Bio: Bent Pederson (1830)
Posted by Susie on Wed, 06 Jun 2001
 

Surnames: Olsen, Pederson, Tarkelson
 

----Source: 1891 History of Jackson Clark Counties Wisconsin

Bent Pederson, a wealthy agriculturist of Jackson County, has been one of the fortunate men who have had every effort crowned with success. He is a native of Sweden, born December 1, 1830, and grew to manhood in his native land. When he was twenty-three years of age, he determined to go to the New World and seek out the fortune that might be in store for him. So he bade farewell to his home and friends, and sailed away over the sea, to the "land of the free and the home of the brave." The first three years in this country were spent in Dane County, Wisconsin, and thence, in 1856, he came to Jackson County, and settled on 160 acres of raw land. The nearest trading point was Black River Falls, and the hardships and privations to which the early settlers were subject can scarcely be imagined in this day of railroads. Mr. Pederson has purchased, as the means would admit, additional acres, until he has altogether 440 acres, 200 of which he has turned into a fine, fertile farm he has erected comfortable buildings after modern styles of architecture, and has one of the most attractive homes in the community. He is a self-made man, and too much praise cannot be bestowed upon the perseverance and determination he has exhibited. When he came to America he could not speak a word of English, and the only capital he had was that with which he was endowed by nature, willing hands and a brave heart.

Politically he is identified with the Republican Party. He has represented the people of his township in many of the offices within their gift, and has proved capable and efficient. He and his family are members of the Lutheran Church, and take deep interest in all its movements.

Mr. Pederson was married November 19, 1861, to Anna Olsen, of Jackson County, Wisconsin. She was born in Norway, October 20, 1844. Fourteen children have been born of this union, eight of whom are living: Olaus, Albert, Sophia, Caroline, Tilla, Amelia, Benny A., and Myrtle. Albert married Miss Amelia Tarkelson, of Black River Falls, Wisconsin, and they have had born to them one child, Basil. The other children are unmarried.