Part of Luther College's beginning stages

Early Years

Else Elisabeth Hysing was born May 24, 1832 in Larvik, Norway to a distinguished, upper-class family. Although slightly deaf from childhood, this did not deter her education as she was privately tutored by teachers at her father’s school and also attended dance school. Elisabeth was married to Ulrik Vilhelm Koren on August 18, 1853. They left for America less than a month later.

Life in America

Elisabeth Koren (1832-1918) The Korens’ journey to American and their first two years in Northeast Iowa were recorded by Elisabeth Koren in her diary published in 1955. With courage and conviction, Elisabeth faced all the hardships pioneer life afforded and emerged to become the kind and accomplished mistress of the Washington Prairie parsonage until her death in 1918.

Other Information

Resources in the Luther College Archives

• Koren Family -- collected materials
• Luther College 1861-1961 by David T. Nelson

Works Referenced

• Nelson, David T., Luther College 1861-1961, Luther College Press, Decorah: 1961.
• Who's Who in the Luther College Archives

External Sources

• Luther College Archives