On October 9th, 1891, "Nordisk Tidende advertised:
"Wilhelm Fischer and Johan Zavier will hold on Tuesday, October 20th, at precisely 8:00 in the evening, a Concert, evening entertainment, and big ball in Poul Schouw's fairground, 183 8th Street, near 4th Avenue. Tickets at 25 cents are available at the entrance and at I. F. Iverson, 297 Columbia St." This may refer to Austrian musicologist Wilhelm Fischer, though I have not yet found information on Mr. Zavier. |
On January 29th, 1892, "Nordisk Tidende" announced:
"The United Scandinavian Singing Societies of New York, Brooklyn, & Vicinity give Saturday, February 6th, 1892, at 8:00 in the evening, at Tammany Hall, 14th Street near 3rd Avenue, New York, their big Masquerade Ball. After the unmasking, which takes place at 12:00, the whole choir, consisting of 125 voices, sings. Anyone who purchases a ticket is eligible to enter the raffle for a large oil painting, worth $150. The raffle and the handing over of this valuable item takes place during the evening. This party will be something Non Plus Ultra, and the ticket price is just 50 cents. By arrangement with P. H. Hatfield, 294 Bowery, New York, and Wustl & Son, 27 Smith Street, Brooklyn, the public may, by exhibiting the U.S.S.S. Masquerade ball tickets, get costumes at a reduced price. Tickets are available at the following locations: ... -The Committee." Interestingly, the list of ticket sites is not familiar to me from other lists of shops in the surrounding years. Perhaps most of the ticketers were members of the singing society rather than shop owners, but I have not yet investigated this question. |
On July 1st, 1892, "Nordisk Tidende" reported on a series of streetcar accidents:
"Since the modern mode of electric transportation has been established here in Brooklyn, not so few accidents have occurred. Apart from the many poor horses that have had to pay with their lives due to the indifference of the ignorant and careless "gripmen" [cable car operators], a short time ago a minor daughter was injured and transferred to our compatriot Mr. Thompson, 261 Hamilton Avenue. The same person was unfortunate enough that for approximately two years ago he lost his little son through a tram runover. The last accident was fortunate, but presumably Mr. Thompson will still try to remind these million-dollar companies that the streets of Brooklyn are also for people other than the electric cars. It was by a hair's breadth that a major accident did not occur last Sunday in 3rd Avenue between 26th and 30th Streets. 'Nordisk Tidende's' publisher [Emil Nielsen], in the company of bookseller Mr. Iverson of Columbia Street, as well as two other compatriots, were on a little trip to fort Hamilton, when one of these huge black Hamilton Avenue cars ran into us with such force that all drive rods placed under the cars were crushed to atoms. These bars were the real saviors of the lives and limbs of the many passengers on board. Hopefully, the many disposals of the company's assets will spur the company to a more cautious election seal." [From a quick search, I believe an election seal is a safety component of streetcars.] |
A similar ad was taken out on May 26th, 1893, but with higher prices!
"Brooklyn and N.Y. Rooms for Rent. 4 rooms $10.50; 4 rooms $11.00; 4 rooms $11.00; 3 rooms $11.00; at I. F. Iverson, 297 Columbin St., Brooklyn." Based on comparison to city directories from that time, some of the rooms MIGHT have been letted to Otto Wickman (porter), and John and Michael O'Donnell (laborers). |
tOn February 23rd, 1894, "Nordisk Tidende" announced an upcoming masquerade with Magic Lantern show that sounds absolutely amazing:
"The Masquerade - March 22. At this apartment, the last 3 years of events before the Norwegian colony will pass revue, in the form of slides produced through a Magic Lantern show. Among the well-known events are highlighted: - Doctor Volckmar's lymph, obtained from Doctor Cock in Berlin. - The Seamen's Home's unforgettable water (and brandy) excursion and the resulting extortion case of the sinful $100 (hereby presenting counterparties Captain Ullenæss and the beer boss Chas. Riecken). - The Vikings committee's trip to Newport. (The three adventurers barber Engelsen, Otto Amundsen, and cigar manufacturer Fossum.) - A meeting of the Seamen's Association. - Apothecary Tengelsen's china wine. - Bookseller Iverson's steamship and railway tickets (cheapest in the world). - The historic lobster claw in all shades. - The consulate case and the two unforgettable shirts. - The Sailors' Home as an institution. - A night in Hamilton Avenue police station. - And much more that will be published later." [I suspect the above were a list of pictures that were included in the show, because the reference to "steamship and railway tickets at lowest rates" appears in the family photograph we have of Iver's store. In the future I will look for a picture of the Seamen's Association meeting; Iver was co-vice-president of that organization.] |
A full-page ad for the masquerade appeared in the "Nordisk Tidende" throughout March, 1894. It reads:
"The end of the world must take place, according to Professor Palm's Prediction, November 13th, 1899, but the one big masquerade, which is held in Feltmann's amusement park, for income for own Norwegian Community Center, Thursday, March 22nd, 1894, will fully replace the loss of the sinful valley of woe in which we live. Only a part of the program needs to be highlighted, of which the elegant slides that are shown should be particularly noted. The ones listed here are: [see list from the previous section on this webpage]. The procession so pompously known from 'Nordiske Blade,' which consists of Emil Nielsen of 'Nordisk Tidende' riding a white elephant, afterwards Martin, publisher of 'Nordiske Blade,' goes barefoot and dressed in sackcloth and ashes, carrying the money on a gold plate. The procession, in which all take part, is opened by mounted police, and moves to the music of 'Ifjor gjæt eg Jeita.' After the presentation of the money, which rightfully belongs to Emil, the music plays a chorus while the two editors fall on each other's necks and shed 5 gallons of crocodile tears, which are bottled and distributed as souvenir for each participant. We assume that this celebration will be a unique event in the history of the colony, which will strengthen and preserve the national life and be remembered to the most distant times." |
On March 30th, 1894, "Nordisk Tidene" reported on the masquerade fundraiser held at Feltmann's (part of Coney Island):
"The Masquerade at Feltmann's Amusement Park on Thursday the 22nd was not nearly as well attended as one was entitled to demand; after all, this undertaking was to be a collective effort with a result thereafter. The unfortunate pouring rain, however, also bears a good part of the blame. But the audience that was present was, in return, drawn from the best circles of our colony. The ambitious program was carried out with all precision and was received with lively applause, in some cases with outright enthusiasm. The many slides brought the assembly surprise after surprise, and best of all came the humorous elephant procession, which is regarded as the best of the whole. During the presentation of the slides mentioned, however, there was one that did not receive any applause, and that was our consul's. That man always seems to be anything but popular. As for the various masks, many were both extremely beautiful and characteristic. Great admiration was thus aroused by a women's costume consisting of the pure Norwegian flag in fresh colors and tastefully arranged with the cross on the front. It has since been known to belong to Mrs. Iverson at 297 Columbia Street. Furthermore, there was a kind of manifestation of the adoption of the Bergen Railway, which was also striking, carried by the two young gentlemen Prahl and Blehr, together with a third man. In that whole roof, it was a party that Norwegians on the square in every direction may be familiar, so the underhand agitation which was previously driven towards the masquerade, and the mischief, which in the name of God and heaven is now set in motion from the same side, can be taken very easily. [I'm not sure on the translation of that sentence.] The first step to our own meeting house has been taken, however small, and that is the main thing. Among those present were Pastor Simonsen of the present Norwegian Methodist Congregation and a few parishioners of the same." |
On June 29th, 1894, "Nordisk Tidende" reported on a celebration with esteemed community members at Feltmann's Coney Island. I believe "St. Hansfest" may refer to Sankt Hans Eve, a Danish celebration for St. John the Baptist and the Summer Solstice. I believe John J. McKane refers to John Y. McKane, original founder/owner of Coney Island.
