A small unincorporated community in central Maine, established by Swedish immigrants in 1870. Local Lutheran church and historic farmhouses reflect the area's Nordic roots.
In Sweden, Maine, you can walk through the 1800s Swedish settler's cabin at the Local History Museum, learn to make köttbullar (Swedish meatballs) at weekly cooking classes, or join the summer Swedish folk dance lessons at the Community Center. The town's Swedish Language School runs beginner courses every Tuesday and Thursday.
Swedish-American Museums and Cultural Centers
At the American Swedish Historical Museum in Philadelphia, you'll see immigration documents, personal letters, and household items like carved wooden butter molds and painted wedding chests from the 1800s. Take a guided tour to learn how Swedish immigrants used these objects in their daily lives. The American Swedish Institute in Minneapolis rotates art exhibitions every three months - current displays include contemporary Swedish glass art and textile installations. Sign up for weekend workshops to learn traditional Swedish weaving or wood carving. In Chicago's Swedish American Museum, join weekly language classes or learn to make traditional pastries like kanelbullar (cinnamon buns) in the teaching kitchen.
Traditional Celebrations Throughout the Year
Local Swedish-American communities maintain centuries-old customs through annual events. During December's Lucia Day celebrations, watch candlelight processions where participants sing traditional songs in Swedish. At June's Midsummer festivals, you can learn Swedish circle dances, help raise the flower-decorated maypole, and taste homemade Swedish dishes. The Scandinavian Athletic Club organizes weekly soccer matches and Swedish lawn games like kubb from April through October.
Swedish-American Communities in the Midwest
Swedish immigrants shaped Minnesota's culture, particularly in Chisago and Isanti counties. You can still hear Swedish being spoken in local cafes, and many street signs display both English and Swedish names. In Chicago's Andersonville neighborhood, Swedish bakeries sell cardamom bread and lingonberry jam, while cultural centers host weekly film screenings and music performances.
Research and Educational Resources
The Swenson Swedish Immigration Research Center at Augustana College maintains detailed records of Swedish immigration to North America. Browse through ship passenger lists, church registries, and family photographs dating back to the 1850s. The center's staff helps visitors locate specific documents and translate Swedish text. Regular workshops teach basic genealogical research methods and Swedish handwriting interpretation.
