, Mabel, and I picked potatoes for Wilfred Collette for two and a half cents a bushel. We beat everybody in the fields! We saved up $50 each and came to Seattle, Wash. While there I waited on tables, nights, and worked as a dental assistant during the day. In 1939, I took a boat trip to Ketchikan, Alaska, and there met my husband, Theodore Tagg. I got a job as a dental assistant and he was managing a grocery store. We married in 1940 and three years later we moved to Bremerton, Wash., and bought a small grocery store. In 1945 we sold it and moved to Republic, Wash., and bought a department store, and also purchased an old rundown ranch. Chief Tonaskit formerly owned this ranch, and we are the first white people to own it. My buildings are all hand-hewn logs. We remodeled the house and, last year, I put in a swimming pool. When my husband was alive we raised Hereford cattle and irrigated the fields from two creeks that run thru my ranch. My
Brook Ann Peters, age nine, daughter of Diane Tagg Peters. Diane Tagg Peters, daughter of Hannah Domstad Tagg. I am a member of the Business and Professional Women and the Lutheran Church. I am still in business. I have Tagg's Dept. Store here in Republic, Washington, and live on my ranch one mile south of Republic. I have the land rented out to a neighbor who has black angus cows and raises hay on my land. Submitted by Hannah Donstad Tagg LYNN THOMPSON FAMILY Lynn J. Thompson is a third generation resident of Walsh County, and a lifelong resident of Grafton. He was bom in Grafton in 1931, the ninth child and second son of L. C. and Julia (Thompson) Thompson. He attended grade school at Farmington School District No. 110, and completed high school in Grafton. He was a member of Grafton's famous Parade Band, and took part in the many trips and parades the band performed in.
Wedding picture of Theodore Tagg and Hannah Carolyn Domstad (1940):
He became associated with his father and brother in a farming operation, based north of Grafton in Farmington Township. They have been producers of small grains, sugar beets, and seed potatoes for the past thirty years. He has served as a director and secretary of the Grafton Farmers Coop Elevator; is a past president of Grafton Curlers; and is presently serving his second term on Graftc 's City Council.
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Nordbo of Hatton, N. Dak. She was a first grade teacher at Chase School in Grafton. They have one son, James.
Lynn Thompson Family He married Gloria Cloutier of Thief River Falls, Minn., in 1958. They are the parents of three daughters — Mary, Catherine, Ellen, and one son, Paul. Gloria is a graduate of the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, with a Bachelor of Science degree in home economics education. She was employed by Grafton's School District prior to their marriage.
MELVIN AND RASMUS VIGNESS Melvin L. Vigness was born May 10, 1887, to Mr. and Mrs. Rasmus M. Vigness, pioneer residents of Walsh County. He lived in Grafton Township for 21 years and received his early education in School District No. 2. For two years, 1906 and 1907, he attended the North Dakota Agricultural College in Fargo. From 1908 to 1911 he was clerk in the office of the County Treasurer, under John Miller. The next three years he was employed by a hardware store in Grafton. In the spring of 1914 he formed a partnership with Charles O'Brien and they operated a cafe in Grafton. In 1918 he sold his interest in the cafe and became a salesman for Bye and Olson, an automobile firm. The following year he helped organize the Grafton Overland Company. Mr. Vigness entered public life in 1918, when he was elected a member of the Grafton Council. Upon the death of John H. Johnson, in 1923, he was appointed City Auditor. He resigned this position after being elected Sheriff of Walsh County. He was re-elected Sheriff in 1926 and left that office in 1928. In April, 1929, he and his family went to Fromberg, Mont., where he was manager of a lumber and implement company.
WILLIS TRAVERS Willis Travers, a son of Mr. and Mrs. Bert Travers, was born and raised in Hoople. He has one sister, Jean (Mrs. Duaine Howland) of Moorhead, Minn.
He returned to Grafton in 1930 and worked for a short time as salesman for Mills and Farup Auto Company. He was nominated in June, 1930, for Walsh County Judge and elected to that post in November. He was the first man in Walsh County to be returned to public office after once leaving it. He was re-elected in 1932 and again in 1934. He never finished his term. He died Feb. 2, 1935, after surgery in St. Paul, Minn.
After graduation from Hoople High School, Willis attended Aaker's Business College in Grand Forks. After this he accepted a job at the bank in Hoople. Two years later he was called into the service of his country, one of these years being spent in Korea.
He was a member of Crescent Lodge, A.F. and A.M., Grafton, and Mizpah Chapter, O.E.S. He had also been a member of The Sons of Norway. He served as chairman of the County Civil Works Administration and later as chairman of the Federal Emergency Relief Committee. On March 12, 1913, he married Elsie Tallackson, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Tallack Tallackson. They had two daughters Maxine (Mrs. Ted Sobolik) and Lenore (Mrs. Marvin Chernow). Rasmus Vigness was born in Lanesboro, Minn., on Jan. 9, 1858, to Mikkel and Malena Vigness of Finnoy, Norway. Rasmus came to Grafton at an early age with his parents. Rasmus farmed southwest of Grafton, homesteaded one quarter of land and later bought another quarter. His mother lived with him after his father died in 1884. He married Use Ask, Feb. 22, 1885, in Mitchell, Co., Iowa. In 1904 Rasmus was elected Walsh County Treasurer. They moved to Grafton to live. At the end of his four years, the family moved back to the farm, where he lived until his death, Apr. 27, 1918. The Vignesses were members of the old Hauges Lutheran Church. They had five children: Melvin, Chester, Dora (Mrs. Harrison Jones), Ruth and Olga (Mrs. Nels Lee). Willis, Artha and James Travers.
MATT VLASEK Matt Vlasek was born in Budiveis, now known as Czechoslovakia, and came to this country at the age of 16 years to an uncle in McGregor, Iowa.
When his military service time was over, he started to work at the Walsh County Bank and Trust Company in Grafton, where he is currently employed. On April 3, 1971, he married Artha 602
At the age of 2 1 , he and the relatives, the Kerian families, came by covered wagon to Minneapolis where Vlasek and his wife, Madeline, remained for about two years. From there they moved to Park River, N. Dak., and lived there about three years. In 1887 they moved to Grafton, N. Dak., and helped to build up the city. Mart Vlasek did carpenter work and built many homes and business places. In the early days he also made caskets for funeral homes, and built many alters for Catholic churches in the area, some of which still exist. He also helped build the big Catholic Church in Warsaw, N. Dak., and its first altars. In 1894, Vlasek took a trip to Europe to visit his parents. In 1896 the family went to California to spend the winter in Los Angeles with his brother, Joseph Vlasek. They returned home in the spring, having discovered they loved North Dakota the best.
farmer at Veseleyville, N. Dak. In 1956 Amelia and Adolph retired from farming and moved to Grafton to enjoy retirement. Adolph Kozojed passed away in 1970. They had three children a son, Adolph, who lives in Macon, Ga., and is a postal clerk in the city of Macon; a daughter, Virginia, who is married to Norman Samson and lives in Vista, Calif., where both are reitred; and son, Virgil, who lives with his mother, Amelia, and is employed by the Grafton State School.
GLEN AND MAE WELTER FAMILY Glen W. Welter was born in Acton Township on July 23, 1912, to Mr. and Mrs. Peter H. Welter. The family moved to a farm in Oakwood Township, three miles east of Grafton, when Glen was four years old. He lived there for 23 years.
They built a new home which they lived in for over 50 years. The home had many hand-made ornaments and carvings. Throughout his life, Matt Vlasek did much beautiful hand carving of wood, and many articles still exist and are cherished remembrances of his life. In 1893 Matt Vlasek had an order from the Ladies Columbian Club of Grafton for nine carved oak chairs, a library table and a shield. Different carved designs appeared on them; one has a group of sun flowers, one a buffalo, one a deer's head, and one has the words "Agricultural Center of North America." This furniture is still in use in the Carnegie Library. In 1893, Mr. Vlasek had orders for chairs from the Minto, N. Dak., Park. Mr. Vlasek died at the age of 74 years in 1934. Mrs. Amelia Kozojed, Grafton, is the only member of the family who resides in Grafton. She has in her home many pieces of furniture carved by her father and also the trunk her father arrived with in the United States from Czechoslovakia. Matt and his wife, Madeline, were the parents of eight children. They are as follows: Paul Vlasek, now age 89, a retired electrical engineer from Bull Dog Electric Corporation, who lives in St. Petersburg, Fla. George Vlasek, age 72, a retired-electrical engineer from Bull Dog Electric Corporation, who lives in Detroit, Mich.
Mae and Glen Welter on their 40th wedding anniversary.
Frank Vlasek, Fargo, deceased, who was a mail clerk on the Great Northern Railroad. Rose Pravda, who now lives in Winona, Minn., was married to Eli Pravda who owned and operated a hardware store in Lankin, N. Dak., and later moved to Velva, N. Dak., to engage in farming. Eli Pravda passed away in 1967. His wife, Rose Pravda, moved to Winona to be close to her daughter, Helen. Lucille Vlasek, who was married to Hans Bangs, Grand Forks, N. Dak., passed away Sept. 29, 1980. Her husband is retired after working as shop foreman for the Hanson Ford Company for 40 years in Grand Forks. Lucille Vlasek taught school in Conway and Vesleyville, N. Dak., before her marriage. Judith Vlasek, deceased, owned and operated a millinery shop in Lankin, N. Dak. She later married Frank Dvorak of Lankin, N. Dak., and moved to Wennatchee, Wash., where Frank Dvorak was a railroad engineer. Alice Vlasek, deceased, married Charles Korbel in Wichita, Kans. Her husband worked for the Boeing Company for many years before he retired.
Glen Welter family, left to right, seated. Glen. Mae and Marlys (Welter) Pederson; standing. Wayne. Daryl and Glen L.
Amelia Vlasek was married to Adolph Kozojed formerly of Cummings, N. Dak. Amelia Vlasek taught school in Warsaw and Vesleyville, N. Dak., before her marriage. Her husband was a
He moved to town when he married Mae Johnson of Grafton on Nov. 15, 1939. The couple celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary Nov. 15, 1979.
Glen has been a farmer all his life and a Walsh County Commissioner for 18 years. He retired from farming in 1 978. They are the parents of four grown children — Daryl G.; Wayne R.; Glen L , Jr.; and Marlys Mae. All were born in Grafton and all are graduates of Grafton Central High School. Daryl graduated from the State School of Science in Wahpeton, N. Dak.; Wayne, from the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks; Glen, Jr., from UND; and Marlys Mae from Mayville State College, Mayville, N. Dak.
RICHARD AND AVIS WEST Richard West is the son of Frederick Louis Stanley West and his wife, Jean O'Hara. Frederick West was born in Melrose, Minn., in September, 1912. He was raised and educated at Champlin, Minn. He worked for Hogenson Construction Company of Minneapolis, building grain elevators throughout the mid-section of the United States. He was the welding foreman. He married Jean O'Hara who was born in Hamilton, N. Dak., on June 26, 1916. They were married in 1936 at Anoka, Minn. They had nine children who now reside in various parts of the United States. Since her husband's death in September, 1962, in Sioux Falls, S. Dak., Jean West has lived in Grafton. During her first years in Grafton, she worked as a cook at Stan's Cafe and later at Bert's Cafe. She is presently employed at Unity Hospital as a nurse's aide. Her son, Richard West, was born in Altona, Manitoba, on Oct. 19, 1946, when they were living at Bathgate, N. Dak. Because of his father's career in the construction business, which involved frequent up-rooting and moving about from state to state, Richard attended schools in North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Kansas, Texas, Mississippi, North Carolina, Georgia, Wisconsin and Minnesota. Richard attended the Law Enforcement Academy in Bismarck. He has credits from Minot State College and the University of North Dakota.
Wayne Welter family, front row, Allison and Amy; standing, Pam and Wayne. Wayne Welter is married to Pam Johnson of Fargo, N. Dak., and they are the parents of two daughters, Amy Jo and Allison Leigh. Wayne is head football coach at Grafton Central High School; teaches health and physical education; and also coaches senior high track and girls' volleyball. Marlys is married to John Pederson of Grafton and they have a daughter, Sara Nicole. Marlys is also a teacher and gives private piano lessons. Her husband is also a music graduate from Mayville State but is currently employed by Marvin's Jewelry in Grafton.
He entered Law Enforcement in Grafton on January 1, 1968. In 1972 he went to work for the Walsh County Sheriff's Department. He married Avis Fett on Sept. 3, 1967, in Lawton, N. Dak. Avis Fett is the daughter of Christ Fett and his wife, Lettie Skara.of Adams, N. Dak. Christ Fett was born in Sogn, Norway, on July 23, 1903, the son of Oscar Fett and his wife, Brite Fett. The name Fett signifies a farm. Oscar and Brite Fett lived on adjoining farms in Norway. Christ Fett came to the United States February 23, 1923. Wisconsin was the first stop where he lived for two years. In 1926, he came to Adams in North Dakota where he joined his uncle, Olaf Fett, on a farm. He worked for farmers until 1929 when he bought a farm, five miles south of Fairdale. He moved to Lawton in 1949. He was a farmer for forty years. Upon retiring,
Mr. and Mrs. John (Marlys Welter) Pederson and Sara Nichole. Daryl is employed in Mission, Tex., and is a semi-truck driver. Glen L., Jr., works for Quad County in Pembina County. Glen and Mae have lived at 643 Prospect Avenue in Grafton for 41 years.
Christ Fett and his wife, Lettie Skara Fett, of Adams. 604
he moved to Grafton in 1969 where the Fetts live on Manvel Avenue. He married Lettie Skara of Adams in 1934 on May 1. They were married in Grafton by Pastor H. A. R. Helsem. Lettie Skara was born March 4, 1904, between Adams and Fairdale, the daughter of Lars Skara and his wife, Dena Halvorsen. Dena was born in Iowa. She died in Grafton at the age of ninety-six. Lars Skara came from Romsdalen in Norway. In 1964, Christ Fett made a trip to Norway at which time he visited his family of two brothers, two sisters, two uncles, two aunts, and several nieces. In 1967, he made a second trip to Norway, this time accompanied by his daughter, Corine. Christ and Lettie Fett have three children — Lloyd, Corine and Avis. Lloyd farms near Bottineau. He married Lois Wall. Their children are Kerri Yo and Daniel. Corine married Wayne Phelps who teaches at Ventura College in California. Their children are Kathie and Michael. The third child of Christ and Lettie Fett is Avis who was born in Lawton in 1 945. She attended school in Lawton and graduated from high school there. She attended a beauty school in Seattle, Wash., where her sister, Corine, lived at the time. Avis came to Grafton in 1964. She worked in Verna's Beauty Shop for five years, then she went to Lady Fair where she worked for another five years. She purchased a shop, Hair Kamp, and went into business on her own. The first Hair Kamp shop was on Hill Avenue in the seven hundred block; then she moved to Manvel Avenue at the foot of Seventh Street; she purchased the Mobil Gas Station on Hill Avenue and extensively remodeled it into a beauty salon.
Grafton. In 1911 he married Mathilda Larson, daughter of Nels and Marie Bakken Larson, early Walsh County pioneers (p. 523, vol. I, Walsh Heritage). Syvert moved his family to Grand Forks before he died. Mathilda died in 1973. Their daughter, Annabelle, resides in Grand Forks. Their daughter, Yvonne, and her husband, Ed Matecjek from Lakota, both died in 1980. Their son, Orville, resides in Moorhead, Minn., and their son, Cyrus Victor Maurice, lives in Washington, D. C. William Williamson (1867-1926) - born at Leland, Illinois — married Louise Ritland (1874-1958) from Story County, Iowa, in 1897. William was a Lutheran pastor and moved about the country. In 1899 Obed was born in Minneapolis, Minn. In 1901, Christian was born at Portland, Me. In 1905, Luther was born at Thompson, Iowa. In 1907, Inga was bom at Des Moines, Iowa.
Avis Fett married Richard West in 1967 in the family church in Lawton. They have two children, Rhonda Michelle and Chris Lee.
WILLIAMSON FAMILY In 1862 Ole Villumsen met and married Kristi Sagaard in Illinois. Both had sailed from Stavanger, Norway, on the same ship to Quebec, Canada. Ole chose to Anglicize his surname; he had had some Norwegian place names to use. Later Ole and Kristi moved to Iowa. Of their seven children, two sons settled in Walsh County, N. Dak., during 1911 to 1915. Syvert Williamson
(1873-1926)
farmed southwest of
Rev. William Williamson, born in Leland, III., came to Grafton in 1914. His family came the following spring. He died in Grafton, 1926. Mrs. William Williamson (Louise Ritland) was born in Story County, Iowa. She came to Grafton in 1915. She died in 1958. After he retired from the ministry, William was urged by his brother, Syvert, to move to Walsh County. William established the Williamson Stock Farm (1915), two miles north of Grafton, on the old Meridian Road. The farm was renowned for its registered Percheron horses and Holstein-Friesian cattle. Obed (H) Jalmar Williamson left the farm to teach school in Grand Forks County. After he received his Columbia University
Donald K. Dike, born Jan. 19, 1890, in Grand Forks. Died May 16, 1966. Farmer in Farmington Township. Member of N. D. Legislature in 1939. Mrs. Donald K. Dike, the former Mary Oathout. Born in Luana, Iowa. Came to Farmington Township in 1914. Died 1961.
Standing: Malcolm O. Dike and George K. Dike. Seated: Mary Nancy Dike Williamson, Margaret Dike Ostlund, Donald K. Dike, and Josephine Dike Maillard.
Company pioneered innovations in the North Dakota dairy industry. Luther was a member of several civic organizations. Mary Nancy and Luther have eight children: Ann, Oakland, Calif.; Laurie (Mrs. Ken Retallic), Grand Forks, N. Dak., (three children); Peter drowned in 1973, leaving his widow, Mary, and son, Per, who live Boulder, Colo.; Erik, Grafton; Aaron, Grand Forks; David; Susan (Mrs. John Braastad), Lomira, Wise; and Karl. ' The Luther Williamsons have resided in the W. C. Treumann house - Elmwood - (see p. 212, vol. I, Walsh Heritage) since 1945. Inga Williamson married Harold Moore, a naval officer, in California. They lived in Grafton several years. Inga died in 1961. Their son, Michael, his wife, and son live in Fertile, Minn.
The family of Mr. and Mrs. William Williamson: standing, Christian Williamson: seated, Luther, Inga and Obed. doctorate, Obed J. moved to Cheney, Washington State, where he taught education at the now Eastern Washington State University. His wife Ruth (nee Cuss) and he have two children, Anna and Guss, and four grandchildren. Christian continued to farm and married Olga Strand of Finley, N. Dak., who taught school in Grafton. Christian was active in local church and political organizations. He was the first president of the local Farm Bureau. He was chairman of the board of supervisors of Oakwood Township for almost 30 years. He served as president of both the Grafton Farmers Elevator and the Deaconess Hospital. Olga and Christian have four children: Obed Ray, Grafton; Ina Zadig, Grafton (five children); Karen (Mrs. Peter Grabanski), Inkster, N. Dak., (five children); and Rita (Mrs. Terry Soine), Thief River Falls, Minn., (three children).
CORRECTIONS FOR VOLUME I Page 55: At the bottom paragraph the byline mentions George and "Mary" Douglas Dike. The caption should read "Nancy Douglas Dike". Page 56: At the top, the wife of Donald Dike was Mary Oathout, not "oatoat".
THE ISABEL (DOMSTAD) WITHEY FAMILY Isabell Domstad was born March 25, 1921, to the Alfred Domstads, on a homestead of John A. Domstad, about a mile west of Grafton. She is the youngest of seven children. Our hobby was work. I preferred herding cows to housework. I had a pony named Phoenix. I started to ride at the age of seven, when I was too small to and couldn't mount. So I sat on his head when he was grazing and he slid me to his back by lifting his head. I graduated from Grafton High School in 1939 and went to beauty school in Minot. I started a beauty shop in Willow City, N. Dak., where I met my husband, Bob Withey. We were married in 1941.
Mr. and Mrs. Bob Withey Family: seated in front, Mr. and Mrs. Withey and three grandchildren below; left to right, Bonnie, Brian, Suzanne, Craig, Pat, Gail, and Connie. From Willow City we went to Seattle where my husband worked in the Bremerton Shipyards. He enlisted in the Army and took part in World War II. He started overseas in France and worked northward and took part in the Battle of the Bulge. He served for six years. After this, we returned to Willow City where he has been a rural mail carrier, and is now nearing retirement.
Luther and Mary Nancy Williamson in 1977. Mary Nancy is the daughter of Donald and Mary Dike. Luther married Mary Nancy Dike, daughter of Donald and Mary Dike, Farmington Township (p. 55, vol. I Walsh Heritage). For over fifty years Luther processed milk, starting from the family farm and delivering milk in a top buggy. His Grafton Milk 606
We have seven children: Connie, Bonnie, Susie, Bryon, Patrick, Gail and Craig. The youngest, Craig, is a senior in high school this year. I, as one, and the children, thank our pioneer parents for a good and fruitful life, and bless and thank them daily for a moral background.
WILLIAM (BILL) AND CLARA ZELLER FAMILY William Henry Zeller was born February 24, 1909, at Cavalier, N. Dak., the son of Daniel and Anna Zeller. He attended school at Cavalier. In 1921 the family moved to Grafton and lived on a farm north of Grafton for 15 years. Bill comes from a family of six sisters and one brother, two of whom are still living and reside in Grafton. In 1938 Bill married Clara Johnson of Grafton who was born June 9, 1918, to Goodman and Ranveig (Bogadottir) Johnson. Her parents emigrated to Pembina County from Iceland. Clara attended Grafton High School and graduated in 1936, the first class to graduate from the new Central High School.
Daniel Zeller family, seated, Beverly, Karen and Daniel. Standing is Dana Jean.
Clara and William (Bill) Zeller She comes from a family of 11 brothers and sisters, only five of whom are still living. Bill worked for many years as a farm laborer until joining Graham's Plumbing and Heating of Grafton, where he worked for 18 years as a plumber. He then joined the Plumbers Union and worked at area beet plants and at the missile site at Nekoma, N. Dak., before his retirement in 1975. Clara worked at Field's Dry Cleaners and the Grafton State School for a time.
Roger Zeller family, left to right, seated, Joyce, Billie Joe (BJ)and Roger. Standing, Shelley and David.
Three children were born to this union. Daniel Dean was born June 12, 1939, at home. He attended Grafton High School where he was active in basketball, graduating in 1957. After graduation he married Beverly Buckley of Grafton. They lived in California for a year after their marriage, then returned to Grafton
Tommy and Connie (Zeller) Kjos and son. Tommy, Jr.
William Zeller family, left to right, seated, Connie Zeller Kjos, Clara and Bill; back row, Roger and Daniel.
where Danny worked for Evans Transfer as a semi-driver. They then moved to Fargo where he began employment with Midwest Motors, at which place he is still employed as a dispatcher. Danny and Bev are the parents of two daughters; Dana Jean, who attends NDSU at Fargo, and Karen Lynn, a senior at West Fargo school and also attending Moorhead State College. Both are very active in music.
Roger LeRoy was born May 24, 1943. He also attended Grafton High School and was active in basketball as was his brother. He graduated in 1961. Roger married Joyce Lizakowski, daughter of Joe and Mary Lizakowski of Grafton, former Minto residents. Roger worked for Borden's, Inc., and also for Evans Transfer before moving to Fargo where he is now employed for Midwest Motors. They are the parents of three children: Shelley Rae, David Allen and Billie Joe (BJ). Connie Mae was born November 2 1 , 1947, at Grafton. She attended Grafton Central High School and graduated in 1965.
After graduation she worked for Gamble Skogmo of Grafton for four years and then joined the staff at The Grafton Record where she has been employed for 10 years. On Sept. 9, 1967, she married Tommy Kjos of Grafton, son of the late Clifford and Selma Kjos of Grafton, former Hoople residents. He attended school in Hoople before moving to Grafton. Tommy is selfemployed and runs his own wrecker service in Grafton. They are the parents of one son, Tommy Wade, Jr., who is four years old. Clara and Bill are both retired and now spend their time enjoying the company of their grandchildren.
History of Grafton City in Photos
Gorder Bros. Garage 1918
The Grafton Parade Band when it was the official band of North Dakota. Joe Birkeland, Director. 608
This is the Crafton Parade Band when under the direction of Joe Birkeland. It is a picture of the group that traveled by special train to the Tournament of Roses in Pasadena in 1949. It
was taken at Union Station in Los Angeles. The band traveled to California via the Great Northern and returned via the Santa Fe.
"Little Grand Cafe," operated and owned by Lester and Rose Mielke, 1937-1939. Then they built a new cafe, "The Grand." Pictured from left to right, are Lester R. Mielke, Rose Mielke, Mrs. Clifford (Gladys) Lanes, and Mary Backland.
Frank Byzewski and his hobby in basement of his home.
Pupils of the Monson School Dist. No. 114— 1924: left to right, Arnold Hove, Fritz Birk, Millard Hove, Myrtle Midboe, Alfred Viger, Bardon Birk, Torfin Evenson, Elsie Birk, Wallace Everson, Miranda Viger, Verna Lee, and Ruth Birk.
Olaf Graving's Shoe Shop (1937). 609
Beet Harvest: left to right. Ronsta Ancelio. Bennie Molde. Donald Nelson. Bud Johnson, and Laurence Strand. Last two are relatives of Williamsons. (1937)
Newcomers to Grafton in 1937, Bennie Molde (left) and Orville Nomeland. (1927 Model 7 Ford)
Icelandic Lutheran Church 3 1 7 Prospect Ave., Grafton, N. Dak. History of the Icelandic Lutheran Church, 317 Prospect Ave., Grafton, N. Dak., can be found in Walsh Heritage Volume No. 1, page 135. Since submitting that it has been learned that the altar, pulpit, a large painting of Christ and other furniture were donated to a Icelandic Church that was being built in Canada. The church building was moved to 643 Prospect Avenue and a house was built from it. The lot remained vacant until a new home was constructed there in 1939. Harvesting on Lewis Sondeland farm. Wife, Emma, and son, Elmer, looking on.
Mandt Baseball Team and Boosters — left to right, Harlan Thompson, Cliff Mastre, Harding Tverberg, Herb Thorsen, Archie Daley, Wallace Evenson, Tommy Thompson, Ingvald Hagen, Tufty Evenson, Louie Almen, Art Tallackson, mgr., Kermit Mastre, Ami Hove, Vern Mastre, and Ingvald Christianson. (1936)
Unveiling soldier's monument, Grafton, N. Dak. 610
Early day threshing.
Early day threshing crew and cook car.
Grafton Milk Company was breaking into the wholesale milk business. Bennie Molde is shown with the truck he drove. (1955)
New addition to the Grafton Milk Co.. in 1964. It closed in
Picture taken the day after "Whitey" Domstad was elected the mayor. He is with wife, Elsie, and daughter. Karen. (I9bb).
igjg 611
Mr. and Mrs. Olaf Graving and first grandson, Richard Graving. (1933).
H. O. (Whitey) Domstad, All-Navy Heavyweight, U. S. S. Tennessee. (1935) Bennie Molde and daughters, Judy and Dianne, with the horse drawn milk wagon. In winter the sled would be used on the same cab. It was heated by kerosene stove in winter. "Star" the percheron is the horse. (1935)
Sons and daughters of Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Domstad: left to right, Helmer (Whitey), James, Alida, Isabell and Hannah. (One daughter, Mabel, not on picture. One son Joseph is deceased.)
Picture of back wall of a room at Memphis Airport dedicated to Vernon and Phoebe Omlie.
W. P. A. workers in the early 1930's. 612
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HARRISTON TOWNSHIP FAMILY HISTORIES LEON BOZIKOWSKI HISTORY Leon Bozikowski was born in Rudna, Kamorowska, Poland, April 1 1 , 1863. He was married in that country to Agatha Ann Kuckowski who was born in Rudna, Kamorowska, Poland, February 2 1 , 1852. Leon was the son of Bazzyl and Helina (Philipllk) Bozikowski. Bazyl was born in Poland, June 14, 1841; died in Waslh county, Warsaw, N. Dak. Helina was born in Dowidu, Jablon, Lubelski, Poland, May 2 (year undisclosed), and died in Walsh county, Warsaw, N. Dak. Sept. 19, 1927. They are buried in St. Stanislaus cemetery, Warsaw.
Barbara and Frank Czapiewski Martha, born Jan. 30, 1923; Gennive, born Jan. 2, 1925; Ernest, born June 13, 1927; Dorothy, born Dec. 11,1928; and Richard, born June 25, 1931. Barbara died May 3, 1969, and Frank died Jan. 23, 1973. Two of their children, Henry and Richard, have passed away, also. Bozikowski Family: left to right, back, Polly, Mary, Agatha (Ann), Leo (Leon) Thomas and first wife; front, Ludwig, John, Bazyl, Helena, Frances, Stephanie (Thomas'daughters). Leon and Agatha came to this country in 1900 with two daughters, Mary and Polly. He purchased a farm in Roseau County, Minn., and operated it there until 1912 when he bought a farm near Warsaw, in Harriston Township. He retired from active farming in 1921 and moved to the village of Warsaw. His son, John, continued farming, from which he has retired, and now lives in Grand Forks, N. Dak. When Agatha, at the age of 76, passed away, July 16, 1928, Leon then moved to Greenbush, Minn., to live with his daughter, Mary. Leon passed away in St. Michael's Hospital, Grand Forks, N. Dak., at the age of 84, after a two-day illness, on April 10, 1947. Funeral services were held in St. Stanislaus Church, Warsaw, with Rev. John Maluski officiating. Pallbearers were his six grandsons — Verner Bozikowski, Victor, John, Clement and August Kalinowski, and Richard Grigle. Leon and Agatha raised four children — Mary (Mrs. Nick Kalinowski), deceased; Polly (Mrs. Andrew Grigle), deceased; John, living in Grand Forks and married to Natalia Stoltman, daughter of John and Regina (Ebertowski) Stoltman, deceased; and Ludvig, married to Ruth Chase of Hanerlack, Iowa, and living in Rochester, Minn. There were also 21 grandchildren. Leon had one brother, Tom Bozikowski of Warsaw, N. Dak., now deceased.
ALEXANDER FELTMAN FAMILY Alexander F. Feltman was born Mar. 27, 1886, in Pulaski Township, a son of Joseph and Elenor Feltman and one of 12 children. He grew up in the Minto area and later bought a farm north of Warsaw. He married Agnes Mach, Oct. 13, 1910. They were parents of three sons, Richard C., of Alaska (now deceased); Frank, now living on the home farm; and Alexander L., Jr., who lives on a farm near Warren Minn. Mr. Feltman lived near Warsaw until his death Oct. 25, 1965, and Mrs. Feltman died five years later, Nov. 20, 1970. Richard C. worked on the Alaskan Highway and later homesteaded near Anchorage. He married Kathryn Smith. He had no children and died July 18, 1975. Frank, farmer in Harriston Township, married Florence Kasprick. They had four children — David, Daniel, MaryLou, and Merlyn. They also have two grandchildren. Alexander L. worked on his father's farm, married Georgia D. Stoltman Nov. 20, 1945, and moved to a farm near Warren, Minn. By 1952 they had 10 children — Joyce (Feltman), Paul, Ernest F. (deceased), Allan P., Janice (Feltman) Grinter, Harold J., William J., George A., Theresa M. (deceased), Jeffrey C , and baby boy, deceased. They have seven grandchildren and still are engaged in farming.
DOMINIK FRANK CZAPIEWSKI FAMILY Frank Czapiewski was born Jan. 18, 1855, to John and Lucy Czapiewski. On Jan. 25, 1910, he married Barbara Paschke, the daughter of John and Juliana Paschke. She was born March 1, 1891. They had seven children. Henry, born Feb. 1 1 , 1911; Isabel, bom April 29, 1917;
AND JOSEPHINE (RUDNIK)
FELTMAN
Dominik Feltman was born to Joseph Feltman and Eleanore Czapiewski Feltman on Feb. 27, 1891, and lived with his parents until he purchased the NE Vi of Sec. 22 in Harriston Township from his father. He was, what some people would have believed, a confirmed bachelor, until an August afternoon when he went to his neighbor, John Rudnik, for some shovels for a potato machine. While he was there, he met John's daughter, Josephine. After a short courtship, Dominik and Josephine were
Dominik and Josephine Feltman on wedding day. married on Josephine's birthday Oct. 25, 1939. They lived on the farm for five years and succeeded in paying off the $3,500 still owed on the farm. Ray was the first child born to Dominik and Josephine. He was born Oct. 6, 1940. Their second child, Louise, was an anniversary and birthday present, born Oct. 25, 1 9 4 1 . There was no electricity on the farm and clothes were washed on a washboard. When the children became of school age, Dist. No 75 in Harriston Township closed. The parents had either to send the children to Warsaw or Minto to school. Dominik's parents were getting old and asked that the family move in with them in Minto. Their home was large and too much for them to maintain. Josephine wasn't very pleased; she had had her eye on another home in Minto which they could have purchased for $1,500., but family responsibility came first.
Wisniewski and Dan Moga families and Ann and Lorry Loranger for 18 years and took care of Mrs. Dominika Moga while she was ill for many years. The year 1964 was a very bad year - Dominik had two operations at the Grafton hospital in February and Eleanore was very sick This was to be Eleanore's 100th birthday, so a party was still being planned for March 13th. A cake had been baked and decorated with 100 candles and all other arrnagements had been made. Eleanore was pleased with a letter she had received from President Kennedy, but thought too much of an issue was being made of her 100th birthday and said, "I'll fix you all. On March 12th, Josephine bathed Eleanore and got her ready for the day They said their morning prayers and everything seemed fine. Josephine went to help Dominik get himself ready for the day. They were listening to the obituaries; a neighbor, Bob Fair, had died Some intuitive sense sent Josephine to Eleanore s bedroom. Eleanore was dying. The priest and doctor were called, but Eleanore died a few hours short of her 100th birthday. The wake was held at home.
Ray and Jeanette Feltman family. On March 27, Dominik was sent to the Grand Forks hospital for another operation. He was in the hospital for two months. Ray was working and living in Grand Forks so Josephine was alone in the big house and her voice echoed through the large rooms, so when Dominik returned from the hospital they decided something had to be done. Louise had married Jim Schanilec Aug. 5, 1961. They purchased a small house in Minto from Mrs. John Wesolowski. They had three children by 1964 and were expecting a fourth, and found that their home was too small. Dominik and Josephine's large house was situated on the east half of six lots, so they decided to build a new smaller home on the west three lots. Dominik's nephew, Hilary Feltman, was engaged to do this. He started building in Septmber, and Dominik and Josephine were living in the home in December.
Dominik Feltman Family: standing, Ray and Louise.
Josephine
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Dominik:
In Sept., 1947, Dominik and Josephine and their family moved to Minto just in time for the children to be enrolled in school. Joseph Feltman died in March of the following year. He was 92 years old. Dominik worked his land for a few years and then rented it out for $600 a year, which wasn't quite enough to make ends meet, so Josephine took small jobs in Minto, scrubbing floors, washing clothes, etc. She worked for the Louis
Jim and Louise Schanilec family. 616
when he retired and moved to St. Paul, Minn. Ade served in Co. C, 7th Engineers, United States Army, during World War I. He was sent overseas in March, 1918, to the Alsace-Lorraine area of France. On his return, he was a charter member of the Grafton American Legion Post and later held the position of commander. He also belonged to the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Disabled American Veterans, and the Knights of Columbus. MARY CLARE (CLARA) KERIAN Mary Clare (Clara) Kerian was born in January, 1900, in East Grand Forks, Minn., to Frank Kerian and Anna Kouba Kerian. The family was living in a house built by Mr. Kerian which still is being used at this time.
Jim and Louise and their family moved into the large house two weeks before their fourth child was born on Dec. 30.
In 1906 the family moved to a farm in Walsh Centre Township where Clara attended rural school. In 1928 she went to Minneapolis where she worked and attended art school. Clara returned to the farm in 1931 to care for her father and help continue the farming operation until 1955 when she married Charles J. Kapoun. From then until her death in 1977, she lived in St. Paul.
Josephine was working at the State School and Hospital in Grafton, and Dominik wasn't feeling well, so when Ray married Jennette Uggerud on Oct. 22, 1966, they decided to rent a small home in Grafton.
With her great interest in art, her time was spent painting, working with flowers, and in other creative endeavors. In St. Paul she developed a wild flower garden in which she took a great deal of pride.
Grandma Elenora Feltman with grandson, Tim Schanilec.
Dominic was in and out of the hospital a number of times until his death March 27, 1967. Josephine continued working at the State School and hospital until August, when she took a twoweek vacation in California. When she returned from California, she lived with her son-in-law and daughter in Minto and continued working her two jobs in Grafton until commuting became a problem. She rented a room at the Deprost home, which was within walking distance of the two jobs.
Fred Daniel Kerian and Henrietta Marie Osowski were married on Nov. 1 1 , 1935, in the Minto Sacred Heart Church with Father Slominski officiating. They have lived in Grafton (1935-37), Walsh Centre Township (1937-42), and Harriston Township from 1942 to the present.
ADOLPH GEORGE KERIAN Adolph (Ade) George Kerian was born on the Kerian homestead in Harriston Township on Nov. 27, 1891, to Frank Kerian and Anna Kouba Kerian. They lived there until 1898 when the family moved to East Grand Forks, Minn., where their father found work as a carpenter. The home which he built for the family still stands. Ade attended school in East Grand Forks, Minn.
Fred was born in East Grand Forks, Minn., July 18, 1904, to Frank Kerian and Ann Kouba Kerian. In 1906 the family moved to Walsh Centre Township. Fred attended the rural school for six years, St. Aloysius Academy in Oakwood for one year, and St. James Academy in Grand Forks for two years. As a youngster he had an interest and talent in the violin, but a hand injury (he was kicked by a' horse) stopped further study. After completing barber college in Minneapolis, he set up shop in many different places — Milwaukee, Killdeer, even home.
In 1906 the family moved to Walsh Centre Township where they purchased 480 acres of land. After the death of their father, Ade, Frank, Charlie, Fred and Clara remained to continue the farming operation. Ade had a threshing machine crew which served the local area. He continued farming until the late 1960's
FRED D. AND HENRIETTA M. KERIAN
Henrietta was born May 2, 1913, to Anton (Tony) Marion Osowski and Anna Chelmosky on a farm in Walshville Township, near Warsaw. Being the oldest in the family and the only girl with six brothers meant assuming a lot of responsibility. The family moved to Walsh Centre Township in 1919. After attending the local rural school through the eighth grade, she attended her first two years of high school at the Walsh County Agricultural School in Park River and graduated from Minto Public Schools in 1930. Following her aspirations to become a teacher, she attended Mayville and Valley City Normal Schools and taught in District 101 in 1931-33 and District 44 in 193334. The first year she received a fabulous $70 a month but as the Depression lingered on, it was reduced to $45 a month. While living in an apartment in Grafton their first daughter, Frances Patricia (Pat), was born. Fred made a living by selling vacuum cleaners. Because of the illness of Mrs. Osowski the family moved to the Osowski farm in Walsh Centre Township where Theodore Anthony (Ted) was born in 1940. Later there was a move to the Kerian farm from 1940 to 1942. Virginia Ann (Ginny) was born in 1942, about the time that the permanent
Riders Snowmobile Club. Paula is also a member of the Legion Auxiliary. The Kilichowski's also raise ducks and geese. EDWIN T. AND PATRICIA ANN KOWALSKI Edwin Thomas Kowalski, born in 1933, married Patricia Ann Thompson, born in 1937, on Oct. 9, 1956. She is a daughter of Sarah Ann Grzadzielewski, born in 1909. and Elmer Thompson (1910-1967), who were married in 1936. Fred Kerian Family: left to right, Dorette, Ted, Winifred, Virginia, Helen, Henrietta, Larry, Fred and Pat. move was made to the farm in Harriston Township (near Minto). Winifred Marie (Winnie) was born in 1945; Dorette Rosalie in 1947; Helen Claire in 1952; and Laurence (Larry) Frederick, in 1955. The farming operation was an all-family venture. Fred's salesmanship in the Electrolux vacuum cleaner business and Henrietta's State School attendant position augmented the family income. In 1959 Fred began the Kerian Softener Company, selling machines which were prepared for this area. Fred and Henrietta were members of Minto Parent-Teacher's Organization, School Board, Hospital Auxiliary, and township board. Fred belongs to Eagles and Knights of Columbus; Henrietta is a member of the Altar Society of Minto Sacred Heart Parish where both are parishioners.
Patricia and Edwin Kowalski
Anne Marie Kowalski and Nancy Narlock
The young couple, Edwin and Patricia, moved to the family farm after marriage and reside there now. Their four children are: Nancy Jane, who graduated from Lake Region Junior College, and is working in Grafton, N. Dak. She and her husband, Jim Michael Narloch, make their home on a farm near Forest River, N. Dak. Neil Gerard, who graduated from North Dakota State School of Science, Wahpeton, and is presently working and making his home in Thief River Falls, Minn.
Fred and Henrietta enjoy their new home, their grandchildren, fishing and camping during the summers, and traveling around the country in their van.
FRANCIS AND PAULA KILICHOWSKI Francis Theophil Kilichowski married' Paula Jean Mary Ebertowski on Nov. 4, 1972. Francis was born on July 24, 1951, and Paula was born Jan. 2, 1953. They have two daughters — Shannon Marie was born on Aug. 25, 1975, and Katie Lynn was born Aug. 30, 1979.
Allen and Neil Kowalski
Nancy and Jim Narlock
Allen Keith, who graduated from Area Vocational Technical Institute of Thief River Falls, Minn., is working in Grafton, and living at home. Anne Marie, who is presently attending University of Minnesota in Crookston, and lives on campus. All Kowalski children attended St. Anthony's Convent in Warsaw, N. Dak., and graduated from Grafton Central High
School.
Children of Francis and Paula Kilichowski — Shannon and Katie. Francis' parents are Mr. and Mrs. Richard Kilichowski, Sr., of Route 1, Forest River, N. Dak. Paula's parents are Mr. and Mrs. Steve S. Ebertowski, of Grafton, N. Dak. Francis is farming in the Minto area, and Paula works parttime as a postal clerk in the Minto Post Office. They are members of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church of Minto and the Area Joy
Sarah Thompson 618
IGNATIUS LUNSKI FAMILY Ignatius Lunski came to America as a young man, settling at Perham, Minn., in the late 80's. He was bom at Tuckola, Germany, located on the German-Poland border. He was a well to do man and upon settling at Perham, he sent for his childhood sweetheart, Pauline Dombeck, and her parents and family who lived across the border in Poland. Pauline was 1 6 years old on her arrival in America when she married Ignatius. The couple was blessed with seventeen children — nine boys and eight girls. All of them born at Perham, Minn.
1855, and passed away in Walsh County on Jan. 27, 1933. The couple had three children — all born in Harriston Township. They were Terrance (Ted), born April 15, 1880; Mary, born July 6, 1881; and Anna Maude, born May 2, 1889. They farmed in Harriston until his death.
TERRANCE (TED) (TJ) MCCANN Terrance Joseph McCann was born on April 15, 1880, in Harriston Township to Patrick and Margaret McCann. He farmed the family farm homesteaded by his parents. Ted married Grace Bernett Kennedy, daughter of John and Jeanette Kennedy. The couple raised two sons, Patrick T., born July 29, 1917, and Francis S., born June 7, 1920. Grace was stricken with diabetes and passed away on Feb. 27, 1935, at St. Paul, Minn.
The Ignatius Lunski Family: left to right, bottom row, Clara, Roman, Tony and Leo; second row, Walter, John, Ignatius and Pauline (parents), and Polly Kowalski; third row, Regina Pokrzywinski, Rosie Kearney, Mary Zolondek, Martha Kennedy and Cecelia; back row, Alex, Joe, Julius and Willis. In 1914 the family moved to Levant Township, just south of Ardoch, Walsh County, N. Dak. All of the family's belongings — horses, cattle, machinery and personal belongings — were shipped by train from Perham to Ardoch. After five years they moved to a farm in Harriston Township, just one mile northeast of Minto. In 1920 a tragedy struck their farm when their home started on fire. Despite the generous help from the neighbors and the Minto Fire department, not only did the home burn, but all the rest of the buildings because of the extremely strong wind that day. Ignatius rebuilt all of the buildings and continued farming until 1923 when he retired with his younger sons, Walter and Roman, taking over the operation and purchasing the place in 1946. They operated a custom threshing machine until 1944, when they purchased a combine and farmed the 720-acre farm with two W. C. Allis Chalmers tractors for a number of years. This would be unthinkable with modernday farming.
Terrance (Ted) and Margaret McCann Ted married Lorena Jane (Costello) Burris in 1938, and they resided in Minto. He was a member of the School District No. 44 board and a member of the board of directors of the Minto Farmers Elevator. Ted passed away on Oct. 27, 1957, following a stroke. Lorena passed away Oct. 1, 1977, at the Sunset Home in Grafton.
PATRICK T. MCCANN Born on the family farm in Harriston Township on July 29, 1917, to Ted and Grace McCann, Pat was the oldest of two sons the couple raised. He attended school in Minto and farmed with his father. On Nov. 18, 1941, Pat married Mildred C. Burris, daughter of Timothy and Lorena Burris. They raised four sons: LeRoy Patrick was born on Dec. 14, 1942, graduated from Minto High School and the North Dakota State School of
Presently Walter and Roman still operate the farm and reside on the place along with their brother, Leo, sisters Cecelia and Clara, and a nephew, Paul Lunski, a son of the deceased brother Tony. Besides grain farming they have a herd of high quality beef cattle. The rest of the family live within 30 miles from Minto. Pauline passed away in 1941, at an age of 74 and Mr. Lunski died in 1952, at an age of 94. There were 75 grandchildren when he died. PATRICK MCCANN Patrick and Margaret McCann migrated to Walsh County from Canada in 1879 and homesteaded in Harriston Township. Patrick was born in Canada in 1856 and passed away in Walsh County on June 19, 1918. Margaret was born in Canada in
The Patrick McCann Family: left to right, seated, parents Mildred and Pat; standing, Mike, Terry, Loren, and LeRoy.
Science, was employed in the newspaper business for several years, and is currently Chief of Police in Grafton. LeRoy married Karen Stark at Grafton on April 25, 1975, and the couple have one daughter — Katie Christine. Loren Francis was born Oct. 3, 1946. He attended Minto High School and North Dakota State School of Science, Wahpeton. He was employed in the newspaper and retail businesses for several years and is currently employed by the Minto Machine Shop. Loren married Mary Anderson in Milwaukee, Wise, on May 29, 1971. The couple has four children — Ryan, Shane, Meghan and Tara. Terrence Timothy was born Jan. 14, 1952. He was a graduate of Minto High School and a student at Mayville State College at the time of his death, Aug. 8, 1973, the result of a cartruck accident. Terry was a music major in college and active in several music organizations. Michael Gerald was born Mar. 10, 1954. He graduated from Minto High School and the Resident Care Technician Course at the State School of Science, Wahpeton. On Nov. 9, 1974, Mike married Joy Duray at Warsaw. The couple has one daughter, Tracy June, and they live on the family farm. Mike was employed as a farm laborer prior to accepting a position at the Grafton State School where he is employed as a programmer. Mildred McCann passed away at a Grand Forks hospital on Dec. 26, 1973, following a long bout with arthritis. Pat resides on the family farm, is semi-retired, and is employed part-time at Super Service Garage in Minto. He served on the school boards in Districts 44 and 20.
FRANCIS S. MCCANN (SOL) Francis McCann was born to Ted and Grace McCann on June 7, 1920, at a Grafton hospital. He attended school in Minto, farmed, and was employed in the grain buying business. He was employed by a building contractor, the State Highway Dept and was employed at the Grafton State School at the time of his retirement in 1979. On Sept. 1 1 , 1963, Francis and Barbara (Marynik) Misialek were married at Sacred Heart Catholic Church In Minto. The couple resided in Grand Forks, Langdon, and now live in .Grafton.
THE STANLEY NARLOCK FAMILY Stanley Narlock was born on Oct. 26, 1898, to Leon Narlock and Julia Tandeski, and lived most of his life in Walsh County. For many years, he was a committeeman for the Triple A Farm Program, now known as the A.S.C. (Agricultural Stabilization Committee). He was married to Frances Stoltman on June 20, 1923. She was the daughter of Adam Stoltman and Viola Wrobleski. They have lived and farmed two and one-half miles east of Minto. They have a family of four boys and four girls — Ray, Donna, Ervin, Lorraine, Frances, Dennis, Richard, and Patricia. All were born, raised, and attended school in Walsh County — Warsaw and Minto. Stanley passed away on March 18, 1 9 6 1 .
Stanley Narlock Family: Four Generations — Ray, Grandpa Leon, Conine, Stanley. Ray Narlock, married on July 1, 1947, to Gertrude Burris of Conway, N. Dak. Her parents are the late Timothy and Lorena Burris of Conway. They have three children — Corrine, now married to Harry Howe and residing in Tempe, Ariz.; Larry, living in Las Vegas, Nev.; Peggy, employed and living in California. Ray passed away on Jan. 26, 1975, in Las Vegas, where Gertrude resides. Donna was married on May 20, 1950, to Thomas Stiller of Detroit, Mich., where they are now living. They have a family of four boys - Kenneth, Marvin, Gary (deceased), and Dan. Kenneth is married.
Dick, Shorty, Dennis, Ray Narlock
Pat, Foodie, Frances Narlock, Lu, Donna 620
(
Ervin, known as 'Shorty', entered the Armed Services after he graduated from High School in 1951. He returned home to help farm and still lives on the home place with his mother, Frances. Lorraine married George Wylot, son of John and Stella Wylot of Minto. They live in Granada Hills, Calif., and have a family of four girls and one boy — Maureen, Greg, Maria, Lori and Mary. Maureen and Maria are married. Lorraine and George were married Dec. 3 1 , 1 9 4 7 .
avid reader, being fluent in both the English and Polish languages, and continued her self education throughout her life. From early childhood, she was a gifted artist. During her school years she was often called upon to do drawings and paintings for special seasons such as Christmas or other occasions. On a visit to New Jersey, in her later years, one of her oil paintings captured first prize in a very competitive art show. This painting and several of her other works were donated to the Carnegie-Bookmobile Library in Grafton, N. Dak., where they are on display. A number of her paintings were also donated to the Altar Society of Sacred Heart Church in Minto where they are on display in the church auditorium. Emma was an active member in St. Joseph's Hospital Auxiliary in Grafton, a Homemakers group of Grafton, and the Altar Society of Sacred Heart Church, Minto. She was a charter member of the Walsh County Historical Society. She made many donations to the Walsh County Historical Museum in Minto; to name only a few, the matching round oak table, chairs and buffet circa 1915, a wall clock circa 1910, all in the Pioneer Dining Room in the Museum. She also donated many pieces of hand work, including embroidery, tatting, crocheting and weaving. Emma passed away suddenly July 17, 1979. She is buried in Sacred Heart Cemetery, Minto, N. Dak.
Lynus Sobolik Family: left to right, back, Kristie, Dean, Lee, Shawn: middle, Dona and Carla; front, Debbie, Foodie and Lynus Frances, known as 'Toodie', was married to Lynus Sobolik, son of John and Clara Sobolik of Voss, N. Dak. They still live in Minto, and have a family of seven. Debra is now married to Richard Dibler of McKees Rock, Pa., where they are living. Carla, married to Tom Benson of East Grand Forks, Minn., resides in Stockbridge, Me. Lee is living in Warsaw, N. Dak. Dean and Shawn are working and living in Austin, Texas. Kristie and Don are at home. The Soboliks were married on June 13, 1951. Dennis served in the Armed Services after he graduated from school. He is married to Arlene Knight of Detroit, Mich., where they now live with their family of three boys, Clifford, Roger, and Jayson. Dennis was married on Oct. 18, 1958. Richard (Dick) also served in the Army after he graduated. He married on Nov. 26, 1959, to Carol Collette, daughter of the Arthur Collettes of Oakwood, N. Dak. They now live in Seattle, Washington, and have a family of three girls, Brenda, Jill, and Kim. Patricia (Pat) was married on Aug. 17, 1963, to Dennis Riski, son of John and Amelia Riski, of Minto. For the past eleven years, they have resided in Anchorage, Alaska. They have a family of two girls, Faith and Tricia, and two boys, Troy and Jay.
EMMAPRZEPIORA
Emma Przepiora
Frank Przepiora
FRANKJ. PRZEPIORA Frank J. Przepiora, son of George and Frances Przepiora, was born Dec. 14, 1900, in Dewey Township, Roseau, Minn. In 1905, the family purchased land in and moved to Harriston Township, Walsh County. He has been a resident of Harriston Township throughout his life. Frank received his eighth grade education in a one-room, one-teacher school, District No. 60, Harriston Township. Because of existing economic conditions and modes of transportation, namely horse and buggy, he was unable to pursue further formal education; however, he reads extensively, being particularly interested in current world and local affairs, history and Indian culture.
Emma Przepiora, daughter of George and Frances Przepiora, was born Oct. 25, 1899, in Dewey Township, Roseau, Minn. When she was five years old, the family purchased a farm in Harriston Township, Walsh County, to which they moved. She had been a resident of Harriston Township throughout her life.
Throughout his life he has been active in community affairs. He was clerk of School District No. 60 for many years; served on many election boards; for twelve years was president of Minto Farmers Union; was a member of the Minto Band for many years; was a director of the Sacred Heart Church Board and a member of the Sacred Heart choir. He is a member of the Knights of Columbus and the Eagles club of Grafton.
Emma received her elementary education in School District No. 60, Harriston Township, a one-room, one-teacher school. She attended Concordia College, Moorhead, Minn. She was an
Frank is a charter member of the Walsh County Historical Society. He is very interested in the growth of the Walsh County Museum in Minto. He has donated a 1922 wood frame
Advance-Rumely threshing machine, a collection of Indian artifacts, and other articles used in pioneer days. Being a farmer from early childhood, he has experienced the many revolutionary changes in farming operations from horsepowered machines to the development of modern mechanized farming and can entertain with stories of the early days. He is presently the owner of the land on which he toiled a lifetime.
STEPHANIE PREPIORA Stephanie Prepiora, was born Oct. 2 1 , 1905, in Roseau County, Minn., the daughter of George and Frances Przepiora. She grew up in Harriston Township, Walsh County, where the family had moved when she was less than a year old. She received her elementary education in School District No 60 Harriston Township, a one-room, one-teacher country school She graduated from Minto High School in 1922 and taught in one-room country schools for four years. Those days a high school diploma qualified one to teach a country school although some effort was being made that anyone, wishing to teach have some Normal school training. After four years ot teaching she entered nurses' training at Kahler Hospitals, Rochester, Minn., and received her R.N. in 1929. Following graduation she worked in radium therapy and plastic surgery in Rochester hospitals, serviced by the Mayo Clinic. She continued her education by taking an intensive course in medical laboratory procedures, x-ray and cardiography. By working full time and attending college nights, she obtained a B.Sc. degree in biochemistry from Seton Hall University, South Orange N . J . She also attended special classes in the medical field at Columbia University School of Pharmacy and Cornell University at New York Hospital.
Caldwell Medical Laboratory, Caldwell, New Jersey, where practicing physicians directed their patients for laboratory studies. The laboratory, and she as owner and director, were licensed by the New Jersey State Board of Medical Examiners, New Jersey State Board of Health and the Dept. of Health Education and Welfare, Washington, D. C. She is a member of the American Association of Bioanalysts, a national organization, and the New Jersey Association of Bioanalysts. After twenty-five years of successful operation the laboratory was sold to a laboratory conglomerate whose stock is on the New York Stock Exchange. Upon her return to Minto, N. Dak., she became active in a number of local and state organizations. She is a member of the Board of Trustees of Christian Unity Hospital, Grafton, N. Dak., a charter member of the Walsh County Historical Society and the first curator of the Walsh County Historical Museum in Minto; and membership chairman of the Walsh County Historical Society She is on the board of directors of the Red River Valley Historical Society and Red River Land, North Dakota. As a member of the Grafton BPW she served two terms as northeast district director of the state organization. Stephanie presently makes her home in Minto, N. Dak.
FELIX RUDNIK JR. FAMILY Felix Rudnik, a self-employed farmer, farms in the Minto area He is also a certified seed potato grower. Besides raising different varieties of potatoes, he also raises sugar beets, beans, sunflowers, and many types of grain. Felix, Jr., was born on Jan. 6, 1929, to Felix, Sr and Helen Rudnik He attended school in the Warsaw area and graduated from Minto High School in 1946. He served in the U.S. Army in the Korean War.
Felix Rudnik, Jr., Family: Felix and Rita, Darrell, Darrin,
Stephanie Przepiora
Dennis, and Debbie.
Stephanie was instrumental in establishing a school for medical technicians in Utica, New York, and a Medical Employment Agency in Newark, N. J. She established and directed, for five years, a medical laboratory for the employees of Merck & Co., Rahway, New Jersey, a large chemical plant where all employees and executives were required to have periodic examinations due to the nature of the work and use of toxic materials. She did a two-year research study in the anemias for White Laboratories of Newark and Carteret, New Jersey, at Medical Center, Jersey City, N. J. On completion of this project she was employed as Associate Director of Laboratories at Medical Center. The highlight of her career was the establishment of the
He and his wife, Rita, were married on Sept. 5, 1959, at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Minto. They have four children - Dennis (20 year), Debbie (16 years), and twin sons, DarreH and Darrin (13 years). Dennis was born on Aug. 28, 1960, and graduated from Minto High School in May, 1979. He now attends AVTI in East Grand Forks, Minn. He is also employed on his father's farm. Debbie was born on Feb. 2 1 , 1964, and Is a junior at the Minto High School where she is active in sports, cheering, and the honor roll. Darrell and Darrin were born on Nov. 6, 1967; they are both in the sixth grade at Minto Junior High School where they also participate in basketball, and also 622
work on their father's farm. Felix has been on the Harrison Township Board of Directors, and is currently a director of the Minto Farmers Elevator.
FRANK AND ELIZABETH RUDNIK Frank Rudnik was born Sept. 15, 1877, at Owatonna, Minn., the son of Louis Rudolph and Josephine (Wrycza) Rudnik. He married Elizabeth Lizakowski, daughter of Frank and Mary (nee Herbowski) Lizakowski. They had six children: Phillip, who died at birth; Regina, Gertrude, Harry, Sylevster and Frank, Jr.
1912. He married Anna Wesolowski Oct. 12, 1937. Joe and Anna had three children. Marilyn is married to Richard Birkholtz and lives in Fargo, N. Dak.; Donald is married to Mary Ann Lizakowski and lives in Minto, N. Dak.; and Joe, Jr., is married to Loma Goodman and lives on the family farm. Joe Rudnik died at the young age of 48, on Dec. 26, 1959. Anna worked at the State School for many years and is now making her home in Minto, N. Dak. The fourth child born to John and Pelagia was Roman, on Feb. 18, 1916. He married Dorothy Czapiewski on Jan. 25, 1947. They have two daughters. Betty is married to Ernest Walski and lives in St. Thomas, N. Dak. Doris is at home.
They had farmed before moving into Minto. After Frank passed away, Elizabeth moved to Minneapolis, where she lived with her son, Harry. Later she moved to Grafton, where she lived with her daughter until she died, Feb. 23, 1962.
THE JOHN RUDNIK FAMILY John Rudnik, son of Louis Rudolph and Josephine Rudnik, married Pelagia Pokrzywinski, daughter of Joe and Frances Pokrzywinski at St. Stanislaus Church in Warsaw, N. Dak., on Nov. 25, 1907. They lived on a farm rented from Mr. and Mrs. Max Warczak. The two families had such a good business relationship, the two quarters they had rented are still being farmed by Donny and Joe Rudnik, Jr., renting from Hilary and Alice Reszka, the daughter of the Max Warczaks. John and Pelagia Rudnik had seven children. Their first child, Angeline, was born Apr. 25, 1909. She married Izadore Rogalla on April 25, 1926. They had one child, Emily, born April 6, 1927. Angeline died six days later and Emily was raised by her grandparents, John and Pelagia, until she married Henry Czapiewski on Oct. 5, 1948. They had two boys, John Czapiewski, who is married and lives in Grand Forks, and Henry Jr., who lives in Minto. Emily died April 23, 1966. John and Pelagia's second child, Stephen, was born Aug. 2, 1910. He married Adelaide Misialek, Oct. 20, 1935. Stephen and Adelaide had four children. Angeline is married to Orlin Burger and lives at Emerado, N. Dak.; Shirley is married to Jim Cox and lives at Bemidji, Minn.; Dianne is married to George Cox and lives at Devils Lake, N. Dak.; Steve Jr., lives on the family farm. Stephen, Sr., died March 4, 1970. Adelaide later married Henry Dvorak. John and Pelagia's third child, Joe, was born Mar. 13,
John and Pelagia (Pokrzywinski) Rudnik are shown in their wedding finery Nov. 25, 1907. Their attendants are Stanley Pokrzywinski and Joy hine Rudnik.
John Rudnik Family: left to right, back row, Steve, Joseph, Roman, John, Jr.; front row, Isabel, Mrs. Rudnik, Amelia, and Josephine. John and Pelagia's fifth child, Josephine, was born Oct. 25, 1917. She married Dominik Feltman Oct. 25, 1939. They had two children. Ray is married to Jennette Uggerud and lives in Minto, N. Dak.; Louise is married to Jim Schanilec and also lives in Minto. Dominik Feltman died March 27, 1967. Josephine worked at the State School and Grafton hospital until July 3, 1968, when she married Sig Jagielski. The sixth child born to John and Pelagia was Isabell, on Oct. 12, 1919. She married Adam Sass in 1935. They had three children. Stanley is married to Kay Mondry, and lives in Minto, N. Dak.; Paul is married to Carol Jenson and lives in Seattle, Wash.; Ceclia is married to Chester Langowski and lives in Montana. Adam Sass died Nov. 28, 1971. Isabell remarried to Roy Martin and lives in Minto. John and Pelagia's seventh child, John, Jr., was born June 11, 1921. He married Martha Czapiewski Oct. 12, 1942. They have three children: Henry, at home; Mary, who is married to Lyle Mondry and lives in Minto, N. Dak.; and Raymond, who is married to Colleen Donelan and lives in a trailer house on the family farm. John and Pelagia Rudnik rented and lived on the Max Warczak farm for 28 years, then John bought the home place of his dad, Louis Rudolph, which his younger brother, Izador, had lost in 1934. John also took a Federal Land Bank Loan on the SWVi of Sec. 23, about one mile west of the home place. Of the $9,000 loan he took, $1,000 was allowed to build a new home to replace the old one. The home was built in 1935, but there wasn't enough money to build a porch he wanted, so he sold a bull from his cattle herd and built his porch. The land had been so neglected, the first year's crop was very poor. The sow thistle was so tall you couldn't see the horses or binder when the grain was being cut. Roman and Josephine, who were doing the shocking,
joked that they were shocking corn, not gram. Each yea the crops improved and the land became productive. When John Sr died John, Jr., purchased the land from his brothers and sisters and is still farming it. John Rudnik, Sr., died at the age of 62, on July 24 1945. He had a heart attack while driving horses and a hay rack while making hay west of the home place. Pelagia Rudnik died at the aoe of 69 on Feb. 5, 1959, at the home of her daughter, Josephine Feltman in Minto. She was living with her son, John, Jr., at the farm.
JOSEPH F. RUDNIK FAMILY Joseph F. Rudnik was bom on March 12, 1914 to John and Pelagia (Pokrzywinski) Rudnik. On Oct. 12 937 he married Anna Wesolowski, daughter of John and osephine (Lizakowski) Wesolowski, at St. Stanislaus Church in Warsaw.
her husband is manager of Scheel's service department. They have four children - Perry, Brian, Bruce and Carmen. Donald is married to Marianne Lizakowski and lives in! Minto. They have two children - Denise and Donald. Joe, who lives on the farm, is married to Loma Goodman, and they have one son, Neil. Donald and Joe took over the farming after their father died very suddenly in 1961. Anna moved to Grafton, where she was employed at the State School until she retired in 1979. She now lives ,n Minto and is a member of the Sacred Heart Church. ROMAN RUDNIK FAMILY Roman Rudnik was born Feb. 18, 1916, the son of John and Peleqia Rudnik. Roman spent four years in the U. b. Army, n 1946 he started farming the land of Max Warczak and in January of 1947 he married Dorothy Czapiewski, daughter of Frank and Barbara Czapiewski. They lived on the Warczak farm, and in 1957 he and his family moved to the Frank Czapiewski homeplace when the Czapiewskis retired and moved to Minto.
Joseph and Anna Rudnik wedding picture on Oct. 12, 1937.
Roman Rudnik Family: left to right, Dorothy, Betty and Roman Rudnik; bottom row, Doris. Roman and Dorothy have two daughters Betty and Doris. Roman continued to farm the Warczak land plus; the Czapjewsk. "and In 1964 he no longer continued to farm the Warczak and although he kept on with the land he had now purchased from the Czapiewski family. After high school Betty went to Crookston where she took licensed practical nurses' training and graduated from, there Aug. 28 1966 She then married Ernest Walski in October of 196b. Ernie, Betty and their two children, Mike and Mary, now reside in S Thomas N. Dak. Ernie is employed by Otter Tail Power C o m p a r and has been since October of 1967. Doris resides with her parents. In 1976 Roman had to retire from farming because ot medical reasons, but they still do live on the farm.
Children of Joseph and Anna Rudnik - Marily Rudnik) Birkholz, Donald Rudnik and seated at table Joe Rudnik. (1949)
VERNON AND DOROTHY RUSSUM FAMILY Vernon Lyle Russum, son of Mrs. Palmer Russum and the late Palmer Russum, was born on November 4, 1926 in Grafton.
They have three children: Marilyn is married to Richard Birkholz, and resides in Fargo, where she is a nurse at St. John's Coronary Intensive Care Unit; 624
He has spent his entire life in the area with the exception of two years he spent in the Intelligence Corps of the United States Army, and the time he spent attending Business College in Grand Forks, N. Dak..
The Russum family also owns and operates a farm in the Erskine, Minn., area.
JOSEPH AND FRANCES SHOULTS
In 1951, he married Dorothy Johnson, daughter of the late Mr. annd Mrs. Peder Johnson of rural Park River, N. Dak. She graduated from Park River High School in 1946, and continued her education at the St. Luke's School of Nursing, Fargo. She graduated in 1949 as a registered nurse and worked at Deaconess Hospital part-time until 1974, when she went to work at the Lutheran Sunset Home where she is presently employed as Assistant Director of Nursing.
Joseph and Frances Shoults, lifelong residents of Walsh County, resided in the Warsaw community. There on a farm they raised their family of ten children. Joseph was born to Joseph and Elizabeth Shoults on Oct. 12, 1889, in Ardoch Township. John and Mary Greevers were the only grandparents known to the younger Joe as his other set remained in the old country of Poland. Frances was born to John and Martha Mielcarek on Aug. 22, 1897, in Harriston Township. John came from Ghansk, Poland, while Martha was originally from Pine Creek, Wise, where her parents, Charles and Anna Riski, resided.
Vernon and Dorothy have five children.
On Oct. 26, 1915, Joseph and Frances spoke their wedding vows. Their family tree now consists of ten children, twenty-nine grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.
Vernon Russum Family Mrs. Bruce (Judy) Seibel, husband and two daughters, Andrea and Stephanie, reside at Barnesville, Minn. David lives in Grafton and farms with his father. He is married to Cherie Carter of LakeStevens, Wash. They have one daughter, Kayla Joy. Mrs. Randy (Karen) Pederson is a parish worker at Zion Lutheran Church in Tioga, N. Dak. Sandy attends Mayville State College, and Cheri is a senior at Grafton High School. Part of the Russum farm was homesteaded by his grandfather, Hendrick Russum, and part was purchased by his father, Palmer, when he was a young man, and now David is the fourth' generation to farm the Russum land. The farmstead has now moved from where Hendrick first built his sod house. When Hendrick had opportunity, he built a permanent farmstead, the place that we call the "home farm." Palmer and Magda Russum lived and farmed there until Palmer passed away in September of 1979. Magda still lives in the house. Some of the buildings built by Hendrick still stand, not in the best condition, but the history is still there. An interesting story is carved in the walls of some of the old buildings, as many of the hired people have carved their names in the walls.
Joseph and Frances Shoults Shoults, a leader in fine grain crops, was noted for his flax championships. He won the world's "Flax King" title at the International Hay and Grain show in Chicago in 1929 and 1930. When crops were hit by drought in the early 30's the entries suffered but the Warsaw farmer came back to take the U.S. honors in flax in 1932, 1933 and 1934. In 1935 his flax sample won the "World's Championship" for the third time and made him ineligible to compete until 1939. His methods of farming have been adopted by farmers in Walsh County and throughout this section of the country.
