Born in Ishpeming, Michigan, Norton moved with his parents to Ramsey County, North Dakota in 1883 where he attended public schools.

He served as the superintendent of the schools of Ramsey County from 1905 to 1907, and as the Chief Clerk of the North Dakota House of Representatives in 1907 and 1908.

After leaving the House, he moved to Mandan, North Dakota in 1919 and engaged in farming, livestock raising, banking, and the practice of law.

He moved to Minot, North Dakota in 1927, and served as delegate to the 1928 Republican National Convention.

This article incorporates public domain material from the Biographical Directory of the United States Congress