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Part II
Table of Contents
Notes from the Translator
Fragment by Anders S. Houkom
Letters to and From the Houkom Family 1856 to after 1900
Olaf Sveinungsen's Personal Documents
Aslak Sveinungsen's Teaching Certificate
Aslak's Report to the School Board, 1888
Newspapers from 1824 - 1833
Aslak Houkom's Notes about the family
Aslak Houkom's Notes about the name Houkom
News Item by Olaf S. Houkom
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Notes from the Translator - Dordi Round
Once again I have had a winter of excitement and enjoyment, learning to know more about the Houkom family, through a new collection of letters and documents entrusted to me by Helen Forbes and Mason Solem. Some of the papers are fragile originals; others are machine copies. Some of them reveal that there was mis-information, especially about the Kjerkebø Family, in the material I translated in 1983-84. Aslak Houkom's letters from the 1930's case much light on these misconceptions and their origin, but there are many interesting letters predating those, one as far back as 1856.
Except for an undated fragment by Anders Houkom, I have arranged all the letters in chronological order, to give historical sequence; but there are gaps and unsolved mysteries. However, for those who wish to study the writings of one individual, I will include in the Appendix a list of dates and page numbers for each letter writer. Where necessary this will include pages from both books. The Appendix will also include documents other than letters, and information which Aslak Houkom collected while revisiting Norway in 1930.
In an attempt to preserve the individuality of the letter writers, I have capitalized words, or omitted capitals, just as the writers have done; and I have used their spellings of place-names and abbreviations: for example, Vixconsien; and Mple (for Minneapolis). As before, many variants of personal family names are used, sometimes having a name spelled two ways in one letter.
Olaf Ness, Ole Naes and Olaf Saltevje, are all names for one person, the husband of Svennung (Sveinung) Houkom's eldest daughter, Anne, who is also known as Big Anne, because her youngest sister is Anne Andrea, or Little Anne. Anne's sister Tarjer changed her name to Thora when she emigrated. She must not be confused with Tarjei, the Houkom hired man, who also emigrated.
When dating their letters with numerals, the Norwegians put the day numeral before the month numeral. This is obvious in the date like 22/3/1887, but the numerals 12 and less can cause confusion to Americans. 3/8/87 is NOT March 8 but August 3. As a reference help I have given each letter a heading, including writer, recipient, and date in the American way, while below I have put the date as the writer had it.
The Norwegian word korn, meaning corn, does not refer to corn-on-the-cob. To most Europeans, corn means wheat, oats, rye or barley, whichever is grown locally, or collectively to refer to more than one.
Norway has two official languages: (1) Bokmaal or Riksmaal; i.e. book language or language of the realm, used by educated people, and in books, magazines, and newspapers. (2) Nynorsk or Landsmaal; i.e. new Norwegian or rural language. Actually this is ancient, rather than new; but it is referred to as new, because during the 19th Century it became "newly" popular to write in dialect, rather than in educated language. Landsmaal includes all the dialects, which vary greatly from valley to valley, and in the written forms there is no standardized spelling. The complications are increased when the writer has had a total of three months' formal schooling, and spells as he or she thinks best. Some of these letters have been more fun than the best anagrams and cryptograms I have previously tackled, especially when written minutely in a style of penmanship quite unlike any I have seen elsewhere.
Anders Houkom had a good education, but some of his earlier letters were written in dialect, with most unusual spellings. His later ones, especially those written after he began to teach, show that he knew Bokmaal perfectly well, but used Landsmaal for fun. In his early letters I was interested to find dialect words used in letters to me from my older friends in the Stavanger area, plus many words I have never seen elsewhere, but could guess from the context. I'm grateful to him for teaching me more of the Telemark dialect. For those of you who are interested in the language of your heritage, I will list some of these variants. If you are not interested, you can skip on to the main body of the work, which I hope you will find as enjoyable as I do.
Meanwhile, I would like to thank Helen and Mason for letting me have these very special documents, and to send warm greetings to all the Houkom descendants I have had the good fortune to meet.
Dordi Round
October 1984 to June 1985
Translator's note: I have decided to begin Book II of "They Came from Kviteseid" with a fragment of a letter from Anders Svennungsen Houkom, undated, but page numbered 3. I do not have the other pages. It gives such an interesting glimpse of 19th century life on a Telemark farm; but first I will explain a few of his references, for the benefit of those who are not familiar with Norwegian country life.
Arne Garborg, born in 1851, was a novelist from south western Norway, whose boyhood and youth were completely overshadowed by his religious-fanatic father. Hellfire and brimstone were the daily promises inflicted on the family for imaginary sins, and happiness was the greatest sin of all. Garborg's novels reflect this darkness.
The repeated initials ASSH stand for Anders Svennung's Son Houkom, and his younger brother, Aslak.
Anders uses 'staulen' for the word usually spelled stølen, which I have translated summer pasture. Almost every valley farm owned or had grazing rights to a saeter, or mountain farm, with a stone-walled enclosure for out-door milking, a sleeping cabin, and a small dairy-hut. Some farms also had fishing rights in a mountain lake, in this case Sollia, or Sunny Meadow, where another cabin gave shelter. Some farmers, like Svennung, allowed a man to live rent-free in the lake cabin, in return for a supply of fish for the farm. Heiva was apparently the Houkom fisherman. Sometimes the arrangement also involved the provision of game-birds and wild reindeer, which the farmer himself might not have the time, desire, or skill to hunt.
THEY CAME FROM KVITESEID, Book II
Appendix
(P.A1) Index to WRITERS OF LETTERS used in "They Came From Kviteseid"
SVEINUNG OLSEN HOUKOM,
born on April 3, 1829 in Kviteseid, Telemark, son of Ole Bjørnsen Houkom,
and Tarjer Aslaksdatter Kirkebø. Confirmed June 22, 1845. Married November
5, 1849 to Mari Hansdatter Saltevje. Emigrated to America 1887. Mari died June
19, 1896. Svennung died May 8, 1909. Both buried in Rosendal Cemetery, Badger,
Minnesota.
Letters Written On
To
From
On Page numbered
August 13, 1886
his children
Hvideseid
33, Book II
October 12, 1886
Aslak
Hvideseid
37, Book II
February 14, 1887
Aslak
Hvideseid
46, Book II
December 12, 1887
Aslak
Grand Forks Co.
