Saint Olaf Lutheran Church, Belmond, Iowa – History

Organized in 1888

Greetings....

Dear Friends and Members of the St. Olaf Evangelical Lutheran Church, our brothers and sisters in Christ, grace to you and peace from God our Father, and from our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

It is with a great sense of joy and high privilege that we join with you in the celebration of your Centennial Year. St. Olaf enjoys a rich heritage. For a century now this congregation has gathered for worship. Throughout these years you have encouraged, supported, and trained each other for service. You have responded to local and distant needs with sensitivity and compassion. This had been a century of caring

Now, together, we begin a second century of service in Jesus’ Name. With the Apostle Paul, we are "sure that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ" (Phil. 1:6). May God grant each of us the strength and steadfast faith to boldly continue to lift high the cross of Christ.

We commend each of you for your diligence and faithfulness. As we celebrate a Century of Caring, may we experience a Century of Caring continued.

With joy and thanksgiving we serve as your Pastors.

Pastor James H. Carpenter

Pastor William Bentzinger

The First Fifty Years...

As written by Simon Simerson in 1938 for the 50th anniversary of St. Olaf Church...

I am pleased to have a part on this program. Having grown up among the people who organized this Church, and having had more or less to do with it since its organization, this church has so to speak become a part of my life. It has been a real pleasure to me to prepare this paper, to recall its doings, as they developed with the year.

I want to begin this church story 19 years before its organization. I want to begin it one June day in 1869 when a small party of Norwegians encamped on the C. B. Johnson farm. This party was no doubt the first Norwegians to settle in Wright county. They came from Lacrosse, Wisconsin. The party was composed of Mr. and Mrs. Hans Hanson, their three boys, Hans, Ole, and John: Mr. and Mrs. C. B. Johnson; Mr. and Mrs. Fred Simerson, with one child; and Mr. C. M. Johnson. Of these 11 souls that came that day, 69 years ago, there are today three alive; Ole Hanson, then a boy of 15 years, John Hanson, about 3 years and myself, 10 months.

A year or so later, came Thomas Thompson and family, of which Ole was the only boy. After that came in rapid succession Nels Saugstad, the Skovlin brother, James Johnson, John Larson, Henry Nelson, Hans Jacobson, the Furuseths, the Sigstads, and others all in the early seventies.

These were the Norwegians that pioneered here west of Belmond and it was none too easy. For instance, Garner was their first marketing place, a few years later Britt, still later Clarion, and finally in 1891 Belmont. there was plenty of elbowroom, for not until the railroad came to Belmond in 1881 did this country begin to be settled in earnest.

During the earlier years, the Norwegians here had no church organization. But about 1873, they got their first preacher, a Rev. Sauer who preached in the log houses of the settlers, as it was not until 1875 that the first school house was built.

This organization was called the Ringsaker congregation, the name of the parish church in the county of Hedemarken, Norway, from which the greater part of these people had come. The first preacher was soon succeeded by Rev. N. Pedersen, who held the call for many years.

During the late seventies and early eighties, this was a promising organization, It had a membership of about 30 voting members. It had acquired a site for a prospective church on this same quarter section this church is located. it had a resident minister living in his own home on his own farm less than a mile from here, now owned and occupied by Harry Stockseth.

Then came the lamentable controversy over the doctrine of Predestination, a controversy that spread like wild fire throughout the congregations of the Norwegian Synod, and resulted here as well as many other place in a split on this congregation. Had it not been for this controversy over a matter that after all was not so vital, the Norwegian church history here west of Belmond might have been entirely different. If both parties had not been so sure they were right and the other guy wrong, if there had been a little give and a little take, a little tolerance on both sides, we might easily today have been celebrating the 65th anniversary of Ringsaker organization instead of St. Olaf’s 50th anniversary.

The St. Olaf congregation was organized at the James Johnson school house in Norway Township on the 29th day of September 1888, by the following, most of them with families and all of them former members of Ringsaker’s congregation: Ole T. Rikansrud, Fred Simerson, John Larson, Andrew Johnson, Halvor Rierson, A. C. Johnson, Andrew Olson Amilie, Ole Thompson, Hans Hanson, Sr., Lewis Johnson, Ole Hanson, James Johnson, Hans Jacobson, A. L. Skovlin, C. M. Johnson, C. L. Furuseth, John Rierson, N. N. Johnson, Ole Furuseth, Martin Johnson, R. H. Rierson, Hans Hanson, Jr. Of these only two are alive today: Ole Hanson and Martin Johnson. Their wives have fared a little better. Four are still alive: Mrs. Ole Hanson, Mrs. R. H. Rierson, Mrs. Ole T. Rikansrud, and Mrs. Lewis Johnson.

The first board of Trustees were Ole Thompson, N. N. Johnson, and James Johnson. The first Secretary was O. T. Rikansrud. Hans Jacobson was elected Treasurer. At this meeting an unanimous call was issued to Rev. H. C. Holm of Cambridge, Iowa who accepted the call.

A few weeks before this a subscription for a church building had been started. Regarding this subscription, I want to add a little personally. At the breakfast table, one morning in the latter part of August 1888, my father said he was going out to get subscriptions for a church. And he wanted me to write a heading for the subscription paper. He wanted that the heading should state that the church should be open for the use of any Lutheran of good character at any time when not in use by the regular pastor. Also in case of a split in the congregation, the church to be the property of the majority but the minority to have the right to use the church according as their number bore to the whole number before the split, provided they upheld their share of the running expenses. That night father came home with $600.00 pledged on the list. This heading I wrote that morning created quite a discussion when it came to adopting a constitution word for word as I wrote it that morning, and it is still a part of the constitution of St. Olaf.

By the aid of business men in Belmond and Clarion, something like $1,500.00 was pledged. With this the church building was started intending to keep within the subscribed amount. But as it goes with such undertakings, the church when completed cost about $3,000.00, creating a heavy debt which however was paid within a few years. In June 1889 the church was dedicated. As to this building and dedication I can give no particulars as I left for school before the building was started, and when I returned the following June the church was already dedicated.

The growth of this church the first ten years was constant and relatively large. In 1891 no less that 16 persons, most of them with families, united with the church, and the average for the first ten years was better than eight each year.

While I am on the growth of the church, I will mention two happenings that occurred to stop its growth more than anything else. In 1899 the railroad was extended from Belmond to Algona. That summer the spot where stood the herd shanty of John Marriage back in the seventies became a busy place. Kanawha was in the growing with its other institutions came a new Lutheran Church. Members of St. Olaf in that vicinity transferred their membership to the new church by the dozens.

The other blow came 18 years later when three different Lutheran organizations met one June morning, in the armory at St. Paul and declared that from then and henceforth they would be one. The upholding of two Lutheran organizations in Belmond could not be justified any longer. Ringsaker organization that had been in existence almost 40 years dissolved itself and its members and the St. Olaf members in Belmond and nearby organized Trinity church. St. Olaf lost by it many of its members, among them many of its oldest and most influential ones.

In 1899 the church had become too small. Two additions were made: one to the east and one to the west, making the church so far as outside looks are concerned substantially as it is today. H. C. Enger of Belmond was the contractor who did the work except the altar piece which is the work of Kute Lien. Outside of these walls a stone marks his last resting place. Inside of these walls he left a piece of handiwork that will be admired as long as the church will stand.

