This is a Real Photo Postcard, an AZO with triangles in the corners where the stamp goes so this one dates from 1904 to 1918. This is quite a bunch of women with only two gentlemen in attendance. I wonder what the occasion was? 
I never go back on my promises do I? This was taken out at Anna’s two weeks ago, swell looking bunch isn’t it. Edna. It is addressed to Elsie Kreisel of Dawson, Minn.
Thanks for stopping by, do come again:)
Update :Info from Iggy:
Name: Elsie M Kreisel
Birth: abt 1898
Residence: 1920 - Steele, Minnesota
And about the gathering Larry suggests it could be a ladies group like the Eastern Star.
Iggy thinks it is a Ladies Aid Group..either is possible. Thanks guys for your input!
Most Norwegian-American Lutheran churches had Ladies Aid Societies. Textile production was an important part of Ladies Aid, and was, in fact, the reason some of the first women’s organizations formed.
They often sewed quilts and knitted goods and held raffles for fundraisers.
Aid was a place for adults and children to learn and practice quiltmaking, to socialize, practice the English language, try American food, p reserve Norwegian language and food, and fundraise. Ladies Aid quilts are perhaps best known as being signature quilts.
Another interesting photo Connie. Enjoy your Monday.
ReplyDeleteHm maybe a ladies club picnic? My great gran was involved in her women's club and they were really active. Not something we really have now.
ReplyDeleteAnother nice photo. It is odd that there were only two men. If there were none at all it would make more sense.
ReplyDeleteThat is a very intriguing photo. Could the presence of only 2 men have anything to do with war (and men not being around?).
ReplyDeleteI was thinking the men might of been "bus drivers" for the outing - but the one has a baby in his lap? Maybe its a church outing with the minister?
ReplyDeleteThey must have been a social club or Easter Star group. Belonging to large groups was very popular. I have seen an old photo of our town with a large majority of people covering main street, all who belong to the Star.
ReplyDeleteNever occurred to me to look up Elsie Kreisel.
ReplyDeleteName: Elsie M Kreisel
Birth: abt 1898
Residence: 1920 - Steele, Minnesota
1920 census
Kreisel, William 54, Bertha 57, Elsie 22 (which jives), Mamie 19, Harry 17, Alvina 15, Anna 13, Emma 11, Willie 8
Looks like she had a ton of brothers and sisters.
Most Norwegian-American Lutheran churches had Ladies Aid Societies. Textile production was an important part of Ladies Aid, and was, in fact, the reason some of the first women’s organizations formed.
ReplyDeleteThey often sewed quilts and knitted goods and held raffles for fundraisers.
Aid was a place for adults and children to learn and practice quiltmaking, to socialize, practice the English language, try American food, p reserve Norwegian language and food, and fundraise. Ladies Aid quilts are perhaps best known as being signature quilts.
This picture is later - but strikingly similar to the ones found on http://collections.mnhs.org/visualresources/results.cfm?Page=1&Subject=Lac%20qui%20Parle%20County%2E%20Dawson%2E%20Churches%2E
:)