Amalia Eriksson facts for kids
Amalia Eriksson, born Lundström (November 25, 1824 – January 19, 1923), was a clever Swedish business person. She is famous for inventing the Polkagris, a special type of candy stick. She created this popular candy in the town of Gränna, Sweden.
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Amalia Eriksson's Life Story
Amalia Eriksson was born in Jönköping, Sweden. Her father, Jonas Lundström, was a farrier, someone who cares for horses' hooves. Her mother was Katarina Hagen Andersdotter. When Amalia was just ten years old, a sad event happened: her whole family passed away from a serious illness called cholera. After this, she started working as a domestic servant, helping out in people's homes.
In 1855, Amalia moved to the town of Gränna. She moved with the family she was working for at the time. Two years later, in 1857, she married a tailor named Anders Eriksson.
Starting Her Own Business
Sadly, Amalia's husband passed away in 1858, just one year after they got married. She was left as a widow with a new baby daughter. To support herself and her child, Amalia decided to start her own business.
In 1859, she asked the local government in Gränna for permission. She wanted to make and sell pastries and peppermint candies. Her request was approved, and she received her permit. This was a big step for her.
Amalia Eriksson then became the very first person to make and sell the Polkagris. She launched this new candy in 1859. The Polkagris quickly became very popular.
The Secret Recipe and Legacy
Amalia was very careful with her special Polkagris recipe. She kept it a secret for her entire life. No one knew exactly how she made her famous candy until after she passed away.
Many other people in Gränna later started making similar candies. However, Amalia was the original inventor. Her own candy shop was passed down to her daughter, Ida Eriksson. Ida continued to run the business until she passed away in 1945. The building where Amalia had her workshop is still standing today. In 2003, it was turned into a hotel.
Amalia Eriksson and her daughter, Ida, are both buried in the cemetery in Gränna.
See also
In Spanish: Amalia Eriksson para niños
