Eberhart, Adolph Olson, 1870-1944

A. O. Eberhart was born in Kil Varmland, Sweden (June 23, 1870), the son of Andrew and Louise Olson. Because of bad economic conditions, Andrew, Louis and all of the family except Adolph emigrated to St. Peter, Minnesota. In 1882, Adolph joined the family there. Eberhart graduated from Gustavus Adolphus College, St. Peter (1895); studied law in a law office in Mankato; served as a deputy clerk of United States Circuit and District Court in Minnesota; and served as United States Commissioner for the District of Minnesota.

His political career began thereafter with his election as a representative (1902) in the Minnesota Legislature from the Eleventh District. He served in that position until 1905, served as lieutenant governor (1906-1909), and became governor upon the death of John A. Johnson (Sept. 1909), retaining office until 1914. His other major public activity was his service on the Federal Housing Authority Speakers Bureau (1934-ca.1938).

Eberhart married Adele Koke (1898) and died in the Masonic Home, Savage, Minnesota, on December 6, 1944.

From the guide to the A. O. Eberhart papers., 1831-1945., (Minnesota Historical Society)