Petersons
Transcribed from "An Illustrated History of The Big Bend Country, embracing
Lincoln, Douglas, Adams and Franklin counties, State of Washington",
published by Western Historical Publishing Co., 1904.
SIMON PETERSON. For over
twenty years the subject of this article has been one of the arduous laborers
for the development and upbuilding of Lincoln county. He has wrought
here in no uncertain way and has accomplished excellent results.
Someone has said that the strength of the nation is measured by the strength
and substantiality of its homes. According to this true standard
no one can give too strong an endorsement of those who have built up beautiful
and substantial homes in this frontier country. Mr. Peterson resides
about eight miles north from Wilbur where he has a fine estate, comfortable
and valuable residence, outbuildings, fences, and other improvements, which
make his place an ideal farm. He came here in 1882, took a homestead
from the raw prairie, to which, later, he added a preemption and then bought
railroad land. Since that time, Mr. Peterson has continued uninterruptedly
in his labors here and has a wide circle of friends and acquaintances,
being a highly esteemed citizen.
Simon Peterson was born in Denmark, on August
2, 1850, being the son of John and Katherine (Steen) Peterson, natives
of Denmark. During his youthful days, he gained an educational training
in the public schools and then turned his attention to learning the art
of blacksmithing. Becoming proficient in this trade he determined
in 1869, to come to the United States. He readily found employment
as a skilled blacksmith in Minnesota; later he was in Wisconsin and then
in Colorado continued beating the anvil to the tune of honest industry
until 1882, when he came to Wilbur as stated above.
In 1886, Mr. Peterson married Miss Annie Berthelsen,
a native of Denmark. Mr. and Mrs. Peterson came to this country without
any money and now have a very comfortable competence. To them have
been born five children, John B., Christ J., Kate, Marguerette, and Albert.
BACK