A Century of Urban Life

This is a useful study guide for one of Chicago's most important and least studied ethnic groups. Although Norwegian immigrants are the intended study group, since the Danes and the Swedes tended to reside in close proximity to other Scandinavians in Chicago, the author relates their stories as well as those of the Norwegians. By way of explanation and to be accurate, over the centuries, all of three countries were united at various times, and Sweden and Norway were a single kingdom until 1905. After obtaining independence from Sweden in a peaceable manner, a Danish prince was chosen to become the king of the newly established kingdom of Norway. With these facts in mind, any the overlap in the text is understandable and unavoidable. Some of the Chicago neighborhoods that once had substantial Norwegian and Scandinavian populations included Wicker Park and Humboldt Park, as well as suburbs such as Oak Park. Apart from some impressive residences, public monuments such as the Leif Ericson statue in Humboldt Park or the Norwegian American Hospital, which is immediately South of the same park, there are few reminders of the Norwegians to be found in contemporary Chicago. The decision to terminate the study in 1930 was not entirely arbitrary. As the author observed, succeeding generations of Norwegians moved away from the city and into the outlying neighborhoods and suburbs after attaining a degree of prosperity. Their children largely assimilated into the American middle class and became less and less distinguishable as ethnics. The Swedes on the other hand managed to maintain a higher profile as a distinctive ethnic group for a longer period of time and their churches, clubs and fraternal organizations continued to promote their traditions and customs to a greater degree. Professor Lovoll served on the faculty of St. Olaf's College in Northfield, Minnesota, when this book was published. Within Minnesota, the Norwegians have maintained a much stronger sense of community than was the case in Chicago. The text is well illustrated with period photographs.

This book is an excellent resource especially if you had Norwegian relatives in Chicago during this time. The book covers information about different Norwegian neighborhoods, including maps, pictures, and information about churches, and social clubs. I used this book to research more about my geneology. Very interesting historical information.