User:Stutes2000

A Brief History First Lutheran Church began as a definite congregation on October 31, 1870. The small group of norwegian settlers began constructing a church building and held the first service in the uncomplete structure on Christmas Day, 1884. The "old church" was officially dedicated in May, 1887.

For many years the congregaton in Onalaska was served by pastors from other congregations. Most of the time it was a part of a parish with Trinity Lutheran Church in La Crosse, WI.

It was not until 1950 that First Lutheran Church had its own resident pastor. At that time a parsonage was built at 417 Hickory Street and Pastor Maynard Midthun was called to serve the congregation.

In May of 1953 ground was broken for the new church, which was then dedicated a year later. The new parish education building was begun and completed in 1963.

Pastor Leon Holm served the congregation from 1956-1961. Rev. Paul A. Roe has been pastor since January of 1962.

Full-time help, in the form of a parish worker, was added to the staff from 1957 to February 1965. Misses Phyllis Anderson, Avis Gordee and Arvalene Skrede served in this capacity. In february, 1965, it was decided to have part-time secretarial help.

A student intern was added to the staff in 1963.