Saint John Lutheran Church (Wrenshall, Minnesota) Official Acts and Records

The founders of Saint John Lutheran Church migrated to Chaska, Minnesota from Germany. They then moved to Wrenshall to work in one of the five brickyards operating there. They contacted their former pastor in Chaska to help fulfill their need for spiritual enrichment. He referred them to Rev. Fred Randt from Superior, Wisconsin, who conducted services for them once a month in private homes. On June 7, 1897, a constitution was adopted, making Saint John a reality. An acre of land was donated in 1901 for a church building, and it was dedicated in September 1902. Another donation of a half acre was made across the street for a cemetery. In 1932 the Ladies Aid completely redecorated and refinished the inside of the church building, but then a fire completely ruined the building. The reed organ, baptismal font, candelabras and collection plates were saved. The congregation rebuilt, and the new building was dedicated in January 1933. In 1959, an addition was added to accommodate the growing congregation. The mortgage was paid off, and a mortgage burning was held during the 80th anniversary service in 1977. In 1985, an addition was added for a fellowship area, restrooms, library, pastor's office, and a kitchen with an island. This dedication took place in September 1985. A new organ was dedicated in 1997, and the second mortgage for the addition was paid off as well. The congregation closed on December 31, 2015.