Karlskoga & Wheaton / Sister Cities
Karlskoga, Sweden, is comparable in size to Wheaton. It is situated in the central part of Sweden, in the scenic province of Varmland, on Lake Mockeln. It is not far from Lake Vanern, Sweden's largest lake and the third largest in Europe. This part of Sweden abounds in forests, mountains, lakes and valleys. Outdoor sports such as hiking, boating, fishing, cycling, camping, swimming and skiing are very popular.
Founded in 1586 by King Charles IX, who was interested in the mining potential of this area, Karlskoga has long been known for its iron production. Alfred Nobel's ironworks, now called AB Bofors, is still the dominant industry and employs 8000 people.
Karlskoga is a blend of the new and the old. It has many modern buildings alongside others of historical interest, such as the Karlskoga Church, which dates from the 17th century. Bjorkborn Manor, the beautiful summer residence of Alfred Nobel, along with its adjacent laboratory, is now a Nobel museum. The visitor can see how Nobel lived and worked at Bjorkborn Manor, as well as enjoy the beauty of this lovely country estate.
The city crest of Karlskoga shows the chemical symbol for iron and the cannon made at Nobel's foundry.
Wheaton and Karlskoga became sister cities in 1973. People of Swedish descent form the second largest national group in Wheaton. The Sister City Commission in Wheaton attempts to maintain friendly ties with Karlskoga and to promote cultural exchange between the two communities.
In 1978, the Bofors Symphonic Band came to the United States and performed a concert for Wheatonites. There was a photographic exhibit from Karlskoga on display at City Hall and at the DuPage Art League in 1978. Wheaton sent an exhibit of paintings done by local artists to Karlskoga in 1976. Both cities have exchanged slide programs giving the history and other background information about the two communities. And Wheaton has a street named Karlskoga!
A number of commission members, past and present, have visited our sister city and some have friends and relatives in that part of Sweden. Visitors from Karlskoga and environs come to Wheaton from time to time also.
Several beautiful gifts from Karlskoga, which have been presented to Wheaton over the years, are on permanent display in the Adult Quiet Room at Wheaton Public Library.