THE WEST PRAIRIE CHURCH WEST PRAIRIE LUTHERAN CHURCH

1889-1989

100 QJeaAG ^mckmq nnf( P/fOfiPaiwii/ig

There's a small country church by the highway, Oh, stop, speeder, stop on life's highway, Where the hurrying folks it can see, To remember that God reigns above, At a point where it joins with a by-way, Oh, come, weary traveler on the by-way, By a gigantic cottonwood tree. "Come to me," says the Father of Love. It's a little white church with a steeple, "Come to me," says the Lord to the weary, Pointing up to the home in the sky, "Come to me, come and I'll give you rest. That it may point the way to the people— Come to Him, for life's journey is dreary, To the people who hurry on by. Come, the Heavenly home is the best. There's a bell in the steeple so slender, Oh, the West Prairie Church by the highway, Calling people from far and from near. Just a small country church it may be, Oh those bell peals are music so tender, By the cottonwood tree and the by-way, Strains from Heaven they are to my ear. But it points, Father dear, home to Thee. To the north of the Church is God's acre, Oh, long may it stand by the crossroad. Where departed are laid one by one, Pointing travelers upward to God. A warning to all on the highway, That the soul may rest safely in Heaven, That the journey of life soon is done. When the body rests under the sod. by Edward Flugum Dear Friends in Christ, The writer of the book of Hebrews stated, "In the past God spoke to our forefathers through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days He has spoken to us by His Son," (Hebrews 1: 1, 2. NIV). In these last one hundred years God has faithfully spoken to the members of the congregation of West Prairie Lutheran Church by His Son, our Lord Jesus Christ. The message of God's grace given to us through Christ and the salvation that is ours in Him has been passed on to each generation. With truly grateful hearts we give thanks to God for those who came before us, who in word and deed brought to us the gospel of the kingdom of God and pointed us to a life of discipleship in His kingdom. With joy we offer thanks to God for the privilege and blessing of a century of service to the Lord through this congregation. Pastor Randy A. Hansen On the occasion of this anniversary, our attention is also Dedication February 1985 to present directed to the future. The gospel continues to call us into the We dedicate this book to the early settlers days ahead—days rich in worship and fellowship and ministry who organized this congregation where we as we follow where His Spirit leads us. God's faithfulness in have been provided God's Word and God's the past is a promise for the future. Indeed, we have reason to Sacraments; to those of the present who con• celebrate what God has done, what He is doing, and what He tinue to provide God's Word and Sacraments; will do. We have a great God. What joy to be His people. to those of the future who will, with God's In Him, grace, continue to grow and do God's work. Randy A. Hansen, Pastor Be doers of the Word, and not hearers only. f James 1:22

In Appreciation: Thanks to God for His many blessings during our 100 years as a congregation. A special thanks to our pastors who have served so faithfully. Heartfelt thanks to all who have helped make this centennial celebration possible. About the Cover: The front cover picture of West Prairie Lutheran Church was taken by Kathy Hanson in the fall of 1987. The back cover picture of West Prairie Lutheran Church was taken by Arthur Hill in 1961. The poem was written by Edward Flugum, Sunday School Superintendent for many years.

1 and Hans Swenson in the congregation. Motion Forest City. New arrangements were made to West Prairie of Leland—1889-1989 Ambroson, Reinert Reierson, Mathias Olsen, made and seconded that each member haul three form a charge of the congregations of Linden, The First One Hundred Years Reneart Hill, Ole Veiprud, Harold Peterson, Peter loads of stone for the foundation. This was to be Bethany of Thompson, West Prairie and Buffalo Seventeen families continued to worship in the H. Peterson, Hans Swenson, Gustav Olsen, Nils done by May 1, 1891. Center. The four congregations agreed to raise the Huglen schoolhouse. Some of the pastors that Isaacson, Gulick Reierson, S. O. Langerud, Another meeting was held at P. H. Peterson's pastor's salary to seven hundred twenty-five preached were Rev. K. O. Eidahl and T. K. Grims- Harold Haroldson, John J. Holland, John M. home March 3, 1891. A motion was made and car• dollars. On December 18, 1905, Rev. C. S. trud. For awhile this group was called Zion. Grodahl, Torbjorn Halverson, Peder Tolefson ried that the church building should be forty feet Halvorson of Mulsted, Alberta Province, Canada, Gradually, others joined this group until the con• Oakland, L. W. Larson, Elef Thorson, Peter long, thirty feet wide and eighteen feet high. It was was asked to deliver a trial sermon on Christmas gregation became quite large. In 1889, Rev. Ostby Branstad, Martin O. Sather, Anund Bakken and agreed that a committee of five be appointed to Day. In the summer of 1906, Rev. Halvorson ac• organized this congregation as West Prairie CO. Norstrud. The congregation numbered one see that the work was done. This committee con• cepted a call to serve the four churches. Rev. and Norwegian United Evangelical Lutheran Con• hundred souls in 1890. sisted of Rev. Salveson, Hans Swenson, P. H. Mrs. Halvorson moved to Thompson in July of gregation. On October 8, 1890, West Prairie Con• The congregation had a meeting on the 24th of Peterson, S. O. Langerud and Ole Qualey. Each 1906. His initial sermon was at West Prairie on a gregation joined with Forest City Lutheran Con• January 1891. This meeting was at the Huglen member promised to work two days. Anund Bak• Sunday morning, at Linden in the afternoon, and gregation and Linden Lutheran Congregation to schoolhouse. The congregation began to talk ken, the main carpenter, built the steeple. This at Thompson in the evening. extend a call to the Rev. C. S. Salveson. about building a church in the summer of 1891. steeple is one of the highest in the state. West Prairie had a membership of thirty-five Subscriptions were taken which amounted to An article in the September 3rd, 1891, Forest families. These families were: Ole J. Huglen, John $1,000.00. This was not enough money to build a City Summit stated, "The new Lutheran church is J. Huglen, Severt Huglen, Andres Qualey, Ole church. A committee was appointed to raise more rapidly nearing completion. S. Salveson and An• Qualey, S. O. Sather, Ole Ambroson, E. Hanson money. The committee was C. O. Sather and John ton Tolsrud were in Minneapolis last week pur• Amath, Rasmus Hill, Johanes Olsen, Ole Thor- J. Holland in Lake Mills, Rev. Salveson and Gust chasing lumber for the structure." West Prairie son, Knut Larson, Rasmus Rasmuson, Ambrose Olson in Forest City, Ole Ambroson in Leland, Church was completed in September of 1891 and 1 Huglen School cost approximately three thousand dollars. 2 First Parsonage Articles of Incorporation were filed at the 1892 3 Church courthouse in Forest City on April 6, 1891. West

