Gunella Swensen

Biography

Gunella Svensen Swensen was born on November 22, 1849, in Kindling Kristianstad, Sweden, as the youngest of seven children. Her family experienced financial hardship due to her father's drinking, which led to his early death when Gunella was ten. At fourteen, she was confirmed in the Lutheran Church and began working for a wealthy family due to her family's poor circumstances. Many of her siblings left Sweden, and at fifteen, Gunella was left alone, feeling lonely and heartsick.

At seventeen, she moved to Denmark with friends and worked at a dairy farm. Her sister Nella, who had accepted the Mormon faith, invited her to hear missionaries. Initially reluctant, Gunella eventually attended a sermon and was deeply moved, leading to her baptism in 1871. She faced persecution for her new faith but remained steadfast.

In 1875, Gunella emigrated to America, settling in Smithfield, Utah, with her uncle. Despite warnings about her frail health, she survived the journey. She later moved to Salt Lake City, where she earned enough money to bring her mother and sister to America.

On July 24, 1877, Gunella married Nis C. Christiansen, and they had seven children. The family lived in various places, including Nephi, Manti, and Salt Lake City. Despite her frail health, Gunella felt blessed, especially during motherhood. She witnessed many Church blessings, including her husband and son serving missions. Gunella's testimony grew stronger throughout her life, and she expressed gratitude for the many spiritual experiences she had as a member of the Church.