We may have a match! I have Hans Jacob as being born on 9 Nov 1855 (per his death certificate) in Norway. His obituary lists his birth as November 9, 1856. However, I do have a note from my grandmother that his father was Herman Gutormson. Hans did live in Halstad for a while. Much of what I have on this part of the family comes from notes, with no sources listed, prepared by my grandmother.
Would love to share more info!

Lynnette W. McMahon
LMcMahon@charter.net