More about Sons of Norway and Skjold Lodge

THE ORIGIN OF THE SONS OF NORWAY:
Sons of Norway was organized as a fraternal benefit society by 18 Norwegian immigrants in Minneapolis, Minnesota, on January 16, 1895. The purposes and goals of the Founding Fathers were to protect members of Sons of Norway and their families from the financial hardships experienced during times of sickness or death in the family.

Over time, the mission of Sons of Norway was expanded to include the preservation of Norwegian heritage and culture in our Society. We have grown since our beginning and now encompass more than 420 local lodges with a membership of nearly 60,000 people living in North America and Norway.  The original purpose was not forgotten and Sons of Norway continues to provide financial and insurance services to its members.

ABOUT SKJOLD LODGE:
Skjold Lodge was organized on Feb. 25, 1910.  During the early years, Skjold was for men only and the wives decided to organize their own lodge.  In 1911 Nornen Lodge #41, Daughters of Norway, was organized, and the two lodges worked together for many years.  In 1949 the two lodges merged and the rest is history.

We promote Norwegian traditions and fraternal fellowship through the cultural and social opportunities offered at Skjold Lodge and at district lodge activities.

These activities include language camps and classes, scholarships, handicrafts, cooking and heritage classes, heritage programs, sports programs, travel opportunities, "Viking" Magazine, and outreach programs sponsored by the Sons of Norway Foundation.

While we are called "Sons" of Norway, women are very welcome and active members of the lodge.  Women have been President, and several women are on the board of directors.

To learn even more about us, read the brief history of the lodge.  Some of you may be interested in the list of  past presidents or current officers of the lodge.

<Click here for membership information>

WE ARE PART OF DISTRICT 5
Skjold lodge is part of District #5, Zone #5, of Sons of Norway.  Visit the District 5 web site  for more details about our district organization.

CULTURAL SKILLS PROGRAM
Our Cultural Skills Program gives members a chance to earn awards based on their mastery of Norwegian cultural areas. <Click here for more details>

SONS OF NORWAY FOUNDATION
The Sons of Norway Foundation is an organization that promotes Norwegian heritage activities, provides scholarships and supports humanitarian causes <Click here for more details>

HERITAGE FEST
Each year, we hold a Norwegian Heritage fest, typically on a Sunday afternoon, with Norwegian food, crafts, and other displays related to our Norwegian Heritage.