Matta Olsson Johnsson

Matta married (Pehr) Peter Johnsson on July 5, 1845 in Rang, Malmohus, Sweden.  Matta and her husband joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and were making preparations to come to Utah when Pehr contracted smallpox and was placed in a "pest house" to recuperate.  He urged his wife to carry out their plans and he would follow as soon as he was able.  However, he died and was buried in Sweden.  Two of the children, Jons and Ola, died also.

Matta sailed with four of her children on the ship, "William Tappscot."  It was a pleasant and agreeable journey of only thirty-one days.  They crossed the Plains in a handcart company and arrived in Utah in 1859.

Matta had a hard time and had no resources.  They moved to Sanpete County as soon as they reached the Salt Lake Valley.  She finally decided to place her children with other families to raise.  She kept the baby with her until she had to part with him also.

Matta passed away in the Old Fort in Ephraim.  She is buried in Fort Epraim.

Children:

Boletta, 11 February 1846

Cecilia, 28 Feb 1848

Christina, 12 February 1830

Jons, 5 July 1852

Ola, 22 November 1854

Nils, 11 April 1857

( Source: Pioneer Women of Faith and Fortitude, Volume II F to L, International Society Daughters of Utah Pioneers, p. 1599