Abraham (Abe) Thime was born at Thime, Norway, April 28, 1879. He emigrated to America in March 1899, and came by train to Cooperstown, where he hired a man to take him out to his uncle, Tobias Thime's place about 9 miles southeast of Cooperstown. From there he worked for Torkel Njaa and attended Gallatin school to learn the English language.
Tiring of farm work, he worked as a Section hand for the railroad for a while, then decided to strike out on his own, and opened a confectionary store on Burrell Avenue located about where the laundry now stands. He married Elisabeth Loge February 22, 1902. He bought and moved out on a farm, where his daughter Ann was born. The family went to Norway for a visit, and on their return, Abe bought a meat market, which was located about where Model Clothing is now.
He continued farming, and took another trip to Norway, where he and his family were interred until the end of the war which broke-out while they were there. Five years later, in 1919, they returned to Cooperstown and he became associated with Reier Lunde in the real estate business until he and G. B. Edmondson established a meat market.
Late in 1930, he sold out and took over Main Motors, which he soon sold to Torgerson and Davidson. Then he operated sales barns in New Rockford and Valley City, and continued as cattle buyer until his retirement a few years ago. Although retired he continued being active by selling gas at his garage in Walum until a short time before his death. He made several trips to Norway, the last one at age 93.
Mr. Thime died June 26, 1974 after a short illness. His wife preceded him in death in July 1958.
Source: Griggs County History 1879 - 1976 Page 84