A fascinating journey into Minnesota’s Civil War history is set to unfold at the upcoming Sons of Norway Stavanger Lodge meeting in Windom. Scheduled for Saturday, April 26 at 9:30 a.m., the event will be held at the Cottonwood County Historical Society, located at 812 Fourth Avenue.
The public is warmly invited to attend this free gathering that promises a rich look into the role of Norwegian Americans during one of the most defining periods in U.S. history.
This year’s annual membership meeting will feature Bryce Stenzel, MA—an accomplished educator, historian, and long-time historical reenactor. Stenzel has earned a reputation for his immersive portrayals of President Abraham Lincoln, a role he’s embodied in costume for over three decades.
Beyond performance, he is deeply involved in preserving Civil War history through organizations like the Sons of the American Legion and the Friends of the Boy in Blue Memorial.
His dedication to historical education has earned him several prestigious honors, including the DAR Outstanding Teacher of American History award and the National Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Endorsement.
Stenzel’s upcoming presentation, titled Minnesota Norwegians in the American Civil War, will explore a lesser-known chapter of the war: the experiences of Norwegian immigrants who served in the Union Army.
Attendees will learn about the waves of Norwegian emigration to the U.S., the motivations behind their enlistment, and the significant contributions they made on the battlefield.
The talk will spotlight figures like Nelson Edward Nelson, a soldier who fought at Gettysburg, and Col. Hans Christian Heg, who holds the distinction of being the highest-ranking Union officer of Norwegian heritage.
This event is more than just a history lesson—it’s a celebration of cultural pride and community. All guests are welcome to attend, regardless of membership status. As always, refreshments will be served, offering a warm, welcoming atmosphere for history lovers and curious minds alike.
The Sons of Norway organization, which aims to honor and preserve Nordic culture and heritage, has been a vibrant part of the Windom community since the local Stavanger Lodge was founded in 1974.
For more information about the meeting or the group itself, interested individuals can reach out to co-presidents Harvey Pedersen at (507) 445-3188 or Bonnie Frederickson at (507) 831-5091.
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