First Lutheran Church (Ketchikan, Alaska)

It has been estimated that from 1825 to 1925, more than three-quarters of a million sons and daughters of Norway migrated to America. As the new frontier opened in Alaska, a number were drawn to Ketchikan, perhaps attracted by its scenic beauty and its striking resemblance to Norway. To serve these people, the Norwegian Lutheran Church of America in 1923 established a Seamen’s Home at Ketchikan. On August 18, 1925 First Lutheran church was organized. In September of 1923 the Ladies’ Aid was established as a service auxiliary for the Seamen’s home, continuing as a church auxiliary after the Seamen’s Home was sold. The auxiliary continues today as the First Lutheran Church Women. In 1930 the church was erected at 1200 Tongass Avenue.

From the guide to the First Lutheran Church, Ketchican, Alaska, Records, 1925-2012, (Pacific Lutheran University)