Bio: Anderson, Gunder (History 1820)

Contact: Janet Schwarze

Surnames: ANDERSON GUNDERSON THURSTENSON REIERSON THOMPSON

----Source: 1891 Bio. Hist. Of Clark Jackson Co., Wisconsin, pg. 143-144:

GUNDER ANDERSON. This reliable and progressive farmer, residing on section 8, Springfield Township, enjoys the distinction of being the first white man to settle in this territory. He was born in Norway, September 30, 1820. His parents, Aadne and Helga (Gunderson) Anderson, were both natives of Norway. They emigrated to America in the year 1843, and settled in Racine County, Wisconsin, where the father died. In 1854 the mother and children removed to Jackson County, Wisconsin, and settled in the place that is now known as Springfield Township there the mother passed the remainder of her days. There were seven children in the family: Knud, Gunder, Ole, Gertrude, Knud, Margaret and Sarah.

Gunder was the second child born he was reared and educated in the place of his birth, but in 1843, when his parents set sail for America, he accompanied them, and lived in Racine County, Wisconsin, until 1850. Then in company with three other men he crossed the plains to California, walking the entire distance. This in itself was no small feat, and was worthy of a better reward than they received in the Golden State. Mr. Anderson was engaged in mining for a period of two years, but not realizing all he anticipated he determined to return to Wisconsin. Accordingly, in 1854 we find him located in Jackson County, where he and his brothers entered a large tract of land under the Government land laws existing at that time. It was situated in what is now Springfield Township, and is as fine of land as can be found in the county. Mr. Anderson has given much time and thought to its proper cultivation, and has converted it from the wild state of nature into one of the best farms in the county. When he first settled there, neighbors were fifteen miles away, and the nearest market place was Black River Falls, which was then a small village. The farm is composed of 200 acres, and is well improved with large buildings and many conveniences.

In choosing a political creed in his newly adopted country, Mr. Anderson identified himself with the Republican party. He and his family are members of the Lutheran Church, and are numbered among the faithful and consistent.

June 24, 1862, our esteemed subject was united in marriage to Miss Mary Thurston, of Jackson County, Wisconsin. She was born in Norway, February 6, 1843, and is a daughter of Thurston and Alie (Reierson) Thurstenson, natives of Norway. The parents emigrated to America in 1852, and settled in Pennsylvania in 1858 they removed to Jackson County, Wisconsin, and settled in Sprinfield Township, where the father still survives the mother died several years ago. Mrs. Anderson is a woman of many accomplishments and rare virtues, and is highly respected by all who know her.

Nine children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Anderson: Emma H., who as a teacher has won a high reputation Alida T., the wife of Saunders Thompson Ida L., Nettie S., Thomas, Albert, Minnie L., Enoch W. and Newell G. Nettie S., Ida L. and Thomas are deceased. Alida T. Thompson is the mother of one child Gaylord G. They reside in Madison, Wisconsin.