Throughout his life, Eric's sense of humor manifested in his physical strength and direct manner. In Swedish the term for close the door translates literally as "bring the door". Once, when asked by his mother to "bring the door", young Eric took the door off it's hinges and carried it into the kitchen very much to the surprise of his mother!
Years later, Eric's ease in handling heavy doors would become legendary. He could install and frame solid doors perfectly straight with amazing speed. After becoming a carpenter and serving in the Swedish Army, Eric at age 23 decided to join his aunt, Sophia Clark, in Oakland, California. So he came. He spoke no English and brought little besides his drive, honesty, strength and skill. Of course in the land of opportunity, the "little" he brought combined with the burgeoning economy of Northern California to build a tradition of craftsmanship that endures to this day.
Jonas Anderson was a contractor and a carpenter. Following centuries old tradition, he took his son, Eric as his apprentice.
Johanna Anderson was herself a business person. A seamstress with a busy shop, she supplied clothing of all sorts starting with raw wool and flax.
