Bergit Andrea Helgeson

GEDCOM Note

Bergit Helgeson Johnson Facts and Family Stories

Bergit was the oldest of twelve children born to Helga and Thor Helgeson. Helga and Thor were among the first pioneers to settle in Renville County. Bergit, at age 2, was said to be the first white child in the area.

Bergit and Emil also homesteaded years later in South Dakota. They returned to Minnesota and purchased a farm near Belview, Minnesota. When Bergit’s parents retired, Bergit and Emil purchased Springdale Farm in 1911 and lived there for the remainder of their lives.

Bergit and Emil raised ten children on Springdale Farm. Three of their daughters appear to be named after Emil’s mother and sisters in Sweden (Emma, Anne for Anna, and Bertha).

According to newspaper articles, Bergit and Emil were known to be friendly and hospitable, and their home was always filled with guests.