I was born in Belmond, IA and grew up in Mason City, IA. I retired from teaching in 2008. My interest in genealogy developed from an early age. My great-great grandfather, Reverend Torkel Peterson immigated from Norway in 1854. He married and eventually ended up in the Forest City, IA where he farmed. He purchased his 1st land in 1874. He was an ordained Methodist circuit rider pastor. He preached for the Norwegian Methodist church in Forest City. He traveled around the country from one school to another and from one home to another where services were held. His wife, Martha and he were parents of 10 children. During his lifetime he purchased 240 acres of land in Center Township, Winnebago Co. IA. Torkel died March 9, 1892 at his home at the age of 56 years. Currently I am completing my family genealogy for my two adult sons and families. Genealogy is an addiction. I have the time that is needed during this unprecedented time in our lives. Contact me for any corrections or transfers.

I was born in Belmond, IA and grew up in Mason City, IA. I retired from teaching in 2008. My interest in genealogy developed from an early age. My great-great grandfather, Reverend Torkel Peterson immigated from Norway in 1854. He married and eventually ended up in the Forest City, IA where he farmed. He purchased his 1st land in 1874. He was an ordained Methodist circuit rider pastor. He preached for the Norwegian Methodist church in Forest City. He traveled around the country from one school to another and from one home to another where services were held. His wife, Martha and he were parents of 10 children. During his lifetime he purchased 240 acres of land in Center Township, Winnebago Co. IA. Torkel died March 9, 1892 at his home at the age of 56 years. Currently I am completing my family genealogy for my two adult sons and families. Genealogy is an addiction. I have the time that is needed during this unprecedented time in our lives. Contact me for any corrections or transfers.