On the 19th of November, 1899 occurred the rededication of this church. Rev. T. H. Dahl, Vice President of the United Norwegian Lutheran Church preached the sermon. Re. Thor Haugen of Decorah gave an historical sketch of Lutheranism and also led in the discussion of Acts 16, 30, and 31, the following Monday and Tuesday.

The Belmond Herald at the time printed a picture of the church and also an historical sketch, of which it fell to my lot to be the author. Here it is. (Ed. note, we were unable to find the picture). There is a large crowd. Here in front a long row of horses are hitched to spring wagons. It was the heyday of the spring wagon. The lumber wagon had ceased to go to church. The carriage and surrey were coming one; and we thought if we had a bright surrey and a team of fine horses we had all that could be desired in the way of church conveyance. But one Sunday morning about 1911 there rolled up to this church gate a conveyance without horses. Five years later on Sunday mornings that fine team grazed quietly in the pasture and the surrey stood in some back shed gathering more dust.

One day in 1832, there walked into Milwaukee, Wisconsin a small light complexioned man. He had walked all the way from the southern shore of Lake Ontario in the state of New York, 1500 miles. Milwaukee at that time had only four houses. In one of these lived Solomon Jeaneau, the fur trader. To his place the man steered his steps and made the fur trader two questions: "What kind of a country is there to the northwest?" "Forest to the world’s end," was the reply. "What kind of a country is there to the southeast?" "Prairies to the big river."

Cleng Pearson, for it was he, self appointed finder of new homes for sons and daughters of overpopulated Norway, turned to the southwest. The result was the Fox River settlement in Northern Illinois. This same Fox River settlement contributed members to St. Olaf in its early days as no other place. During the nineties they came in ever increasing numbers. They were a church minded people. No sooner had they bought or rented farms and settled than they applied for membership in this church, and they became staunch and loyal supporters of St. Olaf. I think it is not out of the way to mention some of these who came early and were with us long but have now gone to their last reward. I believe I will begin with one who no doubt looked forward to being with us today: Jacob Thompson, Henry Anderson, E. N. Erickson, Ralph Benson, Austin Nelson, Ole E. Olson, Edmund Johnson, Samuel Hixdahl, George Skauge, Hogan Mickelson, Andrew and Olai Scott. A long list, but others could no doubt be added. Truly indeed the reaper of death has swung its scythe here in St. Olaf. Soon the early church doings of the Norwegians here west of Belmond will have passed into history. Eye witnesses and those who can draw on their memory will all be gone.

Five different Pastors have shepherded the St. Olaf congregation these past 50 years. H. C. Holm from September 1888 to July 1901, and again from June 1906 to 1917, in all about 23 years. And it is no doubt to his faithful work much of the early success of this church can be attributed. First from Cambridge in Story County, later from Eagle Grove, rain or snow, roads or no roads, he was always here on appointed time, and he never had to preach to empty seats or lagging interests.

J. J. Akre, from July 1901 to June 1904, a short term but a time of spiritual awakening in this church.

J. Hetland, from July 1904 to February 1906.

J. M. Jenson, from 1917 to December 1925.

Our present Pastor B. Guldseth, from February 1927.

These servants of the Lord have been faithful in their service. Their messages to this congregation from within these walls have had no uncertain ring. It has been the old, old, story of sin and grace as set forth in the Word of God. The task may not have been so easy at times. The results seemed so uncertain, yet it has not been wholly in vain. From within these walls, young men and women have gone forth to positions of trust and service in the Lord’s work. Shall I mention Edward Eliason, Olai Hill, Andrew Martinson, and Truman Benson, who laid down theirs staffs in early life. Others have gone forth and are still at work both here in this land and on foreign mission field. It is with pardonable pride that St. Olaf has been one of its early members a young man on a rented farm a few miles from this church, advance to trusted position of treasurer of the National Organization of our church, Henry Shurson.

In summing up this fifty year history of St. Olaf, I believe that all of us are ready to acknowledge that God has been good to St. Olaf these many years. St. Olaf may not, like Jacob of old, have gone forth with staff and returned in two bands. It may not have grown large or accomplished great things, but we have had what is more important. We have had over us these many years the protecting hand of the Almighty God.

As we turn from the past to face the future, we do so without fear or trembling; for we have the solemn promise that God who has been with us in the past, will continue to be with us in the future. God will not forsake us. If there ever is a separation between St. Olaf and God, it will not be because He leaves us. It will be because we leave Him. "For lo, I am with you always, even unto the end."

 The Second Fifty Years...

The continuation of the life of the St. Olaf congregation in the second 50 years is evident at the time of our centennial celebration. The following thoughts are concerning the happenings since the fiftieth year. This takes some of us back to when we were young, so we are relying on help from other members as they have recorded or related information to us.

Many families were very faithful in their attendance at each worship service and usually were seated with their whole family in the same pew. Prayer meetings, held weekly in various homes, were necessary for the church to remain true to His Word, grow in Christian life, and respect the need for using prayer in our lives. There were regular evangelistic meeting, which caused many to realize the need to make confession of their sins and accept Jesus to be Lord of their lives. Many testimonies were given which told of the change in an individual’s life when Christ was received. Gospel songs were often sung and they have remained in our memories to be used often to praise Him! How grateful we should be for our forefathers who established the church on God’s Word, as well as for the parents who took us to His House regularly.

As mentioned in the first 50 years, Pastor Bernard Guldseth became pastor of Trinity and St. Olaf congregations on February 13, 1927. He and his wife, Lillie, had seven children. He served as choir director in the churches, as he felt the choir was a necessary part of the worship service. In April of 1941 Rev. Guldseth received a call as service pastor at the Great Lakes Naval Training Station, Waukegan, Illinois. He and his family moved to Waukegan in June. The congregation granted him a year’s leave of absence, but in August he returned and presented his resignation. During the time of his leave of absence, visiting pastors filled the pulpit on Sundays, with Rev. Ostroot of Clarion taking charge of the confirmands and other duties of the church. In October Rev. Axel Shefveland, retired pastor, moved to Belmond and served our congregation through December.

Pastor Otis Severseike became our pastor in January 1942. He, his wife Olga, and two children came to Belmond from Arlington, South Dakota. He served us well for seventeen years, the longest tenure of any pastor at St. Olaf. Many of the people present at our centennial celebration will have been baptized, confirmed or married by Pastor Severseike. He resigned in 1959 to take up pastoral duties in Ames, Iowa. Waldorf College pastors filled the pulpit during the interim period.

Pastor Oscar Laaveg, his wife Viola, and four sons arrived in 1959, coming from Camrose, Canada. He was a good vocalist, and one song which he sang as a solo was impressive with its timely words, "In Times Like These, You Need a Savior." His call to Cylinder, Iowa came in 1970, and he felt led to accept it. During the interim we were served by Pastor Leo Anderson of Hampton, a semi-retired pastor. In 1982, Pastor Laaveg retired from full time ministry and moved to Belmond. We are fortunate to obtain his services from time to time.