Seal* In*ha. ts ih. JIJ, of thg Fifth Principal Meridian.. Prairie Norwegian United Evangelical Lutheran Township 98 North.. Ran^e 24- West Congregation in Winnebago County, State of 7* IV. ZijnirierjnjGLn. Iowa, was the official name. The three trustees 32JO that signed the articles were: Harold Peterson, S. O. Langerud and G. A. Olson. Other officers of the church were P. H. Peterson, secretary, Hans Swenson, chairman of the cemetery. A klok- ker ar kirkesanger to lead singing and give the opening prayer for for Sunday services was also appointed. The Ladies Aid of the church was organized in 1891 with fourteen members. The early pastors either rode horseback or drove a horse and buggy. They came from a distance so most of the time they would stay at the home of a church member. The pastor was always The choir has been active since 1906. In March welcome at the Hans Swenson home. of 1911, Rev. Halvorson resigned from the Buf• Rev. Salveson served the parish until 1904. falo Center church but continued to serve West Pastor Salveson saw the opportunity to found an Prairie, Linden and Thompson. Rev. Halvorson educational institution in Forest City, when the served the congregation for thirteen years. He re• defunct Waldorf Hotel building became available. signed April 6, 1918. Through his inspiration, Waldorf College was Rev. O. O. Andvik was called as Pastor in 1919. founded in September of 1903. He was just out of the seminary. Mrs. Andvik N. C. Brun served as interim pastor until Oc• organized two sewing circles. Luther League was tober 1904. Rev. H. L. Urness was called to be organized in 1921. Rev. Andvik served until 1922. pastor. He served until December 1905. Rev. Johanas Granskou served as interim SO West Prairie congregation separated from pastor for a time. In 1912, J. J. Skarpness of

