The Hadeland Lag is pleased to announce its participation in the Norwegian Statehood Pioneer Project. Created to celebrate Minnesota’s Sesquicentennial, the Hadeland Lag  is joining with other organizations to honor the “pathfinder” Norwegian immigrants who were here when the state was born in 1858,  and who provided the foundation for the waves of Norwegian immigrants that arrived in the decades that followed.

During the course of the year we’ll help you explore the history of early Norwegian settlements and settlers through articles in our newsletter.  Even if your ancestors didn’t arrive until long after Minnesota became a state or moved on to other states, the stories of these early settlements and their people will help put your personal family saga into the context of the larger Norwegian-American immigrant movement. 

The project’s Recognition Program creates a personal connection to the project and Minnesota history. Direct descendants of Norwegian Statehood Pioneers (who lived in Minnesota at the time of statehood) are encouraged to apply for recognition for their Pioneer Ancestors.  Our members can apply for just $15, and non-members for $25.  Descendants of documented Statehood Pioneers will receive a wooden plaque in the shape of Minnesota that bears the name of their Pioneer Ancestor. This quality keepsake will connect the lives of the Statehood Pioneers with the history of the state of Minnesota for generations to come.   If your ancestors arrived before 1908, you can apply for a Century Certificate on the NSPP website.

On October 18th, a Sesquicentennial gathering will be held at the Marriott Hotel in Rochester that will celebrate the contributions of Norwegian-Minnesotans to the state’s development.  In the morning, the Lag will hold its regular fall meeting. The afternoon celebration will include recognition of Statehood Pioneers, interesting educational displays, music, and remarks that make the past come alive and inform the future.  An evening banquet will bring the day’s activities to a close with good food, conversation, and entertainment. Even if your Norwegian ancestors weren’t in Minnesota in 1858, attending the Norwegian-Minnesotan Sesquicentennial Celebration in Rochester will help you understand and express your pride in the unique history shared by Norwegian-Minnesotans. 

In November, the project will publish a Heritage Book that will include all of the articles printed in participating organization newsletters,  the biographies and photos submitted with Recognition applications,  and photos and a recap of the October Sesquicentennial Celebration. Not only the first Norwegian-Minnesotans, but also those who come together 150 years later will be remembered in this special volume.

In 2008, Minnesota celebrates 150 years of statehood, and our Norwegian ancestors were among the first to call it home.  Join us in this year long celebration of Minnesota’s history and our Norwegian-Minnesotan heritage!