These pastors gave excellent instruction to the confirmands and helped them learn our Lutheran beliefs, memorize Bible verses, the Luther catechism, and books of the Bible. The young people were active in Luther League and there were many discussions on various topics. Parochial School, today known as Bible School, was held in the country school houses for several years and later at the church. The sessions were held for a couple of weeks in the summer and lasted all day! This gave extra activities in educating us in the Bible with emphasis on memory work. The chalkboard was used for listing assignments to the various grades. Hectographs were used to copy some of the paper work made out by the teachers.

Throughout the years, members of the congregation have volunteered their talents; playing piano or organ, singing in choir, offering special musical talents, teaching Sunday School and Vacation Bible School, serving on various boards of the church, and leading the activities of the church women and young people.

In 1970, the two point ministry of St. Olaf and Trinity was joined by a third congregation, St. John’s Lutheran Church of Belmond. It was felt that the three churches could be better served by forming a three point parish and calling two pastors. The Belmond Lutheran Parish was formed and Pastor Harris Hostager of Akron, Iowa, was called. He and his wife, Luetta, and four sons arrived in 1970. A short time later, Pastor Conrad "Connie" Rolland, a seminary classmate of Pastor Hostage, was called. Pastor Rolland, his wife, Mary, and five children arrived from Inwood, Iowa, in the summer of 1970. Pastors Hostager and Rolland pioneered a team ministry where the two pastors shared equally in their duties and responsibilities. A part-time secretary, Adean Dorr, was hired to assist in the office. The three churches also had a chance to share in various programs: "Key ‘73," a series of small group Bible studies held in homes; Bethel Bible Series; outdoor worship services with breakfast at Pikes Timer, and later at the Belmond River Park; a Parish callers class held to teach layman the art of visitation; and first communion classes. Also, some of our Parish lay persons wrote meditations for a daily Lenten devotional booklet.

A new three year program was established in 1976 by the cluster of seven area congregations. An intern from the seminary was assigned to serve in various capacities through out the area churches. Our first intern was John Emerson who served for two years, followed by Franz Schemmel who served for one year. Funds from the United Mission Appeal assisted in salary payments. The United Mission Appeal for various projects worldwide was a success at St. Olaf with our members pledging almost $14,000.

When the team ministry and three point Parish had been operating for seven years, the parish wanting to show their appreciation to the pastors, presented them and their wives with a trip to the Holy Land, Upon their return, they shared their experiences and pictures at an open house for the parish.

The first "Pro Deo Award" given at St. Olaf was to Douglas Anderson in 1975. Recipients of this award must give evidence that they have a meaningful knowledge of the Christian faith, that they witness to their faith in word and action, and that they are concerned for the spiritual and physical welfare of their fellow men by giving worthwhile service. His father, Everett Anderson, received "The National Lamb" award in 1979. The award is presented through the National American Lutheran Church headquarters and is given in recognition of work with youth through organizations, such as the Boy Scouts.

Pastor Rolland informed us in 1979 that he was resigning our parish to accept a call to Bergen Lutheran Church in Roland, Iowa. He had served us faithfully for ten years. We are still enjoying the many pictures he took of community and church events.

Pastor Connie Kleingartner of Dundee, Iowa, was called to fill the vacancy. Her installation took place June 22, 1980, at the joint parish outdoor worship service at River Park. She was the first woman pastor in our community. Various new ideas were used during Pastor Kleingartner’s ministry at Belmond: we had our first council workshop; a Parish float in the parade when Belmond celebrated its 125th anniversary; and the clergy and secretary offices were relocated in the St. John’s Church.

Pastor Hostager accepted a call to Audubon, Iowa, in the summer of 1981. A parish hog roast was held as a farewell for the Hostager family. The hog roast has since become an annual event to start the fall schedules.

A volunteerism task force was formed to aid Pastor Connie until a new pastor was found. Pastor Gary Gabel of rural Clear Lake, Iowa, was hired to assist Pastor Connie on Sunday mornings.

Pastor James Carpenter of Bode, Iowa, accepted the call to serve as a team pastor and was installed on June 13, 1982 at the parish outdoor service at River Park. He and his wife, Kathy, and two children moved into the Trinity-St. Olaf parsonage.

Pastor Connie accepted the call to serve as Assistant to the Bishop of the Iowa District in June 1984. During the interim Pastor Renee Tecklenburg and Pastor Oscar Laaveg served as pulpit supply. The Parish voted to call our own pastor, James Carpenter, to serve as senior pastor. A call was then accepted by Pastor William Bentzinger of Ackley, Iowa, to serve as associate pastor. He, with his wife Naomi and two children, moved into the St. John’s parsonage in January of 1985. The pastors now divide their duties and each concentrates on selected areas of ministry. Pastor Bill works with the youth programs and oversees much of the office scheduling and activities, while Pastor Jim concentrates more in the areas of home visitations and Bible studies. They share equally in areas of worship, confirmation, home-communions, hospital visitation, and council planning.

Some of the projects completed during the eighties were resurfacing of the parking lot, installation of Plexiglas over the stained glass windows, and placing of three ceiling fans in the church. Additional land for the cemetery was purchased and improved with a new road, trees and landscaping. New doors replaced the old on the southwest and on the basement entrance. New carpet was laid in the Narthex, north room, and stairs, and a new set of green paraments were purchased for the altar. The steeple was repaired and painted, the roof shingled, and the outside covered with vinyl siding. As in the past, all this was made possible by the gifts and memorials of friends of St. Olaf.

Church council members worked on clarifying the duties of the various offices and published this in booklet form. Regular agenda planning meetings were established with the presidents of each church and the pastors discussing items that would be necessary for the joint and individual council meeting. The National Parish Education board chose our Belmond Parish as a location of a supply area for various educational materials. This was to be one of five located throughout the United States. They provided money for the resource room to be established in the former church office at Trinity.

The St. Olaf congregation enrolled in the "Search" Bible Studies with the parish. The classes began in 1983 with some fifty members. This was the 500th year since Martin Luther’s birth, so we dealt with topics about our heritage and emphasized out catechism, which is basic to our faith. Various study groups used the book "Evangelical Catechism" at their sessions. Pastor Jim started a breakfast Bible Study, held at a local restaurant, with an average of twenty persons attending. Various books of the Bible were studied. During Lenten season, members from other congregations were invited to attend the study.

St. Olaf established a "Harry Gimberg Seminary Fund" at the 1986 annual meeting. Harry, a son of the congregation, attends the Association of Free Lutheran Seminary and the money is used towards his education.

A Permanent Cemetery Fund was established in 1986. donations to this open fund are invested with only the interest earned being used for upkeep of the cemetery and church grounds.

During this time, the Centennial Finance Committee began to raise money for various up-coming expenses by hosting a ham dinner with the assistance of the Altar Guild. They also sold names for our church calendar where birth dates and anniversary dates were listed. In 1987, they, together with the ALCW served a kumla dinner.

The ministerial association implemented a community event for Good Friday services, where the participants proceed from one church to another as mediations on the "Seven Last Words" are held. The Belmond Parish also hosts a community church service on the Sunday nearest the fourth of July. The services are followed by a pancake breakfast of dinner.

