Born: 1881 (Hietaniemi Parish, Norrbotten, Sweden)
Biography:
Lina Hjort was a remarkable Swedish woman who made significant contributions as a schoolteacher, house builder, and suffragette. Born into poverty in the far north of Sweden in 1881, Lina faced numerous challenges from an early age. However, her determination and resilience enabled her to overcome adversity and achieve remarkable success.
Growing up in Hietaniemi Parish, Norrbotten, Lina experienced a difficult childhood. She was the daughter of unmarried parents, Johan Petter Aronsson and Margareta Johanna Hjort, and felt unwanted by them. Despite these circumstances, Lina formed a close and loving relationship with her grandmother, which provided her with the emotional support she needed.
Lina’s physical strength and hard work helped her earn a bit of money by collecting and chopping wood from the surrounding forest. Her dedication to her studies paid off when she was awarded a scholarship to attend the teacher training college in Haparanda. In 1901, Lina qualified as a schoolmistress and was assigned to teach in the village of Kurravaara, north of Kiruna.
However, Lina faced difficulties in Kurravaara as the children and their parents did not value education. Frustrated with the situation, she decided to seek employment in Kiruna, hoping to earn a higher income. She approached the director of the mining operations, who gladly hired her and provided her with excellent care and support. In a remarkable feat, Lina even managed to build her own house using discarded bricks and timber, showcasing her determination and resourcefulness.
Lina’s success as a house builder enabled her to expand her real estate ventures, renting out rooms to schoolmistresses and other women. She became financially prosperous and enjoyed a vibrant social life, hosting parties where she delighted guests with her musical talents on the piano or accordion. Her reputation and standing in the community grew, earning her respect and admiration from her peers.
It was during this period of her life that Lina became involved in politics, particularly in the cause of women’s suffrage. Encouraged by the doctor’s wife, Mrs. Lind, Lina embarked on a mission to mobilize women in support of voting rights. She visited nearby farms and villages, rallying women to sign up and join the fight for suffrage. Lina’s efforts were fruitful, as by 1913, the local suffrage branch of the National Association for Women’s Suffrage boasted 150 active members. Lina’s home became a central meeting place for suffrage discussions and activities, solidifying her status as a key figure in the movement.
Throughout her life, Lina Hjort maintained close relationships with prominent suffrage leaders of the time, such as Lydia Wahlström, Gulli Petrini, and Frigga Carlberg. Together, they fought tirelessly for women’s rights, challenging the prevailing social norms and advocating for equality.
Lina Hjort’s remarkable achievements and contributions have been preserved through her detailed diaries, which are now held at the Norrbottens Museum. These diaries provide invaluable insights into her life and struggles, ensuring that her story continues to inspire present and future generations.