~ Recognizing & Honoring Them ~
" The Other Swedes "
- T H E L I N D S B O R G S W E D E S -
As their descendants will surely agree, not all of the Lindsborg Swedes are listed here, nor can they be, as those belonging to early non-Lutheran Christian denominations and those in farming and business are certainly missing! I could only list what I know and, hopefully, one day, the ones closest to these other Swedes will make those equally important additional listings.
Therefore, as you review the lists below, think also of the "unlisted ones," who also were the Swedish pioneers and builders of Lindsborg, those contemporaries and friends of Emil's and Lydia's. Yet, equally important, think of their "unnamed descendants," a few of whom appear in the listings, who have been carrying on the ongoing conservation work and promoting this community's Swedish culture, heritage, history and Christian faith.
This exercise of recognition and honor can only be describe as a tiny tribute for the enormous contributions that each made, and, is making, in their humble, quiet and private endeavors, in their callings -- of recording and saving the history; of keeping alive the Holy Spirit of Christian faith, the Swedish traditions, the links to Sweden and the Swedish Crown; and of the ongoing sacrificial giving, through funds or other in-kind gifts to higher education at Bethany College coupled with overwhelming support of the arts and faithful chorus participation in the oratorio Holy Easter Week Messiah performances, which brought national and international focus on their great little Swedish community and its college; and, in-so-doing created their "Camelot Years!"
Therefore, as you review the lists below, think also of the "unlisted ones," who also were the Swedish pioneers and builders of Lindsborg, those contemporaries and friends of Emil's and Lydia's. Yet, equally important, think of their "unnamed descendants," a few of whom appear in the listings, who have been carrying on the ongoing conservation work and promoting this community's Swedish culture, heritage, history and Christian faith.
This exercise of recognition and honor can only be describe as a tiny tribute for the enormous contributions that each made, and, is making, in their humble, quiet and private endeavors, in their callings -- of recording and saving the history; of keeping alive the Holy Spirit of Christian faith, the Swedish traditions, the links to Sweden and the Swedish Crown; and of the ongoing sacrificial giving, through funds or other in-kind gifts to higher education at Bethany College coupled with overwhelming support of the arts and faithful chorus participation in the oratorio Holy Easter Week Messiah performances, which brought national and international focus on their great little Swedish community and its college; and, in-so-doing created their "Camelot Years!"
May we recall and cherish each enduring legacy they left to us, as their descendants, friends, and others have "let the light so shine on their good works," and, in so doing, have "given God the glory," as did the spiritual father and founder of Lindsborg, Pastor Olof Olsson!
Note that the population of Lindsborg founded in 1869 grew to approximately 500 in 1880 (a year before the founding of Bethany College) to 2,000 in 1940 to 3,288 in 2018. (Sources: Online Wikipedia and Bing.)
* * *
Note that with "some" of the early listings are these abbreviations after the surnames:
BCG for Bethany College Graduate of Lindsborg, Kansas
ACG for Augustana College Graduate of Rock Island, Illinois
GACG for Gustavus Adolphus College Graduate of Saint Peter, Minnesota
ATSG for Augustana Theological Seminary Graduate of Rock Island, Illinois
SUG for Swedish Universities Graduates in Sweden
A few of these have yet to be crossed-checked with the Bethany College Alumni Office
Legend
* Listed chronologically
** Listed alphabetically
+ Included Here for Lindsborg’s 14: Bethany College Swedish Knights and Honored Ladies,1901 to 2014
Note that with "some" of the early listings are these abbreviations after the surnames:
BCG for Bethany College Graduate of Lindsborg, Kansas
ACG for Augustana College Graduate of Rock Island, Illinois
GACG for Gustavus Adolphus College Graduate of Saint Peter, Minnesota
ATSG for Augustana Theological Seminary Graduate of Rock Island, Illinois
SUG for Swedish Universities Graduates in Sweden
A few of these have yet to be crossed-checked with the Bethany College Alumni Office
Legend
* Listed chronologically
** Listed alphabetically
+ Included Here for Lindsborg’s 14: Bethany College Swedish Knights and Honored Ladies,1901 to 2014
* * *
- Their Legacies and Listings -
- a sampling -
- 1869 to 2019 -
150 Years
- a sampling -
- 1869 to 2019 -
150 Years
* * *
Through Their
Freedom of Worship
forming Lutheran churches governed by the
Augustana Lutheran Synod
which in later years merged with other synods forming today's
EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH IN AMERICA
Example of transportation used when Rev. Olof Olsson arrived in Lindsborg
Swedish founders of the Smoky Valley Lindsborg settlement
From the Värmland region of Sweden, they were John Ferm, S. A. Lindell, J. G. Bergsten, C. R. Carlson, Magnus Carlson, S. P. Lindgren, J. Lindh, N. P. Lindey;* and others like Anders M. Olsson, Peter Peterson, A. Jacobson, and L. N. Sandell,** who organized the First Swedish Agricultural Company that prepared the way for the Värmland Swedes to settle in Lindsborg. These Swedes of the Agricultural Company gave Lindsborg its name on February 20, 1869. (Sources: *Dr. Emory Lindquist's 1953 Smoky Valley People, A History of Lindsborg, Kansas -- Chapter IV: “The Settlement Develops" refers to them as "the founders" on page 34; ** Bill Carlson's 2014, The Founding of Lindsborg, page 9, only includes these 4 names.)
Swedish founder of the Smoky Valley Lindsborg settlement
Rev. Dr. Olof Olsson is considered the founder of the community who, with the rest of his colony members, arrived in the Smoky Valley in late June of 1869. He arrived on June 27, 1869. (Source: Dr. Lindquist's 1953 Smoky Valley People, A History of Lindsborg, Kansas -- Chapter V: "Pastor Olof Olsson: Founder of the Community.")
Notations: Magnus Carlson encouraged C.R. Carlson to come to Lindsborg in 1868; and C.R. Carlson was an early Lindsborg leader who was primarily responsible for Rev. Olof Olsson coming to Lindsborg in 1869. (Source: Bill Carlson's 2010 Lindsborg Then and Lindsborg Now, pages 21-22.) Go HERE, to Swedish Pastor Olof Olsson Immigrating to Lindsborg 1869, June 27th Arrival.
Swedish Galesburg, Illinois Swedes responsible for Smoky Valley settlements other than Lindsborg
They were Rev. Anders Wilhelm (A.W.) Dahlsten, Olof Thorstenberg, John P. Stromquist, John Rodell, Gustaf Johnson, and William Johnson who would organize the Galesburg Colonization Company, in Galesburg, Illinois, composed of Swedes from the Dalarna and the Småland regions of Sweden, many of whom first lived in Illinois and Ohio. They would arrive in the Smoky Valley four (4) months before the Olsson Colony on February 25, 1869.
(Source: Thomas N. Holmquist's 1994 Pioneer Cross, Swedish Settlements Along the Smoky Hill Bluffs, Chapter 3, "The Search for Land.")
SUMMARY
The Galesburg Colonization Company arrived on February 25, 1869.
Pastor Olof Olsson Colony arrived at different times in June of 1869, but he arrived in Lindsborg on June 27, 1869.
From the Värmland region of Sweden, they were John Ferm, S. A. Lindell, J. G. Bergsten, C. R. Carlson, Magnus Carlson, S. P. Lindgren, J. Lindh, N. P. Lindey;* and others like Anders M. Olsson, Peter Peterson, A. Jacobson, and L. N. Sandell,** who organized the First Swedish Agricultural Company that prepared the way for the Värmland Swedes to settle in Lindsborg. These Swedes of the Agricultural Company gave Lindsborg its name on February 20, 1869. (Sources: *Dr. Emory Lindquist's 1953 Smoky Valley People, A History of Lindsborg, Kansas -- Chapter IV: “The Settlement Develops" refers to them as "the founders" on page 34; ** Bill Carlson's 2014, The Founding of Lindsborg, page 9, only includes these 4 names.)
Swedish founder of the Smoky Valley Lindsborg settlement
Rev. Dr. Olof Olsson is considered the founder of the community who, with the rest of his colony members, arrived in the Smoky Valley in late June of 1869. He arrived on June 27, 1869. (Source: Dr. Lindquist's 1953 Smoky Valley People, A History of Lindsborg, Kansas -- Chapter V: "Pastor Olof Olsson: Founder of the Community.")
Notations: Magnus Carlson encouraged C.R. Carlson to come to Lindsborg in 1868; and C.R. Carlson was an early Lindsborg leader who was primarily responsible for Rev. Olof Olsson coming to Lindsborg in 1869. (Source: Bill Carlson's 2010 Lindsborg Then and Lindsborg Now, pages 21-22.) Go HERE, to Swedish Pastor Olof Olsson Immigrating to Lindsborg 1869, June 27th Arrival.
Swedish Galesburg, Illinois Swedes responsible for Smoky Valley settlements other than Lindsborg
They were Rev. Anders Wilhelm (A.W.) Dahlsten, Olof Thorstenberg, John P. Stromquist, John Rodell, Gustaf Johnson, and William Johnson who would organize the Galesburg Colonization Company, in Galesburg, Illinois, composed of Swedes from the Dalarna and the Småland regions of Sweden, many of whom first lived in Illinois and Ohio. They would arrive in the Smoky Valley four (4) months before the Olsson Colony on February 25, 1869.
(Source: Thomas N. Holmquist's 1994 Pioneer Cross, Swedish Settlements Along the Smoky Hill Bluffs, Chapter 3, "The Search for Land.")
SUMMARY
The Galesburg Colonization Company arrived on February 25, 1869.
Pastor Olof Olsson Colony arrived at different times in June of 1869, but he arrived in Lindsborg on June 27, 1869.
* * *
Through Their
Augustana Lutheran Synod
Through Their
Augustana Lutheran Synod
Synod Mother Church -- Jenny Lind Chapel, Andover, Illinois / Museum image
AUGUSTANTA LUTHERAN SYNOD BACKGROUND for
Bethany Church -- The church name, Swedish Evangelical Lutheran Bethany Church, was adopted on August 19, 1869 when this church's application to join the Augustana Evangelical Lutheran Synod (Church), submitted by Pastor Olof Olsson, was accepted.
(Source: Bror Carlsson's and Alf Brorson's 2001 He Gave God Glory, The Story of Olof Olsson, page 23)
Bethany College -- First, Bethany College was chartered by the State of Kansas in September 1882. It was dedicated by Founder Carl Aaron Swensson with Augustana Synod leaders presiding on October 4, 1882 [at the festive services around the Bethany Academy Building]. It was adopted as "the child" of the Augustana Synod in 1884 at the Kansas Conference at Mariadahl Lutheran Church.
(Source: Emory Lindquist's 1975 book, Bethany in Kansas, the history of a college, Chapter 1, "Founding and Early Years, 1881 - 1991,"
pages 5-7)
Bethany Home -- Bethany Home was "born in the bosom of the church" that was known as the Swedish Evangelical Lutheran Augustana Synod of North America, during the Kansas Conference of that Synod held at Marquette in 1907.
Source: The 1986 book, The Bethany Home Story, Lindsborg, Kansas, 1911-1986, page 2, column 2
Bethany Church -- The church name, Swedish Evangelical Lutheran Bethany Church, was adopted on August 19, 1869 when this church's application to join the Augustana Evangelical Lutheran Synod (Church), submitted by Pastor Olof Olsson, was accepted.
