Hans N. Koloen, (Norwegian spelling, Kolun), was born in Norway in 1814. His wife, Kati, was born in Norway in 1817. They came to America in 1872, settling in Fillmore County, Minnesota. Their five children, Syver, Edward, Hans H. , Anna and Anne came with their parents.

In 1882 the Koloen family came to Griggs County. They homesteaded on the SE of Section 25, Pilot Mound Township. Their supplies were procured either from Sanborn or Portland. These trips would take several days. Their home was a two-room house. Their son, Hans H. and family, lived in a log and sod house nearby.

Mr. Koloen gave two acres of land, measured out in chain lengths, to the school known as Greenwood, located just north of the Ottawa Church.

An old Indian trail went close by the house. There was an Indian camp just across the river from their home. These Indians were very friendly.

There was a picnic ground just north of the Ottawa Bridge. This picnic ground was used for various gatherings, including revival meetings. Later an area nearer the Koloen buildings was used for picnics. This was referred to as Koloen Park.

The Koloen family were among those who organized the Ottawa congregation.

After Hans N. Koloen's death in 1892, his widow, Kari, made her home with her son, Hans H. until her death in 1900.

Source: Griggs County History 1879 - 1976 Page 373