M. Pierce Roberts, who was born December 18, 1880 at Oshkosh, Wisconsin, the son of Peter and Matilda Roberts, came to North Dakota with his family in 1882. His father homesteaded on the West 1/2 of Section 28 in Birtsell Township. On February 15, 1905 he married Myrtle Ridgeway, the daughter of James and Mary Whittler Ridgeway, who was born July 15, 1884 at Virden, Illinois.
The Roberts lived on the original homestead for twenty‑two years. In 1909 he purchased land of his own and acquired a third interest in the homestead. He lived on the farm until 1945 but no longer operated the farm after 1932. Mr. Roberts served as County treasurer for four years, Register of Deeds, Clerk of Court and County judge for twenty years. He was Birtsell Township's treasurer for 33 years.
Myrtle was active in many church and community activities and a lifetime member of the Eastern Star.
The Roberts had one daughter: Ione.
Mr. Roberts died February 3, 1978 and Mrs. Roberts died April 16, 1980. They are buried in the Carrington Cemetery.
Source: A History of Foster County 1983 Page 4B