Norseland Preservation Association

AVAILABLE NOVEMBER 1

2008-10-23T11:27:00.000-07:00

The Norseland Parade Calendar will be available November 1. It will be sold at the Scandian Grove Lutheran Church Lutefisk Dinner. If you can't attend the dinner, the calendar will be available at both Scandian Grove and Norseland Lutheran Church, at the Anthony Feed Service, at Traverse des Sioux Garden Center in St. Peter, and the Nicollet County Historical Society. The cost is $10.00.

The calendar features 13 months with many aerial and ground level photos of the parade. It will make a great Christmas gift. See a sample photo posted here.

NORSELAND PARADE CALENDAR

2008-10-14T09:36:00.000-07:00

The Norseland Preservation Association, (also known as the Norseland Community 150 Committee) is printing a calendar for 2009. The calendar will feature many aerial photos of the parade. You will see Norseland in a completely new light. These photos show the accuracy of the phrase "Norseland: Where the Big Woods Meets the Prairie". The calendar will have pictures of both churches, the Norseland Store, Anthony Feed Service, United Farmers Co-op and many of the floats and units showing them at ground level.

The calendars will be available by November 1. Watch the local papers for an ad and or/announcement. It is expected that they will be on sale at both churches and the businesses in Norseland. They will make great Christmas gifts. end

REFLECTING AND VISIONING

2008-07-19T09:10:00.001-07:00

The committee is almost speechless in regard to the success of our celebration. We are extremely greatful to all of you who came and shared our excitement of 150 years in existence. Of course, it would not have been possible without the cooperation of hundreds of people. This was "community building" at its best. We are all better people and Norseland is a better place because of the coming together of many people. We were all united and working toward a common cause. It was simply WONDERFUL!!!

Now, the committee needs to clear up some final expenses and plan for the future. There are lots of exciting projects that can be part of this future. First of all, the "Norseland Preservation Association" is in place and will be used as a vehicle to create and support future projects. PLEASE JOIN US!

You do not have to live in the Norseland area to be a part of Norseland. We can use all kinds of ideas, help, support from anyone who has an interest in preserving Norseland. The first step is to create by-laws for our (non-profit)association. This will be done in early fall. PLEASE JOIN US!

Some ideas have surfaced for initial projects. We have many wonderful aerial photos of the parade. One suggestion is to print a calendar. Another idea is to preserve oral histories by using video and interviewing some of our area folks. There are a lot of stories that did not make our history book and oral histories are special - a different way of preserving history. (By the way, we have less than 100 copies of our book left for sale. Contact the Treaty Site History Center in St. Peter if you want to order one.)

Another project could be the preservation of District 6 school building. It is one of the few left in Nicollet County. PLEASE JOIN US!

Contact us by using the google mail box. It is norseland150@gmail.com Send us an e-mail and tell us how you would like to help or give us your ideas and we will respond. end

Reflecting and Visioning

2008-07-19T08:46:00.000-07:00

The committee is almost speechless in regard to the success of our celebration. We are extremely greatful to all of you who came and shared our excitement

SATURDAY SCHEDULE

2008-06-15T09:08:00.000-07:00

Your first stop should be at the VISITOR CENTER located at the Anthony Feed Service Building in Norseland. Here you can get maps, buy the book, get your postcard stamped, purchase other memorbilia and see the Borgeson movies(circa 1940's)of area farms.

PARKING: There are several areas to park. Watch for signs. You will need to drive to District 6 and the Tostenson and Quist farms. If you park on the east end of town, you might want to drive to the west end of town for the evening activities. There will be a shuttle bus.

TOURS of Historic Sites 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The Jens Annexstad Blacksmith Shop on the Allen Quist farm, closed it’s doors in 1950 and is waiting for 21st Century visitors to take a walk back in time to view the smithy’s domain.
Visit a typical farm of the early 1900s. The Tostenson Brothers Sesquicentennial farm, located in New Sweden Township near Norseland will welcome visitors that day.

NORSELAND STORE -The historic Norseland Store will be open. Come in and view the authentic pressed tin ceiling, early cash register, light fixtures and more.
The District 6 schoolhouse and the Norseland Boy Scout Camp will be open for visits.
The Scandian Grove Lutheran Church and the Norseland Lutheran Church will also have historic displays.

Relax in the Shade – The Black Lantern Restaurant (circa 1930’s) was located on the lawn of the present Ellerbroek home in Norseland. A food vendor will be available on the site.

PARADE through Norseland – 4 p.m. Seventy plus units will parade from church to church. Bring your lawn chairs. The Minnesota “Over 60” Band – Following the parade the band will present a concert at the Scandian Grove Church Park. This is the 55th season for the band.

