~ 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 the early "farming" and "business" stories of the other Swedes are certainly missing! Hopefully, these will be shared one day by others closest to these Swedes.
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 on their "unnamed descendants," a few of whom appear in the listings, who are carrying on the ongoing conservation work and promoting efforts of 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 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 to the Swedish Crown, and 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 on their "unnamed descendants," a few of whom appear in the listings, who are carrying on the ongoing conservation work and promoting efforts of 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 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 to the Swedish Crown, and 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 "let the light so shine on their good works," and, in so doing, "give God the glory, as did the spiritual father and founder of Lindsborg, Pastor Olof Olsson!"
Note that the population of Lindsborg grew from approximately 500 in 1880 to 2,000 in 1940 to 3,300 in 2016. Go HERE for details.
* * *
- Their Legacies and Listings - *
- a sampling -
- 1869 to 2019 -
- a sampling -
- 1869 to 2019 -
* * *
Through Their Desire for Religious Freedom
Through Their Desire for Religious Freedom
The Swedish Founders of Lindsborg
John Ferm, S. A. Lindell, J. G. Bergsten, C. R. Carlson, Magnus Carlson, S. P. Lindgren, J. Lindh, N. P. Lindey & others
They were the First Swedish Agricultural Company members who prepared the way for Lindsborg's settlement and named it on February 20, 1869. Swedish American Fourth Bethan College President Author Dr. Emory Lindquist in his Smoky Valley People, Chapter IV:" The Settlement Develops" refers to them as "the founders" on page 34.
The Swedish Founder of Lindsborg
Rev. Dr. Olof Olsson is considered so by Swedish American Fourth Bethany College President Author Dr. Lindquist in his Smoky Valley People, Chapter V: "Pastor Olof Olsson: Founder of the Community" for all Pastor Olsson accomplished in the mere seven years he lived there from 1869 to 1876.
John Ferm, S. A. Lindell, J. G. Bergsten, C. R. Carlson, Magnus Carlson, S. P. Lindgren, J. Lindh, N. P. Lindey & others
They were the First Swedish Agricultural Company members who prepared the way for Lindsborg's settlement and named it on February 20, 1869. Swedish American Fourth Bethan College President Author Dr. Emory Lindquist in his Smoky Valley People, Chapter IV:" The Settlement Develops" refers to them as "the founders" on page 34.
The Swedish Founder of Lindsborg
Rev. Dr. Olof Olsson is considered so by Swedish American Fourth Bethany College President Author Dr. Lindquist in his Smoky Valley People, Chapter V: "Pastor Olof Olsson: Founder of the Community" for all Pastor Olsson accomplished in the mere seven years he lived there from 1869 to 1876.
* * *
Through Their Bethany Church, Bethany College, and Bethany Home
Through Their Bethany Church, Bethany College, and Bethany Home
Swedish Evangelical Lutheran Bethany Church Pastors and Secretary*
(The above church name was its original name per Pastor Olof Olsson. Today its known as Bethany Lutheran Church and/or Bethany Church.) Rev. Dr. Olof Olsson -- Founder of Swedish Evangelical Lutheran Bethany Church and of Lindsborg, Kansas
Rev. Dr. Carl Aaron Swensson -- Founder of Evangelical Lutheran Bethany College, Knighted by Swedish Crown+
Rev. Dr. Julius Lincoln -- Assistant pastor, Knighted by Swedish Crown+
Rev. Dr. Ernst Pihlblad -- Assistant pastor, Knighted by Swedish Crown+
Rev. Dr. Alfred Bergin -- Historian and writer of the earliest days of the Lindsborg Smoky Valley and Bethany College: 1909, "Lindsborg, Bidrag Till Svenskarnas och Den Lutherska Kyrkans Historia i Smoky Hill River Dalen"
Charlotte Ternstrom -- Church historian and secretary (48 yrs), a behind-the-scenes community historian, a tour guide
Rev. Loren Mai -- Current pastor
+ Bethany College Swedish Knights and Honored Ladies: To learn more, go HERE!
Swedish Bethany Lutheran College Presidents*
Rev. Dr. Carl Aaron Swensson -- Knighted by Swedish Crown+
Rev. Dr. Ernst Pihlblad -- Knighted by Swedish Crown+
Dr. Emory Lindquist -- Knighted by Swedish Crown+
Dr. Arvin W. Hahn -- Knighted by Swedish Crown+
Dr. Peter Ristuben -- Knighted by Swedish Crown+
Dr. William Jones -- Current president
+ Bethany College Swedish Knights and Honored Ladies: To learn more, go HERE!
Swedish Bethany Lutheran College Professors and/or Graduates**
Hagbard Brase - Music professor, Messiah conductor (30+ years), Knighted by Swedish Crown+
Bruce Karstadt-Graduate,CEO/President of American Swedish Institute; Swedish Crown Recipient of Swedish Insignia+
Oscar Brousse Jacobson -- Graduate, renown artist of the Midwest, more to come as just discovered . . .
Arthur W. Lindquist -- Graduate, internationally known entomologist, Knighted by Swedish Crown+
Alma Louise Olson--Graduate/professor,1st American woman recipient of Swedish Medallion from the Swedish Crown+
Sven Birger Sandzén -- Art professor and celebrated artist, twice Knighted by Swedish Crown+
Johan August Udden -- First professor, founder of Bethany Museum and Knighted by Swedish Crown+
+ Bethany College Swedish Knights and Honored Ladies: To learn more, go HERE!
