History
South Zumbro Lutheran Church, of rural Kasson, was founded in the lat 1860’s by Norwegian immigrants who were moving to America for religious freedom and new opportunities. The congregation was established as the Norwegian Evangelical Lutheran Church in Olmsted County. At that meeting, a plan for building a church was developed.
One month later, on March 6, 1868, the congregation’s name was changed to the Evangelical Lutheran Church of South Zumbro. It was decided that a more geographical name was necessary. The first trustees of the congregation were also elected.
Pastor Ole Anderson Bergh was the original pastor called to serve South Zumbro. He served from 1868 until 1886. In the early years, he received voluntary wages and offerings. Later, he was given a designated salary. From his home, he walked to church on Sunday morning. Pastor Bergh died in 1907 and is one of two former South Zumbro pastors buried in the church cemetery. The other pastor buried in our cemetery is Pastor Harry Krieg.
Twenty-one pastors have served South Zumbro since it was first started 150 years ago. Pastor Mark Schwartz served the longest tenure with 26 years.
When South Zumbro was established, it was affiliated with the Eielsen Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. Eight years later, in 1876, the church joined the Hauge Norwegian Synod of America. Although South Zumbro went on to join four more synods, the Hauge emphasis remained with the church for many years and is still evident today. In typical Hauge tradition, the worship has remained less liturgical, spiritual revival continues to be emphasized and the importance of pietistic lifestyle is stressed.
