C. A. Larson
A member of a family that is well known in Crawford county, C. A. Larson has gained an established reputation as one of the substantial citizens of his locality, being the owner of a well improved farm in Stockholm township.
He is a native of Sweden, born December 10, 1854, a son of John and Mary Larson, a record of whom is presented in the sketch of Andrew Larson, which appears elsewhere in this work. C. A. Larson received his education in his native land and at thirteen years of age crossed the ocean to America and lived for several years in Pennsylvania. He then came to Crawford county, Iowa, continuing with his parents until after reaching manhood, when he began farming on his own account and rented land for five years. In 1887 he purchased the place on which he now lives, embracing one hundred and sixty acres on section 5, Stockholm township.
Subsequently his wife inherited one hundred and fifty acres on section 6, the same township, and both farms are now being cultivated by Mr. Larson. As they are provided with modern facilities, the work is carried forward very satisfactorily. Mr. Larson makes a specialty of raising and feeding stock and as he keeps a good grade of animals and thoroughly understands farm management, he has attained a large measure of success.
On March 20, 1882, Mr. Larson was united in marriage to Miss Ereka Erickson, who was born in Sweden, October 22, 1861, a daughter of Herman and Julia Erickson, both natives of Sweden. They came to America in 1862 and lived for eight years in Minnesota and then located in Crawford county, Iowa, where they continued during the remainder of their lives, the mother passing away April 18, 1888, and the father November 6, 1896.
Three children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Erickson, the wife of our subject being the only one now living. Twelve children constitute the family of Mr. and Mrs. Larson, one of whom died in infancy, the others being: Lillie E., born February 22, 1883, who received a musical education and is now the wife of Rufus Morgan, of Crawford county; Alma B., who was born January 15, 1885, and is a graduate of Highland Park College of Des Moines, Iowa; Alfred O., who was born December 9, 1886, and is now farming upon the old homestead; Julia J., born June 7, 1888, Etta I., born February 15, 1890, and Eldred R., born March 16, 1892, all of whom are at home; Alvin L., who was born February 18, 1895, and died on the 8th of March following; Russell A., born April 25, 1897, Edna F., born April 14, 1898, Earlin L., born June 28, 1900, and Lafe Theodore, born July 7, 1902, all of whom are at home.
Mr. Larson owes his present prosperous condition to his habits of industry and a laudable ambition to win a reputable place for himself in the community. His success is proof of the possibilities in America for young men of good habits who are willing to apply themselves in early life in order to enjoy an abundance in later years. Politically he gives his adherence to the republican party and although he has not sought the honors of office, he has served with marked ability as school director and road superintendent. He and his wife are stanch members and supporters of the Baptist church.
Source: History of Crawford County, Iowa. Vol. II. Chicago: The S. J. Clarke Publishing Co., 1911.