Olsness, S. A. (Sveinung Anundsen), 1866-1954

Born at Vinje, Telemark, Norway, immigrated to Sheyenne, N.D. First employed by the railroad and as a farm laborer. Served as secretary for Greenfield Farmers Mutual Fire Insurance Co. from 1893-1916. Appointed as a clerk to the 1897 legislature, he became involved in politics. In 1916, he ran for Insurance Commissioner of North Dakota; held the office until his 1934 defeat by William Langer supporters. Also helped organize the Nonpartisan League. Returned to farming in 1934, continued involvement with national insurance organizations; served as director of Western Mutual Life Insurance Co., Fargo, N.D. in 1935. Gov. Fred Aandahl appointed him as Insurance Commissioner of North Dakota in 1945 to serve until impeachment proceedings against Commissioner Oscar E. Erickson were completed. Wrote poetry and contributed his views to various magazines and newspapers. Buried at Sheyenne.

From the description of Papers, 1883-1954. (North Dakota State University Library). WorldCat record id: 29736457

Sveinung Anundsen Olsness was born in 1866 at Vinje, Telemark, Norway and came to America in 1886 to two uncles living at Sheyenne, N.D. He began farming with his brother Aslak. Serving in a number of local government positions, he was appointed a clerk in the 1897 North Dakota Legislature. Active in the Nonpartisan League he ran in 1916 for North Dakota Insurance Commissioner. He served in that position until being defeated in 1934. Returning to the farm, he remained active in insurance organizations. He died in 1954.

From the description of S. A. Olsness photograph collection [graphic]. [1880s-1940s] (North Dakota State University Library). WorldCat record id: 64393633