Biography of Ole Kjeldseth

History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

Ole Kjeldseth, born on March 20, 1835, in Bye, Wardalen, Norway, emigrated to the United States in 1864, initially settling in Muskegon, Michigan. After working in a sawmill and farming in Wisconsin, he returned to Norway briefly before relocating to Yankton County, South Dakota, in 1870. Starting with 160 acres, he expanded his holdings to 640 acres, overcoming early setbacks like grasshopper plagues. He married Sarah Knutson in 1860, and they had four children. A committed Republican, Kjeldseth served as county commissioner, justice of the peace, and school officer. His success is attributed to his hard work and business acumen.

Biography of Thomas Inch

History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

Thomas Inch, born in County Derry, Ireland, on August 12, 1888, emigrated to the United States, first settling in Connecticut before moving to Yankton County, South Dakota, in 1868. Initially securing 160 acres of government land, Inch expanded his holdings to 720 acres, developing a prosperous farm known for its modern equipment and well-tended fields. He specialized in general farming and livestock raising, including Durham cattle and Poland-China hogs. Although never married, he lived with his brother Major Inch and his family. Thomas served as a county commissioner from 1891 to 1897 and was active in school work and the Episcopal church.

Biography of Hans C. Olson

History of South Dakota vol 1 title page

Hans C. Olson, a farmer in Yankton County, South Dakota, has played a significant role in the region’s growth and development. Born in Norway in 1854, he immigrated to the United States as a teenager with his parents. Settling in South Dakota, Hans worked diligently on the family farm and eventually became a successful farmer himself, owning 320 acres of land, primarily dedicated to raising Hereford cattle. He was actively involved in his community, serving as a deputy assessor and advocating for education. With a strong sense of integrity and deep religious faith, Hans earned the respect of all who knew him.

History of Waverly Township

History of Marshall County Dakota title page

Waverly township, with the exception of the northwestern part, lies on a gradual elevation which finally terminates in the hills. Two-thirds of this township is fine tillable land, the remainder good grazing land, being well supplied with, water. In the eastern part of the township there are two deep gulches or coulees about one mile … Read more