Hjalmar R. Holand Lodge 549 was Instituted May 20, 1975 with 206 Charter Members. Installlng Officers were Conrad Garmager, Herb Staven, and Mary Lovdahl. Leonard Thompson was the Field Representative. Larry Dahl was the organizing officer.

First Officers were Otto Hansen, President; Hay Christiansen, Vice-President; Lou Olson, Counselor; Wm. Draeb, Treasurer; Myrle Welhaven, Financial Secretary; Lorraine Selvick, Secretary; Ragna Froland, Social Director.

Ragna and Henny Froland served refreshments consisting of Bløtkake, Kransekaker, Krumkake, and kringlea.

In 1976 the Lodge obtained a Life Boat from the ship "Mercury", and turned it into a beautiful ''Viking Ship", complete with the Dragon Head & Tall, Mast & Sail, Oars, and Spears. It appears in all of the local parades complete with Vikings.

In 1977 H. R. Holand held it's first "Norsk Fest". This year will be our eleventh. It is our moneymaker and we've had people from all over the United States see and enjoy our Rosemaling, Woodenware, Spinning, Weaving, Scandinavian Stitchery, and Kaffe Stue.

Our Lodge has given five Lifeline Units to the local hospItal in addition to donations to other charitable organizations.

Presidents that have served this lodge to date are: Otto Hansen, Lawrence Johnson, Albert Andersen, Howard Olson, Bernette Leiberg, Gordon Anderson, and Myrle Welhaven.

.... Myrle Welhaven