"Feltmann's Pavilion at Coney Island. Directly opposite Sea Beach railway station and only a few minutes from the electric tram stop lies the beautiful amusement park of the above name. Here also the central committee held its St. Hansfest on the 24th, and on Thursday and yesterday the actual opening of the square for the summer took place. Sir Feltmann had very generously provided a lot of Scandinavians with free tickets for both the ball and the railway trip, and not a few took advantage of the opportunity. A number of Feltmann's personal friends as well as representatives of the press had arrived, and when one took their seats at the richly covered tables, could be seen among the gentlemen present: inspector McLoughlin, police captain Early, police commissioners Welles and Harmon, Henry Keiser, Geo. A. Buckholz, George W. Willis, Frank W. Ayer, A. E. Sandel, Albert Klopfer, George A. King, Elias P. Clayton, Elmer E. Johnson, Casper Korter, the well-known salon owner Charles Peters, bookseller Iverson, 'Nordisk Tidende,' and many more. The dishes were exquisite, and the wines the oldest and of the best variety. Even when John J. McKane and his followers were present at the opening ceremony, there was nowhere near such a cordial atmosphere as now at this apartment." |
A three-column story written by "Nordisk Tidende's" lead newspaper editor Emil Nielsen appeared on the front page of that same paper on July 13th, 1894. From the article, we perceive something of the personality of Emil and his friend Iver, who engaged in a bit of humorous fun while allowing the community to believe false rumors that they had set sail for Norway! A translation of the story is provided below the image.
On Adventure: The Danish colony sends "Nordisk Tidende" and bookseller I. F. Iverson to Norway.
“Gentlemen, now the landing is being taken, and those who are not going to be with us must hurry ashore," said the accountant on "Amerika" [a ship set to sail from Brooklyn to Norway] to us when we last Saturday over a good glass of wine and a cigar sat and chatted with quite a few familiar countrymen who were to “go home” [to Norway]. It was both unfortunate and unpleasant, for there was still three-quarters of the bottle left, and as two of the party were temperance men and there were five of us in all, there were of course only three left to wash down the rest. Iver, however, is bright-headed, and with his usual quick-witted thinking ability he exclaims, "We'll go to Sandy Hook, boy!" [Note: this might be Red Hook, which is a section of Brooklyn.]
In the blink of an eye, the "Individual" [presumably Mr. Nielsen] climbs the stairs to the command bridge, and after obtaining the captain's and pilot's permission, we devoured the remains of the bottle.
"Gentlemen," said lawyer Johan Hvoslef, who was on board and was to visit Bergen [a city in Norway], "now we'll have a fresh bottle! It was nice that you went along."
"Away from the line, Nielsen," said Iver! "Let those who stand ashore believe that we are going to Norway. Within an hour the telegraph goes in Brooklyn." As said, so done.
"Hoorah, goodbye."
"We'll be back tonight," said Iver, but there was probably no-one who believed.
Now! "Amerika" swung out from the pier, and across the river it bore away.
It was a magnificent voyage. We came without further ado to Sandy Hook, and when the pilot disembarked onto the schooner #11 (station boat), both Iver and I followed afterwards.
The "Amerika" steamed on [to Norway], while we made ourselves as comfortable as possible, waiting for a "tug" or other vessel to come and take us ashore. We spent a few pleasant hours with the men in the pilot boat, and especially found the man who had piloted the "Amerika" out, Mr. Sinnison, a most pleasant man.
We had, however, to see to it that we got ashore to our dear Brooklyn compatriots, whom we saw in spirit walking and crying in Columbia St. over our prolonged absence. Before long a "catboat" came into sight, it was hailed, and for good words and payment we got the skipper to take us to Gravesend Beach. In the company of a party of codfish and other sea dwellers [?], who were presumably also on pleasure boats, the trip went to Gravesend, where we landed safely. The joy of finding ourselves once again on dry land was connected with a rather insatiable thirst. Instead of thanking God for the journey, as Columbus did when he landed ashore, we immediately held a council of war as to how to quench our thirst as quickly as possible, and Iver again showed his ability, in a tight turn, to find the best ideas.
The course was set for Ulmer Park, where we two castaways were received with open arms and all the hospitality that distinguishes an American waiter when he gets a few cents in tip. After strengthening ourselves with a few cups of the foamy hop juice, commonly called lagerbeer, the journey continued per trolleycar to Brooklyn, where our arrival aroused great and profound joy at the happy salvation. There was even talk of holding a tea party [?] at Hammerstad's. Thus ended the voyage to Sandy Hook, and brought us, besides a pleasant day, the satisfaction of knowing that we were embraced by the colony with an interest which could not be greater if President Cleveland himself had gone alligator hunting in Florida. He, poor fellow, as is well known, cannot move without people having their noses in where he goes.
*
This was a brief history in its true form. And then it happened that one of this magazine's editorial staff was to be heading home that evening, and he was very surprised to be inundated with questions from all corners of the world about what was going on with Emil Nielsen and I. F. Iverson, where both onboard “Amerika” had escaped -- to Norway!
First was that Mr. Iverson was seen on board with a top-hat on his head, and Mr. Nielsen with a white straw hat, both wearing ordinary dress otherwise; but as the event passed the revue, the two otherwise well-known personalities assumed one marvelous form after another, until finally they were said to be seen in yachting suits with flannel shirts and all other accessories. The feather had turned into both an adult and a very fat hen.
And on and on the rumor went like an avalanche. That a guy from a leaf [magazine] stung off could be understood, but that bookseller Iverson did the same?! No, it was incomprehensible! But about one thing everyone agreed, and that was that it were anything other than honorable reasons that had caused the flight. Where the many millions they had snatched away was not known, but there could be no doubt that they were satisfied, since they had even shown the audacity to go out to the rally [waving from the ship] and appear at the same time the ship left the pier.
In short, there was not a man who did not know [about the rumor], and when an expressman arrived who could testify that he had carried Iverson’s luggage in the form of a huge load of suitcases, the whole puzzle was solved. Fleeing they were! For some it was a consolation; now they were finally rid of the of the “Individual” and thus “Nordisk Tidende;” at last the leaf [magazine] was finished. That this had to happen sooner or later was known, but the moment came unexpectedly.