Besides farming, Vernon owns and operates Russum's Montgomery Ward on Hill Avenue of Grafton. Vernon and Dorothy are active in church work. They are charter members of Bethel Free Lutheran of Grafton where both were very active in the building of the new church. Vernon was on the building committee and the congregation chairman during the construction period. He also served on the church board for many years and both he and Dorothy taught Sunday School. They are also active on the National level of the Association Free Lutheran Congregations. Vernon is serving on the National Board of World Missions.
Joseph also helped organize the first 4-H Club in Warsaw, known as the Warsaw Pure Seed 4-H Club, for which Shoults was leader for many years. The eldest of the Shoults children was Stephie, who was born on July 10, 1916. She married Peter Pasko, a former postmaster, and they lived in the Chicago area until her death in 1973. John, the oldest boy, was born on Oct. 9 , 1 9 1 8 , and died in infancy. May 7, 1920, was the birthdate of daughter, Domicella. She married Richard Kosmatka and he farms near the Warsaw area.
Vernon has also served as the assessor for Harriston township for abbut 12 years. 625
1 through 3. Thereafter, she attended Minto Grade School and graduated in 1967, from Minto High School. Dennis and Linda were married at Veseleyville in 1969. They lived in Grafton for one and a half years before renting a farmhouse near Warsaw. In 1975, they moved to the farm they were to buy the following Spring and where they now reside and work. Dennis and Linda have two children - Amy and Rebecca. The family are members of St. Stanilaus Parish at Warsaw. Dennis is on the Board of Directors for the Warsaw Community Hall and the Rural Fire Department. The family are members of the local Polish National Alliance Lodge, and Amy and Rebecca are active with the lodge's Young Polish Dancers group.
Joseph Shoults Family: left to right, back, Frances and Joseph; second row, Hilary and Sophie; third row, Eva, Steffie, Regina and Domicella; front row, Ernest, Cecelia, and Fabian. Bom on Feb. 5, 1922, was daughter, Regina. She married Harry Kowalski and they reside in Chicago where Harry is financial manager of Marshall Fields and Company. Tacoma, Wash., is where daughter, Sophia, her husband, Jim Lubbesmeyer, and their family make their home. Jim has his own landscaping business there. Sophia was born on April 17, 1925. The oldest living son, Hilary, was bom on Jan. 18, 1927. He, his wife, Ruth, and their two sons reside in Minto. After serving ten years in the military service, Hilary is now a salesman for Successful Farming Magazine. Eva, another daughter, was born on Sept. 13, 1928. She married Clarence Olson who is employed as a baker. Clarence, Eva, and their three sons live in Seattle, Wash. Birthdate of Cecilia, the youngest daughter, is June 1, 1931. Dan Goa became her spouse and he retired from the Navy after 21 years of service. They make their home in San Lorenzo,
FRANKJ. STOLTMAN Frank J. Stoltman, the older of two sons, was born to the late John M. Stoltman and Regina Ebertowski Stoltman on Nov. 1, 1896, in Harrison Township. Young Frank worked by his father's side on the family homestead, located east of Minto. Frank was called to serve his country during World War I on Sept. 15, 1918. He became a charter member of the Minto American Legion Post 201 in 1919. On Nov. 7, 1923, Frank and Sophie Topka, daughter of Joseph Topka and Katherine Nizeolek Sass Topka, were married in the St. Stanislaus Church of Warsaw, N. Dak. Reverend Theodore Kupka was celebrant of the Nuptial Mass. Five sons were bom to Frank and Sophie - Ernest, Daniel, Richard, Frank, Jr., and Edward. Frank and Sophie clearly remember the thrill of seeing a new brightly painted McCormick-Deering threshing machine being delivered to their farm in 1925. The price tag on this beautiful sight was $2,500, complete with tractor!
Calif. Ernest, the third son, was born on July 30, 1933. He married Karen Brodin and they live with their four children in Park River. He served as Walsh County Sheriff and County Commissioner and he has part ownership in the Park River Dairy Queen. The youngest of the family, Fabian, was born on March 18, 1936. He married the former Elsie Shereck and they reside in Park River with their two children. Fabian received his Masters Degree in Administration from Fargo, N.D. State College, and at the present is an instructor in the Park River School System. He also co-owns the Dairy Queen with his brother, Ernie. Mr. Joseph Shoults died after a short illness in a Rochester Hospital on Dec. 12, 1946. Frances Shoults still resides in the Warsaw Community. DENNIS SLOMINSKI FAMILY Dennis was bom to William and Mary Slominski in November of 1943, the last of 11 children. He attended a country grade school near the family farm, went to Scared Heart High School in East Grand Forks, Minn., for two years, and graduated in 1961, from Minto High School. Linda was born to Charles and Josephine Vavrovsky in August of 1949. She attended a country grade school for grades
Frank and Sophia Stoltman Anniversary. 626
on their 50th Wedding
Four years later, in 1929, Frank and Sophie built a new home across the road from the original homestead. This house is now modernized and owned by the Edward Stoltman family. With the help of "horse power," the Stoltmans raised their crops and experienced many hardships. The drought, grasshopper infestation, and rust diseases left the land looking worn and battered in the 1 930's. During the year of 1936, the farming conditions had become much better so Frank and Sophie bought their first tractor and semi-retired their horses. This couple enjoyed their 40 years on the farm; however, they decided in 1963 to retire from farming and to buy a house in Minto — which has become their comfortable home. Now, Sophie has time to reminisce about her life on the farm as just a farmer's wife who has disciplined her sons, has raised turkeys and chickens, has planted a large garden, has milked cows, has fed many men during threshing time, and has occasionally worked on the beet harvester. Frank Stoltman was Harrison Township Clerk for 24 years. He has been township supervisor and assessor; and chairman of the Farmers' Elevator Board of Directors for many years, ln 1980, Frank received a citation of service from the Polish National Alliance as past president.
Stoltman sons — Frank, Jr., Richard, Ernest, Daniel and
Edward. Eldest son, Ernest, was inducted into the armed service in 1944, and spent two years in the European Theater of Operation as a heavy weapons machine gunner. After the war, he served as
a Polish interpreter until his discharge in 1946. Ernest married Lois Rolzinski in 1950, and lives in Grand Forks, N. Dak. They have seven children — Gayle, Lee, Lyle, Roberta, Lenard, Loel and Landis. Ernest is sales representative for the GambleRobinson Company. Daniel enlisted in the service in 1944. Along with three other classmates, Dan left to join the Navy on the morning after his commencement exercises. He spent three years in Bremerton, Manchester and Seattle. Dan married Joyce Paschke in 1948. They are the parents of two sons, Wayne and Dean. All reside in Grand Forks. Andrew John, son of Wayne, is a great-grandchild of Frank and Sophie. Daniel is new car and truck sales manager for the Rydell Chevrolet Company. Richard married Joann Kosmatka in 1958. Their children are Mary Ann, Donna and David (twins), and Michael. Kristen, daughter of Donna Stoltman Pilon, is the first great granddaughter of Frank and Sophie. Richard and Joann have chosen to remain on the farm near Warsaw, N. Dak., volunteering their services to church and family whenever needed. Frank, Jr., entered the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict in 1952. He was stationed in Fort Sill, Okla., attending leadership school for eight months prior to his discharge in 1954. " B u d " married Shirley Purdue, from Ottumwa, Iowa, in 1954. Bud and Shirley live in Coon Rapids, Minn. Their three sons, Mark, Kevin, and Gregg, are also in the Coon Rapids area. One son, Gary, passed away at the early age of 14 in 1974. Frank, Jr. attended Gale Institute in Minneapolis and was employed by the C.B.Q. Railroad as a telegrapher. Presently, he is Train Order Operator with the Burlington Northern Railroad in Minneapolis. Edward and Mary Wisniewski were married in 1960. Their children are Larry, Bradley, Thomas, Lynn Marie, Kenneth and Brian. Whenever they have "time off" from their farming operations, Ed and Mary are actively involved in community services and projects. Mary teaches piano lessons to students in this area. Edward and Richard, together, have formed a partnership known as the Stoltman Brothers and are farming the homestead acres plus the land surrounding it.
Harriston Township in Photos
628
CITY OF MINTO FAMILY HISTORIES GARY BARTA Gary Barta, born at Grafton, N. Dak., Oct. 20, 1952, to Leonard Barta and Genevieve Schanilec Barta, and was reared on his parents' farm, four miles west of Forest River, N. Dak. His father was a farmer and he had seven brothers and sisters. For grades one through six, he attended the Forest River grade school; from 1963 to 1970, he attended Midway Junior and Senior High School, a consolidated school about seven miles from Forest River. He graduated from high school in 1970. Up to the time he graduated from high school, he attended St. Luke's Church at Veseleyville, N. Dak. He spent one year at the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, then transferred to North Dakota State University, Fargo, in 1971, from where he graduated in 1974 with a music education degree. While he was in college, in 1973, he married Terri Kelly of Harvey, N. Dak. From November of 1974 to June of 1976 he taught music at Verona, N. Dak.
The Blaski Family: front row, left to right, Rose M. (Micky), Mary Lou, L. James, Irene; middle row, Eugene, Mrs. Blaski, Mr. Blaski, Ceroid, and Rita; top row, Aurelia, Remigia (Rayme) Theodore, and Lorraine.
The couple's first son, Damon, was born at Lisbon, N. Dak., in November of 1975. Since June of 1976, Gary has been working at the Bank of Minto. Their second son, Justin, was born in February of 1978. In May of 1978, they bought a home in Minto where they are presently living. The couple are expecting their third child in May of 1981.
LUDWIG BLASKI FAMILY Ludwig Louis Blaski was born in Poland on Aug. 25, 1892, a son of George and Catherine (Wieczarek) Blaski. He came to America with his mother and sisters and brothers at the age of nine years. His father, George, preceded them and sent for his wife, Catherine, and family, when he had earned passage money. There were four sons in the family — Ignatz, Stanley, Ludwig and Theodore, and three sisters — Josephine, Stella, and Mary. After coming to America, one more child was born — a daughter, Catherine — but she died during infancy and is buried at St. Stanislaus Cemetery, Warsaw. Then Ludwig's mother (Catherine) died in Feb. 1904, at the age of 37 years. Father George and the older children walked to work, here and there, to make a living. Ludwig was taken in and given a job at the Robert Walski home and there he made his home most of the time.
Blaski Reunion (1979): left to right, front, L. James, Mrs. Blaski, Mary Lou; back, Aurelia, Remigia (Rayme), Theodore, Eugene, Rita, Irene, and Rose M. (Micky). Eugene (Gene), born March, 1926, married Billie Benjamin in 1 9 6 1 ; they have one daughter. Gerold (Jerry), born in Jan., 1929, married Shriley Hinsen, Apr. 9, 1960; they have three children. Rita, born Sept. 1930, married John Sass in March, 1949; they had three children. Irene, born in June, 1932, married Herman Grabanski in 1956; they have three children.
After Ludwig grew up he worked in the area. He met Sophie Gerszewski, daughter of Joseph and Elizabeth Gerszewski, and married at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, Warsaw, on May 7, 1918.
Rose M. (Micky), born in Apr., 1934, married Theodore Mozinski in June, 1955; they have three children.
To this union 12 children were born — seven daughters and five sons.
Marian Louise (Mary Lou), born Aug., 1936, married Rex Scott on March 25, 1963; they had three children.
Aurelia, born July, 1918, was married to Bailey A. Christie June 20, 1938; they had four children. Remigia (Rayme), born Dec. 1919, was married to Vincent Hutton in Nov., 1941; they have eight children.
Louis James (Jim), born in Oct., 1938, married Janet Lawless, Feb. 25, 1964; they have one child, a daughter, whom they adopted.
Theodore (Ted), born Nov. 1921, was married to Doris Lilke, Feb. 1946; they have four children. Lorraine, born Dec. 1922, married Julian Grembowski in Nov., 1942; they had one child, a son. Lorraine passed away in Oct., 1949, and is buried at St. Stanislaus Church Cemetery, Warsaw. John, born in Nov., 1924, died shortly after birth.
Ludwig's and Sophie's family are scattered living in California, Washington, Tennessee, Colorado, North Dakota, and this area. Ludwig Blaski passed away Oct. 30, 1955, and is buried in St. Stanislaus Catholic Church Cemetery, Warsaw. Sophie Blaski is making her home at Minto, residing at one of the eightplex apartments the Minto Development Corporation has built for the senior citizens.
Three sons - Theodore, Eugene and Gerold - have served in the United States Armed Forces - in Germany, France, Korea and Vietnam. In the summer of 1979, the Blaski families got together at the home of Theodore (Ted) Blaski in Denver, Colo., for a threeday reunion; only one son could not make it due to some difficulty. It was a joyful reunion for everyone. It had been ^ years since all were together.
JOHN CHAPIEWSKI FAMILY John Chapiewski was born in Danzig (then under German rule, in 1856) and later emigrated with h is parents to Quebec, Canada. He was eight years old then. He had one brother, Joseph, and two sisters, Anna and Mary. H is mother passed away and shortly afterwards his father and fam ily moved to Winona, Minn., and began farming between Lake City and Winona, on the Mississippi River. While his father was swimming in the river, he drowned.
John Chapiewski Family: left to right, standing, Lawrence, John, Estella twins Leo and Phillip, Margaret, Thomas and Joseph; seated, Frank, Elizabeth, John, Sr., Effie, Winslow, Lillian, Lucille (mother), and Mary. John Chapiewski was then raised by the Frank Narlock family (father of B. J. Narlock, who later moved to Minto). When John was 18 years old, he began working on the railroad between Fargo and Valley City, N. Dak. When he was 22 years old, he heard about the rich land northwest of Grand Forks. In 1879, Joseph Wysocki, Michael Merchlewicz and he walked all the way from Fargo and filed on a homestead, four miles southeast of Minto. This land remained in the family until 1940. After settling there he met Lucille Grzadzieleski. They were united in marriage in 1884. Lucille Grzadzieleski was born in Sroda, Poland, in 1868. When she was six years old, she emigrated with her family to Calumet, Mich., and lived there six years. When Rolaski Township was opened for settling, they arrived there and filed a homestead in 1880. Lucille had three brothers and four sisters - Joseph, Cecilia, Mary, Rose, Francis, Frank and John.
crew really enjoyed it when the day's work was done. Their mother always had special meals and the children can remember how they would enjoy her good cooking. In 1917 John and Lucille purchased the Guy Miller farm, a half mile west of Minto, and it remained in the family for many years. In 1924 the Chapiewskis retired from farming and moved to Minto. The children attended school there. Their childhood memories are of the beautiful park, swimming in the river, playing baseball, and those wonderful fourth of July celebrations. In 1936 John Chapiewski passed away. In 1940, four years later, Lucille followed. They were interred in the Minto cemetery.
BAILEY A. CHRISTIE FAMILY Bailey A. Christie, born near Ardoch, N. Dak., Feb. 13, 1904, to Alfred and Daisy (Dean) Christie. He attended school at Johnstown, N. Dak. He married Aurelia Blaski at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, Warsaw, on June 20, 1938. To that union four children were bom: Alfred Louis, born on Apr. 7, 1939, at Grafton Deaconess Hospital; died Aug. 25, 1.942, at St. Michael's Hospital Grand Forks, at the age of three years, four months and is buried in bt. Patrick's Catholic Cemetery, Minto. Elizabeth Ellen (Betty) was born Apr. 11,1940. She married Cecil M. Hoffarth March 16, 1973, at St. Leo s Catholic Church, Minot, N. Dak. They have two children - Gail Ann and Michael John. Dale John was born June 28, 1948. He married Nancy Burgess July 6, 1976; they have one daughter, Catherine Elizabeth. Mary Patricia, born July 28, 1955, is not married. All the children were educated in the Minto Public Schools, except for Betty's first two years of school when she attended Ardoch School Dist. No. 1 1 , before moving to Minto. Dale John joined the United States Navy Feb. 13, 1967 and took his boot training at the San Diego, Calif U S. Naval Training Center. From there he was sent to Vallejo, Calif., then to Great Lakes Naval Base, and back to Long Beach, Calif. He was assigned to the U.S.S. Somers DDG-34 and was sent overseas for six months. After coming back from there, he was at Long Beach Naval Base; later he was assigned to the John Paul Jones and again was sent overseas to serve in the West Pacific for another six months.
John and Lucille Chapiewski had a family of sixteen children, two passing away in infancy. They are Frank, Thomas, Estella, Lawrence, Mary, John, Margaret, Joseph, (twins) Leo and Phil, Elizabeth, Lillian, Effie and Winslow. A childhood recollection of the older brothers and sisters was living in the old log cabin on the "east farm" by the Forest River. The family had eighty acres of timber land; their father grubbed forty acres of it for raising crops. Eventually, he acquired four hundred acres. The harvest season was a very big occasion and their father would go by team and wagon to Oslo, Minn., and bring home keg beer, putting it in the ice house to keep cool. The men working on the threshing
Mr. and Mrs. Bailey Christie 1938. 630
Wedding picture, June 20,
the Good Templers; at one time Daisy was a member of the Eastern Star in Minto. She was a member of the Knox Presbyterian Church and the Ladies Aid. To this union were born seven children. Those living are Bailey, Daisy, Charles and Margaret. Two died in early chidhood; George died in 1 977 at Sun City, Calif. Alfred Christie died July 6, 1915, leaving his widow to rear this family. She married Micheal Fisher in November, 1917. To this marriage was born one child, Alexander.
Bailey A. Christie's on their 40th wedding anniversary, June 20, 1978.
Alfred and Daisy Christie
On both occasions he spent time in Manila, in the Philippines, Japan, Bangkok, Thailand, and also was in active duty off the shores of South Vietnam during the Vietnam Conflict. He was computor operator for the missiles on his ship, the John Paul Jones destroyer. He took his discharge from the Navy in January, 1976, and has been living in California since.
The family moved to the farm south of Minto (where Ronnie Spale lives) in 1920. Daisy lived there until she moved into town in 1970 to live with her daughter, Margaret. She was in good health until an accident in 1979, when she fell and broke a hip. She died on March 1 1 , 1 9 7 9 , at the age of 99 years. She would have marked her 100 birthday on July 12.
Left to right, standing: Bailey, Daisy, Margaret, and George; sitting, Charles, Mother Daisy, and Alex Fisher.
Bailey A. Christie Family: Dale, standing; Betty, Alfred Louis, Mary, Mrs. Christie, and Mr. Christie.
Bailey Christie married Aurelia Blaski and they live in Minto. They had four children; one died in early childhood.
On July 10, 1976, Dale married Nancy Burgess in Holy Family Catholic Church in Artesia, Calif., and they now reside at Norwalk, Calif. Dale is now working for the Burroughs Corporation of Los Angelas, West E.D.P.F.E. Branch. He is senior field engineer with the Burroughs Computors and has just been notified that another promption is coming to him soon.
George married Mildred Dodge Christpor and lived at Minto on a farm south of town until they moved to California in 1971. They had no children. Charles married Doris Bushaw. They have resided in California and Grand Forks and Velva, N. Dak., and now live at Velva. They have one child.
ALFRED CHRISTIE AND DAISY CHRISTIE (FISHER) FAMILY
Daisy married Leonard Flaagan; they live on a farm at Tolna, N.Dak. Alexander Fisher, married, resides at Cheyenne, Wyo. He and his first wife, Norma, had two children.
Alfred Christie and Daisy Dean were married on Dec. 25, 1901. They both came to this area from Eastern Canada. They lived on farms at Ardoch, Forest River, and Johnstown, N. Dak. Alfred Christie was a member of the Odd Fellows Lodge and 631
Margaret Christie never married and still lives in Minto. Margaret worked for Doctor Hardy for 21 years and is still taking care of little children.
THE HUGH DOWLING FAMILY Hugh Dowling was born in Ontario, Canada, in the Dundas area on Apr. 29, 1872, to parents, Hugh and Mary Dowling, who moved to Canada from Ireland - (date unknown). Hugh, Sr., was a weaver by trade. Hugh Dowling of Minto was the oldest of several children. He came to Rhinelander, Wise, in 1891 at the age of nineteen. He worked in lumber mills there, being head sawyer for some time. The year he came to Minto, in Walsh County, is not known. He lived in the Minto area from then on, working as a farm laborer, woodsman, and at various other employments in the Red River Valley. He passed away in October, 1934. Mary Falconer Dowling was born in Ontario, Canada, Nov. 6, 1877, to Mathew and Elizabeth (Trotter) Falconer. She and three other children, with their parents, came to Minto, N. Dak., by train Nov. 9, 1883 One railroad bridge had been burned out so it was necessary for another train to back up to the burned out bridge and passengers had to cross the river on the ice and board the second train, carrying their luggage and small children. Her father Matthew Falconer, set up a wagon shop in Minto — and followed that trade as long as his health permitted. Mary was the oldest of nine children.
Hugh Dowling and Mary Falconer — wedding picture Mary Falconer and Hugh Dowling were married on June 6, 1900, by Rev. W. D. Wilkie, pastor of the Presbyterian Church in Minto. They became the parents of ten children: A daughter, Alice Elizabeth, was born March 3, 1902, at Minto; married F. Edward Horner of Deer River, Minn., in 1923; passed away in September, 1929, at Minto. Three chilren were born to this couple: Francis Ray, on Feb. 5, 1924; retired Navy career man, now living in Northfield, N. J.; married and the father of one daughter and three sons. Margaret Joyce, born in Deer River, Minn., and passed away there at 10 months of age. Alice Marilyn, bom at Minto, May 27, 1927; married; no children; passed away Dec. 3, 1979. Francis Ray and Alice Marilyn were raised by grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Hugh Dowling, following the death of their mother in September, 1929.
Clinton Ross, a son, bom at Minto, July 22, 1905. He married Ida Laugness at Fargo, N. Dak., where they made their home. He was employed by the Cass County road construction crew and later on became a custodian for the Fargo school system. He passed away December 24, 1965. Marilyn Adelle married Kenneth Griesback of Hunter, N. Dak., where they farm. One daughter and three sons. Hugh Clinton married Elivore, two sons. Percy Dowling, a son, was born at Minto on Sept. 29 1906 never married. He served in the army during World War II. He was employed by the Great Northern railroad for some time. He operated a dray line or transfer business for a time and was employed by the Walsh County road and bridge crew for several years. He retired because of poor health. He provided for his mother until her death. He passed away Nov. 1 1 , 1979. Edith May was born at Minto Dec. 16, 1907. She graduated from Minto High School in 1926 and attended Mayville State College. She taught rural school at Hague, N. Dak., and in Walsh County. In 1929 she married James Bates. They are parents of two daughters and three sons. She is living in Bemidji, Minn. Gladys Mabel was bom Jan. 25, 1909, at Minto, graduated from Minto High School in 1928, and attended Mayville State College. She taught school in Walsh County. On Nov. 1, 1 y i b , she married Carl Oscar Berg at Minto. He passed away in August, 1945. Grace, another daughter born March 12, 1911 at Minto and graduated from Minto High School. She cared for her mother until she married Elmer Chase of Lengby, Minn. They had one son. Elmer Chase passed away February, 1980. They farmed throughout their married life. Francis Hugh, a son, was born at Minto, Sept. 24, 1913. He served with the army in New Guinea during World War II. He married Eva Hamilton of Grafton. They have one daughter and two sons. Francis was employed by the Great Northern Railroad for some time, and later was employed as a maintenance man at the Veterans Hospital in Fargo. He retired from there. Eva passed away in June, 1978. Aida Margaret, a daughter, was born Oct. 3 1 , 1916, at Minto, and graduated from Minto High School. She married Orville Sanders of Danville, III., and resided there until his death in March, 1978. They have three daughters. Gilbert Merle was born Apr. 24, 1 9 2 1 . He served with the Army during World War II. While serving overseas he was captured by the Germans and was held prisoner for six months. He became a master barber and now is employed as custodian for a school system in a Minneapolis suburb. He is married and the father of one daughter and three sons. At the time Minto celebrated its 75th anniversary, Mary Dowling was the oldest resident of Minto, having lived there continuously for a longer period than any other resident. She was / y at the time. She rode on a float in the parade along with Miss Minto. Minto was only two years old when Mary Falconer Dowling came there from Canada, in 1883. She passed away Feb. 6, 1971, at the age of 93 years, three months.
A son, Wm. Stanley, born Dec. T, 1903, at Minto, was married to Mary Louise Hills of Fullerton, N. Dak., (date not recalled); no children; they are now retired and residents of Bottineau, N. Dak. He was employed by the Great Northern Railroad and, later on, worked on construction for several years.
SIDNEY DVORAK FAMILY Sidney S. Dvorak, son of John and Mary (Sobolik) Dvorak, married Godfrey F. Votava, daughter of Albert and Anna (Dusek) 632
Votava, June 17, 1946, in St. Luke's Catholic Church in Veseleyville, N. Dak. Before his marriage, Sidney served in the United States Army Air Corps as a waist gunner on B-17 bombers during World War II. His service began in October, 1 942, and he spent from April to September in 1944 in the overseas war effort. He was discharged in November, 1945. After their marriage, the Dvoraks settled in Veseleyville where Sidney worked in the employ of the Walsh County Highway Department as a Civil Engineer. It is while in Veseleyville that 10of their 11 children were born. Only Kim, the youngest of their nine sons and two daughters, was born after the family moved to Minto on July 16, 1961. Godfrey and Sidney's first two children were daughters. Linda, who married Paul Lemieux Aug. 12, 1967, has four children: Michelle, Amy, Shawna and James. The Lemieuxs live in Maddock, N. Dak., where Paul is the Farmers Union Insurance representative.
representative for Moore Business Forms and Beth is manager of the Jewelry Joint, Kirkwood Mall, Both are graduates of Mary College, Bismarck, N. Dak. Dean will receive his degree in mining engineering from the South Dakota State School of Mines and Technology at Rapid City in May, 1981. He is already interviewing for jobs with companies across the country and has announced plans to marry Lori Dahl, who is a registered nurse in Rapid City, S. Dak. Both are graduates of Mary College, Bismarck. Joel graduated from Mayville State College with a degree in education and is teaching in the Science Department at Lakeville High School, Lakeville, Minn., a suburb of Minneapolis, Joel also has announced plans to marry in the summer of 1981. His fiance is Becky Lease, who is in school for certification as a court reporter. Joel spent two months in the summer of 1980 touring Europe in a group of four. His brief stay with the Karl Lutovsky family in Czechoslovakia has provided our family with many hours of discussion of the wonders of freedom and the horror of losing it. Allan is a senior at Mayville State College where he is earning a degree in education and is captain of the Comets varsity basketball team. He hopes to teach and coach next year. Kim is a freshman at Lake Region Junior College at Devils Lake, N. Dak., where he plays on the varsity basketball team. On July 4, 1976, the nine Dvorak sons, coached by their father, Sidney, and assisted by the boys' uncle James Dvorak, Veseleyville, fielded a baseball team and played against the Minto Independent Baseball Team as a part of the Fourth of July Festivities. The Dvorak boys were victorious by a score of 4 to 3.
Sidney Dvorak Family: left to right, back, Timothy, Kevin, Conrad and Joel; middle, Dean, Allan, Randall, Sidney J., Jr., and Kim; front, Linda, Sidney S., Godfrey, and Loretta. Loretta married Ross Kringlie Aug. 2, 1969; they live in Valley City, N. Dak., where Ross is a doctor on staff at the Valley City Clinic. They have four duaghters: Beth, Rebecca and Jennifer (twins), and Jessica, and one son, Jamie. Loretta received her cap as a registered nurse from Sisters of Saint Joseph School of Nursing of North Dakota. The Dvorak's oldest son, Conrad, married Lorraine Mondry (daughter of R. S. Mondry and Sylvia Wysocki) on Aug. 6, 1971. They have one son, Nathan, and live in Mandan, N. Dak., where Conrad is a counselor at the North Dakota Industrial School, working with juvenile delinquents, and Lorraine is librarian of the Mandan Elementary Schools. Both are graduates of Mayville State College. Sidney, Jr., served as a military policeman in the United States Army during the Vietnam War era. He is employed in Grand Forks at the Pillsbury Company. Randall attended school at Lake Region Junior College and was employed with Morton Buildings, Grafton, N. Dak., where he was injured. His injury prevents him from returning to his former work so his plans are to attend college in the field of radio and television. Timothy graduated from a two-year carpentry course at Lake Region Junior College, Devils Lake, N. Dak., and was a partner in a construction firm until he joined Morton Buildings, Grafton, where he is currently employed. Kevin married Beth Miller on May 26, 1978, and they live in Bismarck, N. Dak., where Kevin is employed as a sales
Godfrey and Sidney still live in Minto, where Sidney serves as rural mail carrier and they are kept busy traveling to various North Dakota towns to watch their sons play basketball and keep in touch with their family.
MICHAEL DYMOWSKI FAMILY Michael Dymowski was born in Lubartow, Poland in 1892, and emigrated to the United States in 1911. He married Mary Kamrowski of the Warsaw area, said marriage having taken place in Minto in 1915. The couple spent their entire lives in the Minto area, Michael working as a paint contractor, with the exception of several periods of wintering in warmer climates. The couple had four children, three girls and one boy, who are: Eleanor Hatcher of Arlington, Va.; Angeline Fest of West Covina, Calif.; Theresa Langston of Covina, Calif.; and Stephen Dymowski, Minto. Michael died at the age of 84 in 1977; Mary died at the age of 79 in 1963.
ALEXANDER EBERTOWSKI FAMILY Alexander Ebertowski was born July 8, 1867, to Francis Ebertowski and Apolonia Gradowski Ebertowski. Frances Ebertowski was born Oct. 6, 1836, and died March 2, 1891. He was married in Poland. Apolonia was born Feb. 10, 1842, and died March 30, 1932. They came to Walsh County April 12, 1889. Their son, Alexander Ebertowski was born July 8, 1867 and died April 1, 1956. Alexander Ebertowski was married in Feb.,
Around 1926, Bill Hanrahan took over as manager of the Farmer's Elevator. It was a single house, constructed of wood and painted red. While he was manager, two annexes were built onto the elevator. The original elevator has now been moved to Ops. It is still in use and is owned by the Bjorneby Brothers. W. D. Hanrahan managed the Farmer's Elevator until 1955 when he suffered a stroke and died the following year. Mr. Hanrahan was active in the Commercial Club, American Legion, a member of St. Patrick's Church, and a member of the Minto City Council for many years. His wife is Verda Hawkland Hanrahan Tibert. They had four daughters - Ann Hewitt, Ruth Campbell Shoults, Alice Johnson Davidson, and Jean (Binky) O'Connell. Mr. and Mrs. Alexander Ebertowski wedding picture (1896) 1896, to Agata Stencil, who was born Jan. 13, 1878. She died Jan. 13, 1957. The children of Alexander and Agata Ebertowski are: Barney who died Dec. 1974, who was married to Anna Waletzko; Vernie, who died at age 5; Anna (Mrs. Henry Winkels); Martin, (married to Rose Stoltman); Adam, (married to Mary Lovchenko); he died Aug. 29, 1980; and Eva (Mrs. John Batko). Eva is remarried to Roy Olson. Lillian (Mrs. John Bazey); Jane is unmarried; Frances (Mrs. Low Parent), is remarried to Benny Eggan; Alexander, Jr., died as an infant; Robert (married to Dorothy Duray); he died May 19, 1959; Elizabeth (Mrs. Richard Gerszewski). She is remarried to Ben Paschke; Johnny never married. He died Dec. 24, 1979.
W. D. Hanrahan and Minto Farmers Elevator (1936). W. D. Hanrahan also has 18 grandchildren and 20 greatgrandchildren, many still living in the Minto area.
EARL AND SARAH FLANDERS
His grandchildren are Jo Ellen Hewitt Nelson, Jim Hewitt, Nancy Hewitt Lundgren, Mary Sue Hewitt, Peggy hewitt, Marjory Campbell McFall, Joe Campbell, Bill Campbell, Peggy Campbell Shaver, Beth Campbell O'Hara, Jim Campbell, Bob Campbell, Paul Shoults, Don Shoults, Patti O'Connell Mortenson, Ann O'Connell, Sandy O'Connell, and Douglas Johnson.
Sarah (Wylot) Flanders, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Wylot, was born in Warsaw in 1909. She married Earl Flanders in 1934. The couple resided east of Minto and farmed until 1970, then moved to Minto.
JACOB HEWITT Jacob Hewitt, son of Mark Hewitt and Ann (Fletcher) Hewitt, was born in 1825 at Ontario, Canada. He married Annie Hewitt, who was born in the County of Armagh, Ireland, in 1824. She lived her girlhood in the Emerald Isle, migrating to Canada in 1843. Jacob and Annie resided in Canada for nearly forty years, making their home successively in Hamilton, Mount Forest, and Guelph, Ontario.
Mr. and Mrs. Earl Flanders and son. Earl (1947). Earl Flanders, Jr., was their only child; he died in 1948. Mr. Flanders graduated from Minto High School; was on the school board for 27 years; was a director on the Minto Farmer's Elevator board and Ardoch Township board. Mr. Flanders died in 1974.
W. D. HANRAHAN W. D. Hanrahan came to Minto with his wife. Verda, and daughter, Ann, in the spring of 1924. He came as the manager of the National Elevator, which was a large, green elevator constructed of wood. A new elevator was built on the site in 1931 and it was known as the P.V. Elevator.
Jacob Hewitt 634
Dave and Lori Hilde
Mark Hilde
Sandy Kay Hilde
Lisa Hilde
Mrs. Jacob Hewitt and great-granddaughter, now Mrs. R. F. (Pete) Matejcek (Taken about 1913). Eleven children were born to them: Jane (Mrs. Isaac Quinn), Mark, Eliza Rebecca, Mary, William J., Jacob, Eliza Ann (Mrs. Madison Pepple), Rosanna (Mrs. Joseph Wentz), Louise, Janet (Mrs. William Nichols), and Jacquena (Mrs. Louis Wentz). In March, 1880, Jacob and two sons, Mark and William, went to Dakota Territory and filed on a prairie homestead, seven miles northeast of Minto. They built their shanties and did a little breaking that fall and winter. They bought 40 acres of timber on the banks of the Red River, from which they cut logs to raft to Winnipeg, but the flood came in the spring and carried most of the logs away with it. In March, 1881, the remainder of the family came from Canada and were met at Grand Forks, by Mr. Hewitt, with a team of horses, the railroad terminating at Grand Forks. They made their home on the homestead for 20 years, until 1901, when Jacob died. Mrs. Hewitt then came to Minto and purchased a home where she resided up to the time of her death in May, 1918, at the age of 94.
WILLIAM W.HEWITT William (Bill) Hewitt was born June 17, 1917, in Walsh Centre Township, Walsh County, to Lome and Carrie Hewitt. Bill was raised on a farm where he worked for his father. He attended school at Minto. On October 27, 1939, Bill married Edna Wagar, daughter of William and Annie Wagar of Gilby. They made their home in Minto and had three daughters — Wilma (Mrs. George Kozel), Carol (Mrs. Don Madsen), and Lyla. Bill served as a fireman for many years and was a member of the Knox Presbyterian Church at Minto. He farmed until the time of his death in April, 1980. Mrs. Hewitt resides in Minto.
DAVE AND LORI HILDE FAMILY David J. Hilde was born Nov. 18, 1932, in Ulen, Minn., to parents, Melvin and Myrtle Hilde. He was raised on a farm and attended grade school in Ulen. He graduated from Orange Union High School, Orange, Calif., in 1950, and served in the U.S. Army from 1953 to 1955 as a military policeman at Ft. Benning, Ga. He graduated from the University of Minnesota in 1958 with a Master of Science Degree in soils and agronomy. Dave married Lori Howe in April, 1958, at Backus, Minn. Lori Howe was born May 19, 1931, to parents, Clarence and Edna Howe. She, too, was raised on a farm. She attended school in Backus, Minn., and was graduated from the Minnesota School of Business in 1956. She was employed with the Hartford Insurance Company in Minneapolis prior to her marriage. Dave and Lori have three children: Mark, born Oct. 20, 1959, is a 1977 graduate of Minto High School, and graduated from State School of Science at Wahpeton, N. Dak., in electronic technology. He is employed by Washington Analytical Services Center, Grand Forks. Sandra, born Jan. 12, 1962, graduated from Minto High School in 1980; and is presently attending college in Minneapolis. Lisa, born Sept. 2 1 , 1965, is a sophomore at Minto High School. Dave and family moved to Minto in December, 1963. Dave served as an agriculturist for the American Crystal Sugar Company in the Minto, Warsaw, Oslo, Forest River and Gilby area for 15 years. He was promoted to American Cyrstal's corporate office, Moorhead, Minn., in 1979.
William W. Hewitt, left; with Delphine Greevers and Ray Greevers.
FRANK JISKRA FAMILY On Nov. 2 1 , 1 8 9 9 , Frank Jiskra was born in (Ceska Rybna) Czechoslovakia to John and Katherine Jiskra. In June, 1913, they came to America with Frank's two younger brothers, Jerry and Fred, and settled near Cadott, Wise.
Frank Jiskra Family: Francis, Florian, John, Marvin, Rosie, Edmund, Cecelia, Justine and Frank. In 1920, Frank came to the Veseleyville area to work for Henry Barta. On Oct. 23, 1924, he married Justine Svoboda at St. Luke's Catholic Church by Father Sverma. Justine was bom in Veseleyville on Oct. 7, 1904, to Thomas J. and Anna (Spale) Svoboda. After their marriage, Frank and Justine moved to rural Drywood, Wise, where two children were born — a daughter, Cecelia, and a son, Florian. In 1926 they came back to North Dakota where they lived in Voss. Besides Cecelia and Florian, the family now includes Francis, Edmund, John, Marvin and Rose Mae. One son, Robert, died at the age of four of leukemia. All five sons served in the Armed Forces. In 1946, the Jiskras bought 80 acres, east of Minto, in Harriston Township. Frank worked for the Crystal Sugar Beet Company for 15 years. In 1946, he moved a house from near Drayton, N. Dak., to Minto, N. Dak. It was settled in on Nov. 9, 1946.
THE FAMILY OF LEON E. KLAVA, SR. Leon E. Klava, Sr., was born July 27, 1879, in Poland. His parents were the late Jon Klava and Rozaliea Pruski, who immigrated to the United States, landing in New Jersey. The family moved to Milwaukee, Wise, when Leon was eleven years old. From there they came to Dakota Territory and lived here the rest of their life.
North Dakota from Calumet, Mich. Frances H. was born at the farm home of her parents in Pulaski Township, Aug. 25, 1883. Leon and Frances had first lived on a farm in Ardoch Township where ten of their children were born — Max, Leo, Jr., Blanche, Isabelle, Emil (Salomae), Mae, Bruce, Annette (Netti), George, and Eva, who died in infancy. Later the family moved to a farm in Harriston Township where Leonora and Winslow were born. Winslow also died in infancy. Later the family farmed by Minto and the later years by Gilby, N. Dak. The parents, Leon, Sr., and Frances, bought a house in Minto which was their last home. Leon was a member of the Warsaw Band, from 1896 until 1905; then he belonged to another Warsaw Band in 1912 which was organized and directed by an organist of St. Stanislaus Church, Mr. Paul Lutostansky. Besides being a farmer, Leon was a well digger for farmers, a steam engine engineer during harvest time season, and also did bricklaying jobs. Before marriage, Frances lived on the farm with her parents, attended country school, and later attended school in Grand Forks. Their oldest son, Max, married Jane Konopczinski in Chicago, Leo, Jr., married Isabel (Euzebia) Kosmatka in Warsaw, daughter of Joseph Kosmatka, Sr., and Mary Kulas; Blanche married John Glanner; Isabelle married Emil Kiedrowski, who passed away in Milwaukee, and later married Bert Skinner in California; Emil married Theodoria (Tessie) Wosick in Minto; Salomae (Mae) married B. V. Narloch; Bruce married Geneviene Barclay in Minto; Annette married Albert Festa; George married Helyn Sedor in Chicago; Leonora married Norman Wilcox in Minto; who passed away; she later married Donald Bang in Manvel, N. Dak. Leon E., Sr., died Sept. 25, 1946, and Frances H. died Sept. 16, 1970. They were members of Sacred Heart Church of Minto.
THE FAMILY OF LEO L. (KLAVA) KLAVE, JR. Leo L. Klave, Jr., was born Nov. 13, 1 9 0 1 , at the farm home of his parents, Leon E. and Frances H. Klava, in Ardoch Township. During 1922 and 1928 he was employed at Ford Motor Co. in Detroit, Mich. In 1923 he was employed in Chicago. He married Isabel (Euzebia) Kosmatka Nov. 11,1924, at St. Stanislaus Church of Warsaw with the late Rev. T. A. Kupka officiating. Isabel was a daughter of Joseph Kosmatka and Mary Kulas. She was born at her parents' farm near the Red River Oct. 29, 1901. They were parents of two children — Irmine Mary,
Mr. and Mrs. Leon E. Klava, Sr., on their farm by Minto. Leon married Frances H. Grzadzielewski, May 7, 1900, at St. Stanislaus Church of Warsaw. She was a daughter of the late Thomas Grzadzielewski and Maryanna Przybilski, who came to
Family of Leo L. (Klava) Klave, Jr.: left to right, Isabel, Leo, Jr., Leo Karl and Ermine. (Date of picture — March, 1952.)
born at a farm home in Pulaski Township, Oct. 19, 1925. and Leo Karl, born at their home in Minto. July 7. 1 9 3 1 . Leo, Jr., was employed on the farm several years. In 1930, he started working for J. J. Sprafka Oil Co., driving a gas truck. Another gas truck driver was the late Elmer Kennedy of Minto. Later he worked as a foreman at Sprafka's Potato Warehouse and Farms. After Mr. Sprafka passed away, he was employed by the Sugar Beet Company, loading beets in Minto, where he was badly hurt by a tractor. After several surgeries in Grafton and a Rochester, Minn., hospital, when he was able to work he was employed as a policeman by the city of Minto. He succumbed to a heart attack Jan. 6, 1 962. Irmine M. was married to Raymond Gornowich, June 29, 1946, at Sacred Heart Church in Minto. She lives in Renton, Wash., where she is employed by the Tupperware Shipping Co. They had four children — Neil, Sheryl, James and Susan, all born at a Grafton hospital, while the family lived in Minto. The family now lives in Washington. Neil lives in Kent, Wash., and is married to Kristin Hendersen. Sheryl married John Campbell, former Grafton resident, son of Mrs. Hattie (Marshall) Campbell. They are parents of three sons, Michael, Jason and Ryan. Susan married Larry Fisher and they are parents of one daughter, Jennifer. James is at home, in Renton, Wash. Leo Karl married Alexia Schanilec at Veseleyville, N. Dak., on June 9, 1952. She is a daughter of the late Anthony Schanilec and Elizabeth Dusek Schanilec, former Pisek rural residents. Leo and Alexia have four sons and one daughter, and live in Minneapolis (Brooklyn Park), Minn. Their sons, Gregory and Timothy, were born in a Grafton hospital while they lived in Minto. Andrea, Anthony and Robert were born in Minneapolis. While in Minto, Leo was employed at the J. J. Sprafka Farm and Warehouse after being discharged from the Marines in 1954. In 1957 the family moved to Minneapolis, where he started working at the Northwestern Bank, and at the present time, 1980, he is still employed there. Gregory is attending Bemidji State University in Bemidji, Minn., and Anthony has joined the Navy at Great Lakes, III., and is stationed at San Diego Naval Base.
VERNON FAMILY
AND
DOROTHY
(WYSOCKI)
LINDEMOEN
Dorothy Wysocki, only daughter of Frank and Frances Wysocki, was born Oct. 5, 1912. She graduated from Minto High School in 1929, and attended Mayville State Teacher's College, Mayville, N. Dak. She taught five years in the Walsh County rural schools. She married Vernon Lindemoen of Oslo, Minn., on Oct. 26, 1936, and moved to Detroit, Mich. Two daughters were born to
Vernon and Dorothy Lindemoen
Sandy and Betty Lindemoen this marriage — Sandra (Mrs. Owen Richie) Detroit, Mich., and Betty (Mrs. Joseph Tocco), San Diego, Calif. Vernon died on July 5, 1969. Dorothy had worked for J. L. Hudson Department Store from 1945 to her retirement in 1973. She is a member of the Third Order of St. Francis and the Eucharistic Mission Band, being active in their volunteer programs. She pursues her hobby of growing roses and is an active member of both rose societies of Detroit, Mich., and the American Rose Society. On May 2 1 , 1979. she was married to Louis N. Leff. formerly of Grafton, N. Dak., and they make their home in Detroit, Mich.
ALEX AND SOPHIA MICHALSKI A. W. (Alex) Michalski was born on Oct. 28, 1903, on a farm in Ardoch Township to Joseph and Anna (Narlock) Michalski, who were farming at the time. In 1906. Joe moved his family into Oslo, Minn., where he began working for the Soo Line Railroad. Later, they moved to a farm northwest of Oslo, on the North Dakota side, where their family of 10 boys and one girl grew up. Joseph gave up his railroad work and now began a farming career. Alex, the seventh child born to Joseph and Anna, attended a country school for eight years and then attended one year of high school at Oslo, Minn. Working on the home farm and for the neighbors kept him busy for the next few years. On Nov. 7, 1927, Alex married Sophia Gerszewski at Warsaw, N. Dak. They lived on a farm near Oslo for three years, during which time a son, Jerome, was born. In the spring of 1930, they moved into Minto, N. Dak. In the years to come, seven more children were born to Alex and Sophia. They included: Frances, 1931; Elsie, Doris, 1936; Marlene. 1939; Kenneth, 1942; Victoria, 1944; and Jacqueline, 1948. In 1930, Alex became a grain buyer, and managed the Peavey Elevator Company in Minto up until the time of his death. From 1930-1962, Alex was involved with such activities as the Minto Commercial Club, trustee of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church, manager of the Independent Baseball Team, and was the organizer of the Minto Trapshooting Club. He was also very involved with his hobbies of guns, hunting, trapshooting, and woodworking, until a fatal heart attack took his life on Oct. 14, 1962, while on a hunting trip in Montana. Their son, Jerome, died on May 30, 1963. Sophia remained in Minto following Alex's death. She was the Degree of Honor Juvenile Director for approximately thirty years, was a cook at the Minto Public School from 1962-1973, and from 1973 to the present, has been babysitting for various families in Minto. Although Sophia keeps busy with her
babysitting job, she is still very active in many clubs in Minto including Homemakers, Whist Club, Smear Club, Golden Age Senior Citizens Club, Sacred Heart Altar Society, and others. And she also finds time to visit her children - Fran Michalski, Santa Ana, Calif.; Elsie Klitz, Mansfield Center, Doris Fertig, Hallock, Minn.; Marlene Jorgenson, Devils Lake IN. Dak.; Ken Michalski, Van Nuys, Calif.; Vicki Falnders, Minto, N. Dak., Jackie Michalski, Denver, Colo.; - her 19 grandchildren, and her three great-grandchildren.
DANIEL MOGA FAMILY Daniel Moga, former vice president of the Bank of Minto was born in Minto, Apr. 20, 1904. His parents were Jacob and Dominika (Narlock) Moga, who moved to Scranton, N. Dak., in May, 1908. Dan attended school in Scranton but took his last year of high school in Dickinson, because the Scranton School wasn t accredited. After graduating he attended Teacher's College for the summer school session and then was granted a special Teachers Certificate to teach the Bartholmy country school. The permit was special because Dan was only 17 years of age. After two years of teaching he attended the University of Minnesota. When his father died, he accepted a position as cashier at the Bank of Scranton.
Dan Moga. Mother, and Eugene. In 1933 when all banks were closing, he accepted a position in Minneapolis with Universal Credit Corporation. He married Mary Isabelle O'Brien of Renville. Minn., in September, 1935, in Minneapolis. Promotions moved them to Omaha, Nebraska, and Kansas City, Missouri. In 1942, when Louis Wisniewski bought the Bank of Minto. from Allan McKay, Daniel came to Minto to become vice president of the bank. His wife, Isabelle, also worked in the bank. Daniel was elected mayor of Minto and under his 12-year reign Minto underwent its greatest period of improvement. During his terms in office a city water system was installed; a cty sewage system inaugurated, a new white way system of lighting was installed, and a sidewalk building program was launched. Mr Moga served as president of the Walsh County Bankers Association, was a director of the Minto Commercial Club a director of the Walsh County Chapter of the American Red Cross, and a member of the educational committee of the North Dakota Bankers Association. He died of a heart attack in Grand Forks while attending a meeting of the Elks Building Committee on Sept. 27, 1956, at
His wife Isabelle, continued working at the bank until Louis Wisniewski sold the bank to Herman Schanilec. Then she also sold, and worked in Grafton at the Credit Bureau. Daniel and Isabelle had three sons - Daniel, Thomas and Patrick. Daniel, a graduate of the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, and a former teacher, lives in Arthur, N. Dak. Thomas, a lawyer in Upland, Calif., married Evelyn Adam. They have two sons, Wayne and Scott. Patrick is a certified public accountant at Chino, Calif. He married Barbara Delling of Grafton. They have five children Brian, Aaron, Becky (Rebecca), Gregory and Mary Lynn. They live in Rancho Cucamonga, Calif. In 1 9 7 1 , Mrs. Moga moved to Upland, Calif. Two years later Sept 10 1973, she died during open heart surgery in a Los Angeles hospital. Both Dan and Isabelle are buried in the Sacred Heart Cemetery in Minto. At this writing, Tom Moga sold his law practice, bought a 42-foot Schooner, and after learning how to be a navigator, set sail in June, 1980, on a two-year trip around the world.
THE MOGA FAMILY The Moga genealogy has been traced to the year 1705, in Poland by Suzanne Gerszewski Burke, daughter of Aviator Richard Gerszewski. She searched church and county and city records in Poland. Martin Moga, who came to Warsaw, N. Dak., in 1870, was one of nine children born in Czarnow, Bydgoszcz County, Poland to Thomas Moga and Sophia Kossidowski. Martin was born May 30, 1828, and married Lucia Kloskoska, who was born in Poland in 1842. They were married in Dodge, Wise. They had six children - Marianna, born in 1860; Elizabeth, born October, 1863, Kitchener, Ontario, Canada, during the Civil War (Elizabeth married Joseph Gerszewski); John Frank, born in 1865, married Mary Frances Ratka, lived in Grand Forks and died Aug. 28, 1940; Frances Moga, born 1867 mamed Joseph Slominski; had eight children that included late Rev. Francis Slominski, a priest in Minto from 1925 to 1940 the late Mrs Anton (Margaret) Mozinski of Gratton; Jacob Joseph Moga, born in Pine Creek, Wise, July 14, 1869; and the last child, Anna, who was placed in an orphanage in Chicago when the mother became ill and was institutionalized and died Apr. L i , 1910. Martin and children moved to Warsaw in 1870. His home was a place where many settlers stayed until their cabins were built.
Mrs. and Mrs. Jacob Moga. July I /. 1894
age 52. 638
Mrs. Jacob Moga (Dominika Narlock)
Dominika Moga and sons. Cordon and Eugene.
Jacob Moga married Dominika Narloch, daughter of Frank and Mary Narloch, July 17, 1894. In 1898 they moved to Minto and Jacob and Narloch built a lumber yard. They sold the lumber yard in 1 900 to the St. Hilaire Lumber Company. They then built a Hardware Store which Moga sold to Vincent Langowski. In 1902, Jacob bought the E. R. Strome General Mechandise Store. Frank Kyncl bought a third of the store and sold his share January, 1905, to Max Warczak. In 1908 Moga sold out to Wencel Rose, and moved the family to Scranton, N. Dak., to homestead and build a general merchandise store, which he owned until his death in 1925.
was stationed in the Aleutian Islands. The last 25 years prior to his death he was assistant office manager at the Great Northern Railroad in Seattle. He married Anna Lou Durham July 20, 1940. They had two sons, Eugene and Gregory. Gordon died Nov. 10, 1976, and is buried at Acacia Mortuary Memorial Park in Seattle.
Jacob and Dominika had seven children. Stephen and Frank died in infancy. Walter and Daniel were born in Minto. Walter was born Sept. 14, 1899; died May 26, 1964. Daniel was born Apr. 20, 1904; died Sept. 27, 1956. Mary Isabelle was the first child born in Scranton, N. Dak. (Sept. 30, 1908). Eugene and Gordon were the first twins born in Scranton and in Bowman County (Dec. 20, 1910).
Eugene went to Minneapolis after graduating from high school and was hired by Investor's Syndicate Company. Later he moved to San Francisco, and was employed at Civic Center as Registrar of Voters. Durinq the war he was employed in North West Territory. (So far north that the "Northern Lights were in the south"). He married LaVerne Burns Apr. 2 1 , 1938. They had one daughter, Arlene. When his mother, Dominika, had a stroke , Eugene came to Minto to live with her. For a time he was employed as Ray's Bar. Eugene died Apr. 22, 1972, and is buried in Sacred Heart Cemetery, Minto. His daughter married Norval "Skip" Gillies and they live in Grand Forks. N. Dak., and have two childrenn, Jolene and Brent. Mary Isabelle (Mrs. Louis Wisniewski). Minto piano teacher, is the last survivor of the Jacob Moga family.
LAURENCE VALENTINE AND WANDA ANNA (GLANER) MOZINSKI FAMILY Richard Theodore Mozinski, eldest son of Laurence Valentine and Anna (Glaner) Mozinski, was born May 3, 1918, in Minto, N. Dak. He attended the Minto schools, graduating in 1939. He was a student at the University of North Dakota from
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Martin and Lucy Moga Walter married Margaret Wichmann. He owned and operated the Trail Garage for several years, then moved to Sacramento, Calif., where they had a grocery store. One daughter, Gloria Ann, died in infancy. They are buried in Sacramento, Calif. Daniel and his wife are buried in the Sacred Heart Cemetery in Minto. The twins, Eugene and Gordon are deceased. Gordon was employed at the Bank of Scraton until the banks all closed. He played saxophone in his sister's orchestra, — "Isabelle and Her Peerless Entertainers." — for 15 years he was office manager for General Construction Co. During the war he
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1939 to 1941 He entered the service of his country, serving in the Navy from 1941 to 1945, as a transportation specialist^ He was a cryptanalyst with an armed forces security agency from 1947 to 1950. He married Virgina May Wagsness May 27. 1949. They have four children - Candy. Brachle, Theresa, and Richard 5. He was co-owner of Lake Calhoun Drive-in Restaurant from 1950-1952- was employed as a transportation specialist with Great Western Sugar Co., Denver, from 1952-1971 .operations dispatch manager special commodities of Ringsby Truck line, Denver; and traffic manager for American Crystal Sugar Co., 1971 - to present date. American Crystal moved to its new headquarters, in 1973, at Moorhead, Minn., and Richard relocated with the company.
in Minto. and entered service in the U.S. Army in February, 1 942. He saw service in North Africa, and Sicily. Ambrose was killed on duty in London, England, during a bombing raid.
HISTORY OF BRADLEY JON NARLOCH Bradley Jon Narloch was born to Frank B. Narloch and Leona (Dolly) Wysocki Narloch on June 16, 1959. As an infant he lived on Section 1 5 in Forest River Township. At nine months old he moved and grew up on Section 31 in Harriston Township. Brad completed Minto High School in May of 1977.
He was district captain of the Republican party in Colorado; and a member of the National Independent Traffic League, Northwestern Shippers Advisory Board. Richard has been certified by The Marquis Board Who's Who in Finance and Industry for the years 1977-1978 and 1979-1980. Chester J Mozinski was born July 16, 1919, in Minto, N. Dak He received his elementary and high school education in the Minto Public Schools and entered Georgia Tech. in 1 y4b, at the age of 28, and made the freshman football team. After graduation, in 1937, he entered military service and served until World War II ended; he left service as a Sergeant Major, U.S.A.F. After college he was employed, in 1950, by General Motors Cadillac Division, Detroit, Mich. He retired Sept. 30, 1980. Single, he resides at Fairhaven, Mich., on Lake St. Claire. Bernard L Mozinski was bom to Laurence and Wanda Mozinski, Sept. 18, 1920, in Minto , N. Dak He attended school in Minto, and enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1938. He; was in the Destroyer Division as gunner's mate; left service in 1 y45.
Brad and Adrienne Narloch Brad married Adrienne Barta, daughter of Leonard F Barta and Genevieve M. Schanilec, on Jan. 27, 1979, in the Sacred Heart Catholic Church of Minto, N. Dak. Adrienne grew up in Section 27 in Ops Township In 11970 she moved to Minto and completed Minto High School in May of 1976. Brad now farms in the Minto area with his father. His pastimes include cabinet working. Bard and Adrienne now reside in Minto.
Bernard is married, has three children and six grandchildren. He is shop foreman at Spector Motor Freight, Boston, Mass., and resides in West Bridgewater, Mass.
BERNARD J. NARLOCH, SR. (1864-1948) B J Narloch, Sr., was born in Milwaukee, Wise, in May of 1864, the son of Frank Narloch and Mary Anna Waska. On Feb. 4, 1890, he married Alvina Pulczinski. They had nine children: Eleanor (Mrs. Joseph Cierzon) Jennie, Minnie (Mrs. Millard Gjerstad), Edwin (born 1895-d.ed 1918) Eddie (Mrs. Fred Misialek), Bernard J., Jr. married to Julia D a n S ) , Zigmund (born 1902-died 1918), Viola (Mrs. Frank Fischer), and Sylvia (Mrs. Ed Beehler). He sold Avery threshing machinery and in 1898 built a lumber yard with Jacob Moga. They then built a hardware store which they sold in 1900 - Mr. Moga selling his interest to V. Langowski, B. J. Narloch, selling his interest to Loren Hewitt. In 1904 B. J. purchased farmland southeast of Minto from Mr. Forbes In 1915 he built the Farmers Lumber Yard which he sold
Ambrose L. Mozinski — killed in World World II Ambrose H. Mozinski was born to Laurence and Wanda Mozinski on Jan. 25, 1 9 2 1 , at Minto, N. Dak., attended school 640
to Millard Gjestad in 1928. In 1936 he started a grocery store which he sold in 1 945.
board, 1928-1948. He was a director of the Walsh County Mutual Ins. Co. from 1952-1979.
In 1924, B.J. Narloch, Sr., built a home west of the Sacred Heart Cemetery in Minto. He resided in that home until his death in 1 948. Both he and Mary Anna are buried in the Sacred Heart Cemetery in Minto.
They had four children: Bernadine (Mrs. William Peters); Lois (Mrs. J. Patrick Ferry); Frank Bernard Narloch, who married Leona (Dolly) Wysocki; and Juliann (Mrs. Donald Kamrowski). Their children attended Forest River School for 12 years, except for Juliann who graduated from Minto High. In 1948 they purchased the B. J. Narloch, Sr., farm, southeast of Minto, and lived there until 1960 when they sold the farm to their son, Frank B. Narloch. They then built a home in Minto. Mr. Narloch remained active in farming until his retirement in 1 964.
FRANK NARLOCH (1838-1918) Frank Narloch was born in Germany March 29, 1838, and came to North Dakota by way of Quebec, Chicago, Milwaukee and Pine Creek, Wise. He left Germany to avoid service in the German Army. He married Mary Anna Vaska and they farmed at Pine Creek, Wise, until coming to Dakota to homestead. They had eight children — Bernard J., Frances (Mrs. Max Warczak), Mary (Mrs. Peter Rose), Elizabeth (Mrs. Anton Valinski), Dominika (Mrs. Jacob Moga), Amelia (Mrs. Adam Sprafka), Felecia (Mrs. Joseph Mesheske), and Frank, who died in infancy.
FRANK BERNARD NARLOCH (1929- ) Frank Bernard Narloch was born July 24, 1929, to parents, Bernard J. Narloch, Jr., and Julia Danielski Narloch. He attended school in Forest River — graduating in 1 947. From 1 952-1954, Frank served in the U.S. Army in the United States and in Germany.
Frank had two subsequent marriages: In 1908 he married Josephine Kurkoski, who died in 1912. In 1914 he married Mrs. Iganacz Danielski, who died in 1932. In 1879 Frank Narloch, John Paschke and Thomas Wirkus filed on adjoining claims. After making some hay for each and erecting a shanty for each, they returned to Pine Creek. In April, 1880, they came with their belongings to Grand Forks which was the end of the line. They loaded their necessary things in a sleigh for the 25-mile trip to their homestead. Frank took land in Sec. 23; B. J. Narloch, Sr., not being of legal age, pre-empted theN.W.'/zofSec. 26. In 1895, Frank Narloch sold his land to his son-in-law, Anton Valinski, and retired in Minto. He died August 29, 1918, and is buried in the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Minto.
Frank B. Narloch Family: left to right, front, Frank, Rodger, Penny,and Dolly; back row, Brad, Randy, and Jeff.
BERNARD J. NARLOCH, JR. (1899- ) B. J. Narloch, Jr., was born March 26, 1899, to B. J. Narloch, Sr., and Alvina Pulczinski Narloch. On Oct. 17, 1923, he married Julia Danielski, daughter of John Danielski and Helen Stoltman, at the St. Stanislaus Church in Warsaw. They lived one year on his parents' farm, southeast of Minto, and then purchased farmland, located on Sec. 15 of Forest River Township where they lived for 24 years. Bernard served as clerk on the township
On Dec. 1, 1951, he married Leona Jacqueline (Dolly) Wysocki. Dolly was born in Chicago and attended schools there. Her parents were John (Jack) Wysocki and Frances Spry Wysocki. In 1948, Dolly moved to this area. She taught in rural schools for two years, taught kindergarten at Minto for 1 1 years, and was choir director at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Minto. Frank and Dolly lived on a farm on Sec. 15 of Forest River Township from 1954 until 1959 when they purchased and moved into the farmsite in the southeast of Minto City Limits. They are the 3rd generation of Narlochs to farm that land. Frank raised grain, sugar beets, pinto beans and sunflowers. They are the parents of five children: Frank Jeffrey, born March 15, 1955, and married to Lorie Crowley in 1978; Randal Lee, born March 27, 1956; Bradley Jon, born June 16, 1959 and married to Adrienne Barta January, 1979; Penny Marie, born Aug. 24, 1963 and Rodger Harry, born Apr. 17, 1969. Mr. Narloch was a supervisor for the Soil Conservation; has served on the board of the Red River Valley Sugarbeet Growers Association; was a director of the East Grand Forks Factory District Growers Association; served on the Walsh County Crop Improvement Board; was an agent for the Walsh County Mutual Ins. Co., is past president and director of the Minto Farmers
Bernard J. Narloch, Jr., andwife. Julia Narloch. 641
Elevator; is a past commander and lifetime member of the American Legion Post No. 201 of Minto.
MR. AND MRS. STEPHEN O'REILLY Stephen Joseph O'Reilly was bom Dec. 26, 1856, at Lindsey, Ontario, Canada, three weeks after his parents, Mr. and Mrs James O'Reilly, one son and two daughters had immigrated from Ireland. In 1887, he came to Walsh County with his brother, Mike O'Reilly. They each bought land in Prairie Centre Township near Veseleyville, N. Dak. Stephen O'Reilly married Mary Burris, June 25, 1889, at St. Patrick's Church in Minto, with Msgr. Considine officiating.
MaryK. O'Reilly, assistant postmaster Mary Burris was born Feb. 7, 1867, at Niles, Mich., and immigrated with her parents, one sister, and two brothers to Lindsey, Ontario. She came to Walsh County at the age of 16, with her two brothers and one sister, and the late Mr. and Mrs. M. D. Butler, Sr., of Grand Forks, N. Dak. Three sons and two daughters were born to Mr. and Mrs. Steve O'Reilly - James, Mike, Henry, Gertrude and Mary. Mary O'Reilly, Minto, is the only surviving member of her family. Mary K. O'Reilly was assistant postmaster in the Minto Post Office for 39 years, serving with Postmaster Chas. P. Thomson from Oct. 23, 1923 to Dec. 1934; Postmaster Caroline Lepinski, Dec, 1934 to 1948; Postmaster Walter Gerszewski, Dec, 1948 to 1962. She retired on July 2 1 , 1962. There were two grandchildren - Mrs. Harry (Gertrude) Mach, deceased; and James O'Reilly, Tervell, Tex., deceased. There are five great-grandchildren.
so great was the loss of his library that he retired from teaching at the end of his Minto contract. Mr Ranee had a brother who was doing well farming at Webster N Dak., and he could see that farmers were making much more money than he and other teachers in those years. So he decided to be a farmer, too, at Webster where he purchased 480 acres of very fine level land. He farmed and lived there from 1904 until his death Feb. 9, 1943. An account of the American Hotel fire, as it appeared in the Grand Forks Herald of March 19, 1901, follows. The 1900 manual compiled for the Minto Public Schools by J P Ranee named the following on the Board of Education: Jesse D Phelps, president, Dr. H. O'Keefe, Mrs. Gertie V. Titus, J. W. Boeing, Mrs. H. C. Depuy, W. G. Mitchell, Clerk; and M. S.Titus, treasurer. Members of the faculty were: J. P. Ranee, B.S.D., Principal; Margaret Cravath, Ella Hadlow, Lillian Davis, Mary O. Hollister, Julia A. Hughes, and Ida M. Stanton. Between 30-35 pupils attended. MINTO SCORCHED AND A HEAVY LOSS SUSTAINED IN BUSINESS DISTRICT At a few minutes past 3 o'clock yesterday morning fire broke out in the American hotel at Minto, and before the flames were under control seven buildings had been burned with practically all their contents. In the American Hotel where the fire started from some unknown cause, 14 roomers had a narrow escape, and lost all their belongings. One man, Wensel Kahotek returned to his room for some of his belongings, and was forced to leap from a second story window to escape. He was quite badly hurt but his injuries have proved to be less serious than was at first feared when it was thought that they would prove fatal. The citizens of Minto turned out en masse and fought heroically to save their town, and this fact alone is responsible for checking the flames. The greater number of the losses are fairly well covered by insurance. Following is a list of the losses and insurance: American Hotel, owned by Huggard, loss $4,000, insurance $2,500. Fourteen roomers lost all their personal effects. R. W. DuVal, harnessmaker, building, $1,200, insurance $800; stock, $2,500, insurance, $1,500. Chas. Thorpe, household effects, $600, uninsured. John Rolczyriski, butcher, $2,500, insurance $1,500.
JOHN P. RANCE HISTORY J . P . Ranee received his Bachelor of Science Degree from Warrensburg College, Warrensburg, Mo., as valedictorian of his class He taught ten years in schools in Missouri, Texas, and Colorado, before coming to Minto, N. Dak. While in Texas he was director of the Baylor University Band but his majors were mathematics and English. During his tenure in Minto School, Mr. Ranee compiled a 33-page booklet of information about the operation and departments of study in the school, pictures of the school board, faculty and the high school room with students therein - ' The Manual of Minto Public School - 1900." The Minto school then conducted grade classes, first through eighth, and a twoyear high school. Mr Ranee was one of the victims of the great fire of 3 a.m. March 18, 1 9 0 1 , in Minto. The American Hotel, where he resided was completely destroyed and he lost all of his large personal library, clothing, and all other personal effects. To him
Jos. Pisek, tailor, $ 1,400, insurance $800. Frank O'Connor, residence and cigar stock, $550, insurance $200. Wirkus and Kline, building $ 1,300, insurance $700. Peter Rose, confectioner, loss $300, insurance $550. John J. Spraika, general merchant, carried $15,000 stock. No goods burned but considerable damage by removal insure.
HILARY H. RESZKA Hilary was born in Minto, N. Dak., a son of Louis Reszka and Elizabeth Feltman. He is a member of the Elks Lodge, K.C.'s, and Eagle's. He was on the city council for 12 years and he was treasurer for the Minto Development Board for eight years. 642
Louis and Elizabeth farmed on their homestead until 1908. Before winter, the family moved into the city of Minto so that the youngsters could attend the public school. These children were Steffie, Hilary, Isabel and Winslow. Mr. Reszka found employment in Minto by clerking and assembling farm machinery at a local hardware store owned by John Miller, Fred Carpenter, Max Lizakowski and Vincent Langowski. In 1920, Louis purchased the general merchandise stock from Goldish and Levine. Louis and Elizabeth decided that the "Family-owned store" would be the ideal way to keep their four grown children together in Minto. During the Depression years, the Reszka Store was forced to close. Louis Reszka was elected mayor of the City of Minto in the 1920's. He also served as an officer of the Sacred Heart Church in Minto. In later years, Louis was remembered as the little old man who pushed his two-wheel cart which usually carried his carpenter's tools and groceries.
