Danish Sisterhood News May 2108

News

Danish Sisterhood In this Issue: Lodge Updates Grave Marker Emblem Danish Freedom Day

Serving the Danish Sisterhood of America since 1947

May 2018

President’s Corner

News

Danish Sisterhood

www.danishsisterhood.com

Honorary Member Her Majesty Queen Margrethe II of Denmark

Volume 71, Number 5

Published by the Supreme Lodge of the Danish Sisterhood of America, (Dansk Søster Samfund) as its Official Publication.

DANISH SISTERHOOD NEWS (USPS 148-200) is published monthly by the Supreme Lodge of the Danish Sisterhood of America. Office of publication at 1555 Oak St. Solvang, CA 93463. Periodicals Postage Paid at Rochester, MN.

Sindy Mikkelsen, National President

The National Board met in March in Vancouver, Canada. The weather was still pretty brisk, yet still better than some were experiencing at home. We were able to save a significant amount of expense money at this meeting, as we found a large Air B&B and all stayed in one house. It was perfect!

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to DANISH SISTERHOOD NEWS, 1555 Oak St. Solvang, CA 93463 Editor: Lauren C. Nielsen (507) 206-9099

Articles for publication in the Danish Sisterhood News must arrive to the Editor no later than the 1st day of each month previous to publication.

The following are the highlights of our meeting:

Vice President, Julie, has been busy keeping our website updated. We have all the current information loaded regarding our upcoming trip to Denmark, and has updated our calendar with current events as they are sent to her. Be sure and send those in if you have Danish events in your area, as others may be traveling through. One of the big items Julie was able to accomplish was to create a collection of all the past Sisterhood Newsletters that we have published electronically, a little over a year’s worth. They look so good in color!

Secretary, Glenda, reported on the midterm vote that was sent out that proposed to reduce the salary of the National Historian, as the duties now are reduced since our items are with the museum. Unfortunately, the template had “Editor” on it instead of historian, and it created a bit of confusion. Glenda sent a message to the prior year’s delegates that received the ballots, and hopefully everyone was able to get that corrected and understood by their lodge members.

Additionally, Glenda has prepared a National Convention time-line for key milestones that need to be met. Hard to believe we are in convention mode already.

Treasurer, Carol, reviewed our latest budget data, and reported our investments as being fairly stable lately, even though the market has been a bit volatile, this has allowed us some modest

Subscription: Members $12 (US) Non-Members $20 (US) Officers of the Supreme Lodge National President: Sindy Mikkelsen, Lodge #126 2938 Sweet Grass Lane, Santa Rosa, CA 95407 (707) 755-0260 president@danishsisterhood.com National Vice President & Website: Julie Morrison #126 2368 Hood Ct, Santa Rosa, CA 95401 (707) 360-8377 vicepresident@danishsisterhood.com National Secretary: Glenda Madrid, Lodge #177 1555 Oak St. Solvang, CA 93463 (805) 448-7631 secretary@danishsisterhood.com glenda_madrid@hotmail.com National Treasurer: Carol Faruolo, Lodge #12 19 Fenway Street North, Milford, CT 06460 (203) 878-4924 Fax: (203) 8784924 treasurer@danishsisterhood.com dsstreasurer@gmail.com National Trustee & Butikken Chairman: Linda Holz #102 4400 EP True Pkwy Unit 47, West Des Moines, IA 50265-5615 (515) 225-0951 trustee1@danishsisterhood.com National Trustee & Scholarship Chairman: Christina Sallee #81 16116 SW Deline Ct, Beaverton, OR 97007-3425 (503) 848-0837 trustee2@danishsisterhood.com National Trustee, Membership Chairman & Tivoli Lodge Liaison: Karin S. Wasler #68 814 S Sherbourne Dr #7, Los Angeles, CA 90035 (310) 903-8837 trustee3@danishsisterhood.com National Past President: Lizette Burtis, Lodge #24 1462 Trombetta Street, Santa Rosa, CA 95407 (707) 545-6023 lburtis@sbcglobal.net

National Historian: Amy Larsen 2611 E 221 St Place, Carson, CA 90810 (714) 488-9515 Larsen_amy@att.net

Copyright 1946-2018 by the Supreme Lodge of the Danish Sisterhood of America, All Rights Reserved.

continued on pg. 4 Danish Sisterhood News, May 2018

Email: editor@danishsisterhood.com

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Velkommen

Lauren C. Nielsen, Editor

Dear Sisters,

In this Issue President’s Corner.........................p 2 & 4 Editor’s Welcome.................................p 3 Lodge Updates...............................p 5-10 Resolutions.........................................p 11 Grave Marker Emblem.......................p 12 Butikken ...................................... p 13-14

I’ve heard from so many that taking pictures in Denmark is a completely different experience.

