This Women’s History Month, we have the perfect opportunity to honor an incredible woman whose vision over a century ago continues to make a profound impact today. Sister Caroline Unhjem was a true pioneer, whose leadership and compassion helped lay the foundation for Ebenezer’s first free convalescent home for the poor and aged, a vision that still affects the lives of aging residents across the Upper Midwest.
Sister Unhjem’s commitment to serving the elderly started long before Ebenezer was even a thought. As a deaconess at the Free Church, Deaconess Home and Hospital in Minneapolis, she dedicated her life to caring for the sick and elderly. In the early 1900s, there were very few resources for elderly people, especially those who were poor. Government pensions were limited, and many of Minnesota’s elderly residents—many of them immigrants—had no safety net. Sister Unhjem recognized the need and knew something had to be done.
By 1916, after years of advocating for change, Sister Unhjem and thirteen representatives from six Norwegian Lutheran Church bodies came together at Dayton’s tea room in Minneapolis. They were all men, and though Sister Unhjem had no standing to serve on the board because of her gender, she was appointed the first Matron of the home. As Matron, Sister Unhjem worked tirelessly to make sure that Ebenezer wasn’t just a place for physical care but a space where residents felt valued and supported emotionally and spiritually.
Her leadership was transformative. Though poor health forced her to step down in 1919, her influence never waned. She left a lasting legacy that carried forward when, a year after her passing in 1937, a gift from her estate helped establish the Ebenezer Endowment Fund ensuring that her mission would continue for generations to come.
Over 100 years later, Ebenezer’s impact is stronger than ever, with more than 100 locations across the Upper Midwest, serving thousands of aging residents. Sister Unhjem’s unwavering vision and dedication to dignity, respect, and compassionate care still guide us today. She was a true trailblazer for seniors’ rights and care, and her legacy lives on through the work of caregivers and community members who continue to honor her values.
As we honor Women’s History Month, let’s remember Sister Caroline Unhjem, not just for her role in founding Ebenezer, but for the incredible ripple effect she created, one that continues to impact and improve the lives of seniors today. Her pioneering spirit and vision remind us that the actions of one woman can change the lives of many for generations.