55, Book II
February 10, 1888
Aslak
Manvel
57, Book II
August 7, 1888
son
Mekinock
62, Book II
October 13, 1889
Aslak
Mekinock
66, Book II
March 13, 1891
Aslak
Mekinock
70, Book II
July 14, 1891
Aslak
Mekinock
74, Book II
July 21, 1891
Aslak
Mekinock
75, Book II
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(P. A2) OLAF SVEINUNGSEN HOUKOM
born on May 31, 1850, in Kviteseid, Telemark, son of Sveinung Olsen Houkom and
Mari Hansdatter Saltevje. Baptized July 14, 1850. Confirmed October 2, 1864.
Married (1) October 3, 1888 to Anne Marie Glerum, who died July 1, 1891. Married
(2) November 28, 1893 to Anna Dahlum. Emigrated to America 1870. Olaf died November
6, 1920; buried in Fargo. Anna died July, 1958; buried in Twin Valley, Minn.
Letters written on
To
From
On Page Numbered
June 5, 1870
Father
Ship 'Rjukan'
26, Book I
July 24, 1870
Father
Coon Prairie
26, Book I
January 9, 1871
Parents
Highlands Prairie
28, Book I
March 30, 1871
Father
Ness
29, Book I
November 26, 1871
Father
Highland Prairie
31, Book I
undated
Brother
no address given
33, Book I
June 22, 1872
Father
La Crescent
33, Book I
July 19, 1873
Father
Leon, Wis.
35, Book I
November 6, 1874
Father
La Crosse
37, Book I
October 25, 1875
Tarjer
La Crosse
10, Book II
April 11, 1876
Father
La Crosse
38, Book I
January 15, 1877
Tarjer
Augsburg
12, Book II
February 19, 1877
Tarjer
Augsburg
14, Book II
February 8, 1880
Father
Augsburg
41, Book I
May 1, 1880
(Diary Fragment)
17, Book II
May 24, 1880
Tarjer
Wilmar
18, Book II
November 29, 1880
Father
Kristiania
43, Book I
March 4, 1881
Father
Kristiania
43, Book I
March 17, 1881
Father
Kristiania
44, Book I
April 8, 1881
Father
Kristiania
45, Book I
June 28, 1881
Tarjer
Liverpool
19, Book II
April 26, 1883
Thone
Augsburg
45, Book I
August 1, 1883
Tarjer (Thora)
Dalton
24, Book II
August 26, 1884
Tarjer
Manvel
25, Book II
February 1, 1886
Thora
Manvel
27, Book II
December 30, 1886
Thora
Northwood
43, Book II
June 20, 1887
Aslak
Manvel
53, Book II
December 16, 1887
Thora
Manvel
56, Book II
March 22, 1888
Brother
Manvel
59, Book II
January 4, 1906
Aslak
Mekinock
86, Book II
March 29, 1906
Thora
Mekinock
87, Book II
February 27, 1909
Thora
Mekinock
89, Book II
May 31, 1909
Aslak
Mekinock
90, Book II
December 23, 1910
Aslak
Mekinock
90, Book II
May 5, 1912
Aslak
Fargo
91, Book II
(Postcard) 1912
Mama
92, Book II
April 16, 1916
Aslak
Fargo
94, Book II
New Year Card (1918?)
Aslak & Anne
Fargo
94, Book II
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(P. A3) TARJER (THORA) SVEINUNGSDATTER HOUKOM
born September 16, 1856, in Kviteseid, daughter of Sveinung Olsen Houkom and
Mari Hansdatter Saltevje. Emigrated 1879. Married Mr. Meyer (sometime after
1893). Died June 7, 1925, buried in Badger, Minn.
Letter written on
To
From
On Page numbered
August 18, 1879
Parents
Merchants Hotel
15, Book II
TONE SVEINUNGSDATTER HOUKOM
born July 30, 1859 in Kviteseid, Daughter of Sveinung Olsen Houkom and Mari
Hansdatter Saltevje. Emigrated 1886. Engaged to Thor Johansson Klevstul. Died
March 23, 1888, buried in Manvel, North Dakota.
Letters written on
To
From
On Page numbered
February 24, 1883
Tarjer
Midtsund (Norway)
23, Book II
October 20, 1886
Anne
Manvel
40, Book II
ANDERS SVEINUNGSEN HOUKOM
born August 17, 1861, in Kviteseid, son of Sveinung Olsen Houkom and Mari Hansdatter
Saltevje. Emigrated 1881. Died June 4, 1938.
Letters written on
To
From
On Page numbered
(undated fragment)
(Aslak?)
(Unknown)
1, Book II
June 28, 1881
Parents
Liverpool
20, Book II
December 18, 1881
Aslak
Wilmar
21, Book II
August 24, 1886
Aslak
Manvel
34, Book II
March 22, 1887
Aslak
Hillsboro
48, Book II
April 16, 1887
Aslak
Hillsboro
51, Book II
May 12, 1887
Aslak
Augsburg Seminary
51, Book II
May 31, 1887
Aslak
Glasgow
51, Book II
June 16, 1887
Aslak
Haukom, Kviteseid
52, Book II
November 12, 1887
Aslak
Manvel
54, Book II
April 20, 1888
Aslak
Hillsboro
60, Book II
April 27, 1888
Aslak
Hillsboro
61, Book II
May 19, 1891
Anne
Mekinock
72, Book II
September 10, 1906
Father
Portland, N.D.
88, Book II
August 1915
(unknown)
Halstead, Minn.
93, Book II
December 23, 1934
Aslak and Anne
(unknown)
106, Book II
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(P. A4) ASLAK SVEINUNGSEN HOUKOM
born May 4, 1864 in Kviteseid, son of Sveinung Olsen Houkom and Mari Hansdatter
Saltevje. Emigrated 1886. Died October 16, 1939, Badger, Minnesota.
Letters Written on
To
From
On Page numbered
June 23, 1886
Parents
Liverpool
28, Book II
July 3, 1886
Parents
Ship 'Adriatic'
29, Book II
July 10, 1886
Parents
Lie
30, Book II
August 3, 1886 *
Parents
Audubon
32, Book II
September 5, 1886
Parents
Audubon
35, Book II
November 21, 1886
Parents
Onland, Minn
42, Book II
February 2, 1887
Parents
Manvel
44, Book II
April 15, 1887
Father
Manvel
49, Book II
November 12, 1890
Thora
Mekinock
69, Book II
May 6, 1892
Thora
Hatton, N.D.
