WILLIAMS, Knut 1845-1937

WILLIAMS, PETERSON, HESGARD, SPRINGER

Posted By: Deidre Badker (email)
Date: 6/13/2006 at 08:43:51

KNUT WILLIAMS, PIONEER, DIES TUESDAY - STARTED FARMING IN UNION TOWNSHIP, MITCHELL COUNTY, IOWA 68 YEARS AGO

Knut Williams, one of Mitchell county's oldest pioneers, died at his home here Tuesday afternoon at the age of 92 years, following an illness but a few days duration. Funeral services will be held from the Norwegian Lutheran church at 2 p.m. Saturday afternoon.

Knut Williams, fifth child of William and Margaretta Peterson was born June 14, 1845, in Norway. He came with his parents to the United States in 1848 and settled near Orfordsville, Wisconsin, the year Wisconsin was made a state from the Northwest territory.

At that time, Rock county was a virtual wilderness and as soon as Knut was able to work, he assisted his father in the clearing of the farm land. He attended the rural schools of his day there, obtaining most of his education by extensive reading and during the brief terms at rural school when he could attend. In this frontier wilderness, Knut Williams grew to manhood, knowing only the hardships of a pioneering farmer.

In 1867, he was married to Olena Hesgard. Ten children were born to this union: five of whom still survive him, 3 daughters and 2 sons having preceded him in death.

In 1869, he and his wife and small daughter, now Mrs. C. H. Springer of Charles City, Iowa moved to Mitchell county and settled on a farm in Union township, 4 miles north of St. Ansgar where he and his young bride started in for themselves to make a farm. This farm remained in his possession until 1936 when it was sold.

Mr. & Mrs. Williams celebrated their golden wedding anniversary in 1917. During those 50 years Mr. Williams had developed his 160 acres of land in Union township, improved it, educated his children and was looked on as a prosperous farmer. 37 years ago, he and Mrs. Williams retired from active farming and moved to St. Ansgar where he purchased a home and has lived ever since. Mrs. Williams preceded him in death March 12, 1936, at the age of 89.

Always an active man, Knut was a familiar sight on Main street up until a few weeks ago when his health began to fail. Although he showed signs of failing health, he did not take to his bed until about a week ago when he suffered an attack of pneumonia and death came Tuesday afternnoon at 1 p.m.

Rev. Olaf Langehough will have charge of the services from the Lutheran church Saturday afternoon at 2 p.m. Interment will be in the Norwegian church cemetery.

(From the St. Ansgar, IA Enterprise - September 1937)