Nora Unitarian Universalist Church facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Nora Free Christian Church
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The church in 2017
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 Location in Minnesota
Location in the United States
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| Nearest city | Hanska, Minnesota |
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| Area | 4.1 acres (1.7 ha) |
| Built | 1883 |
| Architectural style | Gothic, Queen Anne |
| NRHP reference No. | 88001176 |
| Added to NRHP | August 4, 1988 |
The Nora Unitarian Universalist Church, first known as the Nora Free Christian Church, is a historic building in Hanska, Minnesota. It has a fascinating story of being built, destroyed, and rebuilt all in the same year! This church was created by people who wanted a different kind of religious community. It stands as a symbol of their strong beliefs and determination.
Contents
The Story of Nora Church
Starting a New Community
The Nora Church began with people in Brown County, Minnesota who had different ideas. They wanted a religious community that was not like the traditional Norwegian Lutheran churches. They met a special visitor named Kristofer Janson. He was a minister from Norway who also held different views. Janson was traveling through the Midwest, giving talks. He had already helped start a similar church in Minneapolis.
The people in Hanska asked Janson to be their minister. He agreed and helped them establish the Nora Free Christian Church. This happened in January 1882.
Building the First Church
By the fall of 1882, the church members had collected enough money. They were ready to build their own church building. Construction began the next spring, in 1883. The very first service was held on July 8, 1883.
However, just one week later, on July 15, another service took place. This would be the last service in that first building. On July 21, a powerful tornado struck. It completely destroyed the newly built church. Some people at the time said it was a punishment from God for the group's different beliefs.
Rebuilding After the Storm
Despite the setback, the community did not give up. They rebuilt the church later in 1883. This new building was officially opened on July 13, 1884. Kristofer Janson loved the Nora church. He spent his summers there, calling it a "paradise" and a peaceful escape from city life in Minneapolis.
A Lasting Legacy
Kristofer Janson returned to Norway in 1893. He continued his ministry there. However, he kept in touch with his former church members in Hanska until he passed away in 1917. The next pastor, Amandus Norman, served the church until 1931.
Since then, the Nora Church has continued to grow and thrive. Its unique history and strong community spirit have made it an important landmark. In 1988, it was officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This means it is recognized as a significant historical site.