76, Book II
July 19, 1933
Anders
Badger, Minnesota
100, Book II
January 3, 1934
(Re Silver Brooch)
Badger, Minnesota
101, Book II
August 29, 1934
John
Badger, Minnesota
102, Book II
August 29, 1934
John (re Julia)
Badger, Minnesota
105, Book II
*The fourth letter on this list is dated July 3, 1886; but as it tells of sequels to the events described in the previous letter, of July 10, Aslak must have written July when it was actually August. I have therefore listed it as August, to preserve the historical sequence. D.R.
JOHN ASBJØRN HOUKOM
born January 27, 1890, Mekinock, N.D., son of Olaf Sveinungsen Houkom and Anne
Marie Glerum.
Letters Written On
To
From
On Page numbered
December 20, 1932
Marius
Blanchardville, Wis.
96, Book II
ALVHILDE MARGARETTE HOUKOM
born December 20, 1897, Mekinock, N.D., daughter of Olaf Sveinungsen Houkom
and Anna Dahlum.
Letters Written On
To
From
On Page numbered
(1975 or 1976)
Helen
Fargo, N.D.
107, Book II
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(P. A5) Translator's note: In spite of much research, I have as yet been unable to ascertain whether the writer of letters to Thora, signed "Anna", was actually Anna Dahlum, who became Olaf's second wife a few months after the last letter was written. Many clues indicate that she was. The main argument against that theory is that the first letter was addressed from Granville, P.O., and the only Granville I have so far been able to locate is in north central North Dakota, and there is no record that "Grandma" ever lived there. I have written to the Post Master of Oslo, Minnesota, near Grandma's childhood home, to see if there was a settlement with a post office named Granville, somewhere in that area, in 1892, but so far I have received no reply. Because the evidence "for" is more than the evidence "against", I am listing Anna's letters with the only one I have which was written by Olaf's second wife. If I am mistaken, I hope that "Grandma's" descendants will forgive me. But if she wasn't Grandma, who was Anna?
ANNA J. DAHLUM
born August 30, 1874 in Ishpeming, Mich. daughter of Joe Dahlum and Margrette Moe A. Married November 28, 1893, to Olaf Sveinungsen Houkom. Died July 1958, in Twin Valley, Minn.
Letters Written On
To
From
On Page numbered
September 24, 1892
Thora
Granville, P.O.
77, Book II
November 16, 1892
Thora
Grand Forks
78, Book II
December 1, 1892
Thora
Grand Forks
79, Book II
December 11, 1892
Thora
Grand Forks
80, Book II
January 11, 1893
Thora
Grand Forks
81, Book II
April 15, 1893
Thora
Grand Forks
83, Book II
April 25, 1893
Thora
Grand Forks
84, Book II
January 17, 1918
Alvhilde
Fargo
95, Book II
June 1984: A letter from the Oslo Postmaster solves the mystery. There was a Granville Post Office, 1 2 miles south of Oslo. It was closed in 1905 when the Soo Railroad came through Oslo. The current Oslo Postmaster is Adeloyde Larson Johnson.
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(P. A6) LETTERS FROM OTHER WRITERS
Date
From
At
To
Page
18 Dec 1856
Svenung Oversen (Kjaerkebø)
Coon Prairie
Svenung Hukum
3, Book II
23 Oct 1866
Svenung Kjaerkebø
Coon Prairie
Svenung Houkom
5, Book II
15 Jan 1870
Ole Halvorsen Klevstul
Hampton, Iowa
Svenung Olsen
21, Book I
29 Mar 1870
Anders Hansen Houkom
Gjorsund, Norway
Ole Svennungsen Houkom
7, Book II
21 May 1870
Gunlek Gundersen Dalen
Pomme de Terre, Minn.
Svennung Olsen
22, Book I
20 June 1870
Andreas Ness
Chipewa, Minn
Svennung Olsen
8, Book II
4 Jan 1871
Gregor Kittilsen
Troy P. O., Minn
Aslau Halvorsdatter Lande
48, Book I
24 Mar 1871
Gunlek Gundersen Dalen
Pomme de Terre
Svennung Olsen
47, Book I
30 Dec 1880
Bergit Olsdotter Midtsund
Taylor, Wisc
Svennung Olsen
48, Book I
6 Jan 1881
Egelev Olsdotter Midtsund
Taylor
Brother. (Aslak?)
49, Book I
5 Apr 1881
Dorte Bergseth
Taylor
Uncle and Aunt
50, Book I
5 Dec 1885
Aslak Olesen Houkom
Porsgrund, Norway
Svennung
26, Book II
14 Sept 1888
Johans Thorsen Klevstul
Klevstul, Norway
Aslak Svenungsen Houkom
63, Book II
4 Nov 1890
Johans Thorsen Klevstul
Klevstul
Aslak
67, Book II
23 Nov 1902
R. Berg
(indecipherable) Norway
S. O. Houkom
85, Book II
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(P. A7) OLAF SVEINUNGSEN'S PERSONAL DOCUMENTS
In Final Examination at Hvideseid's Modern School from 27 April to 1st May 1866 gained Olaf Sveinungsen the following characters:
For Theory
2+
For Bible Expounding
2+
For Bible History
2
For Mother Tongue, orally
2-
For Mother Tongue, written
3
For Arithmetic
2-
For Measurement
2-
For Natural Science
1 2
For Reading from a book
2
For Geography
1 2
For History
2
For Writing
2
For Drawing
2-
Main character Very Good (2.04)
Hvideseid Modern School, 1st May 1866
H. Hesselberg. Aslak Houkom
Hvideseid Parish Ministerial Book shows that Olaf Svennungsen
was born the 30th - thirtieth - May 1850 - eighteen hundred and fifty - of parents Svennung Olsen and wife Marie Hansdatter. Farm people at Houkom in Hvideseide Parish.
baptized the 14th - fourteen - July next thereafter.
confirmed the 2nd - second - October 1864 - sixty four - with the testimonial "Perfectly good".