Swedish Bethany Lutheran Home Pioneers**
Oscar Anderson -- Provided one-fifth of the seed funding for Bethany Home for the Aged in 1907
Rev. Alfred Bergin -- Chairman of the Bethany Home and Chaplain from 1910 to 1944
Pastor Engstrand -- suggested instead of an orphanage, the funds should go to the needed "home for the aged" in 1907
Francis Johnson -- a facilitator in establishing Bethany Home in 1907
(The above church name was its original name per Pastor Olof Olsson. Today its known as Bethany Lutheran Church and/or Bethany Church.) Rev. Dr. Olof Olsson -- Founder of Swedish Evangelical Lutheran Bethany Church and of Lindsborg, Kansas
Rev. Dr. Carl Aaron Swensson -- Founder of Evangelical Lutheran Bethany College, Knighted by Swedish Crown+
Rev. Dr. Julius Lincoln -- Assistant pastor, Knighted by Swedish Crown+
Rev. Dr. Ernst Pihlblad -- Assistant pastor, Knighted by Swedish Crown+
Rev. Dr. Alfred Bergin -- Historian and writer of the earliest days of the Lindsborg Smoky Valley and Bethany College: 1909, "Lindsborg, Bidrag Till Svenskarnas och Den Lutherska Kyrkans Historia i Smoky Hill River Dalen"
Charlotte Ternstrom -- Church historian and secretary (48 yrs), a behind-the-scenes community historian, a tour guide
Rev. Loren Mai -- Current pastor
+ Bethany College Swedish Knights and Honored Ladies: To learn more, go HERE!
Swedish Bethany Lutheran College Presidents*
Rev. Dr. Carl Aaron Swensson -- Knighted by Swedish Crown+
Rev. Dr. Ernst Pihlblad -- Knighted by Swedish Crown+
Dr. Emory Lindquist -- Knighted by Swedish Crown+
Dr. Arvin W. Hahn -- Knighted by Swedish Crown+
Dr. Peter Ristuben -- Knighted by Swedish Crown+
Dr. William Jones -- Current president
+ Bethany College Swedish Knights and Honored Ladies: To learn more, go HERE!
Swedish Bethany Lutheran College Professors and/or Graduates**
Hagbard Brase - Music professor, Messiah conductor (30+ years), Knighted by Swedish Crown+
Bruce Karstadt-Graduate,CEO/President of American Swedish Institute; Swedish Crown Recipient of Swedish Insignia+
Oscar Brousse Jacobson -- Graduate, renown artist of the Midwest, more to come as just discovered . . .
Arthur W. Lindquist -- Graduate, internationally known entomologist, Knighted by Swedish Crown+
Alma Louise Olson--Graduate/professor,1st American woman recipient of Swedish Medallion from the Swedish Crown+
Sven Birger Sandzén -- Art professor and celebrated artist, twice Knighted by Swedish Crown+
Johan August Udden -- First professor, founder of Bethany Museum and Knighted by Swedish Crown+
+ Bethany College Swedish Knights and Honored Ladies: To learn more, go HERE!
Swedish Bethany Lutheran Home Pioneers**
Oscar Anderson -- Provided one-fifth of the seed funding for Bethany Home for the Aged in 1907
Rev. Alfred Bergin -- Chairman of the Bethany Home and Chaplain from 1910 to 1944
Pastor Engstrand -- suggested instead of an orphanage, the funds should go to the needed "home for the aged" in 1907
Francis Johnson -- a facilitator in establishing Bethany Home in 1907
* * *
Through Their Arts
Music
Swedes in Music*
Alma Lind-Swensson -- Wife of Bethany College founder, Bethany College organizer of the Messiah performances
Hagbard Brase - Bethany College Oratorio Society Messiah conductor (30+ years), Knighted by Swedish Crown+
Samuel Thorstenberg -- Bethany College Oratorio Society Messiah conductor (10+ years)
Thure Jaderborg -- Bethany College Professor of Voice, Messiah soloist (50+ years at Bethany)
Oscar Thorsen -- Bethany College Professor of Piano (50+ years at Bethany)
Dr. Elmer Copley -- Bethany College Oratorio Society Messiah conductor (20 years), the grand energetic promoter
Dr. Lambert Dahlsten -- Bethany College Professor of Organ preforming annually at the Messiah for 38 years
Dean Oscar Lofgren -- Bethany College Professor of Music, "First Dean" of the "College of Fine Art's, 1918-1948
Dr. Mark Lucas -- Current Bethany College Oratorio Society Messiah conductor
Roger Thorstenberg -- Bethany College Professor and Chairman of Music performing annually at the Messiah
Doug Talbott MME--Bethany College Music Emeritus Professor, past Music Program Coordinator & Fine Arts Div.Chair
Becky Copley -- Bethany graduate, world-wide opera singer, deem as one of U.S.' most gifted vocalist, Messiah soloist
To learn more, go HERE.