The parish office is the hub of church activities. After fifteen years as our secretary, Jane Heimstra resigned and Shelley Johnson was hired. The purchase of a computer for the parish office in 1987 has been a great asset. It is used for keeping membership lists and preparing the Sunday service bulletins. The parish newsletter, "The Triangle," is done on the computer and sent out monthly to keep the members informed of church events and activities.

Much has happened these last one hundred years. The task is not completed! God has great things in store for us. Like those who have gone before us, we must build on the foundation of Jesus Christ! He promises to add His blessings as we labor together, and dedicate ourselves anew to the extension of His Kingdom to the glory of His Name! Our children will be blessed with rich heritage!

 The Building and Parsonage...

As mentioned earlier, when the St. Olaf congregation was formed in September, 1888, they realized a need for a separate church building and immediately made plans to build a church. A subscription drive for building funds had begun a month earlier. Land located 1 mile north and 6 miles west of Belmond was purchased from Nels E. Saugstad. The church was built with its entrance to the south and a steeple towering above. It is believed the bell in the tower is the same bell that called the congregation to worship on dedication day in June of 1889. The inscription on the bell reads: "Meneely & Co., West Troy, N. Y., 1888."

The immigration patterns of the time made it necessary for additions to be added in 1898. H. C. Enger was hired as contractor to build a wing to the east and another on the west. Today, our church’s outside appearance remains basically in the same cross-shaped design.

Knute Lien, a St. Olaf member and carpenter, was hired to build our beautiful altar. He was paid $50.00 for his work. Sara Kirkeberg Saugland, a sister-in-law of Knute, was commissioned to paint the altar painting from the dimensions Knute furnished. The altar and the painting proceeded at the same time. Knute must have finished the altar sometime around 1901 or 1902. Sadly, Knute never had the chance to see the painting and altar together as one unit before his death in 1902. Sara has painted between 350 and 400 portraits and altar paintings which are found as far away as Norway and China, as well as many places in the United States. She suffered from crippling arthritis for 25 years and she passed away in 1960. Today the altar and our painting, "The Ascension" is a much loved part of our church building and we are thankful for the talents shared with us.

Through the years other physical improvements have been made: a basement was constructed in 1929; new heating systems installed; replacement of wainscoting with celotex; the chancel was raised from one step to three; a new main entrance was built at the east end of the church and wiring for electricity was done. In 1950, a well was dug and a water system installed. In 1952, the pews were refinished and blonded (with the labor being done entirely by members), a new linotile floor covering was laid and art glass windows were installed in the main sanctuary. The basement was completely remodeled in 1953 with the installation of new cupboards and restrooms. A furnace explosion on March 28, 1954, required the entire church interior to be redecorated. In 1966, the men of the congregation tore down the "north room" and east entry. The new educational unit and larger narthex was financed by an estate gift.

In the seventies the balcony was enclosed, the church interior painted, the basement paneled and carpeted, and the kitchen area improved. In preparation for the centennial the church again has been redecorated and needed maintenance done inside and out. Basically, for 100 years, the church has been cared for with the stewardship we feel is worthy of a House where we gather to worship.

The first parsonage was built on the corner west of St. Olaf church on a small tract of land purchased from Nels Saugstad. The Akre family moved into the new parsonage in early 1902. The tornado of 1905 caused a lot of damage at the parsonage. The out buildings were nearly destroyed, and the parsonage itself was pretty well shaken. A team of horses which was tied to the manger in the barn was lifted by the wind, carried a quarter of a mile, and set down uninjured. The minister’s great fur coat that had been twisted and rolled into a high tight ball was found near the team. After Pastor J. Hetland left in February 1906, the parsonage stood empty for years, was rented out to several different families, and later sold to L. O. Skovlin in 1917.

Bennie Benson bought the acreage in 1924 and built a new house. He tore down the old parsonage and hauled the lumber southeast of Belmond. It was sold to the Veeder’s for $100.00 and used in the construction of their new house.

In 1917, when St. Olaf and Trinity became part of the same synod and began to share a pastor, they built a large square parsonage two blocks north of Trinity church. The cost was $2,300.00. Pastor Jenson and his family were the first residents. This home served our pastors until 1949 when the old Trinity church was converted into a brick parsonage and the old parsonage sold. Pastor Severseike and family were the first to occupy the new dwelling. In October 1966, a tornado moderately damaged the parsonage and it required repair. In 1973 further remodeling and redecorating were completed. The parsonage is used today to house on the pastors of the Belmond Parish.

 The Altar Guild...

The St. Olaf Altar Guild held its first meeting on June 26, 1973, with ten ladies present, and two additional ones joining at the next meeting. The members were Icle Severson, Della Toftey, Ruth Lonnevik, Adean Dorr, Esther Halverson, Lillian Severson, Gladys Ekeland, Eleonore Nelson, Hilda Lee, Cleona Tegland, Becky Ellingston, and Adele Johnson. The first chairman was Lillian Severson, secretary Adean Dorr. Four new members have joined since we organized. They are Mildred Lonnevik, Avis Fjetland, Juen Anderson and Charlotte Gabrielson.

The Guild has made the fair linens for the altar, baptismal towels, and banners. They have charge of decorating the Christmas tree with Chrismons, and the advent wreath. Some other duties are: prepare the communion trays, change the paraments and banners, keep clean fair linens on the altar, replace the altar candles when needed.

At each of our quarterly meetings, the pastors have given informative lessons on various topic concerning our worship services. A yearly booklet describes our duties and other information.

 The Church Women...

In a hundred years there have been changes in the structure of our church which has brought about different names or titles of the women’s organizations. The first society was known as the Pigeforening, and then later, called Kvindefornening. There was a time when the women were divided in groups of North, South, and East Ladies Aid. In the forties the women were known as W. M. F. (Women’s Missionary Federation), and later as A. L. C. W. (American Lutheran Church Women). At the time of the 1987 merger with the L. C. A. the women’s group became known as Women of the E. L. C. A. (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America).

Regardless of name changes the women have continued the work in mission service, social concerns and Bible study, as well as the education and stewardship projects presented by our National Office.

Needs on the local level have been supplied to the Food Pantries, Wright County Opportunities for handicapped, World Hunger, Handicap Village, local Care Center, and shut ins. Financial help has been given to the youth of our church for their various projects and attendance at Bible camps. The Prayer Chain, recently organized, has provided comfort to many in our church family.

Fellowship events consist of pot luck dinners, banquets, teas, guest days, special birthday program, retreats, field trips to visit various missions, parish lenton suppers, and custom quilting.

Proceeds from the bake sales and farm sales help pay for our "Scope" magazine for each member, and provides the "Guidepost" magazine to local hospitals’ waiting rooms.

Our community events are the World Day of Prayer, the United Women’s Lenten Services, and Guest Day.

The annual bazaar, consisting of sewing, crafts, and food items, is directed entirely to serve many missions from the proceeds that usually amount to $3,000. The Fall Festival offering is used for church and parsonage upkeep.

A special event was in July, 1980 when the RAGBRAI tour of bicyclers was routed by our church, and our congregation provided much food and other aide to the riders. Registration revealed they came from various states, and even Canada.

Upon request, the 1951 cookbook was recopied and then added contributions of newer recipes by present members. The 1983 "St. Olaf Pot Luck" cookbook sold for $5.00. A second printing was necessary.