He is not here in the congregation where he for the last time was a guest at the Lord's table the 1st - first - April last Sunday with some publicity and making promises: and since he now has decided to leave his Fatherland to travel to America he is herewith dismissed from Hvideseide's Parish, where his conduct here was one of the greatest decorum, with the wish that he hereafter will strive after that his senses can be strengthened in his heart by the Holy Ghost, that they who seek the Lord should not suffer lack of anything good.
Hvideseid Parish
the 2 April 1870
Legally determined payment
32 thirty-two shillings
John Moses
Parish Parson at
Kviteseid
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(P. A8) DISMISSAL CERTIFICATE
Aslak Svejnungsen Haukom
from
Hvidesejd Parish, born the 4th May 1864, was accepted as a student in Hvideseid Seminary the 1st June 1881 and has since received instruction in all the subjects required by the Regulations of the Seminary in combination with practical instruction for teaching in a school for the common people.
In a Dismissal Examination held from 23 April till 5th of this month he achieved the following characters:
For Theory
almost perfectly good
1.5
For Bible Expounding
almost perfectly good
1.5
For Bible and Church History
almost perfectly good
1.5
For Reading and Writing Verse
very good
2-.
For Grammar and Analysis
almost perfectly good
1.5
For Written Norwegian
almost very good
2.5
For History
almost very good
2.5
For Geography
very good
2+
For Behavior and Spirituality
very good
2+
For Natural Science
almost perfectly good
1.5
For Arithmetic
perfectly good
1.3
For Writing
very good
1.9
For the exam for Curates
almost very good
2.5
For the other practical Exams
very good
2-
He has here received instruction in Drawing and Gymnastic.
As a result of the above specific characters he obtained according to the rules of the Seminary the character: Very Capable (1.87)
His moral conduct during his attendance at the Institution has been Praiseworthy.
It is remarked, that he has a very good singing voice and especially good ear.
By reason of such result of his dismissal examination he is herewith awarded a Certificate for Capability to Conduct a School for the Common People as a Teacher.
Hvideseid School-Teacher Seminary the 5th May 1883
M. Gløersen V. Taraldsen O. L. Gjørwad
Translator's note: This is the first time I have found Svejnung spelled with a j instead of i or a double n. Most of this certificate is printed with the gaps filled by pen. The j and i are both used in the parish name, Hvideseid where printed, Hvidesejd where written. Small letters are used to begin the names of months. For the "characters", or grades, it appears that the better the student's ability the smaller the number.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(P. A9) Aslak's Report to the School Board August 9, 1888
To The Congregation Board for Hoel's Congregation
Although I am not required to issue a report on the school here in the cong., it will perhaps not lie outside the congregation's interest to see how the school has been attended, and it can also be significant for the incoming teacher to see what the children have accomplished. Therefore the following list:
First 1 2 month in the schoolhouse near A. V. Bakken
Children's names
Age
Attendance
Remarks
1.Teodor O. Trageton
16
16 days
The children, whose names include numbers 1 to 12, have been in the same class;
they have gone through the old Testament in bible history. In explanation they
have this summer gone through the 3rd and 4th parts as well as to question 604
in the 5th part.
2.Arne O. Trageton
15
16 1/2
3.Nils Erikson
14
27 1/2
4.Ole H. Solem
14
24
5.Ole Erikson
12
22 1/2
6.Arne E. Thorsgaard
14
17
7.Syver Østli
12
16
8.Jakob Østli
14 1/2
1
9.Tina A. Bakken
11 1/2
28
10.Gurine O. Trageton
12 1/2
25 1/2
11.Guri O. Trageton
10
26 1/2
12.Anne Erickson
10
22 1/2
13.Martin O. Berg
8 1/2
21 1/2
read bib. hist
14.Ole Thorsgaard
9
22
memorized bib. hist & catechism.
15.George T. Mehus
9
22
memories a little bib. hist & cat.
16.Nina A. Bakken
9
29
read in A.B.C. reading book
17.Henry Torsgaard
6 1/2
23
read in A.B.C.
18.Berdinius Aslakson
12
12
memorized a little bib. hist & expl.
19.Simon Olson
12
7
(See the school at B. Brandsen's for 19-21)
20.Ole Olsen
9
6
21.Caroline Olson
14
6
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(P. A10) 1 2 month in the schoolhouse at B. Brandsen's
Children's names
Age
Attendance
Remarks
1.Elias Erikson
16
10 days
The children numbered 1 to 12 have been in the same class in explanation and
have in this book gone through the commandments. In bible history they began
with the birth of Moses; most of them have come to "the division of the
Kingdom" some have read the old Testament all through and a few have gone
through the new Testament.
2.Abert A. Hanssen
15
10
3.John Ellingson
14
11
4.Helge Paulson
14
27
5.Arne Thorsgaard
12
14
6.Johan Erickson
14
23
7.Simon Olson
12
17
8.Helge Hansson
14 1/2
15
9.Gro S. Olson
11 1/2
16
10.Malvine Erickson
12 1/2
16
11.Birgit A. Olson
10
19
12.Andrina A. Hanson
10
1
13.Oscar Evanson
8 1/2
3
A.B.C. reader
14.Ole Thorsgaard
9
16
memorized bib. hist & catechism
15.Henry Thorsgaard
9
14
read in A.B.C.
16.Ole A. Olson
9
7
memorized catechism
17.Mikkel Paulson
6 1/2
5
memorized bib. hist & expl.
18.Ole Pederson
12
3
memorized a little in catechism
19.Klaudine Erickson
12
16
memorized A.B.C. reading book
20.Gina A. Kjørven
9
17
memorized catechism
21.Anetta A. Kjørven
14
7
died 24 May
22. Louise Evanson
9 1/2
20
memorized bib. hist & catechism
23. Anne M. Ellingson
8 1/2
10
memorized bib. hist & catechism
24.Lena A. Hansson
10
3
memorized bib. hist & catechism
25.Astri Marie Evanson
11
12
memorized bib. hist & catechism
26.Ingeborg Pederson
13
4
memorized bib. hist & expl.
1 2 month in the schoolhouse at Thor Sand's
Children's names
Age
Attendance
Remarks
1. Ole Gudbrandons
15
17 1/2 days
The first 5 children have been in the same class in explanation and have gone
through from questions 202 to qu. 290 in Sverdrup's Expl.
