Malene Steen Autobiography

Malene Steen wrote her autobiography in 1922, which was translated from Norwegian into English by the Norwegian Historical Association in 1979. It contains information on Mrs. Steen’s marriage, family life, and emigration.

Biographical Note

Malene Steen married Severin Olsen Steen in April of 1870. One week after their marriage, the couple immigrated to the United States, and arrived in Wisconsin. They settled first in Jefferson County and lived with various people while working to support themselves. After three years, Malene and Severin moved to Kandiyohi County, Minnesota with their two children, Mary and Olai.

They settled in a small homestead, but grasshoppers destroyed their crops in their second year at the homestead and they were forced to move again. The family went to Big Stone County in 1877 and bought land for a farm. They lived and worked there until 1904, when they rented out the farm and moved to Clinton, Minnesota. Despite many hardships that they faced, the family persevered and eventually was fairly prosperous. Severin Olsen died in April of 1918, and was greatly missed by his family.

Written in 1922, translated from the Norwegian by the Norwegian Historical Association in 1979.