Mary Miller (Reszka), husband, Dennis and daughter, Christine. He farmed, and married Alice Warczak, daughter of Max Warczak and Francis Narloch, on Nov. 23, 1937. Hilary and Alice operated the general merchandise store for 37 years. They have one daughter, Mary, born on March 4, 1949. Mary married Lieutenant Dennis Miller in October, 1969. She graduated from the University of Hawaii in 1971 with a B.A. degree, then went on and graduated from the University of Houston, Law Divison, in December, 1974. Mary is an Associate Counsel for Prudential Insurance Company of America. Dennis is in a private law practice. They have one daughter, Christine, born on March 30, 1979, and reside in Houston, Texas. Hilary and Alice retired in October, 1972, and reside in Minto.
LOUIS F. RESZKA Louis F. Reszka was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, on July 24, 1874. At the age of eight years, he came to Harrison Township with his parents, Bartholemew Reszka and Theodosia (Garczynsko) Reszka. Other younger brothers and sisters were Stanley, Joseph, August, Mary, Theodosia, and Helen Reszak. During his years as a young farmer, Louis also worked as a carpenter. In 1899, Louis, with help from his father and brothers, built a new two-story house for his bride, Elizabeth Feltman, the daughter of Joseph Feltman and Elenore (Czapiewski) Feltman. The young couple were married in St. Stanislaus Church, Warsaw, N. Dak., on Oct. 17, 1899.
Louis and Elizabeth Reszka Family: Winslow, Steffie, Isabel, and Hilary; Mr. and Mrs. Louis Reszka. Steffie Reszka married Lenard Rolzinski in 1924. Hilary married Alice Warczak in 1937. Isabel Reszka and Walter Gillespie were married on Feb. 5, 1931. They lived in Grand Forks where their two children, Phyllis and Vernon, were born. Isabel died March 6, 1973. Winslow was employed by the H. H. Hewitt Company as a mechanic in the Ford Garage until he was called into service during World War II. He joined the Navy in 1942 and served in the South Pacific Theater of War until 1946. After the war, he was custodian of the Minto Public School. Winslow, better known as Wis, died on May 24, 1972. Louis Reszka died at the age of 79 on Feb. 9, 1953. Elizabeth died at the age of 94 on July 18, 1973. Mr. and Mrs. Reszka and son, Winslow, are buried in the Sacred Heart Cemetery in Minto.
HISTORY OF ANDREW AND EFFIE ROLZINSKI Andrew Rolzinski was born Sept. 16, 1904, to Valeria and Leo Rolzinski of Minto, N. Dak., and attended school at Minto. In 1923 he was employed by the Otter Tail Power Company and worked in Veblen, S. Dak. In 1927 he purchased the Minto Creamery from Wm. Lindberg, and manufactured butter, ice cream, bought farmers' cream and live poultry. In 1928 he married Effie Riske, daughter of Rosalie and Julius Riske. Effie attended the Minto schools, graduating in 1926. Andrew and Effie were married in 1928 in the Sacred
Thomas, born Dec. 13, 1958; Timothy, born Dec. 28, 1959; Diane, born Nov. 1 1 , 1962; and John Allan, bom Feb. 14, 1966. At the time of this writing the family resides at 439 E. Mero Court, East Grand Forks, Minn. They own and operate the East Grand Floral of East Grand Forks, Minn. Carole was born June 1, 1940. She attended the Minto schools and graduated from Mayville State Teacher's College in Mayville, N. Dak.; and took further study at Portland State University, Mt. Angel College, and University of Portland. On Dec. 27, 1967, she married Clinton (Penas) Matthews, a son of Jay and Mary Penas of Park River, N. Dak. They have three children — Cari Lynn, born Apr. 12, 1970; Caylee Patrice, born July 9, 1974; and Christopher Dale, born March 9, 1977. Carole taught schools in North Dakota and Oregon for 1 7 years. Presently she is district sales manager with Avon products of Pasadena, Calif. Clinton is a music teacher and instructor in the Portland area schools. Andrew and Effie Rolzinski (1975) Heart Church in Minto. Theu operated the creamery business until 1936 when they sold the building to Helen and Pete Rogalla, who remodeled it into a nice home. Andrew accepted a position with the North Dakota Highway Department, and worked with them for 31 years. After he retired he was stricken with a fatal heart attack and passed away May 26, 1976. He is buried in the Sacred Heart Cemetery in Minto. Effie resides at their home in Minto. To them four children were born — Leon, David, Rosemary and Carole. Leon was born Feb. 2 1 , 1931. He graduated from the Minto schools in 1949. He spent four years in the U.S. Navy. After his honorable discharge he entered the University of North Dakota in the fall of 1953, graduating in 1957. He was employed by the North Dakota Public Health Laboratory in Bismarck, N. Dak., on Aug. 23, 1958. He married Mae Heigard, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Oliver Heigard of Gardar, N. Dak. Later years saw him attending graduate school at the University of North Carolina. They then moved to Wausan, Wise, where he was City Health Officer and a federal employee of the United States Public Health Service in Washington, D.C, and Denver, Colorado. At the time of this writing he is Regional Director, Office of Program Integrity, Medicare and Medicaide Program of Denver, Colo. In August, 1965, by court order, he shortened his last name to Rollin. Mae and Leon have four children — Eric 20, Andrew 19, and Patricia 1 6. In 1935, David was born Apr. 27. He graduated from the Minto schools, received his Bachelor of Science Degree from the University of N. Dakota, Grand Forks; his Masters Degree from Canisiues College of Buffalo, N.Y.; took post graduate studies at the University of Oklahoma Medical Center and received his Ph.D. from the University of Oregon Medical School. He served with the United States Army from October, 1957, to January, 1960. On June 26, 1965, he married Eleanore Thorson, daughter of Victor and Emma Thorson of Gully, Minn. They have four children — Lynn Rae, born Aug. 27, 1966; Jason David, born Feb. 19, 1976; Scott Jason, born July 28, 1978; and Amy Lynn, born March 3 1 , 1 9 8 0 . They presently reside at 7112 S.E. 27th, Portland, Ore. David is self-employed, owning a rehabilitation consulting service in Portland. Rosemary was born Oct. 18, 1937, attended the Minto schools, graduating from high school in May, 1955. She attended the University of Minnesota, studying x-ray technology. She married Allan Okins on Apr. 27, 1957, a son of Charles and Edith Okins of Renere, Minn. They are parents of four children —
LENARD S. AND STEFFIE ROLZINSKI Lenard Rolzinski, son of Leon Rolczynski and Valeria (Chkocznsko) Rolczynski, was born in Minto on Oct. 26, 1898. Lenard has been known as "Shine" because of an interest in the shoe-shine business during his childhood. As a young adult, in 1918, Shine was employed as a clerk in the Great Northern Railroad Depot. In 1920; Lenard became skilled as a linotype operator. He worked with William Mitchell, Win Mitchell, and Gladwin Mitchell VanStrum, editors of the Minto Journal, for 20 years.
Wedding picture — Mr. and Mrs. Lenard Rolzinski are shown with their wedding attendants, Isabel and Hilary Reszka. Lenard married Steffie Reszka, daughter of Louis Reszka and Elizabeth (Feltman) Reszka, in the Sacred Heart Church of Minto on Feb. 4, 1924. This couple became the parents of two girls. Lois was born in 1927 and was married to Ernest Stoltman in 1950. They have two daughters, Gayle and Roberta, and five sons, Lee, Lyle, Lenard, Loel and Landis. Eileen Rolzinski was born in 1934 and married to James Lindberg in 1957. They have two sons, Douglas and Dale. Jason Douglas Lindberg is the great-grandson of Lenard and Steffie. Both girls are living in Grand Forks. During the World War II years, "Shine" and Steffie operated a cafe, formerly known as White's Cafe, on Main Stree in Minto. Because the Minto Journal discontinued publishing the weekly news, Lenard found employment as the bulk oil distributor with Mobil Oil Company and, later, was the custodian at the Minto Public School. For many years, Lenard was the
secretary for the A.O.U.W. Lodge. Steffie, over a period of years, clerked in the S. T. Sowka Store and Reszka Grocery Store in Minto and at the S & L Store in Grafton. She prepared meals for the hot lunch program in the Minto Public School from 1 960-1 970. Lenard Rolzinski died at the age of 61 on Dec. 26, 1959. He is buried in the Sacred Heart Cemetery in Minto.
LEON AND VALERIA ROLCZYNSKI Leon and Valeria Rolczynski came to the United States in 1 888 from Poznan, Poland, and settled in Minto, N. Dak. Mr. Rolczynski operated a tailor shop. He passed away in 1933. Mrs. Rolczynski then operated a candy store. She passed away in 1962. They are buried in Sacred Heart Cemetery in Minto.
Mr. Fred Orr Sitzer (1851-1914)
Mrs. Anna Eliza Sitzer (1857-1936)
She died Feb. 20, 1943, in Los Angeles. They had two daughters, Audrey and Adele. Hiram Sitzer, born Nov. 14, 1877, graduated from the University of Minnesota School of Pharmacy and served his apprenticeship in Leeds, N. Dak. He was the druggist in Esmond, N. Dak., from 1 902 until his death Dec. 17, 1936. He was married to Nell Campion, of Rochester, Minn., who was a school teacher in Leeds. Their children were Jewel and Donald. Mrs. Jewel Golland now lives in San Juan Capistrano, Calif., and Don and his wife, Mary, live in Rochester, Minn. Dottie Sitzer, born July 2 1 , 1880, was a popular and successful bicycle racer during the late 1890's. She took secretarial training and worked for Singer Sewing Machine Co. in Grand Forks. She was married to T.V. Lowe of Cando. She later married Arthur Stewart and they lived in Los Angeles and Kansas City, Mo. She died May 17, 1965, and is buried in Goodland, Kans. Frederick Ames Sitzer, born Oct. 13, 1882, worked in the automobile factories in Detroit, and then operated the Standard Oil gas station in Minto. He went to California to work in the shipyards during World War II and, after he retired, lived in Long Beach. He died there Sept. 14, 1961. He is buried in the Minto Cemetery.
Mr. and Mrs. Leon Rolczynski and daughter, Sophie Mr. and Mrs. Rolczynski raised a family of nine children — Sophie (Mrs. August Rash), Valeria (Mrs. Mike Durkin), Lenard, Mary (Mrs. Wm. Janousek), Helen (Mrs. Stanley Rose), Andrew, Peter, Julian and Stanley.
Arthur Sitzer, born May 14, 1887, married Lillian Bruski. He operated a gas station and later he and his wife had the Minto Cafe. They moved to Grand Forks and owned the Sitzer Grocery until his death Dec. 17, 1951. Lillian Sitzer died in Grand Forks in 1 960. Their daughter, Marilyn (Mrs. Donald) Rutherford lives in East Grand Forks with her husband and children, Bob and Julie.
Valeria, Lenard, Andrew, and Julian are deceased.
FREDERICK ORR SITZER DESCENDANTS In 1881, Frederick Orr Sitzer, born March 5, 1851, in Mariton Co., Wise, and his wife, the former Anna Eliza Foxen, born Feb. 18, 1857 in Wisconsin, with their three children, Nellie, Hiram and Dottie, came from Portage County, Wise, to homestead in Dakota Territory. Their claim was six miles west and two miles north of Minto. Three sons, Frederick Ames, Arthur, and Dexter were born after the family came to Dakota. After Mr. Sitzer died in 1914, the family sold the farm and moved to Minto. Their home was across the highway from the present City Hall. Anna Sitzer was active in the Ladies Aid and was a member of the Order of Eastern Star. They are both buried in the Minto Cemetery. Nellie Sitzer, born June 14, 1876, married Ed Brown, son of George Brown of Minto, on July 2, 1899. They lived in Backoo, N. Dak., and Minneapolis oefore moving to California.
Dexter Sitzer (1953) 645
Mrs. Lola Sitzer
Dexter Sitzer, born May 19, 1889, lived in the Minto area all his life and was one of the city's established businessmen. He was a barber in Aaron (Dougal) Legg's barber shop and in 1919 became a partner in the Minto Auto and Tire Company. He bought the business and it became Sitzer Chevrolet in 1923. After his death May 30, 1953, the business was continued by his wife and sons. Dexter married Lola Hittle of Pleasant Lake, N. Dak., on Apr. 12, 1922. She had come to Minto to teach school in the fall of 1921. They had a daughter, Neva, and twin sons, Arnold and Allan. He was a member of the Knox Presbyterian Church, Minto Commercial Club, and Masonic Lodge. Lola Sitzer was a member of the Knox Presbyterian Church and was active in the Ladies Aid and in the Order of Eastern Star and served as secretary of the Minto Chapter for 24 years. She was a member of the Historical Society and worked for the establishment of the Minto Museum. She was bookkeeper at Sitzer Chevrolet until the time of her death Sept. 13, 1971. Dexter and Lola are both buried in the Minto Cemetery.
Allan M O M M 2 / C of the U.S. coast guard, had been on duty in the Marshalls since the invasion there early in February and was recenlty moved to the Hawaiian Islands. Pvt. Arnold of the army, after basic training at Camp Roberts, Calif., was moved to the Hawaiians at about the same time and the two met shortly after landing.
NICHOLIS AND FRANCIS STANISCZEWSKI FAMILY Nicholis Stanisczewski was born in the city of Knawn, Austria, in 1868. He served in the Austrian army and saw active service'in the Crimean War. He was taken prisoner of war and sent to a Siberian prison camp. Nicholis came to the United States in 1898, locating at Minto. He worked as a carpenter and in a few years purchased the Thompson Wood-working Shop. He built water tanks, repaired wagons, farm equipment, and furniture.
Neva Sitzer, born Apr. 19, 1923, returned to Minto after graduating from Mayville State Teacher's College and taught science and English in the high school, 1944-45. She married Melvin C. Lawson of Park River on June 3, 1948, and they now live in Norwood, Minn., where Mel is superintendent of the Norwood-Young America Schools. Their children are Dr. Lex Lawson, Minneapolis; Neal Lawson, business manager of Mounds View School District; Echo (Mrs. Mark) Dockter, computer programmer at American Crystal Sugar in Moorhead, Minn.; Deanne (Mrs. Kevin) Myers, student at Red Wing Solar Energy School; and Melanie Lawson, student at Minnesota School of Business. Allan and Arnold Sitzer, twin boys born in Minto Aug. 10, 1924, were both graduated from Minto High School. Amold served in the army during World War II and then worked with Sitzer Chevrolet Company. He married Lois Wilson of Ardoch and they have two children, Yvonne (Mrs. Rick) Schreier of Grand Forks and Ronald Sitzer of Minto. Arnold died in 1975.
Nicholis Stanisczewski
Francis Stanisczewski
In 1908 he married Frances Marion Langowski. She came to Minto from Poland. At the time she was a cook, working at the Price Hotel in Minto. The couple had three children - Anton and Edwin, both deceased, and Cyril who lives in Minto. Nicholis died in 1937 at the age of 69; and Frances, in 1964, at the age of 84.
Allan served with the Coast Guard for four years during World War II. He married Ruth Hyland of Stanton in 1948. They have three children, Beverly (Mrs. Bill) Margerum of Cavalier; Barbara (Mrs. Jim) Kasprick, of Minto; and Dexter Sitzer of Minto. Allan served as Minto's mayor for two terms. He was a past master of the Masons in Forest River and did some flying as a hobby. Allan and Arnold operated Sitzer Chevrolet after their father died. Allan died in 1980 on May 30. Since his death, Sitzer Chevrolet Garage has been operated by their sons, Ronald and Dexter Sitzer.
FRANK TUPA FAMILY Frank Tupa, son of John and Mary (Sindler) Tupa, was born Jan. 1 1 , 1904 at Veseleyville, N.Dak. Adela Kerian, who became the bride of Frank Tupa, was born Dec. 6, 1906, at Grafton, N. Dak. She was a daughter of Frank Kerian and Anna Kouba. The couple were married June 16, 1931, at St. Luke's Catholic Church, in Veseleyville. Children born to this union were: David Tupa, born March 7, 1932, at Grafton, who married Joyce Jarnus on July 21, 1962, at St. Mary's Catholic Church, in Park River, N. Dak. John Tupa, born March 19, 1934, at Grafton, who married Connie Eickenbrock, Aug. 28, 1965, at St. Michael's Catholic Church,Wales, N.Dak. Edward Tupa, born May 29, 1937, at Grafton, who married Vernetta King. Nov. 3, 1962, at Church of the Transfiguration, Edgeley, N. Dak. Margaret Tupa, born Oct. 13, 1939, at Grafton, who married John Meagher, March 26, 1960, at St. Catherine
Sons of Dexter A. and Lola Sitzer. MINTO, N. D. - (SPECIAL) - One of the many strange sidelights of the present war was the meeting in Honolulu of twin brothers from Minto who had been apart for about 18 months. They are sons of Mr. and Mrs. D. W. Sitzer. 646
Laboure Church, Torranece, Calif. Clarence Tupa, born Feb. 27, 1942, at Grafton, who married Nancy Schmisek, Aug. 27, 1966, at St. Michael's Catholic Church, Grand Forks, N. Dak. Eva Tupa, born Oct. 3 1 , 1946, at Grafton, who married Charles Fjeld, March 5, 1969, at St. Timothy's Catholic Church, Minneapolis. After the couple were married they farmed near Veseleyville, N. Dak., until 1950 when they moved into Minto. Frank worked as custodian for five years at the Minto School. In 1957 they became owners of John's Bar, operating it until retirement. All the chilren went to grade school in Veseleyville and Minto, then graduated from Minto High School. All four sons graduated from the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks. David also graduated from the State School of Science at Wahpeton. Clarence also graduated from Dunwoody Institute, Minneapolis.
EWALD HERMAN VOTAVA Ewald Herman Votava was born Oct. 27, 1919, at Veseleyville, N. Dak., a son of Albert and Ann (Dusek) Votava, and spent most of his early life in that area. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II, enlisting in 1942. He took part in active combat duty on the Islands of Leyte and Okinawa. He was honorably discharged as a staff-sergeant in 1946. After service, Ewald came to Minto and started his business career.
Warsaw, N. Dak. They had seven children: Robert, residing in Minto; Kathy, married to Joe McDonald (now deceased), who resides in Grand Forks, N. Dak., with her daughter Amy Jo; Sue Ellen, residing in Minto; Vicky, married to Mark Collette, residing in Springville, Ore., with their daughter Amanda; Nancy, employed by the Department of Federal Land Management in Canon City, Colo.; and the twins, Lonny and Lori, who are presently attending Minto Junior High School. Ewald H erman Votava died on May 12,1976, at the age of 56 as a result of a stroke. He is buried at the Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery in Minto.
THE H.H.WALKER FAMILY Harry Halliday Walker was born in Shelburne, Ontario, Canada, not far from the city of Toronto, on July 4, 1882. His parents originally came from Ireland. His father at one time was a professor at the University of Belfast, Ireland. He had one brother, by the name of Thomas, who came from Canada several times to visit Harry and his family, in North Dakota. He also had four sisters. Harry came to United States and the Grafton, N. Dak., area when he was 17 years of age. He did not have a trade at this time, and worked on a farm for a while.
Ewald, a businessman in Minto for over 25 years, was proprietor of Ewald's Bar and Lounge. He promoted baseball programs, trap-shooting teams, and horse-shoe tournaments. He, himself, was a participatnt in the Walsh County Baseball Allstars for several years. Hunting and fishing were also favorite outdoor sports in which he took much interest and pride.
Harry H. Walker He met a Miss Celia Theresa Donnelly, a daughter of John J. Donnelly. He married her in Grafton at St. John's Catholic Church, on Apr. 27, 1909, and moved to Minto, N. Dak.
Ewald Votava Family: left to right, standing, Vicky, Kathy, Robbie, Sue Ellen, and Nancy; seated, Lucille, Lori, Lonny, and Ewald. Ewald was involved in several Minto social clubs. He was a past commander of the Minto American Legion Post No. 201 and a past president of the Minto Commercial Club. He was also a member of the Disabled American Veterans, Knights of Columbus, Veterans of Foreign Wars, the Eagles, and Sacred Heart Catholic Ch urch. Ewald married Lucille Kiedrowski on Feb. 1 1 , 1952, at
At Grand Forks, he met a Pete Girard, a jeweler and watch repairman, a Frenchman from Paris, France. Pete asked Harry if he wanted to learn the trade by working with him. Harry worked for Girard, and for a while liked the work. He told Mr. Girard he would like to go on his own — so he went to Grafton, and did some watch repair work from there. He later went to Warren, Minn., where he stayed for awhile doing watch repair work. He thought the best thing to do was to return to Minto andopen up a store of his own for watch repairing and selling jewelry. The businessmen of Minto, approached Harry Walker about getting together and starting a motion picture theatre in Minto. Harry's store was in a solid brick building; there was a lot of room behind his store. They created a 200-seat theatre out of the space, calling it The Strand. Walker had three shows a week — Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights — some times two shows a nite (silent pictures) — that was in 1908. There were good crowds. He installed sound equipment for talking pictures in the
fall of 1936; the first sound movie was Kate Smith in "Hello! Everybody." There was a nice turn out. Mr. Walker, a very fine penman and a very good engraver, engraved all silverware sets he sold with out charging extra for it. Many of the Minto High School graduates would have him write their names in a fancy script on their diplomas, doing this for many years. The Walker family consisted of six children - three boys and three girls. They are Harold, Mrs. Richard (Mary) Zon, and Mrs Peter (Dorothy) Kilichowski, living in Minto; Mrs. Thomas (Leona) McCarty, living in Bismarck, N. Dak,; Leon D. Walker, living In Santa Monica, Calif.; and Morris H. Walker the youngest, who passed away on Oct. 4, 1955. Both Harold and Leonard served in World War II in Europe. (ETO), Harold in the U S Army Medical Corps, making one invasion in Southern France on D-Day. Leonard was in the 104th Infantry Division, known as the 'Timber-Wolves' Division - 1 st Army. Mr Harry Walker died on Apr. 13, 1959; Mrs. Celia Walker passed away June 23, 1973. Harry, Celia, and Morris are buried in St. Patrick's Cemetery in Minto.
LOUIS W. WISNIEWSKI Louis Walter Wisniewski was born June 29, 1892, on a farm northeast of Warsaw in Pulaski Township, Walsh County. His parents were Michael and Anna (Barczynski) Wisniewski. In 1900, the Wisniewski family moved to Minto, where Louis attended school, graduating from high school in 1910 He entered the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, but left May 12 1912 to accept a position as bookkeeper at the Bank of Minto There were no adding machines in those days, so Louis kept a "Boston Ledger" and became so proficient he could add two columns of figures ert the same time.
L. W. Wisniewski, retired Minto banker.
Mrs. L. W. Wisniewski (Isabelle), piano teacher in Minto.
During the above years Louis was also active musically. He played clarinet with the Bill Finley Kilty Band and Orechestra in Grand Forks. He was also a member of the Rose Orchestra in which Leonard Rose played piano, Louis played clarinet, his brother, John, played the violin, and Charlie Scott of Ardoch was the drummer. In 1907 a river boat traveled on the Red River from Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, to Grand Forks. At Oslo, Minn., a barge for dancing was connected to the side of the boat, so people could dance while traveling to Grand Forks. The 3-piece orchestra members were Louis, playing the organ; his brother, John, the violin; and Charlie Scott, of Ardoch, as drummer. Adults were able to buy a glass of beer for five cents with a
L. W. Wisniewski family: Louis, Isabelle, Mary Stoltman sandwich and pretzels free. But children or minors had to pay 10 cents for a soft drink or pop. When World War I broke out, Louis was drafted and played clarinet with the 159th Infantry Band, and saw service in France. They were stationed at Cadillac, about 20 miles from Bordeaux, and spent two months at Amiens. After the war, he returned to his bank position, progressing from cashier to vice-president, and in September, 1941, he became president of the Bank of Minto. When banks were closing everywhere, The Bank of Minto was the only bank within a radius of 35 miles, that remained open. In 1924 Louis married Rose Real of Michigan, N. Dak. She died in 1929 of tuberculosis, after a long illness. On April 18, 1938, he married Mary Isabelle Moga. They met in San Francisco, Calif., when Louis was on vacation, and were married at the Sacred Heart Church in Scranton, N. Dak. Louis was always interested in farming and helping the community. He was instrumental in helping many farmers get established with potatoes as a crop. His hobby was gardening and he made his yard into a garden of beauty and was the first one to plant the beautiful pine trees and cut leaf white birch. Louis often said "Three hours in the garden is like three minutes, but three minutes in the bank is like three hours." So after 46 years of banking, Louis sold his interest to Herman Schanilec, Les Campbell, Ed Gudajtes, Leo Mondry and William Suda. Selling their bank interest at the same time were James McHugh and Mrs. Dan Moga. The Wisniewskis have one daughter, Mary Dominika, who is married to Edward Stoltman. They have six children - Lawrence Anthony, Bradley Louis, Thomas Edward, Lynn Marie, Kenneth James and Brian Patrick. Louis was 88 years "young" in 1980, and is enjoying his family, his gardening and frequent pinochle games with his friends. His wife, Isabelle, is busy with her musical career, spanning over 60 years, starting at age 1 1 , when she played piano for silent movies and played piano in dance orchestras during high school. After graduating from high school, she attended the MacPhail College of Music in Minneapolis and graduated with a teacher's certificate. During this time she played piano in Minneapolis theaters for silent movies. After graduation she spent one year traveling as pianist for a vaudeville troupe, 'The Strangest Show on Earth." From 1930 to 1933 she taught piano at Scranton, Hettinger, Gascoyne, Reeder and Rhame, and had her own dance orchestra, "Isabelle and Her Purless Entertainers." 648
In 1 933 she returned to college on a scholarship and earned her degree. She then taught all the music, band, orchestra, chorus, choir and individual lessons on all instruments at the Minnesota Colony for Epileptics for two years. After her marriage to Louis, she continued to teach, and is known as "a teacher of teachers." Many of her pupils have won talent awards and scholarships and made music their career. Her musical ability has touched the lives of hundreds of pupils over the years, creating a love and appreciation of music. She has students from Grafton, Cavalier, Hoople, Nash, Voss, Ardoch. Minto and the Grand Forks Air Base, including teachers and adults. Her qualifications are many; in addition to a college degree, she has a Life First Class Professional Certificate from the State Department of Public Instruction; a First Class Professional Certification by both National and State Music Teachers Association; is a faculty member and Guild Hall of Fame member of the National Guild of Piano Teachers; is an affiliated teacher of the Sherwood School of Music in Chicago; and is certified by the American College of Musicians. According to the Sept.-Oct. 1980 issue of "Piano Guild Notes," a national magazine published by the American College of Musicians, Mrs. Wisniewski is the only teacher in North Dakota certified by the A . C M . This highly prized certification must be earned by the teacher, and is acquired when the pupils earn superior ratings in the National Piano Playing Auditions and are judged by out of state examiners of note. The adjudicator sends a report to headquarters concerning both pupils and teachers.
LORNEWORCZAK.D.D.S. Lome was born in Minto, N. Dak., on Oct. 6, 1906, a son of Max Worczak and Frances Narloch. He graduated from the Minto Schools and then attended the Chicago College of Dental Surgery, in the Layola University. He graduated in 1932. He married Ora Keifer in Chicago in 1939.
AMBROSE (AMBY) AND LEONA WYSOCKI Amby Wysocki was born in December. 1914, to Frank and Frances Wysocki and was educated in the Minto, N. Dak., and Detroit, Mich., schools. During their married life they have operated a produce and cream station, a cafe, a dry cleaning plant, and taverns; he is a carpenter and has built homes, worked at building the Grand Forks Air Force Base, and at present is working in the engineering section there. He played ball at Minto and traveled with professional teams.
Amby and Leona Wysocki Family: Carol Tibert. Linda. Clarion (Rusty). Therese. Betty McDonald. Leona and Amby. Amby was on a committee for the Diamond Jubilee in 1 956; he was co-chairman and parade chairman for Minto's Bicentennial celebration in 1976; has been parade chairman on 4th of July celebration each year since; and is working for Minto's Centennial on July 3, 4, and 5, 1981. He married Leona Zon in Minneapolis, in February, 1942. He served in the U.S. Army in World War II for 44 months. He is very active in American Legion on local, state and national levels. Amby and Leona have five children — Mrs. Walter (Carol) Tibert, Linda, Mrs. Jack (Betty) McDonald, Therese and Clarion (Rusty).
He spent 35 years in private practice in Chicago, then spent three years in the service with the U.S. Dental Corps during World War II. He retired in 1968, and is now making his home in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.
Clarion (Sam) Wysocki killed in Germany. World War II CLARION (SAM) WYSOCKI
Lome and Ora Warczak
Clarion (Sam) Wysocki was born in Minto to Frank and Frances Wysocki on Apr. 1, 1923. He lived in Detroit, Mich., returned to Minto, attended school there, and graduated from Minto High School. He enrolled at North Dakota State. Fargo, but after his sophomore year he enlisted in the Army. He took his
basic training at Fort Sill, Okla., in the field artillery. After a furlough, he was sent to England.then to Germany, as a field artillery spotter. He was killed during the Battle of the Bulge, in February, 1945. Sam was a great athlete at Minto High School, in basketball and baseball, and was awarded a scholarship at North Dakota State. He roomed in the basement of the old field house with a group of young athletes, among them a young fellow named Sid Chicy, who went on to win national honors as a coach and a leader of youth and became a great coach of the famous Shanley High School football team of Fargo. Northwestern Bell Telephone Company was expanding and modernizing, and North Dakota was getting dial telephones. Sam worked for the company during the summer months.
FRANK AND FRANCES WYSOCKI FAMILY Frank Max, the oldest son of Joseph and Augusta Wysocki, was born on a farm south of Warsaw, and worked with his father. One Sunday after church service in Warsaw, looking east, they saw smoke clouds were coming out of a steamboat as it was loading wood. The captain and his top aide approached the Warsaw men, looking for some hands to go on to Winnipeg. Frank and another young lad, Charles Greskowiak, persuaded their folks to let them hire out (they were only 14 years old) with the stipulation that all money was to be paid to the parents on the
return trip, returning in the early fall. The money looked good to the parents, so they decided to let the lads go south with the boat. The boys stayed with the boat until freeze up. All the men were given jobs at Beloit, Wise, working in a factory, making railroad cars — working ten hours a day. Frank spent his leisure hours at a nearby factory that made large motors. This knowledge was very valuable in future years. They returned to Warsaw the next summer, wiser and the envy of all young men. Frank learned to play a violin and with two others they formed a dance band, playing at weddings, barn dances and gatherings. Frank married Frances Riske, a daughter of Karl Riske and Anna De Gust, in 1906. Frances' father was a Hessian soldier, a guard at the church where Martin Luther posted his thesis. Anna De Gust's parents were the official gardeners. The church was in the center of a large area, that was beautifully landscaped and in flowers. Karl Riske, being of Catholic faith, found it hard during their courtship. Anna and Karl decided to elope and come to America. They first lived in Wisconsin; then settled in Ardoch Township. Karl knew the Polish and German language, teaching his wife Polish. They both learned the American language together. German was spoken at home; all the children learned three languages. Frank and Anna's first home was near Ardoch Lake, but next year they moved to Warsaw, he operated the engines that ran blacksmith shops and feed mills on his trip on the steamboat he learned about steam and steam engines. The farms in this area were getting larger; steam engines and threshing machines made their appearance. Frank operated the engines; later owned one and did custom threshing. Shortly, gas engines were used; there were few operaters and Frank was in great demand, repairing and operating during threshing and plowing season. Frank's dad, Joe, persuaded and helped finance young men to start business in Minto. One young man was Robert Sczczys, who operated a general store, and hired Frank to work for him.
Frank and Frances (Riske) Wysocki Wedding (1906)
Moving to Minto, Frank noted that motor cars were moving in fast, and garages were new business, so his love for motors made him one of the first mechanics. In the fall of 1923, Frank and his son, Stanley, went to the motor city of Detroit, Mich., and returned in the spring, selling out, and moving his family to Detroit. In two years, the weather that is called smog, now bothered his health; in another two years, doctors advised him to leave the area and settle in Arizona or Denver. Disposing of his property and belongings in Detroit, he loaded his family in the Model-T, coming to North Dakota on a visit, then went south, Frank helped with harvest, felt great, and settled here again. He did trucking, farmed, did carpenter, and mechanic work, surviving the drought and Depression. Frank and Frances had five boys and one girl — Stanley, Emil, Dorothy, Amby, Florian, and Clarion. All the boys except Stanley served in World War Two. Stanley operated a grocery store in Grafton; reported to Fort Snelling to be inducted; the war ended in Germany, and he was sent home. Clarion was killed in action in Germany in World War II on Feb. 25. 1945.
Frank and Frances Wysocki on their Golden Wedding Anniversary.
Florie owned a barber shop in Grand Forks before the war. He served forty-four months in the Pacific, and returned with a very bad case of malaria. After doctoring for six months he regained his health, and barber's license, and started a barber
shop in Grand Forks. He built homes and sold them, retiring in 1979. Amby settled in Minto, where he does carpentry and works for civil service. Emil was wounded in service, settled in Las Vegas, worked at the Nevada test site, and is now retired. Dorothy taught school, married, moved to Detroit, worked during the war in a defense plant, and at Hudson's, now HudsonDayton, until retirement. Frank Wysocki died in 1966, Frances died in 1978.
George Wosick died in Grafton. N. Dak., on Nov. 8, 1951. at the age of 68. JOHN (JACK) WYSOCKI (1898-1 978) John (Jack) Wysocki was born Oct. 11, 1898, the son of Augusta (Maszk) Wysocki and Joseph J. Wysocki. He farmed with his father and in early adulthood, moved to Chicago. He became a truck driver. During the war years, he worked in a defense plant, but went back to trucking for the J. F. Martin Cartage Co. He was a member of the Chicago Truck Drivers Chauffeurs and Helpers Union of Chicago and Vicinity (Independent).
GEORGE WOSICK George Wosick was born March 20, 1883, in Pulaski Township to Mr. and Mrs. George Wosick, who had settled in Pulaski Township in 1 880. On Nov. 6, 1906, he married Mary Gornovicz, daughter of Frank and Clara Gornovicz. They had seven children: Helen, Isabel, Marion, Delores, Clara Jean, Harry and George.
John (Jack) Wysocki On June 6, 1925, he married Frances Spry Wysocki. They were the parents of one child — Leona (Dolly) Mrs. Frank Narloch. Mr. Wysocki retired to Minto in 1966 and lived there until his death, June 1, 1978. He is buried in the Sacred Heart Cemetery in Minto. Mrs. Wysocki died June, 1942, and is buried in Resurrection Cemetery in Argo, III. Mary and George Wosick (I 906) Mr. Wosick was a large land holder in the Minto-Warsaw area, and extremely active in civic affairs. He was a county commissioner from the Second District for 16 consecutive years, retiring in 1938. He was chairman of the board at the time the new court house was built in Grafton, and, in such capacity, he signed all bonds and contracts with the federal government on behalf of Walsh County. When John J. Schiller died in 1948, Mr. Wosick was appointed to fill the unexpired term, and so served two more years as county commissioner. Mr. Wosick was township supervisor from 1907 until 1920; for twenty years he was a member of the school board; also interested in soil conservation, Mr. Wosick was active in Three Rivers Soil Conservation and was a member of the board at the time of his death.
JOSEPH AND AUGUSTA WYSOCKI FAMILY In 1879 Joe Wysocki and three other men walked into this country from St. Paul, stopping at what is now Oslo, Minn. They were informed of land that could be claimed — land that was four miles south of what is now Warsaw, N. Dak. The four men set claims on a joining land. Regulations were
Mr. Wosick operated the first gasoline threshing machine, a Hart Parr model, and did threshing for area farmers in Pulaski Township. On Nov. 1 1 , 1918, Mr. Wosick held a farm auction sale and moved to Minto to go into partnership with two brothers, Frank and Anton. They operated a car dealership in conjunction with selling John Deere farm equipment, which they sold in the late 1940's. He purchased the first car in Pulaski Township while working as salesman for Overland Agency. He was an unsuccessful candiate for State Senate in 1940.
Frank, Stanley, Frances. Augusta. Joseph. Emil and Amby Wysocki.
that the land was to be tilled and had to be lived on; a home was to be built. The four men each filed on one quarter; as the four quarters joined in the center, they built a home so there was a part on each quarter. Good thinking — that is what makes Amercia great! One man stayed and worked the land. Wheat seed was bought at what is now Grand Forks and carried to the farms. The first year about four acres were hand-tilled and hand-sown. This land had alkali, where nothing grew. Not knowing this the men worked the soil and waited for the grain to come up; it never did. At freeze-up, the other three men returned. As they had worked from early spring to late fall, building the railroad for Jim Hill out of St. Paul, they were anxious to see the results of the harvest but found there was none. The men hand-tilled double the acres on each quarter (sod this time) to be planted the following year. The men got busy hauling in wood; bought some salt pork and ham from settlers south of Oslo. After a month the men went south to work on the railroad, to return in the spring. Shortly after the three men left a band of Indians came, overpowered the settler, taking all his provisions and clothing. He went to visit the neighbors, and they gave him small amounts of salt, meat and clothing; game was plentiful so he lived well. Most of the game was caught by snares, which kept him busy. It wasn't until the fourth year that all men remained on the land. Mr. Wysocki built a house and married in November, 1884, to Augusta Maszk. They had twelve children. One died in a flu epidemic at five years of age. Wysocki raised horses, bought and sold horses — many to Jim Hill, the railroad builder — and operated a freight line from Grand Forks to Grafton and this area. He hired three men. Year around wages were sixty dollars a year, plus room and board. He hauled fire wood for heating homes and business places, flour mills, and river boats. The wood was piled along the river bank, east of Warsaw, and used as needed. Joe helped many families to emigrate and settle around Ardoch Lake. It was easier for a family to leave the old country if they had a destination and money. He signed for their passage and met them on arrival. His greatest thrill in life was to watch people as they looked at this vast country and settled in it. Mr. Wysocki returned to his homeland a few times, the last being at the start of World War II. He was detained, and allowed to leave only with the help of our State Department which greatly improved his love for America. He was real proud of his many grandsons that served in World War II. Mr. Wysocki disposed of his land, south of Warsaw, buying land a mile south and a mile west of Minto in 1910. He farmed until 1920, retired and moved to Minto, and rented his land until his youngest son, Julian, was through school and ready to start farming. He was very handy with an ax and at wood work; during his retirement he made many useful and practical items. Mr. Joseph Wysocki died in 1946. It seemed like he waited until all his grandsons came home. His wife died one year later. JOSEPH JOHN WYSOSKI Joseph John Wysoski was born on March 11, 1897, on a farm just south of Warsaw, N, Dak., to Theodore Wysoski and Emma Rose (Ruzicka). Joseph was the sixth child of Ted and
Joseph Wysoski Family: standing, left to right, Theresa, Jane, Joseph, Jr., Raymond, Irene: seated, left to right, Joseph, Sr., James, and Helen. Emma. There were twelve children in all — along with three stepchildren. Joseph worked on the family farm and attended school at Warsaw. When he became old enough he was drafted into the Army. His stay was short lived because of his father's sudden death; he had to come home to help with the farming. In October of 1925, he married Helen Silewski, the daughter of John Silewski and Rose (Grzadzieleski) Silewski. Shortly after their marriage they went by train to Detroit, Mich., to seek work. They both were employed by the Fischer Body Plant at Pontiac, Mich. Joseph made enough money to buy a Model T so back to North Dakota they went. They started farming on the old Foogman place, east of Oakwood. In January of 1927, their first child, a son, was bom. Raymond lived to be only 3 1 . In 1959 he died of cancer and is buried in Theif River Falls, Minn. Jane, Irene, and Theresa were born while they were still farming and then two boys, Joseph, Jr., and James, after they moved to Minto. Joe rented farms to work on so it took him and his family to various places in Walsh County. He bought 80 acres but in the late 30's was forced to quit. He then tried the Watkins Products business for a while but that, too, was not adequate. He then got a job with the Soil Conservation Service in Grafton and at the time of his death, in 1959, worked out of the Langdon office. The year before his death he built a new home in Minto where Helen still resides. Helen enjoys her garden, flowers, crafts, and hobbies. She still likes to help with church and civic groups whenever she can.
LEONARD T. WYSOCKI, SR., FAMILY Leonard T. Wysocki, Sr., was born Apr. 2 1 , 1903, and lived and worked on the farm with his parents, Theodore and Emma (Ruzicka) Wysocki. He was married to Anna Altendorf, daughter of Hubert and Julia (Duray) Altendorf, on Sept. 15, 1929, in the St. Stanislaus Church in Warsaw wiih Father Maluski officiating. Leonard and Anna farmed in the Warsaw area until the fall of 1933 at which time he left the farm in search of a better living for his family. The family moved to Minto, N. Dak., where he became affiliated with the Standard Oil Company of Indiana as their bulk service station agent. He served the Minto, Voss, Warsaw and Acton areas.
He married Gen Greskoviak in October, 1936, and they operated the store together. In 1945 Stan was called into service to join his four brothers who were serving their country. As victory was in sight for the allies. Stan was sent home to be on call — which never came. His wife had operated the store: upon his return, Stan moved the grocery store to the present site of the D. J. cafe. He put in a coffee bar. and it did so well he discontinued the groceries and Stan's Cafe was started. He sold out in 1970. The Greyhound Bus also had a ticket office in the cafe. Stan and his wife never had any children, so choose to work with many charitable drives — Red Cross, church, hospital, and civic organizations.
Leonard T. Wysocki Upon his retirement, he was very highly commended by the Standard Oil Company for his twenty-three years of faithful and untiring services to the company and his customers. Leonard retired in January, 1957, at which time his son, Leonard, Jr., took over the agency.
Gen and Stan helped the famous Grafton Parade Band; he was transportation and housing manager on all their trips. Stan and Gen were pioneers in the antique business in North Dakota, and operated a shop in Grafton. Gen died in 1962; Stan died in 1972.
Leonard and Anna Wysocki had three children — Leonard, Jr., Minto, N. Dak.; Delores (Mrs. John Janssen), Fond Du Lac, Wise; and Audrey (Mrs. Kenneth Cluff), Colorado Springs, Colo. Leonard died Feb. 8, 1957, and is buried in the Sacred Heart Cemetery at Minto, N. Dak.
Organizations AMERICAN LEGION POST 201 MINTO The organizers of Wirkus Callahan Post were John Slominski, Joe Sass, Casmer Monteski, Joe Prondzinski. and Henry Hyston. The first meeting was held in the Minto Drug store. Minto Post 201 was chartered in 1920: Veterans that return from World War I, World War II, Korean Conflict and Vietnam are admitted upon their return. The American Legion is chartered by Congress, the dates of eligibility are set by Congress, and signed by the President of the United States. When the post was first organized it was called Wirkus Callahan Post 2 0 1 , in honor of the two men from Minto killed in World War I. When the men returned from World War II, the World War I veterans invited the new veterans to a post meeting in November of 1945, and explained that they started the post and worked hard on many projects, but it was up to the younger men to take over. A meeting was called at a later date, officers were elected, and the post has been very active to date.
Leonard will always be rememberd for his humor, kindness, and willingness to help others.
STAN AND GEN WYSOCKI Stan, son of Frank and Frances Wysocki, was born on Aug. 15, 1908, in Ardoch Township. He attended school in Minto, and worked in the Minto creamery. From 1 924 to 1926, he was employed in Detroit, Mich. Returning to Minto, he worked for Percy Barclay, who farmed north of Minto; in the winter he moved to Minto and ran a livery stable, driving a horse-drawn sleigh. It was the only transportation the doctor had to make farm house calls and hospital visits. Stan transported people to meet the opposite-going trains at Voss and Ardoch. Stanley was one of the last to operate the Minto Creamery, and bought cream and produce in what was called a cream station. He worked in a a grocery store in Grafton, later buying the store.
The post name was changed to Minto Post 2 0 1 . Many men from the area of Minto that could belong were killed, so a shorter name was more appropriate. The World War I veterans were very active, even if their
Donated to Minto Park by American Legion World War I Veterans.
Stanley and Gen Wysocki 653
numbers were few. They promoted weekly dances in the summer that grew too large for the membership to handle as many veterans belonged to the Commercial Club. It was then taken over by the Commercial Club and grew to be the famous Minto Park Pavilion. They promoted Fourth of July celebrations, baseball, and many events that are continued today by the local post.
At present the post is fund-raising and working on Minto's Centennial in 1 9 8 1 .
GOLDEN AGE SENIOR CITIZENS The Golden Age Senior Citizens Club of Minto was organized on Nov. 10, 1976, at a meeting in the City Hall with 14 members in attendance. Articles of Incorporation were drawn up in December, 1976. Members signing the original articles were: Herman Schanilec, Harry Mach, Alice Reszka, and Frank D. Wysocki. Edward Gudajtes drew up the article. The members purchased the Szczy's house on March 24, 1977.
The post purchased a building, and a few years later remodeled it to its present state. The hall is used for many activities. As the years pass, the Legion keeps adding many activities: Boys State, child care, cancer, kidney, Gift of Life, Peace Garden, an oratorical contest, Special Olympics, school donations, and many more. The post at Minto does its share to keep these projects going. Memorial services are held at Veseleyville, Warsaw, and three cemeteries in Minto and the bridge over the river. Field mass is alternated between the three towns. A yearly banquet and dance is held on Veterans Day, Nov. 1 1 , and is always well attended.
The first officers elected were Herman Schanilec, Sr., president; Harry Mach, vice-president; Alice Reszka, secretary; and Frank Wysocki, treasurer. On July 16, 1979, a nutrition program was started, serving meals at noon on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. The present membership of the club is 95.
History of City of Minto in Photos II
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Ewald s Bar and Lounge (1977)
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Peerless Entertainers
GASCOYNE Friday, January 31st, 1930 P E P
Prizes given for
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Funniest Costume
SYNCOPATION
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CITY OF WARSAW Leonarda Josephine was born July 4, 1927; she received a Masters Degree in Education; married Steven Riske and now lives in Long Beach, Calif. Their children are Mary Lou, married to Donald Ebertowski; one daughter, Teresa Rose, who resides in the rural area of Manvel, N. Dak.; Donna, who married Mike Wade and has one son, Brian, and resides in Cerritos, Calif.; Sandy, who married Roger Schuster, and resides in the rural area of Grafton, N. Dak.; and Steve, Terri, and Laurie, who live in Long Beach, Calif., and are attending college.
Businesses KIEDROWSKT5 STORE Joseph Kiedrowski, son of Mary (Stoltman) and Damazi Kiedrowski, was born on March 3, 1895, in Warsaw, North Dakota. Joe graduated from a business college in Milwaukee, Wise, in 1920. Damazi, his father, passed away in Dec, 1904. Mary and her son, Joseph, purchased the present Kiedrowski Store in 1919 from the Stupek family. Joseph married Minnie Gorowicz on Nov. 22, 1924, at Drayton, N. Dak., and the couple continued the operation of the present Kiedrowski Store after his mother's death on Sept. 8, 1 9 3 1 .
Lucille Wilhemina was born Jan. 10, 1929; she attended Mayville State College and received a Standard Degree in teaching; she married Ewald Votava and operates a business in Minto, N. Dak., while residing there. Their children are Robbie; Kathy, who is married and resides in Grand Forks, N. Dak.; Suzi, who resides in the Minto area; Vicki, who resides in Eugene, Oreg.; Nancy, affiliated with the Dept. of Interior, Canyon City, Colo.; and Lonny and Lori, Minto Junior High Students.
The General Merchandise Store handled gasoline, clothing, funeral supplies, hardware and food. The store sold Ball brand overshoes, Lee brand overalls, horse harnesses, whips, tools, kegs of nails, etc.
Irene Natalie was born July 20, 1931, and graduated from St. Luke's Hospital School of Nursing; was married to Gene Schanilec and is now living near Forest River, N. Dak. Their children are Rod, married to Joan Spoonland, who has one daughter, Angie, and resides in Minto; Merita, married to Ed Steinbrueck, has one daughter, Allison, and resides in Minneapolis; Colleen, married to Paul Samson, and has two daughters, Trina and Mandy, and resides in Park River, N. Dak.; Brad, working at a Grand Forks Insurance Agency; Janelle, who works for Burlington Northern Railway, Fargo; and Brian, a senior student at Midway High School. Julian Joe, born May 24, 1930, and is a military retiree of the U. S. Air Force. He is employed with the U.S. Dept. of Labor, Washington, D.C, as a computer programmer. He married lone Vosseteig and they live in Clinton, Md. Their children are Mike and Matt, who both live in Clinton, Md. Kiedrowski Store (1970)
Evelyn Leona, bom Feb. 20, 1933, received a Master of Science Degree from UND, Grand Forks. She married Ernest Lizakowski, and resides in Grand Forks where Evelyn teaches in the Grand Forks School District. Their children are Lynn, married to Dewey Kvidt and residing in Grand Forks; Lee, attending UND; and Lorae, at home.
Eggs were sold for six cents per dozen and farmers exchanged dairy products for groceries and dry goods. Barrels of Iceland herring were sold during Lent and vinegar and kerosene were sold in bulk quantities. Joseph was the original owner of a Delco Power Plant which he used to supply power to the St. Stanislaus Church, St. Stanislaus Rectory, and the Sisters of the Resurrection Convent. Joseph was the first one to purchase a Gruin Radio in Warsaw. Many farmers came to listen to the news on the radio. Beer was sold first at the Kiedrowski Store following the Prohibition years. Visiting gypsies were common, and Polish visitors made many stops in Warsaw. Many were going through just to admire the Roman Catholic Saint Stanislaus Church and most wanted to try their Polish language fluency on the Warsaw residents. Stories were told of violent storms; people getting marooned at Kiedrowski's Store; tornadoes in the area, and people coming for gas in the middle of the night. While operating the general merchandise business, Minnie and Joseph raised a family of seven girls and three boys. Their living quarters were above the store. The entire family participated in working in the store and working the land of a farm which Joseph owned, eight miles east of Warsaw.
Joseph and Minnie Kiedrowski Family: left to right, standing, Yvonne Steen, Adrian Kiedrowski, Janice Sanders, Irene Schanilec, Julian Kiedrowski, Leonarda Riske, Lucille Votava, Dennis Kiedrowski, Janet Loeblein, Evelyn Lizakowski; seated, Minnie and Joseph Kiedrowski.
Joseph and Minnie Kiedrowski had 10 children: 655
Dennis (Deceased on Nov. 11,1966). Adrian Adam, bom July 7, 1936, received his education at Minto High School, and married Doris Schiller. He is employed at Precision Grinding Company, Hunting Park, Calif., and the family resides in Long Beach, Calif. Their children are Shane, married to Gary Roudebush; they have a girl and a boy, Jennifer and Jared, and live in Downey, Calif.; Mary and Tim, both living in Long Beach. Yvonne Marie, born March 23, 1940, received her education at Minto High School, married Dick Steen, and is residing in Minneapolis. Yvonne is employed at the Veterans Administration Hospital. Their children are Ricky, Kari, and Tracy, all residing in Minneapolis. Janet Jean was born June 29, 1946, received a degree from UND in Social work, married Jack Loeblein, and resides in St. Paul. Janet is an accountant. Their children are Shawn, Shannon, Jodi, all residing in St. Paul. Janice Jane was born June 29, 1946, received her higher education at Aaker's Business College, Grand Forks, and married Tom Sanders. The family resides in Bloomington, Minn. Janice is a bookkeeper. They have one son, Tommy, residing in Bloomington.
herring; also how to take care of a pot belly wood stove and keep the store warm for the customers. On Jan. 1, 1977, Mrs. Minnie Kiedrowski retired and is presently living in Minto, N. Dak.
Churches
The Kiedrowski children were actively involved in all community affairs. Julian (Sonny), Adrian and Dennis were altar boys at daily mass until their adolescent years. The seven girls, Leonarda, Lucille, Irene, Evelyn, Yvonne, and twins Janet and Janice, all sang in the church choir which was one of Warsaw's social functions. The boys were very interested in sports. Many of their hours in the winter were spent playing basketball in Shoult's hayloft and the Warsaw Community Hall. Later, they participated in basketball while attending high school at Minto High. Baseball was another highlight of Dennis and Adrian's life. They spent many hours playing baseball at the white school ball diamond and Slominski's baseball diamond. When baseball could no longer be played due to darkness, Dennis and Adrian would then do their chores; like milking the two cows, feeding the hogs, or whatever needed to be done. Since the Kiedrowskis had so many children, much social interaction took place at the Kiedrowski Store. Many hours of playing cards was a common occurrence. Those who came by in the evenings were: Leona, Lyle and Melfred, Joseph and Delia Gerszewski; Daniel, Audrey, Rita, Annette and Bernadette Rolczynski; Hilary, Sophie, Ernie, Fabian, Cecilia, and Eva Shoults; Delores, Jimmy, Marilyn, Junior, and Diane Kiedrowski; John and Leona Tandeski; Teresa, Cyril, and Johnnie Kamrowski; Jackie and Ronnie and Bobbie Wysocki; and John, Marge, Carol and Mary Grzadzielewski. To this present day, these Warsaw kids are still very close and helped organize a Warsaw Kids Reunion which was held on July 4, 1979.
St. Stanslaus Church HISTORY OF ST. STANISLAUS BISHOP AND MARTYR CHURCH In about 1877, among tall grass and weedy wilderness of Southeast Walsh County, migration of Polish immigrants was started, by ox carts and wagons settling on the vast prairie 30 miles north of Grand Forks in the townships of Walshville, Ardoch, Harriston, Acton, and Pulaski. They were staking claims, breaking and plowing land and seeding to wheat, oats, potatoes, and rutabagas. They were building sod and log houses and shelters for their oxen. Along the Forest River and to the west of the Red River of the North was choice land and these pioneers recognized it as such. They passed the word on to their friends and relatives in Winona and Perham, Minn., and Pine Creek, Wise, who were already working there, and they, too, rushed to this new opportunity.
Mr. Joseph Kiedrowski died on May 26, 1963. Mrs. Minnie Kiedrowski and son, Dennis, operated the store until Nov. 1 1 , 1966, when Dennis was instantly killed in an automobile accident near Warsaw. Mrs. Kiedrowski continued operation of the business. All 33 of her grandchildren have helped work in the store. They spent many summer vacations at the Kiedrowski Store managing business with Grandma. The grandchildren had greater regrets about closing the store than Mrs. Kiedrowski. This is where the grandchildren learned the difference between gasoline and kerosene; the difference belween a Norwegian and Polanders; who is related to whom; how to make change when tending business; the price of a quart of milk; the price of a jar of
By 1880 there were over 100 people in this area and more were coming until all available land was taken up and the later arrivals had to go to the Florian and Greenbush, Minn., areas where homesteads were still available. Some of the names of these migrants worthy of mention were Simon Tandecki, Francis 656
Kiedrowski, L A. Kamrowski, Leon Rogalla, Jan M. Szarkowski, Andrew Maszk, Teodor Wysocki, Jan Slominski, Paul Pelowski, Michal Grzeskowisk, Peter Kiedrowski, Apolinary Rogolla, Anton Hefta, Antony Wysocki, Martin Gomowicz, Francis Lizakowski, Tomasz Grzadzielewski, Josef Gerszewski, Martin Moga, Frank Galewski, Josef Feltman, Albert Babinski, Jan Czapiewski, Jan Lizakowski, Antoni Perkerewicz, Jos Worczak, Jos Stoltman, Anton Gudajtes, Francis Narloch, Francis Glinski, Wojciech Bazia, Wojciech Wosiek, Andrzej Wosiek and many others. The community was prospering and soon lumber and building supplies were arriving by river boat to an established town of Acton on the Red River. There they could take and sell their produce and purchase their needs, and many were building new homes from lumber.
bridges across the river. This situation was relieved later when a bridge was built. At another meeting, the selection of a church site was voted on, and the Anton Hefta 10-acre site in the northwest corner of Sec. 31 was selected and named Pulaski (now Warsaw). Happy moments finally came when, in the spring of 1883, Father Alexander Michanowski was assigned to the new Pulaski settlement as the first resident priest. The first church was built under his direction, and first occupied on Oct. 17, 1883, at the cost of $2,500 which was raised by subscriptions. The church was named after a Polish bishop and martyr, Saint Stanislaus, and the congreation observed his name's day, May 7, as a holiday in his honor until recently, when it was abandoned. A new parsonage was also built the same fall at the cost of $700.
• All of these immigrants were from Poland and were deeply religious Roman Catholics and were much concerned about the Sunday worship. They contacted a Father Klement Grynolc (Greenholtz) whom some of the new immigrants knew from Perham and Gilman, Minnesota, presenting their problem to him. Father Grynolc knew of a missionary priest working in the Pembina and Winnipeg area. He contacted Father John Considine who came here and arranged to come and have Mass in the homes about once a month, while Father Grynolc came from Minnesota about once in six months. This North Dakota community was then under the Yankton, Dakota Territory, Diocese.
Trustees that served the parish at this time were Jan Galewski, Michael Grzeskowiak, Andrzej Maszk and Francis Narloch. In the three following years the population in the parish was growing rapidly, marriages and baptisms were increasing each year, the church was too small, so in 1886 it was enlarged under the direction of their pastor, Father Kolasinski. The Diocesan Report says that the size of the church was doubled. After Father Domin Kolasinski left in October, 1888, there was no pastor assigned, and Father Considine had occasional services when he came to serve other missions in the area. In March, 1889, Father Stanislaus Tokarski came and served until October, 1890; again Father Considine had occasional services until April, 1891, when Father Matensz Grachowski came and stayed until March, 1893. The present rectory was built under his direction. The old parsonage, which was located just east of where the convent now stands, then served as an organists dwelling, and was destroyed by fire a few years later.
There was more and more talk and concern about a church and parish in the area. A temporary cemetery was established in the southeast corner of the East 80 of Sec. 29, owned by Andrew Maszk. The burials there were a Hefta boy, a Koehmstedt boy, a Blanzek child, and a Mrs. Gomowicz, mother of Jos. Gornowicz, who froze in a blizzard and was found in a field in the spring. These burials and all the baptismals of those days were recorded by Father Considine. The first baptism was that of Katherine Czapiewski, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Cyapiewski on Oct. 24, 1880. The burials were later reburied in the present cemetery.
Some years prior to this time the parish acquired a 5-acre tract of land from John Mielczarek in the southwestern corner of Section 30, Pulaski Township, upon which the first rectory stood, and horse barns were built. These barns were for parishioners to house their horses when they came to worship. There were also some barns on the parish property, to the south of the present rectory, used for the same purpose. In the late 30's, when the barns were no more needed, they were sold and moved out. This property in Sec. 30, on the northside of the road, now contains the convent, sisters' garden, and a children's playground on the east end, while the west end serves as a car parking lot.
Life without a church just was not life, so Frank Lizakowski started the ball rolling by offering to donate 10 acres of his land for a church and cemetery. This land was in the east Vi - S.W. !4, Sec. 6, Walshville Township, and he has already erected a large Crucifix on the cemetery site there. This was a beautiful wooded site, situated on the east bank of the Forest River. Soon other sites were offered in Pulaski Township and it seemed like --interest among the settlers was a serious matter.
The reasons for the short terms of pastors and the vacancies at St. Stanislaus were that many of the priests who served here came from the cities and areas of more activity and could not get accustomed to the quietness of this prairie and the long cold winters and did not stay long. The Bishop had a hard time to attract a priest to this vast area.
Among the first church records at Pulaski (now Warsaw) is one of a meeting held after Mass on August 15, 1882, for the purpose of signing members, appointing committees, and setting of assessment fees. Most of the above named settlers were signed up and many got appointed to committees, such as signing members, to contact the Bishop to request a priest, financing, and others. On Dec. 27, of the same year, another short session was held for the purpose of calling a general meeting. At this meeting Jan Szarkowski was elected president; Teodor Wysocki, secretary; and Andrzej Maszk, treasurer. The membership committee, composed of Leon Rogalla, Francis Narloch and Paul Pelowski, immediately went to work and obtained more new members. Also elected was Antony Wysocki to haul the priest from Acton and to board him and also make a collection from the faithful when the congregation assembled for Mass. He was also to solicit money from the people across the Forest River to the south who could not come to the assemiblies due to lack of
The Reverend Roman Warurzykowski came in June of 1893, and served as pastor until November, 1895, and again there was a vacancy. In June of 1896, Father Francis Gawlowicz arrived, and he found that the parish population was still on the increase, marriages and baptisms were mounting each year, and again the need for expansion for a larger church was seen. In 1899 Father Gawlowicz, the trustees and a few parishioners contacted a Mr. J. W. Ross who headed a Minneapolis architectual firm whose branch was located in Grand Forks, to 657
draw up plans for a new church. The plans were drawn and approved, then advertised for bids and let to a Twin City firm headed by a Mr. Volinture for the sum of $50,000. The architect's plans showed that the new structure was of solid brick construction of the Gothic style, measuring 137 feet long by 50 feet wide in the main; and 76 feet in the transept; a height of 33 feet to the eves; and 56 feet to the roof ridge. The main steeple towered 143 feet to the top of the cross, which measures 7 feet high and 4V4 feet across. By May, 1900, excavating was completed and sand and brick hauling, by the parishioners was under way. Some 400 loads of bricks, sand, and gravel were moved to the site from Minto and Voss. The parishioners used horse-drawn wagons and shoveled the gravel and loaded the bricks by hand. The Minto Brick Company provided much of the bricks for the structure.
Teams hauling bricks and sand for St. Stanislaus in 1900.
The Most Reverend John Shanley, Bishop of Fargo, came to officiate at the cornerstone laying ceremonies in 1900. It was a joyous occasion for the parishioners of St. Stanislaus of Pulaski. The parishioners were intent on making it one of the most beautiful churches in the state in that period. When St. Stanislaus Church was completed, in 1 9 0 1 , it was destined to serve the then largest Catholic congregation in the state, some over 300 families and about 1800 souls. It was one of the largest structures of its kind in North Dakota. Saint Stanislaus, Bishop and Martyr, Church in Pulaski (Warsaw) was dedicated on July 9, 1 9 0 1 , and again it was the Bishop of Fargo, the Most Rev. John Shanley, who officiated at the impressive dedication ceremony. The Bishop was assisted by over 50 priests from all parts of the state and Canada. The Veseleyville and Warsaw bands, and lodges from Pisek, Veseleyville, Minto and Oakwood, as well as Warsaw, with their flowing banners took part in the ceremonies. An honorary unit, mounted on horseback, known as the Pulaski Guard appeared in full regalie and met the Bishop upon his arrival, by train, in Minto. This honorary unit escorted the Bishop from Minto to Warsaw, a distance of six miles, where over 4,000 people had assembled for the dedicatory ceremonies.
Father Gawlowicz died on May 19, 1905, at the age of 50, after a long illness, and is buried in St. Stanislaus Cemetery at Warsaw. Father Bollslaus Waldowski came to St. Stanislaus at Warsaw in April, 1905; with him came his father, Adam Waldowski, who was an' organist, and his mother, Zuzarma Grobowski, who served as a socristan. Father Waldowski studied Polish at Orchard Lake Seminary in Detroit, Mich., and at St. Paul Seminary and was ordained by the Bishop of Fargo and immediately sent to Warsaw. The original roof on the church was of tin and soon was troublesome and had to be replaced. This was done under the direction of Father Waldowski in 1910 at the cost of $2,200. Father Theodore A. Kupka, bom in Opole, Poland, in 1883, was educated at the University of Wroclaw and the Gymnasium of Opole and came to this country to complete his studies at St. Paul Seminary, and at St. John's University, Collegeville, Minn. He was ordained on June 1 1 , 1909, by Archbishop John Ireland in St. Paul, Minn. Father Kupka came to take pastorship at St. Stanislaus in March, 1911. He carefully planned the projects of the parish so as not to burden the parish too hard at one time. In 1911 the east end of the church basement was partitioned and a chapel was furnished for daily Masses. The church in those days was heated only on Sundays and holidays. This chapel was furnished with a small wood stove for heating on weekdays. The year of 1912 is a year many parishioners still remember. The interior of the church was frescoed and painted, and adorned with the beautiful murals and paintings. Those same decorative patterns and colors still adorn the walls and ceiling. The four oil paintings and the ceiling murals are the original, as is the general artistic pattern throughout the church. The work was done by the Associated Artists. The later artists and decorators carefully retouch and cleaned the oil paintings and murals and skillfully reproduced the decor in the original pattern. The total cost of the original decorating was $2,500. Large and imposing Stations of the Cross were installed the same year; these were contributions of individual families. In 1913 a few horse barns were built or repaired, and the parish started to raise money for a new steam coal furnace, and heating radiators which were installed in 1914. A new pulpit was purchased in 1915 with Rev. Father Kupka, the largest contributor. A new seven-rank Kilgan pipe organ was purchased in 1925. This organ was made by the George Kilgan and Sons of Saint Louis, Mo. The firm is no longer in existence, and the organ has an historical value. Father Theodore A. Kupka left to serve St. Martin's parish in Geneseo, N. Dak., in 1926, after 15 years at St. Stanislaus at Warsaw. He died on Feb. 2, 1951, in a Breckenridge, Minn., hospital at the age of 67. He is buried in the family plot at Owatonna, Minn. The Reverend John Maluski (Maluszycki) came to Warsaw to serve St. Stanislaus on March 2, 1926. Father Maluski, the first native American to serve St. Stanislaus, was born in Winona, Minn., on Oct. 7, 1887, and came to North Dakota with his parents and settled on a farm near Fried, just north of Jamestown, N. Dak. He was educated in St. Stanislaus Parochial School in Winona, Minn.; St. John's University, Collegeville, Minn., where he took a clinical course for six years, a philosophical and theologic course for five years; and held three degrees, a Bachlor of Philosophy, a Bachelor of Arts, and a Master of Arts. He was
The St. Stanislaus, B. M., Church in Warsaw at the time of the Blessing and Dedication on July 9, 1 9 0 1 , was a new church completly free of debt, unusual, considering the previous hard year, during which heavy rains had ruined the crops in the harvest season. This fact speaks volumes for the thrift, energy and religious zeal of this congregation, led by its pastor, Father Gawlowicz. 658
prelate with the title of Monsignor by Pope John XXIII and was invested ceremoniously by Most Rev. Leo F. Dworschak, Bishop of Fargo, in 1963. During his leadership, many projects were effected. A new oil furnace was installed in the church; a portion of the church basement was remodeled into a modern kitchen; dining room and rest rooms were installed; and all furnishings for the kitchen and dining room were purchased. Later the floor and ceiling were put in the entire basement. Also during his Pastorate, the St. Stanislaus Altar Society was organized and its seven groups take turns in activities, particularly such as serving banquets for parish activities, for weddings, and luncheons after furnerals. They are in full charge of the kitchen and the dining rooms, and make arrangements and
Investiture of Msgr. Maluski ordained a priest on June 6, 1914, by the Most Rev. James O'Reilly at Fargo, N. Dak. While at Warsaw Father Maluski was appointed a domestic prelate by Pope Pius Xll in 1951 and formally invested on June 18 at a ceremony at St. Stanislaus by the Rt. Rev. Leo F. Dworschak, the Bishop of Fargo. The whole community turned out to honor the veteran priest in an all-day celebration and Investiture Ball in the church and the Community
Hall. Under the leadership of the Very Reverend John Maluski during the Depression years, in the late 20's and the Dirty 30's, (caused by drought and dust storms), progress was slow and limited to only small projects in the parish. A new liturgical main altar was purchased and installed, a new nativity set was purchased, a new large monstrance was purchased, and the steps at the main entrance were installed and electric lighting was installed. In 1 9 5 1 , however, St. Stanislaus received interior decorating (unchanged from the original of 1912), new side altars were purchased and contributed by a couple parishioners and installed, the sanctuary was re-carpeted, and a tile floor was laid in the entire nave. Msgr. Maluski retired, due to health reasons, in October, 1959, after over 33 Vz years of service at Warsaw, and went to Jamestown to live with his sisters, Blanch and Victoria. His sister, Victoria, kept house for him during his entire priesthood and still lives in Jamestown. Monsignor John Maluski died at Jamestown on June 6, 1961, at the age of 74 and was buried in the family plot there. Father Petr Lekavy was born in Brno, Czechoslovakia. He studied theology in Rome, Italy, where he was ordained a priest in 1936. In 1939 he was appointed superior of the Minor Seminary of the Brno Diocese where he served until the institution was closed by the Nazis in 1945. From then until he escaped from the country in 1948 he was a professor of religion in a college at Brno and served during the three years as deputy mayor of Brno, a city of 350,000 people. He came to this country and the Fargo Diocese as a displaced priest, and was assigned to Wales, N. Dak., and came to St. Stanislaus at Warsaw on Dec. 6, 1959. After a short stay at Warsaw he was appointed a domestic
Blessing of Millenium
Cross at Warsaw by Joseph Cardinal Beran
results. With their own money they purchase all the cleaning suppliies and other dining and kitchen needs. They are responsible for the cleanliness and neatness of the church interior. Among the most significant events sponsored during his pastorship at St. Stanislaus was the observance of the Polish Millennium. On the 3rd of May, to conicide with the great manifesto in Poland, the observance of its 1,000 years of Christianity. The event commemorated the marriage in the year 966 of the Polish Prince, Mieszko I (then a pagan) and the Catholic Princess Dombrowka of Bohemia. Under the influence of the Princess, the Prince summoned the Archibishop of Prague Adelbeit (Wojciech), now a Saint, to come to Poland to baptize Prince Mieszka I. All of Poland then received Christianity. Monsignor Lekavy, well known as an historian of Christianity, heard that the exiled, the present Archbishop of Prague, the Joseph Cardinal Beran, was visiting in the United States, and invited him to come to Warsaw for the commemmorative occasion dating back 1,000 years. The Cardinal arrived at Warsaw on May 2, and immediately visited the church where about 100 faithful turned out to greet the exiled Archbishop of Prague, Czechoslovakia, and welcomed him to St. Stanislaus. On the 3rd of May, people of Polish descent from a
large surrounding area and Canada were arriving early to find seating in the church for this great occasion - the full ceremony of Pantifical Mass given at St. Stanislaus B. M. Church, with the Cardinal concelebrating with 10 Polish and Czechoslovakia Priests Three Bishops were in the sanctuary to witness the ceromonies - they were the Most Rev. Leo Dworschak, Bishop of Fargo the Most Rev. Antoine Hacault, Auxiliary Bishop of bt. Boniface Man., Canada, and the Most Rev. Hilary Hacker Bishop of Bismarck. The Rev. Witalis Danasiewicz, pastor of Olga, N. Dak., delivered the sermon in Polish and English. More than 800 persons crowded the church. A feast, served by the Altar Society, followed the church service in the lower auditorium whre the parish, headed by Msgr. Lekavy, were hosts to the Cardinal, the Bishops and about 50 priests, as well as other visitors. The following morning the Cardinal celebrated Mass after which he blessed the Millennium Cross which was made and erected by Izydor and Walter Gerszewski on the church grounds in honor of the 1,000 years of Christianity of Poland. That same year for the cost of materials needed the nativity set which was made in 1930 was also repaired and repainted by Mrs. (Vonnie) Dan B Narlock, parishoner. A large crowd turned out for this occasion at which the Cardinal spoke about the relations of Poland and Czechoslovakia and about the present sufferings and persecutions in those countries. The Cardinal departed the following day to Green Bay, Wise.