Then people languished and suffered throughout the evening, and the fugitives returned, but no-one knew how. In the end, however, a witty head of foreign affairs came out and said that a well-known Norwegian, who had been here since May 17, had requisitioned a monitor to catch up with "Amerika" and bring the refugees back.
It's not good to know whether to laugh or cry over the whole comedy. In any case, what has happened should be a consolation for all those who now and then come into the public's mouth, for by this one example you can see where gossip leads. There is talk until finally one cannot recognize oneself, and like blessed Jeppe on the mountain [referring to a 1722 play by Ludvig Holberg] you must pinch yourself by the arm and ask: Is it me or not me?
As guidance for the next pain, it can be noted that Mr. Iverson and Nielsen, as Experiment No. 2 for the enjoyment of the colony, will let themselves be run over by an express train, fall from the observation tower on Coney Island, and finally stand on their heads and spin around at the top of the tower at the Worlds building in New York.
*
Based on some quick research, I found that Ulmer Park opened in 1893 along Gravesand Bay beach. It was a popular fun destination with a pier, boats, beer garden, carousel, swings, rifle range, dance pavilion, and other amusements. It was accessible by several streetcars/trolleys. It closed some time between 1900 and 1915 as Coney Island became more popular. Below are a couple of sketches of Ulmer Park in its heyday:
“Gentlemen, now the landing is being taken, and those who are not going to be with us must hurry ashore," said the accountant on "Amerika" [a ship set to sail from Brooklyn to Norway] to us when we last Saturday over a good glass of wine and a cigar sat and chatted with quite a few familiar countrymen who were to “go home” [to Norway]. It was both unfortunate and unpleasant, for there was still three-quarters of the bottle left, and as two of the party were temperance men and there were five of us in all, there were of course only three left to wash down the rest. Iver, however, is bright-headed, and with his usual quick-witted thinking ability he exclaims, "We'll go to Sandy Hook, boy!" [Note: this might be Red Hook, which is a section of Brooklyn.]
In the blink of an eye, the "Individual" [presumably Mr. Nielsen] climbs the stairs to the command bridge, and after obtaining the captain's and pilot's permission, we devoured the remains of the bottle.
"Gentlemen," said lawyer Johan Hvoslef, who was on board and was to visit Bergen [a city in Norway], "now we'll have a fresh bottle! It was nice that you went along."
"Away from the line, Nielsen," said Iver! "Let those who stand ashore believe that we are going to Norway. Within an hour the telegraph goes in Brooklyn." As said, so done.
"Hoorah, goodbye."
"We'll be back tonight," said Iver, but there was probably no-one who believed.
Now! "Amerika" swung out from the pier, and across the river it bore away.
It was a magnificent voyage. We came without further ado to Sandy Hook, and when the pilot disembarked onto the schooner #11 (station boat), both Iver and I followed afterwards.
The "Amerika" steamed on [to Norway], while we made ourselves as comfortable as possible, waiting for a "tug" or other vessel to come and take us ashore. We spent a few pleasant hours with the men in the pilot boat, and especially found the man who had piloted the "Amerika" out, Mr. Sinnison, a most pleasant man.
We had, however, to see to it that we got ashore to our dear Brooklyn compatriots, whom we saw in spirit walking and crying in Columbia St. over our prolonged absence. Before long a "catboat" came into sight, it was hailed, and for good words and payment we got the skipper to take us to Gravesend Beach. In the company of a party of codfish and other sea dwellers [?], who were presumably also on pleasure boats, the trip went to Gravesend, where we landed safely. The joy of finding ourselves once again on dry land was connected with a rather insatiable thirst. Instead of thanking God for the journey, as Columbus did when he landed ashore, we immediately held a council of war as to how to quench our thirst as quickly as possible, and Iver again showed his ability, in a tight turn, to find the best ideas.
The course was set for Ulmer Park, where we two castaways were received with open arms and all the hospitality that distinguishes an American waiter when he gets a few cents in tip. After strengthening ourselves with a few cups of the foamy hop juice, commonly called lagerbeer, the journey continued per trolleycar to Brooklyn, where our arrival aroused great and profound joy at the happy salvation. There was even talk of holding a tea party [?] at Hammerstad's. Thus ended the voyage to Sandy Hook, and brought us, besides a pleasant day, the satisfaction of knowing that we were embraced by the colony with an interest which could not be greater if President Cleveland himself had gone alligator hunting in Florida. He, poor fellow, as is well known, cannot move without people having their noses in where he goes.
*
This was a brief history in its true form. And then it happened that one of this magazine's editorial staff was to be heading home that evening, and he was very surprised to be inundated with questions from all corners of the world about what was going on with Emil Nielsen and I. F. Iverson, where both onboard “Amerika” had escaped -- to Norway!
First was that Mr. Iverson was seen on board with a top-hat on his head, and Mr. Nielsen with a white straw hat, both wearing ordinary dress otherwise; but as the event passed the revue, the two otherwise well-known personalities assumed one marvelous form after another, until finally they were said to be seen in yachting suits with flannel shirts and all other accessories. The feather had turned into both an adult and a very fat hen.
And on and on the rumor went like an avalanche. That a guy from a leaf [magazine] stung off could be understood, but that bookseller Iverson did the same?! No, it was incomprehensible! But about one thing everyone agreed, and that was that it were anything other than honorable reasons that had caused the flight. Where the many millions they had snatched away was not known, but there could be no doubt that they were satisfied, since they had even shown the audacity to go out to the rally [waving from the ship] and appear at the same time the ship left the pier.
In short, there was not a man who did not know [about the rumor], and when an expressman arrived who could testify that he had carried Iverson’s luggage in the form of a huge load of suitcases, the whole puzzle was solved. Fleeing they were! For some it was a consolation; now they were finally rid of the of the “Individual” and thus “Nordisk Tidende;” at last the leaf [magazine] was finished. That this had to happen sooner or later was known, but the moment came unexpectedly.
Then people languished and suffered throughout the evening, and the fugitives returned, but no-one knew how. In the end, however, a witty head of foreign affairs came out and said that a well-known Norwegian, who had been here since May 17, had requisitioned a monitor to catch up with "Amerika" and bring the refugees back.
It's not good to know whether to laugh or cry over the whole comedy. In any case, what has happened should be a consolation for all those who now and then come into the public's mouth, for by this one example you can see where gossip leads. There is talk until finally one cannot recognize oneself, and like blessed Jeppe on the mountain [referring to a 1722 play by Ludvig Holberg] you must pinch yourself by the arm and ask: Is it me or not me?
As guidance for the next pain, it can be noted that Mr. Iverson and Nielsen, as Experiment No. 2 for the enjoyment of the colony, will let themselves be run over by an express train, fall from the observation tower on Coney Island, and finally stand on their heads and spin around at the top of the tower at the Worlds building in New York.
