Benedikt and Ragnheiður at Kirkjuból farm

Community work and positions of trust

Benedikt and Ragnheiður certainly did not sit idle. Life at Kirkjuból was lively and bustling. Before Sævangur came into existence, workshops were occasionally held there, and the couple frequently hosted numerous guests due to their involvement in various community activities and projects. Benedikt’s extensive participation in a wide range of social endeavors is truly remarkable.

Benedikt played a leading role in youth association activities and agricultural societies in the region. He also held numerous trusted positions, both locally and beyond, which often required him to attend meetings or travel. He served as chairman of the Agricultural Association of Strandir from its establishment in 1944 until 1973 and represented the association at the National Agricultural Assembly from 1951 to 1970. Additionally, he was a delegate at the Farmers’ Union General Meeting from 1945 to 1970 and served as a meat inspector in slaughterhouses in the Westfjords for many years, traveling throughout the region.

At home, Benedikt also carried various responsibilities. He was the district commissioner for over 40 years, served on the municipal council for a long time, and was a member of the county council for decades. He was the treasurer and manager of the local savings bank for 30 years and, for a time, served on the board of the Steingrímsfjörður Cooperative Society (Kaupfélag Steingrímsfjarðar).

Ragnheiður attended the Women’s College in Blönduós, an education that undoubtedly proved useful given the frequent visitors at Kirkjuból. At that time, household chores typically fell to the housewife. Ragnheiður often had to manage both household and farm duties while Benedikt was away but received great support from her children.

Ragnheiður was an active participant in community work in her local area and district. She was one of the founders of the women’s association Björk in Kirkjubólshreppur, established on June 19, 1948, and served as its chair for the first 15 years. She also led the founding of the Women’s Association of Strandasýsla in 1949 and was its chair for several years.