Msqr Petr Lekavy departed from Warsaw and St. Stanislaus on June 30, 1971, to serve St. Bridget Church in Cavalier, N. Dak. Rev Michael McNamee came to Warsaw to assume the narish on July 1, 1971. During his 50-month stay as pastor the interior of the church was re-decorated and the pews were refinished. The parish celebrated 75 years o building of the new church. On a rainy Sunday, the 22nd of July, it seemed like no one would come, but the rain let up and the skies cleared up just before the afternoon church services and a huge crowd was present for the rest of the day. Bishop Driscoll of Fargo, and Bishop Keneth Provish of Crookston, Minn., were guests on this occasion. Bishop Povish delivered the Jubilee Sermon. Father McNamee retired in September, 1975, and went to live in his native Ireland where he has two sisters. Father Francis Kuttner, S.A.C., served St. Stanislaus for one year He was very interested in the then Bicentennial of our nation, and helped to formulate plans for its' observance. Rev Stanislaus Duda arrived in September, 1976. Among the first acts of Father Duda was the erection of a Bicentennial Pioneer Monument on the church grounds, which was ordered prior to his arrival. This was a memorable year as the nation was observing the Bicentennial of its birth. Warsaw and Pulaski Township, too, were taking part in the national observance, and dedicating it to the pioneers of the
Fire Department shooting water to ceiling where fire was located.
Centenniel Monument 660
community. Pulaski Township was recognized as a Bicentennial Community, the only township in the United States to receive such recognition. Upon presentation of the Bicentennial flag, Mr. Roger Christenson, a field representative of the North Dakota Bicentennial Commission, told the outdoor gathering at Warsaw that "Pulaski Township is probably a unique township in the United States," when he presented the Bicentennial Flag to its chairman, Mike Grembowski, recognizing Pulaski as a Bicentennial Community on July 28. Other officers present were John Wysocki, Edwin Kosmatka, and Hilary Feltman, as well as the Bicentennial chairmen, Walter Gerszewski and Steve Mozinski, and many others. The new Bicentennial flag was immedeatly hoisted on a newly erected flag pole under the flowing stars and stripes. On Sunday, Sept. 5, the final part of the Bicentennial was celebrated at St. Stanislaus Church with a Bicentennial Mass and an especially prepared talk by the pastor, Father Stanislaus Duda. After the church service the congregation joined Father Duda on the church grounds in front of the church where he blessed the flag pole and the huge 10-ton, granite Bicentennial Pioneer Monument that was unveiled, erected in honor of the first pioneer Polish settlers of the Warsaw community. A short program followed at which State Representive Henry Lundene and Grafton Mayor Robert E. Dahl made the dedicatory speeches. A Bicentennial capsule is placed on the base under the monument. The monument is of mohogany-granite, a nine-foot replica of the George Washington Monument in D.C, is engraved with the Bicentennial Emblem on one side, while the other side bears the Polish Eagle. The pioneers' belief in God and their new adopted nation, is expressed in the cross supporting heavy granite on which the words Faith, Hope and Love are inscribed. The engraving on the face of the monument reads "God Bless Our Nation on this 200th year and Forever." and immediatly below the engraving reads "Dedicated to the Polish Pioneer Settlers who Migrated Here from 1877 o n . " A script of dedication in Polish is inscribed. The following year Father Duda inspected the exterior walls of the church and found that the mortar in the brick structure was crumbling and was in need of immediate repair. In the spring of 1978, a Hubert Bielejewski Steeplejack Company from Holdingbord, Minn., was engaged to tuck-point the entire exterior of the brick structure. The roof and the steeples were reshingled and the steeple crosses were repaired and gold-leafed. The total cost of this project was over $113,000. The work was finished in September. Father Duda and the parish were pleased with the job and everyone was happy. On the morning of Oct. 19, 1978, when Father was away, and no Mass was scheduled for that morning, for some reason Aurelia Rolczynski (now deceased), then the sacristan, was passing by the church and noticed the door was open; thinking that perhaps someone had come to Mass, not knowing that Father was away, she would tell them so. Instead she found the church full of smoke and immediately alarmed the neighbors who called the Minto Fire Department which responded immediately. But on seeing the situation they summoned the Grafton Fire Department, the Air Base Fire Fighters, and Oslo Fire Department for aid. A smoldering fire, which started in an electrical junction box in the basement ceiling, and the church floor, then followed a pillar into the high ceiling of the nave; all the fire fighters agreed they were lucky to foam it out just before it burned through the roof. A portion of the arched ceiling collapsed into the church and a few pews were destroyed. Thanks to the fire fighters for saving our church — for it looked like the end of St. Stanislaus. The damage was estimated around $350,000. A good portion of
this damage was covered by insurance. After the fire, Father Duda called a meeting of the parish, and from the wishes of the parishioners, decided to reconstruct the church. A committee was elected and plans were made to engage a contractor to do the work.
Stained Windows The DeNardo Decorating Studios were chosen as the general contractor, who in turn sub-let the wiring, heating, stained glass window repair, flooring, pew repair, and engaged the carpenters to repair the floor and ceiling. The plasterers were also hired. The work was begun that winter. Meanwhile, Sunday services were held in the Community Hall, while daily Masses were held in different homes in the village. On October 16, after the death of Pope John Paul I, a new Pope was elected. For the first time since 1522 a non-Italian Vicar of Christ was elevated to the St. Peter's Throne; he was Karol Cardinal Wojtyla, the first Polish Pope in history. He was installed the 246th Pope on Oct. 22, 1978. He took the name of John Paul II. The people of St. Stanislaus were preparing to celebrate the date of the inauguration of the Pope, with a Mass and church service and now there was no church; the thought was to cancel the celebration, but a few neighboring priests and the Bishopurged Father Duda to celebrate it as planned, but this time in the Community Hall, rather than the charred church. The attendence was great; several priests concelebrated the Mass with the Bishop, and a few of the Polish priests, who knew the Cardinal personally when they were his students in college in Poland, spoke as did the Bishop. Work on the church renovation progressed and soon the church basement was in condition so that the services could be held there. The work in the church continued through the summer, and, by the end of October, services began in the
church, while finishing touches continued. On March 16, 1980, at 4 p.m. a formal opening celebration was held with a High Mass concelebrated by His Excellency Bishop Justin Driscoll, followed by the Blessing of the church which concluded the service. There was Praise to God and joy over the reconstruction of the church to an even more beautlfu appearance then ever. The celebration was concluded with a feast in the lower auditorium. On August 3 1979, St. Stanislaus Church was placed on the National Register of Historic places and a bronze plaque commemorating this event was unveiled, blessed and dedicated by the Bishop after the formal church Blessing on March l b , 1980. The plaque was donated by Mr. and Mrs. Theodore Gerszewski, lifetime parishoners. Through the years, Warsaw has turned to its church as a religious and social center. It still serves some 170 families. Despite the scattering of Warsaw residents to many parts of the country, Warsaw and St. Stanislaus is still their home remembering the church in which they were baptised, received first Holy Communion, were confirmed, and perhaps even joined in matrimony. And mainly, perhaps, because there are no changes in the structure and the interior decor. In the earlier days — For years St. Stanislaus has observed many traditional Polish customs and hoildays. Until recently, Corpus Christi was observed with a procession with the Blessed Sacroment to the four temporary altars around the outside of the church. The procession headed by the cross and altar boys, banners, flags, colors, candles and lanterns, all the church societies in groups with their banners and children dressed in white, carrying baskets of flowers and sprinkling them in the path of the priest with the Blessed Sacrament, and more altar boys flanking the Blessed Sacrament, and ringing bells and incensing it. These were followed by the singing choir and the congregation. The priest would stop before each of the altars and pray, then make a benediction, and walk to the next altar until all four were visited. Each year on All Souls Day (Nov. 2) a procession to the cemetery was led by the pastor preceded by the cross and altar boys, saying the litany to All Saints with prayers and hymns for the deceased at that cemetery.
portions and the smoke wards off severe storms; the ashes of these are put into field seeds to protect the crop from such storms. At Christmastime the Oplatek (wafer) is blessed and shared by members of families, first broken by the head of the family, making wishes for the year, then breaking among each of the others present. This custom is known as "Breaking of the Water and continues until Candlemas Day.
Father Michanowski
Father Constidine
Father Wawrzykowski
i
Father Gawlowicz,
Up to the present time, the Rogation Days are observed with the pastor, headed by the boys with the Cross, leading the congregation each of the three days out of the village into a different direction each day, with the litany, hymns and prayers blessing the fields with Holy Water, asking God for a bountiful harvest. St. Stanislaus Day on May 7 each year was observed in honor of the patron of our church. There was an observance on Jan. 6, the Three Kings or Epiphany, the blessing of chalk and incense, which were distributed to the faithful. These were used in the homes to keep evil spirits away. The chalk was used to mark the initials of the three kings above the doors. The blessing of a basket of food at Easter time is still practiced at St. Stanislaus. These baskets usually contain salt, eggs, bread, butter, ham, and whatever food is usually consumed. This is called swiecouka.
Father Waldowski
Father T. A. Kupka
PRIEST WHO SERVED AS PASTORS OF ST. STANISLAUS B . M . CHURCH From about 1878 to 1882 it was Father Klement Grynok: (The Diocese lists him as Greenhaltz) who came from Perham
On the Feast of the Assumption, on Aug. 15. a bouquet of herbs flowers, heads of grain, and whatever is grown at home, is taken to the church for blessing. This was burned in small 662
Reverend Michael McNamee
Rev. Francis Kuttner
Rev. Stanislaus J. Duda and Gilman Minnesota about two times a year. Father Grynolc being Polish was known by some of the settlers here from Perham, he has sort of laid the ground for establishment of a parish here. Father John Considine came here more frequently from Pembina, he had Mass and confessions in houses, about once a month. He and Father Grynolc have crossed paths many times. Later Father Grynolc served as pastor in Florian, Minn., in about 1883-1884. The Pastors: 1883-1886 - Fr. Alexander Michanowski; 1886-1888 - Fr. Damin Kolasiwski; 1889-1890 - Fr. Stanislaus Tokarski; 1891-1893 - Fr. Mateusz Grochowski; 1893-1895 - Fr. Roman Wowrzykowski; 1896-1905 - Fr. Francis Gawlowicz; 1905-1910 - F. Boleslaus Waldowski;
1910-1911 - Fr. W. Majer: 1911-1926 - Fr. Teodor A. Kupka; 1926-1959 - Msgr. John Maluski; 1959-1971 Msgr. Petr Lekavy; 1971-1975 - Fr. Michael McNamee; 1975-1976 — Fr. Francis Kutner. S.A.C.; and 1976- Fr. Stanislaus Duda. There were some long intervals between pastors so in those cases other temporary priests helped on those Sundays. In April of 1977 Steve Mozinski sent a postcard and Jubilee Book of the church to the State Historical Society, hoping that they would be interested in it for their architectural heritage of North Dakota. After considerable correspondence on Steve Mozinski's part, and a proposal prepared in 1978, by former State Representative Henry Lundene, Adams, and Mrs. Ed Gudajtes of The Walsh County Historical Society, St. Stanislaus Parish and the Wlash County Historical Society received telegrams from United State Senator Quentin Burdick on Aug. 10, 1979, informing them that St. Stanislaus Catholic Church had been placed on the National Register of the Historical Society. On March 16, 1980, after extensive damage, and then repair, St. Stanislaus was rededicated by his Excellence, Most Reverend Justin A. Driscoll, with several other priests in attendance. Following the services, a plaque commemorating the designation was unveiled and blessed. The plaque was donated by Mr. and Mrs. Ted Gerszewski, Warsaw parishioners. After the closing of St. Anthony's Convent in 1971, the children of the parish attended release time in their various schools. There are three school district our children belong to — Grafton, Minto, and Oslo. Because of the large enrollment of children in Grafton, the Warsaw children were dropped and taught for a few years in the church by their mothers, following Mass on Sundays. A few years later the children attending Oslo. Minn., also lost their release time, and for two years received only a week's classes (two hours a day) in the summertime. In the fall of 1979, it was decided that the children of the parish should have a weekly program that would involve all the children of the parish, so a program, grades one through eight, was started by Mrs. Dan B. Narlock, and on Dec. 10, 1979, the first classes were started in the church basement. Since then an office has been installed and each grade has its own classroom. At this time, even though Minto has release time in the school, the children who belong to the Minto School District still come on Saturdays for class.
SOCIETIES OF ST. STANISLAUS, EXISTING AND NONEXISTANT St. Stanislaus Kostka, nonexistent; Pulaski Guards, nonexistent; Holy Name Society, inactive; Holy Rosary Society, existent; Live Rosary, existent; Sacred Heart League, existent; St. Stanislaus Altar Society, existent. These assist in church activities, recite the rosary and take part in processions, etc.
HISTORICAL SKETCH OF THE SISTERS OF THE RESURRECTION The Community of the Sisters of the Resurrection was founded in Rome, Italy, in 1891, by a widow Mother Celine Borzecka and her daughter, Mother Hedwig. To this date, the Motherhouse with the novitiate are there; here also the present Mother General resides. Besides there are two other homes in Italy In Poland, there is another novitiate at Kenty near Cracow. Lately the homes have been separated and two provines established In the United States, there are at present twenty-two
utensils. A corporation was formed: legal documents signed. With the arrival of Sister Loretta Czapiewski, OR., and Sister Agnes Manki, C.R., regular school and parish activities were started. One of the Sisters undertook the work of teaching in the public school, another the teaching of religion and older children, the third aided where needed. Later a fourth Sister arrived from Norwood Park, for Sister Antonia returned to her duties in Chicago; and as time permitted, the Religious collected outside the confines of the parish, going even as far as South Dakota and Nebraska. Mr. Anthony Tocha of Chicago prepared the plans for the present $60,000 building. In 1920, when construction was stared, His Excellency came personally to examine the foundations. In July, 1921, a double celebration took place in Saint Stanislaus Bishop and Martyr Parish at Warsaw, N. Dak. The first was confirmation of a class of boys and girls; the other, was the blessing of the Sisters in the parish, encouraged them to further efforts in behalf of souls, and stated that the completion of the building was a sign of settlement in the diocese of Fargo. Although this is the only home in the diocese of Fargo, from that time on the missionary work has progressed. At present there are eight Sisters here, who conduct an elementary school; four classes of older and upper grade children are housed in the public school where one of the Sisters teaches; four classes of younger ones are in the convent; there are several children as boarders. During the summer months.the Sisters travel to Minto, N. Dak., to give religious instructions, while during the past year the formation of Discussion Clubs for adults was especially fruitful. Since the Sisters found it difficult to become acclimated, as well as to get used to the new way of living, many humorous incidents occurred. In the winter when the snow banks were very deep they would tie a rope to the front porch pillar and then walk across the snow that way. If the end of the rope would idsappear in the depths of the drift, those following on the line would give the rope a tug and hard pull to bring the victim up to the surface again. This is where the fun would begin. While the Sisters were still living in the rented house, one time there was a continuous downpour of rain, when the roads became so soft and muddy that no one cared to leave the house. It was just at this time that the Sisters' food supply gave out. They were about to retire without supper one evenings, but before they did so, they asked aid of Saint Anthony. Shortly after, someone knocked at the door. A young girl from the neighborhood entered with a tray full of food. She informed the Sisters that the whole supper had been prepared for guests but he rain prevented their coming. The mother had therefore sent the food to the nuns thinking that they may be in need of victuals. It is needless to say how thankful the Sisters were to the good Saint Anthony who had, in this case, been very prompt in answering their plea.
bisters of bt. Anthony teach Grades 1 through 8 at St. Stanislaus School at Warsaw. The Roman Catholic parish is settled by Polish people. The school also serves as a convent. homes divided likewise into two provinces, each having a separate novitiate. In the western province, the novitiate is located in Chicago, III., at Norwood Park while the i novitiate for the eastern province is located in Castleton, N. Y. The community sent its first missionaries to Chicago, III., in 1900. Eighteen years later, on Aug. 9, 1918, Sister Stephania Strzalkowska, C.R., and Sister Antonia Rombkowska, C.R., arrived in North Dakota in the village of Warsaw, in order to select a suitable location for a convent, as His Excellency, Bishop James O'Reilly, desired that they have their own facilities. This was the first and only house of the Sisters in the Diocese of Fargo. The Reverend Theodore Kupka received the Sisters, and at the request of His Excellency, informed the parishioners at the High Mass of the intention of the sisters to settle there for the spiritual benefit of the parish. The people, however, did not understand much of what was said until, having grouped themselves about the religious and made numerous inquiries, they thus became interested in the work. Since the date for the opening of the school term was fast approaching, the Sisters strove to learn the attitude of the people; therefore, they willingly accepted invitations to the various farmhouses; this was even necessary as the Sisters, as yet, had no permanent dwelling. After a day or two of such lodgings, the two sisters at last obtained a small home in Warsaw for a monthly rental of ten dollars, procuring furniture and dishes from a kindhearted old farmer. The Sisters were busily engaged in cleaning and arranging the house when His Excellency called them to the rectory. As a result of the visit, His Excellency promised to visit the Sisters within a few days to approve the choice of the location for the erection of a convent. The Sisters wished to get a few acres of land from the parish gratis; the parishioners agreed to give three acres and, therefore, upon this plot the construction was begun. The funds for the building were to come from, the community, free gifts from the parishioners and other benefactors. The following promises were faithfully fulfilled: His Excellency, Bishop O'Reilly, $100; the pastor, Reverend Kupka, $1,000; two farmers $500 each; others a few hundred, a hundred, a hundred, or less, according to their means. Mr. Anthony Rudnicki of Chicago, offered immediately $1,000, however, the greatest benefactor became Mrs. Anna Prabucka, also from Chicago, the aunt of two nuns in the community, who donated $4,000 and, in addition, sent furniture and necessary
As time went on, the Sisters had learned to profit from the rain by reserving the water falling from the roof, as the one in the well was of little use, as it was too hard and salty. In the winter, too, the Sisters gathered up the newly fallen snow, and melted it for various purposes. At present, another well supplies the community with good fresh spring water, while good Saint Joseph keeps watch on the cistern with rain water. Reverend Mother General, Antonia Soltan, C.R., visited the Sisters in the very early days of the foundation and remained here for some time sharing the everyday trials of pioneer life; the criticisms of unsympathetic persons always encouraged the Sisters to bear these trials for the great honor and glory of God. Recently the Sisters also have decked their convent grounds with a play ground where the children enjoy outdoor recreation and exercise. In 1961 the convent was completely rewired, plumbing was updated, class rooms were rearranged and remodeled, and the convent became a parish parochial school with the Sisters of the Resurrection in charge. It was then renamed the Saint Stanislaus Parochial School. At the same time, 664
The team really began to blossom after 1952 when they joined the Walsh County League and remained active participants in the league until the end of the 1961 season when the league folded as well as most of the teams.
These students make up the final classes at the Warsaw school. When the term ends on Thursday, the Warsaw school will be closed down and next year these youngsters will be attending public schools at either Minto, Oslo, or Crafton. (April, 1971). the St. Anthony Circle was formed to which all parents of the School children belonged. This Circle helped to supply and furnish all classroom needs and managed the hot lunch program. In the last years there were only about 70 children attending this school. The Sisters felt that they could be of better service to God by teaching larger classrooms in Chicago. The school closed with the end of the 1970-71 season after nearly one-half century of community service. In spite of many efforts to interest some society or organization to take over the three-story building for some religious or philanthropic use, it still stands vacant in 1980.
The end of organized baseball for the community of Warsaw came in 1961. In its 10 years of league play, the team compiled a record of 82 wins and 31 losses. During these 19 years, it won the league championship in the years of 1956, '57, '59 and ' 6 1 , and represented the Walsh County League at the North Dakota State Amateur Tourney in each of the years. Their most successful year was 1956 when it lost out in the quarter finals to Jamestown — in 12 innings, and Jamestown went on to win the state championship. John Wysocki managed the team for eight years of league play with Fabian Shoults and Dennis Kiedrowski handling the team the other two years. During those years Warsaw had plenty of pitching power with Frank Halliday, Fabian Shoults, Dennis Kiedrowski, Ray Rochsvold and Adolph Lizakowski doing the pitching. Along with this powerful pitching the team also boasted a lot of power in hitting, with Adrian Kiedrowski winning the league batting championship at three different times. Other outstanding hitters were Dennis Kiedrowski, Fabian Shoults and Daniel Rolczynski who was the home run king of the league. Also during these years Dennis Kiedrowski signed a contract with the Pittsburg Pirates for a tryout to make their AAA team. However, because of the great step from amateur play and his age, which was 24 at the time, he was released without playing any games.
Organizations WARSAW BASEBALL CONTINUED Volume 1 - Page 137 Warsaw continued with its baseball program and in 1 937 the team was managed by Ernie Grabanski and had another winning season with Ervin Vanoss of Redby, Minn., doing the pitching. 1938 Basketball Team — Leonard Bernhoft, Ernest Grabanski, Del Stanislowski, Chester Prondzinski, Frank Schultz, Fred Kobe and Ed Gudajtes. BASKETBALL This sport didn't come into popularity until 1937 when the Warsaw Hall was being completed. Because of the late start of its first season, in 1937, only seven games were played that year, with three wins and four losses. The team was coached by Walter Gerszewski and its first team members were Chester and John Prondzinski, Ed. Gudajtes, Leonard Riskey, Florian and Richard Babinski, and Ernest Grabanski. 7953 Warsaw Baseball Team: left to right, standing, Dennis Kiedrowski, Harold Grabanski, Leroy Kamrowski, Ernest Shoults, Daniel Rolczynski and John Wysocki, manager; seated. Daniel Lizakowski, Tom Stellon, Chuck Stellon, Lyle Wilson. Frank Halliday. Adrian Kiedrowski. and Ernest Lizakowski. During the balance of the 30's and the 40's the team was handled by the following: Ed. Gudajtes, John Wysocki, Julian Slominski, and Stanley Stanislawski, with Charley Fee doing the pitching in the early years and Francis Chromy, during the last.
Chester Prondzinski was the high scorer and continued to be the star performer for many years. Ed Gudajtes took over the team in 1938 and handled it through 1940. Chester Prondzinski coached from 1940 through 1943, and Gudajtes once more from 1944 to 1948. After that date, Ernest Shoults handled the team until the late 50's when the team disbanded; no effort has been made by anyone to reorganize. Throughout the 20 plus years that Warsaw had a team it had only three losing seasons, 1937. 1951 and 1952.
BUSY BEE HOMEMAKERS HISTORY On June 16, 1931, a group of eleven ladies met at the home of Mrs. F. D. Slominski of Warsaw and, with the assistance of E. J. Taintor, Walsh County Extension Agent, organized the first Homemakers Club of Pulaski and Harriston Township. It was named The Busy Bee Homemakers Club. On June 12, 1956, the club marked its 25th anniversary with a dinner at Stan's Cafe at Grafton. A unique feature of the club was that husbands accompanied their wives to all the monthly meetings, enjoying an evening of playing cards and partaking of a delicious lunch. Because so many of the members are now deceased and some have moved out of the area or retired into town and cities, the club disbanded in 1976 after 45 years of successful existence.
HISTORY OF 4-H CLUBS With the assistance of E. J. Taintor, Walsh County Extension Agent, the first 4-H Club was organized in Pulaski and Harriston Townships. Joseph J. Shoults and Henry Stoltman were named leaders and named the club, "Pure Seed Club of Warsaw." The club dealt mainly in exhibits of various grains. in 1929 and 1930, Mr. Shoults showed the champion sample of flax at the Chicago International Grain Show and won himself the title of "The World's Flax King." In 1939, his daughter, Regina, took the national honors for her sample of Bison flax. In 1951 a boys' club "The Eastern Aggies," was organized with Leonard Riskey and Victor Stoltman as leaders. Fifteen members were enrolled. In the same year a girls' club, "The Warsaw Jolly Jeans," was organized with Mrs. Harry Babinski and Mrs. John Wysocki as leaders. Eleven members enrolled. These members and leaders worked together to carry agricultural and home econmic projects. Many more activities and events were offered now such as recreational training, demonstrations, judging events, and contests. Participation in achievement days, 4-H Follies, speech contests, 4-H Camp helped the needs and interests of the boys and girls. In the home economic projects, articles were made and displayed; in foods, members learned to prepare and serve meals, also to freeze foods and do canning. Livestock projects included raising of cattle, sheep, swine, and poultry. Grains and potatoes were raised, electricity projects carried, as well as tractor maintenance, and soil and water conservation. Competition now was much more stiffer, and the members followed their motto, "To Make The Best Better."
Donna Babinski In 1953, the boys' and girls' club received recognition and honor by winning first place with their first Follies act, "The Krakowiak," a Polish dance presented by seven couples. The selection of a king and queen, based on the number of booster buttons sold per club, determined the king and queen. The button admitted the wearer to the 4-H Follies program, an annual event taking place in the spring of the year, which attracted 1,700 people. It was in that first year that the Warsaw Jolly Jeans had their first queen crowned, Donna Babinski; the king was John Daley, from Grafton. A unique feature was that the queen was named from the Warsaw Jolly Jeans Club for six consecutive years. Donna Babinski was named the North Dakota "Singer Award Girl" and was presented a portable Singer Sewing Machine, for being selected to the North Dakota State 4-H Dress Revue with her all-wool construction of a two-piece suit. She received many awards — one of them a trip to American Youth Foundation Camp Miniwanca in Michigan. Upon retirement in 1958 of Mrs. John Wysocki, Mrs. Ed Gudajtes was named leader. New leaders of the Eastern Aggies were also named and they were Gilbert Riskey and Hilary Feltman. In 1961 Mrs. Harry Babinski retired, and Mrs. Julian Wysocki was named leader. The clubs continued receiving recognition and honors by receiving Reserved Championships, winning honors in judging, placing in their act of "Greatest Show on Earth," and much more. The club had the honor of having a 4-H member placed second in a state event in a public speaking contest, with a talk "Civil Rights and Me." She was Marge Gudajtes of Warsaw who also was named as an alternate to the 4-H National Conference at Chicago. A few years later a 4-H club, combining girls and boys, was organized with leaders, Wesley Bolek and Ed. Bolek. They named their club "The Valley Dusters." The club is still in existence with 20 members enrolled in agricultural and home economic projects. Lorraine Schuster and Joe Riskey are the leaders.
WARSAW HALL In 1936 a large community hall was erected, under the leadership of St. Cecelia's Choir of St. Stanislaus Parish. The hall which serves as a meeting place, sports center, social center, and a place where many beautiful wedding receptions are held.
June, 1956 — 4-H Follies, first place winner at Park River, N. Dak. (Gypsy Dance). Left to right — Elaine Wysocki. Evelyn Osowski, Donna Babinski, Eileen Wysocki, Dianne Kiedrowski, Mary Alice Gudajtes, Delores Osowski and Doris Riske — Dan Burianek, accordionist.
Funds for the building were secured through the sale of stock and the buiiding was completed in 1937 at a cost of $27,000. The members incorporated under the name of Warsaw Community Hall in the fall of 1937 with the first executive committee composed of Isadore Rolczynski, president; Joe Shoults, vice-president; Leo Stoltman, secretary; and John Danielski, treasurer. Other presidents or managers through the
June 23, 1968 — Took part in old settlers' picnic with representations from numerous nationalities. Pictured left to right — Marge Gudajtes, Charles Tighe. North Dakota Lieutenant Governor, and Janet Feltman.
years were Dominic Stanislawski, Henry Stoltman, Joseph Stanislawski, Serapion Gerszewski and Harry Babinski. The management of the corporation was reorganized in 1971 as a majority of the original stockholders had either moved out of the area or passed away. The building was completely renovated in 1978 and 1979, and remains as a hub for all community activities. It is well known not only in the immediate area but in distant places for its lucrative wedding receptions. Present officers are Raphael Ebertowski, president; David Narloch, secretary; Richard Gerszewski, treasurer; Gregory Stoltman, Raphael Ebertowski, Dennis Slominski, David Narloch, Allen Kosmatka, Richard Gerszewski, Evelyn Plutowski, and Raphael Lizakowski comprise the board of directors.
P.N.A. COUNCIL 195 The Warsaw Polish National Alliance was chartered in 1946 with the Warsaw P.N.A. Lodge 3043, Florian, Minn., Lodge 3060 and Greenbush, Minn., Lodge 3090 as the charter members. In 1957 the P.N.A. group from Grand Forks was added to the membership. The first delegates to represent the Warsaw group were Ed. Gudajtes, Felix Bienek, Frank J. Stoltman, Felix Rudnik, Isadore Rolczynski, John Wysocki. Mrs.
was held at the Florian, Minn., P.N.A. Hall, followed by a banquet at the Florian church parlors. Ed. Gudajtes of the Warsaw Lodge, president of the council at the time, acted as master of ceremonies. The second day of activities opened with a requiem mass attended by the P.N.A. members in a body, with the dinner, the afternoon session, and supper held at the Warsaw Church Auditorium. The second District 14 P.N.A. Convention was held at Warsaw on October 18 and 19, 1980. The session opened at 1:30 p.m. at the Warsaw Hall and at 5:00 p.m. the group attended Mass at St. Stanislaus Church with Rev. Father Duda officiating. A banquet was held at 7:00 p.m., followed by a dance with music furnished by the Vernon Rogalla Band. The session concluded the following day. The meetings were chaired by Robert Borowicz of the Florian Lodge who was elected as District Commissioner at the 1979 National Convention. Present officers of the Warsaw Lodge 3043 are Arthur Wosick, president; Blanch Babinski, first vice-president; Robert Kilichowski, second vice-president; Irene Duray, recording secretary; Marie Lizakowski, financial secretary; and James Gudajtes, treasurer. Delegates to the council are James and Kathryn Gudajtes, Arthur and Joan Wosick, William Kosmatka, Gary Babinski, Richard Gerszewski, and James Osowski.
P.N.A. YOUTH CLUB The lodge has always maintained an active youth club, taking part in many community functions. In conjunction the group holds an annual Christmas party for the children of the lodge. During the past twnety years the club has been under the leadership of Aurelia Rolczynski and Blanch Babinski, assisted by Florian Mozinski the past five years. Left to right — Isadore Rolczynski, Walter Gerszewski, Ernest Shoults, John Wysocki, and Joseph Grzadzieleski. Wysocki was elected as the first president of the council. In 1951, Ed Gudajtes was selected as the first delegate to a National P.N.A. Convention that was held at Buffalo, N.Y. In 1955, Mr. Gudajtes was again elected to represent the council at the National Convention, this time, in Minneapolis. Other national convention delegates were Walter Gerszewski, 1963, at Philadelphia, Pa.; William Kosmatka, 1967, at Detroit, Mich., and Ed. Gudajtes, 1969, at Pittsburgh, Pa. On July 16 and 17, 1966, the Warsaw Council hosted its first District 14 Polish National Alliance Convention. District 14 is composed of members of North and South Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin, and Northern Michigan. The first day's session
Pictured, left to right, are Elaine Wysocki, Adolph Lizakowski, Vickie Kosmatka, Melfred Gerszewski, Ann Lizakowski, Dennis Riskey, Phyllis Curtin, Vernon Stoltman. Maxine Curtin, Cyril Stoltman, Donna Babinski, Leo Lizakowski, Eileen Wysocki, Ed. Stoltman.
WARSAW SOCIETY LODGE 3043 In 1 945 the Polish National Alliance extended its' operations to the state of North Dakota, delegating Jos. R. Tobola, District 14 P.N.A. Commissioner of Thorp, Wise, to Warsaw, N. Dak. His unceasing work secured 50 members in the month of June, 1945, and secured the charter for the Polish National Alliance, Warsaw Society Lodge 3043. Isadore Rolczynski was its first member and Joseph Shoults, its second member. The first officers of the new group were Isadore Rolczynski, president; Joseph Shoults, vice-president; Chester Prondzinski, recording secretary; Leona Gudajtes, honorary vice-president; Ed. Gudajtes, financial secretary; and Joseph Stanislawski, treasurer. Since that time the organization has enjoyed continuous growth and at the present time has well over 500 members. The charter for the group, which was dated June 15, 1945, had the following members: Adult — Isadore Rolczynski, Aurelia T. Rolczynski, Edward R. Gudajtes, Joseph T. Stanislawski, Stella Stanislawski, John L. Czapiewski, Henry A. Czapiewski, Leona Gudajtes, Clara M. Kulas, Victor J. Stoltman, Dorothy R. Stoltman, Chester M. Prondzinski, Bruce J. Wosick, Joe J., Frances, Domicella and Eva J. Shoults, Cyril A. Wysocki, Dominic J. and Stanley R. Stanislawski. Juvenile — Daniel J. Rolczynski, Vernon P., Peter A „ Gregory V., and Roseann Stoltman, Joseph J., Melford, Lyle J., and Leona Gerszewski, James J. and Mary A. Gudajtes, John T. Wosick, Cecelia F., Ernest and Fabian J. Shoults, Rita Kosmatka, Florence E. and Lydia Grabanski, Audrey A., Rita A. and Annette D. Rolczynski, Dennis D., James F., and Roger W. Kulas, Arnold J., Frances M. and Joseph L. Stanislawski.
chorus and dance club. Serving as the first leaders were Leonarda Kiedrowski and John L. Kosmatka. In later years, Blanche Babinski and Aurelia Rolczynski handled the leadership for many years; more recently Mary Kosmatka was leader for three years; and at the present time the group has an active adult club and an active juvenile club. Each of the clubs has a membership of 18, and Lauren Babinski and Kathryn Gudajtes are in charge of the adult group and Kathryn Gudajtes is the sole leader of the juvenile group. Both of these groups make numerous appearances at neighboring celebrations, performing the Polish dances attired in the native Polish costumes. In 1963-1964, the group also sponsored a youth band under the instructions of Gus Sellheim, who at the time was band instructor for Minto High School. Throughout the years the society has sponsored a boy and girl annually to Boys and Girls State along with numerous other projects too numerous to mention for which the entire community is very grateful.
WARSAW KIDS REUNION Approximately three hundred people who were born and grew up in the Warsaw village held a Reunion Party at the Warsaw Hall on July 6, 1979. The event was planned in commemoration of the election of the Polish Pope John Paul and the deep interest of the people in the pride and dedication of their Polish Heritage. The day began with a Polish Mass at 3:00 p.m. with Reverend Stanislaus Duda officiating. A short program of achievements and accomplishments was recognized by the master of ceremonies, Edward Gudajtes. A potluck dinner and a dance followed with Tom Walski furnishing the entertainment and music for the evening. The highlight of the occasion was a cake on display which was a replica of the Village of Warsaw as it was 75 years ago with its homes, schools, horse stables, baseball diamond, bowery stores, St. Stanislaus Church, and cemetery. The cake was later served for midnight lunch. Instrumental in organizing this event were: Diane (Kiedrowski) Sherette, Evelyn (Kiedrowski) Lizakowski, Leona (Gerszewski) Schuster, Mrs. Leroy Kamrowski (Judy Lamont) and Mary (Grzadzielewski) Mach. A reunion is planned for 1985 to be held in Warsaw.
Installation of the charter group was held at the Warsaw Hall Nov. 22, 1945. The program opened with a solemn mass read by Rev. M. Wisniewski, O.M.I., followed with a youth program under the leadership of Stanley Bandur, P.N.A. youth instructor of Chicago. The officers were installed by District 14 P.N.A. Commissioner Joseph T. Tobola and the program was concluded by an address by President Rozmarek of the Polish National Alliance. The group is the largest ethnic fraternal organization in Walsh County, and throughout the years has been very active in all community affairs and is considered the Chamber of Commerce for the rural community of Warsaw. Since its inception the group has always maintainted an active youth
CITY OF WARSAW FAMILY HISTORIES ANDREW AND PAULINE GRIGEL Andrew John Grigel (nationality Austrian) was the son of John and Mary Grigel of Tarnaw and Rapka, Poland. He was an only child, born to them on March 13, 1883. John Grigel was killed in a logging accident, so, at the ate of 10, Andrew and his mother, Mary, came to the Dakotas from Poland. They moved in 1893 and settled in the Warsaw area, where Mary worked out to be able to support herself and her son, Andrew. On Feb. 2 1 , 1898, the widowed Mary married Martin Korinta, a widower with several children, whom Mary helped raise. Andrew worked as a farm laborer and carpenter, and helped work on the Warsaw Church when it was being built. On Dec.
The Andrew Grigel Family: left to right, seated, Magdaline Reigstad, Andrew, the mother Pauline, and Richard; standing, Stanley, Barney, Mary Windingland, John, and Effie Ulberg. 668
14, 1 908, he made a homestead entry No. 02983 for southeast quarter, section 28, township 12 N, range 61 west, 6th principal meridian, to make final 3-year proof to establish claim, receiver at Denver, Colo., on Sept. 23, 1912. The homestead address was Hereford, Colo. The 160 acres were purchased at the price of $2.50 an acre. He later sold this land in 1919. On Sept. 23, 1912, Andrew became a naturalized citizen. He returned to Warsaw in 1912, where he met and later married Pauline Bozikowski. Pauline was the daughter of Leon and Agatha Bozikowski, born Feb. 2, 1896, at Krakow, Poland. She, at the age of three, with her parents and sister, Mary, moved to Leo, Minn., and in 1 912 they moved to a farm west of Warsaw. Andrew and Pauline were married Nov. 4, 1914, and lived in Warsaw, where their children Barney, Effie, Francis, and Mary were born. Francis died Apr. 1 5, 1920, at the age of six months. Andrew and Pauline bought a small farm (40 acres), north of the Ardoch Salt Lake on Sept. 12, 1921, and moved there in March, 1922, where their children Magdeline, Richard, John and Stanley were born. Andrew John Grigel passed away Feb. 25, 1953. In 1954, Pauline moved back to Warsaw, where she lived until her death on Nov. 8, 1964. They are both buried in the St. Stanislaus Cemetery, at Warsaw.
HISTORY OF EDWARD GUDAJTES Continued from Vol. 1, Page 319 Edward Gudajtes, son of Mr. and Mrs. Anton Gudajtes, was born at Warsaw, N. Dak., on July 28, 1911. He was educated at St. Stanislaus Parochial School (St. Anthony's Academy) at Warsaw and graduated from Minto High School in 1928. After graduation from high school he assisted his father in the general merchandise business and his farming operation. In 1934 he went into partnership with his brother, Neman, and they operated a beer tavern in Warsaw and operated a farm. The partnership was dissolved in 1947.
Marie and Ed Gudajtes On Nov. 2 1 , 1939, he married Marie Slominski after a courtship of over eight years. They had four children — James, John, Mary and Marjorie. James and John are farming in the area; James lives on the farm where Mrs. Gudajtes was born and spent her single days; and John lives on the homre farm of Ed and Marie. Mary is married to Dr. Larry Corah who works at Kansas State University Experiment Station at Manhattan, Kans., and Marjorie is married to Paul Gourde who is employed by TriCity Auction at Fargo; the Gourdes reside in the River Tree Addition at Harwood, N. Dak. Mrs. Gudajtes was born in Pulaski Township, just a half mile east of Warsaw, and received her grade school education at St.
Anthony's Academy of Warsaw and graduated from Minto High School in 1933. After their marriage, they made their home on a farm, two miles west of Warsaw, in Harriston Township. Mr. Gudajtes served as township assessor for six years and township supervisor for six years; was McCann School District director for 1 2 years; was an AAA committeeman for eight years; a member of the Walsh County Draft Board. 1951-53; was a director, a past president, and a secretary of the Minto Farmers Elevator for 18 years; was a president, and served as secretary of the Minto CoOp Oil Co. for 15 years; was a director and president of the Walsh County Crop Improvement Association for nine years: was a director of the Walsh County Fair Association for 15 years and manager of the Walsh County Fair in 1965. He served as director of the Farmers Home Administration of Walsh and Pembina Counties for seven years; and also served as board member of the National Malting Barley Growers Association for six years. Gudajtes was greatly interested in politics and was a faithful member of the old N.P.L. After the N.P.L. decided to file in the Democratic column he went along with them and has served over 15 years on the executive board of the district, two of them as secretary. He served in the N. Dak. State Legislature during 1965-67. In 1965 he was selected as the Outstanding Man of Walsh County in Agriculture for the year. Mr. Gudajtes was the winner of the Soil Conservation Award in 1959; the sweepstakes winner with his samples of malting barley at the Walsh County Fair in 1963, 1964, and 1969, and State Feed Barley champion in 1964. In 1959 he was voted Honorary Chapter Farmer of the Minto High School Future Farmers Association and in 1975 he received the N.D.S.U. Alumni Association Agriculturist Award for services to agriculture. While residing in Warsaw and Harriston Township, he and his wife, Marie, were members of St. Stanislaus Parish where he served nine years on the Parish Advisory Board and his wife was a member of St. Cecelia's Choir for 15 years. In 1967 he accepted the position of secretary and manager of the Walsh County Mutual Insurance Company with whom he was associated until his retirement in July of 1976; at the present time he is completing his eighth three-year term as director of the company. In 1969 Mr. and Mrs. Gudajtes moved to Minto and turned over their farming operation to their sons, James and John. The same year he was elected to the board of directors of the Minto Development Corporation, and has served six years at that position with the last two years as its president. In 1973 he was elected municipal judge of the City of Minto, a position he still holds. In his first year as judge he handled 237 cases, most of them traffic violations. The City has been under Walsh County policing since 1975 and all of the charges are handled by the Walsh County Court. Mr. Gudajtes was an avid sportsman; both as a fan and participant. Although never a star player he was the leader in independent basketball which started after the community hall was erected and in baseball, for over 25 years, most of them in the infield with the last couple of years catching. He served as secretary of the Walsh County League when the league boasted 12 teams and every small hamlet had a team. This was in the late 40's and early 50's. He has served as vice-president of the Walsh County Historical Society for five years and as president for one year. He has been a board member of the Walsh County Senior Citizens Council since its origin in 1975 and has acted as chairman of the
Senior Citizens Transportation Committee since its beginning in 1976. At the present time he is Nutrition Project Director of the Minto Golden Age Club. He is working part-time with the Crop Reporting Service. He has served as director of the Bank of Minto for five years. His most enjoyable and fruitful position was the financial secretary position to which he was elected when the Polish National Alliance Lodge 3043 was chartered in Warsaw on June 1, 1945. The following year 1946, he was named organizer and is still serving in that capacity. Also in 1946, P.N.A. Council 195 of Warsaw was chartered, and consists of P.N.A. Lodges from Warsaw, N. Dak., and Floria and Greenbush, Minn. He served continuously as delegate to the council from the Warsaw group until 1977 when he declined reelection. During those years, at various times, he served as secretary, treasurer, vice-president and president of the council. In 1951 he was elected as the council's first delegate to the National Polish National Convention at Buffalo, N. Y. In the same year he was named the top organizer in District 14 of the Polish National Alliance, composed of P.N.A. lodges in North Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin and Northern Michigan. By 1955 the Warsaw lodges membership had grown to 360 from its original 25. He was also elecled in 1955 as delegate to the National P.N.A. Convention in Minneapolis, Minn. In 1971 he was elected for the third and last time as delegate to the National P.N.A. Convention in Pittsburg, Penn. In 1971 he was elected third vice-president of the North Dakota Fraternal Congress and in 1972 moved up to the first vice-presidency and in 1973 to the presidency. In 1974 he represented the N. Dak. Fraternal Congress as its official delegate at the National Fraternal Convention at Las Vegas, Nevada, and was elected to the secretarial board of the National Fraternal Society. In 1975 he attended the National Fraternal Convention in Cleveland, Ohio, at which time he resigned his position on the board. To date, he is the only individual of the North Dakota Fraternal Congress to be elected to a directorship on the National Fraternal Board. On Jan. 1, 1980, he resigned his position as financial secretary after serving in that capacity for almost 35 years. The membership surprised him with a festive appreciation party as he ended his tenure with a heart full of joy for the accomplishments of what was an impossible dream — seeing the membership grow from 25 to well over 600 — while 35 years ago, most of the people wouldn't bet a wooden nickel that the organization would exist beyond a year or two at the most. Mrs. Gudajtes was an active Homemaker Club member for over 20 years; a 4-H leader for 10 years, and an active member of both St. Stanislaus of Warsaw and Sacred Heart of Minto Altar Societies. Both Edward and Marie, better known as Eddie and Mamie, remain very active in all community projects and love to discuss their early years of farming when they had no electricity, no radio, no T.V., no running water, no bathroom, no tractor, and a 1926 Model T Ford that wouldn't start. It was a blustery January day in 1930 when he was helping his brother-in-law, Harry Babinski, saw wood. Truly a day he will never forge* as he came so very close to death. A stationary engine and a circle saw were used for the job. The two rigs weren't quite lined up to perfection and the drive belt kept slipping off the pulley, despite the excessive amount of molasses they had on it. They used the molasses as there was no belt dressing around. During the process, the belt flew off again so Mr. Gudajtes pulled it over the saw pulley and stooped down to push the belt on the engine pulley. In a flick of a second the belt
Ed Gudajtes Family: left to right, back row, Larry Corah, John and Jody, James; second row, Paul Gourde, Susan (Mrs. John), Mary Alice (Corah), Marjorie (Gourde), Anton, Kathryn (Mrs. James); third row, Tom Corah, Jay, Mathew Gourde, Christopher Gourde, Marie and Ed; fourth rown, Michelle Corah, Lisa, Baby Andrew, Sarah Gourde, Chad Corah and Kimberley.
Lee Gudajtes, the thirteenth grandchild. slipped otf the saw pulley, stuck together and wrapped ilself on the engine pulley and, in the same momentum, the end of the doubled belt slapped Mr. Gudajtes just below the temple, knocking him over and unconscious for 45 minutes. When he regained consciousness on the couch at the Babinski home, he had no idea what had happened; all he could see was the entire Babinski family standing around him in shock. It was a frightening experience but all ended well as Ed ended up with only a badly swollen cheek and a slight headache. That particular winter all of the roads remained blocked from early fall, and the Babinskis had no phone to call for help. To this day, Ed hopes that when the time comes to die that it will be as easy as it would have been that day had he not regained consciousness.
JAMES GUDAJTES FAMILY James Joseph Gudajtes, born to Edward and Marie Gudajtes on Dec. 2, 1940, grew up on his parents' farm, which is the southeast quarter of Section 27, Range 52, in Harriston Township. He attended St. Anthony's Parochial School and the Warsaw School District 109 in Warsaw. He graduated from Minto High School in June, 1959. On Jan. 19. 1960, he was inducted into the Army, and was
stationed in Fort Ord, Calif., then sent to Fort Wainright, Fairbanks, Alaska, for two and a half years. Upon returning from service he joined his father in farming. November 16, 1968, he married Kathryn Kay Kosobud, daughter of Edwin and Bessie Kosobud, who now live in Grand Forks. Kathryn, born Aug. 28, 1947, lived with her parents on her grandfather's farm in Latona Township 156, Range 58W, later moving to Grafton. Kathryn graduated from Grafton High School in 1965.
John Gudajtes children: clockwise from top, Jody Suzanne, Andrew John, Lee Daniel, and Jay Michael (1980).
The James Gudajtes Family: left to right, Kim, James, Kathy, Tony and Lisa. The James Gudajtes family lives on the homestead of Frank D. Slominski, who is the grandfather of James, in Pulaski Township, northeast quarter of Section 30. They are parents of three children — Lisa 12, Kimberly 10, and Anton 6. James was active in 4-H, a member of DAV-VFW, Minto American Legion Post, the Minto Fire Department, the Eagles, The Polish National Alliance, the Farm Bureau, and the Walsh County Historical Society. He is a past director of the Minto Farmers Elevator; a past director of the Minto Fire Department; and past president of the Polish National Alliance Council 195. He is a member of the Polish National Adult Krakowiak Dancers. Kathryn has been active in the St. Stanislaus Altar Society, the Jolly Sew and So Homemakers Club, the Minto American Legion Auxiliary, The P.N.A. Lodge, and is a member of the P.N.A. Council 195. She is an instructor of the P.N.A. Youth Dancers, as well as the adult dancers.
JOHN GUDAJTES FAMILY John Francis Gudajtes was born to Edward and Marie Gudajtes on May 1 1 , 1 9 4 9 . He grew up on his parents' farm, the southeast quarter of Section 27, Range 52, in Harriston Township. He attended St. Anthony's Academy in Warsaw through the eighth grade and graduated from Minto High School in 1967. After a year and a half at U.N.D., Grand Forks, he joined his father and brother, James, on the family farm. On Sept. 1 1 , 1971, he married Susan Dianne Barta, daughter of Leonard and Genevieve Barta, from Minto. Susan was born on May 1 6, 1 948, and grew up on her parents' farm in Ops Township. She attended St. Luke's Church in Veseleyville, grade school in Forest River, and graduated from high school at Midway; she attended U.N.D., and N.D.S.U., Fargo, graduating from N.D.S.U. in 1970. The couple made their home on John's parents' farm in Harriston Township. On June 1 1 , 1974, their first child, Jay Michael, was born, followed by Jody Suzanne on May 24, 1976;
Andrew John, on March 7, 1978; and Lee Daniel, on Oct. 20, 1979. John was active in 4-H as a youngster and attended St. Stanislaus Church in Warsaw. He has been active on the St. Stanislaus Advisory Board; Walsh County Fair Board; Board of Directors of the Minto Farmer's Union; has served as a director of the Minto Museum; as a director of the Minto Rural Fire Department; was a charter member of the Minto Jaycees; and is a member of the Walsh County Historical Society, Farm Bureau, Polish National Alliance, and other farm-related organizations. Susan has been active in the St. Stanislaus Altar Society, the Jolly Sew and So Homemakers, Minto American Legion Auxiliary, and Minto Jayceertes.
NEMAN B. GUDAJTES Refer to Volume 1, page 319. Neman is the son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Anton Gudajtes, and was born at Warsaw, N. Dak., on Dec. 19, 1900. He graduated from eighth grade at the Warsaw Public School in 1914 and attended Minto High School at Minto, N. Dak., graduating in May, 1919, in a class of seven. After graduation he helped his father in farming and part-time clerking in his father's General Store. Also for a few years, he was an assistant clerk in the Warsaw Post Office of which his father was the postmaster. He was the clerk of the Warsaw Public School for 38 years. He is very much interested in sports, especially baseball, and was a catcher for the Warsaw Independent Team for many years. During World War II he was a solicitant, selling Liberty Bonds in Harriston Township and was solicitant for many years for the Walsh County Red Cross in Harriston Township. In the year of 1934 he and his brother, Ed, went partnership farming and also opened a beer tavern in Warsaw. In 1946 he and his brother dissolved their partnership and each started on their own. Neman kept the tavern. In 1947 he bought the grocery store from his mother and has been in business since. He remembers a few years back when he and the family were awakened at night by an explosion in the basement of his store. It started a fire, moved one of the side walls
Neman Gudajtes
Mrs. Neman (Leona) uuoajres
of the store up to six inches off the foundation, bulged out the front of the store and shattered the windows, and scattered groceries and other supplies inside. The Minto Fire Department was called to the rescue. It was a frightful experience which will never be forgotten. In 1960 he retired from farming after having the misfortune of breaking his leg and ankle, being laid up for six weeks in a hospital and nine months at home. On Nov. 2 1 , 1944, he married Leona Czapiewski of Ardoch, a farm girl. They have been blessed with three sons — Raymond and Gregory of Grand Forks, N. Dak., and Wayne, at home. Raymond is a graduate of the University of North Dakota, and served two years in the Army of which he spent 18 months in Vietnam. After returning from service, he has been employed with State Job Service of North Dakota. Gregory, a graduate of the University of North Dakota, is employed with the postal service at Grand Forks, N. Dak. He is married to Margaret Burianek of Veseleyville and are parents of a daughter, Nicole, and son, Jamie. Wayne is a graduate of Mayville State College of Mayville, N. Dak., and is a high school principal and business teacher at Lankin, N. Dak.
DENNIS KIEDROWSKI Dennis Kiedrowski was born June 29, 1935, at Warsaw, N. Dak., to Minnie and Joseph Kiedrowski, and raised in the Warsaw area of Walsh County. He had two brothers and seven sisters. He attended elementary school at St. Anthony's Convent and graduated from Minto High School in 1952. He was on Minto's two state high school baseball championship teams of 1951 and 1952 at the state finals. Before entering the service, he played with the Warsaw team in the Walsh County Baseball League. Dennis entered the U.S. Air Force in 1952 and was given a Korean assignment. He became athletically involved for four years and was later scouted by the Pittsburgh Pirates, a national baseball league team. The assignment was at Mexico City Class AA of Mexican League. While stationed at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, he played shortstop and third base for the post team, batted .396, and led the summer league with 30 home runs. In addition to power at the plate, Dennis had good speed and a strong throwing arm. He enrolled at Mayville State Teacher's College in 1957. Al Meyer, his college athletic director, remembers Kiedrowski as a most powerful hitter, "a right-hander who played infield when he
Semi-Professional Baseball wasn't pitching." Meyer said, "Kiedrowski played in every State Amateur Tourney from 1957 on to the time of his death, mostly with Warsaw and Inkster teams. Dennis was usually a pick-up player from area teams." In 1960 Kiedrowski was the winner of the Most Valuable Player Award when he led the Grand Forks Air Force Base team to the State Amateur Tournament. That same year he was selected for the "Athlete of the Year" award as selected by the North Dakota Sports Writers Association. Dennis graduated from Mayville State Teacher's College in 1961 with a degree in Business Education and a degree in Physical Education — after lettering in football, wrestling, and baseball. He taught in surrounding towns for five years. His teaching assignment was at Hoople, N. Dak., at the time of his death on Nov. 11,1966, due to an automobile accident near Warsaw.
Mrs. Kiedrowski receiving the Baseball Hall of Fame Award. On Feb. 19, 1976, Dennis Kiedrowski was accepted into the North Dakota Baseball Hall of Fame. Pinky Kraft was the athletic banquet speaker at the induction. Mr. Al Meyers of Mayville State College presented the award to Mrs. Kiedrowski, his mother. All members of the family were in attendance at the Baseball Hall of Fame Banquet.
JOHN S. LANDOWSKI FAMILY John S. Landowski was born in Warsaw, N. Dak., on June 11 1888, to Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Landowski, who farmed in the'area. His wife, Helen J., was born on Feb. 9, 1892 to Mr. and Mrs. David Langowski, who owned the Blacksmith bhop, Furniture Store and Funeral Parlor in Minto, N. Dak. After their marriage on Nov. 12, 1962, the couple farmed in
the Voss area, moving to Cashel where their home was destroyed by fire in 1925.
children were born: Helen married Roy Green; John married Grace Kretchmar and has three children, Catherine, Wayne and Frances; Irene married Raymond Arneson and has one daughter, Helen Louise; Mary Louise married H. S. Buchanan and has a daughter, Cheryl Rae.
In 1931 they purchased a farm with a thirteen-acre tree claim, located west of Drayton, IN. Dak., and built a home and other farm buildings. They lived until they retired to Fargo, N. Dak., in 1960.
John passed away on March 4, 1963. Helen passed away on Jan. 20, 1975. Their oldest daughter, Helen Green, passed away on Oct. 14, 1975.
John and Helen shared fifty years of married life and four
History of the City of Warsaw in Photos
Front row, left to right — Lawrence Wisniewski, Joseph Maszk, Joe Crzeskowiak, band leader, Alex Merchlewicz, Stanley Reski, and Leo Klava. Back row, left to right — Peter Rose, John Czapiewski, Joe Bazel, band director, John Babinski, Barney Wysocki, Frank Maszk, Aloysius Czapiewski, and Dick Babinski.
A 4-H act, "The Greatest Show on Earth," by members of the Warsaw Jolly Jeans 4-H Club, won honors in April, 1962, at the Walsh County Fair. Siamese Twins: John Gudajtes and Maurice Feltman; goat: John Collette; ostrich: Kathy Mozinski; bears: Ellen Fair, Carol Wysocki and Mary Gudajtes; swami: Cheryl Gomowicz; elephant: Stevie Mozinski and Arthur Wosick; trainer: Joe Riskey; hobo band: Georgie Wosick, Rose Ann Lizakowski and Darlyn Dymowski; clowns, Beverly Sitzer and Connie Langowski; lion tamer: Jeannie Sersland; Mary and her lamb: Lorraine Mondry and Yvonnie Sitzer; and Ringmaster: Marge Gudajtes.
1962 and 1963 Grafton League Champions — Leonard Wysocki, Ray Lizakowski, Herman Schuster, Kulwicki, and Willie Kosmatka.
Part of the Warsaw-Polish Dance Club performing at the Walsh County Fair, Park River, 1972. Left to right, back, Mr. and Mrs. Syl Kasprick, Mr. and Mrs. Jim Gudajtes, Mr. and Mrs. Vernon Stoltman; front, Mrs. Joe Riskey and Cyril Stoltman; Yvonne Grembowski and Lauren Babinski.
1970 Ladies' League Runner-Up, left ro tirht — V. Wysocki, M. Gudajtes, M. Lizakowski, A. Kosmatka, E. Ebertowski. Other members, not pictured, are: Karen Shoults, Georgene Kowalski and Janice Wysocki. 673
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KENSINGTON TOWNSHIP FAMILY HISTORIES ERWIN CUDMORE FAMILY
the Ingulsrud homestead in Osford Township, Cavalier County. She was baptized and confirmed at Hitterdal by Rev. P. O. Laurhammer.
Erwin Howard Walter Cudmore was born Nov. 2, 1916, to Alvin and Charlotte (Buckley) Cudmore on the "Valley View Farm" his grandparents had homesteaded in Kensington Township in 1 882. He was baptized by Rev. P. O. Laurhammer at the parsonage, under membership in the Garfield Lutheran Free Church of Edinburg. The beginning of the Cudmore ancestory will be found in Volume II of the Walsh Heritage Book.
Bethel received her elementary education in Osford Township, S. D. No. 4. She completed her freshman year at the Milton High School and graduated from the Walsh County Agricultural School, Park River, in 1 940. After many fulfilling years of raising their family of four, Bethel decided she needed an added dimension to her life. When she no longer had to milk cows and wash milking machines, she began to seek employment outside of her housework. She worked part-time at the Hartz Store and Fjeld's Fashions in Park River, before beginning her position as Activities Assistant at the Lutheran Sunset Home in Grafton, in May, 1970. In 1974, she became Director of Activities at Sunset and held that position until 1976, when she transferred to the new Good Samaritan Center that opened up in July of that year. She was Activities Director there for nearly four years.
Erwin received his elementary education at Kensington School District No. 98. He attended one winter short course at the Walsh County Agricultural School in Park River. The practical experience he received, from working with his father at home, instilled in him the desire to make farming his life's work and keep this family homestead in the Cudmore name for as many generations as possible. Many changes in the methods of farming have taken place in his lifetime. Horses were used for farming operations until 1935 when the first F-20 tractor was purchased. The first threshing outfit his father owned and operated was an Altman Taylor threshing machine using a 10-20 Titon Tractor in threshing his own crop and several of the neighbors. Erwin was involved in this operation until 1941, when he purchased his first International Combine.
Bethel has been active in church work, both at Park Center, when they were members there, and now at Our Saviour's in Park River. She taught Sunday School and was president of ALCW in both churches. She is currently vice president of ALCW for the second time at Our Saviour's and has been elected co-president with Mrs. Lloyd Mandt for the coming year. She is also president of the Walsh Unit of the American Cancer Society.
Horses and ponies continued to be very much a part of the livestock operation. While his father, Alvin, raised working horses, Erwin and his sons, Lee and Larry, raised and trained riding horses and Shetland ponies for sale. The children all won several ribbons and trophies with their ponies at horse shows, State Fair at Grand Forks, and the Walsh County Fair at Park River. A couple ponies remain for the grandchildren to enjoy.
Besides her interests in arts and crafts, she, too, has a hobby of restoring and collecting antiques, many of which their forefathers used and which are being put to good use in their new home that was built on the farm. They moved into their new home March 27, 1974. She also enjoys composing poems for special occasions.
Erwin replaced his father as chairman of the Kensington No. 98 school board until 1959, when the district was consolidated with the Park River school system. He also replaced his father on the Kensington Township board of which he is still a member, and has served on the board of trustees at Our Saviour's Church. In 1953 a new barn was built, equipped to milk his Holstein herd with machines. The contractor was Fred Nortestad of rural Park River. In 1967 he quit milking cows, replacing the dairy herd with more Black Angus cattle. The dairy barn was remodeled to accommodate the needs of the beef herd, and pole barns were built, the first one in 1952.
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As a side line, Erwin worked for many years in the Park River Livestock Exchange, until it was closed down in May, 1980. He semi-retired in 1978 when their oldest son, Lee, took over the farming operations.
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Erwin is a charter member of the Northeast North Dakota Pioneer Machinery Association which originated in 1976. He is presently serving on the board of directors. At the annual meeting in March, 1980, he received the Silver Oil Can Award for his work and dedication to the Association. He has been involved in the annual threshing bees in Park River and the construction of a building to store old machinery south of the Extension Office in Park River. His interest in preserving our heritage has extended into a hobby, of not only restoring the antique machinery of his forefathers that was used on this homestead, but he has bought and restored other machinery to add to his collection.
11
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The Erwin Cudmore Family: left to right, standing, Pastor Larry, Adele Momerak, Cyndie Perkerewicz and Lee; seated, Erwin and Bethel. Erwin and Bethel have four children: Adele Erna married Leonard Momerak and they have three children, Alyson Beth, Brenda Caye and William (Billy) Erwin; Lee Erwin married Elaine Amundson and they have two children, Robert Lee and Rhonda Elaine; Larry Duane married Wendy Hanson and they have two sons, Timothy Jon and Matthew Lee; Cynthia (Cyndie) Caye married Richard Perkerewicz and they have two sons, Jedidiah
On October 19, 1941, Erwin married Bethel Adeline Ingulsrud in the Hitterdal Lutheran Free Church, rural Milton, N. Dak., with Rev. P. 0 . Laurh ammer officiating. She was born March 28, 1922, to Ben and Amanda (Berntson) Ingulsrud on 677
She graduated from the St. Joseph's School of Nursing in Grand James and Michael Anthony. In compiling this family's history, it is evident that the Hitterdal Lutheran Free Church and Rev. P. O. Laurhammer played a large part in the foundation of three generations having served that congregation for 30 years. He married Be hels parents in 1920; baptized, confirmed and married Bethel and Erwin at Hitterdal; baptized three of their children: Adele and Larry at Hitterdal and Lee at Garfield; and officiated at her father s funeral service at Hitterdal in 1 950. Another man who means a great deal to this family is Pastor Donald Ronning, who served Our Saviour's in Park River twelve and a half years. During that time he confirmed and married Cyndie; married and ordained Larry and baptized four of their grandchildren - . R o b e r t , Rhonda, Timothy and Mathew Cudmore. Bethel's cousin, Rev, Gordon Berntson holds a special place in their hearts, because of the personal touch he uses in bringing them God's message at their family functions, such as at Adele's wedding, Larry's ordination, and Bethel s mother's funeral service. Adele was also Gordon s flower girl, when he and Norma got married. He is chairman of the Berntson Reunion Committee. Bethel is serving on the program committee and she and her family are looking forward to being a part of the 100th anniversary celebration of their Nels Berntson Heritage July 3 and 4 in 1982.
ADELE CUDMORE HISTORY Adele Ema was bom Aug. 4, 1942, to Erwin and Bethel (Ingulsrud) Cudmore, at the Deaconess Hospital in Grafton^bhe was baptized in the Hitterdal Lutheran Free Church by Rev. P. O. Laurhammer. She completed her elementary education in Kensington School District 98 and graduated from the Walsh County Agricultural and Training School in Park River, in 1960.
Forks in 1963. Her aspiration to become a nurse came about as a result of being hospitalized after being in a car accident near Madison, S. Dak., Feb. 2 1 , 1 948. The family was returning home from a trip to the west coast when they met a truck in their lane as they were approaching the top of a small hill. Erwin had his front teeth knocked out and an injury to his knee but was not hospitalized. Bethel received three fractured vertebrae, was in a body cast for three months, and wore a back brace for a long time. Lee received a multiple skull fracutre and was unconscious for a couple days. Adele received severe lacerations around her righteye Dr. J. Muggly, a prominent doctor at the Madison Hospital, said he removed about a teaspoonful of glass from around her eye and she was fortunate that not one speck was in her eye. Even though she was only five years old at the time, she seemed to realize that the tender loving care they received from the doctor and nurses restored them to good health again and wanted to some day be a part of a health team to help people in the same way. More of Adele's history will be found under the name of her husband, Leonard Momerak, in the Grafton section.
LEE CUDMORE FAMILY Lee Erwin Cudmore was born to Erwin and Bethel (Ingulsrud) Cudmore at Grafton, N. Dak., March 28, 1945, the day of his mother's birthday, a day they celebrate together each year. Lee was baptized by Rev. P. O. Laurhammer at Garfield Lutheran Free Church, rural Edinburg, and was confirmed by Rev. Arnie Carlson at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church at Park River. Lee received his elementary education at Kensington District No 98 rural Park River, being the last person to graduate from this rural school. He graduated from high school at the Walsh County Agricultural School in 1963, then attended NDSU at Fargo for two years. He married Elaine lone Amundson, daughter of Melvin and Esther (Pederson) Amundson, March 8, 1966. Their wedding
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Adele Erna Cudmore's graduation picture from the Sisters of St Joseph School of Nursing. Grand Forks, in 1963. She is now Adele Momerak, RN, Director of Nurses at the Lutheran Sunset Home in Grafton.
