Weddings were reported in newspapers
Published Saturday, June 28, 2008
Photo provided by Otter Tail County Historical Society
Rev. Olaf Aasen and Miss Hattie Nelsen wedding portrait. They were married on June 30, 1910, at Sauk Valley Lutheran Church near Osakis. They served parishes around Underwood and Elbow Lake. Rev. Aasen became well known in the Fergus Falls area through his weekly radio broadcasts over KGDE.
Newspapers have always reported marriages. Early wedding announcements usually consisted of the names and addresses of the bride and groom, the official performing the ceremony, date, and perhaps the city where the wedding took place.
Editorial congratulations and other comments were often added to the published accounts.
Unusual circumstances were reported, even elopements.
Large society weddings were reported in great detail especially around the turn of the twentieth century.
In addition to descriptions of the gowns and decorations, the guest list and all the wedding presents with donor’s names were printed with the wedding story.
Most weddings through the 1930s were small affairs taking place at the home of the bride’s parents or other relative with a reception given after the ceremony for friends and family.
Invitations might be sent out only a few days before the event.
For additional information or to look up a marriage announcement in any of the Otter Tail County newspapers, visit the Otter Tail County Historical Society, 1110 W. Lincoln Ave., Fergus Falls.
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