Swedes of Texas

Swedish immigration to Texas began with the arrival of Swen Magnus in 1838. Settling first on the gulf coast, he became a successful businessman. In 1850 he moved to Austin, where he established a ranch in the area he later named Govalle ("Good Grazing Land"). His uncle, Svante Palm, joined him in Austin in 1850 and together they promoted Swedish immigration to Texas. By 1910 some 7,000 Swedes came to Texas and established homes, farms, businesses, and churches. Palm became a community leader and served as Swedish Consul. Many Swedish immigrants settled in eastern Travis and Williamson counties. Although Swedish communities were also established on other areas, including Jackson, Bastrop, Wharton, Karnes, Calhoun, McCulloch, Willacy, Jones, McLennan, Harris, and Galveston Counties. Among the organizations Swedes established were Trinity College in Round Rock, Texas Wesleyan College in Austin, a Mutual Aid Society, and a Swedish language newspaper, "The Texas Posten". Churches begun by the immigrants include those of the Lutheran, Methodist, Evangelical Free, Presbyterian, and Baptist denominations. Traditional Swedish festivals such as St. Lucia and Midsummer are still celebrated in many cities. (1989)

Swedes of Texas is a historical marker in Austin, Travis County, dedicated in 1989. It is one of 320 historical markers documented in Travis County in the Texas Historical Commission Atlas, among 591 historic sites cataloged across the county.

The site sits at 30.2695, -97.7722 near Austin. The nearest cataloged historic site is Moonlight Towers (historic place), about 0.2 miles away. Others within a short drive include McGill, Ashford, House (Zilker Park Refectory), Barton Springs, and Travis County.

This record corresponds to Texas Historical Commission Atlas #5507015128. Use the map below for its exact position and turn-by-turn directions.