Minnesota's Most Notorious: Where Blood Runs Cold The 1902 Aitkin Murder of Josefina Olson w/ Betty Gove - A True Crime History Podcast
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Apr 25, 2019 
In this insightful discussion, Betty Gove, an author and poet with a personal link to the case, delves into the heartbreaking murder of Josefina Olson in 1902. She recounts the tragic circumstances surrounding the young woman's death at the hands of her father, just before her wedding. Through rich storytelling, Betty shares her family's emotional journey and how these events shaped their identity. The conversation also touches on childhood memories of trauma and explores the lingering effects of tragedy across generations.
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Betty Finds Josefina's Grave
- Betty Gove discovered a small, crumbling tombstone she believes marks Josefina Olson's grave in a remote Swedish church cemetery.
- This physically connected Betty to the tragic story, inspiring her to write a fictionalized account based on family history.
Isolation's Impact on Ole Olson
- Ole Olson lived in isolation for years, likely fueling loneliness and heavy drinking that worsened his behavior.
- Isolation on remote farms caused social problems and was common among Scandinavian settlers then.
Scandinavian Code of Silence
- Abuse and neglect towards wives and daughters were quietly tolerated in isolated rural Scandinavian communities.
- Such scandals were seldom discussed openly, reflecting a cultural code of silence.