About the Society
Evangelical Lutheran Synod Historical Society, 16 Browns Ct., Mankato, MN 56001
Mission
Founded by the Evangelical Lutheran Synod in June 1996, the ELS Historical Society promotes interest in the historical and doctrinal heritage of Lutheranism, particularly of the Evangelical Lutheran Synod and its institutions; stimulates historical research; publishes historical studies; assists congregations in the preservation of local congregational history; preserves items of museum quality; and, provides assistance to the ELS Department of Archives and History.
Projects and Activities
The Society sponsors a variety of projects and activities:
- Annual Meetings
- Oak Leaves quarterly newsletter (subscription included with membership)
- Undergraduate Research Internships
- Learning Activities for all ages at the Ottesen Museum
- Books
- Forthcoming: Historical Encyclopedia of the Evangelical Lutheran Synod (free online resource)
If you have additional ideas to suggest, we welcome your feedback.
Board of Directors
Board Members
As of February 2021:
- Marie Aaberg
- Craig Ferkenstad (synod secretary)
- Ted Gullixson (synod archivist)
- Lois Jaeger
- Michael Lilienthal, President
- Marge Lillo, Treasurer
- Glenn Obenberger (synod president)
- Andrew Soule, Vice President
- Erling Teigen
Oak Leaves Editor
- Erling Teigen
(More information about Oak Leaves...)
Advisors
- Becky DeGarmeaux, Director of Programming, Ottesen Museum
(More information about the Ottesen Museum...) - Theodore Gullixson (Archivist)
- Ryan MacPherson (Webmaster)
- Shawn Stafford (ELS History & Archives Committee)
Historical Timeline of the Synod
A printable timeline highlighting major events in Synod history is available as a free PDF download.