*
Based on some quick research, I found that Ulmer Park opened in 1893 along Gravesand Bay beach. It was a popular fun destination with a pier, boats, beer garden, carousel, swings, rifle range, dance pavilion, and other amusements. It was accessible by several streetcars/trolleys. It closed some time between 1900 and 1915 as Coney Island became more popular. Below are a couple of sketches of Ulmer Park in its heyday:
On December 7th, 1894, the "Nordisk Tidende" described a lovely birthday celebration for Iver's wife Elen:
"Mrs. I. F. Iverson, 297 Columbia St., also had a nice beautiful time at the home last Monday. Then it was namely her birthday, but as ladies as a rule never wish that their age is indicated in newspapers, we shall confine ourselves to congratulating (although it is late) and wish that Mrs. Iverson must live long and rejoice in her husband, their dear child, and as the crown: an intelligent, old mother-in-law." |
On February 1st, 1895, "Nordisk Tidende" published on the baptism of baby Ethele Augusta Borch:
"Baptism. Mr. Oluf Borch and Mrs. Augusta Borch, 348 16th Street, Brooklyn, had their child’s baptism on Sunday, January 27th, at their home. The godparents were the grandparents Mr. C. B. Borch, Senior and his wife; I. F. Iverson and his wife; and Harald Borch, Junior. Pastor Everson named the little one Ethele Augusta. It is the parents' first-born, and the joy in the home was manifested in the richest ways. Many of Oluf Borch's and his wife's friends and acquaintances also send the couple their best wishes. Mrs. Borch is a sister of the singer Ferd. Kean, Chicago, at this time publisher and editor of ‘Sang og Idraet.’ Ferd. Kean belongs to the Nordmændene Sangforening (Norwegian Singing Association) in Chicago." I have not been able to find further information on Mr. Ferd. Kean. However, Iver appeared to have a close friendship with the Borch family. He was a reference/witness for Harold Borch's citizenship petition in 1896. According to the early 1890s Brooklyn city directories, Harold Borch (grocer) and his sons Harold, Junior, and Olaf (Clerk) lived at 81 President Street, and their grocery was at 93, presumably next door to Iver's store at 95. In 1892, their grocery was located at 261 President, which became the bookstore location in 1898. I believe the "C. B. Borch" in the article above is a typo for Harold Borch, Senior. Also, the city directory uses the spellings "Harold" and "Olaf," vs. "Harald" and "Ulaf" in this newspaper article. |
Also on February 1st, 1895, "Nordisk Tidende" reported:
"'Det norske Broderbaand' (The Norwegian Brotherhood) has these days, through bookseller I. F. Iverson, ordered a new supply of books for its library to the value of $20.00. 'Broderbaandet' is the only Norwegian association in Brooklyn that has a library, and even a particularly fine book collection, which now includes approximately 200 volumes, all excellent works by the best writers of the time. This is an example that deserves emulation. We have several larger and more affluent associations among us, which still lack what a valuable book collection represents. And we shall put this in the hearts/minds of other corporations. It is strange, therefore, with what diligence the members of the said association make more and more use of their book tax. At the meetings, the librarian, Mr. C. Olsen at 282 State Street, his hands full both before and after the negotiations. As far as our other associations are concerned, we believe we can say, without offending anyone, that each of them have on many occasions used funds for lesser purposes than this." |
On March 5th, 1895, "Nordisk Tidende" reported an unusual occurrence:
"A Strange Trophy – or – Letter per Wind and Dare. From Kristiania express agency received bookseller I. F. Iverson yesterday a letter, the strange appearance of which will be sufficiently evident from the following, which was stuck to the outside of the envelope: 'New York Post Office, January 5th, 1895: This letter, which arrived by the steamer Aurania on the 3rd, existed floating in the Atlantic from the wreck of the steamship Elbe. - Chas. W. Dayton, postmaster.'" |
On June 21st, 1895, the "Nordisk Tidende" mentioned: "Last Saturday found mother, wife, and husband himself, I. F. Iverson, 283 Columbia St., in good spirits. The joy concerned the only grandchild and child, young Iver’s [Arthur Louis'] 12th birthday. It is so nice about that. Children do anyway make the home bright and loving."
|
On August 9th, 1895, "Nordiske Tidende" published an announcement clarifying that Iverson was not the target of a previous article! From a quick search I could not find the original article in question.
"Required Correction. Due to malicious insinuations that have arisen, prompted by a dispute between this magazine's publisher and an arch-antagonist of the former, who on several occasions have acted against this magazine’s publisher, we must most culpably and in an amicable way inform that the charges, emerged in the heat of battle, were not against Mr. I. F. Iverson, 283 Columbia St., Brooklyn, nor anyone else in the same street who conducts business of a similar kind. Our statements read: ‘There are in this moment,’ etc. This is for the information of those who have made a big deal of the affair. Brooklyn, Aug. 9, ‘95. ‘Nordiske Tidende” publisher." |
On December 27th, 1895, "Nordisk Tidende" reports on a gift received by Iver's mother Johanne:
"To Norway's noble daughter. To the widow Iverson, bookseller I. F. Iverson's mother, a colored card, presenting Norway's right to a clean flag [this is in reference to separating it from the Swedish flag], arrived as a Christmas present from Norway, in a beautiful way. A mountain farmer in national dress holds the tricolor flag on a pole in his hand. Next to it, a beautiful river meanders through the beautiful landscape and disappears into the distance. The following original words were written on the back of the card: To you, you brave daughter of Norway! I know you this land treasures, I know the heart in you is burning At the sight of the brand that you know. -R.C. Mrs. Iverson is over 70 years old and was born in Sogn." [I do not know which friend or relation is R.C.] |
On March 6th, 1896, "Nordisk Tidende" advertised for the Norwegian Association's 25th anniversary celebration:
"25 Year Anniversary. The Norwegian Association in New York celebrates its 25th anniversary on Saturday, March 14, 1896 in Teutonia Assembly Rooms, 3rd Ave. between 15th and 16th Streets, entrance from 16th street. Music: song by the Norwegian Glee Cub of Brooklyn. Speeches on the occasion of the day for Norway, America etc. Reading of the association's history. Party soups with ball. [Maybe this is dumplings?] Music by Prof. Winge's orchestra. Tickets for men and women 50 cents, soup 75 cents. Opens at 7:30 in the evening. Tickets are available from Mr. Norman, Teugelsen and Iverson." |
On June 12th, 1896, the "Nordiske Tidende" reported:
"Tollef G. Fuglestad, a relative of Mrs. I. F. Iverson, was here on a visit the other day. Mr. Fuglestad runs a large construction business in Everett, near Boston, and we will probably pay him a visit when we travel to Boston next week. Iverson's 13-year-old son Louis accompanied his relative, for a summer stay with him." Mrs. Iverson (Ellen) was the only child in her nuclear family surviving to adulthood, since her only sibling had died in childhood. From the family tree research I have done, I have not yet found any connections with the Fuglestads, though they could be connected through marriage to the Teslis. Ellen's mother Ingeborg Tesli had four siblings and I have not yet traced their descendants. |