2. Elef Borgen
14
9 1/2 days
3. Sissel Tufte
9
12 1/2 days
4. Jørund Ekern
13
7 1/2 days
5. Julia T. Naas
11
10
6. Henry Syverson
11
26 1/2 days
Children No. 6-12 have in explanation gone through from the beginning to the
4th commandment.
7. Hellek Ekern
11
14 1/2 days
8. Ole Nordbø
11
19
9. Anton Gudbrandson
11
13 1/2 days
10. Henrik T. Naas
9 1/2
11
11. Ingeborg Borgen
9
11 1/2 days
12. Anne Midbø
12
19
13. Carl V. Syverson
9
24 1/2 days
One class in bib. hist. began at the beginning and learned to Jakob and Esau.
This class was No. 1, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 & 15. One class in bib.
hist. began with the birth of Moses, went through to "David and Goliath".
This was No. 2, 3, & 4. These have also read perfectly in the catechism:
No. 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 24, 25 & 27.
To avoid writing so many names I have listed the children by numbers in this report. I must mention that they are not listed according to ability.
14. Gilbert Gudbrandson
9
21 1/2 days
15. Johannes Tufte
8
14 1/2 days
16. Erick Tufte
7
12 1/2 days
17. Carl Ekern
10
14 1/2 days
18. Gjermund Nordbø
7 1/2
17
19. Ole O. Maristuen
6
5
20. Carl Gudbrandson
6
3
21. Martin Davidsonø
8
4
22. Emil Davidson
10
5
memorized a little in catechism
23. Andres Hus
5 1/2 days
read in catechism
24. Lina Hus
7
memorized in catechism
25. Sofie Maristuen
9
4
memorized in catechism
26. Dina Maristuen
12
7
mem. in Expl. & little in bib. hist.
27. Marie T. Naas
7
10
memorized in catechism
28. Ida Syverson
7
28 1/2 days
29. Ingeborg Winden
7
29 1/2 days
mem. in bib. hist. & catechism
As may be seen in the report the school at B. Branden's was poorly attended, which is because almost all the children for shorter or longer time had measles. The same causes are partly the excuse in the other two places. In addition I help 3 examination days in the school near A. Bakken and 3 in the school near B. Branden, in addition to the noted school time.
Respectfully,
A. S. Houkom
Northwood, Dak 9th Aug. 1888
Translator's note: I have included Aslak's report to the appendix because I think it will be of interest to modern teachers. It is an enlightening snippet of pioneer history, including the death of the youngest student enrolled, presumably from measles.
Aslak omits the 'h' from No. 17 in the first list, but has it for the 15 in the second list, probably a slip; Henry Torsgaard - Henry Thorsgaard. The three boys attended both sessions. He also omits remarks or ditto marks for No. 28 in the last list, so we don't know what Ida achieved. D.R.
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(P. A11) Newspapers, 1824 & 1833
Among the original Houkom documents are eight small newspapers, with dates in the 1820's and 1830's. Ole Bjørnsen Houkom subscribed to many publications, and wrote numerous articles for them, but at that time writers for the press often remained anonymous. The fact that these eight papers were kept seems to indicate that they contained material important to him, either for its news, or perhaps a contribution by him; but nothing in any of them bears his name.
One article in particular I suspect may have been written by Ole Bjørnson, so I have translated it. Even if it is not his, I feel it may be of interest to readers in the 1980's, because many of its themes are applicable to modern conditions. For the rest of the papers I have noted the subject matter briefly.
Four papers are copies of "Morgenbladet - En Daglig Avis av Alle Slags Indhøld"; which means "Morning Paper - A Daily Newspaper of All Kinds of Subject-Matter;" the others are "Statsborgeren - En Tidende for Norges Vel"; meaning "State Citizen - A Newspaper for Norway's Welfare". D.R.
Morgenbladet Saturday, January 24, 1824
An announcement about Free Vaccination.
The main article is on the dishonesty of smuggling. It is headed "Contributed", and "Translated from 'Franklin's relaxing Writings 5th Volume page 123'." After the first paragraph there is a wide gap, then the main body of the article, so I do not know if the whole or only the first paragraph is from Franklin.
The second article is Political remarks.
The rest is ads.
Morgenbladet Wednesday, April 14, 1824
The main article contains speeches at the opening of the Storting on April 13, by the President, Secretary of State, etc., Count Wedel-Jarlsberg, and His Royal Highness, Prince Oscar (son of Swedish King, Karl Johan, regent of Norway).
The second article is a story about Georg Franz Koltschitzky. He was a Viennese spy under the Turkish siege of Vienna in spring, 1683. Koltschitzky safely carried messages through the besieging army camp to the allies of Austria, so the Turks were beaten and fled. A great deal of coffee was captured in the abandoned camp, and Koltschitzky became the Proprietor of the First Coffee House in Vienna.
Morgenbladet Friday, May 21, 1824
After the ads, the whole thing is a report from the Storting about changes and additions to laws. (As Ole Bjørnsen was not in the Storting at this time, he kept track of what the legislators were doing through the papers; hence his preservation of this one.)
Morgenbladet Monday, December 6, 1824
This contains many items from around the world, including Parry's approach to the North Magnetic Pole in the ship"Griper" and items from Russia, France, Mexico, Spain, England, Greece, South America and shipping news. Also the usual quota of ads.
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(P. A12) Statsborgeren June 24, 1832
1. A letter about 17th May Celebrations (Norway's Independence Day). The writer says that toasts are given for heroes, patriots, popular representatives, etc., but why not for the Members of the Cabinet? (Statsraad)
2. A report on a trial for embezzlement.
3. & 4. Reports on the May 17th Festivities from various cities.
Statsborgeren April 4, 1833 An Article Sent in
Once again Norway's Representatives are gathered to work for the welfare of the Fatherland. But just as varying as Nature has made our rocky Lake, so varied, one can almost say, are, usually, the interests of the inhabitants, and it is certainly most difficult to make decisions in harmony with the general wish.
As a less enlightened man I will however dare to bring to notice one thing, which need only be named to show what is common to the whole country, and that is a lack of money. Certainly nothing new, but isn't it as though Norway's genius has slept, when this important lack has been discussed? Or is there no solution, which can free our country from this destructive evil? Which taxpaying citizen is it, who doesn't more or less feel the privation of the condition of money-circulation, and I wish I had a knowledgeable man's writing-talent to be able to bring daily experience to light, as proof of my statements.