PORK CHOP SUPPER at Scandian Grove Lutheran Church Park (CHILDREN'S MENU AVAILABLE) – 5-8 p.m. Bring your lawn chairs.

GOVERNOR'S Proclamation – 6 p.m. (Read by Liet. Governor Carol Molnau)

TALENT in the Park – 7 p.m. Bring your lawn chairs.
END

HOW DO I GET THE BOOK?

2008-06-10T11:02:00.000-07:00

The word is out that our book, "Norseland: Where the Big Woods Meets the Prairie" is ready for sale. Many of you have pre-purchased the book and are in the process of picking them up. Thank you for your interest. For those of you who cannot make it to our event on June 21, you can order the book. Please sent $30 for the book plus $5 for postage and handling to:
Norseland 150
37658 410th Street
St. Peter, Minnesota 56082

Make checks payable to Norseland 150. Locally, the book is available at the gift shop of the Nicollet County Historical Society located in St. Peter. You can buy them there or pick them up. After June 21, the remaining books will be on sale there. end

I LOVE A PARADE!

2008-06-05T09:55:00.000-07:00

When you come to Norseland to see the parade, bring some lawn chairs. Also plan on bringing the lawn chairs to the park for the evening events. Provided seating will be limited.

Speaking of the parade, we have more than 70 units signed up for the parade. Some of the more unique units will include: a buggy that was originally purchased at the Norseland Store when John Burke (original owner of the store) was the proprietor. This buggy was purchased as a wedding gift and descendents of the bride and groom, the Charles Johnson family have restored the buggy and it will be carrying our grand marshalls, Linda Swenson and Dottie Anthony.

You will also see a float with many present and former pastors and their wives in the parade. Have you ever seen a pea combine in a parade? Come to Norseland and find out what they look like close up.

Families came to the area in a covered wagon. You will see one in the parade. It will be pulled by horses, rather than oxen, but it will also be having a milk cow tagging along behind.

Like old tractors? You will see them in our parade. But Arnold's Implement in Mankato will also be displaying one of the latest models also. Hope to see you there. end

HOW DO I GET TO NORSELAND?

2008-05-30T15:16:00.000-07:00

Norseland is located in the heart of Nicollet County. It is 12 miles west of St. Peter on State Hwy. 22 or 15 miles southeast of Gaylord on State Hwy. 22.

2008-05-22T13:47:00.000-07:00

Norseland Top Ten

2008-04-30T13:02:00.000-07:00

Here are the Top Ten Reasons Norseland is a unique farming community.

Number Ten
The Norseland Community will soon be the home of a branch of the University of Minnesota Veterinary School.
Number Nine
Norseland is the home of ten people who have served the state in statewide elective offices. (101 years served in office)
Number Eight
Norseland is the home of former Minnesota Holstein Assn. President Christian Olsen and former National Shorthorn Society President, Fred Hanson Sr.
Number Seven
Norseland is the home of two former Presidents of the Mn. Corn Growers Assn. (Willis Anthony and Grant Annexstad).
Number Six
Norseland is the home of former Minnesota Pork Producer President, Martin Annexstad Jr.
Number Five
Norseland is the home of the Anthony Feed Service, Hormel's number two feed service in sales.
Number Four
Norseland is the home of former Minnesota Farm Bureau President, Merlyn Lokensgard. (served 12 years)
Number Three
There are 15 farms in the Norseland area that have been in the same family for 100 or more years.
Number Two
There are nine farms in the Norseland area that have been in the same family for 150 or more years.
The Number One Reason why Norseland is unique is that despite the successes previously listed, Norseland area farmers still eat Lutefisk on Christmas Eve and are so bold as to brag about it! end

THE MINNESOTA "OVER 60" BAND WILL ENTERTAIN

2008-04-11T16:51:00.000-07:00

THE MINNESOTA ‘OVER 60’BAND

The band is in its 55th year performing for such varied audiences as county fairs, community celebrations and over 30 parades each summer. The band has its own pickup and a bandwagon. The band will be in our parade.

Members come from a large area of southern Minnesota from Clarkfield on the west, Clara City on the north, Albert Lea on the south, Minneapolis on the northeast. and Madelia on the southwest. Members come to Gaylord to practice seven weeks in April.