Alma Lind-Swensson -- Wife of Bethany College founder, Bethany College organizer of the Messiah performances
Hagbard Brase - Bethany College Oratorio Society Messiah conductor (30+ years), Knighted by Swedish Crown+
Samuel Thorstenberg -- Bethany College Oratorio Society Messiah conductor (10+ years)
Thure Jaderborg -- Bethany College Professor of Voice, Messiah soloist (50+ years at Bethany)
Oscar Thorsen -- Bethany College Professor of Piano (50+ years at Bethany)
Dr. Elmer Copley -- Bethany College Oratorio Society Messiah conductor (20 years), the grand energetic promoter
Dr. Lambert Dahlsten -- Bethany College Professor of Organ preforming annually at the Messiah for 38 years
Dean Oscar Lofgren -- Bethany College Professor of Music, "First Dean" of the "College of Fine Art's, 1918-1948
Dr. Mark Lucas -- Current Bethany College Oratorio Society Messiah conductor
Roger Thorstenberg -- Bethany College Professor and Chairman of Music performing annually at the Messiah
Doug Talbott MME--Bethany College Music Emeritus Professor, past Music Program Coordinator & Fine Arts Div.Chair
Becky Copley -- Bethany graduate, world-wide opera singer, deem as one of U.S.' most gifted vocalist, Messiah soloist
To learn more, go HERE.
Painting
Swedes in Painting*
Miss Lucy Osgood, Mrs. Hannah Swensson, Mrs. Marie Swensson -- first Bethany College art instructors
Carl Lotave -- Bethany College art professor and celebrated artist, renown in Europe and New York
Olof Grafstrom -- Bethany College art professor and celebrated artist of the American Northwest
Signe E. Larson -- a Sandzén celebrated artist at Bethany and in Lindsborg, traveled abroad to share her "Chalk Talk"
G.N. Malm - Celebrated artist , gifted Swede, found in Lindquist's 1989, G.N. Malm, a Swedish immigrant's varied career
Sven Birger Sandzén -- Bethany College art professor and celebrated artist, twice Knighted by Swedish Crown+
Lydia Sohlberg Deere -- Artist, student of Birger Sandzén, Bethany College art instructor
Maleta Forsberg -- a celebrated artist in Lindsborg, her works are permanent collections in Kansas, the US and abroad
Hilding Jaderborg -- Artist of exception and student of Birger Sandzén
Dr. Pelham Greenough III -- Benefactor and cofounder of the Sandzén Memorial Gallery, Knighted by Swedish Crown+
Dr. Margaret Sandzén Greenough-- Artist, Sandzén Memorial Gallery Cofounder; Recipient Swedish Crown Medallion+
Lester Raymer - Artist of the Raymer Society; key in artistic preparations for Svensk Hyllningsfest biennial celebrations
Larry Griffis -- Artist, retired director of the Sandzén Memorial Gallery (30+ yrs) working with Sandzén's daughter there
Ron Michael -- Artist and current director of the Sandzén Memorial Gallery
Zona Lorraine Wheeler -- a Sandzén student, former head of Wichita's McComick Armstrong commercial art department
To learn more, go HERE.
Miss Lucy Osgood, Mrs. Hannah Swensson, Mrs. Marie Swensson -- first Bethany College art instructors
Carl Lotave -- Bethany College art professor and celebrated artist, renown in Europe and New York
Olof Grafstrom -- Bethany College art professor and celebrated artist of the American Northwest
Signe E. Larson -- a Sandzén celebrated artist at Bethany and in Lindsborg, traveled abroad to share her "Chalk Talk"
G.N. Malm - Celebrated artist , gifted Swede, found in Lindquist's 1989, G.N. Malm, a Swedish immigrant's varied career
Sven Birger Sandzén -- Bethany College art professor and celebrated artist, twice Knighted by Swedish Crown+
Lydia Sohlberg Deere -- Artist, student of Birger Sandzén, Bethany College art instructor
Maleta Forsberg -- a celebrated artist in Lindsborg, her works are permanent collections in Kansas, the US and abroad
Hilding Jaderborg -- Artist of exception and student of Birger Sandzén
Dr. Pelham Greenough III -- Benefactor and cofounder of the Sandzén Memorial Gallery, Knighted by Swedish Crown+
Dr. Margaret Sandzén Greenough-- Artist, Sandzén Memorial Gallery Cofounder; Recipient Swedish Crown Medallion+
Lester Raymer - Artist of the Raymer Society; key in artistic preparations for Svensk Hyllningsfest biennial celebrations
Larry Griffis -- Artist, retired director of the Sandzén Memorial Gallery (30+ yrs) working with Sandzén's daughter there
Ron Michael -- Artist and current director of the Sandzén Memorial Gallery
Zona Lorraine Wheeler -- a Sandzén student, former head of Wichita's McComick Armstrong commercial art department
To learn more, go HERE.
Photography
Swedes in Photography*
Bror Gustaf Gröndal -- Professional photographer of early Bethany College, Lindsborg and the Smoky Valley
Lydia Sohlberg Deere -- Amateur photographer of early Bethany College, Lindsborg and Coronado Heights
Dale Hoag -- Professional photographer of early Swedish Lindsborg leaders, Bethany College Professors & Buildings
Hilding Jaderborg -- Professional photographer of Bethany College, Lindsborg and the Smoky Valley
Tom Jaderborg -- Professional photographer; the 1993 Birger Sandzén, An Illustrated Biography photographer
Albert N. Lundquist -- Professional photographer of Lundquist Studio for Bethany College and Lindsborg
Jim Turner -- Professional photographer of Turner Photography, photographer for Bethany College
To learn more on Gröndal, go HERE.