Zi'.TlC'wiis E.Bn 5 Centerville, South Dakota, accepted the call to On September 7, 1941, West Prairie celebrated serve Thompson, Linden and West Prairie the 50th anniversary of the church. The morning structor at Waldorf College, served as interim Lutheran churches. Sunday morning services, sermon was delivered by Dr. J. A. Aasgaard, pastor from September 1, 1951, until June 15, which originally were completely in the Norwegian President of the Norwegian Lutheran Church of 1952. language were gradually changed to the English America. Former pastors Rev. O. O. Andvik and The call committee extended a call to Elder K. language. By 1927, all morning services were in Rev. C. S. Halvorson gave addresses. Dr. N. A. Bentley, a recent graduate of Luther Theological English. Rev. Skarpness held monthly Sunday Larson, District President, gave an address. Over Seminary, St. Paul, Minnesota. Rev. Bentley ac• afternoon Norwegian services. 350 people attended the two services during the cepted the call and was installed here July 27, West Prairie Sunday School was organized by day. There were 150 people at the Luther League 1952, by our District President, Dr. V. T. Jordahl. Edward Flugum in 1927. Rally in the evening. The Ladies Aid served lunch Rev. and Mrs. Bentley's son, Eric Jon, was bap• In 1930, the Ladies Aid voted to raise the for twenty-five cents. tized after installation services. A church library church and build a full basement under it. A man Pastor Skarpness retired in 1942. He had served was started in 1952 by the Ladies group. A was hired to raise the church building. Men of the as pastor of West Prairie for nineteen years. Parsonage in Leland. pastor's chair was given in memory of Albert congregation furnished much of the muscle power In 1942, West Prairie Congregation joined with Langerud. On June 19, 1953, Rev. and Mrs. behind the shovels. When there was room for Our Savior's Congregation to form the Leland of the Reformation) in the parish. Ann Louise Bentley became the parents of Barbara Kay them, horses furnished by Carl Hauge pulled a Lutheran Parish. The parish purchased a house Feroe was born on August 24, 1943. Bentley. slipscraper to dig the basement. Meals were served from Roy Cleveland to be the parsonage. A call to World War II was fought from 1941 to 1945. A New oak pews were purchased for the church. by the Ladies Aid. A tent was used both to provide be pastor was extended to Arthur M. Feroe of special Victory Day Service was held Wednesday, The pews were dedicated at the morning worship a place to eat and for shelter from the sun. The Madison, Minnesota. Rev. Feroe accepted the call August 15, 1945. service on January 24, 1954. A new hymn board to cost of the basement was almost eighteen hundred and on July 19, 1942, was installed by the District The first yearbook was printed in 1944. match the pews was also donated. dollars. The women of the church had many proj• President, Dr. N. A. Larson. This was Rev. Rev. Feroe resigned in September of 1946. He The 1954, new altar cloths were purchased for ects to finish paying for the basement. Feroe's first call. Services were held every Sunday accepted a call to the United Lutheran Church in the church. These included cloths for the altar, Electricity was installed in 1939. morning in both churches. This was the beginning Grand Forks, North Dakota. pulpit and pastor's stoles. Mrs. Ella Peterson of In 1940, the basement walls were lined with of our alternating early and late services. Mrs. Rev. A. N. Brudvig of Scarville, a retired Leland made them. She did the beautiful em• nuwood and wood paneling. Feroe organized the L.D.R. (Lutheran Daughters pastor, served as interim pastor from October 1, broidery work. Also, in 1954, the twenty-voice 1946, to March 8, 1947. choir sponsored the purchase of a new piano for The Rev. Perry V. Sampson, Clifton, Texas, ac• the church. cepted the call to the Leland Lutheran Parish. In 1955, the large project of the year was the Rev. and Mrs. Sampson, Peter, Susan, Paul and repair of the church steeple. This included shin• Hymn Nora moved to Leland. N. Astrup Larson of gling and painting. The Alfred and Duane Peter• Decorah led the installation services March 9, son families donated the new cross that was placed of the Church 406: 1-2 1947. Pastor Sampson was very interested in the on top of the steeple. —- Mrs. Albert Olson youth of the parish. He served as a Boy Scout The church balcony was remodeled. New floors leader. and pews were installed in the balcony. A windbreak to the north of the church was At the annual meeting in 1955, the proposal to £r- planted. Landscaping was done by the church. give women the right to vote was voted on and q w; : —— ~ A" Larson I In 1947, the church proper was completely re• passed. In 1956, the women were allowed to at• decorated. Nuwood tiles and panels lined the walls tend, speak and vote at the annual meeting. —- Mrs. Howard Stuart and ceiling. The woodwork was painted. In 1956, Pastor Bentley accepted the call to Hymn —— ^-----r--i^*»* choir In 1948, the basement was redone. New cabinets serve the Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd Sermon -j-rthe »o«*e81tt A divtt Hymn c were installed. in Des Moines. F«s»dem ^ ^ 0. U- ^ On September 3, 1950, the Luther League T. H. Quanbeck was interim pastor from May Son8' Dr. N A T~o I Song " " — presented the congregation with a new Wurlitzer 5, 1956, until August 12, 1956. Address w-A Larson organ. Rev. Perry Sampson presided at the In the fall of 1956, Mr. James O. Olsen, a senior 1 Address —__——-— ^ dedicatory services. Dr. Halsey Carstens, at Luther Seminary, St. Paul, Minnesota, ac• Address;,:—^ ^T^sSEi organist, presented a concert. Members of the cepted the call to serve the parish as student pastor 1 Song tor > church also presented musical selections. until he could be ordained in the spring. Mr. and Offering- ______I Closmg remarks.,.. "~ Trio The Rev. Perry Sampson left August 31, 1951, Mrs. Olsen, Julie, Jeff and Jay moved to the par• I Hymn NVor(\ __ pagj. I to accept a call to serve two Lutheran churches in sonage in August. In February, Pastor Olsen ac• 1 collect for Kanawha, Iowa. Rev. T. H. Quanbeck, an in• cepted the call to be resident pastor and was or- Ctorf!«^S"SSaJj- BeatriceReikena 6 7 dained in his home church in Michigan. He was in• Parish on August 30, 1959. Rev. and Mrs. Fitz• pastor. Pastor I. B. Sorenson of Mason City, Prairie to be ordained into the ministry. Later that stalled as pastor of the Leland Parish on June 16, gerald, Kathleen Ann and Eileen Kay moved to Assistant to District President, Dr. H. W. Siefkes, month, June of 1964, he was installed as pastor of 1957. the parsonage in Leland. gave the anniversary sermon at the morning serv• Our Savior's Lutheran Parish. Pastor Olson A new baptismal font and a flower stand in In 1960, Allen G. Haugen, son of Mr. and Mrs. ice. Greetings were read from Pastor Allen eagerly began to accomplish the many activities he memory of Mr. Ed Flugum, his son, Wayne, and Bernt M. Haugen of Leland, was ordained into Haugen, Montana, and Dr. Schoitz, President of had set as his goal. In the spring of 1965, fatal ill• Mr. Alfred Flatrud, were dedicated in 1957. the ministry of the Evangelical Lutheran Church the A.L.C. The A.L.C.W. of the church served ness struck and in a few months, his many plans Another flower stand was given in memory of in a service at Our Savior's Lutheran Church in dinner to the many guests. They also served lunch were changed. God seemed to have other plans for Melvin Peterson. Leland. The ordinator was the Dr. V. T. Jordahl and evening coffee." The afternoon and evening Pastor John. On October 1, 1965, God took him The Couples Club and junior choir were organ• of Mason City. Rev. Haugen had accepted a call services included greetings from seminary stu• to His heavenly home. Dr. Rogness, President of ized in 1957. to serve the Valier Lutheran Congregation in dents, Alden Lerohl, John Olson and Layne Luther Theological Seminary, offered comforting Rev. and Mrs. Olsen became the parents of Jon Valier, Montana. Rev. Haugen's wife, Betty, is a Haugen. Former pastors attending included Rev. words to the bereaved family and to the grieving Peter on November 11, 1958. daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Hiram Peterson. Perry Sampson, Rev. Elder Bentley and Rev. congregation he had served for fifteen months. In 1959, a water system and two bathrooms The Sunbeam Choir began in 1960. A. M. Feroe. Many former members spoke. A On June 6, 1965, Norman Omodt was ordained were installed in the church. A new pulpit was The American Lutheran Church began to func• total of four hundred five people were registered into the ministry of the American Lutheran dedicated in memory of Mrs. Adeline Hill. tion on January 1, 1961. This represents a merger for the three services. Church at Black Hammer Faith Lutheran Church Pastor Olsen accepted a call to serve as assistant of three Lutheran Churches. These three churches near Caledonia, Minnesota. Mrs. Omodt, Anita, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Mason City, were the Evangelical Lutheran, the American is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Nels S. Haugen. Iowa. He left in June 1959. Lutheran and the United Evangelical Lutheran The Omodts went to Costa Rica to study Spanish Alden Lerohl, a student from Luther Theologi• Church. As a result of the merger, a new Service for one year. They then went to Colombia, South cal Seminary served as interim pastor from June Book and Hymnal was introduced to the church. America, where they were missionaries for five 15, 1959, to September 15, 1959. He was one of The following is an article from the Forest City years. the Bible School instructors. Summit: "The West Prairie Lutheran Church was New cement steps were laid in front of the filled to capacity on Sunday, October 8, 1961, for church. the 70th Anniversary of the church. The jubilant ^•5 7_J»/jE- YOC-''I^"V" A letter of call was extended to Rev. Robert crowd had come to rejoice with the congregation Fitzgerald of Onawa, Iowa. He accepted the call and give thanks to God for His many blessings the and was installed as pastor of the Leland Lutheran past 70 years. Pastor R. Fitzgerald was the host

770 ATT£HJ>£X> OUtf CHRISTMAS December 25, 1968—The family in Parpa, S.A. Pastor Nor• man, Anita Ann, Paul and Todd Omodt. One hundred seventy attended our Christmas Eve services here in the mountains. The Rev. and Mrs. John Olson, Amy, John, Kari, and Tammy (Our stone chapel in the background.)

