Peter Hansen was born September 14, 1859 to Hans and Anna Olsen in Fyn, Denmark.

After working on farms and serving in the Danish army, he came to Valley City in 1883, practically broke. In six years, he was able to buy a farm in Marsh Township, which he later expanded to include Section 19 and part of Section 20.

On November 24, 1889, he married Katherine (Katie) Hoier Petersen, who came to America in 1881 from Denmark. Katie was born in Slesvig, Denmark on September 10, 1871 , to Thomas and Katherine Hoier. Thomas changed his name to Petersen when he arrived in America. Katie met Peter while working as the "hired girl" for the David Green family where Peter was the "hired man."

Peter was a fine carpenter and this talent was passed on to his son, Thomas, known far and wide for his carvings of birds. Other children were: Henry, Arthur and Ann. All attended college or university. Ann is married to J. E. Martie, Professor Emeritis, University of Nevada.

Henry married Eva Stenshoel (deceased 1975) and farmed the home farm until 1946, when they retired. Richard Hansen, grandson of Ole, Peter's younger brother, now owns the farm.

Source: Barnes County History 1976 Page 92