John Rasmussen Olson Sylte was born May 23, 1873, in Tresfjord, Norway. He came to Barnes County in 1893, settling in Oak Hill Township and changing his name to plain John Olson.
John purchased land and began farming. He married Victoria Solberg, a daughter of Frank and Christina Solberg of Litchville.
The following children were born to John and Victoria:
Elof (1904-1960);
Olga (Mrs. John Larson, 1907-1975);
Mayme (Mrs. Jack Rypdal, 1911-1953);
Albert (1917), living in Valley City;
Mabel (1919);
Ruby (1922-1940) and
Gladys (1926-1926).
Mabel married Denver Helland in 1940 and they now farm the family farm. Victoria Solberg passed away in 1943, followed by John in 1944. Mabel and Denver have four children; Marlene, Deloris, Dennis, and Donna.
Source: Barnes County History 1976 Page 184