What is the cause, in our nation, for lack of enthusiasm over our designation as free, independent Norwegian citizens? Let everyone compare these important words with the often seen announcement: "Lovely home for sale" and further - when the auctioneer's hammer crashes down, after such a sale, telling the citizen that every loved possession: furniture, pets, house, and land, are all taken from him, because his long struggles to save all that he held dear have been fruitless, - and all because of the impossibility of earning a little money - yes - try with this man to inspire a sense of gladness in his freedom and independence - what a hope!
No longer is it as it used to be, when a man, often without a bond, without security, merely went to his friend, and with a warm handshake, a word of encouragement, received a loan of several hundred dollars. Who is it, who now has a few dollars to spare? And if there is anyone with such a rarity, isn't it someone who uses his money in such a way as I hate to describe.
From the King, the Government, and many patriotic men, one hears encouragement to work hard, be industrious, improve your land; but what use is it, being told what we ought to do, when we have not the means to do it? Here also is the terrifying circumstance, which also is a result of the lack of money, that the products which the industrious Norwegian farmer wrings from Norway's hard nature, pay him so little for all his striving and expense, no matter to what destinations, near or far, he sends them. There is no lack of would-be buyers - but their cry is - "We have no money". Enlightenment - the sister of Freedom - what progress can this make in a moneyless time? A simple man can not afford teachers for his children, has no way of buying good books, can not belong to a lecture society, can not subscribe to a newspaper. And what about religion and morals in such ignorance and poverty? Only those who have known the struggle for subsistence can comprehend what this means: no gentle feelings can calm their worries, not even the comfort of religion, however warmly interpreted; because the dark clouds of the future overwhelm the sufferers.
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(P. A13) I mentioned morals - but what a wide wilderness opens before the poverty-stricken. Selfishness, deception, faithlessness, every known vice, have in all times had their examples among men. But what if vice, promising a reward, becomes more prevalent when money is scarce? It appears as the only way out of difficulties, the only way to procure what one needs, to find relief from despair.
What is the cause of the tragic quarrel, which arises between the father of the family and his eldest son, concerning the taking over of the family estate, the last one entitled to it by birth? Who can realize the son's fear, that if taking over his father's farm, not even the striving of the whole family, can make it productive enough to sustain any of them, certainly it can not give him the fortune young people hope for. He foresees all the burdens, the old as well as the young to feed, interest to pay, taxes, freight, all descending upon him like a merciless Fate, with not one attraction for a thinking man. Many and tragic are the consequences, including the abandonment of many family estates by the young.
It is well known that Norway does not lack genius and artists in all subjects, but why are so few of them reaching for the goal of development? What use is an inventive man, when he lacks the means to bring his ideas to fruition? How can he without money? In all areas money is vital. The artist must be able to sell his work. And how discouraging it is when foreign art is sought, by those who do have money.
Business - which our country needs - loses much because of the lack of money in circulation. Nowadays much bartering of wares for wares is being used, and that is a type of business, but it does not cover the State's demand for taxes; and it cannot be used all the time, or in all places.
Those in official positions have no need to complain of the lack of money, as their source of money is the surest of all, as long as the taxpaying citizen can make his contributions. Meanwhile, some in public office are able to avoid many of the financial worries that plague others, as they know ways and means that the honorable ones would dread to use.
For the rest, the writer allows himself to believe that the current lack of money works great hardship between suppliers and consumers.
Honorable Representatives and friends of the fatherland, bring balance and harmony back to our nation's society, and you will have done enough to be remembered with honor.
A Farmer in the Hills.
Note from the Translator: It is unlikely that we can ever ascertain whether the above article was written by Ole Bjørnsen Houkom; but we do know that he wrote for the papers; and this paper was preserved and brought to America by his son, and kept by his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and now two more generations can read it. All the ideas expressed in it match those emphasized in his biography: care for the poor, the problems of farmers, dishonesty in officials, interest in the arts. Personally, I want to believe it was written by this wonderful man, the first in the family to bear the name Houkom. D.R.
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(P. A14) Statsborgeren 17 May 1833
1. A poem with 5 verses, entitled "Vivat for Dagen" (Salute the Day) enlarging on Freedom, the Flag, heroism, etc.
2. Another 5 verse poem, in memory of Krohg, presumably the lawyer, Christian Krohg, who was chairman of the committee appointed by the Storting in 1824 to work on the Constitution, and smooth out the difficulties between the Kind of Sweden, officially also Norway's king, and the independence-desiring Norwegians.
3. A contributed article about the scorn and humiliation heaped on Norway by foreign journalists and novelists.
4. A short article criticizing those who make false statements about the character of youth.
5. Report from the Storting.
6. An article on public finances.
7. A letter, appearing at first to criticize a previous writer whose message seemed likely to provoke a war - but then using sarcasm to say we should not complain about injustice, evil in high places, etc., because we might get our clothes muddy if we get involved.
8. An article about a proposed monument to Krohg.
9. A paragraph about the strange similarity of thoughts, expressions, and opinions, among people in widely differing places.
Statsborgeren 23 May 1833
1. A continuation of the article on public finances, from the last issue.
2. An article suggesting changes in the law which requires farmers to have horses and vehicles available at all times for transporting travelers from the individual farmer's neighborhood to the next.
3. A letter to the writer's father.
4. A poem about someone who could suddenly speak other languages.
5. Messages about subscriptions.
Translator's note: Although several of the above articles are interesting, I have not translated them for the current book, as they do not have specific family content. As I read Article 2. in May 23, I thought it sounded like the kind of thing Ole Bjørnsen might have written; but at the end it has the initials, T.V.; so the article was probably kept because O. B. agreed with it. The law requiring "skyss" (transportation) available in all districts was very hard on many farmers, especially on those who lived in districts not often traveled. They had to feed horses and maintain one or more sleds and carriages to be available if an important person was brought in from another district and needed to get to the next. Payment was small, the horses continued to eat whether used or not, and a farm worker could be spared with difficulty, to act as driver during a busy season. Sometimes a driver returning to the home farm in winter, would be killed, along with the horse, on an icy mountain road, or frozen to death, or go through soft ice and drown in a lake. The writer wanted better payment for the farmers, whether or not the required equipment was used. D.R.
