Axel Axelson

Axel Axelson was born in Norway December 29, 1867 and came to the United States in 1885. He married Josephine Jacobson at the home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Enok Jacobson, in Barnes County, August 19, 1892.

Mrs. Axelson came to Barnes County with her parents, her sisters, Minnie (Mrs. Peter Olson); Ida (Mrs. Oscar Olafson), and her brother, Edward. She was born in Chicago, Illinois October 1875.

The Jacobsons came from Norway, resided in Chicago for several years. Hearing of opportunities for homesteading in Dakota, they came here, filed on land in what is now Green Township.

Axel Axelson bought pre-emption rights on land in Green Township after his marriage the couple began farming. They had eight children:

  1. Alma,

  2. Arnold,

  3. Axel,

  4. Julius,

  5. Annette,

  6. Bernard,

  7. Agnes,

  8. Albert and

  9. Edith.

During her years on the farm Mrs. Axelson was constantly in demand as a midwife and to aid when there was illness. While not a registered nurse, she was considered an adept practical nurse, was asked, or volunteered to care for many persons. When a doctor could not get to a patient, he would recommend Mrs. Axelson. She was a member of the Baptist Church, the Pioneer Club and Pioneer Daughters.

They retired from active farming in 1921, moved to Valley City. Mr. Axelson made daily trips to the farm for several years. He also bought real estate in Valley City, remodeled buildings and then selling or renting the property.

The Axelsons observed their 50th Wedding Anniversary in 1942 at their home in Valley City. Mrs. Axelson died in June, 1947. Her husband died at 92 in 1960.

The Enok Jacobson homestead ownership remains in the family. When it was offered for sale, the land was purchased by the Axel Axelsons, given to their son Albert and his wife, Edna, who now reside on the farm. Albert "Red" Axelson graduated from Valley City high school and VCSC. He played high school and college football and basketball. Later he coached athletics while an instructor.

Mr. and Mrs. Albert Axelson returned to Barnes County to make their home in 1966.

Source: Barnes County History 1976 Page 20