Shortly after, on June 26th, "Nordisk Tidende" editor Emil Nielsen submitted a lengthy article, titled "Boston - Brev.," detailing his visit to Boston. I have translated only a small portion of it here:
"I was well received by the members of the singing association, who all strove to make it as pleasant as possible for me. In the evening of the same day, I was invited by a member of the association, Mr. Sevald Fuglestad, a brother of the builder Fuglestad in Everett mentioned earlier in this paper, whose wife is related to Mrs. I. F. Iverson, and who is currently on a summer trip in Norway, to his parents, who live in Cambridge. The father, Johan A. Fuglestad, was born in Ekersund, Norway, in 1835, and the large family, which numbers a total of 20 members, namely husband, wife, 14 sons and 4 daughters, all live in Boston. They all have very different positions in life; for example, one of the sons, Andrew, is a good painter, particularly skilled in color work, and earns good money. He, like the eldest brother, the master builder, each has his own neat house, which they themselves had built and of which they are the owners. The eldest daughter lives with the first, who is married and is 34 years old. I dined this evening with the family in Cambridge and I hereby express my heartfelt thanks to them, just as the ‘Nordmændenes Sangforening’ (Norwegian Singing Association) will long be remembered by me for their kindness and attention." |
On July 17th, 1896, the "Nordisk Tidende" announced:
"Bookseller I. F. Iverson has now equipped his new home at 150 Carroll St., and the whole house occupied by him and his family alone offers a comfortable family home. However, he still has room for a few bachelors who wish to live in a fashionable street for cheap rent." Based on comparison to city directories from that time, some of the rooms MIGHT have been letted to Harry Loeveridge. |
On July 24th, 1896, "Nordisk Tidende" wrote:
"Mrs. Iverson, the mother of bookseller I. F. Iverson, celebrated her 76th birthday on Wednesday. She was born in Voss, Norway, and is yet another woman fresh in life and spirit, who can put her gender to shame in many areas. In particular, she is an admirer of Ivar Aasen and Arne Garborg, the latter of whom lived in her home as a student. 'Nordisk Tidede' offers our best wishes." The "Iverson in Norway" page on this site describes Johanne's time as a headmistress at Tofte's Gave in Oslo. According to Wikipedia, Ivar Aarsen was a philologist and lexicographer "best known for having assembled one of the two official written versions of the Norwegian language, Nynorsk," and Ivar "single-handedly created a new language for Norway to become the 'literary' language." Also according to Wikipedia, Arne Garborg was a writer who established two newspapers and translated "The Odyssey" into Nynorsk. The Garborg Center, a museum and educational building, was opened in Norway in 2012. https://www.jaermuseet.no/garborgsenteret/en/about-garborgsenteret/ |
On March 19th, 1897, an ad in "Nordisk Tidende" announced:
"Large hall room with free entrance, access to parlor for one or two gentlemen in 283 Columbia St., top floor. Washing and ironing are also accepted." At this time, the Iverson home was at 150 Carroll while the bookstore was still at 283 Columbia, so I am not at all confident whether Iver was the party letting this room. |
On September 10th, 1897, "Nordisk Tidende" reported on the contentious burial of a local Norwegian man:
"Sigvard Eriksen. No peace in his grave. Important documents on this occasion.
To the editors of 'Nordisk Tidende':
On the occasion of the funeral of the late Sigvard Eriksen, mentioned in your esteemed magazine last week, I must ask for space for the following information:
The deceased was in his time admitted to The Home for Consumptives under the name William Eriksen, which is why I use this name hereafter.
When Mrs. Randi Hansen informed me on Sunday, August 29th, that William Eriksen probably did not have long to live, that he had no relatives and few friends here, and that she did not have the means to pay for the funeral, I promised her that I would see to it that he had an honorable burial, but I had to be informed of his death in a timely fashion. The reason why I promised this was partly that I had known the deceased in his better days in Tromsö and partly that I felt it as a moral obligation, since I was at one time helpful in getting him placed in The Home for Consumptives.
That same Sunday evening Eriksen died, and the following Monday afternoon at approximately 5 o'clock the body was picked up by the City Undertaker and buried at Kings County Farms. About an hour after the body was collected, Mrs. Randi Hansen came to me and announced the incident, and that was the first message I had of William Eriksen's death. The good lady was very angry with me on the same occasion and claimed that I must have been notified earlier in the day. However, it was now too late to act.
Herewith follows a statement from the man who was sent from the hospital to find Eriksen's acquaintances:
Brooklyn, N.Y. Sept. 3, 1897. This is to certify that I am the messenger sent by The Home for Consumptives to notify friends of William Eriksen of his death at said home August 29 at 11.45 PM. I saw Miss Christensen of 10 Woodhull Street and Mr. Iverson of 283 Columbia Street, but did not see and did not try to find Mr. Tengelsen of 129 Hamilton Avenue.
- William Magee. Signed in my presence, I. F. Iverson.
Herewith follows a further statement from the home's board that there was no telephone conversation between us on the occasion:
Brooklyn, N. Y. Sept. 6, 1897. This is to certify that there was no telephone correspondence between The Home for Consumptives and Mr. J. T. Tengelsen regarding the death and burial of deceased William Eriksen.
- Mrs. M. E. MacNamee, Assistant Matron
I hope there is no-one who doubts that I would have grieved for William Eriksen's funeral if I had received the notice in time, and even the good lady should be able to realize that I have been unfairly treated here.
- J. T. Tengelsen, Brooklyn, N. Y., Sept. 6, '97
*
We can also fully agree with the testimony of the above, as we have personally convinced ourselves of the truth of Mr. Tengelsen's words.
However, to quote Tengelsen's own words, that he has promised to take care of Eriksen's funeral, it is advisable that this should yet happen.
From what we have learned, it will not cost more than $25 to take the deceased out of the grave on the Kings County Farm, and place him in what is called 'consecrated' ground.
Presumably this is also Mr. Tengelsen's opinion, but we have not yet heard anything regarding its implementation."
"Sigvard Eriksen. No peace in his grave. Important documents on this occasion.
To the editors of 'Nordisk Tidende':
On the occasion of the funeral of the late Sigvard Eriksen, mentioned in your esteemed magazine last week, I must ask for space for the following information:
The deceased was in his time admitted to The Home for Consumptives under the name William Eriksen, which is why I use this name hereafter.
When Mrs. Randi Hansen informed me on Sunday, August 29th, that William Eriksen probably did not have long to live, that he had no relatives and few friends here, and that she did not have the means to pay for the funeral, I promised her that I would see to it that he had an honorable burial, but I had to be informed of his death in a timely fashion. The reason why I promised this was partly that I had known the deceased in his better days in Tromsö and partly that I felt it as a moral obligation, since I was at one time helpful in getting him placed in The Home for Consumptives.
