Iver Johnson was born in Ringerike, Norway, came to the United States and settled in Romness Township in 1885.
Barbara (Betsy) Haugen was born in Sagdal, Norway in 1852. With her brother Henry she emigrated to Spring Grove, Minnesota. After a year there and some time in Fargo, she came to Griggs County to homestead in 1881. This remained her home all her life.
In 1889 the Johnsons married and became the parents of five children, Helen (Mrs. Peter Jungels), Olaf (deceased), Sarah, Alma (Mrs. Harry Zentz) and John, who died in the flu epidemic of 1918. It was said of Mrs. Johnson who died in 1922 that the experiences of pioneer life and her Christian character alike were influences in building up the esteem and love in which her friends held her. The children loved her very much.
Mr. Johnson died in 1911. They had built up the farm, which was later owned by Edwin Anderson.
Henry A. Haugen, the brother who came to this country with his sister Barbara Haugen Johnson in 1881, was a carpenter by trade. His story of building in the area might be interesting. He owned the Kastet farm in Romness Township. He married Mrs. Nelson who was a widow with two children, William and Nina, and they were lifelong residents of Cooperstown.
Source: Griggs County History 1879 - 1976 Page 397