Magdalena Elisabeth Söderhielm

Magdalena Elisabeth Söderhielm (22 October 1718 – 24 June 1787) was a Swedish ironmaster.

Early life Magdalena Elisabeth Söderhielm was born on 22 October 1718 in Dalarna, Sweden. Her father, Lorentz Niclas Söderhielm (né Malmén), was an ironmaster and a soldier, who in 1693 was ennobled with the name Söderhielm, and her mother was Alleta Maria (née Cederberg).

Career Söderhielm assumed management of Ramnäs Ironworks following the death of her husband, Jacob Tersmeden the Younger, who died during a journey. She took responsibility for the ironworks, managing its finances and daily operations in 1767. Because her husband had served as a member of the Riksdag of the Estates and spent periods in Stockholm, Söderhielm had already gained substantial insight into the business during his lifetime. Her leadership earned her recognition and rewards from the king.

Söderhielm recognized the importance of the construction of the Strömsholm Canal, understanding that improved transport infrastructure would benefit Ramnäs Ironworks. Notably, she purchased shares in the very first canal company established in Sweden, standing out as the only woman among a group otherwise comprised entirely of male ironmasters. Her contributions to the project did not go unnoticed. Alongside Magnus Schenström, Söderhielm was rewarded by the king.