(Source: Bror Carlsson's and Alf Brorson's 2001 He Gave God Glory, The Story of Olof Olsson, page 23)
Bethany College -- First, Bethany College was chartered by the State of Kansas in September 1882. It was dedicated by Founder Carl Aaron Swensson with Augustana Synod leaders presiding on October 4, 1882 [at the festive services around the Bethany Academy Building]. It was adopted as "the child" of the Augustana Synod in 1884 at the Kansas Conference at Mariadahl Lutheran Church.
(Source: Emory Lindquist's 1975 book, Bethany in Kansas, the history of a college, Chapter 1, "Founding and Early Years, 1881 - 1991,"
pages 5-7)
Bethany Home -- Bethany Home was "born in the bosom of the church" that was known as the Swedish Evangelical Lutheran Augustana Synod of North America, during the Kansas Conference of that Synod held at Marquette in 1907.
Source: The 1986 book, The Bethany Home Story, Lindsborg, Kansas, 1911-1986, page 2, column 2
Bethany Church
Bethany Church / Bing photo
Swedish Evangelical Lutheran Bethany Church Pastors and Secretary*
Rev. Dr. Olof Olsson, SUG -- Founder of Lindsborg, and founder and first pastor of the Swedish Evangelical Lutheran Bethany Church (Bethany Church) for 7 years (1869-1876) at which time he joined the Augustana College faculty where he eventually became president until his death in 1900;
he was Swedish born and an Uppsala University graduate of Sweden, and, in 1893, was awarded by that institution an honorary degree as was also Bethany College founder and president Rev. Dr. Carl Aaron Swensson, with a notation by this Swedish University that these two gentlemen were 'first time" Swedish Americans to ever receive these degrees.
Rev. Dr. Carl Aaron Swensson, ACG & ATSG – Second pastor for 25 years (1879-1904); founder of the Swedish Bethany Lutheran Academy, later known as Bethany Lutheran College, then Bethany College; an Augustana College graduate and recipient of the Swedish Uppsala University honorary degree in 1893 as was Rev. Dr. Olof Olsson as noted above; Knighted by Swedish Crown+(1901)
Rev. Dr. Julius Lincoln, BCG -- Assistant pastor (1893-1895), Knighted by Swedish Crown+ (1930)
Rev. Dr. Ernst Pihlblad, BCG -- Assistant pastor (1896-1904), Knighted by Swedish Crown+ (1920)
Rev. Dr. Alfred Bergin, GACG, ATSG – Third pastor for 38 years (1904-1942), historian, author of earliest Swedish Smoky Valley settlements books; Gustavus Adolphus College graduate; Swedish born
Charlotte Ternstrom -- 48 year secretary, a preservationist, historian, archivist of the church and community foundings' earliest documents
Rev. Dr. Olof Olsson, SUG -- Founder of Lindsborg, and founder and first pastor of the Swedish Evangelical Lutheran Bethany Church (Bethany Church) for 7 years (1869-1876) at which time he joined the Augustana College faculty where he eventually became president until his death in 1900;
he was Swedish born and an Uppsala University graduate of Sweden, and, in 1893, was awarded by that institution an honorary degree as was also Bethany College founder and president Rev. Dr. Carl Aaron Swensson, with a notation by this Swedish University that these two gentlemen were 'first time" Swedish Americans to ever receive these degrees.
Rev. Dr. Carl Aaron Swensson, ACG & ATSG – Second pastor for 25 years (1879-1904); founder of the Swedish Bethany Lutheran Academy, later known as Bethany Lutheran College, then Bethany College; an Augustana College graduate and recipient of the Swedish Uppsala University honorary degree in 1893 as was Rev. Dr. Olof Olsson as noted above; Knighted by Swedish Crown+(1901)
Rev. Dr. Julius Lincoln, BCG -- Assistant pastor (1893-1895), Knighted by Swedish Crown+ (1930)
Rev. Dr. Ernst Pihlblad, BCG -- Assistant pastor (1896-1904), Knighted by Swedish Crown+ (1920)
Rev. Dr. Alfred Bergin, GACG, ATSG – Third pastor for 38 years (1904-1942), historian, author of earliest Swedish Smoky Valley settlements books; Gustavus Adolphus College graduate; Swedish born
Charlotte Ternstrom -- 48 year secretary, a preservationist, historian, archivist of the church and community foundings' earliest documents
Bethany Academy
Source: Bethany in Kansas
Swedish Bethany Lutheran College Presidents*
Rev. Dr. Carl Aaron Swensson, ACG & ATSG -- Founder and 2nd President for 15 years (1889-1904),
Knighted by Swedish Crown+ (1901)
Rev. Edward Nelander, ACG -- 1st President for 7 years (1882-1889)
Rev. Dr. Ernst Pihlblad, BCG -- 3rd President for 37 years (1904-1941); knighted by Swedish Crown+ (1920)
Dr. Emory Lindquist, BCG -- Born in Lindsborg, 4th President for 12 years (1941-1953); knighted by Swedish Crown+ (1976)
Dr. Arvin W. Hahn -- 8th President for 16 years (1967-1983); knighted by Swedish Crown+ (1976)
Dr. Peter Ristuben -- 9th President for 7 years (1983-1990); knighted by Swedish Crown+ (1990)
Rev. Dr. Carl Aaron Swensson, ACG & ATSG -- Founder and 2nd President for 15 years (1889-1904),
Knighted by Swedish Crown+ (1901)
Rev. Edward Nelander, ACG -- 1st President for 7 years (1882-1889)
Rev. Dr. Ernst Pihlblad, BCG -- 3rd President for 37 years (1904-1941); knighted by Swedish Crown+ (1920)
Dr. Emory Lindquist, BCG -- Born in Lindsborg, 4th President for 12 years (1941-1953); knighted by Swedish Crown+ (1976)
Dr. Arvin W. Hahn -- 8th President for 16 years (1967-1983); knighted by Swedish Crown+ (1976)
Dr. Peter Ristuben -- 9th President for 7 years (1983-1990); knighted by Swedish Crown+ (1990)
Bethany Academy
"First" Bethany College' Building, 1882, at McPherson County Old Mill Museum Heritage Park
Swedish Bethany Lutheran College Graduates and Employees*
Alma Luise Olson, BCG -- Born near Lindsborg; an international author, New York Times correspondent eventually taking her to Sweden for a 12 year assignment; drawn to United Nations' activities, was present when it first opened in New York City attending the remaining first meetings; was "first" American woman honored by the Swedish Crown receiving the Vasa Medallion+(1940); retired to family home in Lindsborg where she taught at Bethany College
Lydia Sohlberg Deere, BCG -- Founder and president of the Bethany College Campus Association, organized in 1912,
was responsible for college campus' "first" landscaping projects, a major one of which was the "Bethany College Gateway" (the entrance to the College at College Street / North First Street and Olsson Street); visually documented college campus and college life through her photography, 1906-1925; Lady Principal and Matron of Lane Hart Hall; Bethany College instructor of Swedish and Scandinavian handwork (1906-1913); a McPherson College graduate with a Degree in Commerce in 1900, established Lindsborg's Sohlberg Millinery Company (1900-1906); for two degrees earned at Bethany College and as her past- time as an artist, scroll down to "Painting and Drawing"
Oscar Brousse Jacobson, BCG -- Swedish born, moved to Lindsborg when 8 years old; art student of Birger Sandzén graduating from Bethany in 1908, and graduating again as a Sandzén student with a Doctorate in Fine Arts following his studies in France at the Louvre in Paris, and in the Scandinavian countries of Denmark and Sweden, and at Yale University in 1916 where he received a Master of Fine Arts Degree; he was the "first" artist in the U.S. to define American Indian art as "Fine Art;" he established Jacobson House Native American Art Center in Norman, Oklahoma; he was a renowned artist of Southwest, was the art director at Norman's University of Oklahoma who envisioned an art museum which was to become the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art
Arthur W. Lindquist, BCG-- Internationally renowned entomologist, knighted by Swedish Crown+(1976)
Stan Talbott, BCG -- Bethany College Director of Alumni, honored by the Stan Talbott Society Scholarship
Kenneth Sjogren, BCG -- Bethany College Director of Public Relations, Development, Publicity Alumni Affairs,
author of 2019 “Six Decades with Twelve Bethany College Presidents”
Bruce Karstadt-, BCG -- CEO and President of American Swedish Institute; Honorary Consul General of Sweden for the State of Minnesota; Sweden's Lund University recipient of an honorary doctorate, Swedish Crown recipient of Swedish Insignia+(2014); honored in 2018 as Swedish American of the Year by Swedish Emigrant Institute of Växjö, Småland, Sweden
Alma Luise Olson, BCG -- Born near Lindsborg; an international author, New York Times correspondent eventually taking her to Sweden for a 12 year assignment; drawn to United Nations' activities, was present when it first opened in New York City attending the remaining first meetings; was "first" American woman honored by the Swedish Crown receiving the Vasa Medallion+(1940); retired to family home in Lindsborg where she taught at Bethany College
Lydia Sohlberg Deere, BCG -- Founder and president of the Bethany College Campus Association, organized in 1912,
was responsible for college campus' "first" landscaping projects, a major one of which was the "Bethany College Gateway" (the entrance to the College at College Street / North First Street and Olsson Street); visually documented college campus and college life through her photography, 1906-1925; Lady Principal and Matron of Lane Hart Hall; Bethany College instructor of Swedish and Scandinavian handwork (1906-1913); a McPherson College graduate with a Degree in Commerce in 1900, established Lindsborg's Sohlberg Millinery Company (1900-1906); for two degrees earned at Bethany College and as her past- time as an artist, scroll down to "Painting and Drawing"
Oscar Brousse Jacobson, BCG -- Swedish born, moved to Lindsborg when 8 years old; art student of Birger Sandzén graduating from Bethany in 1908, and graduating again as a Sandzén student with a Doctorate in Fine Arts following his studies in France at the Louvre in Paris, and in the Scandinavian countries of Denmark and Sweden, and at Yale University in 1916 where he received a Master of Fine Arts Degree; he was the "first" artist in the U.S. to define American Indian art as "Fine Art;" he established Jacobson House Native American Art Center in Norman, Oklahoma; he was a renowned artist of Southwest, was the art director at Norman's University of Oklahoma who envisioned an art museum which was to become the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art
Arthur W. Lindquist, BCG-- Internationally renowned entomologist, knighted by Swedish Crown+(1976)
Stan Talbott, BCG -- Bethany College Director of Alumni, honored by the Stan Talbott Society Scholarship
Kenneth Sjogren, BCG -- Bethany College Director of Public Relations, Development, Publicity Alumni Affairs,
author of 2019 “Six Decades with Twelve Bethany College Presidents”
Bruce Karstadt-, BCG -- CEO and President of American Swedish Institute; Honorary Consul General of Sweden for the State of Minnesota; Sweden's Lund University recipient of an honorary doctorate, Swedish Crown recipient of Swedish Insignia+(2014); honored in 2018 as Swedish American of the Year by Swedish Emigrant Institute of Växjö, Småland, Sweden
Bethany Home
Source: Bethany Home Story
Swedish Bethany Lutheran Home Pioneers**
Oscar Anderson -- Provided one-fifth of the seed funding for Bethany Home in 1907
Rev. Alfred Bergin, GACG, ATSG -- Chairman of the Bethany Home and Chaplain for 34 years (1910-1944)
Pastor Engstrand -- Suggested instead of an orphanage, the funds should go to the needy at the "Home for the Aged"
(as the Home was called then) in 1907
Francis Johnson, BCG -- A key facilitator in establishing Bethany Home in 1907
Oscar Anderson -- Provided one-fifth of the seed funding for Bethany Home in 1907
Rev. Alfred Bergin, GACG, ATSG -- Chairman of the Bethany Home and Chaplain for 34 years (1910-1944)
