THE WAUPACA REPUBLICAN

June 11, 1908

 

TWO PROSPEROUS SOCIETIES

(Our Savior’s Scandinavian Ev. Lutheran Church under separate file than Holy Ghost Church)

 

            On the occasion of the joint convention of the Danish societies in this city this week and next, we publish some facts regarding the organization and growth of the two local churches.

THE HOLY GHOST CHURCH

 

            This society was first known as the Danish Ev. Luth. Church and was organized Sept. 25, 1871. The services were first held in the old schoolhouse corner of Oak and Ware streets and later used by the Savior’s church society.

            The first trustees were Chris Johnson, Pres., Hans Petersen, Secy., Jacob Nelson, Ole Hanson Komper, Fred Larson, Hans Jensen and Peter Hanson.

            No resident minister was engaged for some time, Rev. Michelson preached irregularly.  In Dec. 1871 Rev. Anderson was called and was installed on May 25, 1872.

            In 1873-74 a church was built that is now used as W.G.B. depot.  The corner stone was laid on Pentecost Sunday June 1, 1873.  The society was from that date designated as the Ev. Luth. Holy Ghost Church of Waupaca.

            Rev. Anderson was succeeded by Rev. A. L. J. Soholm who remained at the head of the society for nineteen years.

            Rev. N. Lang was here but six months when he died and was followed by Rev. Jersild who held the pastorship four years.

            Rev. N. P. Simonson came in 1902 and resigned last spring.  Under his leadership the new church was built the dedication taking place Sept. 3, 1905.

            Rev. C. H. Jenson was instated only a few weeks since.

            The present board of trustees consists of C. W. Nelson, president, P. C. A. Pederson vice president, M. E. Hanson, treasurer, Lars Anderson, John Dorffler, Jens Rasmussen.

            The membership of the church is 120; that of the ladies’ society, 48.  The young people have a society of 35 members.  The Sunday School of 75 members is under the charge of Jens Rasmussen, superintendent.

            The choir composed of ten members is led by Mrs. F. C. Anderson with Miss Emma Nelson as organist.