Iowa
Old Press
The Larchwood Leader
Larchwood, Lyon County
June 30, 1914
Swedish Church Dedication
Sunday, May 31, 1914, we were blessed with good roads and a most
ideal day. The conference, which began the preceding Friday
evening and continuing over Saturday, was rich in the Word and
well attended. On that glorious Sunday morning the services began
at 10 o’clock and the church was immediately filled. Chairs
were brought in, the aisles and hall crowded and especially in
the afternoon were many outside. It was reported that 49
automobiles were counted present. These came from Salem, north of
Brandon and the
neighboring towns and country.
Five pastors and one student pastor were present. Rev. Wretlof,
Brandon, SD, who faithfully and most unselfishly for 41 years has
ministered among us, officiated. This is the third church arisen
through his efforts, the other two being near Valley Springs and
Brandon. May Christ, the true light, advance on this earth.
Two pastor, Rev. Palmer and Rev. Axelson, delivered the Word
impressively and soul searchingly in the forenoon. Rev. Carlson
led the congregational hymns. The quartette from Sioux Falls, who
so kindly let us profit by their gifts, sang two uplifting
Swedish selections. Then followed the dinner hour. Two long
tables in the basement were filled with that bodily blessing -
food, and after the blessing each helped themselves. Although a
large crowd, plenty and a good variety had been prepared.
In the afternoon Rev. Miller spoke for some time, followed by
France Ericsson, Brandon, theological student in Chicago, who
earnestly and simply appealed in American upon Christ our Savior.
The quartette benefitted us by both Swedish and American
selections. Thereupon followed the dedicational services by all
the pastors and the church was set aside for its most high and
holy mission. May many therein by spiritually blessed and come
into fellowship with the Lord.
The church building which justly won so many praises that day was
built by W.V. Amidon of Larchwood. It is especially well and
conveniently planned. It is 26 x 48 ft. in size, has an elevated
floor and is finished in oak. In
the front are two small rooms, giving the front a pleasing arched
effect. To the back on one side of the hall is a serviceable rest
room; on the other side the staircase to the basement. The church
has four entrances. It has
100 opera chairs and 50 temporary chairs can be brought up from
the basement. The basement has cemented floor and is also
finished in oak. It consists of the assembly room, kitchen and
furnace room.
The church is lighted by gas and heated with hot air. Its total
estimated cost, barn and lots inclusive, is $5,094.14 and the
debt, $263.85. There is now a profitable Ladies Aid, organized
Sunday School, confirmation class. and a choir is in view. The
church directors are C.T. Swanson, Aug. Swanson
and Swan Swanson. The church is situated 1 1/2 mile southwest of
Granite. All furnishing were in readiness for the dedication, but
we regretted not receiving the altar painting,
“Ascension” 6x12 feet. There were no
conflicts in plans, thus the completeness gave an enjoyable peace
indoors as well as outside, and thus ended that fair dedication
day. And to God be the glory.
[transcribed by D.J., Nov. 2004]