Pastor Engstrand -- Suggested instead of an orphanage, the funds should go to the needy at the "Home for the Aged"
(as the Home was called then) in 1907
Francis Johnson, BCG -- A key facilitator in establishing Bethany Home in 1907
* * *
Through Their
Bethany College Museum
(1882-1966)
~ the Swedish curators ~
Bethany College Collections' home
-- Quotes --
"The museum, largely the result of his [Deere's] efforts, has no peer among the mid-western Liberal Arts colleges.” 1
“After the move ... you will find one of the finest museums of this kind in the mid-west...” 2
It has one of the most valuable collections in the State and contain items which have attracted national recognition. 3
"The museum, largely the result of his [Deere's] efforts, has no peer among the mid-western Liberal Arts colleges.” 1
“After the move ... you will find one of the finest museums of this kind in the mid-west...” 2
It has one of the most valuable collections in the State and contain items which have attracted national recognition. 3
1- 1966, Bethany College Carl Swenson Deere Eulogy
2- 1966, McPherson County Old Mill Museum Director Tib Anderson
3- 1967, Smoky Valley Historical Association Secretary Mrs. Elizabeth Jaderborg
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2- 1966, McPherson County Old Mill Museum Director Tib Anderson
3- 1967, Smoky Valley Historical Association Secretary Mrs. Elizabeth Jaderborg
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Swedes' Collectors
Johan August Udden, Dr. John Rundstrom, Professor Lindholm, Otto Hawkinson, George Sohlberg, Luther Dahlsten, A. Agrelius, Oscar Hubbard, Luther Swenson, Hugo Jacobson, David Bjorn, J. A. Anderson
Swedes Bethany College Museum Scientist and Curators* /\
Johan August Udden, ACG -- Swedish born, "first" Bethany College professor of __ , 1881; founder of the Bethany College Museum and "1st" curator for 6 years, 1882-1888; internationally renowned geologist, knighted by Swedish Crown+ (1911). See pages 59-67 of Dr. Leon Lungstrom's book /\
Jacob Westlund, BCG -- Bethany College professor of __ and "2nd" Museum curator, for 3 years, 1888-1891
Dr. John Eric Welin, BCG -- Swedish born, Bethany College professor of geology, chemistry, physics and astronomy and "3rd" Museum curator for 17 years, 1891-1908; would become known as "the grand old man" of Bethany. See pages 69-85 of Dr. Leon Lungstrom's book /\
Dr. Emil O. Deere, BCG -- Bethany College professor of biology, geology and"4th" and last Museum curator for 58 years, 1908-1966. See pages 147-209 of Dr. Leon Lungstrom's book /\
Dr. Leon Lungstrom, BCG -- Bethany College professor of and Museum assistant curator to Dr. Deere and his plan for moving the Bethany College Museum collections to the McPherson County Old Mill Museum in 1966. See pages 229-249 of Dr. Leon Lungstrom's book /\
Swedes Responsible for Oversight and Maintaining the Bethany College Museum Collections at the Old Mill Museum:
-Tib Anderson, BCG -- McPherson County Old Mill Museum Director until 1980. (He received the college collections in 1966.)
(Around 1980, Lenora Lynam held an administrative position at the museum that has expanded to an archivist/curator position.)
Christian Swenson, BCG, Leon Lungstrom, BCG, Howard Patrick -- College/Lindsborg co-directors from 1980 to 1984
-Jeanne Mogenson of Lindsborg director from 1984 to 1986
-Dorman Lehman director of Minnesota 1986 to early 1990s
-Lorna Nelson current director of McPherson, Kansas since early 1990s
-Lenora Lynam continues in the archivist/curator position since 1980 (8/28//20)
*The Bethany College professors who created the College Museum inventory list of 6,000 artifacts, of which approximately 5,000 were moved to join the 500 artifacts at the McPherson County Old Mill Museum. Out of the 6,000 items, 300 were from "Udden Indian Collection" and 900 were from the "Emil O. Deere Pioneer Collection."
/\ For more on these professors, go to Dr. Leon Lungstrom's 1990 book, History on Natural Science and Mathematics at Bethany College, Lindsborg, Kansas.
Johan August Udden, Dr. John Rundstrom, Professor Lindholm, Otto Hawkinson, George Sohlberg, Luther Dahlsten, A. Agrelius, Oscar Hubbard, Luther Swenson, Hugo Jacobson, David Bjorn, J. A. Anderson
Swedes Bethany College Museum Scientist and Curators* /\
Johan August Udden, ACG -- Swedish born, "first" Bethany College professor of __ , 1881; founder of the Bethany College Museum and "1st" curator for 6 years, 1882-1888; internationally renowned geologist, knighted by Swedish Crown+ (1911). See pages 59-67 of Dr. Leon Lungstrom's book /\
Jacob Westlund, BCG -- Bethany College professor of __ and "2nd" Museum curator, for 3 years, 1888-1891
Dr. John Eric Welin, BCG -- Swedish born, Bethany College professor of geology, chemistry, physics and astronomy and "3rd" Museum curator for 17 years, 1891-1908; would become known as "the grand old man" of Bethany. See pages 69-85 of Dr. Leon Lungstrom's book /\
Dr. Emil O. Deere, BCG -- Bethany College professor of biology, geology and"4th" and last Museum curator for 58 years, 1908-1966. See pages 147-209 of Dr. Leon Lungstrom's book /\
Dr. Leon Lungstrom, BCG -- Bethany College professor of and Museum assistant curator to Dr. Deere and his plan for moving the Bethany College Museum collections to the McPherson County Old Mill Museum in 1966. See pages 229-249 of Dr. Leon Lungstrom's book /\
Swedes Responsible for Oversight and Maintaining the Bethany College Museum Collections at the Old Mill Museum:
-Tib Anderson, BCG -- McPherson County Old Mill Museum Director until 1980. (He received the college collections in 1966.)
(Around 1980, Lenora Lynam held an administrative position at the museum that has expanded to an archivist/curator position.)
Christian Swenson, BCG, Leon Lungstrom, BCG, Howard Patrick -- College/Lindsborg co-directors from 1980 to 1984
-Jeanne Mogenson of Lindsborg director from 1984 to 1986
-Dorman Lehman director of Minnesota 1986 to early 1990s
-Lorna Nelson current director of McPherson, Kansas since early 1990s
-Lenora Lynam continues in the archivist/curator position since 1980 (8/28//20)
*The Bethany College professors who created the College Museum inventory list of 6,000 artifacts, of which approximately 5,000 were moved to join the 500 artifacts at the McPherson County Old Mill Museum. Out of the 6,000 items, 300 were from "Udden Indian Collection" and 900 were from the "Emil O. Deere Pioneer Collection."
/\ For more on these professors, go to Dr. Leon Lungstrom's 1990 book, History on Natural Science and Mathematics at Bethany College, Lindsborg, Kansas.
* * *
Through Their
Arts
Through Their
Arts
Music, Messiah & Oratorio Society
Ling Auditorium / In Memorium . Swensson
~ With European and Julliard Schooled Professors ~
Swedes in Music*
Rev. Dr. Olof Olsson, SUG -- As the founder and first pastor of Lindsborg's Bethany Church, he was the "first" to bring sacred classical music into the Smoky Valley in December of 1869; he moved on to Augustana College to become a professor in 1877 and was determined that Augustana would perform George Frederick Handel's Messiah, after he experienced its performance in London in 1879, which then became the beginning of a tradition in 1881 at Augustana College, and a year later at Lindsborg after Bethany Church's second pastor Carl Aaron Swensson first experienced that Augustana College Messiah performance /\/\
Alma Christina Lind-Swensson -- Was the "first and "only" woman conductor of 1882 of the Bethany Church Messiah; guided by husband Rev. Carl Aaron Swensson’s 1881 vision and with their collaboration, she became the Messiah performances’ organizer, rehearsals' conductor, and soloist; was later Bethany College music instructor; she was Church's organist for 40 years and was a cofounder of the Augustana Women's Missionary Society in 1892; she was Swedish born and a Moline High School graduate of Moline, Illinois /\/\
Samuel Thorstenberg, BCG , SUG -- Bethany College Oratorio Society Messiah conductor whose 11 year tenure
(1898-1909) showed great Messiah chorus growth from 183 to 487; as conductor, at times, he would also perform the bass soloist Messiah part; as a Bethany graduate,
his musical studies continued in New York and Europe /\/\
Hagbard Brase, SUG - Most famous and accomplished Bethany College Oratorio Society Messiah conductor for 30+ years, 1915-1945, leaving Bethany after 53 years, 1900-1953; he was a Bethany College professor of organ, harmony, composition; he founded the College's nationally recognized capella choir; Swedish born, he studied at Sweden's College of Skara, Stockholm's Royal Conservatory of Music and in Germany; he was a close personal friend of Sandzén's, he was Knighted by Swedish Crown+ (1947)
"Upon Brase's retirement in 1946 as conductor, a well-known music critic observed that one of the last of the finest type of European music masters in America had raised his baton for the last time." /\
Oscar Lofgren, BCG -- Bethany College professor of music and piano, "first" Dean of the College of Fine Arts,
1918-1948 (30 years), 48 years at Bethany, 1900-1948 /\/\
Oscar Thorsen, SUG, BCG -- Bethany College professor of piano for 54 years, 1901-1955, he was regarded
as a fine performer, and "a person of broad and deep culture;" his gift of hospitality was centered in his Lindsborg second floor apartment/studio, the venue for hundreds of recitals and social functions; he was a lover of music, art and European travel; he was a close personal friend of Sandzén's; Swedish born, he studied music in Sweden including Karlstad, specializing in piano studies with renown teachers in Germany and the United States /\/\
Thure Jaderborg, BCG -- Bethany College professor of voice for 52 years, 1902-1954, was Oratorio Society Messiah
base soloist for many years with good press reviews and a public following; studied voice extensively in New York City after graduating Bethany; a large number of his students would become professional musicians /\/\
Dr. Lambert Dahlsten, BCG -- "Organist" for Oratorio Society Bethany College Centennial 1981 Messiah performance;
Bethany College professor of piano and organ; Oratorio Society Messiah organist for 38 years; he was a Columbia University graduate with studies at University of Missouri Kansas City Conservatory of Music, Julliard School of Music, and Stockholm's Royal College of Music with Sweden's renown Gotthard Arnér <> BMs
Dr. Elmer Copley, ACG -- "Conductor" for Oratorio Society of Bethany College Centennial 1981 Messiah performance;
also, for HM Carl XVI Gustaf, King of Sweden 1976 visit to Lindsborg and Bethany College;
was Bethany College professor of voice, director of college choir, conductor of festival music; Oratorio Society Messiah conductor for 29 years who in 1988 accepted for the Oratorio Society, the Governor's Arts Award for Performing Arts, a first time ever award at the Kansas Statehouse Rotunda in Topeka; as a Augustana College graduate, his studies of music continued at the University of Colorado, University of Iowa, and at Julliard School of Music; was a Bethany College "Pierson Distinguished Professor of Music" recipient; was regarded as key to continuing the Messiah tradition for nearly 3 decades which found him with the Oratoio Society and the Bethany College choir separately or together traveling to perform the Messiah and other sacred pieces primarily at Lutheran churches and cathedrals around the country
and in Europe; his daughter Rebecca Copley, a Bethany graduate, followed in his musical footsteps becoming an international opera singer. <> BMs
Go HERE, to learn more on Dr. Copley and this 1981 Bethany College Messiah performance.
