Pictured on the steps of Kragero one-room school: Hailey Foss, Natalie Foss, Rozene Blad, Elise Derksen, Jack Glenz, Landon Bouchie, Finlay Cook, Elin Cook, Jillian Haugen, Jenna Bouchie, Alex Haugen, Ella Fenske, Marjorie Rajkowski and Brooklyn Westby. Students stepped back in time at Kragero one-room school last week as a part of a summer program through Becker Community Education. The program started in 1994 and has been facilitated by the Erickson family, whose great grandfather, Jens Ellefson immigrated to the United States from Kragero, Norway. The school was built in 1897.  Curriculum (the three R’s) was taught by former students Judy (Erickson) Larsén and Karen (Erickson) Sakry. Students learned reading, writing, arithmetic and history. They also sang old, patriotic songs, played games of a bygone era, washed clothes on a wash board, made butter, did crafts and enjoyed a walk by the creek. On the final day of a school, the students were treated to a horse drawn wagon ride and bonfire hosted by Tom Barthel and Gail Wilkinson. 

 

Kragero one-room school building originally served as a school and a church when it was first built. The school is owned by local residents Tom Barthel and Gail Wilkinson, who generously maintain the building and allow the school to be utilized. 

 

The school will be open for an annual potluck and picnic Sunday, June 24th starting at noon. Everyone is welcome. The school is located north of Becker: 6322 185th Ave SE, Becker.  For more information call Mary 612-219-8648. Citizen-Tribune photo by Mary Nehring.