Representative from Winnebago county. Born in Sogn, Norway. He came to the United States with his parents in 1867 and settled on a farm in Dane county, Wisconsin. In 1873 he came with his father's family to Winnebago county, Iowa, and has since that time made that county his home. He was educated at the high school at Forest City, Iowa, and at Luther College, Decorah, Iowa. He was for many years engaged in school work, having taught thirty-five terms of school. Later on he bought a farm and took up the business of farming, which he still follows. In 1886 he, with the aid of a few others, organized the Farmers' Mutual Fire and Lightning Insurance Association of Winnebago County and was elected to the office of secretary and manager of the newly-formed association, a position which he has held for eighteen years. He has acted as county agent for the Iowa Mutual Tornado Insurance Association for about twenty years, and for the Town Mutual since its organization. He has served two terms as township clerk and is serving his third term on the school board. He was married to Miss Bertha Hermanson in 1892 and has a family of six boys and two girls. Is a member of the United Lutheran Church and has served as secretary of his church for nearly twenty years. Elected Representative in 1906. A Republican in politics.