Sons of Norway Bring Norwegian Culture, Food to Central Minnesota [VIDEO]

ST. CLOUD -- Norwegian culture, crafts, history and foods were all on display Monday night at the Whitney Senior Center.

The Trollheim Lodge, Sons of Norway held a baking class showcasing five of Norway's most popular treats. President Frank Haynes says they came up with the idea after Summertime by George.

"We had a booth this summer at Summertime by George and one of the most asked things we had from people was, how to make Lefse. So we decided we were going to have a baking night and teach people how to make the five most popular types of Norwegian pastry."

The five dishes on the menu Monday night were:

• Lefse
• Kronsekake
• Krumkake
• Waffles
• Rullepolse

Haynes says Sons of Norway events aren't only very tasty, but educational as well.

"We always have a cultural program about Norway, we sing Norwegian songs and we eat Norwegian food - that's very popular."

They got their start an interesting way according to Haynes.

"It started as an insurance company for Norwegians who couldn't get insurance any other way and then through the years its grown."

The Lodge is now an organization for anyone with an interest in Norway's culture, history and of course, food. They meet in the fall and spring at the Whitney Senior Center.

The months they meet are March, April, May, September, October, November, and December. Haynes says to call the senior center to get the exact dates each month, Whitney Senior Center's number is (320) 255-7245.

The group was organized in 1972 under their first President, Vernon Mork. Haynes says they're always looking for new members to keep the Lodge's legacy going.

They're celebrating their 45th year on November 19 at the St. Cloud Country Club, they'll have music and a lot more to ring in the special occasion.