John Larson (unknown) and Elna Benson (1812 – 1901)

John Larson, also known by his birth name Lars Jonsson, was born in Sweden, though the exact date of his birth remains unknown. He grew up in the Swedish countryside, a place of rugged beauty where life demanded resilience and hard work. In this landscape, John learned the skills and values that would carry him through life and eventually shape the future of his family.

John married Elna W. Benson, born August 1, 1812, in Kvidinge, Kristianstad, Sweden. Known by several variations of her name—Elenor, Elma Larsen, and Elna Bengtsdr—Elna grew up immersed in the traditions and faith of her Swedish community. Together, John and Elna embarked on a life that would span both continents, raising a family grounded in Swedish roots yet open to new opportunities abroad.

Among their children was Johannes R. Larson, born May 2, 1841, in Osterang, Sweden, who would go on to carry forward the Larson family legacy in America. John and Elna had six children in total, four of whom were alive at the time of the 1900 census, living with their extended family in Grant Township, Mason County, Michigan.

Elna immigrated to America in 1884, joining her family and helping to maintain the strong bonds that had always defined the Larson household. In her later years, she lived with her son Johannes and his wife Emma, continuing to provide guidance and love to her children and grandchildren. She passed away on March 26, 1901, in Grant Township, leaving behind a legacy of devotion, resilience, and enduring family ties. Elna was laid to rest at North Victory Cemetery in Mason County, Michigan.

John’s later years are less documented, and it is believed he passed away before Elna immigrated, likely back in Sweden. Despite the uncertainties surrounding his final years, John Larson’s influence lived on through his children and their descendants, bridging the old world and the new, and leaving a lasting mark on the Larson family story.

Detailed Timeline