from Ramsey County History: vol 2, p 599; published 1983
(submitted by Pearl Aanstad, Secretary)
We regret there are no early records of this worthy organization, an arm of the Zoar Free Lutheran Church. In writing the history in 1952 the Ackre sisters (Ida and Annie) remember the day the Aid was organized. Several ladies came to visit their sick mother, Mrs. Elling Ackre, one day in July 1902. They had come from church services at the Carl Olson Home located across the road from the A.S. Flott Farm. To us in 1982 known as the Arthur (Bud) Johnson farm.
Those present to organize the “Kvindeforening” were Mrs. Soren Iverson, Sr., Mrs. Hans Thompson, Mrs. Martin Mortenson; Mrs. Iver Iverson, Sr and Mrs. Carl Olson. Mrs. Iver Iverson was elected President. They felt she know something about the work because she had spent some time in the Arvig parsonage in Adrian, Minnesota. Mrs. Iverson was an efficient worker and a very hospitable person.
In 1909, Mrs. Hans Boe supervised a supper. The proceeds were used to purchase lamps for the church. All members worked hard and took their turns in serving. We note by old pictures that at times the entire family met.
Many and varied projects have been the aims of the Aid. They have contributed to the quotas of the Church Schools, Missions and local church work. Almost every church project received assistance from the Aid.
In 1940 the Church was moved from the north west part of town to the present location one block south of main street. At that time Pews were purchased. Aid money has purchased paneling, carpeting and much remodeling. Though these material things are very necessary, the spiritual aspects surpass all. They give above the required quota for the National headquarters in Minneapolis, Minnesota; Foreign and Home Missions; the Theological Seminary; Bible School and Women’s Missionary Federation.
The Ladies Aid has met regularly the first Wednesday of each month, with few exceptions, for at least 60 years.
(The work has not always been easy but there has been a spirit of harmony and good will.)
Almost all of the women of the congregation have taken their turn in serving in one office or another.
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