John Brekke came to Valley City in 1882, from Wisconsin. He came to Hannaford a year later, starting a hotel and livery bam.

About 10 years later he sold his interests in Hannaford and moved out to his farm about two miles east in Greenfield Township. He lived on the farm until he passed away in 1918. He was never married.

During the time he was on the farm he rented the place to Elinder and Anna Antonsen, who came from Sweden in 1907. Mr. Brekke was Anna's uncle. They later purchased the farm from Mr. Brekke, but he continued to live with them until his death.

Source: Griggs County History 1879 - 1976 page 129