Minneota in Minnesota was first settled by Icelanders in 1875. Kathryn Rothman will share the story of these first settlers, many of whom came from the rocky, lava plains of northeast Iceland to this flat prairieland with little but their personal belongings and books.

They built schools, churches, libraries, farms and industries. An enduring love of learning and their Icelandic heritage are part of their legacy. Author Bill Holm was born here, and his books and poetry capture the spirit of Minneota. Kathryn has spent time researching the local history of area, and interviewing descendants of those first settlers. Join us online to hear more about the Icelanders who came to Minneota.

Icelanders, forever the adventurers, moved further west in 1888 to settle in the Red Deer county of Alberta. Mark Petursson, will share the story of these first settlers to Alberta, who came in search of a better life for their children. In the settlement of Tindastoll, later named Markerville, the Icelandic pioneers relied on fishing to sustain them through the winters and rich pastures for sheep and cattle. In the early 20th C, Icelanders began to move to the urban centres of Calgary and Edmonton. Still, the bond with their Icelandic heritage remained strong and Markerville, Calgary and Edmonton remain bastions of Icelandic heritage. Join us to hear the saga of Icelandic- Albertans.

Registration information coming soon!