That same Sunday evening Eriksen died, and the following Monday afternoon at approximately 5 o'clock the body was picked up by the City Undertaker and buried at Kings County Farms. About an hour after the body was collected, Mrs. Randi Hansen came to me and announced the incident, and that was the first message I had of William Eriksen's death. The good lady was very angry with me on the same occasion and claimed that I must have been notified earlier in the day. However, it was now too late to act.
Herewith follows a statement from the man who was sent from the hospital to find Eriksen's acquaintances:
Brooklyn, N.Y. Sept. 3, 1897. This is to certify that I am the messenger sent by The Home for Consumptives to notify friends of William Eriksen of his death at said home August 29 at 11.45 PM. I saw Miss Christensen of 10 Woodhull Street and Mr. Iverson of 283 Columbia Street, but did not see and did not try to find Mr. Tengelsen of 129 Hamilton Avenue.
- William Magee. Signed in my presence, I. F. Iverson.
Herewith follows a further statement from the home's board that there was no telephone conversation between us on the occasion:
Brooklyn, N. Y. Sept. 6, 1897. This is to certify that there was no telephone correspondence between The Home for Consumptives and Mr. J. T. Tengelsen regarding the death and burial of deceased William Eriksen.
- Mrs. M. E. MacNamee, Assistant Matron
I hope there is no-one who doubts that I would have grieved for William Eriksen's funeral if I had received the notice in time, and even the good lady should be able to realize that I have been unfairly treated here.
- J. T. Tengelsen, Brooklyn, N. Y., Sept. 6, '97
*
We can also fully agree with the testimony of the above, as we have personally convinced ourselves of the truth of Mr. Tengelsen's words.
However, to quote Tengelsen's own words, that he has promised to take care of Eriksen's funeral, it is advisable that this should yet happen.
From what we have learned, it will not cost more than $25 to take the deceased out of the grave on the Kings County Farm, and place him in what is called 'consecrated' ground.
Presumably this is also Mr. Tengelsen's opinion, but we have not yet heard anything regarding its implementation."
On September 17th, 1897, "Nordisk Tidende" reported a remarkable adventure in which a group of professional Norwegian men attempted to have priest Casimir Zeglen test the claims of his bulletproof vest!
"Priest Backed Out of the Krag-Jörgensen Rifle Test. He lay hidden under the bed.
Not even the Catholic priests anointed by the Pope, the vicar of Christ on earth, can stand against the Krag-Jörgensen rifles. If this is the case, how will it go with our Swedish brethren when they, with Crown Prince Gustav at the head, make the infamous promenade to Kristiania?
Last week, the 'New Yorker' newspaper contained a large advertisement. A Polish priest by the name of Casimir Zeglen claimed that he had invented an absolutely impenetrable substance, and armed with it, he was willing to stand as a target for any weapon of modern patent, even the dangerous rifle of Krag-Jörgensen.
The test was to take place on Governor's Island, which lies between Brooklyn and New York, and the shooting was to take place under the general supervision of the General of the American Army, Mr. Merritt.
However, the authorities had concerns, as they were apprehensive about the danger of killing the priest, and so our compatriot, the representative of the Krag-Jörgensen company here, lawyer Reymert, was commissioned to carry out the experiment, and see if the priest was as tenacious as the religion he professed.
At the invitation of Mr. Reymert, we went with bookseller Iverson on Wednesday to the lawyer's office, where he was just unpacking some cartridges and putting a brand new Krag-Jörgensen rifle into firing condition. Along with us also were attorney Feeter, and an ex-officer in the United States Navy, Mr. Price.
Iverson slung the elegant weapon over his shoulder, Reymert put the deadly bullets in his pocket, and we set off for the island, where the priest's fate was to be decided.
On the way we passed the Hoffman House café, and here the company had to go in to gather courage in the form of a brace, as it was probably the first time for the four of us that we had embarked on such a murderous mission. Mr. Price, who had participated in the Civil War, took it more calmly, and believed that the priest had probably not yet atoned for his sins in this life, which is why he expressed his doubts as to whether he would be present and submit to the test of fire.
At 2:30 we arrived at the island, where, besides us, a crowd of officers and newspaper men had assembled, but no priest was to be discovered.
Iverson swung the gun on his shoulder, sniffing around the whole island for the Godman, but to no avail.
One of the officers on duty stated that he would need to witness a murder, but when Reymert told him that the coroner was with us, and that he, Reymert, would take all the blame, he did not object. 'Should anything go wrong,' he said, 'we have here on the island a private, fine burial ground, and the undertaker thus does not need to take him over to New York.'
However, it got closer to 5 PM without the priest coming, so we headed back to New York. After landing we went over to the pilgrim house, Number 6 State sSreet, where the pope's legate was supposed to live, but when he saw Iverson coming rattling with beast in the company of four men, he crawled under the bed in his room, and we were told that he was not at home.
Thus ended the test firing. Presumably the priest is now searching for other fields where he does not need to fear that there are Krag-Jörgensen rifles."
[According to Wikipedia, Casimir Zeglen did eventually invent a bulletproof vest, and ran a real shooting test in 1901. The vest saved the life of the King of Spain following a bomb explosion.]
"Priest Backed Out of the Krag-Jörgensen Rifle Test. He lay hidden under the bed.
Not even the Catholic priests anointed by the Pope, the vicar of Christ on earth, can stand against the Krag-Jörgensen rifles. If this is the case, how will it go with our Swedish brethren when they, with Crown Prince Gustav at the head, make the infamous promenade to Kristiania?
Last week, the 'New Yorker' newspaper contained a large advertisement. A Polish priest by the name of Casimir Zeglen claimed that he had invented an absolutely impenetrable substance, and armed with it, he was willing to stand as a target for any weapon of modern patent, even the dangerous rifle of Krag-Jörgensen.
The test was to take place on Governor's Island, which lies between Brooklyn and New York, and the shooting was to take place under the general supervision of the General of the American Army, Mr. Merritt.
However, the authorities had concerns, as they were apprehensive about the danger of killing the priest, and so our compatriot, the representative of the Krag-Jörgensen company here, lawyer Reymert, was commissioned to carry out the experiment, and see if the priest was as tenacious as the religion he professed.
At the invitation of Mr. Reymert, we went with bookseller Iverson on Wednesday to the lawyer's office, where he was just unpacking some cartridges and putting a brand new Krag-Jörgensen rifle into firing condition. Along with us also were attorney Feeter, and an ex-officer in the United States Navy, Mr. Price.
Iverson slung the elegant weapon over his shoulder, Reymert put the deadly bullets in his pocket, and we set off for the island, where the priest's fate was to be decided.