On June 14, 1964, John Dennis Olson, son of Rev. Fitzgerald accepted a call to the Lutheran Mr. and Mrs. Albert J. Olson, was ordained into Church in Estherville, Iowa. He left in March of the ministry at West Prairie Lutheran Church. 1967. In the IVi years Rev. Fitzgerald served as The Rev. Curtis H. Johnson, Kasson, Minnesota, pastor, he performed 22 baptisms, 16 confirma• was ordinator. Rev. Olson has accepted a call to tions and 10 marriages. serve Our Savior's Lutheran Parish with churches In 1967, Rev. Milo E. Lee of Renville, Min• at Sand Creek and Pine Creek, Wisconsin. Pastor Early members of West Prairie Lutheran Church were on hand Sunday for the marking of the 70th anniversary of the church. nesota, accepted the call to the Leland Parish and (Front row, left to right): Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Carlson, Ole Langerud, 87, of Scarville, oldest member; Christ Jensen, Mr. and John, his wife, Marilyn, and their four children, was installed by Pastor Norson. Rev. Lee Mrs. Halvor Leifson. (Second row): Mrs. Genette Charlson, Mrs. Tone Fosse, Mrs. Julia Johnson of Windom, Minnesota, first child Amy, John, Kari and Tammy moved to Sand preached his first sermon in August of 1967. Four baptized at the church; Mrs. Alfred Swenson, Mrs. Amelia Erdahl of Little Falls, Minnesota, Mina Thorson and Emma Erickson, Creek. Rev. Olson is the first member of West of the Lee children, Marvin, Lorna, Dixie and organist at the church from 1903 until 1918. 8 9 Arland, are grown. David, the youngest, moved to represented the Norstrud and Peterson family. On October 4, 1981, Rev. Allison Hansen of studies and praise services to our parish. Leland with his parents. On July 20, 1976, West Prairie had a float in the Nazareth Lutheran Church in Coulter, Iowa, was On January 1, 1988, the American Lutheran On October 10, 1971, West Prairie Lutheran parade in Thompson. The theme was "Freedom installed as pastor of the Leland Lutheran Parish. Church joined with the Lutheran Church in Church celebrated its 80th Anniversary. A potluck of Religion." Annie Peterson, Inez Norstrud, He was installed by Pastor Sorenson. Rev. and America and the Association of Evangelical dinner was served at noon. The program began at Clara Swenson, Andrina Flugum, Myrtle Olson Mrs. Hansen are parents of three grown children, Lutheran Churches. These three churches formed 2:00 p.m. Speakers were Rev. Milo Lee and Rev. and Mina Thorson were dressed in Centennial Sharon, Saundra and Randy. a new Lutheran Church, The Evangelical Luther• Ray Mehl. Reading and remembering was given dresses and rode on the float. Leland celebrated its Centennial July 23, 24 and an Church in America. by Mrs. Clara Swenson. Mrs. Mehl spoke for her Pastor Lee resigned in July of 1977. He served 25 of 1982. The L.C.W. had a food stand on Fri• The Aid Association for Lutheran Insurance mother, Emma Peterson Erickson. Many other the Leland Lutheran Parish for ten years. Mrs. day and Saturday. Church members participated Company provided funds for new linoleum in the readings and musical numbers were enjoyed. Lee was also very active in church work. She in the pageant, chorus, parade, museum, class kitchen. taught Bible class in Sunday School and led the reunion, style show, beard contest and many other In 1988, the congregations of Our Savior's circle Bible studies. Pastor and Mrs. Lee moved to activities. Lutheran Church and West Prairie Lutheran a Waldorf College residence hall where Agnes was Albert Langerud made and donated a podium Church voted to buy a new parsonage. A one employed as a housemother. In 1978, Pastor Lee made of lumber from his Missouri farm. story, three bedroom house was purchased from accepted a call to be pastor of the Ridgeway We had been using the numbers on our offering Jean Orthel. Pastor Randy, Judy and Ryan moved Lutheran Parish, Ridgeway, Iowa. envelopes instead of names for the record of con• to the parsonage in July of 1988. The parsonage is Rev. David F. Johnson of Ridgeway Lutheran tributions. At the annual meeting, it was voted to one block east and one-half block south of Our Church accepted the call to be pastor of the discontinue publishing the amount given by each Savior's Lutheran Church in Leland. Leland Lutheran Parish. Pastor and Mrs. John• member of the church. son, Paul and Brenda moved to the parsonage. On In 1984, John and Junice Brown gave a chord July 31, 1977, Rev. Johnson was installed by Rev. organ to the church. It is used for our winter serv• Steven Dornbush, Pastor of Immanuel Lutheran ices in the basement. (Front row, left to right): Andrina Flugum, Clara Swenson, Church in Forest City. A new program, per• Pastor Hansen retired from the full-time Emma Erickson, Alfred Peterson, Emma Peterson, Bernis sonalized confirmation, was presented to the ministry in October of 1984. Rev. and Mrs. Langerud. (Back row, left to right): Annie Peterson, Albert Olson, Myrtle Olson, Pastor Lee, Inez Norstrud, Agnes Lee, parish by Pastor Johnson. Hansen moved to their home in Raytown, Mis• Mina Thorson, Elmer Langerud. In 1978, the Lutheran Book of Worship was in• souri. Pastor Hansen is a visitation pastor for a troduced. This hymnal contains materials from Lutheran Church in Raytown. the ALC, AELC, LCA and the Missouri Synod. Rev. Randy Hansen of Renewal Outreach Min• The liturgy follows in some extent the format of istries in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, accepted the Present parsonage. In 1975, the steeple of the church was painted the early church. A blessing in liturgy through call to serve the Leland Lutheran Parish. He is the Nineteen eighty-nine is our Centennial year. We and the shingles were repaired. The steeple and the Lutheran cooperation. son of our former pastor, Allison and Marie Han• will celebrate September 23 and 24, 1989. cross on top combine to a height of one hundred We began holding Sunday services in the base• sen. Rev. Hansen and his wife, Judy, began their The following have been organists for West feet. This steeple is one of the tallest in the state. ment during the months of January, February and service to the two churches February 1, 1985. He Prairie Church: Dina Belsheim, 1896; Emma Roy Lovick painted the steeple by sitting in a March. This was done to save on the fuel oil bill. was installed by Rev. Dennis Hansen of Lake Peterson Hansing 1903-1918; Mrs. Lewis Hagen, swing. A cable was attached to the swing. This The basement was redone in 1979. New counter- Mills. Annie Norstrud Peterson, Olive Goranson, Janis cable went through pulleys attached to Henning tops, cabinets, sink, wallcovering and curtains In 1985, pew cushions were purchased. Marion Norstrud, Judy Norstrud, Beth Schutter; and the Hill's pickup bumper. were added to the kitchen. New carpet and Swenson established the fund for the pew cushions present organist since 1962 is Clarine Ambroson. Nineteen seventy-six was the Bicentennial year linoleum were installed in the fellowship hall. in memory of her husband, Harlan. Many people Sons and daughters of the congregation served of the United States of America. On July 4th, In 1980, a very generous gift of money was and organizations donated to the fund. our country during the wars that America has there was a joint worship service in the Leland received from the Ann Swenson estate. A large On May 16, 1986, Rev. and Judy Hansen be• fought in these one hundred years. The wars have Park at 11:00 a.m. with a potluck dinner after the portion of this money was placed into the Mission came the parents of Ryan Andrew. been World Wars I and II, the Korean War and service. In the afternoon a large bicentennial Loan Fund of the ELCA. Another portion has In 1987, new carpeting was laid in the narthex the war in Vietnam. There were seventeen men parade was held. The theme of the West Prairie been used for church improvements, the largest and on the steps to the basement. The narthex and one woman in the armed forces in World War float was "Generation to Generation" and amount was spent for an Allen organ. The organ walls and ceiling were painted before the carpeting II. Eleven men served in the Korean War and two "Freedom of Religion." Four generations of West was dedicated in a special worship service. was installed. The bathrooms were also painted. served in the Vietnam War. Also young men were Prairie members rode on the float. Mrs. Clara Pastor Johnson left Leland Parish in August of The Lutheran Brotherhood Insurance Company drafted and some enlisted during peacetime in the Swenson, Harlan Swenson, Harold Swenson and 1981. Pastor and Mrs. Johnson, Brenda and Paul provided matching funds for this project. For six armed forces. All of our service people returned to Brian Swenson represented the Swenson and moved to St. Louis, Missouri, where Pastor years we have received matching funds for church their homes with the exception of Wayne Flugum. Moen families. Mrs. Annie Peterson, Marlys Johnson took post-graduate study at the Seminex projects. Wayne was killed while training with the para• Reimann, Kent Reimann and Tory Reimann University. Rev. Hansen has introduced Sunday night Bible troopers in California.

