Born in 1895 near Våmhus in the Mora Municipality of Dalarna County, Sweden, Erik John Peterson learned early in life the skilled craft of weaving baskets from wood. This style of basket making is unique to the Våmhus area and still taught in the community today. After coming to the United States in 1914 and Americanizing his name to John Peterson, he settled in St. Helens, Oregon where he found work in the timber industry and ultimately resumed his craft of basket making.
Brandon Sundeen, a teacher and member of the Columbia County Museum Association, learned about John’s story while working in the museum where several of his baskets are on display. He researched John's life and interviewed people who had watched John make baskets, and some that still collect these prized pieces today. Brandon also tracked down John’s relatives in Sweden who were able to provide additional photos and information.