Roger Thorstenberg, BCG -- "Trumpet Soloist" for Oratorio Society Bethany College Centennial 1981 Messiah performance; Bethany College professor of brass instruments and theory, chairman of music; performed annually at the Messiah as the "Trumpet Soloist" whose talent was enjoyed at the United States Navy Band, Army 4th Infantry Division Band, Seventh Army Symphony, Arlington Symphony, Denver Municipal Band and Detroit Concert Band <>
Dr. David J. Higbee -- "Orchestra Conductor" for Oratorio Society Bethany College Centennial 1981 Messiah performance; Bethany College associate professor of music, conductor of Bethany Community Symphonic Band, Chamber Orchestra and Stage Band; a University of Colorado graduate with studies at the University of Michigan and University of Denver <>
T. David Lowe -- "Concertmaster" for Bethany College Centennial 1981 Messiah performance, Bethany College associate professor of music; studies and degrees from Juilliard School of Music, Columbia University and University of Colorado; was a violist with the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra and the United States Air Force Academy Strings <>
Dr. Joel Panciera -- "Conductor" for the historic Bethany College Oratorio Society Messiah performance at Carnegie Hall in New York City on April 7, 1997, it was to be the "last" of such great 20th Century
Messiah public performances -- characterized so with thousands of Messiah patrons flocking to Bethany College to hear this most sacred music; he was at Bethany from 1996 to 1999 serving as
an Assistant Professor and Chair of the Music Department, Conductor of the College Choir and Oratorio Society with a Bachelor's Degree of Music in Organ Performance from Oberlin College, a Master's Degree of Music in Choral Conducting from Westminster Choir College, a Doctorate's Degree in Musical Arts in Choral Conducting from the University of Oklahoma, and a year of
private study at Cambridge University, England ##, BMs
Dr. Mark Lucas, BCG -- Current conductor of the Bethany College Oratorio Society Messiah performances since 2004. He is the "first" conductor in the 21st Century to live stream the performance for thousands to view. Much more to come. 10 19 20
Becky Copley, BCG -- International opera singer, deemed by critics as one of America's most gifted vocalist, performed nationwide and worldwide covering 5 continents with special Messiah appearances at Bethany College; a recipient of Bethany College's Gold Award for Achievement, and, in 2004, was honored by the Kansas Federation of Music Clubs as "Musician of the Year."
Go Here to learn more of her spectacular career. ##, BMs
SOURCES:
/\ Dr. Emory Lindquist's 1984, Hagbard Brase: Beloved Music Master, page 164
/\/\ Bethany College faculty information is from Emory Lindquist's 1975 book, Bethany in Kansas, the history of a college, pages 135-150, 163-164.
<> The "Centennial Edition: Choruses from Handel's Messiah" record album by Delta Records, 1981
# Ms. Karen Humphrey's 2012 Grace, Faith and the Power of Singing -- The Alma Christina Lind Swensson Story, pages _______
## Online information
BMs Bethany Magazines
Go HERE, to the beginning stories on music and the Messiah in Lindsborg and at Bethany College.
Rev. Dr. Olof Olsson, SUG -- As the founder and first pastor of Lindsborg's Bethany Church, he was the "first" to bring sacred classical music into the Smoky Valley in December of 1869; he moved on to Augustana College to become a professor in 1877 and was determined that Augustana would perform George Frederick Handel's Messiah, after he experienced its performance in London in 1879, which then became the beginning of a tradition in 1881 at Augustana College, and a year later at Lindsborg after Bethany Church's second pastor Carl Aaron Swensson first experienced that Augustana College Messiah performance /\/\
Alma Christina Lind-Swensson -- Was the "first and "only" woman conductor of 1882 of the Bethany Church Messiah; guided by husband Rev. Carl Aaron Swensson’s 1881 vision and with their collaboration, she became the Messiah performances’ organizer, rehearsals' conductor, and soloist; was later Bethany College music instructor; she was Church's organist for 40 years and was a cofounder of the Augustana Women's Missionary Society in 1892; she was Swedish born and a Moline High School graduate of Moline, Illinois /\/\
Samuel Thorstenberg, BCG , SUG -- Bethany College Oratorio Society Messiah conductor whose 11 year tenure
(1898-1909) showed great Messiah chorus growth from 183 to 487; as conductor, at times, he would also perform the bass soloist Messiah part; as a Bethany graduate,
his musical studies continued in New York and Europe /\/\
Hagbard Brase, SUG - Most famous and accomplished Bethany College Oratorio Society Messiah conductor for 30+ years, 1915-1945, leaving Bethany after 53 years, 1900-1953; he was a Bethany College professor of organ, harmony, composition; he founded the College's nationally recognized capella choir; Swedish born, he studied at Sweden's College of Skara, Stockholm's Royal Conservatory of Music and in Germany; he was a close personal friend of Sandzén's, he was Knighted by Swedish Crown+ (1947)
"Upon Brase's retirement in 1946 as conductor, a well-known music critic observed that one of the last of the finest type of European music masters in America had raised his baton for the last time." /\
Oscar Lofgren, BCG -- Bethany College professor of music and piano, "first" Dean of the College of Fine Arts,
1918-1948 (30 years), 48 years at Bethany, 1900-1948 /\/\
Oscar Thorsen, SUG, BCG -- Bethany College professor of piano for 54 years, 1901-1955, he was regarded
as a fine performer, and "a person of broad and deep culture;" his gift of hospitality was centered in his Lindsborg second floor apartment/studio, the venue for hundreds of recitals and social functions; he was a lover of music, art and European travel; he was a close personal friend of Sandzén's; Swedish born, he studied music in Sweden including Karlstad, specializing in piano studies with renown teachers in Germany and the United States /\/\
Thure Jaderborg, BCG -- Bethany College professor of voice for 52 years, 1902-1954, was Oratorio Society Messiah
base soloist for many years with good press reviews and a public following; studied voice extensively in New York City after graduating Bethany; a large number of his students would become professional musicians /\/\
Dr. Lambert Dahlsten, BCG -- "Organist" for Oratorio Society Bethany College Centennial 1981 Messiah performance;
Bethany College professor of piano and organ; Oratorio Society Messiah organist for 38 years; he was a Columbia University graduate with studies at University of Missouri Kansas City Conservatory of Music, Julliard School of Music, and Stockholm's Royal College of Music with Sweden's renown Gotthard Arnér <> BMs
Dr. Elmer Copley, ACG -- "Conductor" for Oratorio Society of Bethany College Centennial 1981 Messiah performance;
also, for HM Carl XVI Gustaf, King of Sweden 1976 visit to Lindsborg and Bethany College;
was Bethany College professor of voice, director of college choir, conductor of festival music; Oratorio Society Messiah conductor for 29 years who in 1988 accepted for the Oratorio Society, the Governor's Arts Award for Performing Arts, a first time ever award at the Kansas Statehouse Rotunda in Topeka; as a Augustana College graduate, his studies of music continued at the University of Colorado, University of Iowa, and at Julliard School of Music; was a Bethany College "Pierson Distinguished Professor of Music" recipient; was regarded as key to continuing the Messiah tradition for nearly 3 decades which found him with the Oratoio Society and the Bethany College choir separately or together traveling to perform the Messiah and other sacred pieces primarily at Lutheran churches and cathedrals around the country
and in Europe; his daughter Rebecca Copley, a Bethany graduate, followed in his musical footsteps becoming an international opera singer. <> BMs
Go HERE, to learn more on Dr. Copley and this 1981 Bethany College Messiah performance.
Roger Thorstenberg, BCG -- "Trumpet Soloist" for Oratorio Society Bethany College Centennial 1981 Messiah performance; Bethany College professor of brass instruments and theory, chairman of music; performed annually at the Messiah as the "Trumpet Soloist" whose talent was enjoyed at the United States Navy Band, Army 4th Infantry Division Band, Seventh Army Symphony, Arlington Symphony, Denver Municipal Band and Detroit Concert Band <>
Dr. David J. Higbee -- "Orchestra Conductor" for Oratorio Society Bethany College Centennial 1981 Messiah performance; Bethany College associate professor of music, conductor of Bethany Community Symphonic Band, Chamber Orchestra and Stage Band; a University of Colorado graduate with studies at the University of Michigan and University of Denver <>
T. David Lowe -- "Concertmaster" for Bethany College Centennial 1981 Messiah performance, Bethany College associate professor of music; studies and degrees from Juilliard School of Music, Columbia University and University of Colorado; was a violist with the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra and the United States Air Force Academy Strings <>
Dr. Joel Panciera -- "Conductor" for the historic Bethany College Oratorio Society Messiah performance at Carnegie Hall in New York City on April 7, 1997, it was to be the "last" of such great 20th Century
Messiah public performances -- characterized so with thousands of Messiah patrons flocking to Bethany College to hear this most sacred music; he was at Bethany from 1996 to 1999 serving as
an Assistant Professor and Chair of the Music Department, Conductor of the College Choir and Oratorio Society with a Bachelor's Degree of Music in Organ Performance from Oberlin College, a Master's Degree of Music in Choral Conducting from Westminster Choir College, a Doctorate's Degree in Musical Arts in Choral Conducting from the University of Oklahoma, and a year of
private study at Cambridge University, England ##, BMs
Dr. Mark Lucas, BCG -- Current conductor of the Bethany College Oratorio Society Messiah performances since 2004. He is the "first" conductor in the 21st Century to live stream the performance for thousands to view. Much more to come. 10 19 20
Becky Copley, BCG -- International opera singer, deemed by critics as one of America's most gifted vocalist, performed nationwide and worldwide covering 5 continents with special Messiah appearances at Bethany College; a recipient of Bethany College's Gold Award for Achievement, and, in 2004, was honored by the Kansas Federation of Music Clubs as "Musician of the Year."
Go Here to learn more of her spectacular career. ##, BMs
SOURCES:
/\ Dr. Emory Lindquist's 1984, Hagbard Brase: Beloved Music Master, page 164
/\/\ Bethany College faculty information is from Emory Lindquist's 1975 book, Bethany in Kansas, the history of a college, pages 135-150, 163-164.
<> The "Centennial Edition: Choruses from Handel's Messiah" record album by Delta Records, 1981
# Ms. Karen Humphrey's 2012 Grace, Faith and the Power of Singing -- The Alma Christina Lind Swensson Story, pages _______
## Online information
BMs Bethany Magazines
Go HERE, to the beginning stories on music and the Messiah in Lindsborg and at Bethany College.