The condirmands and High School graduates are now honored and recognized at a reception on their special day.

At Thanksgiving time, we share offerings of blankets and sweaters with Lutheran World Relief.

We have been helping with centennial projects such as, our kumla dinner, ham dinner, baking potato cakes, and extra custom quilting.

"We cannot go forward without seeing where we have come from." So, in retrospect, we are grateful for our heritage, and now, at the close of the century may we continue to serve Him with our lives and witness for our Lord.

 The L. D. R. and the L. C. R...

Records reveal that a St. Olaf Lutheran daugherts of the Reformation was active in 1938 and 1939. This group was organized by Mrs. Gerhard Thompson and had a membership of twenty-one.

The objects of the L. D. R. were: (1) to lead the young women to know Jesus Christ as their Savior; (2) to be a means through which their religious life may find expression; (3) to acquaint them with and train them for Christian service in the church; (4) to unite with societies of the younger women into cooperative efforts for work in the church.

During these years the missionary projects of the L. D. R. were: Shirshmaref in Alaska, Jewish, Lutheran Welfare Society of Iowa, General Church Budget and Centennial. It was the aim that every L. D. R. member use her Treasure Chest as a thank offering. The money was raised for these and other mission work by doing handwork at the meetings, followed by a sale of these articles in the fall of the year. Meetings were held one each month.

Since many of the girls left this community to attend school and later work elsewhere, the membership was not large enough to carry on effective work. Thus, for several years the girls from St. Olaf and from the Trinity Churches formed a parish L. D. R. and continued to work as one group until the middle 1960’s when it dissolved.

The Lutheran children of the Reformation is dedicated to the purposes expressed in its constitution, these being basically the same as those of the L. D. R. In October of 1950, a group of 43 boys and girls enrolled as charter members of the St. Olaf L. C. R. Prior to this time many of these children had been meeting jointly with the Trinity group, but because of the active interest, a separate group was organized by Mrs. Gerhard Thompson, assisted by Joan Mehus (Mrs. Arlie Olson).

Meetings were held regularly on the first Saturday of each month during the school year. The programs consisted of a worship service, Bible Study and a missionary story at each meeting, followed by a social hour and light refreshments. The total offering of each meeting was presented to a mission cause.

The highlights of the meetings were the occasions when a missionary was entertained. Special interest was very evident in our own missionaries - Pearl Larson and the Herbert Nelson family.

Mothers of the L. C. R. members were honored each year at the May meeting when a special program was presented and the mothers were special guests. This group was active until May of 1962 but is not organized at the present time.

 The Luther League...

Early in the 1890’s Olai Hill and John Johnson organized a Luther League based on the Bible verse, Philippians 4:8. Meetings were usually held on Sunday evenings and at first were strictly devotional. A few years later the League members met on special occasions for social gatherings as well as their Bible studies. Even in the days when the only transportation was a horse and buggy these events were well attended. As the years went by, little change in the structure of the league occurred. Youth in grades 9 through 12 usually met once a month following a program set up by the Synod office. A supper or lunch often followed the meeting or was included in the social event. Adult supervision aided the pastor at these meetings.

In the 1950’s the leagues of St. Olaf and trinity combined. In 1970 when the Belmond Parish was formed the young people of St. John joined to form a Parish League.

Through the years the Leaguers have attended conventions throughout Iowa, the United States, and Canada. The largest representation to a National Convention was in 1957 when eight boys attended the convention in Missoula, Montana. In 1961 three boys attended the first League Convention of the newly formed ALC There are plans at this writing for a group of young people to attend the 1988 Luther League Convention to be held in San Antonio, Texas.

The "retreat" became a new program of study and fellowship in the 1970’. It allows the Pastor, together with advisors, extended time with high school youth of the Parish. The most popular retreats have been the week long trips to Colorado. One included 72 participants with all supplies and housing taken along. Canoeing, bicycling, skiing, and Bible camping retreats have also been well attended.

Fund raising events for the various retreats have included car washes, slave auctions, bake sales, coffees, breakfasts, gourmet suppers, and the sales of various items. The members of the congregation have been very supportive of these fund raising events and in addition, many members have contributed directly to the League.

The Luther League has also given to the congregation. They have organized and sponsored the Candlelight Service held on Christmas Eve and the Sunrise Service held Easter mornings. These services have become two of the best attended special services held in the Parish. Christmas is also the time when the Leaguers help residents of the retirement apartments decorate of tree in the Leinbach Center and share carols and refreshments during a social hour.

In a hundred years, four generations of young people have been Luther Leaguers. We are thankful for the support given them by the pastors and the congregation for we have been or are these young people.

 The Music of the Church...

Music has always been an important part of the St. Olaf worship service. At the early meetings, each one brought their own Norwegian "Psalmebog" (hymn book). In those early days, St. Olaf did not have a piano or an organ. Following Norwegian customs, a man with a good voice, called the "Klokker" or "song leader," was asked to lead the singing. He would choose the hymn, give the pitch and lead the melody. He also assisted the pastor by offering the opening and closing prayers, or requesting one of the members of the congregation to do this. N. N. Johnson and Jacob Thompson were two of St. Olaf’s "Klokkers" in earlier years.

Mr. Nordbo, a parochial school teacher from Eagle Grove, started a "singing school" in the early 1890"s. The young people would meet in homes and practice without the aid of a musical instrument. Later, Miss Lena Schonhood, a public school teacher, directed the choir.

For several years there was not an active choir. Pastor Guldseth felt music was fundamental to worship and reorganized and directed the choir during his ministry here. Later, Mrs. Alfa Mathre served as choir director for 15 years, followed by Mrs. Ruth Lonnevick for 10 years, and Harold Hill for the next 12 years.

Music has always been a key part of the worship service. During the years there have been many faithful members. The choir blessed us with beautiful songs until the fall of 1985. In the spring of 1986, with the aid of Kenneth Severson, a men’s chorus was formed.

The choir, with their family members, would go caroling at Christmas time. They would sing to the shut-ins, the hospitals and care centers in Belmond and Clarion, and at the Belmond Retirement Center. The evening concluded with refreshments at a home or a local restaurant. The men’s chorus now carries on this tradition.

The first choir robes were purchased secondhand from a congregation in northern Minnesota. There were not enough robes for the entire choir, so Mrs. Cleona Tegland volunteered to make the additional robes. These robes were used until Palm Sunday, 1961, when the new empire purple robes were initiated.

In 1944, St. Olaf bought its first electric Hammond organ, with Deagan chimes being purchased later. The organ and the chimes were dedicated at the 60th anniversary celebration on November 7, 1948. A new Story & Clark piano was purchased with gifts and memorials in 1962. This piano was moved to the basement when St. Olaf received a new Everett piano as a memorial gift in 1974. As estate gift made possible the purchase of a new Allen organ in 1972.

Through the years there have been many people who have served as organist. Just as important are the substitutes who have filled in when called upon. Together they number over a dozen so we will not mention them here for fear of missing one.

In 1979, St. Olaf purchased the Lutheran Book of Worship and gradually implemented the new liturgy. Other worship books used throughout the years: Service Book and Hymnal of the Lutheran Church in America, Concordia, and the Lutheran Hymnaries.

