Historical Society rededicates historic cemetery marker

The Madison Settlement Cemetery now has a refurbished historical marker.

Members of the Winneshiek County Historical Society and Decorah Genealogy Association gathered Monday to rededicate the sign, which was sandblasted and repainted--at a cost of nearly $1,000.

The historical sign is one of nine historical signs placed throughout the county by the Winneshiek County Historical Society.  The Madison sign is the latest sign to be restored, following others in Hesper and Frankville and other locations.

In 1851 Pastor Nils Brandt began work among Norwegian Lutheran immigrants of the Madison Settlement.  The first church was built at the location in 1856, including a cemetery.  In 1869 Madison and Lincoln congregations were formed from this original group. 

Historical Society president Ferneva Brimacomb begins the sign dedication program

The refurbished sign is revealed

A monument at the cemetery reveals how tough pioneer life was