I, too, have gone to Denmark and taken photos Happy May Birthday to: and it does seem that something is different.

Names Lodge Age Maybe it’s the air or the sea, the architecture or 117 7 the culture. Or maybe it’s just that feeling we have Laiyla Tidwell when we’re in Denmark–a feeling of belonging Emily Kennedy 181 17 and of home, a feeling of excitment and Addison Parise 36 6 discovery. And trying to document that feeling is, perhaps, what makes photos of Denmark feel a little more special than others.

The photo on this cover was submitted by a Tivoli Lodge member and that view of a sunset transported me right to the beaches of Denmark... Title: Lild Strand Region: Northwest coast of Jutland at least in my mind! I encourage each of you to look at the newsletter on our website as well once Photograph by: S.S. Downey it is put up, so you can enjoy the beautiful colors.

This photo was submitted by a Tivoli Lodge mem Then I would encourage you to all send in ber. She says, “Lild Strand at sunset where we stay some photos of your own! We are always looking at the sommerhus.The North Sea is too rough for for some cover photo submissions–send in a docks and these boats are still used every day for landscape, a building, an event, anything! Show fishing.“ us what Denmark and being Danish looks like through your own eyes.

I hope you are all well and enjoying the beginnings of summer. Don’t forget to share all Submit Your Cover Photo! of your wonderful stories of travels and events as Do you have a photo that you’d like to see on well. the cover of the Danish Sisterhood News? Send in your submissions and yours could be featured Until next time... next!

Youth Birthdays

On the Cover

Lauren C. Nielsen, Editor

Photographs must be high resolution and should be accompanied by a short description of the photo’s content. Photos from Danish events, Sisterhood meetings, travels around Denmark, Danish culture and more are all great topics.

Send photos to: editor@danishsisterhood.com 3

Danish Sisterhood News, May 2018

Delegate presents what they learned, or reach out to Karin directly, and I’m sure she will be happy to share that with you.

Both our Editor and Historian submitted reports of their activities, and both are actively involved in getting new and interesting information out to share with you, our membership. You should be seeing some exciting history stories coming soon!

The Disaster Relief Fund is now well established, and the first matched gift was given to our member, Stella Watson from Santa Rosa, CA who’s family lost their entire home to the devastating fires this last October. We thank all members for those contributions, and encourage continued support of this fund, as we are likely to not have seen the last of these types of seriously damaging events.

Lastly, we created a new type of “membership”, which are our Sisterhood Angels.

For those members that have a funeral benefit certificate that would choose to change their beneficiary to “The Danish Sisterhood of America”, they will earn “Angel” status. Those that become Sisterhood Angels will be listed and recognized in future publications.

continued from pg. 2 growth. Carol has published the annual financial report, and she and Glenda have been working with lodges on annual reports, IRS 990’s, and the collection of dues from individual members. Busy ladies!

Trustee, Linda, has some new items in the Butiken for sale. You can see those at your local District Convention, and on our website.

One interesting new item we have available for members, is grave markers. These are a metal Sisterhood medallion, about 3’ in size that can be attached to a grave or headstone showing your dedication to the Sisterhood. These are not inexpensive, but for some who have made a considerable contribution of love and time to the Sisterhood, it’s a nice touch. These are ordered directly from the manufacturer, and information is included in the DSS News.

Trustee, Christina, is smack in the middle of scholarship and grant time. Christina has been working with the judges to determine the winners of these much needed funds. You will be seeing the profiles of the winners in upcoming issues of the news. If you have an interest in being a scholarship judge, don’t be shy, reach out to Christina and she will put you on the list. We like to keep the judges rotating around, so please consider this opportunity.

Trustee, Karin, has been active with the promotion of our organization. She’s designed a new banner for the use of lodges and districts at events, has revamped the “tool kit” and is making that available via our website under the membership heading, and has established a Lodge Leaders Facebook page which will offer webinars to learn about crafts, food, leadership ideas, fundraising, etc. This is a closed “membership” and not open to the public, so please send Karin a message and she will gladly add you in to this group. Additionally, Karin deserves a big hand for putting together this year’s District presentation from the Board. She shared a lot of information about the different generations we have in our organization, and how understanding the wants and needs of each of these groups can go a long way for smooth sailing in your lodges. Do try to catch that presentation at one of the District Conventions, at your lodge meeting when your Danish Sisterhood News, May 2018

Respectfully submitted, Sindy Mikkelsen, National President

A field of flowers in Denmark. Photo by Glenda Madrid.

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Lodge #15 enjoys a Program on Danes Hall We began 2018 with an afternoon meeting on February 21 which included a program given

by Mike Koehler, the owner of the Danes Hall in Waupaca and his family who are in the process of restoring this historic 1894 Danish building.

The meeting began with the installation of 2018 officers and was followed by a business meeting reviewing some of the more important decisions made at the January Board meeting.

