Gayville - South Dakota Genealogy

Biography of Iver Bagstad

Yankton County / History of South Dakota

Iver Bagstad, a representative business figure in Yankton County, exemplifies the potential of determined youth. Born in Norway in 1843, he immigrated to the United States at a young age and grew up in Wisconsin. In 1869, he ventured to South Dakota, then a frontier region, and settled near Volin. After years of farming, Bagstad established himself as a successful merchant in Gayville, facing and overcoming numerous challenges. His business grew under his capable leadership, eventually expanding into the livestock industry. A respected Republican, Bagstad held public positions and earned the trust of his community. He married Elena Aaseth, and together they raised six children.

Biography of Hans C. Olson

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.