"Church Towns in Northern Sweden and Finland", A Talk by Dr. Norm Moline

Name: "Church Towns in Northern Sweden and Finland", A Talk by Dr. Norm Moline
Start: 2026-04-11T10:00:00-05:00
Location: 327 S 3rd St, Rockford, IL 61104-2011, United States

Schedule

Sat, 11 Apr, 2026 at 10:00 am

UTC-05:00

Location

327 S 3rd St, Rockford, IL 61104-2011, United States | Rockford, IL

“Church Towns” are not simply towns with churches, but unique places in northern Sweden and Finland. Prior to 1860 regular church attendance was required for all Swedish citizens. In the northern regions parishes often served large areas involving long and difficult travel for some members. So, small “houses” for temporary use by individual families were built next to the churches, resulting in unique “towns”. In the 1900s some of these places ceased to exist, but over 25 survive, some with different kinds and levels of use. Dr. and Mrs. Moline have visited 11 of them and will discuss these distinctive features in the Swedish and Finnish landscape. Admission is $5/members or $10/non-members. Tickets available in advance OR at the door (if the event has not already sold out).
About Dr. Norm Moline: Dr. Norm Moline taught as a Professor Emeritus of Geography at Augustana College for 45 years with specialties in cultural and historical geography. He is the son of Pastor Ragnar Moline, an active member of SHS during his many years in Rockford.