10 11 Here is the record of some of the Aids held in 1916-17: From the records of West Prairie Lutheran Johannes and Helge Olson; Hilda Regine Mrs. Halvor Leifson den 22 nd Nov. blev inkomet 7.00 Mrs. R. J. Hill den 21 Mar blev inkomet 10.05 Church (Beginning in 1889) Langerud, daughter of S. O. and Ingeborg Mrs. Alfred Swenson den 18 April blev inkomet 10.65 The first baby baptized in West Prairie Con• Langerud. Confirmation was November 20, 1892. Mrs. Albert Langerud den 30 Mai blev inkomet 8.60 gregation was Julia Helena Olson, daughter of The first marriage was performed by Rev. Mrs. A. A. Lien den 13 Juni blev inkomet 9.30 Johannes and Helge Olson. She was baptized Oc• Salveson. The couple was John J. Huglen and Mrs. Chris Peterson den 26 Juni blev inkomet 14.25 Anna Halvorson. They were married May 15, Mrs. Henry Bottleson den 18 July blev inkomet 11.31 tober 5, 1890, by Pastor Salveson. Mrs. Ole Sonvald den 18 August blev inkomet 5.31 The first confirmation class was confirmed by 1894. Mrs. Lief Liefson den 29 August blev inkomet 15.37 Rev. C. S. Halvorson. Members were: Halvor From the organization of West Prairie until Mrs. Gust Olson den 19 September blev inkomet 1.70 Halvorson, son of Thorbjorn and Aaste Halvor• now, there have been 441 baptisms, 389 have been Mrs. Chris Jensen den 10 October blev inkomet 5.80 son; Olous Lund, son of Jens and Trina Lund; confirmed, 117 marriages have been performed, Mrs. Knut Nass den 31 October blev inkomet 6.25 and 195 deaths have been reported. Mrs. Lewis Hagen den 28 November blev inkomet 18.00 Sarah Huglen, daughter of Ole J. and Sophie 126.19 Huglen; Aslaug Moen, son of O. and Ragnhild As of the first of this Centennial year, the West Prairie membership is 106 baptized members and udgifter 7.30 Moen; Tone Thorsen, daughter of Ole and Inge- 118.89 borg Thorsen; Engeborg Olson, daughter of 82 confirmed members. Mrs. C. H. Peterson, kaserer. Ugifter—1917 Winnebago Summit. Forest City, Winnebago County, Iowa. Vest Prarei kvindeforening sente til missoner i Ole Peterson navn, $3.00. En bog for kvindeforening .25; 40 yard bunting till Winnebago Summit. Forest City, Winnebago County, Iowa. Wednesday, July 21, 1897. Volume XXX, No. 31. "ADDI• Mrs. Reuben Cox, Sekreter Wednesday, December 25, 1895. Volume XXIX, No. 1. "AD• TIONAL LOCAL" pg. 8, column 2. —"Three hundred guests decorating i kirken $4.00. Mrs. C. H. Peterson, Kaserer DITIONAL LOCAL" pg. 4, column 2. —"Two of the were present at the marriage of Rasmus J. Hill and Miss An• Mrs. Tom Thorson, President popular young people of Newton Township were united in Mrs. Ole Langerud, Vice President marriage Wednesday by Rev. C. S. Salveson at West Prairie na M. Swenson at West Prairie Church on Thursday after• Church, the contracting parties being Henry Rierson and Hilda noon, Rev. C. S. Salveson performing the ceremony." . . . Penger modtaget fra udgangne kaserer Mrs. K. J. Nass, .90. Langerud." Mrs. Clarence Carlson, Secretary 1917-1918 Mrs. Alfred Swenson, Treasurer Mrs. Halvor Liefson ans pau hver baare i menigheden. Mrs. Henry Bottleson, Vice President Udgifter Del blev afgjoret at kvindeforening skulde legge in blomster I Blomster krans for O. Ekanger 4.00 Integter $142.44 express -25 Udgifter 114.46 Barnejimmet 10.00 27.98 Udre Mission 50.00 Indre Mission 50.00 draft .50 114.46 Mrs. Clarence Carlson, Sec. Through the years the Ladies Aid continued to has been very faithful at our Aids and we have meet every month, having programs that were in• been privileged to hear some very inspirational spirational and educational. They contributed talks and Bible studies in the years he has been labor and financial help to the remodeling of the with us. church. This included the new basement, furnish• If we in this generation could go on and lead the ing the kitchen, new floors and exterior and in• full Christian life that some of our grandparents terior painting. The ladies also helped support and great-grandparents led, we would have much several mission projects such as Lutheran Social to leave to the generation that follows us, but it Service, Old People's Home, Orphanages and seems that in this world of war and uneasiness we local needy families. To carry out these projects are apt to forget the foundation on which they the ladies sponsored bazaars and chicken suppers. built, and are in danger of losing that great This year, 1942, we have a membership of 47. heritage. May God in His mercy give to the Some of the ladies are not able to serve so they pay members of West Prairie Ladies Aid the strength $5.00 into the Aid treasury. The Aid has paid for and the courage to "fight the good fight" and the R.E.A. wiring of the church and are now buy• may our strongest hope be that some day peace ing an electric range. shall reign and that we might enter that home Rev. J.J. Skarpness has resigned from the three which God has prepared for us in Heaven where congregations which he served for 19 years. He there is no war or death, but everlasting peace.

