Eidsvold family papers, circa 1880-1996
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Biography/History:
Engebret Eidsvold was born September 17, 1856 in Viken, Norway to Hans Kristoffersen Eidsvold and Rebekka Sypriansdatter Eidsvold. They had four other children: Hans Tollevsen Eidsvold; Peder Nielson Eidsvold; Carl Ely Eidsvold, and Syprian Eidsvold. He emigrated in 1872. In 1878 he married Maren Helene Grasmoen. Together they had ten children: Hilmer Eidsvold, Gertrude Corrine Fritz, Henry Eidsvold, Robert E. Eidsvold, Maria Eidsvold, Alfred Eidsvold, Hans Eidsvold, Ida Eidsvold, Mable Seidel, and Cozetta Rogers. They lived in Fairfax, Minnesota.
Henry Eidsvold (1879-1974), son of Engebret and Maren, was married to Maud Amanda Gumpolen (1879-1958). Maud Gumpolen Eidsvold was the daughter of Hans and Anne Gumpolen of Fairfax, Minnesota. They had three children together: Harold Edgar Eidsvold, Mildred Eidsvold, and Lyman Woodrow Eidsvold. The Eidsvold family was involved in creameries and were grocers in Minnesota. He founded Henry’s Food Company, first in Minneapolis, and then eventually in Alexandria, Minnesota. His son Lyman Eidsvold (1913-1991) married Julie M. Mason. They had four children: Gary, Janet, Jim, and David.
Scope and Content:
The Eidsvold family papers include numerous photographs, correspondence, clippings, and genealogical materials that document the Eidsvold family in the United States. The Eidsvold were prominent members of the community, both in Minneapolis and Alexandria. In Minneapolis, where their grocery store was located, was called the “Eidsvold block.” Henry Eidsvold started Henry’s Food which is still in existence today. The collection also contains material from Peter Pryts, who was born in Norway and emigrated to Minnesota. Pryts was an alderman in the Minneapolis’ 11th ward.