Swedish American Museum celebrates 30th anniversary

The Swedish American Museum celebrated its 30th anniversary on June 8. It was exactly 30 years ago the museum opened its doors with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Louise Unkrich, museum director, opened the event with an overview of the Swedish Historical Society and the Swedesburg Farmers Exchange Store, which was converted into the museum’s main building.

Judy Rawson, Glenda and Malcolm Alvine shared memories and Betty Molander, president, reviewed the many wonderful accomplishments of the museum. Over 100,000 people plus 1,400 individuals from Sweden have visited the museum. The museum now consists of four buildings, a gift shop, huckster wagon and a collection of items from Swedish immigrants who came to the Swedesburg area starting in the 1860s.

Angela Overton, museum office manager, reviewed the current renovations of museum through grant funds plus several upgrades. Due to COVID-19, an official celebration with Swedish performers is planned for 2022.