Oly F. Johnson.

Oly F. JOHNSON, Sheriff, was born in Norway. Came to America in 1850, and located in Wisconsin. Removed to Minnesota. Enlisted in the Union army, October 4, 1861, in Company K, Forty-sixth Illinois Volunteer Infantry; discharged February 14, 1866, when he returned to Freeport, Ill. Came to Jewell County, Kan., in 1870, and took a homestead in Vicksburg Township. Held office of Justice of the Peace in said township, being the first Justice of the Peace elected in the same; also held the office of Trustee for two terms. Was elected Sheriff of Jewell County in 1881, and now holds this office. Is a member of the K. of P. Mr. Johnson took out the first marriage license in Jewell County after its organization; was married in Vicksburg Township on the 17th day of June, 1871, to Miss Elizabeth Zimmer. They have one child - Harry A., born October 12, 1879.

On some of the rosters his name was spelled Oley F. Johnson.  He was promoted Sergeant, at the age of 22, years.  At the age of 24 years he was promoted 2nd., Lieutenant.  At the age of 25 years was promoted to Captain.  His Height was 7 feet 7 inches, Hair was Auburn, and eyes Blue, his complexion was Fair.

The following came from the Regimental History of the 46th., Illinois Infantry.

Oly F. Johnson, enlisted at Caledonia, Minn., October 4, 1861, in September 1861, Captain Johnson in company with about twenty others, left Minnesoia and reported at St. Louis, expecting to join the 16th., Mo.  There not being enough men to complete the 16th., Mo., these men were sent to Springfield, Illinois, under Beverly Whitney, of the 15th.,Illinois.  They were ossigned to company K., 46th., Illinois.  O. F. Johnson was appointed Sergeant of the company.  Promoted to 2nd., Lieutenant October 11, 1862, and to Captain December 28, 1864.  He participated in all battles and marches with the regiment.

On his return from the army he located in Stephenson County, Illinois, and was engaged in different pursuits for a number years.  In an early day he with others, of his comrades, went to Kansas, and located at Jewell City, Jewell County, where he and wife entered on a homestead.  Some time after he was eleted Sheriff of the county and served acceptably for a term of years.  He died at Jewell City, about 1890.

Captain Johnson was Norwegian nationality, and about 25, years old at the time of his enlistment.  He was brave and couragous, a man of many good qualities, loved and respected by his comrades and had the full confidence of his superior officers.