There were some lovely Danish items for sale, including 99 cent Danish Christmas plates from a lucky find at Goodwill and of course there were delicious treats, including frugtsuppe (fruit soup) supplied by Marcia Jante and Lou Nielsen.

However, the best part of the day was the talk given by Mr. Koehler. Following is a summation of what he had to tell us.

Danes Hall, not just a building but a part of our history and our heritage Marcia Jante, our Program Coordinator, introduced Mr. Michael Koehler and two of his brothers and his daughter. They are in the process of giving a great gift to not only the State of Wisconsin, but to Danes throughout the United States. He has purchased and is preserving the Danes Hall in Waupaca, Wisconsin. Not only is he restoring and preserving this hall, but more than that, he is bringing back a history that may have been lost.

I have been to Waupaca many times and never noticed a Danish presence. I never saw a Danish flag flying or a Scandinavian shop or bakery. What I did see was an antique mall in a building called the Danes Hall. I assumed at one point it might have been a Brotherhood Hall like those now with other uses that can be found around the United States. Boy was I wrong.

Perhaps the reason Waupaca did not have any current Danish presence upon first glance can be traced to Peter Sorenson Vig, the Danish pastor whose influence was felt strongly by the Danes in Waupaca. This pastor is quoted as saying that the Danes did not come to America for a better life in America, but for a better life as Americans. This meant keeping your old traditions and language was not the way to be Amer-

Danes Hall before any restoration

Danes Hall after Phase 1 restoration

icans. He also did not approve of the Danish Brotherhood, so unlike other centers of immigrant Danes, there was no Brotherhood Hall.

But then, what was this building called Danes Hall?

Mr. Koehler began his talk by playing ‘I Danmark Er Jeg Født.” (In Denmark I was born) the well-loved song by Hans Christian Andersen. It was sung by the DR Pigekorert (the Danish Girls Choir).

From that beginning Mr. Koehler took us on a journey through the history and geology of the Waupaca area, the history of the Danes and the Lutheran Church in Waupaca and in the United States, and the history of Danes Hall, the story of his purchase and the restoration. He ended the program by again playing I Danmark er Jeg Født, but this time not by a Danish choir, but by

Mr. Koehler presenting.

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Danish Sisterhood News, May 2018

Isam Bachiri, a Moraccan Muslim born in Copenhagen. (If you are interested in seeing this video it can be found under I Danmark Er Jeg Født Isam B - YouTube) Time has passed but while Danish immigrants became Americans there is still in many of us a feeling that our homeland is in Denmark, and in Denmark many from around the world have found a land they now love and call home.

Mr Koehler began his presentation on Danes Hall by asking us to close our eyes and imagine what this building, built in 1894, has seen over the years. To help us he talked about the history of Waupaca and showed us pictures of his hometown from its early beginnings.

If you could have stood on the corner of Main and Granite Streets in Waupaca for the past 125 years like Danes Hall has, you would have seen parades of soldiers marching off to World War I and then again to World War II. You would also have seen these soldiers as they marched back from these wars. You would have seen the buildings along Main Street being built and then bought and sold as the use for the building changed. You would have seen the horse and buggy replaced by the automobile. You would have watched the town grow into a city.

Running right through Waupaca and past Danes Hall is a road called the Yellowstone Trail.

This highway was the first transcontinental automobile highway through the upper tier of states in the United States. Established on May 23, 1912 it was an auto trail that ran from the Atlantic Ocean in Plymouth, Massachusetts, through Waupaca, Wisconsin, on to Montana and to Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming, and finally to the Pacific Ocean in Seattle, Washington.

In June 1915, a timed automobile race from Chicago to Seattle was held on the Trail.

The 2,445 mile route was coveredin a best time of 97 hours. It passed by Danes Hall.

You would have seen Danish ministers arrive at the Danes Hall for a meeting that would ultimately decide the future of the Danish Church in America. Koehler talked about the differences between two Danish pastors—Reverend Fredrick Lang Grundtvig, the son of N.F.S. Grundtvig, and Reverend Peter Sorenson Vig. They represented Danish Sisterhood News, May 2018

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what was a divide in the Danish Lutheran Church in America, mainly centered in the immigrants attempts to maintain their identity and to find their place in the United States. These men and other Danish Lutheran leaders met in Waupaca at Danes Hall to talk about the Danish Church in America. Kohler recommended the book Danes in America—Danish Lutheranism 1860-1908 for those interested in learning more.

You would have seen the Danes Home Society who built this hall eventually grow to 300 members and then as the years passed dwindle in membership down to 32 members. On March 8, 1945 you would have seen this building sold to a local tinsmith who owned and operated his business there until 1975 when it was sold to a law firm. The tinsmith continued to operate his business there until 1977. You would have seen the building up for sale again in 1980 and purchased by new owners who had it registered with the National Register of Historic Places.

