Peder Sarsten (1870-1966) was a young man of 20 when he decided to immigrate to America. News was reaching Norway of free land and great opportunities in America. Peder made arrangements to go to North Dakota where his brother, "Sam" and others from Bremnes had preceded him. It was July 1890 that he arrived in New York and he soon thereafter arrived in North Dakota where he secured employment as a farm hand near Sanborn. The pay was very meager but he saved a large part of what he earned, and looked forward eagerly to the day when he might own his own land. He took the first step on February 3, 1894 when he filed an entry at Valley City for a homestead on the Northwest ΒΌ of Section 20 in Svea Township. His mailing address was Svea, North Dakota.
On September 14, 1900, Peder Sarsten submitted final proof of residence and cultivation. His first house, a one and one-half story, 14 by 24 with an addition 14 by 14 was built in June 1894. Here Peder lived the life of a bachelor until July 16, 1898, when he was married to Hannah Elisa Mattson. Seven children were born: Arthur, Herbert, Paul, Henry, Blanche, Russell and Doris. All were born on this farm and Peder and Hannah lived there continuously until in 1948 when the farm was sold to Olaf Sortland. A golden wedding anniversary was celebrated in July 1948.
Peder obtained his U.S. citizenship at the earliest possible time and held it in high regard. Early in life he acquired a deep religious faith which he carried throughout his life. He was one of the leaders in early church organization. In 1894 he joined the St. Thomas Lutheran Church and in 1899 was one of the original organizers of the Evangelical Free Church in Svea Township.
Perhaps one of the greatest events in Peder's life was his visit to Norway in 1951 , after an absence of 61 years. Although 81 years old, he was strong and well, and made the trip alone. He was the oldest passenger aboard the liner "Stavangerfjord" and was invited as an honored guest at the Captain's table.
Mr. Sarsten passed away April 21 , 1966; Mrs. Sarsten died March 16, 1949.
Source: Barnes County History 1976 Page 213