St. Olaf was founded on Nov. 6, 1874. It was originally established as a high school academy named St. Olaf’s School, and became a college in the mid 1880’s.

The first Founders’ Day celebration took place in 1894. The event is designed to pay tribute to the school’s history.

"Founders’ Day has been for honoring the past and pioneer leaders of the college," Associate Archivist Jeff Suave said. "Many times it has been a day for buildings to be dedicated."

Steensland Art Gallery was dedicated was dedicated one hundred years ago on Nov. 6, so this Founders’ Day focused on its an-niversary. President Christopher Thomforde gave opening remarks at the celebration, which took place in the Crossroads. There was then a 10 to 15 minute demonstration of an online exhibit that highlighted Steensland, taken off the archive website.

A special Founders’ Day concert also took place in Urness Recital Hall Wednesday night. The performance featured the "Quartet for the End of Time," played by members of the St. Olaf music faculty: Andrea Een, violin; David Carter, cello; JoAnn Polley, clarinet; and Nancy Paddleford, piano. The quartet played music by Bloch and Messiaen.

For more information on St. Olaf’s Founder’s Day check out the exhibit online at the school’s archive website at:

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