Welcome to the American Swedish Institute, a remarkable cultural landmark in Minneapolis that holds a treasure trove of Swedish-American history. This grand institution traces its roots back to the early 20th century, with its foundation laid by the visionary Swan Turnblad. Swan, a Swedish immigrant, arrived in the United States in 1868 at the tender age of eight. His family, fleeing the famine-stricken lands of Småland, Sweden, settled in the small Swedish community of Vasa, Minnesota.
Swan Turnblad’s story is one of perseverance and ambition. After several years of working on the family farm, he ventured into the bustling city of Minneapolis. There, he began his career in the printing industry, eventually becoming the owner of the Svenska Amerikanska Posten newspaper. Under his leadership, the newspaper flourished, boasting the largest readership of any Swedish-language newspaper in the United States.
With newfound wealth, Swan Turnblad embarked on an ambitious project: the construction of a palatial home on what was once known as Minneapolis’ Golden Mile. Completed in 1908, the Turnblad Mansion is an architectural marvel featuring 33 rooms adorned with intricate woodwork, elaborate tile fireplaces, and period furnishings. The mansion’s most unique feature is the Visby Window—a hand-blown, enamel-painted work of art depicting a scene from Swedish history.
The Turnblad family lived in the mansion only briefly, choosing eventually to reside in an apartment across the street. In 1929, Swan Turnblad made a generous decision to donate the mansion, along with his newspaper and personal collections, to establish what we now know as the American Swedish Institute. This gesture was aimed at preserving Swedish culture and fostering understanding between Sweden and the United States.
Over the years, the Institute has grown into a vibrant cultural center. It now includes the modern Nelson Cultural Center, completed in 2012, which adds gallery spaces, classrooms, and the acclaimed FIKA Café, renowned for its Nordic-inspired cuisine. The institute hosts a variety of exhibitions, cultural programs, and language classes that celebrate both historical and contemporary Swedish culture.
As you explore the American Swedish Institute, you’ll find stories of migration, cultural exchange, and artistic innovation coming to life, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Swedish-American history.
