The logo for the 2013 stevne includes the battle cry found on the flag given to the 15^th Wisconsin (Scandinavian) Regiment by the Society Nora in Chicago as the newly formed unit made its way to the front in March of 1862.  One in five Norwegian immigrant men served during the Civil War.  Over 1,000 lost their lives.  Six received the Congressional Medal of Honor.  We will explore the experiences of Norwegian-American soldiers on both sides of the fighting and learn about the war’s impact on those waiting at home with expert speakers along with sessions that will provide invaluable tips on genealogy and presentations on the history and culture of Norwegian immigrants in 33 classes during the stevne. You'll also have a chance to try your hand at rosemaling, hardanger, Norwegian Finger Weaving, making Julekurv, and folk dancing!

               On Thursday afternoon you’ll have a chance to soak up some local history at the Stearns County Museum. The Oliver Kelly Farm will transport you back to the farms of the 1860s.  Just minutes from the campus of St. John's University, take the opportunity to learn aabout the St. John's Bible Project and view the illuminated Bible created using authentic medieval methods.  Join the tour of Camp Ripley on Friday and learn about the Norwegian Exchange, the longest running military training partnership between two countries anywhere in the world and explore the artifact-filled Civil War exhibit at the Minnesota Military Museum.  On the way back to St. Cloud, a stop at the boyhood home of famed aviator Charles Lindbergh is thrown in for good measure.

               We’re encouraging working folks to join us for the week-end, beginning with the buffet supper and program on Friday evening. Saturday morning the genealogy room and vendors will be open and there will be a full slate of classes.  Kids are welcome, with special programming just for them throughout the stevne, including their own Thursday afternoon tour and supervised activities while the adults attend individual lag meetings on Saturday afternoon. Everyone will enjoy the Saturday evening banquet, with entertainment by members of Furuleiken spel og danselag from Gran, Lunner, and Ringerike Norway.

               Rooms at the Holiday Inn are available starting at $89.95 a night plus tax.  The Days Inn faces the Holiday Inn entrance across a low traffic side street with more budget-friendly rates starting at $62.96 plus tax.        Contact the Holiday Inn & Suites at 320-253-9000 or the Day’s Inn at 320-253-4444 and ask for the ‘7-Lag Stevne’ rate. There are campgrounds, bed and breakfasts, and dozens of other hotels and motels for you to choose from in the St. Cloud area.  One word of warning for those who require handicap accessible lodging: book early as these rooms are limited and go quickly!