Gustaf Armgarth

Gustaf Armgarth was born in Lund’s rural neighbourhood of Värpinge. After graduating from school in 1899, he joined the army. In 1901, he completed his reserve officer’s exam. Subsequently, Armgarth attended the Central Gymnastics Institute to become a high school teacher in physical education. From 1906, Armgarth worked as a high school teacher at various schools in Ystad and Malmö. Meanwhile, he also worked at physical education institutions abroad, including at the Central Institute for Swedish Gymnastics in London (1913-14) and accompanied groups of students on trips to various European countries. He also served as a reserve officer in the South Skåne Infantry Regiment, eventually in the rank of captain.

As a fencer, Armgarth represented the Infanteri 7 IF. At the 1912 Olympic Games, he competed in the individual foil and sabre events but failed to advance to the second round in both. In Sweden, he was awarded a number of sports awards.

Gustaf Armgarth first married Anna-Lisa Haak in 1906 and had two daughters and one son with her. His second wife was Ida Vilhelmina (née Lavesson), whom he married in 1920. Armgarth died from ornithosis (a Chlamydial infection) after being infected during a visit to a restaurant in Copenhagen.