[169] The Mormons first moved into Iowa in 1839, having received assurance of protection and the liberty to practice their belief from Governor Lucas in that year. They located in Lee County not far from Sugar Creek. The town of Nauvoo, Illinois, had been bought by them. The name was changed from Commerce.
[170] Omund Olson was converted to Quakerism at Salem, Henry County. As early as 1842 several of the settlers joined with him in erecting a meeting house on his farm.
[171] The question has been investigated somewhat by Mr. B. L. Wick. See Republikaneren, February 9, 1900.
[172] He died about 1900. Among those who moved to New Sharon were Sjur Olson, Nils Nilson and Aad Nilson and wife Kristina; Martha Erickson was until recently, at least, living in Clark County, Missouri.
[173] They came in the same ship as Knut Roe.
[174] He did not actually settle there permanently before 1844.
[175] Her maiden name was Martha Gulliksdatter Kindem.
[176] I am told that he came in 1841, but this seems to be a mistake.
[177] Reverend J. W. C. Dietrichson, speaking of the Wiota Settlement in 1844 says, that there had been organized a congregation that year, which numbered about one hundred members, of whom the larger part were from Voss; these, he says, had settled there for the most part in 1843. He mentions Per Davidson as deacon and a leading member of the church, and Knud Knudson as one who by great energy had acquired considerable wealth.
[178] Situated in section 26 in Turtle Township.