Anna Ancher gave this painting to “Danske Kunstneres Bortlodning til Fordel for Forsvarsindsamlingen” (Danish artists' lottery for the benefit of the defence fundraising) in 1913, here as no. 4. By drawing lots the painting was won on ticket no. 1420, bought by policeman Alfred Kruse, who owned the painting until his death in 1927. The painting was inherited by Kruse's eldest daughter, who died in 1986, and the painting was passed on to her daughter. The painting has been in the same family until recently.

Up until the First World War there was a great national will to raise funds for the country's defense. Agnes Slott-Møller was among the dedicated artists. She wrote an open letter to the press, where she invited artists to make contributions to the fundraising. Many artists supported the cause, including Anna and Michael Ancher.