And finally you would have seen an antique mall operated in the building until 2014 when the building was again put up for sale.

Danes Hall was erected in 1894 as a new meeting place for the Danes Home Society. It was designed by the architect William Waters of Oshkosh, who was a highly respected architect of his time. The plans were drafted by Peter Jensen of Oshkosh who was a former resident of Waupaca.

Construction of this three story brick building began in August 1894 and the building was completed on November 22 of the same year.

The dedication ceremonies took place on November 29, 1894 with about 400 people in attendance. Mr. Koehler read from the “Waupaca Republican” newspaper about the dedication and showed us a copy of the dedication program that he had been shown by a young man in the Waupaca area who, as Mr. Koehler said, has made Danes Hall his obsession. Because of the newspaper article, the Koehler family was able to identify the original use made of all of the areas of the building. They were able to use this information in the restoration.

Mike Koehler saw the for sale sign on a visit to see his family in Waupaca and called the realtor.

He called it an emotional decision made with his heart—but maybe not the best business deal he had ever conceived. Since then the Koehler family has been restoring this building. “Danes Hall is more than a building,” said Mr. Koehler, “It is our heritage.” He called the restoration work a mission and a commitment.

Once all the permits and paperwork were completed to allow the restoration, Phase 1 began.

This involved securing the building so no more damage occurred. The brick on the outside was crumbling—earlier repairs to the mortar had not been done correctly. Koehler had to find the local source for the limestone which had been mixed with the original mortar. It was a mystery which was eventually solved by locating a lake in the famous Chain of Lakes just outside of Waupaca where the water is a greenish color—unlike the other lakes— and where they found the limestone. The metal siding and roof had to be fixed and repaired. It was a galvanized steel siding—part of the desire to make a building that would not burn. The history of many Wisconsin cites is a history of fires. The old wooden buildings were always under this threat.

Through research he located a business that had equipment from the 19th century for pressing the galvanized steel and whose owners were willing to make just what he needed.

Danes Hall is actually built into a rock formation known as the Wolf River Batholith This consists of a large anorogenic intrusion (a geologic feature not formed as a result of a tectonic disturbance) made of granite-like rock that covers an area in Wisconsin from Shawano to Green Bay to Waupaca. In Waupaca it emerges next to Danes Hall. In fact, Danes Hall has some unusual architecture because it was built into the batholith.

Next to Danes Hall is a Boyer Park. Mr. Koehler hopes to work with an Ecological Restoration Coordinator, Jens Jensen, the great, great grandson of Jens Jensen the famous Danish-American Landscape architect to redesign this city park. This is the same Jens Jensen who worked with the Museum of Danish America on the Jens Jensen Prairie Landscape Park in Elkhorn. It is Koehler’s hope to make this park a place to augment the beautifully

restored Danes Hall.

The work inside is still underway, with a target to open the doors sometime this summer.

Already arts and music groups are interested in using the space, just as in the past this building has served as an Opera House. Once again it will be open to meetings like those held by the Danish Lutheran Church so long ago.

There have been many who have contacted him anxious to use Danes Hall for their wedding.

Since the work is still in progress, Mr. Koehler asked one women when the wedding was planned, she responded, “When will the work be completed?” The ballroom where Danes danced in celebration of the opening of Danes Hall will again see dancing this time as young people celebrate the beginning of their life together. There are plans for a restaurant in the basement like the original Danes Hall had. Hopefully you will be able to get a cup of coffee and some danish pastry to enjoy in the park next door.

Koehler’s face lights up as he talks about the future of Danes Hall. Our Lodge will be talking with Mr Koehler to see how we can help in this restoration of our Danish history in Waupaca, Wisconsin.

I can hardly wait to see the building with its magnificent facelift. I am anxious to see the ballroom no longer divided for the sale of antiques but restored to its original splendor with the lovely balcony surrounding it. I can hardly wait to see the library and the ladies parlor and to enjoy some Danish food from the restaurant. I have a feeling that once this building is restored, it will no longer be very hard to find a Danish presence in Waupaca. Hopefully if any of you get a chance to visit Wisconsin, you will take a trip to Waupaca to see this part of our Danish heritage. Put it on your bucket list.

Michael Koehler also spoke at the dinner of the Midwest District Convention. He has almost completed the restoration of the outside of the building and on Monday, April 30, 2018 they are set to begin the restoration of the inside of the building. Once again Mr. Koehler’s presentation was warming accepted by those present at the dinner.

