Mellan skog och gård: en mikrohistorisk studie av Bengt Filéns arbetsdagböcker, 1955-1961

Abstract

This study examines how forestry work, farming and everyday life were organized in Västerbotten during the 1950s. The analysis is based on work diaries written by the forestry worker and the author’s grandfather Bengt Filén between the years 1955 and 1961. The diaries consist of short daily notes describing forestry work, farming activities, weather conditions and everyday tasks. The study applies a microhistorical perspective and analyses the material through a thematic document analysis. The diaries were transcribed, coded and organized in order to identify patterns in the distribution of work throughout the year. Special attention is given to seasonal variation in forestry and farming related tasks. The result shows a clear season rhythm in the organization of work. Forestry work dominated during the winter months, while farming activities increased during spring and summer. The diaries also show periods where both types of work occurred simultaneously. The study demonstrates how forestry and farm work functioned as complementary sources of livelihood. It also illustrates how personal work diaries can provide detailed insights into labour practices in northern Sweden during the 1950s.