Hesper Community historical marker to be restored

The Winneshiek County Historical Society has received a $250 grant from the Walmart Foundation for the restoration of the Hesper Community historical marker that is located north of Decorah in Hesper.  The sign marks one of the oldest Society of Friends Congregations in Iowa organized here in 1855.

The first Meeting House was built in 1856.  The present church was built in 1905.  The boyhood home of Hamlin Garland (1868-1870), author of "Son of The Middle Border" and other novels, is located two miles west.
 
Last year funds went toward restoration of the Pioneer Cemetery and School historical marker that is located southwest of Decorah.  Maureen, her husband Richard and their sons volunteer with their local  Boy Scout troop on various projects in the county.
 
The Winneshiek County Historical Society has set in place and maintains nine historical markers throughout the county.