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Danish Sisterhood News, May 2018

HAABETS FREMTID LODGE 78 TROY, NEW YORK

News from Lodge #3 Davenport, IA

Like so many Lodges, we needed to cancel our Lodge #3 is hosting the Heartland District conJanuary meeting due to snow. It has been a long vention September 14-16, 2018, with Jens cold winter in the northeast and we are really hope- Jensen: Celebrating the Natural Prairie as the ful that spring is around the corner. We will try to convention theme. The Denkmann-Hauberg catch up on news from Troy. estate is a hidden jewel in our area, surrounded

Several ladies met for lunch in February and by grounds designed by Danish-American notwe were able to take care of a lot of business. We needed to elect officers for the new year and all of ed landscape architect, Jens Jensen, and is just our officers were willing to continue in their present one of many interesting things to see here in the Quad Cities during your Saturday afternoon free duties for another year. Then we needed to plan for our EGC Convention to be held in April. Martime during the convention. ilyn Dore will be our delegate. We will be prepar The seven acre wooded landscape, curing a basket to be auctioned off. Marilyn thought a rently undergoing restoration, is a masterpiece danish theme would be nice and we will all contrib- of Jensen’s philosophy of woodland design, ute something at our March meeting. with meadows, a fire circle, and a stream with

We met in March at Testo’s Restaurant with an arched bridge. All is accessed by a winding 7 of us in attendance. We were missing Judy Jensen as she had surgery on her hand the day before, brick driveway (no motorized vehicles permitted).

There is even a terraced garden that once proand we all wished her a speedy recovery. There vided a variety of fruits for the Denkmann-Hauwere several items donated to fill our basket for the convention and with a danish theme we were berg family and neighbors. all anxious to see what would be placed in it. It will Jens Jensen summed up his philosophy well represent our heritage and danish ideas. by saying, “Every plant has fitness & must be

Then in April, one week before the convenplaced in its proper surroundings so as to bring tion we met again for lunch. There were 9 memout its full beauty. Therein lies the art of landbers in attendance along with 3 husbands. It was scaping”. beginning to feel like spring was in the air, but it If interested in learning more you can visit did not last long. We talked about convention and http://www.HaubergCenter.org.

Judy Jensen and Erica Kelsey were also going to

The noted Prairie style landscaper, Jens attend along with Marilyn Dore, our delegate. I Jensen, was born near Dybbol, Denmark in 1860 know they will have a wonderful time and we will be anxious for her report when she returns. and immigrated to the US in 1884. He was one

We took time to remember two of our Sisof the most influential designers to popularize ters who recently passed away. Elsie Adams, who native gardens. We are fortunate to have the 20 lived in South Carolina and then Lisa Hansen this room, 3 story historic home, its carriage house, past January. Lisa was active in the Lodge before Denkmann-Hauberg house, and gardens in Rock she was diagnosed with cancer. She was our delegate to convention two years ago and was anxious Island, IL, just a short drive across the Mississippi river from Davenport, Iowa. to learn more of her danish heritage. She will be

Lodge #3 will be busy working on prepagreatly missed. rations for the upcoming Heartland District con Our next meeting will be held on May 12 at Testo’s Restaurant in Troy, NY Till then we are vention these next few months, and hope to see looking for the tulips and signs of spring. some of you in September.

Sincerely, Paulette Fisher

Secretary Lodge #3 Davenport, Iowa Marjorie Wheeler, Treasurer and Correspondent

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What is Danish Freedom Day? The following article was written by one of our past members, Marge Weiss. Marge was able to write what is written here by talking with another of our past members, Johanna Westerlund. Johanna lived in Denmark throughout the Nazi invasion and kept a diary.

Unfortunately, there is no date on the article, but both of these members have been gone for many years. It is recopied from the original with some editing to sentence structure and punctuation only.

“May 5, 1945 was Danish Freedom Day, signifying the end of the Nazi occupation of Denmark. In order to understand what this day really means to a true Dane, it is necessary to go back to the spring of 1940. At that time the Danes noticed that there was an exceptionally large number of German tourists in the all the hotels in the large towns; they also noted many German ships in all the harbors and assumed the ships were waiting to be unloaded. However, at 5 AM on the morning of April 9, 1940, the so-called tourists came out of the hotels in German uniforms and the boats unloaded German soldiers with guns.

They immediately occupied all the roads coming into Copenhagen and all of the buildings of special interest to them, such as hotels and schools that could be used as headquarters or soldiers’ quarters. As the Nazi flag was being raised in Copenhagen, other German troops were coming in over the borders. Out in the suburbs as the Danes were preparing to leave home for work, they suddenly looked up to find the sky black with Nazi planes; no one could understand what was going on. When the men from the suburbs came into Copenhagen to go to their jobs, they were stopped by the Germans and questioned before being allowed to continue on.

The Germans took over the radio stations and announced that Denmark was occupied. A 10 PM curfew was imposed, and the Danes were ordered to have dark curtains up on their windows before nightfall so that all homes would be completely blacked out.

