Description

Antique Swedish-language illustrated hardcover titled Skogsblommor 1909 (“Illustrerad Kalender”), printed in Chicago during the height of Swedish-American immigrant publishing in the early 20th century.

This decorative 1909 volume features ornate red cloth boards with gilt and silver stamping, floral and butterfly artwork, Scandinavian Art Nouveau-inspired design elements, and classic Swedish typography throughout. Printed by J. V. Martenson at 207 Oak Street in Chicago, the book represents an authentic piece of Swedish-American cultural and publishing history.

The contents include Swedish-language devotional, literary, poetic, and cultural material intended for Swedish immigrant households and communities in the United States. Of particular interest, the book includes an illustrated feature related to Helen Keller, including a photographic image credited to

The Whitman Studio and Century Magazine. The Swedish caption translates to “Helen Keller and the neighbor’s little boy are good friends.”

This combination of Scandinavian-American immigrant publishing, decorative binding design, and Helen Keller-related content makes the volume more distinctive than standard Swedish annuals from the era.

The book also retains a pencil previous owner inscription for “Hazel Wolin,” adding authentic period ownership character consistent with Swedish-American family provenance.

Condition shows age-related wear consistent with antique books of this era, including rubbing, discoloration, and handling wear to the cloth boards. Interior pages appear generally clean overall with light foxing and age toning present. Binding appears intact and stable.

The book has been personally inspected. It is clean with no writing and visible marks consistent with age and handling. The book will be securely poly bagged and shipped in a sturdy box. Handled and packed by a collector for collectors. Stored in a smoke-free environment. Fast shipping with tracking and careful packaging guaranteed.

Interesting Features

Includes early illustrated Helen Keller content

Printed in Chicago for Swedish-American immigrant communities

Decorative Scandinavian Art Nouveau-style binding

Swedish-language literary and devotional material

Early 20th century immigrant cultural publication

Retains original decorative cloth binding and metallic stamping

Previous owner inscription “Hazel Wolin”

Keywords

Skogsblommor, Swedish Book, Helen Keller, Swedish Americana, Scandinavian Book, Immigrant History, Chicago Swedish Publishing, Illustrerad Kalender, Antique Swedish Book, Scandinavian Collectible, Decorative Binding, Art Nouveau Book, Century Magazine, Disability History, Nordic Book