Bror Gustaf Gröndal -- Professional photographer of early Bethany College, Lindsborg and the Smoky Valley
Lydia Sohlberg Deere -- Amateur photographer of early Bethany College, Lindsborg and Coronado Heights
Dale Hoag -- Professional photographer of early Swedish Lindsborg leaders, Bethany College Professors & Buildings
Hilding Jaderborg -- Professional photographer of Bethany College, Lindsborg and the Smoky Valley
Tom Jaderborg -- Professional photographer; the 1993 Birger Sandzén, An Illustrated Biography photographer
Albert N. Lundquist -- Professional photographer of Lundquist Studio for Bethany College and Lindsborg
Jim Turner -- Professional photographer of Turner Photography, photographer for Bethany College
To learn more on Gröndal, go HERE.
Theater
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
Teaching
Swedes Teaching Swedish*
Dr. Leon Lungstrom
Maj-Britt Hawk
Gretchen Esping
Dr. Leon Lungstrom
Maj-Britt Hawk
Gretchen Esping
Translating and Writing
DSwedes' Translators*
Ruth Bergen Billdt for the 1909 "Lindsborg, Bidrag Till Svenskarnas och Den Lutherska Kyrkans Historia i Smoky Hill
River Dalen" by Rev. Alfred Bergen, translated to the 1965 Pioneer Swedish-American Culture in Central Kansas
Rev. Martin Ringstrom 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
Swedes' Writers**
Chris Abercrombie
Rev. Dr. Alfred Bergen
Ruth Bergen Billdt
Alf Brorson (of Torsby, Sweden, is an honorary Lindsborg citizen with his wife Maud)
Bill Carlson
Bror Carlsson (of Torsby, Sweden)
Dr. Arvin W. Hahn and the Bethany College Centennial Writers
Thomas N. Holmquist
Karen A. Humphrey
Elizabeth Jaderborg
Dr. Emory Lindquist
Dr. Leon Lundstrom
John Marshall
Rev. Eugene K. Nelson and the Bethany Home 75th Anniversary Writers
Anna Olsson
A. John Pearson
Kenneth Sjogren
Rev. Dr. Carl Arron Swensson
To learn more, go HERE.
Ruth Bergen Billdt for the 1909 "Lindsborg, Bidrag Till Svenskarnas och Den Lutherska Kyrkans Historia i Smoky Hill
River Dalen" by Rev. Alfred Bergen, translated to the 1965 Pioneer Swedish-American Culture in Central Kansas
Rev. Martin Ringstrom 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
Swedes' Writers**
Chris Abercrombie
Rev. Dr. Alfred Bergen
Ruth Bergen Billdt
Alf Brorson (of Torsby, Sweden, is an honorary Lindsborg citizen with his wife Maud)
Bill Carlson
Bror Carlsson (of Torsby, Sweden)
Dr. Arvin W. Hahn and the Bethany College Centennial Writers
Thomas N. Holmquist
Karen A. Humphrey
Elizabeth Jaderborg
Dr. Emory Lindquist
Dr. Leon Lundstrom
John Marshall
Rev. Eugene K. Nelson and the Bethany Home 75th Anniversary Writers
Anna Olsson
A. John Pearson
Kenneth Sjogren
Rev. Dr. Carl Arron Swensson
To learn more, go HERE.
* * *
Through Their Science
This information has been derived primarily from Bethany College Biology Professor Dr. Leon Lungstrom’s "Museum" chapter found in his 1990
"History of Natural Science and Mathematics at Bethany College, Lindsborg, Kansas"
The Building of the Bethany College Museum
Through Their Science
This information has been derived primarily from Bethany College Biology Professor Dr. Leon Lungstrom’s "Museum" chapter found in his 1990
"History of Natural Science and Mathematics at Bethany College, Lindsborg, Kansas"
The Building of the Bethany College Museum
Swedes Collectors for the Bethany College Museum
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 in Science, their Bethany College Museum Curators*
Johan August Udden--Bethany College first professor, curator and Museum founder; and Knighted by Swedish Crown+
Dr. John Eric Welin -- Bethany College professor and Museum curator
Jacob Westlund -- Bethany College professor and Museum curator
Dr. Emil O. Deere--Bethany College professor, Museum curator,"First Dean" of the"College of Arts & Sciences" 1918-48
Dr. Leon Lungstrom -- Bethany College professor and Museum assistant curator to Deere
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 in Science, their Bethany College Museum Curators*
Johan August Udden--Bethany College first professor, curator and Museum founder; and Knighted by Swedish Crown+
Dr. John Eric Welin -- Bethany College professor and Museum curator
Jacob Westlund -- Bethany College professor and Museum curator
Dr. Emil O. Deere--Bethany College professor, Museum curator,"First Dean" of the"College of Arts & Sciences" 1918-48
Dr. Leon Lungstrom -- Bethany College professor and Museum assistant curator to Deere
The Retirement of the Bethany College Museum
