Erwin Steffen was born January 27, 1899, in Clearfield Township, the son of William and Elizabeth Steffen. He married Ruth Mesner of Pekin in 1924. They lived for a short time in Nelson County before coming to Helena Township in 1926. They had three children: Roger, deceased; Mrs. William (Marjorie) Hazard, Cooperstown; and Mrs. Carroll (Ruth) Lende of Fortuna, California Ruth (Mesner) Steffen died July 12, 1931.
Erwin married Lillian Beattie June 16, 1935. She was the daughter of James and Anna (Furaas) Beattie of Bartley Township. They have two daughters, Mrs. Charles (Kay) Johnson of San Josa, California; and Mrs. Charles (Connie) Schultz of Rockford, Illinois
Erwin retired from grain and cattle farming in 1964. The Steffens celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in 1985, and continue to live on the farm in Helena Township.
Source: Hannaford Area History North Dakota Centennial 1889 - 1989 Page 234