Then after dark, the Germans patrolled the streets checking on the houses. If they found a window with just a small crack of light showing, they shot through the window to extinguish the light.

In July, 1941 the Frikorps Danmark was organized by Danes who were Nazi sympathizers, composed of men who had no respect for law and order and who were resented by patriotic Danes. By November of that year loyal Danes rebelled, and there were big demonstrations all over Denmark in which many Danes lost their lives.

In September 1942 King Christian X celebrated his birthday; Hitler sent him birthday greetings. The King refused to acknowledge receipt of the greetings and ignored them. This angered Hitler; he promptly changed the Nazi leaders in Denmark who might be sympathetic with the Danes and replaced them with harsher officers. The King went on as though nothing happened. He rode his horse through the streets everyday, and the loyal people followed him closely so no one could harm him.

On August 29, 1943 Germans took over the Danish fleet and the Army, not without a fight, but there were too many Germans and too few Danes.

The Danes did, however, manage to sink some ships and lost many good Danes in the process.

On October 1, 1943 the Nazis started rounding up all the Jewish people in Denmark. The Danes promptly rallied together to get their Jewish countrymen underground and send them to Sweden in small fishing boats. Again many lives were lost.

On September 19, 1944 the Germans took the Danish police force to concentration camps in Germany. They accomplished this by waiting for change in shifts to get the men going off duty and others coming on duty. The Nazis surrounded the Danish police and led them off, but they were able to take only a small number of them, as many escaped and went underground to help fight for Denmark’s freedom while others went to Amalienborg to guard the King.

The following winter was the most gruesome of all. The Danish underground did sabotage all over the country. In retaliation, the Germans indiscriminately tortured and killed Danes. In this they were helped by the Schalburg Corps which was made up of Danes who were thieves, murderers and the worst of scum.

They were taken out of the jails and the Nazi’s Danish prisoners were put into their places.

Throughout the occupation the Nazis stopped Danes constantly on the street and questioned and searched them for no reason. Occasionally someone panicked and ran; they were promptly shot by the Nazis. Because so many of their countrymen were shot needlessly at the whim of the Germans, the Danes started placing small wooden crosses wherever a loyal Dane was killed, and the people then placed flowers on them in their memory. Even today you may find some of these wooden crosses throughout Denmark.

Underground papers were being printed and distributed and had to be smuggled home by the Danes. If the Nazis caught a Dane with an under9

Danish Sisterhood News, May 2018

Then at 8 PM on May 4, 1945 as the Danes were sitting in darkness with their ears close to the radio, listening to an English broadcast, the program was interrupted with the announcement that Germany had capitulated. This was the moment the loyal Danes had been waiting for—they screamed, laughed, cried and danced around and turned on the lights. The next day, May 5, 1945, was the happiest day in Denmark, a day of freedom, although there was still some fighting between the underground and the Germans who had not heard the war was over.

May 5, 1945 marked the end of a long, sorrowful 5 years, during which many good people lost their lives for what they believed in, freedom and the right to be Danish. Since that day, every May 5th, the Danes put a lighted candle and the Danish flag in a window to symbolize the end of 5 years of darkness and to show respect for those who lost their lives.”

Befrielse Dag (Freedom Day in Denmark) is not an official holiday in Denmark but it remains a day of celebration and remembrance. In looking on the internet, the most recent large celebration of Freedom Day in Denmark was from 2015, 70 years from that happy day. Do all Danes still celebrate that day in the same way as Johanna talked about in the article above? It does not look like it—at least not yearly. But Johanna’s words, written down by Marge Weiss, tell an interesting, first-person account of those five years of darkness and the day it ended.

ground paper he was shot on the spot. These underground papers had news from England and from other countries such as Finland, Sweden, Norway, France, Holland and even Germany. There was also news of the underground and the names of loyal Danes who had been killed by the Nazis. Whenever possible names of the informers for the Nazis were also listed.

Then on the morning of March 21, 1945 the Royal Air Force came to bomb the Gestapo headquarters in Copenhagen. They came in so low that it seemed the Danes could reach out and touch them.

This was done purposely so the Germans couldn’t shoot at them. The low altitude brought one great tragedy to the Danes. One of the low flying bombers brushed a wing tip against a light pole in the railroad yard in Copenhagen and almost crashed. In order to get back up in the air again, he had to drop his bombs, and they came down over the French Catholic School on Fredriksburg Alle, killing 82 children and four nuns, further destroying an entire block of apartments. It was a very regrettable accident and the entire country mourned.

The Germans had a fool proof method to keep from being bombed, so they thought! They kept the Danish prisoners on the top floor of the Schell Building, which was Nazi Headquarters, thinking the RAF would not bomb them, but the RAF outsmarted them—they bombed the corners of the building at street level, so when the Germans fled the building in panic, the Danish underground people went in and freed the prisoners.