Their repertoire includes marches, waltzes, concertos, polkas, and novelties. Recently the band has performed in Branson, Missouri; at Hostfest in Minot, North Dakota; Winnipeg, Canada and the Minnesota State Fair. Their concert in Norseland will be immediately following the parade. Enjoy the music in the shade of the Scandian Grove Church Park on June 21, 2008. end

NORSELAND PICTORIAL POSTMARK

2008-03-31T13:54:00.000-07:00

PICTORIAL POSTMARK
The Postal Service™ offers pictorial postmarks to commemorate local events celebrated in communities throughout the nation. To celebrate Norseland’s Sesquicentennial, a pictorial postmark dated June 21, 2008 will be offered.

People attending the event on June 21 may obtain the postmark at the temporary post office ™ station, which will be set up from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Welcome Center (Anthony’s Feed Service) in Norseland. Stamped commemorative post cards will be sold for $1 or you may bring your own envelope(s) or postcard(s) to receive the pictorial postmark. All requests must include a stamped envelope or postcard bearing at least the minimum First-Class Mailâ postage. The pictorial postmark will also be available in the park during the evening. On Sunday, June 22, the postmark will be available in the narthex of Scandian Grove Lutheran Church.

The postmark, with the date of June 21, 2008, will also be available by mail order request. Customers should affix stamps to any envelope or postcard, address the envelope or postcard to themselves or others, insert a card of postcard thickness in envelopes (to keep them flat) and tuck in the flap. Place the envelope or postcard in a larger envelope. All requests must be postmarked no later than 30 days (which is July 21,2008) following the requested pictorial postmark date. Mail to: PICTORIAL POSTMARKS
SESQUICENTENNIAL STATION
317 MAIN ST.
COURTLAND, MN. 56021-9998

Customers may also request stamped envelopes and postcards without addresses for postmark, as long as they supply a self-addressed, stamped, larger envelope with adequate postage. After applying for the pictorial postmark, the Postal Service returns the items under addressed protective cover. Marci Norell, Courtland, Minnesota Postmaster will be processing the requests. For more information call 507-359-2541. end

Norseland: Where the Big Woods Meets the Prairie

2008-03-16T19:42:00.000-07:00

The history book is at the printer. The photo you see on the right side of the page shows a replica of the cover of our book. The committee is offering the book for sale at $30 per book. Advance purchase of the book can be made by sending your check for $30 made out to Norseland 150. Send checks to Norseland 150, 37658 410th Street, St. Peter, Minnesota 56082. If you cannot pick your book up in Norseland during the celebration; please add $5 per book for shipping and handling.

The book will be a hard cover volume of 416 pages including 445 photos. Over 100 area people have written their stories of the Norseland/New Sweden area and there are 325 articles in the book. This book will truly be an heirloom for you and your families. end

Sesquicentennial Billboard

2008-03-02T19:03:00.000-08:00

A billboard has been displayed on State Highway 22 between St. Peter and Mankato to commemorate the June 21-22 Norseland Community Sesquicentennial Celebration. The billboard was placed early in 2008 by Bill Soderlund of St. Peter, a friend of the Norseland/New Sweden Communities. It displays an illustration done by Justin Clifton. The illustration became a collaboration between these communities, Bill Soderlund, and Justin Clifton. It was created to symbolize and highlight the heritage, the coming forth into a new land, the building, and settling of these two long standing communities, who this year celebrate 150 years of existence together under God. Along with this illustration, the billboard also highlights Norseland and New Sweden by name, along with flags of Sweden, and of Norway. end

Schedule of Events - June 21, 2008

2008-02-25T07:42:00.000-08:00

Tours of Historic Sites-10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Norseland Lutheran Church and Cemetery; Scandian Grove Lutheran Church and Cemeteries; Methodist Cemetery; Norseland General Store; Jens Annexstad Blacksmith Shop on Allen Quist farm; Tostenston Brother’s Sesquicentennial Farm, Norseland Boy Scout Camp, District 6 School House

Pictorial Cancellation of Postcards-all day

Parade-4 p.m.

Pork Chop Supper-5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Reading of Governor’s Proclamation- 6:00 p.m.
by Liet. Governor Carol Molnau

Sharing of Talent-following the Proclamation

SEE YOU THERE!

Reaping Rewards

2008-01-15T09:30:00.000-08:00

The early settlers made a wise decision to establish farms in the Norseland area. Our history book centers on the many families that settled and stayed here for many years and many generations. Some settlers did not stay. They moved to other areas. The August 23, 1873 issue of the St. Peter Tribune reports that Lewis Swenson sold his farm of 160 acres for $3,150 or $19.69 per acre. The farm was described as having 60 acres of timber and 50 acres of prairie under cultivation. There was a house and granary on the premises and it was located at the crossing of the St. Peter and New Auburn roads.
The 1855 Andrew Thorson letter indicated that timber land was selling for $16.00 an acre and prairie land for $1.25. This increase in land value, 1475% for the prairie ground, was extraordinary. These pioneers could reap substantial rewards for working hard and taking monumental risks.end

A Centerfold and More!

