Lured by the Homestead Act of 1862, and in search of freedom and opportunity, Germans-from-Russia immigrants from Amish, Hutterite, Lutheran, Mennonite and Reformed backgrounds – and others – began arriving in southeastern Dakota Territory starting in the 1870s. They brought with them their religious traditions, strong work ethic and determination. They persevered, not only surviving the hardships of life on the prairie, but working together to establish the larger Freeman community. Our exhibits and archives tell their stories.
Author: fhd-admin
SMCHA Annual Banquet
The 2025 Annual Banquet was on Saturday, October 18 at the Burrton Community Center. The evening was well attended, the food was delicious (if you like ethnic German food from the Breadbasket) and events were appreciated. Special music from the Schwisters was followed by Peter Buller who shared his experiences from this past summer at Reba Place in Chicago. Peter also shared his thoughts about Anabaptism now and in the future, and offered suggestions of focus and direction. He closed the evening with the group singing a number of hymns from Voices Together. Peter’s presentation, along with an update from Glen Goering about the immigrant House, can be viewed by clicking the links below.
Watch Peter Buller’s Presentation
Watch Glen Goering Immigrant House update
More details about the banquet can be found in the October “Schweitzer Salt”, located under “resources” on this site.