July 9 – 12, 2025
DoubleTree by Hilton & Austin Conference Center
1701 4th Street Northwest
Austin, MN 55912
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On July 4, 1825, 52 Norwegians set sail from Stavanger in Norway on the sloop Restauration. They arrived in New York on October 9, 1825.
This marked the beginning of organized immigration from Norway to North America. 900,000 Norwegians would follow. In 2025, Norwegians and Norwegian-Americans are celebrating the Bicentennial of Norwegian Immigration. It had a profound effect on the history of Norway and an impact on the development of America as well.
Book your room at DoubleTree by calling 507-433-1000. Ask for the 7+Lag Stevne rate of $139.
Book your room at Days Inn by calling 507-299-5675 (close to the DoubleTree) and ask for the 7+Lag Stevne rate of $120.
FOLLOWING IS THE PROJECTED SCHEDULE AS OF 03-31-2025
WEDNESDAY, JULY 9:
11am – Tour and lunch starting at St. Olaf Church in Austin. Stops will be made at Bear Creek Norwegian Lutheran Church, the GAR (Grand Army of the Republic Hall), also known as Booth Post No. 130, and the Grand Meadow Chert Quarry. Return about 5pm.
THURSDAY JULY 10:
8am – Registration and Genealogy
9am – Opening Session features keynote by Dale Goodman through Vesterheim in Decorah, IA. The presentation follows the story of the 1825 voyage of the Restauration.
1pm – 5pm Classes with the evening set aside for individual lag meetings.
FRIDAY, JULY 11:
9am – Genealogy, Classes, and Hospitality
5pm – 6pm Social Hour
6pm – Banquet with entertainment to follow by the Norwegian Bachelor Farmers
SATURDAY, JULY 12:
9am – 11:30am Closing Session features a presentation by George Olson entitled “They Brought More Than Lutefisk and Lefse“. Entertainment and a Bunad Parade officially end the Stevne.