James Hovda was born at Van Hook, North Dakota, the son of Nervin and Florence (Hageman) Hovda. His father was born at Grand Meadows, Minnesota, in 1894 and his mother was born at Laddonia, Missouri, in 1896.

James graduated from the Van Hood High School and spent six years in the Navy. He came to Barnes County in 1907 with his parents and family and he now owns the parental farm. In 1944 he married Margaret lmdieke, daughter of A. G. Imdieke of Valley City. Two children, Robert and Adrian were born to this union. After the loss of Margaret in an accident, he married Esther Price, daughter of Frank and Leopoldina (Schlegel) Price. Three children were born to James and Esther Hovda: David, Donald and John.

Robert is a pharmacist, Adrian a machinist, David an auto mechanic, Donald in the Navy and John remains at home.

Source: Barnes County History 1976 Page 108