On the way we passed the Hoffman House café, and here the company had to go in to gather courage in the form of a brace, as it was probably the first time for the four of us that we had embarked on such a murderous mission. Mr. Price, who had participated in the Civil War, took it more calmly, and believed that the priest had probably not yet atoned for his sins in this life, which is why he expressed his doubts as to whether he would be present and submit to the test of fire.
At 2:30 we arrived at the island, where, besides us, a crowd of officers and newspaper men had assembled, but no priest was to be discovered.
Iverson swung the gun on his shoulder, sniffing around the whole island for the Godman, but to no avail.
One of the officers on duty stated that he would need to witness a murder, but when Reymert told him that the coroner was with us, and that he, Reymert, would take all the blame, he did not object. 'Should anything go wrong,' he said, 'we have here on the island a private, fine burial ground, and the undertaker thus does not need to take him over to New York.'
However, it got closer to 5 PM without the priest coming, so we headed back to New York. After landing we went over to the pilgrim house, Number 6 State sSreet, where the pope's legate was supposed to live, but when he saw Iverson coming rattling with beast in the company of four men, he crawled under the bed in his room, and we were told that he was not at home.
Thus ended the test firing. Presumably the priest is now searching for other fields where he does not need to fear that there are Krag-Jörgensen rifles."
[According to Wikipedia, Casimir Zeglen did eventually invent a bulletproof vest, and ran a real shooting test in 1901. The vest saved the life of the King of Spain following a bomb explosion.]
On January 14th, 1898, "Nordisk Tidende" provided an update on the burial of Mr. Eriksen:
"The meeting! The origin of this is an old corpse and a miserly apothecary.
My pen must write again--
No -- no rest!
Everything I have from you
Poor as rich,
All, without equal,
Gather with me, though.
At the end of August last year, William Eriksen, native of Kristiansand, died here in the colony. According to his [Tengelsen's] own account, the deceased was a friend of pharmacist Tengelsen, who runs a business in Hamilton Avenue at the corner of Columbia Street. Admittedly, Tengelsen claims that he had only known the deceased loosely in his 'better' days, but we shall not dwell on this. The case is this:
At the time of his death, which took place at the hospital for scraps at Dauglas Street and Kingston Avenue, Brooklyn, the deceased Eriksen was completely bereft of everything. He was admitted there through the intervention of Sister Mathilde — not, as previously reported, through Tengelsen's help — but apothecary Tengelsen had promised that he would ensure that he was in decent ground if he should die. Unfortunately, the latter happened, but not the former.
The reason for this, Tengelsen stated, was that he learned of the death too late, and could therefore do nothing to fulfill his once-given promise. We claim that he is not quite correct in this regard.
Tengelsen's reply to our article from that time reads:
Surely there is no-one who doubts that I would arrange for William Eriksen's funeral if I had received notice in time, and even the good lady [referring to Mrs. Randi Hansen] should be able to realize that I have been unfairly treated here.
- J. T. Tengelsen. Brooklyn, N.Y. Sept. 6, '97.
To this, the 'Nordisk Tidende' replied:
To quote Tengelsen's own words, that he has promised to arrange for Eriksen's funeral, it is advisable that this should still happen.
From what we have learned, it won't cost more than $25 to take the deceased out of the grave on the Kings County Farm, and place him in so-called 'consecrated' ground.
Presumably this is also Mr. Tengelsen's opinion, but we have not yet heard anything about its implementation.
However, we are now calling into question Tengelsen's words about his willingness, as we have evidence for this.
As we already pointed out at the time, it would not have cost more to transfer him from the place where he was buried on the side of the hospital than it had cost at the time of his death. But the reason this did not happen was that Tengelsen did not want to pay the $25.75 that was required for the transfer. He wanted the publisher of 'Nordisk Tidende,' as well as Messrs. I. F. Iverson, dentist Fr. Björn, and lawyer Reymert to get in the mix, so that he could come out 'even.' When this was refused from the latter team, he left the matter to rest, thinking that the audience had nevertheless got a good idea of his helpfulness.
But now we had imagined that the right relationship should come to light, especially since it was hinted that we were to blame for this, and so last week we published the following notice:
Do they hear?
'That it was not the fault of 'Nordisk Tidende' that Erikson came to unchristianized soil, as is claimed, but that it was the dead man's friend, pharmacist Tengelsen, who did not want to pay money to the undertaker, unless other persons reached into their pockets for his favor? '
Above this, the false Samaritan is smoked in armor, and already on Saturday we received a summons from the generous pharmacist. He insists that his good name and reputation have been violated and now he wants compensation because we have dared to reveal his stinginess right in front of 'a dead body.'
Finally, we must announce that all that Tengelsen wanted to give for the funeral was 5 dollars 75 cents.
Is there anyone who believes in his good will to want to bury Eriksen, even if he had received word of the death 'in time?'
Bury your dead, says one word, and remember to give them Christian land.
But you have not yet come that far; the coin was too stuck in the pocket for that.
Now it lies there, the sinful corpse, and cannot get to heaven."
[The original poem rhymed in Norwegian!]
"The meeting! The origin of this is an old corpse and a miserly apothecary.
My pen must write again--
No -- no rest!
Everything I have from you
Poor as rich,
All, without equal,
Gather with me, though.
At the end of August last year, William Eriksen, native of Kristiansand, died here in the colony. According to his [Tengelsen's] own account, the deceased was a friend of pharmacist Tengelsen, who runs a business in Hamilton Avenue at the corner of Columbia Street. Admittedly, Tengelsen claims that he had only known the deceased loosely in his 'better' days, but we shall not dwell on this. The case is this:
At the time of his death, which took place at the hospital for scraps at Dauglas Street and Kingston Avenue, Brooklyn, the deceased Eriksen was completely bereft of everything. He was admitted there through the intervention of Sister Mathilde — not, as previously reported, through Tengelsen's help — but apothecary Tengelsen had promised that he would ensure that he was in decent ground if he should die. Unfortunately, the latter happened, but not the former.
The reason for this, Tengelsen stated, was that he learned of the death too late, and could therefore do nothing to fulfill his once-given promise. We claim that he is not quite correct in this regard.
Tengelsen's reply to our article from that time reads:
Surely there is no-one who doubts that I would arrange for William Eriksen's funeral if I had received notice in time, and even the good lady [referring to Mrs. Randi Hansen] should be able to realize that I have been unfairly treated here.
- J. T. Tengelsen. Brooklyn, N.Y. Sept. 6, '97.
To this, the 'Nordisk Tidende' replied:
To quote Tengelsen's own words, that he has promised to arrange for Eriksen's funeral, it is advisable that this should still happen.
From what we have learned, it won't cost more than $25 to take the deceased out of the grave on the Kings County Farm, and place him in so-called 'consecrated' ground.
Presumably this is also Mr. Tengelsen's opinion, but we have not yet heard anything about its implementation.
However, we are now calling into question Tengelsen's words about his willingness, as we have evidence for this.
