The annual Chili Luncheon Fundraiser Friends by the Scandinavia History (FOSH) will be held on Sunday, Feb. 23, 2025, from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at Silver Lake Lanes in Scandinavia.

Donations of $9 for adults and $5 for children (12 and under) are requested. If you are unable to stay to eat, “to-go” containers provide an option for takeout.

The meal is all-you-can-eat and consists of six different red and white chilies as well as accompaniments such as shredded cheese, crackers, and Fritos. There is an abundance of desserts to choose from, as well as coffee and water. Other drinks can be purchased at the bar.

You can become a winner by participating in a 50/50 raffle or basket raffle. We have been very fortunate in the past to offer numerous products donated by local businesses.

A recent addition to our historic collection is a “life-size” (8’ 7”) cutout of Clifford Thompson, our local giant, who was once considered to be the tallest man in the world. He will be displayed at the Chili Luncheon. Come to see him, compare your height to his height, and take your picture with him.

FOSH continues to develop its Historic Street at Memorial Park (the Corn Roast grounds) Four historic buildings are currently on site. This year’s funds will go towards building a new display shed for farm equipment and other larger items important to daily living of the Norwegian settlers of the past.

Friends of Scandinavia History, a Wisconsin State Historical Society member, was organized in 2005 by a group of individuals interested in preserving the history of the Town and Village of Scandinavia. Meetings begin at 7 p.m. and are held at the Scandinavia Municipal Center on the second Monday of January, March, May, September, and November. Anyone interested in the history of Scandinavia is invited to attend the meetings.