2007-12-30T13:54:00.000-08:00

The book committee is in the process of proofing and placing photos in appropriate sections. There are many wonderful photos for us to use. In fact, we plan on having several pages with only photos and captions. The committee, in good nature refers to this as our "centerfold". It may be of interest for you to know that our book contains 69 family/farm histories. This includes nine family farm stories where the farm has being in the same family for 150 years or more. We have had 111 individuals write stories for the book and we have 327 individual articles. The total word count is 171,000 words. end

Modern Cook Stove

2007-12-07T14:08:00.000-08:00

In 1860, a early pioneer family wrote a letter back home to Norway telling about a cookstove that was multipurpose. "And we have bought a cooking stove which cost $36, and with that one we can cook, fry pork, bake bread and make coffee, all at the same time."

This information came from Svend Svensen and Guri Sandersdatter.

The Governor Ate Here

2007-11-13T11:55:00.002-08:00

The story is told about "Burke's Black Lantern Cafe" which was a business establishment in Norseland during the 1930's. The cafe was a type of outside restaurant and was located across the street from the Norseland Store.

Sibley Burke, proprietor of the cafe, was considered a man ahead of his time and very flamboyant. Evidently, Floyd B. Olson, who later became the Governor or the state stopped at the Burke restaurant. He ordered an "onion sandwich". The cook was fresh out of onions and had to rob a neighbor's garden to fulfill the request. I imagine that made the sandwich taste even better. end

The Governor Ate Here

2007-11-13T11:55:00.001-08:00

Rivalries at District 46

2007-10-21T19:57:00.000-07:00

"In that school the Swedes and Norwegians were equally divided with one German family and one half German family in the minority. I was half Norwegian and half Swedish, so I was the swing vote, although we never really argued about nationality except in fun. However, we did argue about breeds of cattle. Of course, the Swensons and others dominated with their Holsteins. My father had Shorthorns which weren't very highly regarded. The favorite comment we used to taunt the Holstein people with, was to say that they might as well milk the water tank!"
......Ruth Snyder Larson

4-H Club Congress

2007-10-13T09:37:00.000-07:00

The Norseland 4-H has sent four outstanding 4-Hers to the national 4-H Club Congress. They were:
Jean Blomstin in 1946;
Grace Johnson in 1957;
Burt Johnson in 1962;
Karen Annexstad in 1969.
The Club Congress was the premier award for 4-Hers from all over the country. It was held every year sometime between Thanksgiving and Christmas. If my memory is correct, it was held at the Palmer House, a hotel of great distinction in Chicago, Illinois. end

4-Her Broke the Gender Barrier

2007-10-13T09:34:00.000-07:00

Lorraine Gunderson Struck was a member of the Norseland 4-H in the early 1930’s. Lorraine broke the gender barrier when she exhibited a hog at the Nicollet County Fair in 1932. She was the first girl to exhibit livestock at the fair. In the 4-H show, her competitor was her cousin and Lorraine’s entry was the top hog. The following day, the same two hogs were shown in the open class division and the order was reversed.end

WCCO Radio Commercial

2007-10-08T16:53:00.000-07:00

Someone who grew up in Norseland took a class trip to the "big city". While the class was in Minneapolis, they toured WCCO radio and watched Cedric Adams do his show. This someone was a lucky student, because Cedric Adams, "Mr. Midwest" chose him or her, to take part in a commercial. So our Norseland young person became a radio personality telling all of the listeners to buy Tide detergent. Find out who this is when our book is printed. As of this time, our book will be 300 pages. end

Baseball Ringer

2007-09-30T14:51:00.000-07:00

Some years ago, maybe in the 30's or 40's, the Norseland Store sponsored a baseball team. To help the team out, the Store hired a excellent athlete to come and work at the store during the summer and play with the team.
It was noted that these ringers might be good ball players, but did not make good store clerks. Most often they might be found sleeping in a obscure corner. end

FROM BUTTERHEAD TO ANGELS

2007-09-23T05:15:00.000-07:00

The Norseland Community has three women who achieved the distinction of being a finalist in the Princess Kay of the Milky Way Contest. They are Joanne Bergevoet in 1956, Melody Schultz in 1974, and Denise Hermanson in 1978.