Lee and Elaine and children, Robert and Rhonda Cudmore, Park River. 678
was postponed three days due to the March, 1966, blizzard. Their original wedding date was Saturday, March 5, but Saturday night Elaine and her little sister, Janet, were stranded at their new family home near Fordville. Her parents had returned to Lankin to do more baking for the wedding and take care of the livestock that were still at the farm there. The telephone had not yet been installed in their new home so they spent many long lonely hours before anyone could reach them. After getting all the families involved shoveled out of their snowbanks, the wedding ceremony took place as planned at the Fordville Lutheran Church. The first four years the couple lived on a farm north of Park River that was owned by George Olson at that time. Elaine attended elementary school at Lambert District No. 73 in Perth Township, Walsh County. She graduated from the Walsh County Agricultural School in 1964 and completed a secretarial finishing course at Aaker's Business College, Grand Forks, N. Dak., in 1 965, and worked for one year as secretary at Ireland's Lumber Company there. Lee was employed as office manager at the Park River Veterinary Clinic for nine years along with interests in the farm. With farming in his blood, Lee decided to resign at the Veterinary Clinic in 1 976, in order to devote full-time to farming. Following his father's retirement, in 1978, Lee became the fourth generation to operate the family farm. Lee raises small grain, sunflowers, and commercial beef cattle, Elaine has been working at the Walsh County Agricultural Stabilization and Conservation Service since 1966 with the exception of four years when her two children were very young. She serves as compliance program assistant at the present time. In 1967, Lee and Elaine bought the former D. D. Smith farm where they built their home in 1970. Robert Lee was born to them Aug. 25, 1971, and Rhonda Elaine was born June 4, 1974, both at St. Ansgar's Hospital in Park River. Robert and Rhonda attend Park River Elementary School. Lee and Elaine are members of Our Saviour's Lutheran Church in Park River where Lee is presently chairman of the board of trustees and Elaine serves on the board of education. Robert and Rhonda were both baptized by Rev. Donald Ronning at Our Saviour's where both attend Sunday School. Elaine is a PEO of Chapter Q Sisterhood. Lee is a charter member and past president of the Lions Club; vice president of the board of directors of the Farmers Union Oil Company; and director of the Walsh County Livestock Association, all of Park River". Lee is a member of the supervisory committee of the Walsh County Credit Union; a member of the North Dakota Livestock Association; and is the local brand inspector.
Pastor Larry Cudmore holding their son, Timothy, and Wendy holding Matthew Lee. Taken the day of Larry's ordination at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church in Park River. Minn., for two years, graduating May 6, 1973, receiving his Bachelor of Science Degree, magna cum laude. July 14, 1 973, he married Wendy Lea Hanson, daughter of Harry and Harriet Hanson, in the Richfield Lutheran Church in Minneapolis. She also attended LBI where they met. She graduated with a home economics major from the University of Minnesota, Aug. 24, 1973. While attending college, Larry spent his summers as parish worker at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church in Park River. He was also called on to preach at various churches in the area in the absence of their own pastor. Strangely enough, the first place he was in complete charge of the worship service was at Hitterdal where he had been baptized. The church is often referred to as "Mother's Church" by the family. Larry realized why, when he stepped into the pulpit that Sunday, everywhere he looked he saw some of his mother's relatives. After graduating from Concordia, he spent the next two years as lay assistant under Pastor Donald Ronning at Our Saviour's. He was assistant director of the Park
LARRY CUDMORE FAMILY Larry Duane, born July 13, 1950, at the Deaconess Hospital in Grafton to Erwin and Bethel (Ingulsrud) Cudmore, was baptized in the Hitterdal Lutheran Free Church, rural Milton, by Rev. P. O. Laurhammer. He received his first three years of elementary education in rural Kensington District No. 98 and graduated from the Park River Elementary School in 1 964. In 1968, he graduated from the Walsh County Agricultural and Training School in Park River. He was active in football and basketball. He was the first student to receive the Richard Orsund Memorial Award for being the all around outstanding student with high moral standards in his graduating class. He attended Valley City State Teacher's College for one year; two years at The Lutheran Bible Institute in Seattle, Wash., and graduated from there in 1971. He attended Concordia College, Moorhead.
Pastors who participated in Larry Cudmore s Ordination at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church in Park River. Back row, left to right, partially hidden. Rev. Paul Culdseth. Edinburg: Rev. Cordon Berntson. vice-president of Eastern North Dakota District of ALC: Rev. M. J. Sheldahl. Hoople: front row. Rev. Arne Carlson, who confirmed Larry, and Rev. Donald Ronning. who ordained him. (Not shown, is Rev. Craig Carlson. Fairdale.)
River Bible Camp under Jerry Englerth and director of the camp for two years. During this time, Wendy cooked at the camp and taught Home Ec in the Lankin and Grafton High Schools. The fall of 1975, Larry began his studies at Luther Theological Seminary, St. Paul, Minn., and Wendy did substitute teaching in that area. Their first son, Timothy Jon, was born Dec. 19, 1976, at the University Hospital in Minneapolis. He was baptized by Pastor D. Ronning at Our Saviour's in Park River. In 1977, they moved to Thompson Falls, Mont., where Larry interned for one year there and at another parish at Plains, Mont. He returned to St. Paul for one more year at Luther Seminary and graduated from there, May 27, 1979, receiving his Master of Divinity Degree. On that day he also received his official call to serve as assistant pastor of First Lutheran Church of Sandpoint and Pastor of the Clark Fork Lutheran Church, both of Idaho. This was a requirement needed before he could be ordained into the Lord's ministry. On July 8, 1979, he was ordained by Pastor Donald Ronning in Our Saviour's Lutheran Church in Park River. His ordination was a part of the congregation's 90th anniversary celebration, Larry being the first confirmed member of this congregation to be ordained in those 90 years. Larry and Wendy's second son, Matthew Lee, who was born in the University Hospital in Minneapolis, was also baptized by Pastor Ronning at Our Saviour's the day of Larry's ordination. Larry also preached at both services. At the present time, he is still serving the Sandpoint parish. The church at Clark Fork is growing and an addition was added on in 1980. They love their work and the country the Lord has called them to serve. One experience they will always remember, about their call to Idaho, is the day Mount St. Helen's erupted and they received several inches of ash. CYNDIE CUDMORE FAMILY Cynthia Caye was born June 14, 1956, to Erwin and Bethel (Ingulsrud) Cudmore, at the Deaconess Hospital in Grafton. She was baptized in the Park Center Lutheran Church by Pastor James Sonnenberg, but attended Sunday School and was confirmed at Our Saviour's in Park River by Pastor D. Ronning. She received her elementary education in the Park River grade school. She was basketball cheerleader for the Ponies in her 7th and 8th year. While in the grades, she had the misfortune of breaking her arm cheerleading and also broke her nose, practicing on the trampoline. While attending W.C.A.S., she was basketball cheerleader for the Aggies in her freshman year and a "Pom-Pon" girl the next three years. In 1972 the name of the high school was changed to Park River High School and she graduated from there in 1974. In the fall she enrolled at Don's Beautv College in Fargo, taking a course that lasted about 11 months. Her first place of employment was at Lady Fair Beauty Salon in Grafton, she worked there until she got married. Cyndie married Richard Anthony Perkerewicz, son of Steve and Germaine (Collette) Perkerewicz, who lived in the Warsaw area at the time Cyndie and Richard met. Their marriage took place Apr. 24, 1976, at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church in Park River with Pastor Donald Ronning officiating. They took a trip to Miami, Fla., for their honeymoon, and are living at Washburn, N. Dak., in a home Richard and Steve built. Richard graduated from Lake Region College at Devils Lake, in 1976, with a degree in carpentry, and he and his dad were in
Family of Richard Perkerewicz: Cyndie holding Michael Anthony and Richard holding Jedidiah James. the construction business together until Steve's health failed. Richard is presently employed at the Minnkota Power Cooperative, Inc., Milton R. Young Station, at Center, N. Dak. Cyndie has been employed part-time in beauty shops in Washburn and Underwood, but is presently employed part-time as secretary in the Wagonwheel Lumber Yard at Washburn and teaches piano lessons in their home. They have two sons, Jedidiah James, born Nov. 8, 1978, and Michael Anthony, born Nov. 1, 1980, both at the St. Alexius Hospital in Bismarck. They were both baptized in St. Edward's Catholic Church in Washburn by Father John Owens, where Richard and Cyndie are active members. One of their unforgetable experiences was an attempt to go and visit Larry and family in Idaho. They got as far as Missoula, Mont., when Mount St. Helen's erupted and they were stranded there for a week because of the ash. Since they weren't permitted to go north into Idaho at that time, they eventually were able to get to Lewiston, Idaho, and unload the semi of grain and return to Washburn with a load of lumber.
THE JOHN FERGUSON FAMILY John Ferguson and his family farm and live east of Park River in Kensington Township. John, the only child of Lloyd and Esther Ferguson, was born on Oct. 28, 1933. John's father, Lloyd, died in June, 1936. For many years John and his mother lived with John's uncles or Esther's brothers on the Almen home place, northwest of Hoople, until John entered high school in Park River. John attended grade school at Fairview District No. 50 and then attended the Walsh County Agricultural School in Park River, graduating in 1951. In 1952 John married Carol Byars who passed away at the birth of their infant son, Chester Lee, later in November of the same year. The mother and infant were buried at Park Center Lutheran Church, rural Hoople. On Dec. 18, 1955, John married Dorothy Dean Thompson, daughter of Floyd and Floretta Thompson of Askov, Minn. Dorothy was born on July 4, 1935. They became the parents of five children. The oldest child is Dawn Carol who was born on Oct. 2, 1956, and married Larry
John and Dorothy Ferguson on their wedding day — December 18, 1955. Attendants were Shirley Ault (far left), and Shirley Thompson, (Dorothy's sister), and John's friend, Irvin Moe and Richard Thompson (Dorothy's brother).
Mr. and Mrs. David J. Ford JOHN AND HARRIET HARRIS John was born on Feb. 10, 1833, in Devonshire, England, to John and Ann (Crews) Harris. He migrated to Ontario, Canada, in 1854, with a brother and settled in Darlington, Ontario. There he married Harriet Wadge on Sept. 20, 1859. They had nine children.
John Ferguson Family: back row, Oscar, Esther (John's mother), Dorothy, John Ferguson and Kevin; front row, Jon, Jeff, James, Larry (son-in-law), Dawn (holding Shawn Ferguson) and Kathy (daughter-in-law) holding Justin. (Taken April 6, 1980)
In 1880 John and his oldest son, Thomas, came to Kensington Township to claim land. The land they claimed is two miles east of the present site of Park River. They returned to Ontario to get the rest of the family and their personal belongings. They crossed Lake Huron by boat, then traveled by rail to Grand Forks with two railroad cars of personal belongings. From Grand Forks to the Park River area, they traveled by wagon and horses; the livestock was herded.
Ellingson, Park River, son of the Ray Ellingsons, on Oct. 7, 1978; and they reside in Grand Forks. The oldest son, Kevin John, was born on Nov. 3, 1957, and married Kathy Johnson, daughter of Art K. Johnsons, Park River, on Dec. 18, 1974; they are the parents of two sons, Shawn Michael, born in 1975, and Justin John, born in 1979. The three other sons of John and Dorothy are Jeffrey Scott, born Jan. 16, 1959, who now lives and works in Seattle, Wash.; James Alan, born Jan. 30, 1961; and the last, but not the least, Jon David, born Jan. 26, 1963. All the children are Park River "Aggie" graduates, Jon David being a senior in 1980-81.
The home they built of logs on their homestead, in 1880, is still standing (1980). It has been covered with siding.
DAVID J. FORD David J. Ford was born June 2, 1882, the youngest son and the only one of the seven children of David and Mary Ford to be born in Kensington Township, Walsh County. The family came from London, Ontario, where his parents met and were married. It was here that the other members of the family were born. Other children were Annie (Catherwood), Ena (Craig), Craff (McConnell), Jessie (Parke), Alex, and Etta (Porter). David Ford married Janet (Jennie) Robb in 1911. Janet was also born in Kensington Township. They moved to the Ford farm and his mother and father moved to Park River. They had eight children — Muriel (McCauley), David, Kenneth, Alex, Glen, Mary (Larson), Edith (Bjerke) and Harlan Ford. They were members of the Presbyterian Church.
John Harris (1833-1917) and Harriet (Wadge) Harris (1832-1897) Family: back row, Henrietta (Etta), 1863-1889; Fred, 1868-1940; Frank, 1866-1950; John A. 1864-1956; Ada Jane, 1870-7 961 Front row, Thomas, 1860-1929; Harriet and John, MaryAnn (Minnie), 1871-1912. Seated in front is Florence (Lillian). 1876-1941. Not in the picture is Sarah Elizabeth (Lizzie). 1862-1943. The date of this picture is about 1888.
David Ford served on the township board and school board. Mrs. Ford served as treasurer of the board for a number of years. David Ford died in 1 953, and his wife died in 1 959, 681
John retired from active farming and moved into Park River in 1892. Harriet passed away on Sept. 1, 1897. and John, on Nov. 14. 1917. John was a member of the board of the Park River Methodist Church from its beginning and during the building of the first church in Park River. Their nine children were all born in Ontario and came to Kensington with their parents: Thomas was born May 30, 1860; died Dec. 3, 1929. He married Mary Ann Jones on Feb. 14, 1883; she died Aug. 17, 1938. They settled on a homestead in Fertile Township. Sarah Elizabeth (Lizzie) was born on Jan. 22, 1862; married James Ross in 1881. She died on March 20, 1943, and he died on Oct. 16,1916. They settled on a farm in Golden Township. Henrietta, born Jan. 23, 1863, married John Martyn. She died on Jan. 20, 1889. John A. Harris, born Aug. 20, 1864, married Mary E. Merriam on Jan. 3 1 , 1 8 9 4 . He died on Dec. 17, 1956, and she died on July 9, 1952. John A. settled in Kensington Township. Frank W. Harris was born Jan. 17, 1866, and married Alice Jones on March 8, 1888. She died on Aug. 23, 1896. Frank married Isabel (Bella) McCauley on Dec. 2 1 , 1 8 9 8 ; she died on Dec. 20, 1942. They settled in Fertile Township. He died Feb. 1, 1950'. Fred Harris, Apr. 5, 1868-Feb. 1 1 , 1940, married Agnes Jennings on Aug. 24, 1904. She was born Jan. 9, 1876, and died Nov. 7, 1954. Ada Jane, March 16, 1870-March 14, 1963, married Andrew Robbie on Apr. 3, 1895. He was born Sept. 6, 1868, and died Apr. 29, 1959. Fred Harris and Andrew Robbie were partners in farming, milling, and other enterprises in Cavalier (Pembina County). Mary Ann (Minnie), Aug. 22, 1871-Aug. 23, 1912, married Jessie Pengilly, (1874-1956). Florence (Lillian), Jan. 6, 1876-Jan. 1 1 , 1 9 4 1 ; on June 8, 1897, she married Albert Heddon, March 15, 1869-July 1 1 , 1927'. Both Mary Ann and Florence (Lillian) settled in the Edmore area. MARTIN AND BORGHILD HAUGEN Martin Haugen, son of John H. Haugen and Elisa Neilson Haugen, of Hannaford, N. Dak., was born in the farm home on Dec. 1, 1913. He received his early education at a rural school near Hannaford. Martin married Borghild Foyen, daughter of Baard and Carrie Lockrem Foyen, on July 15, 1933, in a lawn wedding at the John Haugen home. Borghild attended school in Park River; graduated from high school at Finley, N. Dak.; and attended Mayville State Teacher's College. She taught in rural schools. Martin served as sheriff in Valley City, N. Dak., for ten years, and Borghild cooked for the prisoners during that time. Both Martin and Borghild are active in Sons of Norway. Three children were born to Martin and Borghild. Beverly Marlin (Mrs. John Francis), born in 1934, lives on a farm near Hannaford; John (Jack), born in 1939, has a security guard position, called Western Security, and lives in Fargo; and Michael Jerome, born in 1946, is with the Air Guard; he is also a pilot for Frontier Air Lines and lives in Fargo. Martin and Borghild have ten grandchildren and two greatgrandchildren.
ARTHUR J. AND SOPHIE DAHL JOHNSON Arthur J. Johnson was bom Oct. 27, 1 895, at Christine, N. Dak., to parents, John Peter and Sena Patrina Strand Johnson. John and Sena were from Alsen and Oslo, Norway. Arthur was raised at Walhalla, N. Dak. This family later moved to Park River, N. Dak., where they lived on what was then the Donavan farm and is now owned by Norman Cole of Park River. Arthur was one of ten children in the family. Arthur served in the Armed Forces during World War I and was stationed in France for one year. He was married on Nov. 16, 1 9 3 1 , at Crookston, Minn., to Sophie Dahl, the daughter of Ole O. and Olina A, Bjorgo Dahl, of Park River. Sophie was bom and raised in Walsh County and attended school in Park River. She was one of fourteen children in their family.
Arthur J. and Sophie Johnson Arthur and Sophie have six children. Evelyn, born Oct. 7, 1932, at Park River, attended grade and high school at Park River.'On June 19, 9 1 5 1 , she married Wally Moen, son of Gustav and Alma Moen, rural Park River. They now live at Rapid City, S. Dak., and have seven children: Russell, Linda, Tom, Todd, Luann, Amy and Gus. They also have three grandchildren, Matthew, Jenny and Lindsey. Donald, born Jan. 5, 1935, at Park River, attended the Park River schools and served in the Armed Forces for two years. He married Teresa Guzzone, July 15, 1957. She is the daughter of Mrs. Frances Guzzone of Baltimore, Md. Don and Teresa have five children: Donny, Craig, Richard, David, and Julie. They reside at Baltimore. Lorraine, born Nov. 23, 1935, at Park River, attended schools there. She was married March 6, 1955, to Emmett Thompson, son of Chester and Mary Thompson, Park River. They have four children — Brian, Cindy, David, and Kristie. Their home is in Park River. Carol, born Aug. 8, 1940, in Park River, attended the schools there. She was married Apr. 20, 1957, to Raymond Veum, son of Livi and Olga Ljungren Veum. They make their home on a farm near Adams, N. Dak., and have four children Douglas, Lorrie, Michael, and Daniel. Richard was born Nov. 15, 1944, at Park River, and also attended the schools there. He was in the Navy for four years, 1966-1969. He served aboard the U.S.S. Oriskany with the 7th Fleet, West Pacific C.V.A. 34. He was married to Eileen
Red Cross at Nekoma. Shirts and pajamas were sewn and socks were knitted. After her parents' death, she and her children assisted her brother, Oscar, on the home farm until Oscar's death in 1947. Sewing, tailoring, quilting — both hand and machine, pattern drafting, crocheting, knitting, tatting, rug making, and all kinds of cooking, baking, and canning — were among her hobbies. They also yielded her many prizes. Her jars were always full. Since she canned and pickled up to 2,000 quarts per season. Solving puzzles, entering contests, testing, writing verses, limericks and slogans were also among her hobbies. They netted her many prizes, including cash, smoked and cured meats, paint, books, magazine and paper subscriptions, appliances such as a toaster, vacuum cleaner, a 25-qt. pressure canner, and a large 1927 edition of Webster's New International Dictionary. She is an avid reader of books, magazines, and newspapers and is especially interested in mathematics, history, music and language. Among her winning slogans are "The Life You May Save, May Be Your Own;" "Stop! Look! Listen!" with a caption of an intersection; "Ever Upward, Ever Onward," and "Onward, with Onward. School Supplies." She contributed numerous articles which were printed in various magazines and newspapers on child discipline, "gems of thought," recipes, and hints on home and garden.
The Arthur J. Johnson Family: left to right, standing, Cary, Donald, Richard; steated, Arthur, Lorraine, Evelyn, Carol and Sophie. Jergensen, Dec. 15, 1972. She is the daughter of Elmer and Beatrice Jergensen of Park River. Richard and Eileen have one son, Jeremiah. Gary was born Aug. 1 1 , 1949, in Grafton, N. Dak., and attended schools in Park River. Gary served in the Army, 9th Infantry Division, spending nine months in the Vietnam Delta. He was married in February, 1970, to Karen Evenson, daughter of Louie and Margaret Evenson of Park River. They have one son, Travis.
In the 1940's, she was a representative of the California Perfume Company, the forerunner of the present Avon Company. She was always called upon to help in sickness and death and whenever a helping hand was needed. She is reliable, cheerful, and always available to family and friends. Her family consists of Iver S., Dayton, Ohio, who was born on Nov. 12. 1922; Albert B., Wayzata, Minn., who was born on March 8. 1926; and Ida S. Morris, Grand Forks, who was born on Oct. 28, 1933. She has three grandsons and one granddaughter. Mr. Johnson passed away July 22, 1964, at a Sioux Falls, S. Dak., hospital. He was born July 1 9, 1878.
BERTHA MARIE OEN, JOHNSON Bertha Marie Oen, born Apr. 3, 1892, received her early education in her home school, and had spent about one month at Concordia Academy, Moorhead, Minn., when she was called home to assist in caring for a man named " O l e " who was ill and who lived with the Oens. (She could not recall his last name, as it was rather difficult and different.) He died the following year. Bertha stayed on in Park River and worked at home and for the Matt Helleksons, the Oscar Lindbergs, the Joe Cudmores, and the Nels Burtness' families.
ROSSFORD AND MARILYN JOHNSON FAMILY
In 1909, she became assistant leader of the "Boys' and Girls' Club," the forerunner of the 4-H. She had charge of foods, canning, sewing, horticulture, seed and grain judging. She followed much in her mother's footsteps in all walks of life and was also apt at all kinds of farm work, often doing all the cooking, canning, and baking for crews up to 45, plus the regular home and community work.
Rossford, son of Melvin and Florence Gates Johnson, was born on May 8, 1933, and is the only child of Melvin and Florence. Rossford attended the Park River Schools and graduated from N.D.S.U., Fargo. Marilyn, daughter of the late Peder and Laura Flaten Johnson, was born on Sept. 5. 1933. Rossford and Marilyn were married in 1 950, and are the parents of three daughters and one son. Dorothy Johnson Farrell, born on June 15, 1951, is married to William Farrell and resides on a farm southeast of Larimore. N. Dak. Dorothy graduated from the N.D.S.U. School of Pharmacy. Dorothy is employed as a pharmacist at Osco Drug in Grand Forks. N. Dak. Dorothy and Bill farm in the Larimore area.
She always had a huge vegetable and flower garden, spaded by hand, which produced all the needs of the family. She raised chickens, turkeys, ducks, and cows. Bertha was married on Dec. 27, 1921, to Albert J. Johnson, Nekoma, N. Dak. Her home-learned experiences were made use of in many ways. She was a chairman in a Homemakers' Club; spent long tenures as local president of the W.C.T.U.; was secretary of the Soldier and Sailors Department of the Northeast District of the W.C.T.U. of North Dakota; was a Sunday School superintendent and teacher; a parochial school teacher and director; Ladies' Aid president and secretary; L. D.R. leader; church and Ladies' Aid historian; and active in other community endeavors and drives.
Jeanette Johnson Greff was born on Sept. 14, 1952. and attended N.D.S.U. Jeanette is married to Robert Greff and they are the parents of two sons — Donald, born Feb. 8, 1972. and Daniel, born Jan. 13. 1973. Jeanette, Bob and family live at Camp Pendleton, Calif., where Bob is serving as a lieutenant in the Marines. Russell was born on June 9. 1958. In 1980, Russell graduated from N.D.S.U. in Fargo and married Barbara Kjorstad. also a 1980 N.D.S.U. graduate, from Williston. N. Dak. Barbara
During World War I, she sold Liberty Bonds and did Red Cross work in Park Kiver, and in World War ii, siie sold U.S. Savings Bonds and was chief sewer, inspector, and packer for the 683
the log cabin. They had one cow, one oxen, and one horse. Mr. Lambertson carried 100 pounds of flour on his back from Grand Forks for the winter. They lived on bread, molasses, and lard until the cow came fresh in February so they had milk and butter. Mr. Lambertson was building a log cabin on the site where the farm buildings are today. He was a carptenter by trade in Norway. He died in the fall of 1882 before he had the roof on. He was the second person buried at Park Center Cemetery. An uncle came and helped to get the roof on before winter set in and also helped Mrs. Lambertson prove up on the land. Bertha Lambertson married James Johnson and moved to Canada. Emma Lambertson married Oscar Lindberg in 1897 and they had five children — Mae, Lyle, Ernest (who died in infancy), Clinton and Vernon. Born to Mr. and Mrs. Ole Lindberg of Melrose , Wise, Oscar was raised in Wisconsin and came to North Dakota in the early 1880's. Mr. and Mrs. Ole Berg of Dundee Township were his uncle and aunt. Mr. Lindberg died in 1942. Mrs. Lindberg moved to California in 1947, and died in 1972 at the age of 102 years, eight months.
The Rossford Johnson Family: left to right, Bill Farrell and his wife, Dorothy, Barbara and her, husband Russell, Marilyn and Rossford Johnson with their youngest daughter, Linnae, and Bob Greff and his wife, Jeanette, and their two sons, Daniel and Donald. is a lab technologist at St. Ansgar's Hospital in Park River and Russell farms with his dad in the Park River area. Linnae Jo was born on Apr. 17, 1973, and is a student at Park River Elementary School. At the present, one of Linnae's activities is twirling. Rossford and Marilyn have lived in the Park River area all their lives. Rossford is farming and Marilyn is an active housewife. Marilyn enjoys photography, baking and traveling. The whole family enjoys traveling and both Rossford and Russell have pilot's licenses and enjoy flying their own plane. The family is active in many community activities and they are active members of Our Saviour's Lutheran Church in Park River. THE LAMBERTSON AND THE LINDBERG FAMILY Lambert Lambertson, his wife Mary, and their two children, Bertha and Emma, immigrated to the United States from Norway in 1873 by sailboat, landing in New York, then proceeding to Goodhue County, Minn. Then in 1881, Mr. Lambertson and John Lahd set out for Dakota Territory looking for land. They settled on adjoining land, three miles north of what is now Park River. They built a log cabin, half on each side of the quarter line (the cabin was about 12' x 20'). They then put up some hay; then went back to Minnesota to get their families and household goods. The railroad ended about 10 miles south of Grand Forks at Thompson, N. Dak. The families consisted of five Lahd children and two Lambertsons. They all lived together the first winter in
;
Mae Lindberg married in 1921, her husband died in 1965; they had no children. Lyle married and moved to California in 1936. They had four daughters; three live in California and one in Wisconsin. Lyle died in 1968. Clinton married Thelma Lien of Park River and lives in East Grand Forks, Minn. They have one daughter, Charyle, who is married to Walt Chizinski. They live in Connecticut. Clinton is retired. Vernon married Marvel Orstad from Vesta Township. They farmed for some time and Vernon worked for Silliman Implement, before moving to Seattle, Wash., in 1962. Vernon worked for Riach Oldsmobile as an auto mechanic until suffering a stroke in 1 9 7 1 . Vernon and Marvel have three children living; one died in infancy. Joanne Gardner married and has three boys, Dwayne, Joshua and William. She lives in Phoenix, Ariz., and works for the Phoenix courthouse. David married Barbara Nyre from Helena, Mont., and lives in Clearview, Wash. David works in construction as a finish carpenter. Ruth lives in Seattle and works for Foss Launch and Tug Company in material control. Vernon and Marvel bought a home in Lynnwood, Wash., in 1963 where they are presently living. Vernon also suffered a heart attack in 1978 but still goes out hunting and does some mechanical work. Vernon still owns the homestead, so in 1981 the homestead will have been in the family for 100 years. THE FANNY E. (HARRIS) LANDSBOROUGH FAMILY Fanny Eliza Harris was born in Howick, Ontario, Canada, on June 13, 1868, to John (Sr.) and Mary (Waldren) Harris. She left Canada in January, 1882, for the Dakota's with her father and two brothers, John, Jr., and Moses; four sisters, Emma Harris Dilworth, Grace Harris Thody Pengilly, Evelyn Harris Landsborough, and Elizabeth Ann Harris Patterson; and a party of fourteen others. Her mother, Mary Waldren Harris, died in 1874 when Fanny was six years old.
Wedding picture of Oscar Lindberg and Emma Lambertson (1897).
Fanny made her home with her brother, Moses Harris, until her marriage to William Harvey Landsborough on March 31, 1886. Mr. Landsborough had come to the Dakota Territory in 1881, two years after the land had been surveyed in 1879 and
had homesteaded in Kensington Township on the South half of Section Seven, Township One Hundred Fifty-seven North, Range Fifty-five West, Walsh County, Dakota Territory. This location was close to that of another brother and sister of the pair: Samuel H. Landsborough, who married Evelyn M. Harris. Here they set up their home along a timber-lined creek which was fed by natural springs. The banks of the creek were covered with ferns, black-eyed daisies, and pink wild roses. Along with farming of small grain crops, they had a fruit orchard with plums, apples and small berries. They called their home "Hazel Mount Farm." Here they enjoyed the beautiful and unforgettable sunsets of the prairie; the homestead, with its sturdy oak trees to be used for cooking and heating, along with cool shelter supplement; pure water for drinking. The land with its grain crop, even though a limited amount, some livestock, the small orchard, and most important, the love of God, the life was good for the young pioneer couple. William was thirty-two and Fanny was eighteen years old at the time of their marriage. However, life was hard in the Dakota cold for all of the pioneers.
The steady blowing winds were a hazard for all — either whipping up a prairie fire, or a raging blizzard that would heap snow in mountainous drifts that would also bring severe cold temperature far below zero. It was a time when it took two days to get to Grand Forks for flour and supplies. There were no doctors to help with the birthing of a child or for an illness. There were cold winters and hot dry summers. Droughts and insects seemed to plague their lives but with the help of God and their strong church ties and a few small pleasures, they lived, loved, and died as only another pioneer would know and understand, and which at times seem to be an overpowering way of life. Fanny, who had some training in nursing while living in Canada, soon became a midwife to the families settling in the area. With the coming of children to all who settled in the area, it was natural that a school would be needed. William H. Landsborough donated the land the school would rest on, and in the year of 1887, a meeting was held at the home of Mr. and Mrs. W. H. Landsborough to plan, to finance, and to build the school. He served as the clerk of this first school board. His son, William R., and his daughter, Vera, were later to serve for a great many years as president and clerk, respectively, of this same school board. After they had started the school, the surveyor told the school board that a railroad was to be built through the school yard, just a few feet from the building. The railroad company agreed to move the school building at their expense to its present location, just north of the railway tracks. The Kensington Township Board was organized in 1883. William H. Landsborough also served as its supervisor. Kensington Township was a permanent settlement in 1878 and 1879, and the post office was set up in 1880. Fanny E. Harris died Aug. 29, 1939, and her husband, William Harvey Landsborough, born Feb. 25, 1854, died Nov. 18,1907.
Fanny E. (Harris) Landsborough GENE AND RUTH LARSON To this union five children were born: The first child was Ethel Jane Landsborough, born Jan. 1, 1889, who married James Royston Routledge. She died on June 27, 1912, at the age of twenty-three years, three days after the birth of their first child, a son Ethelbert, who died at Lansford, N. Dak., their home, at six days old. The second childwas Elmer Ray Landsborough, born May 30, 1891, who died June 9, 1962, at the age of 71 years. He married Mabel Edith O'Rourke on June 18, 1919. Three children were born of this union: Fern Marion Landsborough Isaacson, Virginia Mary Landsborough Whalen, and Geraldine Frances Landsborough Sorenson.
Gene Lloyd Larson was born on Sept. 4, 1926, to Enoch and Pauline (Kjos) Larson at their farm home in Kensington Township, near Park River, N. Dak. Gene attended elementary school in Kensington Township and graduated from the Walsh County Agricultural School, Park River, in 1944. He married Ruth Loftsgard, daughter of Theodore and Theodora Loftsgard, in June. 1949. They built a home on
The third child was Vera Mary Landsborough, born on Nov. 4, 1895, who died on July 20, 1974, at the age of 79, at St. Ansgar's Hospital, Park River, N. Dak. She never married. The fourth child was Lina Alice Landsborough, born May 29, 1899, who died Jan. 25, 1967, at the age of 68. Lina received her education at the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, and taught school for 40 years before retiring. She never married. The fifth child was William Roy Landsborough, born June 6, 1902, who died Sept. 23, 1963, at the age of 6 1 . He was five years old when his father died. He grew up on the farm and farmed the land his father homesteaded on, until 1962 when the land was rented. He also never married. He was assisted in the farming operation by his sister, Vera.
The Gene Larson Family: left to right, Ruth, Stephen, Dwight, and Gene.
Gene's father's homestead where Gene's brother. Neil, and his family also live. Gene and Ruth have two sons: Stephen, born May. 1 950. and Dwight, born in January, 1953. Stephen married Dena Hennessey, a speech therapist, in May, 1974. They also have two sons: Jesse Ryan, bom March, 1975, and Christian Gene, born in June, 1980. Dwight married Shane Flaten, a licensed practical nurse, in February, 1974; they have two children - Shannon Jane, born January, 1977, and Joshua Dwight, born June, 1 979. Gene presently farms with his two sons and is also in partnership operating a potato wash plant and truck operation with his brother, Neil. Gene's wife, Ruth, is employed at the Dundee Mutual Insurance Company in Park River. She is also organist of the Park Center Lutheran Church, rural Hoople. Gene and Neil's father, Enoch, presently resides at the Good Samaritan Home in Park River. Their mother, Pauline, passed away in September, 1975.
LARS LARSON FAMILY Lars Larson was born in Romsdal, Norway, in 1877 and emigrated to America in 1881. He was the son of Ole Hagen Larson and Kjerstina Remme. Lars married Emma Johnson in 1908 in Park River, N. Dak. Emma Mathilda Johnson was born in 1881, on a farm near Hoople, to Olaus Johnson and Marie (Knutson) Johnson.
affairs. Lars served on the Walstad rural school board for 16 years; was on the building committee for Zion Lutheran Church in 1921. He farmed in Glenwood, Fertile and Kensington Townships. They lived most of their life on the farm east of Park River, once owned by William Rockefeller, father of John D. Rockefeller. They raised seven children: Vernie, born 1908, married Anna Olson; Mabel, born 1911, married Olaf Brandt; Lloyd (1912-1967), married Olivia Olson; Evelyn, born 1914, married Palmer Bye; Olga (1917-1925), died at age seven; Edith, born 1920, married Harold Harris; and Lydia, born 1922, married Patrick O'Brien. Lars Larson died in 1957, and Emma Larson, in 1961. OLAF AND LENA LARSON Olaf Larson was born Feb. 22, 1886, in Kensington Township, Walsh County, to Ole and Kjerstina Larson. He attended rural school in Dist. No. 117, the same school his children attended. He farmed all his life. Being a lover of horses, he would often speak of his "black beauties" that made many trips to the farm of Ole P. Lien, rural Adams, to court and win his bride, Lena Lien. They were married on Nov. 8 . 1 9 1 1 . Olaf died Sept. 24, 1964, after being bedridden four years following a stroke.
Lars and Emma Larson were both active in community
The Ole Larson Family: left to right, standing, Olaf, Martha Hans, Bertha, Enoch; sitting, Ole Larson, Lars, Christina, and Kjerstina Laron. Lena Lien was born in Vesta Township, Jan. 19, 1884. She was a dressmaker and also made hats. Death came to Lena Apr. 29, 1967, at her home. Six children were born to this union: Ernest Marvin, Aug. 5, 1912; Norman LeRoy, Sept. 30, 1913; Myrtle Hannah Berg, Dec 22, 1914; Viola Margaret Laaveg, Dec. 13, 1918; Pearl Henrietta Loftsgard, March 25, 1 9 2 1 ; and Harry Parnell, Apr. 3, 1927. Norman died in a farm accident in May, 1967, and Ernest
Lars Larson Family (1953): left to right, seated. Evelyn Larson Bye, Lars Larson, Emma Larson, Mabel Larson Brandt; standing, Lydia Larson O'Brien, Lloyd Larson, Edith Larson Harris, and Vernie Larson.
Olaf Larson Family: left to right, front row, Norman, Lena, Olaf and Harry; back row, Myrtle, Viola, Ernest, and Pearl. (Taken in 1952)
died in January, 1 980. They moved from the farm into Park River, in 1942, when they purchased the home of Geo. Peck, and in 1952 built a new home on the site, where the youngest son now lives.
CLINTON D. AND GLADYS LEWIS Clinton D. Lewis, Sr., the son of Mr. and Mrs. John Lewis, was bom on the famiy farm in Kensington Township. He was a graduate of the Walsh County Agricultural School, Park River. He married Gladys Gillespie on Nov. 10, 1931, and they lived on the Lewis farm where Clinton and his brother, Albert farmed. They also operated The Midget Lunch, in Park River, where they sold hamburgers for five cents each; and operated a cash and carry dairy, selling the milk for five cents a quart. Gladys recalls it was a hard way to make money, but was the best you could do in those days. In 1943 they sold the lunch room to Garnet Gillespie and continued to farm until 1960, when Clinton was forced to retire due to ill health. Clinton and Gladys built a house in Park River, and moved from the farm. In 1936 the Lewis Brothers received an award from the Soil Conservation Service for Farm of the Year.
and Valley City State College. He married Wanda Kay Knutson Nov. 30, 1968. He taught school in Elkhorn, Wise, for three years, then returned to Park River, where he and Wanda farm the Lewis farm and raise Red Angus Beef cattle. Larry is vicepresident of Sandwood North Corporation which he owns with his mother. Gladys was born at Dunseith, N. Dak., the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Archie D. Gillespie. They moved to Hoople, N. Dak., and later to Park River where she met and married Clinton D. Lewis. She is now living in Park River. Gladys is a member and active in the Walsh County Historical Society, British Isles, Inc., Senior Citizens, Walsh County Farm Bureau, Order of Eastern Star and a Past Matron of that Order, a member of St. Peter's Episcopal Church where she also serves on the Bishop's Committee of the church, is president of Sandwood North Corporation, and favors the Republican Party.
WILLIAM HENRY LEWIS AND HAZEL RAMSEY LEWIS William Henry Lewis was born May 13, 1892. His WelshIrish parents, John Lewis and Harriet Davis Lewis, had been living in the loft of their new barn in Kensington Township, rural Park River, while their new home was being built. The building was completed and John and Harriet had moved into their home in time for the birth of the first of their five children. A grandson of John and Harriet, Larry Lewis, now lives on the famiy farm. There were no country schools in the area when William (or Bill as he was known) became of school age, so he attended first grade in Park River. That year he lived with his grandparents, Joseph and Nancy Davis. They lived just 1 V2 miles west of Park River so he was able to walk to school with his aunts. The following year a new school, known as the Landsborough School, was built 1 Vi miles from their farm home. The Lewises were members of the Episcopal Church. Between 1901 -1903 they joined together with their neighbors in the building of a church home in Park River. The fieldstone basement was laid by Bill's uncle, Inkerman Davis. Bill accompanied his father to the fields and stone piles to help select stones, just the right size and symmetry, to be a part of the new church. Like most farm boys, Bill spent much of his time helping with farm work. There was always lots of livestock to care for, including horses used for the field work. Coal had not yet come into use, so wood had to be cut for heating and cooking. Still,
Mr. and Mrs. Clinton D. Lewis Clinton and Gladys had three children — Clinton, Jr., Donah Marie, and Larry D. Clinton, Sr., passed away March 11,1965. Clinton, Jr., was a graduate of the Walsh County Agricultural School; and attended N.D.S.U., Fargo. He married Beverly Magnuson, Aug. 26, 1956, and they farmed the Lewis farm until 1971. Clinton passed away July 23, 1971, at the age of 38. Clinton and Beverly had two sons, Clinton (Doug) III, who is now employed by Air Midwest Airlines, Albuquerque, New Mexico, and Michael D., at home. Donah Marie was a graduate of the Walsh County Agricultural School and U.N.D., Grand Forks. She married Erwin Kval Aug. 22, 1958. They live in Flint, Mich., where Erwin teaches in Flint Junior College. Donah is a legal secretary. They have three children — Karen, Patricia, Timothy — all at home. Larry D. graduated from Walsh County Agricultural School,
William and Hazel Lewis
there was time for fun. Dancing was a favorite pastime, and while the weather was nice, Bill would walk to Park River to go to dances. But it wasn't a lonely walk; most every farm along the road would add another person or two en route to the dance. During the winter when the walk to Park River was too long and cold, people would gather at neighbors' homes to dance and make their own music, and Bill took his turn at the piano. In 1913, Bill's father, John, inherited a homestead near Glasgow, Mont. This was Bill's opportunity to begin farming on his own. Late that fall he left for Montana in a box car with two horses, a cow, some machinery, and his little sister's dog. The first year he did quite well with plentiful rain and good crops. But, from that year on, a drought cycle began and crops were increasingly poor. Bill came home for the Christmas of 1916 to see his family, and to marry Hazel Ramsey. Hazel Elizabeth Ramsey was born Nov. 22, 1894, to Aaron Ramsey and Alice Davis Ramsey, at their farm home in Vernon Township. The English-Irish family had a total of eleven children of which Hazel was number six, the middle child. They were members of the Ramsey Grove Presbyterian Church and attended the Ramsey Grove School. In April of 1914, the family moved to Crystal Township, rural Crystal (Pembina County). But Hazel continued to spend the summer months at the home farm, cooking and keeping house for her brother, Charlie. The following is a local paper's account of Bill and Hazel's wedding, Feb. 14, 1917. A quiet home wedding took place on Wednesday at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Aaron Ramsey of Crystal, when their daughter, Miss Hazel Elizabeth, was united in marriage to William H. Lewis. Only members of the two families were present to witness the ceremony, which was read at high noon, the impressive ring service being used by the Rev Mr. McDermott. The bride was attended by Miss Elizabeth Lewis, sister of the groom; and Mr. Charles Ramsey, brother of the bride, assisted the groom. The girlish charm of the bride was accentuated by her traveling suit of navy blue, the coat opening over a blouse of white crepe de chine, and the bridesmaid was attired in a gown of blue silk poplin. Following the ceremony a three-course dinner was served and Mr. and Mrs. Lewis left on the evening train for Glasgow, Mont., where they will make their future home. Mr. Lewis is the son of Mr. and Mrs. John Lewis of this vicinity and is a prosperous farmer who enjoys the esteem of a large circle of friends. The bride is a popular young lady and her winning smile and pleasant ways make her a general favorite with all who meet her. They will be at home to their friends after March first. As stated in the paper, Hazel and Bill left for their home in Montana that same evening. It was there that their first child, Vernon Lewis, was born, Nov. 20, 1917. There were hard times in Montana. There was little rain, so crops were poor and feed for livestock scarce; water conservation
was a serious affair. Neighbors were much farther away than they had been in North Dakota, and going to town was a real occasion. Sometimes when a famiy went to town they would leave their children, incuding the baby, with a neighboring mother. That mother would wet nurse the neighbor's baby along with nursing her own. On Dec. 23, 1918, a daughter, Dorothy Mae, was bom. But the following summer the drought problems had not improved and another problem was added — more and more of the neighbors were leaving. The combination of drought, poor crops, and the loneliness of being without neighbors close by made them decide to move back to North Dakota. Bill and Hazel rented a farm from George Coulter in Vernon Township, near Park River. They were happy to be near friends and family again. Coal was plentiful and banks were giving credit. With the farm, livestock, garden and hard work, they were again hopeful. A second son, Allen, was born Oct. 29, 1920. But hard times had followd them to North Dakota. In a few years the owner returned to the farm and the family again had to move. Bill got a job working for a farmer in Golden Township. It was here on June 27, 1923, that their twins, Jean and Jay, were born. The family again moved to Vernon Township and farmed with Hazel's brother, Charlie Ramsey. They also lived for a short time in Norton Township. In 1927 they had an opportunity to buy land in Golden Township. Bill and Hazel bought the Northwest Quarter of Section 14, 157-561. Soon after their move a fourth son, Charles, was born on May 20, 1927. Again there was a lot of hard work to do, beginning work on a new farm and having six small children; but they could see a better life. No more moving was a happy prospect. Hazel inherited another quarter of land from her uncle, Charlie Davis, which was close to their new farm. On Jan. 25, 1934, Robert was born in Grand Forks; their only baby born in a hospital. Bill and Hazel attended the St. Peter's Episcopal Church in Park River. Their children attended School District No. 93, of which both Bill and Hazel were school board members for many years, being president and clerk, respectively. Their children were all graduates of the Walsh County Agricultural School. Bill and Hazel were also charter members of the Farmers Union Local. In addition, Bill was on the board of directors of Golden Valley Creamery; a member of the Farmers Union Elevator Board and the Odd Fellows Lodge. Hazel was a member of the Pembina County Pioneer Daughters. In 1953, Bill and Hazel retired from farming and bought a home in Park River at 215 Wadge Avenue South. Their son, Jay Lewis, continued to farm and live on the home farm. Bill and Hazel lived to celebrate their Golden Wedding Anniversary. Their children honored them at an open house at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church in Park River. Bill died Jan. 30, 1971; Hazel died Nov. 25, 1973. They are both buried at Park River Memorial Cemetery. One son, Allen, of Bakersfield, Calif., preceeded his parents in death, Nov. 25, 1967. Vernon Lewis married Angeline Chyle, Nov. 22, 1944. They had three children. Vernon now lives in Seattle, Wash. Dorothy Lewis married Albert Gillespie, Sept. 14, 1942, and they had four sons. Dorothy and Albert live in Park River.
Bill Lewis Family: left to right, Jay, Dorothy, Bill, Vernon, Hazel, Jean, Bob, and Charles.
Jay Lewis, who married Carol Ann Rinde, Apr. 11,1950, has four children. Jay and Carol live on the home farm.
Jean Lewis married Stanley Guilmette, July 3 1 , 1 948. They had one daughter, and live in San Mateo, Calif. Dr. Charles Lewis married Norma McLaughlin, Aug. 5, 1950. They had two children and live in Muscatine, la. Robert Lewis married Margie Johannesson, Sept. 4, 1953. They had four children. Robert was divorced in 1970 and now lives in Livingston, Mont. DELORES WALSTAD LONGTIN
They have four sons: David John, Arne Urby, Lynn Joel, and Dean Coulter Meberg. VILHEIM (WILLIAM) K. MOMERAK Vilhelm Momerak was the son of Kjetil A. and Karoline (Svenkeson) Momerak. Kjetil was born Aug. 25, 1854, in Tyrisdal, Telemarken, Norway. He came to American, May 10, 1882. He married Karoline Svenkeson, who was born Oct. 26, 1868, in Daustan County, Minn.
Delores Walstad Longtin grew up in Park River, the daughter of Christine and Gust Walstad. She has three brothers and four sisters. Delores, better known as "Dede", attended grade school in Park River and graduated from WCAS in 1952. She attended practical nurse's training at Miller Hospital at St. Paul, Minn.
They had ten children: Evold, Birgit, Gunder, Vilhelm, Signe, Karl, Edwin, Andrew, Gustav and Konrad. One child died in infancy.
She married Gary Longtin of Backoo, N. Dak., and moved to a farm near there. They have farmed in the Backoo-Walhalla area where their children attend school. Dede is active in St. Joseph's Catholic Church Auxiliary in Leroy; is a volunteer at a nursing home, and is involved in other community affairs. Gary is active in the Knights of Columbus, the Red River Eatable Bean Board, and the Walhalla School Board.
Vilhelm was born Nov. 2, 1893, at the farm home in Golden Township, and attended the township school. He was a member of the Golden Valley Lutheran Church. He married Odelia Olive Dahl March 2 1 , 1928, in Grafton. They made their home in Park River where Vilhelm worked as a carpenter.
They are parents of six children: Philip Longtin, Lucinda Longtin Freschette, Jody Longtin Berg, Roderick Longtin, Terry and Marie Longtin.
DAVID URBY MEBERG David Urby Meberg, second son of David M. and Alice Flaten Meberg, was born in 1923. He was educated in the Park River schools and attended North Dakota State University, Fargo, for one year. During World War II he served in England and Germany, and was discharged in 1 946. He started farming with his brother, Paul, after his discharge. The Meberg Brothers raised small grains, potatoes, and cattle. Urby married Gail Mauritson, the second daughter of Garfield and Ruth Coulter Mauritson, in 1947. Gail was also educated in the Park River schools and received her degree as a registered nurse from St. John's Hospital School of Nursing, Fargo. She worked at the Deaconess Hospital in Grafton and for Dr. Weed's Clinic, Park River, before her marriage.
Kjetil died at the farm home near Park River July 26, 1919. Karoline passed away in Park River Aug. 9, 1947.
Odelia Olive Dahl was born in Auburn, N. Dak., to Ole and Olina (Bjorge) Dahl on March 19, 1909. Ole was born Oct. 11, 1866 in Valders, Norway. He came to North Dakota, in 1890, after immigrating from Norway to Badger, Minn. In 1892, he married Olina Bjorge. She was born April 14, 1875, in Valders, Norway. They had fourteen children: Oscar, Theodore, Gilman, Amel, Alma, Ethel, Myrtle, Sophie, Nora, Ole and Spencer. Two sons died in infancy. Her father, Ole, died at his farm home in Dundee Township April 22, 1936. Olina died in Park River Nov. 10, 1956. Odelia attended school in Auburn and Hoople. She moved to Park River with her parents, where her father worked as a farm laborer. She attended high school at Park River for two years. She married Vilhelm in 1928 and moved to a farm near the farmstead, in Vesta Township, for about five years. Then they moved back to Park River where they have lived since. Vilhelm worked in a shipyard in Seattle, Wash., the winter of 1941. After that he continued to work as a carpenter until he retired in about 1 970. There were seven children born to this union: Wallace, a carpenter, married Elda Peterson and has three children. Harvey, first vice president of Walsh County Bank, Grafton, is married to Phyllis Crandal; they have two children. Donna who married Eugene Evenson, has six children and six grandchildren. Ordean, employed by Minot Daily News, Minot, N. Dak., is married to Donna Matcha and has seven children and five grandchildren.
The D. Urby Meberg Family: left to right, Dean C, Arne U., Gail E., LynnJ., D. Urby, and David John. Urby has been active in community clubs and the Lutheran Church. He has served as treasurer of Dundee School District; been a member of the Farmers Elevator Board, American Legion, and Walsh County Livestock and Crop Improvement Association; and has been a leader in the Dundee Pioneers 4-H
Club. Gail has been active in working for the Lutheran Church; a member of Decca Club, PEO, Homemakers Club, and is presently working as medical records technician at Unity Hospital in Grafton.
Bernice, a licensed practical nurse, St. Ansgar's Hospital, Park River, is married to Glen Dahl, and has seven children and six grandchildren. Wilma, married to Gordon Gemmill, has six children and two grandchildren. Leonard, a carpenter, married Adele Cudmore and has three children. Further details on Leonard and Adele's history will be found under Leonard Momerak in the Grafton section and Erwin Cudmore under Kensington Township. Vilhelm and Odelia belong to Our Saviour's Lutheran Church. He died at their home Oct. 5, 1976, at Park River.
OSCAR BERNHARD OEN Oscar Bernhard Oen was born on Jan. 22, 1894; and received his early education in the home school, Kensington District 98. He also graduated from Kansas City Automotive College, and was employed in a garage there. He spent one year in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada, as manager of the Burnside Farms, returning home to assist his parents, which included the building of their new home. Diligently, he applied himself, helping his parents and relatives without pay. Oscar was drafted for service in World War I and left Grafton on March 30, 1918, with Company " I , " 137th Infantry. 35th Division. This was the same unit that former President Harry S. Truman served with. He trained for three weeks at Fort Dodge, Iowa. Going overseas, he took part in the Verdun-St. MihielMeuse-Argonne offenses. The Meuse-Argonne offenses were a 47-day drive that broke the German Hindenburg line, on Sept. 26, 1918. His brother, Sigurd, also took part in all these offenses. They did get glimpses of each other, but were never permitted to speak. He returned home, on a cattle boat, the U. S. Manchuria, on April 13, 1919. Oscar received his honorable discharge on May 2 , 1 9 1 9 , and returned home, May 30, 1919. Upon returning home, he farmed the home place, helping parents, relatives and friends financially and otherwise. Hardworking and thrifty, he acquired some wealth, which was passed on before and after his death. For 25 years, Oscar rented and farmed land belonging to Oscar Kopperud of Grafton, with only a verbal agreement, in addition to the homestead. There was never any problems with this arrangement. He raised sheep, some cattle, small grain, hay, and potatoes. Oscar never married. Suffering from peptic ulcers, and failing rapidly, sister Bertha was called home to help. On Aug. 8, 1947, Oscar collapsed from an intestinal hemorrhage. With military honors, he was laid to rest in Memorial Park Cemetery, where his parents, brother Sigurd, and a nephew, Jerome Oen, infant son of borther, Harold and Hazel Oen are buried.
SIGURD OEN Sigurd Oen was born Aug. 12, 1896, and died Feb. 3, 1932. He enlisted in the American Expeditionary Forces in World War I, enlisting on Sept. 22, 1917, and trained at Ft. Monroe, Va. After his discharge, he was a mail carrier on Route 3, and farmed the Matt Hellekson farm at Park River. He married Olga Lindahl, and then moved to Park River and worked on the mail route as well as working at the Mills-Farup Garage, until he died.
SIMEN H. OEN FAMILY Corrections and continuation — Simen H. Oen Family (from Vol. II, pp. 704-705) Simen H. Oen was born on May 10, 1860, not May 18, 1 860 to Hans and Berthe Marie Gravlismoen. The "ocean blue" refers to the pleasant sailing conditions of the trip and the Atlantic Ocean, and is not a ship. Peter Weberg, who had been brought up from infancy by Simen's mother and who lived with the Oens, became ill with tuberculosis. Simen later took Peter back to Norway, where he died. The location of the Oen homestead is the Northwest Quarter, Sec. 5, Kensington Township 157, Range 55, Walsh County, Dakota Territory, which is about 5 miles northwest of the present city of Park River. Garfield, Dakota Territory, was located on the Park River, five miles west of the present city of Park River. It had a population of 154 in 1884. This is where Mr. Oen learned tinsmithing. Mrs. Oen's maiden name was Midtmoen, not Nidtmoen. Simen Oen was an avid supporter of all worthwhile endeavors; he was an ardent member of the Lutheran church. After the devastating fire at their home, Simen built a new granary and organized a Sunday School for the children of the neighborhood. He chose James Johnson, superintendent. They chose Christ Arneson, Caroline Lahd, Pauline and Inga Kjos, and Bertha Oen as helpers. Simen then was their Bible teacher. Inga and Bertha taught the little folks their Norwegian, ABCs, and how to read. This Sunday School and Parochial School was held in the granary to begin with; and from 1904 to 1913, it was held in the Burtness and Pladson houses, when Rev. Henry O. Shurson was called to serve the Park Center and Zion parishes. Sina Jore was chosen superintendent; Caroline Clemetson and Clara Berg, music and teaching; Dora Jore, grades; Simen Oen, Bible study. Every child wishing to had some part in the Christmas program. In 1913, Clara Berg was program chairman. Farming was Mr. Oen's economic pursuit. He was incomparable; there was no one like him. When he made a suggestion, it was so well considered beforehand that there was no need discussing it. Mr. Brandel of Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, purchased several loads of table potatoes from Mr. Oen, starting before 1900; then carloads by rail for as long as Simen lived. In the late 1890's, the land became "wheat hungry." In other words, nutrients had been depleted from the land and the wheat kernels and crops were small. Credit was expensive.
VIOLA OEN KALGARD Viola Oen was born June 1, 1899; married Albert Kalgard on Dec. 3, 1918; died Aug. 22, 1954. Additional information by her surviving family. HAROLD OEN Harold was born June 22, 1905; married in June, 1927, to Hazel Pederson. They were parents of two girls and four boys; Jerome died in infancy. After Oscar Oen's death, Harold purchased the home farm and after farming a few years, they moved to Seattle, Wash., where he died Aug. 7, 1977. His widow, two daughters, and three sons survive his passing.
Simen and Inger Oen — wedding picture
—1891
Bankers charged ten percent down, plus 15 percent interest on the principal. Better methods had to be found and practiced. One crop farming was out. James J. Hill had been advocating the importance of more and better livestock. Farmers must cooperate. Farmers met and Farmers' Institutes were organized in 1904. Speakers from NDAC, at Fargo, and the Northwest School of Agriculture in Crookston, were interested and sent men to assist in solving the problem. Most of the speakers wore ordinary wearing apparel, and chose to stay in modest homes. This meant much to the common folks and brought larger audiences. Result: More and better livestock, cultivated crops, summer fallow, and fertilization. Mr. Oen was an active supporter and worker for all this. There were some very good years and some tough ones. Grasshoppers, army worms, hail, drought, and fire hit. In 1887, a depression; 1888 and 1889, drought; 1890, poor crop; 1901, fire and theft; July 3rd, 1901, a total loss of crops on three quarters of land hit by hail; 1902, loss of two Morgan drivers — one by poisoning and one hit by lightening and wirecuts, both in the same rented pasture; 1902, fire, a total loss, apparent arson — only the sod house remained. No insurance.
The Simen and Inger Oen Family — 1899 — Bertha Marie Oen Johnson (7 years); Oscar Bernhard Oen (5 years); Viola Oen Kalgard (3 months); an uncle, Andrew W. Moen, brother of Inger; Sigurd Oen, (3 years). Missing is Harold, who was born in 1905.
Simen had finished his own harvest and was finishing the cutting of the rafters for the new house to be built. He was 2/2 miles from home, cutting grain with Olaf Ness, whom he had hired to reap the grain of a neighbor. Seeing smoke, they unhitched the horses from the binder and galloped home. Too late, yes, too late.
In 1904, he suffered the loss of two five-year-old Clydesdale bays, by distemper. They had been leased to a Minnesotan during threshing. On Oct. 22, 1907, a run on a New York Bank, set off a financial crisis known as "the Panic of 1907."
Inger had managed to save two colts, two calves, some hogs and chickens. Hellek Halvorson Sisjord, an elderly man with a withered arm, chopped a hole in the barley granary, so some feed was salvaged. Simen had just sold his tree claim rights, for $500. Consumed by fire were two log barns, two log granaries full of grain, a new lumber granary filled with household items, chests with rosemaling and filled with trinkets and valuables, winter wearing apparel, furniture — mostly homemade and coated with boiled linseed oil, carpenter, blacksmithing and farm tools, and a tool shop; a new implement shed with $600 worth of new lumber for the new house, several hand-cut yokes for oxen, a new Lindsay buggy, a new Stoughton wagon with triple box, hay racks, farm machinery, hay shed, chicken coop, hog house, three stacks of oat bundles, two large hay stacks, and much more. Also destroyed was the first log house, which had been placed on skids to be moved near the new house to be built. The logs used for the cabin were dovetailed and flat on three sides, so as to fit closely together. The inside had been coated with boiled linseed oil. Smooth, clear and shiny shelves, filled with books and antiques from Norway, plus furniture, rugs, etc., were gone. But Simen and Olaf finished reaping and shocking the 60 acres for the fourth year. That same fall, other neighbors helped to build a barn in two days. Even Oen received a new winter coat. For Christmas there was a gift of 50 shining silver dollars. The Oens took a tremendous loss, but they still had wonderful friends and the family was safe. In 1917, a modern four-bedroom home was built. The sons and Bertha all took a helping hand in this. A large grove of evergreens, shade and fruit trees, and flowering shrubs were planted that enhanced the beauty and comfort of the home, and could be seen for many miles. Windstorms in later years, took many of the huge trees, and hence were cut down for lumber.
A Republican in civil life, he was adamant in fullfiling his duty as Republican judge and delivering the ballot box to Grafton on foot. John and Thomas Martin, and John Harris, Democratic judges, accompanied him. Roads were frequently impassible. Mrs. Oen kept a light in the window, and knitted until Simen returned home the next morning, usually about four o'clock. They were happy to have fulfilled a duty for their country. He was nominated and elected for County Auditor at Grafton, but declined, as he preferred to continue his farming interests. He was a brainy man, seeking information from the most reliable sources; seized upon the essentials, and was not swayed by emotions. He thought logically and spoke with deliberation. When called upon to lead or speak, he responded readily, and was able to speak Norwegian, Swedish, Danish, English, Icelandic, Finnish, Russian, German, French, plus having a reading knowledge of Greek and Latin. Simen never stooped to boss others, giving advice only when requested; never criticizing or rubbing it in. A tower of strength, yet gentle; patient, kind, and cheerful. Both Simen and Inger were avid readers. Shelves of books, magazines, and both daily and weekly newspapers were available in their home, and were often loaned to the school and neighbors. The Norse papers were the most requested. He contributed numerous articles to farm papers, and the three Scandinavian newspapers. The widespread publicity at his death, the many memorials and flowers from rich and poor, famous and humble, the long cortege from the west side of Park River to the cemetery, including side streets, reflected his standing in the community. Loud speakers were used for the cars on the side streets and outside. The church was filled to capacity — two floors and no standing room. The main floor was sinking, so three or four props were placed to give support. All places of business were closed during the services. All this attested to his popularity and the respect they felt due him.
INGER BERTHINE MIDTMOEN Inger Berthine Midtmoen was born Feb. 24, 1868, to Wegger L. and Sigrid Midtmoen nee Brunbakke at the Midtmoen Gaard, Begnadalen, Aurdal, Valers, Norway. She came to Perry, Wise, in early spring, 1885, and to Dakota Territory in the late fall of 1886. Mrs. Oen exhibited unusual talent and versatility. She loved her rose and flower gardens and cultivated a large vegetable garden. She dried and smoked apples, fish, and meats. All varieties of fruits and vegetables were canned and preserved. Yes, large juicy olives from their own orchard were brined, with only the essentials purchased with the egg and butter money. She made cheeses of several varieties, so none were bought. These included brick and cream cheeses, Pultost, Gjetost, Prim, Brom, and cheese spreads. While in her native land, she had learned to care for sheep and cattle, to shear, card, spin, knit, and weave. She grauted the flax straw, spun linen thread, and wove fine linens and cloth. Her needlework was superb. She knitted, tatted, crocheted and wove minute, intricate laces and doilies, did fancy embroidery and Hardanger work, and was an excellent seamstress. Inger sketched her designs on a small, firmly packed cushion, covered with muslin or bleached flour sacks. She used the homemade shuttles carved of hardwood or bone, stick pins and the finest thread available in weaving the most intricate designs. She made hats by weaving oat straw. Inger and several cousins decided to applique roses on muslin for coverlets, filled them with homegrown and carded cotton, then hand quilted them, using• Numbers 24 and 36 sewing machine cotton. Inger and her daughter, Bertha, completed the binding. Folks wondered how she found time to do all this, besides her housewife and motherly duties. Painting was another art she acquired before coming to Dakota Territory. She made her own ceramics, molding vases, cups, and pitchers, then painted them free-hand. The clay had to be obtained from Wisconsin, as the home coulee clay did not fire well. She also did china painting. Her landscaped paintings were done of her home in Norway, the hills and valleys of Wisconsin, and the Oen homestead. Most of these things were destroyed in the fire. In August, 1907, at harvest and canning time, a little girl was born to a family living three miles from Oens. The only help available was a 17-year-old girl, who could not cope with all the work and the caring for five additional children, the parents, and a hired man. Inger was called to help. There was a crew to cook for in addition. Leaving her own work, she walked three miles each morning and each night after dark, carrying a large sack of laundry. Along with the cleaned clothes, she would bring back 10-12 loaves of bread. Daughter Bertha did the work at home and baked the bread for all — up to 20 loaves per day. Every second day, she accompanied her mother to help clean, scrub and cook. The baby's grandmother, aunt, and two uncles came for dinner each day and would take three or four loaves of bread home with them. The Oens raised a family of five children — Bertha Marie, Oscar Bernhard, Sigurd, Viola and Harold. In addition, they cared for and supported two elderly men to the end. Their home was referred to as the "home with the open door."
FRANK H. AND JOSEPHINE OLSEN Frank Herman Olsen was born June 17, 1874, on a farm near Willmar, Kandiyohi County, Minn., to John Gustava Olsen
Frank H. Olsen and Josephine Berg were married at Langdon, N. Dak., Dec. 19,1911. and Mary Nelson Olsen, who were married at St. Paul, Minn., in 1873. Before immigrating to America, John had spent many years working with his brother who owned a clothing store in Tunsberg, Norway. The family left Minnesota to seek a homestead four miles north of Milton and four miles from Osnabrock in Cavalier County, N. Dak. Their first home was a sod house. This was followed by a one and one-half story log house for which the lumber was hauled from Hamilton, N. Dak. John was a good carpenter and built the Methodist Church at Phippen, Sask., Canada. Frank helped his dad with the farm until he was old enough to go out on his own. His first job was with Gunder Nelson who dealt in hardware and machinery at Osnabrock. Frank was a clerk in the store and helped assemble machinery. On June 29, 1898, Frank married Anna L. Lewis, who was born Oct. 3 1 , 1875. She had come from Wisconsin to North Dakota in search of a teaching job. She taught school two miles from John Gustav Olsen, also making her home with them for two years. After marriage, Frank and Anna lived in Osnabrock for a short time, then moved to Fairdale, N. Dak., where Frank bought a hardware store. There was a restaurant in connection with the hardware which went under the name of Olsen and Lewis Hardware. The business was prosperous but in a few years Anna's health failed so they quit the restaurant. Anna suffered a fatal heart attack March 20, 1910, in her sleep at the John Olsen home. They had no family. Shortly after Anna's death, Frank sold the Fairdale business and moved to Nekoma, N. Dak., where he was employed in the Farmer's Supply Company Store, a hardware business. It was in Nekoma where Frank met Josephine Berg who was born Aug. 1, 1892, at Elbow Lake, Minn., the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Berg. When Josephine was nine years old, she and her sister, Olga, moved to Nekoma to live with their aunt, Mrs. John (Helen) Oss, who owned the Nekoma Hotel. Josephine worked at the hotel until she and Frank were married Dec. 19, 1 9 1 1 , at Langdon, N. Dak. After their marriage, they bought a farm east of Park River in Section 23 of Kensington Township where they spent the rest of their lives. Frank passed away at Park River, May 27, 1964, just a few days short of his 90th birthday. A week later, Josephine also passed away, June 3, 1964. Both are buried in the Park River Memorial Park Cemetery.
Pastor Helleklev performed the marriage ceremony. Arlene J. Groven was born in Grafton, N. Dak., Jan. 25, 1932. She attended Grafton High School and lived with her parents, Henry C. and Gunvor (Skarness) Groven, on their farm in Section 16 of Fertile Township until her marriage. She was employed at the A.S.C.S. office in Park River from 1955-58, then worked as a bookkeeper in the elevators managed by her husband. She is a member of the American Legion Auxiliary and other community organizations. Following his service discharge, Harvey worked at the Park River Farmers Union Elevator for several years, then moved to Sharon, N. Dak., as elevator manager for four years. The family moved to Edmore, N. Dak., where Harvey managed Farmer's Shipping & Supply Elevator for 14 years before moving to Fargo, N. Dak., where he is now employed as fieldman for G.T.A. He has served on church boards, is a member of the American Legion and Disabled American Veterans; is an Eagle and Elk member. He still has farming interests at Park River.
Family of Frank and Josephine Olsen in 1949: left to right, Frank, Bennie, Harvey, Edwin, Josephine; and Frances (seated in middle). They had a family of four: a daughter, Frances, and three sons, Edwin, Bennie, and Harvey. They helped on the farm until eventually branching out for themselves and getting married. Frances, born Sept. 2 1 , 1913, married Wilson F. Bell. They farm near Park River and had two children: Wanda (died in infancy) and Wayne. Edwin Olsen, born July 24, 1917, and wife, Hazel Finseth, reside at Grand Forks, N. Dak. Bennie Olsen, born Apr. 2, 1920, married Margaret Collins. They live at Park River and have two sons, Milton and Robert. Milton and his wife, Gloria, live at Milwaukee, Wise. Robert resides with his parents. Harvey recently moved to Fargo from Edmore, N. Dak. He married Arlene Groven. Their two daughters, Joyce and Vicki, are both married. HARVEY OLSEN AND ARLENE (GROVEN) OLSEN Harvey J. Olsen, son of Frank H. and Josephine (Berg) Olsen, was born Aug. 2 1 , 1930, on the family homeplace in Section 23, Kensington Township, about two miles east of Park River. He spent his youth there and graduated from the Walsh County Agricultural School in Park River. Harvey served two years with the armed forces during the Korean Conflict in which time he married Arlene Grove. They were married March 4, 1951, at the Zion Lutheran Church, rural Hoople, N. Dak.
Harvey J. and Arlene (Groven) Olsen family in Harvey and Arlene; Vicki (Bina), left, and Joyce (Rice).
1976.
They have two daughters: Mrs. Harvey Corwyn (Joyce) Rice was born March 16, 1958. She was married July 26, 1980, at Concordia Lutheran Church, Edmore, and presently resides near Edmore on the Rice family farm. Mrs. Lane D. (Vicki) Bina was born March 17, 1962, and married June 9, 1979, at Edmore. Lane and Vicki have a daughter, Desiree Sue. They live on the Bina homeplace and farm near Lawton, N. Dak. FRED ROBB Fred Robb was born in Clinton, Ontario, and came to Kensington Township in 1880. In 1881 he returned to Ontario and married Jessie Broodfoot. They returned to Kensington Township and made their home. They had seven children: Margaret (Shaw), Janet (Jennie Ford), Edith (Watson), David, William, Agnes (Smith), and Mary (Haugen Watson). Mr. Robb died in 1908. Mrs. Robb moved to Park River to make her home and she died in 1939.
