Born: 1833
Biography:
Anna Lovisa Eleonora Ellen Anckarsvärd, born Ellen Nyström on December 10, 1833, was a significant figure in the women’s rights movement in Sweden during the 19th century. She played a key role in various women’s organizations and associations, advocating for increased property rights, handicrafts, and gender equality.
Ellen Anckarsvärd was the daughter of Per Axel Nyström, an architect. In 1862, she married Theodor Anckarsvärd, also an architect. Together, they had a son named Cossva Anckarsvärd, who later became a diplomat. Additionally, Ellen Anckarsvärd fostered Louis Sparre, an artist.
Anckarsvärd emerged as one of the prominent leaders in the first wave of organized women’s movements in Sweden. In 1873, she co-founded the Married Woman’s Property Rights Association (Gift kvinnas äganderätt) alongside Anna Hierta-Retzius. As the first women’s rights organization in Sweden, it aimed to fight for the legal rights and economic independence of married women. Anckarsvärd served as the association’s secretary for several years and was considered instrumental in its success due to her exceptional intellect and efficiency.
In 1874, Anckarsvärd played a significant role in the establishment of the Friends of Handicraft (Handarbetets Vänner). She served on the economic board of the organization and later became its Vice Chairperson. The Friends of Handicraft aimed to promote Swedish handicrafts and improve the economic conditions of women engaged in these crafts. Anckarsvärd’s involvement showcased her dedication to empowering women economically and socially.
Anckarsvärd was also active in various literary and cultural societies. From 1874 to 1896, she was a member of the board of the literary society Läsesalongen (Reading Parlor) and eventually became its chairperson in 1896. In 1884, she co-founded the Fredrika Bremer Association (Fredrika-Bremer-förbundet), the principal women’s rights organization in the 19th century. Anckarsvärd served as the organization’s juridical adviser, displaying her exceptional organizational skills and problem-solving abilities.
Throughout her career, Anckarsvärd maintained a close companionship with Sophie Adlersparre, another influential figure in the Swedish women’s movement. Together, they formed a formidable partnership, with Adlersparre contributing innovative ideas and Anckarsvärd providing the practical skills to bring them to fruition.
In 1896, Anckarsvärd assumed the position of Chairperson of the National Council of Swedish Women (Svenska Kvinnors Nationalråd), a position she held until 1898. During this time, she hosted the Congress of Nordic Women, organized by the National Council of Swedish Women in 1897. Anckarsvärd also served as the Chairperson of the Women’s Committee of the Chicago Exhibition and was a member of various charitable societies and magazine boards.
Described as a frail blonde with a delicate constitution and a calm temperament, Anckarsvärd possessed astonishing intelligence, strong determination, and a keen ability to focus on the task at hand. Her dedication to the women’s movement in Sweden made her a central figure in various organizations, leaving a lasting impact on the advancement of women’s rights.