Record Group 3:  Norwegian Synod

1851-1917

The Norwegian Synod, 1853-1917, with its headquarters in Decorah, Iowa established congregations in the earliest immigrant communities in the Upper Midwest. This group was characterized by adherence to theological orthodoxy and strong ties to the Church of Norway "high church" tradition. Luther College in Decorah and Luther Seminary in Saint Paul were their main educational institutions with mission efforts in China and South Africa. Records span the period 1851-1917, and run to roughly 9 cubic feet. Serial records and documentation of early Norwegian-American Lutheran activities in both domestic and international mission work predominate in the collection.

Folke Kalendar, 1858-1917	1 cu. ft.
Synodal Beretninger	6 cu. ft.
Church Council, Minutes	8".
Charities, 1898-1920	1 vol.
Pensions, 1913-1919	4".
Home Missions, 1898-1906	1 vol.
Publications, Lutheran Publishing House, 1905-1915	6".
Special Services, Choral Union, 1905-1915	1 fol.
Circuits & Districts, Scrapbook, 1904	1 cu ft.

Daniel Nelson, Sr. was the first Norwegian-American missionary to China. 1890.