The story of Else Margrethe Andersen (nee Petersen)
Denmark
Else Petersen was born in Bringstrup, Denmark in 1933. She was the youngest of six children. They were orphaned at a young age and Else was raised by her aunt and uncle.
Her childhood was so miserable that she sometimes escaped to the cemetery to weep on her parents' gravestones. But even then, Else was feisty, determined and organized.
She got a job delivering milk before school each morning. She saved to buy her own confirmation clothes. Then she saved for her very own silverware and china, a young woman's symbols of independence.
Love and Marriage
Elsie met Carl-Ove Andersen in 1948 and they were married four years later. By 1957, they had two children and were on their way to Edmonton, Canada where Carl-Ove's uncle lived. Opportunities seemed better there.
Canada
The language barrier made travel difficult. In Winnipeg, Carl-Ove got off the train to send a telegram, while Else and the children stayed on the train. The train switched tracks. Would Carl-Ove be left behind? Luckily, the train stopped and he managed to find them.
Adjusting to life in Canada wasn't easy but practical help came from many sources. Ansgar Danish Lutheran Church offered useful advice and many opportunities to meet other newcomers from Denmark. Else and Carl-Ove soon made new friends.
A Happy Home
The family lived with Carl-Ove's uncle until they rented a suite. By 1966, they had four children and a house of their own.
Years ago, forlorn little Else prayed for a loving family and a happy home. By God's grace––and a lot of hard work––her prayers have been fulfilled.
Adapted from the 2005 Heritage Book,with permission from the Federation of Danish Associations in Canada
More Immigrant Stories:
• You've seen gravestones, but have you seen our stendysse (dolmen)?
• Will Carl-Ove Andersen's English lessons help him decipher the new code?
