"Hilda's parents were immigrants from Norway who came to the United States in the late 1800's. Norwegian immigration to the United States began in the 1820's with the arrival of a ship, the Restoration. The Restoration is often compared to the Mayflower vecause the Norwegian "pilgrims" were dedicated Christians who put God first and who wanted a better life for their families. After arriving in New Youk, most Norwegian immegrants settled in the North. They followed the waterways to the Middle West, to the Great Plains, and to the land beyond. Hilda's papa settled his family in Minnesota on a small farm. Hilda loved her life on the Minnesota farm, but she had to learn to accept necessary change and to trust God in all things. Her closeness to God through prayer was the guiding strength of her life.