The last two women were contestants who had their heads carved in butter as part of the Minnesota State Fair activities. When asked what she did with the butter, Denise Hermanson said, "My Mom froze it and then at Christmas time, she cut it into chunks and gave to family members to use to make Christmas cookies." I bet angels never tasted so good! end

EARLY FEMINIST

2007-09-23T05:10:00.000-07:00

In 1934, Mrs. Chester B. Nelson was elected Clerk of the District 6 School Board. Records indicated she served in that position until 1941. This was fairly uncommon for a woman to serve in elected office during that time frame. end

SCHOOL DAYS

2007-09-08T14:11:00.000-07:00

While millions of students all over the country are going back to school and fussing and fuming about "what to wear" and hoping to be sure to portray that "cool" image; it is well to remember that many of their grandparents went to school under very different conditions.

For example, students at District 4 in Lake Prairie Township a few years ago were content to have two changes of clothes to wear to school. "We wore the same set of clothes all week," said Fred Hanson Jr. Then the Mom's would launder that set and the following week the students wore the second set of clothes. Alternating like that got them through the whole school year with little "to do" about "what to wear".

There was probably some changes from short sleeve to long sleeve shirts or the addition of a sweater when the winter weather came along. The District 4 alumni have some interesting stories that will be published in our Norseland History book. Keep the information coming. Send your stores to norseland150@gmail.com end

Commemorative Medallion

2007-08-24T09:27:00.000-07:00

A limited edition Commemorative Medallion is now available for the Norseland Sesquicentennial. This limited edition pewter finish ornament depicts the Norseland General Store, the steeple of Norseland Lutheran Church, and the bell tower of Scandian Grove Lutheran Church. These are wonderful commemoratives and will make good gifts for family and friends. They also will made great Christmas tree ornaments. Medallions are $10 and are available at Norseland Lutheran Church, Scandian Grove Lutheran Church, or Traverse De Sioux Garden Center in St. Peter. The medallions have the same image which is printed on the community T-shirts.

GUARD DOG AND A TRACTOR TOO?

2007-07-15T16:06:00.000-07:00

During World War II it was hard to get farm machinery. There were also price controls placed on machinery to allow for some fairness in the marketplace. Davis Renneke, who farmed in New Sweden Township told about farm auctions and unscrupulous auctioneers. I interviewed the late Davis Renneke in 1992. This is what he told me. "Items like tractors were hard to come by and would bring big prices, if it weren't for the price controls. To get around that ruling, they would not sell the tractor. They would tie a dog to the tractor and sell the dog--and everything with it." Remember History Matters! end

THE T SHIRTS ARE HERE!

2007-07-15T16:03:00.000-07:00

The Norseland 150 Community Celebration T Shirts with our official logo are available at Traverse des Sioux Garden Center in St. Peter. They are located on the north end of town just off Highway 169. Their telephone number is 931-6683.

2007-07-06T20:51:00.000-07:00

Independence Day Celebrations

We all have our traditions and celebrating the 4th of July is one of them. Over the years, families, friends, community members form groups that follow traditions of picnics, parades, fun and games. One July 4th many years ago was pretty special.

On July 4, 1926, a great celebration was held in the grove at the home of John and Gulina and Gust and Olga Annexstad. Minnesota Governor Theodore Christianson was the invited speaker and enthralled a crowd of 2,000 people. The St. Peter Herald reported, “Favored indeed was the Norseland Community by the presence of the state’s executive who brought a message on ‘Obligations of Citizenship’ to his friends and hearers that will not soon be forgotten. Out of the hundreds of communities who sought his presence that day, Norseland was the favored one.”

Read more about it in our history book. end

AN ACT OF GOD?

2007-06-21T12:41:00.000-07:00

Generally, the Norseland Community has been “dry”. However, at one time (perhaps during the 1930’s) a tavern was opened and operated for a time. At least one current resident was able to make an underage purchase of a case of beer at said tavern. According to Jerry Johnson, the pastor at Scandian Grove Lutheran Church was not thrilled that there was a tavern in the community. Jerry Johnson said, “our preacher preached about closing (it) and how happy he as that it melted into the dust.” The tavern burned to the ground when the sawdust used to keep the ice ignited from spontaneous combustion. Could it have been an Act of God? Find out who was able to buy the case of beer and other good stuff when our book is published. Remember History Matters!