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(P. A15) Notes made by Aslak Sveinungsen Houkom
after his trip to Norway in 1930 (with additions after his death)
Hans Pedersøn Saltevje, born Friday, March 12, 1780, in Ulefoss; married Anne Andersdatter Jøntveit, from Helgen (Helgasokn), born Tuesday, December 24, 1782. Their children were Anders Hansen Saltevje, born Friday, February 16, 1816, and Mari Hansdatter Saltevje, born Monday, January 3, 1825. Their home was in Flaabygd. Hans died Monday, February 17, 1862, age 81; Anne died Friday, December 23, 1859, age 77.
Children of Sveinung Olsen Houkom and Mari Hansdatter Saltevje:
Order
Born
Died
Age
Olaf
Fri 31 May* 1850
Sat 6 Nov 1920
70
Anne (Mrs. Ole Ness)
Thur 8 Apr * 1852
Tues 22 Feb 1916
63
Hans
Wed 21 Feb * 1855
Tues 18 June 1901
46
Tarjer (Thora) (Mrs. Meyer)
Tues 16 Sept 1856
Sun 7 June 1925
68
Tone
Sat 30 July 1859
Fri 23 Mar 1888
28
Anders
Sat 17 Aug 1861
Sat 4 June 1938
76
Aslak
Wed 4 May 1864
Sun 16 Oct 1938
74
Anne Andrea
Tues 19 June 1866
Wed 17 Nov 1943
76
Translator's note: Aslak's notes are typed. Whoever added dates after Aslak's death, used a pen, has changed the dates which I have marked *. He has crossed out 31 in Olaf's birth date and written in 30; changed Anne's from 8 to 7, Hans' to 8 Apr., which is the date given for Anne. In the margin the later writer has noted that Olaf died in Fargo, Hans in Fosstom, Tone in Manvel. I find to Fosstom listed for North Dakota, Minnesota, or Wisconsin, but Minnesota has a Fosston and a Fossum, the former in Polk County, the latter in Norman County, near Twin Valley. By underlining he indicates that Sveinung, Mari, Anne, and Tarjer were buried in Roseau County. He does not indicate where Anders, Aslak, and Anne Andrea were buried, but other papers give Badger, Minn., as the burial place for Aslak and Thora, and Badger is in Roseau County. I suspect that the pen additions were by John Houkom.
Dates are also given for Anne's husband and their eldest son;
Ole G. Ness, born Wed 27 Sept 1848, died Fri Jan 2, 1925, Age 76
Gunnuld O. Ness, born Sat. Jan 11, 1879, died Sat Oct 2, 1926, Age 47
In a typed footnote, Aslak mentions that it is only for Sveinung and Mari's children that he has given a full list, but that there were many other children he has not named. Ole and Anne had several, including Svennung, the small boy who had whooping cough when they emigrated, a girl born soon after they reached America in 1886, as well as one born in 1883, and Thone, born in February 1891. Brief mention of these can be found in the correspondence. Anders refers to his own children in a letter to his father, (Page 88, Book II) but gives no names.
Ole Ness is often referred to as Olaf Saltevje, but as his middle initial is G., he is probably not a nephew of Mari, whose brother was Anders; but he may be a cousin's son; or of a different family who also lived at Saltevje in Flaabygd. Norwegian names can be confusing.
Aslak dated these notes April 4, 1932.
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(P. A16) Aslak's notes
ASLAK O. GADEHOLT'S FAMILY RECORD
The notes included here are copied from the first page of the bible which belonged to Aslak O. Gadeholt. The notes are written by A.O.G. himself until his death. The last, after his death, by his son Sveinung. (Edited and rearranged by the translator.)
Aslak O. Gadeholt, born May 22, 1814, son of Ole Bjørnsen Houkom and his second wife, Egelev Aslaksdatter Kirkebø. Aslak Gadeholt was married three times.
1. On July 18, 1842 to Thone Knutsdatter Flextveit (July 27, 1821 - 1850)
Their children: Torjus May 22, 1843 - July 11, 1843
Egelev, Sept 1, 1844 - Oct 24, 1882
Anne, Mar 24, 1847 - Dec 1, 1874
2. In 1852 to Gro Saavesdatter Vesterdal (Nov 28, 1831 - Nov 20, 1887)
Their children: Tone, 1852 - June 10, 1874
Daardi, June 15, 1854 - ?
Birgit, May 7, 1856 - July 4, 1883
**Olaf, Apr 12, 1858
Saave, July 18, 1860
Knut, Sept 4, 1862
***Aslaug, Apr 15, 1865
Bjørn, July 4, 1867
Gunhild, July 15, 1879
3. On November 7, 1888 to Haege Jorgensdatter Øiland (?? - Dec 21, 1912)
Their children: Sveinung, March 15, 1889
Gro, May 28, 1893
Aslak O. Gadeholt died August 10, 1895
Translator's notes: * Egelev married "Churchsinger" Hans Utbø, who was born October 14, 1849, and died Oct 19, 1875. According to Aslak Sveinungsen Houkom's notes, Egelev's gravestone gives her death as August 24, 1882. He remarks: "Either there is a mistake on Egelev's gravestone, or else I have copied incorrectly. For according to A.O.G.'s record it was October 24 Egelev died. I was at Egelev's funeral and it was so cold we froze while we drove from Gadeholt in Kviteseid to Siljord's Church, and my impression is, that it was late in the autumn. We were not so little frozen when, after the funeral, we stopped in at Utbø for refreshments."
** According to a letter from Sveinung (Book II, page 37) Olaf Gadeholt was to marry Anne Kaasa, in spring, 1887, and take over "the farm". Possibly it was Anne's family farm, as there is a later reference to Olaf Kaasa.
***The same letter mentions that Aslaug Gadeholt was to marry L. Storgaard. D.R.
Aslak dated these notes December 25, 1932
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(P. A17) Tov Torjussen (born 1795) worked for his half-brother Ole Bjørnsen Houkom at Houkom, and was there married on June 17, 1821, to Ingeborg Auversdatter Hove. For many years they lived at Skobig, but moved later to Brekke, where they lived until their deaths. Their children: Andres 1821, Birgit 1826, Torjus 1828, Gunvor 1832, Gunhild 1836.
