Concordia's roots are deeply intertwined with a respect and love for Norwegian heritage. The location, religion, and faculty of Concordia in its early years all contributed to the growth of its strong Norwegian pride. This ethnic consciousness peaked in the years preceding World War I. Most students spoke in Norse and alternate chapel services were conducted in Norwegian. Association minutes were written almost entirely in Norwegian; some pastors demanded church colleges to teach Norwegian culture to cure the troublesome "Yankee Fever;" the centennial celebration of Norwegian independence happened in 1914; and President Aasgaard supported the addition of Norwegian library books. This attachment to Norwegian culture made a public appearance in 1912 when the Hans Nielsen Hauge monument was unveiled. Hauge was a Norwegian preacher who radically changed the Church of Norway and stirred a religious awakening. The memorial was dedicated in June 1912 and attracted a crowd of roughly 15,000. President Aasgaard benefited from "the best advertising Concordia has ever received" because at the time, 15,000 people was "the largest crowd ever gathered in Moorhead." A year later, a monument was built to honor Norwegian linguist, Ivar Aasen. Concordia's strong ties with Norwegian heritage, although not as conspicuous as a century ago, are still recognizable today. Comments are closed.
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