Painting & Smoky Hill Art Club
Kansas: Lydia Sohlberg Deere artist
Swedes in Painting* /\
The first art instructors: Miss Lucy Osgood -- 1890-1891; Mrs. Hannah Swensson & Mrs. Marie Swensson, 1891-1892
Miss Addie Covell, 1892-1893
The first art instructors: Miss Lucy Osgood -- 1890-1891; Mrs. Hannah Swensson & Mrs. Marie Swensson, 1891-1892
Miss Addie Covell, 1892-1893
~ The European Schooled Professors ~
Olof Grafström, SUG -- 1893-1897 -- A Stockholm Academy of Fine Arts graduate, studying with Anders Zorn, he was a celebrated portrait, landscape and riverscape artist of the American Northwest when he arrived at Bethany College in 1893 until 1897 when he became an Augustana College art professor specializing in "altar art" for the Augustana Synod Churches of the Midwest.
Carl Lotave, SUG -- 1897-1899 -- A Stockholm Academy of Fine Arts graduate, studying under Anders Zorn, then studied art in Paris for two years, he was renown in Europe and New York for
painting European royalty and famous persons, he arrived as the Bethany College art professor in 1897 and in 1899 left to paint Native American scenes of the American West for the Smithsonian Institution, finishing his career in New York City painting famous World War I American Generals; he was a close personal friend of Sandzén's and fellow art students in Stockholm
Sven Birger Sandzén, SUG -- 1899-1946-- Bethany College art professor, then to become an Artist in Residence until c1949 totaling 50 years at Bethany. He was the last European trained artist and art professor at Bethany College and in Lindsborg. While at Bethany in the early years he exhibited his art throughout the United States and in Sweden. He was the community's most beloved celebrated artist; his celebrity spread throughout Kansas, the Midwest and to Swedish Americans everywhere and to Sweden. After studies at Skara, he attended Lund University, then the Academy of Fine Arts in Stockholm, finishing with instructor artist Anders Zorn for two years. He was a cofounder of the ongoing 1899 Midwest Art Exhibition held annually during the Messiah Festival and founder of the Smoky Hill Art Club in 1913 which numbered 400 at its peak; he was knighted by the Swedish Crown twice+ (1901 and 1940), honored by the Birger Sandzén Memorial Gallery
Carl Lotave, SUG -- 1897-1899 -- A Stockholm Academy of Fine Arts graduate, studying under Anders Zorn, then studied art in Paris for two years, he was renown in Europe and New York for
painting European royalty and famous persons, he arrived as the Bethany College art professor in 1897 and in 1899 left to paint Native American scenes of the American West for the Smithsonian Institution, finishing his career in New York City painting famous World War I American Generals; he was a close personal friend of Sandzén's and fellow art students in Stockholm
Sven Birger Sandzén, SUG -- 1899-1946-- Bethany College art professor, then to become an Artist in Residence until c1949 totaling 50 years at Bethany. He was the last European trained artist and art professor at Bethany College and in Lindsborg. While at Bethany in the early years he exhibited his art throughout the United States and in Sweden. He was the community's most beloved celebrated artist; his celebrity spread throughout Kansas, the Midwest and to Swedish Americans everywhere and to Sweden. After studies at Skara, he attended Lund University, then the Academy of Fine Arts in Stockholm, finishing with instructor artist Anders Zorn for two years. He was a cofounder of the ongoing 1899 Midwest Art Exhibition held annually during the Messiah Festival and founder of the Smoky Hill Art Club in 1913 which numbered 400 at its peak; he was knighted by the Swedish Crown twice+ (1901 and 1940), honored by the Birger Sandzén Memorial Gallery
~ Some of Sandzén's Art Students ~
Anton Pearson, BCG -- Born in Lund, Sweden; student and close friend of Birger Sandzén , a prolific artist and Bethany College art instructor (See also Woodcarving)
Lydia Sohlberg Deere, BCG -- Considered an advanced art student of Birger Sandzén, she was a prolific artist, and a close family friend of her teacher-to-be; she assisted him with the organization of the Smoky Hill Art Club in 1913, she served as its vice president in the 1920s when Sandzén was president; she graduated from Bethany College in 1923 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts
and in 1925 with a Bachelor of Science, and taught summer sessions in art in 1925 and 1928 while showing her art work with Sandzén and other students in Kansas
Hilding Jaderborg, BCG -- Artist par excellence, student of Birger Sandzén, nearly identical in style
Signe E. Larson, BCG--A Sandzén celebrated artist at Bethany and in Lindsborg, traveled abroad sharing her "Chalk Talk"
Dr. Margaret Sandzén Greenough, BCG -- Artist, daughter of Birger Sandzén, Bethany College art instructor 1963, art student of her father, continued art studies in Paris and New York.
To learn more on the beginnings of Bethany College art, go HERE, and more on Lydia's Art Professor Sven Birger Sandzén, go HERE.
/\/\ Bethany College faculty information is from Emory Lindquist's 1975 book, Bethany in Kansas, the history of a college, pages 175-185; also from Lindquist's 1993 Birger Sandzén: An Illustrated Biography.
NOTE: For "Swedes in Folk Art Painting" scroll to "Through Their Swedish Folklife Cultural Heritage Individual Projects"
Lydia Sohlberg Deere, BCG -- Considered an advanced art student of Birger Sandzén, she was a prolific artist, and a close family friend of her teacher-to-be; she assisted him with the organization of the Smoky Hill Art Club in 1913, she served as its vice president in the 1920s when Sandzén was president; she graduated from Bethany College in 1923 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts
and in 1925 with a Bachelor of Science, and taught summer sessions in art in 1925 and 1928 while showing her art work with Sandzén and other students in Kansas
Hilding Jaderborg, BCG -- Artist par excellence, student of Birger Sandzén, nearly identical in style
Signe E. Larson, BCG--A Sandzén celebrated artist at Bethany and in Lindsborg, traveled abroad sharing her "Chalk Talk"
Dr. Margaret Sandzén Greenough, BCG -- Artist, daughter of Birger Sandzén, Bethany College art instructor 1963, art student of her father, continued art studies in Paris and New York.
To learn more on the beginnings of Bethany College art, go HERE, and more on Lydia's Art Professor Sven Birger Sandzén, go HERE.
/\/\ Bethany College faculty information is from Emory Lindquist's 1975 book, Bethany in Kansas, the history of a college, pages 175-185; also from Lindquist's 1993 Birger Sandzén: An Illustrated Biography.
NOTE: For "Swedes in Folk Art Painting" scroll to "Through Their Swedish Folklife Cultural Heritage Individual Projects"
later
Sculpture
Sculpture
Richrad Bergen's "Viking" for Bethany
Swedes in Scupture NEW ENTRIES -- still working on these 10/13/20
Richard Bergen,BCG -- A student of Sandzen, he would become renown in Kansas for his sculptures, the Ad Astra Per Aspera which sets a top the Capitol Building in Topeka. Equally important for Bethany Swedes was his Viking which graces the Bethany College Campus. To learn more about this gifted Swede and his works, go HERE
Ed Pogue -- Created Swedes to Plains -- Living the Legacy sculpture to commemerate Swedish Lindsborg's 150th year from 1869 to 2019. Art professor at Bethany College with a Master of Fine Arts from Southern Illinois University
Brian Holdsworth -- Crafted the Järnkors (“iron cross” or “tree of life”) by local artist, Brian Holdsworth to commemerate Swedish Lindsborg's 150th year.
Richard Bergen,BCG -- A student of Sandzen, he would become renown in Kansas for his sculptures, the Ad Astra Per Aspera which sets a top the Capitol Building in Topeka. Equally important for Bethany Swedes was his Viking which graces the Bethany College Campus. To learn more about this gifted Swede and his works, go HERE
Ed Pogue -- Created Swedes to Plains -- Living the Legacy sculpture to commemerate Swedish Lindsborg's 150th year from 1869 to 2019. Art professor at Bethany College with a Master of Fine Arts from Southern Illinois University
Brian Holdsworth -- Crafted the Järnkors (“iron cross” or “tree of life”) by local artist, Brian Holdsworth to commemerate Swedish Lindsborg's 150th year.
Photography
Lydia Sohlberg Deere's "Hats" series
Swedes in Photography*
Bror Gustaf Gröndal -- Swedish born (1855-1948), professional photographer of early Bethany College, Lindsborg and
the Smoky Valley, the community's finest photographer (1887-1948)
To learn more on Gröndal, go HERE.
Lydia Sohlberg Deere, BCG -- Amateur photographer (1900-1925) using children, college students and adults as models around the Bethany College campus and buildings, around Lindsborg and at Coronado Heights, having them pose revealing the fun times in the community; her photography was also used for documenting Smoky Valley Historical Association projects and for the Bethany Campus Association founded by her, designed for "first" landscaping projects of the College from 1900-1925
Dale Hoag -- Professional photographer of Swedish Lindsborg, Bethany Church and Bethany College leaders
Hilding Jaderborg, BCG -- Professional photographer of Bethany College, Lindsborg and the Smoky Valley
Albert N. Lundquist, BCG -- Professional photographer of Lundquist Studio for Bethany College and Lindsborg
Tom Jaderborg, BCG -- Professional photographer for Birger Sandzén, An Illustrated Biography of 1992, the stunning work of which was inadvertently not credited to him; former owner of Jaderborg Photography
Bror Gustaf Gröndal -- Swedish born (1855-1948), professional photographer of early Bethany College, Lindsborg and
the Smoky Valley, the community's finest photographer (1887-1948)
To learn more on Gröndal, go HERE.
Lydia Sohlberg Deere, BCG -- Amateur photographer (1900-1925) using children, college students and adults as models around the Bethany College campus and buildings, around Lindsborg and at Coronado Heights, having them pose revealing the fun times in the community; her photography was also used for documenting Smoky Valley Historical Association projects and for the Bethany Campus Association founded by her, designed for "first" landscaping projects of the College from 1900-1925
Dale Hoag -- Professional photographer of Swedish Lindsborg, Bethany Church and Bethany College leaders
Hilding Jaderborg, BCG -- Professional photographer of Bethany College, Lindsborg and the Smoky Valley
Albert N. Lundquist, BCG -- Professional photographer of Lundquist Studio for Bethany College and Lindsborg
Tom Jaderborg, BCG -- Professional photographer for Birger Sandzén, An Illustrated Biography of 1992, the stunning work of which was inadvertently not credited to him; former owner of Jaderborg Photography
later
Theater
Theater
Home of Broadway RFD / Bing source
Swedes in Theater** -- Ongoing drama and musical summer presentations
Harold "Prince" Elmquist -- One of the original organizers in 1959 of Broadway RFD (Rural Free Delivery)
Dale Hoag -- A key influence in the 1959 founding of Broadway RFD
Max Meuller -- 1959 founder of Broadway RFD, the longest ongoing running outdoor theater in Kansas
Harold "Prince" Elmquist -- One of the original organizers in 1959 of Broadway RFD (Rural Free Delivery)
Dale Hoag -- A key influence in the 1959 founding of Broadway RFD
Max Meuller -- 1959 founder of Broadway RFD, the longest ongoing running outdoor theater in Kansas
* * *
Through Their
Language and Literature
~ Swedish culture sustainability endeavors ~
Teaching
Swedes Teaching Swedish*
Alma Luise Olson, BCG
Dr. Leon Lungstrom, BCG
Maj-Britt Hawk, BCG
Gretchen Esping BCG
Alma Luise Olson, BCG
Dr. Leon Lungstrom, BCG
Maj-Britt Hawk, BCG
Gretchen Esping BCG
Translating
Smoky Valley's First Book
Swedes Translating Swedish to English*
Ruth Bergen Billdt, BCG, for the:
1909 Lindsborg, Bidrag Till Svenskarnas och Den Lutherska Kyrkans Historia i Smoky Hill River Dalen by her father Rev. Alfred Bergen, translated it to the 1965 Pioneer Swedish-American Culture in Central Kansas
Ruth Bergen Billdt, BCG, for the:
1919 "Lindsborg Efter Femtio Ӓr” by her father Rev. Alfred Bergen, translated it to the 1969 "The Smoky Valley in The After Years"
Alma Luise Olson, BCG, used in Sweden and other Scandinavian countries, in NYC, Lindsborg and at Bethany College.
