A 19th-century Swedish communal utopia in Illinois, known for its communal living and unique cultural contributions.
Religion: Christianity
Denomination: Evangelical Lutheran
Founder: Erik Jansson
Founded: 1846
Ended: 1861
Location: Illinois, United States
The Bishop Hill Colony was a utopian religious community founded in 1846 by Swedish immigrants led by Erik Jansson. This community, located in Henry County, Illinois, was rooted in Jansson’s Pietist beliefs, which sharply diverged from the established Lutheran Church in Sweden. Fleeing religious persecution, Jansson and about 1,000 followers established Bishop Hill, named after Jansson’s birthplace, Biskopskulla.
The colony’s early days were fraught with hardship. The initial settlers faced severe challenges, including a lack of adequate shelter and food resources, leading to numerous deaths during their first winter. Despite these challenges, the community began to flourish by the late 1840s, constructing permanent buildings and expanding their agricultural endeavors.
Bishop Hill was characterized by its communal living arrangements and collective ownership of property and resources. Jansson enforced a strict communal system where all property was shared, and personal possessions were minimized. The colony operated as a communistic society, with rigorous work schedules and shared responsibilities among its members. This communal lifestyle was not only a reflection of their religious beliefs but also a practical adaptation to the challenges of frontier life.
The community became known for its craftsmanship and industriousness, particularly in woodworking and agriculture. They constructed several significant buildings that still stand today, including the Colony Church, built in 1848, and various other structures that showcased a mix of architectural styles from simple vernacular to Classical Revival.
Tragically, Jansson’s life ended abruptly when he was murdered in 1850, a pivotal event that led to a restructuring of the community’s leadership. Following his death, the colony continued under the guidance of a board of trustees who managed its affairs until it was dissolved in 1861. The assets were then distributed among the members, marking a progressive step in property rights, especially for women and children.
Today, Bishop Hill serves as a historical site with many of its original buildings preserved and open to the public as museums. This site provides a window into the unique communal and architectural legacy of the Bishop Hill Colony and continues to draw visitors interested in this distinctive chapter of American and Swedish immigrant history.
image via Galesburg
