Harold Auren was born on Section 12, Sverdrup Township, February 7, 1886, of parents Gulbrand and Kristie Auren. He had four brothers and one sister, Gilbert, George, Sigvart, Thor and Christine. Harold's mother passed away in 1898 and the father in 1903, and the boys lived with relatives until they were able to be on their own.
Christine was only 11/2 years old when her mother died and she was adopted by a Mr. and Mrs. Nelson and is now living in Manistee, Michigan. Harold's only living brother is Sigvart of Moorhead, Minnesota.
Mr. Auren was married to Mattie Gilbertson in 1933 and they have lived on Section 2 since their marriage. Mattie was born in Ness, Adal, Norway of parents, RASMUS AND GUNHILD UHLEN GILBERTSON, September 6, 1899. The Gilbertson family came to Hatley, Wisconsin, in 1904 and to this area to farm in 1912. Rasmus Gilbertson died during the flu epidemic in 1919 at the age of 57, and Mrs. Gilbertson in 1930. Mattie, Gunhild (Mrs. Gilbert Auren), Mrs. Marie Johnson and Edward Gilbertson are surviving members of this family.
Mr. Auren lives less than two miles from the homestead quarter where he was born, and at 89 knows this area better than any other living person. His mind is as sharp as his eyesight is keen. He has given his neighbors many laughs with his recollection of humorous incidents of pioneer days, the newcomer, steam threshing, school days, social gatherings, stunts and tricks that offended no one. His eyes saw the oxen, the sod house, the log cabin and they saw humor in everyday living.
Source: Griggs County History 1879 - 1976 Page 424