Foundation Lilla Björka
When Elin Wägner was awarded a literary prize in 1923 (The Grand Prize of the Society of Nine), she bought a plot of pasture land on the outskirts of the village of Berg, 30 kilometres north of Växjö. Wägner’s uncle Alfred Ekedahl was the minister of the parish, and close by was the parish of Tolg where Wägner’s maternal grandfather had been dean. On the plot of land she built a house inspired by the traditional architecture of Småland, designed by the architect Carl Bergsten. Initially it functioned as her summer house, but it became her permanent residence in the 1930s and a pivotal point for a woman who travelled frequently as part of her work for peace, women, and the environment. The house as well as Wägner’s nephew Vanni were looked after by Linnéa Johansson, the house-keeper. Close to the main building is a ‘writer’s hut’. The architect of this was Simon Gate, the internationally renowned glass designer.
Following a successful campaign in autumn 1994, Lilla Björka was acquired by a foundation formed for this purpose. The house has been assessed by antiquarians and is now a historical monument, and the restoration of it is underway. The sitting-room has been returned to its original appearance with walls in greyish blue, woodwork in a dark glaze, and a silver ceiling. Wägner’s study on the upper floor again has wooden walls in ‘the red of the sticky catchfly [Lychnis viscaria]’ (according to Wägner’s niece Ria Wägner). The walls of the bedroom are blue. Linnéa’s room next to the kitchen now has genuine 1920s wallpaper.
The restoration of Lilla Björka is costly, and we hope we will continue to enjoy the help of all Wägner’s friends and supporters. Any sum is welcome.
A good way of supporting us is to buy the Lilla Björka portfolio with three wood-cuts by the artist Sven Ljungberg. The price is SEK 2,500, and virtually the whole of this sum goes direct to the restoration of Lilla Björka. You are also welcome to assist us by working in the house or the garden.
Visitors are welcome during the summer months, and also at other times of the year provided that prior arrangements have been made. We sell books, booklets and other items connected to Elin Wägner and the area. In July every year, we arrange an art exhibition. For information, ring +46-470-81614.
View the slideshow about Lilla Björka!
Support Lilla Björka: Bank giro account 5075-7624
Translator: Helena Forsås-Scott