The Evangelical Lutheran Synod Historical Society takes you back through the past to the days of H. A. Preus, J. A. Ottesen, and U. V. Koren. Through the study of history you can revisit the days of pioneer Lutheran congregations.

The ELS Historical Society takes you back to the time of Bjug Harstad, S. C. Ylvisaker, and N. A. Madson, and the formation of the Evangelical Lutheran Synod. Through the study of history you can see pieces of the "oaks" at Koshkonong and numerous other artifacts from around the synod.

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.

MEMBERSHIP

Voting Membership is available to any communicant member of an ELS congregation; or, any communicant member of a congregation in fellowship with the ELS.

Associate (non-voting) Membership is available to any other individual or organization interested in the work and purpose of the ELS Historical Society.

Voting and Associate Members have opportunities to attend the annual business meeting of the Society; receive periodic bulletins with articles of news and interest; help their church maintain valuable historical records which may be used to build programs and guide events for the future; and, conduct research on the history of the ELS, its congregations, and its pastors.

Click here to become a member today.

LINKS

• Upcoming Activities

• Chronology of the Evangelical Lutheran Synod
• Bibliography of Historical Works concerning the ELS
• Online Back Issues of Oak Leaves (the Society's quarterly newsletter)
• Ottesen Museum
• Board of Directors
• Links to Web Sites of Interest to the ELS Historical Society