Marie Michelet facts for kids

Marie pictured in 1932 by Ernest Rude.

Marie Elisabeth Michelet (born Storjohann) was a Norwegian writer and a leader for housewives. She was born on March 10, 1866, and passed away on April 3, 1951. Marie worked hard to improve the lives of women and families in Norway and beyond.

Marie Michelet's Early Life and Family

Marie was born in Bergen, Norway. Her father, Johan C. H. Storjohann, was a priest. Her mother was Nanna Holmboe. Marie spent some of her childhood years in London, England, where her father worked. She also went to school in Germany and the United Kingdom.

In September 1888, Marie married Simon Michelet, who was a theologian. They had three daughters together. They also had one son who sadly passed away when he was young. The family lived in Vallerlien in Bærum, Norway.

Marie Michelet's Career and Writings

Marie Michelet started her career by writing books for children. She first wrote these stories for her own children. But soon, many other children enjoyed them too! Some of her early books include Puk (1901), Hos mormor (1902), and I Svalehuset (1902).

From 1905 to 1910, Marie also worked as a teacher. She taught at Sandvika Middle School.

Supporting Families and Homes

In the 1910s, Marie focused on writing books that supported Christian values, motherhood, and family life. Titles like Det kristne hjem (1913) and Den selverhvervende kvindelige ungdom (1915) show her dedication. She also wrote many articles for women's magazines.

Marie became a strong voice for improving conditions in homes. She joined an organization called Hjemmenes Vel, which means "Welfare of Homes." This group worked to make home life better for women and their families.

Leading the Housewives' Movement

In 1915, Marie Michelet helped start a national organization. It was called Hjemmenes Vels Landsforbund. This group brought together many local "Welfare of Homes" groups. Marie was the leader of this national association from 1915 to 1934.

In 1933, the organization changed its name to the Norwegian Housewives' Association. Today, it is known as the Norwegian Women and Family Association. Marie also led the Nordic Housewives' Association from 1933 to 1937. After that, she became its honorary president. She was also an important figure in the International Council of Women. This council works for women's rights around the world.

Other Important Work

Marie Michelet was also involved in other groups. From 1902 to 1920, she was the deputy leader of De norske sedelighetsforeninger. This group worked to promote good morals in society. She also started and led the Asker and Bærum Women's Council from 1906 to 1921.

In 1907, Marie helped create the Missionary Workers' Ring. She worked with Henny Dons and Bolette Gjør on this. This group later joined the Norwegian National Women's Council. Marie served on the board of this council from 1907 to 1910.

Awards and Legacy

Marie Michelet received several important awards for her work. In 1919, she was given the King's Medal of Merit in gold. In 1946, she was honored as a Knight, First Class of the Order of St. Olav. Marie Michelet passed away in April 1951 in Oslo. Her work greatly helped to improve the lives of women and families in Norway.