Mennonite and Hutterian Immigration Memorial -- Freeman SD
N 43° 21.551 W 097° 25.215
14T E 628011 N 4801914
The only reason Blasterz stopped in this area was to try Chizlik, something that Daddy Blaster read about, and that none of us had ever heard of. We are glad we got to explore this charming town.
Waymark Code: WM17F29
Location: South Dakota, United States
Date Posted: 02/10/2023
Views: 0
In all our travels, Blasterz have never seen a monument to Hutterian and or Mennonite migration. We were very glad to spot this marker today in Freeman, South Dakota - and even happier that we get to waymark it.
The monument stands along the US 81 in Freeman SD, at the driveway leading into Fensel's Motel.
The marker reads as follows:
"MENNONITE AND HUTTTERIAN IMMIGRATION MEMORIAL
1874 – CENTENNIAL – 1974
This marker commemorates the immigration of the first large groups of Swiss, Low German and Hutterian Brethren from Russia to Dakota Territory.
The first group of fifteen families arrived in Yankton on October 17, 1873. However a mass movement of several hundred families followed in 1876, with smaller groups arriving all through the 1870’s. The Mennonites settled mainly in Hutchinson, Turner and Bon Homme counties.
The Mennonites and Hutterian Brethren have their origin in the Anabaptist wing of the Reformation which started in central Europe. Their belief in separation of church and state and in nonresistance led to severe persecution for some three centuries. Hounded from country to country in Europe, God’s providence finally led them to America for asylum.
The first years of severe winters, grasshoppers, prairie fires and drought threatened their survival. However, hard work, an unwavering faith in God and financial aid from Mennonite Organizations carried them through these critical years.
To commemorate the hardships they endured, the sacrifices they made and the rich heritage they left for us, we dedicate this monument. May their positive Christian lives challenge us to rededicate ourselves to a more humble and closer walk with our Creator.
"For other foundation can no man lay that is laid, which is Jesus Christ." 1 Cor. 3:11"
Who placed it?: Descendants of Hutterian and Mennonite immigrants
When was it placed?: 1974
Who is honored?: Hutterian and Mennonite immigrants
Website about the Monument: [Web Link]
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