Herbjørn Gausta

Biography

Herbjørn Gausta, born in 1854, became a cherished cultural figure whose art and writings celebrated the lives of Norwegian immigrants. Through his paintings, illustrations, and lectures he preserved the stories of homesteaders, harvests, and churches, creating a visual history treasured by many.

He also encouraged younger artists and devoted much time to teaching, sharing the pride he felt in his heritage while embracing American landscapes. When he passed in 1924 his friends laid him to rest in Greenfield Cemetery, trusting that his creative spirit would endure in every home he touched.