 The Sunday School...

The young people have been a vital part of St. Olaf’s hundred years of growth. The early pioneers had large families and their children’s education, both formal and spiritual, was of great concern. Olaus (Ole) Rikansrud, a Luther College graduate, was hired as schoolmaster. He was to instruct the children in their formal education for eight months and in their religious education for one month during the summer. He was paid $25.00 a month with the stipulation he cover his own expenses. For many years parochial school was held in rural schoolhouses and in later years, after the rural schoolhouses were closed, at the church. We now refer to parochial school as Vacation Bible School (VBS) and it is held at the church for one week in the early summer. during this week our young people memorize Bible verses, sing songs and construct crafts. An afternoon is spent with the residents at the Belmond care Center singing, visiting, and sharing "goodies" brought from home. The students conclude the week by presenting a program of songs and memory work they have learned. This is followed by the Annual Ice Cream Social served by the ALCW, a custom dating back to the "one room" schoolhouses.

The first Sunday School was organized in the early 1890’s with Mr. Amund (Ed) Johnson as the first superintendent. It was held from early spring until fall and was very well attended. The lessons consisted of Luther’s Catechism, the Explanation, and a study in Bible history. A Fourth of July congregational picnic was sponsored by the Sunday School for several years. it was originally held at the Ed Johnson home, just west of the church corner. Highlights of this event included a program with all the Sunday School children participating, a parade, foot races, and entertainment for all. In 1954, the Sunday School schedule was changed to run from September to May, coinciding with the public school year.

Due to a decrease of rural families and size of each family, our enrollment has been on the decline during the past 25 years: from 75 students in 1962 to 36 students today. The students begin Sunday School at preschool age and attend through their 12th year of public school. the present Sunday School sings about once a month at our Sunday worship services and at Christmas time presents a special program telling the glorious story of Christ’s birth. The material used in classes the past several years has been the "Proclaim" series from Augsburg Publishing House. The purpose of Sunday School in the lower grades is to help our young people prepare for confirmation. Memory work, consisting of table and bedtime prayers, is started in the pre-kindergarten class. In kindergarten and 1st grade, the students learn The Lord’s Prayer. When they enter 2nd grade, they are given a bible and Luther’s Small Catechism which they continue to study from through confirmation.

Confirmation, Affirmation of Baptism, is an essential function of this congregation. The first confirmation was held in 1889 with the following members who "read for the minister": Oscar T. Jacobson, Halvor H. Rierson Jr., George C. Johnson, Malinda Johnson, Josie Johnson, Albert Martinson, Otto Saugstad, Emma Jannethe Saugstad, Lena Martinson and Ales Eugene Sigstad. The confirmation class today continues to study with the pastors and the students are confirmed in the fall during their 10th grade. The time of the year that the students have been confirmed has changed from fall to spring and back to fall. Regardless of the season of the year, it is a day of celebration at St. Olaf. Up to the present time, over 754 members have affirmed their faith in Confirmation at St. Olaf.

In the course of a hundred years, we are reminded of the truth of Proverbs 22:6; Train up a child in the way he should go; and when he is old, he will not depart from it.

 In Service of the Lord...

The following people from our congregation have gone forward, serving directly in the work of our Lord.

Andrew Martinson was born in 1868, at Askevold, Sondfjord, Norway, emigrating in 1888. He married Anna Hauge at St. Olaf Church on May 17, 1900. He completed his seminary studies and was ordained in 1902. That same year he accepted a call as a missionary to China serving at Sinyang and Koishan. He died October 7, 1913 in China.

Anna (Hauge) Martinson was born in Polk County, Iowa, in 1868, to Haldor and Kari (Hendeland) Hauge. She married Andrew Martinson, a seminary student, in 1900. In 1902 she accepted a commission to china. she continued to work in china after her husband’s death and celebrated 50 years of service in China in 1952. She died in Hong Kong in 1969 at the age of 100.

Henry O. Shurson was born in Lisbon, Illinois, July 18, 1871, to John s. and Julia O. (Watendal) Shurson. He married Stina Hauge at St. Olaf Church on March 28, 1895. Stina died in 1915 and H. O. married Emma Isaacson in 1916. He attended U. C. Seminary in Minneapolis, Minnesota, from 1896 to 1903 and was ordained that same year. He received doctorates from Augustana and St. Olaf colleges. Pastorates include Henning, Minnesota, and Hoopla and Grafton in North Dakota. He was a teacher and President at Concordia College and Spokane College. Among other positions, he served as NLCA-ELCA Treasurer for 26 years. He passed away in 1960 in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Olai Hill was born March 3, 1867, in Skaanevik, Norway, to Lars T. Olfernes Hauge and Guro A. Holmedal on the Holmedal farm. He emigrated to America in 1884. He was a member of the first choir here at St. Olaf. In 1908 he married Knuddine Nielson. Olai attended the U. C. Seminary and was ordained in 1905. He served parishes at Ishpeming, Michigan and twice at Hawkins, Wisconsin. He passed away October 7, 1922.

Torger Thompson was born July 1, 1884, at Olen, Norway, to Torbjorn and Ales (Vaagen) Gjerdevik. He emigrated to America in 1901 and served as a farm laborer for 3 years. he was married to Clara Peterson in 1915. Torger attended the U. C. Seminary in Minneapolis, Minnesota and was ordained in 1914. He served parishes in Bagley, Saskatchewan, Canada, and in South Dakota at Mr. Vernon and Fairview. He was Superintendent at Beloit Children’s Home and at the Aase Haugen home for the Aged, Deborah, Iowa. He retired in Rushford, Minnesota, and passed away in 1976.

Truman H. Benson was born February 22, 1881, near Ottawa, Illinois, to Ralph and Rachel (Anderson) Benson. He married Tillie Johnson on July 20, 1905, at St. Olaf Church. From 1903-1910 he lived in and around Olaf, Iowa. Truman attended the U. C. Seminary and was ordained in 1916. He served parishes at Elliot, Illinois, and in Iowa at Callendar, McCallsburg, and Rake. He passed away August 13, 1936.

Henry Norem was born August 31, 1900, to Mikal and Ingeborg (Olson) Norem. He graduated from Luther Theological Seminary in 1932 and was ordained in 1933 at Holmes, Iowa. He served Parishes of Douglas, Mylo, and Minnewaukon in North Dakota. In Minnesota he served Spicer and Lanesboro parishes. He also served Moe Parish of Canton, South Dakota. He and his wife, Agnes Borgendale had five children. Pastor Norem passed away on June 28th, 1973.

Everett N. Nelson was born August 24, 1919, to Nickolie and Emelie "Millie" (Oscarson) Nelson at Belmond, Iowa. He married Clara L Haugrud in 1942. He attended Luther Seminary and was ordained in 1945. He served parishes at Ephraim, Wisconsin; Seneca, Illinois; Wessington Springs, South Dakota; Kenyon, Minnesota; and Roland, Iowa. Everett is not retired from full time ministry and lives in Dent, Minnesota, serving as interim and supply pastor in various churches.