51st Annual Danish Day • June 3, 2018 Seneca Lake State Park, Geneva, N.Y. Pavilion One. Park has intrance fee of $7.00 per car.

Please provide: Your own table service, beverages, a dish to to pass, and dessert for coffee hour.Please bring a bag for your refuse. If you are a musician, please bring your instrument.

Tentative Itinerary.

12:00 p.m. - Arrival and sign in.

12:15 p.m. - Prayer and National Anthems.12:30 p. m. - smorgasbord, 1:30 p.m. - Dancing, Cultural Displays, Danish crafting.3:00 p.m. - Coffee & Door Prize Drawing.

Questions, please call: Todd (Schoolhouse Retreat) 315-536-0922 or 585-586-9237.

Danish Sisterhood News, May 2018

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Resolution Carol Ann (Olsen) Jorgensen passed away on April 23, 2018 in Waterloo, Iowa at the age of 82. A native of Audubon, Iowa, she graduated form the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley with a teaching degree in 1957. She taught elementary school and later opened her Scandinavian Shop.

She married her high school sweetheart, Harris Jorgensen, in 1958. They were the parents of Diane, Holt, Julie, Joel, and Paul. There are 9 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren.

Carol was a 47 year member of the Dike Danish Sisterhood Lodge # 176 in Dike, Iowa.

She served as Secretary for many years and was always very involved in planning, hosting, and inviting others to attend. Her Danish desserts and treats were always appreciated. She opened their home often and enjoyed showing her many Danish treasures. Her “Danishness” was well known in the area as well as nationally. She was a founding board member of the Danish Immigrant Museum (now the Museum of Danish America) in Elk Horn, Iowa. She also was on the steering committee of the Cedar Valley Danes in Cedar Falls, Iowa.

During her “Celebration of Life” service

there were many references to the Danish heritage she cherished. The lunch served after the funeral service featured open faced Danish sandwiches and the tables were decorated with many beautiful Danish items. Hundreds of beautiful Danish dishes were stacked on the dessert table.

Guests were encouraged to choose one to hold the kringle and apple bars served for dessert, then take it home as a remembrance of Carol.

Carol will be greatly missed by the many who knew her and shared her warm personality.

She was a friend to all who came into her life.

Resolution

The Sisters and Brothers of Lodge #173 draped their Constitution in memory of our Sister Edith Laursen who passed away April 5, 2018 at her home. Edith was 91 years old.

She had been a member of Lodge #173 for 64 years. She was an active participant until recent years when her health prevented her from attending meetings.

Edith is survived by her children: Larry and Juli Laursen, Les and Kim Laursen and Lee Ann

and Brian Shipman. She also leaves six grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren and her sisterin-law, Erna Christensen.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Stanley Fire Company, PO Box 481, Stanley, NY 14561 or the Patient Needs Fund, Sands Cancer Center, 360 Parrish St., Canandaigua, NY 14424.

We will miss her smile and cheery disposition.

11

Danish Sisterhood News, May 2018

Grave Marker Emblem OPTION 1

OPTION 2

DANISH SISTERHOOD OF AMERICA

ORDER FORM

4”HT x 3.13”W OVERALL SIZE

4”HT x 3.13”W OVERALL SIZE

$165.13

1/4” DEPTH SATIN STAINLESS STEEL STUD MOUNT FLUSH RAISED SATIN STAINLESS DETAILS WITH ETCHED / RECESSED AREAS PAINTED BLACK

$202.26

1/4” DEPTH SATIN BRONZE STUD MOUNT FLUSH RAISED SATIN BRONZE DETAILS WITH ETCHED / RECESSED AREAS PAINTED BLACK

CONTACT NAME :

CONTACT NAME :

PHONE NUMBER:

PHONE NUMBER:

SHIP TO :

SHIP TO :

QUANTITY :

*SHIPPING FEE $20 **SHIPPING TO HI AND AK TBD

QUANTITY :

LINDA HOLZ 515-225-0951 This is an original unpublished drawing created for Danish Sisterhood of America and remains the sole property of Danish Sisterhood of America.

Its use in any way other than authorized is strictly forbidden.

Copyright: Danish Sisterhood of America.

*SHIPPING FEE $20 **SHIPPING TO HI AND AK TBD

To place order, please email the signed pdf over to shawndubbs@metallogos.com or fax to 816-531-5650 We will be in contact with you on the payment!

Before purchase please check with the cemetery for their rules and regulations regarding possible restrictions.

Many organizations have emblems that can be used to commemorate their member’s affiliation with the organization by attaching the emblem to their grave marker.