Mr. and Mrs. Harvey J. Olsen (Arlene Groven) were married March 4, 1951. 693
CLAYTON GARFIELD WALSTAD Clayton Walstad was bom on Nov. 14, 1914, a son of Gust and Christine Walstad. He has two brothers, Percy and Wayne, and five sisters, Adeline, Hazel, Lila, Glenna, and Delores. Clayton was born in Grafton, N. Dak., but moved to Hallock, Minn., at an early age. His parents then moved to a quarter of land near Lake Bronson, Minn.
"Dapper Gentlemen" — Victor Walstad, Clayton Walstad, Oscar Walstad. Clayton has memories of his dad clearing the woods, and remembers the wolves howling in the yard while his folks were out doing chores. The family moved to a farm near Park River and Clayton, being the oldest, worked hard on the farm — with horses — and helped milk cows at an early age. The Walstads had a dairy and in 1932 they moved to town and had a milk route. The parents moved to town so the older children could attend high school. Clayton worked with his dad until he took over the farming operation in the early 40's and he continued to farm until he semi-retired in 1972. Clayton continues to raise Belgian horses and enjoys gardening. He has been collecting antiques and works with older machinery, especially his 1912 Hart Parr Model. Clayton attends many parades, machinery shows, and antique shows. In 1979 he moved a mobile home onto the Walstad farmstead — 2/2 miles east and 2/2 miles north of Park River. Clayton is a member of Northeast Pioneer Machinery Association, Sons of Norway, and Walsh Curling Club.
ADELINE OVIDIA WALSTAD BOHN, BURKE Adeline was born in Hallock, Minn., on Jan. 17, 1917, the daughter of the late Christina and Gust Walstad. She was raised in Walsh County on the farm and being the oldest daughter, she, like the rest of the family, worked hard — haying, shocking grain, cutting and picking potatoes. She worked during her high school years and afterwards at Zaiser's Fashion Shoppe which was owned by Mabel Zaiser. She also managed a dress shop for three years in Walhalla, N. Dak., which was also owned by Mabel Zaiser. She went to St. Paul, Minn., and worked at Rothschild's in fashion sales. She married Stewart Bohn who was a widower with three children — Stewart Jr., Beverly and Lois. Adeline and Stewart also had three children, all boys. They are Michael, Donald and David Bohn. During World War II, for two years, Adeline and sisters, Lila and Hazel, owned a cafe in St. Paul. Stewart died and Adeline later married Clifford Burke.
Adeline has seven grandchildren and fourteen stepgrandchildren. She is still working as manager of a dress shop in St. Paul. HAZEL WALSTAD AND OSWALD (OZZIE) STAUTZ Hazel was born in Lake Bronson, Minn., on Feb. 2 1 , 1919. She moved to a farm in Walsh County with her parents, Christine and Gust Walstad, brother, Clayton, and sister, Adeline. In 1932, the Walstads moved from their farm northeast of Park River, and moved to Park River. Hazel graduated from the Walsh County Agricultural School in 1937. She worked at Chike's Cafe, owned by Annie and Chike O'Brien, worked at the Triple A office, and then went to Fargo to the beauty school there. After graduation, she worked for three years at the DeLuxe Beauty Shop, owned by Ella Hanson. She married Ozzie Stautz in St. Paul, July 4, 1942. Ozzie, son of Oswald and Anna Stautz, graduated from WCAS in 1938. He took a correspondence course in refrigeration and heating and spent one year at the school in Chicago. After graduation, he worked in Park River and Devils Lake, doing refrigeration work. He enlisted in the Navy and was placed in the Seebees. He taught refrigeration while in the States and had a part in the movie called "The Fighting Seebees," with the movie star, Glen Ford. He saw action in the South Pacific. After the war Ozzie and Hazel came back to Park River and Ozzie was in the refrigeration and heating business. Hazel cooked at the girls' dormitory for a year when John Walters was superintendent of WCAS and Joe and Helen Teie were the dorm parents. They went into the cafe business with Lila and Teddy McCauley (Hazel's sister) who had purchased the cafe from Ben Arness some time before they went into partnership. It was the M & S Cafe. After they sold to Swiggum of Grand Forks they left Park River in 1949 for the West Coast, and lived in Cupertino, Calif., from 1949 until 1963. Ozzie and Hazel have one son, Gary, born Jan. 1, 1953. He married Susan (Sunny) Hightower from Bellevue, Wash. They both teach in the Portland, Ore., area and Gary coaches also. In 1963, they moved from California to a 120-acre ranch in Williams, Ore. Ozzie did refrigeration and pipe work while there and Hazel took the school secretary job at the small Williams School. In 1972, Hazel became the school food service supervisor of the Josephine County School District in Grants Pass, ln 1977 they sold the ranch and moved to Grants Pass. Ozzie passed away Apr. 19, 1979, and Hazel retired from the school district Dec. 3 1 , 1 9 8 0 .
LILA VIRGINIA WALSTAD AND JAMES ALBERT McCAULEY Lila, daughter of the late Christina and Gust Walstad, was born Oct. 8, 1920, on the Andrew Gilbert farm, north of Park River. She was raised on the farm in Walsh County and, like the rest of the family, worked hard — haying, shocking grain, cutting and picking potatoes — and later taking care of cows and a milk route which they all shared in doing. She graduated from WCAS in Park River, N.Dak. Lila went to Fairview Hospital after high school and trained as an x-ray technician. In 1943, she married James A. McCauley, who was born March 30, 1919. He is also known as Ted and his parents were Mae and William McCauley, also pioneers of Walsh County. He was born in Canada but came to Walsh County when he was in the fifth grade. He went to Kensington School and lived on the
McCauley farm near Park River. He also worked hard on the farm with his brothers and sisters. After graduation from WCAS, he attended one year of college at Fargo, N. Dak., before entering the U.S. Army in 1941. He served 48 months in the Army with 38 months overseas in the Pacific. When he returned the family lived in St. Paul for a while but returned to Park River and there owned the former Ben Arness Cafe with Hazel and Ozzie Stautz. Later they returned to St. Paul, Minn., and James worked for the U.S. Postal Service for over 30 years. Lila worked at a doctor's office for 18 years. The couple has two children, Larry and Sheryl, and three grandchildren, and are now retired. WAYNE WALSTAD Wayne Walstad, son of Christina and Gust, was born Oct. 9, 1931, on a farm northeast of Park River. He graduated from the Walsh County Agricultural School, Park River, in 1 950. In 1951 he enlisted in the Air Force for four years and flew during the Korean War.
Cary and Delores (Walstad) Longtin Family: left to right; back, Rod, Steve Berg, Corliss (Phil's wife), Terry, and Phil Longtin; front, Jody Berg, Cary, DeDe, Cindy and Charles Freschette, and Marie; little girl, Carmen Berg.
After the service he married Clarice (Kay) Bestland from Crystal, N. Dak., and farmed for two years near Park River and Michigan, N. Dak. He then went to Minneapolis to school in the field of electronics. Since then he has been employed for 17 years by Honeywell, Inc., as a field service person. Wayne and Kay have four children — Joseph, married and living in Montana; Sandra, married and living in Oklahoma; Barbara, attending college in Oklahoma; and Paula, in high school, living with her parents in Fort Worth, Tex.
River and attended school there. Upon high school graduation, she attended training at Miller Hospital in St. Paul, Minn., and graduated as a practical nurse. DeDe worked at St. Ansgar's Hospital in Park River. In 1954 Delores married Gary Longtin of the BackooWalhalla area. They are parents of six children: Phillip, LuCinda, Jolanda, Roderick, Terry, and Marie. Phillip married Corliss Mathison and they are parents of one son, Darien; Cindy married Charles Freschette and they live in Portland, Ore.; Jody married Steve Berg and they have two girls, Carmen and Carrie; Roderick (Rod) married Nicole Benoit, and lives in Walhalla, N. Dak.; Terry attends NDSU at Fargo; and Marie is a senior at Walhalla High School.
DELORES (WALSTAD) AND GARY LONGTIN Delores, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Gust Walstad of Park River, N. Dak., is better known as "DeDe." She grew up in Park
History of Kensington Township in Photos
Kensington District No. 98 where three generations of Cudmores attended. Lee Cudmore was a member of the last graduating class in 1 959. Clayton Walstad's Hart Parr (1912) 695
Lizzie, William and Hazel Lewis.
Ii mm fgi
Clayton Walstad and his Hart-Parr (Model 1912)
1 j
Fran/< AY. Olsen with his yoke of oxen by Farmers Supply Co. in Nekoma, N. Dak. (1910).
Clayton and Percy Walstad with their dad, Gust Walstad, after loading a gondola potato car in the early 1940's.
Gravlismoen Gaard, "Nes," Simen Oen was born and raised.
Aadalen, Norway, where
Percy and Clayton Walstad at old fashioned threshing bee at Park River. Fourth of July Parade in Park River — Clayton with his Belgian Horses and an old wagon. 696
CITY OF PARK RIVER CITY OF PARK RIVER NOTES
percent interest. Mayor, M. O. Johnson; aldermen: Hardy. Bures, W. E. Cowger, Fred Silliman, Harold Dougherty, Flint.
1939 — Moved into the new City Hall, March 6. Elsie Catherwood replaced Harold King as City Auditor. Mayor, Fred Hulstrand; aldermen: Frank Oaks, Wm. Skjerven, Emmet Porter, Carl Olson, T. A. Meagher, E. R. Landsborough.
1951 — Legion was granted a liquor license. Paving project was financed at three percent interest. The Lutheran Church was granted a building permit; estimated cost was $100,000. Council considered lagoon type of sewage system. Mayor, M. O. Johnson; aldermen: Bures, Dougherty, Silliman, Flint, Dave Meberg, Cowger.
1940 — The City hired a lifeguard for the swimming area. Mayor, Fred Hulstrand; aldermen: Landsborough, Meagher, W. Skjerven, Bert Hardy, C. Olson, J. C. Kenney.
1952 — City signed to purchase power from Bureau of Reclaimation. Contributed $1,200 to the Walsh County Fair Association. Substation being built by City. Mayor, M. O. Johnson; aldermen: Bures, Dougherty, Silliman, Meberg, Cowger, O. C. Fursteneau.
1941 — City bought a new engine for the Light Plant, cost $34,900, 450 HP Diesel. Mayor, Fred Hulstrand; aldermen: Landsborough, M. O. Johnson, Skjerven, Bert Hardy, C. Olson, J. C. Kenney. 1942 — Dispensed with Christmas lighting. Annual budget was $41,230. Mayor, Fred Hulstrand; aldermen: Landsborough, Johnson, Skjerven, Hardy, M. C. Adams, Kenney.
1953 — Street signs were erected by the Commercial Club. Les Kelly asked the Council to vote for a donation for a new swimming pool; it gave $2,000. Mayor, M. O. Johnson; aldermen: Bures, Dougherty, Silliman, Meberg, Cowger, Fursteneau.
1943 — Curfew was established. Dog ordinance passed. Mayor, Fred Hulstrand; aldermen: Landsborough, Johnson, Skjerven, Hardy, Adams, Kenney.
1954 — Light rates were reduced by ten percent. Mayor, M. O. Johnson; aldermen: M. S. Bateman, Jake Maier, Dougherty, Bures, Cowger, Meberg.
1944 — Main street was repaired at a cost of $ 1,400 for five blocks. Repairs were made on the artesian wells. Mayor, Fred Hulstrand; aldermen: Landsborough, Johnson, Skjerven, Hardy, Adams, Kenney.
1955 — Revenue bonds were set up for lagoon type sewage system. Cost $150,000. Bonds purchased at 2.7 percent interest. Special election held for swimming pool. City hired an enginneer for curb project. Estimated cost of new water treatment and filtration plant was $70,000. The City allowed the City Hall basement to be used for a teen canteen. Mayor, M. O. Johnson; aldermen: Bateman, Dougherty, Bures, Maier, Meberg, Cowger.
1945 — Agreed to set up the ground work for a dam, west of town. The Civic Club met with the Council to see about an airport and swimming pool. Mayor, Fred Hulstrand; aldermen: Landsborough, Johnson, Skjerven, Hardy, Adams, Kelly. 1946 — City purchased a Ford for the Police Department, $1,207.06. City donated $200 to the Walsh County Fair Association. John Dillon bought the baseball park for a housing addition at a cost of $260. M. S. Bateman asked for a building permit to build a Ford Garage after the old one burned. City agreed to pay $16,220 as its share of intake facilities at the Homme Dam. Mayor, Duncan Meagher; aldermen: Hardy, Oscar Stromli, Les Kelly, M. B. Overbye, M. O. Johnson, John Bures.
1956 — Bids were accepted for the swimming pool. Estimated cost, $39,000. City limits were extended. New water treatment plant was installed. Mayor, M. O. Johnson; aldermen:. Bures, Dougherty, Maier, Meberg, Cowger, Bateman. 1957 — Power was received from Garrison Dam plant from the Bureau of Reclamation. Mayor, M. O. Johnson; aldermen: Bures, Dougherty, Maier, Meberg, Cowger, Bateman. 1958 — Electric rates were lowered by 20 percent. Curb and gutter bid was $135,233.60; it was accepted. Mayor, M. O. Johnson; aldermen: Cowger, Bateman, Percy Walstad, Meberg, Maier, Dougherty.
1947 — A new sewage disposal treatment plant was voted in. Mayor, Duncan Meagher; aldermen: Hardy, Stromli, Kelly, Overbye, Johnson, Bures. 1948 — City paid $60 per acre for crop land and $30 per acre for pasture land for land needed for the dam. A Park District was set up. The Legion was given a permit to construct a clubhouse, east of the City Hall. City purchased a diesel engine for $63,000. Park District Members: R. J. Colwell, M. F. Neste, George Widme, Elmer Argetsinger, and J. V. Jaehning. Roy Neste was appointed City Attorney at $250 a year. Ground breaking at Homme Dam. Mayor, Duncan Meagher; aldermen: Hardy, Stromli, Bures, Overbye, William Flint, Johnson.
1959 — Zoning ordinance was set up. The bid of $50,320 for the sewage lagoon drainage line to the river was accepted. City purchased banners for the Diamond Jubilee. Street sweeper was purchased, $8,655. Mayor, M. O. Johnson; aldermen: Cowger, Bateman, Walstad, Meberg, Maier, Jougherfy. 1960 — Underground storage tank was installed to hold 300,000 gallons; cos* $39,736. Heavy flooding caused damage to the Park, and the City donated $600 to the Park Board for repairs. Mayor, M. O. Johnson; aldermen: Cowger, Bateman, Walstad, Meberg, Maier, Dougherty.
1949 — Legion applied for beer license and was turned down. City was advised by Postmaster Garfield Mauritson that it could receive mail five days a week, by train, or six days a week, by Star Route. They voted to retain the train delivery. Sewer and water district was set up for Harvey's addition. Mayor, Duncan Meagher; aldermen: Hardy, Stromli, Bures, Overbye, Flint, Johnson.
1961 — Mayor, M. O. Johnson; aldermen: Cowger, Bateman, Walstad, Meberg, Maier, Dougherty. 1962 — City sold substation to Minnkota for $47,125.10. Mayor Harold Dougherty died. Mayor Harold Dougherty served until July, 1962; Percy Walstad was elected to fill the vacancy. Aldermen: L. W. Johnson, R. K. Bork, Cliff Johnson, Maier, Meberg.
1950 — Building permit was given to O. C. Fursteneau for a lumberyard. Flood caused damage to the bridge by the light plant and needed repair. Paving project was set up for Veterans Avenue and the bonds were sold to Walsh County Bank for four
1963 — City purchased a billing machine for $3,836. Elsie Catherwood resigned as City Auditor. Effie Lindgren was 697
appointed new City Auditor. Highway was improved through the City. Mayor, Percy Walstad; aldermen: Cliff Johnson, Wes Samson, Meberg, Maier, Bork, Johnson, Dr. Piltingsrud, John Waslaski. 1964 — City hired engineer to see about pipe line from Homme Dam to Park River. Mayor, Percy Walstad; aldermen: Meberg, Piltingsrud, Maier, Waslaski, Samson, Bork. 1965 — City gave a franchise to Midwest Natural Gas Co. Signed agreement with Minnkota for power. Purchased a lot for a playground. Agreed to construct a building with the Curling Club. Cost of pipe line from Homme Dam $89,200. Mayor, Percy Walstad; aldermen: Meberg, Piltingsrud, Maier, Waslaski, Samson, Bork, Garnaas. 1966 — Paving project for Harvey's Addition. M. B. Overbye announced that he was going to discontinue ambulance service. Mayor, Percy Walstad; aldermen: Piltingsrud, Garnaas, Samson, Waslaski, Meberg, Maier. 1967 — Changes in the electrical distribution at a cost of $50,000. Fire in the City Hall. Special election held for general obligation bonds of $50,000 for City Hall repairs. Mayor, Percy Walstad; aldermen: Piltingsrud, Garnaas, Samson, Waslaski, Meberg, Maier. 1968 — Park Board advertised for bids for swimming pool. City Hall repairs cost $58,000. Mayor, Percy Walstad; aldermen: Meberg, Maier, Harvey Loftsgard, Lavern Hell, Garnaas, Piltingsrud. 1969 — City purchased two lots for parking area on Main Street, south of the bank. Mayor, Percy Walstad; aldermen: Piltingsrud, Loftsgard, Garnaas, Maier, Meberg, Harry Larson. 1970 — George Widme resigned as City Engineer. City appointed a Municipal Airport Authority. New Christmas decorations were ordered. Mayor, Percy Walstad; aldermen: Piltingsrud, Garnaas, Larson, Loftsgard, Maier, Meberg. 1971 — Revenue bonds were issued for garbage equipment. Kensington area asked to be annexed to the City. Land was purchased for landfill site. SKM Cable TV started. MDU franchise was granted. Sewer and water district was set for Kensington area. Recount requested of our census. Mayor, Percy Walstad; aldermen: Loftsgard, Larson, Maier, Meberg, Piltingsrud, Garnaas. 1972 - City purchased lines from REA for $26,000. City annexed the Kensington Addition and Meagher Addition. Bonds were issued for electrical transmission lines to the City. Mayor, Percy Walstad; aldermen: Russell Midgarden, Cy Hunter, Loftsgard, Larson, Garnaas, Piltingsrud. 1973 — Trailer court permit was granted for west of the City in the Meagher Addition. Ottertail Power Company to do work for the City. Mayor, Percy Walstad; aldermen: Larson, Garnaas, Hunter, Midgarden, Loftsgard, Piltingsrud. 1974 — City helped set up potato storage plant, issuing Municipal Industrial Development Bonds of $950,000. New street sweeper was purchased for $16,230. City donated $5,000 for tennis courts. Mercury vapor street light to be placed along the highway. Mayor, Percy Walstad; aldermen: Lloyd Staven, Garnaas, Arvid Brockman, Loftsgard, Hunter, Midgarden. 1975 — City agreed to handle Municipal Industrial Development Bonds for Evangelical Lutheran Good Samaritan Society of $775,000. This is for construction of a nursing home. Further annexation was taken east of the City. Group met with the Council to ask for building of a motel and they would like a liquor
license. The City lots on the north side of the coulee were sold to Gate City Savings and Loan. Mayor, Percy Walstad; aldermen: Loftsgard, Brockman, Staven, Garnaas, Skjerven, Piltingsrud. 1976 — Low cost housing HUD District was set up in the northwest part of town. New water treatment plant with a 600gallon per minute capacity. Airport Authority installed new runways and improvements, west of town. FHA financing was arranged for the new water treatment plant. City purchased the Robert Eklund house for the new water treatment plant. Mayor, Percy Walstad; aldermen: Skjerven, Ed Berreth, Midgarden, Brockman, Garnaas, Staven. 1977 — Sewer and water district was set up in northwest part of town. New water and treatment plant was $934,500. Curb and gutter project on northwest part of town. Minnkota Power signed new contract for City. City purchased seventy acres, adjacent to the lagoon, for future expansion at $55,200. Mayor, Percy Walstad; aldermen: Midgarden, Skjerven, Staven, Brockman, Garnaas, Berreth. 1978 — City joined garbage disposal system and use of the City landfill; a separate corporation will be formed. Mayor, Percy Walstad; aldermen: Paul Torgerson, Midgarden, Staven, Brockman, Skjerven, Berreth, Cy Hunter. 1979 — City donated $8,000 to St. Ansgar's Hospital. Roy Neste resigned as City Attorney; Stephen Currie was appointed. The Council rooms were remodeled to give the Library more room. The Council rooms were moved to the area upstairs over the Auditor's Office. New sweeper was purchased. Donated $1,311.89 to the Park River Band uniform fund. A seal coat was put on Highway No. 17; cost $9,500. City purchased the Lyon Auto Building from M. O. Johnson, for $5,000, for a Senior Citizens Club. Mayor, Percy Walstad; aldermen: Midgarden, Torgerson, Hunter, Skjerven, Staven, Brockman.
Businesses ELLA HANSON'S BEAUTY SHOP Ella Hanson's career as a beautician and a musician would probably fill a whole book and it would be interesting reading as it covers a span of 50 years of service to the Park River community. To make a long story short, she has related just a few of the most important facts. Joyce Martin, who was the first beauty operator in Park River, talked Miss Hanson into taking up beauty culture. Ella thought it was a good idea since she wanted something to do during the days while playing with the 3T-K Orchestra at night. She is an accomplished violinist and banjoist. Miss Hanson enrolled at the St. Paul Hairdressing Academy because there were no beauty schools available in this area. She says, "Even the trip on the train was an experience." Marcel waving was the principal subject. A marcel was a beautiful wave, put into'the hair with a hot iron. It got its name from Frenchman Monsieur Marcel, who perfected the method. Ella Hanson has gone through every stage of hairdressing, starting with marceling, comb waving, finger waving, pin curl waving, paper curling, rollers, permanent waving, and now back to the curling iron and blow combing. In the "Dirty Thirties" she worked half a day, winding a spiral wave for the big price of $3.50. Ella's Beauty Shop is located on Briggs Avenue (Main Street) in Park River and has been in the same location since the
million dollars. In 1953 this was raised to ten million dollars, and in 1968 to twenty-five million dollars. Even though the original Board of Directors worked diligently is establishing what eventually became Polar Rural Telephone Cooperative, other community-minded people expended much time and effort in assisting these men. A number of meetings were held immediately following the amendment to the REA Act which provided for rural telephone loans in organizing the various communities which either had no or very little tele-communication services. One of the first requirements of REA which had to be met prior to the processing of a loan was the raising of approximately $50,000 in local equity. The membership and equity requirement in the early stages of the rural telephone program was established at $50. As time went on, REA relaxed the requirement for equity, so only the membership was necessary. Membership in Polar was established at $10.
Ella Hanson's Beauty Shop in the 1930's. People not identified. mid-thirties. At that time she went into partnership with Helen Meiers, who, according to Miss Hanson, taught her more about hairdressing than what she learned in school. Prior to that, she was associated with Esther Neste Knutson, who graduated from the Molar School, Chicago, at about the same time Miss Hanson finished in St. Paul. Knutson later was marred and left Park River.
On July 1, 1954, the first full-time employee began work for Polar. This was John G. Walters, who became coordinator. Headquarters were established in Grafton. The main thrust of Polar's activities in these early months of existence was to organize the various areas, wanting a change in their telephone service, into working groups for the purpose of collecting the required membership and equity.
Some of Miss Hanson's former help, including Glendora Nygard, Glady Goodoien, and Elaine Gunderson Duray, have their own shops. Mrs. Nygard is at Adams and Mrs. Duray is at Minneapolis.
In December, 1957, bids were called for the remodeling of the Silliman Implement building in Park River, which Polar had purchased to be their new and permanent headquarters office. This consolidated the administration and plant operation under one roof. The new headquarters building was ready for occupancy prior to the annual membership meeting held Jan. 17,1959.
Miss Hanson's operators at the present time are Margie Laaveg and Mary Ann Pecka, who has been with the firm for 22 years. Pecka and Hanson received awards at a beauty show a couple years ago. Pecka's was for working as an operator in the same shop longer than any operator in North Dakota and Hanson's award was for being a shop owner actively engaged in hairdressing longer than anyone else in North Dakota.
1959 and 1960 saw the completion and cutover to the allmodem dial service. In March, 1960, mobile telephone service was made available to the public from the Park River exchange. A 3 foot tower was erected 4'/2 miles west of Park River, which was later replaced by a tower west of Lankin to give better coverage.
Ella Hanson passed the first state board exams given in North Dakota and has the number four license in the state. She also served as a director on the State Board for a term. She must have enjoyed her work in beauty culture, since she is still actively engaged in the hairdressing business.
Polar Rural Telephone Mutual Aid Corporation came into existence when it was incorporated on March 4, 1952. The first Board of Directors were Denis Monson, Lloyd Gire and Orlin Nelson, all of Edinburg; Andrew Slettebak, Petersburg; Robert McConnachie, Inkster; Irvin Hanson, Dahlen and Petersburg; W. H. Krueger, Niagara; E. K. Olafson, Mountain; and Sam Mork, Petersburg. In the original Articles of Incorporation Polar was authorized to borrow money in an amount not to exceed two
As early as 1960 Polar began to give serious consideration to buried telephone plant. After studies and past experiences with sleet storms, the board of directors authorized this type of construction only on an experimental basis. By using a converted single shank subsoiler pulled by the boom truck or a tractor, Polar began its venture in buried cable and wire. By 1961. twenty miles of direct buried cable was in service and all indications pointed to complete satisfaction with this type of outside plant. Steady growth in both customers' and telephone usage was evident as various reports indicate. The financial condition of Polar was sound, which indicated that decisions made by both management and the board of directors were correct.
The original Boad of Directors of Polar Rural Telephone Corporation: left to right. Denis Monson. Lloyd Gire. Orlin
Nelson. E. K. Olafson. I. M. Hanson. W. H. Krueger. Andrew Slettebak. Sam Mork. and Robert McConnachie.
HISTORY OF POLAR RURAL TELEPHONE MUTUAL AID CORPORATION, PARK RIVER, NORTH DAKOTA
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A training program, both in a technical field and safety, for all employees was established. This was accomplished through organized classroom sessions, on-the-job training and special schools and seminars sponsored by manufacturers. In 1962 Polar learned that Wing VI of the Minuteman Missile System was to be constructed throughout a portion of eastern North Dakota and that five launch control facilities (LCF's) would be located in Polar's service area. It was at this time that buried cable plant came into being in a big way. It replaced many miles of open wire with stormproofed facilities to serve our customers. Construction of buried outside plant began in earnest in 1963 with more than 80 miles of cable laid to serve Minuteman and customers along the routes. Another milestone, reached in 1962, was that a telephone customer could call any place in the United States for $1.00 or less for the first three minutes. With the advent of lower long distance rates, and new dial systems, traffic over the open wire, cable and switching equipment began to mushroom and studies were beginning to take form to alleviate this condition. Polar subscribers had grown from about 3,000 in 1955 to over 6,000 in December, 1964. This surpassed the ten-year projection in the area coverage design. As a result, immediate action was taken to develop a fundamental plan for the purpose of projecting for the future what the ultimate goal should be and how this could be accomplished with the least amount of added cost to the customer. By June, 1966, engineering plans for 12 exchanges — providing all one-party service, direct distance dialing (DDD), all stormproofed facilities, expanded extended area service (EAS) and automatic number identification (ANI) — had been submitted to REA for their approval. The first REA loan was for $992,000. Interest on the part of the Polar subscribers for the improved service package was very high. One criteria which each telephone exchange had to meet was that at least 75 percent of the subscribers in that exchange had to sign a petition favoring the "Polar Upgrading Package." In all instances this figure was exceeded. Construction began on the outside plant in 1967 and by the end of 1973 all exchanges were completed and cut over to one-party service. What was originally planned to be at least a tenyear upgrading program was completed in six years. This tremendous effort was accomplished under very difficult times — the Vietnam War was in full bloom, making equipment and material in short supply, and obtaining a loan from REA was very difficult in that Congress was very hesitant in appropriating money for the overall REA program. Through the persistent effort on the part of all concerned, construction money became available at the proper time to carry on with the projects. Now that Polar had completed the planned upgrading program, many people may have felt that no further problems could possibly be encountered, no new services would be required and that all that was necessary now was to sit back and let the telephone system operate. This was not, and never will be, a factural statement. From the standpoint of problems, one of the first things that had to be dealt with was controlling man in such a way that he would not undo all the work that had been completed to date. Polar, like all other utilities that have buried facilities, found that man was either digging, boring, or cutting these buried facilities. This is a never-ending problem which will remain will all buried utilities as along as they exist. Another problem that raised its ugly head was wet cable. For some reason or other, it was felt by industry as a whole, that by having cable covered with polyethylene or something similar, that no moisture could penetrate this jacket. It was soon learned that this material was porous and did, in fact, breath. Consequently, pockets of moisture were found at various locations along the cable route.
Polar Communications Headquarters, Park River, N. Dak. Pressurization was experimented with but to no great success. It was at this point in time that manufacturers of cable, along with the REA engineers, came up with a plan to manufacture cable filled with a jelly-like substance. To date, this appears to work satisfactorily. Polar's customers, like all telephone customers, became very dependent upon good communications systems. Telephone service was no longer a luxury, but a necessity. The demand for tone dial, data service and equipment, answering devices, monitoring equipment, key systems, to mention a few, began to mushroom about 1970. Calling habits of the customers changed, necessitating constant upgrading of the switching equipment and toll facilities. With the tremendous growth of telephone service and a change in Polar's entire operation more office space became a necessity. Construction of a bi-level building joined to the west side of the original office was completed in September, 1970. Polar acquired the Old Meagher Implement building and grounds along with the land which the Walsh County shed was located. Polar now owned property one-half block wide and one block long. Approximately 43,000 square feet was now available for administrative, maintenance and repair of all vehicles and machines, and for storage. In 1967 Polar learned that an Anti Ballistic Missile System (Army's Sentenal) was to be constructed partially within Polar's service area. In 1970 construction began on the Safequard ABM. Polar became the prime contractor for the very sophisticated communication system, both from an engineering and supplier of service standpoint. The total investment in the communications system, including government aid to construction, amounted to approximately ten million dollars. By the end of 1975, the total telephone plant investment for the entire company amounted to nearly twenty-one million dollars. The ABM had been in a tactical configuration for a while when 'Congress made a decision to discontinue its mission and totally dismantle the Missile Site Radar (MSR) and the Remote Sprint Launch (RSL) sites of which there were four. The perimeter Acquisition Radar (PAR) was left in tact and was given a new mission. At the peak of the ABM operation the total number of employees on the Polar payroll was 131 with a monthly payroll in excess of $100,000. What was known as the Safequard ABM is now history. In 1976 the one hundredth birthday of the telephone was observed along with the Nation's bicentennial. With its humble beginning, Polar observed its 25th year of operation in 1977. The field of communication is still in its infancy and what is in store for the customer and the industry itself must be left to history. A name change to Polar Communications Mutual Aid Corporation was made in 1980. This was necessary because Polar no longer provides only telephone service. It also provides
data and alarm systems, mobile telephones, and hopefully in the near future, C.A.T.V. Other broadband services will be provided as the state of the art dictates. (Excerpts from the History of Polar that was prepared and presented by Winten A. Gunderson, General Manager.)
HISTORYOFT. T.THOMPSON BUILDING T. T. Thompson was a merchant in Park River when two city blocks were destroyed by fire in February, 1901. This structure was built after the fire and housed his general store. He operated the store until 1912 when he sold out to the Kowalski Brothers, Joe and John. T. T. Thompson Building destroyed by fire on May 7, 1940. Reopened for business on July 1, 1940.
T. T. Thompson General Merchandise Store in Park River. His son, Seymour Thompson, is standing behind the counter (1910)
T. T. Thompson Building — Restoration of the premises after the May, 1940, fire. Owner of the building was Lloyd H. Harris. Left to right, are George McLaughlin, Robert Gillespie, Gordon (Si) McLaughlin, Harris. (July, 1940) in business until he sold out to C. Gates and Son. In 1928, Gates moved the business into smaller quarters. In the spring of 1929, Lloyd H. Harris opened up a recreation parlor in the Thompson building. The place burned on May 7, 1940, and was reopened for business on July 1, 1940. After Lloyd Harris died in 1941 the place continued under the ownership of Alma Harris until 1946. At that time the business was taken over by her son, Harold Harris, when he returned from service in World War II. Harold operated the recreation business until his medical retirement in 1968. Since then, the building has housed a grocery store. It is presently Duane's Food Center, L. B. Hartz Agency.
Churches EPISCOPAL CHURCH Continuing from page 675 of Vol. II, Walsh Heritage.
T. T. Thompson standing in front of his store in Park River. (1910)
St. James Episcopal Church members of Grafton, joined with St Peters of Park River, Jan. 14, 1976, and is now called St. Peters and St. James Episcopal Church. The Rev. Steve Sedgwick was pastor at that time.
The Kowalski Brothers operated the store until John went into the service in World War I. They sold out to Charlie Fee and Bernhard Everson who operated the general store. In 1919 they vacated the premises in favor of smaller quarters in the building next door.
Demolition was started on the rectory of the church in May, 1980; it was torn away from the church, and a new room — plus a restroom — was added to the church in its place. This was completed in October, 1980. The Rev. Robert Woodard of Grand Forks serves the church with the help of Lay Readers, Dean Miller and Don Dunlap. At
Because the Thompson building was vacant, the place was used as a basketball court during the winter of 1919. James Laybourn opened a recreation parlor, about 1 920, and remained 701
that had a large impact from 1918 into the 40's, was the 3 T-K Orchestra. A first-person recollection by Ella Hanson of Park River, who was a member of the organization, follows: The 3 T-K Dance Orchestra was organized in the Park River High School in 1918. It was first an outgrowth of the concert orchestra (which was an eight-piece group conducted by the school music teacher, Miss Hillier). The members were Fritz Thorson, saxophone and clarinet; Paul Farup, trombone; Melvin Neste, trumpet; Kenneth Eaton, trumpet; Leland Taylor, violin; Ella Hanson, violin; Juel Thompson, drums and xylophone, and Lucille Spornitz, piano.
St. Peters, St. James Episcopal Church the present time, services are held every Sunday as have been for the past 35 years. The first Episcopal service was held in Park River — in a railroad car in 1884. In 1984, the church will celebrate its Centennial services.
10OTH ANNIVERSARY OF FEDERATED CHURCH (1980)
Of course there was no dance music played in that orchestra, so the boys got together and organized a four-piece dance band. They named it the 3 T-K after the initials of the last names of the original group who were Thompson, Thorson, Taylor and Koppang. However, the original group was short-lived as Leland Taylor graduated and left town; also leaving were Miss Koppang, who was a cousin of Fritz Thorson, and Juel (Sloppy) Thompson. Melvin (Peasoup) Neste replaced Thompson on the drums; Kate Simmer was the new pianist, and one day, when I was a freshman in High School, Fritz Thorson dumped some music on my desk saying "You are going to play with us" — which I did for about 30 years!!
The Methodist Church and the Presbyterian Church formed a federation in 1938. The original Methodist Church was begun in 1880 and the original Presbyterian Church was begun in 1881. The celebration opened with a Prayer Breakfast and continued in the afternoon with a Silver Tea. The Centennial Banquet was held in the evening and speakers included former ministers, their wives, and honored guests.
Ella Hanson joined the High School Orchestra when she was in the 7th and 8th grades. From left to right, top row, are Lucille Spornitz, piano; Bud Farup, trombone, (killed in WWI); Kenneth Eaton, coronet; Melvin Neste, coronet; Miss Hillier, director; Juel Thompson, drums; front, Fritz Thorson, clarinet and sax; Ella Hanson, first violin; Steve Taylor, second violin. The Federated Church — Methodist-Presbyterian The Centennial Worship Service on Sunday morning was honored to have as main speaker the Bishop James Armstrong of the Dakotas Area of the United Methodist Church. The communion service was conducted by Rev. Charles Freuden, Executive Presbyter of the Northern Plains Presbytery. Former pastors present assisted with the communion.
Organizations THE 3 T-K ORCHESTRA A part of the culture of Walsh County would have to be the many dances which the citizenry has enjoyed throughout the years — be they wedding dances, special celebrations, or scheduled weekly affairs, they had a big following. One group
We had a great time and became very well known throughout the state. I think we played in almost every town in Walsh County, and ranged from Rugby to Warren, Minn., and from Grand Forks to Hannah, N. Dak. In the early years we traveled by Model T and then Model A, and, if we were lucky, one with side curtains. And when Fritz got a California top built on his car we felt real ritzy. Of course, a gravel road was unheard of, so we plowed through a lot of dirt and snow to get where we were scheduled to play. On one occasion it had snowed so heavy we couldn't get to Edinburg by car, so we hired a team of horses. Half way there one of the horses died. Our driver walked to a farm house, borrowed a horse, and we were on our way again. We arrived cold, but ready to play. Another time, on the way home from a dance at Pisek, our radiator froze up so we walked to a farm house and they, very graciously, let us in. We waited there until morning when the school bus came by. It was an open sleigh pulled by horses. We were really cold and arrived in town just in time to go to school. Traveling at night, in all kinds of weather, we had many hectic
experiences, but of course there were no heaters in the cars and no weather reports to warn us. Over the years there were many changes in the personnel. Kate Simmer was replaced by Ann Gergen. When Ann died, Disa Sporhifz took over. Then Billy Spornitz joined us as a singer and trumpet player. We also added another trumpet man, Roy Neste, who was Melvin's brother. That made us a six-piece orchestra. In the 30's, a banjo was a must, so I played banjo as well as violin. At one time our orchestra was offered a two-week engagement at the Roseland Dance Gardens in Winnipeg. But, as we were all working, we couldn't accept that offer even if it would have been a big break for us. However, we played barn dances, pavilion dances, bowery dances, junior proms, and some fraternity engagements as our fame spread. There were many times we played seven nights a week (as the Happy Hollow Pavilion in Lankin had Sunday night dances.) The pay was poor, but we always felt as though we were being paid for having fun. It was just great! And then we played our last engagement in the Mandt Hall in 1945. But all of us fondly remember the countless friends we made over four decades. Ella Hanson (June, 1979)
CITY OF PARK RIVER FAMILY HISTORIES ROLAND BATEMAN FAMILY Roland Bateman, a grandson of Silas Bateman and Christian Reinertson and the son of Myron and Edith Bateman, was born Feb. 5, 1925, at Adams, N. Dak. He was raised on the family farm near Adams, moved to Adams, then to rural Park River, residing on the Christian Reinertson farm, today operated by Tony Walser. The family moved into Park River in 1933. Roland attended first and second grade at the Kensington School District and third grade at the Ford School. He finished his grade and high school in Park River, graduating from WCAS in 1943. Roland then enlisted in the Air Force and graduated from Ellington Air Force Base as a pilot in class 44H. Roland served
with the 5th Air Force in the Pacific, returniing home in 1946. In 1947, he married Marion Joan Linfoot from Grand Forks, a granddaughter of Leslie Stinson and Clarence Linfoot, and a daughter of Lawrence and Marion Linfoot. Marion graduated from UND as a gelologist major in 1947. Roland continued his education and graduated from Northwestern University in 1950. Marion and Roland Bateman then moved to Park River where he was in business with his father from 1950 until 1978, operating a Ford-Mercury dealership. Roland and Marion were the parents of six children: Joan, born in 1950, married Sterling Hunking; they are the parents of three children and reside in Arlington, Tex. David, born in 1951, resides in Grand Rapids, Mich., where he is working as a respiratory therapist at Blodget Memorial Hospital. Richard, born in 1955, resides in Park River and is working as a potato broker for Park River Potato Co. Richard graduated from UND in 1978. Barbara, born in 1956, is in her final year of nursing school at College aof the Desert, in Palm Desert, Calif. Sally, born in 1959, resides in Park River, and is working at theASCS Office. Michael, born in 1961, is working and attending school in Palm Desert, Calif.
JACOB BIRDER
Roland Bateman Family: standing. Richard. Sterling. Joan Hunking, David, Michael; middle, at ends, Sally and Barbara; front, Gretchen Hunking, Roland and Marion Bateman and Grant Hunking.
Jacob (Ptacnik) Birder was born June 2, 1858, in Czechoslovakia, the son of Matous and Anna Malacek Ptacnik. His mother, Anna Ptacnik, immigrated to America with hter children, Matej, Marie, Anna, Katerina, Joseph, and Jacob to Spillville, Iowa, in 1870, after the father died. This
part
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Jacob
Birder's
history
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EDITH (FORD) AND MARLOW BJERKE Edith Ford Bjerke, the youngest child of David and Janet Ford, was born in Grafton, N. Dak. She graduated from WCAS and attended Aaker's Business College, Grand Forks. In 1 949 she married Marlow Bjerke, the son of Anton and Gladys Bjerke, Grand Forks. Marlow was associated with International Harvester Company until his retirement in 1978, with the exception of two years of service in the Marine Corps. Before his retirement, he served International Harvester in Grand Forks, Fargo, and Denver. In 1979 Marlow and Edith bought the former D. D. Smith house in Park River and make their home there. Jacob Birder "Autobiography and Family History" by Frank J. Prochaska (a nephew). "In the trek of the people to the new West frontiers was Jacob, mother's brother. He went to South Dakota and worked in a store in a town named Fla.idrau. While at Calmer, Iowa, he learned to speak English and also mastered Norwegian quite well. A natural linguist, when he was at Flandrau, he added to his accomplishment, the Sioux Indian language. An Indian reservation was located close to that town and after he learned to talk the Red Man's language his employer was favored with most of the trade from the reservation. Later when he had gone to Park River his store was always the headquarters for all the half breed Sioux who made trips down from Turtle Mts. every fall to work with threshing gangs. At Calmer, he worked for a storekeeper named Olson and formed an acquantance with two brothers, Peter and Andrew Sandager, also clerks in the place. A few years later, he formed a partnership with Peter Sandager and Olson and established a genral store at Grafton, N. Dak., the firm being known as "Birder, Sandager and Olson." He had anglicized his surname "Ptacnik" because of the difficulty of pronouncing by others than his own nationality. They prospered and soon branched out with a store at Minto and at Park River. When the firm was dissolved, Jacob took over the Park River store and married a sister of Sandager. His wife died a few years afterward from a blood vessel rupture in the brain.
LEONARD JAMES CHAPMAN Leonard James Chapman came to America in 1905 from his home in London, England. He was born in 1888, while his mother and father, Annie Bartlett Chapman and James Chapman, were on an ocean trip to Australia. He received his education at the prestigious Catholic school, St. Francis Xavier's College, located in Bruges, Belgium. He began his education at a very young age, and French became his first language. As a young immigrant to this country, Leonard Chapman traveled around Canada and the United States, working at many jobs, including that of a lumberjack. He served the United States during World War I as an instructor of the French language to the officers being sent to Europe. Leonard Chapman married the former Lillian Kohnen, daughter of John and Elizabeth Kohnen, in 1919 and they had four children:
Later he married his bookkeeper, Minnie O'Reilly. With his second wife he had five children, but three died in infancy. Jacob Vivian and Cecil Edward Eugene attended various schools and finished their college studies at Notre Dame University, graduating from the law department; Cecil studied music in Ireland and was professor of music and speech at Notre Dame University for 20 years. While on the way to St. Louis, as a delegate to the National Democratic Convention in 1904, Birder met his death when the special train, on which the delegates traveled from Chicago, was derailed at Litchfield, III. He was one of more than 20 killed in the accident which occurred on July 3 of that year. He had sold his store in 1891 and then engaged in the business of selling land and loaning money. He was president of the bank in Park River. His estate was valued at $198,000 and was left to the three surviving members of his family. He made frequent short visits to our home where, later, our grandmother lived. He was very sociable and there was always a steady flow of wit and humor when he was around." Frank Prochaska was a former editor of the Walsh County Press. (Gazetteer) The beautiful home that Mr. Birder built in 1889 still stands at the north end of Briggs Avenue in Park River and is owned by Mrs. Agnes Henderson.
Lillian (Kohnen) Chapman
Leonard J. Chapman
Duane, M'ssoula, Mo., who married Nadine Carlen of Park River; he died in 1978. Corinne married David Lindgren of Park River. David passed away in 1960 and she later married Clarence Wang of Park River. Blair, Lake Havasu City, Ariz., married Donna Lou Skjerven of Park River. Yvonne (Mrs. George Walstad) is now of Burlington, Iowa, formerly of Hoople, N. Dak. Leonard Chapman, known as "Chappy" to his friends, was a general agent for the Mutual Trust Life Insurance Co. for over 30 years, until the time of his death in 1951. He received many national sales awards during his lifetime. He also owned and
operated a clothing store, The Outlaw Store, in Park River for many years. This is now Melvin's Store for Men and is owned by Lee Neste. As a young person, I remember my parents as life-loving people with many interests. Mother, with her excellent bridge game, and dad, with his beautiful baritone voice — always singing — and constantly smoking a cigar. Dad loved to fish and hunt and carried a fishing rod in the car at all times. He loved to travel south in the winter and he and mother made several trips to Mexico. On one occasion when I was with him in the dining room of the Nicollet Hotel in Minneapolis, he ordered kidneys and bacon. The chef soon appeared to see who had placed the unusual order, and it was the same chef who had cooked for my dad when he was a boy, traveling with his father in Europe. They had quite a reunion. Although he did make one trip back to England, dad said the United States was his home now, and this is where he loved to be. Mother and Dad were very active and held offices in many organizations, such as the American Legion and Auxiliary, the Masons, Eastern Star, and the Rebekahs. They died within two months of each other in 1951.
MR. AND MRS. A. J. CHARON A. J. (Joe) Charon, and Ella Scheving were married Dec. 11, 1920. They lived and farmed near Park River, N. Dak. Joe was on the school board for over 25 years in Kensington Township.
Jerome Cicha Family: left to right, standing, Gregory, Rosemary, Joseph, Bernadette, Michael, Helen, Jared Mountain, Victoria Mountain, Jerome G, David; seated, Brian Thompson, Julianne, Trudy, Jerry, Teresa and Glenn Flaten with children, Jessica and Aimee. Bernadette, married to Philip Efron; Teresa married to Glen Flaten; Jerome G.; Julianne, married to Brian Thompson; Rosemary, Joseph, Gregory, Helen and Michael. The Cichas also have three grandchildren: Jared Mountain, Jessica and Aimee Flaten. Jerome and Trudy are active in the Catholic Church, American Legion, St. Ansgar's Hospital Ausiliary and many other community affairs.
GILMAN CLEMENS Gilman LeRoy Clemens was born March 27, 1923, in Oslo, Minn., to John and Amanda (Nelson) Clemens. On Dec. 8, 1952, he married Jeanette Olive Melgaard. She was born in Adams Feb. 28, 1934, to Julius and Amy (Kringstad) Melgaard. They have two daughters, Jana Gay and Julie Ann. Jana was bom July 6, 1955. She married Mark Fjeld of Park River, May 4, 1974. They have two sons — Ryan Tyler, born May 8, 1975, and Rory Kyler, born July 3, 1978. Julie was born Feb. 14, 1958. She married Douglas Hagen of Fordville, N. Dak., June 4, 1976. Gilman and Jeanette and the girls lived on the family farm, north of Adams, until 1966, when they moved to Park River. Gilman has worked for KAP, Inc., of Park River as a mechanic since that time. He is still employed there.
Mr. and Mrs. A. J. Charon (Joe and Ella) Joe passed away in 1980 and Ella, in 1973. They had three daughters: Ida, who passed away in 1946; Violet (Mrs. Ralph Daley, Park River), and Luella (Mrs. Walter McLaren, Grand Forks). JEROME CICHA FAMILY Jerome Cicha, son of Joseph and Eleanor (Veseley) Cicha, and Gertrude (Trudy) Herda, daughter of Albert and Mary (McDonald) Herda were married in Lankin in 1946. Jerome served two years in World War II in the Army Air Force and was a nose gunner on a B-24. He was stationed in England and flew on missions over Europe. They have had twelve children. Their second child, Mary Rose, died shortly after birth. The others are David; Victoria, married to Garnet Mountain;
GUSTIE (PETERSON) CLEMETSON Gustie (Peterson) Clemetson was born to John and Bergette Peterson Sept. 18, 1884. The Petersons were married at Lake Park, Minn., in 1883. John was from Sweden, and Bergette was from Norway. They lived at Lake Park for a while, then went to a place west of what is now Fosston, Minn. They settled there awhile and dug a cellar with a roof over it and there is where I was born. Some time later they homesteaded on 80 acres of land, one mile west of Fosston, built a one-room log house with an upstairs, and then finally added a kitchen. We lived there for many years. The other children were born there. I had five brothers and one sister — Alma, who passed away when she was 2'/2 years old; and Arthur, who died at eight months; Louise, Elmer, Bennie, and Arthur. My parents had a team of horses, cows, a couple of sheep, and chickens. My mother would bring eggs at seven cents a dozen, butter at ten cents a pound, to town to sell, and wheat was 40 cents a bushel. When she had all the groceries bought, the
store would always put in a good-sized bag of mixed candy for nothing and that had to last until the next time she went shopping. Dad would go many miles into the woods and bring home loads of wood. Mother would send a few pair of mittens and stockings, and scarves with him to sell, made from the wool that she carded and spun. I didn't get to go to school very much. When I was ten years old I went to work for 50 cents a week. I went two terms to school in Fosston and worked for my room and board. I got as far as the sixth grade. When I wasn't working, my mother had a nice big garden and she would bunch up carrots, beets, onions, and different other vegetables and put in a couple water pails for me to take to Fosston to sell, house to house, at five cents a bunch. She would walk half way there with me to help carry the pails as they were heavy. I would go at different times and sell it all. My parents moved to Mallard Lake, Minn., where they owned and operated a hotel for many years. On Nov. 3, 1906, Henry Clemetson and I were married at Mallard Lake, Minn., by Rev. Bode. Henry was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Nels Clemetson of Dundee Township (Hoople, N. Dak.). He was born at Nearstand, Minn. We moved to Park River and he worked for many years for Sam Holland who had a garage here. We had seven children:
Henry Clemetson Family: Gladwin, Lyle, Alden, Byrdie, Neom, Henry, Gustie, and Avis.
Byrdie and Lloyd Staven
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Clair,
Byrdie, who is married to Lloyd Staven, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Paul Staven. They live in Park River. Byrdie graduated from the WCAS and went to Interstate Business College in Fargo. She is a member of the American Legion Auxiliary, St. Ansgar's Hospital Auxiliary, Harmony Homemakers Club, Happy Hour Senior Citizens, and was chairman, and co-chairman for the Heart Fund, Cancer, and Mental Health for many years. She serves on the Foster Grandparent Advisory Council. Lloyd was a State Representative for four years; a Walsh County Commissioner for six years, and is on the Park River City Council and has been for seven years. He is a member of the St. Ansgar's Hospital board. They were in business in Park River for many years. They are members of Our Saviour's Lutheran Church .
Mr. and Mrs. Alden Clemetson and Mary Jo and John. and Josephine Christenson were married Oct. 13, 1940,_at Wolford N. Dak., and moved to Silverton, Ore., Nov. 1941. She was a music teacher, and active in the Lutheran Church In Wolford. They adopted two children, John, on March 3 1 , at the age of seven months; Mary Jo, Aug. 19, 1 9 6 1 , at the age of five days. John works for Frito-Lay Potato Chips in Salem, Ore. He has two adopted children — Seena 6, and Murray 4. Mary Jo is a sophomore at Oregon College of Education, and is employed at a fabric shop at Salem, Ore. Josephine's hobbies are golfing, camping, and singing. Alden has been a member of the Salem Senate-Aires, and Barbershop Chorus at Salem tor 11 years The group travels up and down the west coast; has sung at San Antonio, Tex.; appeared in the Universal Studio movie short, "Keep America Singing"; has been a member of Silverton Barbershop Quartette for 15 years, and now sings in a grandfathers' quartette. His hobbies were camping, and golfing. He has been in the retail oil and gasoline business in Silverton and Woodburn, Ore., for 35 years. He and family are members of the Trinity Lutheran Church, and sing in the choir. Jo has been
Alden was born in Park River, graduated from WCAS, and went to Interstate Business College and N.D.A.C. at Fargo. He organized the Clemetson Dance Band. Members were Byrdie, Neom, Gladwin, and Lyle Clemetson, and Charlie Christenson, Kenneth Hamilton, Gordon McLeod; others were Jo Christenson, Ed Brodina. They broadcasted over Grand Forks and Devils Lake radio stations; also they had an old time dance band called "Hank and His Old Timers," members were Henry, Alden, Lyle, Neom, Byrdie Clemetson and Ernie Berger. Alden 706
superintendent of the Sunday school and a teacher. She served several years on the church council. Gladwin was born in Park River and went to high school and lived and worked in Los Angeles, Calif. He passed away Nov. 1, 1962, at Los Angeles, and was married but had no family. Neom was born in Park River, graduated from WCAS and married Hubert Larson. They lived in Park River for a few years and then moved to Portland, Ore., where Hubert worked for a telephone company. They had three sons — Harlan, who was born in Park River, and Jimmie and Dayton, born in Portland. After a number of years out there they came back to Park River and bought the cafe from Oppeboen's. Harlann graduated from the WCAS, Park River, and Mayville College. He married Carrie Penas who is also a graduate of Mayville. They live at Lompoc, Calif. They have lived and taught school there for 18 years. They have one daughter, Teri Lynn. James Larson, or Jimmie, graduated from the WCAS and from Valley City College at Valley City. He married Frances Phelan of Lompoc, Calif. She graduated from Mayville Teacher's College at Mayville. They live at Middletown, New York. She is in the real estate business, and does some teaching; Jimmie buys supplies for the prison there. They have two children, Jaimie 4 and Maria 2. Dayton graduated from WCAS, Park River, and went to Mayville Teacher's College and married Audrey Setness. She graduated from Patricia Stevens School in Minneapolis. They were married June 15, 1974. They have two children, Ryan 18 months, and Garrett, 2'/2 months. They operate Larson's cafe.
Clair Clemetson Family: left to right, in Rodger, Thomas, Suzann, Joan, Selma and Clair (Rick); and Clair, seated. Peterson and lives in Park River. Thomas (Tommy) born in Park River, graduated from the WCAS, works in Park River; Clair (Rich), born in Park River, graduated from the WCAS, married Lori Eklund, Sept. 18, 1971. They have two children, Bobbie, born 1970, and Carlya, born 1976. Rick is a carpenter. Lori works for an attorney in Grafton. Rodger was born in Park River, graduated from the WCAS in 1980, and is going to college in Kansas where he is taking up electronics. Clair and Selma bought The Club from Lloyd Staven. Clair passed away Sept. 23, 1971, Selma still operates The Club. He was one of the men to get the ambulance service in town, belonged to the Firemen, American Legion, he liked to fish and hunt, was a member of Our Saviour's Lutheran Church. Selma is a member of the American Legion Auxiliary and she and family are members of the St. Mary's Catholic Chuch.
Mr. and Mrs. Selvin Dahlen (Avis Clemetson), Gayle (Mrs. Mark Midgarden) and Clair (Bud) Dahlen. Lyle Clemetson born in Park River, went to the A.C. Was in the Army and was in the Aleutian Islands. When he got out of the service he worked in Park River. He passed away Aug. 19, 1968. Avis, born in Park River, went to the WCAS, she married Selvin Dahlen of Dalhlen, N. Dak., Nov. 26, 1939. They moved to Portland, Ore. Selvin worked in the shipyards for many years. They have two children — Mrs. Mark (Gay Ann) Midgarden born in Park River. Mark farms and they live in Park River and have two children, Cindy and Scott. Bud Dahlen was born in Portland, Ore.; was in the service, married in 1978, and has one daughter, Tiffany. They live and work in Portland. Clair Clemetson was born in Park River, graduated from WCAS. He was in the Navy and was stationed on the aircraft carrier, the Gambie Bay, when the Japs started shelling the carrier which sank. He was one of the men who was saved after being in the water for 48 hours. He came home after being in the hospitals for almost a year. On Aug. 12, 1947, he married Anselma Sobolik. She also had been in the service. They have five children — Suzanna, born in Park River, graduated from WCAS, was in the service, and is going to the University of California at Fresno, and is married to Ronald Hall. Joan, born in Park River, graduated from the WCAS, and from Mayville State College. She teaches at Adams, N. Dak., and is married to Lanny
Henry and Gustie Clemetson owned and operated a bakery and cafe, for many years, and had a hotel for years; then Henry worked for the city for a number of years. He passed away July 28,1941. Gustie belonged to the American Legion Auxiliary, St. Ansgar's Hospital Auxiliary, and she was very active in selling poppies on Poppy Day. The family belonged to Our Saviour's Lutheran Church. Gustie passed away Apr. 28, 1968.
GLEN CUDMORE'S FAMILY HISTORY Glen Cudmore, son of Alvin and Charlotte Cudmore, Park River, N. Dak., married Doris Stenseth of Crary, N. Dak., on Nov. 13, 1951. He was a businessman in Park River, N. Dak., for twenty years, and had owned the Northside Grocery, L. B. Hartz Store, Fairway Foods, and Ben Franklin Store. Glen was involved in many clubs and organizations. He was chairman of Retail Merchants, president of Parent-Teachers Association, president of the Hillcrest Country Club, for ten years was a volunteer fireman, served twelve years as a volunteer amublance attendent and driver, was a member of Lion's Club, president of Our Saviour's Lutheran Church, and chairman of the Grafton Conference of the Council of Churches. Glen was also involved in volunteer work for the State School at Grafton and has a Certificate of Registration from the Department of Labor, signed by the Secretary of Labor, to train handicapped people.
Glen and Doris have five children. Laura is office manager at the YMCA camp at Estes Park, Colo. David, a student at the University of Minnesota and a Naval Veteran, is married to Sherri Stone of Darlington, Wise. Michael, a student at Colorado State University, is employed by Hewlirt Packard in Loveland, Colo^ Allen James is employed by Al-Max in Loveland, Colo,, and married to Sherry McCullem. Paul, a ninth grade student; attends Conrad Ball Jr. High School, Loveland, Colo. Glen sold the Ben Franklin business in 1978 and moved the family to Loveland, Colo. He is now employed by the Martin Luther Home Society, Inc., a non-profit organization dealing with developmental disabilities. Glen is involved in public relations and development in the state of Colorado.
CHARLES AND ETHYL DIEBEL Charles and Ethyl Diebel came to Park River, N. Dak., from Langdon, N. Dak., in the fall of 1928. They came to operate their own Red Owl store. They had three children - Helen who was teaching in Mohall, N. Dak.; Doris, who came to Park River with them and helped in the store; and Howard, who moved to California.
Louie Dub Family: left to right, back row, Louise (Hajicek) Dub, Louie Dub, Jackie LaFrenz; kneeling, Kevin, Kris, Randy, Kelly Kouba, grandchildren of Louie and Louise Dub, Jackie LaFrenz, another grandchild, was absent. Patty married Mel LaFranz. They reside in Grand Forks where Mel has a construction company. They have one daughter, Jackie. LeAnne married Joe Kouba, and they live at Pisek. Joe is employed by MDU. They have two children, Kevin and Randy. Leona married Ernest Kouba, and they reside at Grafton. They have two children, Kris and Kelly. Yvonne married Gene Bell, and they live in Minneapolis, Minn.; they have two children, Eric and Nina.
RUDOLPH DUB HISTORY Rudolph Dub married the former Mary Hajicek, daughter of the late Frank and Mary (Kadlovec) Hajicek. They live in Park River, N. Dak. Mary was employed at St. Ansgar's Hospital tor many years, but had to retire due to a stroke. To this union three children were born - John, Sally, and Rudolph, Jr. John lives in Park River, and is a semi-truck driver.
Charles and Ethyl Diebel (1920) Charles operated his own store until 1942. During that time Joy Ratliff worked for him and, when Charles left the store, Joy took over. Charles went in to the Fairway Market with John Bures until his death in 1944. Charles was born Dec. 30, 1880, and died March 19, 1944. Ethyl was born Oct. 28, 1882, and after Charles' death she moved to Cavalier, N. Dak., to live with the Jack McPhersons where she lived until she died in April 24, 1974. LOUIE DUB HISTORY Louie Dub married Louise Hajicek, the daughter of the late Frank and Mary (Kadlovec) Hajicek. They farm in the Pisek area. To this union four daughters were born - Patty, LeAnne, Leona, and Yvonne.
Four Generations of Dubs - Rudolph Dub, Sally (Dub) Momerak, Mary (Hajicek) Dub; seated, Marvin Momerak holding daughter, Amy. 708
Sally married Glen Momerak; they live in Park River where Glen is employed by Park River Lumber Co. They have five children — Betty (Mrs. Steven Sondrol), East Grand Forks, Minn.; Marvin, who married Jeannie Johansen, and lives at Edinburg, and has one daughter, Amy; Donald, who married Marilee Seim, and lives at Edinburg; Tom and Mike, both of Park River. Rudolph Jr., resides at home with his parents.
DESCENDANTS OF ISAAC AND CLARA ELLINGSON Elmo and Carol Ellingson are the sons of Isaac and Clara (Ulberg) Ellingson and grandsons of Elling Ellingson Osterhus and Marie (Olsen) Ellingson. They are also the grandsons of Christian and Olive Regina (Johnson) Odne Ulberg. Elmo was born March 6, 1919, in Golden Township. He married Edith Meagher of Park River on Sept. 2 1 , 1940. She was a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. T. F. Meagher. They have one daughter, Mrs. Dennis (Donna) Skyberg of Devils Lake, N. Dak., and two grandsons, Dennis, Jr., and Jason.
and Beret Monson, came there in June, 1861. Their farm included the area where the present depot now stands in Jackson, Minn. It was an exposed frontier, almost in the heart of Indian Country.'The settlers were unfamiliar with firearms and Indian warfare. They had little communication with the outside world. There were no post offices, telegraph, or stagecoach lines. The method of travel was by oxen for those fortunate enough to own them. The breaking out of the Civil War in 1861 gave Jackson County a reputation for patriotism equaled by few communities. Her father, Andrew Monson, enlisted Oct. 22, 1861, in Mankato, Minn. He traveled from there by steamboat to Fort Snelling on the Mississippi River as there were no railroads. He was discharged on July 2 1 , 1862, because of a disability, having served last with Company B — Bracketss Bn. of Cavalry. His son, Mons Monson, who was then twelve years old, accompanied him to Mankato and was to return with provisions to the homestead. They traveled by oxen team and had wheat to be ground to flour and were also to buy groceries and merchandise. After considerable difficulty, Mons managed to return alone in a few days. He had been in a snow storm and lost his way. On Aug. 24, 1862, news came that the Indians were on the warpath. They had attacked settlers and were coming south. This information came to their church services by a German who was fleeing. The settlers gathered at different cabins at night and returned to their homes in the morning. This they did until it was necessary to escape, just prior to the massacres.
Carol Ellingson Family: left to right, Peter Hunter, Carolee, Glen Symons, Katherine Symons, Bobbie Cae Symons, Alberta Ellingson, Carla Cae, Carol Ellingson. Elmo has made his home in Devils Lake after serving in the Army during World War II. He formerly owned and operated a hatchery business, a Dairy Queen business, and presently manages the.Elks Lodge in Devils Lake. Carol was born Sept. 27, 1920, in Golden Township. On Dec. 29, 1944, he married Alberta Harris of Necedah, Wise. They have two daughters — Mrs. Glen (Carla Cae) Symons of Osnabroch, N. Dak., and Mrs. Peter (Carolee) Hunter of Park River, N. Dak. There are two granddaughters, Bobbie Cae and Katherine Symons. Carol lives in Park River and owns and farms land in Golden Township that his paternal grandfather purchased in 1892. He also owns and farms land in Lampton Township that his maternal grandfather owned and farmed for many years. Elmo and Carol have been active in community affairs, having both served on local school boards, various fraternal and farm organization boards, as well as local Lutheran church boards.
In the evening of Aug. 25, 1862, some of the settlers saw smoke to the north and knew it was an Indian bonfire. A friend was visiting Anna's wounded father. The friend hooked their oxen to the wagon and helped load their father into it. With a cow tied close by to the wagon and provisions, they started to a neighbor's home who had a large cabin. Other settlers arrived and many were on foot. With three guns, two bars of lead and powder, the men made bullets and the young boys gathered corn from the corn field. About sundown they decided to go to Esterville, Iowa, which was twenty miles south of Jackson. There were about a dozen families living there. A man was sent on horseback to Spirit Lake, Iowa, to notify the twenty soldiers stationed there, who later came to the settler's assistance. The Indians became alarmed when they found so many vacant cabins and returned north. Settlers then started for the vicinity of Decorah, Iowa, with the soldiers. Andrew Monson and his family resided in Decorah from August, 1862, to 1864. The government placed a few soldiers in the vicinity of Jackson, so a small party of settlers returned to their former home again in 1864. They were the first to make a permanent settlement after the Indian Massacres of 1862. Andrew Monson and his family were in this group. Many of their cabins were still standing. Their livestock had roamed the woods in wild state. For several years the hunting of wild swine was sport for the settlers.
ANNA MONSON FINNESETH, A PIONEER MOTHER OF DAKOTA
The history books state that few settlers escaped the massacres. The Sioux War of August, 1862, which lasted a week, was the most noteworthy incident of its kind in that period of American history. More people perished in that savage slaughter than in all the massacres. There were about 800 casualties.
Anna Monson was born on Aug. 10, 1861, in Des Moines Township, Jackson County, Minnesota. Her parents, Andrew
By 1866 the settlement had reached a point that permanency was assured. From 1866 to 1867 was a difficult
year with starvation and hardships of the severe winter. The government furnished the settlers with seed grain, flour, beans, and clothing during the crop failures caused by the grasshoppers in 1873 to 1875. The years 1878 to 1894 were prosperous times. A railroad had been built and immigration greatly revived. Andrew and Beret Monson with their daughters, Dorothy, Anna, Christine, and Johanna, moved to Dakota Territory in 1880. They came from Cottonwood County, Minn., by train to Wilmar, Minn., from where they drove horses to Grafton, Dakota Territory. Their son, John (known as Joe), had gone a couple years prior and homesteaded about six miles west of Park River (Known as Garfield). Here he operated a hardware store and post office. Mons, the other son, did not go to Dakota. He homesteaded near Windom, Minn. His log cabin was one of the few to survive the massacres. It now stands in Island Park in Windom as a memorial of pioneer days. Anna Monson stayed in Grafton one year and then at Garfield for two years. During the latter time she was married to Christen L. Finneseth. They were married on July 7, 1882, at Grand Forks, Dakota Territory, and then moved to Park River. Christen operated one of the first stores of Park River. There were no railroads and the wheat was taken by wagons to Grand Forks. Most of these wagons brought back merchandise to the community. Kitchen stoves, nails, and barbed wire for fences were important items in the Finneseth hardware store. Anna Monson Finneseth was the third lady to make her home in Park River, 1883 to 1884. In one morning, seven foundations were laid in Park River - five on main street and two on side streets. The foundations were made of logs with a frame work structure. She was there when the first train came. This was the end of the line between Park River and Larimore. Anna and Christen Finneseth served on the early committees in 1889 to get a Lutheran Church started, as recorded in the church history. Anna was the first treasurer of the Ladies' Aid. Christen was on the first committee to find a place Jo hold the church services and also on the building committee of the first church. All Anna's life she devoted much time to her church, teaching Sunday School and helping with the Christmas programs. The Christmas'tree at that time had home made decorations which were made of cottonballs and covered with colored paper.
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Anna Monson Finneseth, a pioneer mother of Dakota. Myrtle Finneseth Mills, descendant of Anna Monson Finneseth. She was fond of horses. Frequently, the beautiful white horse which was the pride of her family, would be teamed with a rented horse from the livery stable to draw "a six-seater surrey with a fringe on it." She delighted in being the driver and the thrilling experience of never knowing what horse might be a team-mate for her spirited "Rock," as he was called. This arrangement provided transportation for the ladies to attend various Ladies' Aids and functions. The county fairs were a' great joy and for many years they sponsored a Baby Contest and this committee seemed to be her favorite. She was a pioneer member of the Cemetery Auxiliary and spent hours on the flower beds there. Uhe was active in the Red Cross work. Anna is the mother of five children. Two children are living and are as follows: Myrtle (Mrs. David Mills) of Pacific Grove, Calif., and Gladys (Mrs.. Oliver M. Moore), 3011 Monterey Road, San Marino, Calif. Three children have passed away Lawrence, Ida, and Elmer. There are eight grandchildren and seventeen great-grandchildren. Anna Monson passed away on Nov. 4, 1947, in Downey, Calif., at the home of Dr. and Mrs. Oliver Moore (daughter Gladys). Interment was in Park River. There also are buried her husband, Christen, and Elmer and Ida in a family plot of the cemetery she helped to beautify.
