The Iola Historical Society is gearing up for a busy month ahead with a series of meetings and events scheduled for September and October, including the highly anticipated Taste of Norway festival.
The September meetings and activities will kick off on Monday, Sept. 25, at the Machine Shed, located at 222 Depot Street, Iola. The evening will commence with a 5:30 p.m. Board Meeting followed by a 6:30 p.m. Membership Meeting.
One of the main agenda items during these meetings is the final planning for the Taste of Norway’s 13th Anniversary, a beloved local tradition that celebrates Norwegian culture and heritage. The Iola Historical Society has been diligently preparing for this event, which promises to be a highlight of the fall season.
A special program is also scheduled for the evening, featuring Arne Halvorsen, the president of Norway’s Gausdal Historical Society. Halvorsen will take the stage at 7 p.m. to share his research on Norwegian immigration to the Iola area. This presentation is expected to provide valuable insights into the rich history of Norwegian immigrants and their contributions to the community.
In addition to these September activities, the Iola Historical Society has lined up several more events for the coming weeks. On Saturday, Oct. 7, the Taste of Norway festival will take center stage, featuring traditional arts and crafts, and even fire extinguisher checks for safety-conscious attendees. It promises to be a day filled with cultural experiences and delicious Norwegian cuisine.
Following that, on Friday, Oct. 13, the society will be dedicating the Chester L. Krause Legacy Park at 1:30 p.m., honoring the memory of a prominent local figure who contributed significantly to the preservation of Iola’s history and established a publishing empire.
For those who wish to get involved or stay updated with the Iola Historical Society’s activities, the next round of Board and Membership meetings are scheduled for Monday, Oct. 30.
The Iola Historical Society continues its mission of preserving and celebrating the rich history and heritage of the Iola community.