Confirmations in Kviteseid
May 29, 1842: Birgit Tovsdatter Skovig
June 22, 1845: Torjus Tovsen Skovig
Sveinung O. Houkom (and others)
1848: Gunvor Tovsdatter Brekke
Olaf O. Houkom (Staaland)
Johane Klevstul (See Book II, pp 63-65, 67-68)
(There are many others listed, but these are the ones of interest to the family.
Marriages
Nov 14, 1850 John Halvorsen Homme (Orlie) to Birgit Tovsdatter Brekke. (Tr Note: Notice that when Birgit was confirmed her last name was Skovig; but since then the family has moved to Brekke, so her last name has changed along with the dwelling. The change affected all the brothers and sisters still at home. D.R.)
Jan 20, 1852 Andres Tovsen Brekke to Birgit Bjørgulfsdatter Houkom. (Tr. note: I have no information about the Bjørgulf who lived at Houkom and was father to the bride. He may or may not have been related to the descendants of Ole Bjørnsen. D.R.)
Aug 11, 1863 Torjus Tovsen Brekke to Kjersti Torgrimsdatter Rollefstad.
(There are many others listed in Aslak's notes, but most of them were for the benefit of his friends, Tom Johnson and sister Ingeborg, who lived in Whitehall, Wisconsin. The Skovigs and Brekkes are related to the Houkoms because they are descendants of Ole Bjørnsen's half-brother Tov, but as far as I know the others are not. D.R.)
THE NAME HOUKOM
I shall not attempt to translate all of Aslak's notes on the name Houkom, because they include references to the use of the name in many districts, with reference to manuscripts as far back as 1452, and numerous variations in spelling, e.g. Howquame, Hukum, Houchumb, Houckum, Hauk-vammr, Haukome, Haukeimr, Haukjem, etc., and as the name did not belong to the family until Ole Bjørnsen bought the farm, Haukom, the main interest is in the meaning of the name and its origins. Aslak gives the opinions of experts on the possible pronunciations of all the variants, and the possible original meanings of the syllables. In some areas the name probably meant "Hawk Cliff" but the three Haukom farms in Kviteseid were bordered by a stream named Hauka, (possibly an abbreviation from Haukelv, or Hawk River), so the farm name may originally have meant the Home by Hauka.
Aslak mentions that Ole Bjørnsen believed it to mean High Home. The modern Norwegian work for high would be høy or høg, but the dialect had many variations; home could be heim, hjem, etc. so it is possible that a locally spelled combination of these two words could become Houkom. D.R.
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(P. A18) Newspaper Item by Olaf, 1900
A Few Words of Explanation
As I have become aware of a Plea for Help for my brother, Hans Houkom, who lives in the vicinity of Fosston, Minn., I must beg you, Mr. Editor, for space for a few lines. My dear uncle, Aslak O. Houkom from York, Wis., who has written the Plea, has certainly done it with the best condition, as far as I understand, and therefore a few words of explanation.
There has been no appreciable change to his health. He is totally blind, so he can not tell the difference between night and day, except when the sun shines very clearly, then flames of light seem to flicker before his eyes, which condition is extremely painful for him.
The epileptic attacks, which were very severe and frequent for a time after his operation, are now much less frequent, of shorter duration, and much milder. But he suffers almost every day from pressure and throbbing in his head and as a result, he must sit still or lie down for most of the time.
The economic outlook for the family was very dark. Of about 170 acres of land, which he had, only the 16 acres were under the plow, and only a small part meadow, the rest are big woods. With a debt of about $600, there was, under the aforementioned circumstances, no great hope of being able to manage such a farm with 5 children, of whom the eldest is only 10 or 11 years old. People readily understand this, who knew the circumstances, and have therefore been very kind to them. Dr. Engstad undertook the difficult and critical operation without charge. Their creditors have been for the most part lenient with them. The neighbours have been helpful towards them by driving for them in other ways, of which there can be many under such circumstances. An important collection, which Pastor Refsdal initiated, occurred in Fosston and the neighborhood about a year ago. I don't remember the amount, which was published in "Decorah-Posten" last year. Last summer, the Women's Society of Middle Grove Congregation, in my pastorate, sent $25 and since then $8 were sent by other friends in the same Congregation.
All this was done without the least suggestion from our - namely his brothers' - side, for we were in agreement over bearing the burden, which the Lord would lay on us for our needy brother and his family, without any intention to seek or undertake anything which would involve help from strangers. But you see, help has come anyway, the Lord be thanked and praised for it.
However, what has most contributed to the easing of their circumstances and the lightening of their future outlook in material ways, is the sale of their land, which took place last autumn. They were well paid for their farm, so that they now have a little sum with which they can buy a more easily worked piece of land, where they can with ease begin to raise a few animals. They have an opportunity to acquire such land at a reasonable price; so they can, with a little forethought get themselves a fairly comfortable home again without debt.
The purpose of these lines, is first, to bring my hearty thanks in this way to all, who have come to the aid of my brother and his family in their heavy trial, and, second, to clear up the misunderstanding, that the family should be in such difficult circumstances, that they suffer lack or are a burden on us brothers. That is now, God be Praised, not the case.
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(P. A19) But I have a request to make of you, dear Christian Readers: remember the family in your prayers; I know, they would appreciate that. And if any of you are one of my brother's many friends or relatives, send him an encouraging letter, if you can, or a friendly greeting, if you have the opportunity; it will cheer him up, who finds himself in the dark by day as by night and can scarcely come out of his own door. His lot is heavy, but it is a joy for me to tell, that he bears it with a Christian's patience.
O. S. Houkom
Mekinock, N.D.
Translator's note: This should perhaps have been included among the letters, but it was hidden among some small papers containing Olaf's theological notes, and I overlooked it. I apologize for the oversight.
It clears up the mystery of Hans' burial place: Fosston, Minn., not Fosstom, as mentioned on page A 15, (Book II).
There is no date on the clipping, but the Article on the back of it is titled "The New Century", so it was probably early in 1900. Hans died in June 1901.
There is also no name on the paper, but as Olaf refers to "Decorah-Posten", a very popular Norwegian language paper published in America, this cutting is probably from that paper. D.R.