Swedes Responsible For Moving the Bethany College Museum Collections to the McPherson County Old Mill Museum
Dr. Emil O. Deere--Bethany College biology professor, Museum curator for 58 years wrote out "the plan" for the move of 1966
Dr. Leon Lungstrom -- Bethany College biology professor carried out "the plan" with these "others" after Deere's 1966 death:
Dr. Kenneth Andeen -- Swedish American Bethany College seventh president
Dr. Glenn Bellah -- Bethany College biology professor*
Christian Swenson -- Bethany College physics Emeritus professor*
Jerry Shannon -- Bethany College history professor
Carl Peterson -- Bethany College graduate, Co-director of the Birger Sandzén Memorial Gallery, artist
*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
Swede Responsible for Receiving and Maintaining the Bethany College Museum Collections
Tib Anderson -- Swedes McPherson County Old Mill Museum Director until 1980
Christian Swensson, Leon Lungstrom, Howard Patrick -- College and Lindsborg related co-directors from 1980 to 1984
Swedes Responsible for Oversight and Maintaining the Bethany College Museum Collections at the McPherson County Old Mill Museum: Christian Swensson, Leon Lungstrom, Howard Patrick -- College and Lindsborg related co-directors from 1984 to 1986; Jeanne Morgenson -- Director, Lindsborg resident from 1986 to 1988; Dorman Lehman -- Director formally from Minnesota 1988 to c1990s; Lorna Nelson from McPherson, Kansas -- Director currently
Dr. Emil O. Deere--Bethany College biology professor, Museum curator for 58 years wrote out "the plan" for the move of 1966
Dr. Leon Lungstrom -- Bethany College biology professor carried out "the plan" with these "others" after Deere's 1966 death:
Dr. Kenneth Andeen -- Swedish American Bethany College seventh president
Dr. Glenn Bellah -- Bethany College biology professor*
Christian Swenson -- Bethany College physics Emeritus professor*
Jerry Shannon -- Bethany College history professor
Carl Peterson -- Bethany College graduate, Co-director of the Birger Sandzén Memorial Gallery, artist
*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
Swede Responsible for Receiving and Maintaining the Bethany College Museum Collections
Tib Anderson -- Swedes McPherson County Old Mill Museum Director until 1980
Christian Swensson, Leon Lungstrom, Howard Patrick -- College and Lindsborg related co-directors from 1980 to 1984
Swedes Responsible for Oversight and Maintaining the Bethany College Museum Collections at the McPherson County Old Mill Museum: Christian Swensson, Leon Lungstrom, Howard Patrick -- College and Lindsborg related co-directors from 1984 to 1986; Jeanne Morgenson -- Director, Lindsborg resident from 1986 to 1988; Dorman Lehman -- Director formally from Minnesota 1988 to c1990s; Lorna Nelson from McPherson, Kansas -- Director currently
Current Bethany College Department of Biology and Chemistry Professors:
Loranelle Lockyear, PhD; Lucas McCormick, PhD; Mark McDonald, PhD; Heather Morris, D.C.
Loranelle Lockyear, PhD; Lucas McCormick, PhD; Mark McDonald, PhD; Heather Morris, D.C.
~ ~ ~
Current research reveals that after 1984 there was no more Bethany College interest in its college museum and collections in terms of any official College representation interaction. This was a most unfortunate outcome when you read what was being said about it 20 years before:
- January 11, 1966, Carl Swenson: "The museum which was largely the result of his [Deere's] efforts has no peer among the mid-western Liberal Arts colleges.”
- 1966, McPherson County Old Mill Museum Director Tib Anderson: “After the move ... you will find one of the finest museums of this kind in the mid-west...”
~ ~ ~
* * *
Through Their Architecture
Stone Houses and Buildings in the Smoky Valley*
Magnus Carlson - builder of Bethany Church and Old Main
Claude Koehn - restorer par excellence
Kyle Peterson - Swedish stone house historian
To learn more, go HERE.
Homes in Lindsborg
The Palmquist Brothers: John and August
Lindsborg Building Company: Frank Lindberg, Henry Goodholm, John Josephson, Albin and Henry Goodholm
The Brandt Brothers: Joseph and Ed
To learn more, go HERE.
Magnus Carlson - builder of Bethany Church and Old Main
Claude Koehn - restorer par excellence
Kyle Peterson - Swedish stone house historian
To learn more, go HERE.
Homes in Lindsborg
The Palmquist Brothers: John and August
Lindsborg Building Company: Frank Lindberg, Henry Goodholm, John Josephson, Albin and Henry Goodholm
The Brandt Brothers: Joseph and Ed
To learn more, go HERE.