DESCENDANTS OF ANNA MONSON AND CHRISTEN FINNESETH Christen Finneseth and Anna Monson were married July 7, 1882 in Grand Forks, Dakota Territory. Five children were born to them: Joe Lawrence, born, April 2, 1883; Ida Blanche born June 27, 1885; Oscar Elmer, born Setp. 30, 1887; Iva Myrtle, born June 17, 1 8 9 1 ; and Gladys Mae, born June 7, 1899. All were born in Park River, except Lawrence who was born on the homestead near Garfield. The family lived on the homestead to prove a claim. In 1884 the railroad came to the area and they moved to Park River. There Christen established the first hardware store and lumber yard. The wheat wagons took grain to Grand horns and on their return brought the merchandise for the store, his mainly consisted of stoves, nails, and barbed wire. Christen later went in the mercantile business in Park River. From 1898 until 1942 this business was located in the large brick building on a corner on the East side of Main Street. It still stands, even though it was in the big fire of 1901. Lawrence, Elmer and Ida were in business with their father.
Anna's hobbies were numerous. She was never too young or too old for any of them. She was so faithful to visit the sick and bring them some of her cooking. Through the years she delighted in calling on newcomers who came to Park River. She made many beautiful doll clothes for the children. She had a habit of having various sizes on hand, so that when she called on a sick child she could fit a doll with a wardrobe. Children of.all ages called her "Grandma Finneseth." I remember an executive from Chicago, who had spent many hours in her home as a boy. On his trips to Winnipeg with his chauffeur he perhaps would make but one stop in Park River and that was with "Grandma Finneseth," to chat and enjoy her homemade cookies. So many pieces of choice china were gifts to her in appreciation for some kindness and love. Her china closet was her pride and joy. It was a large size but filled. Being a Cw\\ War orphan, she received a check from the government which she invested in the china closet. In the early years, she often assisted the doctor on cases, even bringing the patient into her home. 710
All of the children attended the Park River schools and also were members of the Lutheran Church. Their parents helped to find a location and build the first Lutheran Church in Park River. Lawrence and Aimer both enjoyed music and played in the Park River City Band. Lawrence also had an orchestra and played the clarinet at dances in the neighboring towns. Lawrence took great interest in civic events and celebrations, and he especially enjoyed organizing parades. Both Elmer and Lawrence were good hunters. Elmer was very active in sports, especially hockey and football. Aimer died young, in 1916.
parts of the world. She inherited from her mother her interest in sewing and the joy of making things for others. Just as her mother before her ("Grandma Finneseth" to countless children) she made doll clothes for many little girls. Myrtle enjoys making gifts of stitchery for her friends and has made Christmas stockings for hundreds of children, including some in Mexico, Korea and Belgium. As she looks forward to her 90th birthday, she anticipates with pleasure her next exciting voyaqe and another year of productive and joy-filled days. Gladys Finneseth married Oliver Merritt Moore, M.D., in 1921. They moved to California after he completed Rush Medical School, Chicago, and have lived in Los Angeles, Downey, Huntington Park, and San Marino. Dr. Moore was a colonel in the U. S. Army in World War II. He also served in World War I in the Medical Corps. He practiced as a physiciansurgeon for 50 years in the southeast area of Los Angeles. He served on the board of the Golden State Bank and his wife serves on this board since his death.
Lawrence married Marie Austin of St. Paul, Minn. They had one daughter, Margaret Ann, who is currently residing in Pebble Beach, Calif. She is the mother of three children — Michele, Mark and Michael Sproull. Lawrence died in 1968, and was preceded in death by his wife. Ida was a member of the P.E.O. Sisterhood, Chapter Q of Park River, as well as Rebekah Lodge and Luther League. Her main hobby was sewing and helping others with their sewing. Often in the store, she would help them lay out their patterns on the yardage she had sold them. She and her mother, Anna, found much pleasure in making dolls' clothes for children. Ida died in 1973. Myrtle spent all of her childhood and young adult life in Park River, as well as almost all of her married life. She attended business college in Grand Forks after graduating from Park River High School in 1910. Upon completion of her studies, she returned to Park River to work in the office of a local attorney. Later she spent several years with the First National Bank of Park River, working until her marriage, in 1918, to David Mills, son of Robert and Esther Hunter Mills of Park River. Myrtle is the only surviving charter member of Park River's Chapter Q of the P.E.O. Sisterhood, and last year was presented with a fifty-year pin.
Gladys attended the University of North Dakota and Heald's College in California. She enjoyed athletics and played basketball in the Park River High School team, and on the teams at the University. She later coached basketball while teaching in Dakota. She was principal in a consolidated school at Orr, and also taught physical education and commercial work in Medina, N.Dak. She was a charter member and past president of a number of medical and veteran organizations. She devoted much time to community service and philanthropy for the Children's Hospital. They have lived in San Marino, Calif., since 1957 and have three children. Donovan enlisted in the U.S. Navy, Torpedo Service, and was on active duty in the Philippines during World War II. He is currently engaged in aeronautics. (Donovan has three children: Susan, Tim and Rita.) Kathleen is the mother of two children, Shawn and Maureen Nevin. Anita is a fashion model and the mother of two daughters, Jill and Janice.
All four of David and Myrtle Finnesth Mills' children were born in Park River and attended school there, as well as being members of Our Saviour's Lutheran Church. In August of 1936, the Mills family moved to California. David Mills died in the spring of 1937. After finishing high school in Southern California, the four children graduated from various colleges in the area. During this time, the family lived in San Marino, San Gabriel, and Pasadena. In 1958 Myrtle moved to the Monterey Peninsula, where she makes her home in Pacific Grove with her daughter, Harriet, a reading specialist with the Monterey Schools. Also living in Pacific Grove is her daughter, Marjorie (Mrs. Tom Ballard), who is secretary to the commanding officer of the U.S. Navy's Fleet Numerical Oceanography Center. Myrtle's son, Robert, lives in Denver, Colo., where he is the Regional manager of Mobil Oil for the 35 western states. He and his wife have four children — Laura, Julie, John, and Anne. Mark, the oldest of Myrtle's children, lost his life in 1968 in a tragic accident at sea, in a vain attempt to rescue others who were trapped below decks. Surviving in addition to his wife are two sons, Robert and David, and a dauqhter, Leni. Myrtle Finneseth Mills has seven grandchildren and one great-grandchild, Lauri. Both Robert and Mark Mills served in the armed forces during World War II. Mark enlisted in the Royal Air Force before Pearl Harbor, and after spending mJany months training other pilots in Canada, he was sent to England and flew many figher missions over France. He remained in the R.A.F. until the end of the war. Robert enlisted in the United States Air Force after the outbreak of hostilities with Japan.
MR. AND MRS. ALEX FORD Alex Ford was born in 1919 on the farm of his parents, David and Jenny Ford. He attended grade school in one-room rural school in Kensington Township and high school at the Walsh County Agricultural School in Park River. After two years of college at North Dakota State University, he enlisted in the Army and spent four years, four months and four days in World War II serving in Ireland, Africa, and Italy where he was wounded and received the Purple Heart. Alex farmed and was a rural mail carrier for 33 years. In 1948 he married lone Erickson who was home economics instructor at the Walsh County Agricultural School for four years. lone graduated from Starkweather high school, furthered her education at Valley City State Teachers College, and graduated from N.D.S.U. in Fargo. She taught home economics for 17 years at Elgin, Park River, Hoople and Petersburg, N. Dak. lone's parents were Geline and Anton Erickson, Edmore, N, Dak. Alex and lone have three children — Jane, Trudy and Tom. All three attended grade school and high school in Park River. Jane graduated as a registered nurse from St. Luke's Hospital in Fargo where she was employed until her marriage to Curt Brown lee, an accountant for Melroe, at Gwinner, N. Dak. At present they are living in Lidgerwood, N. Dak., and Jane is
Myrtle Finneseth Mills inherited from her father her love of travel, and the last thirty years have taken her to many interesting 1
i
inception in 1976, and now is chairman of the Walsh County Social Service Board, having been a member of the board for 1 5 years; he is a supervisor of the Walsh County Soil Conservation District; chairman of the Walsh County ASCS Community Committeemen; has served on the local elevator board, being chairman in 1973-1974; and retired from the Park River Fire Department after serving the required years of service. Florice joined the Order of Eastern Star in 1945 and served as Worthy Matron of the local chapter in 1956 and again in 1977. She became a member of the P.E.O. Sisterhood in 1960 and served as president in 1971 and 1972; and has held various offices in the Federated Women's Fellowship. Tom and Pam (Hankey) Ford, Jane and Curt Brownlee, (in back) Trudy and Dean Engebretson, (in front) lone and Alex Ford.
At this writing, plans are to retire from farming.
employed at the Hankinson Hospital.
GLEN AND AVIS FORD
Trudy graduated from the University of North Dakota in special education. She taught special ed. at Cooperstown, N. Dak., and Minneapolis. She married Dean Engebretson who graduated from Trinity College in Chicago, and they are now living in Redding, Calif., where Dean is pastor of Evangelical Free Church and Trudy is employed in advertising at television station in Redding. Dean is the son of Harriet and Si Engebretson. Si was manager of the Farmers Elevator in Park River.
Glen F. Ford was born in Kensington Township, Walsh County, N. Dak., the fourth son of David and Janet Ford. He graduated from WCAS and then attended NDSU until he entered the service in August, 1942. He served in the Third Marine Division in the South Pacific until he was discharged in October, 1945.
Tom graduated from N.D.S.U. in Fargo with a degree in agricultural economics. He married Pam Hankey, daughter of Paul and Joan Hankey. She graduated from WahpetonSchool of Science as a legal secretary. They are living in Devils Lake where Tom is associated with the Federal Land Bank and Pam is employed in the Continental Telephone Company. Alex and lone are members of the Federated Church and have served on the governing board, as treasurer, taught Sunday School, and she has been active in the Women's Fellowship of the Church.
DAVID A. FORD, IV David Allin, son of David J. and Jeanette (Robb) Ford, and Florice Lillian Bakke, daughter of Thorvald and Sophia (Ellingson) Bakke, met and, having many things in common, began going together after high school which led to marriage on Dec. 4, 1943. The wedding took place at the Lutheran parsonage, Park River, with Rev. John Rockne as pastor. A reception followed at the bride's home. Before marriage Florice worked for an agricultural agency and David became a partner with his father in a farming operation. They bought a home at Code and Second Street, Park River, upon marriage and have resided there since. A daughter, Patricia Diane, was born to this marriage Feb. 2 1 , 1 9 4 6 . She attended Park River schools and graduated from Cottey College, Nevada, Mo., and Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colo., and is now married to Herman V. Novak of Grafton. They have two children — Heather and Todd. They reside in Fargo where Herman is associated with an architectural firm. Florice joined the Presbyterian Church upon her marriage to David, who was a lifetime member and is an ordained elder of the Presbyterian Church. He has served as chairman of the board several times. He joined the local Masonic Order in 1943 and served as Worshipful Master in 1948, and is a member of the Devils Lake Elks Lodge. He has been township clerk for the past 30 years, and has served on the local airport authority since its
He began farming in the Park River area. In 1949 he married Avis Hermanson, the daughter of Gilbert and Ricka Hermanson of Webster, N. Dak. Avis graduated from Concordia College, Moorhead, Minn., and previous to their marriage, taught English at Colgate, Starkweather, and Park River. From 1966 through 1 976, she taught at Pisek, N. Dak. Glen and Avis have four children. Ann, Mrs. Scott Gunderson, lives on a farm near Bathgate, N. Dak., with her husband and two children — Jennifer and Paul. Lorna, Mrs. Thomas Erovick, lives in Cavalier, N. Dak., where Tom is employed by Polar Telephone Company. They have two children — Sara and Andrew. David J. and Claudia Wright Ford live near Webster, N. Dak., where they farm with Glen and Avis. They have three children — Neil, Jessica and Meredith. Garth R. Ford is presently a senior at NDSU and plans to join his father and brother in their farming operation.
ALBERT J.GILLESPIE Albert J. Gillespie was born at Park River, Walsh County, Apr. 9, 1914, the son of Archie F. and Agnes (Storey) Gillespie. He attended the Kensington School and graduated from the Walsh County Agricultural School. In 1939, he went to Molar Barber College in Fargo, graduating in 1940. He was then employed in Cavalier, N. Dak., for a short time before returning to farming. He was drafted into the army on Oct. 10, 1941, and received his discharge in 1943. On Sept. 14, 1942, he was married to Dorothy Lewis at Reno, Nev. Dorothy was born Dec. 23, 1918, in Glasgow, Mont., to William and Hazel (Ramsey) Lewis, coming to North Dakota in 1919. She graduated from the Walsh County School and attended Union Commercial College in 1939. After working in Grand Forks for two years she went to California where she worked as a spot welder in a defense factory for a year. Following Albert's discharge from the service they returned to Park River where they farmed until 1956 when Albert started
Wedding picture of Archie F. and Agnes Gillespie (1905). Wedding picture of Albert J. Gillespie and Dorothy Lewis. (September, 1942) MR. AND MRS. OLE H. GROVEN Ole Groven was born on Aug. 2 1 , 1893, in Walsh County and lived in this area all his life. He married Christine Ellingson on Feb. 14, 1922. She was born and raised in Norway. She came here from Norway in 1911, at the age of 2 1 .
The Ole Groven Family — 1943: standing, Harlan, Carol, Marvin, Dennis; seated, lone, Ole Groven, Vernon, Christine Groven, and Vernice. Children of Albert and Dorothy Gillespie: left to right, David, Jack and Kenny. (1952) carpenter work and driving a school bus. They had four sons — John Albert (Jack), who marriedLinda Lindell; David Archie, who married Cheryl Peterson; Kenneth William, who married Marcia Johnson; arid Richard Allen, who died in infancy. The Gillespies have made their home in Park River where they own and operate a campsite.
The couple had seven children: Harlan S. Groven, Sumner, Wash.; Dennis L. Groven, Lancaster, Calif.; Mrs. Carol (Tveit) Gilgenbach, Minneapolis; Marvin J. Groven, Philip, S. Dak.; Mrs. lone (Ted) Lunde, Camos, Wash.; Mrs. Vernice (Lester) White, Puyallup, Wash.; Vernon A. Groven, Park River. Ole and Christine were members of the Zion Lutheran Church, rural Hoople. They farmed in Fertile Township until 1940. Ole Groven died July 17, 1971, at the age of 77, in Park River where they resided. Christine died on Dec. 22, 1980, at the age of 90. They had lived in Park River since 1951.
ARCHIE F.GILLESPIE Archie F. Gillespie was born to John and Sarah Gillespie, Jan. 10, 1883, in Ontario, Canada. Archie came to Walsh County with his parents, nine brothers, and one sister in 1888. He married Agnes Storey in 1905. They had four children — Albert, who lives in Park River; Lillian Warner, who lives in Hatton, N. Dak.; Robert, who died in 1964; and Ada Ratliff, who died in 1967. Archie farmed near Park River until 1949 when his health began to fail and he moved to Park River. He passed away in 1951.
MELVIN GUTTERUD Melvin Gutterud was born in Fairdale, N. Dak., on Aug. 22, 1918, and married Marget Gillespie, a native of Park River, N. Dak., born May 22, 1922. They are the parents of one daughter, Enid Maureen, born June 1, 1947. Melvin served in the 164th Infantry of the U.S. Army during World War II in the South Pacific. After his discharge he was employed as a depot agent for 35 years for the Great Northern Railway which later merged with the Burlington Northern. He
Mary Hajicek. Franklin Hajicek. and Frank Hajicek. He married Mary Nymon, and to this union three children were born — Margaret (Peggy), Kenneth, and Franklin. Margaret (Peggy) married Floyd Johnson, and they live at Hamilton, N. Dak.
Margaret and Melvin Gutterud retired in September, 1979. Margaret was employed at the Walsh County State Bank before her marriage. In December, 1953, she started work at the Agricultural Stabilization and Conservation Office and is chief program assistant.
Kenneth Hajicek Family: left to right, Avis, Pam, Micheal, and Kenneth. Kenneth lives on the homestead and is married to Avis Kennedy. They have two children, Pam and Michael. Kenneth is engaged in farming and Avis is a former teacher in the Park River school system. Franklin married Gladys Archey, and they live in Germany, where both are teaching.
JAMES V. HAJICEK HISTORY James V. Hajicek was born at Park River, Aug. 3 1 , 1 8 9 9 , to the late Frank and Mary (Kadlovec) Hajicek. On Nov. 25, 1924, he married Frances Jarus. They farmed in Golden Township, until James Hajicek passed away in April, 1975. Mrs. James Hajicek continues to live on the homestead. To this union four children were born — twins, Jimmy and Frances, born Aug. 5, 1925; Laddie, born June 7, 1933; and Lawrence, born Feb. 27, 1935.
Standing, Enid Sylvester; left to right, Sarah Sylvester, Jack Sylvester, and Matthew Sylvester. Enid married Jack Sylvester in Our Saviour's Lutheran Church in Park River on Aug. 3 1 , 1 9 6 9 . They have two children — Matthew John, born July 1 6, 1972, and Sarah Margaret, born Jan. 12, 1975. They live in Mankato, Minn., where Jack is employed as a certified safety inspector for employees of Wassau Insurance Company.
FRANK HAJICEK HISTORY Five generations of the Hajicek Family: Mrs. Josephine (Vislisel) Kadlovec, Mrs. Mary (Kadlovec) Hajicek, Margaret Lien, Mrs. Frances (Hajicek) Lien, and James Hajicek.
Frank Hajicek, born Oct. 24, 1901, at Park River, N. Dak., to Frank and Mary (Kadlovec) Hajicek, lived and farmed in Vernon Township until his death on Apr. 16, 1980. 4
The James Hajicek Family: left to right, seated, Frances and James; standing, Lawrence, Frances, and Laddie. Frances married Ernest Lien on March 18, 1943, and they reside in Park River. They have three children — Margaret, Viola, and Ernest, Jr. Margaret married Lavern Chaput, and they farm at Langdon, N. Dak., and have five children — Roger, Marilyn, Laurie, Janet and Jolyn. Viola married Robert Johnson, and they live in Park River, and have three sons — Larry, Terry, and Raymond. Robert is a pilot and is engaged in crop spraying, working for the Park River Airport. Ernest, Jr., lives at Wahpton, N. Dak., and does trucking.
The Lawrence Hajicek Family: left to right. Randy, Marie, Brenda. Terry, Lawrence, James; sitting in front, Kathy. by Carr's Tree Service; Randy, a teacher at Northwood, N. Dak.; Terry, a teacher at Belcourt, N. Dak. married to Brenda Slater, have two sons, Shannon and Mark. Kathy lives at home. Jimmy Hajicek died in January, 1971. PETE AND MAY HANSON Editor's Note: This column, on Pete and May Hanson, appeared in the Grafton Record May 24, 1980. Both Pete and May have passed on, Pete, May 30, 1980, and May in October, 1980. "And Man not old, but mellow, like good wine," Stephen Phillips says in "Ulysses."
The Ernest Lien Family: left to right, seated, Ernest, Frances; standing, Ernest, Jr., Margaret, and Viola. Laddie married Marion Moen on March 4, 1954. Laddie died in April, 1976. They have six children — Jeff, Williston, N. Dak., married Valery Midgarden, and is a foreman for a large contracting company from Bismarck; they have one son, Tyson James. Gary, Park River, lives on the homestead of his maternal grandparents, Henry and Inga (Gaarder) Moen, and he is also in construction. Laurie, Carole, and John live at home. A son, David Luther, died in infancy. Lawrence married Marie Radliff, and they live in Park River. Lawrence is employed for the Walsh County Highway Department. Marie is a Junior High teacher at Park River High School. They have four children — James. Park River, employed
He has aged like a good wine; toned by the lapse of time. Although Pete Hanson of Park River may be more than 100 years old, his mind and appearance belie the fact. They say facial wrinkles tell much about a person's life. Pete has few of these telltale signs of living. But, live he has. Much of it came to the surface of an extremely spry mind during a recent visit with the centenarian. As I arrived for the visit I was immediately taken aback by this fastidious man whom I had not met previously. He was somewhat miffed because earlier in the day he and his wife, May, had gone shopping for new shirts and they were unable to find any long sleeved ones to his liking. In his indignation Pete said, "I hate plaids," and added "when they (oldsters) get along in years they get wrinkles." He knew what he wanted and would search further. Although the intent of the interview was his many years as an implement and automobile dealer in Adams, bits and pieces of
this amazing man and his life in general surfaced. It would have been difficult not to picture the total man. After all, this tenacious man continues to be what he always was. He holds with "oldfashioned" ideals. It was back in 1915 that Pete bought into the "run down" business and proceeded to build it up so that eventually he had customers in a five-county area. Incidentally, the venture also included a lucrative hardware business.
Pete is especially proud of the fact that they retired with nary an enemy. They moved to thier present home in Park River in 1949 and it is there they celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. He and May Pederson were married in 1927. Pete previously had been married for 10 years to Agnes O'Brien who died in 1913. They had six children. In all there are eight grandchildren, twentythree great-grandchildren and seven great-great-grandchildren.
In the beginning Pete sold horse-drawn machinery. He remembers the oil-pull Rumely and Altman Taylor tractors that could pull 36-inch separators (thrashing machines). Some of those tractors sold for as much as $5,000. Later in 1946 he was to sell International Harvester 1530 tractors and a similar sized John Deere (large enough to pull four-bottom plows) for $ 1,800.
It also was at this home where Pete observed his 100th birthday last October. It was a day he still talks about and he fondly refers to the more than 300 people who came to call and the box containing cards of best wishes too heavy to lift.
"That was my big year," he says of 1917 when he sold 76 automobiles, which included his best seller the Overland. Prices were from $600 and up. Bartering, in some cases Pete was paid with a horse or two. Horsetrading to the sum of 100, Hanson sold the horses to Bert Stary who in turn resold them to the United States Army. " I never borrowed a nickel," Pete says with pride about his business. When dealing with the companies with which he did business he received a discount by making his payments on time and paid cash for the large inventory of parts that he maintained. In one dry year he sold 1,500 plow shares. "There wasn't a man or woman except myself who sold," he said candidly in reference to the lack of salesmen in his employ. He claims all his customers were his friends. As an indication of his salesmanship he remembers, " I was a hard loser if I lost out on a deal." "All I've known most of my life is work," says the man who survived the years of the Great Depression in the 1930's. He kept long hours at his place of business — sometimes from 5 a.m. to 2 a.m. He likes to tell the story of the farmers who would come to town to sell their cream, do some shopping and perhaps spend some time visiting with their neighbors in the local pub. Their last stop of the day — or early the next morning — would be Pete's place. Pete remembers one farmer asking, "Are you already closed," at 2 a.m. Pete admits he didn't run his business single-handed (there were other partners over the years). One of his most trusted coworkers was his wife, May, who tended the books, collected money, drove delivery trucks and manned the parts department. It was a real ma and pop partnership. Verbal agreements were the name of the game when it came to dealing with his customers. No one was ever sued for nonpayment and most collecting was done in the fall of the year when the grain was sold. Most accounts were carried from fall to fall with no attached interest according to Pete. Four to five percent interest was charged on notes. lt was in the fall of 1945 that a difficult decision had to be made. Pete had to choose between handling the John Deer or the Internal Harvester line. Going were the days of dual dealerships. After meeting with the John Deere block man who agreed to Pete's terms that included doubling his (war time) contract allotment from $20,000 to $40,000 of machinery and parts and to give him another year before he had to close out the one line in order to find another suitable dealer for the International Harvester. Pete chose to stay with the John Deere Company. When they finally retired in 1946 after 30 years of business
This feisty man still drives an automobile and is proud of his "clean" driving record. He will be 102 when his present driver's license expires. He is interesting and interested. He hasn't lost his sense of humor and although he has no sight or hearing problems he has difficulty getting around, but get about he does with the help of his constant companions, a cane or walker and May. He says of his appearance (he's proud of the face that is free of the typical signs of aging) that he used to be five feet ten and one half inches tall "if you stretched me out." No, he hasn't lost his sense of humor or interest in the world about him. As far as the state of the present economic condition of the country is concerned, Pete has this to say: "I'd rather go back to those days (the 1930's) than start in business today." Politically, he figures there has to be a change. It was time to end the visit and that fact was brought home clearly when the man in the easy chair modestly said, "Whoever reads this will go to sleep." Yes, it was time to leave. As I wished this amazing couple well Pete's parting remark was "Well, I'm still alive," as if surprised himself. By Rae Desautel, writer of the Nash Rambler.
THEODORE AND MINNIE HANSON FAMILY Theodore (Ted) Hanson was born Oct. 27, 1914, in the Hoople, N. Dak., area, the son of Gullick and Annie Hanson. Ted was one of eleven children. The Hansons farmed in the Park River and Adams areas. When the family was living on the Dougherty farm, southeast of Adams, Ted remembers, at the age of eleven, working in the fields walking behind a drag; also plowing with six horses and four lines, in the hills and rocks, and often a mile or more from home. He remembers falling forward in front of a disk, with one leg between the disk underneath and the other leg over the top before he got the horses stopped. He lay there from 8:00 o'clock in the morning until 12:00 o'clock noon when his brothers, Henry and Oscar, came by with their outfits on their way home. Ted helped his father raise potatoes in the area and even raised a few of his own in the 1930's. Ted spent the year of 1934 in the Civilian Conservation Corps in Carrington, N. Dak., and Carlton, Minn. This involved work in building dams and in the forestry service. He worked in the Park River area for various farmers. In 1948 Ted started his employment with Park River Potato Co., then owned by Meagher, Meagher and Kenney. This move was to become a major factor in his life. He was grading foreman for the first few years when the company only handled dry graded potatoes. Ted recalls when potatoes were picked by hand and pickers had to be recruited from throughout the Midwest. Among
the first in the Red River Valley, Park River Potato Co. switched to mechanical harvesting in 1950, bringing an end to a backbreaking era. In the fall of 1950 the company built one of the first potato wash plants in Park River where Ted started as plant manager. Before long he was promoted to plant superintendent and was in charge of quality control for the wash plant. In 1957 Ted became part owner of the company with J. C. Kenney. In 1969 Park River Potato Co. was sold to ten area people with Ted being one of the new group of partners. Ted remained as plant superintendent until his retirement in December, 1979.
Beulah and Bert Hardy to Sylvanus and Margaret Hardy. He spent his early life in Crystal and moved to Park River in 1921. He married Beulah Dalton on Dec. 28, 1922. Bert was a Veteran of World War I and a charter member of the Walhalla Legion post. He managed Douglas Farms from 1923-1937. He was a Chevrolet dealer from 1938 until he retired in 1 960. Bert and Beulah have both been active in community affairs. Bert served on the City Council for many years and both have worked for the Legion and Legion Auxiliary and their projects as well as for St. Ansgar's Hospital and the Auxiliary in Park River. They have two sons, Dalton Scott and James Dean, and two daughters, Kay Morey (Brown) and Mary Keitha (OToole). Bert Hardy died in May, 1972. Theodore and Minnie (Larson) Hanson
HAROLD S. AND EDITH HARRIS
On Dec. 5, 1938, Ted married Minnie Larson, daughter of Axel and Bertha Larson, rural Park River. Minnie was born Nov. 19, 1915, in rural Park River and grew up and worked in the surrounding area. Ted and Minnie raised two children — David and Julianne. David married the former Barbara Vadakin of Harrington, Del., on March 25, 1972. They reside in San Diego, Calif. Julianne also resides in San Diego.
Both Harold S. and Edith Harris are Park River natives. Harold's parents were Lloyd H. and Alma G. Harris; and Edith is a daughterof Lars and Emma Larson. After graduation from the Walsh County Agricultural School, Harold went to work for the Coca-Cola Bottling Company in Grand Forks. Edith attended the Interstate Business College in Fargo and upon completion of studies, worked for a collection agency in Fargo. The couple were married in October, 1941, at the Zion Lutheran Church, rural Hoople. They lived in Grand Forks until Harold was drafted into the service in February, 1942. He returned in October, 1946.
Minnie, Theodore, Julianne, David and Barbara Hanson. Ted and Minnie Hanson are members of Our Saviour's Lutheran Church in Park River. Ted has served on the board of trustees and as head usher. Minnie has taught Sunday School and served on the board of education and is active in A.L.C.W. She is a member of the Harmony Homemakers Club. Ted is an avid hunter and fisherman. He enjoys bowling and golfing and all sports. JAMES BERT HARDY Edith and Harold 5. Harris
J. Bert Hardy was born in Crystal, N. Dak., June 22, 1893, 717
He then took over the Recreation Parlor in Park River that his mother, Alma G. Harris, had operated after the death of Lloyd Harris. Harold has been on medical retirement since 1968. Edith recently retired after almost 24 years of work with the USDA, Farmers Home Administration Office, in Park River. Harold is a member of the American Legion, the Walsh County Historical Society, and is active in the local Senior Citizens organization. Edith is a member of the Rebekah Lodge and Tri-County Legal Secretaries. They are members of the Federated Church in Park River. The couple have two children. Harold S. Harris, Jr., is married to Lynda Montaque, also a Park River native; they live in Watertown, Wise, and are the parents of three children - Leslie Ann, Jeffrey, and Douglas. Harold has a private dental practice. Ann Lorene Harris is married to Orell D. Schmitz of Williston. The family lives in Bismarck, N. Dak., where Orell has a law practice. They are parents of three children — Kara, Todd, and Bradley.
LLOYD H. AND ALMA G. HARRIS Lloyd Harris, a lifelong resident of Park River, was a son of Moses and Elizabeth Harris, pioneers of this area, and was born on May 18, 1894. On Oct. 25, 1916, he was married to Alma Thompson, daughter of T. T. and Jennie Thompson, also pioneers of Park River. They farmed for several years and in 1928 moved into Park River where they operated a recreation parlor.
HISTORY OF FRED AND BERNICE HUNKING FAMILY Bemice Clemens Hunking, the sixth child of John and Amanda Nelson Clemens, was born at Oslo, Minn., on May 25, 1918. She remained at Oslo until she was four years of age. At this time she moved with her family to Adams, N. Dak. At the age of five, she went with her mother and brother to the Syvert Sunderland farm, near Adams, which became her home.
Bernice (Clemens) and Fred Hunking Bernice attended the Silvesta Country School through the eighth grade. For several years she worked for different people doing odd jobs. On Nov. 17, 1936, she was married to Fred Hunking. At the present, she is employed at the Grafton State School as a seamstress. Fred Hunking, the son of William and Ida Foster Hunking, was born at Winnepogosis, Man., Canada, on Sept. 29, 1909. At the age of four he moved to Inkster, N. Dak., with his family. He graduated from the Inkster High School, in 1928, and worked as a" farm laborer until his marriage to Bernice Clemens on Nov. 17, 1936. They settled in Park River where Fred was a custodian at the Walsh County Agriculture School for 37 years until he retired Jan. 1, 1975. They are presently living in Park River. They are members of Our Saviour's Lutheran Church at Park River. They have four children: Floyd, Ronald, Linda, and Sterling.
Lloyd H. and Alma G Harris (1939) Lloyd was a member of the Golden Valley Masonic Lodge in Park River, and of the Royal Arch Masons of Grafton. He was an Odd Fellow and was a past grand of the local IOOF Lodge. Alma G. Harris was the organist for the Federated Church for many years. She was active in the Eastern Star and Rebekahs. She was a past state assembly president of the Rebekahs. She composed and compiled the music book that is now the official music, used internationally, in the Rebekah Lodge. She was born on Feb. 13, 1898, and died in February, 1961. Lloyd died in August, 1941. They are interred in the Memorial Park Cemetery of Park River. They had two children: Harold S. Harris, who is living in Park River, and a daughter, Jean, who is Mrs. William Vickers, and lives in San Lorenzo, Calif. There are four grandchildren: Harold S. Harris, Jr., and Ann Lorene Schmitz, as well as Margaret Yashu and Stephen Vickers.
FLOYD HUNKING
Loila and Floyd Hunking, and Jeffrey Scott, center.
Floyd Hunking, the son of Bernice and Fred Hunking, was bom in Park River, N. Dak. He attended the Park River schools and went on to attend Valley City State Teacher's College and Mankato State College. He attained his specialist degree in school counseling at the University of South Dakota. Floyd married Loila Belcher, from Fessenden, N. Dak., Dec. 29, 1 961. They have one child, Jeffrey Scott, born in 1 963. Floyd taught at Bowman, N. Dak., Sioux Falls, S. Dak., and is presently director of gifted education for the Sioux Falls Public School District. The family attends the Crestwood Community Church and resides at 2309 South Stephen Ave., Sioux Falls, S. Dak.
RONALD AND JANA HUNKING Ronald L. Hunking, known as "Red," was born on July 5, 1940, in Park River, N. Dak., to Fred and Bernice Hunking. He attended the Walsh County Ag School, graduating in 1 958, then entered college: Valley City State College where he graduated in 1972 with a teacher's credential. "Red" went to Lompoc, Calif, in 1966 and began working at Federal Electric Corp., at Vandenberg Air Force Base. He then worked for the Lompoc School District from 1969 to 1 975 as a teacher and substitute. In 1975 "Red" and his wife bought the L.P.I. Cocktail Lounge in Lompoc and are currently running the business. Their partners in the business are Harlan and Carrie Larson, also of Lompoc, but formerly from Park River.
Linda (Hunking) and David Kyle Family: Charles, Linda, Suzanne, Nancy, Daniel, and David. 20, 1944. She attended school in Park River and graduated from the Walsh County Agricultural School in 1962. She attended Mayville State Teacher's College for two years and graduated in 1967 from St. Andrew's School of Nursing, Bottineau, as a registered nurse. In 1969 she was married to David Kyle. They have four children: Daniel, born Apr. 23, 1971; Nancy, born June 6, 1974; Suzanne, born Jan. 14, 1976; and Charles, born Jan. 17, 1978. Presently they are living in the Bottineau, N. Dak., area where they have a grain and cattle farm.
STERLING GARVEY HUNKING Sterling Garvey Hunking was born on July 16, 1948, in Grafton, N. Dak., and spent all of his formative years in Park River. He attended elementary and high school in Park River, graduating from Walsh County Agriclutural School in 1966. He attended North Dakota State University during the 1966-67 school year, and Sioux Falls College in Sioux Falls, S. Dak., from 1967 to 1970, graduating in 1970 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in sociology. He attended the University of Texas at Arlington from 1972 to 1974, graduating in the latter year-with a Master of Science Degree in administration and planning. Sterling served in the U.S. Army from August, 1970, to August, 1972. Most of, his service was at Fort Benning, Ga., in the medical service corps. Sterling worked from 1974 to 1977 as a Health Planning Associate with the North Central Texas Council of Governments Jana and Ronald (Red) Hunking and Jason Green "Red" married Jana Marie Green in Solvang, Calif., on Aug. 15, 1970. Her parents are Wallace and Elinor Green of Scortsdale, Ariz.. She graduated from Camelback High School in Phoenix, Ariz., in 1965, and from Northern Arizona University. Flagstaff, Ariz., in 1969. Jana came to Lompoc in 1969 and has been teaching science at the junior high level since that year. Jana was born in Phoenix, Ariz., on May 1 7, 1947. "Red" and Jana have one child, a boy named Jason Green Hunking, born on Feb. 25, 1 979, in Lompoc, Calif. "Red" is a member of the Lompoc Lodges of Elks, Moose, and American Legion, and the Lompoc Chamber of Commerce.
LINDA HUNKING KYLE Linda Hunking Kyle was born in Grafton, N. Dak., on Oct.
Sterling Hunking Family — Joan (Bateman) Hunking, Philip. Gretchen. Sterling, anddrant.
in Arlington, Tex. During the period of 1977 to 1979 he worked as the Director of Project Review with the Texas Area Five Health Systems Agency. From December, 1979, to the present he has been employed as a hospital consultant with the firm of James A. Hamilton, Associates. Sterling was married to Joan Leslie Bateman on Oct. 18, 1969 In married life they have lived in three different states South Dakota, Georgia, and Texas. They have three children (each born in a different state), Grant Thomas, Gretchen Anne, and Philip Sterling, ages 10, 8, and 3 years, respectively. In 1980, they had been living in Arlington, Tex., for eight years. They are members of Grace Lutheran Church in that city.
BEN INGULSRUD FAMILY Ben Ingulsrud was born Feb. 8, 1884, to Ole and Margit (Haslekaas) Ingulsrud in Telemarken, Norway. When he was one year old, he and his three older brothers, Big Ole, Little Ole, and Lars emigrated to America wiih their parents and homesteaded in Osford Township, Cavalier County, in 1885. In 1888, a daughter, Annie, was born. Their mother, Margit, who,was born in 1842, contacted typhoid fever and died in 1889. Six weeks later, their father, who was born in 1835, also died of the same disease. The children were then cared for by the Martin Hanson family who rented the land. Tragedy again struck the family in 1906, when Annie, at the age of 18, was shot to death by a young man from Fairdale while she was at work there. The boys, too, had to get out on their own at an early age and received very little schooling.
opportunities Roosevelt provided for the working people. They were very patriotic. They heard that President Roosevelt, who was traveling by rail, was to make a stop at Devils Lake while visiting North Dakota. In spite of the hard times, they felt this would be the only chance in their lifetime to see a president of the United States, so the family made the trip to Devils Lake to see him and to hear him speak. To this union four children were born. They were Dorothy Marie, born Dec. 14, 1920; she married Kenneth Axvig and they have three sons: Keith Odin who has twin daughters, Connie Louise and Corrie Louise; Dale Kenneth who has two daughters, Kristin Kaye, Amy Lynn and a son, Chad Dale; and their youngest son, David Bruce. More history will be found under Axvig and Bernston in Silvesta Township. Bethel Adeline was born March 28, 1922, and married Erwin Cudmore; they have four children: Adele Erna who married Leonard Momerak and has three children: Alyson Beth, Brenda Caye and William (Billy) Erwin. Lee Erwin was born March 28, 1945 and married Elaine Amundson. They have a son Robert Lee and a daughter, Rhonda Elaine. Larry Duane was'born July 13, 1950 and married Wendy Hanson. They have two sons Timothy Jon and Matthew Lee. Cynthia (Cyndie) Caye was born June 14, 1956, and married Richard Perkerewicz; they have two sons, Jedidiah James and Michael Anthony. Further details will be given under Cudmore in Kensington Township and Bernson in Silvesta Township.
Ben married Mary Louise Berntson, a daughter of Nels and Anne (Larson) Berntson. They lived on a farm near Bladworth, Sask., Can., for a few years. While there they had twins, George and Anna, who were born prematurely and lived just a short time. Their next move was to Derrick, N. Dak., where a daughter, Laura Miranda, was born Feb. 2, 1912. Three years later, they moved to the Ingulsrud homestead and Margaret Amanda was born there Nov. 23, 1916. Their mother, Mary, passed away at a Grand Forks Hospital in February, 1919, and the children were cared for in the Grandma and Grandpa Berntson home.
The Ingulsrud Trio, Dorothy, Eleanor, Bethel.
On March 10, 1920, Ben and Amanda May Berntson were married at her home in Silvesta Township by Rev. P. O. Laurhammer. More of Amanda's history will be found under Nels Berntson. Ben was a lifelong member of the Hitterdal Lutheran Free Church, served on the church board, taught Sunday School many years, was treasurer of Osford School District No. 4 for many years, and was foreman of a WPA crew that built a dam in Cavalier County during Franklin Delano Roosevelt's Administration as President of the United States. Although Ben and Amanda were staunch Republicans, they were grateful for the
Eleanor Violet was born Feb. 24, 1925, and was married to Kenneth Fjeld; they have four children: Mark Kenneth who married Jana Clemens and has two sons, Ryan Tyler and Rory Kyler; Marsha Ellen who married Earl Axvig and has one son, Matthew Jon, and two daughters, Michelle Renae and Sally Jo. A son, Jonathan Shane; and Teresa Holly, who married Tim Gire and'is expecting their first child. More history will be found under Fjeld in Golden Township and Berntson in Silvesta Township. Olger (Bud) Neil was born Aug. 29, 1926, and married Jane Martin. They have three sons: Clark Neil, who has one daughter, Lisa, and twin boys, Chris and Eric; Warren Lee, who has one son, Derick; and their youngest son, Rodger Dean. Ben and Amanda left the farm in October, 1942, and purchased a home on 5th St. West in Park River, the present site of Mrs. Victor Sturlaugson's new home. Ben was employed at Skjerven's Garage and Amanda, at Sam Ebbson's Tailor Shop and Service Cleaners. In January, 1944, Ben began working in the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard at Bremerton, Wash. Amanda, Eleanor and Bud followed in May and were all employed there. Eleanor returned in 1944 and Bud enlisted in the Navy. Ben and Amanda returned to Park River in 1945. He then worked in the maintenance department at WCAS until he was injured falling downstairs.
Ben Ingulsrud Family: left to right, standing, Margaret, Eleanor, Laura; seated, Dorothy, Bethel, Ben, Amanda, Olger. 720
When he recovered, he sold Raleigh Products in the Park River area for a couple years until his failing health didn't permit him to continue. He was hospitalized at the Grafton Deaconess Hospital and passed away there in October, 1950. He was laid to rest in the Hitterdal Cemetery between Mary and Amanda. Rev. P.O. Laurhammer officiated at his funeral service at the Hitterdal Lutheran Free Church.
in Grafton in 1951. He is married now and has three children — Lisa, Chris and Eric. He is employed at the Puget Sound Shipyard. The second son, Warren, was bom in 1953 in Washington. He is married and has one son, Derick. He is employed at Puget Sound -Naval Shipyard. The third son, Rodger, was born in 1954 in Washington. He is employed at the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard also.
After working in the Midget Cafe in Park River, as the baker, for about three years, Amanda purchased the business from Mrs. Carl Mattson in 1948 and she retired Dec. 3 1 , 1 9 6 5 . She was hospitalized the following January and spent the rest of the winter with her daughter, Bethel. She then lived in her own home until she was again hospitalized in the fall of 1967 and died at the Grafton Deaconess Hospital in October of that same year.
Olger and Jane moved to Bremerton, Wash., in 1953, and have been residents of Port Orchard, Wash., since 1957.
Because of the merger of the Lutheran Free Church with the American Lutheran Church, she joined the Bethel Free Lutheran (AFLC) in Grafton that was built in 1 964. Her funeral service was the first one held in this new church. Amanda's nephew, Rev. Gordon Berntson, had the family service at the Overby Funeral Home in Park River and assisted Rev. David Molstre with the service at Bethel Free. She was laid to rest beside Ben in the Hitterdal Cemetery. Ben and Amanda left a deep impression on their family to lead a Christian life, attend church, Sunday School and Luther League. They all enjoyed singing and all participated in that capacity at many functions. As teenagers, "The Ingulsrud Trio," composed of Dorotliy, Bethel and Eleanor, was kept especially busy during the summer months. The trio has performed occasionally since they married. The farthest they traveled to perform was to Port Orchard, Wash., for Bud and Jane's silver wedding anniversary in 1975. The last time they performed was at Cyndie (Cudmore) and Richard Perkerewicz's wedding at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church in Park River, Apr. 24, 1976.
OLGER INGULSRUD FAMILY Olger N. Ingulsrud, a son of Ben and Amanda (Berntson) Ingulsrud and a grandson of Nels Berntson of Silvesta Township, was born at the Ingulsrud Farm, 6K2 miles south of Milton, on Aug. 29, 1926. The family moved to Park River in 1942 and he attended high school there. He attended elementary school at Osford Township in Cavalier County and graduated from high school in Park River in 1944. After graduation, he attended the State School of Science at Wahpeton and Olympic College in Bremerton, Wash.
NORMAN A. AND FERN M. ISAACSON Norman A. Isaacson was born Sept. 25, 1915, at Rugby, N. Dak., the youngest of three children born to August S. Isaacson and Nora (Olson) Isaacson. August S. Isaacson was born in Harstad, Norway, and was a Spanish American War Veteran. August was well known throughout North Dakota as a salesman for Bergseth Fish Company and later as an agent for Lutheran Brotherhood Insurance. Nora (Olson) Isaacson was born in Brooklyn, New York, where her family was engaged in the shipbuilding industry. Norman has a brother, S. Chester Isaacson, of Vancouver, Wash., and a sister, Mrs. Clayton A. (Mabel) Hanson of Seattle. Norman Isaacson is a graduate of Rugby High School where he excelled in tennis and baseball. He was graduated from high school in 1933 and went to work in a grocery store. He was inducted into the United States Army on April 24, 1941, and served overseas as a combat infantryman radio operator for two and one-half years in the Algeria-French Morocco, Tunisia, Naples-Foggia, Rome-Arno and North Apennines battles and campaigns. He was wounded on Nov. 14, 1943, and again on Sept. 18, 1944. Norman A. Isaacson is the recipient of the Distinguished Unit Citation Badge, Bronze Star Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Purple Heart, Oak Leaf Cluster, EuropeanAfrican—Middle Eastern Theater Service Medal, American Defense Service Medal and Five overseas Service Bars. He was honorably discharged on June 29, 1945. Norman was employed for thirty-three (33) years by the Great Northern Railway Company which later merged and became Burlington Northeran Railway Company, from which he retired on June 3, 1977. Isaacson is a member of the American Legion, Disabled American Veterans, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Retired Railway Workers Association, and a former member of the Park River Fire
Olger served in the U. S. Navy from June, 1944, to June, 1946. He was aboard a destroyer in the Pacific theater during World War II. He also served in the U.S. Navy from May, 1951, to September, 1952, and was aboard a destroyer at Korea. He enjoys boating, skiing, camping and traveling. Olger is employed by the U. S. Department of Defense, Puget Sound Naval Shipyard at Bremerton, Wash. He is general foreman of the shipyard electrical shop. Olger married Jane A. Martin, in 1950, in Park River. Jane is the daughter of Maurice Martin who was born at Park River in 1888 and lived in Park River until 1910 when he left to homestead in Canada. She is the granddaughter of Peter and Augusta Martin who homesteaded the present Clayton Cudmore farm. Augusta Martin died in 1953. Jane attended high school in Park River, in 1949, and she also attended Olympic College. Her hobby is oil painting. Olger and Jane have three sons. Clark, the oldest, was born
Picture of Norman A. and Fern M. Landsborough Isaacson at wedding reception. (June, 1947)
Department, Commercial Club, Hillcrest Golf Club and Bowling Associations. He now enjoys gardening and hunting. Norman A. Isaacson and Fern M. (Landsborough) Isaacson were married at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Park River, N. Dak., on June 14, 1947. They have no children. Fern M. Landsborough was born April 13, 1920, at Park River N Dak., the oldest of the three daughters born to Elmer R. Landsborough and Mabel E. (O'Rourke) Landsborough whose heritages are shown on Page 697, Volume Two of Walsh Heritage, Walsh County, North' Dakota. She has two sisters, Mrs. Marvin (Geraldine F.) Sorenson of Park River. N. Dak., and Mrs. Virginia M. Whalen of Omaha, Neb. Fern is a graduate of Walsh County Agricultural and Training High School at Park River; attended Union Commercial College, Grand Forks, N. Dak.; and Long Beach Polytechnical School, Long Beach,' Calif. While in California, she was employed by a law firm and by Douglas Air Craft Company. After returning to North Dakota, due to her father's illness, she assisted him in managing his business enterprises. Her father's business was closed in November of 1955. Fern was then employed as a legal secretary and legal assistant to Elton W. Ringsak who established the Ringsak, Webb, Rice, & Metelmann Law Firm in Grafton, N. Dak. Fern retired from her job there on July 1, 1979, after twenty-three years of service. She is presently the duly elected Walsh County Public Administrator, a position she has held for sixteen years. Mrs. Isaacson is a past president of the Hillcrest Country Club Auxiliary; past treasurer of the American Legion Auxiliary; a member of St. Ansgar's Hospital Auxiliary; a member of TriCounty Legal Secretaries Association, and of the National Association of Legal Assistants. She is a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church and Altar Society in Park River. Mr. and Mrs. Norman A. Isaacson are residents of the City of Park River.
LUDVIG WILLIAM JOHNSON Ludvig William Johnson was born in Edmore, N. Dak., to William and Gena Johnson. William Johnson was the son of Olaus and Maria Johnson who homesteaded north of Park River. Ludvig, better known as Tookie, came to Park River after the death of his parents at the age of 11 and attended grade and high school in Park River. Tookie attended Minot State Teachers College before entering the Navy to serve in World War II. After completing four years in the Navy, Tookie returned to Park River and maried Ruth Setterstrom, daughter of Rev. and Mrs. Setterstrom. Rev. Setterstrom was minister of the Federated Church in Park River for seven years. Tookie worked in the area for the.H.D. Long Farm and Seed Company and then farmed for himself as a potato and grain farmer. Tookie has four sisters — Mrs. Ernest Matejcek (Ruth) of Owatonna, Minn.; Mrs. Gordon Graving (Hazel, Mankato, Minn.; Mrs. Paul Wobbe (Virginia), Sebeka, Minn.; and Mrs. Stanley Erickson (Mildred), Haydon Lake, Idaho. Ruth and Tookie are the parents of three children. A son, Richard G. Johnson, Laurel, Md., married Judith Mitchell of Silver Springs, Md., and they have two children, Karen and David. Lois Jill Haakenson, Raleigh, N. Car., married Dr. Gary A. Haakenson, formerly of Bismarck, N. Dak., and they have three children — Marc, Eric and Kristine. Another son, Kent William Johnson, West Fargo, N. Dak., is married to Laurie Hurtt of Hoople whose parents are Hamilton and Marilyn Hurtt.
Richard is a CPA for the water department of sanitation of Prince Georges County, Md.; Jill is a registered nurse and a housewife; and Kent works for the Goodyear Company. Tookie is presently retired and Ruth works for Montana-Dakota Utility Company in Park River. Tookie is a past commander of the Paul Farup Legion Post; a former city council member; a retired fireman; member of Golden Valley Masonic Lodge; member of the Methodist Church; a past president of PTA and Band Boosters Club; and is an avid sportsman and a devoted golfer. He has been active in many community and church affairs.
KEN KOVARIK Mr. and Mrs. Ken Kovarik were married Nov. 28, 1970, Ken is the son of Rudolph and Mildred (Balek) Kovarik of Lankin, N. Dak., and his wife, Pat, is the daughter of Louis J. and Marey (Schanilec) Kadlec of Pisek, N. Dak. They have three sons - all attending Park River Elementary School. Chris is in the fourth grade; Brice is in the second grade; and Mike is in the first grade. Ken received his education at Adams High School and Mayville State College, graduating from college in 1973. He taught.second and third grade and music at Tappen, N. Dak., for one year and taught fourth grade at Park River, N. Dak., for four years and physical education for one year. In June, 1979, he became a full-time insurance agent for American Family Insurance in Park River. Ken is a member of the Knights of Columbus, St. Mary's Men's Club, Lions, and is on the advisory board for the Walsh Credit Union. A graduate of Pisek High School, Pat attended the North Dakota State University and Mayville State College. She is presently working in her husband's insurance office. Pat is a member of the St. Mary's Altar Society and the Archconfraternity of Christian Mothers.
SAMUEL H. LANDSBOROUGH DESCENDANTS Obituary (Taken in part from the Gazette, 1896) It is with feeling of the deepest regret, that the Gazette is this week called upon to chronicle the death of one of our well-known and highly respected citizens, in the person of Evelyn M. Harris, beloved wife of Samuel H. Landsborough, who died at her home on the morning of December 12th. Mrs. Landsborough was born in Howick Township. Huron Countv, Ontario, on Feb. 10. 1870, and was therefore in her twenty-sixth year. She was of a very bright cheerful disposition and greatly beloved by all who knew her. Her remains were laid to rest in the Park River Cemetery on Monday the 14th instant and the funeral was one of the largest ever seen in this part of the country. The service was held in the Presbyterian Church of which she was a member and the esteem in which she was held was abundantly testified by the number which assembled to pay their last tribute of respect to one whose removal is so deeply lamented. The Foresters attended in a body as an expression of their sympathy to their brother in his bereavement. The funeral service was conducted by the Rev. W. J. Hall, who preached a very impressive sermon on the necessity of being prepared when the "silent messenger" shall come. She leaves behind her a sorrowing husband and two small children to mourn the loss of a loving wife and affectionate mother. The heartfelt sympathy of the whole community is extended to the bereaved husband and friends in this, their hour of affliction.
THE ELMER RAY LANDSBOROUGH FAMILY Elmer Ray Landsborough was born May 30, 1 8 9 1 , and died June 9. 1962, at 71 years. He married Mabel Edith O'Rourke at Woonsocket, S. Dak., on June 18, 1919. Mabel was born in Green County, Wise, on Apr. 15, 1892, and died Sept. 29, 1976, at St. Ansgar's Hospital, Park River, N. Dak. Mabel was the oldest of ten children. She came to Park River as a milliner and worked for Fred and Janet Walstrom. Mabel was an active member of St. Mary's Church and Altar Society; was a charter member of the American Legion Auxiliary and did a great deal of work for the child welfare programs. Mabel will be remembered as having saved the life of a three-year-old child that would have drowned if she had not jumped into the water and pulled the child to safety and administered artificial respiration to the child. Elmer was an active businessman in Park River for forty-two years. Besides his farming interests, he began with a meat market and grocery store, then expanded to a liquor store and the towns first meat locker plant. Later he built a new building to house four new bowling lanes and a lunch counter. These buildings are still located at the corner of Briggs and Fourth Street in Park River, N. Dak. Elmer served as a city alderman for seventeen years and was president during most of those years. He was active in many other civic organizations, as well as being a charter member of the American Legion and its Commander. Elmer was a veteran of World War I. Elmer and Mabel Landsborough were the parents of three daughters — Fern M. Landsborough Isaacson, Virginia M. Landsborough Whalen, and Geraldine F. Landsborough Sorenson. They also have two grandchildren: John L. Wahlen and Keith M. Sorenson. Fern N. Landsborough Isaacson was born April 13, 1920; married on June 14, 1947, to Norman A. Isaacson who was born Sept. 25, 1915. They have no children. Virginia M. Landsborough, bom Aug. 1 1 , 1922, was married on Sept. 23, 1944, to James John A. Whalen. They have one son, John Ladd Whalen, born March 30, 1946, who was married on July 5, 1970, to Sherry Lee Gardner. They have one son, Graham Gardner Whalen, born Oct. 29, 1975. Geraldine F. Landsborough, born Oct. 2 1 , 1926, was married Oct. 2 1 , 1944, to Marvin M. Sorenson who was born Jan. 2 1 , 1922. They have one son, Keith Marvin Sorenson, born Oct. 23, 1958.
GORDON S. AND ORA A. LARSON Gordon S. Larson was born Oct. 2 1 , 1916, in Grand Forks, N. Dak., the son of Olaf and Marie Larson, immigrants from Norway. His three brothers and one sister are all living and residing in either Minnesota or North Dakota. Mrs. Gordon Larson (Ora) was born Dec. 5, 1918, af Fertile, Minn., the oldest daughter of Darwin and Alma Bodahl. She has two sisters and one brother also livinq in Minnesota or North Dakota. Mr. Larson grew up in East Grand Forks, Minn., and after attending the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, he started working as a bookkeeper at the Minnesota National Bank in East Grand Forks, Aug. 25, 1935. He and Ora Bodahl were married Aug. 1, 1939. On May 1, 1941, he transferred to Park River, N. Dak., as cashier at the First State Bank. (He and Ora rode the G.N. passenger to Park River and did not get their first automobile until 1943.)
Ora and Cordon Larson. After serving in the 1264th Combat Engineers and the Finance Department for 7th Army Headquarters in the ETO he returned to Park River, in 1946, and became managing officer of the First State Bank of Park River in 1948, vice-president in 1952, and president in 1957. This title he held until 1978 when he was named chairman of the board until his retirement on Jan. 3 1 , 1 9 7 9 . He also was a director of the bank from 1946 until his retirement; he spent 43 years in the banking profession. Ora Larson, after graduating from high school in East Grand Forks, was secretary to Edgar A. Massee, attorney-at-law until her marriage. She has been enthusiastically involved in oil and water color painting for a number of years. Gordon Larson is a Past- Commander of Paul Farup American Legion Post No. 147, Park River; a past president of the Park River Commercial Club; is a president of the Tri-County Bankers Association; a past president of the Northeast District of the North Dakota Bankers Association; past chairman of the board of trustees of the Federated Church of Park River; past chairman of the Walsh County Selective Service Board; chairman of U. S. Savings Bond Sales of Walsh County for over 20 years; a treasurer of the City of Park River for over 25 years; and a past president of Hillcrest Golf Club, Park River. Gordon and Ora Larson have four children — David, John, Julie and Daryl. David attended Northwestern University at Evanston, III., where he received his B.S. degree in Russian History. After attending Indiana University at Bloomington, Ind., he earned his Masters and Doctorate degrees in Russian History. He is now an Associate Professor at Hendrix College, Conway, Ark. His wife (Marilyn Erdely) is employed as a teacher in the Conway public school system. They have one daughter, Elizabeth. John attended Macalester College, St. Paul, Minn,, where he received his B.S. degree in geology. After serving the U.S. Army in Panama for two years, during the Vietnam War, he attended the University of Wise, at Madison, where he earned his Masters and Doctorate Degrees in geology. He is married to the former Carol Mooring who has a Masters Degree in geology from the University of Wisconsin. They are now living in Anchorage, Alaska, where John is employed by the U.S. Depart-
ment of Geological Survey and Carol is employed as a geology consultant. Julie attended the University of North Dakota and Arizona State University at Tempe, and has a Bachelors degree in medical technology and is a breeder of Arabian horses. She is married to Dwight Johnson, who is a graduate of the University of North Dakota and a captain in the U.S. Air Force. He has served as a C-130 co-pilot and as a T-37 instructor pilot. They have one son, Gregory. Daryl is a graduate of the Universtiy of North Dakota, Grand Forks with a B.S. Degree in geography. He is married to the former Nancy Midgarden of Park River who is also a graduate of the University of North Dakota with a degree in education - Home Economics. Gordon and Ora Larson have continued living in Park River after his retirement.
HARRY AND MARY LARSON Harry P. Larson, the youngest child of Olaf and Lena Lien Larson, was bom in 1927. He attended school in Kensington, S. D., No. 117, and after it closed he and his cousin, Gene Larson, attended Kensington, S.D., No. 26. He married Mary Ford Larson, the daughter of David J. and Janet Robb Ford. Mary was bom in 1927. She attended the Kensington School No. 26 for eight years and it was there that she met Harry Larson. Harry and Mary attended school in Park River where Harry was active in sports and Mary excelled in music. Harry entered the Navy Seabees, after graduation in 1944, and was discharged in 1946.
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married to Laurie Hall graduates of NDSU. They have eight grandchildren.
BERT LEVIN Bert and Marie Levin lived in Park River for many years where he was employed by the Great Northern Railroad. They had three sons, Alden, Raymond, and James, and four daughters, Gladys (Jensen), Lillian (Funseth), Margaret (Odden), and Donna (Nissen). Bert Levin died in October, 1963, and Marie Levin died in May, 1977. The children were educated in the Park River schools. Alden and Lillian live in Park River at the present time. Donna Levin Nissen, the youngest child of Bert and Marie Levin, attended Mayville State Teacher's College and taught at Northwood and Halstad, Minn., before her marriage. Donna married Harold Nissen at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church in Park River. They have lived in Grand Forks but are now living in Parshall, N. Dak., where Harold is employed by Reservation Telephone Company. They have six children: Jim, Jan, Jodi, Jill, Jackie and Jon.
HISTORY OF CHARLES AND SHIRLEY LINDELL Charles Myron Lindell was born June 10, 1928, to Hamilton and Selma Lindell on a farm in Vesta Township, Walsh County. Charles attended country school and St. Peter's Lutheran Church. Shirley Ann McPherson, daughter of Norman and Maud McPherson, was born Dec. 1, 1929, in Chicago, III. She was raised in Park River and attended grade school and high school there. After graduation she worked at the former A.S.C. office.
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Shirley and Charles Lindell and sons, l-r, Robbie, John, and Tom (1975). Charles and Shirley were married June 10, 1950. In March, 1951, Charles was drafted into the United States Army. They resided at Fort Hood, Tex., until he was sent to Korea. He was discharged in 1953. Their three children are Robbie Charles, born June 13, 1 9 5 1 ; John Scott, born March 4, 1954; and Thomas Peter, born June 28, 1957. The Lindells live at 512 Harris Avenue South in Park River. Shirley has been employed at Polar Telephone Company since June 4, 1959, and Charles works in the area in farming and construction. Their children attended school in Park River. Robbie married Phyllis Nelson of Brainerd, Minn., June 29, 1977, and now resides in Fargo, N. Dak.; John married Cheryl Moffet of Park River, June 28, 1975, and resides in Grafton; and Tom is employed in Portland, Maine.
Mary and Harry Larson Harry and Mary were married at the Ford farm home in 1945. After serving in the Pacific area the Larsons made their home in Park River. They have been active in the Presbyterian Church. Harry has been farming and, together, they operated the Northside Grocery for 11 years. Mary and Harry have been active in the community affairs as well as the church. They have four children: Diane, a graduate of NDSU (Franks); Bonnie, a graudate of UND (Skjerven); Richard, married to Lauralyn Walstad, graduates of NDSU; and Robert, 724
DAVID LEONARD LINDGREN David Leonard Lindgren was born April 1 1 , 1919, the son of Bertha Larson Lindgren and John Lindgren, rural Park River. He attended country school and also the agricultural short course offered at WCAS. Dave had three sisters, Ester, Ruth, and Marian, and six brothers, Phillip, Victor, Alvin, Joe, Walter, and Roy. Dave's father died in 1924 while the children were young. It was a very difficult time for Bertha, raising a large family alone.
grandparents, Andreas (1837-1907) and Ellen Maria Fjeld Johansen (1843-1919). His parents were John (1878-1950) and Clara Grovom Lovaasen (1888-1941). Alvin married Lillian Rud (1915-) in 1939, and their first home was in Golden Township. Lillian was raised by her grandparents, Kristian (1860-1943) and Anne Johansen Seim (1858-1939) on the farm they homesteaded in Tiber Township. Her parents were Nils (18831966) and Josephine Seim Rud (1891-1919). Alvin attended school at Park River. Lillian attended The Lutheran Brethren School at Fergus Falls, Minn. They both attended The Lutheran Bible Institute in Minneapolis. Two daughters were born to this marriage: Clara Jean (1941- ) and Dianne Lee (1945- ). The Lovaasen family moved into Park River about 1944. Alvin continued to farm until about 1950 when he began carpentry. Lillian was employed at the Grafton State School for Mentally Retarded. Clara Jean attended Concordia College, Moorhead, Minn., and the University of Minnesota. She married Paul Anderson in 1963. They live in Moorhead where she is a lab technician. They had one daughter, Gretchen (1967-1977), who was born with the birth defect, Spina Bifida. Dianne graduated from Concordia College and married David Judd in 1971. They have two children, Matthew (1974-) and Susan (1977- ). Dianne's interests include folklore, quality child care, and crafts.
David Leonard Lindgren Dave and Lillian Corinne Chapman were married in 1943. Corinne was the daughter of Lillian Kohnen Chapman and Leonard Chapman, Park River. She graduated from WCAS and attended business school in Wahpeton.
The Lovaasen family have been active members of Our Saviour's Lutheran Church in Park River.
JAMES MCCAULEY FAMILY James Samuel McCauley was born in Omagha, Ireland, and in 1875 he left his native land, emigrating to Canada. He lived in Ontario for a few years. In 1878 he married Harriet Barker who was born in Ontario,
Corinne and Guy Lindgren and Pamela (Lindgren) Novak; Conine and Tami Wang. Dave and Corinne had three children — a son, Guy David, of Park River; and two daughters, Mrs. Cecil Novak (Pamela Ann) of Vesleyville, and Corinne Lillian Lindgren, Park River. The couple farmed in the Park River and Edinburg area until Dave's death in 1960. THE FAMILY OF ALVIN AND LILLIAN LOVAASEN Alvin Helmer Lovaasen (1912-1978) was born and raised on the farm in Golden Township that was homesteaded by his
James Samuel McCauley Family: Harriet and James McCauley; children: Florence, Bertha and William.
Canada (her parents came to Canada from Yorkshire. England). In 1880 the couple moved to the United States, making their home for two years in East Grand Forks, Minn In 1882 the family moved to a farm northeast of Park River, N. Dak., where they made their home for a while. They later built a home in Park River where Mr. McCauley had a feed store and livery stable. Children born to Mr. and Mrs. McCauley were Elizabeth Jane, who died in infancy; Mrs. Florence Dilworth. Mrs. Bertha Cliff Wilson, and William James McCauley. Mr. McCauley s wife, Harriet died in 1910. In 1912 Mr. McCauley married Mary Burbidge, They had two nieces, Louise and Catherine McCauley, who made their home with them since infancy. Mrs Mary McCauley died at the age of 56 in August of 1926 and Mr. James McCauley died in 1932 at the age of 77. He had one sister. Bella, who was married to Frank Harris in Park River and two brothers, William of Park River and Joseph, Quebec.
WILLIAM AND IVA MAE MCCAULEY William James McCauley, the son of James S. and Harriet McCauley, was born in 1884 in Park River, N. Dak. He spent his lifetime in this area except for living in Canada for a time. In 1906 he married Iva Mae Cameron and they lived on his father's farm, east of Park River, in Kensington Township. The family moved to Sceptre, Sask., Canada, for a while where he farmed and managed a grain elevator. When the family came back from Canada they returned to the same farm, east of Park River. Children born to William and Iva Mae McCauley were four sons Wilbur J., Fordyce C., Raymond B., and James A., and two daughters, Mildred D. Borkenhagen and Harriet E. Moen. Iva Mae McCauley died in 1941. Bill continued to live on
William McCauley Family: left to right, back, James, Wilbur, Fordyce, Ray: front, Harriet, William, Mildred. the farm and in 1948 he married Anna Reeson who died in 1964. William McCauley served as an assessor for Kensington Township and was a member of the Kensington School Board. William McCauley has, besides his six children 18 grandchildren and 33 great-grandchildren. Mr. McCauley died in 1970.
JOHN McEACHERN John McEachern immigrated from Ontario, Canada, in 1897. On Feb. 5, 1897, he married Sara Ann Cameron and they moved to North Dakota where they filed a homestead claim in Prairie Centre Township, Walsh County. They resided there unti 1912 when they moved to Park River where they lived the rest ot their lives. John and Sarah Ann McEachern reared a family of three sons and three daughters. They are Catherine McEacherm bom July 31 1880; Mary McEachern, born July 1, 188Z; Donald McEachern, born April 7, 1884; William McEachern, bom June 1 1 , 1 8 8 6 ; Florence McEachern, born Aug. 8, 1890; and John A. McEachern, born Sept. 23, 1897. The family were members of the Presbyterian Church. All of the children, except Mary and Donald, lived in the area or close by much of their lives. William McEachern was a businessman in Park River all of his life. John A. McEachern was a businessman in Park River and Gilby, N. Dak., until his death in 1967.
JAMES NORMAN McPHERSON James Norman McPherson was born June 28, 1935, in Park River. Jim attended grade school and high school in Park River where he was an outstanding basketball player. He attended one year at UND, Grand Forks, and then entered the army where he served as a military policeman for two years. He then continued his education at Valley City State College where he graduated in 1959. He married Gail Frances Shoefter of Valley City on July 9, 1960. He began his teaching and coaching career at Mott, N. Dak During those years their children were born - Scott Allen on April 13, 1961; Mark James on Aug. 4, 1962; Loree Lynn on Aug 9 1963; Kris Ann on Dec. 22, 1965. The family traveled to Greeley, Colo., for three summers where Jim obtained his Masters Degree in physical education. After spending four years in Mott, where he coached his basketball teams to two North Dakota State Class B championships, Jim accepted a position as head basketball coach at Williston.
William and Iva Mae McCauley
Fordyce and Wilbur McCauley 726
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to build railroad grades in Minnesota. He was married to Ann Robbie in Herman, Minn., on Sept. 27, 1888. Ann Robbie was born in 1872 at Halemill, Scotland. As a young married couple they went to Woodburn, Ore., where they homesteaded. Their first child was bom in Oregon and it died in infancy. Then came the panic of 1900 and times were very hard. Add these two things to the fact that they were very homesick, and you can understand why they came back to family in the Park River area. Louis went to his neighbor in Oregon and gave him the homestead if he would look after the stock. In Park River he worked wherever he could and was later janitor at the school where he worked until his death, Oct. 16, 1941. Ann Robbie McPherson died April 14, 1948.
Gayle and Jim McPherson and children, l-r, Loree, Kris, Scott, and Mark, 1980. Jim, Gayle, and family have resided at Williston since. In his 17 years at Williston he has coached his teams to two N. Dak. State Class A Championships and his teams have participated in 13 state tournaments.