As we already pointed out at the time, it would not have cost more to transfer him from the place where he was buried on the side of the hospital than it had cost at the time of his death. But the reason this did not happen was that Tengelsen did not want to pay the $25.75 that was required for the transfer. He wanted the publisher of 'Nordisk Tidende,' as well as Messrs. I. F. Iverson, dentist Fr. Björn, and lawyer Reymert to get in the mix, so that he could come out 'even.' When this was refused from the latter team, he left the matter to rest, thinking that the audience had nevertheless got a good idea of his helpfulness.
But now we had imagined that the right relationship should come to light, especially since it was hinted that we were to blame for this, and so last week we published the following notice:
Do they hear?
'That it was not the fault of 'Nordisk Tidende' that Erikson came to unchristianized soil, as is claimed, but that it was the dead man's friend, pharmacist Tengelsen, who did not want to pay money to the undertaker, unless other persons reached into their pockets for his favor? '
Above this, the false Samaritan is smoked in armor, and already on Saturday we received a summons from the generous pharmacist. He insists that his good name and reputation have been violated and now he wants compensation because we have dared to reveal his stinginess right in front of 'a dead body.'
Finally, we must announce that all that Tengelsen wanted to give for the funeral was 5 dollars 75 cents.
Is there anyone who believes in his good will to want to bury Eriksen, even if he had received word of the death 'in time?'
Bury your dead, says one word, and remember to give them Christian land.
But you have not yet come that far; the coin was too stuck in the pocket for that.
Now it lies there, the sinful corpse, and cannot get to heaven."
[The original poem rhymed in Norwegian!]
On October 27th, 1898, "Nordisk Tidende" reported on an elegant banquet/reception for Danish poet, playwright, and painter Holger Drachmann, who was visiting the United States.
"The Drachman Banquet. Gentlemen in full suits, ladies in beautiful, elegant gowns, a tastefully decorated hall, 200 guests at the table, under the tunes of Mr. Bancke's orchestra, so was the Drachman banquet last Saturday, which was arranged by the Scandinavian Association of 1844, with its new president, engineer Mr. Georg Kirkegaard at the head.
At about 9:30 they went to the table, with the honoree seated on a bench by one of the long walls, where he, surrounded by roses, assumed an equally majestic posture as the crowned heads in old Europe, when surrounded by their court giving a gala table.
Handsome, though rather gray and white, he, towering like St. Olaf, raised his head above all others, and he was greatly admired.
Editor John Volk gave the evening's keynote speech, beautiful and poignant, as befits a man as Mr. Volk, who can revel in the beautiful nuances of language.
The speech ended with the fact that just as the good old Swedes had shouted to Oehlenschlæger [Danish poet Adam Oehnschläger] 'a hill to you, Adam of the north,' so tonight he also wanted to shout to the poet Drachman, 'a hill to you, Holger of the Danes.' [I am not sure on that translation.] Endless cheers followed the speech. Thereafter spoke Mr. William Scott warmly for Denmark, and the speech went on. Drachman heartily thanked him for everything, and that he meant what he said there is no doubt. All the way from Bridgeport, Connnecticut, a deputation of four men had arrived, including Mr. L. Möller, to welcome the poet to America.
Among the Norwegians participating in the banquet were Dr. Harald Bryn, librarian Stalberg with his wife, Dr. Barclay with his wife, Mr. Peter Groth with his wife, bookseller I. F. Iverson with his wife, editor Emil Nielsen with his wife and sister-in-law, the singer Miss Christensen, Captain Larsen, Mr. Gotfred Pedersen, and others.
The banquet, which was mainly organized by Mr. Kirkegaard, knew of this man's tireless diligence and ability to see something through, when he has decided to realize his idea. Norwegians present maintained that this banquet at $3.50 per couple was full on par with the Nansen banquet at $12.50 per couple.
But even on this occasion it would appear that the Scandinavians have a strange tendency to split themselves up when they think they have been slighted. Thus, it was conspicuously visible that the leading figures of the Danish association ‘Danias’ were not present. We have been informed that there had arisen disagreement with regard to who should actually have the honor of inviting the poet, and hence the noticeable absence of many of this association's members. The Danish consul was also not present. On the other hand, telegrams arrived from ambassador Bruun in Washington and General C. T. Christensen. The banquet lasted until dawn."
"The Drachman Banquet. Gentlemen in full suits, ladies in beautiful, elegant gowns, a tastefully decorated hall, 200 guests at the table, under the tunes of Mr. Bancke's orchestra, so was the Drachman banquet last Saturday, which was arranged by the Scandinavian Association of 1844, with its new president, engineer Mr. Georg Kirkegaard at the head.
At about 9:30 they went to the table, with the honoree seated on a bench by one of the long walls, where he, surrounded by roses, assumed an equally majestic posture as the crowned heads in old Europe, when surrounded by their court giving a gala table.
Handsome, though rather gray and white, he, towering like St. Olaf, raised his head above all others, and he was greatly admired.
Editor John Volk gave the evening's keynote speech, beautiful and poignant, as befits a man as Mr. Volk, who can revel in the beautiful nuances of language.
The speech ended with the fact that just as the good old Swedes had shouted to Oehlenschlæger [Danish poet Adam Oehnschläger] 'a hill to you, Adam of the north,' so tonight he also wanted to shout to the poet Drachman, 'a hill to you, Holger of the Danes.' [I am not sure on that translation.] Endless cheers followed the speech. Thereafter spoke Mr. William Scott warmly for Denmark, and the speech went on. Drachman heartily thanked him for everything, and that he meant what he said there is no doubt. All the way from Bridgeport, Connnecticut, a deputation of four men had arrived, including Mr. L. Möller, to welcome the poet to America.
Among the Norwegians participating in the banquet were Dr. Harald Bryn, librarian Stalberg with his wife, Dr. Barclay with his wife, Mr. Peter Groth with his wife, bookseller I. F. Iverson with his wife, editor Emil Nielsen with his wife and sister-in-law, the singer Miss Christensen, Captain Larsen, Mr. Gotfred Pedersen, and others.
The banquet, which was mainly organized by Mr. Kirkegaard, knew of this man's tireless diligence and ability to see something through, when he has decided to realize his idea. Norwegians present maintained that this banquet at $3.50 per couple was full on par with the Nansen banquet at $12.50 per couple.
But even on this occasion it would appear that the Scandinavians have a strange tendency to split themselves up when they think they have been slighted. Thus, it was conspicuously visible that the leading figures of the Danish association ‘Danias’ were not present. We have been informed that there had arisen disagreement with regard to who should actually have the honor of inviting the poet, and hence the noticeable absence of many of this association's members. The Danish consul was also not present. On the other hand, telegrams arrived from ambassador Bruun in Washington and General C. T. Christensen. The banquet lasted until dawn."
So concludes the Iverson's time in Brooklyn. As mentioned on a previous page, Iver fell ill with depression, sold his thriving bookstore, and moved the family to Minneapolis in April 1899. The family's time in Minneapolis is described on the next page.