Career
He was born in Østre Toten. He advocated freedom of religion in general and especially the right of Jews to enter Norway (which was granted in 1851). Locally he became mayor of Østre Toten municipality in 1837, was appointed county auditor, and founded the local savings bank.
He sat as mayor from 1837 to 1847 and 1850 to 1856, being succeeded by Ole Larsen Hammerstad.
He worked as a farmer.