Ludwig L. Solsrud
Ludwig L. Solsrud, part owner of the Solsrud Mercantile Co. and president of the People's State Bank, both of Whitehall, was born in Christiania, Norway, Sept. 24, 1864, son of John and Anna O. (Halvorsen) Solsrud, the former of whom died in 1900 and the latter in 1872. The subject of this sketch was reared and educated in the old country. He came to America in 1883, locating in Spring Valley, Minn., June 9, of that year. A little over two years later, in December, 1885, he came to Whitehall. For a time he was variously employed. In August, 1900, he entered the store of his uncle, L. L. Solsrud. By attention to business and intelligent effort, he gradually mastered the business, and in 1895 became a partner, the firm at that time taking the name of Solsrud, Kidder & Co. In 1899 Mr. Kidder retired, and the firm became Solsrud & Solsrud, a name which was retained until the present name and organization was adopted in 1901. The building, which is of solid brick, two stories, with basement, is one of the sightly business houses of the village. It was erected in 1895. The firm carries a good stock, and does a large business, its reputation for fair prices, honest dealing and high quality having been deservedly gained through its many years of existence. When the People's State Bank was organized, Mr. Solsrud as one of the leading business men of the city was selected as its president, and in that capacity he has since continued to serve. A thorough believer in the brotherhood of man, Mr. Solsrud has allied himself with several fraternities. In the Masonic order he is a member of the Blue Lodge, Chapter, Commandery, Consistory and Shrine. In the I. O. O. F. he has passed through all the chairs of the lodge and is a popular member of the Rebekah degree. In the Independent Order of Foresters he is also a valued member. His public work has included efficient work on the village council for eight years. His religious affiliation is with the United Norwegian Lutheran church, in which he has been the treasurer since 1914. Mr. Solsrud was married June 9, 1897, to Lena Larson, who was born in Hale Township, Jan. 21, 1875, daughter of Martin and Marie (Bjorke) Larson, the pioneers, the former of whom makes his home with Mr. and Mrs. Solsrud, and the latter of whom died in 1902. Mr. and Mrs. Solsrud have had five children: Mary (who died in 1909 at the age of 11 years), Louise, Alice, John and Dorothy.