12 17 We also had a birthday table every month at our Today there has been another merger and the W.M.F. meeting. When it was our month we women are now called Women of the Evangelical would offer the amount of money of our age. We Lutheran Church in America. The benefits of the never got to 100, though. women's organization include Bible study, leader• Another project was to help our young people ship training, support for women and financial go to Bible camp. In 1952, a church library was contributions to the work of the church. established. Programs prepared by the W.M.F. Officers of the 1989 Women of the Evangelical were used at our meetings. Lutheran Church in America are: President, The Altar Guild serves by caring for the altar Marlys Haugen; Vice President, Louise Nath; and changing paraments for various seasons and Secretary, Junice Brown; Treasurer, Irene Eide; days. The Guild assists with Holy Communion. Mission Growth, Blanche Durby; Mission Com• The American Lutheran Church was formed munity, Jean Peterson; Mission Action, Mavis Cradle Roll—1943 and on January 1, 1961, the women of the church Thorson. became the American Lutheran Church Women. Women of the ELCA stewardship project sent May we be like our pioneer ancestors—no matter to Lutheran World Relief in 1988: 51 quilts, 15 what their hardships were, their church and their school kits, 22 health kits, and 3 layettes. God came first. Let us build Christian homes for The name of the women's group has changed our children, that their faith shall not waver in the during the years as different mergers took place. face of tumult and distress and may all of our The purpose has always been "to know and to do work always be done to the glory of God. the will of our Lord Jesus Christ." West Prairie became an official member of the St. Ansgar Circuit of the Iowa District Conven• tion at Mason City on May 13, 1943. The Women's group was called Women's Missionary Officers of The Women of the ELCA (left to right): Mavis Federation. A department of the W.M.F. Thorson, Jean Peterson, Irene Eide, Blanche Durby, Louise established in 1943 was the Life Membership Pro• Nath, Junice Brown, Marks Haugen. gram. The Life Membership Program honored a member of the W.M.F. with a life membership. The Cradle Roll was established in 1937. The Cradle Roll scroll had the names of the babies baptized during the year. We would have a special Cradle Roll. Blanche Durby and Shari, Clarine Ambroson and day for the babies at our W.M.F. meeting and the Larry. babies would be our guests. When the Cradle Roll members were ready to enter kindergarten, they were again special guests. This time they Soup Supper. Clarine, Irene and Shirley. "graduated" from Cradle Roll.

Reminiscing. (Front row, left to right): Henning Hill, Alfred Peterson, Myrtle Olson. (Back, left to right): Bea Reikena, Junice Brown, Jester Hill, Rose Swenson, Agnes Johnson. Cradle Roll Graduation—Steven Reimann, David Peterson, Michael Thorson. Cradle Roll Graduates. Jodi Holland, Beth Schutter, Darla Durby. Leona Lackore. Quilt made by women of the church in 1940. 18 Mission Circles In 1956, four circles were formed by drawing Mrs. O. O. Andvik organized two sewing circles names for membership in each circle. The four in 1919. The circles were named "Dorcas" and circles were the Naomi, Dorcas, Hannah, and WEST PRAIRIE CHOIRS "Busy Bee." The purpose was to do mission work Sarah. Circle members joined in Bible study at The piano was hoisted up and over the railing into by sewing for mission and for the local bazaar. their circles. the balcony. In 1955 the choir began singing from The circles became known for many years as the In 1989 there are two circles. The Naomi Circle the balcony. "North" circle and the "South" circle. meets in the afternoon. The Sarah Circle meets in It has been the custom over the years to go the evening. Christmas caroling, after which we would come back to the church for oyster stew, hot cocoa, maid rites, etc. The Ladies Choir continued for 50 years under the direction of Myrtle Olson and Annie Peterson, accompanist, until 1973. Shirley Schutter, Carolyn Fox and Judy Norstrud then directed the Ladies Chorus, accompanied by Clarine Am• broson and Beth Schutter. Ladies Chorus. (Front row, left to right): Clarine Ambroson, accompanist; Judy Norstrud, director; Jean Peterson. (Back A Youth Choir was organized by Beatrice row, left to right): Marlys Haugen, Irene Eide, Shirley Schut• Hauge in 1938. She accompanied her own choir. ter. Not on picture: Marias Reimann.