JOHN "JACK" AND DORIS McPHERSON John "Jack" McPherson began his long career in the oil business in 1931 when he worked for E. F. Goldwell Oil Company in Park River. He owned his own truck, "Globe Oil," and worked for Caldwell until 1934. On Oct. 28, 1932, he married Doris Diebel and in 1934 they moved to Cavalier where they presently live. Jack is retired from the oil business after 45 years.
Louis McPherson and Ann McPherson, seated; standing, Lois McPherson Simmer, Norman McPherson, John McPherson and Elizabeth McPherson Longfellow. They lost several children in infancy but four grew to be adults. The children are Lois McPherson Simmer, who died in 1939; Elizabeth Rae Longfellow, who died in 1978; Norman McPherson, who lives in Park River; and John McPherson, who lives in Cavalier. HISTORY OF NORMAN AND MAUD MCPHERSON Norman Robbie McPherson was born to Louis and Annie McPherson in Park River, N. Dak., Nov. 19, 1905. "Mac," as he is known to his friends, was raised with his brother, Jack, and sisters, Lois and Rae, in the old McPherson house which still stands north of the Park River grade school. Maud is the daughter of the late Peter Hanson and Agnes O'Brien Hanson. At the death of their mother, Maud, at the age
Jack and Doris McPherson, 1980. They had three children: Robert Hurst McPherson, born Oct. 8, 1934, who died Dec. 4, 1934; Carole Ann McPherson, born April 1, 1937, is married to Adrian Askew; they have four boys, Stuart, Robert, Craig and Jason — and live in Cavalier; Heather McPherson, born Oct. 12, 1942, is married to Harold "Sam" Neil and lives in Fargo; they have two children. "J.P." and Janie. HISTORY OF LOUIS AAND ANNIE McPHERSON Louis McPherson was born in 1866 in Inverness, Scotland. He came to America as a young man and, once here, he organized his own contracting company. He soon had a contract
Maud and Norman McPherson (1977)
of 8, and her sisters Ruth, Lucille, Laila, and brother, Jack, were raised by relatives and friends. Maud lived with her aunt, Mrs. Mary Connor Bruce, until she graduated from high school, which at that time was located in the grade school. Norman and Maud met during high school and were active in school activities. They were married Nov. 9, 1926, and lived with Norman's parents until 1929 at which time they moved to Chicago. Shirley Ann, their oldest daughter, was born there Dec. 1, 1929. Because of the Depression of the 30's they sold their furniture to get money to return to Park River. Delores Lucille, their second child, was born Nov. 9, 1933, and a son, James Norman, was born June 28, 1935.
Later he became associated with tne Soil Conservation Service until retirement. Maud began her duties as telephone operator in 1938 for Wm. McEachern, owner of the company. She retired from the Polar Telephone Co. in 1 969.
During these years, Norman worked at any available job. At the death of his father he became custodian of the grade school.
HISTORY OF JOHN (JACK) HANSON John (Jack) Hanson was born in Adams, N. Dak., May 4, 1905, to Peter and Agnes Hanson — the only boy in a family of four girls.
Norman and Maud now reside at 609 Wadge Avenue South, Park River. Their children, Shirley Ann, married Charles Lindell of Park River; Delores married Art Tallackson, Jr., of Grafton; and James married Gayle Schoefter of Valley City. They have ten grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
John (Jack) Hanson He spent his first nine years in Adams. After his mother died, in 1913, he was raised by an aunt, Mary Connor Bruce, in Park River. He attended grade and high school in Park River and then went on to Minneapolis. From there Jack moved to Chicago where he married Minerva Crooky. They had one daughter, Gayle. Jack worked in Illinois and Wisconsin, where he died in 1976.
MINNIE SOLLMASLOSKI Minnie Soil Masloski was born on a farm in a log cabin, 1 -Vi
Pete Hanson celebrating 100th birthday with daughters: left to right, Ruth Skyrud, Lucille Lykken, Maud McPherson and Laila Johnson.
miles west of Mountain, N. Dak., Feb. 9, 1 885, and died at the age of 88 years. She resided her entire life in Park River. She was in the business of farming. Her parents were Sander and Tillie (Schroeder) Soil, pioneers of Walsh County. She was a life-time member of the Mary C. Chapter of Eastern Star No 20.
Les Kelly and Joe Masloski in Barber Shop in Park River. used by Ella Hanson's Beauty Parlor. His barber shop was next to the beauty shop. He married Minnie Soil of Park River on June 2, 1913, in Williston, N. Dak. Their attendants were Mr. and Mrs. Fred Ring. They had three daughters, Joyce (Boshart), Harriet (Agneberg) and Judy (Ritzel). Joe died in 1 936 in Park River.
GARFIELD J. AND RUTH MAURITSON Minnie Soli Masloski with her children: Harriet, Judy (in She married Joe Masloski, a barber in Park River, June 3, 1913, in Williston, N. Dak. Their attendants were Mr. and Mrs. Fred Ring. They had three daughters — Joyce (Boshart), Harriet (Agneberg) and Judy (Ritzel).
Garfield John Mauritson was born in Shelly, Minn., in 1 8 9 1 . He spent his early life in that community and came to Park River in 1917 where he was employed by the Farmers Security Bank. He served in the Army in World War I, in 1918 and 1919, and returned to Park River as assistant casher at the Farmers Security
Bank.
JOE MASLOSKI Joe Masloski was born in Poland, in 1880, and came to Park River in the early 1900's. His profession was barbering. He erected a building on main street in Park River which still is being
Garfield J. Mauritson He married Ruth Coulter, the third child of Joseph B. and Johanna Larness Coulter, in 1921. Garfield served in the Farm-' ers Secuity Bank until it joined with the First State Bank of Park River in the early 1930's. He was acting as cashier of the bank when it was robbed in 1931. He was transferred to the bank in Glen Ullin, N. Dak., in 1933 but returned to Park River in 1925, to work for Farup Auto Company. He started as a rural mail carrier from the Park River Post Office in 1 938, and in 1944 he left that position to become the postmaster. He served as postmaster until his death, in 1957. Joe Masloski (about 1900)
Garfield was active in community affairs; was a charter member of Paul Farup Post No. 147; member of the Park River
Civic Club, Masons, Golf Club, and the Presbyterian Church. Ruth Mauritson was a charter member of the American Legion Auxiliary; a member of PEO Sisterhood, Chapter Q; a member of Eastern Star, and the Presbyterian Church. She enjoyed her family, knitting, sewing, and, until china became hard to obtain, during World War II, she did some china painting. She died in 1973. The couple raised three daughters — Maxine (Kassing), Gail (Meberg), and Leona (Walstad).
Milling Company. He married Bertha Schroeder of Mountain, N. Dak., a sister of Tillie Soli. At one time Billy was on the board of trustees in Park River and also mayor of Park River. He was an alderman from 1 901 1912, and was elected mayor of Park River in 1912. Andy Metz, Billy's brother, was born in Minnesota in 1 875. He resided with Bertha and Billy Metz in the early 1900's and also worked in the Park River Milling Company. About 1927. Bertha, Billy and Andy moved to Minot, N. Dak., to work in a flour mill there.
DUNCAN AND VIRGINIA MEAGHER Duncan Meagher, son of Thomas Finley and Sarah Meagher, was born March 8, 1911, on a farm one mile south of Park River. The farm is now owned by the Jenson brothers. Mr. Meagher graduated from the Park River school system in 1929, attended the University of North Dakota, and returned to Park River in 1936 to join his father in the John Deere Implement business. In addition to the implement business, he became engaged in farming in 1 937.
He married Harriet McCauley and to this union six children were born — George (Mike), Judy, Kathy, Susan, Cindy and Timothy.
Mr. Meagher sold the implement business in 1963 and retired from farming in 1976. His retirement marked the end of an era for his family, for a Meagher had been either in the implement business or farming for over 75 years.
George (Mike) married Faye Simon and they live on and farm the family farmstead. They have three children — Brian, Teresa, and Shawn. George (Mike) is also a barber in Park River, and Faye is employed by the First Bank of Park River.
Duncan Meagher has served his community well. He served as mayor of Park River from 1946 to 1950, and also served on the following boards: Presbyterian church, Farmers Elevator, Gate City Savings and Loan, and implement associations. He served on the Steering Committee for Good Samaritan Nursery Home. He is a member of the Civic, Lions, Elks, Shrine and Masons clubs. Duncan Meagher's love for hunting has taken him to Montana, Arizona and Canada for big game. He is married to the former Virginia Baumgartner of Grafton, N. Dak. They are the parents of two daughters — Susan and Nancy. Susan is married to Jay Myster and they reside at Fergus Falls, Minn. They are parents of three children. Nancy is married to Lawrence Budish and they both teach in Fargo. They are the parents of two children.
Judy is married to Darrell Myrvik, and they live in Park River. Darrell is employed by Bakke Homes of Union, and Judy is employed by Polar Communications of Park River. They have two children — Jason and Christina.
BERTHA AND J.W. (BILLY) METZ ANDY METZ Billy Metz was born in Minnesota in 1867. He resided in Park River in the early 1900's and worked in the Park River
Bertha and Billy Metz.
GEORGE C. MOEN HISTORY George C. Moen was born Oct. 9, 1924, at Park River, N. Dak., to the late Gustav and Alma (Gaarder) Moen. He lived on the homestead until his death in April, 1974.
The Family ot the late George C. Moen: left to right. George M. Moen, Judy Moen Myrvik, Harriet Moen, Tim Moen, Susan Moen Phelps, Kathy Moen Myrvik, and Cindy Moen Sobolik.
Harriet Moen with nine of her eleven grandchildren.
t
Kathy is married to Dwight Myrvik; they also live on the Moen homestead. Dwight is employed by Samson Electric of Park River, and Kathy is a teacher at the Pisek school. They have three children — Anthony, Wendy and Matthew. Susan is married to Bruce Phelps; they live in Park River. Bruce is employed by the Red Owl Store of Park River, and Susan is employed by Gate City Savings and Loan of Park River. They have two children — Christopher and Jennifer.
They have seven grandchildren: Deborah, Todd, Kristi, and Julie Kjelland; Charlene Sandvik Snustad; Clinton and Catherine Sandvik.
EMILY (FOYEN) NESS Emily Foyen was born Dec. 15, 1908, to Baard and Carrie (Lockeem) Foyen in McKenzie County, N. Dak., in a sod house that her father built.
Cindy is married to Scott Sobolik; they live in Fargo, N. Dak., where Scott is employed by D.M.S. Computer Co., that sells and services computers for Medical facilities. They have one son, Jeremy.
As a young child, Emily was hurt in two accidents. Once she was kicked in the head by a horse and later lost the top of a finger when it became caught in a manure spreader chain.
Timothy is attending college at Wahpeton, N. Dak. He is also in the National Guard.
When Emily was 10 years old her father died and when she was thirteen her mother passed away. Five months later her oldest brother, Ordeen, was killed by lightning.
ORVAL AND CLARA MYRVIK Orval Myrvik was born in Tiber Township, Walsh County, in 191 6, the son of John and Anna Myrvik, and lived on the farm in Tiber Township until 1937. Orval married Clara Flom, the daughter of Herman T. and Anna Flom. Orval and Clara Myrvik lived on a farm in Tiber Township for five years before moving to a farm in Osford Township, Cavalier County, where they farmed for 10 years. They
From then on it was very lonesome for the Foyen children. The four youngest worked for their room and board at many different places. Emily finished grade school in Sanish, N. Dak. She taught Sunday School and played the organ and was a soloist in the choir. She also worked in the telephone office in Sanish. Towner and Cando, N. Dak. In 1929 she went to work as a waitress in Devils Lake. Here she could count on at least one meal a day. Then in 1932 she and a girl friend hitch-hiked to Chicago. They both found jobs in three days. In 1937 she married Henry Ness from Galesburg, N. Dak. He was a watchmaker. He passed away in 1 972. Emily left Chicago in 1974 and came to Adams and stayed with her sisters, Mrs. Roy Grove and Mrs. Ralph Boe, until August, 1975. She went to Livingston, Mont., for a visit with her youngest sister, Evelyn Fox. She liked it so well that she stayed. She babysits for her neices' two boys. Emily lives in an apartment across the street from Evelyn, where she plans to remain.
Orval and Clara Myrvik. remember the first winter they lived on this farm as there was a lot of snow and, by Spring, their kitchen was all covered with snow and Orval had to crawl out an upstairs window to get to the barn and get his chores done. After he finished the chores he shoveled out the back door and cut out fifteen steps. He did this four times before the snow melted in early May. They moved to Park River in 1959 where Orval worked as a carpenter for 19 years before retiring. For some time he continued to farm and do his carpenter work but finally decided to cash rent the farm. They have two daughters: Mavis (Mrs. Elroy Kjelland; and Marian, who was adopted after her parents, Arthur and Catherine Flom, passed away when she was 12 years old. Marian is married to Chester Sandvik and they live in Fairdale.
MELVIN F. NESTE AND IDA OVERBYE NESTE On Sept. 4th, 1924, Melvin F. Neste, the son of pioneers Ole and Inga Neste, and Ida Overbye, the daughter of pioneers Iver P. and Julia Overbye, were married in East Grand Forks, Minn. Best man was Fritz Thorson, and Ella Hanson was the bridesmaid. Melvin was an operator on the Great Northern Railroad in Park River for 27 years. Preceding marriage, Ida worked in the Citizens State Bank of Langdon. Both were graduates of the Park River High School. Ida worked for Harold King, the local attorney, and also for Laura McEachren, who operated the Lyric Theatre. Ida and Jack Erovick owned and operated the Lyric from 1950 to 1954. In 1945 the Nestes purchased the Outlaw Store (men's clothing) from Leonard Chapman. Renaming it Melvin's Store for Men, they operated the store until their retirement in 1968 when they sold out to their only son, Lee Neste. Melvin was very active in the Golden Valley Lodge No. 26, A.F. & A.M.; was a member of the Park River Volunteer Fire Department and a longtime member of the 3 T-K Orchestra which is written up in this book. He died Nov. 29, 1978. Lee Neste was born in 1930. Attended school in Park River and graduated from UND in 1952. He served with the Army in Korea and then returned to Park River and joined the firm of Melvin's. On Aug. 6th, 1961, he married Eileen Seim of Finley, N. Dak. In 1968 they purchased Melvin's. This continues a family tradition of a Neste operating a main street business that
began when his grandmother bought the Windsor Hotel in the early 1900's. The Nestes have three sons — Scott, Brian and Brent.
ROY A. NESTE Roy A. Neste, the youngest child of Ole and Inga Neste, was born in February, 1919. He attended the University of North Dakota and received his Doctor of Law Degree. He served in World War II and, following his discharge, returned to Park River to open his law office. He married Helen Brandt, daughter of Gustav and Oline Koppang Brandt, in October, 1950. They lived in Park River and worked on many community projects. Roy served with Mayors Duncan Meagher, M. O. Johnson, Harold Dougherty, and Percy Walstad. Helen and Roy were active in the Golf Club. They operated the Fashion Shop in Park River for five years. They have one daughter, Brenda, married to Robert Lyne, and two grandsons, Robert, Jr., and Gregg.
ANDREW AND AGNES NOVAK FAMILY Andrew John Novak was bom Feb. 26, 1902, at Pisek, N. Dak., the youngest child of Joseph and Katherina (Ptacnik) Novak. They were immigrants from Czechoslovakia and were homesteaders in Prairie Centre Township. Andrew attended Rushford School Dist. 1. Agnes Grovum was born Aug. 26, 1901, in Dundee Township to homesteaders, Olav and Bertina (Lee) Grovum. Olav had come from Nissedal in Telemark, Norway, and Mrs. Grovum's parents were from Albert Lea, Minn. Miss Grovum graduated from Dundee School in Dundee Township and from the Deaconess Hospital School of Nursing, Grand Forks, in 1926 as a registered nurse. Miss Grovum did special duty nursing at Deaconess Hospital at Grafton, and for Dr. Frank Weed at Park River, and for one year at the Rosebud Indian Hospital in S. Dak.
Park River, and they moved their family to their new home. They bought 240 acres from Cross, and a quarter from the Novak Estate. They retired from farming in 1967 and rented out their land to a neighbor, Adren Burbidge. Mr. Burbidge bought the farm site and then Mr. and Mrs. Bert Phelps bought the house and four acres from Burbidge. Novaks built a new house in Park River and reside there. On May 25, 1980, they celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary with their children and several grandchildren. They have three daughters. Arlene is married to Duane Hylden, Park River; Janice is married to Larry Klindtworth, Kirkland, Wash.; and Ellen is married to George Hurtt, Hoople, N. Dak. They have 13 grandchildren and three greatgrandchildren. A son, Norman, passed away in 1 948. Mr. Novak was Rushford Township treasurer for 38 years and on the school board of the Rushford School.
ANTONE S.NOVAK Antone S. Novak, the son of Anton A. and Margaret (Barta) Novak, was one of eight children in the family — Cyril, Leonard, Vivian, Herman, Florence, Edith, Antone and Doris. Antone married Dorothy Krile, the daughter of John and Agnes (Cicha) Krile, in Grand Forks on June 16, 1953. Antone and Dorothy Novak have three children, Marquita, Teresa and Paul, all at home.
Antone S. Novak Family: left to right, standing, Paul, Marquita, Teresa; Dorothy, Antone.
Andrew and Agnes (Grovum) Novak.
50 th Wedding Anniversary Andrew and Agnes Novak.
Andrew Novak and Agnes Grovum were married Jan. 15, 1930. The first year of marriage they worked for his father. In 1933, they rented 400 acres from the estate and raised a good crop. Then they rented two quarters of land and set up their own farming operation at Pisek in Rushford Township. They had a small grain farm with livestock. They went through the Depression with severe crop losses, due to the rusting of wheat in 1935 that followed the dust storm of 1934. They had enough grain seed to start again and were able to get ahead. In 1944 they rented 400 acres from Albert Cross, in Rushford Township near
After serving in the Army, in World War II, Antone attended Hanson Auto School in Fargo and Bear Wheel Alignment School. He was employed by Hardy Chevrolet Co. for eight years, and then by Bateman Motors for eighteen years. He is presently employed by Erickson Ford, Inc., of Park River. Antone and Dorothy are members of the Catholic Church and active in community affairs as well. Antone is a member of the National Institute of Automobile Service Excellence and a Ford Motor Company technician.
EMMETT R.PORTER, SR. Emmett R. Porter, Sr., (January 19, 1869-December 24, 1940) was born in Albia, Iowa, and spent his childhood in South Dakota. On Nov. 22, 1911, he married Hannah Samuelson
1910, Andrew moved to Park River, N. Dak., and on Sept. 8, 1910, married Anne Marie Bendikson in Park River. The couple then located and farmed in the Milton and Fairdale, N. Dak., area until 1934, when they moved back to Park River. The couple raised 14 children. Anne Marie Bendkison Seboe was born Aug. 16, 1892, in Marshfield, Wood County, Wise. Her parents were Knud Bendikson, born March 17, 1843, and Astrid Tollefson Bendikson, born Dec. 10, 1861.
MARTIN AND GLADYS (CLEMENS) SEVERSON- YVONNE (SEVERSON) HURT
Wedding picture of Hannah Samuelson and Emmett R. Porter. (November 22, 1911) (November 6, 1893). He came to Park River to drill a well for the Park River Milling Company in 1917 and in 1918 he moved his family from DeSmet, S. Dak., to Park River. They had three sons, all who followed in their father's footsteps and became well drillers. Leonard was born on Feb. 23, 1913, in DeSmet, S. Dak., and is now living in Hot Springs, S. Dak. He never married. Charles was born on April 9, 1915, in Pierre, S. Dak., is married to Loraine Diemert cf Lanqdon, and lives in Park River. Charles and Loraine are parents of five children: Janice Wolf, Billings, Mont.; Kenneth, Glen and Barbara, all of Park River; and Deborah Stein, Duluth, Minn. Emmett R., Jr., was born June 5, 1923, in Park River, and is married to Dorothy McBain. They have no family, and reside in Park River.
Gladys Beatrice Clemens was the third child born to Amanda and John Clemens on March 12, 1912, at Baudette, Minn. A fire had destroyed much of the town of Baudette at that time; John worked as a lumberjack and Amanda was employed at a restaurant. The following few years the family moved several times but spent six years at Oslo, Minn., where John Clemens operated a well drilling business. On June 2, 1923, the Clemens family, consisting now of eight children, returned to Adams. The family had been plagued with many difficulties so some of the children spent the next few years with relatives. Gladys stayed one year at the Dr. Cox residence in Edmore; then a year at her grandparents' home in Adams, and with an uncle and aunt, Mr. and Mrs. Bill Norton, at Gilby, N. Dak. She graduated from eighth grade at Gilby and was confirmed at the Mountain Luth eran Church at Adams, on March 18, 1928.
The E. R. Porters were members of the Presbyterian Church and he was an active member in the Odd Fellows Lodge.
ANDREW G. SEBOE Andrew was born Anders Saebu, Jan. 14, 1872, in North Aurdal, Valdres, Norway. His father was Gudbrand Saebu, born May 19, 1833, and his mother was Kari Knudsdarter Hagasaetsletten, born August 10, 1830. They emigrated to the U. S. from Christiania (Oslo) Norway, Oct. 10, 1885, and arrived at the port of New York on the vessel Hamburgline, Moravia. Andrew and his family settled in Boone County, Nebraska, and farmed there until moving to Wood County, Wisconsin. In
Gladys and Martin Severson On October 3 1 , 1931, Gladys was united in marriage to Martin Nels Severson, son of Oline and Ole Severson of Silvesta Township. Martin was born Sept. 13, 1908, and spent his childhood on the family farm, bVi miles north of Adams. He attended school at Silvesta Djstrict 100, and was confirmed Oct. 14, 1923, at Mountain Lutheran Church in Adams. In 1928 he graduated from the Walsh County Agricultural School at Park River.
Andrew and Anne Marie (Bendikson) Seboe
Gladys and Martin began married life on a farm in Adams Township. Their farming venture was to be a struggle with the drought and dust of the 1930's, which left wells dry of water and no feed for livestock. In 1 935 they left the farm and moved to
Park River. Martin applied for a summer job at the Walsh County Agricultural School. At that time the school operated a farm with crops, livestock, and chickens, with much of the produce going to the school dormitories. In the fall, one of the men quit his job and Martin began permanent employment which included custodial duties at the school. The school superintendent, at that time, was also the county agent who assisted farmers in the area. The men employed at WCAS were in charge of mixing gopher and grasshopper poison, which was distributed throughout Walsh County. The school also had a dynamite storage facility, and the explosives were distributed to blast roads,, ice jams, ditches, and roads. Martin was in charge of the dynamite and would be on call to supply farmers in the area. The government stopped the sale of explosives in the late 1960's. Martin continued to work at WCAS and retired in 1974 after 39 years of employment. He enjoys gardening and lawn work and still is the national weather observer at Park River, a job he has been doing for 40 years. During World War II Gladys was employed by several area farmers in picking potatoes, which she did each fall for several years. She also spent a few years decorating wedding cakes and selling Avon Products. She was manager of the King Koin Laundermat in Park River for 8V2 years, and spent two years of employment at the Grafton State School. Her hobbies included cake decorating, flower arranging, and china painting. Both Gladys and Martin reside at their home at 709 Briggs Avenue in Park River, which they purchased in 1 940 from John Lohse.
Tillie and Sander Soli (wedding picture — 1886)
Sander and Tillie Soil - late 1920 s.
Leslie and Eric and James and Yvonne (Severson) Hurt A daughter, Yvonne Marlin Severson, was born to Martin and Gladys Severson on Aug. 16, 1935. She attended school at Park River and graduated from WCAS in 1953. She attended St. Luke's School of Nursing in Fargo, graduating in 1956. After working in Denver, Colo., at St. Luke's Hospital, she reutnred to North Dakota and married James Hurt of Hoople, on Oct. 26, 1957. They reside on a grain and potato farm, south of Hoople. They have two sons. Leslie Martin Hurt, born Dec. 30, 1958, is a student at UND, Grand Forks, and has his instrument — and commercial — license in flying. Eric James Hurt, born Feb. 12, 1962, is attending AVTI in East Grand Forks, Minn., taking truck driver's training.
SANDER AND TILLIE SOLL Sander Soli was born in Lansing, Iowa, in 1857 and came to North Dakota in the early 1880's where he located and became
the first postmaster of Garfield, N. Dak. * He married Tillie Schroeder of Mountain, N. Dak. When Garfield was moved to the present location of Park River, Mr. Soil moved with it and engaged in a cattle and meat marketing business. In 1917 he settled permanently in Compton, Calif., where he resided until his death on July 11, 1932. His wife, Tillie, was born in Germany on Oct. 28, 1866, and died in California March 9, 1953, at the age of 86. Sander and Tillie had four children — Minnie, Arthur, Eddy and Terrence — and an adopted son, Harry. Sander Soli was elected one of the first constables in Garfield in 1 884. * Information from the Walsh County Press dated July 14, 1932.
MARVIN M. SORENSON Martin Sorenson was born in the Grafton-Auburn area, Jan. 2 1 , 1922, at the family farm home and lived there most of his early childhood. He was the third child and second son born to Casper C. and Amanda (Hellen) Sorenson. Their other children were Anna Houge Keltner, Roy C , Robert M., and Glenn A. Sorenson. Casper was a carpenter in the Grafton area until his retirement. Educated in the Grafton school system Marvin graduated
from high school in 1941, and that same year Company " C " left for training in Alexander, La. The 164th Infantry was to see action in the battle of Guadacanal among other major battles. In April, 1944, he was discharged from the Army and returned to the Grafton area. St. Mary's Church in Park River was the setting for his marriage to Geraldine F. Landsborough, on Oct. 2 1 , 1944. Geraldine was the youngest daughter of Elmer and Mabel (O'Rourke) Landsborough. Father J. J. O'Meara officiated at the ceremony and attendants were Fern Landsborough(Isaacson) and John L. Anderson. Under the G. I. Bill, Marvin attended school at the State School of Science, Wahpeton, for two years. He graduated in the field of radio and refrigeration. While attending school there he played football and basketball. After finishing at Wahpeton they moved to California where Marvin continued his education at Long Beach College. He worked as a journeyman electrician in the Long Beach area until 1950 when they returned to Park River.
shop, and later farmed in that surrounding area. They had seven children — Fred, Clair, Althea, Loretta, Ilene, Oswald M. (Ozzie) and Loren. Ozzie and Loren lived in Park River with their folks. Oswald C. died in 1940 so Loren took over the blacksmith' shop with some assistance from his brother, Ozzie. The blacksmith shop was sold when the two boys entered the service. Ann Stautz sold their home and shared her time with her other five children. She passed away in 1 9 6 1 .
LOREN STAUTZ Loren, son of Oswald and Anna Stautz, graduated from the WCAS in 1938. He worked for the Ben Arness Cafe and also worked in his dad's blacksmith shop. He enlisted in the Coast Guard during World War II. While in the service he married Louis Dixon, a Wave. After the war, they went to Doyon, N. Dak., to farm and are still residing there. They have four children, all married. Their children are Wayne, Jackie, Phyllis and Virginia.
OLE STEVENS FAMILY Ole Stevens was born Feb. 2 1 , 1854, at Skien, Telemark, Norway, and came to America at the age of fourteen, settling in Fertile, Iowa. He was married to Anna Dorothea Halvorson at Fertile in 1881. Dorothea was born Nov. 25, 1862, at Red Wing, Minn. The family moved to Golden Valley, Walsh County, in 1883. They lived and farmed in Walsh County until 1910, when they moved to a farm south of Edmore, N. Dak. This farm is presently owned and farmed by Richard Stevens, a grandson. Ole farmed in Triumph Township, Ramsey County, until they retired and moved to the city of Edmore. Marvin, Keith and Geraldine Sorenson In Park River they bought the Park River Electric and did electrical contracting for 17 years. At the present time Marvin is employed by the North Dakota State Electrical Board and is an inspector for the northeastern section of the State. Marvin has been active in community affairs. He has been Commander of the Paul Farup Post No. 47; president of the Park Board; a member of the Commercial Club; a volunteer fireman; and is a past president of the International Association of Electrical Inspectors. He enjoys bowling, curling, golf and playing cards.
Ole passed away Oct. 27, 1934; Dorothea passed away Dec. 15, 1932. Both are buried in the Park River Memorial Cemetery at Park River, N. Dak. Ole and Dorothea were the parents of eleven children: Mrs. Harry (Nellie) Smith (1882-1973); Mrs. Ralph (Tilda) Reinertson (1884-1975); Andrew (1885-1964), who was married to Nellie Kittelson; William (1887-1927), who was married to Vera Abbott; Mable Ceclia (1888-1896); Henry (1893-1967), who was married to Doris Umphrey; George (1893-1962), who was
Geraldine has also been active in community organizations such as Decca Club and Golf Club, and enjoys china painting. The family are members of St. Mary's Catholic Church in Park River. Marvin and Geraldine have one son, Keith. Keith attended the Park River schools and the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks for two semesters. He graduated from Northwest School at Portland, Ore., in 1978 and is now employed by Braniff Airlines in Dallas, Tex.
OSWALD C. AND ANNA STAUTZ FAMILY Oswald C. and Anna Stautz purchased the blacksmith shop in Park River, from the Daniels Estate, in 1935. The Stautzes were originally from Lakota, where they owned a blacksmith
Groom, Andrew Stevens; bride, Nellie Kittelson Stevens; attendants, Doris Landsborough, sister of Mrs. Stevens; George Stevens, brother of Andrew Stevens.
married to Blanche Hove; Mrs. Louis (Mabel) Olson (1896- ); John (1899- ), who was married to Esther Settingsgard; Dr. Frederick (1902-), who was married to Esther Bekken; and Mrs. Elmer (Dorthy) Melland (1905-). George and Henry were twins.
ANDREW STEVENS Andrew and Nellie Stevens moved from Edmore to a farm near Fordville, North Dakota. After a few years, they retired and moved to Park River, N. Dak. They are both buried at Memorial Cemetery at Park River. They had four children: Mrs. Oscar (Delores) Nyberg of Grafton, Mrs. Edwin (Anna Grayce) Melland of Edmore, Andrew Jr.. of Park River, and Glen of Fordville, N. Dak.
RONALD E. VAVROSKY Ronald was born in Pisek, N. Dak., on May 3 1 , 1933, the second son of Timothy and Minnie Vavrosky. While he was just a few months old the family moved to Park River and have lived there ever since. He attended school in Park River and Aaker's Business College, Grand Forks. Ronald is employed in construction as an ironworker. Ronald married Marjorie Widme Jan. 12, 1955, in Park River. Marjorie was born Feb. 25, 1934, and is the daughter of George and Ida Widme, also of Park River. She attended the Park River Schools; North Dakota State University, Fargo; and Mayville State Teachers College. She is employed as a sales clerk at Floyd's Department store.
Ronald Vavrosky Family: left to right, back, Marjorie, Ronald, Douglas; front, Kathryn, Karen.
Timothy Vavrosky, Sr., and wife, Minnie. Pisek, N. Dak., and spent nearly all his young life in the Pisek area. He married Minnie Nymon Oct. 7, 1930, at Grafton and moved to Park River for about a year and then back to Pisek again. In 1933 they moved to Park River again and have lived here ever since. Tim worked in a barber shop for Mr. Prichard, in the building which is now the Sportsman Bar. His family lived upstairs in the same building. Tim later had a barber shop in the Neste Hotel and finally set up his barber shop in its present location.
Donald,
Ronald and Marjorie have four children who were all born at St. Ansgar's Hospital in Park River. Douglas was born Nov. 10, 1955; has attended a Bible College in Saskatchewan, Canada, for three years; and is leaving for the Far East as a missionary. Donald was born Nov. 15,1957, and is a senior at the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks; his field is in advertising and journalism. Karen was born Feb. 14, 1959, and attended school in Park River as the others have. She attended the State School of Science, Wahpeton and is a practical nurse. Kathryn was born Feb. 1, 1962, is now attending the Hairdressing Academy in Grand Forks, and plans to be a beautician.
TIMOTHY THEODORE VAVROSKY SR. Timothy T. Vavrosky, Sr., was born Dec. 22, 1907, in
Ronald and Timothy Vavrosky, Jr. Tim and Minnie have two sons — Timothy, Jr., who lives in Fargo, N. Dak., and has four children — Michael, Rebecca, Steve and Thomas; and son Ronald, who still lives in Park River, and also has four children — Douglas, Donald, Karen and Kathryn. Tim built up his business by adding insurance and real estate. He was with the State Farm Insurance Company for over thirty years and received recognition several times for his efforts. Tim died Sept. 27, 1979, after a lengthy illness. Minnie resides in Park River.
TIMOTHY WILLIAM VAVROSKY JR.
Garfield and Ruth Coulter Mauritson, born in 1950. Leona was educated in the Park River schools and graduated from the Sisters of St. Joseph School of Nursing, receiving her degree as a registered nurse. Leona worked for the Park River Clinic for nine years and is employed by St. Ansgar's Hospital at the present time.
Timothy was born in Pisek, N. Dak., May 15, 1932, the oldest son of Timothy and Minnie Vavrosky. The family later moved to Park River where he attended school in Park River and worked in real estate and insurance with his father.
Percy has been active in community affairs, serving as alderman for the Third Ward for two years, and as mayor of Park River since 1962. He is a past president of the North Dakota League of Cities; a member of the American Legion, Park River Firemen, and Sanitary Landfill, Inc. Leona has been active in community affairs and is a member of PEO; Decca Club; a board member of the Good Samaritan Center; and enjoys reading, knitting, bowling, and bridge. They are members of the Presbyterian Church.
JAMES AND LILLIAN J. (GILLESPIE) WARNER Lillian Gillespie was born at Park River, Walsh County, March 7, 1926, to Archie F. and Agnes (Storey) Gillespie. She attended Kensington rural school and graduated from the Walsh County Agricultural School in 1944.
Timothy Vavrosky, Jr., Family: left to right, back, Barbara, Steven, Michael, Thomas; Carol, Tim, Jr.
Lillian worked at the Park River Red Owl Store part-time until Nov. 15, 1945, when she married James Warner from Gully, Minn. They lived in Minnesota one year and then returned to Park River.
Tim married Carol Bergquam of Grafton, who was born April 2, 1932. Tim and Carol have four children who were all born in Park River at St. Ansgar's Hospital. Michael was born Sept. 28, 1952; Rebecca, born July 27, 1953, is now married and lives in Fargo, N. Dak.; Steven, born Nov. 30, 1954, lives in Fargo; Thomas, born March 27, 1956, is now married and lives in Fargo.
James gained employment with Nodak Rural Electric and helped build lines which brough electricity to western rural Walsh County.
Tim and Carol moved to Fargo in 1967. Carol has been employed at North Dakota State University in the Agriculture Economics Department as a statistical clerk. Tim is employed at Warner and Company with insurance and real estate. They have one granddaughter, Heather, who is the daughter of Thomas.
PERCY ELDON AND LEONA WALSTAD Percy Eldon Walstad, bom in 1923, was the fifth child of Gustav and Christina Larson Walstad. He was educated in the Park River schools. He served in the Navy in World War II and was discharged in 1946. After his discharge he farmed with his brother, Clayton, for some time. He was then employed by Mobil Oil Company until 1957; Silliman Implement Co., until 1971; then resumed farming. Percy married Leona Mauritson, the third daughter of
Percy and Leona (Mauritson) Walstad.
Daniel J. Warner 737
Delnore L. Warner
The couple had three children. Twin sons were born Nov. 18, 1946, in Minnesota — They are Daniel James and Delnore Louis. A daughter, Mary J., was born in Grafton, N. Dak., May 9, 1950, during one of the highest floods in the history of the Red River Valley. Daniel James married D'Anne K. Olson, Nov. 24, 1967. D'Anne is a descendant of Fingle Inger who homesteaded on land along the Goose River in Steele County. They have three children and live at Portland, N. Dak., where Daniel works at the Grand Forks Air Base. Delnore Louis married Carol Olson of Northwood, N. Dak., and teaches at Appelton, Minn; they have two children. Mary J. married Wallace Swanson of Larimore, N. Dak., Nov. 15, 1970. Wallace is a descendant of pioneer greatgrandparents in western Grand Forks County. They have three children. James and Lillian also raised two foster daughters and have an adopted daughter, Rhonda Warner, who is still living at home. The Warners moved to Patton, N. Dak., in the early 50's where James is still employed with Nodak Rural Electric.
Josephine Wick, a teacher, graduated from Mayville State Teacher's College. She also taught violin. She married Orville Tryhus and they lived in Crosby, N • Dak. Rose Wick, an educator, taught in rural schools in the Park River area. She married Kenneth Eaton who was a commercial artist for the Des Moines Register and Tribune. She had two sons.
Thelma Wick
KNUT WICK FAMILY Knut N. Wick was born in Orstavik, Norway, and came to America after completing his education and lived in Minneapolis, where he practiced his profession as a structural engineer. His wife, the former Karoline Hildenes, who was from Nordfjordeid, Norway, came to Minneapolis to visit a sister who was living there. The couple met and married in Minneapolis and lived there for 11 years before moving to Park River in the early 1900's. They raised a family of nine children. Mr. Wick passed away in 1964 and his wife, in 1953.
KnutN. Wick
Sylvia A. Wick
Thelma Wick graduated from the Park River Schools and was active in the alumni association. She is active in the Lutheran Church and has served as secretary; is a past president of Luther League and Lutheran Daughters of Reformation; was Superintendent of the Sunday School; has served as a Sunday school teacher and choir member. She was general chairman for the 75th Jubilee Celebration and co-chairman of the Sesquicentennial Celebration. She is an active member of the American Legion Auxiliary and has served in many offices; is a member of Homemakers, the Scandinavian Heritage Club, St. Ansgar's Hospital Auxiliary, Fortnightly Study Club, BPW Women's Club, the Walsh County Historical Society, and Gyda Varden Sons of Norway Lodge. She worked at the Hulstrand Studio in Park River for many years and was instrumental in preparing the collection entitled "History in Pictures," having hand-colored, in oils, over 400 pictures for the collection. She has been active in organizing the Walsh County Senior Citizens Council and helped organize the Happy Hours Senior Citizen Club of Park River. She has been interested in traveling, musical groups, choirs, and quartette and trio groups. She is presently living in Park River and continues to be active in the community. Sylvia Wick, a graduate of the Park River schools, has been active in the Lutheran Church where she has served as pianist; choir accompanist; secretary of the congregation; on the Board of Education; chairmanned the Confirmands Re-union; been president of LDR; served as stewardship chairman; been a Sunday School teacher; was co-chairperson of Sesquicentennial and the first woman to be elected to the Board of Deacons. She has been active in community clubs including the American Legion Auxiliary; BPW Womens Club; Walsh County Historical Society; Cemetery Auxiliary Association; St. Ansgar's Hospital Auxiliary; Harmony Homemakers; Sons of Norway; Scandinavian Heritage Society of Walsh County; and is a Fortnightly Study Club charter member.
Karoline Hildenes Wick
Clarence Wick, the oldest child, was educated in the banking field. He served in World War I. He married Theodora Hansen from New Auburn, Wise, and they had five children. Clarence died in 1 9 4 1 . Borghild Wick, the oldest daughter, was a dental assistant to Dr. R. J. Richardson in Park River. She married Simon Ellefson, manager of the lumber yard in Lankin, and they lived in Lankin until her death in 1925. Lillien Wick was a graduate of Mayville State Teacher's College and taught school before her marriage to Dr. 0 . E. Heskin. They lived in many foreign countries after Dr. Heskin joined the United States State Department.
She worked for Hulstrand Studio in Park River for many years and assisted in preparing the Hulstrand Collection of History in Pictures. She loves to travel but continues to make her home in Park River. Victoria Marcella Wick graduated from the Park River 738
Schools and from the Commercial College in Des Moines, Iowa. She was Foods Editor for "Better Homes and Gardens." She married Edwin Rees Rogers of Des Moines, Iowa. They have three children. Kathryn Wick graduated from the Park River schools and worked at Hulstrand Studio for several years. She married John K. Olsen, a marketing executive, and they lived in Brooklyn, New York. Kathryn was co-ordinator for Lutheran Social Services for 18 years. They now live in California. They have one daughter.
GEORGE M. AND IDA WIDME George and Ida Widme moved to Park River, N. Dak., from Mahnomen, Minn., in 1944, when George accepted the position as superintendent of the Light and Water Department for Park River. He held this position for twenty-seven years, retiring in July, 1971.
George Young and Charles Verry. Minnie Young and Mrs. Verry in backseat. His father then commenced farming near Concrete, N. Dak., where George grew to manhood. He decided to study law and attended the law school of the University of Georgia. Upon graduation, he returned to North Dakota and commenced the practice of law in Park River. His office was in a two-story building on the west side of Main Street (Briggs Avenue) and about 150 feet south of the present First State Bank building. The building stood in the south portion of the bank's present parking lot. In addition to his law practice, he was active in civic affairs, serving as a member of the school board for many years and was also active in securing the Walsh County Agricultural School in Park River in 1913. He also acquired and owned a considerable amount of land, about 900 acres, in western Walsh County., He married Minnie Nicklin in 1899, and they had four' children. Hutton (Brigham) is now deceased; Lew is presently residing at Big Bear Lake, Calif.; Edgar presently resides at Dent, Minn.; and Vernon resides at Calimesa, Calf. In 1900 George W. purchased a house, built by his father, on the west side of Briggs Avenue and situated the second house north of where the Olaf Brandt house now stands. The family lived in this house until 1923 when they moved to St. Paul. In 1978 the house was torn down, and the property is now vacant and unoccupied. Still remaining is a large solid concrete block at the curb with the name 'G. W. Young' engraved on it.
George and Ida Widme The Widmes have one daughter, Marjorie, who is now employed as a clerk at Floyd's Department Store. In January, 1955, she married Ronald E. Vavrosky. They have four children — Douglas Ray, Donald Lee, Karen Marie, and Kathryn Jo Vavrosky.
Young continued to practice law in St. Paul but retired from active practice about 1941. He died in 1947 at the age of 82 and is buiied in Memorial Cemetery, Park River.
Ronald and Marjorie are living in Park River, and Ronald is employed as an iron worker.
His wife, Minnie, had the somewhat unique distinction of being the first 'girl baby' born in Kensington Township. Her parents were Mr. and Mrs. William Nicklin. She was born in 1880 in a log house on the Park River, about three miles east of Park River. She died in St. Paul in 1972, at the age of 92. She was one of the honored guests at the Park River 75th Anniversary celebration in 1959. She had many relatives in Park River on her mother's side. Her maternal grandparents were Mr. and Mrs. John Wadge whose house still stands in Park River, east of the railroad tracks. It had been moved there because the city recreation center building was to stand on the property from which it was moved. There are some streets in Park River named after some of her relatives, namely, Wadge Avenue, Harris Avenue, and Code Avenue.
George Widme was also a gauge observer at the Homme Dam from 1950 to 1980. GEORGE W. AND MINNIE M. YOUNG George W. Young was born in Michigan in 1866, the son of Samuel A. and Annie Young. Shortly thereafter his father and family moved to Iowa and farmed near Ames. His father and family then intended to move to Canada. They traveled by ox cart. When reaching the Canadian border, near Pembina, they along with many, many others, were denied access into Canada because of a serious epidemic in the northern United States.
739
History of Park River in Photos
E. R. Porter's well rig in preparation to drill a deep well for the City of Park River — 1919. This picture is of the power
house for Park River. E. R. Porter is the man second from the right. The others are unidentified.
9 < *
FEED 6, SALE
James S. McCauley Livery Stable.
George Young, Lawyer, in front of his office in Park River.
The home of Jacob Birder, Park River, N. Dak. The home was built in 1889 and the picture belongs to Andrew Novak, Park River.
Sander Soil Barn (1878), later Masloski. 740
Clemetson s Orchestra: left to right, Jack McLeod, Mrs. Lloyd (Byrdie Staven) Clemetson, Alden Clemetson, Cladusin Clemetson, Charlie Christenson, Neom Clemetson) Larson, and Lyle Clemetson.
Jacob Birder Store (1889) Park River, N. Dak.
Sander Soil home, later Masloski, now the site of St. Mary's Catholic Church in Park River. (1888)
The Park River Band
Gustie Clemetson is shown selling a Poppy to her son, Clair, on May, 1964. For many years she was top seller on the Legion Auxiliary's Poppy Day.
Sod house built by Andrew Seboe, on the left, and his father, Gudbrand Saebu, who immigrated to the United States in 1885.
Farm home of Orval and Clara Myrvik, winter 1922.
£ R. and Hannah Porter in their new car. (1912)
Ole and Olina (Bjorge) Dahl. Taken about 1906.
E. R. Porter Well Rig and Crew (late 1918): No. 1, E. R. Porter; No. 2, Roy Hurtt; No. 3, Ralph Lacy; No. 4, Philip Lacy; No. 5, Willbur Green; No. 6, Ed Baker. No. 7iS unidentified. Kjetil A. and Karoline Momerak Family: left to right, back row, Evold, Gunder, (Bill) Vilhelm, Karl, Andrew; front row, Signa, Kjetil, Edwin, Bergit, Karoline; seated, Gustav. Taken about 1920.
Ben Ingulsrud bought this 22-36 McCormick-Deering tractor after farming many years with horses. He is pictured here on the binder, operating the tractor with a steering device. Ben Ingulsrud home in Park River. 742
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KINLOSS TOWNSHIP FAMILY HISTORIES ERNEST AND MYRTLE AMUNDRUD Ernest Amundrud was born in Edmore, N. Dak., Jan 18, 1912, a son of John and Ida (Olsen) Amundrud. Two sons were born to John and Ida, Alfton on Aug. 1, 1910, and Ernest. When Alfton was three and a half years old and Ernest one and a half years old a great tragedy happened to the family. While pouring kerosene into the kitchen stove it exploded and Ida (the mother) was burned so badly she died three days later, the boys became separated. Alfton went to live with Mr. and Mrs. Elling Skjeveland at Edmore and Ernest with his uncle and aunt, Mr. and Mrs. Olof Fjolstad, at Edmore. A year later when their dad left for Ayselberry, Canada, the boys were reunited and both went to live with Mr. and Mrs. Anton Braaten at Derrick, N. Dak. While growing up, Alfton and Ernest went by the name of Braaten. They lived at several different places when they were young, going to school both at Fairdale and Nekoma. In 1928, when they left Braatens, they changed their name back to Amundrud. Ernest, on his own, then worked at different jobs — going to Nebraska to pick corn for two cents a bushel, but returning to North Dakota for harvest. It was not easy to make a living in those days. In 1935, Ernest started working for Selmer Amundrud at Fairdale. There he remained until entering the service in August, 1942, joining the Signal Corps attached to the Air Corps. He was stationed at Panama Canal for three years as a wire chief operator. After his army discharge he returned and worked for Selmer Amundrud on the farm.
Ernest Amundrud Family: left to right, Mrs. Thorvald Gutterud, Ernest Amundrud, Mrs. Richard Amundrud, Richard Amundrud, and Mrs. Ernest Amundrud. family moved back to Fairdale when he received managership of the Fairdale Farmers Union Oil Company. There the Amundruds built their home and raised their son, Richard. Richard graduated from the Edmore High School and later attended the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks. He was married March 15, 1970, to Pat Crowden of Lisbon, N. Dak. They have three children, Patrick John, Eric Richard, and Amy Sue, and live in Rochester, Minn. Pat is a registered nurse at St. Mary's Hospital and Richard works with Farm Systems. Ernest retired from the Farmers Union Oil Company in January, 1977. Ernest and Myrtle spend their time visiting their son and family, friends, and neighbors.
KENNETH ARNESON FAMILY Kenneth Arneson, the son of Martin Arneson and Catherine Hunt, was born in Fairdale, N. Dak., on Feb. 13, 1918. He grew up in Fairdale and attended the public school, graduating from Fairdale High School in 1935. He particularly enjoyed playing baseball and basketball with both the high school and local independent teams, and spent considerable time during the summers employed at farm labor such as haying, harvesting, threshing, and field work. Kenneth attended Mayville, State Teachers College upon completion of high school, and subsequently taught school and coached high school athletics for one year at Clifford, and for three years at Brinsmade, both in North Dakota. Following this he was employed for several months at Lockheed Aircraft Corporation in the Los Angeles vicinity of California.
Ernest and Myrtle Amundrud Ernest and the former Myrtle Gutterud from Fairdale, N. Dak., born June 3, 1922, a daughter of Thorvald and Minnie (Thune) Gutterud, were married Aug. 6, 1948. They continued working for Selmer. Their son, Richard Ernest, was born April 20, 1949. In 1952, Ernest started working for the Farmers Union Oil Company, first at Park River as an attendant, later moving to Edinburg, N. Dak., as a truck driver. In 1959, Ernest and his
In June, 1942, he entered the armed forces, and after completing Army Air Corps Aviation Cadet Training flew combat missions in the Martin B-26 Marauder in the European Theater of Operations. As a member of the 9th Air Force, flying out of England, he was shot down July 5, 1944, and captured by German ground forces, later escaping from a German hospital; after spending some time with the French underground; he returned to England and then to the United States. He continued as a pilot in the Air Force, and later elected to make it a career. Subsequent overseas assignments including flying the Berlin Air Lift in 1949; a tour in Japan, with some time spent in Korea; and many periods of temporary duty in both the European and Pacific Theaters, particularly while spending four years as a tanker pilot. He first checked out in jet aircraft, in 1947, at which time the only jets built were fighters with room only for one pilot. After being grounded with a bleeding ulcer he retired from the Air
Gilbertson, was bom in Dewey Township, June 19, 1912. The family moved to a farm, six miles southwest of Fairdale, in 1914, Carrie attended elementary and high school at Fairdale. She graduated from the Deaconess Hospital School of Nursing at Grand Forks in 1 934. Carrie was employed at the San Haven Tuberculosis Sanitarium for three years and then decided to move to the west coast. She secured employment at General Hospital, Salem, Ore., in September, 1 937.
Kenneth Arneson Family: Rosemary, Sharon, Kenneth, and Janet. Force as a major, with 20 years' active service, at Langley AFB, Va., in July, 1962. Kenneth's first marriage of seven years having ended in divorce, in December of 1953; he was married in Newport News, Va., on Dec. 27, 1958, to the former Rosemary Butler of Dublin, Ga. The following summer he formally adopted Rosemary's daughter by her previous marriage, Sharon Rene'; another daughter, Janet Maureen, was later born to Kenneth and Rosemary at Grand Forks Air Force Base, on Feb. 14, 1964. Sharon, now Mrs. Nicholas Brown, lives in Dickinson, N. Dak.; Janet is presently a junior at Red River High School, Grand Forks. The family resides at 812 Letnes Drive, Grand Forks. Upon retiring from the Air Force, Kenneth was not particularly enthusiastic over the prospects of returning to teaching, and so decided to direct his efforts toward another profession. In addition to his credits earned at Mayville State Teachers College, back in the 1930's, he had acquired some additional credits at the University of Portland, in Oregon, while a member of the Air Force, and combining the two was able to enroll in the School of Law at the University of North Dakota in the fall of 1962. He completed law school in spring, 1965, and since that date has been practicing law in Grand Forks as a member of the firm of Caldis and Arneson, Ltd. Following the death of Bill Arneson, Kenneth's youngest uncle who owned the former Ole Arneson farm, located directly west of Fairdale, Kenneth purchased the farm from Bill's surviving wife, Myrtle Arneson. He also owns land bordering on the northeast perimeter of Fairdale, said land being formerly owned by his aunt, Malla Arneson, and formerly farmed by Bill. As a boy he had spent a great deal of time on his grandparents' farm, and he still enjoys spending his summer vacations and occasional weekends there, relaxing and visiting with old friends in Fairdale. His daughter, Janet, is also very attached to the farm and often visits it with him. Through the years Kenneth has maintained close contact with Fairdale, his hometown, and his friends there, and although actually residing in Grand Forks remains, to all intents and purposes, a member of the Fairdale community.
CARRIE GILBERTSON BOCOCK Carrie Gilbertson Bocock, daughter of Rasmus and Thora
Cordon and Carrie Bocock Family: left to right, Cordon, Carrie, Karen, James, and front, grandson. Matt. Carrie Gilbertson married Gordon Bocock at St. Mark's Lutheran Church, Salem, Ore., in 1940. Gordon is a graduate of Bradley University at Peoria, III. The family lived at Hobson, Mont. Gordon and Carrie lived in Kentucky and Massachusetts for four years during World War II. Gordon retired with a rank of lieutenant colonel. Gordon and Carrie have two children — Karen Cole, living in Gresham, Ore., and James, living in Reno, Nev. Gordon is a retired Revenue Agent and Carrie, a retired registered nurse, living in Salem, Ore.
CECIL CHALLY Cecil Stanley Chally, the third living child of Henry and Anna Chally, was born on Oct. 24, 1908, in Moscow, Idaho. The family moved to North Dakota in 1911 and ended up farming the land where Paul Herman, the eldest son, now lives. The farm is about two miles northwest of Fairdale, as the crow flies. Cecil received his elementary school education at the Fairdale Consolidated School, which was one of the early consolidated school districts in the country. A reasonably good and thorough start was obtained under the guidance of the headmaster, Professor A. G. Strand, and the teachers he and the school directors selected. A high school diploma was earned after two years at Fairdale, two years at the Albany, Oregon, High School, and a half-year at the Hoople Consolidated School at Hoople, N. Dak., to pick up a needed-half-credit in June, 1927. In the fall of 1927, late registration at Albany College, Albany, Ore., was permitted. Chemistry, physics, mathematics and pre-med biology courses, along with the necessary English, language, and teacher-training courses, provided the requirements for a Bachelor of Arts Degree in June of 1931. These were tough years (rightfully called the Dirty Thirties),
consequently it was necessary to take additional college work to obtain employment in the fields where there were openings. Courses in agriculture-related subjects were completed and employment was obtained with the (J. S. Department of Agriculture as a conservationist and ecologist. After 36 years with the Soil Conservation Service of the Department of Agriculture, retirement was effected in 1 973. During the college years, Dona May Foster, a student at Albany, came into the life of Cecil and they were married on Nov. 6, 1936, in Dayton, Wash. Dona was born March 1 1 , 1910, in Nyssa, Ore. She is the daughter of Sidney Fields Foster (a member of one of the first graduating classes in the School of Pharmacy at Washington State University in 1904) and Myrtle Lelia White. She lived in eastern Oregon and graduated from Elgin High School in 1928, then moved to the Willamette Valley, Oregon, where Dona attended Albany College for three years with aspirations of becoming an elementary school teacher. On April 3, 1940, a son, Paul Sidney, was born. In June, 1940, a transfer to the livestock grazing and fruit country of Central Washington was effected for Cecil. On Oct. 26, 1943, a daughter, Celia Ann, was born in Yakima, Wash. Both Paul and Celia's elementary and high school education was in the Selah Consolidated School District No. 119, graduating in 1958 and 1962, respectively. Paul's advanced formal education consisted of two years at Washington State University, one quarter at Mexico City College, and two years at San Francisco State and Sacramento State Universities of California. Paul taught in the Honolulu High Schools for five years before returning to the mainland to work toward his Masters Degree in special education at Central Washington University. He is presently teaching special education in Washington. Paul Sidney and Sue Sheldon were married on Nov. 17, 1969, and have four children — Preston Sidney, born Aug. 1, 1972; Erin Sue, born June 13, 1974; Amy Mae, born Nov. 13, 1975; and Anna Colleen, born Sept. 30, 1980. Sue Sheldon was born Dec. 1 1,1953, in Detroit, Mich. She has been in attendance at Central Washington University since 1978 and will receive her B. A. in special education and psychology in June, 1981. She attended school full-time while raising three small children. Sue received a full-tuition scholarship and was recognized by Who's Who Among Students in American Colleges and Universities for academic achievement and leadership abilities. Paul and Sue are presently living in Kittitas, Wash. Celia Ann's formal education began in 1962 at Washington State University and in 1972 a Bachelor's Degree in education was obtained. In 1963, Celia Ann and Glen W. Dodd were married. A daughter, Dawn Marie, was born on Oct. 5, 1964, in Honolulu. Celia was divorced in 1968. She taught in the Elementary School system at Forks, Wash., for three years, then decided to return to Washington State University to work on her Master's Degree in education, which was received in June, 1977, along with fulfilling the requirements for the Elementary School Principalship. Celia has completed her course work for her Doctorate in education, to be completed in early 1981. For two years Celia worked in administration and is now a principal in the Spokane School District.
PAUL AND ALTA CHALLY Paul H. Chally was born in 1900 at Edinburg, N. Dak., to Henry and Anna Chally. He attended school at Edinburg, N. Dak.; Moscow and Blaine, Idaho; Spokane, Wash.; and Fairdale.
Paul Chally Family: left to right, standing, Paul Sorbo, Marlys and Keith Sorbo, Cecil and Margaret Chally, John Sorbo, Kathryn Chally; front, Jonathan Chally, David Sorbo, Alta and Paul Chally, Elizabeth Chally, and Kristin Chally (sitting). N. Dak., where he finished two years of high school (at that time that was all Fairdale had). He has farmed ever since he finished school, retiring in 1973. He has served on the Fairdale Farmers Elevator Board, Farmers Union Oil Company Board, and the School Board. Paul married Alta Thorvilson, daughter of Ole and Thilda Thorvilson of Adams, in 1936. Alta graduated from the Walsh County Agricultural School in Park River. She is a member of Our Redeemer's A.L.C.W.; has been a member of the Fairdale Homemakers Club; and is a member of the church council of Our Redeemer's. Paul and Alta are members of Our Redeemer's of Fairdale, the Fairdale Booster Club, and Sons of Norway Lodge. They have two children — Marlys and Cecil. Marlys graduated from Fairdale High School in 1955 and from UND, Grand Forks, in 1959. In 1958 she married Keith Sorbo of Grand Forks, also a UND graduate. He is a grain salesman for Cargill and Marlys taught school for several years. They have three sons — Paul, John, and David. They live at Littleton, Colo. Cecil graduated from Walsh County Agricultural School at Park River in 1957. In 1961, he graduated from the University of North Dakota. Cecil then attended medical school, graduating in 1963 from UND. In 1965 Cecil graduated from Harvard Medical School. He did one year of internship at the University of Minnesota Hospitals; then spent two years as captain in the Air Force at Altus, Okla. He returned to the University of Minnesota Hospitals and finished his internship. Cecil then specialized in gastrology for two years. He and three other doctors have an office at Abbott Northwestern Medical Building. Cecil married Margaret Manning of Storrs, Conn., in 1965. They make their home at St. Paul, Minn., and have four children — Kathryn, Kristin, Elizabeth, and Jonathan. ARNOLD AND LILLIAN CLEMENS Arnold and Lillian Clemens started farming in Kinloss Township in 1946. Arnold had served 39 months in the Pacific during World War II. When three quarters of land (the former Ole Nordlie farm) were up for sale, George Berntson, Lillian's father, bought the land and sold two quarters to Arnold and Lillian and rented them the third one. They got a cow from Berntsons and a team of "mean" horses from Arnold's mother and stepdad, the Syvert Sunderlands. They bought an M International tractor from
Selmer Amundrud for $1,485 and thus began their farming enterprise. The land was in poor shape so those first years didn't show much return. Cattle and hogs added to the income but also to the many hours of hard work. There was no telephone at this place which added to the unfortunate situation on February 7, 1947, when their first baby was born prematurely and didn't live. It was during a three-day snow storm; it took 24 hours before the doctor could get there. The baby girl is buried at Silvesta Cemetery, a mile from their home. The first day of combining, on Sept. 20, 1950, Arnold fell from a ladder in the granary and broke his hip. He was hospitalized for four weeks and in bed at his mother's place in Park River for two more weeks. All his brood sows had to be sold to pay expenses. The bright spot was that good neighbors organized a plowing bee, October 30, and had all the work done when Arnold came home the next day.
Amold and Lillian Clemens on high heels by the time she graduated. However when that came the style was for low heels! Marilyn attended school in Fairdale and Adams, N. Dak. When she was in the fifth grade, she played the role of Maria in the Christmas Operetta. She played a Tenor Sax in the school band and took piano lessons from Hilda Watne. She loves to play the piano. She spent a week at the International Music Camp near Bottineau. She went to Oak Grove Lutheran High School during her junior and senior years. While there she was in the school concert choir and Madrigal Singers. They went on a tour each year giving concerts each evening for about 10 days. She was chosen Homecoming Queen during her senior year. Marilyn belonged to a 4-H Club learning to groom animals from Roy Schultz. It was a busy week for the Clemen's during Walsh County Fair days. They had five dairy cattle and five pigs to load and bring down one year. Marilyn exhibited garden vegetables and ceramic pieces too.
^1 I Arnold and Lillian Clemens Arnold purchased the Bill Nordlie farm in 1963; his mother's farm near Adams in 1972; the Naegeli quarter in 1971; and Lillian inherited a quarter of land from her parents. Together, with rented land, the present farm totals 1920 acres. A new barn was built in 1955; a new house in 1959, and a new large shop in 1976. During these years, five children were born, all of them at the Deaconess Hospital, Grafton, N. Dak.: David Arlen — Feb. 2 1 , 1 9 4 8 ; LouAnn Marie (Thorvilson) — Oct. 17, 1949; Roger John — July 2, 1952; Jacquelyn Faye (Lindsay) — Feb. 4, 1954; and Marilyn Jean (Hoff) - Aug. 13, 1955. The family has been active in Our Redeemer's Lutheran Church, Fairdale, and later in Mountain Lutheran, Adams. Lillian and Amold left their farm home to take care of Lillian's ill mother in September, 1978. After her death Oct. 27, 1979, they continued to reside in her home in Adams. Marilyn Jean Clemens was born August 13, 1955, to Arnold and Lillian (Berntson) Clemens at Grafton, N. Dak. She grew up on the farm near Fairdale, with her two brothers and two sisters. When the rest played ball, she would often be the "audience". She would spend her time dressing up with high heeled shoes. Her dad said she would surely know how to walk
After graduation she enrolled at Golden Valley Lutheran College in Minneapolis, taking a two year course in Medical Secretary work. She competed in team sports while there in basketball and softball. She married Richard Lars Hoff of Minneapolis, at Fairdale, N. Dak., on July 19, 1975. He was a registered nurse and employed by Riverview Hospital in Crookston, Minnesota. They lived there for a year when Richard (Rick) was accepted by the Minneapolis School of Anesthesia, so they lived in Minneapolis for two years. Marilyn worked as receptionist at the Minnetonka
Children of Arnold and Lillian Clemens: front row, left to right, Jacquelyn Lindsay, Marilyn Hoff, LouAnn Thorvilson; back row, Roger and David.
Dental Clinic. Riverview Hospital asked Rick to come and join their staff as an anesthetist, so they moved back to Crookston. Marilyn has worked as a secretary in the Medical Records Dept., at the same hospital. Marilyn also sells Watkins products to her friends. They are the parents of two boys: Christopher Lars born December 13, 1975, and Benjamin John born June 3, 1979. Roger John Clemens was born July 2, 1952, to Arnold and Lillian (Berntson) Clemens at Grafton, N. Dak. He spent his childhood on the family farm north east of Fairdale. He attended school at Fairdale and Adams, N. Dak. He was a 4-H member and exhibited beef, dairy, pigs, and a horse over the years. In 1971 he enrolled at Lake Region Junior College in Devils Lake in Auto Mechanics. He was always under the hood of a car trying to figure things out. In August, 1971, his number was drawn for army service. His was the last lottery number used. After basic training he was assigned to Schofield Barracks in the Hawaiian Island. On Oct. 20, 1972, he was married to Amy Alice Roder at Langdon, N. Dak. They left for Hawaii a few days later and spent 18 months there. Roger was discharged in August, 1974, and went back to school at Lake Region to finish his Auto Mechanics. He worked as a mechanic for Hunt's Inc., at Devils Lake and Fairdale Supply in Fairdale. In 1975 they came to help farm with his dad. They moved into a new mobile home. In 1977 Roger and his brother-in-law, Terry Thorvilson, rented the Selmer Amundrud Farm of 14 and a half quarters of land, using some of his father's equipment. A large shop was built on the farm in 1976, so Roger worked in it during the winter. Roger and Amy have two children, John Raymond born May 10, 1977, and Tara Elizabeth born June 16, 1978. They moved into the farm house in October, 1978, when Roger's parents went to Adams to care for Grandma Berntson. The mobile home was sold. Roger's hobby is his gun collection and riding his horses, Oklahoma and Jack. He has won numerous ribbons and several trophies at horse shows. Jacquelyn Faye Clemens was born Feb. 4, 1954, to Arnold and Lillian (Berntson) Clemens at Grafton, N. Dak. She went to school in Fairdale and Adams, N. Dak., while growing up on the family farm northeast of Fairdale. She was active in 4-H clubs exhibiting pie and cake, dairy, pigs, and chickens. She joined the school band playing the French Horn but changed to the Alto Saxophone. Her favorite thing was playing ball, any kind. She could win a Ping Pong tournament away from the boys. Of course she practiced a lot on a table in the basement of their home. Her dad built the table with gift money from an army buddy, Chester.
teaching and coaching jobs were hard to get. She went to Crookston, Minn., and worked as a teller in the Polk County State Bank for about two years. On Jan 8, 1977, Jackie and Gerald Wesole Lindsay of Bathgate, N. Dak., were married at Fairdale, N. Dak. Gerald (Jerry) is a pharmacist at Riverview Hospital, Crookston, Minn. They have one daughter Stephanie Marie born Sept. 1, 1978, at Crookston. They reside at 228 4th Ave., N., Crookston, a home they bought. Jackie is a substitute teacher for the Crookston School System.
NAOMI (THRUGSTAD) AND WALLACE DANIELSON Naomi Eunice (Thrugstad) Danielson was born in Silvesta Township, Edinburg, N. Dak., of parents, Edwin Thrugstad and Nora Nygard Thrugstad, in September, 1922. She received her elementary education near Torquay, Sask., Can., and in Silvesta Township, Walsh County, N. Dak., and graduated from high school in Fairdale, N. Dak. In 1942 she married Wallace E. Danielson, Langdon, N. Dak. The ceremony was performed in Walhalla, N. Dak., with Rev. S. 0 . Hilde officiating. They lived in many places: Langdon, Fairdale, Vang, Walhalla, Sarles, Fargo, Enderlin, in North Dakota; then Mt. Vernon, S. Dak.; and Mcintosh and Bagley, in Minnesota. Memories of one-room schools are many. The one without a basement had the big furnace in the middle of the room. All eight grades were taught by one teacher; the children in the family could keep watch on each other. The rides and walks of three miles a day kept them occupied the hour before and after school; and kept their parents busy driving the horses, drawing cutters, sleighs, wagons, and buggies. Occupation all these years for Naomi was with homemaking, while Wallace was with Engineers in the Army, in carpentry, and mechanics. Along with this, they were both missionaries at the Lutheran Indian Mission in the Turtle Mountains near Dunseith, N. Dak. In Minnesota they served as missionaries to Indians on the White Earth Reservation. Naomi and Wallace work at the Pine Ridge Home for the Retarded in Bagley, Minn., where Wallace is employed as supervisor. Naomi's hobbies are knitting, crotcheting, sewing, and poetry-writing. Five children born to them are: Kathleen
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Her junior and senior years in high school she attended at Oak Grove Lutheran in Fargo. She was delegate to Girl's State and when the week was over her friends didn't want her to leave, they had had such a good time. As a senior, she was chosen a princess in the Homecoming Queen contest. Jackie (as everybody calls her) enrolled at North Dakota State University in Fargo; and received a degree in Physical Education and Health. She was a member of the basketball team, the volleyball team and the softball team at NDSU. These teams were involved in many Regional and National Tournaments so Jackie made many trips with them to Pocatello, Idaho; Omaha, Nebraska; Kearney, Nebraska, and others. She coached a team for the Fargo Summer Recreation program. After graduation
Family of Naomi and Wallace Danielson: left to right, standing, Kathleen, Patricia, Daniel; front, Naomi Beth, Naomi, Wallace, and Peter.
Gabnelson Minneapolis, in 1964. She was bom in October 1942 and has a college education. Their children are: Elizabeth June born ,n January. 1967; and Joseph Karl, born in April a
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Leola Maye Myra was born June 1, 1923, the first daughter ofGeorge S. Myra and Anna J. (Nygard) Myra at Fairdale N
On Aug. 8, 1975, Leola married Einar Olson and continues to be active ,n the state Home Economics Association- is a member of Peace Lutheran Church in North Fargo; and supports other educational and community associations'Sh^ h a m a J e her home ,n North Fargo for the past seventeen years.
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