Ella Evanson wrote this biography about her father, Evan I. Evanson. Evan I. Evanson was born in Jemtland, Östre Toten, Norway on 3 June 1846. His father, Evan Hegerness, had inherited a large estate, but was poor in handling money and squandered his wealth. In April of 1869, Evan left his family and emigrated to America, arriving first in Adamsville, Wisconsin. He lived and worked in this area until 1877, when he moved to the Dakota Territory, built a house, and began farming. Mr. Evanson joined the Lutheran church in Bruflat in 1878, and remained an active member, urging three nearby synods to unite. On 31 July 1880, he married Anna Carine Jordet in the church and a large wedding ceremony was held. Together, Evan and Anna had several children. During this time, Evan helped many new emigrants settle in, including relatives of his own. Evan and the other pioneers wanted their children to have a Christian education, and subsequently, the Bruflat Academy was built in 1887. In addition to helping fund and build the school, Evan Evanson served as a county commissioner and a charter member and officer of the Farmers Mutual Fire and Lightning Insurance Company. He died on 23 December 1902, and was buried in Portland, North Dakota.
From the guide to the Evan I. Evanson Biography, 1846-1902, (Pacific Lutheran University Archives and Special Collections/Library Services)
