Ketchikan’s First Lutheran Church stands poised to commemorate its centennial, marking a monumental milestone in its long-standing role as a cornerstone of the community and a significant religious institution. This celebration next week promises a series of public events designed to honor a century of faith, service, and profound historical impact within the Alaskan panhandle.
The genesis of the First Lutheran Church traces back to a vital need within Ketchikan’s burgeoning Norwegian community. Formed in January 1926, the congregation emerged from a four-year building endeavor, reflecting the strong desire of Scandinavian immigrants to establish a spiritual home that also served as a cultural anchor, deeply intertwined with Ketchikan history.
In its nascent decades, the Lutheran Church served as a pivotal focal point for Ketchikan’s rapidly expanding Norwegian population. The decline of the Norwegian halibut fishery in the late 19th century prompted many Scandinavian fishermen to seek new opportunities in North America, with Ketchikan becoming a prime destination due to its rich fishing grounds and economic prospects.
By the early 1920s, Ketchikan had become home port to over a hundred halibut schooners, predominantly captained and crewed by Norwegian immigrants. The community was so deeply rooted in its Norwegian heritage that it was common to hear Norwegian spoken more frequently than English in areas like Newtown, underscoring the cultural significance the church would later embody.
Responding to the growing needs, the Norwegian Lutheran Church of American Home Missions dispatched Rev. C.K. Malmin in 1923 to establish a “home service center” and “Seamen’s Center.” This initiative, supported by a significant grant, provided vital services including a chapel, kitchen, and lodging, further cementing the church’s role in local social welfare and community events.
The dedication of the First Lutheran Church on December 14, 1930, after a substantial construction effort, marked a new chapter. Its design by W.G. Brust and construction by Carl Foss underscored a collective community endeavor, with members contributing significantly to the interior finishes, establishing it as a foundational religious institution in the region.
Beyond its spiritual offerings, the church actively engaged in broader community support. Early initiatives included backing two orphanages serving both Native and non-Native children, sponsoring Girl Scout and Boy Scout troops, and funding student dorm rooms, demonstrating a sustained commitment to social well-being throughout Ketchikan history.
The enduring legacy of the First Lutheran Church continues to be recognized. Last year, the congregation received a substantial National Fund for Sacred Places grant, enabling crucial renovations to its roof and steeple. The upcoming Centennial celebration will feature an organ concert, a talk on the church’s stained glass windows, and a banquet with traditional Norwegian cuisine, highlighting its vibrant Norwegian heritage and ongoing community engagement.
