Björkelund was originally pasture land with a number of farms. In the first half of the 20th century, the area developed as the railroad was built and the city expanded. The area was found interesting because it was not part of the urban plan, which gave more freedom to build according to one’s own taste and budget. Streets were stepped up as new houses were built, creating the characteristic patchwork of narrow, winding streets. The houses, built over a long period, came to reflect the architectural styles of several eras, from turn-of-the-century mansion ideals to 1940s funkiness. In the near future, new developments are planned in the surrounding area to meet the need for housing for newly arrived steel mill workers.