* * *
Through Their Swedish Smoky Valley Historical Organizations
Through Their Swedish Smoky Valley Historical Organizations
American Scandinavian Association of the Great Plains
Current President: Duane Fredrickson, MD
McPherson County Historical Society
Founders: Anton Peterson and Emil O. Deere
Former Presidents: Anton Peterson and Linn Peterson
Current President: David Nigh
McPherson County Old Mill Museum
Past Directors: Tib Anderson, Jeanne Mogenson, Dorman Lehman
Current Director: Lorna Nelson
Current Curator and Archivist: Lenora Lynam
Smoky Valley Historical Association (SVHA)
Founders: Emil O. Deere and others which might include William Ahlstrom, G.N. Malm, C.A. Nelson,
Birger Sandzén, R. Johnson, William Hagstram
Other members of note: Secretary historian Elizabeth Jaderborg; Elston Flohr; former presidents Chester Peterson and the late historian, writer, website designer, YouTube producer, and "collector" Chris Abercrombie
Current President: Tim Steward
Swedish Friendship Group, Svenska Vänskapsgrupper
Current President: Steve Borell
Current President: Duane Fredrickson, MD
McPherson County Historical Society
Founders: Anton Peterson and Emil O. Deere
Former Presidents: Anton Peterson and Linn Peterson
Current President: David Nigh
McPherson County Old Mill Museum
Past Directors: Tib Anderson, Jeanne Mogenson, Dorman Lehman
Current Director: Lorna Nelson
Current Curator and Archivist: Lenora Lynam
Smoky Valley Historical Association (SVHA)
Founders: Emil O. Deere and others which might include William Ahlstrom, G.N. Malm, C.A. Nelson,
Birger Sandzén, R. Johnson, William Hagstram
Other members of note: Secretary historian Elizabeth Jaderborg; Elston Flohr; former presidents Chester Peterson and the late historian, writer, website designer, YouTube producer, and "collector" Chris Abercrombie
Current President: Tim Steward
Swedish Friendship Group, Svenska Vänskapsgrupper
Current President: Steve Borell
* * *
Through Their Swedish Folklife Culture
Folklife Institutions
Through Their Swedish Folklife Culture
Folklife Institutions
Swedes in Folklife Institutions
Dr. Greta Swenson and Mark and Mardel Esping
Dr. Greta Swenson and Mark and Mardel Esping
- In 1986, the "Swedish-American Folklife Institute of Central Kansas" was established for the purpose of retaining the heritage and folklife history of the Smoky Valley.
- In 1992, the website, "Swedish-American Folklife Institute of Central Kansas" was first published.
- In 1996, the "Swedish-American Heritage Center" was established as a public space for the operation of the Folklife Institute.
Folk Art
Swedes in Folk Art Ljuskrona Studies, Research and Exhibits
Mark and Mardel Esping and Marla Esping Elmquist of Swedish-American Folklife Center
Swedes in Folk Art Metal Work**
Malcom Esping -- Gifted and celebrated Swedish Metal Work Artist, Swedish Wedding Crown Designer
Mardel Esping -- A Malcom Esping apprentice and Swedish Wedding Crown Designer
Dr. Marlysue Esping Holmquist -- A Malcom Esping apprentice and research writer on related subjects: click HERE
Swedes in Folk Art Painting**
Shirley Malm -- Kurbits (floral motifs) folk painter, Station Studio & Gallery and Hemslojd artist
Robert Miller–Kurbits folk painter; award-winning folk artist & ceramicist; Scandinavian toys designer; Lindsborg "arts" promoter
Rita Sharp -- Dalaclarian folk painter, former Folk Design Studio owner, works featured in Scandanavian art exhibits
Robert Walker -- Dalaclarian folk painter, former Folk Design Studio owner
Carla Wilson -- Kurbits folk painter
Swedes in Folk Art Stencil Design
G.N. Malm
Swedes in Folk Art Weaving, and Related Handwork Research and Studies
Dr. Marlysue Esping Holmquist
Swedes in Folk Art Wood Burning (Pyrography) Design Studies
Dr. Marlysue Esping Holmquist
Swedes in Folk Art Wood Carving**
Dave Anderson
Oscar Gunnarson
Norman Malm
Anton Pearson
Hugo Shogren
Mark and Mardel Esping and Marla Esping Elmquist of Swedish-American Folklife Center
Swedes in Folk Art Metal Work**
Malcom Esping -- Gifted and celebrated Swedish Metal Work Artist, Swedish Wedding Crown Designer
Mardel Esping -- A Malcom Esping apprentice and Swedish Wedding Crown Designer
Dr. Marlysue Esping Holmquist -- A Malcom Esping apprentice and research writer on related subjects: click HERE
Swedes in Folk Art Painting**
Shirley Malm -- Kurbits (floral motifs) folk painter, Station Studio & Gallery and Hemslojd artist
Robert Miller–Kurbits folk painter; award-winning folk artist & ceramicist; Scandinavian toys designer; Lindsborg "arts" promoter
Rita Sharp -- Dalaclarian folk painter, former Folk Design Studio owner, works featured in Scandanavian art exhibits
Robert Walker -- Dalaclarian folk painter, former Folk Design Studio owner
Carla Wilson -- Kurbits folk painter
Swedes in Folk Art Stencil Design
G.N. Malm
Swedes in Folk Art Weaving, and Related Handwork Research and Studies
Dr. Marlysue Esping Holmquist
Swedes in Folk Art Wood Burning (Pyrography) Design Studies
Dr. Marlysue Esping Holmquist
Swedes in Folk Art Wood Carving**
Dave Anderson
Oscar Gunnarson
Norman Malm
Anton Pearson
Hugo Shogren
Folk Handwork
Swedes in the 1927 Lindsborg Swedish Club of Embroidery Handwork**
(Formerly Föreningen för Skandenaviska Handarbeten for Society for Scandinavian Handwork)
Mrs. Carl Anderson
Mrs. Hagbard Brase
Mrs. Emil O. Deere
Mrs. Thur Jaderborg
Mrs. Carl Lincoln
Mrs. Ray Oberholser
To learn more, go HERE.
