Early Norwegian Settlement
The founder of the first and only Norwegian settlement in the state was Johannes L. Osvold, who was born in Toten but emigrated from Christiania (Oslo). He settled at Berlin Mills in Coos County in 1854. Next came Carl Olsen, Herman Olsen, and Nils Holje. The latter settled in Gorham. Osvold served as postmaster at Berlin Mills and still held the position at the age of 85. Osvold was also the first Norwegian to gain a seat in the New Hampshire State Legislature. Three Norwegians from this small settlement served in the State Legislature, a notable achievement for such a small community.
There was a Norwegian congregation with its own church at Berlin Mills. It was served by ministers of the United Church.
Sources:
[Ulvestad, Martin. Nordmændene i Amerika. Utg. History Book Company's Forlag. Minneapolis, Minn. 1907.]
Places Mentioned in the Register
3 people recorded from this county. See all persons →
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