Nelson County Archives — North Dakota Genealogy

Biography of Mark Tunis Scarff of Michigan City North Dakota

Mark Tunis Scarff, born April 5, 1855, in New Carlisle, Ohio, is a distinguished resident of Nelson County, North Dakota, and president of the Michigan City Bank. Scarff moved to Nelson County in 1882, initially settling in Bartlett before relocating to Michigan City in 1883, where he established a hardware business. He founded the Michigan City Bank in 1893 and has served as its president since. Involved in local politics, he held positions as school and city treasurer. Scarff married Allie Warren in 1885 and, after her passing, married Nannie Shigley in 1893. They have one child, Mark Tunis Scarff Jr.

Biography of Oliver Knudson of Michigan City North Dakota

Oliver Knudson, born August 9, 1861, in Rushford, Minnesota, was a notable businessperson and farmer in Michigan City, North Dakota. Entering the grain industry in 1884, he also managed several farms in North Dakota and Minnesota. Educated in Granite Falls, Minnesota, Knudson married Diana Rodline in 1885, and they had two children. A dedicated Democrat, he served as state examiner, sheriff of Nelson County, and was involved with the State Democratic Central Committee. He managed a line of elevators on the Soo Road and was recognized for his contributions to agriculture and the Democratic party.

Biography of John H. Terrett of Michigan City North Dakota

John H. Terrett, born October 24, 1858, in Fairfax County, Virginia, is a notable figure in Michigan City, Nelson County, North Dakota. He pursued education in telegraphy and railroading before moving to Grand Forks County in 1882. Terrett farmed government land and worked for Pillsbury & Hulbert Elevator Company. He later became a station agent and owned an elevator business. In 1895, he transitioned to banking and real estate, achieving significant success. Terrett was Michigan City’s first mayor, a long-term school board member, and an active Democrat. Married to Maggie Reid in 1885, they had three children: Dade R., Fannie R., and Mildred V.