Clifford H. Nelson was born June 17, 1916, near Belmond, Iowa to Nickolie and Emelie "Millie" (Oscarson) Nelson. He taught schools and farmed in the Belmond area from 1935 though 1945. On June 4, 1938, he was married to Elnor Olson at Thor, Iowa. Clifford graduated from Luther Theological Seminary and was ordained June 5, 1949 at St. Olaf Church, Belmond, Iowa. He served parishes at Fessenden, North Dakota; Beresford, Eureka, and Sisseton in South Dakota; Appleton and St. Cloud, Minnesota; and Harlan, Iowa. Clifford is now retired from full time ministry and lives in St. Cloud, Minnesota, where he serves as a visitation pastor.

Herbert B. Nelson was born December 2, 1919, to Henry B. and Bertha W. (Scott) Nelson at Belmond, Iowa. He married Laurine Olson on April 24, 1943. He graduated form Luther Seminary in 1951 and was ordained at St. Olaf Church, Belmond, Iowa on June 10. 1951. Herbert served a parish at Elroy, Wisconsin and then was called to serve as a missionary in Zululand, South Africa. He served at a parish in St. Cloud, Minnesota, upon his return to the States. He passed away on September 6, 1977.

David H. Nelson was born October 3, 1939, to Rev. Clifford and Elnor (Olson) Nelson. He married Claudia Richman on June 19, 1966. He graduated from Luther Theological Seminary in 1971. David served four congregations in a parish in Tresde Maio, Brazil. He has served the A. L. C. as area secretary of missions in Latin America, Europe, and the Middle East; as director of World Lutheran Ministries and the International Scholarship Program; and most recently as Europe secretary for the New Division.

J. Douglas Rokke was born June 19, 1953, to John and Hazel (Oscarson) Rokke. He graduated from Wartburg Theological Seminary at Dubuque, Iowa, and was ordained at St. Olaf Church in 1979. He married Randi Jo Nelson on August 19, 1980. Douglas has served parishes in Driscoll and Mott in North Dakota. he is currently in the process of establishing a new E. L. C. A. congregation at Williston, North Dakota.

Harry Gimberg was born December 19, 1958, in Rhinebeck, New York to Harry N. and Bernedine (Bell) Gimberg. After his mother’s death he has made his home with his uncle and aunt, Arthur and Mary Agnes (Bell) Trager. Harry graduated from Drake University and taught at a Christian school for 5 years in Des Moines. He is currently in this third year at the Association of Free Lutheran Seminary in Minneapolis, Minnesota and teaching part-time at a Christian academy in Minneapolis. He spent the summer of 1987 interning at a congregation in Eden Prairie, Minnesota.

We also recognize those who served as parish workers.

Mildred Nelson Meyer is the daughter of Nickolie and Emelie "Millie" (Oscarson) Nelson. She served St. Petri Lutheran Church, Toledo, Ohio, as a parish worker from 1943 to 1946. In 1946 she accepted a position as teacher in Week Day Church School of Toledo and Sylvania, Ohio.

Esther N. Nelson Larson, the daughter of Nickolie and Emelie "Millie"(Oscarson) Nelson, graduated from Waldorf College and Lutheran Bible Institute of Minneapolis, Minnesota. She was installed as a parish worker at Trinity Lutheran Church, Owatana, Minnesota, on October 3, 1948. Her duties included advising the young people’s activities, office secretary, and visitation. Esther also served at a parish in Tacoma, Washington.

Twelve daughters of St. Olaf have become wives of pastors.

Augusta Simerson (Rev. O. O. Wold); Stina Hauge (Rev. H. O. Shurson); Anna Hauge (Rev. Andrew Martinson); Hildore Jacobson (Rev. Axel Shurson); Tillie Johnson (Rev. Truman Benson); Rachel Benson (Rev. George Shurson); Thea Furuseth (Rev. Ole Daehlen); Nellie Thompson (Rev. L. A. Mathre); Florence Simerson (Dr. L. N. Field); Hazel Olson (Rev. B. F. Molstre); Connie Hill (Rev. David Guetzke) and Audrey Soma (Rev. Richard Elliot).

St. Olaf continues to encourage sons and daughters of the congregation to enter into the Lord’s service. Through the years we have provided support to those who have committed their lives to serving others. As plans started to formulate for the celebration of St. Olaf’s Centennial, much thought was given to ways in which we could express our gratitude to God for his manifold blessings to our congregation throughout these years. Not only did we want to reminisce and recall the past 100 years, but we wanted to look ahead to the future and reach out to help others. Thus, at the congregation’s annual meeting in 1987, the decision was made to establish a "Centennial Outreach Fund" with a goal of $10,000 (a $100 gift for each year of St. Olaf’s existence) and that this gift be given to Good shepherd Lutheran Church at Williston, North Dakota. This new congregation is being established by a son of our congregation, J. Douglas Rokke and his wife Randi Jo. May God add his blessings both to the givers and the receivers.

 Bits and Pieces...

October 10, 1888 (from old Belmond newspaper)

The new Norwegian church in the settlement west of town is up and enclosed and gives evidence of being a fine edifice of worship when completed. The location is on Nels Saugstad’s land, in Belmond township, and the site selected is a pleasant rise of ground, sloping gradually each way from the building. It is on the main traveled road and the building fronts the south.

June 5, 1889 (from old Belmond newspaper)

A large number of Belmond people attended the afternoon dedicatory services at the new Norwegian church in Belmond township last Sunday. The sermon by Rev. Holm was a good one, and was attentively listened to by a large congregation. Services were begun at 10 o’clock in the morning and continued till four in the afternoon. The church building is one of the finest in the county, and is a good representative of the thorough manner in which our Norwegian friends accomplish whatever they undertake. it is beautifully painted and furnished inside and the outside and surrounding complete and handsome. The Herald heartily congratulates the people of that community on the fine appearance of St. Olaf Church.

St. Olaf’s Pigeforening (Ladies Aid) was formed the summer of 1890. They met in homes on the last Saturday of the month. Each member was to contribute 10 cents at each meeting. They used Norwegian language to start their meetings with hymn singing, Bible readings and prayer. Then they always had some work. These meetings lasted most of the day, so the mother of the girl with whom they met provided them with a big supper and sometimes a dollar.

May 17, 1893 (from old Belmond newspaper)

The high winds last Wednesday night blew down the shed at the St. Olaf Church.

July 4, 1894 (from the old Belmond newspaper)

The celebration in Norway township was a complete success, both in the number in attendance and in the enjoyment of the crowd. The proceeds of the stands which netted over fifty dollars will be used to repaint and fix up St. Olaf Church

June 12, 1895 (from old Belmond newspaper)

Two weeks ago I mentioned in my items that the St. Olaf boys had a social game of ball on a Saturday, and by some misunderstanding it was announced on Sunday. I mention it to let people know that we are not in the habit of playing ball on Sunday, we play on week days or not at all.

June 19, 1895 (from old Belmond newspaper)

The day set for the St. Olaf Base Ball Club to meet Twin Lake Club on their grounds was last Saturday. Only six of the St. Olaf boys showed up but the boys did not lack courage, they went at them with a will and after playing six innings the score stood 27 to 17 in favor of St. Olaf. They did all this with only six men.

March, 1897 (from old Belmond newspaper)

The singers met at Ed Johnson’s last Thursday evening to train their vocal chords. At its last meeting the singing society at St. Olaf selected O. L. Hill as its leader.

