Borghild Nilsen
- Full name: Borghild Marie Nilsen
- Lifespan: 2.12.1893 – 03.03.2004
- Age: 110 years, 92 days
- Birthplace: Mælum, Skien Municipality, Telemark fylke, Norway
- Last residence: Larvik, Vestlfold fylke, Norway
- Application date: N/A
- Validation date: 06.12.2003
- Validation source: Celvin Ruisdael
Biography
Borghild Marie Nilsen was born in Hegna in Mælum, Telemark fylke, Norway on 2 December 1893; in the last house before you reach Mælum Church. Her parents, Jacob Thomassen, born in Lunde in Telemark in 1871 or 1872 and Karen Isaksdatter, born in Solum in 1868, were farmers. Borghild was the eldest of six siblings. She grew up under tough conditionsThe father went to America in 1906, and she never saw nor heard from him again ever since. Her mother died in 1913, when she was only 19 years old. The siblings were separated, and Borghild’s journey led her to Skien. There, she got a job with Harbor Master Nilsen. In 1924 Borghild travelled to Vestfold and worked as a maid at Spetalen farm, in the then in Tjolling municipality. She married Nils Kristian Nilsen (1884–1965). The couple had one son, Oskar.
Borghild Nilsen never forgot about her Telemark home. She would often visit her birthplace in later years. At age 101, she insisted on staying in bed as she felt she had walked enough in her life, and now that was enough. Nevertheless, she retained both her mood and sense of humor. Reportedly she was always cheerful and content. They are very fond of her here at the nursing home. When they talked about her age, she just shook her head and laughed. She read Bible and “Se og Hør”, which she had for free since she was 105.
In December 2003, she celebrated her 110th birthday and became a supercentenarian. She became the oldest known living person in Norway, following the death of 110-year-old Harriet Holm on 22 December 2003.
Borghild Nilsen died in Tjølling in Larvik, Norway on 3 March 2004 at the age of 110 years, 92 days.
Longevity Attribution
Borghild Nilsen never smoked or drunk alcohol. She attributed her longevity to good spirits and strong will.
Longevity Recognition
- Doyenne of Norway (22.12.2003 – 03.03.2004)
Validation
The supercentenarian case of Borghild Nilsen was meticulously examined and verified by Celvin Ruisdael, GRG Correspondent for Norway, and validated by the Gerontology Research Group (GRG) as of December 6, 2003.