The Danish Sisterhood of America is excited to announce a grave marker emblem that may be purchased from a third party in either stainless steel or bronze. The company is Metal Logos in Kansas City. Please see the order form shown above. The description, cost and how to order is included on the form. Before purchasing please be sure to check with the cemetery for their rules and regulation regarding any possible restrictions. If you are interested, you may send in the order form or call (816) 444-6800 to place your order.

Danish Sisterhood News, May 2018

12

The Danish Sisterhood Marketplace Butikken DanishSisterhood.com

Contact Linda Holz for shipping and handling charges.

Red plastic heart-shaped paper clip $1.00 Letter Opener $4.00 Black baseball cap with heart logo in sequins $20.00

Black baseball cap with heart logo in satin stitch embroidery $20.00

Hygge T- Shirt  Red with white print M, L, XL, XXL $20

Frik T- Shirt Red with white print (Front and Back Shown) M, L, XL, XXL $20

Laser cut boxes (unassembled) for table favors $ 0.75

To order contact: Linda Holz Email: trustee1@danishsisterhood.com Phone: 515.225.0951 4400 EP True Pkwy, Unit 47 West Des Moines , IA 50265-5615 13

Danish Sisterhood News, May 2018

The Danish Sisterhood Marketplace Butikken DanishSisterhood.com Contact Linda Holz for shipping and handling charges.

SALE Sisterhood License Plate Frame Frame has dual fastening holes at the top of the fame. White with red DSS logo. $4.00 each or 2 for $6.00

Red ball point pen with Sisterhood website address $5.00

DSS Fleece Jacket Available Red and Black $37.50

Coral Pendant with Silver Filigree Red and silver necklace pendant $45.00

Wine Bottle Opener Red with black trim, danishsisterhood.com printed on side. $10.00 SALE PRICE $5

Denmark Flag Enamel Earrings pierced $10/pair

Onesie Red with white print 6 mo - 12 mo - 18 mo $15.00

Heartscarf Available in Red and White $15.00

To order contact: Linda Holz Email: trustee1@danishsisterhood.com Phone: 515.225.0951 4400 EP True Pkwy, Unit 47 West Des Moines , IA 50265-5615 Danish Sisterhood News, May 2018

14

Submissions Guidelines Submissions should be received by the Editor by the 1st of the month previous to the month published (Deadlines can be found on page 2).

Please submit captions for pictures, including names of people in the picture.

Text for submissions should be less than 600 words (one typed page).

Mail or electronic submissions are welcomed The Editor will proofread for spelling and grammatical errors and will edit for clarity.

Address Changes If you have moved please use this form to notify the Danish Sisterhood of America.

Clip and mail to: Danish Sisterhood News National Secretary: Glenda Madrid 1555 Oak St. Solvang, CA 93463

Upcoming Newsletter Deadlines July 2018 issue.........................Submit by June 1 August 2018 issue.....................Submit by July 1 September 2018 issue.........Submit by August 1 October 2018 issue.......Submit by September 1 November 2018 issue........Submit by October 1 December 2018 issue.....Submit by November 1

I belong to Lodge #: Name: New Address: City: State: Zip Code:

NE/CO Regional District Meeting The NE/CO Regional District Meeting will be held August 24-25, 2018.

This event will be held at:

Country Inn and Suites 5353 North 27th Street Lincoln, NE 68516

Membership Expansion

Welcome New Members!

LODGE 168 177 4

NEW MEMBER Britta McCartney Denise Johnson Inge Krogh

SPONSOR Aase Hansen Janet Townsend Bente Rasmussen

In Memoriam NAME Glenice Trainor

Cert # 23050

Lodge # Location Birth Date Birth Place Initiated 12 New Haven, CT 9.29.40 New Haven, CT 3.1.72

Died 4.1.18

Benefit 1,000.

SAVE THE DATE! 2018 DISTRICT CONVENTIONS

DISTRICT

DETAILS

NATL REP

NEBRASKA/COLORADO

AUG 24-25, HOST: LINCOLN, NE #113

GLENDA MADRID

HEARTLAND

SEPT 14-16, HOST: DAVENPORT, IA #3

LINDA HOLZ

15

Danish Sisterhood News, May 2018

News

Danish

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Sisterhood

Published by the Supreme Lodge of the Danish Sisterhood of America National Secretary: Glenda Madrid 1555 Oak St. Solvang, CA 93463

POSTMASTER PLEASE RUSH TIME DATED MATERIAL!

Published by:

Supreme Lodge of the Danish Sisterhood of America National Secretary: Glenda Madrid 1555 Oak St Solvang, CA 93463

The Danish Sisterhood News including, but not limited to, design, text, & graphics, are Copyright 2016 by the Supreme Lodge of the Danish Sisterhood of America. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Any use of materials in this publication, including reproduction, modification, distribution, or republication without the prior written consent of DSS, is strictly prohibited by law. Copyright infringement will be punished to the maximum extent the law allows.