(Formerly Föreningen för Skandenaviska Handarbeten for Society for Scandinavian Handwork)
Mrs. Carl Anderson
Mrs. Hagbard Brase
Mrs. Emil O. Deere
Mrs. Thur Jaderborg
Mrs. Carl Lincoln
Mrs. Ray Oberholser
To learn more, go HERE.
Swedes teaching Sloyd and Embroidery Bethany College Classes*
Amalia Maria Rabenius, first Instructor in 1900 of Pyrography (wood burning) and Embroidery
Lydia Sohlberg, instructor in Embroidery from 1907-1913
To learn more from Dr. Marlysue Esping Holmquist, former Chair of the Education Department, go HERE.
Amalia Maria Rabenius, first Instructor in 1900 of Pyrography (wood burning) and Embroidery
Lydia Sohlberg, instructor in Embroidery from 1907-1913
To learn more from Dr. Marlysue Esping Holmquist, former Chair of the Education Department, go HERE.
Folk Dance and Music
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 to perform in 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 to perform in 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 Traditions
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 the June Midsummers Festival.
Yet unique to Lindsborg is the celebration of the October Svensk Hyllningsfest, a biennial Swedish American pioneer festival. It was originally organized in 1941 by a Dutchman, Dr. William Howerda (who quickly became an honorary Lindsborg Swede as many non-Swedes have in Lindsborg for similar contributions).
With this Lindsborg Swedish American festival is chosen a King and Queen of mature ages in their late 60s or older. As time did not allow me to created a list, here in the beginning of the 21st century are a few names: 2003 – Steve and Patty Karstadt; 2017 – former President of the SVHA Chester Peterson and his wife Jeanette; 2009 – former Mayor Don Anderson and his wife Dorene; 2019 – former Mayor Ron Rolander and his wife Marsha. These couples were perfect examples of the Swedes Svensk Hyllningsfest Kings and Queens who preceded them – devoted and committed Swedes promoting Lindsborg's Swedishness.
To learn more, go HERE.
Yet unique to Lindsborg is the celebration of the October Svensk Hyllningsfest, a biennial Swedish American pioneer festival. It was originally organized in 1941 by a Dutchman, Dr. William Howerda (who quickly became an honorary Lindsborg Swede as many non-Swedes have in Lindsborg for similar contributions).
With this Lindsborg Swedish American festival is chosen a King and Queen of mature ages in their late 60s or older. As time did not allow me to created a list, here in the beginning of the 21st century are a few names: 2003 – Steve and Patty Karstadt; 2017 – former President of the SVHA Chester Peterson and his wife Jeanette; 2009 – former Mayor Don Anderson and his wife Dorene; 2019 – former Mayor Ron Rolander and his wife Marsha. These couples were perfect examples of the Swedes Svensk Hyllningsfest Kings and Queens who preceded them – devoted and committed Swedes promoting Lindsborg's Swedishness.
To learn more, go HERE.
* * *
Through Their "Other" Contributions**
Through Their "Other" Contributions**
Becky Larson Anderson - Lindsborg Mayor, Swedish Country Inn owner, lifelong Lindsborg/Bethany supporter
Dean Anderson -- Proprietor of the well established "Anderson Butik" and "Anderson Scandinavian Tours"
Don Anderson*--Lindsborg Mayor 1989-2001, Munkfors' "Sister City" initiative & A Destination for All Seasons narrator
Dorene Anderson* - 30 yrs Chamber of Commerce Executive Director, Bethany College and Lindsborg promoter
Leon and Judy Burch -- lifelong promoters and supporters of Lindsborg and Bethany
C.R. Carlson -- Early Lindsborg leader primarily responsible for Rev. Olof Olsson coming to Lindsborg in 1869
Magnus Carlson -- Encouraged C.R. Carlson to come to Lindsborg in 1868
Denise Carson -- Director of the Bethany College Archives and Heritage Center
Emil O. Deere -- Serving and promoting Lindsborg and Bethany in innumerable ways, linkage to Bethany's beginnings
Amy Drier -- President of the Lindsborg Arts Council which promotes the appreciation and practice of the arts
Bill and Carol Gusenius -- lifelong promoters and supporters of Lindsborg and Bethany
Masha Howe - Director of the Lester Raymer Society, originator of "Lindsborg Collects," promoter of the arts/ auctions
William Howerda, MD -- Organizer of the ongoing 1941 Svensk Hyllningsfest biennial Swedish pioneer festival
Einar Jaderborg -- Bethany Board for 2 terms, 1 as Pres.; Lindsborg Superintendent of Schools; High School Pricipal
Esther* and Hilding* Jaderborg -- 50 year Swedish Crafts Main Street shop owners, bringing Sweden to Lindsborg
Gene Larson - Lindsborg Farmers' State Bank President; promotor of Swedishness, the arts, Bethany Board President
Hugo Lindahl* -- Former Lindsborg Mayor responsible for Swedish King Carl XVI Gustaf 1976 Bicentennial visit
Holly Lofton -- Director of Lindsborg Convention and Visitors Bureau, VÄLKOMMEN LINDSBORG POSTEN / ANNOUNCEMENTS
Mark Lysell -- Celebrated Öl Stuga owner, lifelong promoter and supporter of Lindsborg and Bethany
G. N. Malm -- Businessman, artist, Bethany and Lindsborg promoter, organized Messiah English speaking church
Betty Howerda Nelson-lifelong promoter, supporter of Lindsborg, councilwoman, 2019 Sesquicentennial Festival Co-Ch
Gerald "Bud" Pearson -- Friend of Bethany College established its Pearson Swedish Visiting Professorship Program
R. D. Rassmusson - 40+ years of his Swedish Painters' beautifying and supporting Lindsborg, Bethany & its history
Ron Rolander *-- Former Lindsborg Mayor, 2019 Hyllningsfest Royalty with wife Marsha,* great promoters of Bethany
Kenneth Sjogren--Former Bethany College director of public relations, development, publicity and alumni affairs
Stan Talbott--Former Bethany College Director of Alumni honored by the Stan Talbott Society Scholarship
Carla Wilson -- through her "Swedish artforms," a promoter and supporter of "all things" Swedish in Lindsborg
Also, the innumerable Swedes who for decades have provided behind-the-scenes support to Lindsborg and Bethany
*Traveled to Sweden with greetings from Lindsborg, including Smoky Valley historian writer Elizabeth Jaderborg on behalf of Lindsborg Mayor Hugo Lindahl to the Stockholm Royal Palace for the King of Sweden, presenting Lindsborg's Invitation to its 1976 Bicentennial Celebration.
