Swedish immigrants played an important role in northwestern Indiana. During the 1850's, many Swedes came from Chicago to work at the local sawmill. By the 1860's, they were purchasing land for farming and working for local businesses. The Chellberg Farm, restored to its appearance around 1900, provides a look at the life of one Swedish family. The Swedes were proud of their ethnic heritage. Augsburg Lutheran Church, established in 1858, was the heart of their social world, and the church held services in Swedish until the 1920's. By 1874, Anders Chellberg had purchased 80 acres of farmland. Ruth Chellberg operated the hay rake. Children learned Swedish culture, history, and geography at the Swenska Skoala, later Burstrom Chapel. Swedish parishioners celebrate Easter at the Augsburg Lutheran Church from 1900 to 1933.

Photo: Connor Olson

Porter, Indiana · USA