Elise Waerenskjold
Hamilton, Hamilton County, Texas
Marker Inscription
Influential early promoter of Norwegian emigration to Texas; born Elise Tvede in 1815. In 1846, after John Reiersen migrated to Texas to found the first Norwegian settlement in the state, she became editor of his periodical "Norway and Texas." Through her articles, many were inspired to move here. In 1847 she, too, moved to Texas, and resided in both Van Zandt County and Hamilton County. She married Wilhelm Waerenskjold. Often they welcomed grateful newcomers into their home. Here she helped preserve the history of her people. Died 1895.
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
Born Elise Tvede in Norway in 1815, Waerenskjold became an influential promoter of Norwegian emigration to Texas. After John Reiersen founded the first Norwegian settlement in the state, she edited his periodical on Norway and Texas, and her articles inspired many to follow. She moved to Texas herself in 1847, settling in Van Zandt and Hamilton counties, where she and her husband welcomed newcomers and preserved their people's history.
Why it matters
Her pen turned personal conviction into a lasting current of Norwegian immigration into the American West.
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Related people
- ¡ Elise Waerenskjold
- ¡ John Reiersen
- ¡ Wilhelm Waerenskjold
Themes & tags
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