John Knutson was born in Osterdalen, Norway in 1873 and came to America in 1885 to Port Huron, Michigan and in May 1887, he came to Griggs County where he worked on several farms until he homesteaded in Romness Township. He was married to Josephine Elsaas of Ottertail County, Minnesota on December 19, 1893. They had one adopted daughter, Nellie Carol Myhre who was married to Albert Johnson June 29, 1922. Mr. Johnson was born May 11, 1897, the son of John and Lena (Graff) Johnson. He farmed all his life in Romness Township until he retired, when they moved to Cooperstown.
They have two sons, Lawrence and Alvin, and two daughters, Mrs. (Josephine) LeRoy Olson and Mrs. James (Carole) Helmer. In 1973, they had 16 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren.
Mr. Johnson passed away October 27, 1973, at the Griggs County Nursing Home.
John Knutson died March 12, 1930 and Mrs. Knutson died June 5, 1955.
Source: Griggs County History 1879 - 1976 page 399