June 2, 1897 (from old Belmond newspaper)

St. Olaf Church, which was damaged by lightning three weeks ago, is now repaired. The church is also being improved inside so as to make it more convenient, K. Lien and A. C. Johnson doing the work.

1897 (from old Belmond newspaper)

The St. Olaf Ladies Aid society’s sale held at Ed Johnson’s grove last Wednesday and Thursday was a great success, the proceeds amounting to one hundred forty dollars.

1899 (from old Belmond newspaper)

C. Hanson was seriously injured while working on the addition to the St. Olaf Church, by having some lumber fall on his foot. Christian is using a crutch.

Worship services were held in Norwegian in the early years of the church. Later, one Sunday worship service would be in Norwegian and the next Sunday the service would be in English. In the 1930’s, English was used at most services.

There was a time when men sat on one side of the church, and women and children sat on the other.

In the confirmation class of 1902, there were 9 members. Eight of the father’s names were Ole.

Around 1905, the membership at St. Olaf was 493.

At the end of World War I the bell at the church was rung all day. The individuals who rang the bell were Kermit Johnson, Ernest Johnson, Henry Hill, John Yardvig (Gjerdivik?) and Orphie Anderson. (It could have been Henry Anderson instead but he was in the service.)

The secretary’s book was written in Norwegian until 1932 when they changed to English.

George T. Johnson was secretary of the church for 20 years.

George C. Johnson was treasurer of the church for 38 years.

In 1935 a committee, consisting of Gerhard Thompson, Gerhard Tegland, and Joseph Toftey, was to call a meeting of the horse shed owners and see about removing the sheds.

A light plant was secured and installed in the church in 1935. Joe Toftey, Melvin Olson, and Gerhard Thompson worked eight days and Ray Metz, six days at the church. Others who worked on this project were, Gerhard Tegland, Henry Hill, Chester Hill, Harold Simerson, Harry Evans, Harris Johnson, and Orville Eliason.

In 1935, a committee of Otto Tegland, Henry Nelson and Harry Evans was to have the Constitution printed in book form and in English. In 1936, Oscar Hanson was elected as the third member of the committee and Simon Simerson was elected to the committee in 1937. Simon Simerson translated the Constitution from Norwegian to English in 1939. The word female was added after the word male in Article III, Sec. 3, so it would read all male and female members over 21 years shall have a right to vote. A discussion on ladies right to vote was held at the 1940 meeting and at the 1941 annual meeting. In 1941, they voted to give the ladies the right to vote. There was 11 yes votes, 1 blank, and 9 no votes.

A special meeting, June 1, 1938, purpose of meeting was to discuss the repairing of the bell tower and steeple. Moved and seconded to paint and shingle the steeple and make a water tight floor under the bell, take off the little doors and cover the opening with hardware cloth.

Leonard Johnson, as a young person, had a dog who one Sunday, when the church doors were left open, came into the church and quietly sat down beside him. (Gladys Ekeland, our janitor, gets nervous when the church doors are left open.)

"Three members of St. Olaf, all women in their seventies, died within 24 hours of each other. On December 9, 1938, Mrs. J. C. Johnson and Mrs. George Skouge died. A little after midnight Mrs. Ole Hanson died. Two of the funerals were held the same day, one in the morning and the other in the afternoon. The third was held the next day."

In 1944, it was moved and seconded to give pastors and family a month vacation each year.

From the Belmond Independent Newspaper, August, 1949. On Saturday evening, August 13th, the St. Olaf Lutheran Church was the scene of a triple wedding when two daughters of Mr. and Mrs. Nickolie Nelson, Esther and Ruth, and Miss Mildred Mehus, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Torkel Mehus were united in marriage. Miss Mehus was married to Mr. Roger Lonnevik; Miss Ruth Nelson to Russell Lonnevik; Miss Esther Nelson to Mr. Roy Larson. Roger and Russell Lonnevik are twin sons of Mr. and Mrs. John Lonnevik of Iola, Wisconsin; Mr. Larson, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Lewis Larson of Osakis, Minnesota.

The blond pews in our church were refurbished in 1952. It took many hours of labor by members of the congregation to strip the old stain off and then to bleach the bare wood blonde. In the History book of the St. Olaf Ladies Aid is the receipt telling how it was done. "First an application of varnish remover - then when the varnish began to loosen or peel we scraped and scraped until the varnish was removed. AHotDouble x remover and bleach was applied with a brush and scrubbed. That was followed by a boiling hot oxalic acid solution. (The person applying these two applications had to wear rubber gloves.) This was followed by a vinegar water rinse. After the wood dried it was sanded and made ready for finish. A blonde paint was applied and rubbed off, followed by shellac and wax. The results of beautiful blonded pews was most gratifying."

A motion was made for the pastor to wear a gown. The vote was so close that it was voted on again on Sunday, April 1, 1953, and the motion passed.

In 1953 the church basement was remodeled. The kitchen was separated from the dining area by knotty pine woodwork, vinyl folding curtains above the serving area was added, asphalt tile was placed on the floor with an inlaid shuffle board, the walls waterproofed and indoor restrooms added. Many appliances were also added. The ladies aid paid $211.22 toward these improvements.

Russell Lonnevik was elected as our first president of the congregation in 1954. Before that time the pastor was chairman.

In the early years an assessment was established by a committee on what you should "give" to the church. In 1954, for the first time, pledges for the coming year were voluntary.

March 28, 1954 the exploded after a Waldorf Choir concert.

Over 450 people attended the 75th anniversary dinner. People came from Minnesota, California, Wisconsin, South Dakota, Illinois, Kansas, Washington, Missouri, Michigan and Kentucky. Over 513 guests registered during the 2 day event.

 Acknowledgments...

As we on the Centennial History Committee began compiling this book, we found it would take years and hundred of pages to write a truly complete history book (anybody interested?). Therefore, we tried to cover the highlights of the first ninety years and to place a little more emphasis on the last ten years. There are no doubt many omissions and errors which are unintentional. Thank you for your understanding.

The members of the Centennial History Committee; Garfield (Gus) and Esther Halverson, Chairpersons, Adelaide Hill, Ruth Lonnevik, Paul and Char Rokke, and Marj Simerson wish to thank all who contributed to the publication of this book, and there were many. We wish to acknowledge the memory of Henry Hill and Russell Lonnevik who were members of our original committee. We are grateful to our ancestors, the founders of St. Olaf Church, for caring enough a hundred years ago to form this congregation. The early history of St. Olaf was written by Simon Simerson fifty years ago and we are fortunate to be able to use his writings. Thanks also to Marjorie Simerson for being on our committee and assisting us in so many ways. Other sources that we have borrowed from include: a research paper prepared by Sara Simerson; the 75th Anniversary book of St. Olaf Lutheran Church; record books of St. Olaf Lutheran Church; Who's Who Among Pastors in all the Norwegian Lutheran Synods of America, 1843-1927, c. 1928, Augsburg Publishing Co.; and A Biographical Directory of Pastors of the Evangelical Lutheran Church, c. 1952, Augsburg Publishing Co.

 Source: stjohn-stolaf-web.com/stolaf.htm