1
Sign erected by Alberta Government to recognize contribution of Danish immigrants to area.1990
Dickson, Alberta, Canada
2
Dickson, Alberta has always had strong Danish ties.3
Carl Christiansen as a young man.1901
Blair, Nebraska
4
Carl Christiansen left Denmark in the 1890's at a time when his homeland was crippled financially and industrially. Men and women were out of work, and trade was at a stand still. Emigration to the United States seemed to be the only solution for many. Times were tough in America as well. Wages were low and prices were high. In the early 1900's, Carl began to work in a large retail grocery store in Omaha. It was at this time that a new possibility presented itself.5
Typical poster to recruit immigrants to Western Canada.1920
6
A Canadian Pacific railway agent spoke to a Lutheran congregation of Danish immigrants in Omaha, Nebraska and suggested that land near Innisfail, Alberta could be set aside as a Danish settlement.7
Henry and Jens Larsen's compass1903
8
It was agreed that Henry and Jens Larsen would travel to Canada to determine if the move was worthwhile.9
Department of Interior Dominion Lands Handbook with guidelines for homesteading1928
10
The two scouts returned with favourable impressions and in 1903, a Canadian government agent set aside a tract of land 22 miles west of Innisfail for the establishment of a Danish settlement.11
Henry Larsen Homestead Receipt1903
12
The Danish Pioneers' First Christmas in Dickson1903
Dickson, Alberta, Canada
13
The move was on. By the second week of July 1903, seventeen adults and children had pitched their tents on their respective homesteads around Dickson. By the end of summer, a new community had emerged.14
Carl and Laura Christiansen Wedding Photograph1901
Blair, Nebraska
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