Christen, Clarence 1852 - 1938

CHRISTEN, WALTON

Posted By: Bill Waters (email)
Date: 4/19/2014 at 11:02:15

For ten years Clarence Christen has been engaged in the real-estate business in Decorah and along this line has not only attained individual prosperity but has become an important factor in the development of the city. Born in Madison, Wisconsin, January 19, 1855, he is a son of Swen and Signe Christen, natives of Norway, the mother being born on the 10th of June, 1823. In 1852 the father decided to exchange the meager existence his native country afforded for the opportunities of the new world and came to America, locating near Madison, Wisconsin. The mother left her native land about the same time and they were married in that city. In 1855 they came to Winneshiek county, Iowa, locating in Madison township, where Mr. Christen bought land, and as he prospered he increased his holdings until he held title to several hundred acres. He later removed to Bluffton Township, this county, where he was engaged in farming until his death. Mrs. Christen survived him for several years, passing away in the same place. He was highly esteemed in his locality and for a number of terms served efficiently as county commissioner.

Clarence Christen was educated in the public schools of Decorah and made his home with his parents until he was married, when he removed to Mankato, Minnesota, where he found employment as an engineer for the Peavey Grain Company. He remained with that firm for two years and then returned to Winneshiek County, engaging in the cultivation of one hundred acres in Bluffton Township. Later he purchased the old home place of one hundred and sixty acres, remaining for about five years actively engaged in the cultivation of the farm, and then rented the place in order to remove to Decorah, where he engaged in the merchandise business. In 1889 he was appointed steward of the poor house and insane asylum, discharging his duties in such a manner as to receive general approbation. In 1893 he was elected sheriff of Winneshiek County and served in that important position for eight years, being reelected to the office. His record in that office was one of benefit to the county and of credit to himself. In 1902 in partnership with his brother Albert he embarked in the real-estate business and is still thus engaged. His knowledge of land values is extensive and he is considered one of the best judges of real estate in the city and county, handling important transfers and receiving a gratifying income from his business.

In 1882 Mr. Christen was married to Miss Elizabeth Walton, a daughter of Joseph and Harriett Walton, natives of England. The father was born on January 1, 1830, and died in 1913 on the anniversary of the day of his birth. He was married in the motherland and came to the United States in 1852, locating in Winneshiek County, of which he became an early settler. Here he purchased land and successfully followed agricultural pursuits until about twenty years ago, when he retired from active work and removed to Cresco, which city he made his home until his demise. His wife is still living in Cresco, Iowa. Mr. and Mrs. Christen have the following children: Josie, a bookkeeper in the Winneshiek County State Bank of Decorah; Lottie, a clerk in a dry-goods store of this city; Myrtle, at home; and Lloyd, deputy county treasurer of Winneshiek County.

Mr. Christen gives his support to the Republican Party, the platform and principles of which appeal to him as conducive to the best form of government. He has held various township offices, having discharged his duties in an able and efficient manner, and at present is one of the inheritance tax appraisers. Mr. Christen is a member of the Norwegian Lutheran church of Decorah while his wife and family are members of the Congregational church. His only fraternal connection is with Decorah Lodge, No. 443, B. P. O. E. Although there are no spectacular phases in his life record it stands as evidence of what can be accomplished when industry and energy lead the way. Beginning with no particular advantages, he has attained a substantial position in his city and is considered one of the moving forces in bringing Decorah to the front and promoting its importance as one of the thriving cities of the state.

Source: History of Winneshiek County, Iowa Vol. II Chicago the S. J. Clark publishing Company 1913

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