Rev. Martin Ringstrom, SUG, for the:
1955 Jag Sökte Icke Mitt (I Did Not Seek My Own) translated to the 1984, He Gave God Glory by Bror Carlsson
Martha Winblad for the 1978 Anna Olsson, A Child of the Prairie
Dr. Leon Lungstrom, BCG, for Lindsborg residents’ old letters from Swedish relatives
Maj-Britt Hawk, BCG
Gretchen Esping, BCG
Ruth Bergen Billdt, BCG, for the:
1909 Lindsborg, Bidrag Till Svenskarnas och Den Lutherska Kyrkans Historia i Smoky Hill River Dalen by her father Rev. Alfred Bergen, translated it to the 1965 Pioneer Swedish-American Culture in Central Kansas
Ruth Bergen Billdt, BCG, for the:
1919 "Lindsborg Efter Femtio Ӓr” by her father Rev. Alfred Bergen, translated it to the 1969 "The Smoky Valley in The After Years"
Alma Luise Olson, BCG, used in Sweden and other Scandinavian countries, in NYC, Lindsborg and at Bethany College.
Rev. Martin Ringstrom, SUG, for the:
1955 Jag Sökte Icke Mitt (I Did Not Seek My Own) translated to the 1984, He Gave God Glory by Bror Carlsson
Martha Winblad for the 1978 Anna Olsson, A Child of the Prairie
Dr. Leon Lungstrom, BCG, for Lindsborg residents’ old letters from Swedish relatives
Maj-Britt Hawk, BCG
Gretchen Esping, BCG
Writing
Swedes' Books, Publications, Articles by:*
-- parts of which were used in SWEDES
Chris Abercrombie, BCG
Rev. Dr. Alfred Bergen, ATSG
Ruth Bergen Billdt, BCG
Alf Brorson, SUG (of Torsby, Sweden)
Bill Carlson, BCG
Bror Carlsson SUG (of Torsby, Sweden)
Thomas N. Holmquist, BCG
Karen A. Humphrey
Elizabeth Jaderborg
Dr. Emory Lindquist, BCG
Dr. Leon Lundstrom, BCG
John Marshall
Rev. Eugene K. Nelson, BCG,
& Bethany Home 75th Anniversary Writers
Alma Luise Olson, BCG
Anna Olsson
A. John Pearson
Kenneth Sjogren, BCG
Rev. Dr. Carl Arron Swensson, ACG
To learn more, go HERE.
-- parts of which were used in SWEDES
Chris Abercrombie, BCG
Rev. Dr. Alfred Bergen, ATSG
Ruth Bergen Billdt, BCG
Alf Brorson, SUG (of Torsby, Sweden)
Bill Carlson, BCG
Bror Carlsson SUG (of Torsby, Sweden)
Thomas N. Holmquist, BCG
Karen A. Humphrey
Elizabeth Jaderborg
Dr. Emory Lindquist, BCG
Dr. Leon Lundstrom, BCG
John Marshall
Rev. Eugene K. Nelson, BCG,
& Bethany Home 75th Anniversary Writers
Alma Luise Olson, BCG
Anna Olsson
A. John Pearson
Kenneth Sjogren, BCG
Rev. Dr. Carl Arron Swensson, ACG
To learn more, go HERE.
* * *
Through Their
Architecture
Through Their
Architecture
Stone Houses and Buildings in the Smoky Valley*
Magnus Carlson - A builder of Bethany Church and Old Main
Claude Koehn - Restorer/preservationist - par excellence
Kyle Peterson, BCG- Swedish stone house historian
To learn more, go HERE.
Magnus Carlson - A builder of Bethany Church and Old Main
Claude Koehn - Restorer/preservationist - par excellence
Kyle Peterson, BCG- Swedish stone house historian
To learn more, go HERE.
Deere-Cochran Swedish stone house and stable ruins
Lindsborg's Early Homes' Builders**
The Brandt Brothers:
Joseph and Ed
Lindsborg Building Company:
Frank Lindberg
Henry Goodholm
John Josephson
Albin and Henry Goodholm
The Palmquist Brothers:
John and August
To learn more, go HERE.
The Brandt Brothers:
Joseph and Ed
Lindsborg Building Company:
Frank Lindberg
Henry Goodholm
John Josephson
Albin and Henry Goodholm
The Palmquist Brothers:
John and August
To learn more, go HERE.
Jaderborg Manson: CIRCA Old Houses
* * *
Through Their
Swedish Folklife Cultural Heritage Organizations
~ Swedish culture sustainability endeavors ~
Folklife Institutions, Clubs and Groups
1986 Swedish-American Folklife Institute of Central Kansas – Now online only.
Principals: President Dr. Greta Swenson, GACG; and Director Mark Esping and Mardel Esping, BCGs
To learn more, go HERE to “Dr. Greta Swenson & Mr. and Mrs. Mark Esping,” and, also, go HERE to the website.
1996 Swedish-American Heritage Center – Now retired.
Principals: Director Mark Esping and Mardel Esping, BCGs
To learn more go HERE to "Their Folklife Institute's Swedish-American Heritage Center, 1996"
Principals: President Dr. Greta Swenson, GACG; and Director Mark Esping and Mardel Esping, BCGs
To learn more, go HERE to “Dr. Greta Swenson & Mr. and Mrs. Mark Esping,” and, also, go HERE to the website.
1996 Swedish-American Heritage Center – Now retired.
Principals: Director Mark Esping and Mardel Esping, BCGs
To learn more go HERE to "Their Folklife Institute's Swedish-American Heritage Center, 1996"
Folklife Institute Folk Art Crafts' Projects -- a sampling
Swedes in Folk Art Ljuskrona
Mark and Mardel Esping, and Marla Esping Elmquist, BCGs
Mark and Mardel Esping, and Marla Esping Elmquist, BCGs
| traditions_swedish_ljuskrona[1].pdf |
Swedes in Folk Art Weaving
Mardel Esping, BCG
Swedes in Folk Art Metal Work
Malcolm Esping -- Gifted/celebrated Metal Work Artist, Swedish Wedding Crown Designer
Malcolm Esping’s apprentices -- Mardel Esping and Dr. Marlysue Esping Holmquist, BCGs
Gretchen Esping BCG
Mardel Esping, BCG
Swedes in Folk Art Metal Work
Malcolm Esping -- Gifted/celebrated Metal Work Artist, Swedish Wedding Crown Designer
Malcolm Esping’s apprentices -- Mardel Esping and Dr. Marlysue Esping Holmquist, BCGs
Gretchen Esping BCG
Folk Handwork / Needlework Club
Swedes in the 1927 Lindsborg Swedish Club of Embroidery Handwork**
(Formerly "Föreningen för Skandenaviska Handarbeten" translated "Society for Scandinavian Handwork")
Mrs. Carl Anderson
Mrs. Hagbard Brase
Mrs. Emil O. Deere, BCG
Mrs. Thur Jaderborg
Mrs. Carl Lincoln
Mrs. Ray Oberholser
It is very likely that several of these ladies could have been BCGs, Bethany College Graduates.
To learn more, go HERE.
(Formerly "Föreningen för Skandenaviska Handarbeten" translated "Society for Scandinavian Handwork")
Mrs. Carl Anderson
Mrs. Hagbard Brase
Mrs. Emil O. Deere, BCG
Mrs. Thur Jaderborg
Mrs. Carl Lincoln
Mrs. Ray Oberholser
It is very likely that several of these ladies could have been BCGs, Bethany College Graduates.
To learn more, go HERE.
Folk Dance and Music Groups
Dalecarlian Artist: Rita Sharp
Swede Folk Dance Groups –ongoing at home
1941 "Swedish Folk Games" organized by Fritz Carlson, Charles Weddle, Arvid Berggren
1963 "Lindsborg Swedish Folk Dancers" organized by Elizabeth Jaderborg (High School Students)
-- traveling around the country annually to perform; and to Sweden every four years
1971 The "Adult Swedish Folk Dancers" organized by Jack Turner & Patty Karstadt,
name changed in 1989 to "Folkdanslag" during Duane Fredrickson, MD, leadership
To learn more, go HERE and HERE for the late Mrs. Jaderborg's Lindsborg Swedish Folk Dancers
1941 "Swedish Folk Games" organized by Fritz Carlson, Charles Weddle, Arvid Berggren
1963 "Lindsborg Swedish Folk Dancers" organized by Elizabeth Jaderborg (High School Students)
-- traveling around the country annually to perform; and to Sweden every four years
1971 The "Adult Swedish Folk Dancers" organized by Jack Turner & Patty Karstadt,
name changed in 1989 to "Folkdanslag" during Duane Fredrickson, MD, leadership
To learn more, go HERE and HERE for the late Mrs. Jaderborg's Lindsborg Swedish Folk Dancers
* * *
Through Their
Swedish Folklife Cultural Heritage Individual Projects
~ Swedish culture sustainability endeavors ~
Through Their
Swedish Folklife Cultural Heritage Individual Projects
~ Swedish culture sustainability endeavors ~
Miss Rabenius Sloyd Instructor
Swedes teaching Sloyd, Pyrography, Embroidery and Sewing Bethany College Classes*
Amalia Maria Rabenius, SUG, -- Swedish born, Lady Principal of the Bethany Model School, 1900 - 1907; was "first"
and only instructor to teach Sloyd and pyrography (wood burning), taught embroidery and sewing also
Lydia Sohlberg, BCGs --Replaced Miss Rabenius as Lady Principal; taught only embroidery and sewing during her tenure as Matron of the Ladies Dormitory at Lane Hart Hal, 1907-1913
Note: Listed twice.
Swede Research Writer on the Folk Art Sloyd and Pyrography
Dr. Marlysue Esping Holmquist, BCG
To learn more on these subjects, go to Dr. Holmquist's article/flyer titled: Sloyd Furniture Pyrography Pieces by Birger Sandzén, Amalia Maria Rabenius & G. N. Malm presented at the Birger Sandzén Memorial Gallery 2019 "121st Annual Midwest Art Exhibition" HERE.
