Swedish Immigrants
Published on Nov 25, 2015
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PRESENTATION OUTLINE
Immigrating to Texas
Swen Magnus Swenson came to Texas 1836 and was soon accompanied by his uncle, Swante Palm, in 1844. During his time here, he managed to build a plantation in Fort Bend County. He also became a friend of Sam Houston's. Houston told Swenson to bring more Swedish immigrants to settle in Texas land. By 1848, Swenson brought 25 Swedes to Texas.
Photo by Rafa from Brazil
Why did they leave?
A big part of why the Swedes left their homeland was due to the availability of land. The population of Sweden was increasing which resulted in less available land. Also, work wasn't very common to find due to the population rising. Another reason was persecution, many would be punished for believing in other religions. Political freedom was also a factor in leaving, and others had personal reasons to leave the country.
Why did they choose Texas?
Most Swedes wanted to immigrate to Texas because go the fact that other Swedes had settled. Also, many of them had to work on the Swenson's lands. Last, Swenson gave fair prices for land because he wanted to attract as many people to Texas as possible.
Photo by Hindrik S
Where are you from?
We are from Sweden. The Swedish traditions and. customs were also moved to Texas. Some of those traditions and customs include St. Lucia Day (December 13th). This is the beginning of the Christmas season and also the shortest day of the year in Sweden. There is also the celebration of Midsummer Day. This is celebrated on June 24th and is known as the longest day of the year, the day the sun never sets in Sweden.
Photo by Matti Mattila
Where did they settle?
At first, many Swedes settled with Swenson in Fort Bend County, but he sold his plantation soon after that. Then, the area where most people settled was called "Govalle," translating as "good grazing." This was the name for Swenson's new land. The present day area is now Travis County and Williamson County. Present-day cities include Austin, Lakeway, and Sunset Valley.
Photo by ...-Wink-...
Main Occupation
Most of the Swedes worked in the area of cotton production. They had to adapt to this crop quickly since the areas they lived in were almost completely dedicated to cotton production.
Photo by clisenberg