Dean Anderson -- Proprietor of the well established "Anderson Butik" and "Anderson Scandinavian Tours"
Don Anderson*--Lindsborg Mayor 1989-2001, Munkfors' "Sister City" initiative & A Destination for All Seasons narrator
Dorene Anderson* - 30 yrs Chamber of Commerce Executive Director, Bethany College and Lindsborg promoter
Leon and Judy Burch -- lifelong promoters and supporters of Lindsborg and Bethany
C.R. Carlson -- Early Lindsborg leader primarily responsible for Rev. Olof Olsson coming to Lindsborg in 1869
Magnus Carlson -- Encouraged C.R. Carlson to come to Lindsborg in 1868
Denise Carson -- Director of the Bethany College Archives and Heritage Center
Emil O. Deere -- Serving and promoting Lindsborg and Bethany in innumerable ways, linkage to Bethany's beginnings
Amy Drier -- President of the Lindsborg Arts Council which promotes the appreciation and practice of the arts
Bill and Carol Gusenius -- lifelong promoters and supporters of Lindsborg and Bethany
Masha Howe - Director of the Lester Raymer Society, originator of "Lindsborg Collects," promoter of the arts/ auctions
William Howerda, MD -- Organizer of the ongoing 1941 Svensk Hyllningsfest biennial Swedish pioneer festival
Einar Jaderborg -- Bethany Board for 2 terms, 1 as Pres.; Lindsborg Superintendent of Schools; High School Pricipal
Esther* and Hilding* Jaderborg -- 50 year Swedish Crafts Main Street shop owners, bringing Sweden to Lindsborg
Gene Larson - Lindsborg Farmers' State Bank President; promotor of Swedishness, the arts, Bethany Board President
Hugo Lindahl* -- Former Lindsborg Mayor responsible for Swedish King Carl XVI Gustaf 1976 Bicentennial visit
Holly Lofton -- Director of Lindsborg Convention and Visitors Bureau, VÄLKOMMEN LINDSBORG POSTEN / ANNOUNCEMENTS
Mark Lysell -- Celebrated Öl Stuga owner, lifelong promoter and supporter of Lindsborg and Bethany
G. N. Malm -- Businessman, artist, Bethany and Lindsborg promoter, organized Messiah English speaking church
Betty Howerda Nelson-lifelong promoter, supporter of Lindsborg, councilwoman, 2019 Sesquicentennial Festival Co-Ch
Gerald "Bud" Pearson -- Friend of Bethany College established its Pearson Swedish Visiting Professorship Program
R. D. Rassmusson - 40+ years of his Swedish Painters' beautifying and supporting Lindsborg, Bethany & its history
Ron Rolander *-- Former Lindsborg Mayor, 2019 Hyllningsfest Royalty with wife Marsha,* great promoters of Bethany
Kenneth Sjogren--Former Bethany College director of public relations, development, publicity and alumni affairs
Stan Talbott--Former Bethany College Director of Alumni honored by the Stan Talbott Society Scholarship
Carla Wilson -- through her "Swedish artforms," a promoter and supporter of "all things" Swedish in Lindsborg
Also, the innumerable Swedes who for decades have provided behind-the-scenes support to Lindsborg and Bethany
*Traveled to Sweden with greetings from Lindsborg, including Smoky Valley historian writer Elizabeth Jaderborg on behalf of Lindsborg Mayor Hugo Lindahl to the Stockholm Royal Palace for the King of Sweden, presenting Lindsborg's Invitation to its 1976 Bicentennial Celebration.
* * *
* Note: The bulk of the above sampling listing was finished in December 2016.
* Listed chronologically
** Listed alphabetically
** Listed alphabetically
- Amalia Maria Rabenius -
1900
Bethany College Lady Principal and Instructor in Sloyd -- Pyrography and Embroidery
1900
Bethany College Lady Principal and Instructor in Sloyd -- Pyrography and Embroidery
Bethany College Archival Photograph.
Permission given by retired professor Dr. Marlysue Holmquist author of
"A History of Swedish Craft Work at Bethany"
Find their "virtual" Memorial HERE.
* * *
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.