Swedes in Folk Art Stencil Design Production**
G.N. Malm
Swedes in Folk Art Woodcarving**
Dave Anderson
Anton Pearson, Norman Malm, Jim Malm, i.e. grandfather, son, grandson*
Lester Raymer
Hugo Shogren
*Go HERE to this family website: Swedish American Woodcarvers of Lindsborg
Swedes in Concrete Sculptures
Oscar Gunnarson
Swedes in Folk Art Painting**
Shirley Malm -- Kurbits artist, preservationist of all art type, "Artist in Resident" at Hemslöjd, Inc. for years, established Station Studio & Gallery
Robert Miller -- Kurbits artist; award-winning folk artist & ceramicist; Scandinavian toys designer; Lindsborg "arts" promoter
Rita Sharp -- Dalecarlian artist, former "Folk Design Studio" co-owner, works featured in Scandinavian art exhibits
Robert Walker -- Dalecarlian artist, former "Folk Design Studio" co-owner
Carla Wilson -- Kurbits folk painter
Amalia Maria Rabenius, SUG, -- Swedish born, Lady Principal of the Bethany Model School, 1900 - 1907; was "first"
and only instructor to teach Sloyd and pyrography (wood burning), taught embroidery and sewing also
Lydia Sohlberg, BCGs --Replaced Miss Rabenius as Lady Principal; taught only embroidery and sewing during her tenure as Matron of the Ladies Dormitory at Lane Hart Hal, 1907-1913
Note: Listed twice.
Swede Research Writer on the Folk Art Sloyd and Pyrography
Dr. Marlysue Esping Holmquist, BCG
To learn more on these subjects, go to Dr. Holmquist's article/flyer titled: Sloyd Furniture Pyrography Pieces by Birger Sandzén, Amalia Maria Rabenius & G. N. Malm presented at the Birger Sandzén Memorial Gallery 2019 "121st Annual Midwest Art Exhibition" HERE.
Swedes in Folk Art Stencil Design Production**
G.N. Malm
Swedes in Folk Art Woodcarving**
Dave Anderson
Anton Pearson, Norman Malm, Jim Malm, i.e. grandfather, son, grandson*
Lester Raymer
Hugo Shogren
*Go HERE to this family website: Swedish American Woodcarvers of Lindsborg
Swedes in Concrete Sculptures
Oscar Gunnarson
Swedes in Folk Art Painting**
Shirley Malm -- Kurbits artist, preservationist of all art type, "Artist in Resident" at Hemslöjd, Inc. for years, established Station Studio & Gallery
Robert Miller -- Kurbits artist; award-winning folk artist & ceramicist; Scandinavian toys designer; Lindsborg "arts" promoter
Rita Sharp -- Dalecarlian artist, former "Folk Design Studio" co-owner, works featured in Scandinavian art exhibits
Robert Walker -- Dalecarlian artist, former "Folk Design Studio" co-owner
Carla Wilson -- Kurbits folk painter
Kurbits Artist: Shirley Malm
* * *
Through Their
Swedish Traditions
~ Swedish cultural sustainability endeavors ~
Saint Lucia, Jullota, Saint Lucia
Locally in Lindsborg, like in every other Swedish American community in the United States and around the world, the traditional Christmas Saint Lucia Ceremony and the Jullota Church Service are celebrated as well as Midsummer Day in June.
Svensk Hyllningsfest
Yet, unique to Lindsborg is the celebration of the October Svensk Hyllningsfest, a biannual Swedish American pioneer festival. It was originally organized in 1941 by a Dutchman, Dr. William Holwerda, (who quickly became an honorary Lindsborg Swede as many non-Swedes have in Lindsborg for similar contributions).
Part of this unique-to-Lindsborg-only Swedish American festival is a chosen King and Queen of mature ages in their late 60s or older who lead the parade down Main Street.
A few of these royal couples have been Steve and Patty Karstadt in 2003; Don and Dorene Anderson in 2009; Chester and Jeanette Peterson in 2017; and Ron and Marsha Rolander in 2019. These couples have been perfect examples of the Swedes Svensk Hyllningsfest Kings and Queens who preceded them – devoted and committed Swedes promoting Lindsborg's Swedishness in countless ways. To learn more, go HERE.
Locally in Lindsborg, like in every other Swedish American community in the United States and around the world, the traditional Christmas Saint Lucia Ceremony and the Jullota Church Service are celebrated as well as Midsummer Day in June.
Svensk Hyllningsfest
Yet, unique to Lindsborg is the celebration of the October Svensk Hyllningsfest, a biannual Swedish American pioneer festival. It was originally organized in 1941 by a Dutchman, Dr. William Holwerda, (who quickly became an honorary Lindsborg Swede as many non-Swedes have in Lindsborg for similar contributions).
Part of this unique-to-Lindsborg-only Swedish American festival is a chosen King and Queen of mature ages in their late 60s or older who lead the parade down Main Street.
A few of these royal couples have been Steve and Patty Karstadt in 2003; Don and Dorene Anderson in 2009; Chester and Jeanette Peterson in 2017; and Ron and Marsha Rolander in 2019. These couples have been perfect examples of the Swedes Svensk Hyllningsfest Kings and Queens who preceded them – devoted and committed Swedes promoting Lindsborg's Swedishness in countless ways. To learn more, go HERE.
LCVB photo, 2019
Svensk Hyllningsfest Costumes -- an ongoing restoration/preservation project
Mark and Mardel Esping of the Swedish-American Folklife Institute of Central Kansas continue to collect used costumes of past Svensk Hyllningsfest celebrations that are passed on to Mrs. Marla Elmquist and the Hyllningsfest Costumes Ladies who restore and preserve them.
Mark and Mardel Esping of the Swedish-American Folklife Institute of Central Kansas continue to collect used costumes of past Svensk Hyllningsfest celebrations that are passed on to Mrs. Marla Elmquist and the Hyllningsfest Costumes Ladies who restore and preserve them.
* * *
Through Their
Smoky Valley Historical and Cultural Organizations
~ last-link organizations to Smoky Valley early history and Swedish culture ~
From 1919-2019
Through Their
Smoky Valley Historical and Cultural Organizations
~ last-link organizations to Smoky Valley early history and Swedish culture ~
From 1919-2019
* *
Lindsborg Historical Society (LHS), 1919; Smoky Valley Historical Society, 1926; Smoky Valley Historical Association, (SVHA) since 1963
LHS-Founders: William Ahlstrom, Emil O. Deere, William Hagstram, R. Johnson, G.N. Malm, C.A. Nelson,
Birger Sandzén
SVHA-Members of note: Elizabeth Jaderborg, Elston Flohr; Chester Peterson, Chris Abercrombie
Notable Sustainability Projects
Coronado Heights, since 1919
preservation, restoration, promotion
Publishing books
WHERE DID THEY LIVE? Early Residences of Lindsborg KS, 1993:
SVHA members -- Committee chairman Elston Flohr, Eunice Gunnarson, Kathryn Franz, Hugo Lindahl, Pearlida Peterson, Ingebord Peterson, Mrs. Ted Palmquist, Mildred Johnson, Edwin Rooth, Robert Lundgren, and Estred Barfield.
VӒLKOMMEN TRAIL -- Exploring History Along LINDSBORG'S VӒLKOMMEN TRAIL, 2006:
SVHA members -- Committee chairman Corky Malm, Ken Branch, Bill Carlson, Don Howe, Margaret Nelson, John Pearson, Chet Peterson, Ken Swisher;
History signs sponsors: Lindsborg Quarterback Club, Wallace Chevrolet of McPherson, First Bank of McPherson and Assaria, Doris Johnson Stump, Mid-Kansas Co-op, Dauer Welding and Machine, Hemslöjd, Inc., Curtis and Jill EEnterprises LLC, Corky and Deloris Malm, Lindsborg Concrete Products, Midway Motors of McPHerson, Dr. Duane and Nancy Fredrickson, Lindsborg State Bank,
Scott's Hometown Foods, Framers State Bank
* *
McPherson County Historical and Archeological Society at McPherson, since the early 1930s to the early 1940s
There were many members. Member Dr. Leon Lungstrom's notated that Emil O. Deere's membership began there in 1933, and that Deere would help reactivate the Society with Jim Cassler and Anton Peterson in 1962 when it was renamed the McPherson County Historical Society
The first president was Jim Cassler and the first vice president was Anton Peterson
Past Presidents: Anton Peterson, Linn Peterson, David Nigh
From the McPherson Sentinel article "Form County Historical Society Here" Tuesday, Nov. 27, 1962: Initial plans were to "set up a system of compiling all historical data of McPherson County and acquiring a building that might be used as a county museum" -- which they did, that building becoming the McPherson County Old Mill Museum.
* *
Swedish Friendship Group, Svenska Vänskapsgrupper, since c1940s
No information
* *
The Birger Sandzén Memorial Gallery, since 1957
Dr. Margaret Sandzén Greenough, BCG;-- Artist, cofounder of the Gallery, Recipient of a Swedish Crown Medallion+
Pelham Charles Greenough III -- Benefactor and cofounder of the Gallery, Knighted by Swedish Crown+
Past Staff:
Pelham and Margaret Greenough, Carl William Peterson, BCG; Larry Griffis, BCG, Delmar Homan
To go to the Birger Sandzén Memorial Gallery, go HERE.
* *
McPherson County Old Mill Museum, since 1962
Past Directors: Tib Anderson, Jeanne Mogenson, Dorman Lehman
* *
Raymer Society, Red Barn Studio, since 19__
Founder:
* *
American Scandinavian Association of the Great Plains, since 1971
Founder: Duane Fredrickson, MD
[Note: For information on these entities and their current leaders, google them.]
Lindsborg Historical Society (LHS), 1919; Smoky Valley Historical Society, 1926; Smoky Valley Historical Association, (SVHA) since 1963
LHS-Founders: William Ahlstrom, Emil O. Deere, William Hagstram, R. Johnson, G.N. Malm, C.A. Nelson,
Birger Sandzén
SVHA-Members of note: Elizabeth Jaderborg, Elston Flohr; Chester Peterson, Chris Abercrombie
Notable Sustainability Projects
Coronado Heights, since 1919
preservation, restoration, promotion
Publishing books
WHERE DID THEY LIVE? Early Residences of Lindsborg KS, 1993:
SVHA members -- Committee chairman Elston Flohr, Eunice Gunnarson, Kathryn Franz, Hugo Lindahl, Pearlida Peterson, Ingebord Peterson, Mrs. Ted Palmquist, Mildred Johnson, Edwin Rooth, Robert Lundgren, and Estred Barfield.
