European Languages and Societies Commons^™

Twenty Years Old, Arnold N. Bodtker

The Bridge

It was 20 years ago thst the Danish American Heritage Society (DAHS) came upon the scene. I used the term " came upon the scene" advisedly. Reflecting on the circumstances and discussions that led to the formation of the Society makes the term seem appropriate. It had been noted from time to time in the decases before that when Scandinavian American historians and writers assembled and the role of the Scandinavian immigrant was considered, The Danish Americans were conspicuous by their absence. In contrast,the Norwegian American Historical Association was formed in 1925, and has had a distinguished existence since then. …