Rural Youth Have Aged

2007-06-08T16:02:00.000-07:00

In 1960, the Rural Youth Group in Nicollet County was changing. The young single people who made up the group were getting married! What to do? What to do? Why not start a young married couples group? Good Idea!!!!!
With the help of Fred Wetherill, County Agent, the Nicollet County Young Couple's Club was born. Now, 48 years later, we are still a couple's club - even though we are not young! We have taken the word "young" out of our name - but we are still young in other ways. How you ask?
We probably hold the record for the group that has attended the most Syttende Mai events at Hanska. That would be 18 years that our group has laughed at those Norwegians.
We have held Halloween Costume parties; gone roller skating; taken mystery trips; held hay rides, progressive dinners, fondue parties and more. We like history and we have seem many historic sites and learned much about the people who settled our area. Read more about our group in the book in progress. REMEMBER HISTORY MATTERS! end

New Sweden township history

2007-05-29T14:05:00.000-07:00

In the 1890’s the township started graveling roads. The town purchased several gravel pits, and the graveling was done by men who had been assessed one or more days of work on the road.

An interesting entry from the annual meeting of 1898 reads as follows:

“on motion it was resolved that no one whatsoever shall be allowed to enter upon the public highway with their plows for the purpose of using said highway to scour their plows, nor for any other purpose, both before and after said highway has been graded”.

An entry from the annual meeting of March 10, 1914 reads, “on motion it was resolved to pay 20 cents an hour for man and 20 cents an hour for a team of horses or mules for road labor.”end

Tell Us Your Story

2007-05-28T15:31:00.000-07:00

The committee is looking for your story to publish in our book. Our members are doing research - but we need your help to get the "good stuff" that only you community members know about. Our research is limited to what was printed in local newspapers and some documented histories of families and organizations. A lot of you folks who live in other areas grew up here and have many good memories and stories of happenings that did not make the local paper!
Please take a moment and jot down your accounting and send it to our Google mail box at norseland150@gmail.com or make a comment on this blog and we will use your story in our history book. Thanks for your help! And remember, History Matters! end

LEFSE BY MARY

2007-05-23T15:54:00.000-07:00

Ole and Mary Olmanson were Norseland residents. Ole-1876-1968; Mary 1881-1964. Mary was famous for baking Lefse. In 1959, she was featured in a Mankato Free Press article and was quoted as follows: "I have made about 32,000 lefse in my lifetime!"

That's a lot of lefse! Ole said that the secret was to wait for the potato, shortening, sugar, and salt mixture to cool before adding the flour. Read more about lefse in our Norseland History book, entitled "Norseland: Where the Big Woods Meets the Prairie". Remember, History Matters! end

150th Anniversary Logo

2007-05-22T13:32:00.000-07:00

Grasshopper Plague

2007-05-16T09:10:00.000-07:00

The pioneers in the Norseland Area were attacked by grasshoppers during the years of 1874-1877. The worst year was 1875. During that year, Nicollet County reported 5,000 acres of damage. During this plague, the state of Minnesota allowed counties to offer a bounty on all grasshoppers caught and destroyed. The price paid by the Nicollet County Auditor was from three to ten cents a bushel. Read a full account of the plague in our coming book. Find out which Nicollet County farmer caught 633 bushels of them. Learn about the cottage industry that developed as local entrepreneurs built "hopperdozers" to trap the locusts. Remember, "History Matters!" end

IS IT MURDER?

2007-05-04T14:09:00.000-07:00

IS IT MURDER? That was the headline of the St. Peter Tribune in 1889.

In 1889, the possibility of murder shocked the community. Mr. and Mrs. Svenke Torgerson were found dead in the burned-out remains of their home. Svenke Torgerson was 73 years of age and his wife, Bergit, was 69 years old. They had been among the earliest Norwegian settlers in New Sweden Township having arrived in 1855. Their farm-site was established in the northern part of New Sweden Township. The Torgersons were charter members of Norseland Lutheran Church and, eight years prior to their death, also were founding members of Norwegian Grove Lutheran Church.

The suspicion of their murder arose because, as the St. Peter Tribune points out, “some very tough looking hunters” were seen in the area the previous day. Some “tramps” were seen traveling toward Nicollet the afternoon after their death. Also, a wagon was heard speeding through the neighborhood between 1:00 and 2:00 o’clock of that morning.

Read the rest of the story in our book to be published in 2008. end

T-Shirts and The Big Woods

2007-04-27T13:54:00.000-07:00

The Norseland Community 150th Anniversary Committee met this past week. Here is an update.

