House of Emigrants

Kronobergs län

The House of Emigrants (Utvandrarnas hus) is a museum located in Museiparken, Växjö, Kronoberg County, Sweden, dedicated to preserving and presenting the history of Swedish emigration, particularly to the United States and Canada between 1846 and 1930. Designed by architect Bent Jörgen Jörgensen and opened in 1968, the museum has undergone expansions in 1984 and 1998–1999. It houses extensive archives including original letters, diaries, photographs, and microfilm records of church books, serving as a vital resource for genealogical research. The museum features both permanent and temporary exhibitions, including displays on the phases of emigration and the contrasting realities of Sweden and America during that era. A notable exhibition room is dedicated to the works of Vilhelm Moberg, author of the famous "Emigrants" novels, showcasing photographs, original manuscripts, and artifacts. The museum also holds collections related to Swedish emigration to other countries such as Australia, New Zealand, and South America. The statue "Oskar and Kristina" by Axel Olsson stands prominently in the exhibition hall. Since 2015, the House of Emigrants has been part of Kulturparken Småland, continuing its mission through research activities and public engagement, including hosting exhibitions like "Hooverville – a forgotten history," which explores the lives of migrants in 1930s Seattle. The museum offers visitors a comprehensive and insightful experience into the Swedish emigrant experience and its cultural legacy.