West Prairie has been blessed with much Sarah Circle. (Front row, left to right): Judy Norstrud, Gladys musical talent over the years. The first choir was Naomi Circle. (Front row, left to right): Grace Hill, Alpha Anderson. (Second row, left to right): Louise Nath, Irene Eide, started in 1906. Rev. C. S. Halvorson was the Reines, Myrtle Olson. (Back row, left to right): Janice Brown, Janet Sveen, Viola Hill. (Third row, left to right): Marlys director. He came from Thompson, driving a Agnes Johnson, Blanche Durby. Not on picture: Tammy Haugen, Carmen Charlson, Shirley Schutter, Shirley Hanson, team of horses, in all kinds of weather. Emma Nelson, Bernice Langerud, Clarine Ambroson, Mavis Thor• Janice Peterson. Not on picture: Sharon Holland, Denise son, Annie Peterson, Jeniva Johnson, Marion Swenson, Jean Faber, Marias Reimann and Barb Determan. Peterson accompanied the choir. The choir had a Peterson. membership of 30 or more members. Fellowship Sarah Circle: President, Judy Norstrud; Vice after practice sometimes was continued at some• Naomi Circle: President, Blanche Durby; Vice President, Shirley Schutter; Secretary/Treasurer, one's home where lunch was served. President, Junice Brown; Secretary/Treasurer, Irene Eide; Mission Growth, Marias Reimann; The Leland Parish Choir was organized in 1944. Mission Action, Louise Nath, Janice Peterson. Odvin Hagen was the director. Christmas concerts Clarine Ambroson; Mission Growth, Mavis Thor• were given by the choir. son; Mission Action, Grace Hill. The West Prairie choir initially sang downstairs. Junior Choir—1938. Bea Hauge, Director. (Front row): Irene Hauge, Bonnie Arne, Alice Jane Nyhus. (Back row): Arlene In 1954 the 20-voice choir sponsored the purchase Norstrud, Phyllis Goranson, Bea Hauge, Joy Swenson, Arlene of a piano along with contributions from others. Zingg, Elaine Peterson.

Cemetery Leland Parish Choir—1944. Directed by Odvin Hagen. 20 21 COUPLES CLUB recreational activity are usually alternated. Ex• amples of recreational activities are: Christmas dinner, family picnics, eating out as a group, as well as activities in conjunction with holidays. The Couples Club was formed by eleven couples. They were James and Jean Olson, Delores and John Durby, Dorothy and Clifford Junior Choir—1946. Marlys Langerud, Director. (Front row): West Prairie Sunbeam Choir—1961. (Back row): Mary Thor• Caltvedt, Marilyn and John Olson, Lois and Nathan Arne, Sharon Howe, Anita Haugen, Gary Charlson. son, Louaine Ambroson, Holly Haugen, Maureen Durby, and Ralph Hoist, Marlys and Truman Haugen, (Back row): Allen Peterson, Layne Haugen, Gwen Howe, Irma John Thorson. (Second row): Darlene Caltvedt, De Ann Am• Blanche and Merle Durby, Clarine and Wayne Howe, Marlys Langerud. broson, Nancy Peterson, Linda Durby, and Jimmy Thorson. (Front row): Tammy Peterson, Scott Norstrud, and Terry Dur• Leaders: Chuck and Sharon Holland and Jean and Allen Peter• Ambroson, Jean and Allen Peterson, Mavis and by. son. Bob Thorson, and Marias and Gordon Reimann. One special event was a trip to Mason City to sing The Couples Club is an important organization Today the club has twenty-three members: over the radio. A Sunbeam Choir consisting of ages 3 up to of West Prairie today. It was organized in 1957 Randy and Judy Hansen, Marlys and Truman Marlys Langerud directed the choir in 1946, ac• Junior (Youth) Choir was organized. This was when James Olson was pastor. Haugen, Blanche and Merle Durby, Jean and companied by Clarine Peterson. directed by Marlys Haugen and accompanied by The purpose of the Couples Club was two-fold. Allen Peterson, Mavis and Bob Thorson, Judy Irene Evenson directed the Youth Choir in Clarine Ambroson. First, it was an opportunity to have Bible study for and Denny Norstrud, Sharon and Charles 1957. During this time the choir obtained new gray We trust that our lives have been enriched both husbands and wives; and second, it was an Holland, Louise and Bob Nath, Shirley and Ver• robes. Accompanists were Gwen Durby and through the special music offered at our worship opportunity for Christian fellowship. non Schutter, Clarine and Wayne Ambroson, Clarine Ambroson. services. The club meets monthly. Bible study and a Marias and Gordon Reimann, and Irene Eide. In 1968, Judy Norstrud directed the Youth Choir, accompanied by Carolyn Fox, Linda Reines, and Clarine (Peterson) Ambroson. LUTHERAN DAUGHTERS OF THE REFORMATION

Children's Sunbeam Choir at the West Prairie Lutheran Church in Leland are ready for Christmas singing. (First row, The West Prairie Lutheran Daughters of the also donated four chrome trays for use in the left to right): Scott Norstrud, Deborah Norstrud and Terry Reformation was organized in 1942 by Mrs. church dining room. Durby. (Second row): Darlene Caltvedt, Linda Durby, Kathy Feroe. This organization was for confirmed un• Nineteen sixty was the last year of the Lutheran Charlson, DeAnn Ambroson, James Thorson and Nancy Peterson. (Third row): John Thorson, Maureen Durby, Mary married young women of the church. An adult ad• Daughters of the Reformation. Officers were: Thorson, Louaine Ambroson, Holly Haugen, Kevin Sveen. visor was elected every year. The meetings were President, Sheryl Swenson; Vice President, Tammy Peterson was not present for the above Summit pic• held once a month in the members' homes. Each Sharon Peterson; Secretary/Treasurer, Ruth ture. Director of the choir is Mrs. Truman Haugen and meeting opened with devotions. Another member Sveen. organist is Mrs. Wayne Ambroson. gave the topic. Some of their projects were making Lutheran Daughters of the Reformation Inter- baptismal towels and sending gifts to missionaries. tional was discontinued by the merger of 1960. In 1959, the L.D.R. girls sold commemorative Girls above confirmation age could become mem• plates with a picture of the church on them. They bers of the A.L.C.W.

hypodermics. Appendicitis was followed by tonsil• Mrs. Jandine Thorson's Reading litis. I completely lost my memory for a while. I I never had such a tough time in all my life. First knew I had diabetes and acute indigestion, I got angina, followed by influenza. Just as I was rheumatism, lumbago and neuritis. I don't know recovering from these I got tuberculosis, double how I ever pulled through. It was the hardest spell• pneumonia, and pleurisy. Then they gave me ing test I ever had.