We have interesting historical data on “The Big Woods”. This will be used in the introduction of our book which will be entitled: “Norseland: Where the Big Woods Meets the Prairie”.
Financially we are looking good with a cash balance of $12,675.75 in our treasury. We are grateful to the Schmidt Foundation of St. Peter for a substantial part of these funds. Committee members will be calling on area businesses and asking them to donate. We are registered as a non-profit through the Nicollet County Historical Society so donations will be tax exempt. If you care to donate make checks to Norseland 150 and mail to Myrna Schoeb, 37658 410th Street, St. Peter, Mn. 56082. Your donations are much appreciated.
We will be ordering small refrigerator magnets with our logo and the date of the event on them. These will be distributed at the Nicollet County Fair. A magnate advertising our event on your refrigerator door is always a good way to remember a special celebration.
Norseland 150 T shirts are being ordered and are expected to be available at the Norseland Lutheran Church’s Syttende Mai dinner on May 17 and Scandian Grove’s Memorial Day dinner which is May 28.

Historical Bits of Information
During the years of 1874-1876, the farmers in the Norseland area suffered the scourge of grasshoppers. The plague was so bad that one farmer wrote to his relatives in Sweden that he would give up everything and return to his native land if things did not get better. During this time the Minnesota legislature allowed county auditors to pay grasshopper bounties from 3-10 cents a bushel.
School District 4 residents decided to build a 26x38 foot frame building for a school in 1876. The low bid for the building was $822 by Swan Johnson.
Country schools were eliminated in the late 1940’s. The state legislature passed a law asking counties to set up school-survey committees to examine the strengths and weaknesses of their local school systems. This was the impetus for consolidation of districts and the end of rural one-room schools. Read more about all of these subjects in our book to be published in 2008. end

Bits of Farm History

2007-04-23T08:36:00.000-07:00

The committee has received historical accounts from two area farms which have been in the same family for 150 years or more. The Andrew Thorson farm, now owned by his great granddaughter, Donna Pankratz and the Swen Swenson Jr. farm, now operated by great, great grandson Paul Swenson and his wife Cindy.

History at a glance

The Thorson farm was the site of the formation of the Scandian Grove Lutheran Church.
A house on this farm was constructed from lumber salvaged from taking down a church building from the Norseland Lutheran Church. Pankratz writes the following about the house construction done by Ole Olson. “It must have been the two front doors of the church that he put into the pantry door opening as we had two swinging doors there. Another unique thing was the inside doors were installed upside down so the door handles were lower than normal.”

The Swenson farm has been the home of Registered Holstein cattle since 1885. The farm has also produced governmental leaders. Swen Swenson served a term in the State Legislature, his son Oscar Swenson served many years in the Minnesota House of Representatives, and Oscar’s grandson, Howard Swenson served 10 years in the Minnesota House of Representatives.

Read the Rest of the Stories – when the Norseland History book is published next year.end

Sesquicentennial Farms

2007-04-13T06:23:00.000-07:00

Information is coming in from area farms that have been in the same family for 150 years or more. Thank you all very much. 150 years has meant drastic changes in the way we farm. Check this site for some dramatic examples! end

With a Little Help From Our Friends

2007-04-05T13:37:00.000-07:00

The Norseland Community is large in enthusiasm, but pretty small in manpower. When faced with a task of collecting historical information about the community, the Norseland 150th Anniversary Committee asked for some help. The help came in the way of Sarah Wolter’s Interpersonal Communication Class at Gustavus Adolphus College.

The class assignment was to conduct an interview with complete strangers. Certainly it takes some particular skills to establish a rapport with a complete stranger and then get them to open up and answer personal questions. These are the kinds of skills needed if students want to go on to become journalists. The class needed people who would be willing to be interviewed and the 150th Anniversary Committee needed historical information for our project. A partnership was developed and on March 20 a meeting was arranged at the Norseland Lutheran Church. Our committee lined up 17 people from the area to attend and be interviewed. The class was comprised of 21 students who came to Norseland from the campus. Our committee had prepared a list of topics pertinent to the Norseland Community and students also had an opportunity to pose their own questions. The final product of each interview will be placed on a compact disc and presented to our committee.

The students accomplished in one afternoon what would have taken many, many hours for our committee.
Our event got some publicity that day also as, Ruth Kossner, editor of The Ledger attended and did a front-page story in the Mar. 29 edition. Thanks to all who made this event a success. Community members who were interviewed were: Paul and Lois Bjorklund, Harold and Louise Rodning, Caroll and Elaine Hermanson, Don and Laurie Webster, Bob and Corinne Johnson; Jerry Johnson, Duane Olmanson, Hubert Anderson, Garfield Eckberg, Margaret Norell, Margaret Annexstad, and Beatrice Enter. Willard and Marilyn Bjorklund were interviewed at a later date by a student who was ill that day.

This event continues a unique partnership between Gustavus Adolphus and the Norseland Community. Early settlers to Norseland were responsible for encouraging the location of Gustavus in the city of St. Peter. end

You Been Farming Long?