VӒLKOMMEN TRAIL -- Exploring History Along LINDSBORG'S VӒLKOMMEN TRAIL, 2006:
SVHA members -- Committee chairman Corky Malm, Ken Branch, Bill Carlson, Don Howe, Margaret Nelson, John Pearson, Chet Peterson, Ken Swisher;
History signs sponsors: Lindsborg Quarterback Club, Wallace Chevrolet of McPherson, First Bank of McPherson and Assaria, Doris Johnson Stump, Mid-Kansas Co-op, Dauer Welding and Machine, Hemslöjd, Inc., Curtis and Jill EEnterprises LLC, Corky and Deloris Malm, Lindsborg Concrete Products, Midway Motors of McPHerson, Dr. Duane and Nancy Fredrickson, Lindsborg State Bank,
Scott's Hometown Foods, Framers State Bank
* *
McPherson County Historical and Archeological Society at McPherson, since the early 1930s to the early 1940s
There were many members. Member Dr. Leon Lungstrom's notated that Emil O. Deere's membership began there in 1933, and that Deere would help reactivate the Society with Jim Cassler and Anton Peterson in 1962 when it was renamed the McPherson County Historical Society
The first president was Jim Cassler and the first vice president was Anton Peterson
Past Presidents: Anton Peterson, Linn Peterson, David Nigh
From the McPherson Sentinel article "Form County Historical Society Here" Tuesday, Nov. 27, 1962: Initial plans were to "set up a system of compiling all historical data of McPherson County and acquiring a building that might be used as a county museum" -- which they did, that building becoming the McPherson County Old Mill Museum.
* *
Swedish Friendship Group, Svenska Vänskapsgrupper, since c1940s
No information
* *
The Birger Sandzén Memorial Gallery, since 1957
Dr. Margaret Sandzén Greenough, BCG;-- Artist, cofounder of the Gallery, Recipient of a Swedish Crown Medallion+
Pelham Charles Greenough III -- Benefactor and cofounder of the Gallery, Knighted by Swedish Crown+
Past Staff:
Pelham and Margaret Greenough, Carl William Peterson, BCG; Larry Griffis, BCG, Delmar Homan
To go to the Birger Sandzén Memorial Gallery, go HERE.
* *
McPherson County Old Mill Museum, since 1962
Past Directors: Tib Anderson, Jeanne Mogenson, Dorman Lehman
* *
Raymer Society, Red Barn Studio, since 19__
Founder:
* *
American Scandinavian Association of the Great Plains, since 1971
Founder: Duane Fredrickson, MD
[Note: For information on these entities and their current leaders, google them.]
* * *
Through Their
Swedish Businesses*
~ last-link Swedish businesses to early Swedish culture ~
From 1929-2019
Through Their
Swedish Businesses*
~ last-link Swedish businesses to early Swedish culture ~
From 1929-2019
Source: Pinterest.Com
Swedish American Woodcarvers of Lindsborg, since 1929 -- (family owned)
Formerly known as the "Anton Pearson Studio" "Wood Carvings"
Anton Pearson, Norman Malm, Jim Malm
Now online only. To learn more, go HERE
Swedish Crafts Shop -- 1946-2011 -- (family owned)
Hilding and Ester Jaderborg BCGs -- For 65 years and 50 trips to Sweden, they provided the finest authentic Swedish merchandise in Kansas and beyond! Go HERE, to learn more.
Swedish Crown Restaurant -- since 1966
Roy and Donice Applequist -- They donated it to Bethany College in 2017. It has had several owners.
No information on the original owner. The fare has always been Swedish.
Anderson Butik -- since 1973 -- (family owned)
Charlie and Gladys Anderson -- "... for the true Swedish feeling..."from a small shop to a company, today own by son
Dean Anderson, BCG a warm welcome always await you along with a wide variety of gifts, books, maps and great food items from Sweden and Scandinavian. Go HERE, to learn more.
Hemslöjd, Inc. -- since 1984-2011
Kenneth Sjogren and Kenneth Swisher, BCGs, -- 1st owners to 2011, with woodworkers and artists of Swedish designs. This fine gift shop of Swedish and other Scandinavian merchandise is renown for its Dala Horse house name signs, seen all over Lindsborg.
Hemslöjd, Inc. -- 2011 on . . . (family owned)
Corey & Denise Peterson, BCGs -- 2nd owners, are continuing the Swedish "legacy" of this most unique shop.
To learn more, go HERE.
Anderson Scandinavian Tours -- since 1989 -- (family owned)
Dean Anderson, BCG -- To initially offer affordable customized tours especially to the Swedish descendants of the Lindsborg Värmland Swedes and to those of the Dalarna and Småland Swedes first occupying neighboring settlements of Lindsborg. Go HERE, to learn more.
Formerly known as the "Anton Pearson Studio" "Wood Carvings"
Anton Pearson, Norman Malm, Jim Malm
Now online only. To learn more, go HERE
Swedish Crafts Shop -- 1946-2011 -- (family owned)
Hilding and Ester Jaderborg BCGs -- For 65 years and 50 trips to Sweden, they provided the finest authentic Swedish merchandise in Kansas and beyond! Go HERE, to learn more.
Swedish Crown Restaurant -- since 1966
Roy and Donice Applequist -- They donated it to Bethany College in 2017. It has had several owners.
No information on the original owner. The fare has always been Swedish.
Anderson Butik -- since 1973 -- (family owned)
Charlie and Gladys Anderson -- "... for the true Swedish feeling..."from a small shop to a company, today own by son
Dean Anderson, BCG a warm welcome always await you along with a wide variety of gifts, books, maps and great food items from Sweden and Scandinavian. Go HERE, to learn more.
Hemslöjd, Inc. -- since 1984-2011
Kenneth Sjogren and Kenneth Swisher, BCGs, -- 1st owners to 2011, with woodworkers and artists of Swedish designs. This fine gift shop of Swedish and other Scandinavian merchandise is renown for its Dala Horse house name signs, seen all over Lindsborg.
Hemslöjd, Inc. -- 2011 on . . . (family owned)
Corey & Denise Peterson, BCGs -- 2nd owners, are continuing the Swedish "legacy" of this most unique shop.
To learn more, go HERE.
Anderson Scandinavian Tours -- since 1989 -- (family owned)
Dean Anderson, BCG -- To initially offer affordable customized tours especially to the Swedish descendants of the Lindsborg Värmland Swedes and to those of the Dalarna and Småland Swedes first occupying neighboring settlements of Lindsborg. Go HERE, to learn more.
* * *
Through Their
"Other" Contributions**
Through Their
"Other" Contributions**
From the early years:
G.N. Malm, SUG - Celebrated artist/businessman, an alter and Kansas landscape artist; an illustrator; a stencil designer; organized the founding for the Messiah Lutheran English speaking church in Lindsborg
From the 1950s to 2019:
Becky Anderson, BCG -- Lindsborg Mayor, 20+ year councilwoman, and former "Swedish Country Inn" founder/owner
Don Anderson, BCG *-- Lindsborg Mayor, c12 years, Munkfors' "Sister City," & A Destination for All Seasons initiatives
Dorene Anderson, BCG * - 30 years Chamber of Commerce Executive Director, Bethany College and Lindsborg promoter
Leon and Judy Burch, BCGs -- Lifetime supporters of Lindsborg and Bethany College
Bill & Carol Gusenius BCGs -- Lifetime supporters of Lindsborg and Bethany College
Hugo Lindahl* -- Mayor responsible for Swedish King Carl XVI Gustaf 1976 Bicentennial visit to Little Sweden
Lindsborg Arts Council members, since 19__ whose mission is "to foster, promote, encourage and increase the knowledge, appreciation and practice of the arts in Lindsborg and the surrounding area..."
Holly Lofton -- Lindsborg Convention and Visitors Bureau Director, Kansas State Fair Board Governor appointee
Mark Lysell, BCG -- Owner of the Öl Stuga -- since 1977, lifetime supporters of Lindsborg and Bethany College
Betty Holwerda Nelson -- 20+ year Lindsborg councilwoman, 2019 Sesquicentennial Festival Co-Chairman
Ron Rolander, BCG *-- Lindsborg Mayor, 2019 Hyllningsfest Royalty with wife Marsha,* great promoters of Bethany
*Travelers to Sweden with greetings from Lindsborg
Elizabeth Jaderborg* -- Presented Lindsborg's Mayor Lindahl's 1976 invitation to King at Stockholm Royal Palace
Also, the innumerable Swedes who for decades have provided behind-the-scenes support to Lindsborg and Bethany
G.N. Malm, SUG - Celebrated artist/businessman, an alter and Kansas landscape artist; an illustrator; a stencil designer; organized the founding for the Messiah Lutheran English speaking church in Lindsborg
From the 1950s to 2019:
Becky Anderson, BCG -- Lindsborg Mayor, 20+ year councilwoman, and former "Swedish Country Inn" founder/owner
Don Anderson, BCG *-- Lindsborg Mayor, c12 years, Munkfors' "Sister City," & A Destination for All Seasons initiatives
Dorene Anderson, BCG * - 30 years Chamber of Commerce Executive Director, Bethany College and Lindsborg promoter
Leon and Judy Burch, BCGs -- Lifetime supporters of Lindsborg and Bethany College
Bill & Carol Gusenius BCGs -- Lifetime supporters of Lindsborg and Bethany College
Hugo Lindahl* -- Mayor responsible for Swedish King Carl XVI Gustaf 1976 Bicentennial visit to Little Sweden
Lindsborg Arts Council members, since 19__ whose mission is "to foster, promote, encourage and increase the knowledge, appreciation and practice of the arts in Lindsborg and the surrounding area..."
Holly Lofton -- Lindsborg Convention and Visitors Bureau Director, Kansas State Fair Board Governor appointee
Mark Lysell, BCG -- Owner of the Öl Stuga -- since 1977, lifetime supporters of Lindsborg and Bethany College
Betty Holwerda Nelson -- 20+ year Lindsborg councilwoman, 2019 Sesquicentennial Festival Co-Chairman
Ron Rolander, BCG *-- Lindsborg Mayor, 2019 Hyllningsfest Royalty with wife Marsha,* great promoters of Bethany
*Travelers to Sweden with greetings from Lindsborg
Elizabeth Jaderborg* -- Presented Lindsborg's Mayor Lindahl's 1976 invitation to King at Stockholm Royal Palace
Also, the innumerable Swedes who for decades have provided behind-the-scenes support to Lindsborg and Bethany
* * *
For a "virtual" memorial on "The Smoky Valley Swedes," go HERE.
* * *
- Amalia Maria Rabenius -
1900
Bethany College Lady Principal and Instructor in Sloyd -- Pyrography and Embroidery
Bethany College Archival Photograph.
Permission given by retired
Chairman of the Education Department Professor Dr. Marlysue Holmquist
author of
"A History of Swedish Craft Work at Bethany"
Go HERE
to see this story as it appears on a
Sandzén Memorial Gallery flyer for its 2019 121st Annual Midwest Art Exhibition
Permission given by retired
Chairman of the Education Department Professor Dr. Marlysue Holmquist
author of
"A History of Swedish Craft Work at Bethany"
Go HERE
to see this story as it appears on a
Sandzén Memorial Gallery flyer for its 2019 121st Annual Midwest Art Exhibition
* * *
Swedes: TheWayTheyWere
~ restoring lost local histories ~
reconnecting past to present
* * *
All color photography throughout Swedes: The Way They Were is by Fran Cochran unless otherwise indicated.
Copyright © since October 8, 2015 to Current Year
as indicated on main menu sections of
www.swedesthewaytheywere.org. All rights reserved.
Swedes: TheWayTheyWere
~ restoring lost local histories ~
reconnecting past to present
* * *
All color photography throughout Swedes: The Way They Were is by Fran Cochran unless otherwise indicated.
Copyright © since October 8, 2015 to Current Year
as indicated on main menu sections of
www.swedesthewaytheywere.org. All rights reserved.