22 23 LUTHER LEAGUE The Luther League was organized in 1921. and/or the pastor, filled the candy sacks for the Whole families went to the meetings. Young peo• Christmas program. (The choir members helped ple of the church took part in the program and with this, too, and many of them were league served the lunch. members.) In the 1930's, the Luther League met in the National Luther League Conventions have been homes on Sunday evenings. Rev. Skarpness was attended by West Prairie League members. Ten pastor at the time. There would be a program, Luther League members went by bus to the Luther refreshments, then games and sometimes a hymn- League Convention in Saskatoon, Alberta, sing. It was a good time to be with the young peo• Canada in 1948. Rozella Olson was chaperone. ple and they enjoyed it. Later the meetings were Other conventions that young people went to were held in the church. in Milwaukee, Wisconsin; San Francisco, Califor• In later years, Luther League consisted only of nia; and Texas. the young people with members of the congrega• In 1944, Pastor and Mrs. Feroe took the Luther tion and the pastor as advisors. This is a parish League group camping in Clear Lake, Iowa. In league. The Bible studies and helpful topics are an 1950, the Luther League sponsored a drive for a aid to a Christian life. The activities include new organ for the church. hayrides, roller skating, bowling, and various The Easter breakfast is a continued league proj• trips. ect. The Luther League, with help from an adult

24 29 Ilalver and Tillie Liefson John and Mina Thorson Hiram and Annie Peterson

The Ole Moen family Mrs. Thora Norstrud and Family The Clarence Norstrud Family

7 001'" AW/ R SA RT West Prairie Lutheran Church, Leland, Iowa September 23 & 24, 1989

Saturday afternoon coffee - 2:30 p.m. Saturday evening bonfire fellowship - 7:30 p.m. Sunday morning worship - 10:30 a.m. with Communion Hazel, Agnes, Bergel, Elvina—Moen Sisters. Catered dinner at 12:00 p.m. $5.00 per plate Program Sunday afternoon - 2:00 p.m., followed by Birthday cake and coffee History books and plates available

Please respond with payment of $5.00 per plate for the Sunday noon meal by September 1 to: Irene Eide, IU>x 33, Leland, Iowa 50453

The Jan Reimann family.

32 33 Don and Shirley Hanson, Kathleen, James and Kristine

Kim Haugen Grace Hill Henning Hill jester and Viola Hill

Kenneth and Linda Ferjak, William, Melanie and Abigail.

Charles and Sharon Holland Kevin and Betsy Fickle, Penny, Melissa, Brian and Rachel

34 35 Jeffery and Wendy Holland, Wesley and Wade

Kalmer and Agnes Johnson Jeneva Johnson Bernice Langerud

Tammy Nelson, Heidi and Heather

36 37 Martin Sveen Jeremy Sveen

Gordon and Marias Reimann Steven and Colette Reimann, Cody and Ravyn

Misty Swenson Brian Swenson Marian Swenson

Michael and Suzanne Thorson

Members of West Prairie Lutheran Church whose pictures are not in the Centennial Book: Mary Aukes, Matthew Charlson, Rebecca Meyer, Delilah Meyer, Laura Meyer, Steven Nords• Beth Schutter William and Rita Schutter John and Verlie Steffen, Carmen Charlson, Kathy and Joel kog, I cAnn Nordskog, Chad Nordskog, Harold Swenson and Nancy Swenson. Dirks

38 39 Remember When?

A blizzard struck during Lenten services and Knut Ness was the long-time Klukker. twelve members of the congregation had to stay overnight in the church. Other members got to After choir practice on a warm summer evening, neighboring farm homes and spent the night. we would all go to Leland for some ice cream at 1926 (Front row, left to right): Omer Battelson, Rev. Skarpness, Donald Solberg, Gordon Battelson. (Back row, left to right): Harlan Otto Nolte's restaurant. How refreshing that was Swenson, Ty Carlson, Abel Hauge, Jester Hill, Melvin Haraldson. The night of a church supper the lights went out after practicing upstairs in the hot balcony. for two hours. The R.E.C. men from Thompson came and put up a new transformer. (Meanwhile, Members of the Hannah Circle (1957) rolled out the food was prepared at the Petersons and 4,000 doughnuts. Norstruds.) Light was provided in the church by On special days we went around the altar to give putting candles in water glasses. our offering. We had to bring all the water we needed at church We all played ball at Bible School. in five- and ten-gallon cream cans. The church was full at Christmas and Easter. If The men sat in the pews on the pulpit side of the you came late it was hard to find a seat. church. The women and small children sat on the A horse and buggy was used to go to church. The north side of the church. roads were dirt and sometimes muddy. A bobsled The women of the church served lutefisk suppers. was used in the winter. Mrs. Rasmus Hill fixed the lutefisk when we first started the suppers. This lutefisk had to be soaked Andrina Flugum was the "coffee lady." She for hours so all the lye would be gone. cooked egg coffee for many occasions. Many chicken suppers were also served. A kumla Clarine Ambroson and Agnes Haugen were in 1927(Front row, left to right): Harry Engelson, Pastor Skarpness, Lloyd Howe, Art Charlson. (Back row, left to right): Mavis Nyhus, supper was also served. charge of the "Christian Challenge" Program on Stanley Engelson, Beatrice Hauge, Helmer Reierson, Junice Langerud, Jeniva Langerud. KSMN in Mason City for two months. We had yearly bazaars. Oscar Charlson was auc• tioneer. Carl Hauge was a good bidder. Quilts The huge cottonwood tree was on the southwest were a big item. corner of the church yard. We had a flag with blue stars on it for all of our Senior members of the West Prairie Ladies Aid young men and women serving America in World were given gold honor pins. War II. Several trees were planted in memory of Nels Mrs. Clarence Carlson was our flower lady. She Haugen. Four trees are planted in memory of Art furnished flowers from her own garden for all and Mae Charlson. church services.

1928 (Front row, left to right): Esther Langerud, Pastor Skarpness, Evelyn Reinertson. (Back row, left to right): Bergel Moen, Agnes Reierson, Frances Sveen. 40