2007-04-03T16:50:00.000-07:00

Remember the poster of the two little boys in their bib overalls? They were standing in the yard, about to kick a bit of gravel with the toe of one of their work boots. One of them had his hands in the pockets of his overalls. The one dimensional poster invited the viewer to imagine that one looked down a bit and then tilted his head back up and looked at the first little boy and asked, “You been farming long?”

The Norseland/New Sweden Community has quite a few little boys that grew into men and then farmed for quite a long time. Farms started over 100 years ago have been passed down from generation to generation. The Minnesota Century Farm program acknowledges those farms and a listing at the Nicollet County Museum indicates 21 farms in the Norseland/New Sweden Area that have been in the same family for over 100 years.
(These are the names of the farm owners at the time Century Farm designation was bestowed. Today, the farms may be officially owned by different family members.)
1. James Allerson
2. Hubert Anderson
3. Martin Annexstad
4. Marian Anthony
5. Robert Bjorklund
6. Wayne Bjorklund
7. William Brandt
8. Garfield Eckberg
9. Carroll Hermanson
10. Ernest Jonason
11. Harvey Johnson
12. Emily Lokensgard
13. Richard Nelson
14. Duane/Marilyn Olmanson
15. Valborg Pearson
16. Allen Quist
17. Warren Rodning
18. Howard Swenson
19. Ellis Thorson
20. Floyd Tungsvik
21. Don Webster
Several of these farms have been in the same family for 150 or more years. These farms will be highlighted in our book. Remember, HISTORY MATTERS.end

Financing the Event

2007-04-01T17:06:00.000-07:00

The committee is planning on having T shirts printed. (I hope to have our logo posted here soon. - Hoping that our computer guru, Dick Kinkeade can take care of that task.) We will have them on sale at the Nicollet County Fair or before! Look for our booth at the fair. It will be an opportunity for you to volunteer to help with the celebration. We have secured a grant from the Schmidt Foundation to help defray some of the expenses. Also, Garfield solicited a donation from our State Representative, Terry Morrow. Thank you very much Rep. Morrow!

Garfield has also contacted the Minnesota Sesquicentennial Office and made an application for grant funding. We are covering all the bases as they say. Speaking of baseball, I believe there is some very interesting historical information about Norseland Baseball and Softball teams. If anyone can contribute memories - please send them along. norseland150@gmail.com That's all for now.
Remember - HISTORY MATTERS
end

Norseland Community 150th Anniversary Committee

2007-04-01T16:49:00.000-07:00

The committee that is working on the Norseland Sesquicentennial is as follows:

Co-Chairs: Fred Struck and Garfield Eckberg
Evie Swenson, Secretary
Myrna Schoeb, Treasurer
Pastor Craig Ferkenstad
Pastor Jerry Lanes
Dick Kinkeade
Darwin Gunderson
Emilie Lokensgard
Margie Eckberg
Judy Schultz
Randy Swenson
Janel Swenson
Judy Hanson

The committee has been meeting almost every month since June, 2006. Subcommittees have been designated including: parade, supper, and afternoon events. Anyone interested in helping is encouraged to call Garfield or Fred. Garfield's number is 246-5025. Fred's number is 931-6047.

The Norseland Party Line

2007-03-31T08:24:00.000-07:00

Remember the days of the party lines? It was common to have ten or twelve people all sharing the same telephone line with each person having a special "ring". Those were the days before privacy became a governmental issue. The point is that those party lines became a source of news in the neighborhood and one could even have a conference call if you chose to. When an emergency happened in the rural area, neighbors used the partly line to get help.

Those days are gone but we still want to communicate. Today our neighbors are all across the nation and world. We want everyone to know about the excitement in Norseland as we plan for our 150th Anniversary. This is our new party line and we hope everyone will read it and add news. The excitement and planning are building daily. Just yesterday I got a call from a neighbor (who lives in California). Wayne Johnson who said he had left the area 50 years ago called to find out about the Anniversary Celebration. He asked that we let other relatives of his know about the plans: Sylvia Johnson, and his sister who lives in Baxter, Mn. (Name escapes me right now, and I can't find my note.)

We are finding out all kinds of interesting historical facts like- there were a couple of pick pockets that took advantage of church members leaving Scandian Grove during one of their celebrations.

There was a member of the community kidnapped and taken to Iowa. You will be able to read all about it when our book is printed. If you have your own history to add or just remembrances, we have set up a Google mail box. You can e mail your comments and information to norseland150@gmail.com OR make your comments right here on the blog.end